Bottle Cap Drip Tray Device

Abstract

A bottle cap drip tray device is disclosed herein. The bottle cap drip tray device includes an upstanding inner wall portion; an upturned peripheral edge portion forming an outer peripheral boundary of the bottle cap drip tray device; and a floor portion extending between the upstanding inner wall portion and the upturned peripheral edge portion. The bottle cap drip tray device is configured to prevent a substance being poured from a bottle from dripping down one or more sides of the bottle.

Description

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable.

NAMES OF THE PARTIES TO A JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT

Not Applicable.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE OF MATERIAL SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISK

Not Applicable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention generally relates to a bottle cap drip tray device. More particularly, the invention relates to a bottle cap drip tray device that is configured to prevent a substance being dispensed from a bottle from dripping down one or more sides of the bottle.

2. Background

When various liquid and semi-liquid substances are poured from a bottle, it is very difficult, if not impossible, to prevent any drips from going down the one or more sides of the bottle. This is particularly a problem when pouring sticky substances from a bottle, such as honey. For example, honey bottles are often sticky after only one use. Also, when the bottle becomes sticky, the sticky bottle commonly results in sticky hands after use. In addition, when a bottom of the bottle becomes sticky, this leads to the further problem of the bottle sticking to any surface on which it is placed (e.g., countertops, pantry shelves, etc.), thereby making that surface sticky as well.

Therefore, what is needed is a bottle cap drip tray device that prevents a substance being poured out of a bottle from dripping down one or more sides of the bottle. In addition, a bottle cap drip tray device is needed that prevents bottles from becoming dirty and/or sticky as a result of the substance being poured therefrom dripping down the one or more sides of the bottle.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, the present invention is directed to a bottle cap drip tray device that substantially obviates one or more problems resulting from the limitations and deficiencies of the related art.

In accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a bottle cap drip tray device that includes an upstanding inner wall portion; an upturned peripheral edge portion forming an outer peripheral boundary of the bottle cap drip tray device, the upturned peripheral edge portion having a curved upper surface and a curved lower surface, the curved lower surface of the upturned peripheral edge portion being oppositely disposed relative to the curved upper surface, and the curved upper and lower surfaces of the upturned peripheral edge portion being curved in a plane that is parallel to a vertical axis of the bottle cap drip tray device; and a floor portion extending between the upstanding inner wall portion and the upturned peripheral edge portion, the floor portion having an upper surface and a lower surface, the lower surface of the floor portion being oppositely disposed relative to the upper surface, the upper surface of the floor portion being adjoined to the curved upper surface of the upturned peripheral edge portion, the lower surface of the floor portion being adjoined to the curved lower surface of the upturned peripheral edge portion, and the curved upper and lower surfaces of the upturned peripheral edge portion each having a varying slope from a first location where the curved upper and lower surfaces adjoin the upper and lower surfaces of the floor portion to a second location at the outer peripheral boundary of the bottle cap drip tray device. In these one or more embodiments, the bottle cap drip tray device is configured to prevent a substance being poured from a bottle from dripping down one or more sides of the bottle.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the bottle cap drip tray device further comprises a bottle cap configured to engage with an opening of the bottle, the bottle cap including a cap base portion, the cap base portion formed by the upstanding inner wall portion and a top wall connected to the upstanding inner wall portion, and the cap base portion further including a dispensing aperture disposed through the top wall for pouring the substance from the bottle; and a lid portion pivotably coupled to the cap base portion, the lid portion being pivotable between a closed position where the dispensing aperture is covered and an open position where the dispensing aperture is accessible for the pouring of the substance.

In yet a further embodiment, the bottle cap further comprises a hinge member pivotably coupling the lid portion to the cap base portion of the bottle cap.

In still a further embodiment, the hinge member defines a substantially horizontal pivot axis about which the lid portion is rotatable relative to the cap base portion of the bottle cap.

In yet a further embodiment, the hinge member is coupled to the cap base portion by a hinge pin that engages with a pair of apertures in the cap base portion, the substantially horizontal pivot axis of the hinge member being disposed through a center of the hinge pin.

In still a further embodiment, the lid portion comprises a hinge protrusion extending downwardly from a peripheral edge of the lid portion, the hinge protrusion including a hinge aperture disposed therethrough for receiving the hinge pin.

In yet a further embodiment, the cap base portion comprises an upstanding collar circumscribing the dispensing aperture, and the lid portion comprises a circular recess at a bottom of the lid portion for accommodating the upstanding collar of the cap base portion when the lid portion is in the closed position.

In still a further embodiment, an interior surface of the upstanding inner wall portion of the cap base portion comprises a plurality of internal threads that are configured to threadingly engage with a plurality of corresponding external threads disposed on a neck of the bottle.

In yet a further embodiment, the bottle cap drip tray device further comprises one or more adapter rings for enabling the cap base portion of the bottle cap drip tray device to be coupled to bottles of different sizes, each of the one or more adapter rings including a cylindrical body portion with an exterior surface and an interior surface, the exterior surface of the cylindrical body portion being oppositely disposed relative to the interior surface; a first plurality of threads being disposed on the exterior surface of the cylindrical body portion, the first plurality of threads configured to be coupled to the plurality of internal threads on the cap base portion of the bottle cap drip tray device; and a second plurality of threads being disposed on the interior surface of the cylindrical body portion, the second plurality of threads configured to be coupled to a plurality of external threads on a neck of a bottle.

In still a further embodiment, at least one of the one or more adapter rings further comprises a flange on one end of the cylindrical body portion, the flange configured to be grasped by a hand of a user to facilitate a removal and tightening of the at least one of the one or more adapter rings into and out of the cap base portion of the bottle cap drip tray device.

In yet a further embodiment, the upturned peripheral edge portion has a top rim and the lid portion of the bottle cap has a top surface, the top rim of the upturned peripheral edge portion being disposed beneath the top surface of the lid portion of the bottle cap.

In still a further embodiment, the bottle has an animal or human figurine shape, and the bottle cap drip tray device is in a shape of a hat disposed on a head of the animal or human figurine.

In yet a further embodiment, the floor portion and/or the upturned peripheral edge portion of the bottle cap drip tray device has a textured inner surface comprising a plurality of ribs that define recesses between the ribs for trapping the substance being poured from the bottle.

In accordance with one or more other embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a bottle cap drip tray system that includes a bottle having an animal or human figurine shape, the bottle configured to hold a substance in an interior of the bottle; a bottle cap drip tray device configured to be attached to the bottle, the bottle cap drip tray device being in a shape of a hat disposed on a head of the animal or human figurine, and the bottle cap drip tray device including an upstanding inner wall portion; an upturned peripheral edge portion forming an outer peripheral boundary of the bottle cap drip tray device; and a floor portion extending between the upstanding inner wall portion and the upturned peripheral edge portion, the upturned peripheral edge portion surrounding the floor portion. In these one or more embodiments, the bottle cap drip tray device is configured to prevent the substance from dripping down one or more sides of the bottle when the substance is being poured from the bottle. Also, in these one or more embodiments, the floor portion and/or the upturned peripheral edge portion of the bottle cap drip tray device has a textured inner surface comprising a plurality of ribs that define recesses between the ribs for trapping the substance being poured from the bottle.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the substance that is configured to be poured from the bottle comprises a viscous liquid, and the recesses defined between the ribs of the textured inner surface are configured to trap the viscous liquid.

In accordance with yet one or more other embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a bottle cap drip tray system that includes one or more adapter rings for enabling a bottle cap drip tray device to be coupled to bottles of different sizes, each of the one or more adapter rings including a cylindrical body portion with an exterior surface and an interior surface, the exterior surface of the cylindrical body portion being oppositely disposed relative to the interior surface. In these one or more embodiments, the exterior surface of the cylindrical body portion of each of the one or more adapter rings is configured to be coupled to the bottle cap drip tray device, and the interior surface of the cylindrical body portion of each of the one or more adapter rings is configured to be coupled to a neck of a bottle.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the bottle cap drip tray system further comprises the bottle cap drip tray device, the bottle cap drip tray device configured to be attached to the neck of the bottle, the bottle cap drip tray device including an upstanding inner wall portion; an upturned peripheral edge portion forming an outer peripheral boundary of the bottle cap drip tray device; and a floor portion extending between the upstanding inner wall portion and the upturned peripheral edge portion, the upturned peripheral edge portion surrounding the floor portion. In this further embodiment, the bottle cap drip tray device is configured to prevent a substance from dripping down one or more sides of the bottle when the substance is being poured from the bottle.

In yet a further embodiment, at least one of the one or more adapter rings further comprises a first plurality of threads being disposed on the exterior surface of the cylindrical body portion, the first plurality of threads configured to be coupled to a plurality of internal threads on the bottle cap drip tray device; and a second plurality of threads being disposed on the interior surface of the cylindrical body portion, the second plurality of threads configured to be coupled to a plurality of external threads on the neck of the bottle.

In still a further embodiment, at least one of the one or more adapter rings further comprises a flange on one end of the cylindrical body portion, the flange configured to be grasped by a hand of a user to facilitate a removal and tightening of the at least one of the one or more adapter rings into and out of the bottle cap drip tray device.

In yet a further embodiment, the flange on the one end of the cylindrical body portion of the at least one of the one or more adapter rings comprises one or more cutouts formed in the flange for accommodating one or more fingers of the hand of the user during the removal and tightening of the at least one of the one or more adapter rings into and out of the bottle cap drip tray device.

It is to be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description of the present invention are merely exemplary and explanatory in nature. As such, the foregoing general description and the following detailed description of the invention should not be construed to limit the scope of the appended claims in any sense.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a bottle cap drip tray device, according to a first illustrative embodiment of the invention, wherein the bottle cap drip tray device is disposed on a bear-shaped honey bottle;

FIG. 2 is a side-top perspective view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 1, wherein the bottle cap drip tray device has been removed from the bear-shaped honey bottle, and the cap member of the bottle cap drip tray device is in a partially open position;

FIG. 3 is a first side elevational view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a front elevational view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a rear elevational view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is a second side elevational view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 is a bottom plan view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 2;

FIG. 8 is a top plan view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 2;

FIG. 9 is a bottom perspective view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 2;

FIG. 10 is another side-top perspective view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 2, wherein the cap member and hinge are shown removed from the remainder of the bottle cap drip tray device;

FIG. 11 is yet another side-top perspective view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 2, wherein a dispensed substance is shown on the top surface of the bottle cap drip tray device;

FIG. 12 is another first side elevational view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 2, wherein a range of cap opening angles are depicted therein;

FIG. 13 is another rear elevational view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 2, wherein the cap member of the bottle cap drip tray device is in a closed position;

FIG. 14 is a sectional view cut through the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 2, wherein the section is generally cut along the cutting-plane line A-A in FIG. 13;

FIG. 15A is another front elevational view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 2, wherein the cap member of the bottle cap drip tray device is in a closed position;

FIG. 15B is a sectional view cut through the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 2, wherein the section is generally cut along the cutting-plane line B-B in FIG. 15A;

FIG. 16 is a side-top perspective view of a bottle cap drip tray device, according to a second illustrative embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 17 is another side-top perspective view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 16, wherein the cap member of the bottle cap drip tray device is in an open position;

FIG. 18 is yet another side-top perspective view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 16, wherein the cap member and hinge are shown removed from the remainder of the bottle cap drip tray device;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a bottle cap drip tray device, according to a third illustrative embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 20 is a top plan view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is a bottom plan view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 19;

FIG. 22 is a front elevational view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 19;

FIG. 23 is a rear elevational view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 19;

FIG. 24 is a sectional view cut through the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 19, wherein the section is generally cut along the cutting-plane line F-F in FIG. 23;

FIG. 25 is another side-top perspective view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 19, wherein the cap member and hinge are shown removed from the remainder of the bottle cap drip tray device;

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the bottle cap drip tray device of the third illustrative embodiment with an alternative hinge provided on the cap member thereof, wherein the cap member and hinge are shown removed from the remainder of the bottle cap drip tray device;

FIG. 27 is a front elevational view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 26;

FIG. 28 is a rear elevational view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 26;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the bottle cap drip tray device of the third illustrative embodiment with a first alternative cap provided thereon;

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of the bottle cap drip tray device of the third illustrative embodiment with a second alternative cap provided thereon;

FIG. 31 is a top plan view of the bottle cap drip tray device of the third illustrative embodiment with an alternative textured inner surface of the upturned peripheral edge portion provided on the bottle cap drip tray device;

FIG. 32 is a sectional view cut through the floor portion of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 31, wherein the section is generally cut along the cutting-plane line E-E in FIG. 31;

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of a bottle cap drip tray device, according to a fourth illustrative embodiment of the invention, wherein the bottle cap drip tray device is disposed on a bear-shaped honey bottle;

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a bottle cap drip tray device, according to a fifth illustrative embodiment of the invention, wherein the bottle cap drip tray device is disposed on a bear-shaped honey bottle;

FIG. 35 is an exploded perspective view of a bottle cap drip tray device, according to a sixth illustrative embodiment of the invention, wherein the bottle cap drip tray device is shown removed from a bear-shaped honey bottle;

FIG. 36 is a side-top perspective view of a bottle cap drip tray device, according to a seventh illustrative embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 37 is a sectional view cut through the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 36, wherein the section is generally cut along the cutting-plane line C-C in FIG. 36;

FIG. 38 is an exploded perspective view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 36;

FIG. 39 is a side-top perspective view of a bottle cap drip tray device, according to an eighth illustrative embodiment of the invention, wherein the cap member of the bottle cap drip tray device is in an open position;

FIG. 40 is a sectional view cut through the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 39, wherein the section is generally cut along the cutting-plane line D-D in FIG. 39;

FIG. 41 is a side-top perspective view of a bottle cap drip tray device, according to a ninth illustrative embodiment of the invention, wherein the cap member of the bottle cap drip tray device is in a closed position;

FIG. 42 is another side-top perspective view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 41, wherein the cap member of the bottle cap drip tray device is in an open position;

FIG. 43 is a bottom perspective view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 41;

FIG. 44 is a bottom plan view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 41;

FIG. 45 is a sectional view cut through the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 41, wherein the section is generally cut along the cutting-plane line G-G in FIG. 44;

FIG. 46 is a side-top exploded perspective view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 41;

FIG. 47 is a bottom exploded perspective view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 41, wherein cap members having two different internal thread patterns are depicted for accommodating different bottle types;

FIG. 48 is another side-top exploded perspective view of the bottle cap drip tray device of the ninth illustrative embodiment with an alternative hinge provided on the cap member thereof;

FIG. 49 is another top plan view of the bottle cap drip tray device of the third illustrative embodiment with an alternative cutout being provided in the bottle cap drip tray device, and the cap member of the bottle cap drip tray device being disposed in a closed position;

FIG. 50 is yet another top plan view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 49, wherein the cap member of the bottle cap drip tray device is in an open position;

FIG. 51 is a side-top perspective view of a bottle cap drip tray device, according to a tenth illustrative embodiment of the invention, wherein the cap member of the bottle cap drip tray device is in a closed position, and cutting-plane line H-H is cut through the center of the visible hinge portion;

FIG. 52 is a side-top exploded perspective view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 51, wherein a pair of example adapter rings is depicted together with the bottle cap drip tray device;

FIG. 53A is a sectional view cut through the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 51, wherein the section is generally cut along the cutting-plane line H-H in FIG. 51 with a first one of the example adapter rings shown seated inside the threaded cap base portion of the bottle cap drip tray device;

FIG. 53B is another sectional view cut through the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 51, wherein the section is generally cut along the cutting-plane line H-H in FIG. 51 with both example adapter rings removed from, but aligned to be threaded into, the cap base portion of the bottle cap drip tray device;

FIG. 54 is a bottom-side perspective view of a second one of the example adapter rings depicted in FIG. 52;

FIG. 55 is a top-side perspective view of the example adapter ring depicted in FIG. 54; and

FIG. 56 is a bottom perspective view of the bottle cap drip tray device of FIG. 51, wherein the example adapter ring depicted in FIG. 54 is inserted in the bottle cap drip tray device and a user is rotating the example adapter ring.

Throughout the figures, the same parts are always denoted using the same reference characters so that, as a general rule, they will only be described once.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

A first illustrative embodiment of a bottle cap drip tray device is seen generally at 100 in FIGS. 1-15. With initial reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, it can be seen that the bottle cap drip tray device 100 generally comprises an upstanding inner wall portion 112; an upturned peripheral edge portion 110 extending around an outer periphery of the bottle cap drip tray device 100; and a floor portion 114 extending between the upstanding inner wall portion 112 and the upturned peripheral edge portion 110. As best shown in FIGS. 2 and 14 of the first illustrative embodiment, the upturned peripheral edge portion 110 may comprise a curved wall portion 122 extending upwardly from the generally flat floor portion 114. The bottle cap drip tray device 100 is configured to prevent a substance being poured from a bottle 170 from dripping down one or more sides of the bottle 170.

In the first illustrative embodiment, the bottle 170 has an animal figurine shape (i.e., bottle 170 is a bear-shaped honey bottle), and the bottle cap drip tray device 100 is in a shape of a hat disposed on a head of the animal figurine (i.e., a sombrero-shaped hat disposed on the bear-shaped honey bottle).

Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 2, the bottle cap drip tray device 100 of the first illustrative embodiment further comprises a bottle cap 112, 120, 140 configured to engage with an opening of the bottle 170. The bottle cap 112, 120, 140 includes a cap base portion 112, 120, the cap base portion 112, 120 formed by the upstanding inner wall portion 112 and a top wall 120 connected to the upstanding inner wall portion 112, and the cap base portion 112, 120 further including a dispensing spout 113 with a dispensing aperture disposed through the top wall 120 for pouring the substance from the bottle 170. The bottle cap 112, 120, 140 further includes a lid portion 140 pivotably coupled to the cap base portion 112, 120, the lid portion 140 being pivotable between a closed position (i.e., FIG. 1 position) where the dispensing aperture is covered and an open position (i.e., FIG. 2 position) where the dispensing aperture is accessible for the pouring of the substance.

Advantageously, as shown in FIG. 11, the bottle cap drip tray device 100 adds an additional distance D2, measured from the upstanding cylindrical wall portion 112 to the outer rim of the upturned peripheral edge portion 110, to the distance D1, measured from the edge of the dispensing spout 113 to the edge of the upstanding cylindrical wall portion 112, for catching drips 180 of the substance being dispensed from the bottle (e.g., drops of honey). In the first illustrative embodiment of FIG. 11, the additional distance D2 (denoted by reference character 115) added by the bottle cap drip tray device 100 is approximately twice the distance D1 (denoted by reference character 116) from the edge of the dispensing spout 113 to the edge of the cap base portion 112, 120.

Also, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the bottle cap 112, 120, 140 of the first illustrative embodiment further comprises a hinge member 130 pivotably coupling the lid portion 140 to the cap base portion 112, 120 of the bottle cap 112, 120, 140. In the first illustrative embodiment, the hinge member 130 is in a form of a thin flexible living hinge or integral hinge that is made from the same material as the lid portion 140 and/or the cap base portion 112, 120. Also, as shown in FIGS. 2, 3, 6, and 10, the hinge member 130 of the first illustrative embodiment defines a pair of substantially horizontal pivot axes 136, 138 about which the lid portion 140 is rotatable relative to the cap base portion 112, 120 of the bottle cap 112, 120, 140. In the first illustrative embodiment, each horizontal pivot axis 136, 138 of the hinge member 130 allows at least 90 degrees of rotation.

Now, as best shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, it can be seen that the hinge member 130 of the first illustrative embodiment is coupled to the cap base portion 112, 120 by a pair of resilient prong members 134 that engage with a slot 131 disposed in the cap base portion 112, 120 (i.e., the prong members 134 snap into the slot 131—see FIG. 15B). As shown in FIG. 10, the resilient prong members 134 of the living hinge are connected to a snap-in piece 132 that snaps into a notch 111 above the slot 131 of the cap base portion 112, 120. The snap-in piece 132 connects to the remainder of the hinge member 130 along the pivot line 138 (see FIG. 10). In the first illustrative embodiment, the hinge member 130 and attached lid portion 140 can be removed from the cap base portion 112, 120 by squeezing the distal ends of the resilient prong members 134 inwardly (e.g., using a pair of tweezers) so that the prong members 134 can be slid out of the slot 131.

With reference again to FIGS. 2 and 10, it can be seen that the dispensing spout 113 of the cap base portion 112, 120 comprises an upstanding collar circumscribing the dispensing aperture. The lid portion 140 comprises a spout cover 142 with a circular recess at a bottom of the lid portion 140 for accommodating the upstanding collar of the cap base portion 112, 120 when the lid portion 140 is in the closed position (see FIGS. 2 and 14). In the sectional view of FIG. 14, it can be seen that the spout cover 142 is disposed over the dispensing spout 113 in the closed position of the lid portion 140 to contain the substance contained in the bottle 170 within the cavity defined by the spout cover 142 (so that the substance does not leak into the remainder of the interior lid cavity).

Next, referring to the bottom perspective view of FIG. 9, it can be seen that the circular interior surface of the upstanding inner wall portion 112 of the cap base portion 112, 120 comprises a plurality of internal threads 118 that are configured to threadingly engage with a plurality of corresponding external threads disposed on a neck of the bottle 170.

As shown in FIG. 12, in the first illustrative embodiment, if the lid portion 140 is rotated to the angle A2 position past a vertical line reference, the lid portion 140 will stay in an open position without flexing back to a closed position. Conversely, if the lid portion 140 is only rotated to the angle A1 position past a vertical line reference in FIG. 12, the lid portion 140 will generally flex back to a partially closed position or a closed position. In the first illustrative embodiment, the angle A2 (denoted by reference character 117) may be the maximum opening angle for the lid portion 140, while the angle A1 (denoted by reference character 119) may be an intermediate opening angle for the lid portion 140.

A second illustrative embodiment of a bottle cap drip tray device is seen generally at 200 in FIGS. 16-18. Referring to these figures, it can be seen that, in most respects, the second illustrative embodiment is the same as the first illustrative embodiment. Moreover, nearly all of the elements are common to both such embodiments. For the sake of brevity, the elements that the second embodiment of the bottle cap drip tray device has in common with the first embodiment will not be discussed because these components have already been described above.

As shown in FIGS. 16-18, similar to the bottle cap drip tray device 100 described above, the bottle cap drip tray device 200 generally comprises an upstanding inner wall portion 212; an upturned peripheral edge portion 210 extending around an outer periphery of the bottle cap drip tray device 200; and a floor portion 214 extending between the upstanding inner wall portion 212 and the upturned peripheral edge portion 210. The bottle cap drip tray device 200 is configured to prevent a substance being poured from a bottle from dripping down one or more sides of the bottle.

However, referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, it can be seen that the bottle cap drip tray device 200 has a hinge member that is different from the hinge member 130 of the first illustrative embodiment. In particular, as shown in FIG. 18, it can be seen that the hinge member comprises a pair of downwardly extending tabs 230 with respective hinge pins 231 extending from the tabs 230. The hinge member is coupled to the cap base portion by the hinge pins 231 engaging with respective pin holes in the cap base portion. The cap base portion is provided with a pair of spaced-apart slots 232 for receiving the pair of downwardly extending tabs 230 attached to the underside of the lid portion 240 (refer to FIG. 18). In the second illustrative embodiment, the hinge member is in a form of a snap-in type hinge (i.e., the hinge pins 231 snap into the pin holes of the cap base portion when the downwardly extending tabs 230 are inserted into the slots 232).

A third illustrative embodiment of a bottle cap drip tray device is seen generally at 300 in FIGS. 19-25. Referring to these figures, it can be seen that, in most respects, the third illustrative embodiment is the same as the first and second illustrative embodiments. Moreover, nearly all of the elements are common to these embodiments. For the sake of brevity, the elements that the third embodiment of the bottle cap drip tray device has in common with the first and second embodiments will not be discussed because these components have already been described above.

As shown in FIGS. 19-25, similar to the bottle cap drip tray devices 100, 200 described above, the bottle cap drip tray device 300 generally comprises an upstanding inner wall portion 312; an upturned peripheral edge portion 310 extending around an outer periphery of the bottle cap drip tray device 300; and a floor portion 314 extending between the upstanding inner wall portion 312 and the upturned peripheral edge portion 310. As best shown in FIG. 24 of the third illustrative embodiment, the upturned peripheral edge portion 310 may comprise a curved wall portion 322 extending upwardly from the floor portion 314. Like the bottle cap drip tray devices 100, 200 described above, the bottle cap drip tray device 300 is configured to prevent a substance being poured from a bottle from dripping down one or more sides of the bottle.

Referring again to FIGS. 19, 24, and 25, the bottle cap drip tray device 300 of the third illustrative embodiment further comprises a bottle cap 312, 320, 340 configured to engage with an opening of a bottle. The bottle cap 312, 320, 340 includes a cap base portion 312, 320, the cap base portion 312, 320 formed by the upstanding inner wall portion 312 and a top wall 320 connected to the upstanding inner wall portion 312, and the cap base portion 312, 320 further including a dispensing spout 313 with a dispensing aperture disposed through the top wall 320 for pouring the substance from a bottle. The bottle cap 312, 320, 340 further includes a lid portion 340 pivotably coupled to the cap base portion 312, 320, the lid portion 340 being pivotable between a closed position (i.e., FIG. 19 position) where the dispensing aperture is covered and an open position where the dispensing aperture is accessible for the pouring of the substance. As shown in FIG. 22, the lid portion 340 of the bottle cap 312, 320, 340 comprises a finger recess 344 for facilitating the grasping of the lid portion 340 by a user so that the lid portion 340 is able to be more easily opened.

As shown in FIGS. 22-24, in the third illustrative embodiment, the top rim of the upturned peripheral edge portion 310 of the bottle cap drip tray device 300 is disposed beneath the top surface of the lid portion 340 of bottle cap 312, 320, 340 so that a user of the bottle cap drip tray device 300 does not mistakenly use the upturned peripheral edge portion 310 of the bottle cap drip tray device 300 as a stand for the bottle when the bottle is inverted. In the third illustrative embodiment, it can be seen that the upturned peripheral edge portion 310 does not extend outwardly from the upstanding inner wall portion 312 as far as the upturned peripheral edge portion 310 of the first illustrative embodiment. Also, as best illustrated in FIGS. 22-24, the upturned peripheral edge portion 310 of the bottle cap drip tray device 300 is generally bowl-shaped in the third illustrative embodiment.

Also, as shown in FIGS. 19, 24, and 25, the bottle cap 312, 320, 340 of the third illustrative embodiment further comprises a hinge member 330 pivotably coupling the lid portion 340 to the cap base portion 312, 320 of the bottle cap 312, 320, 340. In the third illustrative embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the hinge member 330 is in a form of a thin flexible living hinge or integral hinge that is made from the same material as the lid portion 340 and/or the cap base portion 312, 320. Also, as shown in FIG. 25, the hinge member 330 of the third illustrative embodiment defines a pair of substantially horizontal pivot axes 336, 338 about which the lid portion 340 is rotatable relative to the cap base portion 312, 320 of the bottle cap 312, 320, 340. In the third illustrative embodiment, each horizontal pivot axis 336, 338 of the hinge member 330 allows at least 90 degrees of rotation. Referring to FIGS. 22 and 23, it can be seen that, in the third illustrative embodiment, the hinge member 330 is disposed on an opposite side of the lid portion 340 as the finger recess 344.

Now, as best shown in FIGS. 24 and 25, it can be seen that the hinge member 330 of the third illustrative embodiment is coupled to the cap base portion 312, 320 by a pair of resilient prong members 334 that engage with a slot 311 disposed in the cap base portion 312, 320 (i.e., the prong members 334 snap into the slot 311—see FIG. 25). As shown in FIG. 25, the resilient prong members 334 of the living hinge are connected to a snap-in piece 332 that snaps into a notch above the slot 311 of the cap base portion 312, 320. The snap-in piece 332 connects to the remainder of the hinge member 330 along the lower pivot line 338 (see FIG. 25). In the third illustrative embodiment, the hinge member 330 and attached lid portion 340 can be removed from the cap base portion 312, 320 by squeezing the distal ends of the resilient prong members 334 inwardly (e.g., using a pair of tweezers) so that the prong members 334 can be slid out of the slot 311. The sectional view of FIG. 24 is cut through one of the prong members 334 of the hinge member 330.

With reference again to FIGS. 24 and 25, it can be seen that the dispensing spout 313 of the cap base portion 312, 320 comprises an upstanding collar circumscribing the dispensing aperture. The lid portion 340 comprises a spout cover 342 with a circular recess at a bottom of the lid portion 340 for accommodating the upstanding collar of the cap base portion 312, 320 when the lid portion 340 is in the closed position (see FIGS. 24 and 25). In the sectional view of FIG. 24, it can be seen that the spout cover 342 is disposed over the dispensing spout 313 in the closed position of the lid portion 340 to contain the substance contained in a bottle within the cavity defined by the spout cover 342 (so that the substance does not leak into the remainder of the interior lid cavity).

Next, referring to the sectional view of FIG. 24, it can be seen that the circular interior surface of the upstanding inner wall portion 312 of the cap base portion 312, 320 comprises a plurality of internal threads 318 that are configured to threadingly engage with a plurality of corresponding external threads disposed on a neck of a bottle.

A modified version of the bottle cap drip tray device of the third illustrative embodiment is depicted in FIGS. 26-28. In particular, referring to the perspective view of FIG. 26, it can be seen that the bottle cap drip tray device 350 has a hinge member that is different from the hinge member 330 described above. As shown in FIG. 26, it can be seen that the hinge member comprises a pair of downwardly extending tabs 360 with respective hinge pins 351, 361 extending from the tabs 360. The hinge member is coupled to the cap base portion by the hinge pins 351, 361 engaging with respective pin holes in the cap base portion. The cap base portion is provided with a pair of spaced-apart slots 362, 363 for receiving the pair of downwardly extending tabs 360 attached to the underside of the lid portion 340′ (refer to FIG. 26). In the modified illustrative embodiment of FIGS. 26-28, the hinge member is in a form of a snap-in type hinge (i.e., the hinge pins 351, 361 snap into the pin holes of the cap base portion when the downwardly extending tabs 360 are inserted into the slots 362, 363).

Another modified version of the bottle cap drip tray device of the third illustrative embodiment is depicted in FIG. 29. In particular, referring to the perspective view of FIG. 29, it can be seen that the bottle cap drip tray device 370 has a different bottle cap 371. The bottle cap 371 depicted in FIG. 29 has an outer frustoconical sleeve that twists open so as to enable a substance to be poured from a bottle. Then, to close the bottle cap 371, a user twists the outer frustoconical sleeve in a closed rotational direction that is opposite to the open rotational direction.

Yet another modified version of the bottle cap drip tray device of the third illustrative embodiment is depicted in FIG. 30. In particular, referring to the perspective view of FIG. 30, it can be seen that the bottle cap drip tray device 380 has a different bottle cap 381. The bottle cap 381 depicted in FIG. 30 has an inverted frustoconical cap member with an air intake 382 disposed on one side of the cap member and a pour opening 384 disposed on an opposite side of the cap member. When a substance is poured from a bottle, the substance (e.g., a liquid) is dispensed through the pour opening 384, while air enters air intake 382 on the opposite side of the cap member to facilitate the pouring of the substance through pour opening 384.

Still another modified version of the bottle cap drip tray device of the third illustrative embodiment is depicted in FIGS. 31 and 32. In particular, referring to the top plan view of FIG. 31 and the sectional view of FIG. 32, it can be seen that the bottle cap drip tray device 390 has an upturned peripheral edge portion 394 with a textured inner surface that includes an intersecting pattern of ribs 392 that define small recesses or valleys 391 between the ribs 392. Advantageously, the textured inner surface of the upturned peripheral edge portion 394 keeps a viscous material or liquid being dispensed from a bottle in place by trapping the viscous material or liquid in the recesses or valleys 391 between the ribs 392. While the inner surface of the upturned peripheral edge portion 394 of the bottle cap drip tray device 390 is provided with a textured honeycomb pattern in the embodiment of FIGS. 31 and 32, it is to be understood that, in other embodiments, the inner surface of the upturned peripheral edge portion 394 may be provided with different textured patterns having recesses or valleys defined between ribs for containing viscous material or liquid being dispensed from a bottle.

Yet another modified version of the bottle cap drip tray device of the third illustrative embodiment is depicted in FIGS. 49 and 50. In particular, referring to the top plan views of FIGS. 49 and 50, it can be seen that the bottle cap drip tray device 300′ is provided with a cutout 315 disposed through the upturned peripheral edge portion 310 and the floor portion 314. The cutout 315 is bounded by the peripheral edge 317 that generally corresponds to the curvature of the lid portion 340 (see FIG. 50). In the modified embodiment of the bottle cap drip tray device 300′ depicted in FIGS. 49 and 50, the bottle cap 312, 320, 340 is molded with a living hinge member 330. To facilitate the molding of the bottle cap 312, 320, 340 in one piece, cutout or void 315 is provided through the upturned peripheral edge portion 310 and the floor portion 314 so that the steel of the mold is able to close around the living hinge area. In FIG. 49, the lid portion 340 of the bottle cap drip tray device 300′ is disposed in a closed position. In FIG. 50, the lid portion 340 of the bottle cap drip tray device 300′ is disposed in an open position (this is how the bottle cap drip tray device 300′ of FIGS. 49 and 50 is injection molded).

A fourth illustrative embodiment of a bottle cap drip tray device is seen generally at 400 in FIG. 33, while a fifth illustrative embodiment of a bottle cap drip tray device is seen generally at 500 in FIG. 34. Referring to these figures, it can be seen that, in most respects, the fourth and fifth illustrative embodiments are the same as the illustrative embodiments described above. Moreover, nearly all of the elements are common to all of the embodiments. However, unlike the first and second illustrative embodiments described above, the bottle cap drip tray devices 400, 500 comprise different-shaped hats on the bottles 170. In particular, as shown in FIG. 33, the bottle cap drip tray device 400 is in a form of a beekeeper-style hat. As depicted in FIG. 34, the bottle cap drip tray device 500 is in a form of a western-inspired hat (e.g., a cowboy hat).

A sixth illustrative embodiment of a bottle cap drip tray device is seen generally at 600 in FIG. 35. Referring to this figure, it can be seen that, in some respects, the sixth illustrative embodiment is similar to the preceding illustrative embodiments. Moreover, some elements are common to all of the embodiments. For the sake of brevity, the elements that the sixth embodiment of the bottle cap drip tray device has in common with the preceding embodiments will not be discussed because these components have already been described above.

As shown in FIG. 35, similar to the bottle cap drip tray devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 described above, the bottle cap drip tray device 600 generally comprises an upstanding inner wall portion 612; an upturned peripheral edge portion 610 extending around an outer periphery of the bottle cap drip tray device 600; and a floor portion 614 extending between the upstanding inner wall portion 612 and the upturned peripheral edge portion 610. The bottle cap drip tray device 600 is configured to prevent a substance being poured from a bottle from dripping down one or more sides of the bottle.

However, referring to FIG. 35, it can be seen that, unlike the preceding illustrative embodiments, the bottle cap drip tray device 600 has an annular shape with a central aperture 620 for accommodating an existing bottle cap 172 disposed on a bottle 170. In the sixth illustrative embodiment, the upstanding inner wall portion 612 of the bottle cap drip tray device 600 defines the central aperture 620, and the upstanding inner wall portion 612 of the bottle cap drip tray device 600 is configured to removably engage a peripheral wall of the existing bottle cap 172 in a friction-fit type engagement.

Referring again to FIG. 35, it can be seen that the bottle 170 has an animal figurine shape (i.e., bottle 170 is a bear-shaped honey bottle), and the bottle cap drip tray device 600 forms a brim of a hat disposed on a head of the animal figurine (i.e., a brim of the hat disposed on the bear-shaped honey bottle). Also, as shown in FIG. 35, the bottle cap drip tray device 600 further comprises a hat crown portion 640 configured to frictionally fit over a top edge portion of the existing bottle cap 172 and/or a top edge portion of the upstanding inner wall portion 612 of the bottle cap drip tray device 600 so that the hat crown portion 640 (i.e., the top cap piece) and the bottle cap drip tray device 600 together form the hat on the head of the animal figurine (i.e., a sombrero-shaped hat disposed on the bear-shaped honey bottle). In FIG. 35, it can be seen that the hat crown portion 640 (i.e., the top cap piece) has an inner sloped wall 642 that extends down to an inner vertical wall 644 that fits over the top edge portion of the existing bottle cap 172 and/or the top edge portion of the upstanding inner wall portion 612.

A seventh illustrative embodiment of a bottle cap drip tray device is seen generally at 700 in FIGS. 36-38. Referring to these figures, it can be seen that, in some respects, the seventh illustrative embodiment is similar to the preceding illustrative embodiments. Moreover, some elements are common to all of the embodiments. For the sake of brevity, the elements that the seventh embodiment of the bottle cap drip tray device has in common with the preceding embodiments will not be discussed because these components have already been described above.

As shown in FIG. 36, similar to the bottle cap drip tray devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 described above, the bottle cap drip tray device 700 generally comprises an upstanding inner wall portion 712; an upturned peripheral edge portion 710 extending around an outer periphery of the bottle cap drip tray device 700; and a floor portion 714 extending between the upstanding inner wall portion 712 and the upturned peripheral edge portion 710. The bottle cap drip tray device 700 is configured to prevent a substance being poured from a bottle from dripping down one or more sides of the bottle.

Referring again to FIG. 36, it can be seen that, similar to the sixth illustrative embodiment described above, the bottle cap drip tray device 700 has an annular shape with a central aperture 720 for accommodating an existing bottle cap disposed on a bottle. In the seventh illustrative embodiment, the upstanding inner wall portion 712 of the bottle cap drip tray device 700 defines the central aperture 720, and the upstanding inner wall portion 712 of the bottle cap drip tray device 700 is configured to removably engage a peripheral wall of the existing bottle cap in a friction-fit type engagement.

In the seventh illustrative embodiment, turning to FIGS. 37 and 38, it can be seen that the bottle cap drip tray device 700 has a two-part construction with an inner ring portion 730 formed from a first polymeric material (e.g., silicone) and an outer drip tray portion 732 formed from a second polymeric material (e.g., a plastic that is harder than silicone). In the seventh illustrative embodiment, the first polymeric material (e.g., silicone) is more flexible than the second polymeric material (e.g., a plastic that is harder than silicone) to facilitate engaging the peripheral wall of the existing bottle cap in a friction-type fit. As shown in FIG. 38, the outer drip tray portion 732 may be provided with a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart apertures 718 disposed about an inner periphery of the outer drip tray portion 732 for allowing the first polymeric material to flow through the apertures 718 when the parts 730, 732 are being formed. Once the first polymeric material (e.g., silicone) solidifies, the first polymeric material disposed in the apertures 718 provides a secure bond between the inner ring portion 730 and the outer drip tray portion 732.

As shown in FIGS. 36-38, the upturned peripheral edge portion 710 of the bottle cap drip tray device 700 has an inverted frustoconical shape where the upturned peripheral edge portion 710 of the bottle cap drip tray device 700 is sloped upwardly in an outward direction.

An eighth illustrative embodiment of a bottle cap drip tray device is seen generally at 800 in FIGS. 39 and 40. Referring to these figures, it can be seen that, in some respects, the eighth illustrative embodiment is similar to the preceding illustrative embodiments. Moreover, some elements are common to all of the embodiments. For the sake of brevity, the elements that the eighth embodiment of the bottle cap drip tray device has in common with the preceding embodiments will not be discussed because these components have already been described above.

As shown in FIGS. 39 and 40, similar to the bottle cap drip tray devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700 described above, the bottle cap drip tray device 800 generally comprises an upstanding inner wall portion 812; an upturned peripheral edge portion 810 extending around an outer periphery of the bottle cap drip tray device 800; and a floor portion 814 extending between the upstanding inner wall portion 812 and the upturned peripheral edge portion 810. The bottle cap drip tray device 800 is configured to prevent a substance being poured from a bottle from dripping down one or more sides of the bottle.

Referring again to FIGS. 39 and 40, similar to the bottle cap drip tray devices 100, 200 described above, the bottle cap drip tray device 800 of the eighth illustrative embodiment further comprises a bottle cap 812, 820, 840 configured to engage with an opening of a bottle. The bottle cap 812, 820, 840 includes a cap base portion 812, 820, the cap base portion 812, 820 formed by the upstanding inner wall portion 812 and a top wall 820 connected to the upstanding inner wall portion 812, and the cap base portion 812, 820 further including a dispensing spout 813 with a dispensing aperture disposed through the top wall 820 for pouring the substance from a bottle. The bottle cap 812, 820, 840 further includes a lid portion 840 pivotably coupled to the cap base portion 812, 820, the lid portion 840 being pivotable between a closed position where the dispensing aperture is covered and an open position (i.e., FIGS. 39 and 40 positions) where the dispensing aperture is accessible for the pouring of the substance.

Also, as shown in FIGS. 39 and 40, the bottle cap 812, 820, 840 of the eighth illustrative embodiment further comprises a hinge member 830 pivotably coupling the lid portion 840 to the cap base portion 812, 820 of the bottle cap 812, 820, 840. In the eighth illustrative embodiment, the hinge member 830 defines a substantially horizontal pivot axis about which the lid portion 840 is rotatable relative to the cap base portion 812, 820 of the bottle cap 812, 820, 840.

Similar to the bottle cap drip tray device 100 described above, with reference to the sectional view of FIG. 40, it can be seen that the circular interior surface of the upstanding inner wall portion 812 of the cap base portion 812, 820 comprises a plurality of internal threads 818 that are configured to threadingly engage with a plurality of corresponding external threads disposed on a neck of a bottle.

Turning again to FIGS. 39 and 40, unlike the bottle cap drip tray device 100 described above, the upturned peripheral edge portion 810 of the bottle cap drip tray device 800 has an inverted frustoconical shape where the upturned peripheral edge portion 810 of the bottle cap drip tray device 800 is sloped upwardly in an outward direction. When the lid portion 840 is pivoted to the open position of FIG. 40, a clearance gap 842 is provided between the lid portion 840 and the interior surface of the upturned peripheral edge portion 810 of the bottle cap drip tray device 800.

A ninth illustrative embodiment of a bottle cap drip tray device is seen generally at 900 in FIGS. 41-47. Referring to these figures, it can be seen that, in some respects, the ninth illustrative embodiment is similar to the preceding illustrative embodiments. Moreover, some elements are common to all of the embodiments. For the sake of brevity, the elements that the ninth embodiment of the bottle cap drip tray device has in common with the preceding embodiments will not be discussed because these components have already been described above.

As shown in FIGS. 41 and 42, similar to the bottle cap drip tray devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800 described above, the bottle cap drip tray device 900 generally comprises an upstanding inner wall portion 912; an upturned peripheral edge portion 910 extending around an outer periphery of the bottle cap drip tray device 900; and a floor portion 914 extending between the upstanding inner wall portion 912 and the upturned peripheral edge portion 910. As best shown in FIGS. 41-43 of the ninth illustrative embodiment, the upturned peripheral edge portion 910 may comprise a curved wall portion 922 extending upwardly from the generally flat floor portion 914. The bottle cap drip tray device 900 is configured to prevent a substance being poured from a bottle from dripping down one or more sides of the bottle (e.g., the bottle 170 described above).

In the ninth illustrative embodiment, the bottle on which the bottle cap drip tray device 900 is disposed has an animal figurine shape (e.g., bottle 170 is a bear-shaped honey bottle), and the bottle cap drip tray device 900 is in a shape of a hat disposed on a head of the animal figurine (i.e., a hat with a brim disposed on the bear-shaped honey bottle).

Referring again to FIGS. 41 and 42, the bottle cap drip tray device 900 of the ninth illustrative embodiment further comprises a bottle cap 912, 920, 940 configured to engage with an opening of the bottle (e.g., the bottle 170 described above). The bottle cap 912, 920, 940 includes a cap base portion 912, 920, the cap base portion 912, 920 formed by the upstanding inner wall portion 912 and a top wall 920 connected to the upstanding inner wall portion 912, and the cap base portion 912, 920 further including a dispensing spout 933 with a dispensing aperture disposed through the top wall 920 for pouring the substance from the bottle. The bottle cap 912, 920, 940 further includes a lid portion 940 pivotably coupled to the cap base portion 912, 920, the lid portion 940 being pivotable between a closed position (i.e., FIG. 41 position) where the dispensing aperture is covered and an open position (i.e., FIG. 42 position) where the dispensing aperture is accessible for the pouring of the substance.

Also, as shown in FIGS. 42 and 46, the bottle cap 912, 920, 940 of the ninth illustrative embodiment further comprises a hinge member 930 pivotably coupling the lid portion 940 to the cap base portion 912, 920 of the bottle cap 912, 920, 940. In the ninth illustrative embodiment, the hinge member 930 is in a form of a pin-type hinge member with a hinge bridge portion 941 that is pivotably coupled to the cap base portion 912, 920 by means of a pin member 950 (see FIG. 46). Also, as shown in FIG. 46, the hinge bridge portion 941 is received within a notch 952 formed in the cap base portion 912, 920.

Now, as best shown in FIGS. 44-46, it can be seen that the cap base portion 912, 920 of the ninth illustrative embodiment is coupled to the floor portion 914 of the bottle cap drip tray device 900 by a plurality of resilient prong members 921 that engage with a corresponding slot 923 disposed in the floor portion 914 (i.e., the prong members 921 snap into respective slots 923—see FIG. 46). In the illustrative embodiment, the cap base portion 912, 920 and lid portion 940 are molded separately from the drip tray portion 910, 914 to facilitate the molding process. Advantageously, the barbed resilient prong members 921 on the cap base portion 912, 920 easily snap into their corresponding slots 923 in the floor portion 914 at the time of assembly of the bottle cap drip tray device 900. The lid portion 940 is attached to the cap base portion 912, 920 by inserting the pin member 950 through the pin apertures disposed on opposite sides of the notch 952. Advantageously, the three part design depicted in FIG. 46 allows lid portions 940 and drip tray portions 910, 914 to be molded with many different styles, and then the different styles can be mixed and matched, while maintaining the same thread/spout and producing hundreds of different hat style combinations. This interchangeability of the three primary components depicted in FIG. 46 greatly enhances the flexibility of the design of the bottle cap drip tray device 900.

With reference again to FIG. 42, it can be seen that the dispensing spout 933 of the cap base portion 912, 920 comprises an upstanding collar circumscribing the dispensing aperture. The lid portion 940 comprises a spout plug 942 with a circular recess at a bottom of the lid portion 940 for accommodating the upstanding collar of the cap base portion 912, 920 when the lid portion 940 is in the closed position (see FIG. 41). In the sectional view of FIG. 45, it can be seen that the spout plug 942 is disposed in the dispensing spout 933 in the closed position of the lid portion 940 to contain the substance contained in the bottle (so that the substance does not leak into the remainder of the interior lid cavity).

Now, referring to the left side of the bottom perspective view of FIG. 47, it can be seen that the circular interior surface of the circular interior wall 932 of the cap base portion 912, 920 comprises a plurality of internal threads 918 (e.g., 33-400 threads) that are configured to threadingly engage with a plurality of corresponding external threads disposed on a neck of the bottle (e.g., threads on the neck of a syrup bottle). Referring to the sectional view of FIG. 45, it can be seen that there is a circumferential gap 934 between the upstanding wall 912 and the circular interior wall 932 with the internal threads 918. More particularly, as shown in FIG. 45, the gap 934 extends from the inner surface 936 of the upstanding wall 912 to the outer surface 938 of the circular interior wall 932. Advantageously, the circular gap 934 circumscribing the circular interior wall 932 allows enough clearance for multiple sized thread finishes, while ensuring that the exterior form of the bottle cap drip tray device 900 does not change based on the thread finish underneath.

Next, referring to the right side of the bottom perspective view of FIG. 47, it can be seen that a cap member with a different internal thread pattern is depicted for accommodating a different bottle type (e.g., a honey bottle). The cap base portion 913 on the right side of FIG. 47 has a circular interior wall 931 and an outer upstanding wall 944. The circular interior surface of the circular interior wall 931 of the cap base portion 913 comprises a plurality of internal threads 919 (e.g., 38-400 threads) that are configured to threadingly engage with a plurality of corresponding external threads disposed on a neck of the bottle (e.g., threads on the neck of a honey bottle). Referring again to the right side of FIG. 47, it can be seen that there is a circumferential gap 935 between the upstanding wall 944 and the circular interior wall 931 with the internal threads 919. More particularly, as shown in FIG. 47, the gap 935 extends from the inner surface of the upstanding wall 944 to the outer surface of the circular interior wall 931. Because the outer diameter of the circular interior wall 931 of the cap base portion 913 is greater than the outer diameter of the circular interior wall 932 of the cap base portion 912, 920, the radial width of the circumferential gap 935 is less than the radial width of the circumferential gap 934. In an alternative embodiment, rather than having different cap base portions for each thread type (i.e., one for 33-400 threads, and another one for 38-400 threads), an adapter ring may be used with the cap base portion 913 to step down the larger diameter 38-400 thread configuration to the smaller diameter 33-400 thread configuration.

With reference again to FIGS. 41, 42, and 46 of the ninth illustrative embodiment, it can be seen that the bottle cap drip tray device 900 has a floor portion 914 with a textured inner surface that includes an intersecting pattern of ribs 992 that define small recesses or valleys 991 between the ribs 992. Advantageously, the textured inner surface of the floor portion 914 keeps a viscous material or liquid being dispensed from a bottle in place by trapping the viscous material or liquid in the recesses or valleys 991 between the ribs 992. While the inner surface of the floor portion 914 of the bottle cap drip tray device 900 is provided with a textured honeycomb pattern in the embodiment of FIGS. 41-47, it is to be understood that, in other embodiments, the inner surface of the floor portion 914 may be provided with different textured patterns having recesses or valleys defined between ribs for containing viscous material or liquid being dispensed from a bottle.

A modified version of the bottle cap drip tray device of the ninth illustrative embodiment is depicted in FIG. 48. In particular, referring to the exploded perspective view of FIG. 48, it can be seen that the bottle cap drip tray device 959 has a hinge member that is different from the hinge member 930 described above. In the modified version of the bottle cap drip tray device depicted in FIG. 48, the hinge member 960 is in a form of a thin flexible living hinge or integral hinge that is made from the same material as the lid portion 940 and/or the cap base portion 909. As shown in FIG. 48, it can be seen that the hinge member 960 is coupled to the cap base portion 909 by a pair of resilient prong members 962 that are inserted into a slot 911 disposed in the cap base portion 909 (i.e., the prong members 962 snap into the slot 911). Also, as shown in FIG. 48, the resilient prong members 962 of the living hinge are connected to a snap-in piece 961 that snaps into the slot 911 of the cap base portion 909. The snap-in piece 961 connects to the remainder of the hinge member 960 along the pivot line 964 (see FIG. 48). In the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 48, the hinge member 960 and attached lid portion 940 can be removed from the cap base portion 909 by squeezing the distal ends of the resilient prong members 962 inwardly (e.g., using a pair of tweezers) so that the prong members 962 can be removed from the slot 911. In the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 48, the hinge member 960 defines a pair of substantially horizontal pivot axes 963, 964 about which the lid portion 940 is rotatable relative to the cap base portion 909 of the bottle cap drip tray device 959. In the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 48, each horizontal pivot axis 963, 964 of the hinge member 960 allows at least 90 degrees of rotation.

A tenth illustrative embodiment of a bottle cap drip tray device and system is seen generally at 1000 in FIGS. 51-56. Referring to these figures, it can be seen that, in some respects, the tenth illustrative embodiment is similar to the preceding illustrative embodiments. Moreover, some elements are common to all of the embodiments. For the sake of brevity, the elements that the tenth embodiment of the bottle cap drip tray device has in common with the preceding embodiments will not be discussed because these components have already been described above.

As shown in FIGS. 51 and 52, similar to the bottle cap drip tray devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900 described above, the bottle cap drip tray device of the tenth illustrative embodiment generally comprises an upstanding inner wall portion 1012; an upturned peripheral edge portion 1010 extending around an outer periphery of the bottle cap drip tray device; and a floor portion 1014 extending between the upstanding inner wall portion 1012 and the upturned peripheral edge portion 1010. As best shown in FIGS. 51 and 53A of the first illustrative embodiment, the upturned peripheral edge portion 1010 may comprise a curved wall portion 1022 extending upwardly from the generally flat floor portion 1014. The bottle cap drip tray device is configured to prevent a substance being poured from a bottle from dripping down one or more sides of the bottle (e.g., the bottle 170 described above).

Referring again to FIG. 52, the bottle cap drip tray device of the tenth illustrative embodiment further comprises a bottle cap 1013, 1040 configured to engage with an opening of a bottle and/or an adapter ring. The bottle cap 1013, 1040 includes a threaded cap base portion 1013, the cap base portion 1013 formed by the upstanding inner wall portion 1012 and a top wall 1020 connected to the upstanding inner wall portion 1012, and the cap base portion 1013 further including a dispensing spout 1024 with a dispensing aperture disposed through the top wall 1020 for pouring the substance from a bottle. The bottle cap 1013, 1040 further includes a lid portion 1040 pivotably coupled to the cap base portion 1013, the lid portion 1040 being pivotable between a closed position (i.e., FIG. 51 position) where the dispensing aperture is covered and an open position (i.e., FIG. 53B position) where the dispensing aperture is accessible for the pouring of the substance.

In the tenth illustrative embodiment, referring to FIG. 52, the bottle cap drip tray device may be part of a threaded bottle cap system that includes an upturned peripheral edge portion or brim, a threaded cap base portion permanently affixed to said brim, a lid rotatably connected to said threaded cap base portion, and one or more threaded adapter rings configured to interface with said threaded cap base portion and a threaded bottle neck. The system provides a versatile and adaptable solution for securely sealing and dispensing contents from threaded bottles of various sizes.

Referring to FIGS. 51-56 of the illustrative embodiment, the threaded bottle cap system 1000 comprises an upturned peripheral edge portion or brim 1010, a threaded cap base portion 1013 permanently attached to said brim 1010, a lid 1040 rotatably connected to the proximal end of said threaded cap base portion, and one or more threaded adapter rings 1050, 1060 configured to engage the interior sealing threads of said threaded cap base portion and the exterior threads of a bottle neck. In the illustrative embodiment depicted in FIG. 52, the bottle cap system 1000 includes a plurality of parts that form the system: (i) two adapter rings 1050, 1060 of different sizes, (ii) a brim drip tray 1010, (iii) a threaded cap base portion 1013, (iv) a hinge pin 1049, (v) a lid 1014 with raised platform 1045, and (vi) a decal 1043 that is applied directly to the raised platform.

In the illustrative embodiment, the brim 1010, as depicted in FIGS. 51 and 52, is a generally circular component with a central opening. The brim 1010 comprises an upper surface 1047 oriented perpendicular to the vertical axis of the bottle cap system and a lower surface contoured to facilitate nesting with the proximal end of a bottle neck. The upper surface 1047 of the brim 1010 further comprises an annular mating surface adjacent to the central opening, wherein said mating surface is configured for permanent attachment to a corresponding annular mating edge 1046 disposed on the distal end of the threaded cap base portion 1013. The mating surface of the brim 1010 and the mating edge 1046 of the threaded cap base portion 1013 are oriented parallel to the upper surface of the brim 1010, facilitating a secure and leak-proof bond between the brim 1010 and the cap base portion 1013.

The threaded cap base portion 1013, as shown in the illustrative embodiment of FIGS. 51-53B, is a generally cylindrical component extending vertically upward from the central opening of the brim 1010. The distal end of the threaded cap base portion 1013 comprises an annular mating edge 1046 oriented perpendicular to the vertical axis of the cap base portion, wherein said mating edge is configured for permanent attachment to the mating surface of the brim 1010 via welding, gluing, or other suitable bonding methods. The interior surface of the threaded cap base portion 1013 comprises helical interior sealing threads 1018 extending along the vertical axis of the cap base portion, wherein said interior sealing threads 1018 are configured to mate with corresponding exterior sealing threads 1052, 1062 disposed on the threaded adapter rings 1050, 1060 (see FIG. 53B).

In the illustrative embodiment, referring to FIG. 53A, the proximal end of the threaded cap base portion 1013 comprises a circular sealing surface 1016 oriented perpendicular to the vertical axis of the cap base portion, wherein said sealing surface 1016 is configured to form a leak-proof seal with a corresponding sealing surface 1056, 1066 disposed on the proximal end of a fully inserted threaded adapter ring 1050, 1060. Adjacent to the sealing surface 1016, the proximal end of the threaded cap base portion 1013 further comprises an interior hinge box surface 1015 recessed relative to the sealing surface 1016 (see FIG. 53A). The interior hinge box surface 1015 is oriented generally parallel to the vertical axis of the cap base portion and perpendicular to the sealing surface 1016, and is configured to accommodate the hinge protrusion 1041 of the lid 1040 and provide a surface for the hinge detent 1042 to engage. In FIG. 53A, the adapter ring 1050 is shown threaded into the bottle cap, as an example, so that the top rim surface 1056 of the adapter ring 1050 is sealing on the underside of the threaded ceiling area 1016 of the cap base portion 1013. A gap is noticeable between the flange of the adapter ring 1050 and the underside of the brim 1010 that allows for fingers of a user to grab the adapter ring 1050 securely for insertion and removal.

In the illustrative embodiment, the lid 1040, as depicted in FIGS. 51-53B, is a generally circular component rotatably connected to the proximal end of the threaded cap base portion 1013 via a hinge protrusion 1041. The hinge protrusion 1041 extends axially outward from the edge of the lid 1040, oriented perpendicular to the plane of the lid 1040, and comprises a horizontal aperture hole configured to accept a coil spring hinge pin 1049. The coil spring hinge pin 1049, as shown in FIGS. 52 and 53A, is inserted through the aperture hole of the hinge protrusion 1041, with its distal end engaging the interior hinge box surface 1015 of the threaded cap base portion 1013, thereby rotatably connecting the lid 1040 to the cap base portion.

Referring again to FIGS. 52 and 53A of the illustrative embodiment, the lid 1040 further comprises a hinge detent 1042, which is an elongated protrusion extending downward from the hinge protrusion 1041. The hinge detent 1042 is oriented parallel to the aperture hole of the hinge protrusion 1041 and perpendicular to the plane of the lid. When the lid 1040 is rotated past a halfway open position, the hinge detent 1042 engages with the interior hinge box surface 1015 of the threaded cap base portion 1013, creating interference that maintains the lid in an open position until sufficient closing force is applied.

In the illustrative embodiment, to facilitate full rotation of the lid 1040 without impinging on the proximal surface of the threaded cap base portion 1013, the lid comprises recessed voids on either side of the hinge protrusion 1041. These voids are oriented parallel to the plane of the lid and extend inward from the edge of the lid, providing clearance for the lid to rotate until it contacts the upper rim of the brim 1010 (see FIG. 53B).

As shown in FIGS. 51 and 53A of the illustrative embodiment, the upper surface of the lid 1040 comprises a raised platform 1045 oriented generally parallel to the plane of the lid, wherein said raised platform is configured to accept a decorative decal 1043. The raised platform 1045 provides a flatter surface compared to the surrounding area of the lid, facilitating improved application and visibility of the decorative decal.

In the illustrative embodiment, the threaded bottle cap system 1000 further comprises one or more threaded adapter rings 1050, 1060, as depicted in FIGS. 52-56. Each threaded adapter ring 1050, 1060 is a generally cylindrical component comprising an exterior surface with helical exterior sealing threads 1052, 1062 and an interior surface with helical interior sealing threads 1054, 1064. The exterior sealing threads 1052, 1062 are configured to mate with the interior sealing threads 1018 of the threaded cap base portion 1013, while the interior sealing threads 1054, 1064 are configured to mate with the exterior threads of a bottle neck. As best shown in FIG. 53B, the threaded adapter ring 1050 is configured for a smaller size bottle, while the threaded adapter ring 1060 is configured for a larger size bottle. In the illustrative embodiment, referring to FIG. 52, the circular wall of the threaded adapter ring 1050 has an outside diameter D1 and an inside diameter D2, while the threaded adapter ring 1060 has an outside diameter D1 and an inside diameter D3. In the illustrative embodiment, outside diameters D1 of the threaded adapter rings 1050, 1060 are equal, while the inside diameter D3 of the threaded adapter ring 1060 is larger than the inside diameter D2 of the threaded adapter ring 1050.

In the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 53B, a cross-sectional view of the bottle cap and two different size adapter rings 1050, 1060, which are not yet installed, are depicted. Each adapter ring 1050, 1060 has the same exterior diameter D1 that matches the internal diameter of the bottle cap base portion 1013. The internal diameters and threading of the adapter rings 1050, 1060 are different, denoting that any interior diameter can be applied to an adapter so that virtually any threaded bottle can be adapted to fit the bottle cap with the right size diameter and threading.

In the illustrative embodiment of FIGS. 54 and 55, it can be seen that the adapter ring 1060 is in a form of an open cylinder with both internal and external threads 1064, 1062 as well as a flange 1068 on the bottom rim of the cylinder. The cylindrical body portion of the adapter ring 1060 defines an aperture 1065 disposed therethrough to accommodate a threaded neck of a bottle. This flange 1068 has two semicircular knock-out areas 1069 suitable for finger grips that aid in removal and tightening of the adapter into and out of the bottle cap threaded cap base portion. Furthermore, in FIG. 54, there is a depiction of a graphic showing arrows 1070 and open and closed lock icons 1072 on the flange 1068 to help the user understand which direction to turn for loosening the adapter 1060 once inserted into the bottle cap.

Referring again to FIG. 53B, in the illustrative embodiment, the proximal end of each threaded adapter ring 1050, 1060 comprises an annular sealing surface 1056, 1066 oriented perpendicular to the vertical axis of the adapter ring, wherein said sealing surface is configured to form a leak-proof seal against the sealing surface 1016 of the threaded cap base portion 1013 when the adapter ring is fully inserted into the cap base portion. The distal end of each threaded adapter ring 1050, 1060 comprises an adapter flange ring 1068 (see e.g., FIGS. 54 and 55) oriented perpendicular to the vertical axis of the adapter ring and extending radially outward from the base of the adapter ring. In the illustrative embodiment, the adapter flange ring 1068 comprises finger cutouts 1069 (see e.g., FIGS. 54-56), which are semi-circular recesses evenly spaced along the circumference of the flange, configured to accommodate a user's fingertips and facilitate rotation of the adapter rings for installation and removal.

In the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 56, it can be seen that the bottle cap has one of the adapter rings in place, and a user's hand 1099 can be seen with the thumb and pointer finger aligned with the semicircular finger grab knock-outs 1069.

In assembly of the illustrative embodiment, the distal mating edge 1046 of the threaded cap base portion 1013 is permanently bonded to the mating surface of the brim 1010, creating a leak-proof and structurally robust connection. The coil spring hinge pin 1049 is inserted through the aperture hole of the lid hinge protrusion 1041, with its distal end engaging the interior hinge box surface 1015 of the threaded cap base portion 1013, thereby rotatably connecting the lid 1040 to the cap base portion.

In the illustrative embodiment, to attach the bottle cap system 1000 to a bottle, a threaded adapter ring 1050, 1060 of appropriate size is selected and inserted into the threaded cap base portion 1013, with its exterior sealing threads 1052, 1062 engaging the interior sealing threads of the cap base portion. The adapter ring is rotated until its proximal sealing surface 1056, 1066 forms a leak-proof seal against the sealing surface 1016 of the cap base portion 1013 (see FIG. 53A). The bottle neck is then threaded into the interior sealing threads 1054, 1064 of the adapter ring 1050, 1060 until fully tightened.

In the operation of the illustrative embodiment, the lid 1040 is rotated between open and closed positions to access or seal the bottle contents. When rotated past the halfway open position, the hinge detent 1042 engages with the interior hinge box surface 1015 of the threaded cap base portion 1013, maintaining the lid in an open position for hands-free dispensing. The voids on either side of the lid hinge protrusion 1041 provide clearance for full rotation without overstressing the hinge mechanism.

In the illustrative embodiment, the manufacture of the bottle cap system components can be achieved through injection molding processes, using materials selected for their strength, durability, chemical resistance, and cost-effectiveness. The permanent attachment of the threaded cap base portion 1013 to the brim 1010 is accomplished through welding, gluing, or other suitable bonding methods, depending on the chosen materials. The decorative decal 1043 can be applied to the raised platform 1045 of the lid 1040 using standard labeling or printing techniques.

Advantageously, the aforedescribed system 1000 provides a versatile and adaptable threaded bottle cap system that offers secure sealing and convenient dispensing for bottles of various sizes. The permanent attachment of the cap base portion to the brim, the rotatable connection of the lid via the hinge pin and detent, and the interchangeable adapter rings with their sealing surfaces and finger cutouts, all contribute to the enhanced functionality and user-friendliness of the system. The raised platform on the lid accommodates decorative decals, improving the aesthetic appeal and branding potential of the bottle cap system.

It is readily apparent that the aforedescribed bottle cap drip tray device 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900 and bottle cap system 1000 offers numerous advantages. First of all, the bottle cap drip tray device 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900 and bottle cap system 1000 prevent a substance being poured from a bottle from dripping down one or more sides of the bottle (see FIG. 11). In addition, the bottle cap drip tray device 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900 and bottle cap system 1000 prevent bottles becoming dirty and/or sticky as a result of the substance being poured therefrom dripping down the one or more sides of the bottle. For example, when the bottle cap drip tray device described herein is used on a honey bottle, the bottle cap drip tray device prevents the bottle from becoming dirty and/or sticky as a result of the honey being poured therefrom dripping down the one or more sides of the bottle. Similarly, when bottle cap drip tray device described herein is applied to other food dispensers, it will prevent these other bottles from becoming dirty with container drips.

Some bottles, such as honey bottles, can become sticky after only one use. When the contents is poured from the bottle, it is difficult if not impossible, to prevent any drips from going down the sides. The bottle is then sticky, resulting in sticky hands after use. Also resulting in the bottle sticking to any surface in which it is placed (i.e., countertops, pantry shelves, etc.). When the bottle cap drip tray device 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900 and bottle cap system 1000 described herein is applied to all different types of bottles, the device 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900 and bottle cap system 1000 will advantageously prevent the dispensed contents of the bottle from dripping down the sides of the bottle, which can cause staining, sticking, or contaminating the surface upon which the bottle sits.

The illustrative embodiments of the bottle cap drip tray device 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900 and bottle cap system 1000 described herein provide one or more of the following benefits: (i) drips running down the sides of bottles are prevented, (ii) prevents hands of a user from becoming sticky or soiled by food, (iii) the device 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900 and bottle cap system 1000 eliminates sticky or dirty bottles, and (iv) the device 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900 and bottle cap system 1000 protects shelving, countertops and other surfaces from drips or food debris.

Any of the features or attributes of the above described embodiments and variations can be used in combination with any of the other features and attributes of the above described embodiments and variations as desired.

Although the invention has been shown and described with respect to a certain embodiment or embodiments, it is apparent that this invention can be embodied in many different forms and that many other modifications and variations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of this invention.

Moreover, while exemplary embodiments have been described herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that the exemplary embodiments set forth above are merely illustrative in nature and should not be construed as to limit the claims in any manner. Rather, the scope of the invention is defined only by the appended claims and their equivalents, and not, by the preceding description.

Claims

1. A bottle cap drip tray device, comprising: an upstanding inner wall portion;an upturned peripheral edge portion forming an outer peripheral boundary of the bottle cap drip tray device, the upturned peripheral edge portion having a curved upper surface and a curved lower surface, the curved lower surface of the upturned peripheral edge portion being oppositely disposed relative to the curved upper surface, and the curved upper and lower surfaces of the upturned peripheral edge portion being curved in a plane that is parallel to a vertical axis of the bottle cap drip tray device; anda floor portion extending between the upstanding inner wall portion and the upturned peripheral edge portion, the floor portion having an upper surface and a lower surface, the lower surface of the floor portion being oppositely disposed relative to the upper surface, the upper surface of the floor portion being adjoined to the curved upper surface of the upturned peripheral edge portion, the lower surface of the floor portion being adjoined to the curved lower surface of the upturned peripheral edge portion, and the curved upper and lower surfaces of the upturned peripheral edge portion each having a varying slope from a first location where the curved upper and lower surfaces adjoin the upper and lower surfaces of the floor portion to a second location at the outer peripheral boundary of the bottle cap drip tray device;wherein the bottle cap drip tray device is configured to prevent a substance being poured from a bottle from dripping down one or more sides of the bottle.

2. The bottle cap drip tray device according to claim 1, further comprising a bottle cap configured to engage with an opening of the bottle, the bottle cap including: a cap base portion, the cap base portion formed by the upstanding inner wall portion and a top wall connected to the upstanding inner wall portion, and the cap base portion further including a dispensing aperture disposed through the top wall for pouring the substance from the bottle; anda lid portion pivotably coupled to the cap base portion, the lid portion being pivotable between a closed position where the dispensing aperture is covered and an open position where the dispensing aperture is accessible for the pouring of the substance.

3. The bottle cap drip tray device according to claim 2, wherein the bottle cap further comprises a hinge member pivotably coupling the lid portion to the cap base portion of the bottle cap.

4. The bottle cap drip tray device according to claim 3, wherein the hinge member defines a substantially horizontal pivot axis about which the lid portion is rotatable relative to the cap base portion of the bottle cap.

5. The bottle cap drip tray device according to claim 4, wherein the hinge member is coupled to the cap base portion by a hinge pin that engages with a pair of apertures in the cap base portion, the substantially horizontal pivot axis of the hinge member being disposed through a center of the hinge pin.

6. The bottle cap drip tray device according to claim 5, wherein the lid portion comprises a hinge protrusion extending downwardly from a peripheral edge of the lid portion, the hinge protrusion including a hinge aperture disposed therethrough for receiving the hinge pin.

7. The bottle cap drip tray device according to claim 2, wherein the cap base portion comprises an upstanding collar circumscribing the dispensing aperture, and the lid portion comprises a circular recess at a bottom of the lid portion for accommodating the upstanding collar of the cap base portion when the lid portion is in the closed position.

8. The bottle cap drip tray device according to claim 2, wherein an interior surface of the upstanding inner wall portion of the cap base portion comprises a plurality of internal threads that are configured to threadingly engage with a plurality of corresponding external threads disposed on a neck of the bottle.

9. The bottle cap drip tray device according to claim 8, further comprising one or more adapter rings for enabling the cap base portion of the bottle cap drip tray device to be coupled to bottles of different sizes, each of the one or more adapter rings including: a cylindrical body portion with an exterior surface and an interior surface, the exterior surface of the cylindrical body portion being oppositely disposed relative to the interior surface;a first plurality of threads being disposed on the exterior surface of the cylindrical body portion, the first plurality of threads configured to be coupled to the plurality of internal threads on the cap base portion of the bottle cap drip tray device; anda second plurality of threads being disposed on the interior surface of the cylindrical body portion, the second plurality of threads configured to be coupled to a plurality of external threads on a neck of a bottle.

10. The bottle cap drip tray device according to claim 9, wherein at least one of the one or more adapter rings further comprises a flange on one end of the cylindrical body portion, the flange configured to be grasped by a hand of a user to facilitate a removal and tightening of the at least one of the one or more adapter rings into and out of the cap base portion of the bottle cap drip tray device.

11. The bottle cap drip tray device according to claim 2, wherein the upturned peripheral edge portion has a top rim and the lid portion of the bottle cap has a top surface, the top rim of the upturned peripheral edge portion being disposed beneath the top surface of the lid portion of the bottle cap.

12. The bottle cap drip tray device according to claim 1, wherein the bottle has an animal or human figurine shape, and the bottle cap drip tray device is in a shape of a hat disposed on a head of the animal or human figurine.

13. The bottle cap drip tray device according to claim 1, wherein the floor portion and/or the upturned peripheral edge portion of the bottle cap drip tray device has a textured inner surface comprising a plurality of ribs that define recesses between the ribs for trapping the substance being poured from the bottle.

14. A bottle cap drip tray system, comprising: a bottle having an animal or human figurine shape, the bottle configured to hold a substance in an interior of the bottle;a bottle cap drip tray device configured to be attached to the bottle, the bottle cap drip tray device being in a shape of a hat disposed on a head of the animal or human figurine, and the bottle cap drip tray device including: an upstanding inner wall portion;an upturned peripheral edge portion forming an outer peripheral boundary of the bottle cap drip tray device; anda floor portion extending between the upstanding inner wall portion and the upturned peripheral edge portion, the upturned peripheral edge portion surrounding the floor portion;wherein the bottle cap drip tray device is configured to prevent the substance from dripping down one or more sides of the bottle when the substance is being poured from the bottle; andwherein the floor portion and/or the upturned peripheral edge portion of the bottle cap drip tray device has a textured inner surface comprising a plurality of ribs that define recesses between the ribs for trapping the substance being poured from the bottle.

15. The bottle cap drip tray device according to claim 14, wherein the substance that is configured to be poured from the bottle comprises a viscous liquid, and the recesses defined between the ribs of the textured inner surface are configured to trap the viscous liquid.

16. A bottle cap drip tray system, comprising: one or more adapter rings for enabling a bottle cap drip tray device to be coupled to bottles of different sizes, each of the one or more adapter rings including a cylindrical body portion with an exterior surface and an interior surface, the exterior surface of the cylindrical body portion being oppositely disposed relative to the interior surface; andwherein the exterior surface of the cylindrical body portion of each of the one or more adapter rings is configured to be coupled to the bottle cap drip tray device, and the interior surface of the cylindrical body portion of each of the one or more adapter rings is configured to be coupled to a neck of a bottle.

17. The bottle cap drip tray system according to claim 16, further comprising the bottle cap drip tray device, the bottle cap drip tray device configured to be attached to the neck of the bottle, the bottle cap drip tray device including: an upstanding inner wall portion;an upturned peripheral edge portion forming an outer peripheral boundary of the bottle cap drip tray device; anda floor portion extending between the upstanding inner wall portion and the upturned peripheral edge portion, the upturned peripheral edge portion surrounding the floor portion;wherein the bottle cap drip tray device is configured to prevent a substance from dripping down one or more sides of the bottle when the substance is being poured from the bottle.

18. The bottle cap drip tray system according to claim 16, wherein at least one of the one or more adapter rings further comprises: a first plurality of threads being disposed on the exterior surface of the cylindrical body portion, the first plurality of threads configured to be coupled to a plurality of internal threads on the bottle cap drip tray device; anda second plurality of threads being disposed on the interior surface of the cylindrical body portion, the second plurality of threads configured to be coupled to a plurality of external threads 7 on the neck of the bottle.

19. The bottle cap drip tray device according to claim 16, wherein at least one of the one or more adapter rings further comprises a flange on one end of the cylindrical body portion, the flange configured to be grasped by a hand of a user to facilitate a removal and tightening of the at least one of the one or more adapter rings into and out of the bottle cap drip tray device.

20. The bottle cap drip tray device according to claim 19, wherein the flange on the one end of the cylindrical body portion of the at least one of the one or more adapter rings comprises one or more cutouts formed in the flange for accommodating one or more fingers of the hand of the user during the removal and tightening of the at least one of the one or more adapter rings into and out of the bottle cap drip tray device.