This disclosure relates generally to mechanical devices that fit around a standard bucket handle to provide additional grip surface area for a user.
Buckets are well-known devices used to haul or store quantities of materials. Smaller sized buckets, such as a standard five-gallon bucket, typically include a wire or metal rod handle connected to a top edge or a sidewall of the bucket to allow a user to carry the bucket. A plastic handle, usually a hollow substantially cylindrical handle, is frequently disposed around the wire or metal rod to make the bucket easier to carry. Although the plastic handle is an improvement over carrying the bare wire or metal rod, the handle can still make carrying the bucket painful or difficult for a user, depending on the weight of materials in the bucket.
There are grip devices that are designed to be placed over the plastic handle to make carrying the bucket more comfortable and easier for a user. Many of these include a body made from two separate pieces that are configured to be mated together. It can be difficult to hold the plastic handle within the two pieces of the grip body to align the mating components, making them not ideal. Additionally, the mating components are frequently pronging that mate with a recess and the prong material is subject to damage or breakage during the alignment and inserting process, making two-piece grip components harder to use and more prone to failure.
There are also clam-shell or U-shaped grip devices with integrated latches that avoid some of the problems with a two-piece body configuration. However, these have multiple latches disposed near ends of the body, which does not properly distribute forces. They also have cavities that allow rotation of the grip relative to the the plastic bucket handle during use, which is not ideal. For example, if the user sets the bucket down, the grip may rotate and need to be reoriented into a use a position when the user picks the bucket up again.
There is a need for a grip that provides ease of insertion of the bucket handle, ease of securing the bucket handle within the cavity, avoid rotation of the grip relative to the bucket handle once the bucket handle is properly positioned in the cavity, and provides improved ergonomics for a user.
According to some embodiments, a grip for an existing bucket handle comprises a body with a cavity configured to receive a portion of the existing bucket handle and at least one latch configured to be selectively actuated between an open position to allow insertion or removal of the existing bucket handle and a closed position to maintain the existing bucket handle within the cavity. In some embodiments, a latch includes a hook and a catch. A catch may be configured to receive the hook to hold it in place (in a closed position) until a user applies a force to release the hook (to an open position).
In one preferred embodiment, there is only a single latch. In some embodiments, a single latch is disposed in a longitudinally central position on the body. In some embodiments, a single latch is disposed on an exterior of a body of the grip.
According to some embodiments, a grip body comprises a first portion, a second portion, and an opening disposed between the first portion and the second portion. An opening between the first portion and the second portion allows access to a cavity to receive the bucket handle inside the body. In some embodiments, an opening keeps at least a part of the first portion from contacted at least a part of the second portion when a latch is in an open position. In some embodiments, an opening keeps at least a part of the first portion from contacted at least a part of the second portion when a latch is in closed position. In still other embodiments, an opening does not prevent contact between the first portion and the second portion of a grip body.
In still other embodiments, a grip body is configured to allow a first portion and a second portion to temporarily move away from each other (to increase a size of an opening between them) to allow insertion or removal of the bucket handle into the body, and preferably into a cavity within the body. According to some preferred embodiments, a grip body is substantially U-shaped with a connecting portion disposed between the first portion and the second portion and substantially opposite from the opening.
In some preferred embodiments, a first portion, a second portion, and a connecting portion of a grip body are all unitarily formed as a single piece. Most preferably, when unitarily formed, grip body is made of materials that allow a first portion and a second portion to be flexed apart for insertion and removal of a bucket handle. In still another preferred embodiment, a first portion and a second portion of the body are separate components that are connected together by a connecting portion, such as a hinge.
In some preferred embodiments, a latch comprises a hook and a catch disposed on exterior surfaces of a grip body. In some preferred embodiments, a latch includes a hook connected to a first portion of a grip body and a catch connected to a second portion of a grip body.
In one preferred embodiment a hook includes a first arm, a second arm, and a third arm disposed between the first arm and the second arm. In one embodiment, a hook may comprise a U-shape with a third arm making up the closed portion of the U-shape. In some preferred embodiments, a third arm is substantially longer than a first arm or a second arm. In another preferred embodiment, a hook comprises a first arm, a second arm, and a third connecting arm that are disposed in a common plane as a latch on the grip is actuated between an open position and a closed position.
In some embodiments, a first arm and a second arm of a hook are connected to a first portion of a grip body. Most preferably, a connection between a hook and a first portion of a grip body allows the hook to flex and move between an open position and a closed position for the latch. In some embodiments, a hook is directly connected to a grip body. In other embodiments, a hook is indirectly connected to a grip body. In some embodiments, a hook is connected to a grip body by being unitarily formed as a single component with the grip body. In other embodiments, a hook is connected to a grip body by adhesives, hinges, or other mechanical fasteners.
In one preferred embodiment, a hook is unitarily formed with a grip body as a single component. Preferably, a hook (or a first arm and a second arm in a U-shaped configuration) is made of material that allows for flexing and movement. In still other embodiments, an area of a hook that connects to a grip body may be made of thinner material than other portions of the hook to allow for flexing and movement. In another embodiment, an area of a hook that connects to a grip body has substantially the same thickness as other portions of the hook, but the hook is still configured to allow for flexing and/or movement.
In still another embodiment (1) a first arm of a hook includes (a) a first flexible end connected to a body of a grip (or unitarily formed as a single component with the body) and (b) a first connecting portion configured to connect the first flexible end to a first end of the third arm and (2) a second arm of a hook includes (a) a second flexible end connected to a body of a grip (or unitarily formed as a single component with the body) and (b) a second connecting portion configured to connect the second flexible end to a second end of the third arm. Preferably, a first flexible end and a second flexible end of the hook arms are configured to bend as a latch is actuated between the open position and the closed position. In some embodiments, a first flexible end and a second flexible end are directly connected to a grip body, preferably to a first portion of a grip body. In still another embodiment, a first connecting portion of a first arm, a second connecting portion of a second arm, and the third arm of a hook are disposed in a common plane as a latch is actuated between the open position and the closed position.
In some embodiments, a connection between a hook (or between a first arm and a second arm in a U-shaped configuration) and a body (or a first portion of a body) of a grip may comprise a hinge. An end of a first arm and an end of a second arm of a hook may each be rotatably connected to a grip body with a hinge. In other embodiments, no hinges or separate components or mechanical fasteners are used to connect a hook to a grip body.
In some embodiments, a catch comprises a body configured to receive a portion of a hook to hold the hook in a closed position. In other embodiments, a catch comprises a body and a lip disposed on an outer longitudinal edge of the catch body and the lip is configured to receive a portion of a hook to hold the hook in a closed position. In one preferred embodiment, the portion of the hook received by the catch body or lip is a third arm. In another preferred embodiment, a third arm of a hook is disposed around an outer side of a catch body and/or under a lip of a catch body when the latch is in the closed position. In one preferred embodiment, a hook and/or a catch body and/or a catch lip are made of materials that allow for them to flex to aid in securing hook to catch.
In some embodiments, a grip body (and preferably a first portion of a grip body) comprises a first recessed area configured to receive a hook. In one preferred embodiment, a first flexible end and a second flexible end are directly connected to a first recess area on a grip body. In still other embodiments a grip body (and preferably a second portion of a grip body) comprises a second recessed area with a catch body connected to the second recessed area.
In one preferred embodiment, a grip body has a first length and a portion of a single latch has a second length that is around 29-33% of the first length. In another preferred embodiment, the portion of the single latch with the second length is a hook. In still another preferred embodiment, the portion of the single latch with the second length is a catch configured to receive a hook.
In some embodiments, a third arm of a hook has a first length and a body of a catch has a second length that is the same as or slightly smaller than the first length. In some embodiments, a distance between interior sides of a first arm and a second arm of a hook is a third length and the second length of the catch body is around 90 to 93% of the third length.
In some embodiments, a cavity to receive an existing bucket handle comprises a sidewall that is substantially cylindrical. In still other embodiments, a substantially cylindrical sidewall of a cavity has a first end and a second end and a first enlarged portion disposed at each of the first end and the second end of the sidewall. In still other embodiments, a cavity also comprises a second enlarged portion disposed in a substantially central position of the sidewall. First and second enlarged portions preferably conform to a shape and size of a plastic handle body included on some commercially available buckets having similar geometric features to provide greater stability of a grip relative to the plastic handle body. As they are enlarged portions, a grip embodiment with these features may also be used on buckets having only a metal bail or a plastic handle with a different configuration (such as a cylindrical handle with a uniform exterior surface).
In some embodiments, a cavity is formed by two mirror portions. In one embodiment, a first part of the cavity is disposed in a first portion of a grip body and a second part of the cavity is disposed in a second portion of a grip body and the first part and the second part mirror each other. A first part and a second part of a cavity each may include: a sidewall that is substantially semi-cylindrical and includes a first end and a second end; a first enlarged portion disposed at each of the first end and the second end of the sidewall; and a second enlarged portion disposed in a substantially central position of the sidewall. In still other embodiments, an opening between a first portion and a second portion of a grip body may be at least partially disposed between a first part of the cavity and the second part of the cavity.
In some embodiments, a body of a grip includes a central longitudinal axis and an interior angled wall forming an angle of around 36.5 to 37.0° relative to the central longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, an angled interior wall is disposed at a first end of a body of a grip and at a second end of a body of a grip. In another embodiment, an interior angled wall(s) defines a portion of an opening in the body to allow insertion and removal of a bucket handle.
In some embodiments, an exterior surface of a grip body comprises ergonomic features. In one embodiment, an exterior surface of a grip body comprises a set of finger grips spaced apart longitudinally along the grip body. In another embodiment, a set of finger grips includes four recessed areas in a grip body, each configured to receive a finger of a user holding the grip. In still another embodiment, a set of finger grips extends vertically along at least a part of a first portion of a grip body and extends vertically along at least a part of a second portion of a grip body. In another embodiment, a set of finger grips wraps around at least part of a grip body, extending vertically down at least a part of a first portion of a grip body, laterally over a connecting portion of a grip body, and vertically up at least a part of a second portion of a grip body. In some preferred embodiments, a set of finger grips comprises a plurality of longitudinally extending recesses. In another embodiment, a set of finger grips comprises a plurality of longitudinally extending protrusions.
In still another embodiment, a grip body does not include any recesses areas that form finger grips. In other embodiments, particularly without any recessed areas that form finger grips, an exterior of a grip body comprises a set of grip surfaces to provide increased comfort/cushioning and/or slip-resistance. In one embodiment, a set of grip surfaces comprises a plurality of longitudinally extending recesses. In another embodiment, a set of grip surfaces comprises a plurality of longitudinally extending protrusions. In still another embodiment, a set of grip surfaces comprises a combination of recesses and protrusions.
Bucket grip handles according to various embodiments herein provide a more secure containment of an existing bucket handle and improved ease of use. A single latch in some preferred embodiments may provide improvements in weight distribution, more surface area for connecting a hook to a latch for a more secure closure, ease of use as only one latch needs to be opened and closed and there are not multiple latches to try to hold out of the way while inserting or removing a bucket handle from a cavity within a grip body, and ease of manufacturing. A unitarily formed, single component grip in some embodiments aids in ease of use as there are not separate parts of a grip body that need to be aligned and connected together while also positioning a bucket handle within the grip body. Ergonomic features on some preferred embodiments provide improved comfort for a user, making it easier to carry a bucket for longer durations and make slippage in a user's hand less likely. Additionally, some preferred embodiments provide a cavity configured to better fit around many plastic handles on commercially available buckets, which aids in maintaining a bucket grip in proper position and orientation on the plastic handle to prevent it from rotating or slipping during use or when a user sets the bucket down and releases the bucket grip.
The foregoing description has outlined some of the more pertinent features of bucket grips according to embodiments herein. These features should be construed to be merely illustrative.
For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure and so that the manner in which the features and advantages of preferred embodiments can be understood in more detail, reference is now made to the following brief description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings and detailed description.
Hook 16 in one embodiment comprises a substantially U-shaped body having arms 20 that are shorter than a closed end 22. Arms 20 are preferably connected to body 12 via an actuation system, such as hinges or a similar structure that allows hook 16 to actuate between an open and a closed/latched position. In one embodiment, an actuation system is disposed in a first recessed area 28 on an upper end of body 12. Although a first recessed area 28 is preferred to provide some protection for an actuation system, one or more components of an actuation system may be disposed on a non-recessed outer surface of body 12. Most preferably, there are two separate first recessed area 28 longitudinally spaced apart from each other. In an alternative embodiment, one of more components of an actuation system may be disposed on an inner surface of body 12 and/or within a body opening 32. One embodiment of an actuation system comprises, for example, having hook 16 unitarily formed with body 12 with a thinned or narrowed area of material between an end 21 of each arm 20 disposed near body 12 and body 12 to allow hook 16 to bend or flex between an open and a closed position. In another embodiment of an actuation system, arms 20 may comprise one or more apertures or hinge knuckles at an end of each arm 20 disposed near body 12 to receive a hinge pin (or bolt) and corresponding aperture or hinge knuckle structures may be disposed on body 12 to also receive the hinge pin (or bolt).
As another alternative actuation system, body 12 may comprise a set of spaced apart ears for each arm 20, each ear having an inwardly protruding prong (such as forming an L-shape between an ear and its prong) that is configured to engage with a corresponding aperture or knuckle on an end of each arm 20 disposed near body 12 to allow hook 16 to swing between an open and closed position. As still another alternative, an inwardly protruding prong may be disposed on an end of each arm 20 disposed near body 12 and configured to engage with a corresponding aperture or knuckle on body 12. Various actuation systems with hinge-type configurations may be used with bucket handle grip 10 to allow hook 16 to actuate between an open and a closed position. In
Catch 18 in one embodiment comprises a body 24 and a lip 26 that is disposed at an outer end of body 24. Lip 26 is preferably a thinned area relative to body 24. This allows body 24 to provide some added structural stability, while allowed lip 26 to flex during actuation of latch 14 between an open and closed position. Catch 18 is preferably unitarily formed with body 12 from a single piece of material. Alternatively catch 18 may be a separate component that is connected to body 12, preferably at an end or side other than one comprises lip 26, such as by adhesives, rivets, screws, or other types of fasteners. Lip 26 is configured to engage with closed end 22 of hook 16 to secure hook 16 in a closed or latched position. In one embodiment, body 24 preferably has a length L1 that is substantially equal to a corresponding inner distance D1 between arms 20 on hook 16, but slightly shorter so that lateral sides of body 24 do not interfere with movement of hook 16 from an open to a closed/latched position. A length L1 may also be around 90.0 to 93.0%, more preferably 90.75 to 92.75%, and most preferably 92.25 to 92.50% of an inner distance D1 between arms 20. A width of body 24 (in a direction perpendicular to L1 and parallel to W1 as shown in
In one embodiment, hook 16 may be released from catch 18 to allow it to move to an open position by application of pressure in a first direction (such as upward or away from connecting portion 38) on closed end 22 to force closed end 22 out from an underside of lip 26. In another embodiment, hook 16 may be released from catch 18 to allow it to move to an open position by application of pressure in a third direction (such as rearward or towards first portion 34, wherein a third direction is substantially perpendicular to the first direction) on body 24 or lip 26 to push catch 18 toward first portion 34 to allow closed end 22 to be release from an underside of lip 26. In one embodiment, hook 16 and catch 18 engage to a closed position by closed end 22 being forced over lip 26 by application of pressure by a user in a second direction (such as downward, toward connecting portion 38, wherein the second direction is substantially opposite the first direction) to snap closed end 22 over lip 26, forcing force closed end 22 to an underside of lip 26. Hook 16 may be released to allow it to move to an open position again by application of pressure in a first direction substantially opposite the second direction on closed end 22 and/or body 24 and/or lip 26 to force closed end 22 out from an underside of lip 26.
In one embodiment, when in a closed position, no portion of closed end 22 extends laterally outwardly (relative to a direction from 34 toward 36, as shown in
In one embodiment, when in a closed position, arms 20 overlie a portion of opening 32 and are partially disposed in first recessed area 28 and partially disposed in a second recessed area 30 on an upper end of body 12. Outer lateral edges of first recessed area 28 and second recessed area 30 are preferably aligned with each other. Second recessed area 30 at least partially extends under body 24 of catch 18 to receive closed end 22 of hook 16 when in a closed position. In some embodiments, second recessed area 30 comprises a substantially U-shaped recess or a substantially rectangular recess, preferably with rounded outer corners.
In one embodiment, hook 16 comprises only arms 20 and closed end 22 and there are no protrusions, extensions, or handles extending outwardly from arms 20 or closed end 22. In another embodiment, hook 16 comprises one or more protrusions, extensions, or handle extending outwardly from arms 20 and/or closed end 22 to aid in moving hook 16 from between open and closed positions by giving a user something to grasp while applying pressure or forces to release or connect parts of latch 14. However, these protrusions, extensions, or handles portions may also be uncomfortable for a user's hand to hold bucket handle grip 10, so they are not included in other embodiments. Most preferably, second recessed area 30 is sufficiently sized to provide enough clearance around hook 16, and particularly arms 20 or corners where arms 20 connect with closed end 22, to allow actuation of latch 14 without needing any protrusions, extensions, or handles.
In one preferred embodiment, an end 21 of each arm 20 disposed near body 12 comprises a thinned or narrowed area of material that allows hook 16 to bend or flex. In this embodiment, when in a closed position, all or a portion of ends 21 may be disposed in first plane and a remainder of arms 20 and closed end 22 may be disposed in a second plane substantially perpendicular to the first plane.
In one preferred embodiment, bucket handle grip 10 comprises latch 14 that has a uniformly loaded cantilevered beam deflection configuration that provides improved support at the ends of a plastic bucket handle that is inserted into cavity 40 for use of bucket handle grip 10. In this preferred embodiment, there is only one hook 16 and only one catch 18, preferably each being elongated. Most preferably, D2 of hook 16 is around 38.8 to 41.1%, more preferably 39.1 to 40.3%, and most preferably 39.4 to 39.9% of a length L2 of body 12 Most preferably, D1 of hook 16 is around 29.5 to 32%, more preferably 29.9 to 31.7%, and most preferably 30.9 to 31.3% of a length L2 of body 12. Most preferably, L1 of body 24 of catch 18 is around 30.00 to 33.00%, more preferably 30.75 to 32.75%, and most preferably 31.75 to 32.25% of a length L2 of body 12.
A portion of a standard bucket comprising a wire bail 300 connected to or near an upper end 302 of the bucket (likely connected to a upper sidewall of the bucket) is shown in
In other embodiments, latch 14 may comprise two or more sets of hooks 16 and catches 18 that are spaced apart along body 12. However, it is most preferred to only have a single hook 16 and a single catch 18 centrally disposed on body 12.
Body 12 is preferably substantially U-shaped or has a clam shell formation comprising a first portion 34, a second portion 36, and a connecting portion 38. In one embodiment, body 12 comprises a single component. In one embodiment, body 12 does not comprise separate components that need to be connected together for use of bucket handle grip 10. In one embodiment, body 12 has a width W1 of around 0.813 to 1.00 inches, more preferably around 0.850 to 0.980 inches, and most preferably around 0.875 to 0.925 inches. In one embodiment, body 12 has a length L2 of around 4.55 to 4.67 inches, more preferably around 4.58 to 4.65 inches, and most preferably around 4.60 to 4.62 inches. In one embodiment, body 12 has a height H1 of around 1.350 to 1.450 inches, more preferably around 1.375 to 1.425 inches, and most preferably around 1.390 to 1.410. In one embodiment, hook 16 has a height H2 when in an open position extending from an end 54 of first portion 34 of body 12 of around 0.408 to 0.418 inches, more preferably around 0.410 to 0.416 inches, and most preferably around 0.412 to 0.415 inches.
An opening 32 is disposed between first portion 34 and second portion 36. In one embodiment, opening 32 comprises a first portion 32A disposed distal to connecting portion 38 and a second portion 32B disposed proximal to connecting portion 38. In some embodiments, opening 32 comprises two second portions 32B, one disposed at each lateral end of body 12. First portion 32A is preferably narrower in width than second portion 32B as shown in
First portion 32A preferably extends a full length L2 of body 12. Second portion 32B preferably extends from an outer lateral end of body 12 inwardly until it reaches a cavity 40. In one embodiment, second portion 32B has a length L3 of around 0.785 to 0.800 inches, more preferably around 0.790 to 0.797 inches, and most preferably around 0.794 to 0.795 inches. Second portion 32B may also have a height H3 at its outer end of around 0.639 to 0.648 inches, more preferably around 0.641 to 0.646 inches, and most preferably around 0.643 to 0.645 inches. In one embodiment, an interior wall 48 of body 12 comprises a chamfered angle relative to a center line CL1 of body 12, as shown in
A cavity 40 is preferably disposed inside body 12 and preferably formed from an interior structure of body 12. Bucket handle grip 10 preferably has two portions, one disposed in each of first portion 34 and second portion 36 that mirror each other to form cavity 40. Preferably, cavity 40 has a first lower end disposed near connecting portion 38 that is closed and a second upper end disposed distally to connecting portion 38 that is open and is part of opening 32.
In one embodiment, body 12 comprises a center line (or longitudinal axis) CL1 and cavity 40 comprises a center line (or longitudinal axis) CL2. In one embodiment, CL1 and CL2 are parallel to each other and not coaxial. In this embodiment, CL2 is preferably disposed between CL1 and an outer end of connecting portion 38, and most preferably closer to CL1 than an outer end of connecting portion 38. A vertical distance (measured in a direction of H1 on
In one embodiment, cavity 40 has a length L4 of around 3.100 to 3.200 inches, more preferably around 3.125 to 3.188 inches, and most preferably around 3.150 to 3.175 inches. In one embodiment, cavity 40 preferably comprises an outer wall 42 portion. In another embodiment, cavity 40 and outer wall 42 each comprise two portions that mirror each other, one disposed in first portion 34 and the other disposed in second portion 36. A gap for first portion 32A of opening 32 may be disposed between the two mirrored portions of cavity 40 and outer wall 42. Considering both mirrored portions of outer wall 42 together, in one preferred embodiment they form a substantially cylindrical sidewall having a diameter of around 0.460 to 0.485 inches, more preferably around 0.465 to 0.480 inches, and most preferably around 0.470 to 0.475 inches.
In another embodiment, cavity 40 may comprise a first enlarged portion 44 at each end of outer wall 42. Like outer wall 42, in one embodiment, first enlarged portion 44 may comprise two portions that mirror each other, one disposed in first portion 34 and the other disposed in second portion 36. A gap for first portion 32A of opening 32 may be disposed between the two mirrored portions of first enlarged portion 44. Considering both mirrored portions of first enlarged portion 44 together, in one preferred embodiment they form a substantially cylindrical sidewall having a diameter (at a largest portion of first enlarged portion 44) of around 0.53 to 0.60 inches, more preferably around 0.55 to 0.58 inches, and most preferably around 0.56 to 0.57 inches. In one embodiment, first enlarged portion 44 preferably comprises a height (as measured in the same direction as H1, which is substantially perpendicular to L4, as shown in
In still another embodiment, cavity 40 may comprise a second enlarged portion 46 disposed in a center portion of outer wall 42. Like first enlarged portion 44, in one embodiment, second enlarged portion 46 may comprise two portions that mirror each other, one disposed in first portion 34 and the other disposed in second portion 36. A gap for first portion 32A of opening 32 may be disposed between the two mirrored portions of second enlarged portion 46. Considering both mirrored portions of first enlarged portion 44 together, in one preferred embodiment they form a substantially cylindrical sidewall having a diameter (at a largest portion of first enlarged portion 44) of around 0.53 to 0.60 inches, more preferably around 0.55 to 0.58 inches, and most preferably around 0.56 to 0.57 inches. In one embodiment, second enlarged portion 46 preferably comprises a height (as measured in in the same direction as H1, which is substantially perpendicular to L4, as shown in
In one embodiment, a height of each first enlarged portion 44 is equal to or substantially equal to a height of second enlarged portion 46. In another embodiment, a height of each first enlarged portion 44 and a height of second enlarged portion 46 is around 17.3 to 18.5%, more preferably 17.5 to 18.3%, and most preferably 17.8 to 18.0% larger than a height of outer wall 42. Outer ends of each first enlarged portion 44 and second enlarged portion 46 are preferably rounded. A smallest diameter of mirrored portions of first enlarged portion 44 is preferably at an interior end of first enlarged portion 44. A smallest diameter of mirrored portions of second enlarged portion 46 is preferably at one or both exterior ends of second enlarged portion 46.
Cavity 40 is preferably configured in size and shape to conform to an existing plastic handle on a bucket bail, particularly such as found on a standard 5 gallon bucket. Such plastic handles may comprise a cylindrical body without any enlarged portions. Such plastic handles may also comprise, and more typically do comprise enlarged portions that correspond to first enlarged portion 44 and second enlarged portion 46. Cavity 40 in bucket handle grip 10 is preferably configured to receive both types of plastic handles. Being configured with first enlarged portion 44 and second enlarged portion 46 to more closely match an outer contour of a plastic bucket handle according to a preferred embodiment prevents the plastic handle from sliding inside body 12 and potentially slipping out of body 12, which aids in providing a more secure enclosure for the plastic handle so that it does not become dislodged during use.
Body 12 preferably comprises one or more ergonomic features that make holding bucket handle grip 10 easier and more comfortable for a user. In one embodiment, body 12 comprises a plurality of finger grips 50 disposed on an outer surface of connecting portion 38. Each finger grip 50 comprises a recessed area in an outer surface of connecting portion 38 that is configured to receive a finger of a user of bucket handle grip 10. A ridge 51 is preferably formed on an outer surface of connecting portion 38 between each finger grip 50. Preferably there are four finger grips 50 spaced apart along connecting portion 38.
In another embodiment, a portion of one or more finger grips 50 wraps around an outer surface of body 12 from a portion of first portion 34 around to connecting portion 38 and around to a portion of second portion 36. In this embodiment, a wrapped finger grip 50 may have a larger radius or a deeper recess near connecting portion 38 and may have a smaller radius or shallower recess as it extends upwardly from connecting portion 38 to first portion 34, second portion 36. In one preferred embodiment, one or more finger grips 50 may partially wrap around body 12 without extending all the way an upper end 54 to an upper end 56. In another preferred embodiment, one or more finger grips 50 may fully wrap around body 12 from upper end 54 to upper end 56. Preferably, a finger grip 50 disposed near each of ends 64, ends 66 wraps around body 12 from upper end 54 to upper end 56, forming a recess in body 12 between those ends. As shown in
In another embodiment, first portion 34 may comprise a central portion 74 disposed between lateral ends 64. In another embodiment, second portion 36 may comprise a central portion 76 disposed between outer lateral ends 66. If one or more finger grip 50 are extended to wrap fully around from upper end 54 to upper end 56, then central portion 74 and/or central portion 76 may be disposed between one fully wrapped outer finger grip 50 and another fully wrapped outer finger grip 50. In one embodiment, a central portion 74 and/or a central portion 76 has a width W1 that is equal or substantially equal to a width of body 12 at ends 64, ends 66. In this embodiment, one or more finger grips 50 may wrap around body 12 from a lower end of central portion 74 to a lower end of central portion 76. Second recessed area 30 for receiving hook 16 is preferably disposed upwardly from central portion 76.
In another embodiment, a plurality of grip surfaces 52 are disposed on an outer surface of body 12 to aid in keeping body 12 from slipping in a user's hand. Most preferably, grip surfaces 52 are disposed in a lateral direction (in a direction as D1 is measured in
In another embodiment, grip surfaces 52 may comprise areas recessed into an outer surface of body 12 that is integrally formed with body 12. A depth of each grip surfaces 52 formed as a recess is around 0.010 to 0.040 inches, more preferably around 0.020 to 0.030 inches, and most preferably around 0.025 to 0.027 inches. This depth measurement may be along an entire length of each grip surface 52 or may be for only a portion of a length (such as a center portion), with the depth decreasing in other portions (such as decreasing from a center of grip surface 52 as it extends outwardly from its center). In another embodiment, each grip surfaces 52 is spaced apart from an adjacent grip surfaces 52 by a distance of around 0.025 to 0.040 inches, more preferably around 0.030 to 0.035 inches, and most preferably around 0.032 to 0.034 inches.
Hook 216 in one embodiment comprises a substantially U-shaped body having arms 220 that are shorter than a closed end 222. Arms 220 are preferably connected to body 212, such as at ends 221, via an actuation system as previously described for hook 16. Arms 220 are preferably connected to body 212 in a first recessed area 228. In
Catch 218 in one embodiment comprises a body 224 and a lip 226 that is disposed at an outer end of body 224. Catch 218 is preferably unitarily formed with body 212 from a single piece of material. Alternatively catch 218 may be a separate component that is connected to body 212, preferably at an end or side other than that one comprises lip 226, such as by adhesives, rivets, screws, or other types of fasteners. Lip 226 is configured to engage with closed end 222 of hook 216 to secure hook 216 in a closed or latched position as previously described for lip 26 and hook 16. In one embodiment, body 224 preferably has a length L21 that is substantially equal to a corresponding inner distance D21 between arms 220 on hook 216, but slightly shorter so that lateral sides of body 224 do not interfere with movement of hook 216 from an open to a closed/latched position. A ratio of a length L21 to an inner distance D21 may be according to previously described percentages for a length L1 to inner distance D1. Lip 226 may be configured similarly to lip 26 as previously described. A width of body 224 (in a direction perpendicular to L21 as shown in
Various configurations of hook 16, catch 18, first recessed area 28, and second recessed area 30 may be used with hook 216, catch 218, 228//, and second recessed area 230.
In one preferred embodiment, bucket handle grip 210 comprises latch 214 that has a uniformly loaded cantilevered beam deflection configuration that provides improved support at the ends of a plastic bucket handle that is inserted into cavity 240 for use of bucket handle grip 210. In this preferred embodiment, there is only one hook 216 and only one catch 218, preferably each being elongated. Most preferably, a ratio of a distance D22 of hook 216 to a length L22 of body 212 may be according to previously described percentages for an inner distance D1 to a L2 of body 12. Most preferably, a ratio of a length L21 of body 224 of catch 218 to a length L22 of body 212 may be according to previously described percentages for a length L1 of body 24 to a length L2 of body 12. In this preferred embodiment, latch 214 is configured the same as or similarly to latch 14. In other embodiments, latch 214 may comprise two or more sets of hooks 216 and catches 218 that are spaced apart along body 212. However, it is most preferred to only have a single hook 216 and a single catch 218 centrally disposed on body 212.
Body 212 is preferably substantially U-shaped or has a clam shell formation comprising a first portion 234, a second portion 236, and a connecting portion 238. In one embodiment, body 212 has a width W21 of around 0.94 to 1.00 inches, more preferably around 0.95 to 0.99 inches, and most preferably around 0.96 to 0.97 inches. In one embodiment, body 212 has a length L22 (as shown in
In one preferred embodiment, body 212 is slightly bowed so that a center portion 274 of first portion 234, a center portion 276 of second portion 236, and a center portion 278 of connecting portion 238 extend outwardly to a greater extent than near outer ends 264 and outer ends 266. In this embodiment, a width W21 of body 212 is at a widest point of body 212 and body 212 has a width W24 at its narrowest points (preferably at ends 264, 266) as shown in
An opening 232 is disposed between first portion 234 and second portion 236, similar to or the same as opening 32. In one embodiment, opening 232 comprises a first portion 232A disposed distal to connecting portion 238 and a second portion 232B disposed proximal to connecting portion 238. In one embodiment, 232B has a width W22 that is the same as W2 for second portion 32B and 232A has a width W23 that is the same as W2 for first portion 32A. In addition to widths, first portion 232A and second portion 232B may be configured the same as or similarly to first portion 32A and second portion 32B, respectively, in shape, size, and functionality. Additionally, an interior of body 212 is preferably configured the same as or similarly to an interior of body 12, has an angled interior wall 48 and a cavity 40 configured to receive a plastic handle on a bucket. In one embodiment, interior cross-sections of body 212 are the same as for body 12 as shown in
Unlike body 12, body 212 preferably does not include any finger grips 50 on its outer surface. Rather, body 212 may include other ergonomic features that make holding bucket handle grip 210 easier and more comfortable for a user. One such feature is a bowed outer surface for body 212, where center portion 274, center portion 276, and center portion 278 are each preferably bowed outwardly relative to portions of first portion 234, second portion 236, and connecting portion 238 of body 212 disposed near lateral ends 264, 266.
In another embodiment, a plurality of grip surfaces 252 are disposed on an outer surface of body 212 to aid in keeping body 212 from slipping in a user's hand. Most preferably, grip surfaces 252 are disposed in a lateral direction (in a direction as D21 is measured in
In one preferred embodiment, as best seen in
Bucket handle grip 10 and/or bucket handle grip 210 are preferably unitarily molded from MRP (micronized rubber powder), EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer), Neoprene, SBR (synthetic butadiene rubber), TPR (thermoplastic rubber), TPV (thermoplastic vulcanized), Polyurethane, but other suitable materials that allow bucket handle grip 10 or bucket handle grip 210 to sufficiently flex to allow insertion of a bucket handle and securing of latch 14 or latch 214 may be used. Most preferably body 12 and body 212 are made of materials that are flexible enough to allow first portion 34, 234 and second portion 36, 236 to be temporarily separated to increase a size of opening 32, 232 when latch 14, 214 is in an open position so that a plastic bucket handle can be inserted and removed through opening 32, 232 and positioned in cavity 40. Opening 32, 232 is preferably smaller, when in a resting state, than a plastic bucket handle, so it needs to have the ability to be widened during insertion and removal. Additionally, hook 16, 216 may be made of material that allows it to stretch slightly and flex to fit around lip 26, 226 to close and open latch 14, 214. Although some parts of bucket handle grip 10 or bucket handle grip 210, such as hinge components used to rotatably connect hook 16, 216 to body 12, 212 may be separate and/or made of other materials (e.g., metal or harder plastics) that are connected to body 12 or body 212 via sonic welding, adhesives, fasteners (e.g., screws), or other methods, most preferably all parts of bucket handle grip 10 or bucket handle grip 210 are unitarily formed as a single piece and of a single type of material.
One preferred embodiment for inserting an existing plastic handle on a bucket, particularly a standard 5 gallon bucket, into a bucket handle grip 10, 210 for use may comprise: (1) providing a bucket handle grip 10 or bucket handle grip 210; (2) providing a bucket comprising a handle, preferably a wire or metal bail extending from an upper end or an upper sidewall of a bucket on one side to an opposite side and preferably with a plastic handle disposed over a portion of the metal bail; (3) opening a latch 14, 214 on bucket handle grip 10, 210 if not already opened; (4) aligning the plastic handle with an opening 32, 232; (5) applying opposing pressure on a side of the bucket plastic handle and a portion of bucket handle grip 10, 210, preferably connecting portion 38, 238, to push the bucket plastic handle into opening 32, 232 and into cavity 40; (6) adjusting a lateral placement of the plastic handle relative to body 12, 212 until ends of the plastic handle are disposed between outer ends of outer wall 42 of cavity, and preferably within or between first enlarged portion 44; (7) closing latch 14, 214 on bucket handle grip 10, 210 to secure the plastic handle within bucket handle grip 10, 210.
In one embodiment, step (3) may comprise applying pressure or force in a first direction (e.g., pulling upward or away from connecting portion 38, 238) on body arms 20, 220 or closed end 22, 222 of hook 16, 216 until hook 16, 216 is released from catch 18, 218 or otherwise in an open position. Step (3) may further comprise holding body 12, 212 or a portion of bucket handle grip 10, 210 while applying pressure or force on arms 20, 220 or closed end 22, 222 of hook 16, 216. In another embodiment, step (3) may comprise (a) applying pressure or force in a second direction on a portion of bucket handle grip 10, 210 other than hook 16, 216, such as on body 24, 224 or lip 26, 226, and (b) applying pressure or force in a first direction on hook 16, 216 where the second direction is substantially opposite the first direction is released from catch 18, 218 or otherwise in an open position.
In one embodiment, step (7) may comprise steps opposite of those in step (3). In one embodiment, step (7) may comprise applying pressure or force in a second direction (e.g., pushing upward or toward connecting portion 38, 238) on body arms 20, 220 or closed end 22, 222 of hook 16, 216 until hook 16, 216 is hooked onto catch 18, 218 or otherwise in a closed position. Step (7) may further comprise holding body 12, 212 or a portion of bucket handle grip 10, 210 while applying pressure or force on arms 20, 220 or closed end 22, 222 of hook 16, 216. In another embodiment, step (7) may comprise (a) applying pressure or force in a first direction on a portion of bucket handle grip 10, 210 other than hook 16, 216, such as on connecting portion 38, 238, and (b) applying pressure or force in a second direction on hook 16, 216 where the second direction is substantially opposite the first direction, until hook 16, 216 is hooked onto catch 18, 218 or otherwise in a closed position.
In step (5), first portion 34, 234 and second portion 36, 236 will be temporarily forced away from each other, widening a width W3, W23 of first portion 32A, 232A and/or a width W2, W22 of second portion 32B, 232B until the plastic handle is positioned inside cavity 40. Because body 12, 212 has a U-shaped structure with connecting portion 38, 238, first portion 34, 234 and second portion 36, 236 of body 12, 212 can be moved apart at upper ends 54, 254, 56, 256. In one embodiment, once plastic handle is disposed inside cavity 40, first portion 34, 234 and second portion 36, 236 return to their original positions or to substantially their original positions. In another embodiment, once bucket plastic handle is disposed inside cavity 40, and latch 14, 214 is in a closed position, first portion 34, 234 and second portion 36, 236 return to their original positions or to substantially their original positions. Depending on the type of connection between arms 20, 220 and body 12, 212, it may be necessary to hold hook 16, 216 back or out of the way from blocking access to opening 32, 232. This can easily be manually achieved by a user. If hook 16, 216 is connected to body 12, 212 by a hinge mechanism, hook 16, 216 may maintain a position rearward of opening 32, 232 when latch 14, 214 is in an open position without any manipulation by a user. However, if hook 16, 216 is connected to body 12, 212 by a thinned or flexible material, manual pushing or holding hook 16, 216 away from opening 32, 232 may be needed when latch 14, 214 is in an open position so that hook 16, 216 does not interfere with insertion of the bucket plastic handle. References to widths of various parts of body 12, 212 refer to a width prior to inserting a plastic handle or after inserting a plastic handle and/or a width after hook 16, 116 is in a closed position, not to any temporarily larger dimension as a plastic handle is being inserted.
It will be appreciated that a bucket handle grip and/or a method of attaching a grip to a bucket handle, as disclosed herein may include one or more of the following examples:
Example 1. A grip for a bucket handle, the grip comprising: a grip body comprising a first portion, a second portion, and an opening disposed between the first portion and the second portion; a cavity disposed inside the grip body and configured to receive a portion of the bucket handle; a single latch configured to be selectively actuated between an open position and a closed position; and wherein the cavity is accessible through the opening when the single latch is in the open position.
Example 2. The grip of Example 1 wherein the single latch is disposed in a longitudinally central position on the grip body.
Example 3. The grip of any one of Examples 1 to 2 wherein the single latch comprises a hook and a catch; wherein the hook is connected to the first portion of the grip body; and wherein the catch is disposed on the second portion of the grip body.
Example 4. The grip of any one of Examples 1 to 3 wherein the single latch is disposed on an exterior of the grip body.
Example 5. The grip of Example 3 wherein the hook comprises a first arm, a second arm, and a third arm disposed between the first arm and the second arm; wherein the first arm and the second arm are connected to the first portion of the grip body; wherein the third arm is disposed between the first arm and the second arm.
Example 6. The grip of Example 5 wherein the first arm, the second arm, and the third arm are disposed in a common plane as the single latch is actuated between the open position and the closed position.
Example 7. The grip of any one of Examples 5 to 6 wherein the hook is substantially U-shaped; wherein the grip body has a first length; and wherein a longitudinal distance between an interior side of the first arm and an interior side of the second arm is a second length.
Example 8. The grip of Example 7 wherein the second length is around 29.5 to 32% of the first length.
Example 9. The grip of Example 7 wherein the second length is around 1.65 to 1.67 inches and the first length is around 4.55 to 4.67 inches.
Example 10. The grip of any one of Examples 3 to 9 wherein the catch comprises a catch body and a lip disposed on outer longitudinal edge of the body of the catch.
Example 11. The grip of any one of Examples 7 to 10 wherein the catch body has a third length; wherein the third length is around 90 to 93% of the second length.
Example 12. The grip of any one of Examples 10 to 11 wherein the third arm of the hook is configured to be releasably held by the lip when the single latch is in the closed position.
Example 13. The grip of any one of Examples 10 to 12 wherein the third arm of the hook is disposed under the lip when the single latch is in the closed position.
Example 14. The grip of any one of Examples 5 to 13 wherein the hook is substantially U-shaped; wherein the first arm comprises (1) a first flexible end and (2) a first connecting portion configured to connect the first flexible end to a first end of the third arm; wherein the second arm comprises (1) a second flexible end and (2) a second connecting portion configured to connect the second flexible end to a second end of the third arm; and wherein first flexible end and the second flexible end are configured to bend as the single latch is actuated between the open position and the closed position.
Example 15. The grip of Example 14 wherein the first flexible end and the second flexible end are directly connected to the first portion of the grip body.
Example 16. The grip of any one of Examples 14 to 15 wherein the first portion of the grip body comprises a first recess area and wherein the first flexible end and the second flexible end are directly connected to the first recess area.
Example 17. The grip of any one of Examples 1 to 16 wherein the bucket is a five-gallon bucket.
Example 18. The grip of any one of Examples 14 to 17 wherein the first portion of the grip body comprises a first recess area; wherein each flexible end is connected to the first portion of the grip body in the first recess area; and wherein the first connecting portion, the second connecting portion, and the third arm are disposed in a common plane as the single latch is actuated between the open position and the closed position.
Example 19. The grip of any one of Examples 5 to 18 further comprising a first hinge to rotatably connect the first arm to the first portion of the grip body and a second hinge to rotatably connect the second arm to the first portion of the grip body.
Example 20. The grip of any one of Examples 1 to 19 wherein the grip body is substantially U-shaped and further comprises a connecting portion disposed between the first portion and the second portion and substantially opposite from the opening.
Example 21. The grip of any one of Examples 1 to 20 wherein the grip body further comprises a set of finger grips spaced apart longitudinally along the grip body; and wherein the set of finger grips comprises four recessed areas in the grip body each configured to receive a finger of a user holding the grip.
Example 22. The grip of Example 21 wherein the set of finger grips wrap around at least part of the grip body, extending vertically down at least a part of the first portion of the grip body, laterally over the connecting portion of the grip body, and vertically up at least a part of the second portion of the grip body.
Example 23. The grip of any one of Examples 21 to 22 further comprising a set of grip surfaces for each of the four recessed areas in the set of finger grips.
Example 24. The grip of Example 23 wherein the set of grip surfaces comprises a plurality of longitudinally extending recesses.
Example 25. The grip of Example 23 wherein the set of grip surfaces comprises a plurality of longitudinally extending protrusions.
Example 26. The grip of any one of Examples 1 to 22 further comprising a plurality of grip surfaces disposed on the grip body.
Example 27. The grip of Example 26 wherein the plurality of grip surfaces comprises a plurality of longitudinally extending recesses in the grip body.
Example 28. The grip of any one of Examples 26 to 27 wherein the plurality of grip surfaces comprises a plurality of longitudinally extending protrusions in the grip body.
Example 29. The grip of any one of Examples 1 to 28 wherein the cavity comprises a sidewall that is substantially cylindrical and comprises a first end and a second end, a first enlarged portion disposed at each of the first end and the second end of the sidewall, and a second enlarged portion disposed in a substantially central position of the sidewall.
Example 30. The grip of any one of Examples 1 to 29 wherein the cavity comprises a first part disposed in the first portion of the grip body and a second part disposed in the second portion of the grip body; wherein the first part and the second part mirror each other.
Example 31. The grip of Example 30 wherein the opening is at least partially disposed between the first part and the second part of the cavity.
Example 32. The grip of any one of Examples 30 to 31 where the first part and the second part of the cavity each comprise: a sidewall that is substantially semi-cylindrical and comprises a first end and a second end; a first enlarged portion disposed at each of the first end and the second end of the sidewall; and a second enlarged portion disposed in a substantially central position of the sidewall.
Example 33. The grip of any one of Examples 29 to 32 wherein the first enlarged portion has a first height; wherein the second enlarged portion has a second height; wherein the sidewall has a third height; wherein the first height and the second height are larger than the third height.
Example 34. The grip of Example 33 wherein the first height and the second height are substantially the same.
Example 35. The grip of anyone of Examples 1 to 34 wherein the bucket handle comprises a rod connected at each end to a five-gallon bucket and a plastic body connected to the rod; and wherein the portion of the bucket handle is the plastic body.
Example 36. The grip of any one of Examples 1 to 35 wherein the grip body comprises a longitudinal axis and an interior wall forming an angle of around 36.5 to 37.00 relative to the longitudinal axis; and wherein the interior wall defines a portion of the opening.
Example 37. The grip of any one of Examples 1 to 35 wherein the grip body comprises a longitudinal axis, a first end, a second end, and a first interior wall disposed at the first end, and a second interior wall disposed at the second end; wherein the first interior wall and the second interior wall each form an angle of around 36.5 to 37.00 relative to the longitudinal axis and measured in a direction towards the connecting portion of the grip body; and wherein the first interior wall and the second interior wall define a portion of the opening.
Example 38. A grip for a five-gallon bucket handle, the grip comprising: a body comprising a first portion, a second portion, a connecting portion connecting a lower end of the first portion and a lower end of the second portion, and an opening disposed laterally between the first portion and the second portion; a cavity disposed inside the body and configured to receive a portion of the five-gallon bucket handle; a latch comprising a loaded cantilevered beam deflection configuration, the latch configured to be selectively actuated between an open position and a closed position; and wherein the grip is configured to allow the five-gallon bucket handle to pass through the opening to the cavity when the latch is in the open position.
Example 39. The grip of Example 38 wherein the body has a first length; and wherein a portion of the latch has a second length; and wherein the second length is around 29 to 32% of the first length.
Example 40. The grip of Example 39 wherein the first length is around 4.60 to 4.67 inches.
Example 41. The grip of any one of Examples 38 to 40 further comprising a set of grip surfaces disposed on an exterior of the body; wherein the set of grip surfaces comprises a plurality of recesses and each of the plurality of recesses is disposed in substantially a first direction.
Example 42. The grip of Example 41 wherein the first direction is longitudinal.
Example 43. The grip of any one of Examples 41 to 42 wherein the set of grip surfaces are spaced apart and are disposed on the first portion of the body, the second portion of the body, and the connecting portion of the body.
Example 44. The grip of any one of Examples 38 to 43 wherein the connecting portion of the body comprises an outwardly bowed surface extending from a first end of the body and a second end of the body disposed longitudinally opposite from the first end of the body.
Example 45. The grip of any one of Examples 38 to 44 wherein the body does not comprise any finger grip recesses.
Example 46. The grip of any one of Examples 38 to 44 wherein the body is substantially U-shaped and does not include any recesses configured to receive a finger of a user.
Example 47. The grip of any one of Examples 38 to 46 further comprising an anti-slip surface disposed on an exterior of the body.
Example 48. The grip of Example 47 wherein the anti-slip surface comprises a plurality of narrow recesses disposed longitudinally on the exterior of the body.
Example 49. A method of attaching a grip of any one of Examples 1 to 37 to a bucket handle, the method comprising: actuating the single latch to an open position if not already in an open position; aligning a portion of a bucket handle with the opening in the grip; inserting the portion of the bucket handle into the cavity; adjusting a position of the portion of the bucket handle as necessary so the portion of the bucket handle is at least substantially within the cavity; actuating the single latch to a closed position.
Example 50. The method of Example 49 wherein the bucket handle comprises a rod connected at each end to a five-gallon bucket and a plastic body connected to the rod; and wherein the portion of the bucket handle is the plastic body.
Example 51. A method of attaching a grip of any one of Examples 38 to 48 a bucket handle, the method comprising: actuating the latch to an open position if not already in an open position; aligning a portion of a bucket handle with the opening in the grip; inserting the portion of the bucket handle into the cavity; adjusting a position of the portion of the bucket handle as necessary so the portion of the bucket handle is at least substantially within the cavity; and actuating the latch to a closed position.
Example 52. The method of Example 51 wherein bucket handle comprises a rod connected at each end to a five-gallon bucket and a plastic body disposed around the rod; and wherein the portion of the bucket handle is the plastic body.
References to upper (or upward or the like) and lower (or downward or the like) herein generally refer to a direction of use of a bucket handle grip 10 or a bucket grip handle 210 wherein connecting portion 38 or connecting portion 238 will be disposed in a downward direction and latch 14 or latch 214 will be disposed in an upward direction. It is noted that relative to viewing and the writing thereon, the figures are shown in a reverse orientation from a use orientation, wherein a downward portion (e.g., connecting portion 38) of bucket handle grip 10 is shown above latch 14 in
Any components or features or method steps of one embodiment or a preferred embodiment herein may be used with any other components or features or steps of other embodiments even if not specifically described with respect to that embodiment, unless such combination is explicitly excluded herein. For example, features of embodiments of bucket handle grip 10 may be utilized in embodiments of bucket handle grip 210 unless they are explicitly excluded herein. Any component or feature or method steps described as excluded with any particular embodiment herein may similarly be excluded with any other embodiment herein even if not specifically described with such embodiment.
All numerical values for amounts, sizes, ratios, and other numeric values herein described as a range specifically include any individual value or ratio within such ranges and any and all subset combinations within ranges, including subsets that overlap from one range embodiment (such as a preferred range) to another range embodiment (such as a more preferred range) and even if the specific subset of the range is not specifically described herein. References to “about” or “around” with respect to numerical values generally mean +/−1 for values expressed as whole numbers (without a decimal, e.g., around 5 inches means 4-6 inches and around 50% means 49-51%); +/−0.1 for values expressed with a single decimal place; +/−0.01 for values expressed with two decimal place, and +/−0.001 for values expressed to three or more decimal places (for example, around 5.1 inches means 4.9-5.1 inches).
While various embodiments of systems and methods have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not of limitation. Likewise, the various figures may depict an example configuration for an embodiment of a system, which is done to aid in understanding the features and functionality that can be included in systems and methods disclosed herein, but are not intended to be limiting. Although embodiments of the disclosure and certain advantages have been described in detail herein, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions, and alterations can be made herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims. Moreover, the scope of the present application is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments of systems and methods and steps described in the specification and it is intended that the scope of the invention disclosed herein be limited only by the broadest interpretation of the appended claims to which the inventor(s) is(are) legally entitled.
Terms and phrases used in this document, and variations thereof, unless otherwise expressly stated, should be construed as open ended as opposed to limiting. As examples of the foregoing: the term “including” should be read as meaning “including, without limitation” or the like; the term “example” is used to provide exemplary instances of the item in discussion, not an exhaustive or limiting list thereof; the terms “a” or “an” should be read as meaning “at least one,” “one or more” or the like; and adjectives such as “conventional,” “traditional,” “normal,” “standard,” “known” and terms of similar meaning should not be construed as limiting the item described to a given time period or to an item available as of a given time, but instead should be read to encompass conventional, traditional, normal, or standard technologies that may be available or known now or at any tune in the future. Likewise, where this document refers to technologies that would be apparent or known to one of ordinary skill in the art, such technologies encompass those apparent or known to the skilled artisan now or at any time in the future.
The presence of broadening words and phrases such as “one or more,” “at least,” “but not limited to” or other like phrases in some instances shall not be read to mean that the narrower case is intended or required in instances where such broadening phrases may be absent.
The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b), requiring an abstract that will allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing Detailed Description, it can be seen that various features are grouped together in a single embodiment for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment.
Having described the various embodiments, what is claimed is as follows. cm What is claimed is:
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63/622,893 filed on Jan. 19, 2024.
Number | Date | Country | |
---|---|---|---|
63622893 | Jan 2024 | US |