Patent Application
20250197064
The present invention relates to the field of drinkware, specifically to an improved drinking system.
In the field of drinkware, a common challenge faced by users is the instability of cups and containers on uneven or non-rigid surfaces, such as couch cushions, vehicle seats, or outdoor terrains. Traditional drink containers are prone to tipping, leading to spillages and inconvenience. Moreover, maintaining the temperature of the beverage for extended periods, while ensuring ease of handling and durability, remains an unmet need. Existing solutions typically involve standard cups with simple bases that do not adequately address stability.
Accordingly, a need or potential for benefit exists for an improved drinking system that not only enhances stability across a variety of surfaces but also optimizes the user experience.
To facilitate further description of the embodiments, the following drawings are provided in which:
For simplicity and clarity of illustration, the drawing figures illustrate the general manner of construction, and descriptions and details of well-known features and techniques may be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the invention. Additionally, elements in the drawing figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve understanding of embodiments of the present invention. The same reference numerals in different figures denote the same elements.
The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a particular sequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments described herein are, for example, capable of operation in sequences other than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. Furthermore, the terms “include,” and “have,” and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus.
The terms “left,” “right,” “front,” “back,” “top,” “bottom,” “over,” “under,” and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, are used for descriptive purposes and not necessarily for describing permanent relative positions. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments of the invention described herein are, for example, capable of operation in other orientations than those illustrated or otherwise described herein.
The terms “couple,” “coupled,” “couples,” “coupling,” and the like should be broadly understood and refer to connecting two or more elements or signals, electrically, mechanically, and/or otherwise. Two or more mechanical elements may be mechanically coupled, but not be electrically or otherwise coupled; two or more electrical elements may be mechanically coupled, but not be electrically or otherwise coupled. Coupling may be for any length of time, e.g., permanent, or semi-permanent or only for an instant. The absence of the word “removably,” “removable,” and the like near the word “coupled,” and the like does not mean that the coupling, etc. in question is or is not removable.
In a number of embodiments, a drinking system can include (a) a support base; and (b) a cup configured to fit inside the support base. The support base can include (1) an upper section sleeve, and (2) a bottom stabilizing section extending outwardly from a lower end of the upper section sleeve. The upper section sleeve being configured to receive a lower section of the cup for holding the cup within the support base.
In other embodiments, a beverage holder assembly can include (a) a cup; and (b) a stabilizing support base configured to receive the cup. The stabilizing support base includes (1) an upper section sleeve configured to snugly fit the cup and (2) a bottom stabilizing section extending from a lower end of the upper section sleeve. The bottom stabilizing section is configured to expand laterally or radially outward to stabilize the cup on various surfaces including unleveled and/or non-rigid surfaces.
In yet another embodiment, a drink securing device configurable suitable for use on various surfaces. The drink securing device can include; (a) a cup having a contoured lower section and an insulative upper section, the insulative upper section configured to enhance thermal retention of a contained beverage; (b) a support base including: (1) an upper section sleeve configured to snugly receive the contoured lower section of the cup, the upper section sleeve being integrally formed with; (2) a bottom stabilizing section extending outwardly and downwardly from a lower end of the upper section sleeve, wherein the bottom stabilizing section includes a radial expansion mechanism that increases the base area for stability, the bottom stabilizing section made from a heavy-weight material to prevent tipping; (3) a lid adapted to fit securely over the upper section of the cup, the lid having an opening which can be selectively sealed or opened to allow for insertion of a straw or sipping directly from the cup. The cup and the support base are configured such that the cup is removably seated within the support base to allow for easy insertion and removal of the cup.
Turning to the drawings,
Not to be taken in a limiting sense, in some embodiments, the drinking system 100 (or drink securing device or beverage holder in some examples) includes: a support base 110 and a cup 120 specifically configured to fit within support base 110. The support base 110 includes an upper section sleeve 111 and a bottom stabilizing section 112 extending outwardly from a lower end 113 of the upper section sleeve 111. In various examples, this configuration can be designed to receive a lower section 121 of cup 120, thereby securing cup 120 within the support base 110 to prevent its displacement.
In various embodiments, the bottom stabilizing section 112 of the support base 110 is expanded laterally or radially. This adaptability allows the base to adjust to uneven surfaces, thereby enhancing stability and preventing the drinking system from tipping. In some examples, the radius of the bottom stabilizing section 112 is one third, one half, two thirds or double the height of upper section sleeve 111. The lateral or radially expansion of bottom stabilizing section 112 increases the footprint or base area of the system 100, which enhances stability by providing a wider support area. This wider base helps distribute the weight more evenly and reduces the likelihood of tipping, especially on uneven surfaces. In some examples, if the cup 120 and the supporting base are made from lightweight materials, the lateral or radial expansion of the bottom stabilizing section 112 will be greater than heavier systems to counteract the top-heavy nature and prevent tipping. In various embodiments, the wider the bottom stabilizing section 112 relative to the height and the top width of the cup 120, the more stable it will be.
In certain embodiments, the cup incorporated within the drinking system includes an insulative layer around its upper section. This layer is intended to maintain the temperature of the beverage contained within the cup, preserving the beverage's warmth or coolness for extended periods.
In various examples, for the insulation of the cup 120 within the drinking system 100, several materials can be used for their effectiveness in thermal retention. In one example, double-walled stainless steel is highly favored due to its durability, corrosion resistance, and excellent insulation properties, achieved by a vacuum-sealed space between the walls that minimizes heat transfer through conduction and convection. In another example, ceramic, which has good insulative characteristics, is used, and this is particularly effective at maintaining the temperature of hot beverages while remaining cool externally. Additionally, in yet another example, double-walled borosilicate glass can be used for its aesthetic appeal and similar insulative performance to stainless steel, offering resistance to thermal shock. In still further examples, silicone can be used and provides added insulation and a non-slip surface, enhancing both thermal efficiency and user handling safety. These materials can be used not only for their insulative properties but also for their compatibility with the overall design and functionality of the drinking system 100, ensuring that beverages retain their desired temperatures for prolonged periods.
In some examples, the support base 110 is constructed from a heavy weight material. The inclusion of such material significantly improves the stability of the drinking system, particularly on slippery or sloped surfaces.
Incorporating heavier materials into the support base 110 of the drinking system 100 serves dual purposes: enhancing stability and lowering the center of gravity. Materials such as densified polymers, which integrate high-density fillers into a resin matrix, and metals like stainless steel or aluminum in thicker gauges, provide the necessary weight to stabilize the base on various surfaces. By strategically adding mass at bottom stabilizing section 112 or in support base 110, these materials not only increase the footprint but crucially lower the center of gravity, significantly reducing the likelihood of tipping. This design consideration ensures that the drinking system remains stable under diverse usage conditions, making it both safer and more reliable for consumer use. The selection of these materials reflects a thoughtful approach to balancing practical functionality with robust design, ensuring that the system can be used confidently in both indoor and outdoor settings.
For enhancing the stability of support base 110, in some embodiments, materials such as weighted polymers, densified composites, and certain metals like stainless steel or aluminum with added mass can be used. In some examples, weighted polymers offer versatility in molding and can be designed to increase density, thus adding necessary weight without the health risks associated with other materials dense materials. In various examples, densified composite materials, which combine resin with high-density fillers, provide substantial heft while allowing for complex design geometries suitable for mass production. In other examples, stainless steel and aluminum, when used in thicker forms or as part of a multi-layered construction, can also add significant weight to the base, ensuring stability while maintaining a sleek and modern aesthetic that is durable and corrosion resistant. In many examples, these materials are chosen to ensure that the base is heavy enough to provide stability, yet still practical for everyday use and safe for consumer products.
In various embodiments, the upper section sleeve 111 and the bottom stabilizing section 112 of the support base 110 are integrally formed as a single unitary piece. This integral formation enhances the durability and structural integrity of the base, while simplifying the manufacturing process.
In some embodiments, the cup 120 is equipped with a lid 130 that features one or more openings 131 suitable for accommodating a drinking straw or for facilitating direct sipping. This design provides convenience to the user and versatility in the manner of beverage consumption.
In various embodiments, the bottom stabilizing section 112 includes a weighted clement 313. In some examples, weighted element 313 is selectively attachable and detachable. This modularity allows users to adjust weight 313 of the base 110 according to the specific stability needs dictated by different surface types.
This selectable and/or datable weights 313 allows for modularity in the design, enabling users to adjust the weight of the base 110 to suit specific conditions and surface types. For instance, a heavier weighted element 313 can be attached when using the system on soft or uneven surfaces like a picnic blanket or sandy beach to enhance stability. Conversely, for everyday home use on stable surfaces such as kitchen counters, a lighter or no additional weight may be preferred to facilitate easier handling and movement. This versatility is further exemplified in some embodiments where multiple weighted elements of varying densities and materials, such as stainless steel, densified polymers, or ceramic composites, are provided. Each is designed to easily interlock with the bottom stabilizing section 112 through mechanisms such as magnetic attachments, snap-fit connectors, or threaded engagements, offering users a customizable experience based on their immediate needs. This modularity not only enhances the functionality of the drinking system but also promotes user interaction, making it adaptable to a wide range of environments and usage scenarios.
In certain examples, the cup 120 features a double-walled construction wherein the space between the walls is vacuum-sealed. This vacuum-sealed space enhances the thermal insulation properties of the cup, thereby maintaining the temperature of the beverage for a longer duration.
In some embodiments, the upper section sleeve 111 of the support base 110 is equipped with a locking mechanism designed to enhance the security and stability of the cup 120 within the cup system 100. Locking mechanism can take various forms, depending on the desired ease of use and security level. For example, a locking mechanism can include a twist-lock feature, where the user rotates the cup 120 slightly once inserted into upper section sleeve 111 to engage a series of internal grooves or threads that lock the cup 120 in place. In another embodiment, the mechanism may include a lever-actuated lock, where a lever on the side of upper section sleeve 111 is lifted or pushed down to release or secure a clamp around the cup 120. This design allows for quick and easy insertion or removal of the cup 120 while ensuring it remains fixed during use.
Additionally, magnetic locks could be employed, where magnetic elements embedded within upper section sleeve 111 and the corresponding parts of cup 120 align and snap together to create a secure fit. Use of this type of locking mechanism can provide a user-friendly solution that does not require mechanical engagement, thus enhancing the overall user experience. In further embodiments, a button-activated release mechanism could be used as locking mechanism, where pressing a button disengages the lock, allowing for one-handed operation when removing the cup 120 from the base 110.
Each locking mechanism can be designed to be robust enough to prevent any unintended movement of the cup 120, thereby preventing spillage and enhancing the usability of the drinking system in various dynamic environments, such as in moving vehicles or on unstable surfaces. These mechanisms contribute significantly to the practicality and safety features of the system, ensuring that beverages can be securely held in place without risk of tipping or spilling.
In various embodiments, the support base 110 can further include a non-slip surface layer 117 on its bottom. This layer 117, can be made from high-friction materials such as silicone or rubber to enhance the grip of the support base 110 on smooth or slippery surfaces, thereby augmenting the system's overall stability under diverse environmental conditions.
According to various embodiments disclosed is drinking system 100 which provides a cup 120 with a stabilizing support base 110 that enables cup 120 to be placed on various surfaces, including surfaces which may not be leveled and/or rigid. In some embodiments, cup 120 may be used to house other drinking containers, such as cans, bottles, and smaller cups.
In some examples, as shown in
In certain as depicted in
In certain embodiments, the bottom stabilizing section of the base may expand laterally or radially outwards from the upper section sleeve. In further embodiments, the support base may incorporate and/or be made of a heavy weight material. In some embodiments, the upper section sleeve and bottom stabilizing section may be a unitary piece made of the same material. However, in other embodiments, the upper section sleeve and bottom stabilizing section may be separate units configured to interlock.
The cup in the drinking system described herein is intricately designed to optimize both functionality and user experience. It features a dual-section construction, with a contoured lower section specifically engineered to ensure a snug fit within the upper section sleeve of the support base. The contouring may include a tapered profile towards the bottom of the cup, which not only enhances the stability when placed within the sleeve but also aids in the ease of insertion and removal.
To cater to the dual needs of durability and safety, the cup is manufactured from high-grade stainless steel. This material was selected for its robustness, resistance to corrosion, and case of cleaning, making it ideal for repeated and long-term use. Additionally, stainless steel is food-grade, ensuring that the cup is safe for consuming beverages without any risk of contamination. In some examples, the portion of the drinking system can be made from high-grade 304 stainless steel known for its high corrosion resistance and durability, ideal for repeated and sanitizable use in consumer drinkware. In other examples the cup can be manufactured from a food grade silicone or food grade plastic.
In certain embodiments, the upper section sleeve may be configured to wrap around a bottom section of the cup. In one embodiment as depicted in the figures, the cup may include a lower section which is narrowed with respect to its upper section. The narrowed lower section may have a vertical length which is approximately equal to a vertical length of the upper section sleeve and is configured to fit snuggly inside the upper section sleeve to hold the cup in place within the support base. Moreover, the upper section of the cup incorporates an insulative layer designed to maintain the temperature of the contents, whether hot or cold. This layer is made from a proprietary blend of insulating materials that provides superior thermal retention compared to traditional single-wall cups. This design consideration not only enhances the user experience by maintaining the desired temperature of the beverage but also contributes to the overall aesthetic appeal of the cup, featuring a sleek, modern finish that aligns with contemporary consumer preferences.
In certain embodiments, the surrounding wall of cup may have increased thickness at the upper section to increase the insulative properties of the cup. In other embodiments, an insulative jacket may be provided around the upper section of the cup. In some embodiments, the surrounding wall of the cup may have a unform cross section along the length of the cup on the inner side of the cup, but not on the outer side of the cup as shown. This may be particularly useful in using the cup to hold another container such as a can, as will be described.
As such, the base provides a weighted support for the cup, which allows the cup to be placed on various surfaces, including unleveled and/or non-rigid surfaces such as a chair or couch cushion, car seat, bed mattress, and the like. This prevents the cup from tipping over and spilling a liquid drink contained inside the cup.
Additionally, the cup may provide thermal insulation for maintaining the temperature of a hot or cold drink. In some embodiments, the cup may be provided with a lid. The lid may include an opening and/or spout for sipping and/or inserting a straw, as may be known in the art.
In some embodiments, the inner recess of the cup may be configured to receive a can, such as a soda or beer can (see
In some embodiments as depicted in the figures, the cup and upper section sleeve of the support base may have a cylindrical/circular configuration, but not necessarily so. In some embodiments as depicted, the bottom stabilizing section of the support base may have a circular configuration, but not necessarily so.
The disclosed device and system provides stable support for drinks which prevents spilling, while allowing the drinks to be placed on an unstable surface and/or moved from place to place.
In certain embodiments, the stabilizing support base and/or cup may be molded or shaped from materials such as plastic, metal, glass, etc. In some embodiments, the stabilizing support base and/or cup may be made of a high friction material such as silicon and/or rubber or may incorporate layer(s) of such materials on various outer surface(s) of the stabilizing support base and/or cup.
It shall be appreciated that the cup, upper section sleeve of the support base, and the bottom stabilizing section of the support base may have different geometric configurations which may be matching or unmatching in alternate embodiments. For example, the bottom stabilizing section may have a square or asymmetric shape in some embodiments, while the cup and upper section sleeve may be cylindrical.
It shall be appreciated that the disclosed device and system can have multiple configurations in different embodiments. For example, the disclosed system may provide interchangeable upper section sleeves to fit with different weighted bottom sections for different cups/containers and/or uses, wherein the components may interlock with one another. In further embodiments, an internal cooling and/or heating system may be provided to keep drinks cold or warm. It shall be appreciated that the device and system described herein may comprise any alternative known materials in the field and be of any size and/or dimensions. It shall be appreciated that the device may be manufactured and assembled using any known techniques in the field.
Although the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Accordingly, the disclosure of embodiments of the invention is intended to be illustrative of the scope of the invention and is not intended to be limiting. It is intended that the scope of the invention shall be limited only to the extent required by the appended claims.
All elements claimed in any particular claim are essential to the embodiment claimed in that particular claim. Consequently, replacement of one or more claimed elements constitutes reconstruction and not repair. Additionally, benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described with regard to specific embodiments. The benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any element or elements that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced, however, are not to be construed as critical, required, or essential features or elements of any or all of the claims, unless such benefits, advantages, solutions, or elements are stated in such claim.
Moreover, embodiments and limitations disclosed herein are not dedicated to the public under the doctrine of dedication if the embodiments and/or limitations: (1) are not expressly claimed in the claims; and (2) are or are potentially equivalents of express elements and/or limitations in the claims under the doctrine of equivalents.
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/611,022, filed on Dec. 15, 2023.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63611022 | Dec 2023 | US |
