HOLDERS FOR CONTAINERS AND OBJECTS

Abstract

A holder includes a generally tubular body with upper and lower ends. The body is downwardly-open at the lower and is configured for receiving a beverage container. An extension is mounted on and extends laterally from the body. The extension is configured for supporting various objects.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to holders, and in particular to holders enabling convenient, one-handed holding of beverages, consumables and other objects.

2. Description of the Related Art

Beverages are typically consumed from vessels such as cups and glasses, and from containers such as cans and bottles. Currently available holders include built-in beverage holders, for example, cup holders adjacent to the vehicle seating. Portable insulated beverage holders include “koozies,” which are typically fabricated of insulative foam materials. However, considerable damage can result from spilled beverages, especially to fabric-covered seating.

Another problem is that individuals often carry beverages and other objects, such as plates with food. Balancing multiple containers simultaneously can lead to accidental spills and damage.

Heretofore there have not been available holders for containers and objects with the advantages and features of the present invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally provides holders for one or more containers, including beverage containers, snack trays and the like. An embodiment of the present invention includes a beverage container holder with a slot configured for removably receiving a tang clip insert connected to and supporting a snack tray.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings constitute a part of this specification and include exemplary embodiments of the present invention illustrating various objects and features thereof.

FIG. 1 shows a one-handed holder embodying an aspect of the present invention and accommodating a glass, a bowl and a plate.

FIG. 2 shows the holder empty.

FIG. 3 shows a detachable tray separated from a handle body.

FIG. 4 shows a pattern for a cardboard fold-up holder embodying an alternative aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is another view of the cardboard blank for the fold-up embodiment.

FIG. 6 shows the fold-up embodiment in an assembled, ready-to-use configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

I. Introduction and Environment

As required, detailed aspects of the present invention are disclosed herein, however, it is to be understood that the disclosed aspects are merely exemplary of the invention, which may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art how to variously employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed structure.

Certain terminology will be used in the following description for convenience in reference only and will not be limiting. For example, up, down, front, back, right, and left refer to the invention as orientated in the view being referred to. The words “inwardly” and “outwardly” refer to directions toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center of the aspect being described and designated parts thereof. Forwardly and rearwardly are generally in reference to the direction of travel, if appropriate. Said terminology will include the words specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof and words of similar meaning.

II. Holder for Consumables and Other Objects 2

FIG. 1 shows a one-handed holder 2 for a beverage container (e.g., can, bottle, glass or cup) 4, a bowl 6 and a plate 8. Without limitation on the generality of useful applications of the present invention, the holder 2 can accommodate a variety of consumables and other objects in a stable, supportive position for convenient access by the user-consumer with his or her other hand free. For example, the holder 2 can comprise a drink holder with an attachable tray. This allows users to carry a beverage and food or other small items with one hand. This eliminates the problem of finding a place to set a beverage while eating.

The holder 2 generally comprises a body 10 and an extension 12. The body 10 has a generally tubular configuration with upper and lower ends 14, 16 and a downwardly-open interior 18. A pair of side openings 20 enable grasping a beverage container or other object within the interior 18. As shown, the body 10 and the beverage glass can be conveniently and securely held with one hand.

A generally concave receptacle 22 is mounted on the body upper end 14 and is configured for receiving articles, e.g., the bowl 6. The extension 12 terminates at an annular ring 24, which is configured for supporting the plate 8. The extension 12 can be detachable from the body 10, for example, with a suitable tab-and-slot connection, as shown in FIG. 3. Optionally, the top, concave receptacle 22 can be provided with a magnet for conveniently retaining hardware. Still further, the body 10 can comprise a flexible, pliable material whereby the beverage 4 can be retained by squeezing the body 10. In this application, the body 10 can comprise neoprene or another suitable material, which can provide thermal insulation like a Koozie beverage holder.

In operation, the holder 2 enables conveniently holding beverages and snack items with the other hand free. Spills and other messes can thus be minimized or avoided. Tasks can be accomplished more expeditiously and efficiently because parts, tools and other objects can be kept close at hand, along with consumables. Users can seamlessly transition from performing tasks at hand to refreshing themselves.

The finger holes enable simultaneously holding the beverage container (e.g., glass, can, etc.) 4 and the holder 2. The user can extract the beverage container 4 with his or her free hand, take a sip of the beverage, and still hold the holder by grasping its body 10. The holder 2 thus accommodates holding a plate or bowl of snacks, or other items, simultaneously with refreshing himself or herself with the beverage.

III. Alternative Aspect or Embodiment, Holder 102

FIGS. 4 and 5 show profiles for a holder 102 embodying an alternative aspect or embodiment of the present invention, which can be folded or bent from flat sheet stock. The sheet stock can comprise cardboard, fiberboard, folding plastic and other suitable materials. Such materials can be recyclable. The holder 102 includes hooks 104 configured for releasably securing a dish, plate or other supporting utensil. The books 104 can include downwardly-facing teeth formed along serrated edges for improved gripping and retention of objects.

FIG. 6 shows the alternative embodiment flat-stock holder 102 in an assembled, ready-to-use configuration.

The holder of the present invention can include other features and accommodate other functions. For example, a plate can be placed over an open beverage container to prevent contamination of the beverage. Moreover, the extension can be configured as a hook for engaging the rim of a bowl or plate in a securely retained engagement. Still further, a slot can be provided for receiving a mug with beverage contents.

IV. Conclusion

It is to be understood that the invention can be embodied in various forms and is not to be limited to the examples specifically discussed above. The range of components and configurations which can be utilized in the practice of the present invention is virtually unlimited.

Claims

1. A one-handed holder for multiple objects, which comprises: a body with a generally tubular configuration;said body having upper and lower ends and an interior downwardly open at said lower end;an extension connected to and extending from said body; andsaid extension configured for supporting various objects.