SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SEALING AN OPEN END OF A COMPONENT

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to the field of closing the open end of a component and/or associated openings, holes, apertures, and the like, or, more particularly, to sealing open ends of container receptacles.

BACKGROUND

Containers (e.g., cans, bottles, cups, mugs, steins, and the like) are typically used to transport contents, e.g., food, beverages, hot items, cold and/or frozen items, and similar substances. Often, such containers are utilized on a temporary bases only. It is also typical for a container that is used for long-term storage and transportation of its contents to also serve the purpose of containing the contents during the intended use thereof. Further, the contents of such containers are often, at least to some degree, susceptible to environmental influences. For instance, such a container may be used on a temporary or semi-permanent basis to store a liquid, such as a beverage. However, current containers are generally poorly insulated or isolated from known environmental influences. As examples, hot beverages in mugs are prone to cool, and cold beverages in cans and bottles tend to warm. Environmental influences are known to cause or contribute to a number of undesirable changes in the contents of containers. Examples of undesirable changes to the contents of containers include, but are not limited to, hot contents cooling below a desirable temperature range, cold contents heating above a desirable temperature change, and/or a change in a state of the contents (e.g., melting, freezing, vaporizing, condensing, spoiling, curdling, expiring, etc.). One of the biggest environmental influences causing issues with the containers currently available is a user's own hand(s). Similarly, a user may find discomfort using the current containers as the temperature from the beverage retained in the container may transfer to the user's hand(s). For example, a hot beverage may transfer heat to the user's hand(s), potentially burning the user. In the alternative, a cold beverage may cause the user's hand(s) to become cold, thereby also causing discomfort to the user. Container liners and insulators are known that partially address and/or reduce some of the impacts of environmental influences on containers and the contents thereof.

Current container liners and insulators may provide insufficient isolation of containers and/or the contents of containers from environmental influences. As an example, beverage liners, colloquially referred to as coozies (e.g., koozie®), are often formed from cheap, readily available materials, such as foam, that provide minimal thermal insulation. Soft container liners generally provide no seal around any portion of the container and/or are liquid permeable. Thus, exposing a soft container liner to a liquid, such as submerging a soft container liner in a pool or other body of water, drastically reduces the soft container liner's ability to insulate the container.

Other beverage liners are comparatively rigid, and such hard container liners are generally formed of a material with substantially higher thermal insulation properties relative to materials typically used to form soft container liners. Hard container liners generally have extended lifespans and are more resilient to damage than typical soft container liners. Some hard containers liners include a closed, often-sealed bottom. A hard container, especially one including a closed bottom, may impart a feeling of value as compared to a soft container liner, independently from any benefits due to improved insulation properties. However, such closed, sealed containers, liners, and the like are typically formed integrally and substantially at one time, and the associated manufacturing methods are comparatively expensive relative to the cost to manufacture soft beverage liners and hard beverage liners with open bottoms.

Thus, current hard container liners, as well as soft container liners, are often left open at both ends, providing no thermal insulation to the contents from below. Both soft container liners and hard container liners lacking a sealed end (e.g., no end or an assembled end) are known to drip cold water that has condensed on a relatively cold container. This dripping cold water may result in user annoyance, at minimum, and can damage water sensitive materials, items, etc. in the vicinity.

As such, a need exists in the art for improved container receptacles that overcome the above limitations and associated systems and methods of manufacturing the same.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Therefore, it is an object of the invention to provide systems and associated methods and components that overcome the limitation of the known art. Disclosed systems and methods allow for open ends of components, such as container receptacles, container liners, container insulators, beverage liners, and the like to be closed and/or sealed at significant manufacturing cost reduction and/or improve the ability of a component to insulate the contents from environmental influences.

To achieve the foregoing and other objects and advantages, in one aspect, the present subject matter is directed to a system for sealing an open end of a component. The system includes an application station. The application station includes a base with a working surface, a seal arranged above the working surface of the base, a component coupler configured to selectively engage the open end of the component with the seal, and a securing mechanism. The seal is further configured to selectively, hermetically engage with the open end of the component. Additionally, the component coupler is configured to selectively form a hermetic engagement between the seal and the open end of the component in response to a compressive force acting between the base and the component coupler. The securing mechanism includes a base attachment secured relative to the base and a component coupler attachment secured relative to the component coupler. The base attachment and the component coupler attachment of the securing mechanism are configured to selectively engage such that the compressive force acts between the base and the component coupler.

In at least one embodiment, the application station also includes a contour pad arranged between the working surface of the base and the seal. The contour pad is configured to accommodate a contour defined by the open end of the component. In additional or alternative embodiments, the base is configured to be fixed relative to a stationary foundation. In additional or alternative embodiments, the component coupler is supported relative to the base. In additional or alternative embodiments, the application station further includes a vertical support coupled to the base and extending away from the working surface of the base. In at least one such embodiment, the component coupler is pivotally coupled to the vertical support. In additional or alternative embodiments, a distance between the base and the component coupler is configured to be approximately the height of the component. In additional or alternative embodiments, the component coupler is configured to selectively couple to the vertical support.

In additional or alternative embodiments, one of the base attachment or the component coupler attachment of the securing mechanism includes a hook structure, and the other of the base attachment or the component coupler attachment includes a hook receptacle structure. In additional or alternative embodiments, the securing mechanism includes a threaded arrangement configured such that operation of the threaded arrangement causes the open end of the component to selectively engage with the seal. In additional or alternative embodiments, the securing mechanism is configured such that operation of the threaded arrangement alters the compressive force acting between the base and the component coupler. In at least one such embodiment, the securing mechanism includes a compression adjustment mechanism configured such that manipulation of the compression adjustment mechanism alters the compressive force acting between the base and the component coupler.

In additional or alternative embodiments, the component also includes a distal end oriented opposite to or substantially opposite to the open end of the component, and the component coupler is configured to selectively couple to the distal end of the component. In additional or alternative embodiments, the component coupler includes a top end and a bottom end. Further, the component coupler defines a passageway from the top end to the bottom end and configured to receive a curable fluid. In additional or alternative embodiments, the component coupler is configured to be selectively coupled to the base.

In additional or alternative embodiments, the application station of the system is further configured for sealing a second open end of a second component. In such embodiments, the base also includes a second working surface. In additional or alternative such embodiments, the component coupler is further configured to selectively engage the second open end of the second component with a second seal. Thus, the component coupler is further configured to selectively form a hermetic engagement between the second seal and the second open end of the second component in response to the compressive force acting between the base and the component coupler.

In additional or alternative embodiments, the system includes a plurality of application stations including the application station and one or more additional application stations. Further, each additional application station is configured as the aforementioned application station. In additional or alternative embodiments, the system further includes a support runner extending along a length of the system. Furthermore, each application station is coupled to the support runner.

In an additional or alternative aspect, the present subject matter is directed to a method of sealing an open end of a component. The method includes arranging a seal above a working surface of a base. The method also includes positioning and orienting the component above the seal such that the open end of the component is oriented to face or substantially face the working surface of the base. The method further includes selectively coupling a component coupler to the component such that the open end of the component engages with the seal. Additionally, the method includes selectively applying a compressive force between the base and the component coupler utilizing a securing mechanism. The securing mechanism includes a base attachment secured relative to the base and a component coupler attachment secured relative to the component coupler. The securing mechanism is configured such that operational engagement of the base attachment and the component coupler attachment generates the compressive force. Further, application of the compressive force between the base and the component coupler causes the seal to selectively, hermetically engage with the open end of the component.

In an additional or alternative aspect, the present subject matter is directed to a container receptacle including a closed support end and an open end opposite the support end. The open end is configured to receive a complementary container. The container receptacle further includes one or more containment walls extending from the closed support end to the open end of the container receptacle. The containment wall(s) includes an interior surface defining a cavity extending from the open end toward the closed support end. The container receptacle also includes a bottom formed integrally to the interior surface of the containment wall such that the at least one containment wall and the bottom form the support end of the container receptacle. Additionally, the bottom and interior surface of the containment wall form a seal along a perimeter of the interior surface of the containment wall.

Embodiments of the invention can include one or more or any combination of the above features and configurations.

Additional features, aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the detailed description which follows, and in part will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from that description or recognized by practicing the invention as described herein. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description present various embodiments of the invention, and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the invention as it is claimed. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the invention, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1a illustrates a pictorial view of one embodiment of a system for sealing an open end of a component in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

FIG. 1B illustrates a pictorial view of an application station of the system of FIG. 1a in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

FIG. 1c illustrates another pictorial view of the application station of FIG. 1B, particularly illustrating a contour pad of the application station, in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

FIG. 1d illustrates another pictorial view of the application station of FIG. 1B, particularly illustrating a base of the application station, in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

FIG. 1e illustrates another pictorial view of the application station of FIG. 1B, particularly illustrating the application station supporting a component, in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

FIG. 1f illustrates another pictorial view of the application station of FIG. 1B, particularly illustrating the application station generating a seal at a bottom end of the component, in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

FIG. 1g illustrates another, different pictorial view of the application station of FIG. 1b, particularly illustrating the application station generating the seal at the bottom end of the component, in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

FIG. 2a is a pictorial view of an additional or alternative embodiment of a system for sealing an open end of a component, particularly illustrating application stations of the system configured to seal the open ends of two components, in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

FIG. 2b illustrates a pictorial view of an application station of the system of FIG. 2a in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

FIG. 2c illustrates another pictorial view of the application station of FIG. 2b, particularly illustrating a base of the application station, in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

FIG. 2d illustrates another pictorial view of the application station of FIG. 2b, particularly illustrating the application station supporting two components, in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

FIG. 2e illustrates another pictorial view of the application station of FIG. 2b, particularly illustrating a component coupler of the application station, in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

FIG. 2f illustrates another pictorial view of the application station of FIG. 2b, particularly illustrating a securing mechanism of the application station, in accordance with aspects of the present subj ect matter;

FIG. 2g illustrates another pictorial view of the application station of FIG. 2b, particularly illustrating the application station generating seals at bottom ends of the components, in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter;

FIGS. 3a-3h illustrate varying views of a container insulator generated using the systems and methods disclosed herein; and

FIGS. 4a-4h illustrate varying views of another container insulator generated using the systems and methods disclosed herein.

Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent the same or analogous features or elements of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings in which exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown. However, the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the representative embodiments set forth herein. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. It is envisioned that other embodiments may perform similar functions and/or achieve similar results. Any and all such equivalent embodiments and examples are within the scope of the present invention and are intended to be covered by the appended claims.

The exemplary embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be both thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention and enable one of ordinary skill in the art to make, use and practice the invention.

The terms “coupled,” “fixed,” “attached to,” and the like refer to both direct coupling, fixing, or attaching, as well as indirect coupling, fixing, or attaching through one or more intermediate components or features, unless otherwise specified herein.

Referring now to the drawings, FIGS. 1-2 illustrate views of exemplary embodiments of a system (e.g., system 100 of FIGS. 1a-1g and system 200 of FIGS. 2a-2g) for sealing an open end of a component, in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter. More particularly, FIG. 1a illustrates a pictorial view of an exemplary system 100 supported relative to a vertical support, foundation, wall, or the like; and FIGS. 1B-1g illustrate views of exemplary application stations 101 suitable for use with the system 100 of FIG. 1a. FIG. 2a illustrates a pictorial view of an additional, or alternative, exemplary system 200 supported relative to a horizontal support, foundation, table, or the like; and FIGS. 2b-2g illustrate views of exemplary application stations 201 suitable for use with the system 200 of FIG. 2a.

As shown in FIGS. 1a and 2a, the illustrated embodiments of the systems 100, 200 each include multiple or a plurality of application stations 101, 201, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. However, it should be appreciated that the disclosure herein is equally applicable to suitably configured systems for sealing open ends of any desired number of components. Thus, additional or alternative embodiments of the system may include any number of application stations desired or required. For instance, systems may include one application station, more application stations than depicted in FIGS. 1a and/or 2a, or fewer application stations than depicted in FIGS. la and/or 2a.

Although exemplary embodiments of systems 100, 200 and application stations 101, 201 are shown, it is anticipated that the present disclosure can be equally applicable to systems for sealing the open end of a component(s) and application stations in general. Thus, the application station(s) 101 of FIGS. 1B-1g may be utilized in the system 200 of FIG. 2a and/or any other suitable system configured for sealing the open end(s) of one or more components. Likewise, the application station(s) 201 of FIGS. 2b-2g may be utilized in the system 100 of FIG. 1a and/or any other suitable system configured for sealing the open end(s) of one or more components.

Referring now generally to FIGS. 1B-1g, the application station(s) 101 is suitable for forming a bottom or support in an open end of a component 122 (see, e.g., FIGS. 1e-1g). The application station(s) 101 may include a base 116, a seal 112 arranged above the base 116, a component coupler 104 configured to selectively engage the open end of the component 122 with the seal 112, and a securing mechanism 119 having a base attachment 120 and a component coupler attachment 102, as best viewed in FIG. 1f. Generally the component coupler 104 is utilized to hold the component 122 and orient the component such that the open end faces the base 116 and/or seal 112. Further, the component coupler 104 (optionally in combination with the securing mechanism 119) selectively engages the open end of the component 122 with the seal 112. Generally, the component coupler 104 and securing mechanism 119 allow for any associated component 122 to be removed from the application station 101. The securing mechanism 119 generally applies a compressive force between the base 116 and the component coupler 104 and/or between the component 122 and the seal 112. Moreover, the securing mechanism 119 may selectively form a hermetic engagement between the seal 112 and the open end of the component 122, such as in response to the compressive force acting between the base 116 and the component coupler 104.

In example embodiments, the component 122 has a first open end 122a and a second open end 122b. In various embodiments, the application station will be used to close, seal, or otherwise form a bottom or supporting end on only one of the openings 122a, 122b. Thus, the component 122 may be used for holding a beverage by inserting the beverage into the open end of the component. In some embodiments, the component 122 includes sidewalls or a containment wall integrally formed or separately formed and then coupled together prior to being used in the application stations system. In a particular embodiment, the sidewalls of the component 122 are formed from a singular, hollowed-out piece of wood. In alternate embodiments, the component sidewalls may be formed from any suitable, insulating, structural material (e.g., reinforced textile, plastic, polymer, metal, composite material, and/or the like). In example embodiments, the bottom and the interior surface of the containment wall form a seal along a perimeter of the interior surface of the containment wall that prevents a beverage from exiting the bottom of the container insulator and also prevents other matter from escaping or leaking from the insulator, as discussed in more detail below.

Thus, several embodiments of the present disclosure allow for a curable fluid to be poured into the component 122 in hermetic engagement with the seal 112. The seal 112 and pre-existing component structure generally form a closed, fluid-tight (e.g., hermetically sealed) end of the component. Once the curable fluid has cured, the cured structure may generally define, at least in part, a bottom and/or closed end of the previously open end of the component 122. In various embodiments, the curable fluid may be poured to completely fill the bottom area such that, once cured, the curable fluid becomes the bottom of the component 122. In alternate embodiments, the curable fluid may be poured around one or more objects placed within the interior surrounding walls of the component such that the curable fluid only constitutes a portion of the closed end of the component 122 once cured. For example, a decorative object, a round piece of wood, or any other suitable object may be placed within the component prior to pouring the curable fluid such that, once poured, the curable fluid and the object are each a part of the base of the component. Subsequently, the altered component may be removed from the application station 101. The altered component may be fluid or watertight, at least with respect to the end of the component 122 closed utilizing the application station 101.

As shown in the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 1B-1g, the base 116 of application station(s) 101 may define a rectangular or square profile. However, it should be appreciated that, in additional or alternative embodiments, the base 116 may include or define any other suitable shape, size, or configuration desired or required. The base 116 may define a top view or profile that is at least as large as the open end of the component 122, such as substantially larger than the open end of the component 122 (see, e.g., FIGS. 1e-1g). Additionally, or alternatively, the base 116 may define any suitable length, width, height, thickness, aspect ratio, and/or the like. The base 116 may include any suitable structural material (e.g., wood, plastic, polymer, metal, composite material, and/or the like).

Referring now particularly to FIG. 1d, the base 116 of application station(s) 101 generally includes or defines a working surface. The working surface of the base 116 is generally configured to support the component 122, seal 112, and/or any other associated materials. The working surface of the base 116 may generally define a profile that is complementary to a profile of the open end of the component 122. For instance, in the illustrated embodiments, the working surface of the base 116 generally defines a plane approximately normal to the force of gravity. Thus, the working surface of the base 116 may be generally flat. However, in additional or alternative embodiments, the working surface of the base 116 may define a profile complementary to any suitable open end of a component. For example, the working surface may define one or more changes in elevation, slopes, curvatures, and/or the like.

In additional or alternative embodiments, the application station(s) 101 may further include a vertical support 110 coupled to the base 116 and extending upwardly and away from the base 116 (e.g., away from the working surface of the base 116). In alternate embodiments, the vertical support 110 may be coupled to the base 116 at a midpoint on the vertical support. In still other embodiments, the vertical support 110 may be coupled to the base 116 and extend downwardly away from the base. In some embodiments, the vertical support 110 is formed separately from the base 116. Alternatively, the vertical support 110 may be integrally formed with the base 116.

As shown, the vertical support 110 of application station(s) 101 may define a rectangular or square profile. However, in additional or alternative embodiments, vertical support 110 may include or define any other suitable shape, size, or configuration desired or required. In several embodiments, as shown particularly in FIGS. the vertical support 110 may define the same, approximately the same, or a similar height as the component 122. Additionally, or alternatively, the vertical support 110 may define any suitable length, width, height, thickness, aspect ratio, and/or the like. The vertical support 110 may include any suitable structural material (e.g., wood, plastic, polymer, metal, composite material, and/or the like).

Referring still generally to FIGS. the application station(s) 101 may include an outer end or edge 118 coupled to the base 116. For instance, as illustrated, the outer end 118 may be coupled to the base 116 at an end opposite to an end that the vertical support 110 is coupled to. In alternate embodiments, the outer edge 118 may be coupled to the base 116 at a midpoint on the outer edge. In still other embodiments, the outer end 118 may be coupled to the base 116 and extend upwardly from the base. In some embodiments, the outer edge 118 is formed separately from the base 116. Alternatively, the outer edge 118 may be integrally formed with the base 116. Additionally, or alternatively, the outer end 118 may extend downwardly and away from the base 116 (e.g., away from working surface of the base 116). In the exemplary embodiments, the outer end 118 may define a height relative base 116 that is less than a height of the vertical support 110. However, in additional or alternative embodiments, the outer end 118 may define any suitable length, width, height, thickness, aspect ratio, and/or the like and/or may include or define any other suitable shape desired or required. The outer edge 118 may include any suitable structural material (e.g., wood, plastic, polymer, metal, composite material, and/or the like).

The outer end 118 may generally serve to secure a component 122 associated with the application station 101, e.g., prior to engagement of the securing mechanism 119 or after the securing mechanism 119 is disengaged. Additionally, or alternatively, the securing mechanism 119, or a portion thereof, may be supported relative to the outer end 118. In various embodiments, the outer edge 118 provides additional support and structure to the application station. However, other embodiments of application station(s) 101 may not include an outer end 118, and the present disclosure is equally applicable to such embodiments of an application station. In some embodiments, the outer edge 118 may be included to provide a buffer, boundary, or raised edge to prevent the component from inadvertently becoming disengaged with the base 116 or the application station.

Referring again to the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 1B-1g, the application station(s) 101 may include a seal 112 arranged above the working surface of the base 116. The seal 112 is configured to selectively, hermetically engage with the open end of the component 122, as explained in more detail below. The seal 112 may be configured as a pad, sheet, slip, and/or the like. Thus, the seal 112 generally acts to prevent a curable resin introduced into the component 122 from leaking before the curing process has completed. The seal 112 may include or be formed from any suitable, soft, malleable material. Materials suitable to form the seal 112 include, but are not limited to, elastomers, foams, plastics, polymers, rubbers, and/or other suitable materials (e.g., materials with a sufficiently low Young's modulus). In example embodiments, it is important that the seal 112 not be formed from a material that will interact, react, combine, couple, or otherwise attach to the curable fluid once introduced to the component 122. In some embodiments, the seal 112 may be integrally formed or formed separately from the base 116. In preferred embodiments, the seal 112 is formed separately from the base 116 so that it can be replaced after normal wear and tear, for cleaning, or for any other purpose.

Additionally, or alternatively, the application station(s) 101 may include a contour pad 114 arranged between the working surface of the base 116 and the seal 112, as shown particularly in FIGS. 1c and 1d. The contour pad 114 is generally configured to accommodate a contour defined by the open end of the component 122. Additionally, or alternatively, the contour pad 114 may improve the ability of the seal 112 to hermetically engage with the open end of the component 122. The contour pad 114 may include or be formed from any suitable, soft, malleable material. Materials suitable to form the contour pad 114 include, but are not limited to, foams, elastomers, plastics, polymers, rubbers, textiles, and/or other suitable materials (e.g., materials with a sufficiently low Young's modulus, rigidity, or the like). In several embodiments, the contour pad 114 may define a Young's modulus that is higher than a Young's modulus defined by the seal 112. Referring now to FIG. 1d, in additional or alternative embodiments, the contour pad 114 may define a thickness that greater than a thickness defined by the seal 112, such as at least significantly thicker, such as at least twice as thick, such as at least several times as thick. Although referenced as three separate components, the base 116, the seal 112, and the contour pad 114 may be formed into a single component, or each component may be separately formed.

As shown in the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 1e-1g, the seal 112 and/or the contour pad 114 may be sized at least as large as the open end of the component 122. Additionally, or alternatively, the seal 112 and/or the contour pad 114 may be oriented on the working surface of the base 116 such that the entire open end of the component 122 will be within respective boundaries defined by the seal 112 and/or the contour pad 114 during use of the application station 101.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1e-1g, the component coupler 104 is configured to selectively couple to the component 122, either directly or indirectly. In other embodiments, the component coupler 104 simply applies a force to the component, but does not couple to the component. Thus, embodiments of the present disclosure allow for the component 122 to be removed from the component coupler 104. In exemplary embodiments, the component coupler 104 is coupled to the component 122 via the force of gravity and/or any compressive force provided by the securing mechanism 119, as described in more detail below. Additionally, or alternatively, the component coupler 104 may be configured to couple to a distal end of the component 122, e.g., an end oppositely oriented or substantially oppositely oriented with respect to the open end contacting the seal 112. For example, the distal end may include a top of the component 122.

Referring again to the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 1B-1g, the component coupler 104 may be supported relative to the base 116. For instance, the component coupler 104 may be coupled to the vertical support 110. As shown, particularly in FIGS. 1e-1g, the component coupler 104 may be coupled to the vertical support 110 at approximately a height of the component 122. For instance, the component coupler 104 may be coupled to a top of the vertical support 110. In example embodiments, the bottom surface of the component coupler 104 is configured to contact or engage the upper surface of the component 122. Additionally, or alternatively, the component coupler 104 may be pivotally coupled to the vertical support 110. For instance, in the depicted embodiments, the component coupler 104 is supported relative to the base 116 and/or vertical support 110 via one or more hinges 108 (e.g., a mechanical hinge, a hinge assembly, a malleable hinge, and/or the like). However, it should be appreciated that the component coupler 104 may be supported relative to the base 116 at any appropriate position and/or via any suitable fixed structure. In particular embodiments having two or more application stations, the two or more component couplers 104 may be operatively coupled to each other such that, when one is moved into a compression position, all of the component couplers are moved accordingly. This can be achieved with any suitable linking mechanism between the component couplers 104.

Further, in additional, or alternative embodiments, the component coupler 104 may be temporarily coupled to the base 116 and/or movably coupled to the base 116. In some embodiments, the height and position of the component coupler 104 may be selectively adjustable using any suitable system such as rack and pinion to ensure that the pressure or force applied by the component coupler is sufficient to hermetically seal the component 122. In example embodiments, the component coupler 104 may have a male peg or portion (not shown or numbered) that may be releasably coupled or received by one or more female holes or openings in the vertical support 110. In this embodiment, selecting a particular opening will allow for the component coupler 104 to be secured at the appropriate height. In other embodiments, the component coupler is pivotally secured to the vertical support 110 so that all components 122 filled with a curable fluid when the component is in the application station 101 are uniform in size and shape.

In various embodiments of the present disclosure, the distal end of the component 122 may also be open such that a curable fluid may be introduced to the open end contacting the seal 112, such as poured through an open top of the component 122. Additionally, or alternatively, the component coupler 104 defines at least one aperture, hole, or the like (hereinafter passageway 106) between a top end and a bottom end such that the curable fluid may be introduced into the component 122. For instance, referring particularly to FIGS. 1f and 1g, the passageway 106 may receive the curable fluid and introduce the curable fluid to the component 122, such as to the open end contacting the seal 112.

As described below, the component coupler 104 may further be configured to selectively form a hermetic engagement between the seal 112 and the open end of the component 122 in response to a compressive force acting between the base 116 and the component coupler 104. Thus, embodiments of the present disclosure allow for the curable fluid to be introduced to the component 122, retained within the component 122 via the hermetic engagement between the existing component structure and the seal 112, and subsequently cure (e.g., harden) to form a bottom and/or closed end at the previously open end of the component 122. A curable fluid, as used herein, generally means a substance capable of being applied in a liquid or similar state and, in response to a stimulus (e.g., time, energy, heat, the introduction of one or more additional substances, etc.), harden or “cure”. Suitable curable fluids may include, but are not limited to, resins, prepolymers, thermoplastic materials, slurries, pre-matrix materials, epoxies, powders, and/or the like.

Referring specifically to FIGS. 1f and 1g, the securing mechanism 119 may selectively engage (such that the compressive force acts between the base 116 and the component coupler 104). Thus, a hermetic engagement may be formed between the seal 112 and the open end of the component 122. Moreover, such hermetic engagement may retain the curable fluid and/or allow the same to cure. Once the curable fluid has formed a bottom and/or closed end of the component 122, the securing mechanism 119 may be disengaged. Disengaging the securing mechanism 119 may break and/or allow the hermetic engagement between the component 122 and the seal 112 to be broken, allowing the component 122 to be removed from the application station 101.Referring again generally to FIGS. 1B-1g, the securing mechanism 119 may include the base attachment 120 secured relative to the base 116, such as coupled to the base 116 and/or the outer end 118. The securing mechanism 119 may also include the component coupler attachment 102 secured relative to the component coupler 104.

Generally, the base attachment 120 and the component coupler attachment 102 of the securing mechanism 119 are configured to selectively engage such that the compressive force selectively acts between the base 116 the component coupler 104. In additional or alternative embodiments, the base attachment 120 of the securing mechanism 119 includes a hook structure 120a, and the component coupler attachment 102 includes a hook receptacle structure or latch for engaging the hook structure 120a to selectively lock the engagement of the securing mechanism 119. As such, the hook structure 120a and the hook receptacle structure operably interlock to selectively engage the open end of the component 122 with the seal 112. Additionally, or alternatively, the base attachment structure 120 may include the hook receptacle structure, and the component coupler attachment 102 may include a hook structure. Although shown and described as a singular securing mechanism 119, any number of securing mechanisms may be used to ensure an accurate engagement between the component 122 and the base 116 and seal 118. In addition, similar to the component couplers 104, where there are two or more securing mechanisms 119, a linking device may enable a user to engage all of the securing mechanisms simultaneously rather than one-by-one.

As shown, in additional or alternative embodiments, the securing mechanism 119 may include a compression adjustment mechanism 120b configured such that manipulation of the compression adjustment mechanism 120b alters the compressive force acting between the base 116 and the component coupler 104. For instance, the adjustment mechanism 120b may include a threaded arrangement that alters a length of the base attachment 120 and/or a degree that the hook structure 120a extends from the same. In alternate embodiments, any suitable adjustment mechanism may be used that has inter-engaging elements (e.g., seating, indexing, or catch members) configured so that the different positions of the component coupler 104 are discrete and pre-defined, or the component coupler can be free of any such inter-engaging elements so that the height of the component coupler can be positioned anywhere within range between an upper position and a lower position. In example embodiments, the securing mechanism 119 may include a compression adjustment mechanism 120b and the component coupler 104 may be height adjustable. In alternate embodiments, only one component between the securing mechanism 119 and the component coupler includes a compression or height adjustment mechanism.

Referring now generally to FIGS. 1a-1g and FIG. 1a particularly, the system 100 may include one or more support runners extending along the length of system 100, such as along a length of the system defined by two or more application stations 101 (reference numbers omitted from FIG. 1a for clarity), such as an entire length of the system 100. For instance, in the depicted embodiment of FIG. 1a, the support runner extends along the length of or approximately the length of the system 100. However, in additional or alternative embodiments, a plurality of support runners may extend along the length of the system 100 (such as along the same length, different lengths, and/or overlapping lengths of the system 100). The support runner(s) is generally supported relative to a fixed foundation. As shown, the support runner(s) may be configured to be fixedly or removably attached to a vertical wall, support, and/or the like. Additionally, or alternatively, at least one application station 101, such as multiple application stations 101, such as all of the plurality of application stations 101 may be coupled to the support runner(s). For instance, as shown in FIGS.

the support runner may include one or more vertical supports 110 of the system 100, such as all of the vertical supports 110. In several embodiments, as shown, one vertical support 110 may also be configured as the support runner and extend along the length or approximately the length of the system 100. Additionally, or alternatively, the system 100 may include a support runner(s) independently of the vertical support(s) 110. For example, the support runner(s) may be coupled to the fixed foundation, and the vertical support(s) 110 may be coupled to the support runner(s). As shown, the base 116 may extend along the length of or approximately the length of the system 100. However, in additional, or alternative embodiments, a plurality of bases 116 may extend along, such as sequentially along, the length of the system 100. Additionally, the outer end 118 may extend along the length of or approximately the length of the system 100. However, in additional, or alternative embodiments, a plurality of outer ends 118 may extend along, such as sequentially along, the length of the system 100, or the system 100 may not include an outer end 118. Each of the vertical support(s) 110, the base 116, and the outer end 118 may be independently coupled to the support runner(s) such that if one part needs to be repaired or replaced, the whole system does not have to be taken apart.

As shown in the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. each application station 101 may include a distinct contour pad 114 and/or seal 112. Additionally, or alternatively, a seal may be associated with two more of the application stations 101. For example, a seal may extend along the length of or approximately the length of the system 100. Additionally, or alternatively, a contour pad may be associated with two more of the application stations 101. For example, a contour pad may extend along the length of or approximately the length of the system 100.

Referring now generally to FIGS. 2b-2g, exemplary embodiments of the application station(s) 201 suitable for forming a bottom in an open end of one or more components 210 (see, e.g., FIGS. 2d, 2e, and 2g) are illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. Embodiments of the application station(s) 201 of FIGS. 2b-2g may be configured the same or similar to the application station(s) 101 of FIGS. 1B-1g. Thus, for purposes of ease of understanding and clarity, only certain features will be discussed to highlight the differences in the systems and methods of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2a-2g as compared to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1a-1g.

For example, the application station(s) 201 may include a base 206 configured to selectively engage the open end of a component 210 with a seal 204; the seal 204 arranged above the base 206; a component coupler 214 configured to selectively engage the open end of the component 210 with the seal 204; a securing mechanism (base attachment or vertical support 202 and component coupler attachment 203) configured to selectively (a) apply a compressive force between the base 206 and the component coupler 214, and/or (b) form a hermetic engagement between the seal 204 and the open end of the component 210; vertical support 202 coupled to the base 206 and extending away from the base 206; and a support runner 208 extending along the length of or approximately the length of the system 200 (see, e.g., FIG. 2a).

However, as depicted, in additional or alternative embodiments, the application station(s) 201 of the system 200 may be further configured for sealing a second open end of a second component 210 simultaneously while sealing the second open end of a first component. For instance, the base 206 may be configured to include a second working surface, a second seal 204, and/or a second contour pad. Additionally, or alternatively, the component coupler 214 is further configured to engage a second open end of the second component 210 with the second seal 204. Thus, the component coupler 214, additionally or alternatively, may be further configured to selectively form a hermetic engagement between the second seal 204 and the second open end of the second component 210 in response to a compressive force acting between the base 206 and the component coupler 214. Additionally, or alternatively, the component coupler 214 may define two passageways 214a between a top end and a bottom end of the component coupler 214. Thus, a curable fluid may be introduced independently and/or concurrently to a first component 210 and/or a second component 210 utilizing respective passageways 214a of a single application station 201. In various embodiments having a second base 206, second seal 204, and second passageway 214a in the component coupler 204, it is possible, but not necessary to seal two components 210 for this embodiment to function properly.

Additionally, or alternatively, the base 206 may be configured to both support the components 210 and improve the ability of the seals 204 to hermetically engage with the open ends of the components 210, e.g., configured to accommodate a contour defined by the same. Additionally, or alternatively, the base 206 may define and/or include a Young's modulus that is higher than a Young's modulus defined by the contour pads 114 and/or lower than a Young's modulus defined by the base 116, as described above with respect to FIGS. 1B-1g. Additionally, or alternatively, the base 206 may define a greater, such as substantially greater, thickness relative to the base 116 and/or contour pad 114 of FIG. 1.

Additionally, or alternatively, the component coupler 214 of the application station(s) 201 may be configured to be selectively coupled to the base 206. Additionally, or alternatively, a vertical support 202 may include a rod, such as a threaded or non-threaded rod or bolt, extending from the base 206 (e.g., normal to a working surface(s) thereof). Thus, the vertical support 202 may generally also serve as the base attachment 202 of the application station(s) 201. For example, as shown, the component coupler attachment 203 may include a washer 212, threaded bore, or the like. Additionally, or alternatively, a wingnut 216, nut, or the like may be threaded onto the vertical support and/or base attachment 202 to selectively engage the seals 204 with the open ends of the components 210. Additionally, or alternatively, a clamp or other component coupler attachment may be used to engage the seal(s) 204. In additional or alternative embodiments, the securing mechanism is configured such that operation of the threaded arrangement alters the compressive force acting between the base 206 and the component coupler 214. Additionally, or alternatively, operation of the threaded arrangement causes the seals 204 to selectively, hermetically engage with the open ends of the components 210. Additionally, or alternatively, support runner(s) 208 may be configured to be attached to a horizontal structure, table, support, or the like.

FIGS. 3a-3h illustrate varying views of a container insulator generated using the systems and methods disclosed herein. Although shown with rounded sidewalls forming a rounded perimeter around the open end and the closed end, any suitable shape or size may be used for the sidewalls. In addition, while shown with indentations, the exterior sidewalls may include any sort of texture, may be smooth, may include one or more indentations or recesses, and/or may include one or more projections, protrusions, or outdents. In particular embodiments, the interior sidewalls are generally shaped and sized to hold a beverage. For example, the interior may be shaped and sized to receive a generally universal size 12oz canned beverage or 12oz bottled beverage.

FIGS. 4a-4h illustrate varying views of another container insulator generated using the systems and methods disclosed herein. Similar to the container insulator shown in FIGS. 3a-3h, although shown with an octagonal outer perimeter, the sidewalls of the container insulator illustrated in FIGS. 4a-4h may include any suitable shape or size. Similarly, the interior sidewalls may be generally rounded to receive a generally universally sized beverage. In some embodiments, the exterior of either embodiment may include one or more hooks, loops, clips, buttons, etc. for coupling the container insulator to another object or item. For example, as shown in FIG. 4a, the insulator may include a clip for removably attaching the insulator to a user's clothing. As discussed above, and referring to FIGS. 3d and 4c, the closed end of the insulator may include one or more objects in addition to the cured fluid. In the example shown, one or more aluminum can tabs are shown. In alternate embodiments, the one or more objects may include a piece of wood, or other decoration. In some embodiments, the one or more objects take up more space or comprise a greater surface area of the base than the cured fluid.

This written description uses exemplary embodiments to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SEALING AN OPEN END OF A COMPONENT

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