US20060118453A1 - Cup caddy - Google Patents
Cup caddy Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20060118453A1 US20060118453A1 US11/272,373 US27237305A US2006118453A1 US 20060118453 A1 US20060118453 A1 US 20060118453A1 US 27237305 A US27237305 A US 27237305A US 2006118453 A1 US2006118453 A1 US 2006118453A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- caddy
- holding
- mounting member
- cup
- holding member
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
- A47G19/00—Table service
- A47G19/02—Plates, dishes or the like
- A47G19/06—Plates with integral holders for spoons, glasses, or the like
- A47G19/065—Plates with integral holders for spoons, glasses, or the like with thumb holes, handles or the like enabling the user to support the plate from below
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a container for carrying food items.
- the present invention relates to a container capable of carrying food items and a drinking vessel together.
- a carrying device such as a bag or tray
- Carrying devices such as trays and bags
- Carrying devices have been developed for this express purpose but are generally awkward and clumsy.
- bags generally do not have individual compartments; thus, food and drinks are often stacked inside and can spill or leak.
- Trays have been developed with cup receptacles to minimize spillage but generally are larger rectangular configurations that require two-handed use due to size.
- food is often conveyed in one or more bags or trays, and the drinks, particularly if numbering more than one, are separately conveyed in a tray specifically configured to carry multiple drinking cups.
- the food is taken to or delivered directly to a car, where there is typically not a suitable place to stow the food or drink-laden tray or bag.
- the food items While the drinking vessels are typically separated and placed in cup holders of the vehicle, if present, the food items generally must be placed on the floor or empty seat of the vehicle, or otherwise held by a passenger. Alternatively, the food and beverage may be hand-carried from the establishment. If provided in a bag, it is difficult to selectively consume the food and beverage without stopping and unpacking the items. However, it may be desirable or necessary to consume the items while standing or walking. Likewise, in certain situations such as at concerts and sporting events, it may be difficult to unpack the items even while seated.
- the present invention relates to containers that are capable of integrally holding food and drink in a configuration that facilitates carrying and consumption of a meal.
- the present invention allows a consumer to support a variety of food items in a single hand or in a cup holder of a vehicle or alternatively, in a cup holder of a theatre or stadium seat.
- the subject caddy comprises a mounting member configured to receive at least a portion of a drinking vessel and a holding member extending from the mounting member, where the holding member is configured to hold an item adjacent a drinking vessel.
- the mounting member is configured to only receive a bottom portion of a drinking vessel
- the mounting member can have either an open bottom to expose a bottom of a drinking vessel when received therein, or a closed bottom, where the mounting member of the caddy fully surrounds the bottom of the drinking vessel.
- the holding member can include a bottom wall extending from the mounting member and a sidewall extending from the bottom wall so that at least the sidewall and bottom wall define a holding space.
- the holding space can include one or alternatively a number of holding regions. If a plurality of holding regions are provided, at least one holding region can be larger and/or deeper than another holding region.
- the mounting member can be disposed between two or more holding regions. Further, the sidewall can surround the mounting member. The mounting member can be disposed asymmetrically relative to the holding member.
- the mounting member can be configured to receive a top of and can be configured to cover a mouth of a drinking vessel.
- a hole can be defined in the mounting member to receive a straw inserted therein.
- the holding member can be hingedly coupled to the mounting member and can be a generally U-shaped member moveable between a first position adjacent an edge of the mounting member and a second position extending from the mounting member, to define a holding space therewithin.
- the mounting member and the holding member can be a single-piece construction, and the holding member can be defined by a line of weakness formed in the construction.
- the holding member can include a sidewall defining a holding space and/or a support platform to support contents within the holding space.
- a support arm can be included, extending between the mounting member and the support platform.
- the caddy can further comprise a second holding member, with the mounting portion being disposed between the first and second holding members.
- FIGS. 1 and 2 are side and perspective views of an embodiment of a cup caddy constructed according to the invention mounted to a cup;
- FIGS. 3 and 4 are side and perspective views of another embodiment of a cup caddy with a cavity to permit grasping therefrom;
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a cup caddy embodiment with a retractable holding member in a retracted position
- FIG. 6 is a perspective view thereof with the holding member extended in a holding position
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view thereof with an item held in the holding member
- FIGS. 8 and 9 are perspective and top views of an embodiment of a cup caddy with a compartmentalized holding member
- FIG. 10 is a perspective view thereof holding food items
- FIG. 11 is a perspective view thereof received in a car console.
- FIGS. 12-14 are a top view and top and bottom perspective views, respectively of an embodiment of a cup mounted tray with opposed holding portions.
- the present invention is directed to a caddy, comprising a mounting member configured to receive at least a portion of a drinking vessel and a holding member extending from the mounting member, the holding member configured to hold an item adjacent a drinking vessel.
- a caddy comprising a mounting member configured to receive at least a portion of a drinking vessel and a holding member extending from the mounting member, the holding member configured to hold an item adjacent a drinking vessel.
- FIGS. 1 and 2 an exemplary embodiment of the caddy in accordance with the invention is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 and is designated generally by reference character 20 .
- the cup caddy 20 includes a mounting portion 22 that is configured to receive and mount to a cup 24 .
- the mounting portion 22 is preferably configured to receive the cup 24 in a press-fit or other snug association that is sufficient to support the weight of the cup caddy when loaded with certain items, such as food items 26 , most preferably by friction.
- only the association between the cup caddy 20 and the cup 24 is used to fully support the loaded cup
- the preferred mounting portion 22 includes a sleeve that extends downwardly from a holding member 30 of the cup caddy 20 .
- the sleeve 28 extends sufficiently in the downward direction from the holding member 30 to provide sufficient surface area to contact the cup 24 and produce sufficient friction to support the loaded cup caddy 20 .
- the bottom edge 32 of the sleeve 28 can have various configurations, such as being straight or curved, as shown in FIG. 1 .
- the mounting portion 22 completely encloses the cup 24 , in which case, the holding member can be supported without a friction or press-fit with the cup.
- the mounting portion extends over the top of the cup 24 and can be provided with a straw hole to receive a straw. Such an embodiment can hang from the top of the cup and can be made with or without a press-fit association with the cup 24 .
- a press-fit association is preferably obtained by providing the axial opening in the mounting portion 22 with a slightly smaller diameter than the cup 24 at the portion of the cup 24 at which the cup caddy 20 is desired to be mounted.
- the axial opening of the mounting portion 22 has an elongated shape extending along a plane that is normal to the axis of the mounting portion 22 opening, with a narrow dimension that is smaller than that of the desired portion of the cup 24 to deform and pinch the cup 24 to produce the press-fit.
- the shape of the mounting portion opening is preferably oval, such as an elliptical shape, but can alternatively have another suitable shape to grip the cup 24 .
- the holding member 30 of the preferred embodiment includes a bottom wall 34 and a side wall 36 .
- the height of the side wall 36 can be substantially uniform, in a preferred embodiment, the height of the side wall 36 is sloped so that the depth of the holding member 30 is deeper on one side than on the other. Preferably, the difference in depth from one side to the other of the holding member 30 is between about 25-75%.
- the bottom wall 34 of the preferred embodiment is generally horizontal or alternatively inclined.
- the top edge of the holding member 30 or sidewall 36 is preferably sloped, preferably at an angle of less than about 45°.
- a holding space 40 is thus provided between the bottom wall 34 and the side wall 36 , preferably surrounding the cup 24 .
- the side wall 36 and the bottom wall 34 are preferably configured so that the holding space 40 has larger regions on two opposite sides of the cup 24 and the mounting portion 22 , with a region of narrower width disposed between the enlarged areas.
- the bottom wall 34 preferably has an elongated shape, which can be an oval shape or other suitable shape along which the side wall 36 is preferably positioned.
- the cup 24 is of a standard size used in the fast food industry, and is preferably made out of a flexible material, such as a suitable plastic or paper.
- the held items 26 in FIGS. 1 and 2 can be food items or other items.
- Fast food items 26 are shown, including a filled french-fry container and a hamburger in a bun.
- Other food items can be held
- the weight and size of items 26 that the cup caddy 20 of this embodiment is configured to hold are preferably within the range for items of a standard meal to be consumed by a single person, which range is known in the art.
- the taller of the items 26 such as the french fries, can be held in the deeper portion of the holding member 36 , shown on the right side in FIG. 1 , while the shorter of the items 26 can be held on the shallower side of the holding member 36 , as shown on the left side in FIG. 1 .
- FIGS. 3 and 4 another cup caddy embodiment 42 , within the scope of the invention, is shown with a holding member 44 that has a slanted bottom wall 46 to provide a deeper holding space region 48 , shown on the right side of FIG. 3 , and a shallower holding space region 50 shown at the left side of FIG. 3 .
- the holding member 44 can have a substantially round or circular plan form.
- a mounting portion 52 extends downwardly from the holding member 44 , and is positioned preferably eccentrically towards the shallow region 50 of the holding space within the circular plan form of the holding member 44 .
- An inner wall 54 connects the mounting portion 52 with the holding member 44 and provides a cavity 56 beneath the holding member 44 configured and dimensioned to allow a user to insert his or her fingers therein around the cup 24 and mounting portion 52 to grip and lift the coupled cup 24 and caddy 42 .
- the inner wall 54 of the holding member 44 preferably separates the held items 26 in the holding space 56 from the cup 24 .
- the slant of the bottom wall 46 is preferably configured so that the opening to the cavity 54 is elevated at one side to allow a user to insert a hand therein when the cup 24 and caddy 42 are resting on a table or other surface.
- the mounting portion 52 and holding member 44 are preferably configured so that, when the caddy 42 is coupled with the cup 24 , the bottom of the cup 24 and of the holding member 42 are both substantially in a shared horizontal plane to rest upon a surface.
- the lowest portion of the holding member 48 is elevated from the bottom of the cup 24 when the caddy 42 is mounted to the cup 24 .
- the embodiment of caddy 58 shown in FIG. 5 preferably has a mounting portion 60 that is configured to attach to the top of a cup 24 .
- the mounting portion 60 in this embodiment is also configured as a lid and includes a lid portion 62 that can cover the opening at the top of the cup 24 .
- the lid portion 62 can comprise features of lids known in the art, such as an opening 64 for inserting a straw.
- the mounting portion 60 is configured to mount over and preferably attach to an existing lid that is fitted thereunder on the cup 24 .
- a holding member 66 is shown in FIG. 5 in a retracted position extending around the mounting portion 60 in a compact arrangement.
- the holding member preferably includes a U-shaped strap of flexible material mounted at the open end of the U-shape, such that the U-shape substantially surrounds a portion of the mounting portion 60 in the retracted position.
- the holding member can be formed as a single piece with the mounting portion if desired.
- the holding member is defined from the mounting portion by a line of weakness.
- a slit 68 can be provided between the holding member and the mounting portion. The slit 68 can be provided by a cutting operation to form the holding member 60 as a unitary piece with a mounting portion 60 .
- the holding member 68 thus can be flipped over the top of the cup 24 and holding member 60 to a holding position, shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 , in which the holding portion 66 extends outwardly from the cup 24 to hold an item 26 and depends from the mounting portion 60 at hinges 69 , which are preferably living hinges.
- Holding space 70 is configured such that a tapered item 26 can be inserted and held therein. As depicted, the holding space 70 , therefore, is bounded by the U-shaped member of the holding member 68 and by an edge 72 of the holding member, which can be an extension of the mounting portion 60 . Alternatively, the holding space 70 can be bounded by the U-shaped portion of the holding member and the cup 24 or a portion of the cup lid, with the holding member 66 holding the item 26 thereagainst.
- a caddy 74 is provided with a compartmentalized holding member 6 defining at least one compartmentalized holding space 78 positioned substantially on one side of the mounting portion 80 .
- the mounting portion 80 is configured to attach to or otherwise receive a cup 24
- the holding space 78 includes compartments 82 which can include sub-compartments 84 , such as provided by varying the depth of the compartments 82 at selected locations.
- the holding member 76 in this embodiment extends in a pie-shape from the mounting portion 80 , preferably with the mounting portion 80 disposed substantially at an apex thereof with sides extending at an angle of less than 90° therefrom to an arcuate edge that is disposed distally from the mounting portion 80 .
- Other angles and shapes can be used.
- the mounting portion 80 of this embodiment is configured to grip the cup 24 near its bottom edge so that the holding member 76 can rest against a surface adjacent to the cup.
- FIG. 11 shows the caddy 74 used in an automobile, with the bottom of the cup 24 or mounting portion 80 received within a cup holder 86 of a car console 88 .
- the press-fit between the holding member 80 and the cup 24 is such that the entire caddy 74 and cup 24 can be lifted together when the driver lifts either the cup 24 or caddy 74 to drink from the cup 24 .
- the mounting portion extends around the bottom of the cup 24 and is configured to be received in a cup holder 86 , but the association with the cup 24 can be of sufficiently reduced friction, if desired, so that the cup 24 can be easily removed therefrom.
- the mounting portion 80 substantially does not grip the cup 24 , and is configured to remain in the cup holder 86 of the car console 88 to stabilize the position of the holding member 76 when the cup 24 is removed therefrom.
- the caddy is configured to replace or mount directly to the lid that is positioned on a cup 24 .
- mounting portion 92 preferably has side walls 94 that are configured to grip the lid.
- the mounting portion 92 can be configured to attach and secure directly to the cup itself, serving also as a lid.
- the top of the mounting portion 92 preferably has a surface 94 that covers the mouth of the cup 24 or the lid.
- a straw hole 96 can be provided in the surface 94 for inserting a straw.
- the mounting portion can comprise a stepped interior with sections 109 of different radii to be attached selectively to various standard lid sizes, as shown in FIG. 14 .
- the sections 109 can be provided as ledges or concentric rings, for example.
- the preferred holding member 98 in this embodiment includes one or more holding portions 100 , each of which is located on a side of the mounting portion 92 .
- the holding portions 100 define holding spaces 102 , which are configured for holding items, such as food items to be consumed with the beverage in the cup 24 .
- the holding spaces 102 are preferably surrounded laterally by a continuous side-wall 108 above each of the holding portions 100 .
- Support platforms 104 which are connected to the side walls 108 and preferably the mounting portion 92 by arms 106 , or by another suitable member, provide a bottom wall to support items that are held in the holding spaces 102 .
- the cross-dimension of the platform 104 can be smaller in plan view than that of the opening 102 at the level of the side walls 108 .
- the arms 106 are preferably sloped and are extensions of one or both of the bottom and side walls. Other shapes and arrangements of the arms, platforms, and sidewalls are possible, such as with angular configurations.
- the slopes of the arms 106 are preferably selected to enable a user to grip the cup with his or her hand with fingers inserted at the height of the platforms 104 or higher, adjacent the arms 106 , if desired.
Abstract
Description
- This application claims the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Application 60/626,077, filed Nov. 9, 2004, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference. - 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention relates to a container for carrying food items. Particularly, the present invention relates to a container capable of carrying food items and a drinking vessel together.
- 2. Description of the Related Art
- There is often a need to provide a carrying device, such as a bag or tray, for carrying food from a restaurant, refreshment stand or the like. At such establishments, the food is purchased and often taken away and consumed elsewhere. Carrying devices, such as trays and bags, have been developed for this express purpose but are generally awkward and clumsy. For example, bags generally do not have individual compartments; thus, food and drinks are often stacked inside and can spill or leak. Trays have been developed with cup receptacles to minimize spillage but generally are larger rectangular configurations that require two-handed use due to size. Furthermore, food is often conveyed in one or more bags or trays, and the drinks, particularly if numbering more than one, are separately conveyed in a tray specifically configured to carry multiple drinking cups. Often, the food is taken to or delivered directly to a car, where there is typically not a suitable place to stow the food or drink-laden tray or bag.
- While the drinking vessels are typically separated and placed in cup holders of the vehicle, if present, the food items generally must be placed on the floor or empty seat of the vehicle, or otherwise held by a passenger. Alternatively, the food and beverage may be hand-carried from the establishment. If provided in a bag, it is difficult to selectively consume the food and beverage without stopping and unpacking the items. However, it may be desirable or necessary to consume the items while standing or walking. Likewise, in certain situations such as at concerts and sporting events, it may be difficult to unpack the items even while seated.
- Accordingly, there is a need for a versatile and economical container for conveying food that is capable of overcoming the drawbacks of conventional containers set forth above. There is a particular need for a carrying device that can be supported by a conventional cup holder or otherwise permits one-handed use.
- The purpose and advantages of the present invention will be set forth in and apparent from the description that follows, as well as will be learned by practice of the invention. Additional advantages of the invention will be realized and attained by the devices particularly pointed out in the written description and claims hereof, as well as from the appended drawings.
- The present invention relates to containers that are capable of integrally holding food and drink in a configuration that facilitates carrying and consumption of a meal. The present invention allows a consumer to support a variety of food items in a single hand or in a cup holder of a vehicle or alternatively, in a cup holder of a theatre or stadium seat.
- In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the subject caddy comprises a mounting member configured to receive at least a portion of a drinking vessel and a holding member extending from the mounting member, where the holding member is configured to hold an item adjacent a drinking vessel.
- If the mounting member is configured to only receive a bottom portion of a drinking vessel, the mounting member can have either an open bottom to expose a bottom of a drinking vessel when received therein, or a closed bottom, where the mounting member of the caddy fully surrounds the bottom of the drinking vessel.
- The holding member can include a bottom wall extending from the mounting member and a sidewall extending from the bottom wall so that at least the sidewall and bottom wall define a holding space. The holding space can include one or alternatively a number of holding regions. If a plurality of holding regions are provided, at least one holding region can be larger and/or deeper than another holding region. The mounting member can be disposed between two or more holding regions. Further, the sidewall can surround the mounting member. The mounting member can be disposed asymmetrically relative to the holding member.
- In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the mounting member can be configured to receive a top of and can be configured to cover a mouth of a drinking vessel. A hole can be defined in the mounting member to receive a straw inserted therein.
- The holding member can be hingedly coupled to the mounting member and can be a generally U-shaped member moveable between a first position adjacent an edge of the mounting member and a second position extending from the mounting member, to define a holding space therewithin. The mounting member and the holding member can be a single-piece construction, and the holding member can be defined by a line of weakness formed in the construction. The holding member can include a sidewall defining a holding space and/or a support platform to support contents within the holding space. A support arm can be included, extending between the mounting member and the support platform. The caddy can further comprise a second holding member, with the mounting portion being disposed between the first and second holding members.
- It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention claimed. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute part of this specification, are included to illustrate and provide a further understanding of the invention. Together with the description, the drawings serve to explain the principles of the invention.
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FIGS. 1 and 2 are side and perspective views of an embodiment of a cup caddy constructed according to the invention mounted to a cup; -
FIGS. 3 and 4 are side and perspective views of another embodiment of a cup caddy with a cavity to permit grasping therefrom; -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a cup caddy embodiment with a retractable holding member in a retracted position; -
FIG. 6 is a perspective view thereof with the holding member extended in a holding position; -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view thereof with an item held in the holding member; -
FIGS. 8 and 9 are perspective and top views of an embodiment of a cup caddy with a compartmentalized holding member; -
FIG. 10 is a perspective view thereof holding food items; -
FIG. 11 is a perspective view thereof received in a car console; and -
FIGS. 12-14 are a top view and top and bottom perspective views, respectively of an embodiment of a cup mounted tray with opposed holding portions. - Reference will now be made in detail to the presently preferred embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
- The present invention is directed to a caddy, comprising a mounting member configured to receive at least a portion of a drinking vessel and a holding member extending from the mounting member, the holding member configured to hold an item adjacent a drinking vessel. For purpose of explanation and illustration, and not limitation, an exemplary embodiment of the caddy in accordance with the invention is shown in
FIGS. 1 and 2 and is designated generally byreference character 20. Thecup caddy 20 includes amounting portion 22 that is configured to receive and mount to acup 24. Themounting portion 22 is preferably configured to receive thecup 24 in a press-fit or other snug association that is sufficient to support the weight of the cup caddy when loaded with certain items, such asfood items 26, most preferably by friction. Preferably, only the association between thecup caddy 20 and thecup 24 is used to fully support the loadedcup caddy 20 from thecup 24. - The
preferred mounting portion 22 includes a sleeve that extends downwardly from aholding member 30 of thecup caddy 20. The sleeve 28 extends sufficiently in the downward direction from theholding member 30 to provide sufficient surface area to contact thecup 24 and produce sufficient friction to support the loadedcup caddy 20. Thebottom edge 32 of the sleeve 28 can have various configurations, such as being straight or curved, as shown inFIG. 1 . In an alternative embodiment, the mountingportion 22 completely encloses thecup 24, in which case, the holding member can be supported without a friction or press-fit with the cup. In another embodiment, the mounting portion extends over the top of thecup 24 and can be provided with a straw hole to receive a straw. Such an embodiment can hang from the top of the cup and can be made with or without a press-fit association with thecup 24. - A press-fit association is preferably obtained by providing the axial opening in the mounting
portion 22 with a slightly smaller diameter than thecup 24 at the portion of thecup 24 at which thecup caddy 20 is desired to be mounted. In one embodiment, the axial opening of the mountingportion 22 has an elongated shape extending along a plane that is normal to the axis of the mountingportion 22 opening, with a narrow dimension that is smaller than that of the desired portion of thecup 24 to deform and pinch thecup 24 to produce the press-fit. The shape of the mounting portion opening is preferably oval, such as an elliptical shape, but can alternatively have another suitable shape to grip thecup 24. - The holding
member 30 of the preferred embodiment includes abottom wall 34 and aside wall 36. Although the height of theside wall 36 can be substantially uniform, in a preferred embodiment, the height of theside wall 36 is sloped so that the depth of the holdingmember 30 is deeper on one side than on the other. Preferably, the difference in depth from one side to the other of the holdingmember 30 is between about 25-75%. Thebottom wall 34 of the preferred embodiment is generally horizontal or alternatively inclined. The top edge of the holdingmember 30 orsidewall 36 is preferably sloped, preferably at an angle of less than about 45°. - A holding
space 40 is thus provided between thebottom wall 34 and theside wall 36, preferably surrounding thecup 24. Theside wall 36 and thebottom wall 34 are preferably configured so that the holdingspace 40 has larger regions on two opposite sides of thecup 24 and the mountingportion 22, with a region of narrower width disposed between the enlarged areas. Thus, thebottom wall 34 preferably has an elongated shape, which can be an oval shape or other suitable shape along which theside wall 36 is preferably positioned. - In the preferred embodiment, the
cup 24 is of a standard size used in the fast food industry, and is preferably made out of a flexible material, such as a suitable plastic or paper. The helditems 26 inFIGS. 1 and 2 can be food items or other items.Fast food items 26 are shown, including a filled french-fry container and a hamburger in a bun. Other food items can be held The weight and size ofitems 26 that thecup caddy 20 of this embodiment is configured to hold are preferably within the range for items of a standard meal to be consumed by a single person, which range is known in the art. As can be seen in the figures, the taller of theitems 26, such as the french fries, can be held in the deeper portion of the holdingmember 36, shown on the right side inFIG. 1 , while the shorter of theitems 26 can be held on the shallower side of the holdingmember 36, as shown on the left side inFIG. 1 . - Referring to
FIGS. 3 and 4 , anothercup caddy embodiment 42, within the scope of the invention, is shown with a holdingmember 44 that has a slantedbottom wall 46 to provide a deeper holding space region 48, shown on the right side ofFIG. 3 , and a shallower holding space region 50 shown at the left side ofFIG. 3 . Viewed from the top, the holdingmember 44 can have a substantially round or circular plan form. A mountingportion 52 extends downwardly from the holdingmember 44, and is positioned preferably eccentrically towards the shallow region 50 of the holding space within the circular plan form of the holdingmember 44. Aninner wall 54 connects the mountingportion 52 with the holdingmember 44 and provides acavity 56 beneath the holdingmember 44 configured and dimensioned to allow a user to insert his or her fingers therein around thecup 24 and mountingportion 52 to grip and lift the coupledcup 24 andcaddy 42. Theinner wall 54 of the holdingmember 44 preferably separates the helditems 26 in the holdingspace 56 from thecup 24. - The slant of the
bottom wall 46 is preferably configured so that the opening to thecavity 54 is elevated at one side to allow a user to insert a hand therein when thecup 24 andcaddy 42 are resting on a table or other surface. The mountingportion 52 and holdingmember 44 are preferably configured so that, when thecaddy 42 is coupled with thecup 24, the bottom of thecup 24 and of the holdingmember 42 are both substantially in a shared horizontal plane to rest upon a surface. Alternatively, the lowest portion of the holding member 48 is elevated from the bottom of thecup 24 when thecaddy 42 is mounted to thecup 24. - The embodiment of
caddy 58 shown inFIG. 5 , in accordance with another aspect of the invention, preferably has a mountingportion 60 that is configured to attach to the top of acup 24. The mountingportion 60 in this embodiment is also configured as a lid and includes alid portion 62 that can cover the opening at the top of thecup 24. Thelid portion 62 can comprise features of lids known in the art, such as anopening 64 for inserting a straw. In an alternative embodiment, the mountingportion 60 is configured to mount over and preferably attach to an existing lid that is fitted thereunder on thecup 24. - A holding
member 66 is shown inFIG. 5 in a retracted position extending around the mountingportion 60 in a compact arrangement. The holding member preferably includes a U-shaped strap of flexible material mounted at the open end of the U-shape, such that the U-shape substantially surrounds a portion of the mountingportion 60 in the retracted position. As shown inFIGS. 5-7 , the holding member can be formed as a single piece with the mounting portion if desired. The holding member is defined from the mounting portion by a line of weakness. A slit 68 can be provided between the holding member and the mounting portion. Theslit 68 can be provided by a cutting operation to form the holdingmember 60 as a unitary piece with a mountingportion 60. - The holding
member 68 thus can be flipped over the top of thecup 24 and holdingmember 60 to a holding position, shown inFIGS. 6 and 7 , in which the holdingportion 66 extends outwardly from thecup 24 to hold anitem 26 and depends from the mountingportion 60 athinges 69, which are preferably living hinges. Holdingspace 70 is configured such that a tapereditem 26 can be inserted and held therein. As depicted, the holdingspace 70, therefore, is bounded by the U-shaped member of the holdingmember 68 and by anedge 72 of the holding member, which can be an extension of the mountingportion 60. Alternatively, the holdingspace 70 can be bounded by the U-shaped portion of the holding member and thecup 24 or a portion of the cup lid, with the holdingmember 66 holding theitem 26 thereagainst. - In accordance with another aspect of the invention, as shown in
FIGS. 8-11 , acaddy 74 is provided with a compartmentalized holding member 6 defining at least one compartmentalized holdingspace 78 positioned substantially on one side of the mountingportion 80. The mountingportion 80 is configured to attach to or otherwise receive acup 24, and the holdingspace 78 includescompartments 82 which can include sub-compartments 84, such as provided by varying the depth of thecompartments 82 at selected locations. - The holding
member 76 in this embodiment extends in a pie-shape from the mountingportion 80, preferably with the mountingportion 80 disposed substantially at an apex thereof with sides extending at an angle of less than 90° therefrom to an arcuate edge that is disposed distally from the mountingportion 80. Other angles and shapes can be used. - The mounting
portion 80 of this embodiment is configured to grip thecup 24 near its bottom edge so that the holdingmember 76 can rest against a surface adjacent to the cup.FIG. 11 shows thecaddy 74 used in an automobile, with the bottom of thecup 24 or mountingportion 80 received within acup holder 86 of acar console 88. Preferably, in one embodiment the press-fit between the holdingmember 80 and thecup 24 is such that theentire caddy 74 andcup 24 can be lifted together when the driver lifts either thecup 24 orcaddy 74 to drink from thecup 24. In an alternative embodiment, the mounting portion extends around the bottom of thecup 24 and is configured to be received in acup holder 86, but the association with thecup 24 can be of sufficiently reduced friction, if desired, so that thecup 24 can be easily removed therefrom. In one embodiment, the mountingportion 80 substantially does not grip thecup 24, and is configured to remain in thecup holder 86 of thecar console 88 to stabilize the position of the holdingmember 76 when thecup 24 is removed therefrom. - In accordance with an alternative aspect, as illustrated by the embodiment of
caddy 90 shown inFIGS. 12 and 13 , the caddy is configured to replace or mount directly to the lid that is positioned on acup 24. For example, mountingportion 92 preferably hasside walls 94 that are configured to grip the lid. Alternatively, the mountingportion 92 can be configured to attach and secure directly to the cup itself, serving also as a lid. The top of the mountingportion 92 preferably has asurface 94 that covers the mouth of thecup 24 or the lid. Astraw hole 96 can be provided in thesurface 94 for inserting a straw. - In one embodiment, the mounting portion can comprise a stepped interior with
sections 109 of different radii to be attached selectively to various standard lid sizes, as shown inFIG. 14 . Thesections 109 can be provided as ledges or concentric rings, for example. The preferred holdingmember 98 in this embodiment includes one ormore holding portions 100, each of which is located on a side of the mountingportion 92. The holdingportions 100 define holding spaces 102, which are configured for holding items, such as food items to be consumed with the beverage in thecup 24. The holding spaces 102 are preferably surrounded laterally by a continuous side-wall 108 above each of the holdingportions 100. -
Support platforms 104, which are connected to theside walls 108 and preferably the mountingportion 92 byarms 106, or by another suitable member, provide a bottom wall to support items that are held in the holding spaces 102. As shown inFIG. 12 , the cross-dimension of theplatform 104 can be smaller in plan view than that of the opening 102 at the level of theside walls 108. Thearms 106 are preferably sloped and are extensions of one or both of the bottom and side walls. Other shapes and arrangements of the arms, platforms, and sidewalls are possible, such as with angular configurations. The slopes of thearms 106 are preferably selected to enable a user to grip the cup with his or her hand with fingers inserted at the height of theplatforms 104 or higher, adjacent thearms 106, if desired. - The cup caddy embodiments shown and described herein can be made using materials and processes known to those of ordinary skill in the art, such as, but not limited to, the materials and the processes described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,257,401 and 6,349,847, the contents of which patents are expressly incorporated by reference herein in their entireties. For example, the cup caddies can be formed from one or more insulating foams, one or more plastics, one or more paper stocks, combinations thereof, and/or one or more other materials known by those of ordinary skill in the art to be suitable for storage or holding of food items. Also for example, the caddies can be thermoformed, vacuum-formed, molded, and/or otherwise formed using one or more processes known by those of ordinary skill in the art to be suitable for the fabrication of food containers or holders.
- While illustrative embodiments of the invention are disclosed herein, it will be appreciated that numerous modifications and other embodiments may be devised by those skilled in the art. For instance, various features of the different embodiments can be combined or used in other embodiments. The mounting portions that are press-fit to the cup, for example, can extend in an upward or downward direction, or both, from the holding member of the corresponding caddy. Also, additional holding portions may be provided in various embodiments. Therefore, it will be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and embodiments that come within the spirit and scope of the present invention.
Claims (20)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US11/272,373 US20060118453A1 (en) | 2004-11-09 | 2005-11-09 | Cup caddy |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US62607704P | 2004-11-09 | 2004-11-09 | |
US11/272,373 US20060118453A1 (en) | 2004-11-09 | 2005-11-09 | Cup caddy |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20060118453A1 true US20060118453A1 (en) | 2006-06-08 |
Family
ID=36572996
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/272,373 Abandoned US20060118453A1 (en) | 2004-11-09 | 2005-11-09 | Cup caddy |
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US (1) | US20060118453A1 (en) |
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US20060138814A1 (en) * | 2004-11-29 | 2006-06-29 | Burbrink Philip W | Monolithic container holder |
US20100015310A1 (en) * | 2008-07-15 | 2010-01-21 | Keith Edward Wallace | Pastry tray |
US20110195269A1 (en) * | 2010-02-05 | 2011-08-11 | Ati Properties, Inc. | Systems and methods for forming and processing alloy ingots |
WO2012120406A1 (en) | 2011-03-09 | 2012-09-13 | Zanini Ristorazione S.R.L. | Container for food and/or drink to be consumed on the move and method for making it |
US8746456B1 (en) * | 2012-09-11 | 2014-06-10 | Donald Joseph Bradley | Food and/or beverage tray and a method of using the same |
USD776485S1 (en) | 2016-02-11 | 2017-01-17 | Donald Joseph Bradley | Food and/or beverage tray |
WO2020112973A1 (en) * | 2018-11-28 | 2020-06-04 | Hill William Cary | Lid-mounted food and condiment holder |
US10682963B1 (en) * | 2017-03-15 | 2020-06-16 | Dash Caddie, Llc | Accessory for a recreational vehicle |
US11019898B2 (en) | 2019-05-17 | 2021-06-01 | David Ripple | Picnic food transportation assembly |
USD948961S1 (en) | 2021-03-19 | 2022-04-19 | Lori G. Robinson | Cup holder extension |
US20220354284A1 (en) * | 2021-05-04 | 2022-11-10 | SIIP Drinks, LLC | Drinking straw mountable container systems and methods |
USD978061S1 (en) | 2022-07-13 | 2023-02-14 | Lori G. Robinson | Cup holder extension |
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US11019898B2 (en) | 2019-05-17 | 2021-06-01 | David Ripple | Picnic food transportation assembly |
USD948961S1 (en) | 2021-03-19 | 2022-04-19 | Lori G. Robinson | Cup holder extension |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: PACTIV CORPORATION, ILLINOIS Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:HILLEBRECHT, LUKE;MACZUZAK, MICHAEL J.;FAKTOROVICH, DMITRIY;AND OTHERS;REEL/FRAME:017148/0093;SIGNING DATES FROM 20060127 TO 20060203 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON, AS COLLATERAL AGENT, Free format text: SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNORS:PACTIV CORPORATION;NEWSPRING INDUSTRIAL CORP.;PRAIRIE PACKAGING, INC.;AND OTHERS;REEL/FRAME:025712/0153 Effective date: 20110112 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |