GB2596132A

GB2596132A - Drink vessel carrier

Info

Publication number: GB2596132A
Application number: GB2009357.1A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Decker Thomas; Fletcher Charlene
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: THOMAS DECKER
Priority date: 2020-06-18
Filing date: 2020-06-18
Publication date: 2021-12-22
Anticipated expiration: 2040-06-18
Also published as: GB202009357D0; CN113397360B; GB2596132B; CN113397360A

Abstract

A drinks vessel carrier 10 for carrying a plurality of drink vessels V1. The carrier 10 comprises a base 12, a stand 14 extending upwards from the base 12, first 100a and second 100b shelves on stand 14, each shelf comprising through apertures 110 for holding a drinks vessel. The first shelf 100a is spaced above the base 12, the second shelf 100b is spaced above the first shelf 100a. A handle 20 may be provided at the top or side. A third shelf 100c with drinks vessel apertures 110 may be located above the second shelf 100b. Each shelf may be releasably supported or connected to stand 14. Flexible grips (114 fig. 6) may be provided about each aperture 110 for engaging the outer surface of a vessel V1. The through aperture may comprise a slot (112 fig. 6) for supporting a stemmed vessel, or a base wall (fig. 10) for supporting a bottle. The carrier may comprise drinks (fig. 16) or shelf identifiers (800 fig. 17). Also disclosed is a shelf for connecting to a carrier, and a method of loading or unloading drinks vessels from the carrier.

Description

DRINK VESSEL CARRIER

The present invention relates to a drink vessel carrier, particularly but not exclusively for use in a venue where drinks are served such as a bar or restaurant. The present invention also relates to a kit for assembly into a drink vessel carrier, a shelf for the drink vessel carrier, and methods of using the drink vessel carrier.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

In a social venue such as a restaurant or bar, a person can order a drink directly at the bar or whilst seated at a table, often when a waiter or waitress (henceforth waiter for brevity) visits the table.

Where a number of people in a group order drinks, the waiter can deliver the drinks orders on a tray, being careful not to tip the tray and spill the drinks whilst manoeuvring between tables, chairs, customers and other staff at the venue. For large drinks orders, it may not be possible to fit all of the drinks on the tray, so the waiter may need to make multiple trips to deliver the drinks.

In practice, a waiter will typically be serving a number of tables at the same time, and may need to deliver multiple drinks orders to multiple tables at any given time. This often involves many trips back and forth to the bar (or wherever the drinks are being poured) in order to collect and then deliver all of the drinks to the various tables.

Delivering multiple drinks orders can take a lot of time, potentially delaying the delivery of drinks to the various people who ordered them, especially when accounting for additional orders given to the waiter from other tables they are waiting on. In addition, drinks orders can sometimes be mixed up during delivery, if the waiter forgets which drink is which. For example, this can happen if there are two or more visually similar alcoholic drinks (wine, beer, cider, spirits, and so on) or soft drinks (coke, lemonade, juice, and so on) which are served in visually indistinguishable vessels on the same tray.

Furthermore, drinks are sometimes spilled during transit, despite the waiter's best efforts. This may be because the waiter accidentally tilts the tray and the drink vessel(s) tip over, or if someone bumps into the tray or waiter, for example. At the very least, the spilt liquid must be cleaned up and the affected drink(s) replaced or topped up, which are time-consuming steps. In a worse scenario, the drinks may be spilt on one or more people, negatively impacting the customer's or customers' experience(s), and possibly the reputation of the venue and the waiter's standing within the venue or company. In some cases, a glass vessel may also break, and the broken glass must be cleared up straightaway. Also, glasses can end up being broken relatively often in crowded venues, where a waiter cannot possibly avoid all contact when navigating past customers, and replacing those vessels incurs significant cost.

It is an object of the present invention to reduce or substantially obviate the aforementioned problems.

STATEMENT OF INVENTION

According to the present invention, there is provided a drink vessel carrier for carrying a plurality of drink vessels. The carrier comprises a base and a stand (or stem) extending upwards from the base. The carrier also comprises at least first and second shelves (also referred to trays or tiers) on the stand. Each shelf includes a plurality of drink vessel holders in the form of through apertures for each receiving a drink vessel through the respective shelf. The first shelf is spaced above the base for receiving a first set drink vessels and supporting those vessels above the base. The second shelf is spaced above the first shelf for receiving a second set of drink vessels and supporting those vessels above the first shelf.

This provides a multi-tiered drink carrier which allows a person to individually carry many drinks at the same time, often in excess of 10-12 drinks vessels. This is generally more than the number of drink vessels which can be safely carried on top of a conventional tray. Consequently, they can carry multiple drinks to multiple people on multiple different tables without having to journey back and forth many times, providing a more efficient service overall. It also makes it much quicker and easier to collect used or empty drink vessels. This is useful in any venue where drinks are served or carried, including but not limited to: a person's home, a bar, a restaurant, a hotel, a cruise ship, a festival, and so on.

Having the drink vessels sit through the shelf also mitigates the likelihood of any of the vessels tilting over and spilling liquid whilst the carrier is being moved. It also mitigates the likelihood of the drink vessels being broken because each vessel is securely held in the respective holder. Preferably, more than half of the vessel sits below the shelf, when the vessel is situated in the holder.

The base allows the assembled drink vessel carrier to remain in an upright position on a table or other flat surface, for both loading and unloading of drink vessels.

The term "drink vessel" is intended to include any suitable container for drinking or pouring drink from. Examples include stemmed glasses such as wine glasses and gin glasses, shot-sized glasses, short and tall tumblers, pint glasses such as beer glasses and cider glasses, and cans of various sizes (such as cans of beer, cans of energy drink, and cans of tonic). Additional examples include bottles of any of the following: wine, beer, cider, spirits, a soft drink, and water. Each vessel may be made of glass, plastic or any other suitable material for containing liquid and drinking from.

A handle may be provided on the stand for carrying the drink vessel carrier. The handle may be provided at the top of the stand, above the position of the uppermost shelf. A handle may instead or additionally be provided at the side of the stand.

This allows the carrier to be moved by hand between different places. It also makes it easier to carry the drink vessels at a comfortable height when the carrier is fully loaded, usually around hip height. The handle also facilitates manual lifting of the carrier onto a table or other support surface, in order to more easily unload one or more of the drink vessels. The side handle may particularly aid lifting the carrier when it is loaded with drink vessels.

Generally, n shelves (where n is a positive integer) may be provided. The nth shelf may include a plurality of drink vessel holders in the form of through apertures for each receiving a drink vessel through the nth shelf. The (n+1)th shelf may be spaced above the nih shelf for receiving an (n+1)th set of drink vessels on or above the n'h shelf and the nth set of drink vessels.

For example, a third shelf may be provided on the stand. The third shelf may include a plurality of drink vessel holders in the form of through apertures for each receiving a drink vessel through the third shelf. The third shelf may be spaced above the second shelf for receiving drink vessels above the second shelf and the second set of drink vessels. This increases the drink carrying capacity of the carrier.

Any suitable number of shelves may be used. For example, two or three shelves may be preferred for delivering vessels containing wine or beer, which are relatively large and heavy. A higher number of shelves may be used where predominantly delivering shots, along with a selection of other larger drink vessels. The carrier is preferably carried by hand, so the selection of the number of shelves and drink vessels to be carried is determined to an extent by the strength of the person who will be carrying it, and the space or vertical height required for each layer of drink vessels being carried.

Some or all of the shelves may be releasably supported by or releasably connected to the stand.

Providing a releasable support or connection allows for easy reconfiguration of the carrier to include shelves which correspond to the selection of drink vessels to be carried. The releasable connection also allows the shelf to be detached and left with a particular table or group of people for collection at a later time, after the drink vessels have been unloaded. Furthermore, it also allows for easier cleaning of the shelves, whether by hand washing or if placed in a dishwasher (where an appropriate shelf size and material are provided). For example, wooden shelves would not be appropriate for cleaning in a dishwasher, but plastic or metal shelves would be.

The stand may include a plurality of open-ended slots spaced apart along the stand. Each shelf may include a corresponding open-ended slot for sliding into engagement with one of the plurality of open-ended slots on the stand.

The slots in the stand allow for easy assembly and disassembly of the carrier, which is particularly useful to enable quick rearrangement or replacement of shelves to customise the carrier for a particular set of drink vessels.

The spacing between a given pair of the slots along the stand may be greater than the height of the drink vessels to be carried. For example, if beer or wine glasses are to be carried in one shelf, then the shelf above or below that shelf should be spaced far enough away from it so that glasses in that second shelf do not touch those in the first shelf. For example, the spacing between adjacent shelves may be equal to or greater than about 15 cm for accommodating vessels such as pint glasses. The spacing should be at least as great as the tallest type of drink vessel to be supported by a particular shelf.

One or more shelf supports or ledges may be provided for the shelves for connection to the stand to support each shelf against dropping down the stand. The or each support may be disposed to one or both sides of the stand for supporting the underside of a given shelf.

The shelf supports help to secure the shelves to the stand, so that they remain fixed in position when loaded with drink vessels. The shelf supports may be fixed in place, such as with an adhesive, or may be a friction fit in holes in the stand for example.

Some or all of the through apertures may include a flexible grip, such as a rubber grip. The one or more flexible grips may be provided on or around the interior of the respective through apertures for engaging the outer surface of a drink vessel. The one or more flexible grips may be secured to the respective shelf or through aperture, for example using adhesive.

The or each flexible grip can secure a respective drink vessel whilst the carrier is being moved between locations. The flexible grip is particularly useful for a straight-sided drink vessel which may not otherwise fit securely in the through aperture. The flexible grip may also be useful for drink vessels made of glass to avoid damage to the glass.

However, in the event that a flexible grip is not used, a vessel having a sidewall with a slight outward taper may still be supported in the through aperture.

The or each flexible grip may include a circular or C-shaped body. The body may define a space for supporting a substantially cylindrical vessel or a drink vessel having a bowl portion. A plurality of flexible protrusions (or castellations) may be spaced apart on an interior side of the body. The protrusions may extend towards the middle of the space.

The flexible grip(s) may be releasably attachable to the through aperture(s).

The protrusions can be deflected or deformed in a downward direction, towards the base, on receipt of a drink vessel through the flexible grip. Their flexibility allows them to at least partially conform to the shape of the vessel, increasing the contact area and thereby increasing grip on the vessel to hold it in position when the carrier is being transported.

One or more of the through apertures may be disposed adjacent to the outer edge of the shelf. For each those through apertures, a slot or notch may extend inwards from the shelf edge to the respective through aperture, providing a path for allowing lateral insertion or removal of a stemmed vessel.

Where one or more flexible grips are provided having a C-shaped body, the body defines a slot which, if aligned with an inner end of corresponding slot joining the through aperture to the peripheral edge of the shelf, allows passage of the stem of a drink vessel such as a wine glass or gin glass.

Slots may in some cases be provided for the through apertures which are sized to receive pint glasses, for example. This can provide flexibility for receiving a vessel, and also minimises the weight of the carrier. It also allows thicker-stemmed vessels such as gin glasses to be supported, which may be too large for fitting in a wine glass aperture, for example.

It should be noted that different sizes of flexible grips (or protrusions thereof) may be provided to afford suitable grip to different sizes and/or shapes of drink vessel. The size of the grip is considered to vary according to the size of the vessel-receiving space within the grip. The flexible grips may be interchangeably mountable to the through apertures in order to allow a relatively large aperture to be adapted to accommodate a vessel which would otherwise be too small to fit correctly within that aperture.

This improves the versatility of the carrier, if the available shelves do not have all of the desired through apertures for carrying a particular set of drink vessels, but where there are spare apertures larger than those required. For example, the largest apertures tend to be for pint glasses or similar-sized vessels, and these could be adapted to receive other types of vessels using a suitable flexible grip.

At least one of the shelves may include one or more open-ended or open-topped bottle holders. Each bottle holder may include a base wall positioned under one of the through apertures in the respective shelf or shelves for supporting the bottom of a bottle. This adapts the carrier for carrying bottles of drinks such as water, wine (which includes champagne and similar), beer, cider and spirits, for example.

Preferably, the bottle holder is sized to receive a single bottle. For example, each bottle holder may be sized to hold a 750m1 bottle. However, it is envisaged that a larger bottle (such as a magnum) may fit into the bottle holder.

The bottle holder may be sized to accommodate ice around a bottle for cooling the bottle. In this case, the bottle holder may be considered to be a bottle cooler or bottle chiller (such as an ice bucket) for supporting a bottle. If the ice is provided in an ice pack, then the ice pack should be sized to fit in the holder adjacent to the bottle. In some cases, the ice pack may include a concave face to conform to the surface of the bottle. In some cases, the bottle holder may include a liquid-tight seal or waterproof inner surface for holding water in the bottle holder. The ice pack may cool the bottle indirectly via water in the bottle holder.

VVhere provided, the or each bottle holder is typically connected to the lowermost shelf of the carrier for lowering the centre of gravity of the carrier when loaded with drink vessels The bottle holder(s) may be releasably connected to the shelf. In some cases, lateral hooks are provided at opposing upper edges of the bottle holder for hooking onto the shelf by lateral movement of the holder relative to the shelf. Corresponding slots through the shelf may be provided to either side of the relevant bottle aperture in the shelf. Using a hook connection or shuffle fit is preferable to a friction fit connection which may unexpectedly fail under the load of a bottle.

The or each bottle holder may be integrally formed or constructed from a plurality of interlocked panels.

The base may include or be a frame. The base frame may include one or more cut-outs or apertures for minimising the weight of the base. For example, the base may include a body with a substantially circular perimeter. One or two semi-circular apertures may be provided through the base to one or both sides of the stand. This provides an annulus including a central bar below the stand portion of the carrier.

The stand may include or be a frame. The frame may have one or more cut-outs or apertures for minimising the weight of the stand. For example, the stand may include a planar rectangular or trapezoidal body, orthogonal to the base. A rectangular or trapezoidal aperture through the stand may be provided between the base and the first shelf. A rectangular or trapezoidal aperture through the stand may be provided between each nth shelf and each (n+1)th shelf, or between the slots for receiving such shelves (if slots are used as part of a shelf connection means).

Providing suitable apertures substantially reduces the amount of material which constitutes the carrier, minimising weight without compromising the structural integrity of the carrier.

A rectangular or trapezoidal aperture through the stand above the topmost shelf may provide the handle, although the handle may be shaped ergonomically, such as with undulations spaced for providing a comfortable grip.

A stand support may connect or releasably connect the stand to the base. The stand support may be aligned along the central bar of the annulus. The stand support helps to keep the stand orthogonal to the base when loaded with drink vessels. The stand support may include a flexible clip for releasably engaging the stand.

The base and each shelf may be substantially aligned along a central vertical axis of the stand. This centralises the centre of gravity of the carrier, making it harder to accidentally knock over when drinks vessels are being supported by the carrier.

A finger hold may be provided through the shelf for holding the shelf independently of the stand. The finger hold may be considered to be an aperture or recess, sized for receiving a finger or thumb. The finger hold is useful where the shelf is detachable or removable from the stand, allowing the shelf to be pulled away from (or placed onto) the stand in a controlled manner. That is, the shelf can be disconnected or connected to the stand by movement in a direction which is substantially parallel to a central vertical plane of the stand. Where the shelf is loaded with drink vessels, the user can place one digit such as a thumb through the finger hold from above whilst using their other digits and/or palm (or their other hand) to apply a steadying force to the underside of the shelf.

One or more drink vessel identifiers may be provided as indicia on an upper side of some or all of the shelves for aiding delivery of a drink vessel from a given shelf to the correct person. This makes it simple to identify which drink is which, if there are a number of similar looking beverages and the person carrying the drinks does not remember or know the identifies of each.

The vessel-identifying indicia may be engraved or surface-bound for viewing from above the shelf. The indicia may be adjustable, for example if provided on an adjustable display such as a tumbler. A plurality of markers (such as flags, tokens or other identifiers) having suitable indicia may be interchangeably mountable to the shelf, adjacent to each through aperture, or to each drink vessel.

This allows a drink vessel to be marked with the identity of the contents or with the identity of the person it should be delivered to. This is useful to differentiate between regular' and 'diet' versions of the same drink, for example. Markers may also be useful to keep track of drink vessels which are intended to be free of a particular allergen, for example.

In some cases, the indicia may include numbers, which may correspond to reference numerals on a menu or a receipt for example. In other cases, letter(s) or word indicia may be provided on the surface of the shelf, or a writeable surface may be provided. The surface may be suitable for use with a marker pen, for example, so it can be wiped clean for re-use.

A shelf identifier or display (such as a tumbler) may be provided on some or all of the shelves for aiding delivery of a given shelf of drink vessels to the correct table or group of people. This is different to the individual drink vessel identifier mentioned above, because the shelf identifier is intended to help a waiter deliver a shelf of drinks to a particular table or group of people.

The shelf-identifying marking(s) may be engraved or surface-bound for viewing from above the shelf. The shelf identifier may be adjustable for corresponding to a table number, for example. Markers (such as flags, tokens or other identifiers) each having a suitable indicium or indicia may be interchangeably mountable to each shelf respectively. These identifiers can help a waiter to remember which shelf of drinks belongs to which table or group of people.

The stand may be at least about 50cm high. The stand may be up to about 90cm high. The base may be at least about 20cm wide. The base may be up to about 40cm wide.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a shelf for connection to a drink vessel carrier for carrying a plurality of drink vessels, the shelf comprising a substantially rigid body including an open-ended slot for connecting the shelf to the drink vessel carrier, the open-ended slot extending from an outer edge of the shelf to a central region of the shelf, and a plurality of drink vessel holders in the body in the form of through apertures for each receiving a drink vessel through the shelf body, including first and second sets of through apertures to respective sides of the slot, each of the first and second sets of through apertures including any one or more of the following types: a) one or more through apertures sized and/or shaped for receiving and supporting a substantially cylindrical vessel (such as a pint glass or tall tumbler); b) one or more through apertures sized and/or shaped for receiving and supporting a stemmed vessel, and one or more slots extending inwards from the shelf edge to respective ones of the through apertures for allowing lateral insertion or removal of the stemmed vessel (such as a wine glass or gin glass); c) one or more through apertures sized and/or shaped for receiving and supporting a shot vessel (such as a shot glass or short tumbler or canned drink); d) one or more through apertures sized and/or shaped for receiving a bottle (such as a wine bottle or beer bottle), and a bottle holder including a base wall positioned under one of the through apertures in the shelf for supporting the bottom of the bottle.

A given venue may have different requirements regarding the number of drink vessels of different types it typically serves. For example, a restaurant may often deliver wine bottles and wine glasses to tables, but rarely need to serve shot glasses. A bar cum club may serve more drinks in non-stemmed vessels (beer glasses, shot glasses and so on) than wine, for example. Demand may vary according to the time of day, weather and/or clientele. Accordingly, having shelves configured to provide different combinations of through apertures for different drink vessels is highly advantageous, so that the end user can customise a drink vessel carrier with the most appropriate set of shelves.

The shelf may include any feature or features presented with respect to any shelf in the first aspect of the invention.

An upper periphery of some or all of the type (b) apertures may slope towards the middle of the respective through aperture. This may provide a C-shaped sloped surface for abutting a bowl of the stemmed vessel. The sloped area may be considered to be a countersink The sloped area of a stemmed vessel aperture can better engage and support a bowl of the stemmed vessel and minimise the extent to which the bowl can tilt relative to the shelf when the shelf is in motion.

The first set of through apertures may comprise at least two apertures of any of types (a), (b) and/or (c).

The first and second sets of through apertures may together comprise at least two of the types (a), (b), (c) and (d).

Where the shelf includes apertures of type (c), the first and/or second sets of through apertures may include additional apertures according to one or more of types (a), (b) and (d). This makes better use of the space within the shelf by positioning shot glass apertures in dead space adjacent to the larger apertures for pint glasses, wine glasses and so on. The term 'dead space' is intended to describe space which is too small for hosting a drink vessel like a pint glass, wine glass or bottle, because it would impinge on neighbouring drink vessels due to the volume which would be taken up above and/or below the shelf if that vessel was provided in that space.

The first set of through apertures may include one aperture of type (d). The second set of through apertures may include (I) one aperture of type (d) and/or (ii) one or more apertures of type (b). This is suitable where the weight of two wine bottles to either side of the stand substantially balances out, or where a number of wine glasses are provided on one side with a wine bottle on the other side, for example.

The positions of the through apertures in each of the first and second sets may be arranged for substantially balancing weight on either side of the central vertical plane (passing through the slot) when most or all of the drink vessel holders are occupied during use. This ensures weight may be approximately balanced to either side of the stand when the shelf is mounted on a drink vessel carrier via the slot.

An open-ended slot may be provided through the shelf body for connection to a corresponding slot on a drink vessel carrier. The open-ended slot may extend from an outer edge of the shelf to a central region of the shelf. Other features and advantages of the slot as a connection means are discussed with respect to the first aspect of the invention.

One or more flexible grips may be positioned or positionable in an interior of one or more of the through apertures for engaging the outer surface of a drink vessel. The or each flexible grip may include a circular or C-shaped body defining a space for supporting a substantially cylindrical vessel. A plurality of flexible protrusions or castellations may be spaced apart on an interior side of the body and extend towards the middle of the space. Other features and advantages of the flexible grips are discussed with respect to the first aspect of the invention.

One or more stabilising walls or support legs may be provided. The walls or legs may depend from the underside of the shelf. For example, two support walls may be provided. The support wall(s) prevent the shelf from tipping over where the shelf is to be left on a table, if the centre of mass of the shelf would -without the support wall(s) -fall outside the overall footprint of any table-engaging elements of the shelf.

A plurality of shelves may be provided as part of a kit. Some of the shelves may be identical or substantially similar, which may be useful if one is dirty and needs cleaning. Some of the shelves may have different arrangements of through apertures for optimising a drink vessel carrier to carry a custom set of drink vessels.

According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a kit for assembly into a drink vessel carrier for carrying a plurality of drink vessels, the kit comprising a base for supporting the assembled drink vessel carrier in an upright position on a table, a stand for connection to the base, the stand extending upwards from the base when connected to the base, and first and second shelves for connection to the stand, each shelf including a plurality of drink vessel holders in the form of through apertures for each receiving a drink vessel through one of the first and second shelves, the first shelf being connectable to the stand in a position which is spaced above the base for supporting a first set of drink vessels above the base, and the second shelf being connectable to the stand in a position which is spaced above the first shelf for supporting a second set of drink vessels above the first shelf and the first set of drink vessels.

The advantages are substantially similar to the first aspect of the invention, with the added benefit that the carrier can be flat-packed for ease of delivery, and deconstructed when not in use to save space.

The kit may comprise any of the features of the drink vessel carrier of the first aspect of the invention. Any of the shelves in the kit may include any of the features of the shelf of the second aspect of the invention.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of distributing a plurality of drink vessels to multiple locations in or at a venue, the method comprising the steps of: a) providing a drink vessel carrier according to the first aspect of the invention, or a drink vessel carrier assembled from a kit according to the third aspect of the invention; b) loading a plurality of drink vessels into at least some of the plurality of through apertures of the first shelf, and loading an additional plurality of drink vessels into at least some of the plurality of through apertures of the second shelf, above the first shelf and associated drink vessels; c) taking the drink vessel carrier to a first location and delivering one or more of the drink vessels to one or more people; and d) taking the drink vessel carrier to one or more subsequent locations and delivering the remaining drink vessels to one or more people at the one or more subsequent locations.

The advantages are similar to those presented in preceding aspects of the invention, in that it is quicker and easier to deliver multiple drinks to multiple locations in a venue, freeing up time for additional waiter duties for example.

In some cases, the shelves may be attached to the stand when loading drink vessels into the apertures. In other cases, they may be first loaded and then attached to the stand (which in some cases be feasible during kit assembly, for example). A mixture of the two approaches is also possible. Loading may begin with the lowermost shelf, but this is not essential where the shelves are sufficiently spaced apart for adding drink vessels to the carrier without tilting them to the extent that drink is spilled. These features can also apply to the method in the fifth aspect of the invention.

Note that the drink vessels may be loaded into the shelves already containing drinks, or the drinks may be poured into the vessels after they have been loaded into place.

Identifiers may be added to the shelves during step (b) to indicate the intended destination or customer, and/or the contents of the drink vessels. However, it is not essential to label each and every shelf or drink vessel, for example if the person delivering the drinks can easily differentiate different drinks.

The method may include the step of taking a plurality of drinks orders prior to pouring drinks and loading drink vessels onto the carrier.

The method may include the step of selecting shelves for the carrier which suitably correspond to the particular sets of drink vessels to be carried.

The method may include the step of removing the first and/or second shelves (and if applicable other shelves) from the stand in order to unload drinks from the carrier, including optionally replacing the shelf on the stand afterwards. The shelves may be removed from the stand by pulling them laterally away from the stand. Movement of the shelves may be in a plane substantially parallel to the base, and substantially perpendicular to a central vertical axis of the stand.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of collecting a plurality of drink vessels from multiple locations in or at a venue, the method comprising the steps of: a) providing a drink vessel carrier according to the first aspect of the invention, or a drink vessel carrier assembled from a kit according to the third aspect of the invention, and optionally one or more shelves according to the second aspect of the invention; b) taking the drink vessel carrier to a first location and loading one or more drink vessels from that location into one or more unoccupied (or vacant) through apertures in the first and/or second shelves; c) optionally, if one or some of the through apertures remain unoccupied, taking the drink vessel carrier to at least a second location and loading one or more additional drink vessels from that location into one or more of the remaining unoccupied apertures in the first and/or second shelves; and d) taking the drink vessel carrier to an unloading location, and unloading the collected drink vessels from the drink vessel carrier.

The advantages are similar to those presented in preceding aspects of the invention, in that it is quicker and easier to collect drink vessels from multiple locations in a venue, freeing up time for additional waiter duties for example. Once collected, the drink vessels can be washed up or put into a dishwasher. The shelves of the carrier may also be washed up or put into a dishwasher. Similar considerations for shelf materials apply to those discussed previously.

If a single table or other location within a venue has enough used drink vessels to fill or substantially fill the carrier, then step (c) may be skipped. However, the carrier may need to be taken to two, three or perhaps more locations in order to fill most or all of the apertures when collecting used drink vessels.

It should be noted that the shelves of the carrier in step (a) may in some cases have been left at a particular table (where the shelves are detachable from the stand), in which case the method may involve taking the carrier without shelves around the venue and positioning those shelves on the stand.

Any feature or features presented with respect to one of the aspects of the invention may be provided in any of the other aspects of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a better understanding of the present invention, and to show more clearly how it may be carried into effect, reference will now be made by way of example only to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of a drink vessel carrier; Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a base and stand of the drink vessel carrier of Figure 1; Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a support element for supporting the stand of the drink vessel carrier of Figure 1; Figure 4 shows a perspective view of a first shelf support element for supporting a shelf of the drink vessel carrier of Figure 1; Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a second shelf support element for co-operating with the first shelf support element in Figure 4 to support a shelf on the drink vessel carrier of Figure 1 Figure 6 shows a perspective view of a shelf of the drink vessel carrier of Figure 1, including grip elements for drink vessels; Figure 7 shows a perspective view of the shelf of Figure 6, without the grip elements; Figure 8 shows a perspective view of one of the grip elements of the shelf of Figure 6; Figure 9 shows a perspective view of second embodiment of a drink vessel carrier; Figure 10 shows a perspective view of a shelf of the drink vessel carrier of Figure 9; Figure 11 shows a perspective view of a bottle support of the shelf of Figure 10; Figure 12 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of a bottle support; Figure 13 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of a shelf suitable for the drink vessel carrier of Figure 1 or Figure 9; Figure 14 shows a perspective view of a third embodiment of a shelf suitable for the drink vessel carrier of Figure 1 or Figure 9; Figure 15 shows a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a shelf suitable for the drink vessel carrier of Figure 1 or Figure 9; Figure 16 shows a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of a shelf suitable for the drink vessel carrier of Figure 1 or Figure 9; Figure 17 shows a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of a shelf suitable for the drink vessel carrier of Figure 1 or Figure 9; and Figure 18 shows a perspective view of a number unit for a shelf such as the shelf of Figure 17.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Figures 1 and 2 show a first embodiment of a drink vessel carrier, which is indicated generally at 10. The drink vessel carrier 10 in this embodiment is designed for a single person to carry, in one hand, up to twelve drink vessels Vi at the same time. Six vessels Vi are shown in Figure 1.

The carrier 10 includes a base 12 for supporting the carrier upright on a flat surface, such as a table or countertop. The base 12 has a circular perimeter for multi-directional stability. The base 12 is about 30cm wide in this embodiment. A bar 12a across the base 12 and opposing semi-circular apertures 12b to either side of the bar 12a provide the base with an annulus-like shape. In this embodiment, the bar 12a runs across the middle of the base 12. The base 12 is made of wood such as plywood in this embodiment, to minimise the weight a person needs to lift or carry. Other materials such as plastic and/or metal are also contemplated for other embodiments.

A stand or upright frame 14 is connected across the central bar 12a of the base 12. The stand 14 is orthogonal to the base 12. The stand 14 is about 66cm high. In this embodiment, the connection is partly provided by a pair of protrusions (not shown) on the lower end of the stand 14 fit into corresponding apertures (not shown) in the base 12, but it will be appreciated that other suitable connection means may be used instead.

The stand 14 includes a substantially planar body. The stand 14 is substantially trapezoidal in shape when viewed face on. That is, the sides of the stand 14 are slightly tapered, converging towards each other with increasing vertical distance from the base 12. Upper corners of the stand 14 are rounded. The stand 14 is made of wood such as plywood in this embodiment, to minimise the weight a person needs to lift or carry. Other materials such as plastic and/or metal are also contemplated for other embodiments.

The stand 14 includes three slots 16abc which are spaced along a side of the stand 14. External corners of the slots 16abc are rounded. In this embodiment, all of the slots 16abc are provided on the same side of the stand 14. However, it will be appreciated that the slots could be provided on different sides of the stand 14.

Each slot 16abc starts with an open end at the side of the stand 14, and extends towards the other side of the stand 14, terminating in a closed end disposed at approximately the middle of the stand 14. The first slot 16a is spaced above the base 12 by around 15cm to 20cm. The second slot 16b is spaced above the first slot 16a by around 15cm to 20cm. The third slot 16c is spaced above the second slot 16b by around 15cm to 20cm.

Approximately rectangular or trapezoidal apertures or windows 18abc are provided in the stand 14 below the respective slots 16abc. Another approximately rectangular aperture 18d is provided above the third slot 16c. Lateral bars 14abc of the stand extend between or adjacent to the respective apertures 18abcd, the bars 14abc being sufficiently wide (typically a few centimetres, depending on the material used) to provide structural integrity for carrying the drink vessels. The apertures 18abc reduce the weight of the stand 14, whilst the fourth aperture 18d provides a carry handle 20 at the top of the stand 14. The handle 20 is approximately 10cm above the third slot 16c.

Note that some embodiments may include a second handle or second grip, provided on a sloped side of the trapezoidal stand 14 (preferably in the upper half of the sloped side, towards the handle 20) A plurality of holes 22 are provided in the stand 14 adjacent to and below each slot 16abc. In this case, four holes 22 are provided per slot 16abc. The holes 22 are configured to receive shelf supports for supporting shelves, when engaged in the slots 16abc.

Three shelves 100abc are disposed on the stand 14 in the respective slots 16abc. The shelves 100abc are substantially identical in this embodiment, and are discussed with respect to Figures 6-8 below. Whilst only the first shelf 100a is discussed directly, it will be appreciated that corresponding features apply for the second and third shelves 100bc.

Figure 3 shows a support element for the stand 14, indicated generally at 24. The stand support 24 is made of plastic in this embodiment. The stand support 24 can be screwed or otherwise fixed (such as by adhesive) to the bar 12a of the base 12 for receiving the stand 14.

The stand support 24 includes an elongate body 26 defining a U-shaped channel indicated generally at 28 for receiving the bottom end of the stand 14. In this embodiment, the U-shaped channel 28 includes first and second co-linear sections, provided by respective pairs of opposing upright walls 30. External supports 32, shaped as triangular walls, are provided orthogonally to the pairs of walls 30 for keeping the stand 14 upright within the support 24. A clip 34 is integrally formed with the body 26, and pivots about a live hinge for engaging or clamping into a corresponding aperture or slot (not shown) towards the lower end of the stand 14.

Figures 4 and 5 show shelf supports, indicated generally at 36, for connection to the stand 14. Each shelf support 36 is substantially identical in this embodiment, with Figures 4 and 5 being equivalent to viewing opposite sides of the same support. The following features therefore apply to both supports 36.

Each shelf support 36 includes an elongate body 38 which has a top surface or ledge 40a for receiving the underside of a shelf. The top surface 40a is flat and substantially smooth for allowing a shelf to slide laterally along that surface when being withdrawn from the stand 14 or inserted onto the stand 14. The elongate body 38 also includes a sloped face 40b, creating an undercut below the top face 40a, and side and base faces 40cde. Corners and edges of the supports 36 are rounded. The supports 36 are made of plastic in this embodiment.

Indicated generally at 40f, a rear face of the elongate body 38 includes a pair of protrusions or rods 42 for passing through two of the holes 22 adjacent to one of the slots 16abc. The rear face 40f also includes a pair of protrusion-or rod-receiving apertures (or recesses) 44 for alignment with the remaining two of the holes 22 adjacent to one of the slots 16abc, for receiving a pair of protrusions or rods from another shelf support 36. It will be appreciated that other numbers of rods and receiving apertures may be used in other embodiments.

The rods 42 and apertures 44 are provided alternately along the body 38 in this embodiment. The spacing of the rods 42 and rod-receiving apertures 44 along the body 38 is the same as the spacing of the holes 22 in a particular set. The protrusions 42 are long enough to extend out of the other side of the holes 22 for engagement with another shelf support 36. This provides a friction fit, although other means of securing the supports 36 (such as adhesive or non-return mechanism) are also contemplated.

Figure 6 shows one of the shelves 100a from the carrier 10 in Figure 1. The shelf 100a includes a substantially rigid planar body 102. The shelf 100a is made of wood, such as plywood. Other materials such as plastic and/or metal are also contemplated for other embodiments.

The perimeter of the body 102 is approximately circular or ovate as viewed from above. A rounded point or end 104 is provided on the body 102 to accommodate a thumb hole or finger hold 106. The thumb hole 106 includes a countersunk upper edge 106a. In other embodiments, the countersink 106a may instead be a rounded edge. The thumb hole 106 can be used in withdrawing the shelf 100a from the stand 14 and supporting it horizontally by hand.

A slot 108 is provided through the shelf 100a. The slot 108 is sized and shaped for engagement with the corresponding slot on the stand 14. The slot 108 is disposed opposite the rounded point 104. The slot 108 extends to the centre of the shelf 104 from the edge of the shelf opposing the rounded point 104. In particular, the slot 108 runs parallel to a central vertical plane bisecting the shelf body 102 through the rounded point 104 Four apertures 110abcd are provided through the shelf body 102 for each receiving and holding a drink vessel Vi. Each aperture 110abcd is sized for holding a pint glass for beer. The four apertures 110abcd are spaced at 90 degree intervals around a central axis perpendicular to the plane of the shelf body 102. Each aperture 110abcd is substantially C-shaped, when viewed from above. Respective V-shaped cut-outs or slots, indicated generally at 112abcd, are provided at the open end of the C' of each aperture 110abcd. The cut-outs 112abcd join the internal perimeters of each aperture 110abcd to the external perimeter of the body 102.

Four flexible rubber grips 114abcd are provided through the respective apertures 110abcd for gripping the respective drink vessels V1. The flexible grips are described in more detail with respect to Figure 8. It will be appreciated that each flexible grip is substantially identical in this embodiment, so the description of the first grip 114a is correspondingly applicable to the other grips 114bcd.

lndicia 116 showing I to '4' inclusive, next to respective apertures 110abcd, are provided for use in identifying different drink vessels (or their contents), or the different people or tables to which different drink vessels should be delivered.

A recess 118 is provided in the side of the shelf body 102, adjacent to the rounded point 104, for receiving a shelf identifying device such as a numerical wheel or wheels.

An example of one such identifier is discussed with reference to Figure 18.

Figure 7 is substantially identical to Figure 6, but without showing the flexible grips 114abcd. A plurality of recesses or notches 120 at the underside of each aperture 110abcd are provided for engaging corresponding nubs on each flexible grip 114abcd for mitigating rotation of that grip within the aperture 110abcd. In this embodiment, four recesses 120 are provided per aperture 110abcd, spaced around the side of the aperture 110abcd. Two of the recesses 120 of each aperture are not visible in Figure 7 by virtue of the viewing angle, but each aperture is substantially identical in this embodiment so it is self-evident where the remaining to recesses 120 are located in each case.

Figure 8 shows one of the flexible grips 114a in isolation from the shelf 100a. The grip 114a has a substantially C-shaped body, when viewed from above. The C-shaped body has a mouth or gap 122 for alignment with the cut-out 112a of the shelf aperture.

The C-shaped body includes an upper rim 124, a sidewall 126 and a lower rim 128. The sidewall 126 is perpendicular to the upper and lower rims 124, 128. The rims 124, 128 are parallel to each other. The rims 124, 128 and sidewall define a mostly-circumferential external recess (mostly because the mouth 122 interrupts the recess) for fitting to the sidewall of the aperture 110a of the shelf 100a.

Flexible protrusions or castellations 130 protrude radially inwardly of the upper rim 124. In this embodiment, there are five castellations 130 of the same size, spaced substantially equally around the inside of the upper rim 124. Other numbers of protrusions are also contemplated. Two of the castellations flank the edges of the mouth 122. The castellations 130 can be deflected or pivoted downwardly, into close proximity or abutment with the sidewall 126, when a drink vessel Vi is pushed downwardly through the grip 114a. Gaps 132 between the castellations 130 aid the castellations to flex independently of each other. Each gap 132 is approximately the same size On empty space) as one of the castellations 130, but gaps are not essential in every embodiment if the protrusions 130 can flex sufficiently and independently.

Nubs 134 are spaced around the lower rim 128, adjacent to the sidewall 126, for fitting into the recesses 120 of the apertures 110abcd when the grip 114a is connected to the shelf. Note that additional fixing means, such as adhesive, may be used to more securely connect the flexible grips 114abcd to the shelf 100a.

Note that whilst the flexible grips 114abcd are C-shaped in the above description and Figures, circular grips are also contemplated for fitting in closed circular apertures.

In this embodiment, the carrier 10 is constructed from a kit of parts, where the base 12, stand 14 and other elements may be assembled together into the carrier 10.

However, other embodiments are envisaged where the carrier 10 includes a unitary body, which may include the base 12 and stand 14, possibly having an integrally formed base support and/or integrally formed shelf supports. In some cases, the shelves 100abc may also be integrally formed with the carrier 10.

In use, the carrier 10 is either provided pre-assembled or it is first assembled from the parts described above. The carrier 10 in this case is optimised for twelve similar drink vessels Vi, which are straight-sided or have generally frustoconical shapes for being held within the flexible grips 114abcd. Assuming a suitable order is received, a waiter can pour drinks into the drink vessels and load the drink vessels into the apertures 110abcd in the shelves 100abc. The waiter does not need to fill all twelve apertures, but may do so where possible and procedurally efficient.

The waiter can then pick up the apparatus 10 by its handle 20 and carry it sequentially to the various people who ordered the drinks, unloading the relevant vessels along the way. This may involve removing individual glasses, or sliding out a whole shelf of drink vessels prior to taking out the glasses. After delivering the drink vessels, similar steps may be repeated for another drinks order as needed. This may optionally involve swapping or replacing the shelves 100abc where necessary, such as for alternative shelves as discussed below.

Referring to Figure 9, a second embodiment of a drink vessel carrier is indicated generally at 10'. It will be appreciated that a number of features of this carrier 10' are similar to or the same as features previously discussed with respect to the first carrier 10. For brevity, these features are not discussed again in detail. VVhere possible, like reference numerals are used to refer to like features.

The drink vessel carrier 10' in this embodiment is designed for a single person to carry, in one hand, two bottles of wine V2 and four wine glasses V3 at the same time. Only two shelves 200a, 200c are provided in this embodiment, with a middle shelf being omitted to provide space for the wine bottles V2, which might otherwise touch vessels carried by such a shelf. The uppermost shelf 200c is substantially the same as the corresponding shelf 100c in Figure 1.

Thus, in comparison to Figure 1, only the first and third shelves are present, with a vacant middle slot 16b'. The slot can of course receive a shelf, if the bottle(s) being carried is or are shorter than wine bottles (such as beer bottles), or if the lower shelf is switched for another shelf which is not adapted to hold bottles.

Figure 10 shows the lowermost shelf 200a in more detail. Like the shelf 100a in Figure 6, there is a slot 208, a thumb hole 206 and a recess 218 for a shelf identifier. This shelf embodiment is adapted for supporting a pair of bottles. Instead of being C-shaped, the apertures 210ab have closed circular perimeters. The bottle apertures 210ab are spaced equidistantly to either side of the slot 208. The apertures 210ab are located substantially centrally in each half of the shelf body.

First pairs of slots 238a are provided to one side of each aperture 210ab. Second pairs of slots 238b are provided to the other side of each aperture 210ab. The slots in each pair are colinear and spaced apart by a section 238c of the shelf 200a. These pairs of slots 238ab are each adapted for supporting first and second bottle holders 240ab below the shelf 200a. In particular, each slot may include an internal ledge (not shown) for supporting the bottle holders. In this embodiment, the bottle holders 240ab are secured to the shelf by a shuffle fit of the bottle holder towards the internal ledges.

Figure 11 shows one of the bottle holders 240a in more detail. Both bottle holders 240ab are the same in this embodiment, so the features described are applicable to both.

The bottle holder 240a is substantially cuboidal in shape, having an open end at the top for receiving a bottle. The holder 240a includes four sidewalls 242 and a base indicated generally at 244 for supporting the bottom of a bottle. To assemble the bottle holder 240a from the flat components, the base 244 has end pieces 244a which slot into holes in two of the sidewalls 242, and the other sidewalls 242 can be interlocked using the tongue and groove arrangements or complementary groove arrangements at the edge of each wall, one of which is indicated at 246.

Pairs of L-shaped hooks 248 are provided on top edges of two opposing sidewalls 242, for hooking the bottle holder into the slots 238ab. The L-shaped hooks point in the same direction for engaging the internal ledges of the slots 238ab.

Figure 12 shows an alternative version of a bottle holder 240 which may be provided as an integrally formed unit. Corner edges 250 of the unit are rounded. Hooks may be provided on top, like Figure 11, for connection to a shelf. Alternatively, the unit may be glued or otherwise attached or formed as part of the shelf. A flange may be provided at the top to increase the surface area for attaching the holder 240 to the shelf.

Use of the carrier 10' for carrying wine bottles and glasses is substantially similar to the use described for the first embodiment. In this case, wine bottles V2 are loaded into the holders 240ab in the lower shelf 200a, and large wine glasses (e.g. 250m1 in size) are inserted laterally into the drink vessel holders, passing the stems of the glasses V3 through the respective cut-outs in the edge of the shelf 200c. The bowls of the glasses V3 are supported by the flexible grips 114abcd. The glasses can be removed by the reverse process, raising them up to free them from the respective grips 114abcd and then moving the stems out through the neighbouring slots.

Some alternate embodiments of shelves will now be described, although it will be appreciated that these are merely examples and other combinations of types of through apertures and other features are contemplated to fall within the scope of the claims. Like reference numerals refer to like features.

Figure 13 shows another version of a shelf 300 which is suitable for either carrier 10, 10', ideally for use as a bottom shelf. The shelf 300 includes the same features as the shelf of Figure 11, with the addition for vessel holders 310cdef for wine glasses. Two of the vessel holders 310cd are provided to either side of the first bottle holder 340a, and the other two vessel holders 310ef are provided to either side of the second bottle holder 340b. Each additional vessel holder 310cdef has a countersink on its upper side. The apertures are sized to receive wine glasses, which may be smaller wine glasses (such as 125-175 ml), whose bowls may be better supported by the countersinks. A V-shaped slot is provided next to each aperture 310cdef for allowing passage of a wine glass stem.

Figure 14 shows another version of a shelf 400 which is suitable for either carrier 10, 10', ideally for use as a bottom shelf. The shelf 400 includes some of the same features as the shelf of Figure 11. Unlike the previous shelves 100abc, 200ac, 300 which have a symmetric distribution of apertures for drink vessels, this shelf 400 has an asymmetric arrangement of through apertures. Although the aperture 410a and bottle holder 440a are similar to that of the shelf in Figure 10, the other side of the shelf 400 is different. In this case, there is no bottle holder nor slots for connection of the same, and instead three through apertures 410bcd are located near the peripheral edge of the shelf body. Each aperture 410bcd has a countersink. A V-shaped slot is provided next to each aperture 410bcd. The apertures are suitable for wine glasses. If three filled 250m1 glasses are used, this can be suitable for substantially balancing against a full 750m1 wine bottle, to balance weight on either side of the shelf slot 408.

In this embodiment, the shelf 400 also includes a stabilising wall (or support leg) 442. The support leg 442 is useful to keep the single wine chiller shelf 400 upright and stable when placed on a table or other surface. Otherwise, if the total weight of the drink vessels on one side of the shelf 400 exceeds the total weight on the other side (including the bottle chiller 440a), then the shelf 400 would tip over. The support leg 442 depends from the underside of the shelf 400. The support leg 442 is positioned near to the slot 408. The support leg 442 is set far enough towards the middle of the shelf 400 that it does not interfere with any drink vessels held by the shelf 400.

The support leg 442 provides a stable base for supporting the shelf 400 upright, in conjunction with the bottle holder 440a. It will be appreciated that the support leg may be integrally formed with the shelf 400 in some embodiments. However, in this embodiment, the support leg 442 is releasably connected to the shelf 400 via slots 438b and connection means at the top of the leg 442. L-shaped hooks (not visible) at the top end of the support leg 442 are provided for connection to the shelf 400 in a similar manner to that of the bottle holder wall 242 described for Figures 10-11.

It will be appreciated that the provision of the stabilising wall or support leg is not restricted to this particular embodiment. One or more support legs may be provided in any shelf embodiment. For example, two support legs may be provided on the underside of a shelf in some embodiments. The legs may be substantially parallel to each other. The leg(s) may be provided adjacent to the shelf slot, where a slot is provided. The spacing between the legs, or between the single leg and a near side of the bottle holder, should be sufficient to provide a footprint wide enough to ensure the centre of gravity of the shelf is disposed substantially between those supports, irrespective of the combination of through apertures in the shelf which are occupied by drink vessels.

The support leg(s) are preferred where the distribution of drinks in a particular shelf (whether fully or partially filled) is considered to unbalance the shelf or place it at risk of tipping over when placed on a flat surface, either immediately after letting go of the shelf or when a drink vessel is being removed from the shelf. The shelf is more likely to be or become unbalanced where multiple types of drinks vessels are held in it, and/or where an asymmetric distribution of drink vessels is present (when considering drink vessels provided in through apertures to either side of a central plane through the shelf, typically aligned along the shelf slot where a slot is provided). A stabilising wall or walls can thus be provided to mitigate this and allow any particular shelf to be left on a table, for example.

Figure 15 shows another version of a shelf 500 which is suitable for either carrier 10, 10'. The shelf 500 includes the same features as the shelf of Figure 7, and is suitable for receiving flexible grips like that described for Figure 8. In this case, the additional features include two shot glass holders 510ef. In other embodiments, more than two shot glass holders may be provided, if there is sufficient space remaining on the shelf Each shot glass holder 510ef has a closed circular perimeter. Countersinks are also provided in each holder 510ef. The holders 510ef are located on opposite sides of the shelf 500, in the unused space between the periphery of the shelf and the other apertures 510abcd.

Figure 16 shows another version of a shelf 600 which is suitable for either carrier 10, 10'. The shelf 600 is similar to the shelf in Figure 6, but includes six drink vessel holders 610abcdef as opposed to four. The holders 610abcdef are suitable for holding narrow drinks cans such as Red Bull® cans, for example. The holders 610abcdef are spaced equally around the shelf 600. The shelf 600 is substantially the same size as the shelf in Figure 6, but the apertures 610abcdef are comparatively smaller in order to fit within the available space. This is suitable for half pint glasses, or wine or champagne glasses. The flexible grips shown are therefore correspondingly smaller too. Six numbers are provided adjacent to the six holders, increasing from '1' to '6' sequentially in clockwise fashion.

Figure 17 shows another version of a shelf 700 which is suitable for either carrier 10, 10'. This shelf 700 is dedicated for carrying shot glasses (not shown) and has fifteen shot glass holders, one of which is indicated at 710. Seven of the holders are disposed to one side of a plane through the shelf slot 708, and eight of the holders are disposed on the other side. A shelf number unit or identifier 800 is connected to the shelf near its finger hold.

Figure 18 shows the shelf identifier 800 connected to the shelf 700. The identifier 800 includes a plastic body 802 having upper and lower flanges 804, 806 and a sidewall 808. Three numbered wheels 810 are rotatably mounted on an axle 812 which is engaged with opposing sides of the sidewall 808. This provides a tumbler or dial similar to that of a combination lock.

Each wheel 810 is made of plastic. Each numbered wheel 810 has the numerals 0-9 on faces of the wheel, with interstitial spaces between each numbered segment. It will be appreciated that letters or symbols may be used instead of numbers, or a combination of different types of indicia may be used. The shelf identifier 800 may be fitted to any of the various shelf embodiments which has a corresponding recess.

The wheels are rotatable to set a particular number for the shelf for aiding delivery of a shelf to a particular table, for example. In some cases, a drinks order may be taken by one waiter and the drinks poured by another waiter or staff member, and perhaps delivered by a third waiter. Having the shelf numbered appropriately allows for a team of waiters to deliver the drink vessels to the correct location or people, even where conversation or other direct communication between the waiters and other staff is not possible.

In any embodiment, the following features may apply. The wood may be 9mm or 12mm in thickness for minimising weight but maintaining sufficient strength in the carrier. Suitable thicknesses of other materials are also contemplated, where the selected material thickness provides sufficient strength and rigidity. Some or all of the wood used in the carrier may be faced with melamine. A waterproof coating, such as a clear lacquer, may be provided on some or all of the wood or melamine Of provided) to improve the longevity of the base, stand and/or shelves, for example. This may be preferred to allow parts of the carrier to be easily wiped down and/or safely be washed in a dishwasher.

It will be appreciated that two, three, four or more shelves may be used in other embodiments. The shelves on a particular carrier may be the same, similar or different in terms of the through apertures and other features they include. The shelf supports may be attached to each shelf, rather than the stand. Different sets of through apertures for different types of glasses may be provided in any combination, although some consideration may be given to the expected frequency of certain orders (e.g. several pints of beer being ordered for a group; a bottle of wine and several glasses for another group; a plurality of shots for a third group). Shelves which have two or three or more types of apertures for carrying multiple types of drink vessels are possible within the scope of the claims.

The through apertures may vary in size within an embodiment and between embodiments, and that the largest apertures are generally most suitable for the largest drink vessels. Beer glasses tend to require the largest apertures, followed by wine glasses, and then shot glasses (although this list is far from exhaustive). Flexible grips of various sizes may be used to convert a large aperture for use with various smaller sized vessels, for example.

The carrier may be adapted to support bottles horizontally, rather than upright in a bottle holder. For example, the base may include support(s) for receiving bottle(s) on the base, on either or both sides of the stand. End stops and/or side stops on the base may prevent the bottle(s) slipping relative to the base. This reduces the vertical height required for the bottles, and bottles to be carried via the carrier whilst also potentially having three or more shelves of drink vessels, subject to suitable clearance between the lowermost shelf and the base. In some cases, bottles may be stand upright on the base whilst being supported through apertures in the lowermost shelf.

The embodiments described above are provided by way of example only, and various changes and modifications will be apparent to persons skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1 A drink vessel carrier for carrying a plurality of drink vessels, the carrier comprising a base and a stand extending upwards from the base, and at least first and second shelves on the stand, each shelf including a plurality of drink vessel holders in the form of through apertures for each receiving a drink vessel through the respective shelf, the first shelf being spaced above the base for receiving a first set drink vessels above the base, and the second shelf being spaced above the first shelf for receiving a second set of drink vessels above the first shelf.
2. A drink vessel carrier as claimed in claim 1, in which a handle is provided above the shelves at the top of the stand for carrying the drink vessel carrier, optionally including another handle provided at the side of the stand.
3. A drink vessel carrier as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, in which a third shelf is provided on the stand and spaced above the second shelf for receiving drink vessels above the second shelf, the third shelf including a plurality of drink vessel holders in the form of through apertures for each receiving a drink vessel through the third shelf.
4. A drink vessel carrier as claimed in any of claims 1 to 3, in which each shelf is releasably supported by or releasably connected to the stand.
5. A drink vessel carrier as claimed in claim any of claims 1 to 4, in which the stand includes a plurality of slots or recesses spaced apart along the stand, and each shelf includes a corresponding slot or recess for engagement with one of the plurality of slots or recesses on the stand.
6. A drink vessel carrier as claimed in any of claims 1 to 5, in which one or more flexible grips are provided on or around an interior of one or more of the through apertures for engaging the outer surface of a drink vessel.
7. A drink vessel carrier as claimed in claim 6, in which the or each flexible grip includes a circular or C-shaped body defining a space for supporting a substantially cylindrical vessel or a drink vessel having a bowl portion, and a plurality of flexible protrusions or castellations which are spaced apart on an interior side of the body and extend towards the middle of the space.
8. A drink vessel carrier as claimed in any of claims 1 to 7, in which one or more of the through apertures are disposed adjacent to the outer edge of the shelf and, for each those through apertures, a slot extends inwards from the shelf edge to the respective through aperture for allowing lateral insertion or removal of a stemmed vessel.
9. A drink vessel carrier as claimed in any of claims 1 to 8, in which at least one of the shelves includes one or more bottle holders, each bottle holder including a base wall positioned under one of the through apertures in the respective shelf or shelves for supporting the bottom of a bottle.
10. A drink vessel carrier as claimed in any of claims 1 to 9, in which the stand includes a frame having one or more cut-outs or apertures for minimising the weight of the stand, and/or in which the base includes a frame having one or more cut-outs or apertures for minimising the weight of the base.
11. A drink vessel carrier as claimed in any of claims 1 to 10, in which the base and each shelf are substantially aligned along a central vertical axis of the stand.
12. A drink vessel carrier as claimed in any of claims 1 to 11, when dependent on claim 5, in which a finger hold or aperture is provided through at least one of the shelves substantially in line with the shelf slot, for holding the shelf independently of the stand.
13. A drink vessel carrier as claimed in any of claims 1 to 12, in which one or more drink vessel identifiers or adjustable drink vessel identifiers are provided as indicia on an upper side of one or more of the shelves for aiding delivery of a drink vessel from a given shelf to the person who requested it.
14. A drink vessel carrier as claimed in any of claims 1 to 13, in which a shelf identifier or an adjustable shelf identifier is provided on one or more of the shelves, for aiding delivery of a given shelf of drink vessels to the correct table or group of people.
15. A shelf for connection to a drink vessel carrier for carrying a plurality of drink vessels, the shelf comprising a substantially rigid body including an open-ended slot for connecting the shelf to the drink vessel carrier, the open-ended slot extending from an outer edge of the shelf to a central region of the shelf, and a plurality of drink vessel holders in the body in the form of through apertures for each receiving a drink vessel through the shelf body, including first and second sets of through apertures to respective sides of the slot, each of the first and second sets of through apertures including any one or more of the following types: a) one or more through apertures sized and/or shaped for receiving and supporting a substantially cylindrical vessel; b) one or more through apertures sized and/or shaped for receiving and supporting a stemmed vessel, and one or more slots extending inwards from the shelf edge to respective ones of the through apertures for allowing lateral insertion or removal of the stemmed vessel; c) one or more through apertures sized and/or shaped for receiving and supporting a shot vessel or can; d) one or more through apertures sized and/or shaped for receiving a bottle, and a bottle holder including a base wall positioned under one of the through apertures in the shelf for supporting the bottom of the bottle.
16. A shelf as claimed in claim 15, in which an upper periphery of each type (b) through aperture slopes towards the middle of the through aperture, providing a C-shaped sloped surface for abutting a bowl of the stemmed vessel.
17. A shelf as claimed in claims 15 or claim 16, in which the first set of through apertures includes apertures of type (c) and also apertures of at least one of types (a), (b) and (d).
18. A shelf as claimed in any of claims 15 to 17, in which the first set of through apertures includes one aperture of type (d), and the second set of through apertures includes (i) one aperture of type (d) and/or (ii) one or more apertures of type (b).
19. A shelf as claimed in any of claims 15 to 18, in which one or more flexible grips are positioned or positionable in an interior of one or more of the through apertures for engaging the outer surface of a drink vessel.
20. A shelf as claimed in claim 19, in which the or each flexible grip includes a circular or C-shaped body defining a space for supporting a substantially cylindrical vessel or a drink vessel having a bowl portion, and a plurality of flexible protrusions or castellations which are spaced apart on an interior side of the body and extend towards the middle of the space.
21 A kit for assembly into a drink vessel carrier for carrying a plurality of drink vessels, the kit comprising a base and a stand for connection to the base, the stand extending upwards from the base when connected to the base, and first and second shelves for connection to the stand, each shelf including a plurality of drink vessel holders in the form of through apertures for each receiving a drink vessel through one of the first and second shelves, the first shelf being connectable to the stand in a position which is spaced above the base for receiving a first set of drink vessels above the base, and the second shelf being connectable to the stand in a position which is spaced above the first shelf for receiving a second set of drink vessels above the first shelf.
22. A kit as claimed in claim 21, further comprising any of the features of the drink vessel carrier as claimed in any of claims 2 to 14, and/or any of the features of the shelf as claimed in any of claims 15 to 20.
23. A kit comprising one or more shelves as claimed in any of claims 15 to 20, optionally including a kit as claimed in claim 21.
24. A method of distributing a plurality of drink vessels to multiple locations in or at a venue, the method comprising the steps of: a) providing a drink vessel carrier as claimed in any of claims 1 to 14, or a drink vessel carrier assembled from a kit as claimed in any of claims 21 to 22, and optionally one or more shelves according to any of claims 15 to 20 or a kit according to claim 23; b) loading drink vessels into at least some of the plurality of through apertures of the first shelf, and loading additional drink vessels into at least some of the plurality of through apertures of the second shelf, above the first shelf and associated drink vessels; c) taking the drink vessel carrier to a first location and delivering one or more of the drink vessels to one or more people; and d) taking the drink vessel carrier to one or more subsequent locations and delivering the remaining drink vessels to one or more people at the one or more subsequent locations.
25. A method of collecting a plurality of drink vessels from multiple locations in or at a venue, the method comprising the steps of a) providing a drink vessel carrier as claimed in any of claims 1 to 14, or a drink vessel carrier assembled from a kit as claimed in any of claims 21 to 22, and optionally one or more shelves according to any of claims 15 to 20 or a kit according to claim 23; b) taking the drink vessel carrier to one or more locations and loading one or more drink vessels from the one or more locations into one or more unoccupied through apertures in the first and second shelves; and c) taking the drink vessel carrier to an unloading location, and unloading the collected drink vessels from the drink vessel carrier.