US20100090078A1 - Drinkware holder - Google Patents
Drinkware holder Download PDFInfo
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- US20100090078A1 US20100090078A1 US12/463,763 US46376309A US2010090078A1 US 20100090078 A1 US20100090078 A1 US 20100090078A1 US 46376309 A US46376309 A US 46376309A US 2010090078 A1 US2010090078 A1 US 2010090078A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- wall
- holder
- drinkware
- fingers
- drinkware holder
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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
- A47G23/00—Other table equipment
- A47G23/02—Glass or bottle holders
- A47G23/0208—Glass or bottle holders for drinking-glasses, plastic cups, or the like
- A47G23/0216—Glass or bottle holders for drinking-glasses, plastic cups, or the like for one glass or cup
Definitions
- This invention relates to a holder for drinkware.
- the invention relates in particular to a holder for stemware, and more particularly to a holder for glass stemware.
- the invention will be described as used for glass stemware.
- the invention is not limited thereby, however, but can also be used for standard drinkware such as beakers, steins, cups, mugs, and similar drinkware, as well as for specialized drinkware, including, for example, ochokos. Additionally, the invention can be used for drinkware made of other materials, such as other ceramics, metals, or plastics.
- stemware 20 A representative item of stemware 20 is shown in FIG. 1 .
- the shape of stemware 20 depends on whether the end use is for white wine, red wine, champagne, cordials, beer, or another beverage. In general, however, stemware 20 has a bowl 22 , a stem 24 , and a foot 26 . (Some drinkware has a bowl and a foot but no stem.) Stemware 20 is commonly made of glass but can be made of other materials. High-quality stemware 20 is often made of leaded crystal.
- dishwashing machines presents a tremendous reduction in the time and effort required for kitchen clean up. Dishwashing machines also contribute to public health by sterilizing dishes, cookware, utensils, and drinkware.
- spot-free detergent additives such as nonionic surfactants, makes the use of a dishwashing machine particularly desirable for stemware. Because of the elongated shape of most stemware, however, standard dishwashing racks do not have the appropriate holders for stemware. It is difficult, then, to secure stemware at the proper angle within a dishwashing machine for effective cleaning and rinsing. Inadvertent movement of stemware within a dishwashing machine can lead to inadequate cleaning and to breakage. The somewhat fragile nature of some stemware, especially some fine crystal stemware, also leads to chipping and breakage during the process of placing the stemware in the dishwashing machine or during removal from the dishwashing machine.
- stemware The somewhat fragile nature of some stemware also requires great care in storing or transporting it. Items of stemware are commonly wrapped individually for storage or transportation, a labor-intensive and time-consuming process.
- Holders have been developed in the art to hold stemware securely within a dishwashing machine.
- One type of device as described in, for example, United States Published Patent Application No. 2006/0138064 A1 to Crudgington, Jr., Stemware Saver for Dishwasher, clamps onto the stem 24 to suspend stemware 20 within the dishwashing machine.
- These types of devices can still result in breakage if vibration causes a piece of stemware to contact an adjacent piece during the dishwashing process, and can result in breakage during the insertion or removal process.
- this type of device has no use in transportation or storage of stemware.
- Another type of holder envelopes a plurality of stemware, as described in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,971,167 to Finbow, Holder for Stemmed Drinking Vessels.
- This device is unsatisfactory for use in a dishwashing machine, however, because some of the stemware will not be oriented in the proper direction for washing and rinsing.
- the present invention meets this need.
- the present invention is a holder for drinkware, the drinkware having a bowl and a foot.
- the holder comprises a wall, the wall having a top end and a bottom end, a cap on the bottom end, and a cap on the top end, the wall and the caps each having at least one perforation.
- the holder comprises a frame forming a wall, the frame comprising a plurality of fingers, the wall forming a space, the fingers each having a top end and a bottom end, a base component comprising a base wall forming an opening and a plurality of spokes extending radially into the opening, the base component configured to hold the bottom ends of the fingers; and a top component comprising a plurality of arms extending radially outward from an axial element, an aperture in the axial element, and a slit through the axial element to the aperture, the arms comprising bores at their distal tips opposite the axial element, each of the bores configured to hold the top end of a one of the fingers.
- FIG. 1 is perspective view of an item of drinkware as used in the preferred embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 2A is a perspective, exploded view of the holder of the preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 2B is a perspective view of an end cap of the holder of FIG. 2A .
- FIG. 2C is a cross-sectional view of the end cap of FIG. 2B .
- FIG. 2D is a diagrammatic perspective view of part of the wall and end cap of another embodiment of the invention.
- FIGS. 2E through 2L are elevation views of embodiments of the holder of the present invention.
- FIG. 3A is a plan view of a bottom end cap of an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 3B is an elevation view of one embodiment of the bottom end cap of FIG. 3A .
- FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional view of the bottom end cap of FIG. 3B .
- FIG. 3D is a plan view of another embodiment of the bottom end cap of the invention.
- FIG. 3E is a perspective view of another embodiment of the bottom end cap of the invention.
- FIG. 4A is a top view of another embodiment of the bottom end cap of the invention.
- FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the bottom end cap of FIG. 4A .
- FIG. 4C is an elevation view of the bottom end cap of FIG. 4A .
- FIGS. 4D through 4N are plan views of embodiments of the top end cap of the invention.
- FIG. 5A is a plan view of a diaphragm used as a second end cap of one embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 5B is a top view of the diaphragm of FIG. 5A , showing how to grasp and compress the diaphragm.
- FIG. 5C is an elevation view of the diaphragm of FIG. 5A .
- FIG. 5D is a diagrammatic view of the diaphragm of FIG. 5A .
- FIG. 5E is a cross-sectional view of the diaphragm of FIG. 5A .
- FIGS. 6A through 6D are elevation views of another embodiment of the holder of the present invention.
- FIGS. 7A through 7D are elevation views of another embodiment of the holder of the present invention.
- FIGS. 8A through 8D are elevation views of another embodiment of the holder of the present invention.
- FIGS. 9A through 9C are perspective views of a wire cage used in certain embodiments of the present invention.
- FIGS. 10A through 10C are perspective views of an embodiment of the holder of the present invention using a wire cage as shown in FIGS. 9C through 9C .
- FIGS. 11A through 11C are perspective views of another embodiment of the holder of the present invention using a wire cage as shown in FIGS. 9A through 9C .
- FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a base component of FIGS. 10A through 10C .
- FIG. 12B is a perspective views of a top component of FIGS. 10A through 11C .
- FIGS. 2A through 2C A preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIGS. 2A through 2C .
- Holder 30 has a wall 32 and a pair of end caps 34 .
- Wall 32 is preferably generally in the shape of a cylinder, having a circular cross-section. In other embodiments, wall 32 has other cross-sectional configurations, such as polygonal.
- Wall 32 has a top end 36 and a bottom end 38 . Top end has three scallops 40 forming three points 42 .
- Wall 32 is preferably made of stainless steel, brushed aluminum, plastic, or other material that can withstand high temperature and soapy, hot water that will be encountered in a dishwasher.
- the inner periphery 44 of wall 32 is covered with plastic, such as urethane, for cushioning.
- End caps 34 are preferably made of a flexible material, such as silicone rubber, preferably low-durometer rubber. End caps 34 are alternatively made of metal, such as 16-gauge or 18-gauge aluminum, or are made of metal coated with an elastomer. In yet other configurations, end caps 34 are made of hard plastic.
- Each end cap 34 has an outer wall 50 and a plurality of spokes 52 radiating from the center 54 to outer wall 50 , as shown in FIG. 2B .
- end cap 34 has three spokes 52 , but in other embodiments, end cap 34 has a different number of spokes 52 .
- spokes 52 of end cap 34 curve upward toward center 54 .
- Wall 32 preferably connects to a first end cap 34 by a plurality of slotted apertures 56 , which lock to spokes 52 in bayonet-fashion, as shown in FIG. 2D . Accordingly, there are preferably the same number of apertures 56 as there are spokes 52 .
- End cap 34 preferably has a lip 58 on its inner periphery 60 , as shown in cross-section in FIG. 2C .
- Wall 32 connects to a second end cap 34 by an interference fit between points 42 and inner periphery 60 .
- wall 32 has tabs 57 that insert into slots 61 .
- FIGS. 2F through 2L Other configurations of the stemware holder of the present invention are shown in FIGS. 2F through 2L .
- holder 130 has a wall 132 and a sole end cap, two identical end caps, or two different end caps, as will be described.
- Wall element 132 is preferably in the shape of a cylinder, having a circular cross-section, a top end 162 , and a bottom end 138 , as shown in perspective, diagrammatic view in FIG. 2E .
- wall 132 has other cross-sectional configurations, such as polygonal.
- Wall 132 has perforations 133 to allow the movement of wash water and rinse water therethrough, as shown in various configurations in FIGS. 2F through 2L .
- Perforations 133 in wall 132 must be at least large enough to allow droplets of water to pass through and can be quite large, as in, for example, FIGS. 2I , 2 K, and 2 L.
- Wall 132 is preferably made of metal, such as 16-gauge or 18-gauge aluminum, in order to be dishwasher safe. In other embodiments, wall 132 is made of plastic-coated metal, of plastic, or of other dishwasher-safe material.
- Bottom end cap 134 is preferably identical to end cap 34 shown in FIGS. 2A through 2D .
- Bottom end cap 134 in a first embodiment is securely fastened to bottom end 138 of wall 132 by weld, glue, fastener, or other means of attachment.
- bottom end cap 134 is removably attachable to wall 132 .
- Bottom end cap 134 in the removable embodiments attaches by slotted apertures 56 , as was described in connection with end cap 34 and illustrated in FIG. 2D , or by threads, bayonet clips, interference fit, pins, or other means of attachment.
- Bottom end cap 134 is perforated to allow the passage of water therethrough.
- the perforations in bottom end cap 134 must be at least large enough to allow droplets of water to pass through, but not large enough to allow a portion of stemware 20 to pass therethrough.
- bottom end cap 134 has an outer wall 140 and a plurality of spokes 142 radiating from the center 144 to outer wall 140 , as shown in diagrammatic plan view in FIG. 3A .
- Bottom end cap 134 preferably has eight spokes 142 , as shown in FIG. 3A , but in other embodiments, bottom end cap 134 has a different number of spokes 142 .
- spokes 142 radiate inwardly from outer wall 140 but do not meet at center 144 , as shown in FIG. 3E .
- Outer wall 140 and spokes 142 define hole 146 to allow the passage of water.
- bottom end cap 134 has a plurality of holes 146 therethrough, as shown in FIG. 3D .
- bottom end cap 134 has a second, inner circumferential wall 148 between outer wall 140 and center 144 , as shown in FIGS. 4A through 4C .
- the holes 146 formed by outer wall 140 , inner circumferential wall 148 , and spokes 142 allow the passage of water therethrough.
- spokes 142 of bottom end cap 134 curve upward toward the center 144 to receive stemware 20 , as shown in elevation view in FIG. 3B .
- the arcuate shape of spokes 142 center bowl 22 of stemware 20 on bottom end cap 134 . Since spokes 142 are preferably rubber-coated metal, bowl 22 is cushioned and stemware 20 is less likely to break.
- bottom end cap 134 has two portions, as shown in cross-section in FIG. 3C .
- Structure portion 152 is preferably made of 16-gauge or 18-gauge metal, most preferably aluminum or plastic-coated metal.
- Receiving portion 154 arcing upwards from the circumference of bottom end cap 134 towards center 142 , is made of a compressible elastomer. When bowl 22 is pressed onto spokes 142 in this embodiment, receiving portion 154 of each spoke 142 compresses and then exerts a force to hold bowl 22 in place, or at least to apply a force on stemware 20 in the direction of foot 26 .
- a chamber 156 is formed within wall 132 .
- Stemware 20 is placed within chamber 156 .
- Holder 130 can be used in this configuration for washing, storage, or transportation of stemware 20 .
- a top end cap 136 is removably attached on top end 162 of wall 132 , more securely to hold stemware 20 within chamber 156 .
- top end cap 136 is identical to end cap 34 or end cap 134 .
- application of top end cap 136 to wall 132 causes contact between top end cap 136 and foot 26 of stemware 20 , pushing bowl 22 against bottom end cap 134 .
- Stemware 20 is then tightly secured within holder 130 .
- Holder 130 can be stored or transported with slight chance of damage to stemware 20 .
- Holder 130 can also be placed in a dishwashing machine. Water can enter holder 130 through perforations 133 in wall 132 and through holes 146 in top end cap 136 and bottom end cap 134 .
- top end cap 136 and bottom end cap 134 has extended spokes 142 with receiving portions 154 as shown in FIGS. 3B and 3C and accompanying text.
- both top end cap 136 and bottom end cap 134 of holder 130 have receiving portions 154 .
- top end cap 136 in is made of a flexible material, such as silicone rubber, preferably low-durometer rubber.
- a flexible material such as silicone rubber, preferably low-durometer rubber.
- FIGS. 4D through 4N show different styles of spokes 142 .
- FIGS. 4M and 4N show embodiments without spokes.
- FIGS. 5A through 5E Another type of end cap is shown in FIGS. 5A through 5E .
- top end cap 136 is replaced by diaphragm 170 .
- Diaphragm 170 is preferably made of an outer circumferential ring 172 , an inner circumferential ring 174 , and a plurality of spokes 176 . Rings 172 , 174 and spokes 176 form holes 178 through which water can pass.
- Ring 172 has an outer circumference forming an interference fit with the inner circumference of wall 132 .
- rings 172 , 174 are made of a low durometer elastomer and spokes 176 are made of a high durometer elastomer.
- a bottom end cap 34 or 134 is placed on bottom end 138 of wall 132 .
- a user places stemware 20 within chamber 156 and grasps diaphragm 170 , for example, as shown in FIG. 5B , in which the letters F represent fingers and the letter T represents a thumb, and squeezes to compress diaphragm 170 , radially inwards as shown by the direction arrows of FIG. 5B .
- the compressed device is then placed within chamber 156 at top end 162 and moved downward until diaphragm 170 contacts foot 26 of stemware 20 within chamber 156 .
- diaphragm 170 causes ring 172 to expand outwardly, contacting wall 132 , forming an interference fit with wall 132 , and securing diaphragm 170 from any further movement within chamber 156 and thereby securing stemware 20 within chamber 156 .
- diaphragm 170 is shown as circular, to match the preferred embodiment of wall 132 .
- diaphragm 170 is configured in an octagonal shape as well.
- a pair of diaphragms 170 is used at top end 162 and bottom end 138 to hold stemware 20 within chamber 156 .
- top end cap 136 is shown in FIGS. 6A through 6D .
- top end cap 136 is an expandable accordion, having a plurality of circumferential pleats 182 as well as a plurality of holes 184 .
- bottom end cap 34 or 134 is secured to wall 132 as described above. The user then applies top cap 134 in the direction of the arrow shown in FIG. 6B , forcing pleats 182 against stemware 20 to secure stemware 20 within chamber 156 .
- Top cap 134 attaches to wall 132 by any of the methods described above, preferably by threads.
- pleats 182 are biased normally to be in an extended position. Placement of top end cap 136 on wall 132 causes pleats 182 to fold and to apply pressure on foot 26 . In another embodiment, pleats 182 are biased normally to be in a retracted position. When a user places top end cap 136 on wall 132 , the user pushes pleats 182 to an extended position into chamber 156 , causing pleats 182 to apply pressure on foot 26 , to hold top end cap 136 in place and secure stemware 20 within chamber 156 , as shown in partial cut-away in FIG. 6E .
- top end cap 136 has an outer circumference forming an interference fit with the inside of wall 132 .
- a plurality of flexible tongues 192 extend from wall 190 .
- Each tongue 192 has a flange 194 projecting outwardly and mating with a corresponding slot 196 in wall 132 .
- a user can grasp top end cap 136 by holding two or more of flanges 194 and squeezing inwards slightly, and inserting top end cap 136 into wall 132 by aligning flanges 194 with slots 196 .
- the user can insert top end cap 136 until it contacts foot 26 , and then release flanges 194 to hold top end cap 136 in place and secure stemware 20 within chamber 156 , as shown in partial cut-away in FIG. 7D .
- top end cap 136 has a slit 206 for receiving stem 24 of stemware 20 .
- top end cap 136 slides onto stem 24 and then can be pulled upward, to protect foot 26 .
- foot 26 protrudes from top end cap 136 .
- the wall of the holder is made of fingers that allow water to pass between them.
- the fingers are made of wire, as shown in FIGS. 9A through 9C .
- a wire frame forms a cylinder through which wash water and rinse water can easily pass.
- wire frame 220 is made of six U-shaped elements 222 , preferably made of 0.125-gauge steel wire, welded to three frame elements 224 , preferably made of 0.250-gauge steel wire.
- Frame elements 224 are preferably circular, but can be other shapes as well.
- wire frame 220 is made of six U-shaped elements 226 , each having a pair of foot elements 228 protruding axially inward, each foot element 228 being connected to an adjacent foot element 228 by a connection element 230 .
- Wire frame 220 is made of stainless steel or aluminum to withstand a wet environment. In another embodiment, wire frame 220 is coated to provide a cushion for holding stemware. Preferably, wire frame 220 or a portion thereof is dipped in urethane, as shown in FIG. 9C . Other cushioning means can be used, such as coating wire frame 220 with other materials such as latex or polyethylene.
- Wire frame 220 of FIG. 9A is shown incorporated into holder 232 in FIGS. 10A through 10C .
- Holder 232 accommodates wire frame 220 as shown in FIGS. 9B and 9C as well.
- holder 232 comprises a base component 234 and a top component 236 .
- wire frame 220 is not coated, but in other embodiments, wire frame 220 is coated as explained above.
- Wire frame 220 of FIG. 9C is shown incorporated into holder 240 in FIGS. 11A through 11C .
- Holder 240 accommodates wire frame 220 as shown in FIGS. 9B and 9C as well.
- holder 240 comprises base component 234 and top component 236 .
- wire frame 220 is coated, but in other embodiments, wire frame 220 is not coated as explained above.
- Base component 234 is shown in perspective view in FIG. 12A .
- Base component 234 is preferably made of a flexible material, most preferably urethane.
- Base component 234 has a circumferential wall 242 , holding preferably three spokes 244 , 246 , and 248 . Other numbers of spokes are used in other embodiments.
- Spokes 244 , 246 , 248 curve gently upwards from wall 242 inward to axis 250 , where all three spokes 244 , 246 , 248 meet.
- Bowl 22 of drinkware 20 rests on spokes 244 , 246 , 248 .
- the arcuate curve of spokes 244 , 246 , 248 centers bowl 22 within holder 232 , as shown in FIGS. 10A through 10C , or within holder 240 , as shown in FIGS. 11A through 11C .
- the arcuate curve of spokes 244 , 246 , 248 also helps cushion drinkware 20 to avoid break
- Top component 236 is shown in perspective view in FIG. 12 B.
- Top component 236 preferably has three arms 254 , 256 , 258 , but in other embodiments other numbers of arms are used.
- Each arm 254 , 256 , 258 radiates outward from axis 260 .
- a bore 264 At the distal tip 262 of each arm 254 , 256 , 258 is a bore 264 .
- Bore 264 is configured to have approximately the same width of U-shaped elements 222 or 236 .
- a slit 266 leading to aperture 268 . Fins 270 project into aperture 268 .
- wire frame 220 is secured into base component 234 .
- Drinkware 20 is placed within wire frame 220 , with bowl 22 resting on spokes 244 , 246 , 248 of base component 234 .
- Top component 236 is fastened to drinkware 20 by sliding stem 24 through slit 266 , so that stem 24 rests within aperture 268 .
- Fins 270 will create resistance to stem 24 sliding within aperture 268 .
- Top component 236 is then slid downward, along stem 24 , until arms 254 , 256 , 258 meet wire frame 220 .
- Three U-shaped elements 222 or 226 are inserted into bores 264 .
- Top component 236 is preferably made of a flexible material, most preferably urethane. Accordingly, bores 264 will tend to hold U-shaped elements 226 tightly. This tendency, along with fins 270 , will hold top component into place and keep drinkware 20 securely within holder 232 or 240 .
Abstract
A holder for drinkware, the drinkware having at least a bowl and a foot, is described. In a first embodiment, the holder comprises a wall, the wall having a top end and a bottom end, a cap on the bottom end, and a cap on the top end, the wall and the caps each having at least one perforation. In another embodiment, the holder comprises a frame forming a wall, the frame comprising a plurality of fingers, the wall forming a space, the fingers each having a top end and a bottom end, a base component comprising a base wall forming an opening and a plurality of spokes extending radially into the opening, the base component configured to hold the bottom ends of the fingers; and a top component comprising a plurality of arms extending radially outward from an axial element, an aperture in the axial element and a slit through the axial element to the aperture, the arms comprising bores at their distal tips opposite the axial element, each of the bores configured to hold the top end of a one of the fingers.
Description
- This invention relates to a holder for drinkware. The invention relates in particular to a holder for stemware, and more particularly to a holder for glass stemware. The invention will be described as used for glass stemware. The invention is not limited thereby, however, but can also be used for standard drinkware such as beakers, steins, cups, mugs, and similar drinkware, as well as for specialized drinkware, including, for example, ochokos. Additionally, the invention can be used for drinkware made of other materials, such as other ceramics, metals, or plastics.
- A representative item of
stemware 20 is shown inFIG. 1 . The shape ofstemware 20 depends on whether the end use is for white wine, red wine, champagne, cordials, beer, or another beverage. In general, however,stemware 20 has abowl 22, astem 24, and afoot 26. (Some drinkware has a bowl and a foot but no stem.)Stemware 20 is commonly made of glass but can be made of other materials. High-quality stemware 20 is often made of leaded crystal. - The use of dishwashing machines presents a tremendous reduction in the time and effort required for kitchen clean up. Dishwashing machines also contribute to public health by sterilizing dishes, cookware, utensils, and drinkware. The use of spot-free detergent additives, such as nonionic surfactants, makes the use of a dishwashing machine particularly desirable for stemware. Because of the elongated shape of most stemware, however, standard dishwashing racks do not have the appropriate holders for stemware. It is difficult, then, to secure stemware at the proper angle within a dishwashing machine for effective cleaning and rinsing. Inadvertent movement of stemware within a dishwashing machine can lead to inadequate cleaning and to breakage. The somewhat fragile nature of some stemware, especially some fine crystal stemware, also leads to chipping and breakage during the process of placing the stemware in the dishwashing machine or during removal from the dishwashing machine.
- The somewhat fragile nature of some stemware also requires great care in storing or transporting it. Items of stemware are commonly wrapped individually for storage or transportation, a labor-intensive and time-consuming process.
- Holders have been developed in the art to hold stemware securely within a dishwashing machine. One type of device, as described in, for example, United States Published Patent Application No. 2006/0138064 A1 to Crudgington, Jr., Stemware Saver for Dishwasher, clamps onto the
stem 24 to suspendstemware 20 within the dishwashing machine. These types of devices, however, can still result in breakage if vibration causes a piece of stemware to contact an adjacent piece during the dishwashing process, and can result in breakage during the insertion or removal process. Moreover, this type of device has no use in transportation or storage of stemware. - Another type of holder envelopes a plurality of stemware, as described in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,971,167 to Finbow, Holder for Stemmed Drinking Vessels. This device is unsatisfactory for use in a dishwashing machine, however, because some of the stemware will not be oriented in the proper direction for washing and rinsing.
- A need exists for a holder for drinkware for use in a dishwashing machine, as well as for use in storage or transportation, that avoids the problems of the prior art or at least gives consumers a useful choice. The present invention meets this need.
- The present invention is a holder for drinkware, the drinkware having a bowl and a foot. In a first embodiment, the holder comprises a wall, the wall having a top end and a bottom end, a cap on the bottom end, and a cap on the top end, the wall and the caps each having at least one perforation. In another embodiment, the holder comprises a frame forming a wall, the frame comprising a plurality of fingers, the wall forming a space, the fingers each having a top end and a bottom end, a base component comprising a base wall forming an opening and a plurality of spokes extending radially into the opening, the base component configured to hold the bottom ends of the fingers; and a top component comprising a plurality of arms extending radially outward from an axial element, an aperture in the axial element, and a slit through the axial element to the aperture, the arms comprising bores at their distal tips opposite the axial element, each of the bores configured to hold the top end of a one of the fingers.
- The organization and manner of the structure and operation of the invention, together with further objects and advantages thereof, may best be understood by reference to the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying non-scale drawings, wherein like reference numerals identify like elements in which:
-
FIG. 1 is perspective view of an item of drinkware as used in the preferred embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 2A is a perspective, exploded view of the holder of the preferred embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 2B is a perspective view of an end cap of the holder ofFIG. 2A . -
FIG. 2C is a cross-sectional view of the end cap ofFIG. 2B . -
FIG. 2D is a diagrammatic perspective view of part of the wall and end cap of another embodiment of the invention. -
FIGS. 2E through 2L are elevation views of embodiments of the holder of the present invention. -
FIG. 3A is a plan view of a bottom end cap of an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 3B is an elevation view of one embodiment of the bottom end cap ofFIG. 3A . -
FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional view of the bottom end cap ofFIG. 3B . -
FIG. 3D is a plan view of another embodiment of the bottom end cap of the invention. -
FIG. 3E is a perspective view of another embodiment of the bottom end cap of the invention. -
FIG. 4A is a top view of another embodiment of the bottom end cap of the invention. -
FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the bottom end cap ofFIG. 4A . -
FIG. 4C is an elevation view of the bottom end cap ofFIG. 4A . -
FIGS. 4D through 4N are plan views of embodiments of the top end cap of the invention. -
FIG. 5A is a plan view of a diaphragm used as a second end cap of one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 5B is a top view of the diaphragm ofFIG. 5A , showing how to grasp and compress the diaphragm. -
FIG. 5C is an elevation view of the diaphragm ofFIG. 5A . -
FIG. 5D is a diagrammatic view of the diaphragm ofFIG. 5A . -
FIG. 5E is a cross-sectional view of the diaphragm ofFIG. 5A , -
FIGS. 6A through 6D are elevation views of another embodiment of the holder of the present invention. -
FIGS. 7A through 7D are elevation views of another embodiment of the holder of the present invention. -
FIGS. 8A through 8D are elevation views of another embodiment of the holder of the present invention. -
FIGS. 9A through 9C are perspective views of a wire cage used in certain embodiments of the present invention. -
FIGS. 10A through 10C are perspective views of an embodiment of the holder of the present invention using a wire cage as shown inFIGS. 9C through 9C . -
FIGS. 11A through 11C are perspective views of another embodiment of the holder of the present invention using a wire cage as shown inFIGS. 9A through 9C . -
FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a base component ofFIGS. 10A through 10C . -
FIG. 12B is a perspective views of a top component ofFIGS. 10A through 11C . - While the invention may be susceptible to embodiment in different forms, there is shown in the drawings, and herein will be described in detail, specific embodiments with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered an exemplification of the principles of the invention, and is not intended to limit the invention to that as illustrated and described herein.
- A preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown in
FIGS. 2A through 2C .Holder 30 has awall 32 and a pair ofend caps 34.Wall 32 is preferably generally in the shape of a cylinder, having a circular cross-section. In other embodiments,wall 32 has other cross-sectional configurations, such as polygonal.Wall 32 has atop end 36 and abottom end 38. Top end has threescallops 40 forming threepoints 42.Wall 32 is preferably made of stainless steel, brushed aluminum, plastic, or other material that can withstand high temperature and soapy, hot water that will be encountered in a dishwasher. Preferably, theinner periphery 44 ofwall 32 is covered with plastic, such as urethane, for cushioning. - End caps 34 are preferably made of a flexible material, such as silicone rubber, preferably low-durometer rubber. End caps 34 are alternatively made of metal, such as 16-gauge or 18-gauge aluminum, or are made of metal coated with an elastomer. In yet other configurations, end caps 34 are made of hard plastic.
- Each
end cap 34 has anouter wall 50 and a plurality ofspokes 52 radiating from thecenter 54 toouter wall 50, as shown inFIG. 2B . Preferably,end cap 34 has threespokes 52, but in other embodiments,end cap 34 has a different number ofspokes 52. In the preferred embodiment,spokes 52 ofend cap 34 curve upward towardcenter 54. -
Wall 32 preferably connects to afirst end cap 34 by a plurality of slottedapertures 56, which lock tospokes 52 in bayonet-fashion, as shown inFIG. 2D . Accordingly, there are preferably the same number ofapertures 56 as there arespokes 52. -
End cap 34 preferably has alip 58 on itsinner periphery 60, as shown in cross-section inFIG. 2C .Wall 32 connects to asecond end cap 34 by an interference fit betweenpoints 42 andinner periphery 60. In another embodiment,wall 32 hastabs 57 that insert intoslots 61. - When an item of
stemware 20 is placed inholder 30 and held therein by twoend caps 34,spokes 52 push inwardly onstemware 20 to hold stemware securely withinholder 30. - Other configurations of the stemware holder of the present invention are shown in
FIGS. 2F through 2L . In general,holder 130 has awall 132 and a sole end cap, two identical end caps, or two different end caps, as will be described. -
Wall element 132 is preferably in the shape of a cylinder, having a circular cross-section, atop end 162, and abottom end 138, as shown in perspective, diagrammatic view inFIG. 2E . In other embodiments,wall 132 has other cross-sectional configurations, such as polygonal.Wall 132 hasperforations 133 to allow the movement of wash water and rinse water therethrough, as shown in various configurations inFIGS. 2F through 2L .Perforations 133 inwall 132 must be at least large enough to allow droplets of water to pass through and can be quite large, as in, for example,FIGS. 2I , 2K, and 2L. The perforations can extend to the top and bottom ofwall 132, and need not be completed contained withinwall 132, as shown in, for example,FIG. 2I .Wall 132 is preferably made of metal, such as 16-gauge or 18-gauge aluminum, in order to be dishwasher safe. In other embodiments,wall 132 is made of plastic-coated metal, of plastic, or of other dishwasher-safe material. -
Bottom end cap 134 is preferably identical to endcap 34 shown inFIGS. 2A through 2D .Bottom end cap 134 in a first embodiment is securely fastened tobottom end 138 ofwall 132 by weld, glue, fastener, or other means of attachment. In another embodiment,bottom end cap 134 is removably attachable towall 132.Bottom end cap 134 in the removable embodiments attaches by slottedapertures 56, as was described in connection withend cap 34 and illustrated inFIG. 2D , or by threads, bayonet clips, interference fit, pins, or other means of attachment. -
Bottom end cap 134 is perforated to allow the passage of water therethrough. The perforations inbottom end cap 134 must be at least large enough to allow droplets of water to pass through, but not large enough to allow a portion ofstemware 20 to pass therethrough. - In one embodiment,
bottom end cap 134 has anouter wall 140 and a plurality ofspokes 142 radiating from thecenter 144 toouter wall 140, as shown in diagrammatic plan view inFIG. 3A .Bottom end cap 134 preferably has eightspokes 142, as shown inFIG. 3A , but in other embodiments,bottom end cap 134 has a different number ofspokes 142. In another embodiment,spokes 142 radiate inwardly fromouter wall 140 but do not meet atcenter 144, as shown inFIG. 3E .Outer wall 140 andspokes 142 definehole 146 to allow the passage of water. In yet other embodiments,bottom end cap 134 has a plurality ofholes 146 therethrough, as shown inFIG. 3D . - In some embodiments,
bottom end cap 134 has a second, innercircumferential wall 148 betweenouter wall 140 andcenter 144, as shown inFIGS. 4A through 4C . Theholes 146 formed byouter wall 140, innercircumferential wall 148, andspokes 142 allow the passage of water therethrough. - In a preferred embodiment,
spokes 142 ofbottom end cap 134 curve upward toward thecenter 144 to receivestemware 20, as shown in elevation view inFIG. 3B . The arcuate shape ofspokes 142center bowl 22 ofstemware 20 onbottom end cap 134. Sincespokes 142 are preferably rubber-coated metal,bowl 22 is cushioned andstemware 20 is less likely to break. - In another embodiment,
bottom end cap 134 has two portions, as shown in cross-section inFIG. 3C .Structure portion 152 is preferably made of 16-gauge or 18-gauge metal, most preferably aluminum or plastic-coated metal. Receivingportion 154, arcing upwards from the circumference ofbottom end cap 134 towardscenter 142, is made of a compressible elastomer. Whenbowl 22 is pressed ontospokes 142 in this embodiment, receivingportion 154 of each spoke 142 compresses and then exerts a force to holdbowl 22 in place, or at least to apply a force onstemware 20 in the direction offoot 26. - When a first end cap, such as
bottom end cap 134, is fastened tobottom end 138 ofwall 132, achamber 156 is formed withinwall 132.Stemware 20 is placed withinchamber 156.Holder 130 can be used in this configuration for washing, storage, or transportation ofstemware 20. - In another embodiment, a
top end cap 136 is removably attached ontop end 162 ofwall 132, more securely to holdstemware 20 withinchamber 156. In one embodiment,top end cap 136 is identical to endcap 34 orend cap 134. Whenstemware 20 is placed withinchamber 156, application oftop end cap 136 to wall 132 causes contact betweentop end cap 136 andfoot 26 ofstemware 20, pushingbowl 22 againstbottom end cap 134.Stemware 20 is then tightly secured withinholder 130.Holder 130 can be stored or transported with slight chance of damage tostemware 20.Holder 130 can also be placed in a dishwashing machine. Water can enterholder 130 throughperforations 133 inwall 132 and throughholes 146 intop end cap 136 andbottom end cap 134. - In one embodiment of
holder 130, only one oftop end cap 136 andbottom end cap 134 has extendedspokes 142 with receivingportions 154 as shown inFIGS. 3B and 3C and accompanying text. In another embodiment, bothtop end cap 136 andbottom end cap 134 ofholder 130 have receivingportions 154. - In other embodiments of
holder 130,top end cap 136 in is made of a flexible material, such as silicone rubber, preferably low-durometer rubber. For instances in which foot 26 ofstemware 20 is at or slightly abovesecond end 162 ofwall 132, application oftop end cap 136 totop end cap 136 applies a slight force, due to stretching and compression of the silicone rubber, ontofoot 26 and thereby securingstemware 20 in place inchamber 156. Other embodiments oftop end cap 136 are shown inFIGS. 4D through 4N .FIGS. 4D through 4L show different styles ofspokes 142.FIGS. 4M and 4N show embodiments without spokes. - Another type of end cap is shown in
FIGS. 5A through 5E . In this embodiment,top end cap 136 is replaced bydiaphragm 170.Diaphragm 170 is preferably made of an outercircumferential ring 172, an innercircumferential ring 174, and a plurality ofspokes 176.Rings spokes 176 form holes 178 through which water can pass.Ring 172 has an outer circumference forming an interference fit with the inner circumference ofwall 132. In the preferred embodiment, rings 172, 174 are made of a low durometer elastomer andspokes 176 are made of a high durometer elastomer. - In one embodiment, a
bottom end cap bottom end 138 ofwall 132. A user placesstemware 20 withinchamber 156 and graspsdiaphragm 170, for example, as shown inFIG. 5B , in which the letters F represent fingers and the letter T represents a thumb, and squeezes to compressdiaphragm 170, radially inwards as shown by the direction arrows ofFIG. 5B . The compressed device is then placed withinchamber 156 attop end 162 and moved downward untildiaphragm 170contacts foot 26 ofstemware 20 withinchamber 156. Releasingdiaphragm 170 causesring 172 to expand outwardly, contactingwall 132, forming an interference fit withwall 132, and securingdiaphragm 170 from any further movement withinchamber 156 and thereby securingstemware 20 withinchamber 156. Please note thatdiaphragm 170 is shown as circular, to match the preferred embodiment ofwall 132. In embodiments in whichwall 132 has a different cross-sectional shape, such as octagonal, for example,diaphragm 170 is configured in an octagonal shape as well. - In yet another embodiment, a pair of
diaphragms 170 is used attop end 162 andbottom end 138 to holdstemware 20 withinchamber 156. - Yet another embodiment of
top end cap 136 is shown inFIGS. 6A through 6D . In this embodiment,top end cap 136 is an expandable accordion, having a plurality ofcircumferential pleats 182 as well as a plurality ofholes 184. In this embodiment,bottom end cap top cap 134 in the direction of the arrow shown inFIG. 6B , forcingpleats 182 againststemware 20 to securestemware 20 withinchamber 156.Top cap 134 attaches to wall 132 by any of the methods described above, preferably by threads. - In one embodiment, pleats 182 are biased normally to be in an extended position. Placement of
top end cap 136 onwall 132 causespleats 182 to fold and to apply pressure onfoot 26. In another embodiment, pleats 182 are biased normally to be in a retracted position. When a user placestop end cap 136 onwall 132, the user pushespleats 182 to an extended position intochamber 156, causingpleats 182 to apply pressure onfoot 26, to holdtop end cap 136 in place andsecure stemware 20 withinchamber 156, as shown in partial cut-away inFIG. 6E . - Yet another embodiment of
top end cap 136 is shown inFIGS. 7A through 7D . In this embodiment,top end cap 136 has an outer circumference forming an interference fit with the inside ofwall 132. A plurality offlexible tongues 192 extend from wall 190. Eachtongue 192 has aflange 194 projecting outwardly and mating with acorresponding slot 196 inwall 132. A user can grasptop end cap 136 by holding two or more offlanges 194 and squeezing inwards slightly, and insertingtop end cap 136 intowall 132 by aligningflanges 194 withslots 196. The user can inserttop end cap 136 until itcontacts foot 26, and then releaseflanges 194 to holdtop end cap 136 in place andsecure stemware 20 withinchamber 156, as shown in partial cut-away inFIG. 7D . - Yet another embodiment of
top end cap 136 is shown inFIGS. 8A through 8D . In this embodiment,top end cap 136 has aslit 206 for receivingstem 24 ofstemware 20. In one embodiment, as shown inFIG. 8C , in whichwall 132 has been removed for clarity of illustration,top end cap 136 slides ontostem 24 and then can be pulled upward, to protectfoot 26. In another embodiment, shown inFIG. 8D ,foot 26 protrudes fromtop end cap 136. - In certain other embodiments of the present invention, the wall of the holder is made of fingers that allow water to pass between them. In one embodiment, the fingers are made of wire, as shown in
FIGS. 9A through 9C . A wire frame forms a cylinder through which wash water and rinse water can easily pass. - The wire frame can take various configurations. In one embodiment, as shown in
FIG. 9A ,wire frame 220 is made of sixU-shaped elements 222, preferably made of 0.125-gauge steel wire, welded to threeframe elements 224, preferably made of 0.250-gauge steel wire.Frame elements 224 are preferably circular, but can be other shapes as well. In another embodiment, as shown inFIG. 9B ,wire frame 220 is made of sixU-shaped elements 226, each having a pair offoot elements 228 protruding axially inward, eachfoot element 228 being connected to anadjacent foot element 228 by aconnection element 230. -
Wire frame 220 is made of stainless steel or aluminum to withstand a wet environment. In another embodiment,wire frame 220 is coated to provide a cushion for holding stemware. Preferably,wire frame 220 or a portion thereof is dipped in urethane, as shown inFIG. 9C . Other cushioning means can be used, such ascoating wire frame 220 with other materials such as latex or polyethylene. -
Wire frame 220 ofFIG. 9A is shown incorporated intoholder 232 inFIGS. 10A through 10C .Holder 232 accommodateswire frame 220 as shown inFIGS. 9B and 9C as well. In the illustrated embodiment,holder 232 comprises abase component 234 and atop component 236. As shown inFIGS. 10A through 10C ,wire frame 220 is not coated, but in other embodiments,wire frame 220 is coated as explained above. -
Wire frame 220 ofFIG. 9C is shown incorporated intoholder 240 inFIGS. 11A through 11C .Holder 240 accommodateswire frame 220 as shown inFIGS. 9B and 9C as well. In this embodiment,holder 240 comprisesbase component 234 andtop component 236. As shown inFIGS. 11A through 11C ,wire frame 220 is coated, but in other embodiments,wire frame 220 is not coated as explained above. -
Base component 234 is shown in perspective view inFIG. 12A .Base component 234 is preferably made of a flexible material, most preferably urethane.Base component 234 has acircumferential wall 242, holding preferably threespokes Spokes wall 242 inward toaxis 250, where all threespokes Bowl 22 ofdrinkware 20 rests onspokes spokes holder 232, as shown inFIGS. 10A through 10C , or withinholder 240, as shown inFIGS. 11A through 11C . The arcuate curve ofspokes drinkware 20 to avoid breakage. -
Top component 236 is shown in perspective view inFIG. 12 B. Top component 236 preferably has threearms arm axis 260. At thedistal tip 262 of eacharm bore 264.Bore 264 is configured to have approximately the same width ofU-shaped elements axis 260 is aslit 266 leading toaperture 268.Fins 270 project intoaperture 268. - To use
holder wire frame 220 is secured intobase component 234.Drinkware 20 is placed withinwire frame 220, withbowl 22 resting onspokes base component 234.Top component 236 is fastened to drinkware 20 by slidingstem 24 throughslit 266, so thatstem 24 rests withinaperture 268.Fins 270 will create resistance to stem 24 sliding withinaperture 268.Top component 236 is then slid downward, alongstem 24, untilarms meet wire frame 220. ThreeU-shaped elements bores 264. -
Top component 236 is preferably made of a flexible material, most preferably urethane. Accordingly, bores 264 will tend to holdU-shaped elements 226 tightly. This tendency, along withfins 270, will hold top component into place and keepdrinkware 20 securely withinholder - While preferred embodiments of the present invention are shown and described, it is envisioned that those skilled in the art may devise various modifications of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims.
Claims (20)
1. A drinkware holder comprising:
a wall, said wall having a top end and a bottom end, said wall forming a space;
a cap on said bottom end and a cap on said top end, said wall and said caps each having at least one perforation.
2. The drinkware holder of claim 1 , wherein
said wall comprises a plurality of fingers, said fingers each having a top end and a bottom end,
said cap on said bottom end comprises a base wall forming an opening and a plurality of spokes extending radially into said opening, said base component configured to hold said bottom ends of said fingers; and
said cap on said top end comprises a plurality of arms extending radially outward from an axial element, an aperture in said axial element, and a slit through said axial element to said aperture, said arms comprising bores at their distal tips opposite said axial element, each of said bores configured to hold said top end of a one of said fingers.
3. The drinkware holder of claim 1 , wherein said fingers comprise wire.
4. The drinkware holder of claim 3 , wherein said wire is coated.
5. The drinkware holder of claim 3 , wherein said fingers comprise U-shaped elements.
6. The drinkware holder of claim 3 , wherein said fingers are connected by foot elements at said bottom end.
7. The drinkware holder of claim 3 , further comprising framing elements connecting said fingers.
8. The drinkware holder of claim 2 , wherein said top component comprises silicone rubber.
9. The drinkware holder of claim 1 , wherein at least one of said caps comprises a base wall forming an opening and a plurality of spokes extending radially into said opening.
10. The drinkware holder of claim 9 , wherein said spokes are arcuate.
11. The drinkware holder of claim 9 , wherein said spokes are compressible.
12. The drinkware holder of claim 9 , wherein said wall comprises slotted apertures configured to hold said spokes.
13. The drinkware holder of claim 1 , wherein said wall comprises tabs configured to fit into slots in at least one of said caps.
14. The drinkware holder of claim 1 , wherein said frame forms an interference fit with at least one of said caps.
15. The drinkware holder of claim 1 , wherein said space is cylindrical.
16. The drinkware holder of claim 1 , wherein said perforations in said wall are scallops.
17. The drinkware holder of claim 1 , wherein at least one of said caps comprises a plurality of flexible tongues extending from said cap, each said tongue having a flange, each said flange configured to mate with a corresponding slot in said wall.
18. The drinkware holder of claim 1 , wherein at least one of said caps comprises pleats.
19. The drinkware holder of claim 18 , wherein said pleats are biased to be normally extended.
20. The drinkware holder of claim 18 , wherein said pleats are biased to be normally retracted.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/463,763 US20100090078A1 (en) | 2008-10-15 | 2009-05-11 | Drinkware holder |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10546108P | 2008-10-15 | 2008-10-15 | |
US12/463,763 US20100090078A1 (en) | 2008-10-15 | 2009-05-11 | Drinkware holder |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20100090078A1 true US20100090078A1 (en) | 2010-04-15 |
Family
ID=42098016
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US12/800,370 Abandoned US20100294763A1 (en) | 2008-10-15 | 2009-05-11 | Drinkware holder |
US12/463,763 Abandoned US20100090078A1 (en) | 2008-10-15 | 2009-05-11 | Drinkware holder |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US12/800,370 Abandoned US20100294763A1 (en) | 2008-10-15 | 2009-05-11 | Drinkware holder |
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US (2) | US20100294763A1 (en) |
Cited By (6)
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US20110192808A1 (en) * | 2010-02-09 | 2011-08-11 | Miele & Cie. Kg | Insert for a dishwasher rack |
US8439209B2 (en) | 2011-03-25 | 2013-05-14 | Giacomo Michael Pasquale Strollo | Backboard container storage system |
DE102013203660A1 (en) * | 2013-03-04 | 2014-09-04 | BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH | Holding device for a cup of a glass for insertion into a dish rack of a dishwasher |
DE102014207448A1 (en) * | 2014-04-17 | 2015-10-22 | BSH Hausgeräte GmbH | Glass holder for holding a stem glass and arrangement |
US11160355B2 (en) * | 2018-01-10 | 2021-11-02 | Eleazar Angel Martinez | Systems, apparatus, and methods for ambulatory use of drinking containers |
US11304588B2 (en) | 2017-02-15 | 2022-04-19 | Martin Dolan | System, apparatus, and method for protecting glassware |
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US20100294763A1 (en) | 2010-11-25 |
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