US20150297009A1 - Weighted Cup Holder and Identification Medallion - Google Patents
Weighted Cup Holder and Identification Medallion Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20150297009A1 US20150297009A1 US14/258,555 US201414258555A US2015297009A1 US 20150297009 A1 US20150297009 A1 US 20150297009A1 US 201414258555 A US201414258555 A US 201414258555A US 2015297009 A1 US2015297009 A1 US 2015297009A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- medallion
- sidewall
- weighted
- holder
- weighted base
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- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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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
- the present invention relates generally to a weighted cup holder and identification medallion, and more particularly, to a weighted cup holder with a weighted base that provides a stable holding device that is not easily bent or extended.
- Disposable paper or plastic cups are extensively used in coffee shops, fast-food chain stores, drive-through restaurants, at picnics and indoor/outdoor home and casual dining events, etc., for holding coffee, beverages, soup, or the like.
- Disposable cups are thin walled and light in weight. It is well known that these cups have a tendency to tilt or deform when impacted by a person, the wind, or another article, and the liquid contained in the cup will spill out. People usually have the unpleasant experience of cleaning the spilled out coffee, juice, or other beverage.
- the disposable cups are scalding to hold when they are filled with hot beverages.
- the present invention is directed to overcome the above problems.
- U.S. Design Pat. D332,802 shows a holder for writing instruments that includes a wired coil holder for writing instruments.
- Another U.S. Design Pat. D375,229 shows a weighted cup holder having a wired expanded coil holder for cups, and no base formed of the coils.
- Yet another U.S. Design Pat. D458,799 shows an accessory for a container.
- the cup holder should also be able to protect weak and light beverage containers, and include traditional glass beverage containers as well as plastic glasses, against breakage or deformation because the cup holder itself is substantially stable and cannot be bent, misshapen, or extended by the user.
- Another object of the present invention is to provide a weighted cup holder and identification medallion that protects the disposable cup.
- Still another object of the present invention is to provide a weighted cup holder and identification medallion that includes a cooling pack in addition to a weighted bottom to keep the beverage cold.
- Still another object of the present invention is to provide a weighted cup holder and identification medallion where the medallion is easily placed on and removed from the weighted cup holder, allowing users to easily identify their own cup and prevent users from drinking out of someone else's cup, thereby generally promoting a higher sanitary standard.
- the weighted cup holder and identification medallion of the present invention comprises a bottom weighted device to hold a disposable paper or plastic cup or a traditional glass cup.
- the cup holder has a weighted base portion and sidewalls.
- the sidewalls form a cup holder portion and in a first embodiment may be shaped from a coil extending from the outer edge of the weighted base to form a twisted expanded coil portion.
- the sidewalls may be designed in spiral and non-spiral fashions, allowing the sidewalls to be styled in various shapes such as baseball bats, flowers, and animals.
- the cup holder portion includes a hollow chamber adapted to hold a container, where the chamber is formed by the sidewalls extending upwardly from the weighted base.
- the user inserts the cup into the cup holder that provides stability for the cup when there lacks sufficient content in the cup to support the cup against flipping over by the wind or by children.
- the device also provides the user mobility to carry around the cup with them because the device does not have to be attached to any other supports to be stable.
- the device allows the user to avoid holding or carrying a cup that may be empty, which otherwise would have to be carried because a cup with little to no contents has a tendency to spill due to wind or other contact.
- FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a first embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention.
- FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a second embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention.
- FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the second embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention, shown holding a disposable cup.
- FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the second embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention.
- FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the second embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention, holding a disposable cup shown in cross-section.
- FIG. 6 is a detail cross-sectional view of the base of the second embodiment of the weighted cup holder.
- FIG. 7 a is a top plan view of the inner base of the second embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention.
- FIG. 7 b is a side plan view of the base of the second embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention.
- FIG. 7 c is a cross-sectional side plan view of the base of the second embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention, taken along line 7 c - 7 c of FIG. 7 a.
- FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of a third embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention.
- FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention.
- FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention.
- FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention.
- FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of a seventh embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention.
- FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of an eighth embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention.
- FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of a ninth embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention.
- FIG. 15 is a front perspective view of a tenth embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention.
- FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of an eleventh embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention.
- FIG. 17 is a side perspective view of a first embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention.
- FIG. 18 is a rear perspective view of the first embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention shown in FIG. 17 .
- FIG. 19 is a detail cross-sectional side view of the first embodiment of the weighted cup holder and identification medallion assembly of the present invention.
- FIG. 20 is a detail inner view of the medallion notch of the weighted cup holder of the present invention.
- FIG. 21 is an exploded front perspective view of the first embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention shown in FIG. 17 .
- FIG. 22 is an exploded rear perspective view of the first embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention shown in FIG. 17 .
- FIG. 23 a is a front perspective view of a second embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention.
- FIG. 23 b is a rear perspective view of the second embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention shown in FIG. 23 a.
- FIG. 24 a is a side plan view of a third embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention.
- FIG. 24 b is a front perspective view of the third embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention of FIG. 24 a , shown holding a disposable cup.
- FIG. 24 c is an exploded front perspective view of the third embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention shown in FIG. 24 a.
- FIG. 25 a is a side plan view of a fourth embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention.
- FIG. 25 b is a front perspective view of the fourth embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention shown in FIG. 25 a.
- FIG. 25 c is an exploded front perspective view of the fourth embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention shown in FIG. 25 a.
- FIG. 26 is a front perspective view of a fifth and a sixth embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention.
- FIG. 27 is a front plan view of the weighted cup holder of the present invention, showing the aperture that engages the fifth embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention shown in FIG. 26 .
- FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the fifth and sixth embodiments of the identification medallion of the present invention.
- FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional front plan view of the fifth embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention.
- FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional side plan view of the fifth embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention.
- FIG. 31 is a detail inner view of the arm of the fifth embodiment of the identification medallion and the medallion notch of the weighted cup holder of the present invention.
- the weighted cup holder of the first embodiment of the present invention comprises a weighted base 12 and an expanded coil 22 extending from the outer edge of the weighted base 12 to form a twisted coil portion 18 made to accommodate a cup.
- the cup may be one designed to carry cold liquids or hot liquids.
- the cup may be a disposable cup that comes in standard sizes, such as 9 ounce, 14 ounce, 16 ounce, and 18 ounce varieties.
- the weighted base 12 and the expanded coil 22 are both made from a single continuous wire 14 .
- Coil 16 is tightly wound, where each turn of the coil 16 is adjacent or nearly adjacent to each preceding and succeeding turn of wire 14 , to form a solid base for the weighted cup holder 10 .
- the coil 16 is formed in a single plane that provides a flat surface (not shown) on the underside of coil 16 .
- the wire that forms the coil 16 in the weighted base 12 can be made of metal or other material that has a significant weight compared to the cup in the holder 10 .
- the weighted base 12 has a substantial weight that is sufficient to provide stability to the cup holder 10 when a cup containing a liquid or empty is inserted into the holder.
- the twisted holder portion 18 extends upwardly upward from the weighted base 12 and forms a hollow chamber 20 that is suitable to hold a standard sized disposable cup 26 ( FIG. 3 ).
- the expanded coils 22 forming the twisted holder portion 18 are continuous and spaced from each other.
- the weighted cup holder 10 can be made from different materials, such as different metals including steel and aluminum, different polymers, or different natural materials such as wood or bamboo, all suitable of providing a sufficiently weighted base 12 to provide stability to the weighted cup holder 10 .
- the twisted holder portion 18 has a stable shape and is not easily bent or extended by the user.
- the weighted cup holder 10 includes sidewalls 23 that extend upwardly from the weighted base 12 and form a hollow chamber 20 .
- the hollow chamber 20 provides space in which to securely hold a disposable cup 26 , shown in FIG. 3 .
- the sidewalls 22 can be designed as a plurality of expanded coils, a plurality of swirls, or shapes such as baseball bats, lightning bolts, animals, or flowers for example.
- the plurality of expanded coils and plurality of swirls, forming the holder portion 19 are continuous and spaced from each other. The continuous design allows manufacturers to easily produce the weighted cup holder 10 in a production line.
- the weighted base 12 is sufficiently weighted to provide stability and prevent tipping.
- the weighted base 12 includes a weighted ring 28 .
- the weighted base 12 is designed having a larger outer diameter and is made by injecting a significant amount of resin into the weighted base 12 to add the necessary weight.
- the weighted base 12 includes a chamber that can accommodate a removable cooling pack 30 , shown in FIGS. 4-6 .
- the cooling pack 30 comprises a refrigerant gel or liquid, typically cooled in a freezer before use, that retains a cooler temperature for a period of time.
- the weighted base 12 includes an aperture 34 that provides users with a simple way to remove the cooling pack 30 from the base 12 by allowing the user to push the cooling pack 30 upwards to allow removal through the holder portion 19 .
- the aperture 34 includes a washer 36 , made of silicone rubber or other similar material.
- the cooling pack 30 when installed in the weighted base 12 , exerts a compression force on the washer 36 that acts as a seal and prevents any liquid or moisture from leaking through the aperture 34 in the bottom of the weighted base 12 .
- the weighted ring 28 is a circular weight that is molded into the weighted base 12 providing weight in addition to the cooling pack 30 .
- the weighted ring 28 , the weighted base 12 , or the cooling pack 30 include a plurality of notches 32 , shown in FIGS. 5 , 7 a , and 7 c , to aide in removal of the disposable cup 26 .
- the inside upper surface 35 ( FIG. 7 c ) of the weighted base 12 , weighted ring 28 , or the cooling pack 30 may contain a raised design that provides a friction fit with the cup 26 .
- the ice pack 30 is adapted to fit in the weighted cup holder 10 while also accommodating friction fit designs.
- the inside upper surface 35 of the weighted cup holder 10 will contain a raised circular design.
- the inside upper surface 35 of the weighted cup holder 10 will contain a raised square design, which allows the weighted cup holder 10 to be universally used for all cups 26 .
- the weighted base 12 that connects to the sidewalls of the holder portion 19 is flanged outward towards the bottom and slightly wider in diameter at the bottom in order to retain liquid and moisture that may accumulate due to spills and condensation.
- the height of the weighted base 12 is high enough to accommodate the raised designs needed for the nine ounce round-base cups and the eighteen ounce square-base cups.
- the weighted base 12 is molded as a separate piece from the sidewalls 23 of the holder portion 19 , which are then joined together using ultrasonic welding or other adhesive methods.
- the spacing between the sidewalls 23 in the holder portion 19 can be even or uneven.
- the spacing between the sidewalls 23 of the holder portion 19 also makes the weighted cup holder 10 easier to clean.
- the weighted cup holder 10 also serves as a heat insulator when in use by allowing the user to carry the weighted cup holder 10 instead of holding the body of the thin wall of the disposable cup 26 directly.
- the weighted cup holder 10 does not include a handle, the center of gravity of the weighted cup holder 10 is located in the weighted cup holder 10 , and fluid in the disposable cup 26 remains inside the vertical scope diameter of the weighted base 12 at any time during ordinary use, which further prevents the device from tilting when the disposable cup 26 is inserted into the hollow chamber 20 .
- the weighted cup holder 10 can include a clip-on handle ( FIGS. 26 and 28 ) that engages the sidewalls 23 of the holder portion 19 and makes it easier and more convenient for the user.
- the weighted base 12 may include a counterweight positioned off center in embodiments that include a handle or a heavier identification medallion.
- the sidewalls 23 and the holder portion 19 can be formed in various designs and shapes. Several embodiments of the sidewalls 23 and the holder portion 19 are shown in FIGS. 8-16 .
- the weighted cup holder 10 of the present invention also provides an appealing appearance to children.
- the weighted cup holder 10 can be painted or molded in a variety of different colors during manufacturing.
- the weighted cup holder 10 sidewalls 23 may also form a sidewall that is designed to provide the framing of an image that exists on the decoration of the cup 26 . When in use, the cup holders 10 are easily distinguishable because of the different coating colors, even if the same disposable cups 26 were inserted into the weighted cup holder 10 .
- the identification medallion 45 comprises a removable medallion 46 , a medallion holder 48 , a flange 50 projecting from the medallion holder 48 , and an arm 52 extending downward from the flange 50 .
- the medallion 46 includes at least one nub 54 , shown in FIGS. 18 , 21 , and 22 , that engage at least one aperture 56 in the medallion holder 48 .
- the arm 52 is made from an elastomer material, or other similar material, that engages and grips a sidewall 23 of the holder portion 19 of the weighted cup holder 10 until the upper rim of the sidewall 23 makes contact with the flange 50 , as shown in FIG.
- the sidewall 23 includes a notch 58 , shown in FIG. 20 , to accommodate the arm 52 .
- the arm 52 will attach to a higher attachment area 70 , shown in FIGS. 19 and 20 , on a thicker sidewall 23 of the weighted cup holder 10 to provide durability when the user is adding and removing the medallion holder 48 to the weighted cup holder 10 .
- FIGS. 23 a - 23 b A second embodiment of the identification medallion 47 of the present invention is shown in FIGS. 23 a - 23 b .
- the identification medallion 47 comprises a removable medallion 46 , a medallion holder 48 , a flange 50 projecting from the medallion holder 48 , an arm 52 extending downward from the flange 50 , and a coil 60 that facilitates removal of the identification medallion 47 from the weighted cup holder 10 .
- the medallion 46 includes at least one rear-mounted nub (not shown) that engages at least one aperture (not shown) in the medallion holder 48 .
- the arm 52 is made from an elastomer material, or other similar material, that engages and grips a sidewall 23 of the holder portion 19 of the weighted cup holder 10 until the rim of the sidewall 23 makes contact with the flange 50 .
- the sidewall 23 includes a notch 58 ( FIG. 20 ) to accommodate the arm 52 .
- FIGS. 24 a - 24 c A third embodiment of the identification medallion 49 of the present invention is shown in FIGS. 24 a - 24 c .
- the identification medallion 49 in the third embodiment is adapted to hold a miniature cup 44 , typically a 1-3 ounce disposable cup.
- the identification medallion 49 comprises a removable medallion 46 , a medallion holder 48 , a flange 50 projecting from the medallion holder 48 , an arm 52 extending downward from the flange 50 , and two semi-circular arms 62 adapted to hold the miniature cup 44 .
- the medallion 46 includes at least one rear-mounted nub (not shown) that engages at least one aperture 56 in the medallion holder 48 .
- the semi-circular arms 62 can be in the same plane, as shown in FIGS.
- the arm 52 is made from an elastomer material, or other similar material, that engages and grips a sidewall 23 of the holder portion 19 of the weighted cup holder 10 until the rim of the sidewall 23 makes contact with the flange 50 .
- the sidewall 23 includes a notch 58 ( FIG. 20 ) to accommodate the arm 52 .
- FIGS. 25 a - 25 c A fourth embodiment of the identification medallion 51 of the present invention is shown in FIGS. 25 a - 25 c .
- the identification medallion 51 comprises a removable medallion 46 , a medallion holder 48 , and a tab 64 extending rearwardly from holder 48 .
- the medallion 46 includes at least one rear-mounted nub (not shown) that engages at least one aperture 56 in the medallion holder 48 .
- the tab 64 is adapted to engage slot 66 in the sidewall 23 of the holder portion 19 .
- FIGS. 26 and 28 A fifth embodiment of the identification medallion and small cup holder assembly 53 of the present invention is shown in FIGS. 26 and 28 .
- the identification medallion assembly 53 in the fifth embodiment is adapted to hold a miniature cup 44 , including a one to three ounce disposable cup or glass cup.
- the identification medallion 53 comprises a removable medallion 46 , a medallion holder 48 , a laterally extending prong 63 ( FIG. 28 ), a vertical wall 63 , two semi-circular arms 62 adapted to hold a miniature cup 44 , and a base plate 68 to support miniature cup 44 .
- the medallion 46 includes at least one nub 54 that engages at least one aperture 56 in the medallion holder 48 ( FIG. 28 ).
- the vertical wall 63 connects the medallion holder 48 to the base plate 68 .
- the semi-circular arms 62 can be in the same plane, as shown in FIG. 26 , can be vertically offset, as shown in FIG. 29 , or can have some exterior wind motion.
- the prong 63 is adapted to engage an aperture 65 , shown in FIGS. 27 and 28 , in one of the sidewalls 23 of the holder portion 19 , shown in FIG. 28 .
- the prong 63 will attach to the thickest sidewall 23 at a lower attachment area 72 ( FIG. 27 ) of the weighted cup holder 10 to provide better weight and balance performance.
- the identification medallion 53 can include a flange 50 , shown in FIG.
- the identification medallion 53 shown in FIGS. 26 and 28 also includes a base plate 68 that provides support for any size miniature cup 44 , regardless of whether the miniature cup 44 is made from plastic or glass.
- the prong 63 , or alternatively the flange 50 , of the identification medallion 53 includes a loose fitting rotating swivel (not shown) that is adapted to rotate to accommodate an upright position of the identification medallion and small cup holder assembly 53 regardless of whether the weighted cup holder 10 is upright or at a tilted, drinking angle, ensuring that the contents of the miniature cup 44 do not spill as the user is drinking out of the disposable cup 26 .
- FIGS. 26 and 28 A sixth embodiment of the identification medallion and handle assembly 55 of the present invention is also shown in FIGS. 26 and 28 .
- the identification medallion 55 comprises a removable medallion 46 , a medallion holder 48 , a top handle hook 74 , a bottom handle hook 76 , and a handle 78 .
- the medallion 46 includes at least one nub 54 ( FIG. 28 ) that engages at least one aperture 56 in the medallion holder 48 .
- the top hook 74 and the bottom hook 76 are made from an elastomer material, or other similar material, that engages and grips the sidewall 23 of the holder portion 19 of the weighted cup holder 10 .
- top hook 74 engages top notch 71 in the upper attachment area 70 and the bottom hook 76 engages bottom notch 73 in the lower attachment area 75 of the weighted cup holder 10 .
- the elastomer material grips the sidewall 23 and forms a friction fit to prevent the top hook 74 and the bottom hook 76 from disengaging from sidewall 23 .
- the top hook 74 and the bottom hook 76 can include a flexible latch (not shown) with a friction locking detent that requires the user to pull the latch to unhook the top hook 74 and the bottom hook 76 from the sidewall 23 .
- the identification medallion assemblies 45 , 47 , 49 , 51 , 53 , and 55 can include a variety of designs and graphics, such as sports team logos, flowers, alphabet initials, and other user niche designs.
- the identification medallion assemblies 45 , 47 , 49 , 51 , 53 , and 55 are removable from the medallion holder 48 and are interchangeable, giving the user the ability to use a medallion with a different design or graphic without having to replace the weighted cup holder 10 .
- the user When in use, the user simply inserts a disposable cup 26 ( FIGS. 3-6 ) into the hollow chamber 20 formed by the holder portion 18 , the disposable cup 26 supported by the upper surface 24 of the weighted base 12 . If desired, the user can insert the cooling pack 30 into the weighted base 12 prior to inserting the disposable cup 26 into the hollow chamber 20 to aide in maintaining the cool temperature of the liquid contained by the disposable cup 26 .
- the user can then select an identification medallion 45 assembly to identify their disposable cup 26 . The user either engages the flange 50 , and arm 52 of the identification medallion assembly 45 , 47 , 49 , and 53 with the notch 58 in the sidewall 23 or engages the tab 64 of the identification medallion assembly 51 with slot 66 in the sidewall 23 .
- the user can engage prong 63 of the identification medallion assembly 53 with the aperture 65 in the sidewall 23 .
- the user can also choose to engage the top hook 74 and bottom hook 76 of identification medallion assembly 55 with notch 71 and notch 73 , respectively, in the sidewall 23 .
- the user can then insert a miniature cup 44 into the identification medallion assembly 49 or 53 .
- the weighted cup holder 10 provides stability to the disposable cup 26 because of the weighted cup holder's weight and structure, preventing the disposable cup 26 and weighted cup holder 10 from being tipped over by a small impact, or by the wind, particularly when the cup is holding a small amount of fluid.
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Abstract
The present invention provides an apparatus for holding fluid containing cups and protecting the cups and fluid from tilting and spilling. The apparatus includes a weighted base portion and sidewalls. The sidewalls extend from the outer edge of the weighted base to form an expanded sidewall portion. The expanded sidewall portion provides a holding portion that includes a hollow chamber adapted to hold the cup. The chamber is formed by the sidewall extending upwardly from the weighted base into the expanded sidewall portion.
Description
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention relates generally to a weighted cup holder and identification medallion, and more particularly, to a weighted cup holder with a weighted base that provides a stable holding device that is not easily bent or extended.
- 2. Description of the Prior Art
- Disposable paper or plastic cups are extensively used in coffee shops, fast-food chain stores, drive-through restaurants, at picnics and indoor/outdoor home and casual dining events, etc., for holding coffee, beverages, soup, or the like. Disposable cups are thin walled and light in weight. It is well known that these cups have a tendency to tilt or deform when impacted by a person, the wind, or another article, and the liquid contained in the cup will spill out. People usually have the unpleasant experience of cleaning the spilled out coffee, juice, or other beverage. Moreover, the disposable cups are scalding to hold when they are filled with hot beverages. The present invention is directed to overcome the above problems.
- U.S. Design Pat. D332,802 (Greenhut) shows a holder for writing instruments that includes a wired coil holder for writing instruments. Another U.S. Design Pat. D375,229 (DiBella) shows a weighted cup holder having a wired expanded coil holder for cups, and no base formed of the coils. Yet another U.S. Design Pat. D458,799 (Andujar) shows an accessory for a container.
- One shortcoming of these earlier devices is their tendency to tip over easily because of lack of a weighted bottom. Also, those cup holders having a bottom need separate parts to be assembled with the holding device to be ready to use. Another limitation is that the beverage containers of the prior art need to be protected from damage or shape changing.
- It is therefore apparent that there is a need for a weighted cup holder that is not easily tipped over, is easy to hold and clean, and is easy to manufacture. The cup holder should also be able to protect weak and light beverage containers, and include traditional glass beverage containers as well as plastic glasses, against breakage or deformation because the cup holder itself is substantially stable and cannot be bent, misshapen, or extended by the user.
- The prior art to date does not disclose a weighted cup holder that is not easily tipped over, that is able to protect the beverage cup, that is itself substantially stable, and that includes a removable identification medallion. None of the prior art can be combined in a way to suggest these necessary modifications. There is no teaching, suggestion, or motivation that would have enabled a person of ordinary skill in the art to modify any prior art holder or cup holder to arrive at the present invention.
- It is a primary object of the present invention to provide a weighted cup holder and identification medallion that prevents a standard disposable cup from tipping over or blowing away.
- Another object of the present invention is to provide a weighted cup holder and identification medallion that protects the disposable cup.
- Still another object of the present invention is to provide a weighted cup holder and identification medallion that includes a cooling pack in addition to a weighted bottom to keep the beverage cold.
- Still another object of the present invention is to provide a weighted cup holder and identification medallion where the medallion is easily placed on and removed from the weighted cup holder, allowing users to easily identify their own cup and prevent users from drinking out of someone else's cup, thereby generally promoting a higher sanitary standard.
- The weighted cup holder and identification medallion of the present invention comprises a bottom weighted device to hold a disposable paper or plastic cup or a traditional glass cup. The cup holder has a weighted base portion and sidewalls. The sidewalls form a cup holder portion and in a first embodiment may be shaped from a coil extending from the outer edge of the weighted base to form a twisted expanded coil portion. The sidewalls may be designed in spiral and non-spiral fashions, allowing the sidewalls to be styled in various shapes such as baseball bats, flowers, and animals. The cup holder portion includes a hollow chamber adapted to hold a container, where the chamber is formed by the sidewalls extending upwardly from the weighted base.
- The user inserts the cup into the cup holder that provides stability for the cup when there lacks sufficient content in the cup to support the cup against flipping over by the wind or by children. The device also provides the user mobility to carry around the cup with them because the device does not have to be attached to any other supports to be stable. The device allows the user to avoid holding or carrying a cup that may be empty, which otherwise would have to be carried because a cup with little to no contents has a tendency to spill due to wind or other contact.
- The present invention is further described with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
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FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a first embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention. -
FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a second embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention. -
FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the second embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention, shown holding a disposable cup. -
FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the second embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention. -
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the second embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention, holding a disposable cup shown in cross-section. -
FIG. 6 is a detail cross-sectional view of the base of the second embodiment of the weighted cup holder. -
FIG. 7 a is a top plan view of the inner base of the second embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention. -
FIG. 7 b is a side plan view of the base of the second embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention. -
FIG. 7 c is a cross-sectional side plan view of the base of the second embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention, taken along line 7 c-7 c ofFIG. 7 a. -
FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of a third embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention. -
FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention. -
FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention. -
FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention. -
FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of a seventh embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention. -
FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of an eighth embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention. -
FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of a ninth embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention. -
FIG. 15 is a front perspective view of a tenth embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention. -
FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of an eleventh embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention. -
FIG. 17 is a side perspective view of a first embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention. -
FIG. 18 is a rear perspective view of the first embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention shown inFIG. 17 . -
FIG. 19 is a detail cross-sectional side view of the first embodiment of the weighted cup holder and identification medallion assembly of the present invention. -
FIG. 20 is a detail inner view of the medallion notch of the weighted cup holder of the present invention. -
FIG. 21 is an exploded front perspective view of the first embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention shown inFIG. 17 . -
FIG. 22 is an exploded rear perspective view of the first embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention shown inFIG. 17 . -
FIG. 23 a is a front perspective view of a second embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention. -
FIG. 23 b is a rear perspective view of the second embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention shown inFIG. 23 a. -
FIG. 24 a is a side plan view of a third embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention. -
FIG. 24 b is a front perspective view of the third embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention ofFIG. 24 a, shown holding a disposable cup. -
FIG. 24 c is an exploded front perspective view of the third embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention shown inFIG. 24 a. -
FIG. 25 a is a side plan view of a fourth embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention. -
FIG. 25 b is a front perspective view of the fourth embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention shown inFIG. 25 a. -
FIG. 25 c is an exploded front perspective view of the fourth embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention shown inFIG. 25 a. -
FIG. 26 is a front perspective view of a fifth and a sixth embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention. -
FIG. 27 is a front plan view of the weighted cup holder of the present invention, showing the aperture that engages the fifth embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention shown inFIG. 26 . -
FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the fifth and sixth embodiments of the identification medallion of the present invention. -
FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional front plan view of the fifth embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention. -
FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional side plan view of the fifth embodiment of the identification medallion of the present invention. -
FIG. 31 is a detail inner view of the arm of the fifth embodiment of the identification medallion and the medallion notch of the weighted cup holder of the present invention. - As illustrated in
FIG. 1 , the weighted cup holder of the first embodiment of the present invention comprises aweighted base 12 and an expandedcoil 22 extending from the outer edge of theweighted base 12 to form atwisted coil portion 18 made to accommodate a cup. The cup may be one designed to carry cold liquids or hot liquids. The cup may be a disposable cup that comes in standard sizes, such as 9 ounce, 14 ounce, 16 ounce, and 18 ounce varieties. In the first embodiment shown inFIG. 1 , theweighted base 12 and the expandedcoil 22 are both made from a singlecontinuous wire 14.Coil 16 is tightly wound, where each turn of thecoil 16 is adjacent or nearly adjacent to each preceding and succeeding turn ofwire 14, to form a solid base for theweighted cup holder 10. Thecoil 16 is formed in a single plane that provides a flat surface (not shown) on the underside ofcoil 16. The wire that forms thecoil 16 in theweighted base 12 can be made of metal or other material that has a significant weight compared to the cup in theholder 10. Theweighted base 12 has a substantial weight that is sufficient to provide stability to thecup holder 10 when a cup containing a liquid or empty is inserted into the holder. - The
twisted holder portion 18 extends upwardly upward from theweighted base 12 and forms ahollow chamber 20 that is suitable to hold a standard sized disposable cup 26 (FIG. 3 ). The expanded coils 22 forming thetwisted holder portion 18 are continuous and spaced from each other. Theweighted cup holder 10 can be made from different materials, such as different metals including steel and aluminum, different polymers, or different natural materials such as wood or bamboo, all suitable of providing a sufficientlyweighted base 12 to provide stability to theweighted cup holder 10. Thetwisted holder portion 18 has a stable shape and is not easily bent or extended by the user. - In a second embodiment of the weighted cup holder of the present invention, shown in
FIGS. 2-7 c, theweighted cup holder 10 includes sidewalls 23 that extend upwardly from theweighted base 12 and form ahollow chamber 20. Thehollow chamber 20 provides space in which to securely hold adisposable cup 26, shown inFIG. 3 . Thesidewalls 22 can be designed as a plurality of expanded coils, a plurality of swirls, or shapes such as baseball bats, lightning bolts, animals, or flowers for example. The plurality of expanded coils and plurality of swirls, forming theholder portion 19, are continuous and spaced from each other. The continuous design allows manufacturers to easily produce theweighted cup holder 10 in a production line. - Referring to
FIG. 4-6 , theweighted base 12 is sufficiently weighted to provide stability and prevent tipping. To provide sufficient weight, theweighted base 12 includes aweighted ring 28. Alternatively, theweighted base 12 is designed having a larger outer diameter and is made by injecting a significant amount of resin into theweighted base 12 to add the necessary weight. Theweighted base 12 includes a chamber that can accommodate aremovable cooling pack 30, shown inFIGS. 4-6 . Thecooling pack 30 comprises a refrigerant gel or liquid, typically cooled in a freezer before use, that retains a cooler temperature for a period of time. Theweighted base 12 includes anaperture 34 that provides users with a simple way to remove thecooling pack 30 from the base 12 by allowing the user to push thecooling pack 30 upwards to allow removal through theholder portion 19. Theaperture 34 includes awasher 36, made of silicone rubber or other similar material. Thecooling pack 30, when installed in theweighted base 12, exerts a compression force on thewasher 36 that acts as a seal and prevents any liquid or moisture from leaking through theaperture 34 in the bottom of theweighted base 12. Theweighted ring 28 is a circular weight that is molded into theweighted base 12 providing weight in addition to thecooling pack 30. Theweighted ring 28, theweighted base 12, or thecooling pack 30, include a plurality ofnotches 32, shown inFIGS. 5 , 7 a, and 7 c, to aide in removal of thedisposable cup 26. Alternatively, the inside upper surface 35 (FIG. 7 c) of theweighted base 12, weightedring 28, or thecooling pack 30 may contain a raised design that provides a friction fit with thecup 26. Theice pack 30 is adapted to fit in theweighted cup holder 10 while also accommodating friction fit designs. For nineounce cups 26, the insideupper surface 35 of theweighted cup holder 10 will contain a raised circular design. For 16-18 ounce cups 26, the insideupper surface 35 of theweighted cup holder 10 will contain a raised square design, which allows theweighted cup holder 10 to be universally used for allcups 26. - The
weighted base 12 that connects to the sidewalls of theholder portion 19 is flanged outward towards the bottom and slightly wider in diameter at the bottom in order to retain liquid and moisture that may accumulate due to spills and condensation. The height of theweighted base 12 is high enough to accommodate the raised designs needed for the nine ounce round-base cups and the eighteen ounce square-base cups. Theweighted base 12 is molded as a separate piece from thesidewalls 23 of theholder portion 19, which are then joined together using ultrasonic welding or other adhesive methods. - In the embodiments of
FIG. 1 and ofFIGS. 2-7 c, the spacing between the sidewalls 23 in theholder portion 19 can be even or uneven. The spacing between thesidewalls 23 of theholder portion 19 also makes theweighted cup holder 10 easier to clean. Theweighted cup holder 10 also serves as a heat insulator when in use by allowing the user to carry theweighted cup holder 10 instead of holding the body of the thin wall of thedisposable cup 26 directly. If theweighted cup holder 10 does not include a handle, the center of gravity of theweighted cup holder 10 is located in theweighted cup holder 10, and fluid in thedisposable cup 26 remains inside the vertical scope diameter of theweighted base 12 at any time during ordinary use, which further prevents the device from tilting when thedisposable cup 26 is inserted into thehollow chamber 20. Theweighted cup holder 10 can include a clip-on handle (FIGS. 26 and 28 ) that engages thesidewalls 23 of theholder portion 19 and makes it easier and more convenient for the user. Theweighted base 12 may include a counterweight positioned off center in embodiments that include a handle or a heavier identification medallion. - The
sidewalls 23 and theholder portion 19 can be formed in various designs and shapes. Several embodiments of thesidewalls 23 and theholder portion 19 are shown inFIGS. 8-16 . Theweighted cup holder 10 of the present invention also provides an appealing appearance to children. Theweighted cup holder 10 can be painted or molded in a variety of different colors during manufacturing. Theweighted cup holder 10sidewalls 23 may also form a sidewall that is designed to provide the framing of an image that exists on the decoration of thecup 26. When in use, thecup holders 10 are easily distinguishable because of the different coating colors, even if the samedisposable cups 26 were inserted into theweighted cup holder 10. - A first embodiment of the
identification medallion 45 of the present invention is shown inFIGS. 17-22 . Theidentification medallion 45 comprises aremovable medallion 46, amedallion holder 48, aflange 50 projecting from themedallion holder 48, and anarm 52 extending downward from theflange 50. Themedallion 46 includes at least onenub 54, shown inFIGS. 18 , 21, and 22, that engage at least oneaperture 56 in themedallion holder 48. Thearm 52 is made from an elastomer material, or other similar material, that engages and grips asidewall 23 of theholder portion 19 of theweighted cup holder 10 until the upper rim of thesidewall 23 makes contact with theflange 50, as shown inFIG. 19 . Thesidewall 23 includes anotch 58, shown inFIG. 20 , to accommodate thearm 52. Thearm 52 will attach to ahigher attachment area 70, shown inFIGS. 19 and 20 , on athicker sidewall 23 of theweighted cup holder 10 to provide durability when the user is adding and removing themedallion holder 48 to theweighted cup holder 10. - A second embodiment of the
identification medallion 47 of the present invention is shown inFIGS. 23 a-23 b. Theidentification medallion 47 comprises aremovable medallion 46, amedallion holder 48, aflange 50 projecting from themedallion holder 48, anarm 52 extending downward from theflange 50, and acoil 60 that facilitates removal of theidentification medallion 47 from theweighted cup holder 10. Themedallion 46 includes at least one rear-mounted nub (not shown) that engages at least one aperture (not shown) in themedallion holder 48. Thearm 52 is made from an elastomer material, or other similar material, that engages and grips asidewall 23 of theholder portion 19 of theweighted cup holder 10 until the rim of thesidewall 23 makes contact with theflange 50. Thesidewall 23 includes a notch 58 (FIG. 20 ) to accommodate thearm 52. - A third embodiment of the
identification medallion 49 of the present invention is shown inFIGS. 24 a-24 c. Theidentification medallion 49 in the third embodiment is adapted to hold aminiature cup 44, typically a 1-3 ounce disposable cup. Theidentification medallion 49 comprises aremovable medallion 46, amedallion holder 48, aflange 50 projecting from themedallion holder 48, anarm 52 extending downward from theflange 50, and twosemi-circular arms 62 adapted to hold theminiature cup 44. Themedallion 46 includes at least one rear-mounted nub (not shown) that engages at least oneaperture 56 in themedallion holder 48. Thesemi-circular arms 62 can be in the same plane, as shown inFIGS. 24 b and 24 c, can be vertically offset, as shown inFIG. 29 , or can have some exterior wind motion. Thearm 52 is made from an elastomer material, or other similar material, that engages and grips asidewall 23 of theholder portion 19 of theweighted cup holder 10 until the rim of thesidewall 23 makes contact with theflange 50. Thesidewall 23 includes a notch 58 (FIG. 20 ) to accommodate thearm 52. - A fourth embodiment of the
identification medallion 51 of the present invention is shown inFIGS. 25 a-25 c. Theidentification medallion 51 comprises aremovable medallion 46, amedallion holder 48, and atab 64 extending rearwardly fromholder 48. Themedallion 46 includes at least one rear-mounted nub (not shown) that engages at least oneaperture 56 in themedallion holder 48. Thetab 64 is adapted to engageslot 66 in thesidewall 23 of theholder portion 19. - A fifth embodiment of the identification medallion and small
cup holder assembly 53 of the present invention is shown inFIGS. 26 and 28 . Theidentification medallion assembly 53 in the fifth embodiment is adapted to hold aminiature cup 44, including a one to three ounce disposable cup or glass cup. Theidentification medallion 53 comprises aremovable medallion 46, amedallion holder 48, a laterally extending prong 63 (FIG. 28 ), avertical wall 63, twosemi-circular arms 62 adapted to hold aminiature cup 44, and abase plate 68 to supportminiature cup 44. Themedallion 46 includes at least onenub 54 that engages at least oneaperture 56 in the medallion holder 48 (FIG. 28 ). Thevertical wall 63 connects themedallion holder 48 to thebase plate 68. Thesemi-circular arms 62 can be in the same plane, as shown inFIG. 26 , can be vertically offset, as shown inFIG. 29 , or can have some exterior wind motion. Theprong 63 is adapted to engage anaperture 65, shown inFIGS. 27 and 28 , in one of thesidewalls 23 of theholder portion 19, shown inFIG. 28 . Theprong 63 will attach to thethickest sidewall 23 at a lower attachment area 72 (FIG. 27 ) of theweighted cup holder 10 to provide better weight and balance performance. Alternatively, theidentification medallion 53 can include aflange 50, shown inFIG. 30 , projecting from themedallion holder 48 and anarm 52, shown inFIGS. 30 and 31 , extending downward from the flange. Thearm 52 is made from an elastomer material, or other similar material, that engages and grips asidewall 23 of theholder portion 19 of theweighted cup holder 10 until the rim of thesidewall 23 makes contact with theflange 50. Thesidewall 23 includes a notch 58 (FIG. 31 ) to accommodate thearm 52. Theidentification medallion 53 shown inFIGS. 26 and 28 also includes abase plate 68 that provides support for any sizeminiature cup 44, regardless of whether theminiature cup 44 is made from plastic or glass. Theprong 63, or alternatively theflange 50, of theidentification medallion 53 includes a loose fitting rotating swivel (not shown) that is adapted to rotate to accommodate an upright position of the identification medallion and smallcup holder assembly 53 regardless of whether theweighted cup holder 10 is upright or at a tilted, drinking angle, ensuring that the contents of theminiature cup 44 do not spill as the user is drinking out of thedisposable cup 26. - A sixth embodiment of the identification medallion and handle
assembly 55 of the present invention is also shown inFIGS. 26 and 28 . Theidentification medallion 55 comprises aremovable medallion 46, amedallion holder 48, atop handle hook 74, abottom handle hook 76, and ahandle 78. Themedallion 46 includes at least one nub 54 (FIG. 28 ) that engages at least oneaperture 56 in themedallion holder 48. Thetop hook 74 and thebottom hook 76 are made from an elastomer material, or other similar material, that engages and grips thesidewall 23 of theholder portion 19 of theweighted cup holder 10. Thetop hook 74 engages top notch 71 in theupper attachment area 70 and thebottom hook 76 engagesbottom notch 73 in thelower attachment area 75 of theweighted cup holder 10. The elastomer material grips thesidewall 23 and forms a friction fit to prevent thetop hook 74 and thebottom hook 76 from disengaging fromsidewall 23. Alternatively, thetop hook 74 and thebottom hook 76 can include a flexible latch (not shown) with a friction locking detent that requires the user to pull the latch to unhook thetop hook 74 and thebottom hook 76 from thesidewall 23. - The
identification medallion assemblies identification medallion assemblies medallion holder 48 and are interchangeable, giving the user the ability to use a medallion with a different design or graphic without having to replace theweighted cup holder 10. - When in use, the user simply inserts a disposable cup 26 (
FIGS. 3-6 ) into thehollow chamber 20 formed by theholder portion 18, thedisposable cup 26 supported by theupper surface 24 of theweighted base 12. If desired, the user can insert thecooling pack 30 into theweighted base 12 prior to inserting thedisposable cup 26 into thehollow chamber 20 to aide in maintaining the cool temperature of the liquid contained by thedisposable cup 26. The user can then select anidentification medallion 45 assembly to identify theirdisposable cup 26. The user either engages theflange 50, andarm 52 of theidentification medallion assembly notch 58 in thesidewall 23 or engages thetab 64 of theidentification medallion assembly 51 withslot 66 in thesidewall 23. Alternatively, the user can engageprong 63 of theidentification medallion assembly 53 with theaperture 65 in thesidewall 23. The user can also choose to engage thetop hook 74 andbottom hook 76 ofidentification medallion assembly 55 with notch 71 andnotch 73, respectively, in thesidewall 23. If usingidentification medallion assemblies miniature cup 44 into theidentification medallion assembly weighted cup holder 10 provides stability to thedisposable cup 26 because of the weighted cup holder's weight and structure, preventing thedisposable cup 26 andweighted cup holder 10 from being tipped over by a small impact, or by the wind, particularly when the cup is holding a small amount of fluid. - The foregoing description of an illustrated embodiment of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. The description was selected to best explain the principles of the invention and practical application of these principles to enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention in various embodiments and various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the scope of the invention not be limited by the specification, but be defined by the claims set forth below.
Claims (41)
1. An apparatus for holding an open ended container, comprising:
a. a weighted base having an outer edge;
b. a sidewall extending from the outer edge of said weighted base to form an expanded sidewall portion; and
c. said expanded sidewall portion providing a holding portion comprising a hollow chamber adapted to hold the container, said chamber formed by said sidewall extending upwardly from the weighted base.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the weighted base includes a weighted ring mounted in the weighted base.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the weighted base includes a chamber adapted to receive a removable cooling pack.
4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein an upper surface of the weighted base includes a plurality of notches adapted to facilitate removal of the open ended container.
5. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein an upper surface of the cooling pack includes a plurality of notches adapted to facilitate removal of the open ended container.
6. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising:
a. at least one notch located on an inner surface of said sidewall;
b. an identification medallion assembly including a removable medallion, a medallion holder, a flange projecting outward from the medallion holder, and an arm extending downward from said flange;
c. said removable medallion adapted to removably engage said medallion holder;
d. said arm adapted to removably engage said notch on said sidewall; and
e. said flange adapted to engage a rim of said sidewall.
7. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the identification medallion assembly includes a coil that facilitates removal of said identification medallion assembly from said sidewall.
8. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the identification medallion assembly includes at least two semi-circular arms adapted to support a second open ended container.
9. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising:
a. at least one slot located on a rim of said sidewall;
b. an identification medallion assembly including a removable medallion, a medallion holder, and a tab;
c. said removable medallion adapted to removably engage said medallion holder; and
d. said tab adapted to removably engage said slot of said sidewall.
10. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the weighted base includes an aperture extending through the weighted base, the aperture adapted to facilitate a user in the removal of the cooling pack.
11. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the sidewalls include at least one aperture adapted to frame an image located on the open ended container.
12. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising:
a. a removable handle;
b. at least one notch located on an inner surface of said sidewall;
c. at least one flange projecting outward from the handle;
d. at least one arm extending downward from said at least one flange;
e. said at least one arm adapted to removably engage said at least one notch on said sidewall; and
f. said at least one flange adapted to engage a rim of said sidewall.
13. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the removable medallion includes at least one nub adapted to engage at least one aperture in said medallion holder.
14. The apparatus of claim 9 , wherein the removable medallion includes at least one nub adapted to engage at least one aperture in said medallion holder.
15. The apparatus of claim 8 , wherein the semi-circular arms are vertically offset to accommodate an open ended container.
16. The apparatus of claim 8 , further comprising:
a. a vertical wall extending downward from the medallion holder; and
b. a laterally extending bottom plate connected to the vertical wall, the bottom plate adapted to support a said second open ended container.
17. An apparatus for holding an open ended container, comprising:
a. a weighted base comprising a first portion of a wire shaped into a coil in a horizontal plane;
b. said wire having a second portion extending from the outer edge of said weighted base to form a spiral expanded coil portion; and
c. said spiral expanded coil portion providing a holding portion comprising a hollow chamber adapted to hold the container, said container formed by said second portion of said wire extending upwardly from the weighted base in a spiral coil shape.
18. An apparatus for holding an open ended container, comprising:
a. a weighted base having an outer edge;
b. a sidewall extending upward from said weighted base, said sidewall comprising a plurality of swirled elements forming the circumference of said sidewall;
c. each swirled element attached at a lower end to said weighted base, each swirled element separated from each adjacent swirled element as each said swirled element extends upward from said weighted base; and
d. said sidewall providing a holding chamber surrounded and formed by said plurality of swirled elements as said plurality of swirled elements extend upward from said weighted base, said holding chamber adapted to hold said open ended container.
19. The apparatus of claim 18 , wherein:
a. each of said plurality of swirled elements has a vertical dimension different from each other swirled elements.
20. The apparatus of claim 18 , wherein:
a. each of said plurality of swirled elements has an upper end comprising a flat horizontal surface, each said flat horizontal surface adapted to engage a horizontal extending rim flange portion of said open ended container.
21. The apparatus of claim 20 , wherein:
a. each of said upper ends of said swirled elements are connected to an adjacent upper end to form a continuous flat horizontal surface adapted to engage the horizontal extending rim flange of said open ended container.
22. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein an upper surface of the weighted ring includes a plurality of notches adapted to facilitate removal of the open ended container.
23. The apparatus of claim 10 , wherein the aperture includes a washer adapted to form a seal between the weighted base and the cooling pack.
24. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the weighted ring is a circular weight molded into the weighted base.
25. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein an upper surface of the weighted base includes a raised portion adapted to provide a friction fit with the open ended container.
26. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein an upper surface of the weighted ring includes a raised portion adapted to provide a friction fit with the open ended container.
27. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein an upper surface of the cooling pack includes a raised portion adapted to provide a friction fit with the open ended container.
28. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein an upper surface of the weighted base includes one of a raised circular portion and a raised square portion.
29. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the weighted base is molded separately from the sidewall.
30. The apparatus of claim 29 , wherein the weighted base and the sidewall are permanently joined together.
31. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the arm is made from an elastomer material adapted to grip the sidewall.
32. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the arm is adapted to engage a thick portion of the sidewall.
33. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising:
a. an identification medallion assembly including a removable medallion and a medallion holder, said removable medallion adapted to removably engage said medallion holder;
b. a vertical wall extending downward from said identification medallion;
c. at least two semi-circular arms laterally extending from said vertical wall, said semi-circular arms adapted to support a second open ended container; and
d. a bottom plate laterally extending from said vertical wall, said bottom plate adapted to support the second open ended container.
34. The apparatus of claim 33 , further comprising:
a. at least one notch located on an inner surface of said sidewall;
b. a flange projecting outward from the medallion holder, said flange adapted to engage a rim of the sidewall; and
c. an arm extending downward from said flange, said arm adapted to removably engage said notch on said sidewall.
35. The apparatus of claim 33 , further comprising a prong laterally extending from said vertical wall, said prong adapted to engage an aperture in the sidewall.
36. The apparatus of claim 34 , further comprising a rotating swivel disposed between the sidewall and the arm, the swivel adapted to maintain an upright position of the second open ended container.
37. The apparatus of claim 33 , wherein the semi-circular arms are vertically offset to accommodate an open ended container.
38. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising:
a. a handle having a first end and a second end, said first end opposite said second end;
b. at least two notches located on an inner surface of said sidewall;
c. an identification medallion assembly including a removable medallion, a medallion holder, a top hook disposed at the first end of said handle, and a bottom hook disposed at the second end of said handle;
d. said removable medallion adapted to removably engage said medallion holder; and
e. said top hook and said bottom hook adapted to removably engage said notches on said sidewalls.
39. The apparatus of claim 38 , wherein the removable medallion includes at least one nub adapted to engage at least one aperture in said medallion holder.
40. The apparatus of claim 38 , wherein at least one of the top hook and the bottom hook are made from an elastomer material.
41. The apparatus of claim 38 , wherein at least one of the top hook and the bottom hook include a flexible latch with a friction locking detent adapted to removably engage the sidewall.
Priority Applications (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US14/258,555 US20150297009A1 (en) | 2014-04-22 | 2014-04-22 | Weighted Cup Holder and Identification Medallion |
PCT/US2015/026762 WO2015164303A1 (en) | 2014-04-22 | 2015-04-21 | Weighted cup holder and identification medallion |
US14/713,528 US20150297010A1 (en) | 2014-04-22 | 2015-05-15 | Weighted Cup Holder and Identification Medallion |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US14/258,555 US20150297009A1 (en) | 2014-04-22 | 2014-04-22 | Weighted Cup Holder and Identification Medallion |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US14/713,528 Continuation-In-Part US20150297010A1 (en) | 2014-04-22 | 2015-05-15 | Weighted Cup Holder and Identification Medallion |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20150297009A1 true US20150297009A1 (en) | 2015-10-22 |
Family
ID=54320890
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US14/258,555 Abandoned US20150297009A1 (en) | 2014-04-22 | 2014-04-22 | Weighted Cup Holder and Identification Medallion |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US20150297009A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2015164303A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20220378234A1 (en) * | 2021-05-25 | 2022-12-01 | Kevin T. PARADIS | Wood veneer beverage container sleeve |
Families Citing this family (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE102023109731A1 (en) | 2023-04-18 | 2024-10-24 | Kevin Kirschner | restraint device and mobile living unit |
Family Cites Families (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2128466A (en) * | 1937-03-11 | 1938-08-30 | Machotka Adolf | Detachable handle for paper drinking cups |
US3844460A (en) * | 1973-01-04 | 1974-10-29 | A Courtright | Holder for can or bottle of beer or other beverage container |
US4643326A (en) * | 1985-05-24 | 1987-02-17 | Janler Corporation | Drinking cup construction |
GB2294868A (en) * | 1994-11-10 | 1996-05-15 | Best Sector Investments Limite | Receptacle with detachable handle |
USD375229S (en) * | 1994-12-12 | 1996-11-05 | Dibella James | Weighted cupholder |
US5653124A (en) * | 1995-02-01 | 1997-08-05 | Weber; Martin | Refrigerated insulated beverage container system |
US6151910A (en) * | 1999-11-09 | 2000-11-28 | Hazen; Steven R. | Kit for converting used buckets into coolers |
CN2412487Y (en) * | 2000-01-11 | 2001-01-03 | 李进丰 | Improved glass holder |
US20060169860A1 (en) * | 2005-07-12 | 2006-08-03 | Trendscape U.S.A. Llc | Insulating beverage container holder |
US20120211629A1 (en) * | 2011-02-23 | 2012-08-23 | Shaw Thomas J | Holder for Beverage Containers |
DE202012000824U1 (en) * | 2012-01-17 | 2012-04-03 | Sabine Ramm | Storage and holding device |
-
2014
- 2014-04-22 US US14/258,555 patent/US20150297009A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2015
- 2015-04-21 WO PCT/US2015/026762 patent/WO2015164303A1/en active Application Filing
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20220378234A1 (en) * | 2021-05-25 | 2022-12-01 | Kevin T. PARADIS | Wood veneer beverage container sleeve |
Also Published As
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WO2015164303A1 (en) | 2015-10-29 |
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Owner name: TCBA, LLC, WISCONSIN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:WAWRZYSZAK, BARTOSZ PIOTR;SMITH, PAUL ARTELL;GANTZ, CHRIS;REEL/FRAME:032729/0167 Effective date: 20140422 |
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