CONTAINER SYSTEM AND METHOD

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63/659,286, filed Jun. 12, 2025, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Containers, for example, beverage containers, may have handles to make carrying or holding the container easier, more convenient, more comfortable, and/or more ergonomic. However, such handles may be bulky or otherwise impede storage or transport of the container. Therefore, a container with a handle that is movable between an outer or extended position and an inner or retracted position may be desired.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure relates to a handle, as described herein, that is movable between an outer or extended position and an inner or retracted position.

This section is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This section is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Non-limiting and non-exhaustive examples are described with reference to the following Figures.

FIG. 1 illustrates a top rear perspective view of a container system, constructed in accordance with principles of this disclosure according to an example.

FIG. 2A illustrates a bottom rear perspective view of the container system of FIG. 1, according to an example.

FIG. 2B illustrates a bottom front perspective view of the container system of FIG. 1, according to an example.

FIG. 3A illustrates a top view of the container system of FIG. 1, with a lid cover closed and a handle in a closed position, according to an example.

FIG. 3B illustrates a top view of the container system of FIG. 1, with a lid cover open and a handle in an open position, according to an example.

FIG. 4 illustrates a top rear perspective exploded view of the container system of FIG. 1, according to an example.

FIG. 5 illustrates a top rear perspective exploded view of a collar sub-assembly of the container system of FIG. 1, according to an example.

FIG. 6A illustrates a top perspective view of an upper collar of the collar sub-assembly of FIG. 5, according to an example.

FIG. 6B illustrates a bottom perspective view of an upper collar of the collar sub- assembly of FIG. 5, according to an example.

FIG. 6C illustrates a vertical cross-section of an upper collar of the collar sub-assembly of FIG. 5, according to an example.

FIG. 7A illustrates a top perspective view of a lower collar of the collar sub-assembly of FIG. 5, according to an example.

FIG. 7B illustrates a bottom perspective view of a lower collar of the collar sub-assembly of FIG. 5, according to an example.

FIG. 7C illustrates a vertical cross-section of a lower collar of the collar sub-assembly of FIG. 5, according to an example.

FIG. 8A illustrates a top perspective view of an insert of the collar sub-assembly of FIG. 5, according to an example.

FIG. 8B illustrates a bottom perspective view of an insert of the collar sub-assembly of FIG. 5, according to an example.

FIG. 8C illustrates a vertical cross-section of an insert of the collar sub-assembly of FIG. 5, according to an example.

FIG. 9 illustrates a vertical cross-section of an insert inserted into a lower collar of the collar sub-assembly of FIG. 5, according to an example.

FIG. 10A illustrates a rear top perspective view of a handle core of the collar sub-assembly of FIG. 5, according to an example.

FIG. 10B illustrates a rear bottom perspective view of a handle core of the collar sub-assembly of FIG. 5, according to an example.

FIG. 10C illustrates a partial top view of a handle core of the collar sub-assembly of FIG. 5, according to an example.

FIG. 11A illustrates a first rear top perspective view of a handle overmould of the collar sub-assembly of FIG. 5, according to an example.

FIG. 11B illustrates a second rear top perspective view of a handle overmould of the collar sub-assembly of FIG. 5, according to an example.

FIG. 12A illustrates a bottom perspective view of a button of the collar sub-assembly of FIG. 5, according to an example.

FIG. 12B illustrates a top perspective view of a button of the collar sub-assembly of FIG. 5, according to an example.

FIG. 13 illustrates a vertical cross-section of a portion of the container system of FIG. 1, according to an example.

FIG. 14A illustrates a horizontal cross-section of a portion of the collar sub-assembly of FIG. 5, with a handle in a first position, according to an example.

FIG. 14B illustrates a horizontal cross-section of a portion of the collar sub-assembly of FIG. 5, with a handle in a second position, according to an example.

FIG. 15A illustrates a vertical cross-section of a portion of the collar sub-assembly of FIG. 5, with a handle in a first position, according to an example.

FIG. 15B illustrates a vertical cross-section of a portion of the collar sub-assembly of FIG. 5, with a handle in a second position, according to an example.

FIG. 16 illustrates an example method for moving a movable handle of the disclosed systems between a first position and a second position, according to an example.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, references are made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustrations specific embodiments or examples. These aspects may be combined, other aspects may be utilized, and structural changes may be made without departing from the present disclosure. Examples may be practiced as methods, systems, or devices. The following detailed description is therefore not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present disclosure is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Disclosed herein are example handles, as described herein, that are movable between an outer or extended position and an inner or retracted position. Such a handle, as disclosed, may provide a user with a stable, ergonomic, comfortable, secure, and/or comfortable feature by which to hold or carry a container. The disclosed handle is movable between a position wherein it is extended, open, or “popped-out” away from the body of the container, so that a user may hold onto the handle; and a position wherein it is retracted, closed, or “pushed-in” toward the body of the container, so that it takes up less space away from the container and may make storage or transport of the container easier. In some examples, the handle may be able to be placed in more than two positions, for a more customizable use by the user.

In an example, the container is a food or beverage container; for example, a mug or cup for carrying coffee, tea, water, soup, or other liquid or solid food and beverages. In other examples, the handle may be applied to other forms of containers and carriers, such as cooking vessels (e.g., pots and pans or others), coolers, storage containers, luggage, tools, or others. In the particular example where the container is a beverage container, the handle may be beneficial to the user carrying or drinking from the beverage in an extended position, while the handle in a retracted position may make it easier for the user to place the container suitably in a cupboard, on a shelf, in a cupholder of a vehicle or seat, in a backpack or other pack, or in another space for storage or transport.

In an example, the handle may be actuated from a first position to a second position, or vice versa, by a manual action by the user. For example, a user may push or pull on the handle or container to move the handle from one position to the other. In an example, the handle may be actuated from the first position to the second position, or vice versa, by a mechanical action that may include a different type of user action. For example, a user may interact with a button, switch, lever, pull, stop, knob, or other mechanical feature that the user may interact with in order to move the handle from one position to the other.

These and other examples will be explained in more detail below with respect to FIG. 1 to FIG. 16. Not all features may be shown in all figures.

FIG. 1 illustrates a top rear perspective view of a container system 10, constructed in accordance with principles of this disclosure. FIG. 2A illustrates a bottom rear perspective view of the container system 10, and FIG. 2B illustrates a bottom front perspective view of the container system 10. In an example, container system 10 may be configured to hold a beverage. Container system 10 includes a lid portion/sub-assembly 20, through which a user may ultimately drink and/or pour the beverage, and/or fill the container system. Container system 10 includes a body portion/sub-assembly 40, that is configured to hold a liquid such as the beverage. Container system 10 includes a collar portion/sub-assembly 30, situated between (and connected to both) the lid portion 20 and the body portion 40. Collar portion 30 may be configured so that the beverage may flow therethrough between the lid portion 20 and the body portion 40. Collar portion 30 may include a handle 310 that is movable between a plurality of positions. Collar portion 30 may include an actuator, such as button 306, that may be utilized by a user to actuate the handle 310 from a first position to a second position. FIG. 1 illustrates handle 310 in a retracted position. FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate handle 310 in an extended position.

FIG. 3A illustrates a top view of the container system 10, with a lid cover 204 in a closed position and the handle 310 in the retracted position. FIG. 3B illustrates a top view of the container system 10, with lid cover 204 in an open position and the handle 310 in the extended position.

FIG. 4 illustrates a top rear perspective exploded view of the container system 10. In some examples, lid portion 20, collar portion 30, and body portion 40 connect in a manner that aligns them along a vertical axis Y. In some examples, lid portion 20, collar portion 30, and/or body portion 40 have a circular horizontal cross-section with a center at axis Y. In some examples, lid portion 20 connects at a lower end 212 to collar portion 30. In some examples, body portion 40 connects at an upper end 412 to collar portion 30. In some examples, lid portion 20 is removably connected to collar portion 30. In some examples, collar portion 30 is removably connected to body portion 40. In examples, where components are removably connected, the removable connection may aid cleaning, sanitizing, filling, storage, manufacture, and/or maintenance of the container system 10 and its components.

FIG. 5 illustrates a top rear perspective exploded view of the collar sub-assembly 30 of container system 10. Collar portion/sub-assembly 30 includes an upper collar 302 having an upper end 338 and a lower end 340. Upper end 338 may be configured to connect to lower end 212 of lid portion 20. The upper collar 302 defines a through-opening 320 through which a fluid (for example, air or a liquid such as a beverage) may flow. The collar portion 30 includes a lower collar 304 having an upper end 348 and a lower end 350. The upper end 348 may be configured to connect to lower end 340 of the upper collar 302. The lower end 350 may be configured to connect to upper end 412 of the body portion 40.

Collar portion 30 includes a handle (handle sub-assembly or handle portion) 310. Handle 310 may include a handle overmould 314 connected to a handle core 316. Handle core 316 may be configured to fit at least partially within an insert 318 that is configured to fit at least partially within lower collar 304 (for example, along a horizontal axis X). Handle core 316 may interact with (e.g., may exert a force upon and/or may have a force exerted upon by) a handle biasing member 312. In some examples, at least a portion of handle 310 is configured to move between at least a first position to a second position in a direction along axis X.

Collar portion 30 may include an actuator/button 306. Button 306 may interact with (e.g., may exert a force upon and/or may have a force exerted upon by) a button biasing member 308. In some examples, at least a portion of button 306 is configured to move between at least a first position and a second position in a direction along a horizontal axis Z. In the particular example shown, axis Z is perpendicular to axis X. In the particular example shown, both axis Z and axis X are perpendicular to axis Y. In other examples, other orientations and relation of the axes X, Y, and Z may be possible.

FIG. 6A illustrates a top perspective view of upper collar 302. FIG. 6B illustrates a bottom perspective view of upper collar 302. FIG. 6C illustrates a vertical cross-section of upper collar 302. Upper collar 302 may include an inner surface 324 and an outer surface 322. Inner surface 324 may at least partially define through-opening 320, which may define a portion of flow path FP through which a fluid may flow (for example, when container system 10 is being poured, filled, drunk from, or is changing orientations).

Upper collar 302 may include a protrusion 326 from the lower end 340 configured to connect with the lower collar 304. Upper collar 302 may include a shoulder 328 on outer surface 322 and above protrusion 326, configured to interact with lower collar 304. Upper collar 302 includes a collar connecting surface 334 at upper end 338 configured to connect with the lid portion 20. In some examples, collar connecting surface 334 may be located on the inner surface 324. In some examples, collar connecting surface 334 may include collar connecting features 336 that interact with lid portion 20 for connection. Collar connecting features 336 may include threads, latches, detents, or other appropriate connecting features.

Upper collar 302 may include a handle opening 330 to allow a portion of handle 310 to pass through. In some examples, handle opening 330 may be shaped substantially the same as the portion of handle 310 that passes through. In the particular example shown, handle opening 330 is located at the lower end 340. Upper collar 302 may include a button opening 332 to allow a portion of button 306 to pass through. In some examples, button opening 332 may be shaped substantially the same as the portion of button 306 that passes through. In the particular example shown, button opening 332 is located at the lower end 340.

In some examples, upper collar 302 includes a sealing shoulder 342 for sealing against lower collar 304, directly or via a sealing member.

FIG. 7A illustrates a top perspective view of lower collar 304. FIG. 7B illustrates a bottom perspective view of lower collar 304. FIG. 7C illustrates a vertical cross-section of lower collar 304. Lower collar 304 has an outer surface 344 and an inner surface 346. Inner surface 346 may at least partially define through-opening 349, which may define a portion of flow path FP.

Lower collar 304 includes a handle opening 352 to allow a portion of handle 310 to pass through. In some examples, handle opening 352 may be shaped substantially the same as the portion of handle 310 that passes through. In some examples, handle opening 352 may be an entry/exit opening to a handle chamber 356, which may be configured to hold or surround at least a portion of handle 310. An interior of handle chamber 356 may include one or more detents 360. Handle chamber 356 may include a handle biasing member feature 362 at an end of handle chamber 356 opposite handle opening 352. Handle biasing member feature 362 may interact with an end of handle biasing member 312 (for example, may connect with or hold in place).

Lower collar 304 may include a button opening 354 to allow a portion of button 306 to pass through. In some examples, button opening 354 may be shaped substantially the same as the portion of button 306 that passes through. In some examples, button opening 354 may be an entry/exit opening to a button chamber 358, which may be configured to hold or surround at least a portion of button 306. Button chamber 358 may include a button biasing member feature 364 at an end of button chamber 358 opposite button opening 354. Button biasing member feature 364 may interact with an end of button biasing member 308 (for example, may connect with, contact, or hold in place).

Lower collar 304 may include a connecting surface 366 at the lower end 350 configured to connect to body portion 40. In some examples, connecting surface 366 may be on inner surface 346. In some examples, connecting surface 366 may include connecting features 368 that interact with body portion 40 for connection. Connecting features 368 may include threads, latches, detents, or other appropriate connecting features. Lower collar 304 may include a connecting groove 370 configured to interact with upper collar 302 (for example, to receive protrusion 326). Lower collar 304 may include a sealing member groove 372 for sealing against body portion 40, directly or via a sealing member (for example, sealing member 420).

In some examples, lower collar 304 may include a step-over 374 on inner surface 346 that defines a change in diameter of through-opening 349. In such examples, this step-over 374 or a similar feature, may contribute to structural integrity of the lower collar 304 during use and/or during manufacturing (for example, during a molding process).

FIG. 8A illustrates a top perspective view of insert 318. FIG. 8B illustrates a bottom perspective view of insert 318. FIG. 8C illustrates a vertical cross-section of insert 318. FIG. 9 illustrates a vertical cross-section of insert 318 inserted into handle chamber 356 of lower collar 304. Insert 318 has an outer surface 376 and an inner surface 378. Insert 318 may be configured to fit within the handle chamber 356 of lower collar 304. Insert 318 includes an open external-facing end 380 at handle opening 352, and an opposite open internal-facing end 382. An inner volume 394 is defined by inner surface 378 and bounded at one end by external-facing end 380 and at an opposite end by internal-facing end 382.

Insert 318 may include one or more outer ribs 384 that run along at least a portion of outer surface 376 in a direction along at least a portion of the length of insert 318 between the external-facing end 380 and internal-facing end 382. Outer ribs 384 may be configured to fit within detents 360 of the handle chamber 356, to securely connect the insert 318 within the handle chamber 356, to provide proper alignment of the insert 318 within the handle chamber 356, and/or to prevent rotation of the insert within the handle chamber 356.

Insert 318 may include a chamber connection feature 388, for example, a latch, protrusion, detent, groove, pin, or other connection feature. Chamber connection feature 388 may be configured to interact with handle chamber 356 and/or a portion of handle 310 to secure the insert 318 within handle chamber 356, to prevent movement of insert 318 in a direction along axis X within handle chamber 356, to correctly position insert 318 within handle chamber 356, and/or to prevent inadvertent removal of insert 318 from handle chamber 356.

Insert 318 may include one or more inner ribs 386 that run along at least a portion of inner surface 378 in a direction along at least a portion of the length of insert 318 between the external-facing end 380 and internal-facing end 382.

Insert 318 may include an external lip 390 that surrounds external-facing end 380.

Insert 318 may include a button opening 392 configured for at least a portion of button 306 to pass through.

FIG. 10A illustrates a rear top prospective view of the handle core 316 of handle 310. FIG. 10B illustrates a rear bottom prospective view of handle core 316. FIG. 10C illustrates a partial top view of the handle core 316. Handle core 316 includes a handle body 396 and a lateral core 398.

Handle body 396 includes an outward-facing surface 303, configured to face away from an outer surface 422 of body portion 40. Handle body 396 includes an inward-facing surface 305, configured to face toward outer surface 422 of body portion 40. Outward-facing surface 303 is configured to connect to and/or contact handle overmould 314. Outward-facing surface 303 may include one or more overmould interface features 307 configured to interact with corresponding features of overmould 314, to facilitate connection. In the particular example shown, overmould interface features 307 include ridges, although other features may be contemplated in other examples. Outward-facing surface 303 may include an overmould receipt channel 327, configured to receive a portion of handle overmould 314.

Lateral core 398 includes an outer surface 301. Lateral core 398 is configured to fit at least partially within inner volume 394 of insert 318; in such a configuration, portions of outer surface 301, defined as insert contact surfaces 309, contact the inner surface 378 of insert 318. Lateral core 398 includes one or more grooves 311 that run along at least a portion of the length of the lateral core 398. Grooves 311 are configured to receive inner ribs 386 of insert 318, to securely connect the lateral core 398 within the insert 318, to provide proper alignment of the lateral core 398 within the insert 318, and/or to prevent rotation of the lateral core 398 within the insert 318.

In some examples, lateral core 398 includes one or more drain openings/drain channels 313 in order to facilitate liquid draining from portions of the lateral core 398 (for example, if moisture is present during usage, storage, transport, cleaning, or sanitizing of the container system 10 and/or its components).

In some examples, lateral core 398 includes a handle biasing member feature 315 configured to interact with an end of handle biasing member 312 (for example, may connect with or hold in place). Handle biasing member feature 315 may engage an end of handle biasing member 312 opposite to the end of handle biasing member 312 being engaged with by handle biasing member feature 362.

Lateral core 398 includes a recessed surface 317. Further recessed into the recessed surface 317 is a pin slot 323. Pin slot 323 includes a handle-retracted detent 319 and a handle-extended detent 321. The shapes and dimensions of the handle-retracted detent 319 and the handle extended detent 321 are selected such that a pin 351 can remain securely within them unless acted on by an adequate force (as discussed further below). A ramped edge 325 of pin slot 323 may extend between handle-retracted detent 319 and handle-extended detent 321. Distance D1 represents a width of a narrowest portion of a channel 365 of pin slot 323. Channel 365 is situated between handle-retracted detent 319 and handle-retracted detent 321. The distance D1 is selected to be at least as wide as the width/diameter of pin 351 of button 306, so that the pin 351 may pass through the channel 365 when the handle 310 is being moved from one position to another. A ramp angle Al of ramped edge 325 is selected such that when the pin 351 is being moved along ramped edge 325 during movement of the handle 310, movement of the handle is smooth (e.g., instead of jarring) and to minimize force required for retraction of the handle. Radius R1 that defines a curve at the intersection of the ramped edge 325 is selected such that the pin 351 may be held securely within handle-extended detent 321 unless acted on by an adequate force, and also such that the pin 351 may smoothly transition out of handle-extended detent 321 to ride along ramped edge 325 when a force is applied to the handle 310 in an inward direction along axis X to move the handle toward the retracted position.

FIG. 11A illustrates a first rear top prospective view of the handle overmould 314. FIG. 11B illustrates a second rear top prospective view of handle overmould 314. Handle overmould 314 includes an overmould body 333 and a core protrusion 335. Core protrusion 335 is configured to connect to lateral core 398 of handle core 316. In the particular example shown, core protrusion 335 is configured to fit within overmould receipt channel 327. In some examples, the shape(s) of overmould receipt channel 327 and core protrusion 335 may be such that rotation of core protrusion 335 within overmould receipt channel 327 may be prevented. In the particular example shown, overmould receipt channel 327 and core protrusion 335 each have a substantially U-shaped vertical cross-section; in other examples, other shapes may be contemplated.

Overmould body 333 includes an outward-facing surface 329, configured to face away from the outer surface 422 of body portion 40. Overmould body 333 includes an inward-facing surface 331, configured to face toward outer surface 422 of body portion 40. Inward-facing surface 331 is configured to connect to and/or contact handle core 316. Inward-facing surface 331 may include one or more core body interface features 337 configured to interact with corresponding overmould interface features of handle core 316, to facilitate connection. In the particular example shown, core body interface features 337 include grooves (for example, that may receive ridges of overmould interface features 307), although other features may be contemplated in other examples.

In some examples, handle overmould 314 is removably connected to handle core 316. In some examples, handle overmould 314 is formed integrally with handle core 316. In some examples, handle overmould 314 and handle core 316 represent a single component. In some examples, handle overmould 314 and handle core 316 are permanently connected (for example, by adhesive or via welding, soldering, bonding, or other connection means). In some examples, handle overmould 314 and handle core 316 are formed from the same material(s). In some examples, handle overmould 314 and handle core 316 are formed from different materials (for example, the handle overmould 314 may include a softer material than the material of handle core 316 for comfort or increased grip of the user).

FIG. 12A illustrates a bottom prospective view of the button 306. FIG. 12B illustrates a top prospective view of the button 306. Button 306 includes an upper surface 339 and lower surface 341. Button 306 is configured to fit within button chamber 358, and has opposite ends: external-facing end 343 and internal-facing end 345. At external-facing end 343, button 306 includes an end surface 347 (for example, that may be acted upon or interacted with by a user). Toward external-facing end 343, button 306 includes a button body 363. In some examples, button body 363 includes at least one void/pocket 357 on lower surface 341, to reduce or eliminate the occurrence of sinks during manufacturing.

Toward internal-facing end 345, button 306 has a tongue portion 353. Tongue portion 353 may include a recess 361 on lower surface 341. The recess 361 may include a button biasing member features 355. Button biasing member features 355 may engage an end of button biasing member 308 opposite to the end of button biasing member 308 being engaged with by button biasing member feature 364.

Tongue portion 353 may include the pin 351 within the recess 361 toward the internal-facing end 345. The pin 351 may include a knob, protrusion, bump, or other feature. The pin 351 may, in some examples, have a substantially circular horizontal cross-section, although other shapes may be contemplated. The pin 351 may be configured (e.g., may have an appropriate width/diameter, shape, and/or height) to fit within handle-retracted detent 319 and handle-extended detent 321.

The end of recess 361 adjacent to button body 363 may be defined by a pair of sidewalls 359. A length L1 of the button body 363 between the end surface 347 and sidewalls 359 is determined so as to reduce rotation of button 306 within button chamber 358 when a force or load is applied to the button 306 (particularly at end surface 347). Length L1 is maximized to prevent rotation, while also maintaining an appropriate distance D2. Distance D2 from the sidewalls 359 to the pin 351 is determined so as to minimize the amount of force that is required to move the button 306 against a biasing force (as will be described below). Distance D2 is minimized to reduce button 306 travel distance and required force, while also ensuring adequate dimensions for the pin 351 to maneuver within the pin slot 323 between handle-retracted detent 319 and handle-extended detent 321.

FIG. 13 illustrates a vertical cross-section of a portion of the container system 10 along a plane defined by axes Y and Z. Lid portion 20 is shown connected to collar portion 30. Collar connecting features 336 (shown in this particular example as threads) of upper collar 302 are engaged with lid connecting features 218 (shown in this particular example as threads) of lid connecting surface 206 of lid body 202. Induction ring 214 (shown in this particular example as a round wire, although other types are possible) is located between lid body 202 and upper collar 302 to help maintain a liquid and/or gas seal and proper alignment. Lid sealing member 216 (shown in this particular example as a square gasket, although other types of sealing members are possible) is located between lid body 202 and upper collar 302 to help maintain a liquid and/or gas seal.

Upper collar 302 is shown connected to lower collar 304. Protrusion 326 of upper collar 302 is shown inserted into connecting groove 370 of lower collar 304. In some examples, the connection interface between upper collar 302 and lower collar 304 may be permanently connected via a snap-fit connection and/or induction welding (or other types of welding, soldering, fastening, etc. suitable for the materials of construction and use).

Collar portion 30 is shown connected to body portion 40. Connecting features 368 (shown in this particular example as threads) of lower collar 304 are engaged with body connecting features 418 (shown in this particular example as threads) of the body portion 40. A body sealing member 420 (shown in this particular example as a gasket, although other types of sealing members are possible) is located between lower collar 304 and an upper end 412 of body portion 40 to help maintain a liquid and/or gas seal. Body portion 40 includes an upper end 412 opposite a lower end 414. Body portion 40 includes, in some examples, a vessel 402 (for example, configured to hold one or more fluids or other contents). The vessel 402 may include one or more vessel walls. In the particular example shown, vessel 402 includes an inner wall 406 and an outer wall 404. The inner wall 406 (particularly, an inner surface 424) defines a volume 410 to hold the contents of the container system 10. Outer wall 404 includes an outer surface 422. A portion of the outer surface 422 may include a body connecting surface 416, which includes the body connecting features 418 in the example shown. In other examples, depending upon the configuration of the collar portion 30, the body connecting surface 416 may be located on inner surface 424. In some examples, outer wall 404 and inner wall 406 may define a volume 408 between them. Volume 408 may be configured so as to provide insulation to the container system 10 (e.g., to maintain hot or cold contents at a desired temperature). Volume 408 may, in examples, be under vacuum conditions, and/or may be filled with air, other gasses, various liquids, solids, gels, epoxies, or other materials.

Flow path FP is defined within container system 10 for the movement of fluids within and into/out of the container system 10. For example, when pouring or drinking from container system 10, fluid may flow from volume 410, through lower collar through-opening 349, through upper collar through-opening 320, and through lid opening 208 (for example, when lid cover 204 is in an open position). The fluid flow may move along flow path FP in the opposite direction when filling the container system 10 or changing the position of the container system 10.

FIG. 14A illustrates a horizontal cross-section along a plane defined by axes X and Z of a portion of the collar sub-assembly 30, with a handle 310 in a first retracted/closed/pushed-in position. See also FIG. 15A, which illustrates a vertical cross-section along a plane defined by axes X and Y of a portion of the collar sub-assembly 30, with the handle in the first position. When the handle 10 is in the retracted position, the pin 351 of button 306 is situated within handle-retracted detent 319 of pin slot 323. A force F1 of the button biasing member 308 (shown in this particular example as a coiled spring, although other types of biasing members may be contemplated) acts in an external direction along axis Z against button 306 to maintain the pin 351 within the handle-retracted detent. The magnitude of force F1 maintains the position of pin 351 within the walls of detent 319, so that the handle position cannot be too easily moved from the retracted position, for example, by force F3 (see below) or a force on the end surface 347 that is less than force F1.

When a force F2 is exerted on the end surface 347 of button 306 (for example, by a user pushing the button), in a direction opposite to and with a magnitude greater than force F1, the button 306 is pushed in an inward direction along axis Z (compressing button biasing member 308) and the pin 351 is moved out of the handle-retracted detent 319 and into the channel 365 of the pin slot 323. When the button 306 is pushed inward, the sidewalls 359 may contact the button biasing member feature 364, preventing excess inward motion of the button 306 and preventing the internal-facing end 345 of button 306 from contacting the opposite wall 367 of the pin slot 323 (which would cause friction and impede proper movement of the pin 351 within the pin slot 323). A force F3 of the handle biasing member 312 (shown in this particular example as a coiled spring, although other types of biasing members may be contemplated) acts in an external direction along axis X against handle core 316 to move the handle 310 into an extended position. As force F3 acts on the handle core 316, pin slot 323 is moved relative to the pin 351 so that the pin 351 slides along the ramped edge 325 of the pin slot 323 toward the handle-extended detent 321.

FIG. 14B illustrates a horizontal cross-section along a plane defined by axes X and Z of a portion of the collar sub-assembly 30, with a handle in a second position. See also FIG. 15B, which illustrates a vertical cross-section along a plane defined by axes X and Y of a portion of the collar sub-assembly 30, with the handle in a second position. As the pin 351 moves along the ramped edge 325 within the pin slot 323, the force F3 acts on button 306. When the pin 351 enters handle-extended detent 321, the magnitude of force F3 maintains the position of pin 351 within the walls of detent 321, so that the handle position cannot be too easily moved from the extended position, for example, by a force on the outward-facing surface 303 that is less than force F3.

When the handle 310 is in an extended position, distance D3 between the outer surface 344 of lower collar 304 (and/or outer surface 422 of vessel 402) and the inward-facing surface 305 of handle 310 is such that a user can comfortably fit all or a portion of their hand and/or fingers within the gap defined with distance D3 so that the user can hold, grab, or carry the container system 10.

When a force F4 is exerted on the end surface 347 of button 306 (for example, by a user pushing on the handle 310), in a direction opposite to and with a magnitude greater than force F3, the handle 310 is pushed in an inward direction along axis X (compressing handle biasing member 312) and the pin 351 is moved out of the handle-extended detent 321 and into the channel 365 of the pin slot 323. The force F4 acts against the force F3 of the handle biasing member 312 in an internal direction along axis X to move the handle 310 into a retracted position. As force F4 acts on the handle 310, pin slot 323 is moved relative to the pin 351 so that the pin 351 slides along the ramped edge 325 of the pin slot 323 toward the handle-retracted detent 319.

FIG. 16 illustrates an example method 1600 for moving a movable handle of the disclosed systems between a first position and a second position. At example operation 1602, an external force (for example, a force on an actuator such as a button) causes a pin (for example, a pin of the actuator/button) to disengage from a first detent corresponding to a first position of a handle (for example, the first detent may be included in/on the handle).

At example operation 1604, the handle is moved, via a force from a biasing member acting on the handle, from the first position to the second position (for example, from a retracted position to an extended position).

At example operation 1606, a force from a biasing member acting on the actuator/button engages the pin with a second detent corresponding to the second position of the handle (for example, the second detent may be included in/on the handle).

At example operation 1608, an external force (for example, a force on an external surface of the handle) causes the pin to disengage from the second detent.

At example operation 1610, the handle is moved, via the continued external force on the surface of the handle, from the second position to the first position.

At example operation 1612, the force from the biasing member acting on the actuator/button engages the pin with the first detent.

In accordance with principles of this disclosure, materials of construction for the container system 10 and its components as described herein include materials which are compatible with the environment, intended contents, cleaning and sanitizing considerations, and use of container system 10. In some examples, one or more components may include different materials or the same materials. In some examples, components may include plastics, silicones, metals, composites, wood, glass, stone, other materials, or a combination of materials. In particular examples, upper collar 302 may be of a plastic material (in a particular example, polypropylene, although others are possible). In particular examples, lower collar 304 may be of a plastic material (in a particular example, polypropylene, although others are possible). In particular examples, insert 318 may be of a plastic material (in a particular example, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, although others are possible). In particular examples, button 306 may be of a plastic material (in a particular example, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, although others are possible). In particular examples, handle core 316 may be of a plastic material (in a particular example, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, although others are possible). In particular examples, handle overmould 314 may be of a plastic or silicone material (in a particular example, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene or a silicone material, although others are possible). In particular examples, lid sealing member 216 may be of a silicone material, although others are possible. In particular examples, body sealing member 420 may be of a silicone material, although others are possible. In particular examples, induction ring 214 may be of a metal material (in a particular example, stainless steel such as 304SS, although others are possible). In particular examples, button biasing member 308 may be of a metal material (in a particular example, stainless steel such as 304SS, although others are possible). In particular examples, handle biasing member 312 may be of a metal material (in a particular example, stainless steel such as 304SS, although others are possible). In particular examples, vessel 402 may be of a metal, plastic, or glass material (in a particular example, a metal such as stainless steel (e.g. 304SS), although others are possible).

For the purposes of this application, terms such as “upper,” “lower,” “upward,” and “downward” are intended to be descriptive with reference to and in relation to the orientation shown in the Figures for clarity, but the examples as practiced and included in the scope of the claims may include examples where the systems and devices are in a different orientation.

While particular uses of the technology have been illustrated and discussed above, the disclosed technology can be used with a variety of environments in accordance with many examples of the technology. The above discussion is not meant to suggest that the disclosed technology is only suitable for implementation within the environments shown and described above.

This disclosure described some aspects of the present technology with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which only some of the possible aspects were shown. Other aspects can, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the aspects set forth herein. Rather, these aspects were provided so that this disclosure was thorough and complete and fully conveyed the scope of the possible aspects to those skilled in the art.

As should be appreciated, the various aspects described with respect to the figures herein are not intended to limit the technology to the particular aspects described. Accordingly, additional configurations can be used to practice the technology herein and/or some aspects described can be excluded without departing from the methods and systems disclosed herein.

Similarly, where operations of a process are disclosed, those operations are described for purposes of illustrating the present technology and are not intended to limit the disclosure to a particular sequence of operations. For example, the operations can be performed in differing order, two or more operations can be performed concurrently, additional operations can be performed, and disclosed operations can be excluded without departing from the present disclosure. Further, each operation can be accomplished via one or more sub-operations. The disclosed processes can be repeated.

Although specific aspects were described herein, the scope of the technology is not limited to those specific aspects. One skilled in the art will recognize other aspects or improvements that are within the scope of the present technology. Therefore, the specific structure, acts, or operations are disclosed only as illustrative aspects. The scope of the technology is defined by the following claims and any equivalents therein. Examples of the disclosure may be described according to the following aspects.

Aspect 1. A container system comprising: a body; a handle movable between a first position and a second position in relation to the body; and an actuator, wherein application of a force to the actuator causes the handle to move from the first position to the second position.

Aspect 2. The container system of aspect 1, wherein application of a second force to the handle causes the handle to move from the second position to the first position.

Aspect 3. The container system of any of aspects 1-2, wherein the actuator comprises a button.

Aspect 4. The container system of any of aspects 1-3, wherein the container system is configured to hold a beverage.

Aspect 5. The container system of any of aspects 1-4, further comprising: a first detent in the handle, wherein the actuator is engaged with the first detent when the handle is in the first position; a second detent in the handle, wherein the actuator is engaged with the second detent when the handle is in the second position; and an actuator biasing member that exerts an actuator biasing force on the actuator and that engages the actuator in the first detent in the absence of the force to the actuator.

Aspect 6. The container system of any of aspects 1-5, further comprising a handle biasing member that exerts a handle biasing force on the handle.

Aspect 7. The container system of any of aspects 1-6, further comprising: a lid portion; and a collar portion connected to the body and to the lid portion, wherein: the collar portion comprises the handle and the actuator, and a flowpath is defined through the body, collar portion, and lid portion.

Aspect 8. A handle apparatus, comprising: a handle comprising a body section and a core section, the handle being movable between a first position and a second position; an actuator comprising a pin, wherein: when the handle is in the first position, the pin engages with a first detent of the handle core, and when the handle is in the second position, the pin engages with a second detent of the handle core; a handle biasing member that exerts a first biasing force on the handle to move the handle from the first position to the second position; and an actuator biasing member that exerts a second biasing force on the actuator to engage the pin with each of the first and second detents.

Aspect 9. The handle apparatus of aspect 8, wherein the handle apparatus is a component of a container system.

Aspect 10. The handle apparatus of any of aspects 8-9, wherein the container system is configured to hold a beverage.

Aspect 11. The handle apparatus of any of aspects 8-10, wherein the actuator comprises a button.

Aspect 12. The handle apparatus of any of aspects 8-11, wherein application of an external force to the actuator when the handle is in the first position causes the pin to disengage from the first detent, wherein the handle biasing member moves the handle from the first position toward the second position, and wherein the actuator biasing member engages the pin with the second detent.

Aspect 13. The handle apparatus of any of aspects 8-12, wherein application of an external force to the actuator when the handle is in the second position causes the pin to disengage from the second detent, wherein continued application of the force moves the handle from the second position toward the first position, and wherein the actuator biasing member engages the pin with the first detent.

Aspect 14. The handle apparatus of any of aspects 8-14, further comprising a ramped surface between the first detent and the second detent, wherein the pin is guided along the ramped surface when the handle is moving between the first position and the second position.

Aspect 15. A method, comprising: in response to a first external force being applied to an actuator, causing a handle of a container system to move from a first position to a second position; and in response to a second external force being applied to the handle, causing the handle to move from the second position to the first position.

Aspect 16. The method of aspect 15, further comprising: in response to the first external force, disengaging the actuator from a first detent of the handle; causing, via a handle biasing member force, the handle to move from the first position to the second position; and in response to an actuator biasing member force, engaging the actuator with a second detent of the handle.

Aspect 17. The method of any of aspects 15-16, wherein the first external force is applied in a direction opposite the actuator biasing member force, and a magnitude of the first external force is greater than a magnitude of the actuator biasing member force.

Aspect 18. The method of any of aspects 15-17, further comprising: in response to the second external force, disengaging the actuator from a second detent of the handle; causing, via the continued second external force, the handle to move from the second position to the first position; and in response to an actuator biasing member force, engaging the actuator with a first detent of the handle.

Aspect 19. The method of any of aspects 15-18, wherein the second external force is applied in a direction opposite a handle biasing member force, and a magnitude of the second external force is greater than a magnitude of the handle biasing member force.

Aspect 20. The method of any of aspects 15-19, wherein the actuator comprises a pin, the pin configured to engage with the first detent and the second detent.

Aspect 21. The method of any of aspects 15-20, wherein the container system is configured to hold a beverage.