U.S. patent application number 10/682988 was filed with the patent office on 2004-07-08 for handle for containers.
Invention is credited to Jensen, Simon Hem.
Application Number | 20040129702 10/682988 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32685692 |
Filed Date | 2004-07-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040129702 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Jensen, Simon Hem |
July 8, 2004 |
Handle for containers
Abstract
A handle for a closure for closing an opening of a container,
said handle comprising an engaging part with engaging means for
engaging with the closure, and a handling part pivotally connected
to the engaging part so as to allow the handling part to be folded
into a folded configuration and unfolded into a non-folded
configuration in relation to the engaging part, wherein the
engaging means is adapted to establish a fixed engagement with the
closure, to provide an improved handle, which supports handling of
containers in a general way
Inventors: |
Jensen, Simon Hem;
(Charlottenlund, DK) |
Correspondence
Address: |
HARNESS, DICKEY & PIERCE, P.L.C.
P.O. BOX 8910
RESTON
VA
20195
US
|
Family ID: |
32685692 |
Appl. No.: |
10/682988 |
Filed: |
October 14, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60418332 |
Oct 15, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
220/212.5 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 51/242 20130101;
B65D 71/504 20130101; B65D 23/104 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/212.5 |
International
Class: |
B65D 025/28 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Oct 15, 2002 |
DK |
2002 01580 |
Claims
1. A handle for a closure for closing an opening of a container,
said handle comprising an engaging part with engaging means for
engaging with the closure, and a handling part pivotally connected
to the engaging part so as to allow the handling part to be folded
into a folded configuration and unfolded into a non-folded
configuration in relation to the engaging part, wherein the
engaging means is adapted to establish a fixed engagement with the
closure.
2. A handle according to claim 1, wherein the engaging part forms a
compartment with an opening for receiving the closure and/or an
opening of the container therein.
3. A handle according to claim 1, wherein the engaging part is
formed integrated with the closure.
4. A handle according to claim 3, wherein the engaging part and the
closure are moulded in one piece.
5. A handle according to claim 1, wherein an opening is defined
within the handling part said opening being of a size allowing the
closure or the engaging part to be received within the opening when
the handling part is in the folded configuration.
6. A handle according to claim 1, wherein a top portion of the
engaging part forms a first contact surface of substantially the
same size and shape as a second contact surface of the handling
part the first and second contact surfaces being arranged to abut
each other when the handling part is in the folded
configuration.
7. A handle according to claim 1, comprising means for securing the
handling part in the folded configuration.
8. A handle according to claim 1, wherein the means for securing
the handling part is incorporated in the connection between the
handling part and the engaging part.
9. A handle according to claim 1, wherein the means for securing
the handling part comprises at least one protrusion on either the
handling part or the engaging part, the protrusion being adapted to
engage a corresponding catch on the other one of either the
handling part or the engaging part not provided with the
protrusion.
10. A handle according to claim 1, wherein the connection between
the engaging part and the handling part is weakened to allow the
handling part to be removed from the handle.
11. A handle according to claim 1, wherein the engaging part
comprises a locking means adapted to lock the closure in a fixed
position on a container, the handling part being connected
pivotally to the locking means.
12. A handle according claim 11, wherein the connection between the
locking means and the handling part is adapted to break the locking
means upon applying a force to the handling part, so as to allow
removal of the closure from the container.
13. A handle according to claim 1, wherein the handling part
comprises a substantially plan surface area supporting application
of an image.
14. A handle according to claim 13, wherein the surface is facing
upwards when the handling part is in the non-folded
configuration.
15. A handle according to claim 13, wherein the surface is facing
upwards when the handling part is in the folded configuration.
16. A handle according to claim 1, wherein the handling part
comprises connecting means for connecting the handle to support
means.
17. A handle according to claim 16, wherein the connecting means is
formed as a slot within the handling part for receiving the support
means therein.
18. A handle according to claim 1, and made from one or more
materials selected from the group consisting of HDPE, LLDPE, LDPE,
PP, ABS, SAN, SB, PS, PA6, PA66, PC and POM.
19. A handle according to claim 1, and moulded in one piece.
20. A handle according to claim 1, wherein the engaging part and
the handling part are made of different materials.
21. A handle for handling a container having a container body part
and a neck portion, said handle comprising an engaging part with
engaging means for engaging with the neck portion, a handling part
pivotally connected to the engaging part so as to allow the
handling part to be folded into a folded configuration and unfolded
into a non-folded configuration in relation to the engaging part,
the handling part extending further outwardly from the container in
the non-folded configuration than in the folded configuration,
wherein an opening is defined within the handling part, said
opening being of a size allowing the neck portion to be received
within the opening when the handling part is in the folded
configuration.
22. A handle according to claim 21, wherein the engaging means is
constituted by an opening defined in the engaging part, the opening
being of a size allowing the engaging means to be arranged over the
neck portion.
23. A handle according to claim 21, comprising means for securing
the handling part in the folded configuration.
24. A handle according to claim 23, wherein the means for securing
the handling part is incorporated in the connection between the
handling part and the engaging part.
25. A handle according to claim 23, wherein the means for securing
the handling part comprises at least one protrusion on either the
handling part or the engaging part, the protrusion being adapted to
engage a corresponding catch on the other one of either the
handling part or the engaging part not provided with the
protrusion.
26. A handle according to claim 21, wherein the handling part is
formed with a slot for receiving support means therein.
27. A handle according to claim 21, wherein the handling part
comprises a substantially plan surface area supporting application
of an image.
28. A handle according to claim 27, wherein the surface is facing
upwards when the handling part is in the non-folded
configuration.
29. A handle according to claim 27, wherein the surface is facing
upwards when the handling part is in the folded configuration.
30. A handle according to claim 21, and made from one or more
materials selected from the group consisting of HDPE, LLDPE, LDPE,
PP, ABS, SAN, SB, PS, PA6, PA66, PC and POM.
31. A handle according to claim 21, and moulded in one piece.
32. A handle according to claim 21, wherein the engaging part and
the handling part are made of different materials.
33. A handle for a container having a container body part and a
neck portion, said handle comprising a handling part provided with
connection means for handling the container, and an engaging part
forming an opening for receiving the neck portion therein, wherein
the engaging part being provided with a plurality of gripping means
extending inwardly from the periphery of the opening.
34. A handle according to claim 33, wherein the handling part is
pivotally connected to the engaging part so as to allow a folded
and a non-folded configuration of the handle.
35. A handle according to claim 34, wherein an opening is defined
within the handling part allowing the neck portion to be received
within the opening when the handling part is in the folded
configuration.
36. A handle according to claim 34, comprising means for securing
the handling part in the folded configuration.
37. A handle according to claim 36, wherein the means for securing
the handling part is incorporated in the connection between the
handling part and the engaging part.
38. A handle according to claim 36, wherein the means for securing
the handling part comprises at least one protrusion on either the
handling part or the engaging part, the protrusion being adapted to
engage a corresponding catch on the other one of either the
handling part or the engaging part not provided with the
protrusion.
39. A handle according to claim 33, wherein the connection means is
formed as a slot within the handling part for receiving a support
means therein.
40. A handle according to claim 33, wherein the handling part
comprises a substantially plan surface area supporting application
of an image.
41. A handle according to claim 40, wherein the surface is facing
upwards when the handling part is in the non-folded
configuration.
42. A handle according to claim 40, wherein the surface is facing
upwards when the handling part is in the folded configuration.
43. A handle according to claim 33, wherein the engaging part forms
a plurality of openings, each being adapted for receiving the neck
portion therein.
44. A handle according to claim 33, and made from one or more
materials selected from the group consisting of HDPE, LLDPE, LDPE,
PP, ABS, SAN, SB, PS, PA6, PA66, PC and POM.
45. A handle according to claim 33, and moulded in one piece.
46. A handle according to claim 33, wherein the engaging part and
the handling part are made of different materials.
47. A container set comprising a container with an opening and a
closure for closing the opening, a handling part for handling the
container or closure, and an engaging part forming an opening for
receiving the closure or container therein, the engaging part being
provided with a plurality of gripping means extending inwardly from
the periphery of the opening, wherein the opening, the gripping
means and closure or container are dimensioned to apply a pressure
against the closure or container when received in the opening.
48. A container set according to claim 47, wherein the handling
part is pivotally connected to the engaging part so as to allow a
folded and a non-folded configuration of the handling part in
relation to the engaging part.
49. A container set according to claim 48, wherein an opening is
defined w thin the handling part allowing the closure or container
to be received within the opening when the handling part is in the
folded configuration.
50. A container set according to claim 48, comprising means for
securing the handling part in the folded configuration in relation
to the engaging part.
51. A container set according to claim 50, wherein the means for
securing the handling part is incorporated in the connection
between the handling part and the engaging part.
52. A container set according to claim 50, wherein the means for
securing the handling part comprises at least one protrusion on
either the handling part or the engaging part, the protrusion being
adapted to engage a corresponding catch on the other one of either
the handling part or the engaging part not provided with the
protrusion.
53. A container set according to claim 47, wherein the connection
means is formed as a slot within the handling part for receiving a
support means therein.
54. A container set according to claim 47, wherein the handling
part comprises a substantially plan surface area supporting
application of an image.
55. A container set according to claim 54, wherein the surface is
facing upwards when the handling part is in the non-folded
configuration.
56. A container set according to claim 54, wherein the surface is
facing upwards when the handling part is in the folded
configuration.
57. A container set according to claim 47, wherein the handling
part and the engaging part are made from one or more materials
selected from the group consisting of HDPE, LLDPE, LDPE, PP, ABS,
SAN, SB, PS, PA6, PA66, PC and POM.
58. A container set according to claim 47, wherein the handling
part and the engaging part are moulded in one piece.
59. A container set according to claim 47, wherein the handling
part and the engaging part are made of different materials.
Description
[0001] The present invention relates to a handle for handling and
carrying containers, such as bottles, cans and the like.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Different forms of carriers for bottles are known from e.g.
AU 707761, WO 98/16132 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,019,335. AU 707761
discloses a holder for supporting a bottle on a person. The holder
has an opening defined therein, the opening allowing the neck of a
bottle to enter into a supporting arrangement in the form of an
opening with a smaller dimension for engaging with a flange at the
neck of the bottle. The holder thereby facilitates the suspension
of the bottle from the holder.
[0003] WO 98/16132 discloses a bottle carrier, which can be
suspended from a person's belt. The carrier consists of a
connection section for connecting the carrier to e.g. a belt and a
gripping section hinged thereto. The gripping section consists of a
pair of claws allowing the neck of a bottle to be received between
these.
[0004] U.S. Pat. No. 6,019,335 discloses a bottle holder having an
oval slot, which accept the cap end of the bottle in a mid-portion
of the holder and allows the neck of the bottle to be slid into a
support area in the upper portion of the holder. The lower portion
is configured as a clip with two arms to grip on e.g. the user's
belt and is fitted with a Velcro-fastening bottle-securing strap
that can be secured around the trunk of the bottle to prevent
unwanted movement of the bottle.
[0005] The disclosed carriers are specifically provided with the
purpose of securing a bottle to a belt or similar object and none
of them support handling of containers in general, e.g. opening,
lifting stacking or bundling of containers.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0006] It is an object of preferred embodiments of the invention to
provide an improved handle, which supports handling of containers
in a more general way.
[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention there
is provided a handle for a closure for closing an opening of a
container, said handle comprising
[0008] an engaging part with engaging means for engaging with the
closure, and
[0009] a handling part pivotally connected to the engaging part so
as to allow the handling part to be folded into a folded
configuration and unfolded into a non-folded configuration in
relation to the engaging part, wherein the engaging means is
adapted to Establish a fixed engagement with the closure.
[0010] Since the engagement between the handle and the closure is
fixed, the closure can be manipulated in any direction, both
linearly or rotationally, via the handle. Accordingly, the handle
can be used for lifting the container, for rotating a threaded
closure for opening the container, or the handle can be used for
bundling the containers.
[0011] The container may be a bottle, can or the like, and the
closure may be a closure of the regular kind, e.g. where opening
and closing of the container is performed by rotation, e.g. a screw
plug. The engaging part may be formed as a compartment with an
opening for receiving the closure and/or an opening of the
container therein. The handling part may be an elongated element
such as a tubular body e.g. formed with gripping supporting bulges
or it may be formed as an elongated flat element, which may be easy
and cheap to produce, other forms may also be used. The pivotal
connection may be obtained by a hinge, a groove in the material or
by other means. When the handling part: is in the non-folded
configuration it may support handling of the closure, since it may
be easier to rotate the closure due to the extension of the
handling means. When the handling means is in a folded position,
the containers may be packed and stored without the use of extra
space, thus the handle may be added to containers in existing
packaging halls. Likewise, if the container is a bottle, existing
crates for transportation of the bottles can be used. At the
destination, the bottles can be lifted out of the crates, e.g. in
bundles, via the handles attached thereto. Since the handle is
fixedly engaged with the closure, the handle can finally be used
for opening the bottle, e.g. by tearing of the closure or by
rotating a threaded closure via the handle, which thus works as a
wrench for removing the closure.
[0012] The engaging part may be a substantially flat or even plan
piece of a sheer material formed with an opening for receiving the
closure therein. Alternatively, the engaging part may form a
compartment with an opening for receiving the closure or even for
receiving an opening of the container directly therein, in which
last mentioned case the holder itself forms a closure for closing
the opening of the container. The engaging part may be fixedly
attached to the closure and/or container in various ways. As an
example, the opening of the engaging part can be dimensioned so as
to apply a pressure against the closure and/or container when any
of these are received therein. For this purpose, protrusions
extending inwardly from the periphery of the opening may be
provided for amplifying the surface pressure between the engaging
part and the closure or container. Or the inner diameter of the
compartment may be dimensioned so as to form an interference fit,
when receiving the closure herein. Alternatively the engaging part
may be attached to the closure by the use of flanges of a flexible
material or they may be clicked together. Other means may also be
used. The handle may be reused for handling of a number of
containers.
[0013] Alternatively, the engaging part may be formed integrated
with the closure. The engaging part and the closure may be produced
separately and subsequently welded, glued or clicked together or
integrated by other means, thereby forming one component.
[0014] Furthermore, the engaging part and the closure may be
moulded in one piece, by e.g. the use of a one or two step
injection moulding process. It may be formed by vacuum forming of a
sheet of a thermoplastic material or it may be made by punching or
stamping of a sheet material.
[0015] When the handling part is folded in relation to the engaging
part, the total size of the handle is smaller, which allows for
easy handling of the containers, whereby these can be filled,
packed and stored without the use of extra space. However, during
handling of the containers, it may happen that a handing part
pivots into the non-folded configuration which can be annoying and
cause entangling of containers and handles, e.g. in a crate.
Accordingly, it is a further advantage to provide the handling part
with an opening of a size allowing the closure, a neck of the
container or the engaging part to be received within the opening.
This allows the handling part to be folded over the closure, the
neck of the container or the engaging part of the handle, when
folded into the folded configuration. When the handling part is
folded in this way, the total size of the handle is smaller, the
handling part would be less disposed to unfold. Therefore, handling
of the containers can be further improved and the containers can be
filled, packed and stored without the use of extra space.
[0016] Alternatively, a top portion of the engaging part may form a
first contact surface of substantially the same size and shape as a
second contact surface of the handling part, the first and second
contact surfaces being arranged to abut each other when the
handling part is in the folded configuration. When the handling
part is folded in relation to the engaging part, the total size of
the handle is smaller, which allows for easy handling of the
containers.
[0017] The handle may comprise means for securing the handling part
in the folded configuration, thereby allowing for easy packing and
storing of the containers without the use of extra space. The means
for securing the handling part may be incorporated in the
connection between the handling part and the engaging part e.g. by
having a connection, which is stabile in the folded configuration.
Alternatively, the means for securing the handling part may
comprise at least one protrusion on either the handling part or the
engaging part, the protrusion being adapted to engage a
corresponding catch on the other one of either the handling part or
the engaging part not provided with the protrusion. Other means of
securing may be used.
[0018] The connection between the engaging part and the handling
part may be weakened to allow the handling part to be removed from
the handle. The weakened connection may be obtained by the use of
two different materials for the handling part and the engaging part
or by the use of a different material for the connection between
the handling part and the engaging part. The connection could also
have a reduced material thickness or the connection could be
weakened by embossing of a protrusion into the material, or the
connection could be made from a material which easily breaks when
twisted, or other means may be used.
[0019] Some closures are provided with a locking ring, which must
be broken in order to have the closure removed from a corresponding
container. The locking ring ensures that an attempt to remove the
closure from the container can easily be detected via the broken
ring. As an example, many soft drinks are delivered in plastic
bottles with a closure being protected by a locking ring. In one
embodiment, the engaging part may be attached to or may be
integrated with such a locking ring or similar locking means. Some
people find it difficult to break the locking ring prior to the
opening of a bottle but in this embodiment, the handling means can
be used for getting a better grip in the locking ring or as a
crow/bar for breaking the locking ring more easily.
[0020] The handling part may comprise a substantially plan surface
area supporting application of an image. The surface may face
upwards when the handling part is in the ion-folded configuration
or the surface may face upwards when the handling part is in the
folded configuration. The handling part may have a substantially
plan surface facing upwards in both configurations, which may allow
more images. The image may be a list of the content of the
container, pictures indicating the content, advertisements, logos
or it may be any other picture such as cars or sportsmen, which may
cause the handling parts to become an item for collectors.
Furthermore, images, a list of content, advertisements and the like
may be attached to the surface in the form of e.g. folded paper to
be unfolded or they may be arranged on a separate sheet of paper,
plastic or the like. The sheet could be adhesively attached to the
surface, e.g. with glue, which allows the sheet to be peeled off
from the surface
[0021] The handling part may comprise connecting means for
connecting the handle to support means, thereby enabling carrying
of the container without holding it in the hand or having it in a
pocket or the like. The connecting means may be formed as a slot
within the handling part for receiving the support means therein.
This allows for connection to a person's belt, waistband or other
support means.
[0022] The handle may be made from one or more materials selected
from the group consisting of HDPE (high density polyethylene),
LLDPE (linear polyethylene), LDPE (low density polyethylene), PP
(polypropylene), ABS (acrylnitril butaadien styrene), SAN (styrene
acrylnitril), SB (polystyrene acrylnitril), PS (polystyrene), PA6
(polyamide 6), PA66 (polyamide 66), PC (polycarbonate), POM
(polyoxymethylene), or it may the made of paper or cardboard coated
or non-coated. Another alternative may be metal, but other
materials may also be used.
[0023] The handle may be moulded in one piece, by e.g. the use of a
one or two step injection moulding process. It may be formed by
vacuum forming a sheet of a thermoplastic material or it may be
made by punching or stamping of a sheet material.
[0024] Furthermore, the engaging part and the handling part may be
made of different materials, which may be selected from the
above-mentioned group. The materials may be used alone or in
combination.
[0025] According to a second aspect of the present invention there
is provided a candle for handling a container having a container
body part and a neck portion, said handle comprising
[0026] an engaging part with engaging means for engaging with the
neck portion,
[0027] a handling part pivotally connected to the engaging part so
as to allow the handling part to be folded into a folded
configuration and unfolded into a non-folded configuration in
relation to the engaging part, the handling part extending further
outwardly from the container in the non-folded configuration than
in the folded configuration, wherein an opening is defined within
the handling part, said opening being of a size allowing the neck
portion to be received within the opening when the handling part is
in the folded configuration.
[0028] The container may be a bottle, can or the like and the neck
portion could be a contracted part of the container. The engaging
part may be formed as an opening, it may be a pair of claws or it
may have other forms for receiving the neck portion of the
container therein. The handling part may be an elongated element
such as an elongated flat element, which may be easy and cheap to
produce. It may be formed with bulges for supporting a firm
gripping and it may be shaped in any way, which improves the
handling of the container to which it is attached. The pivotally
connection may be obtained by a hinge, a groove in the material or
by other means. An opening may be defined within the handling part
allowing the neck portion to be received within the opening when
the handling part is in the folded configuration. This allows for
easy handling of the containers, since these can be filled, packed
and stored without the use of extra space, thus the handle can be
added to containers in existing packaging halls. Furthermore, the
handle may be reused for handling of a number of containers.
[0029] The engaging means may be constituted by an opening defined
in the engaging part, the opening being of a size allowing the
engaging means to be arranged over the neck portion, whereby the
container may be carried by the use of the handle.
[0030] The handle may comprise means for securing the handling part
in the folded configuration, thereby allowing for easy packing and
storing of the containers without the use of extra space. The means
for securing the handling part may be incorporated in the
connection between the handling part and the engaging part e.g. by
having a connection, which is stabile in the folded configuration.
Alternatively, the means for securing the handling part may
comprise at least one protrusion on either the handling part or on
the engaging part. The protrusion could be adapted to engage a
corresponding catch on the other one of either the handling part or
the engaging part not provided with the protrusion. As for the
first aspect of the invention other means of securing may be
used.
[0031] The handling part may be formed with a slot for receiving
support means therein. This allows for connection to a person's
belt, waistband or other support means.
[0032] The handling part may comprise a substantially plan surface
area supporting application of an image. The surface may face
upwards when the handling part is in the non-folded configuration
and/or the surface may face upwards when the handling part is in
the folded configuration. As for the first aspect of the invention,
the image may be formed in different ways.
[0033] The handle may be made from one or more materials selected
from the group consisting of HDPE, LLDPE, LDPE, PP, ABS, SAN, SB,
PS, PA6, PA66, PC and POM or it may be made of other materials as
the first aspect of the invention. Furthermore, the engaging part
and the handling part may be made of different materials.
[0034] The handle may be moulded in one piece, by e.g. the use of a
one or two step injection moulding process. It may be formed by
vacuum forming a sheet of a thermoplastic material or it may be
made by punching or stamping of a sheet material.
[0035] According to a third aspect of the present invention there
is provided a handle for a container having a container body part
and a neck portion, said handle comprising
[0036] a handling part provided with connection means for handling
the container, and
[0037] an engaging part forming an opening for receiving the neck
portion therein, wherein the engaging part being provided with a
plurality of gripping means extending inwardly from the periphery
of the opening.
[0038] The container may be a bottle, can or the like, and the neck
portion could be a contracted part of the can or bottle. The
handling part may be an elongated element such as a tubular body
e.g. formed with gripping supporting bulges or it may be formed as
an elongated flat element, which may be easy and cheap to produce.
The engaging part may be formed as an opening for receiving the
neck portion of the container therein. Providing the opening with a
plurality of gripping means extending from the periphery thereof
the neck portion of the container may be fastened to the handle.
The gripping means may be formed as projections, teeth, a flange of
a flexible material or by other means. Furthermore, the handle may
be reused for handling of a number of containers.
[0039] The handling part may be pivotally connected to the engaging
part so as to allow a folded and a non-folded configuration of the
handle. The pivotally connection may be obtained by a hinge, a
groove in the material or by other means. When the handling means
is in a folded position, the containers can be packed and stored
without the use of extra space, thus the handle can be added to
containers in existing packaging halls.
[0040] An opening may be defined within the handling part allowing
the neck portion to be received within the opening when the
handling part is in the folded configuration, whereby it may take
up less space.
[0041] The handle may comprise means for securing the handling part
in the folded configuration, thereby allowing for easy packing and
storing of the containers without the use of extra space The means
for securing the handling part may be incorporated in the
connection between the handling part and the engaging part e.g. by
having a connection, which is stabile in the folded configuration.
Alternatively, the means for securing the handling part may
comprise at least one protrusion on either the handling part or the
engaging part, the protrusion being adapted to engage a
corresponding catch on the other one of either the handling part or
the engaging part not provided with the protrusion. As for the
first object of the invention other means of securing may be
used.
[0042] The connecting means may be formed as a slot within the
handling part for receiving the support means therein. This allows
for connection to a person's belt, waistband or other support
means.
[0043] The handling part may comprise a substantially plan surface
area supporting application of an image. The surface may face
upwards when the handling part is in the ion-folded configuration
and/or the surface may face upwards when the handling part is in
the folded configuration. As for the first aspect of the invention
the image may be formed in different ways.
[0044] The engaging part may form a plurality of openings, each
being adapted for receiving the neck portion therein, whereby
handling of a plurality of containers at the same time may be
possible.
[0045] The handle may be made from one or more materials selected
from the group consisting of HDPE, LLDPE, LDPE, PP, ABS, SAN, SB,
PS, PA6, PA66, PC and POM or it may be made of other materials as
the first aspect of the invention. Furthermore, the engaging part
and the handling part may be made of different materials.
[0046] The handle may be moulded in one piece, by e.g. the use of a
one or two step injection moulding process. It may be formed by
vacuum forming a sheet of a thermoplastic material or it may be
made by punching or stamping of a sheet material.
[0047] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there
is provided a container set comprising
[0048] a container with an opening and a closure for closing the
opening,
[0049] a handling part for handling the container or closure,
and
[0050] an engaging part forming an opening for receiving the
closure or container therein, the engaging part being provided with
a plurality of gripping means extending inwardly from the periphery
of the opening, wherein the opening, the gripping means and closure
or container are dimensioned to apply a pressure against the
closure or container when received in the opening.
[0051] The container may be a bottle, a can or the like, and the
closure may be a closure of the regular kind, e.g. where opening
and closing of the container is performed by rotation. The handling
part may be an elongated element such as a tubular body e.g. formed
with gripping supporting bulges or it may be formed as an elongated
flat element, which may be easy and cheap to produce. The engaging
part may be formed as an opening for receiving the closure or
container therein. The gripping means may be dimensioned to apply a
pressure against the closure or container, whereby the handling
part may support handling of the closure, since it may be easier to
rotate the closure due to the extension of the handling means. The
gripping means may be formed as projections, teeth, a flange of a
flexible material or by other means. Furthermore, the handle may be
reused for handling of a number of containers.
[0052] The handling part may be pivotally connected to the engaging
part so as to allow a folded and a non-folded configuration of the
handling part in relation to the engaging part. The pivotally
connection may be obtained by a hinge, a groove in the material or
by other means. When the handling part is in the non-folded
configuration it may support handling of the closure, and when the
handling means is in a folded position, the containers may be
packed and stored without the use of extra space. Thus, the
handling part and the engaging part may be added to containers in
existing packaging halls.
[0053] An opening may be defined within the handling part allowing
the closure or container to be received within the opening when the
handling part is in the folded configuration, whereby it may take
up even less space.
[0054] The container set may comprise means for securing the
handling part in the folded configuration in relation to the
engaging part, thereby allowing for easy packing and storing of the
containers without the use of extra space. The means for securing
the handling part may be incorporated in the connection between the
handling part and the engaging part e.g. by having a connection,
which Is stabile in the folded configuration. Alternatively, the
means for securing the handling part may comprise at least one
protrusion on either the handling part or the engaging part, the
protrusion being adapted to engage a corresponding catch on the
other one of either the handling part or the engaging part not
provided with the protrusion. As for the first object of the
invention other means of securing may be used.
[0055] The connecting means may be formed as a slot within the
handling part for receiving the support means therein. This allows
for connection to a person's belt, waistband or other support
means.
[0056] The handling part may comprise a substantially plan surface
area supporting application of an image. The surface may face
upwards when the handling part is in the non-folded configuration
and/or the surface may face upwards when the handling part is in
the folded configuration. As for the first aspect of the invention
the image may be formed in different ways.
[0057] The handling part and the engaging part may be made from one
or more materials selected from the group consisting of HDPE (high
density polyethylene), LLDPE (linear polyethylene), LDPE (low
density polyethylene), PP (polypropylene), ABS (acrylnitril
butaadien styrene), SAN (styrene acrylnitril), SB (polystyrene
acrylnitril), PS (polystyrene), PA6 (polyamide 6), PA66 (polyamide
66), PC (polycarbonate), POM (polyoxymethylene), or they may the
made of paper or cardboard coated or non-coated. Another
alternative may be metal, but other materials may also be used.
[0058] The handling part and the engaging part may be moulded in
one piece, by e.g. the use of a one or two step injection moulding
process. They may be formed by vacuum forming a sheet of a
thermoplastic material or they may be made by punching or stamping
of a sheet material.
[0059] Furthermore, the handling part and the engaging part may be
made of different materials, which may be selected from the
above-mentioned group. The materials may be used in
combination.
[0060] Any of the features of the four aspects of the invention may
be used in combination with any of the other aspects.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0061] Different embodiments of handles according to the present
invention are for illustration of the invention described below
with reference to the accompanying drawings of which
[0062] FIGS. 1A-D show different views of a first embodiment of the
handle,
[0063] FIGS. 2A-F show different views of a second embodiment of
the handle,
[0064] FIGS. 3A-E show different views of a third embodiment of the
handle,
[0065] FIGS. 4A-F show different views of a fourth embodiment of
the handle, and
[0066] FIGS. 5A-C show different views of a fifth embodiment of the
handle.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENT
[0067] A first embodiment of a handle according to the first aspect
of the invention is shown in FIGS. 1A-D, in which the handle 1
comprises an engaging part 2 for engaging with a closure 3 on a
container and a handling part 4 pivotally connected to the engaging
part 2. This allows the handle 1 to be folded as shown in FIG. 1B
and non-folded as shown in FIG. 1D. FIG. 1C shows an intermediate
position and indicates two further positions of the handling part
4. As shown in FIG. 1A an opening 5 may be defined within the
handling part 4, allowing the closure 3 or engaging part 2 to be
received within the opening 5 as shown in FIG. 1B. The pivotal
connection 6 between the engaging part 2 and the handling part may
be formed as a groove 6 in the material as shown in FIGS. 1C and
1D. Connection means 7 formed by a slot 8 within the handling part
4 is shown in FIGS. 1A and 1C. Locking means 9 in the form of a
locking ring 9 is shown in FIGS. 1A-D. Any of the features of the
other embodiments according to the invention may be used in
combination with the features of the first embodiment according to
the invention.
[0068] A second embodiment of a handle according to the first
aspect of the invention is shown in FIGS. 2A-F, in which the handle
1 comprises an engaging part 2 for engaging with a closure 3 on a
container and a handling part 4 pivotally connected to the engaging
part 2. This allows the handle 1 to be folded as shown in FIG. 2C
and non-folded in an intermediate position as shown in FIGS.
2A-B+2D-F. As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B the shape of the engaging
part may be different. Connection means 7 formed by a slot 8 within
the handling part 4 is shown in FIGS. 2A-F. As shown in FIGS. 2A-F
the top portion 10 of the engaging part 2 forms a first contact
surface 10 of substantially the same size and shape as a second
contact surface 11 of the handling part, the first and second
contact surfaces 10, 11 being arranged to abut each other when the
handling part 4 is in the folded configuration. Any of the features
of the other embodiments according to the invention may be used in
combination with the features of the second embodiment according to
the invention.
[0069] A third embodiment of a handle according to the second
aspect of the invention is shown in FIGS. 3A-E, in which the handle
1 comprises an engaging part 2 for engaging with a neck portion of
a container (not shown) and a handling part 4 pivotally connected
to the engaging part 2. This allows the handle 1 to be folded as
shown in FIG. 3E and non-folded as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B. FIGS.
3C and 3D show intermediate positions of the handling part 4. As
shown in FIGS. 3A and 3C an opening 5 may be defined within the
handling part 4, allowing the neck portion to be received within
this opening 5 as shown in FIG. 3E and indicated in FIG. 3C. The
pivotal connection 6 between the engaging part 2 and the handling
part 4 may be form as a groove 6 in the material as shown in FIGS.
35, 3D and 3E. Connection means 7 formed by a slot 8 within the
handling part 4 is shown in FIGS. 3A and 3C. An opening 12 in the
engaging part 2 for engaging with a neck portion of a container is
shown in FIG. 3A. Any of the features of the other embodiments
according to the invention may be used in combination with the
features of the third embodiment according to the invention.
[0070] A fourth embodiment of a handle according to the third
aspect of the invention is shown in FIGS. 4A-F, in which the handle
1 comprises an engaging part 2 for forming an opening 12 for
receiving the neck portion of a container (not shown) therein and a
handling part 4 pivotally connected to the engaging part 2. This
allows the handle 1 to be folded as shown in FIG. 4F and non-folded
as shown in FIGS. 4B, 4D and 4E. FIGS. 4A and 4C show intermediate
positions of the handling part 4. As shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B and 4D
an opening 5 may be defined within the handling part 4, allowing
the neck portion to be received within this opening 5 as indicated
in FIG. 4D. The pivotal connection 6 between the engaging part 2
and the handling part 4 may be form as a groove 6 in the material
as shown in FIGS. 4C, 4D, 4E and 4F. Connection means 7 formed by a
slot 8 within the handling part 4 is shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B and 4C.
The opening 12 in the engaging part 2 for engaging with a neck
portion of a container is shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B. A plurality of
gripping means 13 extending from the periphery of the opening 12
formed as teeth are shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B. Any of the features
of the other embodiments according to the invention may be used in
combination with the features of the fourth embodiment according to
the invention.
[0071] A fifth embodiment of a handle according to the third aspect
of the invention is shown in FIGS. 5A-C, in which the handle 1
comprises an engaging part 2 for forming openings 12 for receiving
the neck portion of three container (not shown) therein and a
handling part 4 pivotally connected to the engaging part 2. This
allows the handle 1 to be folded as shown in FIG. 5C and non-folded
as shown in FIG. 5A. FIG. 5B shows an intermediate position of the
handling part 4. As shown in FIG. 5A an opening 5 may be defined
within the handling part 4, allowing the neck portion to be
received within this opening 5. The pivotal connection 6 between
the engaging part 2 and the handling part 4 may be form as a groove
6 in the material as shown in FIGS. 5B and 5C. Connection means 7
formed by a slot 8 within the handling part 4 is shown in FIGS. 5A
and 5B. The openings 12 in the engaging part 2 for engaging with
the neck portion of containers is shown in FIG. 5A. A plurality of
gripping means 13 extending from the periphery of the openings 12
formed as teeth are shown in FIG. 5A. Any of the features of the
other embodiments according to the invention may be used in
combination with the features of the fifth embodiment according to
the invention.
* * * * *