U.S. patent application number 11/388923 was filed with the patent office on 2007-09-27 for multi-purpose insulating and protective cover for containers.
Invention is credited to Howard Lee Moore.
Application Number | 20070221693 11/388923 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38532294 |
Filed Date | 2007-09-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070221693 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Moore; Howard Lee |
September 27, 2007 |
Multi-purpose insulating and protective cover for containers
Abstract
A unique one piece container cover (20) made from a single blank
of flexible insulating material (36) and constructed so the tubular
container cover (20) is closed at the bottom and open at the top
with a flap (28) that when pulled over the enclosed container (39),
integrally forms a complete seal (38) with the cover body (22) thus
encapsulating the container (39) providing insulation to keep the
container (39) contents either hot or cold while also protecting
container (39) from outside contamination. The container cover (20)
works with various sizes and shapes of bottles, containers or cans.
The multipurpose cover (20) can be used without attachments for use
in a bike cage, diaper bag, travel bag or the like. The cover (20)
can also be fitted with various attachments for hiking, running,
backpacking, golf, carrying baby bottles or the like. The cover
(20) is efficient, cost effective, lightweight, durable, easy to
use and clean, and can be produced in many colors with
graphics.
Inventors: |
Moore; Howard Lee; (Austin,
TX) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Howard L. "Dinty" Moore
11604 Broad Oaks Dr.
Austin
TX
78759
US
|
Family ID: |
38532294 |
Appl. No.: |
11/388923 |
Filed: |
March 24, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
224/148.6 ;
224/236; 224/269 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45F 5/00 20130101; A45F
3/16 20130101; A45F 2200/0583 20130101; A45F 5/02 20130101; A61J
9/08 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
224/148.6 ;
224/236; 224/269 |
International
Class: |
A45F 5/00 20060101
A45F005/00; A45F 5/02 20060101 A45F005/02; A45F 3/16 20060101
A45F003/16 |
Claims
1. A multi-purpose insulating and protective cover for beverage
containers, bottles and cans formed of a single blank of flexible
insulating material, said cover comprising: a) a single blank for
forming said cover comprising a generally planar web of said
insulating material including a main elongated rectangular body
portion defined by and contiguous with opposed top edges and bottom
edges and opposed lengthwise edges of a length sufficient to
encircle the beverage container when the end edges are abutted with
one another, and said bottom edge of predetermined serially cut
angles or similar configuration which would effectively enclose
said bottom and with said top edge comprising identically
configured unique and novel predetermined arcuate edges being final
and contiguous to an elongated locking cover flap, b) wherein as
the bottom angles of the cover blank are abutted and attached with
one another and said lengthwise edges are abutted and attached with
one another form a tubular receptacle defining an interior area of
a shape and dimension for receiving said beverage container though
an upper opening formed of the top arcuate edges and contiguous
said cover flap, c) said cover flap secured to said main body of
said cover for pivotal movement relative hereto, said flap
including an inner face and an outer face, d) at least one fastener
with a predetermined position attached to said inner face of said
cover flap, e) at least one mating fastener with a predetermined
position attached to front of said cover to receive said cover flap
fastener, f) the cover flap being pivoted relative to said main
body cover bringing said cover flap over and across the top of said
bottle, container or can to bring said fasteners into engagement to
cover and encapsulate said bottle, container or can inside said
cover.
2. A blank according to claim 1 wherein said blank is formed of a
unitary planar web of flexible insulative material.
3. A blank according to claim 2 wherein said material comprises a
foamed synthetic material.
4. A cover according to claim 1 wherein said flexible material
allows said cover to accommodate containers, bottles and cans of
close dimensions.
5. A cover according to claim 1 wherein said flexible material
allows for graphics.
6. A cover according to claim 1 wherein attachment means for said
edges and said fasteners is stitching, heat welding, ultrasonic
welding, adhesives, and hook-and-loop fasteners.
7. A cover according to claim 1 further including a front pocket
having a complementary pocket flap both being formed of flexible
insulating material, and having attachment means for securing the
pocket and flap to said cover, with said flap including an inner
face and an outer face with at least one fastener in a
predetermined position secured to said inner face of said pocket
flap and at least one mating fastener on outer face of pocket to
secure pocket and flap.
8. A cover pocket of claim 7 wherein attachment means of said
pocket, flap and fasteners are of stitching, heat welding
ultrasonic welding or adhesives.
9. A cover pocket according to claim 8 wherein the pocket and flap
have an area for graphics.
10. A cover according to claim 1 further including a ventilated
hand strap formed of a flexible synthetic mesh material, attached
to the back of said cover by attachment means.
11. The cover of claim 10 wherein attachment means of said strap is
of stitching, heat welding, ultrasonic welding or adhesives.
12. The cover of claim 1, further including securing means
comprising a strip of strapping material attached to one side of
said cover, with the strip containing an upper and lower loop, with
each loop having an attached keeper and attachment means, and a
carrying strap having a loop at each end with each loop having an
attached keeper and clip.
13. The cover of claim 12, wherein the upper and lower loop
contains a keeper such as a D-shaped ring, O-ring, triangle or
other attachment means.
14. The cover of claim 13 wherein the keeper for the upper loop
contains an attachment means such as a standard snap hook, swivel
hook, retainer, bolt snap, carabiner or other similar attachment
means for retention.
15. The cover of claim 14 wherein the carrying strap contains a
loop on each end with a keeper.
16. The cover of claim 15 wherein the carrying strap is adjustable
for adjusting the length of the strap.
17. The cover of claim 16 wherein the carrying strap may be
attached or detached from the cover.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] Not Applicable
FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH
[0002] Not Applicable
SEQUENCE LISTING OR PROGRAM
[0003] Not Applicable
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] 1. Field of Invention
[0005] This invention relates in general to insulators for beverage
bottles and containers, and in particular to a multi-purpose
insulator that is portable and which provides an insulating and
sanitary encapsulation for many sizes and shapes of bottles,
containers and cans.
[0006] 2. Prior Art
[0007] Leading outdoor sports activities such as biking, hiking,
running, golf and snow skiing are growing at a fast pace each year.
The need for clean liquid replenishment for these and other
activities is essential for the health, performance and
intellectual capacities of the athlete. Liquid replenishment for
sports activities is available in many forms. The two most common
forms are sports drinks that contain added ingredients such as
electrolytes and just plain water.
[0008] Three of the most common containers for these liquid
replenishments are sports bottles, water bottles and sports drink
bottles. These bottles are made of various types of plastic. The
two terms of water bottles and sports bottles are used
interchangeably in the industry. However, for clarification within
in the context of this document the terms will be used as described
below.
[0009] Sports bottles are available at bike and sports shops
without liquid refreshment contained in the bottle. There are many
sizes and shapes of sports bottles. The smaller bottle generally
contains between 20 to 23 ounces of liquid depending on the
manufacturer. The larger bottle generally contains between 26 to 29
ounces of liquid depending on the manufacturer. These sport bottles
also have two different top sizes. One size top is generally known
in the trade as the small mouth top. It has an opening of
approximately 11/2 inches at the top of the body of the bottle
where the cap affixes to the bottle. The second size top is known
in the trade as the large mouth top. It has an opening of
approximately 21/8 inches at the top of the body of the bottle
where the cap affixes to the bottle. A large bottle may have either
a small or a large mouth top. A small bottle may also have either a
small or a large mouth top. There are also various types of valves
located on top of the caps of sports bottles from which the liquid
is dispensed. When one squeezes the soft sides of the bottle the
liquid is forced from the bottle through the valve for consumption.
Some valves are plastic and some are rubber. Some valves are large
and round while some are oval. Some valves open easier than others.
Valves also differ in the volume of liquid that is dispensed. These
are important factors because a substantial number of athletes use
a favorite sports bottle and valve so they need a cover to fit that
bottle. Many bottle covers sold today are molded to fit only the
bottles supplied with those covers so an athlete's favorite bottle
usually does not fit.
[0010] Water bottles and sports drink bottles are those that are
most commonly sold with the beverage already contained in the
bottle. These bottles are available in a variety of sizes including
but not limited to 12 oz., 20 oz., 710 ml, one liter, and two
liters. These bottles are usually sold with threaded tops that are
available with or without valves.
[0011] In addition to bottles for sport activities there is also a
need to cover and protect bottles and other containers, such as
cans, that contain refreshment for relaxation. These containers
include, but are not limited to, containers for juices, carbonated
beverages, wine and beer. These containers are made of plastic,
glass, metal and other materials.
[0012] There are basic problems associated with all bottles and
containers that contain liquid refreshment. One problem is that
most containers are not insulated, therefore the liquid inside the
container easily gets hot or cold as the case may be. People
outside in warm or hot weather such as bikers, runners, hikers and
golfers want to keep their container contents cold or at least
cool. Many sports and health magazines recommend drinking cool
water on hot days because it is more refreshing and is absorbed
more quickly by the body. Conversely, people in cold weather such
as skiers and hikers in the snow may want to keep their bottle
contents hot, warm or at least above freezing. Like hikers, mothers
may want a container or baby bottle kept warm on some occasions or
kept cold or cool on other occasions.
[0013] Another problem with unprotected containers is
contamination. Cans with open and unprotected tops allow dirt and
insects into the container for accidental ingestion. Containers and
bottles with unprotected valves at the top of the bottle which one
drinks from can get very dirty. This allows the valve and the
contents of the container to be contaminated. There are documented
cases of bikers becoming sick after drinking from a bottle that had
bacteria laden creek water splashed onto the valve of the bottle.
Bacteria can also be transferred via dust from dry ground to bottle
valves while biking, hiking and running. Golfers can get bacteria,
fertilizer or pesticides on the bottle valve if they lay their golf
bag down on the grass with an unprotected bottle valve attached.
Runners, bikers and hikers have accidentally dropped their bottles
in creeks and mud, in which case the valve and the liquid in the
bottle is no longer sanitary and drinkable. The liquid must then be
discarded leaving the person in a potentially dangerous situation.
If one is miles away from an aid station in hot weather with no
water, severe dehydration can cause weakness, delirium and even
death. When mountain biking, one usually rides dirt trails in
forests, mountains and pastures that animals also use. The result
is that grit, dirt, bacteria and mud are kicked up by the knobby
tires of the mountain bike and ends up on the valve of the bottle.
Drinking from an unprotected bottle under these conditions is not
only unpleasant to taste, but has led to stomach irritations and
bacterial infections.
[0014] Another problem is that many sports people want a
multi-functional sports bottle cover. They need a single style of
cover that will fit their personal favorite sports bottle when
biking, running, hiking, playing golf, and snow skiing. This cover
and bottle also needs to fit in the holders in their car when
driving to these activities so they can hydrate on the way to and
from the activities.
[0015] Prior art describes a variety of attempts to try to overcome
problems associated with the insulation of beverage containers.
Some examples show container covers that insulate only the
cylindrical recess or base of the container. This leaves the top or
a portion of the bottle or container uncovered and thus unprotected
from the ambient temperature and outside contamination. Some of
these examples are shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,550,271 (2003) to
Silbert, U.S. Pat. No. 6,401,993 (2002) to Andrino, U.S. Pat. No.
6,276,579 (2001) to DeLoach, U.S. Pat. No. 6,029,847 (2000) to
Mahoney, Jr. et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,059,140 (2000) to Hicks, U.S.
Pat. No. 4,514,995 (1985) to Curtis et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,316,193
(1994) to Heilberger and U.S. Pat. No. 6,182,464 (2001) to Mamich.
The Heilberger prior art is a product whereby the body of the
bottle is insulated. However the insulation is inside the bottle,
which takes up valuable space and reduces the amount of water you
can carry in relation to the size of the bottle. Also one has to
use that particular bottle and valve, which again is not preferred.
The Mamich prior art is based on a self chilling wrap for bottle
cooling which necessitates keeping the cover wet. This method is
not popular with most bicyclists and especially golfers who need to
keep their hands dry for their sport. The Hielberger product is
made to keep the contents cool by reducing the electromagnetic
energy by the sun, but it does not address keeping a bottle warm.
In both the Heilberger and Mamich prior art, the valve is uncovered
and subject to dirt and bacteria There are writings by bicyclists
on web sites such as mtbr.com and bikefriday.com discussing the
critical need for clean valves on water bottles while bike
riding.
[0016] Some prior art show bottle covers that apply to one use only
and are not practical for multiple uses. Prior art that pertains
mainly to insulating bottles for biking are U.S. Pat. No. 6,216,929
(2001) to Bonard et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,427,285 (1995) to
Kreitzman, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,007,566 (1991) to Fick. These are
typical of other prior art showing bottle cages on bicycles whereby
the insulation is attached to the bike and not to the bottle. When
a biker stops to dismount the bike and drink, as one does in many
bike rides, the insulation is left on the bike and is not
protecting the bottle. Thus the heat of one's hand and ambient air
will warm the liquid contents of the bottle more quickly than if
the bottle had the insulation still attached. Although Bonard et
al. discusses the need for keeping the cap of the bottle clean, it
does not entirely enclose the whole sports bottle, so insulation
values would be lost. The prior art also reveals the bottle would
not be covered when taken out of the device and would lose the
insulation value. These applications obviously would not be useful
for other sports such as hiking, running, or snow skiing.
Additional prior art that is designed for biking are U.S. Pat. No.
5,238,160 (1993) to Faulds and U.S. Pat. No. 5,094,363 (1992) to
Monahan et. al. Although these devices are trying to solve biking
hydration problems, they have objectionable issues. Neither accepts
the standard sports bottle that is preferred by most athletes, and
both have parts such as a pivotally-mounted hood or dust cap that
could jam or break.
[0017] Examples of prior art designed for baby bottle covers only
are U.S. Pat. No. 4,473,907 (1984) to Maillard, U.S. Pat. No.
3,085,612 (1963) to Gobel, and U.S. Pat. No. 1,706,034 (1927) to
Moore. These examples are also not practical for multiple uses.
[0018] Examples of prior art designed mainly for golf are U.S. Pat.
No. 3,844,459 (1974) to Chambers and U.S. Pat. No. 2,731,182 (1953)
to Higgins. These applications are for specific sized containers
only, and neither would apply to biking, running or hiking.
[0019] Examples of prior art that show whole containers to be
covered but are designed mainly for cans are U.S. Pat. No.
6,860,399 (2005) to Reeves, U.S. Pat. No. 5,048,734 (1991) to Long,
U.S. Pat. No. 4,194,627 (1980) to Christensen, and U.S. Pat. No.
3,023,922 (1959) to Arrington. Although these prior arts are fully
enclosed, they will not fulfill the needs for sports bottle covers
for biking, running, hiking and baby bottles. These prior arts also
have multiple parts.
[0020] Other examples of prior art showing the whole container to
be covered are U.S. Pat. No. 6,814,252 (2004) to Murakami et al.,
U.S. Pat. No. 6,349,846 to (2002) to Meza, U.S. Pat. No. 6,145,715
(2000) to Slonim, U.S. Pat. No. 6,073,796, (2000) to Mogil, U.S.
Pat. No. 5,425,484 (1995) to Kawand et al. and U.S. Pat. No.
4,194,627 (1980) to Christensen. These prior arts cover the whole
bottle, however they are made of multiple pieces which could get
lost or do not possess the qualities needed to work with all the
enclosed applications of biking, running, golf, hiking and baby
bottles. The Murakami et al. device would not work on a bike
because it would not fit in the securing piece of a bike cage. It
would also be too difficult to open the device and access a bottle
while riding. The Slonim device is designed for portability while
off of a bicycle but is not large enough to cover the top of a
sports bottle. U.S. Pat. No. 6,789,693 (2004) to Lassiter also
covers a bottle but is limited to two-liter bottles.
[0021] Examples of prior art for bottles that use a refrigerant
system are U.S. Pat. No. 6,584,800 (2003) to Roth et al. and U.S.
Pat. No. 4,981,022 (1991) to Snyder. Both of these devices contain
a thermal energy storing member or a core that fits inside the
container. This core contains a refrigerant. In testing of the Roth
et al. device, when inserting the storing member there was a 1/8
loss of liquid volume. The Snyder device would probably lose the
same amount of liquid volume. Another disadvantage to this type of
system is that once the refrigerant temperature is equal to the
temperature of the liquid of the container, it will not cool
additional liquids when refilling the bottle. An additional problem
is the refrigerant needs to be frozen to be effective. When one is
on a ride or a hike of more than one day and does not have access
to a means for freezing the storing member or core for the next
day's ride, then this system is not effective. Another disadvantage
is the bottle valve or container top is not covered and is subject
to dirt and bacteria contamination.
[0022] Thus, an examination of the art reveals that a need still
exists as there is no known one piece insulative and flexible cover
for a beverage bottle or container with this new and unique flap
seal that would fit flush with the cover body to totally
encapsulate various styles and sizes of containers for insulation
and sanitation, that is simple to produce and use, and while also
by simply altering the carrying style of attachments, be adaptable
to the needs of bikers, hikers, golfers, runners, snow skiers,
parents with baby bottles and the like.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0023] In accordance with the present invention an insulating and
protecting cover for bottles and containers comprises a single
piece of neoprene or any suitable flexible and insulating material
that is die cut into a flat blank with a unique configuration that
makes up a cover body with a closure flap. The outward edges and
bottom of the body of the cover are then sewn or otherwise joined
together forming a mainly tubular body configured and dimensioned
to be compatible with standard-sized conventional sports bottles or
beverage containers. However, it will be understood that the
dimensions of the cover can be readily modified to be compatibly
sized for receiving substantially any shape and size of beverage
container. The cover is closed at the top with an integrally formed
closing and locking flap that fits over the open, upper end of the
body of the device which receives the bottle or container. A
resealable fastener on the underside of the flap cooperates with a
complementary mating fastener on the front of the insulating and
protective cover thereby locking the cover when the closure flap is
pivoted about its fixed edge, thus closing the top opening of the
cover. A unique and exact cut of the blank of material at the main
body opening enables a flush fit sealing of the closed flap to the
cover body thereby encapsulating and sealing the container inside
the cover. This encapsulation enables the temperature of the
beverage in the bottle to remain constant for a longer period of
time than if any portion of the bottle were exposed. The
encapsulation also protects the top of the container, which may
contain a valve or a constant opening, from hazardous materials
such as dirt and bacteria As the stretchable cover flap is pivoted
over the top of the container and is pulled down to the fastening
position, a dome is created on the cover by the top of the bottle
or the valve. As tests have shown, this raised dome is beneficial
when riding a bike through creeks or standing water. The dome of
the cover top allows the water to properly drain off the top of the
cover thereby preventing the water from coming in contact with the
bottle valve. Considering the normal position for riding a bike is
that the rider is seated above the bicycle's bottle cages, the
cover also keeps the rider's sweat from dripping onto the container
valve or top that can make the drink distasteful.
[0024] The bottle and container cover can be used without carrying
attachments for various uses such as when riding bicycles and
motorcycles, driving automobiles or boats, traveling on airplanes,
or for keeping sand or insects out of one's beverage can at the
beach. Various carrying attachments may also be used in concert
with this container cover for other uses such as during hiking,
running, golf, snow skiing, or for parents traveling with infants
needing insulation and protection for baby bottles and the
like.
[0025] Accordingly, it is a principal object of the invention to
provide a new, novel and useful insulator cover with a unique flap
seal that effectively fits flush against the main body of the cover
thereby providing an insulative and sanitary encapsulation for
beverages in bottles and containers.
[0026] It is also an object of the invention to provide a one piece
insulating cover whereby the top flap covering and encapsulating
the bottle or container can not get detached, lost or broken. A
single piece cover is also simple to manufacture and is cost
effective.
[0027] It is also an object of the invention to provide a cover
that is stretchable and flexible so one sized cover will conform to
a variety of similar sizes and shapes of bottles and containers.
For example, one version tested fits the smaller sports bottle
sizes of 20, 21 and 22 ounces as well as sports drink bottles and
soda bottles of 20 ounces. Another version tested fits larger sizes
and shapes of sports bottle sizes of 25, 26, 27, 28, and 29 ounces
and also water bottle and sports drink bottle sizes of 710 ml.
Another size tested fits all standard 12 ounce metal cans. It is to
be understood that the dimensions of the invention can be easily
and readily modified and be compatibly sized to receive
substantially any size and shape of bottle or container so as to
not limit the scope of the invention.
[0028] It is an important object of the invention to provide a
bottle cover that is user friendly. When used by a bicyclist the
covered container fits into standard bike cages. Two prior arts
discuss the inability of cages to easily receive a container with a
neoprene cover, but tests show this container and cover combination
fits well as it enters and exits the bike cage easily. There is an
extra benefit for harsh mountain bike riding as the metal bike cage
can be bent inwardly making a slightly snug fit with the container.
This snug fit keeps the bottle from falling out of the cage while
the durability of the cover protects the bottle. Thus, a cyclist
does not have to buy a special cage or attachment for use with this
cover on one's bike. Also, while riding a bike one does not need
any complicated or unsafe maneuvering to open or close the
container cover as this can quickly be accomplished with one hand
while the covered container is still in the bike cage. The cyclist
will also use normal movements to remove and replace the bottle
insulator cover from and to the bike cage.
[0029] Another object of the invention is to provide a bottle cover
that is lightweight, durable, dependable and easily cleaned.
Cyclists, runners and hikers go to great extremes and expense to
keep their sports equipment lightweight and sanitary so as to not
hinder their efficiency while competing.
[0030] Another object of the invention is to provide a cover that
stays with the bottle so the bottle or container will still be
covered and protected when the bicyclist, golfer or hiker is
carrying the bottle and is away from their bike, golf cart or
backpack.
[0031] Another object of the invention is to provide a means to
keep the bottle or container contents in either a cold or cool
state or in a hot or warm state.
[0032] Another object of the invention is to provide a cover with a
material that is visually distinguishable. The material is
available in a variety of colors and can have graphics added such
as printing, silk screening or the like. A distinguishable color of
cover can be used for different sporting events, different
advertisers, different biking clubs and associations wanting to
advertise their clubs at races and functions where multiple clubs
ride and the like. Another benefit is that retail store owners can
give printed bottle covers to customers for use as advertisement
and promotion of their stores.
[0033] Another main object of the invention is to provide an
insulating cover that can be used with multiple carrying
attachments for various ramifications. For example runners could us
a cover fitted with a hand strap and pocket for use while running.
Also hikers would use straps and holders such as D rings and clips
that are attached to the cover for attaching the bottle cover to
backpacks, belt loops or the like. Golfers would use the same
attachments for attaching the bottle cover to golf carts. Snow
skiers could use the same attachments or a sling or a similar
adjustable carrying mechanism to carry their hot beverage inside
their bottle while in the cold. Another special need is met by this
present invention by the attachment of a D ring, a clip or other
attachment at the bottom or base of the bottle cover as hikers and
snow skiers in the severe cold need to carry their sports bottles
upside down with the valves at the bottom so the valves will not
freeze. Parents with children using baby bottles can use
attachments to hang the insulated baby bottle from a baby stroller
or use a sling to carry a baby bottle on their person.
[0034] These and other objects, features and,advantages of the
present invention will become more apparent upon reading the
following specification in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0035] FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of an assembled beverage
insulator in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, demonstrating the insulator flap in an open position
ready for insertion of a beverage bottle.
[0036] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the assembled
beverage insulator that shows the stitching that seals the bottom
of the insulator.
[0037] FIG. 3 is a plan view of a blank of insulating material from
which the beverage insulator is fabricated, showing the unique cut
which allows the flap and body of the insulator to encapsulate a
bottle.
[0038] FIG. 4 is a right side perspective view of the bottle
insulator containing a larger sports bottle demonstrating how a
seal is formed after folding over and locking down the insulator
flap.
[0039] FIG. 5 is a front elevational view of the beverage insulator
containing a larger sports bottle showing the flap seal on both
sides of the insulator. This view also shows the protective dome
that is formed in the insulator cover by the bottle top or valve
when the flap is folded over and fastened.
[0040] FIG. 6 is a right side perspective view of the beverage
insulator container with the insulator flap in the upright position
exposing the top of a larger sports bottle contained within the
insulator.
[0041] FIG. 7 is a right side perspective view of the beverage
insulator with the insulator flap folded back and down,
illustrating the accessibility of the larger sports bottle
contained therein.
[0042] FIG. 8 is a front elevational view of a second embodiment of
a beverage insulator containing a larger sports bottle with an
attached pocket with the flap in the down and sealed position.
[0043] FIG. 9 is a front elevational view of the second embodiment
of a beverage insulator containing a larger sports bottle with an
attached pocket with the flap in the up position demonstrating the
attaching and locking means.
[0044] FIG. 10 is a back elevational view of the second embodiment
of a beverage insulator containing a larger sports bottle with an
attached hand strap.
[0045] FIG. 11 is a back perspective view of the preferred
embodiment of a beverage insulator containing a smaller sports
bottle showing various means for attachment to backpacks, golf
carts and carrying around ones shoulder and body.
[0046] FIG. 12 is a side perspective view of motion stabilizer.
[0047] FIG. 13 is a back perspective view of the preferred
embodiment of a beverage insulator containing a smaller sports
bottle showing an attachment means and the motion stabilizer.
TABLE-US-00001 DRAWINGS - REFERENCE NUMBERS 20 Insulating and
protective cover 22 Main body of cover 24 Seam of cover 26
Stitching of cover seam 28 Elongated locking cover flap 30 Interior
cavity of cover 32 Cover flap fastener 33 Mating cover flap
fastener 34 Unique cut of insulating material 36 Blank form of
insulating material 38 Insulating cover and flap seal 39 Bottle,
container or can 40 Dome in cover flap created by valve 42a Upper
double indention by larger bottle 42b Lower double indention by
larger bottle 44 Container cap 46 Container cap valve 48 Insulated
cover pocket 50 Pocket flap in closed position 52 Pocket flap
fastener 53 Pocket flap mating fastener 56 Stitching of pocket 57
Stitching of pocket flap 58 Ventilated hand strap 59 Hand strap
attachment means 60 Single indention caused by smaller bottle 62
Strapping material with loop for keeper 64 Attachment means for
strapping material 66 Keeper 68 Clip 70 Adjustable carrying
mechanism 72 Adjustment device 74 Motion Stabilizer 76 Hook and
loop fastener 78 Elastic material 80 Tab 82 Stitching 84 Attachment
means for fastener to elastic
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0048] Referring now to the drawings, FIGS. 1 and 2 show an empty
preferred embodiment of the present invention of an insulative and
protective cover 20 in an assembled manner. FIG. 1 is a front
elevational view of the cover 20 with main components being a main
body 22, an elongated locking flap 28, an integral unique cut 34 of
material, a cover flap fastener 32 on the underside of the flap 28
and a complementary mating cover flap fastener 33 on the front of
the main body 22. The cover 20 and locking flap 28 are constructed
of a single piece of material. The main body is joined at the seam
24 by stitching 26 or other attachment means such as gluing or heat
melting. After stitching 26 of the seam 24, the main body 22
becomes an elongated tubular body with an open top and an interior
cavity 30 which is formed and sized to receive a bottle, container
39 or a can as shown in FIG. 6. Fasteners 32 and 33 are shown
attached to the flap 28 and cover body 22 respectively by means of
glue, however other means of attaching the fasteners are available
such as stitching and the like. Fasteners 32 and 33 are preferably
of the hook and loop material, however other fastening means can be
used such as button and string, brads, snaps and the like.
[0049] FIG. 2 shows the stitching 26 of the cover 20 that
permanently encloses the side and bottom of the main body 22.
[0050] FIG. 3 shows the depicted shape of the single blank form 36
of flexible insulating material from which the cover 20 is
constructed. The blank 36 is formed from of a material such as
neoprene, however any suitable flexible insulating material may be
used. A benefit of neoprene is this material has a textile fabric
covering with a vast range of color selections for construction of
the cover 20. This is beneficial as the insulating covers 20 can be
fabricated in different colors for different needs or wants of a
customer. For example a biker may wish a cover 20 be made of the
color yellow for use with ones bike water bottle, or a hunter may
wish to use a camouflage colored cover 20 while hunting. This
flexible material also provides a contour fitting or conforming
shape of the cover 20 to the encapsulated container 39 as shown in
FIGS. 4-9 and 11. This conforming shape thereby ensures a snug fit
that eliminates thermally conductive gaps between the container 39
and cover 20 that enhances the insulating capacity of the cover 20.
Another benefit of this material is its flexibility in concert with
the unique construction of the cover 20 so containers 39 of similar
sizes and styles will fit in the same sized cover 20. This
flexibility of the cover 20 also provides a snug fit of the
container 39 in relation to the cover 20 thereby keeping the
container 39 frictionally enclosed and stable within the cover
20.
[0051] An additional advantage of the present invention is that
because of the single piece of blank form 36 in the construction of
the cover 20, only one seam is created on the tubular portion of
the main body 22, thereby enabling more uninterrupted graphics to
be printed on the exterior surface of the cover 20. As will be
understood, insulated covers of this type usually carry distinctive
promotional graphics on the exterior surface and, hence, this
feature of the present cover 20 provides substantially greater
flexibility and variety in the size, type and arrangements of
graphics which can be placed on the cover 20.
[0052] FIGS. 4 and 5 are views of the main embodiment of the cover
20 showing a fit flush seal 38 of the cover 20 and flap 28 over the
enclosed container 39. After the container 39 is inserted into the
interior cavity 30 of the cover 20, the flap 28 folds over the top
of the container 39 at the open, upper end of main body 22 and down
the front of the main body 22 to where a cover flap fastener 32 on
the underside of the flap 28 engages a complementary mating cover
flap fastener 33 on the front of main body 22. The predetermined,
novel and precise shape of the unique cut 34 allows the flap 28 to
seal 38 with the body 22 of the cover 20, thereby encapsulating the
container 39 therein. This seal 38 begins with the fold of the flap
28 against the main body 22 of the cover 20 and continues around
the balance of the opening of the top of the cover 20 thus
completing the seal 38. This encapsulation protects the container
39 from ambient air, rays of the sun and outside contaminates.
Tests have shown this unique cut 34 sealing of the cover 20
performs well with various containers such as existing sports
bottles, sports drink bottles, water bottles, baby bottles, cans
and the like.
[0053] A main requirement is the exact placement of the fasteners
32 and 33 so the joining of the fasteners 32 and 33 will align the
flap 28 to the main body 22 so as to equally seal 34 the flap 28 to
the main body 22 on both sides of the cover 20 as shown in FIG. 5.
With this alignment, while riding a bike, one can replace the cover
20 containing the container 39 into a bike cage after drinking and
reseal the flap 28 to the main body 22 by attaching the fasteners
32 and 33 by touch so one does not have to look down and take ones
eyes off the road.
[0054] As the flap 28 is pulled down over the container 39 a dome
40 is created by the stretching of the flap 28 material over the
top of the container 39. This dome 40 is beneficial as it aids in
the dispersant of potentially harmful liquids such as bacteria
laden creek water splashing on the flap 28. FIGS. 4 and 5 also show
the conforming qualities of this invention as to the relationship
of the flexible material used for the cover 20 and the shape of the
containers 39 used therein. The double indention of 42a and 42b on
the cover 20 indicates a larger sports bottle contained therein
which has the same indentions. These indentions 42a and 42b being
reproduced in the cover 20 are beneficial as one can grasp the
container 39 in the same manner as usual for consumption. A biker
needs these indentions 42a and 42b to grasp and retrieve the bottle
from the cage on a bike as the cage usually holds a firm grip on
the bottle for safety.
[0055] FIG. 6 reveals the general location of the container valve
46 in relation to the cover 20 opening at the unique cut 34. The
valve 46 sits on top of the container cap 44. A benefit of this
location of the valve 46 is that when the flap 28 is closed, the
dome 40 protects the open or closed valve 46 of a container 39
contained in the cover 20. When riding a bike, the normal beverage
bottle for use in the sport has a valve 46 on the top of the bottle
cap 44 from which the beverage is dispersed. Bikers traditionally
retrieve the bottles from the bike bottle cages with their hand and
open the valve 46 with their teeth. However, sometimes these valves
get very sticky and obstinate and do not open easily. The benefit
of using the cover 20 with one's bottle is that the biker would not
have to close or open the valve 46 with one's teeth. The bottle
could be put back in the bike cage with the valve 46 open, then
engage the flap 28 with the cover flap fastener 32 and mating cover
flap fastener 33, and the dome 40 would cover and protect the valve
46.
[0056] The unique cut 34 of the insulating material also allows the
flap 28 to fold down and back as shown in FIG. 7 and stay in this
open position without the aid of one's hand or other attachment
means. In this position one can drink from the container 39 often
without changing the flap 28 from the closed to the open position.
This also provides easy access to the container 39 and the
container cap 44 for refilling the container 39 without taking the
container 39 out of the insulative cover 20.
[0057] In a second embodiment of the cover, FIG. 8 reveals an
insulated cover pocket 48 on the front side of cover 20 with the
pocket flap 50 in the closed and sealed position. The material for
this pocket 48 and flap 50 is of the same type of waterproof
material used for the cover 20, as this embodiment will be used
mainly by runners. When running long distances runners keep
necessities such as energy pills and powders that must not get wet
in pockets and pouches of this type. A fastening means such as
stitching 56 attaches the pocket 48 to the cover 20. In the same
embodiment FIG. 9 shows the pocket flap 50 in the open position. A
fastening means such as stitching 57 attaches the flap 50 to the
cover 20. The preferred method of stitching 57 the pocket flap 50
to the cover 20 is from the inside of the flap 50 as shown. By this
method, the pocket flap 50 will naturally stay open while one is
retrieving the contents of the pocket 48 and will not fall down and
be resealed before desired. The fastening means for the pocket flap
50 to the cover pocket 48 is a pocket flap fastener 52 on the
underside of the pocket flap 50, which engages a complementary
mating pocket flap fastener 53 on the front of the pocket 48. This
is the same type material used for the 32 and 33 fasteners in FIG.
2.
[0058] Also a part of the second embodiment, FIG. 10 teaches a
ventilated hand strap 58 shown on the back of the cover 20. This
strap 58 aids the runner in holding onto the beverage bottle in the
cover 20 with little effort while running. Another much needed
benefit of this embodiment is that the runners hand will have the
container cover between their hand and the usually cold container.
Many runners hand carry their water bottle while they run as it
reminds them to drink more often and is more convenient. Before
they start a run, and at interval race aid stations, runners fill
their bottles with ice and water. However, the runner's hand gets
cold while holding the bottle while the beverage gets hot. This
device will provide insulation between the runner's hand and the
beverage bottle, provide a strap for ease of carry and provide a
waterproof pocket for essentials. The hand strap 58 is preferably
made of ventilated nylon or the like to help reduce the runners'
hand from getting hot and sweaty while running. Stitching 59 is the
chosen method of attachment of the hand strap 58 to the cover 20,
although other means may be used.
[0059] The third embodiment FIG. 11 shows various carrying means
for the cover 20 and its contents. These carrying means or
attachments fit a cover 20 containing virtually any sized
container. The single indention 60 of the cover denotes a smaller
sports bottle is contained within the cover. A strapping material
62 with a loop at each end is attached to the cover 20 at both ends
of the strapping 62 by means of stitching 64. The loops' purpose is
for attachment of a keeper 66, which is preferably a D-ring, but
could be an O-ring, triangle, DR or other suitable attachment
means. A clip 68 can be attached to the keeper 66 at one end of the
strapping 62 or both. An adjustable carrying mechanism 70, such as
a strap with keepers 66 and clips 68 can be attached to the cover
20. The clip 68 may be a standard snap hook, swivel hook, retainer,
bolt snap, carabiner or any other similar retention mechanism. An
adjustment device 72 such as a slide, cam buckle, straplock or loop
may be used to adjust the length of the carrying mechanism 70. This
embodiment may be used by anyone simply by changing out
attachments. If used by a hiker the cover 20, when used in concert
with the strapping material 62 and keeper 66, may be attached to a
backpack with the clip 68. To keep the cover 20 and enclosed
container 39 from swinging about while walking, a motion stabilizer
74 can be added as shown in FIG. 12. The stabilizer 74 is
manufactured from an open ended piece of hook and loop material 76
which is attached 84 by means of sewing, grommet or the like to a
strip of elastic material 78. The elastic 78 is sized to snugly fit
around the cover 20 with an enclosed container 39. The elastic 78
is stitched 82 at the end so as to form a tab 80. FIG. 13 shows the
motion stabilizer 74 in an attached position on the cover 20. The
tab 80 is needed to pull the elastic 78 off of the cover 20 if one
is wearing thick gloves. The hook and loop material 76 can be
looped around and attached to each other on the backpack at the
lower end of the shoulder strap or on the hipbelt which will
stabilize the container 20 and its contents. The pocket, hand
strap, motion stabilizer and carrying mechanisms are preferred
features, but they are not necessary to the invention in its
broadest sense.
[0060] Active tests have been conducted on the container cover 20
using 25 ounce bottles and indicate that its unique design as
disclosed herein keeps the water contents of a pre-chilled 25 ounce
container clean and chilled beyond expectations. The first test was
a three hour mountain bike ride through unpaved trails of dirt, mud
and creek water with ambient temperatures of 95 degrees. This test
involved carrying two containers 39, both containing a valve 46 to
dispense the water. One container was encapsulated by a cover 20 as
disclosed herein and one container 39 had no protection. At the
start of the test both containers were filled with 22 ounces of
water of the same temperature. After 45 minutes of testing, the
encapsulated container was still clean and dry, and the water
inside was cold. However, the unprotected container 39 was dirty
and wet and the water inside was warm and declared undrinkable
because of the dirty container valve 46. At the end of the three
hour test, the encapsulated container was still clean and dry and
the beverage was cool, while the unprotected container 39 was
dirtier and wet, and the beverage inside was hot and still
undrinkable. A second active test was conducted on paved
neighborhood streets with containers in bike cages and traveling at
speeds of 15 to 19 miles per hour, at ambient temperatures of 98
degrees. The second test also involved carrying two containers 39,
both containing 22 ounces of water with one encapsulated by a cover
20 as disclosed herein, and the other unprotected. This second test
had two parts. Test (a) involved the contents of each container 39
being frozen at the start of the test. The ambient temperature was
90 to 95 degrees. Test (b) involved the container 39 contents
starting at 44 degrees. Thermometers were inserted into the
containers 39 before chilling so as to record the test accurately.
The temperature of the water was recorded at intervals with the
following results: TABLE-US-00002 Recorded Temperature of the Water
(.degree. F.) Time period Start 30 min. 60 min. 90 min. 120 min.
Test (a), ambient air 95.degree. F. Bottle with Frozen Half frozen
51.degree. F. 59.degree. F. 73.degree. F. cover 20 Bottle without
Frozen 53.degree. F. 78.degree. F. 86.degree. F. 92.degree. F.
cover 20 Test (b), ambient air 98.degree. F. Bottle with 46.degree.
F. 54.degree. F. 67.degree. F. 77.degree. F. 83.degree. F. cover 20
Bottle without 46.degree. F. 68.degree. F. 89.degree. F. 96.degree.
F. 96.degree. F. cover 20
[0061] As shown by these active tests results, on a moving vehicle
the insulating cover 20 keeps an encapsulated bottle and the water
contained therein 25 to 35 per cent cooler for one hour and 13 to
20 per cent cooler for two hours over the same type of bottle which
is uncovered. Since sponsored bike rides such as the MS 150 have
rest areas approximately every 10 miles, a rider can get fresh cold
water for one's container about every 30 to 60 minutes depending on
the speed of the biker. But on non-sponsored rides such as
individual training, a biker can be riding for many hours with no
way of refilling one's bottles, so having a means to keep ones
water bottles cool for an extended time is critical for training
and health.
[0062] While the above description contains many specificities,
these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the
invention, but as exemplifications of the presently preferred
embodiments thereof. Many other ramifications and variations are
possible within the teachings of the invention. For example, the
cover may be various sizes in width and length to fit numerous
sizes of containers whether they are cylindrical, square or other
shapes. The container need not be contained for reasons of
temperature, but instead for safety as in carrying a glass bottle
to avoid breakage. The fasteners may be of any shape. The
attachments may be of any multitude of fasteners and could be
either plastic or metal. The motion stabilizer may be as shown or
could be as simple as an elastic cord.
[0063] Thus the scope of the invention should be determined by the
appended claims and their legal equivalents, and not by the
examples given.
* * * * *