U.S. patent application number 12/403886 was filed with the patent office on 2009-09-17 for beverage and food carrier and dispensing systems therefor.
This patent application is currently assigned to Blue Shoe Innovations, LLC. Invention is credited to Mark A. Gamble, Paul R. Metcalfe, Anil V. Singaraju, Scott E. Urban.
Application Number | 20090230083 12/403886 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41061873 |
Filed Date | 2009-09-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090230083 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Metcalfe; Paul R. ; et
al. |
September 17, 2009 |
BEVERAGE AND FOOD CARRIER AND DISPENSING SYSTEMS THEREFOR
Abstract
A carrier for carrying at least one beverage container includes
a sheet of at least one layer of a polymeric material having an
arrangement of at least one aperture for receiving a beverage
container, and having a plurality of handle members for grasping by
at least one finger or portion of a users hand for carrying the
beverage container. A tray configuration is also provided for use
with the carrier or in a separate manner, and a dispensing system
for use with the carrier is set forth.
Inventors: |
Metcalfe; Paul R.; (Solon,
OH) ; Urban; Scott E.; (Cleveland, OH) ;
Singaraju; Anil V.; (Brunswick, OH) ; Gamble; Mark
A.; (Bay Village, OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
HAHN LOESER & PARKS, LLP
One GOJO Plaza, Suite 300
AKRON
OH
44311-1076
US
|
Assignee: |
Blue Shoe Innovations, LLC
Solon
OH
|
Family ID: |
41061873 |
Appl. No.: |
12/403886 |
Filed: |
March 13, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61036314 |
Mar 13, 2008 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
215/395 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 71/508 20130101;
B65D 33/00 20130101; B65D 83/0805 20130101; B65D 81/00
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
215/395 |
International
Class: |
B65D 23/00 20060101
B65D023/00 |
Claims
1. A carrier for carrying at least one tapered container, the
carrier comprising: at least one flexible sheet formed of at least
one layer of a polymeric material; at least one aperture provided
in the sheet for receiving a tapered container; and a plurality of
handle members, wherein a tapered container is selectively
positioned at the site of the aperture and the sheet is folded
about the container to a position wherein the handle members are
joined for grasping by at least one finger or portion of a users
hand and the container is engaged by the aperture at a position at
or above the center of gravity of the container to allow carrying
of the container upon lifting of the sheet folded thereabout.
2. The carrier of claim 1, wherein the sheet is at least one layer
of medium density polyethylene.
3. The carrier of claim 1, wherein the at least one sheet includes
at least one base sheet and at least one second sheet which are
sealed together at locations to make at least one outside pocket on
a side of the carrier.
4. The carrier of claim 3, wherein the at least one base sheet is
made of a different material and/or thickness than the at least one
second sheet.
5. The carrier of claim 3, wherein there is a perforation between
the at least one outside pocket and the portion of the carrier
containing the at least one aperture, allowing the at least one
outside pocket to be separated from the rest of the carrier.
6. The carrier of claim 3, wherein the at least one outside pocket
is at least partially separated into multiple portions by at least
one seal.
7. The carrier of claim 3, wherein the at least one outside pocket
has pleats or gussets at its sides or bottom.
8. The carrier of claim 3, wherein the outside pocket has a sealing
system associated therewith.
9. The carrier of claim 8, wherein the sealing system is
resealable.
10. The carrier of claim 3, wherein at least one product is
pre-packaged in the at least one pocket.
11. The carrier of claim 10, wherein the at least one pre-packaged
product is selected from the group consisting of food, beverage,
medicine, consumer product, novelty product, promotional product
and combinations thereof.
12. The carrier of claim 10, wherein the at least one pre-packaged
product is a beverage, and a straw hole port is formed
therewith.
13. The carrier of claim 1, further comprising a securing system to
allow the handle members to be selectively attached to one
another.
14. The carrier of claim 1, further comprising a rigid member
positioned at the location of the at least one aperture provided in
the sheet for receiving a beverage container, the rigid member
having at least one aperture therein corresponding to the at least
one aperture in the sheet, to provide further support for a
beverage container positioned therein.
15. The carrier of claim 1, further comprising a member attached to
at least one side of the outside of the carrier.
16. The carrier of claim 15, wherein the member is a strip or
tubular member having indicia formed thereon or provided in
association therewith.
17. The carrier of claim 15, wherein the member includes
perforations to allow for selective removal thereof.
18. The carrier of claim 1, wherein the at least one sheet includes
at least one base sheet and at least one second sheet which is
sealed with the base sheet at an end position thereof with the
other end of the at least one second sheet having a handle portion,
such that upon folding of the base sheet, the at least one second
sheet will form an interior sling portion when the handle portion
thereof is grasped along with the handle portions of the base
sheet.
19. The carrier of claim 18, wherein the at least one further sheet
a second sheet of a polymeric material having an arrangement of at
least two apertures for receiving a beverage container and a handle
member, wherein the second sheet is attached to the first side of
the first sheet such that the at least two apertures of the second
sheet are aligned with the at least two apertures of the first
sheet.
20. The carrier of claim 1, wherein the carrier includes at least
one pocket provided adjacent to the at least one aperture, to allow
carrying of a beverage container in association with the at least
one aperture and at least one product in the at least one
pocket.
21. The carrier of claim 1, wherein there exists an additional
sheet attached on either side of the at least one aperture, so as
to be positioned below a tapered container placed through the at
least one aperture.
22. The carrier of claim 1, further comprising a tray member for
use therewith, the tray member being selectively disposed on top of
one or more beverage containers positioned therewith.
23. The carrier of claim 22, wherein the tray member includes a
retaining system to engage the at least one beverage container.
24. The carrier of claim 23, wherein the retaining system comprises
male or female structures on the bottom of the tray that engage the
top portion of a beverage container.
25. The carrier of claim 22, wherein the tray member includes
convex or concave side portions that the sides of the carrier
frictionally engage.
26. A carrier for carrying at least one beverage container and a
food product, the carrier comprising: at least one food containing
portion for at least one food item, and a beverage container
holding portion attached to the food containing portion.
27. The carrier of claim 26, wherein the beverage container holding
portion is a circular sleeve that engages and holds a beverage
container in position as the food containing portion is
carried.
28. The carrier of claim 26, wherein the beverage container holding
portion is a flexible sheet having at least one aperture provided
in the sheet for receiving a tapered container; and a handle
member, wherein a tapered container is selectively positioned at
the site of the aperture and the sheet is folded about the
container to a position wherein the handle member can be grasped
above the container such that the container is engaged by the
aperture at a position at or above the center of gravity of the
container to allow carrying of the container upon lifting of the
sheet folded thereabout.
29. The carrier of claim 26, wherein the food containing portion is
a pouch made of a flexible material provided with a handle
portion.
30. The carrier of claim 26, wherein the food containing portion is
a rigid container.
31. A carrier to facilitate handling of beverages and other items
comprising at least one flexible sheet having a beverage holding
portion for receiving a beverage container, and a handle portion
formed as an open loop above the beverage holding portion, wherein
the handle portion may be grasped by one or more fingers or the
palm of the hand of a user, wherein the beverage container is
selectively supported in the beverage holding portion for carrying
or consumption of the beverage while leaving the rest of the hand
free to also carry a another article.
32. The carrier of claim 31, wherein the beverage holding portion
is a pouch portion.
33. The carrier of claim 31, wherein the carrier may further
comprise a separate pocket portion, which may be used to store and
carry at least one other item
34. The carrier of claim 33, wherein the at least one other item is
selected from the group consisting of food product, utensils, a
napkin, straw, condiments or combinations thereof.
35. A tray for carrying food product comprising a tray body having
a bottom and side portions, wherein the tray is nestable with like
trays for shipping and storage, and also stackable during use,
wherein the tray is nestable with other trays when in a first
orientation, and stackable when rotated with respect to another
tray, thereby allowing two or more trays to be carried in one hand
or stacked on a support surface.
36. The tray according to claim 35, wherein the side portions have
structures which are aligned with structures in another tray for
nesting and misaligned when rotated for stacking.
37. The tray according to claim 35, further comprising a retaining
system to engage at least one beverage container.
38. The tray of claim 37, wherein the retaining system comprises
male or female structures on the bottom of the tray that engage the
top portion of a beverage container.
39. A carrier dispensing system for transporting, storing and
dispensing a plurality of carrier members wherein the carrier
members are formed of at least one flexible sheet and have at least
one pocket or aperture provided in the sheet for receiving a
product or container, the dispensing system including a housing
with a plurality of dispensing openings formed therein, the
plurality of carrier members be disposed in the housing in a
folded, interleaved configuration, such that each of the carrier
members may be dispensed individually from a dispensing opening in
a manner that removal of one carrier member advances or pulls along
the next carrier member to a position for subsequent removal,
wherein the plurality of dispensing openings allow the housing to
be positioned on a flat surface for dispensing or in an upright
position on a shelf while allowing dispensing carriers
therefrom.
40. The dispensing system of claim 39, wherein the plurality of
dispensing openings include an opening on at least one of the edges
of the housing and at least one of the top or bottom sides of the
housing.
41. The dispensing system of claim 40, wherein the dispensing
opening on the top or bottom side located at an intermediate
portion of the top or bottom wall of the housing.
42. The dispensing system of claim 40, wherein a plurality of
dispensing openings are provided on a plurality of the edges of the
housing.
43. The dispensing system of claim 39, wherein the plurality of
dispensing openings are created by the removal of a panel from the
housing.
Description
[0001] The invention relates to a beverage and/or food carrying
device and dispensing systems therefore. More particularly, the
invention relates to a beverage and/or food carrying devices which
allow easier handling of beverage and food items in many different
environments and applications, where food and beverages are
dispensed on an individual basis.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] In many environments and situations, the handling of food
and beverages dispensed on an individual basis, becomes difficult
and cumbersome. For example, in the environment such as a sporting
or entertainment venue, food and beverages are dispensed via
counters or vendors, on an individual basis. If a patron purchases
food or beverages from the counter for example, they then must
somehow carry the purchased items back to their seat, and handling
of the items can be difficult. This is particularly true where the
patron may buy multiple drinks and/or food items for their
group.
[0003] Many other situations are similar, where a person gets
drinks and /or food and then must carry the items back to a seat or
the like for consumption. Such situations may include movie
theaters, buffets, happy hours, or many other activities or
environments, where a person has to carry food and beverages that
are dispensed on an individual basis. Further, spillage of
beverages from hand carried cups is a well known problem to
customers of carry out or fast food restaurants. Also, handling
multiple drinks is problematic. For such situations, there are
drink carriers that are used, being the paper pulp type trays with
multiple receptacles in which drinks can be frictionally engaged.
Such trays as currently available for supporting and transporting
drinking cups include receptacles sized to fit the bottom of a
particular size cup. As the receptacles are typically formed in one
size, this has led the fast food restaurants to configure the cups
for different sizes of drinks to have the same bottom
configuration, thereby allowing them to fit in the tray receptacle.
These known carriers provide only limited lateral support for cups
being carried or otherwise transported, increasing the chance that
taller cups can be tipped and spilled while carrying. Further, such
carriers are bulky and not conveniently configured to carry
additional items, such as food items, making storage and handling
of the tray more difficult. These particular types of tray devices
are also difficult to carry, and usually require both hands of the
user, preventing the user from using their hands to carry other
things or perform tasks such as opening doors, handing a ticket to
a person, or distributing food to another person.
[0004] Additionally, these types of carriers are unattractive,
bulky, nested tightly together and therefore difficult to handle,
expensive to ship and space-consuming to store at a site for use,
taking up significant storage space due to their configuration.
Other types of carriers may be made to assemble for use, making
them inconvenient and difficult to handle.
[0005] Although helpful, such devices are still problematic if
multiple drinks and food items are purchased, and are not
convenient to carry or handle, ship or store for use.
[0006] Various other efforts have been made to facilitate the
transportation of multiple beverage cups from a point of purchase
to a point of use. Such efforts have generally not been accepted by
consumers, due to various deficiencies, and there thus is a need
for an improved device for handling beverages and food items that
are dispensed on an individual basis.
[0007] Another problem inherent in existing container carriers is
that they may not support filled cups in a stable manner. Known
carriers when in use, may not allow for stable carrying as they are
rigid, and therefore require the user to maintain the carrier in a
level position to avoid spillage of the cup contents. Further, such
carriers may be unstable if they are not filled with the maximum
number of cups for which they are designed.
[0008] Notwithstanding the state of the art as described herein,
there is a need for further improvements in beverage and food
carriers, as well as dispensing systems for such carriers.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The invention provides a carrier for at least one beverage
container. In one example of the invention, a carrier includes a
sheet of at least one layer of a polymeric material having an
arrangement of at least one aperture for receiving a beverage
container and a plurality of handle members.
[0010] In another example of the invention, a carrier for carrying
a plurality of beverage containers and a food product includes a
first sheet of a polymeric material having a first side and a
second side, wherein the first sheet has an arrangement of at least
one aperture for receiving beverage containers and a plurality of
handle members, and a second sheet of a polymeric material having
an arrangement of at least one aperture for receiving a beverage
container and a handle member, wherein the second sheet is attached
to the first side of the first sheet such that the at least one
aperture of the second sheet are aligned with the at least two
apertures of the first sheet.
[0011] In yet another example of the invention, a dispensing system
for a carrier for at least one beverage container is disclosed. The
carrier includes a sheet of at least one layer of a polymeric
material having an arrangement of at least one aperture for
receiving a beverage container and a plurality of handle members.
The dispensing system includes a box, the box having a plurality of
walls defining a cavity. In general, the cavity includes a
plurality of carriers that are removably positioned within the
cavity. The box also includes an upper surface, wherein at least
one opening on the upper surface provides for access to the
cavity.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example of a carrier
according to the invention, showing the carrier in an unfolded
state;
[0013] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the example of the carrier
for beverage containers shown in FIG. 1, showing the carrier in a
folded state for use;
[0014] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a further example of a
carrier according to the invention, showing the carrier in a folded
state;
[0015] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the carrier shown in FIG. 3
with two cups therein and being grasped and carried by a user;
[0016] FIGS. 3B-3D show additional examples of carriers according
to the invention;
[0017] FIG. 4 is a top plan view of another example of a carrier
according to the invention, showing the carrier in an unfolded
state;
[0018] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the carrier shown in FIG. 4,
in use carrying beverages and food items as an example;
[0019] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a further example of a
carrier according to the invention, showing the carrier in a folded
state;
[0020] FIGS. 6A through 6H are perspective and sectional views of
alternative examples of the carrier according to the invention;
[0021] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a further example of a
carrier according to the invention, showing the carrier in a folded
state;
[0022] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a further example of a
carrier according to the invention, showing the carrier in a folded
state;
[0023] FIGS. 8A through 8D show alternative tray members for use
with the carrier as shown in FIG. 8 for example;
[0024] FIGS. 9A-9M show an alternate tray configurations, and
schematic illustrations showing features thereof;
[0025] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a further example of a
carrier according to the invention;
[0026] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a further example of a
carrier according to the invention, showing the carrier in a folded
state;
[0027] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a further example of a
carrier according to the invention;
[0028] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a further example of a
carrier according to the invention;
[0029] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a further example of a
carrier according to the invention, shown being carried by a
user;
[0030] FIG. 14A is a perspective view of a further example of a
carrier according to the invention, similar to the example of FIG.
14;
[0031] FIG. 15 is a front view of a further example of a carrier
according to the invention;
[0032] FIG. 15A is a perspective view of the carrier shown in FIG.
15 in use with a further carrier example according to the
invention, such as the carrier of FIG. 1, both being carried by a
user;
[0033] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a first example of a
dispensing system for a plurality of carriers for carrying beverage
containers; and
[0034] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a second example of a
dispensing system for a plurality of carriers for carrying beverage
containers.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0035] In one example of the invention, as seen in FIGS. 1 and 2,
carrier 10 is formed as one or more sheets 12 of at least one layer
of a polymeric material, having an arrangement of at least one
aperture 14 for receiving a beverage container 15. It is also
contemplated that the carrier 10 in this or other examples of the
invention, may not have to have drink holes 14, thereby providing a
sling carrier for carrying a wide variety of things such as food or
other items. The sheet(s) 12 further comprises a plurality of
handle members 16 and 18 for receiving the fingers of a person
carrying carrier 10. If desired, the sheet(s) 12 of carrier 10 may
be formed of multiple layers on one or both sides, including two or
more layers of polymeric material, to enhance the strength of the
carrier 10, and/or to provide sheet characteristics desired for
carrying different sized containers of beverages. It is also
possible to use two or more sheets 12 of material, on one or both
sides of carrier 10 to form one or more carrying pockets 13 on one
or both sides of the central drink holes 14. The pockets 13 may be
formed by a plurality of heat seals or folds 21 forming the sides,
and a plurality of heat seals 19 forming the bottom of the pockets
13. If pockets 13 are provided, they may be separable via optional
perforated cuts 17 below the bottom heat seals 19 of the pocket.
Upon separation, the pockets become separate bags or the like for
carrying items. The sheet(s) 12 may be die-cut or otherwise
suitably formed. It is thus contemplated that the sheet(s) 12 could
be formed of different materials and/or multiple layers, to allow
the inner sheet 12 to be formed as a thicker or stronger material
to assist in carrying the load of cup(s) 15, while an outer sheet
12 could be formed of a thinner or different material that is less
expensive for example.
[0036] In one example, the one or more sheets 12 are constructed of
a flat, durable, flexible thermoplastic polymer. The thermoplastic
polymer film may be of any suitable type, such as medium density
polyethylene (MDPE) for example. In an example of the invention,
sheet 12 is constructed of MDPE, which has desired strength
characteristics for carrying typical beverage cups of different
sizes and weights, and/or configurations. In this or other examples
described below, the sheet also allows printing on one or both
sides for branding, advertising, instructions, or other
purposes.
[0037] As an example for some applications, the MDPE thermoplastic
polymer has the benefits of providing properties that include
limited stretchability and a substantially non-sticky texture to
sheet 12. These properties allow carrier 10 to accommodate a range
of beverage container sizes, shapes and fill weights. This material
or a like material may thus provide strong securement of a beverage
container or cup 15 in the aperture 14 when inserted into aperture
14. The material also may allow the diameter of aperture 14 of
carrier 10 to be capable of increasing to a degree to accommodate
the beverage container 15 based upon the size, shape and weight of
the container 15. This property facilitates in securing the
beverage container in carrier 10 during transport. In general, any
suitable polymeric materials which are not excessively tacky and do
not have a tendency to excessively stretch or tear when exposed to
heavier than normal beverage containers, may be used. Further,
materials which exhibit limited stretch properties and low tack
allow for easy removal of beverage containers when required, thus
promoting ease of handling and use of carrier 10.
[0038] Suitable materials such as MDPE or others may also possess
the qualities of increased tensile strength in both the machine as
well as the transverse direction in the manufacturing of carrier
10. The combination of increased tensile strength in addition to
the limited stretchability of the material provides carrier 10 with
the capability to bear the load of beverage containers, as well as
other items such as food, without deforming excessively or failing.
For example, the molecular arrangement in MDPE facilitates an
increase in the tear resistance when compared to HDPE. The material
from which carrier 10 is made may also be resistant to tearing,
such as crease tearing which is described as the phenomena of a
small tear propagating through the material once the material is
exposed to further loads. Other suitable materials may be selected
for various applications, and may include materials such as low
density polyethylene (LDPE) and high density polyethylene (HDPE)
for example, PLA (Polylactic Acid), paper, bamboo substrate,
flashspun and bonded high-density polyethylene fibers, or a
combination of paper and polymer or other combinations. Any
suitable materials and combinations of materials are contemplated.
As mentioned above, if two or more sheets are used, the different
sheets could be formed of different materials to provide different
characteristics such as strength, stretchability, cost, or others,
as may be desired.
[0039] FIG. 2 illustrates container carrier 10 in a functional
position. In use, carrier 10 is easily loaded when in the flat
position by placement of beverage containers at the site of the
hole(s) 14, as shown in FIG. 1, and then is temporarily secured in
a folded state for carrying by at least one finger of a person's
hand or other structure inserted through handle members 16 and 18.
Upon lifting, the apertures 14 move upwardly on the containers 15
until the tapered side of the containers 15 are engaged by the
apertures 14. The size of the apertures 14 are provided to have a
somewhat larger diameter than the bottom of the container 15 so
that they engage the tapered container at a position approximately
between the midportion and top of the container 15 as shown. With
different sized cups, this position of engagement with the cup is
effectively maintained since larger, heavier cups will stretch the
hole 14 more, and smaller, lighter cups will stretch the hole 14
less, allowing different sizes to be easily accommodated. This
ensures that the center of gravity of the filled container is
positioned approximately at or below the level at which the
aperture 14 engages the container 15, providing stable securement
of the container 15 therein, without the container 15 being able to
tip from a substantially level position as shown. Once carrier 10
is in the functional position, the person can carry carrier 10 and
the beverage container(s) 15 to a desired destination without the
beverage containers tilting over and spilling the beverage from the
containers. This is enabled by the flexibility of the material from
which the carrier 10 is made, which allows the carrier to swing and
deform between the container 15 and handles 16 and 18 when walking,
while the containers 15 remain substantially level. The carrier 10
offers convenience in carrying one or more drinks, with one or two
cups easily carried in a stable fashion due to the flexibility of
the film from which carrier 10 is made, which keeps the filled cups
substantially upright, even with variations of hand and/or
hand-hole positions. The carrier is effectively self-stabilizing,
distinct from the use of rigid materials which rigidly tie hand
movement directly to cup movement, which is more inclined to cause
spills of beverages. It should also be evident that the carrier 10
keeps the fingers free for other tasks when being carried, as only
a portion of the fingers/hand is needed to support the carrier 10
via the handle members 16 and 18. The carrier 10 is also very light
weight and economical to make due to the low cost of the film
materials which may be used, and simple manufacturing process. In a
further example, the handle portions 16 and 18 may be attachable to
one another by any suitable mechanism, such as by either attaching
all layers or just the inside layers, by adhesive or mechanical
systems or the like. The attachment of the handle portions 16 and
18 to one another assists in allowing a loaded carrier 10 to stand
upright and maintain a form to allow it to be placed on a support
surface and picked up again easily. As will be further described
below, the carriers according to examples are also easily and
cost-effectively packaged for shipping, handling and storage at a
site for use. After use, the carriers can be recycled or composted
depending on the type of materials used, offering an
environmentally friendly product. The size and characteristics of
the product enables it to consume significantly less volume in the
waste receptacles and waste management system than any other
beverage carrier, making it environmentally and economically very
attractive.
[0040] In the example of FIG. 1, the carrier 10 may have sheet(s)
12 formed by a simple die-cutting process, to form top edges that
are square, or as shown in FIG. 2, the sheet(s) 12 may be formed to
have top edges that are rounded or otherwise shaped differently
than square. In examples, the sheet(s) 12 may be suitably formed by
die-cutting, to eliminate the need to separately form a desired
overall shape or trim the material of the carrier 10. In examples
with pockets 13, the pockets 13 or saddle-bags may have heat seals
21 that run all the way up to the top or partially along the sides
of the carrier 10. Further, one or more additional layers could be
used to make additional compartments and/or compartment separators
for the carrier 10. Such additional layer(s) could be localized to
the area of one or both sides or carrier 10, or be provided as
another full layer. One or more additional layers could be provided
to add to support the cup(s) if desired. The layer or layers of
carrier 10 can be of different thickness or of different types of
plastic materials if desired. For example, a thicker and/or stiffer
layer could be provided to facilitate support of the cups, while
one or more other layers could be provided primarily for forming
the pockets or saddle-bags 13, which could be of a thinner and more
flexible and stretchable material. The carrier 10 could be
constructed to use a thin handle layer and reinforce the handle
openings 16 and 18 for example.
[0041] The carrier 10 may also be used to dispense and temporarily
store the beverages during consumption, allowing the user to
repeatedly remove and reposition the container 15 in the aperture
14 when in the folded position wherein the container can be
inserted back into the secured position as shown. As each side edge
of the device 10 is open in this example, a user can simply reach
in through the side and grasp the container for drinking and then
replace the drink as needed. A three hole carrier 20 is shown in
FIG. 3, which similarly would allow one to three drinks to be
easily carried due to the self-stabilizing nature of the carrier
20. As shown in FIG. 3, upon being lifted, the carrier 20
effectively self-adjusts to the load provided by the filled
beverage container 15 to provide stability. As seen in FIG. 3A,
which shows two cups carried in the three hole example 20, this
self-adjustment also holds true if less than the maximum number of
cups 15 are positioned in the carrier 20. In this example, the
extra width of carrier 20 and inward sloping sides expose the outer
holes for easy insertion of a cup therein, either initially for
carrying or for repeated use when consuming the drink. This may
allow a user to load food products into a portion of carrier 20
first, and then add a drink for example. In an environment such as
a quick service restaurant where drinks are dispensed on a
self-serve basis, this would allow easy handling of the food and
drinks by a user for example. The easy access to the storage area
of the carrier in the foregoing and other examples of the
invention, also encourages use, and provides an easy and yet
effective carrying device which leaves the fingers and other hand
of the user free, such that the user can avoid carrying cups in
their hands, thereby eliminating any difficulty or struggle with
doors, etc. In the example of FIG. 3, it is also contemplated that
the center hole may be optional if desired, providing a space for
positioning and carrying food or other items.
[0042] In FIG. 3B, the carrier 10 may have a more rigid or robust
material sheet 22 inserted between layers in the area of cup
openings 14, which could be a paperboard or plastic material for
example. The sheet 22 could be heat sealed inside, adhered, or
otherwise attached in the carrier 10 if desired. The sheet material
22 would be formed with holes corresponding to holes 14 in the
carrier 10. Such a sheet material 22 could facilitate preventing
stretching of a thin film plastic material used to form carrier 10
and/or assist in supporting cups 15 in carrier 10, and prevent cups
15 from falling through the holes 15. This may allow for use of a
thinner, less robust material in forming the carrier 10 while still
providing support for the cups 15 for example. As the sheet
material 22 is only provided at the location of openings 14, the
rest of the carrier 10 is still flexible to allow self-stabilizing
as described above.
[0043] An alternative shown in FIG. 3C may include a thin strip 24
of plastic which is heat sealed or otherwise provided on one or
both sides of the outside of the carrier 10, whether formed with no
pockets or with pockets. Such a strip 24 could also be a
plastic-coated paper that is heat-sealable to the carrier 10, or a
paper or other material that is adhered with glue or other suitable
means. In an example, the strip 24 could be heat sealed when the
edges or carrier 10 are cut and sealed with heat. On a carrier
including pockets, the heat seal attaching the strip 24 could also
serve as the seal holding the two sheets together and forming a
portion of the pockets. The strip 24 can have perforations 25 to
allow for easy removal, could have indicia, such as a bar code or
other unique ID provided thereon, to serve as a raffle ticket,
token or other promotional item like a coupon or the like, and/or
serve as advertising. The strip 24 may have any desired dimensions,
and could be heat sealed (or otherwise) at the bottom edge of strip
24, to form a further pocket to place tickets, receipts,
promotional items, cutlery, straws, napkins, etc. in. Alternatively
to a strip 24, a tube could be used instead, which could contain a
giveaway, food, drink or other consumable in solid or liquid form,
or other item. The strip 24 or the like can be used as a coupon,
raffle ticket or other promotional item, or serve to provide other
uses. Alternately, this strip could be taller and/or sealed along
its bottom edge, creating a small pocket which could contain raffle
tickets, coupons, or other advertisements and be used to store
ticket stubs, small merchandise, and the like.
[0044] In FIG. 3D, In a further example, the carrier 10 with
pockets or saddle-bags 13 may also have a mechanism to selectively
seal or close the pockets 13, such as a closure 26 located near one
or both handles 16 and 18, such as above, below, or through the
handle portions. The closure 26 would allow selective closing of
the pocket 13, or may be an initial seal that encloses materials in
the pocket 13, that may or may not be resealable. As an example, an
adhesive seal 26 located on inner side of one or both layers of the
pocket 13 may be provided. Such a closure may have a peel off layer
of film to expose the adhesive on one or both layers, and the user
can press the adhesive against other layer to seal the pocket
compartment. Alternatively, a zipper type seal comprised of a two
part extrusion may be used, with one part on the inner side of each
layer of the pocket 13. Such a closure allows the user to press the
layers against each other to seal the compartment and pull the
zipper seal apart to open the compartment. Alternatively, a hook
and loop fastener could be used. Any other suitable closure system,
whether permanent or resealable, is contemplated and may be used.
The ability to provide a closed pocket system may also allow the
pre-packaging of food or other products in the pocket(s) 13, may
allow pre-packaged snacks or meals to be provided in a carrier 10
for later consumption. In such an example, the pocket(s) 13 may be
sealed by a suitable approach, such as heat, ultrasonic or the like
sealing, with products in the compartment. For some products, it
may be desirable to have the products vacuum sealed in the
pocket(s) 13. Such an example may allow food, medicine or other
products to be distributed via suitable outlets, such as the
grocery or convenience store, pharmacy or institutions such as
hospitals, the military or the like for indoor or outdoor use. The
carrier 10, or pocket(s) 13, may also be formed of a suitable
material to allow pre-packaged food or other products to be heated
in microwave, boiling water or the like. The ability to store
products in the pocket(s) 13 may also allow food or other products
to be provided in carriers 10 in a manner to be queued up behind a
dispensing counter for example. A further example as shown with
respect to FIG. 3D is provided wherein a beverage is pre-packaged
in a pouch 27 formed from or in the pocket(s) 13. In such an
example, the pocket 13 could also carry a pre-sealed beverage pouch
in a portion of it, with the beverage accessible through a port 28.
The port 28 may be similar to beverage pouch type products, with
the port 28 providing the user the ability to punch a hole in
carrier or pouch using a straw or the like. In such an example, the
carrier could include a pre-made part for allowing access to the
beverage pouch, or the outer layer of carrier adjacent the pouch
could be made pierceable at port 28, and a more rigid target ring
could be provided adjacent the port 28 if desired. Also in such an
example, the carrier 10 may be formed to not have drink/cup carrier
holes if desired, as a beverage is pre-packaged in the carrier.
[0045] In another example of the invention as seen in FIGS. 4 and
5, carrier 30 includes a first base sheet 32 of at least one layer
of a polymeric material having an arrangement of at least one
aperture formed therein. In the example shown, two apertures 38 and
39 are provided in the base sheet 32 for receiving multiple
beverage containers 33 and 34, but further apertures may be
provided if desired. A plurality of handle members 35 and 36 are
provided for receiving the finger(s)/hand of a person carrying
carrier 30. Multiple layers, including two or three layers of
polymeric material, are also considered for base sheet 32 of
carrier 30 if desired. Similar to the prior example, sheet 32 may
be constructed of a flat, durable, flexible thermoplastic polymer,
such as MDPE. In this example, carrier 30 also includes a second
sheet 37 of at least one layer of a polymeric material, also having
an arrangement of apertures corresponding to the number of
apertures 38 and 39 in the base sheet 32, and a handle member 40.
Second sheet 37 is heat sealed along heat seal line 41 to first
sheet 32 such that it is fixed in position with the base sheet 32
on one side. The second sheet 37 is of a shorter dimension, such
that in use, it forms a sling intermediate the handles 35 and 36
and holes 38 and 39 of the base sheet 32. In use for carrying both
beverages and other items for example, the sheet 37 may be folded
over to expose the holes 38 and 39 in the sheet 32, allowing
beverages to be positioned therein. The sling may then be used for
carrying food items in addition to drinks positioned in the holes
38 and 39 as shown in FIG. 4. The second sheet 37 may also be
provided with holes if desired, which are formed in the second
sheet 37 in alignment with apertures 38 and 39 of base sheet 32. In
this example of the invention, if apertures are provided in the
second sheet 37 which are in alignment with apertures 38 and 39 of
base sheet 32, beverage containers 33 and 34 can first be inserted
into and through apertures formed in the second sheet 37, and then
into and through the aligned apertures 38 and 39 of first sheet 32
if no food product 42 is positioned in the sling portion of the
carrier 30. If no food items are to be carried, the provision of
holes in both the second sheet 37 as well as first sheet 32 allow
for quick loading of the carrier 30 in a manner similar to the
prior examples.
[0046] FIG. 5 illustrates container carrier 30 in a functional
position. In use, carrier 30 is temporarily secured in a folded
state when at least one finger of a person's hand is inserted
through handle members 35, 36 and 40. In the folded state, carrier
30 includes a beverage carrying portion formed from first sheet 32
and a food carrying portion formed from second sheet 37. Once
carrier 30 is in the functional position, a person can carry
carrier 30, which includes beverage containers 33 and 34 and a food
product 42, such as submarine sandwiches, hamburgers, hot dogs or
the like, or any other items or products, to a desired destination.
Carrier 30 prevents beverage containers 33 and 34 from tilting over
and spilling the beverage from the containers and allows food
product 42 to be conveniently stored and carried with carrier 30
while in its folded state, using only one hand.
[0047] A further example of the carrier according to the invention
is shown in FIG. 6. In this example, the carrier 60 is formed of at
least two plastic film sheets 62 and 64, which may be substantially
identical. The sheets 62 and 64 may be secured to one another by
heat sealing or the like, at positions at least partially up the
sides 66 and 68, and along a lower end 67 of one or both sides of
carrier 60, to thereby create one or more pockets 70, for the
storage and carrying of food products or any other items. As seen
in FIG. 6, the pocket 70 may be formed as a single large pocket
that would accommodate a variety of items for example. If desired,
a perforation cut 63 can be made below the heat seal that forms the
bottom of the single pocket, or multiple pockets, allowing a single
or multiple cavity pocketed side to be removed by the user by
tearing the perforation, from the remainder of the carrier. Thus,
after beverages or food or both have been transported, or at
another convenient time for the user the pocketed sides can be
separated and used as a bag type device, independently from the
rest of the carrier. This tear-away feature enables the users to
independently serve another person, carry and dispense food or
other merchandise in the one or both pocketed sides after
separation from one or both adjacent edges of the centrally located
drink apertures. The separated pocket or bag can be laid on a users
lap or tabletop surface, and the food inside can be placed on the
flattened side of the bag acting as a convenient placemat-like
eating surface while sitting or standing. Further, food or
merchandise can be kept clean and carried from the entertainment or
other venue by this convenient separable bag or pocket. The
perforation will have sufficient strength for carrying the largest
and heaviest drinks in the center section, yet be easy enough to,
when desired by the user conveniently separate the carrier into two
bags or pockets, by tearing the perforation. Alternatively, as seen
in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the at least one pocket 70 may include several
pockets 71 and 72, in one or both sides of carrier 60. As seen in
FIGS. 6A and 6B, the pockets 71 and 72 are formed by an additional
heat seal 74 which divides the pocket 70 into multiple pockets. In
FIG. 6A, the pockets 71 and 72 are of different proportions,
wherein FIG. 6B shows pockets 71 and 72 with similar proportions.
Any proportions or number of pockets can be formed in association
with carrier 60 accordingly. In the example of FIG. 6A, the pocket
72 may be formed to more particularly accommodate a food item such
as a hot dog, lottery ticket, coupon, advertisement flyer or the
like, while pocket 71 could be used for other items. The material
from which the sheet 62 is made may be of a clear or translucent
material to allow items positioned within a pocket 70 to be visible
if desired. The one or more pockets 70 may be formed to accommodate
particular items if desired. In other examples, the one or more
pockets 70 may be formed with other characteristics, such as for
accommodating other items or providing additional functionality. As
seen in FIG. 6C for example, the pocket 70 may be formed with only
a bottom seal 67, to create open sides into which longer articles
75, such as a submarine sandwich, burrito, book, magazine,
newspaper or the like, may be inserted and carried. In the example
of FIG. 6D, the at least one pocket 70 may be formed to have side
seals 66 and 68 which extend higher (when the carrier 60 is in the
carrying position), to allow taller articles 76 to be accommodated
more securely. An optional perforation 63 can be utilized to
separate the two halves of the carrier to make the two pockets
independent from one another if desirable by the end user. For
instance, if after the food is consumed, that food carrier section
could be detached and thrown away, leaving the pocket carrying the
books or magazine to carry goods out of a store or establishment.
It should be recognized that the form of the at least one pocket 70
can vary greatly depending on the particular needs of users in
different environments and to accommodate different types of items.
The side seals 66 and 68 (if used), can vary based on what is to be
carried, while the seal at bottom of at least one pocket 70 keeps
any contents from interfering with the one or more cups that may be
carried by the carrier 60 or the lids of any cups positioned
therein. The at least one pocket 70 with heat seal 67 also
segregates the drinks from items placed in the pocket(s) 70, and
enhances the ability to use the carrier for dispensing the items
such as during consumption, allowing repeated insertion and removal
of the drinks and/or items placed in the pocket(s) 70.
[0048] As seen in FIG. 6E folded material resulting in pleats or
gussets 78 can be offered as an alternative design which offers
greater volumetric capacity of the expandable carrier pockets. Heat
seal 67 forms the lower portion of the pocket, while folded
material resulting in one or more pleats form sides 77 and 73 of
the pockets 70. Perforations 63 allows the user to separate the
pockets from one another at a suitable time during use, such as
after drinks and food has been carried to their seat at a sporting
or entertainment event, or the like. The cutaway views in FIGS. 6F
and 6G show that, as an alternative, the pleat or gusset can be
located at the bottom of one or both of the carrier pockets. This
gusset 78 can be located on the outside or inside of the outermost
sheet of material, the outside or inside of the innermost sheet of
material, or both. This design allows expansion primarily in the
lower portion of the pocket, while keeping the opening at the top
small to help keep contents from spilling. If located on both the
outermost and innermost sheet, the gussets 78 can either be at the
same level, as is shown in FIG. 6F, or offset to reduce the
stacking of layers when flat, as is shown in FIG. 6G.
[0049] In the FIG. 6H, as an alternative, one or more layers of
material comprise a sling 73 which supports cups 15 beneath. Sling
73 is comprised of one or more layers of material attached via heat
seal or the like 67 adjoining to the other material layers
comprising the remainder of the food and beverage carrier. The
sling 73 and cup holding section 75 can be separated from the
pockets via tearing one or both perforations 63 and 64 after drinks
have been transported to their desired destination or the like. By
tearing the one or both perforations 63 and 64 the adjoined bags
are separated into individual bags facilitating dispensing to
another person, placing on one's lap or the like.
[0050] Further in many environments and applications, the at least
one pocket 70 may also be used as a temporary trash receptacle,
such as at a stadium event or the like. For example, at a sporting
event, a user may purchase drinks and food items as which are
easily carried back to their seat for consumption, and any trash
produced can be put back into the at least one pocket 70, such as
peanut shells, food wrappers, etc. Individual pocket(s) could also
be formed for other items, such as a name tag, event schedule,
promotional coupons, advertisement, or the like. Similarly to prior
examples, the carrier 60 may also be formed without the drink
hole(s) if desired, while still facilitating the utilitarian uses
for the carrier 60 in carrying a wide variety of items.
[0051] In another example as shown in FIG. 7, the carrier 80 is
formed for use by an individual to carry a drink and food items for
their subsequent consumption. In this example, the carrier 80 is
formed of two sheets, which may be substantially identical, and
which are sealed together to make the carrier configuration. In the
example shown, the carrier 80 has both the left and right sides 82
and 83, along with the bottom 84, which are sealed, such as by heat
sealing or the like. A drink hole 86 may be formed in one side of
carrier 80, to receive and support a cup 15 in a manner similar to
the prior examples. The remainder of the carrier 80 is then
available for food or other items, such as a submarine sandwich 87
as shown. The top portion of each sheet is provided with a handle
opening, allowing the user to easily carry the carrier 80 with at
least one finger inserted therethrough. If desired, separate
compartments or pockets may be formed by a heat seal between the
area for insertion of the drink into the hole 86, and the food or
other item storage pocket. The carrier may be dimensioned to
accommodate any desired food or other items as desired. A slight
derivative of this version may be comprised of one or more
cylindrical, closed-end compartments with a hand hole which could
be used to conveniently and space-efficiently carry bottles of wine
or like articles from a grocery or beverage store.
[0052] To further facilitate use of a carrier in accordance with
the invention with various more particular food or other items, the
carrier configuration can be adapted for such particular food or
other items. In FIG. 8, an example is shown for use in carrying
drinks as well as food items, such a chips or nachos, vegetables
and dip, or other items which are popular and offered in many
environments. When purchasing nachos for example, typically a
plurality of tortilla chips are provided in a tray, and an amount
of nacho cheese is provided in a separated compartment formed in
the tray or in a separate container. The user must carry the tray
in one hand, and if any drinks are purchased, must use their other
hand. In this example, a carrier 90 may be similar to the examples
shown previously, such as in FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 5 or 6. In association
with the carrier 90, a tray 92, such as for nachos or any other
food or other products, may be provided for use in association with
the carrier 90, or for use independently of the carrier. The tray
92 may be a thermoformed tray or formed in any other suitable
manner, and be dimensioned and shaped to fit in the space between
the cups 15 and handles 94. If desired, the tray 92 may have a
compartment 95 formed therein for cheese sauce to be provided. The
compartment 95 may be used for other materials like dips or the
like, and can be located in the center portion of the carrier (not
shown) if desired. To facilitate maintaining the tray 92 in the
position as shown in FIG. 8, the tray 92 may be formed to have nubs
or bosses 96 on its bottom side as shown in FIG. 8A, which are
positioned to engage the tops of the cups 15 if the tray 92 begins
to slide, and thereby prevent the tray 92 from sliding out of its
position in carrier 90. As cups 15 may have different size tops,
the bosses 96 may be positioned to accommodate different sized cups
15, while still preventing any substantial sliding of tray 92.
Alternatively to the bosses 96 the tray may have circular type
female grooves 98, such as shown in FIG. 8C to engage the tops of
cups 15 and prevent sliding of tray 92 relative thereto, or
similarly functional circular male rings protruding from the tray
bottom surface, that surround the top rim of a cup which prevent
sliding of the tray off one or more cups. The depressions 98 and
nubs 96 may accommodate any number of cups 15, such as the two cups
15 shown in FIGS. 8A and 8C, or one cup 15 as shown in FIGS. 8B and
8D. This allows the tray to fit the tops of the cups when they are
in carrier 90 or be balanced and reasonably secured when on top of
one cup held in the user's hand. With reference to these FIGS., the
tray may have projecting portions (or female portions) from its
bottom that may facilitate positioning the upper open ends of cups
positioned in the carrier or otherwise, in association with the
male or female portions on the bottom of the tray, to maintain to
position of the tray therewith. Alternatively, the projecting
portions can securely position the tray in the cup openings of the
carrier itself if no cups are placed therein. If only one cup is
carried in the carrier, the shape of the projecting portions (or
female portions) is such that the top of the cup is surrounded at
least in part by the projecting portions, again securely
positioning the tray with the cup. The tray configuration is thus
adaptable to a variety of uses for a particular situation.
[0053] Further examples of a tray are shown in FIGS. 9A-9H, that is
ergonomically configured for easier handling by a user. As seen in
these examples, the tray 92 may have side walls having a convex (or
concave) shape as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9H, that helps a user to
grip the tray 92 as well as to facilitate being retained in the
carrier due to the material of the carrier gripping the tray 92
once it is positioned in the carrier. The curved (convex or
concave) nature additionally provides stiffness and strength to the
tray 92 which may be otherwise weaker. The tray 92 may also have a
dished platform 93 (FIG. 9G) that creates a spot for the thumb of
the user to grip the tray 92. The tray 92 may also have platforms
97 (FIG. 9G) on one or both long sides of the tray to facilitate
grasping and supporting the tray 92. Clearance for said thumbs used
to carry the bottom tray 92 in a stack of trays 92 can be created
such as the arcing geometry 170 for use with platform 97 or open
area 171 for use with platform 93. On the bottom surface, there
again may be male or female type structures 94 to facilitate
carrying tray 92 in conjunction with one or more cups 15. As seen
in FIGS. 9C-9D in this example, half moon structures 98a may be
provided to align with the tops of two cups 15 to keep tray from
sliding off while being carried in a carrier 10. Alternatively or
in addition, middle arcs 98b may be provided to grip a single cup.
Apart from use with a carrier, such structures also would allow the
tray 92 to be carried on top of one or more cup(s) held in the
hand(s). The male or female type structures 98a or 98b could also
be provided with structure to attach to the cup 15 in a manner
similar to lids provided for cups, such as having an undercut 99 as
seen in FIG. 9F, to grip a cup lip associated with the cup. Also in
this example as seen in FIGS. 9E and 9F, the bottom surface 95 may
be formed to arc upwardly in center to create walls that interact
with cups, while the outer perimeter remains to keep surfaces that
will touch the cups off of counter/table surfaces to prevent or
reduce contamination for example. As should be recognized, the
surface of the cup lip touches the bottom surface of tray 92 above
the bottom extent of tray 92. The bottom could also be recessed in
a rectilinear manner to achieve offset from bottom for this purpose
if desired.
[0054] In this example, the trays 92 may also be nestable for
shipping in a compact shape, as is shown in FIGS. 9H and 9J, but
also stackable during use as shown in the example of FIG. 9G and
9I. By rotating one tray, such as by 180 degrees, it can be stacked
on another tray, allowing two trays to be carried in one hand for
example. In the example as shown, the trays include scallops 91 on
the edges that are placed such that when a tray is rotated 180
degrees from its nested position, they will become mis-aligned by
half the width of a scallop, while still engaging one another at
sides of the trays to allow positive engagement between stacked
adjacent trays. Although scallops 91 are shown, other suitable
structures, such as ribs, or even more general curvatures or
rectilinear structures that allow nesting in one direction and
stacking in a rotated direction are contemplated. The scallops 91
or other structures can thus be a variety of shapes (sinusoidal,
square, wave, etc.) As shown in FIG. 9I, the structures may be
larger, such as formed from curved side walls instead of smaller
scallops or the like. These larger structures remain nestable, as
is shown in FIG. 9J. Indents may be provided along the base
perimeter that align with a stacked adjacent tray's scallops (when
rotated) and keep the trays from sliding apart when stacked. Though
the trays shown in this example are rectangular, if the tray is
square, it could be configured to stack by rotating 90 degrees for
example. It should be recognized that such an approach would apply
for all even polygons, which can be rotated until the sides line
up, with the number of degrees will be 360/(number of sides). For
example, where the tray is formed as a pentagon, the user could
rotate the pentagon by 72 degrees. As also seen in this example,
the corners on opposite sides are made to be different, creating
indicator tabs 93a (or by general outside shape) that let the user
know it has been rotated (such as by 180 degrees). As seen in FIGS.
9K-9M, the pattern of the scallops or the like is explained
further. In FIG. 9K, the pattern (such as of the scallops) is
non-symmetrical, with the pattern translated upward to the other
side, not rotated as is common, and each side is the same without
any "offset". In FIG. 9L, the pattern of the scallops or the like
are again shown to be symmetrical and are a mirror image of one
another, such that the sides are not the same, and the pattern of
each is offset by 1/4 of pattern's length compared to FIG. 9K.
Thus, the top row moves opposite direction of bottom row, or they
move together in the combined depiction from their position(s) in
FIG. 9K. In the example of FIG. 9M, the pattern is non-symmetrical
and the sides are not the same, with the side patterns offset by
1/3 of pattern's length. The top row moves in an opposite direction
of bottom row, or they move together in the combined depiction from
their position(s) in FIG. 9K. It should be apparent that the offset
could be any portion of pattern's length.
[0055] Another example is shown in FIG. 10, wherein the carrier 100
is formed to include a pouch portion 102, for food items such as
popcorn, peanuts or other items as desired. The portion 102 may be
provided with handle portions 104 for carrying the carrier 100. A
cup holder portion 106 is also provided with the carrier 100, and
may be formed from the same sheet material, and a heat seal formed
between the cup holder 106 and pouch 102. The cup holder portion
106 may be a circular sleeve that engages and holds a cup 15 in
position as the pouch portion 102 is carried. The sleeve holder 106
may be positioned so that the cup 15 and pouch 102 may be supported
on a surface together before being picked up and carried by a user.
In use, the pouch 102 may be held by handles 104, or alternatively,
the cup 15 and sleeve portion may be held with the pouch 102
supported in an upright position. The tightness of the grip of the
web between the sleeve 106 and pouch 102 can be adjusted as the
contents in the bag 102 are consumed and more slack is created
therebetween. Alternatively, as seen in FIG. 11, a similar
arrangement may use a carrier 110, for carrying a container 112
containing popcorn or the like, by means of an aperture 114 formed
in carrier 110. Different sized containers 112 may be securely held
in aperture 114. A further aperture 116 may be provided for
carrying a cup 15 similar to prior examples. Handles 118 may be
provided in the sheet material of carrier 110 for carrying both
containers 112 and cup 15 with a single hand. A further alternative
is shown in FIG. 12, wherein carrier 120 includes a pouch portion
122 for holding popcorn or the like. The pouch portion 122 may have
handles 124 for simple carrying. A sheet 126 may be attached on a
side of pouch 122. The sheet 126 may have an aperture 128 for
holding a cup 15 in association with pouch 122. The sheet 126 may
be secured at the bottom portion thereof by a heat seal or the
like, with a top portion having a handle 129 formed therein. After
positioning of a cup 15 in hole 128, the sheet 126 may then be
folded to the position shown, wherein the handle portion 129 is
positioned to be aligned with the handles 124 for carrying cup 15
along with pouch 122. The sheet may position the cup 15 such that
the pouch 122 can be supported on a surface with cup 15 also
supported on the surface. Yet a further alternative is shown in
FIG. 13, wherein a container 130 includes a carrier 132, such as
for a cup 15. The container 130 may be used for popcorn or the
like, with carrier 132 provided to allow a beverage to be carried
with the container 130. The carrier 132 may be a paper or plastic
sheet attached to a side of container 130 to form a loop or sling
for carrying cup 15.
[0056] Other environments and applications may require carrying
different articles or items, such as a buffet or picnic type
environment or the like, where a user may typically have a plate of
food and also a drink, making it difficult to handle both easily.
In FIG. 14, a carrier 140 may be formed of sheets sealed or adhered
together at the sides and bottom to form a pouch 142 for receiving
a beverage cup 15. Alternatively, it should be recognized that the
carrier 140 and pouch 142 may be used to carry other beverage
containers, such as cans or bottles (plastic or glass). The carrier
140 further has a handle portion 144 formed as an open loop above
the pouch 142. The handle portion 144 may be simply grasped by one
or more fingers or the palm of the hand, to thereby support the
beverage for carrying or consumption while leaving the rest of the
hand free to also carry a plate 146, for example. In this manner,
the user has access to both the beverage cup 15 and the items on
plate 146 with their free hand, facilitating handling of these
items and consumption thereof. In the example shown in FIG. 14, the
carrier 140 may be provided with a back side 147 having a greater
height to facilitate securing the cup 15, or a can or bottle
therein. The high back 147 further gives the user something to push
against (tactile feedback) as a drink is being inserted into pouch
142, and prevents overshooting the carrier. The top of the back
side 147 also may be formed such that it will bow outward when a
beverage is contained in the pouch 142 when hanging, due to the
gravity load of the drink, thereby keeping it out of user's way
when not actively accessing the drink, such as when walking or
standing or transporting the drink. A front side 148 may be formed
with a lower height which allows the user to grab the drink easily
while it is supported in the pouch 142. The configuration of pouch
142 may also be provided such that the space between sides 147 and
148 is dimensioned to make a large target for the user to insert
the beverage container. The shape of the pouch 142 may also
effectively pinch in center creating a concave "waist" that helps
to hold beverages using pressure from the sides 157 and 158. If a
user has a beverage bottle, cup, or can they can be pushed inside
the "waist", leaning the beverage bottle, cup or can backward
slightly, toward 147 for a more secure hold, or positioned outside,
leaning forward slightly toward 148 for better user access while
actively consuming the beverage. There may also be holes or slits
149 in the back side 147 and/or front side 148 to prevent beverage
from sticking to film from which the carrier 140 may be
constructed. The holes/slits 149 may be strategically located to
give relief where needed most. In use, the carrier 140 with a
beverage container positioned therein hangs nearly vertical because
the flexible material from which the carrier 140 may be constructed
auto-orients, thereby enabling open-top cups 15, or open bottles or
cans not to spill.
[0057] In another example of the invention as shown in FIG. 14A a
carrier 150 may be provided which can also be used to facilitate
handling of beverages and other items in various environments, such
as in the prior example. The carrier 150 may be formed of sheets
sealed together at the sides and bottom to form a pouch 152 for
receiving a beverage 15. The carrier 150 further has a handle
portion 154 formed as an open loop above the pouch 152. The handle
portion 154 may be simply grasped by one or more fingers or the
palm of the hand, to thereby support the beverage for carrying or
consumption while leaving the rest of the hand free to also carry a
plate for example, similar to the example of FIG. 14. In this
example, the carrier may further comprise a separate pocket portion
156, which may be used to store and carry utensils, a napkin,
condiments or other items as may be desired. If desired, the
carrier 150 may be prepackaged with utensils and/or a napkin,
straw, crayons for coloring, condiments or other items as may be
desired.
[0058] In a further example as shown in FIG. 15, a carrier 160 is
designed to facilitate the handling of food and drink items in
environments such as a donut or pastry shop, coffee houses or the
like, where users typically purchase coffee or like beverages along
with a donut, pastry, bagel, muffin or the like. The carrier 160
therefore may be formed of sheets sealed together at the sides and
bottom to form a pouch 162 for receiving a donut, pastry, muffin or
the like 164. The carrier 160 further has a handle portion 163
formed as an open loop above the pouch 162. The handle portion 163
may be simply grasped by one or more fingers or the palm of the
hand, to thereby support the item contained therein for carrying
and/or consumption while leaving the rest of the hand free to also
carry other items, such a cup of coffee or for allowing use of the
hand for other purposes. In FIG. 15A, to facilitate carrying both
food items as well as beverages, the carrier 160 may be used in
association with a beverage carrier such as described in FIG. 1 for
example, or these can be integrated into a single carrier for
example. As shown in FIG. 15, the carrier 160 may be formed of two
layers of a film that are sealed around perimeter of pouch, with
one layer acting as a pocket with a curved upper edge similar to
the food items that may be carried thereby. The carrier 160,
similar to prior examples, provides convenience of carrying a
pastry, bagel, donut, brownie, etc., in an economical and compact
solution. Alternatively, a three layer, dual pocket version could
be offered that would offer a barrier between food types.
[0059] In another aspect of the invention, a dispensing system 200
for carrier examples according to the invention is provided, as
shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, which can have any suitable shape
corresponding to the particular carriers to be dispensed therefrom.
In one example, the dispenser is a rectangular box which may hold
any desired number of carriers therein. The dispensing system 200
may include a box body 202 made out of any suitable material such
as flat cardboard, plastic, or any suitable material for example.
The dispensing system 200 contains a plurality of carriers in a
folded, interleaved configuration, and each carrier therein may be
dispensed individually in a similar fashion to tissues for example,
wherein the removal of one carrier advances or pulls along the next
carrier to a position for subsequent removal. As should be
recognized, the dispenser 200 allows a number of carriers to be
conveniently stored for use, with a very small footprint, so as not
to use much space in a storage area. The nature of the carriers
being formed of lightweight flexible film or the like, and the
dispenser, allow for simple, and cost-effective shipping and
transport of the carriers for subsequent use. The dispenser 200
also facilitates use in many different retail environments, by
providing a plurality of dispensing openings and positions,
allowing the box body 202 to be positioned on a flat surface for
dispensing or in an upright position on a shelf for example.
[0060] As shown in these FIGS., at least one of the sides of box
body 202, such as at least the top side 204, may include a
dispensing opening 206. In one example, opening 206 is located at
an intermediate portion of the top (and/or bottom) wall 204 of
dispensing system 200. The opening 206 may be created by the
removal of a panel (not shown), the panel being formed by
perforations (not shown) in the wall of box body 202. At first use,
the perforated panel over opening 206 is selectively removed for
access to the carriers therein. The dispensing opening 206 may be
used to dispense carriers when the box 202 is supported on a flat
surface in the position shown, such as a countertop.
[0061] In the same dispenser 200, or provided separately if
desired, an alternative dispensing opening 208 may be provided,
which is formed between the intersection of the top (or bottom)
wall 204 and one or more sides 210 of the box 202. In a preferred
example for instance, several side openings 208 may be provided
along different sides of the box 202, thereby providing flexibility
in accessing the carriers therein. The opening(s) 208 may again be
closed by a perforated panel until use is desired. The side
opening(s) 208 allow dispensing of carriers when the box 202 is
positioned in an upright manner on a shelf for example, thereby
avoiding use of countertop space if desired. It should also be
recognized that the side opening 208 could be formed along the
intersection of the top (or bottom) wall 204 and an end side wall
of the box 202 if desired, again providing flexibility in
positioning and use of the dispenser 200. The dispenser therefore
provides the ability to dispense individual carriers through the
sides or the middle, offering widely varied shelves, counters and
serving surfaces to be used. Alternatively, instead of interleaved
carriers inside box 202, first laying a 200- or 250-quantity (or
other quantity) stack of carriers flat, then folding the stack of
carriers in half, before insertion into the dispenser may be
desired. The unfolded carriers when flat measure approximately 24
inches by 11 inches, but alternatively can be made larger or
smaller. After folding in half the carriers will be resemble a
square shape as seen from above and will measure approximately 13
inches by 11 inches by approximately 2.5 inches tall. This stack
will then be placed inside an inner box 202. Alternatively, four or
five smaller 50-quantity stacks of carriers can be folded in half
and stacked atop one another, then placed in the box. Approximately
four or five folded stacks of 50 carriers, totaling 200 or 250
carriers may be placed in the box, rendering a convenient weight,
package size, and carrier quantity. These inner dispensing boxes
then can be put into a larger master box holding approximately 4 or
6 inner boxes of convenient weight or size. The fold of the
carriers or one of the adjacent sides will face the opening 208
enabling the person dispensing the carriers to grasp with their
fingers and pull from the box the outermost carrier or any exposed
edge of carriers in the stack or stacks of folded carriers. As the
folded carrier is consumed, the next lower folded carrier can be
consumed, and so forth until all carriers are consumed from the
carton.
[0062] Based upon the foregoing disclosure, it should now be
apparent that the beverage and food carrying apparatus and
dispensing systems as described herein will carry out the objects
set forth hereinabove. It is, therefore, to be understood that any
variations evident fall within the scope of the claimed invention
and thus, the selection of specific component elements can be
determined without departing from the spirit of the invention
herein disclosed and described.
* * * * *