Container system, handle device and method

Abstract

The invention relates to a container system, a handle device and a method. The present disclosure relates to a handle system as described herein that is movable between an outer or extended position and an inner or retracted position. In an example, the movable handle may be a component of a container system, such as a beverage container. In an example, a system includes an actuator, such as a button, that facilitates movement of a handle from a first position to a second position when interacting with the actuator.

Description

[0001] Cross Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 659,286, filed June 12, 2025, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a handle that is movable between an outer or extended position and an inner or retracted position. BACKGROUND

[0004] Containers, such as beverage containers, can have handles that make carrying or holding the container easier, more convenient, more comfortable, and / or more ergonomic. However, such handles can be bulky or otherwise impede storage or transport of the container. Thus, there can be a need for a container having a handle that is movable between an outer or extended position and an inner or retracted position. SUMMARY

[0005] The present disclosure relates to a handle as described herein that is movable between an outer or extended position and an inner or retracted position.

[0006] This section provides a brief introduction to some concepts that will be further described in the detailed description below. This section does not intend to define key or essential features of the claimed subject matter nor does it intend to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0007] Non-limiting and non-exhaustive examples are described with reference to the following figures.

[0008] Figure 1 illustrates a top rear perspective view of a container system constructed in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure according to an example.

[0009] Figure 2A illustrates a bottom rear perspective view of the container system of Figure 1 according to an example.

[0010] Figure 2B illustrates a bottom front perspective view of the container system of Figure 1 according to an example.

[0011] Figure 3A illustrates a top view of the container system of Figure 1 according to an example, with the lid cover closed and the handle in a closed position.

[0012] Figure 3B illustrates a bottom view of the container system of Figure 1top view of the container system of

[0013] Figure 4 illustrates a top view of the container system of Figure 1

[0014] Figure 5 illustrates a top view of the container system of Figure 1

[0015] Figure 6A illustrates a top view of the container system of Figure 5

[0016] Figure 6B illustrates a top view of the container system of Figure 5

[0017] Figure 6C illustrates a top view of the container system of Figure 5

[0018] Figure 7A illustrates a top view of the container system of Figure 5

[0019] Figure 7B illustrates a top view of the container system of Figure 5

[0020] Figure 7C illustrates a top view of the container system of Figure 5

[0021] Figure 8A illustrates a top view of the container system of Figure 5

[0022] Figure 8B illustrates a top view of the container system of Figure 5

[0023] Figure 8C illustrates a top view of the container system of Figure 5

[0024] Figure 9 illustrates a top view of the container system of Figure 5

[0025] ​​​​​​​​​​​​Figure 10A FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of a container system, according to an example. Figure 5 FIG. 2 illustrates a rear top perspective view of a handle core of the collar subassembly of FIG. 1, according to an example.

[0026] Figure 10B FIG. 3 illustrates a rear bottom perspective view of the handle core of the collar subassembly of FIG. 1, according to an example. Figure 5 FIG. 4 illustrates a rear top plan view of the handle core of the collar subassembly of FIG. 1, according to an example.

[0027] Figure 10C FIG. 5 illustrates a rear partial top plan view of the handle core of the collar subassembly of FIG. 1, according to an example. Figure 5 FIG. 6 illustrates a first rear top perspective view of a handle cover of the collar subassembly of FIG. 1, according to an example.

[0028] Figure 11A FIG. 7 illustrates a second rear top perspective view of the handle cover of the collar subassembly of FIG. 1, according to an example. Figure 5 FIG. 8 illustrates a first rear bottom perspective view of the handle cover of the collar subassembly of FIG. 1, according to an example.

[0029] Figure 11B FIG. 9 illustrates a second rear bottom perspective view of the handle cover of the collar subassembly of FIG. 1, according to an example. Figure 5 FIG. 10 illustrates a bottom perspective view of a button of the collar subassembly of FIG. 1, according to an example.

[0030] Figure 12A FIG. 11 illustrates a top perspective view of the button of the collar subassembly of FIG. 1, according to an example. Figure 5 FIG. 12 illustrates a bottom plan view of the button of the collar subassembly of FIG. 1, according to an example.

[0031] Figure 12B FIG. 13 illustrates a top plan view of the button of the collar subassembly of FIG. 1, according to an example. Figure 5 FIG. 14 illustrates a vertical cross-section of a portion of the container system of FIG. 1, according to an example.

[0032] Figure 13 FIG. 15 illustrates a horizontal cross-section of a portion of the collar subassembly of FIG. 1, with the handle in a first position, according to an example. Figure 1 FIG. 16 illustrates a vertical cross-section of a portion of the collar subassembly of FIG. 1, with the handle in a first position, according to an example.

[0033] Figure 14A FIG. 17 illustrates a horizontal cross-section of a portion of the collar subassembly of FIG. 1, with the handle in a second position, according to an example. Figure 5 FIG. 18 illustrates a vertical cross-section of a portion of the collar subassembly of FIG. 1, with the handle in a second position, according to an example.

[0034] Figure 14B FIG. 19 illustrates a horizontal cross-section of a portion of the collar subassembly of FIG. 1, with the handle in a first position, according to an example. Figure 5 FIG. 20 illustrates a vertical cross-section of a portion of the collar subassembly of FIG. 1, with the handle in a first position, according to an example.

[0035] Figure 15A FIG. 21 illustrates a horizontal cross-section of a portion of the collar subassembly of FIG. 1, with the handle in a second position, according to an example. Figure 5 FIG. 22 illustrates a vertical cross-section of a portion of the collar subassembly of FIG. 1, with the handle in a second position, according to an example.

[0036] Figure 15B FIG. 23 illustrates a horizontal cross-section of a portion of the collar subassembly of FIG. 1, with the handle in a first position, according to an example. Figure 5 FIG. 24 illustrates a vertical cross-section of a portion of the collar subassembly of FIG. 1, with the handle in a first position, according to an example.

[0037] Figure 16An example method for moving a disclosed handle of a container between a first position and a second position is illustrated in accordance with an example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration specific implementations or examples. These aspects can be combined, other aspects can be utilized, and structural changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Examples can be practiced as methods, systems or apparatuses. Accordingly, the following detailed description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present disclosure is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0039] Disclosed herein are example handles as described herein that are movable between an outer or extended position and an inner or retracted position. Such handles as disclosed can provide a user with a stable, ergonomic, comfortable, safe, and / or convenient feature by which to hold or carry a container. The disclosed handles are movable between a position in which the handle is extended, open, or "popped out" away from a body of the container so that a user can hold the handle, and a position in which the handle is retracted, closed, or "pushed in" toward the body of the container so that the handle occupies less space away from the container and can make storage or transport of the container easier. In some examples, the handle is placeable in more than two positions for more customizable use by a user.

[0040] In examples, the container is a food or beverage container; for example, a mug or cup used to hold coffee, tea, water, soup, or other liquid or solid food and beverage. In other examples, the handle can be applied to other forms of containers and carriers, such as cooking vessels (e.g., pots and pans, etc.), coolers, storage containers, luggage, tools, etc. In the particular example in which the container is a beverage container, the handle in the extended position can be beneficial to a user to carry or drink the beverage, while the handle in the retracted position can make it easier for the user to place the container in a cabinet, on a shelf, in a cup holder of a vehicle or seat, in a backpack or other bag, or another space for storage or transport in an appropriate manner.

[0041] In examples, the handle can be actuated from the first position to the second position, or from the second position to the first position, by a manual action of the user. For example, the user can push or pull the handle or the container to move the handle from one position to the other. In examples, the handle can be actuated from the first position to the second position, or from the second position to the first position, by a mechanical action, which can include different types of user actions. For example, the user can interact with a button, a switch, a lever, a pull, a stop, a knob, or other mechanical feature with which the user can interact in order to move the handle from one position to the other.

[0042] Examples will be described below with respect to Figures 1 to 16 These and other examples are explained in further detail. Not all features can be shown in all drawings.

[0043] Figure 1 A top rear perspective view of a container system 10 constructed in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure is illustrated. Figure 2A A bottom rear perspective view of the container system 10 is illustrated, and Figure 2B A bottom front perspective view of the container system 10 is illustrated. In examples, the container system 10 can be constructed to hold a beverage. The container system 10 includes a lid portion / subassembly 20 through which a user can ultimately drink and / or pour a beverage, and / or fill the container system. The container system 10 includes a body portion / subassembly 40 that is constructed to hold a liquid, such as a beverage. The container system 10 includes a collar portion / subassembly 30 that is located between (and connected to both of) the lid portion 20 and the body portion 40. The collar portion 30 can be constructed so that a beverage can flow through the collar portion 30 between the lid portion 20 and the body portion 40. The collar portion 30 can include a handle 310 that is movable between a plurality of positions. The collar portion 30 can include an actuator, such as a button 306, that can be used by a user to actuate the handle 310 from a first position to a second position. Figure 1 A handle 310 in a retracted position is illustrated. Figure 2A and Figure 2B A handle 310 in an extended position is illustrated.

[0044] Figure 3A A top view of the container system 10 is illustrated, with the lid cover 204 in a closed position and the handle 310 in a retracted position. Figure 3B A top view of the container system 10 is illustrated, with the lid cover 204 in an open position and the handle 310 in an extended position.

[0045] Figure 4A top rear perspective exploded view of the container system 10 is illustrated. In some examples, the cap portion 20, the collar portion 30, and the body portion 40 are connected in a manner that causes them to align along the vertical axis Y. In some examples, the cap portion 20, the collar portion 30, and / or the body portion 40 have a circular horizontal cross-section having a center at the axis Y. In some examples, the cap portion 20 is connected to the collar portion 30 at a lower end 212. In some examples, the body portion 40 is connected to the collar portion 30 at an upper end 412. In some examples, the cap portion 20 is removably connected to the collar portion 30. In some examples, the collar portion 30 is removably connected to the body portion 40. In examples where the components are removably connected, the removable connection can facilitate cleaning, sanitizing, filling, storage, manufacturing, and / or maintenance of the container system 10 and its components.

[0046] Figure 5 A top rear perspective exploded view of the collar subassembly 30 of the container system 10 is illustrated. The collar portion / subassembly 30 includes an upper collar 302 having an upper end 338 and a lower end 340. The upper end 338 can be configured to connect to the lower end 212 of the cap portion 20. The upper collar 302 defines a through opening 320 through which fluid (e.g., air or a liquid such as a beverage) can flow. The collar portion 30 includes a lower collar 304 having an upper end 348 and a lower end 350. The upper end 348 can be configured to connect to the lower end 340 of the upper collar 302. The lower end 350 can be configured to connect to the upper end 412 of the body portion 40.

[0047] The collar portion 30 includes a handle (handle subassembly or handle portion) 310. The handle 310 can include a handle overmold 314 connected to a handle core 316. The handle core 316 can be configured to at least partially fit within an insert 318 that is configured to at least partially fit within the lower collar 304 (e.g., along the horizontal axis X). The handle core 316 can interact with (e.g., can exert a force on and / or can be subject to a force exerted by) a handle biasing member 312. In some examples, at least a portion of the handle 310 is configured to move in a direction along the axis X between at least a first position and a second position.

[0048] The collar portion 30 can include an actuator / button 306. The button 306 can interact with a button biasing member 308 (e.g., can exert a force on the button biasing member 308 and / or can be subject to a force exerted by the button biasing member 308). In some examples, at least a portion of the button 306 is configured to move in a direction along a horizontal axis Z between at least a first position and a second position. In the particular example shown, the axis Z is perpendicular to the axis X. In the particular example shown, both the axis Z and the axis X are perpendicular to the axis Y. In other examples, other orientations and relationships of the axis X, the axis Y, and the axis Z can be possible.

[0049] Figure 6A A top view perspective of the upper collar 302 is illustrated. Figure 6B A bottom view perspective of the upper collar 302 is illustrated. Figure 6C A vertical cross-section of the upper collar 302 is illustrated. The upper collar 302 can include an inner surface 324 and an outer surface 322. The inner surface 324 can at least partially define a through opening 320, which can define a portion of a flow path FP through which fluid can flow (e.g., when the container system 10 is being poured, filled, drunk, or changed in orientation).

[0050] The upper collar 302 can include a protrusion 326 from a lower end 340, which is configured to connect with the lower collar 304. The upper collar 302 can include a shoulder 328 on the outer surface 322 and above the protrusion 326, which is configured to interact with the lower collar 304. The upper collar 302 includes a collar connection surface 334 at an upper end 338, which is configured to connect with the cap portion 20. In some examples, the collar connection surface 334 can be on the inner surface 324. In some examples, the collar connection surface 334 can include a collar connection feature 336 that interacts with the cap portion 20 for connection. The collar connection feature 336 can include threads, latches, detents, or other appropriate connection features.

[0051] The upper collar 302 can include a handle opening 330 that allows a portion of the handle 310 to pass through. In some examples, the handle opening 330 can be shaped substantially the same as the portion of the handle 310 that passes through. In the particular example shown, the handle opening 330 is at the lower end 340. The upper collar 302 can include a button opening 332 that allows a portion of the button 306 to pass through. In some examples, the button opening 332 can be shaped substantially the same as the portion of the button 306 that passes through. In the particular example shown, the button opening 332 is at the lower end 340.

[0052] In some examples, the upper collar 302 includes a sealing shoulder 342 for sealing against the lower collar 304, either directly or via a sealing member.

[0053] Figure 7A A top perspective view of the lower collar 304 is illustrated. Figure 7B A bottom perspective view of the lower collar 304 is illustrated. Figure 7C A vertical cross-section of the lower collar 304 is illustrated. The lower collar 304 has an outer surface 344 and an inner surface 346. The inner surface 346 can at least partially define a through opening 349, which can define a portion of the flow path FP.

[0054] The lower collar 304 includes a handle opening 352 that allows a portion of the handle 310 to pass through. In some examples, the handle opening 352 can be shaped substantially the same as the portion of the handle 310 that passes through. In some examples, the handle opening 352 can be an inlet / outlet opening to a handle chamber 356 that can be configured to hold or enclose at least a portion of the handle 310. The interior of the handle chamber 356 can include one or more detents 360. The handle chamber 356 can include a handle biasing member feature 362 at an end of the handle chamber 356 opposite the handle opening 352. The handle biasing member feature 362 can interact with (e.g., can be connected to or held in place with) an end of the handle biasing member 312.

[0055] The lower collar 304 can include a button opening 354 that allows a portion of the button 306 to pass through. In some examples, the button opening 354 can be shaped substantially the same as the portion of the button 306 that passes through. In some examples, the button opening 354 can be an inlet / outlet opening to a button chamber 358 that can be configured to hold or enclose at least a portion of the button 306. The button chamber 358 can include a button biasing member feature 364 at an end of the button chamber 358 opposite the button opening 354. The button biasing member feature 364 can interact with (e.g., can be connected to, in contact with, or held in place with) an end of the button biasing member 308.

[0056] The lower collar 304 can include a connection surface 366 at the lower end 350 configured to connect to the body portion 40. In some examples, the connection surface 366 can be on the inner surface 346. In some examples, the connection surface 366 can include a connection feature 368 that interacts with the body portion 40 for connection. The connection feature 368 can include threads, latches, detents, or other appropriate connection features. The lower collar 304 can include a connection groove 370 configured to interact with the upper collar 302 (e.g., to receive the protrusion 326). The lower collar 304 can include a seal member groove 372 for sealing directly against the body portion 40 or via a seal member (e.g., the seal member 420) against the body portion 40.

[0057] In some examples, the lower collar 304 can include a step 374 on the inner surface 346 that defines a change in diameter of the through opening 349. In such examples, the step 374 or similar feature can aid in the structural integrity of the lower collar 304 during use and / or during manufacture (e.g., during a molding process).

[0058] Figure 8A FIG. 7 illustrates a top perspective view of the insert 318. Figure 8B FIG. 8 illustrates a bottom perspective view of the insert 318. Figure 8C FIG. 9 illustrates a vertical cross-section of the insert 318. Figure 9 FIG. 10 illustrates a vertical cross-section of the insert 318 inserted into the handle chamber 356 of the lower collar 304. The insert 318 has an outer surface 376 and an inner surface 378. The insert 318 can be configured to fit within the handle chamber 356 of the lower collar 304. The insert 318 includes an open outward-facing end 380 at the handle opening 352 and an opposite open inward-facing end 382. An interior volume 394 is defined by the inner surface 378 and bounded at one end by the outward-facing end 380 and at the opposite end by the inward-facing end 382.

[0059] The insert 318 can include one or more outer ribs 384 extending along at least a portion of the outer surface 376 between the outward-facing end 380 and the inward-facing end 382 in a direction along at least a portion of a length of the insert 318. The outer ribs 384 can be configured to fit within the detent 360 of the handle chamber 356 to securely connect the insert 318 within the handle chamber 356, in turn providing proper alignment of the insert 318 within the handle chamber 356 and / or preventing rotation of the insert within the handle chamber 356.

[0060] The insert 318 can include a chamber connection feature 388, such as a latch, a tab, a detent, a groove, a pin, or other connection feature. The chamber connection feature 388 can be configured to interact with a portion of the handle chamber 356 and / or the handle 310 to secure the insert 318 within the handle chamber 356, to prevent movement of the insert 318 within the handle chamber 356 in a direction along the axis X, to properly position the insert 318 within the handle chamber 356, and / or to prevent accidental removal of the insert 318 from the handle chamber 356.

[0061] The insert 318 can include one or more inner ribs 386 extending along at least a portion of the inner surface 378 between the exterior-facing end 380 and the interior-facing end 382 in a direction along at least a portion of a length of the insert 318.

[0062] The insert 318 can include an exterior lip 390 that surrounds the exterior-facing end 380.

[0063] The insert 318 can include a button opening 392 configured to pass at least a portion of the button 306 therethrough.

[0064] Figure 10A A rear top perspective view of the handle core 316 of the handle 310 is illustrated. Figure 10B A rear bottom perspective view of the handle core 316 is illustrated. Figure 10C A partial top view of the handle core 316 is illustrated. The handle core 316 includes a handle body 396 and a lateral core 398.

[0065] The handle body 396 includes an outward-facing surface 303 configured to face away from the outer surface 422 of the body portion 40. The handle body 396 includes an inward-facing surface 305 configured to face toward the outer surface 422 of the body portion 40. The outward-facing surface 303 is configured to connect with and / or contact the handle overmold 314. The outward-facing surface 303 can include one or more overmold engagement features 307 configured to interact with corresponding features of the overmold 314 to facilitate connection. In the particular example illustrated, the overmold engagement features 307 include ridges, but other features can be envisioned in other examples. The outward-facing surface 303 can include an overmold receiving channel 327 configured to receive a portion of the handle overmold 314.

[0066] The lateral core 398 includes an outer surface 301. The lateral core 398 is configured to fit at least partially within the interior volume 394 of the insert 318; in this configuration, the portion of the outer surface 301 that defines the insert contact surface 309 contacts the inner surface 378 of the insert 318. The lateral core 398 includes one or more grooves 311 that extend along at least a portion of the length of the lateral core 398. The grooves 311 are configured to receive the inner ribs 386 of the insert 318 to securely connect the lateral core 398 within the insert 318, in turn providing proper alignment of the lateral core 398 within the insert 318 and / or preventing rotation of the lateral core 398 within the insert 318.

[0067] In some examples, the lateral core 398 includes one or more drain openings / drains 313 to facilitate drainage of liquid from portions of the lateral core 398 (e.g., in the event of moisture present during use, storage, transport, cleaning, or sterilization of the container system 10 and / or components thereof).

[0068] In some examples, the lateral core 398 includes a handle biasing member feature 315 configured to interact with (e.g., can be connected to or held in place with) an end of the handle biasing member 312. The handle biasing member feature 315 can engage the end of the handle biasing member 312 that is opposite the end of the handle biasing member 312 that is engaged by the handle biasing member feature 362.

[0069] The lateral core portion 398 includes a recessed surface 317. Further recessed in the recessed surface 317 is a pin slot 323. The pin slot 323 includes a handle retracted stop 319 and a handle extended stop 321. The handle retracted stop 319 and the handle extended stop 321 are shaped and sized such that the pin 351 can be securely held within the handle retracted stop 319 and the handle extended stop 321 unless acted upon by sufficient force (as discussed further below). An inclined edge 325 of the pin slot 323 can extend between the handle retracted stop 319 and the handle extended stop 321. Distance D1 represents the width of the narrowest portion of the passage 365 of the pin slot 323. The passage 365 is located between the handle retracted stop 319 and the handle extended stop 321. Distance D1 is selected to be at least as wide as the width / diameter of the pin 351 of the button 306 so that the pin 351 can pass through the passage 365 as the handle 310 is moved from one position to another. The angle A1 of the slope of the inclined edge 325 is selected so that the movement of the handle is smooth (e.g., rather than jarring) and the force required to retract the handle is minimized as the pin 351 moves along the inclined edge 325 during movement of the handle 310. The radius R1 of the curve defined at the intersection of the inclined edge 325 is selected so that the pin 351 can be securely held within the handle extended stop 321 unless acted upon by sufficient force, and also so that the pin 351 can smoothly transition out of the handle extended stop 321 to move along the inclined edge 325 when force is applied to the handle 310 in a direction inward along the axis X to move the handle toward the retracted position.

[0070] Figure 11A A first rear top-down perspective view of the handle cover 314 is illustrated. Figure 11B A second rear top-down perspective view of the handle cover 314 is illustrated. The handle cover 314 includes a cover body 333 and a core protrusion 335. The core protrusion 335 is configured to connect to the lateral core portion 398 of the handle core 316. In the particular example shown, the core protrusion 335 is configured to fit within the cover-receiving channel 327. In some examples, the cover-receiving channel 327 and the core protrusion 335 can be shaped such that rotation of the core protrusion 335 within the cover-receiving channel 327 can be prevented. In the particular example shown, the cover-receiving channel 327 and the core protrusion 335 each have a generally U-shaped vertical cross-section; in other examples, other shapes can be envisioned.

[0071] The overmold body 333 includes an outward-facing surface 329 configured to face away from the outer surface 422 of the body portion 40. The overmold body 333 includes an inward-facing surface 331 configured to face toward the outer surface 422 of the body portion 40. The inward-facing surface 331 is configured to connect with and / or contact the handle core 316. The inward-facing surface 331 can include one or more core body engagement features 337 configured to interact with corresponding overmold engagement features of the handle core 316 to facilitate connection. In the particular example shown, the core body engagement features 337 include grooves (e.g., grooves that can receive ridges of the overmold engagement features 307), although other features are contemplated in other examples.

[0072] In some examples, the handle overmold 314 is removably connected to the handle core 316. In some examples, the handle overmold 314 is integrally formed with the handle core 316. In some examples, the handle overmold 314 and the handle core 316 represent a single component. In some examples, the handle overmold 314 and the handle core 316 are permanently connected (e.g., by adhesive or by welding, soldering, bonding, or other connection means). In some examples, the handle overmold 314 and the handle core 316 are formed of the same material. In some examples, the handle overmold 314 and the handle core 316 are formed of different materials (e.g., the handle overmold 314 can include a softer material than the material of the handle core 316 for comfort or to enhance a user’s grip).

[0073] Figure 12A A bottom perspective view of the button 306 is illustrated. Figure 12B A top perspective view of the button 306 is illustrated. The button 306 includes an upper surface 339 and a lower surface 341. The button 306 is configured to fit within the button chamber 358 and has opposite ends: an outward-facing end 343 and an inward-facing end 345. At the outward-facing end 343, the button 306 includes an end surface 347 (e.g., an end surface that can be acted upon or interact with a user). Towards the outward-facing end 343, the button 306 includes a button body 363. In some examples, the button body 363 includes at least one void / indent 357 on the lower surface 341 to reduce or eliminate the occurrence of sink marks during manufacturing.

[0074] Towards the interior-facing end 345, the button 306 has a tongue portion 353. The tongue portion 353 can include a recess 361 on the lower surface 341. The recess 361 can include a button biasing member feature 355. The button biasing member feature 355 can engage an end of the button biasing member 308 opposite the end of the button biasing member 308 engaged by the button biasing member feature 364.

[0075] The tongue portion 353 can include a pin 351 within the recess 361 towards the interior-facing end 345. The pin 351 can include a knob, protrusion, bump, or other feature. In some examples, the pin 351 can have a generally circular horizontal cross-section, although other shapes are contemplated. The pin 351 can be configured (e.g., can have an appropriate width / diameter, shape, and / or height) to fit within the handle retraction stop 319 and the handle extension stop 321.

[0076] An end of the recess 361 proximate to the button body 363 can be defined by a pair of sidewalls 359. A length LI of the button body 363 between the end surface 347 and the sidewalls 359 is determined to reduce rotation of the button 306 within the button chamber 358 when a force or load is applied to the button 306, particularly at the end surface 347. The length LI is maximized to prevent rotation while also maintaining an appropriate distance D2. A distance D2 from the sidewalls 359 to the pin 351 is determined to minimize the amount of force required to move the button 306 against the biasing force (as will be described below). The distance D2 is minimized to reduce the travel distance and required force of the button 306 while also ensuring sufficient size for the pin 351 to navigate within the pin slot 323 between the handle retraction stop 319 and the handle extension stop 321.

[0077] Figure 13 A vertical cross-section along a plane defined by the axis Y and the axis Z of a portion of the container system 10 is illustrated. The cap portion 20 is shown connected to the collar portion 30. The collar connection feature 336 of the upper collar 302 (shown as threads in this particular example) is engaged with the cap connection feature 218 of the cap connection surface 206 of the cap body 202 (shown as threads in this particular example). An induction loop 214 (shown as a rounded wire in this particular example, although other types are possible) is located between the cap body 202 and the upper collar 302 to help maintain a liquid and / or gas seal and proper alignment. A cap seal member 216 (shown as a square gasket in this particular example, although other types of seal members are possible) is located between the cap body 202 and the upper collar 302 to help maintain a liquid and / or gas seal.

[0078] The upper collar 302 is shown connected to the lower collar 304. The protrusion 326 of the upper collar 302 is shown inserted into the connection groove 370 of the lower collar 304. In some examples, the connection joint between the upper collar 302 and the lower collar 304 can be permanently connected through a snap-fit connection and / or an induction weld (or other type of weld, braze, fastening, etc. suitable for the materials of construction and use).

[0079] The collar portion 30 is shown connected to the body portion 40. The connection feature 368 of the lower collar 304 (shown as threads in this particular example) is engaged with the body connection feature 418 of the body portion 40 (shown as threads in this particular example). A body seal member 420 (shown as a gasket in this particular example, although other types of seal members are possible) is positioned between the lower collar 304 and the upper end 412 of the body portion 40 to help maintain a liquid and / or gas seal. The body portion 40 includes an upper end 412 opposite the lower end 414. In some examples, the body portion 40 includes a vessel 402 (e.g., the vessel 402 is configured to contain one or more fluids or other contents). The vessel 402 can include one or more vessel walls. In the particular example shown, the vessel 402 includes an inner wall 406 and an outer wall 404. The inner wall 406 (particularly, the inner surface 424) defines a volume 410 to contain the contents of the container system 10. The outer wall 404 includes an outer surface 422. A portion of the outer surface 422 can include a body connection surface 416, which in the example shown includes the body connection feature 418. In other examples, depending on the configuration of the collar portion 30, the body connection surface 416 can be on the inner surface 424. In some examples, the outer wall 404 and the inner wall 406 can define a volume 408 between the outer wall 404 and the inner wall 406. The volume 408 can be configured to provide insulation to the container system 10 (e.g., to maintain hot contents or cold contents at a desired temperature). In examples, the volume 408 can be under vacuum conditions, and / or can be filled with air, other gases, various liquids, solids, gels, epoxies, or other materials.

[0080] A flow path FP is defined within the container system 10 for movement of fluid within and to / from the container system 10. For example, when pouring or drinking from the container system 10, fluid can flow from the volume 410, through the lower collar through opening 349, through the upper collar through opening 320, and through the lid opening 208 (e.g., when the lid cover 204 is in the open position). When filling the container system 10 or changing the position of the container system 10, fluid flow can move in the opposite direction along the flow path FP.

[0081] Figure 14AFIG. 3 illustrates a horizontal cross-section of a portion of the collar subassembly 30 along a plane defined by axis X and axis Z, with the handle 310 in a first retracted position / closed position / pushed-in position. See also FIG. 1. Figure 15A FIG. 4 illustrates a vertical cross-section of a portion of the collar subassembly 30 along a plane defined by axis X and axis Y, with the handle in a first position. When the handle 310 is in the retracted position, the pin 351 of the button 306 is seated within the handle retraction detent 319 of the pin slot 323. The force Fl of the button biasing member 308 (shown as a coil spring in this particular example, but other types of biasing members can be contemplated) acts on the button 306 in an outward direction along axis Z to maintain the pin 351 within the handle retraction detent. The magnitude of the force Fl maintains the position of the pin 351 within the wall of the detent 319 such that the handle position will not move from the retracted position too easily, e.g., not by a force F3 (see below) or a force on the end surface 347 less than the force Fl.

[0082] When a force F2 is applied (e.g., by a user pushing on the button) on the end surface 347 of the button 306 in a direction opposite force Fl and of a magnitude greater than force Fl, the button 306 is pushed (compressing the button biasing member 308) in an inward direction along axis Z and the pin 351 moves out of the handle retraction detent 319 and into the passage 365 of the pin slot 323. When the button 306 is pushed inward, the side wall 359 can contact the button biasing member feature 364, thereby preventing excessive inward movement of the button 306 and preventing the inward-facing end 345 of the button 306 from contacting the opposing wall 367 of the pin slot 323 (which would cause friction and impede proper movement of the pin 351 within the pin slot 323). The force F3 of the handle biasing member 312 (shown as a coil spring in this particular example, but other types of biasing members can be contemplated) acts on the handle core 316 in an outward direction along axis X to move the handle 310 to an extended position. When the force F3 acts on the handle core 316, the pin slot 323 moves relative to the pin 351 such that the pin 351 slides along the sloped edge 325 of the pin slot 323 toward the handle extension detent 321.

[0083] Figure 14B FIG. 5 illustrates a horizontal cross-section of a portion of the collar subassembly 30 along a plane defined by axis X and axis Z, with the handle in a second position. See also FIG. 1. Figure 15Billustrates a vertical cross-section along a plane defined by axis X and axis Y of a portion of collar subassembly 30, with the handle in the second position. As pin 351 moves along the sloped edge 325 within pin slot 323, force F3 acts on button 306. When pin 351 enters handle extension stop 321, the magnitude of force F3 maintains the position of pin 351 within the wall of stop 321 such that the handle position does not move from the extended position too easily, for example, not too easily by a force on outward facing surface 303 that is less than force F3.

[0084] When handle 310 is in the extended position, the distance D3 between the outer surface 344 of lower collar 304 (and / or the outer surface 422 of vessel 402) and the inward facing surface 305 of handle 310 is such that a user can comfortably fit all or a portion of their hand and / or fingers within the gap defined by distance D3 such that the user can hold, grasp, or carry container system 10.

[0085] When a force F4 is applied (e.g., by a user pushing on handle 310) on end surface 347 of button 306 in a direction opposite force F3 and of a magnitude greater than force F3, handle 310 is pushed (compressing handle biasing member 312) in an inward direction along axis X and pin 351 moves out of handle extension stop 321 and into passage 365 of pin slot 323. Force F4 acts against force F3 of handle biasing member 312 in an inward direction along axis X to move handle 310 to the retracted position. When force F4 acts on handle 310, pin slot 323 moves relative to pin 351 such that pin 351 slides along sloped edge 325 of pin slot 323 toward handle retraction stop 319.

[0086] Figure 16 An example method 1600 for moving a movable handle of the disclosed system between a first position and a second position is illustrated. In example operation 1602, an external force (e.g., a force on an actuator such as a button) causes a pin (e.g., of the actuator / button) to disengage from a first stop (e.g., which can be included in / on the handle) corresponding to a first position of the handle.

[0087] In example operation 1604, the handle is moved from the first position to the second position (e.g., from the retracted position to the extended position) by a force from a biasing member acting on the handle.

[0088] In example operation 1606, a force from a biasing member acting on the actuator / button causes the pin to engage a second stop (e.g., which can be included in / on the handle) corresponding to a second position of the handle.

[0089] In example operation 1608, an external force (e.g., a force on the outer surface of the handle) causes the pin to disengage from the second stop.

[0090] In example operation 1610, the handle is moved from the second position to the first position by a continuous external force on the surface of the handle.

[0091] In example operation 1612, the force from the bias member acting on the actuator / button causes the pin to engage with the first stop.

[0092] According to the principles of the present disclosure, the materials of construction for the container system 10 as described herein, and components thereof, include materials that are compatible with the environment, intended contents, cleaning and sanitization considerations, and the use of the container system 10. In some examples, one or more components can include different materials or the same material. In some examples, the components can include plastic, silicone, metal, composite, wood, glass, stone, other materials, or combinations of materials. In particular examples, the upper collar 302 can be made of a plastic material (in particular examples, polypropylene, although other materials are possible). In particular examples, the lower collar 304 can be made of a plastic material (in particular examples, polypropylene, although other materials are possible). In particular examples, the insert 318 can be made of a plastic material (in particular examples, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, although other materials are possible). In particular examples, the button 306 can be made of a plastic material (in particular examples, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, although other materials are possible). In particular examples, the handle core 316 can be made of a plastic material (in particular examples, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, although other materials are possible). In particular examples, the handle overmold 314 can be made of a plastic material or a silicone material (in particular examples, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene or a silicone material, although other materials are possible). In particular examples, the lid seal member 216 can be made of a silicone material, although other materials are possible. In particular examples, the body seal member 420 can be made of a silicone material, although other materials are possible. In particular examples, the induction loop 214 can be made of a metal material (in particular examples, stainless steel, such as 304SS, although other materials are possible). In particular examples, the button biasing member 308 can be made of a metal material (in particular examples, stainless steel, such as 304SS, although other materials are possible). In particular examples, the handle biasing member 312 can be made of a metal material (in particular examples, stainless steel, such as 304SS, although other materials are possible). In particular examples, the vessel 402 can be made of a metal, plastic, or glass material (in particular examples, a metal such as stainless steel (e.g., 304SS), although other materials are possible).

[0093] For the purposes of this application, terms such as "upper", "lower", "upwardly", and "downwardly" are intended to refer to the orientation as shown in the drawings and described with respect to the orientation shown in the drawings, but examples practiced within, and encompassed by, the scope of the claims can include examples in which the system and device are in different orientations.

[0094] While specific uses of the technology have been illustrated and described above, the disclosed technology can be used in a variety of environments according to many examples of the technology. The above discussion is not meant to suggest that the disclosed technology is only applicable in environments shown and described above.

[0095] This disclosure describes some aspects of the technology with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which only a few of the numerous possible aspects are shown. Other aspects can, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the aspects set forth herein. Rather, these aspects are provided so that this disclosure is thorough and complete, and fully conveys the scope of the aspects to those skilled in the art.

[0096] As should be appreciated, the various aspects described herein with reference to the drawings are not intended to limit the technology to the particular aspects described. Accordingly, additional configurations can be used to practice the technology herein and / or some aspects described can be excluded without departing from the methods and systems disclosed herein.

[0097] Similarly, where a process is disclosed, the operations in the process are for illustration purposes and are not intended to limit the disclosure to the specific operations disclosed. For example, the operations can be performed in a different order, two or more operations can be performed at the same time, additional operations can be performed, and some operations can be excluded without departing from the disclosure. Furthermore, each operation can be completed by one or more sub-operations. The disclosed processes can be repeated.

[0098] While specific aspects are described herein, the scope of the technology is not limited to these specific aspects. One skilled in the art will recognize other aspects or improvements subsumed by the technology. Accordingly, the specific structure, acts, or operations are disclosed as illustrative aspects. The scope of the technology is defined by the following claims and any equivalents therein. Examples of the disclosure can be described according to the following aspects.

[0099] Aspect 1. A container system comprising: a body; a handle movable relative to the body between a first position and a second position; and an actuator, wherein application of a force to the actuator causes the handle to move from the first position to the second position.

[0100] Aspect 2. The container system of aspect 1, wherein application of a second force to the handle causes the handle to move from the second position to the first position.

[0101] Aspect 3. The container system of any of aspects 1-2, wherein the actuator comprises a button.

[0102] Aspect 4. The container system of any one of aspects 1-3, wherein the container system is configured to contain a beverage.

[0103] Aspect 5. The container system of any one of aspects 1-4, further comprising: a first detent in the handle, wherein the actuator engages with the first detent when the handle is in the first position; a second detent in the handle, wherein the actuator engages with the second detent when the handle is in the second position; and an actuator biasing member that exerts an actuator biasing force on the actuator and causes the actuator to engage in the first detent in the absence of the force.

[0104] Aspect 6. The container system of any one of aspects 1-5, further comprising a handle biasing member that exerts a handle biasing force on the handle.

[0105] Aspect 7. The container system of any one of aspects 1-6, further comprising: a lid portion; and a collar portion connected to the body and the lid portion, wherein: the collar portion includes the handle and the actuator, and a flow path is defined through the body, the collar portion, and the lid portion.

[0106] Aspect 8. A handle arrangement, comprising: a handle including a body segment and a core segment, the handle movable between a first position and a second position; an actuator including a pin, wherein: the pin engages with a first detent of the handle core when the handle is in the first position, and the pin engages with a second detent of the handle core when the handle is in the second position; a handle biasing member that exerts a first biasing force on the handle to move the handle from the first position to the second position; and an actuator biasing member that exerts a second biasing force on the actuator to cause the pin to engage with each of the first detent and the second detent.

[0107] Aspect 9. The handle arrangement of aspect 8, wherein the handle arrangement is a component of a container system.

[0108] Aspect 10. The handle arrangement of any one of aspects 8-9, wherein the container system is configured to contain a beverage.

[0109] Aspect 11. The handle arrangement of any one of aspects 8-10, wherein the actuator includes a button.

[0110] Aspect 12. The handle apparatus of any one of aspects 8-11, wherein when the handle is in the first position, application of an external force to the actuator causes the pin to disengage from the first detent, wherein the handle biasing member moves the handle from the first position toward the second position, and wherein the actuator biasing member causes the pin to engage the second detent.

[0111] Aspect 13. The handle apparatus of any one of aspects 8-12, wherein when the handle is in the second position, application of an external force to the actuator causes the pin to disengage from the second detent, wherein continued application of the force moves the handle from the second position toward the first position, and wherein the actuator biasing member causes the pin to engage the first detent.

[0112] Aspect 14. The handle apparatus of any one of aspects 8-14, further comprising a ramped surface between the first detent and the second detent, wherein the pin is guided along the ramped surface as the handle moves between the first position and the second position.

[0113] Aspect 15. A method comprising: in response to application of a first external force to an actuator, causing a handle of a container system to move from a first position to a second position; and in response to application of a second external force to the handle, causing the handle to move from the second position to the first position.

[0114] Aspect 16. The method of aspect 15, further comprising: in response to the first external force, causing the actuator to disengage from a first detent of the handle; in response to a handle biasing member force, causing the handle to move from the first position to the second position; and in response to an actuator biasing member force, causing the actuator to engage a second detent of the handle.

[0115] Aspect 17. The method of any one of aspects 15-16, wherein the first external force is applied in a direction opposite the actuator biasing member force, and the first external force has a magnitude greater than a magnitude of the actuator biasing member force.

[0116] Aspect 18. The method of any one of aspects 15-17, further comprising: in response to the second external force, causing the actuator to disengage from a second detent of the handle; in response to continued application of the second external force, causing the handle to move from the second position to the first position; and in response to an actuator biasing member force, causing the actuator to engage a first detent of the handle.

[0117] Aspect 19. The method of any one of aspects 15-18, wherein the second external force is applied in a direction opposite to a handle biasing member force, and the second external force has a magnitude greater than a magnitude of the handle biasing member force.

[0118] Aspect 20. The method of any one of aspects 15-19, wherein the actuator comprises a pin configured to engage with the first stop and the second stop.

[0119] Aspect 21. The method of any one of aspects 15-20, wherein the container system is configured to hold a beverage.

Claims

1. A container system, comprising: ontology; A handle that is movable relative to the body between a first position and a second position; as well as An actuator, wherein a force is applied to the actuator to move the handle from the first position to the second position.

2. The container system according to claim 1, wherein, A second force is applied to the handle, causing the handle to move from the second position to the first position.

3. The container system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein, The actuator includes a button.

4. The container system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The container system is configured to hold beverages.

5. The container system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising: The first stop in the handle, wherein when the handle is in the first position, the actuator engages with the first stop; The second stop in the handle, wherein when the handle is in the second position, the actuator engages with the second stop; and An actuator biasing member applies an actuator biasing force to the actuator and engages the actuator in the first stop when the actuator is not subjected to the force.

6. The container system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a handle biasing member that applies a handle biasing force to the handle.

7. The container system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising: Cover part; as well as The collar portion, which connects the body and the cover portion, wherein: The collar portion includes the handle and the actuator, and The flow path is defined by the body, the collar portion, and the cover portion.

8. A handle device, comprising: A handle, comprising a body section and a core section, wherein the handle is movable between a first position and a second position; An actuator, the actuator including a pin, wherein: When the handle is in the first position, the pin engages with the first stop portion of the handle core, and When the handle is in the second position, the pin engages with the second stop portion of the handle core; A handle biasing member that applies a first biasing force to the handle to move the handle from a first position to a second position; and An actuator biasing member applies a second biasing force to the actuator to engage the pin with each of the first stop and the second stop.

9. The handle device according to claim 8, wherein, The handle device is a component of the container system.

10. The handle device according to any one of claims 8 to 9, wherein, The container system is configured to hold beverages.

11. The handle device according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein, The actuator includes a button.

12. The handle device according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein, When the handle is in the first position, an external force is applied to the actuator to disengage the pin from the first stop, wherein the handle biasing member moves the handle from the first position toward the second position, and wherein the actuator biasing member engages the pin with the second stop.

13. The handle device according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein, When the handle is in the second position, an external force is applied to the actuator to disengage the pin from the second stop, wherein the force is continuously applied to move the handle from the second position toward the first position, and wherein the actuator biasing member engages the pin with the first stop.

14. The handle device according to any one of claims 8 to 14, further comprising an inclined surface located between the first stop and the second stop, wherein, The pin is guided along the inclined surface as the handle moves between the first position and the second position.

15. A method comprising: In response to applying a first external force to the actuator, the handle of the container system is moved from a first position to a second position; as well as In response to applying a second external force to the handle, the handle is moved from the second position to the first position.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising: In response to the first external force, the actuator is disengaged from the first stop of the handle; By applying force to the handle biasing component, the handle is moved from the first position to the second position; as well as In response to the force of the actuator biasing member, the actuator engages with the second stop of the handle.

17. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 16, wherein, The first external force is applied in the opposite direction to the force of the actuator biasing member, and the magnitude of the first external force is greater than the magnitude of the force of the actuator biasing member.

18. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 17, further comprising: In response to the second external force, the actuator is disengaged from the second stop of the handle; By applying a continuous second external force, the handle is moved from the second position to the first position; as well as In response to the force of the actuator biasing member, the actuator is engaged with the first stop of the handle.

19. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein, The second external force is applied in the opposite direction to the force of the handle biasing member, and the magnitude of the second external force is greater than the magnitude of the force of the handle biasing member.

20. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein, The actuator includes a pin configured to engage with the first stop and the second stop.

21. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 20, wherein, The container system is configured to hold beverages.

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