Outer cap for a bottle

Abstract

The aspects disclosed herein relate to an outer cap for a bottle, including a handle configured for a user to grip, allowing the user to more easily carry the bottle and the outer cap. The outer cap may include: a cap body including a top portion and side portions; at least one channel disposed within the cap body; and a handle slidably engaged with the channel to allow movement of the handle between a retracted position and an unfolded position. In the unfolded position, the user can grip the handle to allow carrying the bottle and the outer cap via the handle.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 600,389, filed November 17, 2023, pursuant to 35 U.SC §119(e), which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The disclosed embodiments relate to providing a closed outer cap for a bottle containing fluid. Specifically, the disclosed embodiments relate to an outer cap including a handle that provides a user with a way to carry the outer cap and the corresponding bottle. Background Technology

[0004] Beverage bottles and corresponding closures have been used to contain and seal fluids for consumption by users. Specifically, some bottles include closures such as an outer cap, which seals the bottle opening by engaging the inner portion of the cap with the bottle neck. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to one aspect, an outer cap for a bottle is provided. The outer cap may include: a cap body including a top portion and side portions; at least one channel disposed within the cap body; a handle engaging with the at least one channel; and an inner skirt extending from the top portion of the cap body. The handle is configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position. In some embodiments, the side portions of the cap body may surround the inner skirt. In some embodiments, when the handle is in the retracted position, a surface portion of the handle is flush with an adjacent surface portion of the cap body.

[0006] According to another aspect, an outer cap for a bottle is provided. The outer cap may include: a cap body including a top portion and side portions; at least one channel disposed within the cap body; a handle slidably engaged with the at least one channel; and an inner skirt extending from the top portion of the cap body. The handle may be configured to move between a retracted position and an unfolded position. In some embodiments, the side portions of the cap body may surround the inner skirt. In some embodiments, the handle may be configured to move linearly in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal dimension of the at least one channel when moved to the unfolded position.

[0007] According to another aspect, an outer cap for a bottle is provided. The outer cap may include: a cap body including a top portion and side portions; at least one channel disposed within the cap body; and a handle engaging with the at least one channel, the handle being movable between a retracted position and an unfolded position. In some embodiments, the handle may include one or more side segments, and the one or more side segments may be configured to be squeezed by a user to allow the handle to move between a retracted position and an unfolded position. In some embodiments, when the handle is in the retracted position, at least one of the one or more side segments of the handle may be adjacent to a side portion of the cap body. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Non-limiting embodiments incorporating one or more aspects of the invention will be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale. For clarity, not every component is labeled in every drawing, and not every component of each embodiment of the invention is shown where illustration is not essential for understanding the invention by one of ordinary skill in the art. In the drawings: Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a bottle and cap assembly according to some embodiments; Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the outer cover in the unfolded position; Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A 3D view of the outer cover in the retracted position; Figure 4A This is an exploded perspective view of the outer cover according to some embodiments; Figure 4B According to some embodiments Figure 4A A cross-sectional view showing the interaction between the outer cap and the corresponding bottle; Figure 4C According to some embodiments Figure 4A An enlarged perspective view of a portion of the outer cover; Figure 4D According to some embodiments Figure 4A A three-dimensional view of the outer cover; Figure 5A According to some embodiments Figures 4A to 4D A bottom-view perspective of the outer cover, depicting the inner skirt extending from a portion of the outer cover; Figure 5B yes Figure 5A Enlarged stereoscopic view of region 5B in the middle; Figure 6 According to some embodiments Figures 4A to 4D A cross-sectional view of the outer cover shows the interaction between the handle of the outer cover and the channel formed in the outer cover; Figure 7AThis is an exploded perspective view of the outer cover according to some embodiments; Figure 7B According to some embodiments Figure 7A An enlarged perspective view of a portion of the outer cover; Figure 8A According to some embodiments Figures 7A to 7B A bottom-view perspective of the outer cover, depicting the inner skirt extending from a portion of the outer cover; Figure 8B yes Figure 8A Enlarged stereoscopic view of region 8B in the middle; and Figure 9 According to some embodiments Figures 7A to 7B A cross-sectional view of the outer cover shows the interaction between the handle of the outer cover and the channels formed in the outer cover. Detailed Implementation

[0009] It should be understood that the aspects of the invention disclosed herein are not limited in application to the construction details and component arrangements set forth in the following description or shown in the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, the concepts disclosed herein can be arranged in any suitable combination, as this disclosure is not limited in this respect. Additionally, the terminology used herein is for descriptive purposes and should not be considered limiting.

[0010] Bottles and caps have been used to contain and encapsulate liquids for consumption by users. In some arrangements, bottles and caps may be single-use products intended to be discarded or recycled after use. Caps can come in a variety of suitable types, shapes, and sizes, but typically include a mating portion configured to engage with a corresponding opening on the bottle to provide closure of the bottle's contents. In some arrangements, caps in the form of outer caps have been used to provide closure to the bottle. Specifically, an outer cap may include an inner skirt configured to engage with a corresponding opening on the bottle neck, and an outer cap body that may at least partially or completely surround the inner skirt. In some embodiments, the outer cap body may be configured to engage a portion of the shoulder and / or neck of the bottle.

[0011] The inventors have recognized the need for a means of conveniently carrying such bottles, as some bottles may be bulky and / or shaped to make them difficult to carry. Therefore, the inventors have recognized the benefits associated with improvements to provide carrying features on the bottle and cap assembly. Specifically, the inventors have recognized the benefits associated with forming a handle on the outer cap constructed for use with the bottle. By providing carrying features such as a handle, users can more easily grip the bottle and / or secure it to a bag or other item, thus providing end-users with easier transport of the bottle and its contents.

[0012] According to the aspects discussed herein, an outer cap for engaging a bottle may include a cap body and a handle formed in the cap body. In some embodiments, the cap body may include one or more channels disposed in the cap body. The handle may be configured to slide along one or more channels such that the handle can move between a retracted position and an unfolded position. In the retracted position, the handle may substantially conform to the contour of the outer cap. In the unfolded position, the handle may extend to allow a user to grip the handle to carry the outer cap and the corresponding bottle. The handle may be configured to slide along one or more channels via one or more tracks formed in the channels between the retracted and unfolded positions.

[0013] According to one aspect discussed herein, an outer cap for a bottle is provided. The outer cap may include a handle that slidably engages with at least one channel formed in the cap body. The handle may be configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position such that when the handle is in the retracted position, at least a portion of the handle is flush with an adjacent surface portion of the cap body.

[0014] In some embodiments, the cap includes a top portion and side portions. In some such embodiments, the top and side portions can be any suitable size and / or shape such that the cap can be received by the corresponding shoulder and / or neck portion of the bottle. For example, the top portion can be substantially flat and rounded, while the side portions can be substantially curved. In another example, both the top and side portions can be substantially flat, such that the cap forms a cubic shape. While these arrangements of the top and side portions of the cap are disclosed, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the cap can be any suitable shape.

[0015] In some embodiments, as described above, at least one channel may be formed in the cover. In some such embodiments, the at least one channel may be formed as a recessed portion disposed in a side portion of the cover. In some embodiments, the at least one channel may include two channels formed on opposite sides of the side portion of the cover. While such channel arrangement is disclosed, this disclosure is not limited thereto; the cover may include any suitable number of channels, and the channels may be arranged at any suitable location along the cover.

[0016] In some embodiments, at least one channel may extend across the entire height of the side portion of the cover. However, in other embodiments, at least one channel does not extend across the entire height of the side portion.

[0017] In some embodiments, at least one channel may be used to receive a handle as described above. The handle may include one or more side segments and a top segment connected to the one or more side segments to form a handle structure. For example, as described above, two channels may be formed on opposite sides of a side portion of the cap, and the handle may include two side segments. In this example, each side segment may slidably engage with a corresponding channel of the two channels. The handle may also include a top segment disposed between and connecting the two side segments, wherein a user may grasp the top segment of the handle to carry the outer cap (and, if the bottle is attached to the outer cap, to carry the bottle along with the outer cap).

[0018] In some embodiments, the side portions of the cover may be curved as described above. In some such embodiments, the channel may be formed such that the channel substantially conforms to the radius of curvature of the side portion of the cover. Therefore, the longitudinal, lateral, and depth dimensions of the channel disclosed above may vary depending on the radius of curvature of the side portion of the cover. For example, if the dimensions of the side portion of the cover are set such that it is wider at the base of the side portion and narrower at the top of the side portion, the depth of the channel may be greater towards the base of the side portion of the cover and smaller towards the top of the cover.

[0019] In some embodiments, the channel formed in the side portion of the cover may further include one or more tracks disposed within the channel. These tracks may be configured to receive a corresponding pin or other engagement feature of a handle to allow the handle to be slidably engaged within at least one track of the channel. For example, a given channel on the side portion of the cover may include two tracks formed on opposite sides of the channel. In this example, the handle may include engagement features (e.g., pins) as described above to slidably engage the tracks, thereby allowing the handle to move between a retracted position and an extended position. In some embodiments, the tracks may not extend to the entire longitudinal dimension of the channel, resulting in terminations at one or more ends of the tracks configured to prevent the corresponding handle from moving beyond a certain position. Thus, the use of such terminations in the tracks may also be configured to prevent the handle from being removed from the channel. In some embodiments, the terminations may be configured to restrict movement of the handle in the retracted position such that the top and / or side sections of the handle remain flush with the cover. Although this example has been disclosed above, the disclosure is not limited thereto, and the handle may be received within one or more channels in a variety of suitable arrangements.

[0020] In some embodiments, one or more channels may include one or more recesses disposed within the channels. These recesses may be spaced laterally from one or more tracks and may be configured to receive a corresponding engagement feature of the handle in a retracted position. In some such embodiments, the recesses may be used to hold the handle in the retracted position (e.g., via one or more stops for retaining the engagement feature) unless a user applies an action to remove the engagement feature from the recess. For example, when the handle is in the retracted position, a user may press a side segment of the handle, which in turn may disengage the engagement feature from the recess (e.g., by moving the engagement feature into a track disposed within the channel). In some embodiments, the recesses may include one or more tilting features to push the engagement feature out of the recess when the user presses the handle. Once disengaged from the recess, the handle can slide within the track.

[0021] In some embodiments, one or more channels may include one or more wedges disposed within the channels. The one or more wedges may be configured to act as a stabilizing structure when the handle engages with the channel. For example, the wedges may be positioned such that they contact a side segment of the handle to promote lateral stability of the handle. The inventors have recognized that this arrangement ensures that the handle remains engaged with the channel and structurally stable during user use (e.g., when a user carries and swings a bottle). Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the wedges may be used to help the handle maintain its position when in the unfolded position. This may be due to friction between a portion of the handle and the wedges when the handle moves to the unfolded position.

[0022] In some embodiments, one or more channels and handles may be configured and arranged such that when the handle is in a retracted position, a surface portion of the handle is substantially flush with an adjacent surface portion of the cover. The surface portion of the handle may be part of a top segment of the handle or a side segment of the handle, and this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the radius of curvature of the side segment of the handle may be substantially similar to the radius of curvature of the side portion of the cover, such that the handle is flush with the side portion of the cover when in the retracted position. In another example, the top portion of the cover may include a recessed portion configured to receive the top segment of the handle in the retracted position. The inventors have recognized that benefits can be achieved by selecting the depth of the recessed portion to be substantially similar to the depth of the top segment of the handle. In some such embodiments, the top segment of the handle may be received by a recessed portion of the cover such that, when in the retracted position, the top segment of the handle is flush with an adjacent surface portion of the cover. In some embodiments, when in the retracted position, the handle is flush with both the side and top portions of the cover. However, in other embodiments, when the handle is in the retracted position, the surface portion of the handle may not be substantially flush with the adjacent portion of the cover (e.g., the handle may protrude from the top portion of the channel and / or the recess of the cover).

[0023] In some embodiments, the handle can be any suitable shape. For example, the handle can be substantially semi-circular. In another example, the handle can have a substantially flat top section and curved side sections. The lid can also have a substantially flat top portion and curved side portions as disclosed herein. Thus, in some embodiments, the lid and handle can be substantially similar in shape, and the handle can conform to the contour of the lid when engaged with it and in the folded position.

[0024] In some embodiments, the channels in the lid and the corresponding handles may be configured such that the handles are aligned with the centerline of the lid. The inventors have recognized that this configuration can be beneficial in providing a balanced carrying experience for the end user when gripping the handles. However, in other embodiments, the channels and handles may be offset from the centerline of the lid (e.g., the handles may not be symmetrical about the centerline).

[0025] In some embodiments, as described above, the handle may slidably engage with one or more channels, allowing the handle to move between a retracted position and an extended position. In the extended position, the handle may be configured to be raised any suitable distance, allowing a user to grip the handle to carry the outer cap and the corresponding bottle attached to the outer cap.

[0026] In some embodiments, the handle may be held in the unfolded position by an interference fit. For example, the handle may include one or more pins projecting from the handle that engage with one or more tracks of a channel in the cover, and the tracks may have an upper region that gradually narrows in width, such that the pins are held in the upper region of the track by an interference fit as they slide in the channel. While an interference fit may be used to hold the handle in the unfolded position, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and any suitable holding means may be used. For example, the upper region of the track may include one or more stops configured to hold the handle in the unfolded position after the engaging feature of the handle has advanced past the stops.

[0027] In some embodiments, the handle may include one or more gripping surfaces integrated with the top and / or side sections of the handle. The one or more gripping surfaces may include protrusions extending relative to the top and / or side sections. For example, multiple protrusions may extend outward from each of the two side sections of the handle to provide a better grip for the user when the user presses the handle to disengage the engaging features of the handle from one or more recesses in the channel. Any suitable number of protrusions may be used, and these protrusions may be of any suitable size, shape, or other characteristics, and this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0028] In some embodiments, the handle may include one or more directional indicators integrated on the top and / or side sections of the handle. One or more directional indicators may also be integrated on the top and / or side portions of the cover, and this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the directional indicators may be arrow-shaped, protruding from each of the two side sections of the handle. These directional indicators may instruct the user to pull the handle upwards to move the handle from a retracted position to an extended position. The directional indicators may also instruct the user to press down on the side sections of the handle to disengage the engaging features of the handle from corresponding recesses in the channels. In some embodiments, the handle may also include one or more gripping surfaces to assist the user in moving the handle between the retracted and extended positions. For example, the gripping surface may include one or more protrusions extending outwards from one section of the handle.

[0029] In some embodiments, the direction indicator and / or gripping surface may have a different surface finish or texture than adjacent portions of the handle. For example, the direction indicator and / or gripping surface may have a matte finish, while the rest of the handle has a high-gloss finish. Similarly, the direction indicator and / or gripping surface may have a high-gloss finish, while the rest of the handle has a matte finish. Not wishing to be bound by theory, the direction indicator and / or gripping surface may be any suitable surface finish, color, shape, or any suitable characteristic, and this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0030] In some embodiments, the cap may include an inner skirt extending from a top portion of the cap, the inner skirt being configured to engage a corresponding bottle neck. For example, the inner skirt may include a threaded feature configured to engage a corresponding threaded feature on the bottle neck. The inner skirt and the corresponding bottle neck may be engaged using other suitable features, such as an interference fit, and this disclosure is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the inner skirt may be surrounded by a side portion of the cap such that the inner skirt is disposed within an internal volume of the cap. As disclosed above, the top portion of the cap may include a recessed portion configured to receive a top section of a handle. In some such embodiments, the top portion of the cap may protrude into the interior of the inner skirt. To ensure full engagement of the inner skirt with the bottle neck, the height dimension of the inner skirt may be set to allow for complete engagement of the inner skirt with the bottle neck.

[0031] In some embodiments, the channel may be formed in the side portion of the lid in an arrangement that defines an internal volume having a closed bottom and sidewalls, such that when inverted, the internal volume can be configured to serve as a beverage container, allowing the lid to receive and contain a beverage, for example, for drinking from the container.

[0032] In some embodiments, the cover and / or handle of the outer cover may be made of any suitable material, and this disclosure is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, suitable materials for the cover and / or handle may include, but are not limited to, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene.

[0033] According to another aspect, the outer cap for the bottle may include a handle that slidably engages with at least one channel formed in the cap body of the outer cap. The handle may be configured to move in a substantially linear manner between a retracted position and an unfolded position relative to the longitudinal dimension of the at least one channel. The inventors have recognized that this arrangement allows for a more compact cap design because the handle can substantially conform to the contour of the cap.

[0034] Turning to the accompanying drawings, specific non-limiting embodiments are described in more detail. It should be understood that the various systems, components, features, and methods described with respect to these embodiments may be used individually and / or in any desired combination, as this disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described herein.

[0035] Figure 1 A perspective view shows the outer cap 100 engaged with a corresponding bottle 300. The bottle 300 includes a body 310, a distal end 320, and a proximal end 330. The outer cap 100 includes a cap body 110 and a handle 120, wherein the cap body 110 engages with the distal end 320 of the bottle 300, for example, via an inner skirt of the cap body and a threaded engagement with the bottle neck (not shown). Figure 1 In the image, the handle 120 is shown in the unfolded position, where the user can grip the handle 120 to carry the outer cap 100 and the bottle 300.

[0036] Figure 2 A perspective view of an outer cover 100 including a cover body 110 and a handle 120 is shown, with the handle 120 again shown in the unfolded position. The cover body 110 includes a top portion 114 and a side portion 112, the side portion 112 having a first channel 130 and a second channel (not shown) disposed therein. The first channel and the second channel are shown as receiving a first side segment 123 and a second side segment 124 of the handle 120, respectively. The handle 120 also includes a top segment 122 configured to be received by a recessed portion of the top portion 114 of the cover body 110. The first side segment 123 includes a direction indicator 126 and a gripping surface 127 having multiple protrusions. Figure 2 In one embodiment, the user can grasp the first side segment (123) and the second side segment (124) of the handle and press these segments inward, wherein the user can then lift the handle 120 upward to the appropriate height indicated by the dimension (D5) as indicated by the direction indicator 126. Figure 6 As can be seen, pressing the first and second side sections causes the engaging feature of the handle to move out of the recessed portion of the channel, thereby allowing the engaging feature to slide along the track in the channel between the folded and unfolded positions.

[0037] Figure 3 Show Figure 2A perspective view of the outer cover 100, with the handle 120 in the folded position. (See diagram below.) Figure 3 As can be seen, in the retracted position, the handle 120 can become substantially flush with various portions of the cover 110, such that the handle 120 conforms to the contours of the cover 110. Specifically, the side portion 112 of the cover 110 includes a first channel 130 and a second channel (not shown) opposite to the first channel 130, wherein the first channel and the second channel respectively receive a first side segment 123 and a second side segment (not shown) of the handle 120. The top portion 114 of the cover 110 may also include a recessed portion configured to receive the top segment 122 of the handle 120. By allowing the handle 120 to become substantially flush with the cover 110, a more compact and smoother cover design can be achieved for the end user. The handle 120 may also include one or more orientation indicators 126 and a gripping surface 127 including protrusions to assist the user in moving the handle 120 between the retracted and unfolded positions.

[0038] Figure 4A An exploded perspective view of the outer cover 200, including the cover body 210 and the handle 220, is shown. Figure 4A As can be seen, the cover 210 includes a first channel 230, the first channel 230 having a first track 231 disposed on one side of the channel 230. Although the track 231 is shown on the side of the channel 230, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the track may be included on any suitable surface of the channel 230. Figure 4A In some embodiments, a second track (not shown) may also be included opposite the first track 231. The handle 220 may include engaging features, such as engaging tabs 228, that interact with the track of the channel (e.g., the first track 231) to allow the handle 220 to move between a folded position and an unfolded position. Although Figure 4A The diagram shows the engaging tab 228 located on portions 250 and 260 of side sections 223 and 224, but this disclosure is not limited thereto; the engaging tab may be located on any suitable portion of the handle. The track may be of any suitable dimensional parameter to facilitate engagement with the engaging tab 228 of the handle 220. Similarly, Figure 4A As can be seen, the top portion 214 of the cover 210 includes a recessed portion 216 configured to receive the top section 222 of the handle 220, such that the handle 220 is substantially flush with the top portion 214 of the cover 210 when in the retracted position. The handle 220 may also include one or more orientation indicators 226 and a gripping surface 227 including protrusions to assist the user in moving the handle 220 between the retracted and unfolded positions.

[0039] Figure 4AThe outer cap 200 also includes a wedge 233 positioned within a channel (e.g., a first channel 230). When the handle 220 engages with the channel 230 (e.g., via an engagement tab 228 to the track 231), the wedge 233 serves as a stabilizing structure to provide lateral stability to the handle 220. Specifically, the wedge 233 may contact a portion (e.g., 250, 260) of a side section (223, 224) of the handle 220 to limit lateral bending of the handle 220. For example, if a user grips the handle 220 and swings the outer cap 200 and the corresponding bottle, the lateral stability provided by the wedge 233 due to its contact with portions of the side section (250, 260) can help prevent damage to the handle 220. Figure 4A It is also shown that an engaging tab 228 may be formed on the lateral side of the side section (223, 224) of the handle 220 to allow the engaging tab 228 to engage with the track. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and any suitable engaging feature and / or track location may be used. For example, the engaging feature may alternatively be located on the inner side of the side section of the handle, and the track may be formed on the alternating surface of the channel. The engaging feature may also be located on the side of the handle opposite to the direction indicator 226 (e.g., the engaging feature may be oriented parallel to the longitudinal dimension of the handle 220).

[0040] Figure 4B Show Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of the interaction between the outer cap and the corresponding bottle 300. As disclosed herein, the inner skirt 240 extending from the outer cap can engage with the corresponding neck 322 of the bottle 300 via any suitable engagement feature 242. These engagement features may include, but are not limited to, threads, interference fits, or any other suitable engagement feature. Figure 4B As shown, the cap can be constructed and arranged such that the interior of the cap substantially conforms to the contour of the bottle when engaged. However, in other embodiments, the cap and the bottle may not be arranged to be complementary in shape to each other (e.g., the cap may engage with bottles of different shapes).

[0041] Figure 4C Show Figure 4A An enlarged perspective view of the outer cover 210. Specifically, Figure 4C An enlarged view of the first track 231 of channel 230 is shown. As disclosed herein, track 231 may receive a corresponding engagement feature of a handle (e.g., Figure 4AThe engaging tab 228 shown allows the handle to slide along a track between a folded and an unfolded position. When moving to the folded position, the engaging feature of the handle slides along one or more tracks (e.g., 231) and then moves past one or more stops 238 to hold the handle in the folded position. For example, the stops 238 are flexible such that once the engaging tab abuts against the stops 238, the engaging tab can push past the stops to be received by the recessed portion 232. When moving to the unfolded position, the user can press the side of the handle inward to move the engaging feature out of the recessed portion 232, past the stops 238, and back into the track 231. The engaging feature of the handle can then slide upward in the track and contact one or more stops 241. Similarly, the stops 241 are flexible such that the engaging feature can move past the stops 241 to hold the engaging feature in the unfolded position. To avoid being bound by theory, other arrangements are considered, including gradually narrowing tracks that allow the handle engagement feature to be maintained through frictional engagement.

[0042] Figure 4D Show Figure 4A Another perspective view of the outer cover 210. Specifically, Figure 4D An enlarged view of channel 230 is shown, illustrating a first wedge and a second wedge 233. As described above, the wedge 233 can contact portions of the handle to limit lateral deflection of the handle when gripped by a user.

[0043] The channel (e.g., first channel 230) may have any suitable size, shape, or other characteristics such that the channel can be configured to receive a corresponding handle on the outer cover. For example, the channel may have any suitable longitudinal dimension (D1), transverse dimension (D2), or depth dimension (D3) to facilitate engagement with the corresponding handle 220. As used herein, the longitudinal dimension of the channel (see...) Figure 4A D1) refers to the dimension of the height of the channel parallel to the side portion of the cover, while the lateral dimension of the channel (see...) Figure 4A D2 refers to the height of the channel perpendicular to the side portion of the cover. Additionally, the depth dimension of the channel, as used herein (see [reference needed]), is also relevant. Figure 4A D3) refers to the distance from the channel recessed into the side portion of the cover towards the center of the outer cover.

[0044] The recessed portion 216 of the cover 210 may also have any suitable dimensions to receive the top section 222 of the handle 220. The depth dimensions of the recessed portion as used herein (see...) Figure 4A D4) refers to the distance that the recessed portion 216 is recessed into the top part of the cover.

[0045] In some embodiments, a suitable longitudinal dimension (D1) of the channel may be greater than or equal to 10 mm, 20 mm, 30 mm, 40 mm, 50 mm, 60 mm, 70 mm, or greater. In some embodiments, a suitable transverse dimension (D2) of the channel may be greater than or equal to 5 mm, 10 mm, 15 mm, 20 mm, 25 mm, 30 mm, 35 mm, or greater. In some embodiments, a suitable depth dimension (D3) of the channel may be greater than or equal to 3 mm, 5 mm, 10 mm, 15 mm, 20 mm, 25 mm, or greater. Combinations of the above reference dimensions are also possible. For example, the channel may have a longitudinal dimension (D1) of 50 mm, a transverse dimension of 25 mm, and a depth of 10 mm, or any other suitable combination. In some embodiments, a suitable depth dimension (D4) of the recessed portion may be greater than or equal to 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, 10 mm, or greater.

[0046] The handle may also have any suitable size, shape, or other characteristics such that it can be received by one or more channels disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the side segments of the handle may include longitudinal, lateral, and depth dimensions similar to those disclosed above regarding channel dimensions. The inventors have recognized that forming and sizing the handle to complement the recessed areas of the lid has particular benefits, allowing the handle to substantially conform to the contours of the lid when in the folded position.

[0047] The top segment of the handle may also have any suitable size, as this disclosure is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the top segment of the handle may have a lateral dimension substantially similar to that of the side segments of the handle. Thus, the handle may have a uniform lateral dimension along its outline. However, in other embodiments, the lateral dimension of the top segment of the handle may be greater than or less than that of the side segments of the handle. Thus, in some embodiments, the lateral dimension of the top segment of the handle may be greater than or equal to 5 mm, 10 mm, 12 mm, 15 mm, 18 mm, 20 mm, 22 mm, 25 mm, 30 mm, or greater. In some embodiments, the top segment of the handle may have a tapered shape, such that a portion of the top segment of the handle is narrower than the rest of the top segment of the handle. For example, the very center portion of the top segment of the handle may have a lateral dimension of about 10 mm, while either end of the top segment of the handle may have a lateral dimension of about 18 mm. Of course, other dimensions and combinations of dimensions are also considered. The inventors have recognized that this tapered handle may be more ergonomic for the end user by allowing the user to grip the handle more comfortably when carrying the bottle.

[0048] In some embodiments, the top segment of the handle may also have a longitudinal dimension that extends across the top portion of the cover. This disclosure is not limited thereto; the top segment of the handle may also have a longitudinal dimension that is greater than or less than the dimension of the top portion of the cover. As described above, the depth dimension of the top segment of the handle may also be selected to be similar to the depth of the recessed portion in the cover. While this preferred embodiment has been disclosed, this disclosure is not limited thereto; depth dimensions that are greater than or less than the depth of the recessed portion in the cover may also be used.

[0049] As disclosed herein, the handle may be configured to be raised any suitable distance in the unfolded position, allowing a user to grip the handle to carry the outer cap and the corresponding bottle that engages with the outer cap. In some embodiments, when in the unfolded position, the suitable distance by which the top portion of the handle may be raised relative to the top portion of the cap may be greater than or equal to 10 mm, 15 mm, 18 mm, 20 mm, 22 mm, 25 mm, 30 mm, 40 mm, 50 mm, or greater.

[0050] Figure 5A A bottom perspective view of the outer cap 200 is shown, illustrating an inner skirt 240 extending from the interior of the cap body 210. In some embodiments, the inner skirt 240 includes engagement features, such as threads, configured to engage with corresponding engagement features of the bottle neck. The inner skirt 240 may also include a protrusion 244, which is a result of a recessed portion in the top portion of the cap protruding into the interior of the inner skirt 240. Thus, to accommodate engagement with a corresponding bottle, the inner skirt may have different dimensional parameters (e.g., increased height) to allow for full engagement with the bottle. As disclosed herein, a first channel 230 and a second channel 234 may be provided in the cap body 210, and the channels (230, 234) may or may not extend to the entire height of the cap body 210.

[0051] like Figure 5A As shown, channels 230 and 234 are formed in the side portion of the cap to define an internal volume V defined by the top portion 214 and the side portion 212 of the outer cap. The internal volume V may have an opening 289 for receiving a bottle. The internal volume V may be configured to receive and contain a beverage, such that the outer cap is configured to function as a beverage container. In an illustrative example, a user can remove the outer cap from the bottle, invert the outer cap so that the opening 280 of the internal volume V faces upward, and pour a beverage into the internal volume V. For example, a user can pour a beverage from the bottle into the internal volume V of the outer cap.

[0052] Figure 5B Show Figure 5AAn enlarged perspective view of region 5B shows a recessed portion 232 formed at the base of channel 230. The recessed portion 232 connects to track 231 and is located laterally outward from track 231 relative to the longitudinal axis 270 of the cover. When the handle slides down to the retracted position, the tab 228 of the handle disengages from track 231 and moves into the recessed portion 232. In some embodiments, the tab 228 may be pushed into the recessed portion 232, for example, due to the flexing of the handle causing the side segments 223, 224 of the handle to be laterally outwardly biased. Alternatively or additionally, track 231 may be shaped to push the engaging tab 228 into the recessed portion 232.

[0053] In some embodiments, a stop 238 may be disposed between the recessed portion 232 and the track 231. The stop 238 may be configured to hold the engaging tab of the handle in a retracted position once the engaging tab is disposed within the recessed portion 232. When a user wants to move the handle out of the retracted position, the user presses the side segments 223, 224 of the handle inward toward the longitudinal axis 270 and toward each other, thereby forcing the tab to slide past the stop 238 and into the track 231. With the tab engaged in the track 231, the user can lift the handle 220 upward to the extended position. In some embodiments, the stop 238 is a protrusion located between the recessed portion 232 and the track 231. The stop may have a rounded surface to facilitate sliding of the tab against the stop.

[0054] In some embodiments, the stop may be located at other suitable locations along the track and / or at other suitable locations outside the track in the channel. For example, the stop may be located on the tracks (231, 235, see...) Figure 6 At the upper region of the handle, a stop is configured to hold the engaging tab of the handle in the unfolded position. That is, the engaging tab of the handle is movable past the stop in a corresponding track (e.g., the stop is flexible to allow the engaging tab to pass, and / or the handle is flexible to move past the stop) to allow the handle to move to the unfolded position. Once in the unfolded position, the stop restricts movement of the handle to the retracted position without user input (e.g., a user could squeeze a side section of the handle to move the engaging tab past the stop). While such an example is disclosed, the stop can be provided along any suitable surface of the channel. For example, the stop can be provided on the inner surface 239 of the channel (230, 234) opposite the direction indicator 226 of the handle 220 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 4AIn this example, the engaging tab of the handle 220 may be arranged on the inner surface 225 of the handle 220 opposite to the direction indicator 226, such that the engaging tab can engage and move past a stop formed on the inner surface 239 of the channel. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the engaging features of the handle, the track formed in the channel, and the stop may be located at any suitable position along the outer cover.

[0055] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the outer cover 200 is shown, with the handle 220 in an unfolded position relative to the cover body 210. The cover body 210 includes a first channel 230 and a second channel 234, each channel including tracks (231, 235) and recessed portions (232, 236). As disclosed above, a user can press the side segments 223, 224 of the handle 220 inward toward the longitudinal axis 270 of the outer cover to overcome the stop 238 and allow the tabs of the handle to disengage from the recessed portions 232, 236, and allow the tabs of the side segments 223, 224 to enter the tracks (231, 235) and slide along the tracks (231, 235).

[0056] like Figure 6 As shown, in some embodiments, an inclined surface 237 may be provided between the recessed portions (232, 236) and their corresponding tracks (231, 235), wherein the inclined surface helps to facilitate the transition of the side sections (223, 224) from the recessed portions to the tracks. As disclosed herein, the side sections of the handle can be held in the unfolded position via an interference fit between the handle's engaging tabs (not shown) and the tracks of the channel. Figure 6 In this arrangement, the tracks (231, 235) may gradually narrow, such that the engagement feature of the handle remains in the upper region of the tracks, thereby holding the handle in the unfolded position via an interference fit. Although such an arrangement is disclosed, the handle may also be held in the unfolded position via other suitable features (e.g., stops) as disclosed herein.

[0057] Figures 7A-7B , Figures 8A-8B and Figure 9 Another embodiment of the outer cover 200, including a lid body 210 and a handle 220, is depicted. This embodiment is similar to... Figures 4A-4D The embodiment, but excluding the stop within the recessed portion 232 (see Figure 7B , Figure 8B , Figure 9 Conversely, in Figures 7A-7B , Figures 8A-8B and Figure 9In one embodiment, when in the retracted position, the engagement feature 228 of the handle 220 may abut against the engagement surface 243 within the recessed portion 232. That is, the engagement feature 228 may be held within the recessed portion 232 by friction with the engagement surface 243. To allow the handle 220 to move to the extended position, the user may press inwardly onto the side sections 223, 224 of the handle 220 to disengage the engagement tab 228 from the recessed portion 232, thereby allowing the engagement tab 228 to move into the track of the channel.

[0058] The embodiments disclosed herein can be combined in any suitable arrangement, as this disclosure is not limited in this respect. While this teaching has been described in conjunction with various embodiments and examples, it is not intended to limit this teaching to these embodiments or examples. Rather, this teaching encompasses various alternatives, modifications, or equivalents, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. Therefore, the foregoing description is merely exemplary.

Claims

1. An outer cap for a bottle, the outer cap comprising: A cover, the cover comprising a top portion and side portions; At least one channel, said at least one channel being disposed within the cover body; A handle, which engages with the at least one channel and is configured to move between a folded position and an unfolded position; as well as An inner skirt portion, which extends from the top portion of the cover. The side portion of the cover surrounds the inner skirt, and when the handle is in the retracted position, the surface portion of the handle is flush with the adjacent surface portion of the cover.

2. The outer cover according to claim 1, characterized in that, The surface portion of the handle is the top section of the handle, wherein, when in the unfolded position, the top section of the handle is configured to be raised relative to the top portion of the cover by a distance greater than or equal to 15 mm and less than or equal to 30 mm, and wherein, a user can carry the outer cover by gripping the handle in the unfolded position.

3. The outer cover according to claim 1, characterized in that, The surface portion of the handle is a side section of the handle, wherein, when the handle is in the retracted position, the radius of curvature of the side section of the handle is substantially matched with the radius of curvature of the side portion of the cover.

4. The outer cover according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes one or more gripping surfaces, which are included in the handle.

5. The outer cover according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes one or more tracks and one or more pins, the one or more tracks being disposed in the at least one channel, and the one or more pins protruding from the handle, wherein the one or more pins are configured to slide in the one or more tracks to allow the handle to move between the folded position and the unfolded position.

6. The outer cover according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner skirt includes a threaded section configured to engage with the bottle.

7. The outer cover according to claim 1, characterized in that, The top portion and the side portions define an internal volume configured to receive and contain beverages, such that the outer cap is configured to function as a beverage container.

8. The outer cover according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes one or more wedges disposed on the at least one channel, wherein the one or more wedges are configured to contact the handle in the at least one channel to promote the lateral stability of the handle.

9. The outer cover according to claim 5, characterized in that, The surface portion of the handle is a side section of the handle, wherein the side section of the handle is configured to be squeezed by a user to engage the one or more pins protruding from the handle with the one or more rails disposed in the at least one channel, and wherein the pressing configuration of the side section of the handle allows the handle to move to the unfolded position.

10. The outer cover according to claim 9, characterized in that, It also includes one or more recesses in the at least one channel, wherein the one or more recesses are spaced apart from the one or more tracks in a lateral direction, and wherein, when the handle is in the retracted position, the one or more pins protruding from the handle are configured to engage with the one or more recesses.

11. The outer cover according to claim 5, characterized in that, The one or more pins protruding from the handle are configured to engage with the one or more rails in the unfolded position, such that the handle is held in the unfolded position by an interference fit.

12. An outer cap for a bottle, the outer cap comprising: A cover, the cover comprising a top portion and side portions; At least one channel, said at least one channel being disposed within the cover body; A handle, which is slidably engaged with the at least one channel and configured to move between a folded position and an unfolded position; as well as An inner skirt portion, which extends from the top portion of the cover. The side portion of the cover surrounds the inner skirt, and the handle is configured to move linearly in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal dimension of the at least one channel when moved to the unfolded position.

13. The outer cover according to claim 12, characterized in that, When the handle is in the retracted position, the surface portion of the handle is flush with the adjacent surface portion of the cover.

14. The outer cover according to claim 13, characterized in that, The surface portion of the handle is the top section of the handle, wherein the top section of the handle is configured to be raised by a distance greater than or equal to 15 mm and less than or equal to 30 mm relative to the top portion of the cover when in the unfolded position, and wherein a user can carry the outer cover by gripping the handle in the unfolded position.

15. The outer cover according to claim 13, characterized in that, The surface portion of the handle is a side section of the handle, wherein, when the handle is in the retracted position, the radius of curvature of the side section of the handle is substantially matched with the radius of curvature of the side portion of the cover.

16. The outer cover according to claim 12, characterized in that, It also includes one or more tracks and one or more pins, the one or more tracks being disposed in the at least one channel, and the one or more pins protruding from the handle, wherein the one or more pins are configured to slide in the one or more tracks to allow the handle to move between the folded position and the unfolded position.

17. The outer cover according to claim 12, characterized in that, The inner skirt includes a threaded section configured to engage with the bottle.

18. The outer cover according to claim 12, characterized in that, The top portion and the side portions define an internal volume configured to receive and contain beverages, such that the outer cap is configured to function as a beverage container.

19. The outer cover according to claim 12, characterized in that, It also includes one or more wedges disposed on the at least one channel, wherein the one or more wedges are configured to contact the handle in the at least one channel to promote the lateral stability of the handle.

20. The outer cover according to claim 16, characterized in that, The side section of the handle is configured to be squeezed by the user to engage the one or more pins protruding from the handle with the one or more rails disposed in the at least one channel, and wherein the pressing configuration of the side section of the handle allows the handle to move to the unfolded position.

21. The outer cover according to claim 20, characterized in that, It also includes one or more recesses in the at least one channel, wherein the one or more recesses are spaced apart from the one or more tracks in a lateral direction, and wherein, when the handle is in the retracted position, the one or more pins protruding from the handle are configured to engage with the one or more recesses.

22. The outer cover according to claim 16, characterized in that, The one or more pins protruding from the handle are configured to engage with the one or more rails in the unfolded position, such that the handle is held in the unfolded position by an interference fit.

23. An outer cap for a bottle, the outer cap comprising: A cover, the cover comprising a top portion and side portions; At least one channel, said at least one channel being disposed within the cover body; as well as A handle, which engages with the at least one channel and is configured to move between a folded position and an unfolded position. The handle includes one or more side segments, at least one of which is configured to be squeezed by a user to allow the handle to move between the retracted position and the unfolded position, and wherein, when the handle is in the retracted position, at least one of the one or more side segments is adjacent to the side portion of the cover.

24. The outer cover according to claim 23, characterized in that, When the handle is in the retracted position, the surface portion of the handle is flush with the adjacent surface portion of the cover.

25. The outer cover according to claim 24, characterized in that, The surface portion of the handle is the top section of the handle, wherein the top section of the handle is configured to be raised by a distance greater than or equal to 15 mm and less than or equal to 30 mm relative to the top portion of the cover when in the unfolded position, and wherein a user can carry the outer cover by gripping the handle in the unfolded position.

26. The outer cover according to claim 24, characterized in that, The surface portion of the handle is at least one of the one or more side segments of the handle, wherein, when the handle is in the folded position, the radius of curvature of the side segment of the handle matches the radius of curvature of the side portion of the cover.

27. The outer cover according to claim 23, characterized in that, It also includes one or more tracks and one or more pins, the one or more tracks being disposed in the at least one channel, and the one or more pins protruding from the handle, wherein the one or more pins are configured to slide in the one or more tracks to allow the handle to move between the folded position and the unfolded position.

28. The outer cover according to claim 27, characterized in that, Squeezing at least one of the one or more side sections of the handle is configured to engage the one or more pins protruding from the handle with the one or more rails disposed in the at least one channel to allow the handle to move to the unfolded position.

29. The outer cover according to claim 28, characterized in that, It also includes one or more recesses in the at least one channel, wherein the one or more recesses are spaced apart from the one or more tracks in a lateral direction, and wherein, when the handle is in the retracted position, the one or more pins protruding from the handle are configured to engage with the one or more recesses.

30. The outer cover according to claim 23, characterized in that, The top portion and the side portions define an internal volume configured to receive and contain beverages, such that the outer cap is configured to function as a beverage container.

31. The outer cover according to claim 23, characterized in that, It also includes one or more wedge blocks disposed on the at least one channel, wherein the one or more wedge blocks are configured to contact the handle in the at least one channel to promote the lateral stability of the handle.

32. The outer cover according to claim 27, characterized in that, The one or more pins protruding from the handle are configured to engage with the one or more rails in the unfolded position, such that the handle is held in the unfolded position by an interference fit.

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