A device for facilitating access to a cup, a kettle

Abstract

The utility model discloses a device, kettle convenient to access cup, include: storage cylinder, the storage cylinder is used to accommodate cup, the bottom of storage cylinder has the cup mouth, the cup release subassembly, the cup release subassembly includes the claw mechanism and transmission mechanism, the claw mechanism is located the storage cylinder side, the claw mechanism has the clamping state and release state, is used for fixing or releasing cup, transmission mechanism is connected in the claw mechanism, and controls the clamping and release state of claw mechanism, wherein, transmission mechanism drives the claw mechanism is in the clamping state, and cup is fixed in the storage cylinder, transmission mechanism drives the claw mechanism is in the release state, and cup loses lateral fixation, so that the cup of the most lower part can be taken out from the cup mouth of the bottom of storage cylinder.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of kettle technology, specifically to a device and kettle that facilitates the storage and retrieval of cups. Background Technology

[0002] In daily life and work, water bottles are widely used as a common liquid storage container in homes, offices, and outdoor activities. The main function of traditional water bottles is to store and keep liquids warm, and users usually need to carry or find a cup to hold the liquid. This can be inconvenient in some situations, especially when frequent use of a cup is required, such as outdoor camping, travel, or office environments, where users may need to use a cup multiple times. Traditional water bottles do not provide a convenient solution for storing and accessing cups.

[0003] While some water bottle designs with cup storage functions exist in the current technology, these designs generally suffer from the following shortcomings, limiting their practicality and user experience. Existing cup storage structures often employ simple clamps, hooks, or magnetic attachments, making cups susceptible to falling out due to external forces during storage. This is especially true when the water bottle is moved, tilted, or subjected to slight impacts, potentially causing inconvenience or even damage. In existing designs, users typically need to manually remove the cup from the storage structure, a cumbersome process. This becomes even more difficult when the user is holding the water bottle or has limited hand mobility, further impacting the user experience. Existing cup storage structures often require additional external space on the water bottle, increasing its size and affecting its overall aesthetics and portability, particularly when carrying multiple cups. Furthermore, the separation or low integration of the cup storage with the water bottle increases its size and weight, resulting in a low degree of integration that negatively impacts aesthetics and portability. Utility Model Content

[0004] In order to overcome the technical defects of unstable storage and low integration in the existing technology, this utility model provides a device and kettle that facilitates the storage and retrieval of cups.

[0005] To solve the above problems, this utility model is implemented according to the following technical solution:

[0006] The first aspect of this utility model discloses a device for facilitating the storage and retrieval of a cup, comprising:

[0007] A storage container for holding a cup, the bottom of which has a spout.

[0008] A cup release assembly includes a gripper mechanism and a transmission mechanism. The gripper mechanism is located on the side of the storage cylinder and has a gripping state and a release state for fixing or releasing the cup. The transmission mechanism is connected to the gripper mechanism and controls the gripping and release states of the gripper mechanism.

[0009] When the transmission mechanism drives the gripper mechanism to be in the gripping state, the cup is fixed inside the storage cylinder; when the transmission mechanism drives the gripper mechanism to be in the releasing state, the cup loses its lateral fixation, allowing the bottommost cup to be removed from the cup outlet at the bottom of the storage cylinder.

[0010] According to the first aspect, the transmission mechanism includes a drive shaft, a push button, a linkage arm, and a return spring;

[0011] The push button is hinged to the outer wall of the storage cylinder;

[0012] The drive shaft is arranged along the length of the storage cylinder and connected to the push button. The reset spring is mounted on the drive shaft, and the drive shaft is provided with a hinge seat connected to the linkage arm.

[0013] The linkage arm includes a first linkage arm and a second linkage arm. One end of the first linkage arm and the second linkage arm is hinged to the outer wall of the storage cylinder, and the other end of the first linkage arm and the second linkage arm is connected to the hinge seat.

[0014] The storage cylinder is provided with at least one clamping port on its axial side;

[0015] The gripper mechanism is hinged to the linkage arm and has grippers that cooperate with the gripping opening;

[0016] The reset spring has an initial state and a compressed state, and the first linkage arm and the second linkage arm have a retracted state and an extended state.

[0017] When the reset spring is in the initial state, the first and second linkage arms are in the retracted state, the gripper mechanism is in the clamping state, the gripper mechanism retracts and is embedded in the clamping opening, so that the cup is fixed.

[0018] When the return spring is in a compressed state, it pushes the drive shaft to move downward; the first and second linkage arms are in an extended state, the gripper mechanism is in a released state, the gripper mechanism opens and disengages from the gripping opening, causing the cup to detach from the storage cylinder.

[0019] According to the first aspect, the outer wall of the storage cylinder is provided with a limiting platform, and an arc-shaped sliding groove is provided on the limiting platform;

[0020] The hinge seat is provided with a first sliding member and a second sliding member, each of the sliding members being embedded in the arc-shaped sliding groove, the arc-shaped sliding groove being used to guide the movement of the first sliding member and the second sliding member;

[0021] The connection between the first linkage arm and the second linkage arm and the hinge seat is provided with a first auxiliary link and a second auxiliary link, and the first auxiliary link and the second auxiliary link are respectively hinged to the first sliding member and the second sliding member.

[0022] When the drive shaft moves along its axial direction, the hinge seat moves accordingly, and the first and second sliding members slide from the inside to the outside or from the outside to the inside along the trajectory of the arc-shaped groove.

[0023] According to the first aspect, the hinged seat includes a Y-shaped frame, a first connecting rod, and a second connecting rod;

[0024] The Y-shaped frame has a handle end fixedly connected to the drive shaft and two arm ends, and the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod are respectively hinged to the two arm ends of the Y-shaped frame;

[0025] The first sliding member is connected to the first connecting rod, and the second sliding member is connected to the second connecting rod;

[0026] When the drive shaft drives the Y-shaped frame to move axially, the Y-shaped frame drives the first sliding member and the second sliding member to slide along the arc-shaped groove from the inside to the outside or from the outside to the inside through the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod hinged to it, thereby causing the first linkage arm and the second linkage arm to unfold or retract.

[0027] According to the first aspect, the gripper mechanism includes four grippers, and each gripper has an arc-shaped clamping surface on its inner side. The four grippers are arranged circumferentially along the storage cylinder. A gripper mounting part is provided at the hinge of the gripper and the linkage arm. The gripper mounting part is provided with a pin and connected to the gripper. A torsion spring is sleeved on the pin. The torsion spring has a first end and a second end. The first end abuts against the inner side of the gripper, and the second end abuts against the gripper mounting part.

[0028] According to the first aspect, the hinge joint between the first and second linkage arms and the outer wall of the storage cylinder is provided with a lug. The lug is provided with two hinge parts, and a first pivot pin and a second pivot pin are respectively provided to connect with the first and second linkage arms. The first and second pivot pins are each fitted with a return torsion spring. Each return torsion spring has a stop arm and an action arm. The action arm abuts against the inner side of the first or second linkage arm, and the stop arm abuts against the lug.

[0029] According to the first aspect, it also includes:

[0030] A limiting member is provided on the outer side of the storage cylinder, and a through hole is provided on the limiting member for the drive shaft to pass through.

[0031] The drive shaft is provided with a flange, and the return spring is sleeved on the drive shaft and positioned between the limiting member and the flange;

[0032] One end of the return spring abuts against the flange, and the other end abuts against the limiting member.

[0033] According to the first aspect, the outlet of the storage cylinder is provided with two elastic grippers, which are disposed opposite to each other on the left and right sides of the storage cylinder;

[0034] The resilient gripper holds the cup in place when it is at the outlet of the storage cylinder.

[0035] The second aspect of this utility model discloses a kettle, comprising:

[0036] The pot body and a device for easy access to the cups;

[0037] A brake switch is located on the handle of the kettle and connected to the transmission mechanism to control the release of the cup;

[0038] The storage cylinder is located inside the pot body or connected to the side wall of the pot body.

[0039] According to the second aspect, it also includes:

[0040] A temperature display, which is mounted on the body of the pot, is used to display the temperature of the solution inside the pot;

[0041] A tray, detachably attached to the bottom of the pot body, is used to hold items.

[0042] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of this utility model are:

[0043] In this invention, the cup storage function is integrated with the kettle, eliminating the need for users to carry the kettle and cup holder separately, reducing travel burden and preventing forgetting. Simultaneously, the cups are stored in the sealed storage cylinder, preventing contamination from dust and bacteria, ensuring drinking hygiene compared to open storage or separately carried cups. A gripper mechanism on the storage cylinder firmly holds the cups, preventing them from falling when the kettle moves or tilts, making cup storage more stable. A transmission mechanism releases the gripper mechanism, allowing the bottom cup to be directly removed from the spout, making operation simple, quick, and convenient. Only the bottom cup is detached, eliminating the need for users to touch other cups in the storage cylinder, especially the rim of the next cup, thus avoiding secondary contamination during retrieval. Compared to traditional cup holders that require pulling from the bottom or lifting from the top, this provides a higher hygiene standard. The storage cylinder is embedded in the side wall of the kettle, designed along the kettle's center line, allowing for multiple stacked cups while maintaining the kettle's compact size and better space utilization. The cup release assembly uses a gripper mechanism and a transmission mechanism to complete the fixing and release. The design is not complicated and it is easy to use and maintain. Attached Figure Description

[0044] The specific embodiments of this utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0045] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a kettle according to the present invention;

[0046] Figure 2 This is a front view of the storage cylinder and cup release assembly of this utility model;

[0047] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the storage cylinder and cup release assembly of this utility model;

[0048] Figure 4 This is a rear view of the storage cylinder and cup release assembly of this utility model;

[0049] Figure 5 This is an exploded view of the storage cylinder and cup release assembly of this utility model;

[0050] Figure 6 This is an exploded view of the storage cylinder and cup release assembly of this utility model;

[0051] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the gripper mechanism and transmission mechanism of this utility model;

[0052] Figure 8 These are a perspective view and a front view of the Y-shaped frame of this utility model;

[0053] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the torsion spring and the reset torsion spring of this utility model;

[0054] Figure 10This is a perspective view of a device for facilitating the storage and retrieval of cups and a kettle according to the present invention;

[0055] In the diagram: 10-pot body, 20-storage cylinder, 30-cup release assembly, 40-gripper mechanism, 50-transmission mechanism, 60-tray, 70-temperature display; 11-handle, 12-brake switch, 13-pot lid; 21-cup spout, 22-gripping opening, 23-limiting platform, 24-support lug, 25-elastic gripper, 26-limiting component, 231-arc groove, 241-hinge, 261-through hole; 42-gripper mounting part, 43-pin, 44-torsion spring, 441-first end, 442- Second end; 51-Drive shaft, 52-Press button, 53-Linkage arm, 531-First linkage arm, 532-Second linkage arm, 533-First auxiliary link, 534-Second auxiliary link, 535-First pivot pin, 536-Second pivot pin, 537-Reset torsion spring, 5371-Abutting arm, 5372-Actuating arm, 54-Reset spring, 55-Hinge seat, 551-Y-shaped frame, 552-First connecting rod, 553-Second connecting rod, 554-First sliding member, 555-Second sliding member. Detailed Implementation

[0056] The preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the preferred embodiments described herein are for illustration and explanation only and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0057] Example 1:

[0058] like Figures 1-10 As shown, the present invention provides a device for facilitating the storage and retrieval of cups and a kettle, comprising:

[0059] Storage cylinder 20 is embedded in the side wall of the pot body 10 for holding multiple stacked cups, and the bottom of the storage cylinder 20 has a cup outlet 21;

[0060] The cup release assembly 30 includes a gripper mechanism 40 and a transmission mechanism 50. The gripper mechanism 40 is located on the side of the storage cylinder 20 and has a gripping state and a release state for fixing or releasing the cup. The transmission mechanism 50 is connected to the gripper mechanism 40 and controls the gripping and release states of the gripper mechanism 40.

[0061] When the transmission mechanism 50 drives the gripper mechanism 40 to be in the gripping state, the cup is fixed inside the storage cylinder 20; when the transmission mechanism 50 drives the gripper mechanism 40 to be in the releasing state, the cup loses its lateral fixation, allowing the bottom cup to be taken out from the cup outlet 21 at the bottom of the storage cylinder 20.

[0062] like Figure 8As shown, the pot body 10 is a conventional cylindrical pot body structure, the main part of which is the pot body 10. The top may be provided with a lid 13 and a handle 11, and the interior is used to hold liquid. In this embodiment, the pot body 10 may be made of stainless steel.

[0063] The storage cylinder 20 is a cylindrical body that is fitted into the side wall of the pot body 10, for example, by means of a pre-set groove in the side wall of the pot body 10. The axis of the storage cylinder 20 is parallel to the center line of the pot body 10 to ensure a compact overall structure. The interior of the storage cylinder 20 has a receiving cavity for accommodating multiple stacked cups. The bottom of the storage cylinder 20 has a circular cup outlet 21, slightly larger than the diameter of the cup, to facilitate the cup sliding out. Meanwhile, one or more clamping ports 22 are provided on the axial side wall of the storage cylinder 20. In this embodiment, the storage cylinder 20 may be made of food-grade ABS plastic.

[0064] The cup release assembly 30 is used to control the release of cups one by one, and it includes a gripper mechanism 40 and a transmission mechanism 50.

[0065] A gripper mechanism 40 is mounted on the side of the storage cylinder 20 and has multiple movable grippers. These grippers correspond one-to-one with the clamping openings 22 on the side wall of the storage cylinder 20. The gripper mechanism 40 has two switchable operating states:

[0066] Clamping state: In this state, the gripper extends into the storage cylinder 20 through the clamping port 22 to clamp and fix the stack of cups from the side.

[0067] Release state: In this state, the gripper retracts outward and disengages from the gripping opening 22, releasing the lateral fixation of the stacked cups.

[0068] The transmission mechanism 50 is connected to the gripper mechanism 40. Its function is to receive user operation commands from the outside and control the gripper mechanism 40 to switch between the gripping state and the release state according to the commands.

[0069] The working principle of this embodiment is as follows:

[0070] In the initial state, the transmission mechanism 50 drives and puts the gripper mechanism 40 into a clamping state. At this time, the gripper extends into and clamps the side wall of the cup stack through the clamping port 22, and the cup stack is fixed in the storage cylinder 20 and cannot fall out from the bottom cup outlet 21.

[0071] When the user needs to remove the cup, the transmission mechanism 50 is operated via an external braking device, such as a brake switch 12 or button located on the side wall of the kettle body 10 or the handle 11. The transmission mechanism 50 then drives the gripper mechanism 40 to switch to the released state. In this state, the gripper retracts and disengages from the side wall of the cup.

[0072] Once the stack of cups loses its lateral fixing force, the bottom cup will slide out from the cup outlet 21 at the bottom of the storage cylinder 20 due to its own gravity, thus completing a convenient and hygienic cup retrieval operation. After the operation is completed, the transmission mechanism 50 can restore the gripper mechanism 40 to the clamping state to secure the remaining cups.

[0073] Through the above structure, this embodiment achieves stable storage of cups and controlled release of each cup individually.

[0074] Preferably, the transmission mechanism 50 includes a drive shaft 51, a push button 52, a linkage arm 53, and a return spring 54;

[0075] The button 52 is hinged to the outer wall of the storage cylinder 20;

[0076] The drive shaft 51 is arranged along the length of the storage cylinder 20 and is connected to the push button 52. The reset spring 54 is installed on the drive shaft 51. The drive shaft 51 is provided with a hinge seat 55 connected to the linkage arm 53.

[0077] The linkage arm 53 includes a first linkage arm 531 and a second linkage arm 532. One end of the first linkage arm 531 and the second linkage arm 532 is hinged to the outer wall of the storage cylinder 20, and the other end of the first linkage arm 531 and the second linkage arm 532 is connected to the hinge seat 55.

[0078] The storage cylinder 20 has at least one clamping port 22 on its axial side;

[0079] The gripper mechanism 40 is hinged to the linkage arm 53 and has grippers that cooperate with the gripping opening 22;

[0080] Among them, the return spring 54 has an initial state and a compressed state, and the first linkage arm 531 and the second linkage arm 532 have a retracted state and an extended state.

[0081] When the return spring 54 is in the initial state, the first linkage arm 531 and the second linkage arm 532 are in the retracted state, the gripper mechanism 40 is in the clamping state, the gripper mechanism 40 retracts and is embedded in the clamping opening 22, so that the cup is fixed.

[0082] When the return spring 54 is in the compressed state, the return spring 54 pushes the drive shaft 51 to move downward; the first linkage arm 531 and the second linkage arm 532 are in the unfolded state, the gripper mechanism 40 is in the released state, the gripper mechanism 40 opens and disengages from the gripping port 22, so that the cup is removed from the storage cylinder 20.

[0083] As a preferred embodiment, the specific structure and cooperation method of the transmission mechanism 50 and the gripper mechanism 40 are as follows:

[0084] The transmission mechanism 50 includes a drive shaft 51, a push button 52, a linkage arm 53, and a return spring 54. The push button 52 is hinged to the outer wall of the storage cylinder 20. The drive shaft 51 is vertically arranged along the length of the storage cylinder 20 and connected to the push button 52, thereby transmitting the user's pressing action to the drive shaft 51. The return spring 54 is mounted on the drive shaft 51 and is used to reset the drive mechanism.

[0085] To transmit motion, a hinged seat 55 is provided on the drive shaft 51. The core of the transmission mechanism 50 is a pair of linkage arms 53, namely the first linkage arm 531 and the second linkage arm 532. One end of each of these two linkage arms 53 is hinged to a fixed fulcrum on the outer side wall of the storage cylinder 20, while the other end is connected to the hinged seat 55, which can move with the drive shaft 51. The gripper mechanism 40 is hinged to this pair of linkage arms 53, thereby converting the unfolding or retracting motion of the linkage arms 53 into the opening and closing action of the gripper.

[0086] The working principle of this embodiment is related to the states of the return spring 54, the linkage arm 53, and the gripper mechanism 40. The return spring 54 has an initial state and a compressed state, and correspondingly, the first linkage arm 531 and the second linkage arm 532 have a contracted state and an extended state.

[0087] In the initial state, when the return spring 54 is in its initial state, the first linkage arm 531 and the second linkage arm 532 are also in the retracted state. In this state, the gripper mechanism 40 is driven to its gripping state, and its grippers retract and engage with the gripping opening 22 on the side wall of the storage cylinder 20, thereby firmly fixing the stack of cups from the side and preventing them from slipping out of the bottom cup outlet 21.

[0088] When the mechanism is driven, causing the return spring 54 to enter its compressed state, according to the design of this embodiment, the compressed return spring 54 pushes the drive shaft 51 downward. The downward movement of the drive shaft 51 forces the first linkage arm 531 and the second linkage arm 532 into the unfolded state through the hinge seat 55. The unfolding of the linkage arm 53 then drives the gripper mechanism 40 to switch to its released state, and its grippers open outward and disengage from the gripping opening 22, thereby releasing the lateral fixation of the cup and allowing the bottommost cup to detach from the storage cylinder 20.

[0089] Preferably, the outer wall of the storage cylinder 20 is provided with a limiting platform 23, and an arc-shaped sliding groove 231 is provided on the limiting platform 23;

[0090] The hinge seat 55 is provided with a first sliding member 554 and a second sliding member 555. Each sliding member is embedded in an arc-shaped groove 231, which is used to guide the movement of the first sliding member 554 and the second sliding member 555.

[0091] A first auxiliary link 533 and a second auxiliary link 534 are provided at the connection between the first linkage arm 531 and the second linkage arm 532 and the hinge seat 55. The first auxiliary link 533 and the second auxiliary link 534 are respectively hinged to the first sliding member 554 and the second sliding member 555.

[0092] When the drive shaft 51 moves along its axial direction, the hinge seat 55 moves accordingly, and the first sliding member 554 and the second sliding member 555 slide from the inside to the outside or from the outside to the inside along the trajectory of the arc-shaped slide groove 231.

[0093] As a preferred design, the connection between the first linkage arm 531, the second linkage arm 532, and the hinge seat 55 can employ a precision structure including guide grooves, as follows:

[0094] An integrally formed limiting platform 23 is fixedly installed on the outer wall of the storage cylinder 20. Optionally, one or two arc-shaped sliding grooves 231 are provided on the limiting platform 23. The trajectory of the arc-shaped sliding grooves 231 has a specific curvature, which provides motion guidance for the key components of the linkage mechanism.

[0095] In this design, the hinge seat 55 is provided with two movable parts, namely the first slider 554 and the second slider 555. Each slider has a guiding feature that matches the arc-shaped groove 231, allowing it to smoothly engage and slide along the trajectory of the groove.

[0096] To achieve the connection, a first auxiliary link 533 and a second auxiliary link 534 are respectively provided at the connection between the first linkage arm 531 and the second linkage arm 532 and the hinge seat 55. One end of these two auxiliary links is connected to the end of the first linkage arm 531 and the second linkage arm 532 respectively, and the other end is hinged to the first sliding member 554 and the second sliding member 555 respectively through the pin 43.

[0097] The working method is as follows:

[0098] When the drive shaft 51 moves along its axial direction, the hinge seat 55 fixed on it moves synchronously with the first slider 554 and the second slider 555. Since the sliders are constrained within the arc-shaped groove 231, the curved trajectory of the arc-shaped groove 231 forces the sliders to perform a lateral sliding from the inside out (or from the outside in) while following the axial displacement of the drive shaft 51.

[0099] The lateral sliding guided by the arc-shaped slide groove 231 is transmitted to the first linkage arm 531 and the second linkage arm 532 through the first auxiliary link 533 and the second auxiliary link 534, thereby driving them to perform synchronous unfolding or retraction movements. This structure makes the movement trajectory of the linkage arm 53 more controllable and the overall operation of the mechanism more stable.

[0100] More specifically, when the drive shaft 51 moves along its axial direction, the hinge seat 55 moves accordingly, causing the first sliding member 554 and the second sliding member 555 to slide along the trajectory of the arc-shaped groove 231. When the drive shaft 51 moves downward, the sliding member slides from the inside to the outside along the arc-shaped groove 231; when the drive shaft 51 moves upward, the sliding member slides from the outside to the inside along the arc-shaped groove 231.

[0101] In this design, the main body of the hinge seat 55 is a rigid Y-shaped frame 551. The handle end of the Y-shaped frame 551 is fixedly connected to the drive shaft 51, thereby ensuring that the Y-shaped frame 551 can perform axial reciprocating motion synchronously with the drive shaft 51. The Y-shaped frame 551 also has two symmetrically arranged forked arm ends.

[0102] The first connecting rod 552 and the second connecting rod 553 are independent force transmission components, and one end of each of them is rotatably hinged to the two forked arms of the Y-shaped frame 551 via pins 43.

[0103] The first sliding member 554 is fixedly connected to the other end of the first connecting rod 552 (i.e., the end away from the hinge point of the Y-shaped frame 551); similarly, the second sliding member 555 is fixedly connected to the other end of the second connecting rod 553.

[0104] When the drive shaft 51 drives the Y-shaped frame 551 fixed on it to move axially, the translational movement of the Y-shaped frame 551 will transmit the thrust or pull force to the first connecting rod 552 and the second connecting rod 553 through the hinge point at the end of its arm.

[0105] These two connecting rods then drive the first sliding member 554 and the second sliding member 555, which are fixed at their ends. Since the movement trajectory of the sliding member is constrained by the arc-shaped groove 231, the force transmitted from the connecting rods will drive the sliding member to slide along the arc-shaped groove 231 from the inside to the outside or from the outside to the inside.

[0106] This sliding motion, from the inside out or from the outside in, is ultimately transmitted through the auxiliary linkage, thereby driving the first linkage arm 531 and the second linkage arm 532 to extend or retract. This structural design makes motion transmission more flexible and helps optimize the lever arm and stroke.

[0107] The gripper mechanism 40 comprises four independent grippers evenly arranged circumferentially along the storage cylinder 20 to ensure stable and balanced gripping of the cup. Each gripper is optionally injection-molded from high-strength engineering plastic, with an inner arc-shaped gripping surface that matches the curvature of the cup's outer wall. To increase friction and protect the cup's surface, a layer of silicone or soft rubber pad may also be applied to the arc-shaped gripping surface.

[0108] At the location where the linkage arm 53 needs to connect with the gripper, a gripper mounting part 42 is provided. This gripper mounting part 42 can be an integrally formed structure at the end of the linkage arm 53, or it can be a separate component fixed to the linkage arm 53. The gripper mounting part 42 has a precision hole for mounting a connecting pin 43.

[0109] Each gripper is rotatably hinged to the gripper mounting portion 42 via a pivot hole at its base and a pin 43. A torsion spring 44 is fitted onto each pin 43. This torsion spring 44 has two protruding lever ends: a first end 441 and a second end 442. The first end 441 of the torsion spring 44 abuts against the inner surface of the corresponding gripper, while its second end 442 abuts against the relatively fixed gripper mounting portion 42. With this configuration, the torsion spring 44 always applies a torque to the gripper, giving it a default elastic tendency to extend into the clamping opening 22 and clamp the cup, which helps the gripper to quickly and accurately return to the clamping position when the mechanism resets.

[0110] Preferably, the hinge joints of the first linkage arm 531 and the second linkage arm 532 with the outer side wall of the storage cylinder 20 are provided with lugs. The lugs are provided with two hinge parts 241, and are respectively provided with a first pivot pin 535 and a second pivot pin 536 to connect with the first linkage arm 531 and the second linkage arm 532. The first pivot pin 535 and the second pivot pin 536 are each fitted with a return torsion spring 537. Each return torsion spring 537 has an abutment arm 5371 and an action arm 5372. The action arm 5372 abuts against the inner side of the first linkage arm 531 or the second linkage arm 532, and the abutment arm 5371 abuts against the lug 24.

[0111] On the outer wall of the storage cylinder 20, corresponding to the fixed rotation points of the first linkage arm 531 and the second linkage arm 532, two symmetrical lugs are fixed. Each lug can be designed to have two parallel, spaced-apart hinge portions 241, providing a stable and constrained installation space for the end of the linkage arm 53.

[0112] One end of the first linkage arm 531 is accommodated between two hinge portions 241 of one of the lugs, and is rotatably connected by a first pivot pin 535 passing through corresponding holes on the hinge portions 241 and the linkage arm 53. Similarly, the second linkage arm 532 is also hinged to the other lug in the same manner by a second pivot pin 536.

[0113] To give the linkage arm 53 a tendency to automatically reset or to provide a stable elastic force during movement, a reset torsion spring 537 is fitted on each of the first pivot pin 535 and the second pivot pin 536. Each reset torsion spring 537 has two lever arms with different functions, namely a stop arm 5371 and an action arm 5372.

[0114] The end of the abutting arm 5371 of the reset torsion spring 537 rests against the bearing surface of the relatively fixed lug 24, serving as a fulcrum for applying force. The end of its actuating arm 5372 abuts against the inner side of the rotatable linkage arm 53 (first linkage arm 531 or second linkage arm 532).

[0115] In this way, the return torsion spring 537 applies a continuous torque in a preset direction to the linkage arm 53, for example, driving the linkage arm 53 towards its retracted state. When the linkage arm 53 is extended under external force, once the external force disappears, the energy stored in the return torsion spring 537 will drive the linkage arm 53 to smoothly return to its initial retracted position.

[0116] To further optimize the user experience of taking the cup and prevent the cup from falling, an elastic gripper 25 can be added to the cup outlet 21 of the storage cylinder 20.

[0117] In this embodiment, the edge of the cup outlet 21 of the storage cylinder 20 is integrally formed or fixedly connected with two symmetrically arranged elastic grippers 25. These two elastic grippers 25 are two cantilever or leaf spring structures with a preset curvature and elasticity. They extend inward and slightly upward from the left and right sides of the storage cylinder 20, making the effective channel of the cup outlet 21 slightly smaller than the diameter of the cup. The material can be selected from engineering plastics with good toughness and elastic recovery capabilities, such as polypropylene (PP) or ABS.

[0118] The flexible gripper 25 operates as follows:

[0119] When a cup slides out of the spout 21 under the influence of gravity, its body or the edge of its rim will first come into contact with the inclined inner wall of the two elastic grips 25. Because the grips themselves are elastic, they will be pushed outward by the passage of the cup, creating a gentle, cushioning resistance and thus slowing down its falling speed.

[0120] After the largest diameter portion of the cup passes through, the elastic gripper 25 will quickly rebound due to its own elasticity, clamping the outer wall of the cup with friction from both sides. This elastic clamping force is sufficient to stably fix the cup at the outlet position that partially extends out of the storage cylinder 20, allowing it to hover and be retrieved.

[0121] This design ensures that the cup will not fall uncontrollably to the ground after release, but will instead be securely presented to the user, who can easily remove the cup with a gentle pull. This greatly improves the stability of the cup retrieval process and the user experience.

[0122] To ensure that the aforementioned drive shaft 51 can reliably and stably reset automatically, this embodiment provides a preferred mounting structure for the reset spring 54.

[0123] In this structure, a rigid limiting member 26 is fixedly installed on the outer wall of the storage cylinder 20 at the position corresponding to the drive shaft 51. This limiting member 26 can be an integrally formed boss structure or a separately machined metal or high-strength plastic block fixed to it. A smooth through hole 261 is formed in the center of the limiting member 26, through which the drive shaft 51 passes. This through hole 261 not only provides a stable sliding guide for the drive shaft 51, preventing it from wobbling during up-and-down movement, but its upper surface also provides a robust lower support surface for the return spring 54.

[0124] A flange is fixedly provided on the drive shaft 51, above the limiting member 26. This flange is an annular protrusion extending radially along the drive shaft 51. It can be integrally formed with the drive shaft 51, or it can be a separate collar that is precisely fixed to a specific position on the drive shaft 51 by a set screw, pin, or interference fit. The lower surface of this flange provides an upper support surface for the return spring 54.

[0125] The return spring 54, preferably a stainless steel helical compression spring with a preset elastic force, is sleeved on the drive shaft 51 and is precisely positioned and installed between the flange above it and the limiting member 26 below it with an initial pre-compression force.

[0126] The working principle of the return spring 54 is as follows:

[0127] One end of the return spring 54 is always in contact with the upper surface of the fixed limiting member 26, while the other end is always in contact with and fixed to the lower surface of the flange that moves with the drive shaft 51.

[0128] When the user drives the drive shaft 51 downward by pressing button 52, the flange on the drive shaft 51 will move downward accordingly, thereby further compressing the return spring 54 located between it and the limit member 26, so that the spring stores more elastic potential energy.

[0129] When the user releases the button 52, the external force is released, and the compressed return spring 54 immediately releases its stored energy, forcefully pushing the flange upward, thereby driving the entire drive shaft 51 to smoothly return to its initial position, completing one reset action.

[0130] Example 2:

[0131] The kettle body 10; the kettle includes the kettle body 10, handle 11 and lid 13.

[0132] Brake switch 12 is located on the handle of the kettle body 10 and is connected to the transmission mechanism 30 to control the release of the cup;

[0133] Tray 60 is detachably attached to the bottom of the pot body 10 for holding items;

[0134] The storage cylinder 20 is located inside the pot body 10 or connected to the side wall of the pot body 10.

[0135] As a preferred design, in order to increase operational safety and prevent accidental activation during movement, a brake switch 12 can be provided on the handle 11 of the kettle body 10.

[0136] In this embodiment, the brake switch 12 is designed in a position that the user's thumb can easily reach when holding the handle 11. The brake switch 12 is internally connected to a push button 52 located on the side wall of the storage cylinder 20 via a linkage.

[0137] Alternatively, button 52 can be pressed via an electronic connection.

[0138] The brake switch 12 has two states: safety locked state and operation allowed state.

[0139] When the switch is in the safety lock state, it restricts the travel of the button 52, preventing it from being pressed, thus effectively locking the cup dispensing function.

[0140] When the user switches the switch to the operation-allowed state, the restriction on pressing button 52 will be released, and the user can then press button 52 normally to take the cup.

[0141] Or perhaps,

[0142] The brake switch 12 located on the handle 11 is an electrical signal switch, such as a slide switch or a micro switch.

[0143] An electrically controlled locking device is installed inside or on the side wall of the storage cylinder 20, near the push button 52 or its associated drive shaft 51. Optionally, this device is a small electromagnetic lock or electromagnetic push rod. The electromagnetic lock has an extendable or retractable latch.

[0144] The brake switch 12 on the handle 11, the electromagnetic lock, and a built-in miniature power supply together constitute a simple control circuit.

[0145] The working principle of the electronic locking method is as follows:

[0146] When the user moves the brake switch 12 on the handle 11 to the "locked" position, the control circuit is triggered, the electromagnetic lock is energized (or de-energized according to the design) and its locking tongue extends. The extended locking tongue blocks the pressing path of the button 52 or the moving path of the drive shaft 51. In this state, electronic locking of the cup dispensing function is achieved to prevent accidental operation.

[0147] When the user moves the brake switch 12 back to the "unlock" position, the circuit state changes, and the bolt of the electromagnetic lock retracts, releasing the obstruction to the button 52 or the drive shaft 51.

[0148] This design is particularly suitable for use in mobile or bumpy environments such as outdoor activities, in vehicles, or while walking, effectively preventing the cup from accidentally falling due to accidental button presses.

[0149] In addition, to further enhance practicality, this embodiment also provides a removable tray 60 at the bottom of the pot body 10.

[0150] The tray 60 is a platform structure with shallow edges, and its material and color can be matched with the pot body 10 to maintain an overall aesthetic. The flat part of the tray 60 can be used to temporarily place small items commonly used when brewing tea, such as tea bags, sugar packets, and stirring sticks, or to catch any residual liquid that may drip from the spout 21 after removing the cup, keeping the table surface clean.

[0151] The tray 60 is connected to the bottom of the kettle body 10 via a rotation locking mechanism or a press-lock mechanism. At corresponding positions on the bottom of the kettle body 10 and the tray 60, there are sets of cooperating claws and grooves. When the user needs to install it, simply align the tray 60 with the bottom interface and gently rotate or press it; when disassembly and cleaning are required, simply reverse the process to easily remove it.

[0152] As another preferred design, in order to improve the intelligence level of the product and the user experience, this embodiment can also integrate a temperature display 70 on the lid 13.

[0153] The temperature display 70 is preferably a low-power liquid crystal display (LCD) or a touch-sensitive LED digital screen, which is embedded in the center of the top of the lid 13 and has a smooth surface for easy viewing by the user.

[0154] On the inside of the lid 13, corresponding to the position of the temperature display 70, there is a high-precision temperature sensor connected to the display circuitry. The probe of this temperature sensor extends downwards and can be immersed in the liquid inside the pot during use, thereby measuring the liquid temperature in real time.

[0155] When users need to check the water temperature, they can wake up the display by touching the display area on the lid 13, and the current water temperature will be displayed on the screen. This function is very useful for users who need water at a specific temperature (such as for brewing baby formula, honey water, or tea that has special requirements for water temperature), greatly enhancing the practical value of the kettle.

[0156] The working principle of the device for facilitating the storage and retrieval of cups and the kettle described in this utility model is as follows:

[0157] 1. Initial Clamping State: When not in use, the return spring mounted on the drive shaft is in its natural initial state, providing an upward thrust. This spring force keeps the drive shaft and its fixed hinge seat in the uppermost position. At this time, the linkage arm assembly (including the first linkage arm, the second linkage arm, and auxiliary linkages, etc.) connected to the hinge seat is in a retracted state. The retraction of the linkage arms allows the gripper mechanism's jaws to extend through the clamping openings on the side wall of the storage cylinder and firmly clamp the stack of cups from the side, thereby reliably securing all cups inside the storage cylinder and preventing them from accidentally falling out of the bottom dispensing spout.

[0158] 2. When a user needs to retrieve a cup:

[0159] (1) A brake switch is provided on the handle. The user should first move it to the unlock position to release the lock on the press button.

[0160] (2) The user presses the button located on the side wall of the storage cylinder. This pressing action overcomes the spring force of the return spring and pushes the drive shaft to move downward along its axis.

[0161] (3) The downward movement of the drive shaft causes the hinge seat on it to move downward synchronously. The sliding parts on the hinge seat slide from the inside to the outside under the guidance and constraint of the arc-shaped sliding groove on the side wall of the storage cylinder.

[0162] (4) The outward movement of the slider is converted into the unfolding action of the linkage arm through the four-bar linkage consisting of the auxiliary link and the first and second linkage arms.

[0163] (5) The extension of the linkage arm causes the gripper hinged to retract outward and disengage from the gripping opening, thereby relieving the lateral gripping force on the stacked cups.

[0164] (6) When the lateral fixation is released, the bottom cup will fall smoothly out of the cup outlet at the bottom of the storage cylinder under the action of gravity. When it falls to the outlet, it is gently supported and fixed by the elastic gripper, keeping it in a partially extended ready-to-go state, so that the user can take it safely.

[0165] (7) When the user releases the button, the previously compressed return spring immediately releases its stored elastic potential energy, pushing the drive shaft upwards to return to its initial upper position. The return of the drive shaft will cause the entire transmission mechanism and gripper mechanism to move in the opposite direction, the linkage arm will retract, and the gripper will re-enter the clamping port to clamp the remaining cups again. At this point, the mechanism has completed one complete cup dispensing cycle and is automatically ready for the next use.

[0166] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present utility model and is not intended to limit the present utility model in any way. Therefore, any modifications, equivalent changes, and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present utility model without departing from the technical solution of the present utility model shall still fall within the scope of the technical solution of the present utility model.

Claims

1. A device for facilitating the storage and retrieval of cups, characterized in that, include: A storage container for holding a cup, the bottom of which has a spout. A cup release assembly includes a gripper mechanism and a transmission mechanism. The gripper mechanism is located on the side of the storage cylinder and has a gripping state and a release state for fixing or releasing the cup. The transmission mechanism is connected to the gripper mechanism and controls the gripping and release states of the gripper mechanism. When the transmission mechanism drives the gripper mechanism to be in the gripping state, the cup is fixed inside the storage cylinder; when the transmission mechanism drives the gripper mechanism to be in the releasing state, the cup loses its lateral fixation, allowing the bottommost cup to be removed from the cup outlet at the bottom of the storage cylinder.

2. The device for facilitating the storage and retrieval of a cup according to claim 1, characterized in that: The transmission mechanism includes a drive shaft, a push button, a linkage arm, and a return spring; The push button is hinged to the outer wall of the storage cylinder; The drive shaft is arranged along the length of the storage cylinder and connected to the push button. The reset spring is mounted on the drive shaft, and the drive shaft is provided with a hinge seat connected to the linkage arm. The linkage arm includes a first linkage arm and a second linkage arm. One end of the first linkage arm and the second linkage arm is hinged to the outer wall of the storage cylinder, and the other end of the first linkage arm and the second linkage arm is connected to the hinge seat. The storage cylinder is provided with at least one clamping port on its axial side; The gripper mechanism is hinged to the linkage arm and has grippers that cooperate with the gripping opening; The reset spring has an initial state and a compressed state, and the first linkage arm and the second linkage arm have a retracted state and an extended state. When the reset spring is in the initial state, the first and second linkage arms are in the retracted state, the gripper mechanism is in the clamping state, the gripper mechanism retracts and is embedded in the clamping opening, so that the cup is fixed. When the return spring is in a compressed state, it pushes the drive shaft to move downward; the first and second linkage arms are in an extended state, the gripper mechanism is in a released state, the gripper mechanism opens and disengages from the gripping opening, causing the cup to detach from the storage cylinder.

3. The device for facilitating the storage and retrieval of a cup according to claim 2, characterized in that: The outer wall of the storage cylinder is provided with a limiting platform, and an arc-shaped sliding groove is provided on the limiting platform; The hinge seat is provided with a first sliding member and a second sliding member, each of the sliding members being embedded in the arc-shaped sliding groove, the arc-shaped sliding groove being used to guide the movement of the first sliding member and the second sliding member; The connection between the first linkage arm and the second linkage arm and the hinge seat is provided with a first auxiliary link and a second auxiliary link, and the first auxiliary link and the second auxiliary link are respectively hinged to the first sliding member and the second sliding member. When the drive shaft moves along its axial direction, the hinge seat moves accordingly, and the first and second sliding members slide from the inside to the outside or from the outside to the inside along the trajectory of the arc-shaped groove.

4. The device for facilitating the storage and retrieval of a cup according to claim 3, characterized in that: The hinged seat includes a Y-shaped frame, a first connecting rod, and a second connecting rod; The Y-shaped frame has a handle end fixedly connected to the drive shaft and two arm ends, and the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod are respectively hinged to the two arm ends of the Y-shaped frame; The first sliding member is connected to the first connecting rod, and the second sliding member is connected to the second connecting rod; When the drive shaft drives the Y-shaped frame to move axially, the Y-shaped frame drives the first sliding member and the second sliding member to slide along the arc-shaped groove from the inside to the outside or from the outside to the inside through the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod hinged to it, thereby causing the first linkage arm and the second linkage arm to unfold or retract.

5. The device for facilitating the storage and retrieval of a cup according to claim 2, characterized in that: The gripper mechanism includes four grippers, and each gripper has an arc-shaped clamping surface on its inner side. The four grippers are arranged around the circumference of the storage cylinder. A gripper mounting part is provided at the hinge of the gripper and the linkage arm. The gripper mounting part is provided with a pin and connected to the gripper. A torsion spring is sleeved on the pin. The torsion spring has a first end and a second end. The first end abuts against the inner side of the gripper, and the second end abuts against the gripper mounting part.

6. The device for facilitating the storage and retrieval of a cup according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first and second linkage arms are provided with lugs at the hinge joints with the outer wall of the storage cylinder. Each lug has two hinge parts, with a first pivot pin and a second pivot pin respectively connected to the first and second linkage arms. Each of the first and second pivot pins is fitted with a return torsion spring. Each return torsion spring has a stop arm and an action arm. The action arm abuts against the inner side of the first or second linkage arm, and the stop arm abuts against the lug.

7. The device for facilitating the storage and retrieval of a cup according to claim 2, characterized in that, Also includes: A limiting member is provided on the outer side of the storage cylinder, and a through hole is provided on the limiting member for the drive shaft to pass through. The drive shaft is provided with a flange, and the return spring is sleeved on the drive shaft and positioned between the limiting member and the flange; One end of the return spring abuts against the flange, and the other end abuts against the limiting member.

8. The device for facilitating the storage and retrieval of a cup according to claim 2, characterized in that: The storage cylinder is provided with two elastic grippers at its outlet, which are positioned opposite each other on the left and right sides of the storage cylinder. The resilient gripper holds the cup in place when it is at the outlet of the storage cylinder.

9. A kettle, characterized in that, Includes a pot body and a device for facilitating the storage and retrieval of a cup as described in any one of claims 1-8; A brake switch is located on the handle of the kettle and connected to the transmission mechanism to control the release of the cup; The storage cylinder is located inside the pot body or connected to the side wall of the pot body.

10. A kettle according to claim 9, characterized in that, Also includes: A temperature display, which is located on the lid of the kettle, is used to display the temperature of the solution inside the kettle; A tray, detachably attached to the bottom of the pot body, is used to hold items.

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