Adjustable suction-based coaster

Abstract

A coaster support assembly comprising a housing 100 with an upper surface 106 for supporting an object and a suction member 104 positioned adjacent to the housing's lower surface. The suction member i

Description

[0002] In many everyday environments, maintaining the stability of drinkware is essential to prevent spills and ensure convenience for users. Conventional drink coasters are widely used to provide a stable, protective barrier between drinkware and the underlying surface, typically to prevent moisture rings, scratches, or other damage. However, traditional coasters often lack secure placement, as they rely solely on their weight or friction with the surface, which can easily be disrupted with minor movements. Consequently, drinkware and coasters frequently slide or shift, especially on smooth or polished surfaces such as glass or marble, leading to a higher likelihood of spills. The instability of conventional coasters is particularly problematic in settings where accidental contact or vibrations from nearby movements might cause the coaster and drinkware to slip, creating potential hazards and inconveniences for users.

[0003] Various methods have been proposed to enhance the stability of coasters. One approach has been to add rubber or silicone pads on the coaster's underside to increase grip. While such solutions can reduce slippage to some degree, they are often insufficient on very smooth surfaces, and they cannot guarantee stability if the coaster itself or the surface underneath is wet. Moisture accumulation is a common issue when cold beverages are placed on a coaster, as condensation can form on the bottom surface of the drinkware, making both the drinkware and the coaster susceptible to slipping. Additionally, existing solutions generally fail to provide adjustable or controllable stability, leaving users unable to modify the coaster's grip according to their needs or the nature of the surface. This lack of adjustability can be a drawback in varied environments, where different levels of stability may be desired.

[0004] Some advanced designs have incorporated suction cups or other adhesive elements to provide a stronger hold on surfaces. However, these solutions often come with limitations, such as a fixed suction strength that does not permit easy adjustment. Fixed suction systems can also be cumbersome, as they require considerable force to release the coaster from the surface, making them inconvenient for regular use. In addition, they often lead to undesirable residue or marks on surfaces, especially after repeated use. Users may find these suction-based coasters challenging to remove without spilling their drink or disrupting their setup. Further, due to the fixed nature of the suction, they may not adapt well to different surfaces or surface conditions, limiting their versatility and user-friendliness.

[0005] The development of a drink coaster that can provide secure, adjustable, and residue-free placement on various surface types without excessive effort to engage or release remains an unmet need. A coaster solution that effectively addresses these drawbacks could offer enhanced functionality for users in both everyday and specialized settings, enabling stable placement of drinkware in environments where traditional coasters fall short. This need for a more adaptable, user-controlled coaster with an adjustable suction mechanism was a motivating factor behind the conception of the present invention.

[0006] It is within this context that the present invention is provided. Summary

[0007] The present invention provides a support assembly comprising a housing with an upper surface configured to support an object and a suction member positioned adjacent to the lower surface of the housing. The suction member includes a flexible engagement surface adapted to contact an external surface, and it is coupled to the housing via a coupling assembly that allows relative rotational movement about a central axis. The coupling assembly includes a cam surface that translates this rotational movement into axial movement, creating or releasing axial force on the suction member. Additionally, a connector disposed between the housing and the suction member applies axial force to the central portion of the suction member, enhancing or reducing vacuum pressure based on the direction of rotation. This structure enables controlled adhesion and release of the support assembly from various surfaces.

[0008] In some embodiments, the coupling assembly includes multiple sloped cam surfaces spaced circumferentially around at least one portion of the coupling assembly. This configuration allows for incremental adjustment in the axial movement of the housing relative to the suction member, offering finer control over the level of vacuum pressure applied.

[0009] In further embodiments, the cam surfaces are arranged to increase the axial force applied to the suction member in discrete steps as the housing is rotated in the first direction. This design provides a stepwise increase in suction strength, allowing the user to achieve and maintain a desired level of adhesion without requiring continuous rotation.

[0010] In additional embodiments, the connector comprises a piston element disposed within the housing and fixedly attached to the central portion of the suction member. This piston element allows axial tension to be directly applied to the suction member, improving the efficiency of the vacuum mechanism when relative rotational movement is applied.

[0011] In some embodiments, the suction member is composed of a flexible elastomeric material, which enhances the suction effect by enabling deformation of the engagement surface, thereby achieving a more reliable seal with the external surface.

[0012] In further embodiments, the housing includes a raised lip around the periphery of its upper surface. This raised lip assists in retaining objects placed on the housing, preventing slippage during use.

[0013] In yet further embodiments, the housing is configured to rotate 360 degrees relative to the suction member. This full rotational capability enables ease of use and flexibility, allowing the user to apply or release the suction effect from any rotational position.

[0014] In some embodiments, the coupling assembly includes interlocking teeth on the first and second portions to control the degree of rotation and prevent over-rotation of the housing relative to the suction member. This feature safeguards against excessive rotation, which could otherwise impair the functionality of the assembly.

[0015] In additional embodiments, the suction member includes a central cavity in its central portion, which interacts with the connector to further adjust the vacuum pressure within the suction member, offering additional control over the suction effect.

[0016] In some embodiments, a stop mechanism is incorporated within the coupling assembly to limit the range of relative rotational movement between the first and second portions. This feature ensures controlled movement, enhancing the assembly's durability and user-friendliness.

[0017] In further embodiments, the engagement surface of the suction member is textured to improve its grip on the external surface, which increases stability and reduces the likelihood of unintended detachment.

[0018] In some embodiments, the housing and suction member are configured such that rotation in the first direction increases vacuum force, while rotation in the opposite direction decreases it, allowing the user to engage and release the suction mechanism as needed.

[0019] In additional embodiments, a release tab is attached to the suction member to facilitate manual disengagement from the external surface, providing an easy means to lift the assembly when suction is no longer required.

[0020] In yet further embodiments, the coupling assembly includes a locking mechanism that temporarily prevents relative rotation of the housing and suction member once a desired vacuum pressure is achieved, thus maintaining the chosen level of adhesion until the user opts to release it.

[0021] In some embodiments, the connector comprises a flexible linkage, allowing limited axial movement to maintain consistent pressure distribution across the engagement surface of the suction member, which enhances the stability of the vacuum effect.

[0022] In further embodiments, the housing is constructed from a rigid polymeric material to provide a durable structure that withstands repeated use and various environmental conditions.

[0023] In some embodiments, the central portion of the suction member is configured to deform under axial force, thereby enhancing the vacuum effect as the engagement surface more tightly adheres to the external surface.

[0024] In additional embodiments, the first and second portions of the coupling assembly are designed as separate, detachable components that can be disassembled for maintenance or replacement, ensuring longevity and ease of servicing.

[0025] In yet further embodiments, the coupling assembly includes a biasing element that automatically returns the housing and suction member to a neutral position when rotational force is not applied, offering automatic reset for convenience.

[0026] In some embodiments, the housing further includes an indicator that visually signals the strength of the vacuum seal based on the rotational position of the housing relative to the suction member, providing a clear reference for the user regarding the adhesion level of the assembly. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0027] Various embodiments of the invention are disclosed in the following detailed description and accompanying drawings.

[0028] FIG. 1 illustrates an example exploded view of the support assembly, showing the housing, rotatable coupling, and suction member.

[0029] FIG. 2 illustrates an example assembled view of the support assembly, displaying the housing and suction member in a compact configuration.

[0030] FIG. 3 illustrates an example view of the support assembly in use, with a mug positioned on the upper surface of the housing.

[0031] FIG. 4 illustrates an example exploded view of the support assembly, detailing the internal components including the piston element and the two parts of the rotatable coupling.

[0032] FIG. 5 illustrates an example bottom view of the housing, showing the piston element and second part of the rotatable coupling.

[0033] FIG. 6 illustrates an example isolated view of the second part of the rotatable coupling, displaying the circumferentially arranged sloped cam surfaces.

[0034] Common reference numerals are used throughout the figures and the detailed description to indicate like elements. One skilled in the art will readily recognize that the above figures are examples and that other architectures, modes of operation, orders of operation, and elements / functions can be provided and implemented without departing from the characteristics and features of the invention, as set forth in the claims. Detailed Description and Preferred Embodiment

[0035] The following is a detailed description of exemplary embodiments to illustrate the principles of the invention. The embodiments are provided to illustrate aspects of the invention, but the invention is not limited to any embodiment. The scope of the invention encompasses numerous alternatives, modifications and equivalent; it is limited only by the claims.

[0036] Numerous specific details are set forth in the following description in order to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, the invention may be practiced according to the claims without some or all of these specific details. For the purpose of clarity, technical material that is known in the technical fields related to the invention has not been described in detail so that the invention is not unnecessarily obscured. DEFINITIONS:

[0037] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention.

[0038] As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0039] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well as the singular forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0040] It will be further understood that the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0041] When a feature or element is described as being "on" or "directly on" another feature or element, there may or may not be intervening features or elements present. Similarly, when a feature or element is described as being "connected," "attached," or "coupled" to another feature or element, there may or may not be intervening features or elements present. The features and elements described with respect to one embodiment can be applied to other embodiments.

[0042] The use of spatial terms, such as "under," "below," "lower," "over," "upper," etc., is used for ease of explanation to describe the relationship between elements when the apparatus is in its proper orientation.

[0043] The terms "first," "second," and the like are used to distinguish different elements or features, but these elements or features should not be limited by these terms. A first element or feature described can be referred to as a second element or feature and vice versa without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0044] The term "housing" refers to any structural component of the support assembly that provides an upper surface for supporting an object and a lower surface positioned adjacent to a suction member. This includes, but is not limited to, rigid casings made of polymeric, metallic, or composite materials that can withstand the mechanical forces exerted by the suction mechanism. In one example implementation, the housing may be composed of a durable, rigid polymer to ensure stability and support for various objects, while remaining lightweight and corrosion-resistant.

[0045] The term "suction member" refers to any component within the support assembly that creates a seal with an external surface through a flexible engagement surface and generates vacuum pressure. This term includes, but is not limited to, elastomeric cups or other flexible materials that can deform to create an airtight seal when pressed against a surface. In one example, the suction member may be made from silicone or other elastomeric compounds that provide flexibility and durability. Alternatively, the suction member may utilize materials such as rubber, latex, or thermoplastic elastomers, each capable of creating a secure, temporary seal with various types of surfaces.

[0046] The term "coupling assembly" refers to any mechanism or set of components that enables relative rotational movement between the housing and the suction member, translating this movement into axial force adjustments. This may include, but is not limited to, mechanical couplings incorporating cam surfaces, gear systems, or interlocking teeth to control rotation. In one embodiment, the coupling assembly may use sloped cam surfaces on the housing and suction member to facilitate smooth rotation and axial movement, while in another example, a geared mechanism may provide additional control over the rotational movement and subsequent pressure adjustments.

[0047] The term "cam surface" refers to any sloped or inclined structure on the coupling assembly that converts rotational movement into linear or axial movement, facilitating the controlled application of axial force. This can include, but is not limited to, angled or curved surfaces, ramped edges, or stepped profiles that interact with corresponding surfaces on the coupling assembly. In an example implementation, the cam surface may be a sloped circular ramp around the coupling assembly, enabling incremental axial movement with each rotation of the housing relative to the suction member.

[0048] The term "connector" refers to any component that applies axial force between the housing and the suction member, particularly in response to relative rotation. This term encompasses piston elements, flexible linkages, or any axial force-transmitting mechanism that assists in generating or relieving vacuum pressure at the suction member. In one example, the connector may include a rigid piston that is affixed to the central portion of the suction member, facilitating direct axial force application. Alternatively, the connector may be a flexible linkage, allowing limited axial movement while ensuring consistent pressure distribution across the suction member's engagement surface.

[0049] In some implementations, the housing may be constructed from lightweight aluminum or a reinforced polymeric compound to provide strength and reduce weight. The suction member may alternatively employ a multilayer construction, where the outer layer comprises a non-slip elastomeric material, and the inner layer provides additional structural integrity through a reinforced polymer matrix. For the coupling assembly, materials such as stainless steel or high-strength plastic may be used, offering durability and corrosion resistance, especially in environments with moisture or other exposure risks.

[0050] In other implementations, alternative rotational mechanisms may replace or complement the cam surfaces. For instance, a ratchet-and-pawl system could provide rotational control by allowing incremental adjustments, while a frictional clutch could control the degree of rotation, enhancing the user's ability to fine-tune suction strength. DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0051] The present invention relates to a support assembly with an adjustable suction mechanism designed to provide secure and controllable adhesion to various surfaces. Traditional coasters and support devices frequently lack stability on smooth or polished surfaces, leading to unintentional sliding and displacement, especially when exposed to minor impacts or vibrations. While certain existing devices attempt to mitigate slippage by incorporating adhesive materials or fixed suction mechanisms, these approaches often fall short. They may lack adaptability to different surfaces, provide a fixed level of adhesion that cannot be adjusted, or require considerable force for removal, limiting their practical use in everyday environments.

[0052] This invention addresses these issues by employing a unique coupling assembly that enables precise control over the suction mechanism. Through relative rotation between the housing and the suction member, the user can adjust the axial force applied to the suction member, thereby modulating the vacuum strength without needing to exert direct pulling force. This adjustable adhesion offers versatility, allowing the support assembly to provide strong, secure placement on a range of surfaces, while also enabling easy release when no longer needed.

[0053] The invention's structure includes a housing configured to support an object and a suction member positioned at its base, coupled by a rotatable assembly that converts rotational movement into controlled axial force adjustments. This design overcomes the limitations of traditional suction mechanisms by allowing users to increase or decrease suction strength with simple rotation. Additionally, by integrating a cam surface and optional features such as textured engagement surfaces, the invention provides stability and reliable suction without the need for external adhesives or excessive manual effort.

[0054] The adjustable suction mechanism further enhances user convenience and safety, as it reduces the risk of spills and accidental movement while providing an easy release function that minimizes the likelihood of residue or surface damage. This innovative approach to surface adhesion makes the invention particularly advantageous for users seeking a stable yet adaptable support assembly, suitable for both residential and commercial applications.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 1, the invention comprises a support assembly with a housing 100, a rotatable coupling 102, and a flexible suction cup 104. The housing 100 includes an upper surface 106 configured to support an object, with a raised lip 108 around its periphery, designed to prevent any object placed on the upper surface 106 from slipping off. The housing 100 serves as the primary structure of the assembly, providing stability and support for objects, and is ideally constructed from a rigid polymer or lightweight metallic material to ensure both durability and ease of use.

[0056] The rotatable coupling 102 connects the housing 100 to the suction cup 104, allowing the user to adjust the vacuum strength by rotating the housing 100. The coupling 102 comprises a set of sloped portions 110 positioned circumferentially around the coupling 102. These sloped portions 110 act as cam surfaces, designed to convert rotational movement of the housing 100 into axial movement. When the housing 100 is rotated in a first direction relative to the suction cup 104, the sloped portions 110 press down on the suction cup 104, thereby increasing the vacuum pressure between the suction cup 104 and the external surface beneath it. Conversely, when the housing 100 is rotated in the opposite direction, the axial pressure is alleviated, reducing the vacuum pressure and allowing for easy detachment of the suction cup 104 from the surface.

[0057] The suction cup 104 is located at the base of the assembly and consists of a flexible engagement surface 112 designed to create a vacuum seal with an external surface. The engagement surface 112 is configured to conform to minor surface irregularities, enhancing the vacuum seal when axial pressure is applied via the rotation of the housing 100. The suction cup 104 includes a central portion 114 opposite the engagement surface 112, which interacts with a connector (not explicitly shown in FIG. 1 but referenced in related figures and discussions) that links the suction cup 104 to the housing 100. In some embodiments, this connector may comprise a piston-like element affixed to the central portion 114, which enables the controlled application of axial force, increasing or decreasing the suction as the housing 100 is rotated.

[0058] The coupling assembly 102 allows the housing 100 to rotate 360 degrees relative to the suction cup 104, offering the user continuous control over the vacuum strength without detaching the assembly from the external surface. In some configurations, the coupling 102 may include interlocking teeth or stops to prevent over-rotation and ensure stable engagement between the housing 100 and the suction cup 104.

[0059] FIG. 2 illustrates the support assembly in its fully assembled state, showing the housing 100 and suction member 104 as an integrated unit. In this view, the raised lip 108 on the housing's upper surface is visible, providing a secure boundary to support objects. The assembled structure exemplifies how the components are arranged to create a compact, stable support assembly suitable for surface placement.

[0060] FIG. 3 depicts the support assembly with a mug 200 positioned on the upper surface 106 of the housing 100. This figure demonstrates the assembly's practical application, with the raised lip 108 effectively aiding in stabilizing the mug, preventing it from sliding off the coaster. The figure further illustrates the invention's function as a support assembly for drinkware, leveraging the adjustable suction mechanism to secure the coaster and thereby maintain the stability of the object placed on it.

[0061] FIG. 4 provides an exploded view of the support assembly, revealing additional details of the internal structure, including the arrangement of the rotatable coupling and associated components. The housing 100 is shown from below, highlighting a central piston element 116 that is positioned within the housing 100 and is affixed to the central portion of the suction member 104. This piston element 116 plays a key role in applying or releasing axial force on the suction member 104 when the housing 100 is rotated, thereby controlling the vacuum pressure.

[0062] The rotatable coupling 102 is depicted in more detail in this figure. The coupling 102 consists of two distinct parts: a first portion 118 that is associated with the housing 100, and a second portion 120 that connects to the suction member 104. Both portions include sloped cam surfaces 110 arranged around their circumference. These cam surfaces 110 engage when the housing 100 and the suction member 104 rotate relative to each other, converting rotational movement into vertical movement that either increases or decreases the axial force on the suction member 104. The first portion 118 of the coupling 102 is integrally formed within the housing 100, while the second portion 120 is configured to interface with the suction member 104.

[0063] The sloped cam surfaces 110 are arranged to provide smooth incremental adjustments to the axial force, enhancing the control over suction strength. Additionally, the second portion 120 of the coupling 102 is designed to rotate in alignment with the housing 100's central axis, ensuring consistent interaction between the sloped surfaces. This arrangement allows for precise control over the vacuum seal as the user rotates the housing 100.

[0064] The suction member 104 is also depicted separately at the bottom of FIG. 4, illustrating its flexible engagement surface 112 and central portion 114 that interfaces with the piston element 116. The engagement surface 112 is designed to conform to the external surface to which the support assembly is attached, while the central portion 114 ensures that the axial force applied by the piston element 116 is distributed evenly across the suction member 104, enhancing the reliability of the vacuum seal.

[0065] FIG. 5 illustrates a bottom view of the housing 100, highlighting the central piston element 116 and the first portion 118 of the rotatable coupling 102. The central piston element 116 is positioned to apply axial force onto the suction member 104, as described in FIG. 4. This view shows how the first portion 118 of the coupling 102 is integrated within the housing 100, with the sloped cam surfaces 110 arranged to engage during rotation, allowing the housing 100 to apply or release pressure on the suction member 104 to control the vacuum strength. This configuration emphasizes the interaction between the piston element 116 and the coupling assembly, facilitating adjustable suction functionality.

[0066] FIG. 6 illustrates an isolated view of the second portion 120 of the rotatable coupling 102. This view highlights the circumferentially arranged sloped cam surfaces 110, which interact with the first portion 118 (not shown in this figure) when the housing 100 is rotated. The cam surfaces 110 facilitate the conversion of rotational movement into axial displacement, controlling the vacuum pressure exerted by the suction member 104. This figure emphasizes the structure of the cam surfaces 110 and their role within the coupling assembly to enable adjustable suction. CONCLUSION

[0067] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one having ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and the present disclosure and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0068] The disclosed embodiments are illustrative, not restrictive. While specific configurations of the coaster of the invention have been described in a specific manner referring to the illustrated embodiments, it is understood that the present invention can be applied to a wide variety of solutions which fit within the scope and spirit of the claims. There are many alternative ways of implementing the invention.

[0069] It is to be understood that the embodiments of the invention herein described are merely illustrative of the application of the principles of the invention. Reference herein to details of the illustrated embodiments is not intended to limit the scope of the claims, which themselves recite those features regarded as essential to the invention.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A support assembly, comprising:a housing with an upper surface configured to support an object and a lower surface;a suction member positioned adjacent to the lower surface of the housing, the suction member having a flexible engagement surface adapted to contact an external surface and a central portion opposite the engagement surface;a coupling assembly connecting the housing and the suction member, the coupling assembly comprising:a first portion associated with the housing,a second portion associated with the suction member, wherein the first portion and the second portion are configured to engage with one another and to rotate relative to each other about a central axis;a cam surface on at least one of the first portion and the second portion, the cam surface configured to translate relative rotational movement between the housing and the suction member into axial movement of the housing relative to the suction member; anda connector disposed between the housing and the suction member, configured to apply axial force to the central portion of the suction member in response to the relative rotational movement of the first portion and the second portion in a first rotational direction, and to reduce the axial force on the suction member in response to rotation in an opposite rotational direction.

2. The support assembly of claim 1, wherein the coupling assembly further comprises a plurality of sloped cam surfaces spaced circumferentially around at least one of the first portion and the second portion, configured to provide incremental adjustments to the axial movement of the housing relative to the suction member.

3. The support assembly of claim 2, wherein the cam surfaces are arranged to increase the axial force applied to the suction member in discrete steps as the housing is rotated in the first rotational direction.

4. The support assembly of claim 1, wherein the connector comprises a piston element disposed within the housing, the piston element being fixedly attached to the central portion of the suction member and configured to apply axial tension on the suction member in response to the relative rotational movement.

5. The support assembly of claim 1, wherein the suction member is made of a flexible elastomeric material.

6. The support assembly of claim 1, wherein the housing further comprises a raised lip around the periphery of the upper surface to assist in retaining an object placed on the housing.

7. The support assembly of claim 1, wherein the housing is configured to rotate 360 degrees relative to the suction member.

8. The support assembly of claim 1, wherein the coupling assembly includes interlocking teeth disposed on the first portion and the second portion to control the degree of rotation and prevent over-rotation of the housing relative to the suction member.

9. The support assembly of claim 1, wherein the suction member includes a central cavity in its central portion, the central cavity configured to interact with the connector to increase or decrease the vacuum pressure generated by the suction member.

10. The support assembly of claim 1, further comprising a stop mechanism within the coupling assembly to limit the extent of relative rotational movement between the first portion and the second portion.

11. The support assembly of claim 1, wherein the engagement surface of the suction member comprises a textured surface to enhance grip on the external surface.

12. The support assembly of claim 1, wherein the housing and the suction member are configured such that rotation of the housing in the first direction increases thevacuum force exerted by the suction member and rotation in the opposite direction decreases the vacuum force.

13. The support assembly of claim 1, further comprising a release tab connected to the suction member to assist in manual release of the suction member from the external surface.

14. The support assembly of claim 1, wherein the coupling assembly is configured to engage with a locking mechanism that temporarily prevents rotational movement of the housing relative to the suction member once a desired vacuum pressure is achieved.

15. The support assembly of claim 1, wherein the connector comprises a flexible linkage allowing limited axial movement to maintain consistent pressure distribution across the engagement surface of the suction member.

16. The support assembly of claim 1, wherein the housing is constructed from a rigid polymeric material.

17. The support assembly of claim 1, wherein the central portion of the suction member is configured to allow deformation to enhance the vacuum effect when the axial force is applied.

18. The support assembly of claim 1, wherein the first portion and the second portion of the coupling assembly are formed as separate, detachable components that can be disassembled for maintenance or replacement.

19. The support assembly of claim 1, wherein the coupling assembly includes a biasing element configured to automatically return the housing and suction member to a neutral position when rotational force is not applied.

20. The support assembly of claim 1, wherein the housing further includes an indicator to visually signal the strength of the vacuum seal based on the rotational position of the housing relative to the suction member.

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