Cooking vessel with removable handle

Abstract

To provide a handle that is detachable from a cookware vessel (such as a pot or pan).SOLUTION: The handle includes a grip portion, a coupling fixedly attached to the grip portion, an actuator rotatably coupled to the handle, and a spring. The coupling has a channel that is configured to surround at least a portion of an upper horizontally extending rod of a bracket. The actuator has a top portion to be engaged with and disengaged from an upper edge of the bracket when the actuator is rotated forward and backward. The actuator also has hooks to be engaged with and disengaged from a lower horizontally extending rod of the bracket when the actuator is rotated forward and backward. The spring is configured to apply a force to the actuator so as to rotate the actuator forward when the actuator is released by a user.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1A

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to cooking vessels, and more particularly to handles that are removable from cooking vessels (such as pots and pans), and to cooking vessels adapted to receive such handles. [Background technology]

[0002] Traditionally, cooking vessels (such as pots and pans) have been provided with handles that are permanently attached to the cooking vessel. Other conventional cooking vessels have handles that are removable from the cooking vessel. However, these conventional removable handles can have drawbacks. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to a first embodiment, a cooking vessel includes a container, a bracket, and a removable handle. The container includes a bottom surrounded by a generally upright sidewall terminating in a rim to define an interior space for holding food items. The bracket is connected to an outer surface of the generally upright sidewall adjacent the rim. The bracket includes a groove extending upward from a lower opening on a lower side of the bracket. The handle includes an elongated gripping portion, an elongated plate, a U-shaped connector, an extension rod, an actuator, and a spring. The elongated gripping portion has a distal end and a spaced-apart proximal end, the distal end and the proximal end defining a major axis of the handle. The elongated plate is disposed within at least a portion of the elongated gripping portion and protrudes outward in a forward direction from the proximal end of the elongated gripping portion. The elongated plate includes an elongated concave recess on a lower side of the elongated plate that extends along the same direction as the major axis. The U-shaped connector includes an outer vertical plate and a spaced apart inner vertical plate, both connected to each other at their bases. The inner vertical plate has an upper end connected to the proximal end of the elongated plate. The outer vertical plate is configured to be received within the groove of the bracket when the handle is securely engaged with the container. The extension rod is positioned within the elongated recess to translate outwardly along the underside of the elongated plate. When the extension rod moves forward, the tip of the extension rod extends through the gap in the inner vertical plate, thereby being positioned between the inner and outer vertical plates. When the extension rod moves rearward, the tip of the extension rod retracts from the gap in the inner vertical plate. The tip of the extension rod has an asymmetrically chamfered shape defined by upper and lower tapered edges that meet at an apex located below the centerline of the extension rod. The upper tapered edge is longer than the lower tapered edge along the major axis of the extension rod. The actuator is directly or indirectly coupled to the extension rod and is configured to be manually moved by a user.The actuator is further configured, when actuated by a user, to directly or indirectly move the extension rod rearward such that the distal end of the extension rod retracts from the gap in the inner vertical slab. A spring is coupled to the extension rod. The spring is configured to exert a force on the extension rod such that, when the actuator is released by a user, the spring moves the extension rod forward such that the distal end of the extension rod extends through the gap in the inner vertical slab and is positioned between the inner and outer vertical slabs.

[0004] As another example, any cooking vessel in which the outer vertical plate of the handle and the groove of the bracket have complementary inward and upward tapered portions on two or more opposing sides, or complementary inward and upward tapered portions on three or more adjacent sides, or complementary inward and upward tapered portions on four adjacent sides.

[0005] Yet another example is any cooking vessel further including a front surface having a gap in the bracket, wherein the tip of the extension rod is configured to extend through the gap in the front surface of the bracket when the outer vertical plate of the handle is at least partially positioned within the cavity in the bracket.

[0006] Another embodiment is any cooking vessel characterized by a bracket integral with a flange connected to the exterior of a generally upright sidewall adjacent the rim.

[0007] Another example is any cooking vessel in which at least a portion of the actuator is located at or within the bottom of the elongated gripping portion.

[0008] Another example is any cooking vessel characterized in that at least a portion of the actuator is disposed against or within the distal end of the elongated gripping portion.

[0009] In another embodiment, any cooking vessel is characterized in that the handle further comprises a rocker arm and a pull arm. The rocker arm is directly connected to the actuator, which is further directly connected to the pull arm. The rocker arm is configured to rotate about a pivot point. The pull arm is directly connected to the extension rod. When actuated by a user, the actuator indirectly moves the extension rod rearward by rotating the rocker arm, which in turn moves the extension rod rearward directly.

[0010] Another example is any cooking vessel in which the handle is configured to be detached from the vessel without the user having to move the actuator.

[0011] According to a second embodiment, a cooking vessel includes a container, a bracket, and a removable handle. The container includes a bottom surrounded by generally upright sidewalls terminating in a rim to define an interior space for holding food items. The bracket is connected to an outer surface of the generally upright sidewall adjacent the rim. The bracket includes two vertically spaced rods extending horizontally along the bracket. The two vertically spaced rods include an upper rod and a lower rod. The handle includes a gripping portion, a connector fixedly attached to the gripping portion, an actuator rotatably connected to the handle, and a spring connected to the actuator. The connector includes a groove and a recessed bottom. The groove is configured to surround at least a portion of the upper rod when positioned facing the upper rod. The recessed bottom is configured to contact a side portion of the lower rod when positioned facing the lower rod. The actuator includes an upper portion configured to engage an upper edge of the bracket when the actuator is rotated forward and further configured to disengage from the upper edge of the bracket when the actuator is manually rotated backward by a user. The actuator also includes one or more hooks configured to engage a lower rod of the bracket when the actuator is rotated forward and further configured to disengage from the lower rod of the bracket when the actuator is manually rotated backward by a user. The spring is configured to exert a force on the actuator to rotate the actuator forward, thereby engaging the upper portion of the actuator with the upper edge of the bracket and further configured to engage the one or more hooks of the actuator with the lower rod of the bracket when the actuator is released by a user.

[0012] Another embodiment is any cooking vessel characterized in that two rods extend horizontally between two opposing side walls of the bracket. Another embodiment is any cooking vessel characterized in that the actuator is rotatably connected to the lower shell of the handle or to a connector portion of the handle. Another embodiment is any cooking vessel characterized in that the one or more hooks associated with the actuator are two hooks spaced apart horizontally. Another embodiment is any cooking vessel characterized in that both rods have a cylindrical shape and the connector groove has a semi-cylindrical shape.

[0013] According to a third embodiment, a cooking vessel includes a container, a bracket, and a removable handle. The container includes a bottom surrounded by a generally upright sidewall terminating in a rim to define an interior space for holding food items. The bracket is connected to an outer surface of the generally upright sidewall adjacent the rim and includes a groove extending upward from a lower opening in the underside of the bracket. The handle includes a linkage fixedly attached to the handle, an actuator rotatably connected to the linkage, and a spring connected to the actuator. The linkage includes an outer vertical plate configured to be received in the groove of the bracket. The actuator includes an upper portion configured to engage an upper edge of the bracket when the actuator is rotated forward, and the upper portion is further configured to disengage from the upper edge of the bracket when the actuator is manually rotated backward by a user. The spring is configured to exert a force on the actuator to rotate the actuator forward, and when the actuator is released by the user, the upper portion of the actuator engages the upper edge of the bracket.

[0014] In yet another embodiment, any cooking vessel is characterized in that the outer vertical plate of the connector has two spaced apart upright conical sections and the groove of the bracket has two spaced apart conical slots.In yet another embodiment, any cooking vessel is characterized in that the spring is angled forward and upward relative to the handle.

[0015] According to a fourth embodiment, a cooking vessel includes a container, a bracket, and a removable handle. The container includes a bottom surrounded by a generally upright sidewall terminating in a rim to define an interior space for holding food items. The bracket is connected to an outer surface of the generally upright sidewall adjacent the rim. The bracket includes a groove extending upward from a lower opening below the bracket. The handle includes a gripping portion, a U-shaped connector connected to the gripping portion, a rod, an actuator, and a spring. The U-shaped connector includes an outer vertical plate and a spaced-apart inner vertical plate, both of which are connected to each other at their bottoms. The outer vertical plate is configured to be received in the groove of the bracket, and the inner vertical plate includes a gap. The rod is configured to translate outwardly along the handle. When the extension rod moves forward, the tip of the extension rod extends through the gap in the inner vertical plate, thereby positioning the tip between the inner and outer vertical plates. The extension rod is configured such that, when the extension rod moves rearward, the tip of the extension rod retracts from the gap in the inner vertical plate. The rod is provided with two stops protruding perpendicularly from the rod. The actuator has a gap, and when the rod extends into the gap, a rear portion of the actuator contacts front portions of the two stops on the rod. The actuator is configured to be manually moved by a user and is further configured, when moved by the user, to move the rod rearward, thereby retracting the tip of the rod from the gap in the inner vertical plate. The spring has a gap, and when the rod extends into the gap, a front portion of the spring contacts rear portions of the two stops on the rod. The spring is configured to exert a force on the rod to move it forward, and when the actuator is released by the user, the tip of the rod extends into the gap in the inner vertical plate, thereby positioning the tip between the inner and outer vertical plates.

[0016] In a fifth embodiment, a cooking vessel includes a vessel having a bottom surrounded by a generally upright sidewall terminating in a rim to define an interior space for holding a fluid; and a bracket connected to an exterior surface of the generally upright sidewall adjacent the rim, the bracket including a groove extending upward from a lower opening on an underside of the bracket for receiving a removable portion of a handle, the handle being configured to be removable from the bracket, the handle including a distal end and a spaced apart an elongated gripping portion having a proximal end with a distal end and a distal end defining a major axis of the handle; an elongated plate disposed within the elongated gripping portion and extending from a position between the proximal and distal ends of the elongated gripping portion to a proximal end disposed beyond the proximal end of the gripping portion, the elongated plate having an elongated concave recess on an underside thereof and extending along the same direction as the major axis; and a U-shaped connector having an outer vertical plate and a spaced apart inner vertical plate connected to each other at a bottom by lateral portions, the inner vertical plate having an upper end and a lower end. a U-shaped connector, the upper end of which is connected to the proximal end of the elongated plate, the outer vertical plate being configured to be received in the groove of the bracket when the handle is securely engaged with the cooking vessel; and an extension rod disposed below the elongated plate so as to translate outwardly along the elongated plate, the proximal end of the extension rod being removably disposed between the inner and outer vertical plates by passing through a through-hole in the inner vertical plate, the proximal end of the extension rod being located at a distance from a centerline of the extension rod. an elongation rod having an asymmetrically chamfered shape defined by upper and lower tapered edges that meet at an apex located below the inner vertical plate, the upper tapered edge being longer than the lower tapered edge along a major axis of the elongation rod; an actuator coupled to the elongation rod and having a lower portion extending beyond a lower side of the gripping portion, the actuator configured to engage the proximal end of the elongation rod in a first position to withdraw the proximal end of the elongation rod from the penetration in the inner vertical plate; and a spring coupled to the elongation rod, the spring configured to engage the proximal end of the elongation rod in a first position to withdraw the proximal end of the elongation rod from the penetration in the inner vertical plate when the actuator is released.a spring operative to bias the asymmetrical chamfered portion of the elongated rod through the through-portion of the inner vertical plate.

[0017] Another embodiment is any cooking vessel characterized in that the outer vertical plate and the groove of the bracket have complementary inward and upward tapers on two or more opposing sides. Another embodiment is any cooking vessel characterized in that the outer vertical plate and the groove of the bracket have complementary inward and upward tapers on three or more adjacent sides. Another embodiment is any cooking vessel characterized in that the outer vertical plate of the bracket groove has complementary inward and upward tapers on four adjacent sides. Another embodiment is any cooking vessel characterized in that the elongated plate is secured within the gripping portion of the handle using two or more screws that extend upward from the underside of the handle through openings in the elongated plate and are received in complementary threaded cavities within the upper portion of the handle.

[0018] In a sixth embodiment, a cooking vessel includes a vessel having a bottom surrounded by a generally upright sidewall terminating in a rim to define an interior space for holding a fluid; and a bracket connected to an exterior surface of the generally upright sidewall adjacent the rim, the bracket including a groove extending upwardly from a lower opening in an underside of the bracket for receiving a removable portion of a handle, the handle being configured to be removable from the bracket, the handle including an elongated gripping portion having a distal end and a spaced apart proximal end, the distal end and the proximal end defining a major axis of the handle. a coupling portion provided at a proximal end of the elongated gripping portion configured to enter a groove in the bracket; an extension rod arranged to translate outward within at least a portion of the handle and having an inclined tip with at least two small flats; a spring connected to the extension rod and operative to urge the inclined tip to enter a gap in the bracket when the coupling portion enters the groove; and an actuator connected to the extension rod and extending outward from a portion of the handle, the actuator configured to translate the extension rod outward to withdraw the tip from the gap in the bracket.

[0019] In another embodiment, any cooking vessel is configured such that when the connector is inserted into the groove and the upper chamfer of the tip and the upper portion of one of the rods first meet the bracket, the beveled tip urges the extension rod backward, thereby storing energy in the spring. In another embodiment, any cooking vessel is configured such that the lower chamfer of the tip acts as a wedge against the lower edge of the gap, causing the residual energy in the spring to urge the connector further upward into the groove.

[0020] A seventh embodiment is a cooking utensil having a bracket on its exterior sidewall for receiving a removable handle. The bracket has an internal groove extending from an opening on its underside that receives the arm or plate portion of the U-shaped connector. The U-shaped connector is located at the end of an elongated plate that extends into the gripping portion of the handle. A recessed indentation on the underside of the elongated plate provides a sliding surface for an extension rod to translate along the elongated plate, and a chamfered tip extends through the U-shaped connector's opening to secure the connection within the bracket. The bracket's internal groove and the portion of the U-shaped connector received therein have complementary inward and upward tapers that allow them to be biased into secure contact by a spring that urges the chamfered end to extend beyond the bracket between the opposing arms that form the U-shaped connector.

[0021] For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure and one or more examples of features and advantages thereof, reference is made to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0022] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1A is a side view of an exemplary handle attached to an exemplary cooking vessel, with the cooking vessel shown partially in cross section. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is a top plan view of an exemplary flange and bracket and handle of the cooking vessel according to FIG. 1A. [Figure 1C] FIG. 1C is a cross-sectional view of the bracket taken along the cutting line of FIG. 1B. [Figure 1D] On the other hand, FIG. 1D is an orthogonal cross section taken through the center of symmetry of the handle and bracket. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a handle attached to a flange of a cooking vessel via a bracket. [Figure 2B]FIG. 2B is another perspective view corresponding to the location inside the cooking vessel below, showing the location of the bracket integral with the flange. [Figure 2C] FIG. 2C is a perspective view of a portion of the handle that engages the bracket, securing the handle to the cooking vessel via a flange and a portion of the bracket. [Figure 3A] FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional side view of the bracket and handle. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is an enlarged side view of FIG. 3A, showing an example of a preferred shape for the tip of the extension rod. [Figure 3C] FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional elevation view of a portion of the handle taken along section line CC of FIG. 3A. [Figure 3D] FIG. 3D is an enlarged view of a portion of the handle within the elliptical area defined by the dashed border in FIG. 3A, showing the actuator in another position. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A is an enlarged cross-sectional elevation view of an alternative chamfered portion of an extension rod of a cook's handle configured to tightly engage the bracket and handle. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a front view of the extension rod in FIG. 4A, perpendicular to the cross-sectional view. [Figure 4C] FIG. 4C is an enlarged cross-sectional elevation view of another alternative chamfered portion of the rod of the handle configured to tightly engage the bracket and handle. [Figure 4D] FIG. 4D is a front view of the extension rod in FIG. 4C, perpendicular to the cross-sectional view. [Figure 5A] FIG. 5A is a side cross-sectional elevation view of another exemplary cooking vessel engaged with another exemplary removable cooking handle. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a top plan view of the cooking vessel and cooking handle according to FIG. 5A. [Figure 5C] FIG. 5C is a bottom view of the cooking vessel and cooking handle according to FIG. 5A. [Figure 6]6A-6B illustrate, in cross-sectional elevation perspective views, exemplary steps for reattaching a cooking handle after it has been removed from a bracket on a side wall of a cooking vessel. [Figure 7] 7A-7B illustrate, in cross-sectional elevation perspective views, exemplary steps for reattaching a cooking handle after it has been removed from a bracket on a side wall of a cooking vessel. [Figure 8] 8A-8B illustrate, in cross-sectional elevation perspective views, exemplary steps for reattaching a cooking handle after it has been removed from a bracket on a side wall of a cooking vessel. [Figure 9] 9A-9C show another embodiment of a handle that can be attached to and detached from a container. [Figure 10] 10A-10B show a further embodiment of a handle that can be attached to or detached from a container. [Figure 11] 11A-11E show further embodiments of handles that can be attached to and detached from a container, and also show alternative embodiments of brackets that can be used to attach and detach the handles to and from the container. [Figure 12] 12A-12J show another embodiment of a handle that can be attached to or detached from a container, and also show another embodiment of a bracket that can be used to attach or detach the handle to or detach the container. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0023] Embodiments of the present disclosure are best understood by referring to Figures 1A-12J of the drawings, in which like or corresponding elements in the various drawings are numbered the same.

[0024] As noted above, cooking vessels (such as pots and pans) are provided with handles that are permanently attached to the cooking vessel. Other conventional cooking vessels are provided with handles that are detachable from the cooking vessel. However, such conventional detachable handles can have drawbacks. For example, such conventional detachable handles require a significant degree of mechanical complexity and require special structure on the cooking vessel to engage the detachable handle. This special structure can be an outwardly extending flange with a lockable mating feature designed to engage an internal fastener on the detachable handle. As another example, a problematic drawback of conventional detachable handles is their lack of tight engagement with a receiving member on the cooking vessel. This results in what is known as handle "play," meaning the handle can move to a certain degree in various directions without a corresponding misalignment on the cooking vessel. This can be uncomfortable and distracting to users because it creates uncertainty as to whether the handle is securely connected to the cooking vessel. Additionally, "play" can result in a lack of initial movement, which can cause the user to apply excessive force, potentially resulting in spillage if the user suddenly moves the cooking container. However, after a slight delay, the container may accelerate more than desired. When the user stops the moving handle, the final deceleration can cause the contents of the still-moving cooking container to overflow the edge and spill. In contrast, Figures 1A-12J can address one or more of these drawbacks.

[0025] 1A-8B illustrate one embodiment of a cooking vessel 1000. As shown in FIG. 1A, the cooking vessel 1000 includes a container 100 for receiving and holding one or more food items (e.g., solid food items, liquids, fluids, etc.) to be cooked or heated. The container 100 includes a bottom 101 and a sidewall 102 connected to the periphery of the bottom 101. The sidewall 102 extends upward to a rim 104 and defines an interior space for holding the food item(s). The container 100 can have any shape and / or size. Additionally, the sidewall 102 can extend vertically upward (i.e., at 90 degrees relative to the bottom 101), can be angled upward (e.g., at 70 degrees relative to the bottom 101), and / or can be curved. An embodiment of a container 100 having a sidewall 102 that extends vertically upward is illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5C.

[0026] The cooking vessel 1000 further includes a handle 200 that is detachable from the vessel 100. This detachable handle 200 allows the handle 200 to be removed for compact storage or transportation of the cooking vessel 1000 (since the handle does not protrude from the side). Furthermore, the detachable handle 200 allows sets of two or more cooking vessels 1000 to be nested together for compact storage. The handle 200 can have any shape and / or size. For example, the handle 200 can be straight or curved, and can be positioned at any angle relative to the vertical reference plane of the bottom 101 of the vessel 100.

[0027] To facilitate attachment and detachment of the handle 200, the cooking vessel 1000 includes a bracket 120 positioned on the sidewall 102 below the rim 104. If the sidewall 102 is sloped, the bracket 120 can be positioned sufficiently below the rim 104 to avoid increasing the required width for storage and accommodation. In another embodiment, the bracket 120 can extend laterally beyond (e.g., above) the outer periphery of the rim 104. The bracket 120 can be integrated into or disposed on the exterior of a flange 115 (shown in FIG. 1B ) that is connected (e.g., directly connected) to the sidewall 102 of the vessel 100, for example, by bolts, welds, rivets, and / or other connectors. The handle 200 can be attached to or detached from the bracket 120. Further details regarding embodiments of the bracket 120 are provided below.

[0028] To further facilitate attachment and detachment of the handle 200, the handle 200 can have a U-shaped connector 210 (shown in FIG. 2C ) that connects at its distal end to an elongated plate 220. The distal end refers to the end farther (e.g., distal) from the container 100 (e.g., the end located on the right side in the figure), and the proximal end refers to the end closer (e.g., proximal) to the container 100 (e.g., the end located on the left side in the figure). The elongated plate 220 thus extends toward a gripping portion 230 of the handle 200. At least a portion of the U-shaped connector 210 is configured to easily engage and disengage from the bracket 120. In some embodiments, the connector 210 is not limited to a strict U-shape. In one or more such embodiments, the outer vertical surface 214 (which enters the cavity 120c of the bracket 120) can have various shapes relative to the gripping portion 230 of the handle 200.

[0029] In some embodiments, U-shaped connector 210 (or its functional equivalent in other embodiments) is configured to be securely engaged within bracket 120 by actuator 260 of handle 200. This configuration eliminates potential gaps between components that can lead to unwanted "play" in conventional systems.

[0030] Additionally, cooking vessel 1000 may provide a more convenient and reliable means for attachment to bracket 120 of cooking vessel 100. For example, in operation, a user of cookware 100 may only use actuator 260 to remove handle 200 from vessel 100, but may not use actuator 260 to attach the removed handle 200 to vessel 100. In contrast, conventional removable handles require a user to manually engage actuator 260 to attach the handle to the cooking vessel. For example, these conventional removable handles are more complex and require a user to simultaneously perform multiple functions to reinstall the removable handle.

[0031] 1A-8B may further assist a user in reinstalling the handle 200 (as opposed to a conventional handle). For example, the user need not fully reinstall the handle 200. In this embodiment, the cooking vessel 1000 may include a spring-driven actuation mechanism that biases the rod of the handle 200 forward and urges the handle 200 to fully retract into the bracket 120 and latch into place. This may result in a fully reinstalled handle 200 in some embodiments. Furthermore, to remove the handle 200, the user may simply engage the actuator 260 and pull the handle 200 away from the vessel 100, thereby unlatching the handle 200.

[0032] As described above, the cooking vessel 1000 includes a bracket 120 positioned on the sidewall 102 of the vessel 100. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1C-1D, the bracket 120 includes a cavity 120c (shown in FIG. 1C). The cavity 120c has a lower opening 120o that can extend generally forward from a rear portion of the bracket 120 closest to the sidewall 102 (e.g., the left side in FIG. 1D) to the bottom of a generally vertical front surface 121 of the bracket 120. The front surface 121 includes a gap 122 positioned above the lower opening 120o. The gap 122 essentially divides the front surface 121 of the bracket 120 into a lower portion 121ls extending from a lower edge 1211 of the front surface 121 and an upper portion 121us positioned above the gap 122. In operation, when the handle 200 is attached to the bracket 120, the aperture 122 receives and supports the extension rod 240 of the handle 200 (described below).

[0033] Adjacent surfaces of bracket 120 surrounding cavity 120c are defined by oppositely facing sidewalls 123, 124 (shown in FIG. 1C), each separated from the other by front surface 121 of bracket 120 disposed therebetween. All three surfaces and sidewalls 121, 123, and 124 of bracket 120 preferably slope inwardly from opening 120o to provide wedge-shaped cavity 120c for receiving one or more complementary portions of handle 200. For example, a portion of U-shaped connector 210 (shown in FIG. 2C) may be shaped and / or sized (or otherwise configured) to extend into cavity 120c when handle 200 is attached to bracket 120. The interior sidewalls of cavity 120c may be curved, plate-like, or any combination of curved shapes.

[0034] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2C , the U-shaped connector 210 includes an outer vertical plate 214 and an inner vertical plate 211 that are connected to each other at the bottom to define the U-shape of the U-shaped connector 210. This connection forms a lateral "C" shape, defining a groove in the U-shaped connector 210 as shown. The outer vertical plate 214 of the U-shaped connector 210 can be shaped and / or sized to be fully received within the cavity 120c of the bracket 120 when the handle 200 is attached to the container 100. In some embodiments, the outer vertical plate 214 of the U-shaped connector 210 preferably has a wedge-like shape, e.g., the same shape as the wedge-like shape of the cavity 120c of the bracket 120c.

[0035] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3A-3D, the handle 200 includes an actuator 260, a spring 250, and an extension rod 240 that can assist in attaching and detaching the handle 200 to the container 100.

[0036] The extension rod 240 refers to a movable structure that can move back and forth relative to the handle 200, such that the angled tip 240t of the extension rod 240 can be extended into (and retracted out of) the gap 122 of the bracket 120. When the extension rod 240 extends into the gap 122, it can help secure the handle 200 to the container 100. Furthermore, when the extension rod 240 retracts out of the gap 122, the handle 200 can be removed from the container 100 (e.g., by pulling the handle 200 downward). When the extension rod 240 moves forward (such that it extends into the gap 122), the angled tip 240t can extend out of the gap 212 in the U-shaped connector 210 (shown in FIG. 2C ). When the extension rod 240 moves rearward (out of the gap 122 and back), the angled tip 240t can be retracted back into the gap 212 in the U-shaped connector 210.

[0037] The extension rod 240 can be positioned to translate along a concave recess 222 in the lower surface 221 of the elongated plate 220 of the handle 200, as shown in FIG. 3C (where the elongated plate 220 and extension rod 240 are shown in cross section perpendicular to the major longitudinal axes of the parts of the handle 200). A portion of the elongated plate 220 can be gripped between the upper and lower shells 231, 232 of the gripping portion 230. Screws can secure the upper and lower shells 231, 232 together. The lower shell 232 can bias the extension rod 240 toward the concave recess 222, thereby maintaining the extension rod 240 in contact with the concave recess 222.

[0038] In some embodiments, the beveled tip 240t of the extension rod 240 is preferably comprised of three facets. Examples of these three facets are shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B as upper facet 241, middle facet 242, and lower facet 243. The upper facet 241 extends from the top surface of the extension rod 240 beyond its centerline and is disposed at an angle α relative to the top surface of the extension rod 240. In some embodiments, the angle α is in the range of about (i.e., + / - 5 degrees) 20 degrees to about 60 degrees, preferably in the range of about 25 degrees to about 55 degrees, and more preferably in the range of about 40 degrees to about 50 degrees. The middle facet 242 extends from the interface with the upper facet 241 to near the lower surface of the extension rod 240 and is disposed at an angle β relative to a base that is coplanar with the lower facet 243. In some embodiments, angle β ranges from about 10 degrees to about 40 degrees, preferably from about 15 degrees to about 35 degrees, and more preferably from about 18 degrees to about 30 degrees. Lower facet 243 is disposed at angle γ relative to the lower surface of extension rod 240, which in some embodiments ranges from about 0 degrees to about 15 degrees, preferably from about 1 degree to about 10 degrees, and more preferably from about 1 degree to about 5 degrees. The facets 241, 242, and 243 preferably define two parallel straight edges that are disposed generally parallel to the bottom of bracket 120, as shown in FIG. 4B.

[0039] In some embodiments, the extension rod 240 can be inclined at an acute angle θ relative to the horizontal plane of the bottom 101 of the container 100, as shown in FIG. 4C. In such cases, the angle θ is between about 5 degrees and about 25 degrees, and the angles α, β, and γ are most preferably about 45 degrees, about 20 degrees, and about 3 degrees, respectively. The upper portion of the extension rod 240 near the tip 240t can function as the upper facet 241 when it meets the lower edge 1211 of the bracket 120. In some embodiments, the inclined tip 240t preferably comprises three facets arranged at optimal angles. The inclined tip 240t can also have an obtuse angle ω between the lower facet 241 and the middle facet 242.

[0040] In some embodiments, the slope of facets 241, 242, and 243 of beveled tip 240t allows for tolerance variations in gap 212 and / or gap 122. Additionally, in some embodiments, the use of concave recess 222 to guide extension rod 240 into gap 122 of bracket 120 can help eliminate potential "play" as spring 250 (via extension rod 240) acts to complete contact of outer vertical plate 214 within complementary cavity 120c of bracket 120. Other examples of the function and benefits of the shape of beveled tip 240t (which may be defined by facets 241, 242, and 243) are described below with reference to Figures 7A-8B.

[0041] While the extension rod 240 is illustrated as having a circular cross-sectional area, it can have other shapes, such as square, oval, rectangular, or other shapes (e.g., grooved) that allow the beveled tip 240t to be inserted into the gap 122, or any combination of the above. In some embodiments, other shapes for the extension rod 240 that are not circular do not prevent two or more facets from defining a preferred range of angles to provide a secure, "play-free" connection of the handle 200 to the container 100. Additionally, the extension rod 240 can have other shapes, such as grooved, that bias the wedge-shaped portion against the bracket 120. Additionally, the extension rod 240 can be straight or curved.

[0042] In some embodiments, the front facets of extension rod 240 (or any other portion of handle 200 that engages face 121 of bracket 120) preferably have a tapered shape that is complementary to the outer shape of face 121 of bracket 120. In some embodiments, the outer and inner surfaces of bracket 120 can have complementary inward or outward tapers to perfectly mate with different sets of two or more spaced apart faces of U-shaped connector 210 (or any other similar connector structure of handle 200).

[0043] As described above, the handle 200 further includes a spring 250 and an actuator 260. The spring 250 refers to a structure or device that resiliently applies a force to the extension rod 240. The spring 250 can apply a force to the distal end of the extension rod 240, causing the angled tip 240t to extend toward the bracket 120. This can secure the extension rod 240 in place (at least temporarily) when the angled tip 240t extends into the gap 122 in the bracket 120. Although the spring 250 is illustrated as applying a force to the extension rod 240, in an alternative embodiment, the force can be applied directly to the actuator 260 rather than the extension rod 240.

[0044] Actuator 260 refers to a structure or device that can exert a counterforce on extension rod 240, temporarily retracting beveled tip 240t out of gap 122 in bracket 120. When activated (or used), actuator 260 can exert a force on extension rod 240, which pushes extension rod 240 back against the force of spring 250, thereby compressing spring 250 and retracting beveled tip 240t out of gap 122 in bracket 120. When actuator 260 is deactivated (or released or not used), it no longer exerts a force on extension rod 240, and spring 250 once again moves beveled tip 240t toward bracket 120 (or extends beveled tip 240t away from gripping portion 230 of handle 200).

[0045] The actuator 260 can have any size, shape, and / or positioning that allows it to exert a counterforce on the extension rod 240. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2B and 3A, the actuator 260 is button-like and positioned at the bottom of the gripping portion 230. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5A-5C, the actuator 260 is shaped like a downwardly extending trigger, which is also positioned at the bottom of the gripping portion 230. In other embodiments, the actuator 260 can also optionally be positioned on the top or side of the gripping portion 230. In some embodiments, the actuator 260 can have a portion 261 that can bend to extend a rearward stop 262 upward over a portion of the lower shell 232; such an embodiment is shown in FIG. 3D. This flexibility allows the portion 261 to move upward into a cavity within the lower shell 232, allowing the actuator 260 to move further rearward. As further shown in FIG. 3D, the actuator 260 further includes an upper portion 260u connected to the elongated rod 240 (via two coupling members) so that the actuator 260 can exert a counter force on the elongated rod 240.

[0046] 6A-6B illustrate an exemplary process for removing the handle 200 from the container 100. Figure 6A schematically illustrates the movement of the actuator 260 used to release the handle 200, allowing it to be removed from the container 100 by a downward movement of the gripping portion 230, as illustrated in Figure 6B.

[0047] As shown in Figure 6A, the actuator 260 is moved rearward (in the direction of arrow 501) by the user. This action removes the tip 240t of the extension rod 240 from the gap 122 in the bracket 120. Thereafter, as shown in Figure 6B, the user can lower the handle 200 in the direction of arrow 502, which removes the U-shaped connector 210 from the bracket 120. This separates the handle 200 from the container 100.

[0048] 7A-8B illustrate an exemplary process for attaching the handle 200 to the container 100. FIG. 7A schematically shows the handle 200 being positioned for reinstallation by inserting a portion of the handle 200 into the bracket 120 of the container 100. FIG. 7B shows the handle 200 first engaging the bracket 120 and the movement of the extension rod 240 as the handle 200 is lifted. FIG. 8A shows the subsequent engagement of the handle 200 with the bracket 120 as the extension rod 240 begins to enter the gap 122 in the bracket 120. FIG. 8B illustrates the position of the handle member prior to full engagement with the bracket 120.

[0049] 7A-7B, the user positions outer vertical plate 214 of handle 200 below bracket 120, and more specifically, below opening 120o in bracket 120. The user can then perform an upward movement on handle 200 (in the direction of arrow 502) such that outer vertical plate 214 (or another equivalent structure of handle 200) is inserted into cavity 120c in bracket 120.

[0050] When the outer vertical plate 214 is inserted into the cavity 120c, the beveled tip 240t of the extension rod 240 is met (or contacted) by the lower edge 1211 and the bottom edge 1212 of the bracket 120, in that order, after which the extension rod 240 is fully inserted into the gap 122 in the bracket 120. This can be seen in Figures 7A and 7B.

[0051] As the user lifts the handle 200, the upper facet 241 meets the bottom edge 1211 of the bracket 120, as seen in FIG. 7B. The angle of the facet 241 allows a portion of the upward force to be displaced laterally relative to the extension rod 240, causing the extension rod 240 to move rearward against (compress) the spring 250. As the handle 200 is then lifted further, the middle facet 242 meets the bottom edge 1212, allowing the compressed spring 250 to propel the extension rod 240 forward toward the bracket 120. This is illustrated in FIG. 8A. This forward movement of the extension rod 240 causes the lower facet 243 to subsequently meet the bottom edge 1212, simultaneously biasing the handle 200 upward. For example, if the handle 200 is prematurely released by the user before the outer vertical plate 214 is fully inserted into the cavity 120c, the upward movement (caused by the lower facet 243) can continue to push the handle 200 upward, allowing the outer vertical plate 214 to fully enter the cavity 120c of the bracket 120. This attaches the handle 200 to the container 100, as seen in FIG. 8B. This can also, in some embodiments, eliminate potential "play" in the joint or connection of the handle 200 to the bracket 120. Furthermore, attachment of the handle 200 does not require the user to actuate the actuator 260.

[0052] In some embodiments, the function of spring 250 is not simply to bias angled tip 240t into gap 122 of bracket 120, but also to bias outer vertical plate 214 (or its equivalent) fully upward into cavity 120c by acting on bottom edge 1212 of gap 122 (opposed by the weight of container 100 and its contents). This allows handle 200 to be fully attached to container 100 even without the user moving handle 200 upward. In some embodiments, by positioning the boundary between facets 241 and 242 below the centerline of rod 240, extension rod 240 begins to act via spring 250, biasing handle 200 upward even if the user releases handle gripping portion 230, so that handle 200 automatically engages bracket 120. The user does not need to use (or remember to use) the actuator 260 to engage the handle 200 with the container 100 .

[0053] 9A-9C depict another embodiment of a handle 200 that can be attached to or detached from the container 100. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 9A-9C, the actuator 260 is a laterally depressible knob (or other depressible structure) positioned at the distal end of the gripping portion 230 of the handle 200. When not depressed by a user, the actuator 260 can extend out from the distal end of the gripping portion 230 of the handle 200. In some cases, when depressed by a user, the actuator 260 can move laterally into a cavity at the distal end of the gripping portion 230 of the handle 200.

[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, the handle 200 further includes a rocker arm 280, a pull arm 270, and an extension rod 240. The actuator 260 is coupled to the rocker arm 280. The rocker arm 280 is coupled to the pull arm 270. The pull arm 270 is coupled to the extension rod 240. In an example of operation, when a user presses the actuator 260 (e.g., presses the actuator 260 toward the left in FIGS. 9A-9C), the rocker arm 280 rotates about the pivot point (e.g., clockwise in FIGS. 9A-9C). This pulls the pull arm 270 rearward (e.g., toward the right in FIGS. 9A-9C), which in turn pulls the extension rod 240 rearward (e.g., toward the right in FIGS. 9A-9C). As explained above, this action withdraws angled tip 240t from gap 122 in bracket 120 (which in turn compresses spring 250). Handle 200 can then be removed from bracket 120 by moving handle 200 downward relative to container 100, thereby removing outer vertical plate 214 of U-shaped connector 210 from cavity 120c in bracket 120.

[0055] Although spring 250 is shown secured to a cavity located at the top right of rod 240, spring 250 can be located in a different location. Additionally, in some embodiments, spring 250 can be replaced with a torsion spring in rocker arm 280.

[0056] 10A-10B show a further embodiment of a handle 200 that can be attached to and detached from the container 100. Fig. 10A is an exploded view of the handle 200, and Fig. 10B is a half-sectional perspective view along the axis of symmetry of the handle 200. The container 100, flange 115, and bracket 120 are not shown in Figs. 10A-10B.

[0057] In some embodiments, handle 200 is preferably a short or auxiliary handle for a cookware. To assist in providing a short handle, rod 240 can be shortened (compared to elongated rod 200 described above). To further assist in providing a short handle, spring 250 can be a leaf spring, flat spring, or plate spring (rather than a linear spring as described above for the embodiment of spring 250 in FIGS. 1A-9C). In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10A-10B, spring 250 is a V-folded flat spring with a flat center.

[0058] Additionally, the actuator 260 can be positioned on top of the gripping portion 230 of the handle 200 at a location adjacent the proximal end of the gripping portion 230. The actuator 260 can be linearly movable (by a user) within a slot or track contained within the handle 200.

[0059] The rod 240 of the handle 200 may also include one or more stops 245 (e.g., two stops 245a, 245b) protruding perpendicularly from the rod 240. A spring 250 may exert a force against a distal portion of the stop 245 (i.e., the right portion of the stop 245 in FIGS. 10A-10B ), thereby biasing the rod 240 forward (to the left in FIGS. 10A-10B ). To assist in this, the spring 250 may include a gap through which the rod 240 may be inserted, as shown. This allows the front end of the spring 250 to press directly against the distal end of the stop 245. Additionally, the actuator 260 may exert a counterforce against a proximal portion of the stop 245 (the left portion of the stop 245 in FIGS. 10A-10B ), thereby biasing the rod 240 rearward (to the right in FIGS. 10A-10B ). To assist in this, the actuator 260 may also include a slot through which the rod 240 may be inserted, as shown, to allow the rear side of the actuator 260 to press directly against the proximal portion of the stop 245.

[0060] As an example of operation, a user can push actuator 260 rearward within the track, as represented by the arrows in FIGS. 10A-10B. This causes actuator 260 to exert a force on the proximal portion of stop 245, thereby moving rod 240 rearward (to the right in FIGS. 10A-10B). As explained above, this movement withdraws beveled tip 240t from gap 122 in bracket 120 (which also compresses the spring). Handle 200 can then be moved downward relative to container 100, disengaging outer vertical plate 214 of U-shaped connector 210 from cavity 120c in bracket 120, allowing the handle to be removed from bracket 120. When the user stops pushing actuator 260, compressed spring 250 can again move rod 240 forward (to the left in FIGS. 10A-10B).

[0061] 11A-11E show a further embodiment of a handle 200 that can be attached to and detached from a container 100, and also show another embodiment of a bracket 120 that can be used to attach and detach the handle 200 to and from the container 100. FIG. 11A is a semi-transparent perspective view of the handle 200 attached to the bracket 120 (the container is not shown). FIG. 11B is a perspective view of the connector 210 of the handle 200. FIG. 11C is a vertical cross-sectional view of the handle 200 attached to the bracket 120. FIGS. 11D-11E are vertical cross-sectional views illustrating exemplary steps for attaching the handle 200 to the bracket 120 of the container 100.

[0062] 11A-11E, the handle 200 does not include an extension rod 240. Instead, the actuator 260 of the handle 200 can engage (e.g., clip or clamp) a portion of the bracket 120. In some embodiments, this can help secure the handle 200 to the container 100.

[0063] 11A-11E, the handle 200 includes a connector 210, a spring 250, and an actuator 260. The connector 210 is configured to be easily engaged with and removed from the bracket 120. For example, the connector 210 may include an outer vertical plate 214 that extends into the cavity 120c in the bracket 120. The outer vertical plate 214 may have any shape and / or size that can fit within the cavity 120c in the bracket 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer vertical plate 214 is shaped like two adjacent upright cones. These cones can mate with the opening 120c (which has the shape of two adjacent conical slots that substantially match the shape and size of the upright cones of the outer vertical plate 214). In some embodiments, two adjacent conical sections are optionally split (as shown in FIG. 11B ), which allows for easier compression and provides a secure fit within bracket 120. In other embodiments, outer vertical plate 214 can be a single conical section, a U-shaped wedge section (similar to those described above), or any other shape (and size) that allows outer vertical plate 214 to fit within cavity 120c of bracket 120. In some embodiments, connecting portion 210 and outer vertical plate 214 can be made from cast metal.

[0064] 11B, the linkage 210 can further include an angled shelf positioned behind the outer vertical plate 214. This shelf can include a forward, upwardly facing shaft 279 that can center and stabilize the position of the spring 250. The actuator 260 can include a complementary extending shaft 281 that can center and stabilize the opposite side of the spring 250.

[0065] The spring 250 can exert a force on the actuator 260. In the illustrated embodiment, the spring 250 is a torsion or compression spring. As shown in FIGS. 11A-11E, the spring 250 can be positioned at an angle. This allows the force from the spring 250 to rotate the actuator 260 in a counterclockwise direction toward the front (left side of FIGS. 11A-11E). This rotation allows the actuator 260 to engage (e.g., clip or clamp) a portion of the bracket 120, helping to secure the handle 200 to the container 100. The force from the spring 250 can also resist clockwise rotation toward the rear (right side of FIGS. 11A-11E) of the actuator 260.

[0066] As explained above, the actuator 260 is configured to engage (e.g., clip or clamp) a portion of the bracket 120. In some embodiments, this can help secure the handle 200 to the container 100. For example, the handle 200 can be locked in place relative to the container 100, thereby eliminating (or reducing) any "play" between the two parts.

[0067] The actuator 260 can engage any portion of the bracket 120. For example, as shown in FIGS. 11A-11E, the actuator 260 can engage the upper edge 128 of the bracket 120. To assist in this engagement, the actuator 260 can have one or more outwardly extending structures (e.g., lips, protrusions, etc.) that can mate with corresponding inwardly extending structures (e.g., divots, gaps, etc.) on the upper edge 128 of the bracket 120. This engagement can be further assisted by rotational motion of the actuator 260 (e.g., counterclockwise rotation to create a clamping motion), as described above. As shown in FIG. 11C, to create this rotational motion, the actuator 260 can have one or more rotational linkages 265 that rotatably couple the actuator 260 to the linkage 210. The rotational linkage 265 can be an arm having two opposing holes. 11B and 11C, each of these holes can receive a corresponding cylindrical shaft 267 that points inwardly from opposing upright conical portions of outer vertical plate 214. In some embodiments, the axis of rotation of actuator 260 is thus defined by the common axis of the hole and cylindrical portion 267.

[0068] In some embodiments, actuator 260 has been described as engaging a portion of bracket 120, but actuator 260 may alternatively (or additionally) engage flange 115 (to which bracket 120 may be attached or integral, as described above).

[0069] The actuator 260 may further have a rearwardly and downwardly facing shaft 281. Similar to the shaft 279 of the linkage 210, the shaft 281 of the actuator 260 may center and stabilize the position of the spring 250.

[0070] 11D-11E are partial vertical cross-sectional views illustrating exemplary steps for attaching the handle 200 to the bracket 120 of the container 100. As seen in FIG. 11D, as the user moves the handle 200 upward, the front upper edge of the actuator 260 (which may include one or more of the facets described above) can contact the lower edge of the bracket 120. This contact (combined with an upward force provided by the user) can rotate the actuator 260 clockwise backward (to the right in FIGS. 11D-11E). This allows the user to avoid having to engage the actuator 260 to attach the handle 200 to the container 100. The user can then continue to move the handle 200 upward, causing the outer vertical plate 214 (which has the shape of two adjacent upright conical sections) to enter the cavity 120c (which has the shape of two adjacent conical slots that substantially match the shape and size of the upright conical sections of the outer vertical plate 214).

[0071] As seen in FIG. 11E, the upward movement of handle 200 causes actuator 260 to move upward over top edge 128 of bracket 120. When this occurs, force from spring 250 (not shown in FIGS. 11D-11E) can cause actuator 260 to rotate forward in a counterclockwise direction (to the left in FIGS. 11D-11E). For example, actuator 260 can engage (e.g., snap or clamp) top edge 128 of bracket 120 to help secure handle 200 to container 100. In some embodiments, as described above, the rotational clamping action of actuator 260 can cause actuator 260 to continue to attach to container 100 even when the user stops pressing upward on handle 200.

[0072] To remove the handle 200, the user can depress the actuator 260, which causes it to rotate backward in a clockwise direction (to the right in FIGS. 11D-11E). The user can then move the handle 200 downward relative to the container 100, causing the outer vertical plate 214 (having the shape of two adjacent upright cones) to move out of the cavity 120c (having the shape of two adjacent conical slots that substantially match the shape and size of the upright cones of the outer vertical plate 214). This allows the handle 200 to be removed from the container 100.

[0073] 12A-12J illustrate another embodiment of a handle 200 that can be attached to or detached from the container 100, and also illustrate another embodiment of a bracket 120 that can be used to attach or detach the handle 120 to or from the container 100. FIG. 12A is a cross-sectional view of the handle 200 removed from the bracket 120. FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view of the handle 200 attached to the bracket 120. FIG. 12C is a perspective view of the bracket 120. FIG. 12D is a perspective view of the connector 210 of the handle 200. FIG. 12E is a perspective view of the actuator 260 of the handle 200. FIGS. 12F-12J illustrate, in cross-sectional elevational perspective views, an exemplary sequence of steps for removing the handle 200 from the container 100.

[0074] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 12A-12J, the bracket 120 does not include the cavity 120c and the gap 122 (as well as one or more other components shown in FIGS. 1A-8B). Instead, the bracket 120 includes two side walls 126 and two rods 130 extending horizontally between the two side walls 126. The two rods 130 include an upper rod 130a and a lower rod 130b spaced a vertical distance from the upper rod 130a. Each rod 130 can have any shape and / or size that allows the handle 200 to be attached to the bracket 120 via the rod 130. In the illustrated embodiment, the rods 130 have a cylindrical shape, with the upper rod 130a having a larger outer diameter than the lower rod 130b.

[0075] As shown in FIGS. 12A-12J, the handle 200 includes a coupling portion 210, a spring 250, and an actuator 260. The coupling portion 210 is configured to be easily engaged with and removed from the bracket 120. For example, the coupling portion 210 can be positioned to abut the rod 130, thereby allowing the coupling portion 210 to engage with the bracket 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling portion 210 includes a groove 218 that can be fitted onto the upper rod 130a and at least partially surrounds the upper rod 130a. The groove 218 can have any shape and / or size. As shown, the groove 218 is formed as a semi-cylindrical groove, has an upward opening for engaging the upper rod 130a, and is configured to at least partially surround the upper rod 130a. The connector 210 can further include a recessed bottom 224 that can be positioned against a side of the lower rod 130b. The recessed bottom 224 can cooperate with one or more hooks 268 of the actuator 260 (described below) to at least partially surround the lower rod 130b.

[0076] The spring 250 can exert a force on the actuator 260. In the illustrated embodiment, the spring 250 is a torsion or compression spring. As shown in FIGS. 12A-12J, the spring 250 can be positioned at an angle. This allows the force from the spring 250 to rotate the actuator 260 in a counterclockwise direction forward (left side of FIGS. 12A-12J). This rotation allows the actuator 260 to engage (e.g., clip or clamp) a portion of the bracket 120, helping to secure the handle 200 to the container 100. The force from the spring 250 can also resist clockwise rotation backward (right side of FIGS. 12A-12J).

[0077] To position the spring at an angle, the handle 200 can include a forward, upwardly facing shaft 279 located within a cavity in the handle 200. The shaft 279 can center and stabilize the position of the spring 250. The actuator 260 can include a complementary extending shaft 281 to center and stabilize the opposite side of the spring 250.

[0078] Actuator 260 is configured to engage (e.g., snap or clamp) a portion of bracket 120. In some embodiments, this can help secure handle 200 to container 100. For example, handle 200 can be locked in place relative to container 100, thereby eliminating (or reducing) any "play" between the two parts.

[0079] The actuator 260 can engage any portion of the bracket 120. For example, as shown in FIGS. 12A-12J, the actuator 260 can engage the upper edge 128 of the bracket 120. To assist in this engagement, the actuator 260 can have one or more outwardly extending structures (e.g., lips, protrusions, etc.) that can mate with corresponding inwardly extending structures (e.g., divots, gaps, etc.) on the upper edge 128 of the bracket 120. This engagement can be further assisted by rotational motion of the actuator 260 (e.g., counterclockwise rotation to create a clamping motion), as described above. As shown in FIG. 12B, to create this rotational motion, the actuator 260 can have one or more rotational linkages 265 that rotatably couple the actuator 260 to an interior portion of the handle 200. In some embodiments, the rotary linkage 265 can rotatably connect the actuator 260 to the lower shell 232 of the handle 200. In other embodiments, the rotary linkage 265 can rotatably connect the actuator 260 to the rear side of the linkage 210.

[0080] In the illustrated embodiment, the rotational link 265 is an arm provided with two opposing holes (or one hole extending through the arm), each capable of receiving a respective inwardly facing cylindrical shaft 267. In some embodiments, the axis of rotation of the actuator 260 is thus defined by the common axis of the holes and the cylindrical portion 267.

[0081] In some embodiments, actuator 260 has been described as engaging a portion of bracket 120, but actuator 260 may alternatively (or additionally) engage flange 115 (as described above, bracket 120 may be attached to flange 115 or flange 115 may be integral with bracket 120).

[0082] As shown, the actuator 260 is further configured to engage the lower rod 130b of the bracket 120. For example, the actuator 260 can include one or more hooks 268 that can engage the lower rod 130b of the bracket 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator 260 includes two forward-facing hooks 268 that are positioned vertically below the groove 218 of the coupling portion 210. In the illustrated embodiment, the hooks 268 are spaced apart (e.g., on opposite sides of the actuator 260) and are positioned at the bottom of the actuator 260 (or adjacent to each other) with a pivot at the bottom.

[0083] When engaged with lower rod 130b, hook 268 extends to cover the upper front side of lower rod 130b, thereby compressing lower rod 130b between hooks 268 of actuator 260 and also compressing recess bottom 224 of coupling portion 210. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 12G, when actuator 260 is rotated counterclockwise backward (to the right in Figs. 12A to 12J), hook 260 lifts up (and rotates backward), allowing it to be removed from lower rod 130b.

[0084] The actuator 260 can further have a rearwardly and downwardly facing shaft 281. Similar to the shaft 279 of the handle 200, the shaft 281 of the actuator 260 can center and stabilize the position of the spring 250. The spring 250 can be nested between the shaft 279 of the handle 200 and the shaft 281 of the actuator 260.

[0085] The linkage 210 can be fixed in place on the handle 200, while the actuator 260 can rotate (as described above) relative to the handle 200. For example, any movement of the handle 200 (up, down, rotation, etc.) causes the linkage 210 to move with the handle 200.

[0086] 12F-12J illustrate, in cross-sectional elevation perspective views, an exemplary sequence of steps for removing the handle 200 from the container 100. FIG. In FIG. 12F, the handle 200 is fully attached to the bracket 120 (and thus the container 100, not shown). In FIG. 12G, the user presses on actuator 260, causing it to rotate clockwise backward (to the right in FIGS. 12F-12J). This causes hook 268 to lift up (and rotate back) and disengage from lower rod 130b, as shown in Figure 12G.

[0087] In Figure 12H, the handle 200 is rotated upward (e.g., counterclockwise) relative to the bracket 120. This rotation of the handle 200 rotates the hook 268 to a position where the lower rod 130b is not present, as shown in Figure 12H. This rotates the groove 218 relative to the upper rod 130a. While rotating the handle in Figure 12H, the user can maintain the engaged state of the actuator 260. That is, the user can continue to press the actuator 260. In another embodiment, the handle 200 can have a locking feature that can temporarily hold the actuator 260 in the engaged position.

[0088] In Figure 12I, the handle 200 has been moved laterally downward and away from the bracket 120. This allows the groove 218 to be removed from the upper rod 130a, as shown in Figure 12I. Once this is done, in some embodiments, the handle 200 can be removed from the container 100.

[0089] To attach the handle 200 to the container 100, the process illustrated in FIGS. 12F-12J can be reversed and repeated. By doing so, the upper portion of the actuator 260 is positioned vertically above the upper edge 128 of the bracket 120, and the groove 218 engages the upper rod 130a (as seen in FIG. 12G), allowing the user to release the actuator 260. The compressed spring 250 (not shown in FIGS. 12F-12J) then rotates the actuator 260 forward, thereby engaging the hook 268 with the lower rod 130b. This also engages the actuator 260 with the upper edge 128 of the bracket 120. In some embodiments, this securely attaches the upper rod 130a to the groove 218 of the coupling 210, thereby attaching the handle 200 to the container 100. In some embodiments, this can also eliminate (or reduce) any gaps that exist between the handle 200 and components of the container 100, thereby eliminating (or reducing) any "play" between these components.

[0090] Modifications, additions, and / or substitutions may be made to the cooking vessel 1000 shown in one or more of Figures 1A-12J, the components of the cooking vessel 1000 shown in one or more of Figures 1A-12J, and / or the features of the cooking vessel 1000 shown in one or more of Figures 1A-12J without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the components of the cooking vessel 1000 shown in one or more of Figures 1A-12J may have any suitable shape and may be made from any suitable material (e.g., cast metal). Furthermore, one or more components shown in Figures 1A-12J may be added to or removed from any of the cooking vessels 1000 shown in Figures 1A-12J.

[0091] As used herein, the grammatical articles "one," "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include "at least one" or "one or more" unless otherwise specified. Accordingly, articles are used herein to refer to one or more (i.e., "at least one") of the grammatical object of the article. By way of example, "part" means one or more parts, and thus, potentially, one or more parts are contemplated and may be applied or used in the application of the described embodiments. Furthermore, the use of a singular noun includes the plural, and the use of a plural noun includes the singular unless the context of the usage dictates otherwise. Furthermore, the grammatical conjunctions "and" and "or" are used herein in accordance with accepted usage. By way of example, "x and y" refers to "x" and "y." On the other hand, "x or y" refers to "x", "y", or both "x" and "y", while "either x or y" indicates exclusivity.

[0092] This specification has been described with reference to various non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments or examples. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that various substitutions, modifications, or combinations of any of the disclosed embodiments or examples (or portions thereof) may be made within the scope of this specification. Accordingly, this specification is contemplated and understood to support additional embodiments or examples not expressly set forth herein. Such embodiments or examples may be obtained, for example, by combining, modifying, or rearranging any of the disclosed parts, elements, features, aspects, properties, limitations, etc., of the various non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments or examples described herein. As such, applicants reserve the right to amend the claims during the pendency of prosecution to add features as variously described herein.

Claims

1. (a) a container having a base surrounded by generally upright side walls terminating in a rim to define an interior space for holding a food item; (b) a bracket connected to an outer surface of the generally upright sidewall adjacent the rim, the bracket having two vertically spaced apart rods extending horizontally along the bracket, the two vertically spaced apart rods including an upper rod and a lower rod; (c) a removable handle for the container; A cooking vessel comprising: The handle, (i) a gripping portion; (ii) a coupling portion fixedly attached to the gripping portion, the coupling portion having a groove and a recessed bottom, the groove configured to surround at least a portion of the upper rod when placed against the upper rod, and the recessed bottom configured to contact a side portion of the lower rod when placed against the lower rod; (iii) an actuator rotatably coupled to the handle, the actuator having an upper portion configured to engage an upper edge of the bracket when the actuator is rotated forward and further configured to be disengaged from the upper edge of the bracket when the actuator is manually rotated backward by a user, the actuator further having one or more hooks configured to engage a lower rod of the bracket when the actuator is rotated forward and further configured to be disengaged from the lower rod of the bracket when the actuator is manually rotated backward by a user; (iv) a spring coupled to the actuator and configured to exert a force on the actuator to rotate the actuator forward, wherein when the actuator is released by a user, the upper portion of the actuator engages an upper edge of the bracket and the one or more hooks of the actuator engage the lower rod of the bracket; and A cooking vessel characterized by being equipped with:

2. 2. The cooking vessel according to claim 1, wherein the two rods extend horizontally between two opposing side walls of the bracket.

3. 2. The cooking vessel of claim 1, wherein the actuator is rotatably connected to a lower shell of the handle.

4. 2. The cooking vessel of claim 1, wherein the actuator is rotatably connected to the connector portion of the handle.

5. 10. The cooking vessel of claim 1, wherein the one or more hooks of the actuator include two horizontally spaced apart hooks.

6. 2. The cooking vessel according to claim 1, wherein the two rods each have a cylindrical shape, and the groove of the connecting portion has a semi-cylindrical shape.

Images