Molded Rubber Golf-Style Grip Cover for Drinkware

Abstract

An interchangeable rubber grip cover for drinkware, providing enhanced usability, protection, and customization. The grip cover, manufactured from natural rubber or food-grade silicone, incorporates a golf grip-inspired ergonomic design for superior handling and reduced hand fatigue. It offers shock absorption, noise reduction, and thermal insulation while featuring a distinctive pattern for enhanced grip performance. The grip cover is adaptable to multiple bottle sizes and includes strategic venting holes for easy removal and customizable branding areas for personalization.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 552,128, filed on Feb. 10, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH

[0002] Not Applicable.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Stainless-steel drinkware presents several challenges in everyday use. The smooth and often untextured surface makes it difficult to maintain a secure grip, particularly in wet, cold, or humid conditions, increasing the risk of accidental drops and damage. Additionally, prolonged use can lead to hand fatigue due to the absence of ergonomic grip features.

[0004] Many stainless-steel bottles become uncomfortable to hold in extreme temperatures despite insulation features. Furthermore, these bottles are prone to dents and scratches from impacts and generate disruptive noise when placed on hard surfaces.

[0005] Existing solutions do not effectively integrate ergonomic comfort, thermal protection, impact resistance, and noise reduction into a single, adaptable product. Current alternatives often lack customization options that allow for branding and personalization, making them less appealing to users seeking both functional and aesthetic improvements.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The present invention relates generally to beverage container accessories, more specifically to removable grip covers for insulated stainless-steel bottles. This invention addresses the need for improved ergonomic handling, temperature insulation, impact protection, and customizable branding options, particularly for applications in sports, outdoor recreation, and daily use.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] This invention introduces an innovative, interchangeable grip cover for drinkware, inspired by golf grip technology to enhance handling, comfort, and durability. The grip is constructed from high-quality materials such as natural rubber or food-grade silicone, providing a flexible yet resilient covering that improves grip performance in various conditions.

[0008] The design accommodates a wide range of bottle sizes, ensuring broad compatibility while offering optimal impact resistance, shock absorption, and enhanced insulation. The grip's dimensions, including height, diameter, and thickness, are structured to fit multiple standard and custom drinkware forms without restricting adaptability.

[0009] A key feature of the grip cover is a continuous, asymmetric geometric pattern composed of interlocking angular and diamond-shaped elements. This structured design enhances the user's grip by distributing pressure evenly, reducing slippage, and improving handling comfort across various conditions.

[0010] Additional features include strategic venting holes for easy removal, noise-reducing properties to minimize clatter on hard surfaces, and branding areas that allow for extensive customization. The single-piece, seamless construction eliminates weak points while ensuring durability and longevity.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] FIG. 1 is a vertical front view of the device showing element 10 in which illustrates the adaptable height range of the grip, accommodating various bottle sizes and element 12 in which depicts the variable diameter compatibility, allowing for secure fitting on different drinkware dimensions.

[0012] FIG. 2 is a vertical rear view of the device showing element 20 in which shows the two horizontal lines framing both top and bottom of the interlocking geometric pattern of angular and diamond-shaped and element 22 demonstrates the continuous wrapping of the pattern around the grip.

[0013] FIG. 3 is a vertical view of the device showing the top opening to illustrate the wall thickness in which element 30 illustrates the adjustable grip thickness to balance comfort and durability and element 32 displays the branding area dimensions for customization.

[0014] FIG. 4 is a horizontal view of the underside of the device showing element 40 which confirms the grip as a single, seamless piece and element 42 which depicts the strategic venting holes for grip removal.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0015] The grip cover's construction utilizes two primary material options: natural rubber for its durability, flexibility, and superior shock absorption, particularly in sports applications, and food-grade silicone for hypoallergenic, dishwasher-safe performance meeting FDA standards. Both materials provide thermal insulation and impact protection while maintaining grip integrity in various environmental conditions.Design Features:

[0016] The grip features a continuous, pattern extends continuously along the exterior surface of the grip, wrapping around its circumference, with structural integration that prevents deformation over time. Two horizontal lines frame this pattern, reinforcing both functional grip characteristics and aesthetic appeal. The design is reminiscent of professional golf grips, ensuring consistent performance and comfortBranding and Customization:

[0017] A dedicated branding area allows for extensive customization:

[0018] Vertical Branding Space: Adjustable width and height to accommodate various logo sizes.

[0019] Horizontal Branding Space: Customizable dimensions for logos, text, or branding marks.

[0020] In some embodiments, the invention may incorporate various marking or labeling techniques for co-branding purposes. These techniques may include, but are not limited to, printing methods such as UV printing, screen printing, lasering or the application of rubber ink. The marking or labeling may be applied to any suitable surface of the invention, allowing for flexibility in co-branding placement and design. The specific method, material, and location of such markings can be adapted based on the particular co-branding requirements or preferences.Construction Characteristics:

[0021] The grip is designed as a single, continuous piece without seams, eliminating structural weak points and ensuring long-term durability. The raised and recessed formations of the interlocking angular and diamond-shaped elements serve a dual purpose: (1) enhancing multi-directional grip by providing friction points along key hand contact areas, and (2) facilitating pressure distribution to reduce localized strain. The geometric formations, when combined with the material properties of natural rubber or silicone, ensure sustained grip performance under moisture, temperature fluctuations, and repeated use.Venting and Removal Mechanism:

[0022] Strategically positioned venting holes allow for easy grip removal while maintaining structural integrity. These holes, placed near the base of the grip cover, facilitate a removal process involving a combination of pressing, twisting, and pulling motions.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0015]The grip cover's construction utilizes two primary material options: natural rubber for its durability, flexibility, and superior shock absorption, particularly in sports applications, and food-grade silicone for hypoallergenic, dishwasher-safe performance meeting FDA standards. Both materials provide thermal insulation and impact protection while maintaining grip integrity in various environmental conditions.

Design Features:

[0016]The grip features a continuous, pattern extends continuously along the exterior surface of the grip, wrapping around its circumference, with structural integration that prevents deformation over time. Two horizontal lines frame this pattern, reinforcing both functional grip characteristics and aesthetic appeal. The design is reminiscent of professional golf grips, ensuring consistent performance and comfort

Branding and Customization:

[0017]A dedicated branding area allows for extensive customization:[0018]Vertical Branding Space: Adjustable width and ...

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 552,128, filed on Feb. 10, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH

[0002] Not Applicable.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Stainless-steel drinkware presents several challenges in everyday use. The smooth and often untextured surface makes it difficult to maintain a secure grip, particularly in wet, cold, or humid conditions, increasing the risk of accidental drops and damage. Additionally, prolonged use can lead to hand fatigue due to the absence of ergonomic grip features.

[0004] Many stainless-steel bottles become uncomfortable to hold in extreme temperatures despite insulation features. Furthermore, these bottles are prone to dents and scratches from impacts and generate disruptive noise when placed on hard surfaces.

[0005] Existing solutions do not effectively integrate ergonomic comfort, thermal protection, impact resistance, and noise reduction into a single, adaptable product. Current alternatives often lack customization options that allow for branding and personalization, making them less appealing to users seeking both functional and aesthetic improvements.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The present invention relates generally to beverage container accessories, more specifically to removable grip covers for insulated stainless-steel bottles. This invention addresses the need for improved ergonomic handling, temperature insulation, impact protection, and customizable branding options, particularly for applications in sports, outdoor recreation, and daily use.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] This invention introduces an innovative, interchangeable grip cover for drinkware, inspired by golf grip technology to enhance handling, comfort, and durability. The grip is constructed from high-quality materials such as natural rubber or food-grade silicone, providing a flexible yet resilient covering that improves grip performance in various conditions.

[0008] The design accommodates a wide range of bottle sizes, ensuring broad compatibility while offering optimal impact resistance, shock absorption, and enhanced insulation. The grip's dimensions, including height, diameter, and thickness, are structured to fit multiple standard and custom drinkware forms without restricting adaptability.

[0009] A key feature of the grip cover is a continuous, asymmetric geometric pattern composed of interlocking angular and diamond-shaped elements. This structured design enhances the user's grip by distributing pressure evenly, reducing slippage, and improving handling comfort across various conditions.

[0010] Additional features include strategic venting holes for easy removal, noise-reducing properties to minimize clatter on hard surfaces, and branding areas that allow for extensive customization. The single-piece, seamless construction eliminates weak points while ensuring durability and longevity.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] FIG. 1 is a vertical front view of the device showing element 10 in which illustrates the adaptable height range of the grip, accommodating various bottle sizes and element 12 in which depicts the variable diameter compatibility, allowing for secure fitting on different drinkware dimensions.

[0012] FIG. 2 is a vertical rear view of the device showing element 20 in which shows the two horizontal lines framing both top and bottom of the interlocking geometric pattern of angular and diamond-shaped and element 22 demonstrates the continuous wrapping of the pattern around the grip.

[0013] FIG. 3 is a vertical view of the device showing the top opening to illustrate the wall thickness in which element 30 illustrates the adjustable grip thickness to balance comfort and durability and element 32 displays the branding area dimensions for customization.

[0014] FIG. 4 is a horizontal view of the underside of the device showing element 40 which confirms the grip as a single, seamless piece and element 42 which depicts the strategic venting holes for grip removal.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0015] The grip cover's construction utilizes two primary material options: natural rubber for its durability, flexibility, and superior shock absorption, particularly in sports applications, and food-grade silicone for hypoallergenic, dishwasher-safe performance meeting FDA standards. Both materials provide thermal insulation and impact protection while maintaining grip integrity in various environmental conditions.Design Features:

[0016] The grip features a continuous, pattern extends continuously along the exterior surface of the grip, wrapping around its circumference, with structural integration that prevents deformation over time. Two horizontal lines frame this pattern, reinforcing both functional grip characteristics and aesthetic appeal. The design is reminiscent of professional golf grips, ensuring consistent performance and comfortBranding and Customization:

[0017] A dedicated branding area allows for extensive customization:

[0018] Vertical Branding Space: Adjustable width and height to accommodate various logo sizes.

[0019] Horizontal Branding Space: Customizable dimensions for logos, text, or branding marks.

[0020] In some embodiments, the invention may incorporate various marking or labeling techniques for co-branding purposes. These techniques may include, but are not limited to, printing methods such as UV printing, screen printing, lasering or the application of rubber ink. The marking or labeling may be applied to any suitable surface of the invention, allowing for flexibility in co-branding placement and design. The specific method, material, and location of such markings can be adapted based on the particular co-branding requirements or preferences.Construction Characteristics:

[0021] The grip is designed as a single, continuous piece without seams, eliminating structural weak points and ensuring long-term durability. The raised and recessed formations of the interlocking angular and diamond-shaped elements serve a dual purpose: (1) enhancing multi-directional grip by providing friction points along key hand contact areas, and (2) facilitating pressure distribution to reduce localized strain. The geometric formations, when combined with the material properties of natural rubber or silicone, ensure sustained grip performance under moisture, temperature fluctuations, and repeated use.Venting and Removal Mechanism:

[0022] Strategically positioned venting holes allow for easy grip removal while maintaining structural integrity. These holes, placed near the base of the grip cover, facilitate a removal process involving a combination of pressing, twisting, and pulling motions.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0015]The grip cover's construction utilizes two primary material options: natural rubber for its durability, flexibility, and superior shock absorption, particularly in sports applications, and food-grade silicone for hypoallergenic, dishwasher-safe performance meeting FDA standards. Both materials provide thermal insulation and impact protection while maintaining grip integrity in various environmental conditions.

Design Features:

[0016]The grip features a continuous, pattern extends continuously along the exterior surface of the grip, wrapping around its circumference, with structural integration that prevents deformation over time. Two horizontal lines frame this pattern, reinforcing both functional grip characteristics and aesthetic appeal. The design is reminiscent of professional golf grips, ensuring consistent performance and comfort

Branding and Customization:

[0017]A dedicated branding area allows for extensive customization:[0018]Vertical Branding Space: Adjustable width and ...

Claims

1. An interchangeable rubber grip cover for drinkware, comprising a cylindrical body designed to accommodate multiple bottle sizes.

2. The grip cover of claim 1, wherein the cylindrical body has a variable thickness to provide a balance of durability and flexibility.

3. The grip cover of claim 1, designed to fit drinkware of varying diameters while maintaining a secure grip.

4. The grip cover of claim 1, a textured exterior surface comprising a continuous, interlocking geometric pattern of angular and diamond-shaped elements, wherein, said pattern enhances multi-directional frictional resistance to improve grip stability.

5. The grip cover of claim 1, wherein the material composition provides shock absorption to protect against impacts and dents.

6. The grip cover of claim 1, wherein the material composition provides thermal insulation for comfortable handling in extreme temperatures.

7. The grip cover of claim 1, designed with an ergonomic pattern distributes applied pressure evenly across user contact points to reduce localized hand fatigue.

8. The grip cover of claim 1, comprising noise-reducing properties when placed on hard surfaces.

9. The grip cover of claim 1, further comprising customizable branding areas.

10. The grip cover of claim 1, constructed as a single, seamless piece without additional joining mechanisms.

11. The grip cover of claim 1, further comprising venting holes for ease of removal.

12. The grip cover of claim 1, wherein the elastomeric material is selected from the group consisting of natural rubber (NR), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), and silicone.

13. The grip cover of claim 4, wherein the depth and arrangement of the interlocking geometric pattern are optimized to maximize frictional resistance without compromising comfort.

14. The grip cover of claim 4, wherein the interlocking geometric pattern is integrally molded into the elastomeric material through a compression or injection molding process to ensure durability and prevent degradation over time.

15. The grip cover of claim 12, wherein the interlocking geometric pattern is integrally molded into the elastomeric material through a compression or injection molding process to ensure durability and prevent degradation over time.

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