Sleeve for beverage container

Abstract

A sleeve (100) for a beverage container includes a tapered cylindrical body (104) which includes a first body end (114) and a second body end (116). The first body end includes a first diameter, and the second body end includes a second diameter less than the first diameter. A center of the first diameter is aligned with a center of the second diameter. A stage (106) is disposed on the tapered cylindrical body. The stage defines a receiver. A pin is coupled to the stage. A lanyard (102) includes a plug (134). The lanyard is movably coupled to the pin (108) between a first position where the plug is engaged with the receiver and a second position where the plug is disengaged from the receiver.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63 / 465,914, filed May 12, 2023, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND

[0002] Drinking containers of various types are used to contain a liquid or beverage for drinking as needed. Some containers may include a drinking opening in a lid through which a beverage may be consumed, for example, by tilting the drinking container. Even with small drinking openings, liquid may splash out of the container during movement thereof.SUMMARY

[0003] In an aspect, the technology relates to a sleeve for a beverage container, the sleeve includes: a tapered cylindrical body which includes a first body end and a second body end, wherein the first body end includes a first diameter and wherein the second body end includes a second diameter less than the first diameter, and wherein a center of the first diameter is aligned with a center of the second diameter; a stage disposed on the tapered cylindrical body, wherein the stage defines a receiver; a pin coupled to the stage; and a lanyard including a plug, wherein the lanyard is movably coupled to the pin between a first position where the plug is engaged with the receiver and a second position where the plug is disengaged from the receiver. In an example, the pin and the lanyard include a unitary part. In another example, the sleeve and the stage include a unitary part. In yet another example, the lanyard and the stage include a unitary part. In still another example, the stage includes a stage thickness, and the sleeve includes a sleeve thickness less than the stage thickness.

[0004] In another example of the above aspect, the lanyard is rotatably coupled to the pin. In an example, when in the first position, an axis of the lanyard is disposed substantially parallel to an axis of the stage and wherein when in the second position, the axis of the lanyard is curved relative to the axis of the stage. In another example, the tapered cylindrical body includes a corrugated inner surface. In yet another example, the tapered cylindrical body includes a height and wherein the lanyard includes a length greater than the height. In still another example, when in the first position, at least a portion of the lanyard is cantilevered from the stage.

[0005] In another example of the above aspect, the lanyard is connected to the pin proximate a first end of the lanyard and wherein the plug is disposed proximate a second end of the lanyard. In an example, the stage extends from the first body end to the second body end.

[0006] In another aspect, the technology relates to a method of plugging a hole in a lid of a beverage container, the method includes: inserting the beverage container into a sleeve connected to a lanyard, wherein the lid is secured to the beverage container; and inserting a plug of the lanyard into the hole in the lid. In an example, the method further includes bending the lanyard. In another example, the method further includes rotating the lanyard from a first portion to a second position. In yet another example, the method further includes disconnecting a first end of the lanyard from the sleeve. In still another example, the lanyard is movably connected to the sleeve at a second end of the lanyard.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] FIGS. 1A and 1B depict perspective views of an exemplary sleeve disposed about a beverage container, with a lanyard thereof in a first position and a second position, respectively.

[0008] FIG. 2A depicts a perspective view of the sleeve of FIGS. 1A and 1B.

[0009] FIG. 2B depicts a side view of the sleeve of FIGS. 1A and 1B.

[0010] FIG. 2C depicts a perspective sectional section view of the sleeve of FIGS. 1A and 1B.

[0011] FIG. 3 depicts a method of using a beverage sleeve.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0012] A sleeve for a beverage container is described herein. The sleeve is used to improve gripability of the container, for example, the sleeve may be manufactured of a material that displays relatively high friction (e.g., silicone, rubber, other plastics, etc.). Additionally, or alternatively, the sleeve may include a textured outer surface that may also improve gripability. The sleeve also provides insulative properties for hot or cold beverages contained within the beverage container. For example, hot coffee is often contained within a coffee cup having a plastic lid. Such containers often display limited insulative properties, which the sleeve of the present technology increases. Cold beverages contained in containers (e.g., iced tea in a plastic cup) can also benefit from the insulative properties present in the sleeve described herein. The sleeve described herein displays further benefits, in that a plug may be integrated therewith and may be used to plug an opening in a lid of a beverage container. This helps reduce or prevent an escape of liquid from within the container during movement or tipping of the container.

[0013] FIGS. 1A and 1B depict perspective views of an exemplary sleeve 100 disposed about a beverage container C, with a lanyard 102 thereof in a first position and a second position, respectively. FIGS. 1A-1B are described concurrently and not every component described is depicted in every figure. The beverage container C may be a reusable or disposable container, made for example of paper, plastic, metal, ceramic, or other material. A lid L, secured to the container C, may be made of similar or different materials and defines at least one drinking opening O therein. The construction, material, use, form factor, etc. of the container C, lid L, and / or opening O is not relevant to the present technology.

[0014] The sleeve 100 includes a sleeve body 104 that substantially surrounds the container C and to which the lanyard 102 may be movably secured between a plurality of positions. In FIG. 1A, for example, the lanyard 102 is disposed so as to be substantially parallel to an axis AL defined by a stage 106. In the position of FIG. 1B, the lanyard 102 has been partially disconnected from the stage 106 and positioned so as to enable plugging of the opening O of the lid L with a plug (not visible). In this configuration of the sleeve 100, the lanyard 102 is connected to the stage 106 at a pin 108, which acts as a button or rivet around which the lanyard 102 may rotate. Other configurations are contemplated, for example, a sleeve may have a lanyard formed therewith as a unitary part, where the lanyard and the stage are joined at a living hinge. The lanyard may be of such a length that the lanyard may be twisted about an axis thereof so as to insert the plug thereof into the opening of the lid. In another example, a discrete pin need not be used to join the lanyard and the stage; rather, the lanyard and the pin (or the stage and the pin) may comprise a unitary part, with an opposite end of the pin engaging the other of the stage and the lanyard. In the depicted configuration, the sleeve body 104 and the stage 106 comprise a unitary part. As used herein, the term “stage” contemplates the portion of the sleeve body 104 at which the lanyard 102 is connected to the sleeve body 104, when the lanyard 102 is in both a first position and a second position, for example, as depicted in FIGS. 1A and 1B. In other examples, the stage 106 may define an opening 112 for receiving the plug when the lanyard 102 is in the position depicted in FIG. 1A. This may prevent dirt from contacting the plug when the lanyard is in the first position. While the stage 106 is depicted as having a thickness greater than a thickness of the sleeve body 104, this is not required. That is, the stage 106 and the sleeve body 104 may each include thicknesses that are substantially the same or the same. In such a case, then, the stage may be more particularly defined as a location of connection of the lanyard to the sleeve body, rather than by any measurable difference between the stage and an adjacent feature. A stage 106 having a thickness greater than that of the sleeve body 104 can, however, improve manufacturability, gripability (by providing an additional tactile feature), and / or robustness for connection to the lanyard 102.

[0015] The first position of the lanyard depicted in FIG. 1A may be described as a stored position. When in the stored position, the plug may be engaged with the opening 112 defined by the stage 106, which, depending on the relative dimensions of the various components of the sleeve 100, may leave the lanyard 102 parallel to the axis A of the stage 106 or bent relative thereto. A second position may be described as an unstored position, where the plug is disengaged from the opening 112. In an example, the second position may be when the plug is received within the opening O of the lid L, as depicted in FIG. 1B.

[0016] FIGS. 2A-2C depict various views of the sleeve 100 of FIGS. 1A and 1B.

[0017] FIGS. 2A-2C are described concurrently and not every component is depicted in every figure. The sleeve body 104 includes a first end 114 and a second end 116. The first end 114 may be defined by a first diameter measured from a common axis AC that is larger than a second diameter of the second end 116. As such, the sleeve body 104 defines a tapered cylindrical shape. The first end 114 and the second end 116 are centered along the common axis AC. Other shapes of the sleeve body 104 are contemplated, such that the sleeve body 104 may match a correspondingly shaped container. In other examples, the sleeve may be made of a resilient or stretchable material that may accommodate containers of different outer shapes and sizes. The sleeve body 104 has an outer surface 118 and an inner surface 120, either of which may be smooth or textured to improve performance (e.g., grip) thereof. In the depicted example, the inner surface 120 is substantially corrugated, which may improve insulative properties while easing insertion and removal of a container into the sleeve body 104. The sleeve body 104 also comprises a sleeve wall thickness that may be of any thickness as required or desired for a particular application. The height of the sleeve (e.g., the distance between the first end 114 and the second end 116) may be as required or desired for a particular application.

[0018] The stage 106 forms a unitary part with the sleeve body 104 and, in this example, defines a stage thickness greater than the wall thickness. The stage 106 is arranged so as to have ends 122, 124 coterminous with the first end 114 and the second end 116, respectively. The ends 122, 124 define a length of the stage 106 that, in this example, is substantially similar to the height of the sleeve body 104. The stage 106 acts as a complex gripping feature for fingers, allowing a user to more easily grip the sleeve 100 while wearing gloves, or if the user displays limited digital dexterity. The stage 106 of the sleeve 100 in FIGS. 2A-2C has sidewalls 126, 128 that define a stage width therebetween. In this example, the sidewalls 126, 128 are substantially parallel to a stage axis AS. In other examples, sidewalls 126, 128 may define a wave, serrated, or curvilinear shape, so as to provide additional or alternative gripping surfaces. The stage 106 may be, alternatively or additionally, of varying width along its length, providing further gripping surfaces. The stage 106, while disposed along a height of the sleeve body 104, may be disposed at an angle thereto. In examples, the stage 106 may be oriented substantially orthogonal to a plane defined by the common axis AC. The stage 106 also provides an alternative or additional gripping feature for when the user is attempting to remove a container from the sleeve 100, enabling a user to apply more leverage to the sleeve body 104.

[0019] The lanyard 102 is fixed to the stage 106 in two locations. At an upper end 130, the lanyard 102 is fixed to the stage 106 at a pin, living hinge, rivet, or other feature. At a lower end 132, the lanyard 102 is removably fixed to the stage 106, where a plug 134 removably engages with the opening 112 in the stage 106. The upper end 130 and the lower end 132 define a length of the lanyard 102 that, in this example, extends beyond the length of the stage 106. As such, a portion of the second end 134 is cantilevered from the stage 106. This may enable easier gripping of the lanyard 102 so as to disconnect the plug 134 from the opening 112. The lanyard 102 may also be used to improve grip on the sleeve or may be configured for decorative or other purposes. The lanyard 102 of the sleeve 100 in FIGS. 2A-2C has sidewalls 136, 138 that define a lanyard width therebetween. In this example, the sidewalls 136, 138 are substantially parallel to a lanyard axis AL. In other examples, sidewalls 136, 138 may define a wave, serrated, or curvilinear shape, for decorative or other purposes. The lanyard 102 may be of varying width along its length. The lanyard 102 is depicted as substantially coextensive in dimension with the stage 106, other than the cantilevered lower end 132. In other examples, however, the lanyard may be of a substantially different form factor, and may be similar in appearance to a string, cord, tassel, or an elongate strip that extends away from the stage, even with the plug is engaged with the opening 112 (e.g., the lanyard 102 may bow away from the sleeve body 104, thereby defining a sling or strap for carrying of the sleeve 100.

[0020] In examples, when the lanyard 102 is in the first position, the plug 134 is engaged with the opening 112. In the second position, the plug 134 is engaged with the opening O, as depicted in FIG. 1B. In examples, the first and second positions may be defined by further non-limiting structural relationships between components. For example, as depicted in FIGS. 1A and 2A-2C, in the first position, the lanyard axis AL is substantially parallel to the stage axis AS. In the second position, as depicted in FIG. 1B, the lanyard axis AL may deviate from a parallel spatial relationship with the stage axis AS. For example, lanyard axis AL may be curved, twisted, or bent relative to the stage axis AS. In another example, the lanyard axis AL may be directed away from the stage axis AS and towards the common axis AC. In another example, the second position is defined by engagement between the plug 134 and the opening O in the lid L.

[0021] FIG. 3 depicts a method 200 of using a beverage sleeve. The method 200 contemplates plugging a hole in a lid of a beverage container, for example, as performed with beverage sleeves having lanyards such as shown and described herein. The method 200 begins with operation 202, inserting the beverage container into a sleeve connected to a lanyard. The lid may already be secured to the beverage container, or may be secured to the container after insertion of the container into the sleeve. Depending on the configuration of the sleeve and lanyard, a number of optional operations may be performed. In optional operation 204, a first end of the lanyard may be disconnected from the sleeve. This operation may be performed when a plug located on the lanyard is stored in an opening or receiver on a stage or sleeve of the lanyard. In some examples where a particularly short stage is utilized, such an opening may not be present. In optional operation 206, the method 200 includes bending the lanyard, such as depicted in FIG. 1B. Prior to or after bending the lanyard, optional operation 208, rotating the lanyard from a first position to a second position, may be performed. In other examples, since the lanyard may be movably connected to the sleeve at a second end of the lanyard with a number of different structures, other types of movements (e.g., bending, twisting, etc.) may be performed. In operation 210, the method 200 includes inserting a plug of the lanyard into the hole in the lid. This seals the lid against inadvertent sloshing of liquid out of the opening.

[0022] This disclosure describes some examples of the present technology with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which only some of the possible examples were shown. Other aspects can, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples set forth herein. Rather, these examples were provided so that this disclosure was thorough and complete and fully conveyed the scope of the possible examples to those skilled in the art. Any number of the features of the different examples described herein may be combined into one single example and alternate examples having fewer than or more than all of the features herein described are possible. Further, as used herein and in the claims, the phrase “at least one of element A, element B, or element C” is intended to convey any of: element A, element B, element C, elements A and B, elements A and C, elements B and C, and elements A, B, and C. It is to be understood that terminology employed herein is used for the purpose of describing particular examples only and is not intended to be limiting. It must be noted that, as used in this specification, the singular forms “a,”“an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Further, one having skill in the art will understand the degree to which terms such as “about” or “substantially” convey in light of the measurement techniques utilized herein. To the extent such terms may not be clearly defined or understood by one having skill in the art, the terms such as “about” or “substantially” shall mean plus or minus ten percent.

[0023] Although specific examples were described herein, the scope of the technology is not limited to those specific examples. One skilled in the art will recognize other examples or improvements that are within the scope of the present technology. Therefore, the specific structure, acts, or media are disclosed only as illustrative examples. Examples according to the technology may also combine elements or components of those that are disclosed in general but not expressly exemplified in combination, unless otherwise stated herein. The scope of the technology is defined by the following claims and any equivalents therein.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0012]A sleeve for a beverage container is described herein. The sleeve is used to improve gripability of the container, for example, the sleeve may be manufactured of a material that displays relatively high friction (e.g., silicone, rubber, other plastics, etc.). Additionally, or alternatively, the sleeve may include a textured outer surface that may also improve gripability. The sleeve also provides insulative properties for hot or cold beverages contained within the beverage container. For example, hot coffee is often contained within a coffee cup having a plastic lid. Such containers often display limited insulative properties, which the sleeve of the present technology increases. Cold beverages contained in containers (e.g., iced tea in a plastic cup) can also benefit from the insulative properties present in the sleeve described herein. The sleeve described herein displays further benefits, in that a plug may be integrated therewith and may be used to plug an opening in a lid...

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63 / 465,914, filed May 12, 2023, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND

[0002] Drinking containers of various types are used to contain a liquid or beverage for drinking as needed. Some containers may include a drinking opening in a lid through which a beverage may be consumed, for example, by tilting the drinking container. Even with small drinking openings, liquid may splash out of the container during movement thereof.SUMMARY

[0003] In an aspect, the technology relates to a sleeve for a beverage container, the sleeve includes: a tapered cylindrical body which includes a first body end and a second body end, wherein the first body end includes a first diameter and wherein the second body end includes a second diameter less than the first diameter, and wherein a center of the first diameter is aligned with a center of the second diameter; a stage disposed on the tapered cylindrical body, wherein the stage defines a receiver; a pin coupled to the stage; and a lanyard including a plug, wherein the lanyard is movably coupled to the pin between a first position where the plug is engaged with the receiver and a second position where the plug is disengaged from the receiver. In an example, the pin and the lanyard include a unitary part. In another example, the sleeve and the stage include a unitary part. In yet another example, the lanyard and the stage include a unitary part. In still another example, the stage includes a stage thickness, and the sleeve includes a sleeve thickness less than the stage thickness.

[0004] In another example of the above aspect, the lanyard is rotatably coupled to the pin. In an example, when in the first position, an axis of the lanyard is disposed substantially parallel to an axis of the stage and wherein when in the second position, the axis of the lanyard is curved relative to the axis of the stage. In another example, the tapered cylindrical body includes a corrugated inner surface. In yet another example, the tapered cylindrical body includes a height and wherein the lanyard includes a length greater than the height. In still another example, when in the first position, at least a portion of the lanyard is cantilevered from the stage.

[0005] In another example of the above aspect, the lanyard is connected to the pin proximate a first end of the lanyard and wherein the plug is disposed proximate a second end of the lanyard. In an example, the stage extends from the first body end to the second body end.

[0006] In another aspect, the technology relates to a method of plugging a hole in a lid of a beverage container, the method includes: inserting the beverage container into a sleeve connected to a lanyard, wherein the lid is secured to the beverage container; and inserting a plug of the lanyard into the hole in the lid. In an example, the method further includes bending the lanyard. In another example, the method further includes rotating the lanyard from a first portion to a second position. In yet another example, the method further includes disconnecting a first end of the lanyard from the sleeve. In still another example, the lanyard is movably connected to the sleeve at a second end of the lanyard.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] FIGS. 1A and 1B depict perspective views of an exemplary sleeve disposed about a beverage container, with a lanyard thereof in a first position and a second position, respectively.

[0008] FIG. 2A depicts a perspective view of the sleeve of FIGS. 1A and 1B.

[0009] FIG. 2B depicts a side view of the sleeve of FIGS. 1A and 1B.

[0010] FIG. 2C depicts a perspective sectional section view of the sleeve of FIGS. 1A and 1B.

[0011] FIG. 3 depicts a method of using a beverage sleeve.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0012] A sleeve for a beverage container is described herein. The sleeve is used to improve gripability of the container, for example, the sleeve may be manufactured of a material that displays relatively high friction (e.g., silicone, rubber, other plastics, etc.). Additionally, or alternatively, the sleeve may include a textured outer surface that may also improve gripability. The sleeve also provides insulative properties for hot or cold beverages contained within the beverage container. For example, hot coffee is often contained within a coffee cup having a plastic lid. Such containers often display limited insulative properties, which the sleeve of the present technology increases. Cold beverages contained in containers (e.g., iced tea in a plastic cup) can also benefit from the insulative properties present in the sleeve described herein. The sleeve described herein displays further benefits, in that a plug may be integrated therewith and may be used to plug an opening in a lid of a beverage container. This helps reduce or prevent an escape of liquid from within the container during movement or tipping of the container.

[0013] FIGS. 1A and 1B depict perspective views of an exemplary sleeve 100 disposed about a beverage container C, with a lanyard 102 thereof in a first position and a second position, respectively. FIGS. 1A-1B are described concurrently and not every component described is depicted in every figure. The beverage container C may be a reusable or disposable container, made for example of paper, plastic, metal, ceramic, or other material. A lid L, secured to the container C, may be made of similar or different materials and defines at least one drinking opening O therein. The construction, material, use, form factor, etc. of the container C, lid L, and / or opening O is not relevant to the present technology.

[0014] The sleeve 100 includes a sleeve body 104 that substantially surrounds the container C and to which the lanyard 102 may be movably secured between a plurality of positions. In FIG. 1A, for example, the lanyard 102 is disposed so as to be substantially parallel to an axis AL defined by a stage 106. In the position of FIG. 1B, the lanyard 102 has been partially disconnected from the stage 106 and positioned so as to enable plugging of the opening O of the lid L with a plug (not visible). In this configuration of the sleeve 100, the lanyard 102 is connected to the stage 106 at a pin 108, which acts as a button or rivet around which the lanyard 102 may rotate. Other configurations are contemplated, for example, a sleeve may have a lanyard formed therewith as a unitary part, where the lanyard and the stage are joined at a living hinge. The lanyard may be of such a length that the lanyard may be twisted about an axis thereof so as to insert the plug thereof into the opening of the lid. In another example, a discrete pin need not be used to join the lanyard and the stage; rather, the lanyard and the pin (or the stage and the pin) may comprise a unitary part, with an opposite end of the pin engaging the other of the stage and the lanyard. In the depicted configuration, the sleeve body 104 and the stage 106 comprise a unitary part. As used herein, the term “stage” contemplates the portion of the sleeve body 104 at which the lanyard 102 is connected to the sleeve body 104, when the lanyard 102 is in both a first position and a second position, for example, as depicted in FIGS. 1A and 1B. In other examples, the stage 106 may define an opening 112 for receiving the plug when the lanyard 102 is in the position depicted in FIG. 1A. This may prevent dirt from contacting the plug when the lanyard is in the first position. While the stage 106 is depicted as having a thickness greater than a thickness of the sleeve body 104, this is not required. That is, the stage 106 and the sleeve body 104 may each include thicknesses that are substantially the same or the same. In such a case, then, the stage may be more particularly defined as a location of connection of the lanyard to the sleeve body, rather than by any measurable difference between the stage and an adjacent feature. A stage 106 having a thickness greater than that of the sleeve body 104 can, however, improve manufacturability, gripability (by providing an additional tactile feature), and / or robustness for connection to the lanyard 102.

[0015] The first position of the lanyard depicted in FIG. 1A may be described as a stored position. When in the stored position, the plug may be engaged with the opening 112 defined by the stage 106, which, depending on the relative dimensions of the various components of the sleeve 100, may leave the lanyard 102 parallel to the axis A of the stage 106 or bent relative thereto. A second position may be described as an unstored position, where the plug is disengaged from the opening 112. In an example, the second position may be when the plug is received within the opening O of the lid L, as depicted in FIG. 1B.

[0016] FIGS. 2A-2C depict various views of the sleeve 100 of FIGS. 1A and 1B.

[0017] FIGS. 2A-2C are described concurrently and not every component is depicted in every figure. The sleeve body 104 includes a first end 114 and a second end 116. The first end 114 may be defined by a first diameter measured from a common axis AC that is larger than a second diameter of the second end 116. As such, the sleeve body 104 defines a tapered cylindrical shape. The first end 114 and the second end 116 are centered along the common axis AC. Other shapes of the sleeve body 104 are contemplated, such that the sleeve body 104 may match a correspondingly shaped container. In other examples, the sleeve may be made of a resilient or stretchable material that may accommodate containers of different outer shapes and sizes. The sleeve body 104 has an outer surface 118 and an inner surface 120, either of which may be smooth or textured to improve performance (e.g., grip) thereof. In the depicted example, the inner surface 120 is substantially corrugated, which may improve insulative properties while easing insertion and removal of a container into the sleeve body 104. The sleeve body 104 also comprises a sleeve wall thickness that may be of any thickness as required or desired for a particular application. The height of the sleeve (e.g., the distance between the first end 114 and the second end 116) may be as required or desired for a particular application.

[0018] The stage 106 forms a unitary part with the sleeve body 104 and, in this example, defines a stage thickness greater than the wall thickness. The stage 106 is arranged so as to have ends 122, 124 coterminous with the first end 114 and the second end 116, respectively. The ends 122, 124 define a length of the stage 106 that, in this example, is substantially similar to the height of the sleeve body 104. The stage 106 acts as a complex gripping feature for fingers, allowing a user to more easily grip the sleeve 100 while wearing gloves, or if the user displays limited digital dexterity. The stage 106 of the sleeve 100 in FIGS. 2A-2C has sidewalls 126, 128 that define a stage width therebetween. In this example, the sidewalls 126, 128 are substantially parallel to a stage axis AS. In other examples, sidewalls 126, 128 may define a wave, serrated, or curvilinear shape, so as to provide additional or alternative gripping surfaces. The stage 106 may be, alternatively or additionally, of varying width along its length, providing further gripping surfaces. The stage 106, while disposed along a height of the sleeve body 104, may be disposed at an angle thereto. In examples, the stage 106 may be oriented substantially orthogonal to a plane defined by the common axis AC. The stage 106 also provides an alternative or additional gripping feature for when the user is attempting to remove a container from the sleeve 100, enabling a user to apply more leverage to the sleeve body 104.

[0019] The lanyard 102 is fixed to the stage 106 in two locations. At an upper end 130, the lanyard 102 is fixed to the stage 106 at a pin, living hinge, rivet, or other feature. At a lower end 132, the lanyard 102 is removably fixed to the stage 106, where a plug 134 removably engages with the opening 112 in the stage 106. The upper end 130 and the lower end 132 define a length of the lanyard 102 that, in this example, extends beyond the length of the stage 106. As such, a portion of the second end 134 is cantilevered from the stage 106. This may enable easier gripping of the lanyard 102 so as to disconnect the plug 134 from the opening 112. The lanyard 102 may also be used to improve grip on the sleeve or may be configured for decorative or other purposes. The lanyard 102 of the sleeve 100 in FIGS. 2A-2C has sidewalls 136, 138 that define a lanyard width therebetween. In this example, the sidewalls 136, 138 are substantially parallel to a lanyard axis AL. In other examples, sidewalls 136, 138 may define a wave, serrated, or curvilinear shape, for decorative or other purposes. The lanyard 102 may be of varying width along its length. The lanyard 102 is depicted as substantially coextensive in dimension with the stage 106, other than the cantilevered lower end 132. In other examples, however, the lanyard may be of a substantially different form factor, and may be similar in appearance to a string, cord, tassel, or an elongate strip that extends away from the stage, even with the plug is engaged with the opening 112 (e.g., the lanyard 102 may bow away from the sleeve body 104, thereby defining a sling or strap for carrying of the sleeve 100.

[0020] In examples, when the lanyard 102 is in the first position, the plug 134 is engaged with the opening 112. In the second position, the plug 134 is engaged with the opening O, as depicted in FIG. 1B. In examples, the first and second positions may be defined by further non-limiting structural relationships between components. For example, as depicted in FIGS. 1A and 2A-2C, in the first position, the lanyard axis AL is substantially parallel to the stage axis AS. In the second position, as depicted in FIG. 1B, the lanyard axis AL may deviate from a parallel spatial relationship with the stage axis AS. For example, lanyard axis AL may be curved, twisted, or bent relative to the stage axis AS. In another example, the lanyard axis AL may be directed away from the stage axis AS and towards the common axis AC. In another example, the second position is defined by engagement between the plug 134 and the opening O in the lid L.

[0021] FIG. 3 depicts a method 200 of using a beverage sleeve. The method 200 contemplates plugging a hole in a lid of a beverage container, for example, as performed with beverage sleeves having lanyards such as shown and described herein. The method 200 begins with operation 202, inserting the beverage container into a sleeve connected to a lanyard. The lid may already be secured to the beverage container, or may be secured to the container after insertion of the container into the sleeve. Depending on the configuration of the sleeve and lanyard, a number of optional operations may be performed. In optional operation 204, a first end of the lanyard may be disconnected from the sleeve. This operation may be performed when a plug located on the lanyard is stored in an opening or receiver on a stage or sleeve of the lanyard. In some examples where a particularly short stage is utilized, such an opening may not be present. In optional operation 206, the method 200 includes bending the lanyard, such as depicted in FIG. 1B. Prior to or after bending the lanyard, optional operation 208, rotating the lanyard from a first position to a second position, may be performed. In other examples, since the lanyard may be movably connected to the sleeve at a second end of the lanyard with a number of different structures, other types of movements (e.g., bending, twisting, etc.) may be performed. In operation 210, the method 200 includes inserting a plug of the lanyard into the hole in the lid. This seals the lid against inadvertent sloshing of liquid out of the opening.

[0022] This disclosure describes some examples of the present technology with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which only some of the possible examples were shown. Other aspects can, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples set forth herein. Rather, these examples were provided so that this disclosure was thorough and complete and fully conveyed the scope of the possible examples to those skilled in the art. Any number of the features of the different examples described herein may be combined into one single example and alternate examples having fewer than or more than all of the features herein described are possible. Further, as used herein and in the claims, the phrase “at least one of element A, element B, or element C” is intended to convey any of: element A, element B, element C, elements A and B, elements A and C, elements B and C, and elements A, B, and C. It is to be understood that terminology employed herein is used for the purpose of describing particular examples only and is not intended to be limiting. It must be noted that, as used in this specification, the singular forms “a,”“an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Further, one having skill in the art will understand the degree to which terms such as “about” or “substantially” convey in light of the measurement techniques utilized herein. To the extent such terms may not be clearly defined or understood by one having skill in the art, the terms such as “about” or “substantially” shall mean plus or minus ten percent.

[0023] Although specific examples were described herein, the scope of the technology is not limited to those specific examples. One skilled in the art will recognize other examples or improvements that are within the scope of the present technology. Therefore, the specific structure, acts, or media are disclosed only as illustrative examples. Examples according to the technology may also combine elements or components of those that are disclosed in general but not expressly exemplified in combination, unless otherwise stated herein. The scope of the technology is defined by the following claims and any equivalents therein.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0012]A sleeve for a beverage container is described herein. The sleeve is used to improve gripability of the container, for example, the sleeve may be manufactured of a material that displays relatively high friction (e.g., silicone, rubber, other plastics, etc.). Additionally, or alternatively, the sleeve may include a textured outer surface that may also improve gripability. The sleeve also provides insulative properties for hot or cold beverages contained within the beverage container. For example, hot coffee is often contained within a coffee cup having a plastic lid. Such containers often display limited insulative properties, which the sleeve of the present technology increases. Cold beverages contained in containers (e.g., iced tea in a plastic cup) can also benefit from the insulative properties present in the sleeve described herein. The sleeve described herein displays further benefits, in that a plug may be integrated therewith and may be used to plug an opening in a lid...

Claims

1. A sleeve for a beverage container, the sleeve comprising:a tapered cylindrical body comprising a first body end and a second body end, wherein the first body end comprises a first diameter and wherein the second body end comprises a second diameter less than the first diameter, and wherein a center of the first diameter is aligned with a center of the second diameter;a stage disposed on the tapered cylindrical body, wherein the stage defines a receiver;a pin coupled to the stage; anda lanyard comprising a plug, wherein the lanyard is movably coupled to the pin between a first position where the plug is engaged with the receiver and a second position where the plug is disengaged from the receiver, wherein the lanyard and the stage comprise a unitary part.

2. The sleeve of claim 1, wherein the pin and the lanyard comprise a unitary part.

3. The sleeve of claim 1, wherein the sleeve and the stage comprise a unitary part.

4. (canceled)5. The sleeve of claim 1, wherein the stage comprises a stage thickness and the sleeve comprises a sleeve thickness less than the stage thickness.

6. The sleeve of claim 1, wherein the lanyard is rotatably coupled to the pin.

7. The sleeve of claim 6, wherein when in the first position, an axis of the lanyard is disposed substantially parallel to an axis of the stage, and wherein when in the second position, the axis of the lanyard is curved relative to the axis of the stage.

8. The sleeve of claim 1, wherein the tapered cylindrical body comprises a corrugated inner surface.

9. The sleeve of claim 1, wherein the tapered cylindrical body comprises a height and wherein the lanyard comprises a length greater than the height.

10. The sleeve of claim 1, wherein when in the first position, at least a portion of the lanyard is cantilevered from the stage.

11. The sleeve of claim 1, wherein the lanyard is connected to the pin proximate a first end of the lanyard, and wherein the plug is disposed proximate a second end of the lanyard.

12. The sleeve of claim 1, wherein the stage extends from the first body end to the second body end.

13. A method of plugging a hole in a lid of a beverage container, the method comprising:inserting the beverage container into a sleeve connected to a lanyard, wherein the lid is secured to the beverage container;rotating the lanyard about a pivot pin on the sleeve from a first position where an axis of the lanyard is disposed substantially parallel to a central axis defined by the sleeve to a second position where the axis of the lanyard is curved relative to the central axis of the sleeve; andinserting a plug of the lanyard into the hole in the lid.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising bending the lanyard.

15. (canceled)16. The method of claim 13, further comprising disconnecting a first end of the lanyard from the sleeve.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the lanyard is movably connected to the sleeve at a second end of the lanyard.

18. A sleeve for a beverage container, the sleeve comprising:a tapered cylindrical body comprising a first body end and a second body end, wherein the first body end comprises a first diameter and wherein the second body end comprises a second diameter less than the first diameter, and wherein a center of the first diameter is aligned with a center of the second diameter;a stage disposed on the tapered cylindrical body, wherein the stage defines a receiver;a pin coupled to the stage; anda lanyard comprising a plug, wherein the lanyard is rotatably coupled to the pin between a first position where the plug is engaged with the receiver and a second position where the plug is disengaged from the receiver;wherein when in the first position, an axis of the lanyard is disposed substantially parallel to an axis of the stage, and wherein when in the second position, the axis of the lanyard is curved relative to the axis of the stage.

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