Water bottle with integrated locking mechanism and thermoregulation for compatibility with military radio pouches

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a water bottle system that integrates locking mechanisms with thermoregulation capabilities for use in tactical and operational environments. The water bottle system can include a water bottle with first and second female indentations configured to engage with first and second male protrusions of a pouch insert.

Description

Attorney Reference No. 389163-000040TITLEWATER BOTTLE WITH INTEGRATED LOCKING MECHANISM AND THERMOREGULATION FOR COMPATIBILITY WITH MILITARY RADIO POUCHESCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 696,439, filed September 19, 2024, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 798,235, filed May 1 , 2025, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Embodiments disclosed herein relate to hydration systems for military and tactical applications, and more particularly to a water bottle system with integrated locking mechanisms and thermoregulation capabilities designed for compatibility with military radio pouches and specialized holsters.BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003] Military and tactical personnel rely on various hydration systems to maintain operational readiness during extended missions. Traditional hydration solutions include canteens, hydration bladders, and water bottles that are carried using dedicated pouches, clips, or integrated into backpack systems. These hydration systems are typically designed as standalone equipment that requires separate carrying mechanisms and storage solutions. Military personnel also utilize standardized equipment pouches, such as those designed for radio equipment like the PRC-152, which are commonly integrated into tactical vests and gear systems. The modular nature of military equipment allows for interchangeable components, enabling personnel to adapt their gear configuration based on mission requirements.

[0004] Current hydration systems present several limitations in tactical environments. Many existing solutions do not leverage the modular infrastructure already present in military gear systems, resulting in additional weight and bulk when separate carrying mechanisms are employed. Traditional water bottles and hydration systems also lack integrated temperature regulation capabilities that could provide additional comfort or operational benefits to personnel in extreme environmental conditions. The inability to utilize existing equipment pouches for dual purposes reduces the efficiency of gear systems and may limit the flexibilityAttorney Reference No. 389163-000040 of equipment configurations during missions where space and weight considerations are paramount.SUMMARY

[0005] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0006] In one aspect, the present disclosure relates to a water bottle system, that can comprise a water bottle that can include a first female indentation and a second female indentation formed on opposite sides of the water bottle, and a pouch insert that can include a first male protrusion and a second male protrusion configured to engage with the first and second female indentations, wherein the pouch insert is three-sided and can include an open body-facing side that allows direct contact between the water bottle and a user's body for conductive thermoregulation.

[0007] In some embodiments, the first male protrusion and the second male protrusion create friction and tension with the first female indentation and the second female indentation sufficient to hold the water bottle securely in place. In some embodiments, the pouch insert can include a bottom opening that is flared and beveled to facilitate insertion of the water bottle.

[0008] In some embodiments the first male protrusion and the second male protrusion function as a lock and key mechanism and a bump-stop to ensure the water bottle can only be inserted in one orientation. In some embodiments, the flared and beveled bottom opening facilitates smooth insertion of the water bottle even during dynamic operational situations.

[0009] In some embodiments, the water bottle can include a threaded cap positioned at a top portion of the water bottle. In some embodiments, the pouch insert is compatible with standard NATO and U.S. Military issue radio pouches. In some embodiments, the water bottle and the pouch insert are constructed from a high-impact plastic or polymers.

[0010] In some embodiments, the water bottle is configured to provide conductive cooling when filled with ice or conductive heating when filled with hot water through direct contact with the user's body via the open body-facing side of the pouch insert. In some embodiments, the open body-facing side of the pouch insert allows for transfer of thermalAttorney Reference No. 389163-000040 energy between the water bottle and the user while maintaining secure retention through the engagement of the male protrusions with the female indentations.

[0011] In another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a water bottle that can comprise a body having external dimensions configured to fit within a pouch, a first female indentation formed on a first side of the body, and a second female indentation formed on a second side of the body opposite the first side, and wherein the first female indentation and the second female indentation are configured to engage with corresponding male protrusions of a pouch insert through friction and tension.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first female indentation and the second female indentation are configured to provide secure retention. In some embodiments, the engagement between the first female indentation and the second female indentation with the corresponding male protrusions creates sufficient friction and tension to prevent inadvertent removal during active use.

[0013] In some embodiments, the body is constructed from a high-impact plastic or polymers. In some embodiments, the water bottle is configured to provide conductive thermoregulation when filled with ice or hot water and positioned in contact with a user's body.

[0014] In some embodiments, the open body-facing side of the pouch insert allows for transfer of thermal energy between the water bottle and the user while maintaining secure retention through the engagement of the male protrusions with the female indentations.

[0015] In another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a holster mechanism for securing a water bottle that can include a holster body having a first holster protrusion and a second holster protrusion configured to interface with female indentations on a water bottle, and the holster body is adapted for insertion and removal of the water bottle and is configured to maintain thermal contact between the water bottle and a user or canine.

[0016] In some embodiments, the holster body is configured as a canine holster adapted for mounting on a K9 harness to provide thermal regulation for canines.

[0017] In some embodiments, the canine holster is configured to maintain orientation of the water bottle to optimize thermal contact with the canine for enhanced conductive cooling or heating efficiency. In some embodiments, the first holster protrusion and the second holster protrusion are positioned to allow front insertion and removal of the water bottle without requiring a lock and key feature to prevent over-insertion.Attorney Reference No. 389163-000040

[0018] The foregoing general description of the illustrative embodiments and the following detailed description thereof are merely exemplary aspects of the teachings of this disclosure and are not restrictive.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] Various objectives, features, and advantages of the disclosed subject matter can be more fully appreciated with reference to the following detailed description of the disclosed subject matter when considered in connection with the following drawings, in which like reference numerals identify like elements.

[0020] FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded view of a water bottle system of the present disclosure comprising a water bottle, pouch insert, and a pouch, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 2 illustrates a front profile view of the water bottle of FIG. 1 , according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 3 illustrates a rear profile view of the water bottle of FIG. 1 , according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 4 illustrates a side profile view of the water bottle of FIG. 1 , according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 5 illustrates a side profile view of the water bottle with a female indentation, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a pouch insert, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 7 illustrates a front view of a holster mechanism, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 8 illustrates a rear view of a holster mechanism, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 9 illustrates a side view of a holster mechanism, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of a water bottle, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 11 illustrates a reverse exploded view of the pouch, the pouch insert, and the water bottle, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.Attorney Reference No. 389163-000040

[0031] FIG. 12 illustrates an assembly view of the water bottle, the pouch insert, and the pouch, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 13 illustrates another assembly view of the water bottle, the pouch insert, and the pouch, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 14 illustrates another assembly view of the water bottle, the pouch insert, and the pouch, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 15 illustrates another assembly view of the water bottle, the pouch insert, and the pouch, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 16 illustrates a side view of the water bottle mounted on a canine with the pouch insert and the pouch, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 17 illustrates another view of a canine wearing the water bottle system with a holster mechanism, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 18 illustrates a view of the water bottle positioned within a MOLLE holster for use on a vehicle, vest, canine, etc., according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 19 illustrates a holster configuration showing the MOLLE holster with holster protrusions, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 20 illustrates a partial view of the water bottle with holster protrusions, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0040] The drawings are not necessarily to scale, or inclusive of all elements of a system, emphasis instead generally being placed upon illustrating the concepts, structures, and techniques sought to be protected herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the invention or the applications of its use.

[0042] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a water bottle system that integrates locking mechanisms with thermoregulation capabilities for use in tactical and operational environments. The system may include a water bottle that can be shaped to match the external dimensions of a PRC-152 US Military / NATO radio, enabling compatibility with existing radio pouches without modification, although such a shape is not limiting and is merely exemplary in nature. The water bottle system can incorporate a specialized pouch insert with male protrusions that engage with female indentations on the water bottle,Attorney Reference No. 389163-000040 creating a secure friction-based retention mechanism. Additionally, in other embodiments, the system may feature a holster mechanism that can provide alternative mounting solutions, including configurations adapted for canine operations and vehicle-mounted applications.

[0043] In some embodiments, the water bottle can be designed with a uniform front profile that facilitates an even distribution of thermal energy across surfaces in contact with the user's body. The bottle may include a threaded cap that allows for rapid removal and replacement during active scenarios, ensuring quick access to hydration when needed. In some embodiments, the pouch insert can be configured as a three-sided structure with an open body-facing side, allowing direct thermal contact between the water bottle and the user for conductive thermoregulation purposes. Moreover, it is important to note that side-facing insertions are not a requirement and that alternatives are also contemplated herein.

[0044] The disclosed system can provide several operational advantages in tactical environments. The compatibility with standard NATO and US Military issue radio pouches allows for retrofitting existing equipment without requiring additional specialized gear. Other compatibilities can include at least one of a PRC-152, PRC-163, MPU-5, a TrellisWare Radio, Motorola XTS series, or a Motorola APX series. The dual-function thermal regulation capability can enable the water bottle to provide conductive cooling when filled e.g., with ice, as the ice melts and absorbs body heat, transferring thermal energy away from the wearer. Conversely, the system can deliver conductive heating when filled e.g., with hot water (or other liquid), providing warmth in cold operational conditions. Moreover, the secure locking mechanism can maintain stable positioning during dynamic movement while allowing for controlled removal and replacement similar to magazine-style operations.

[0045] The water bottle system can find applications across various operational environments, including military, tactical, and specialized canine operations. In military settings, the system can integrate seamlessly with existing load-bearing equipment and radio pouches, reducing the need for additional carrying solutions. The holster mechanism can be specifically configured as a wing holster adapted for use on K9 harnesses, providing thermal regulation capabilities for canine units during field operations. The system can also accommodate rapid deployment and retrieval configurations for vehicle mounts and other quick-access scenarios, enabling tactical personnel to maintain hydration and thermal management capabilities across diverse operational contexts. In addition, other applications can include emergency services, explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) units, wildland firefighters, and other similar operations units.Attorney Reference No. 389163-000040

[0046] FIGS. 1 and 11 illustrate an exploded view of a water bottle system 50 constructed in accordance with preferred embodiments. The system 50 can include a water bottle 100 with cap 105, a pouch insert 200, and a pouch 300. FIG. 1 shows the components from one view while FIG. 11 shows the components from an opposite view. In use, the components can be arranged such that the water bottle 100, pouch insert 200, and pouch 300 interface with each other after an assembly process. In use, the illustrated components integrate together to form a cohesive hydration system that maintains both structural stability and thermal transfer capabilities. In some embodiments, the pouch 300 may feature a slotted or ventilated design that allows for airflow circulation while maintaining structural integrity for housing the internal components.

[0047] Referring to FIGS. 2-5, the water bottle 100 can be configured with an elongated rectangular shape that maintains rounded corners and edges throughout the structure, although such features are not limiting. In particular, a rectangular geometry is not a limiting feature and many geometries are contemplated herein. The water bottle 100 can feature a slim profile that provides a uniform width along the length of the body, with a slightly curved top portion that transitions into a cap or closure area. The side profile reveals the overall height and depth dimensions of the water bottle 100, which can be designed to fit within standard military radio pouches. The water bottle 100 can maintain structural integrity while providing the dimensional compatibility needed for integration with existing tactical equipment. In some cases, the water bottle 100 may be constructed from high-impact plastic or polymers that can withstand harsh operational environments while maintaining lightweight characteristics.

[0048] In some embodiments, the water bottle 100 can include an internal cavity configured to store other payloads, such as electronics, tools, medicine, medical devices, narcotics, blood, or other sensitive items. In some embodiments, the internal cavity can further include an internal sealing mechanism or padding that can seal and / or protect the payloads within the cavity from impacts, water ingress, changes in pressure, and / or environmental exposure.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 2, the water bottle 100 can include a first female indentation 101 and a second female indentation 102 formed on opposite sides of the water bottle 100. The first female indentation 101 and the second female indentation 102 may be positioned to engage with corresponding male protrusions of the pouch insert through friction and tension mechanisms (see FIG. 6). The water bottle 100 can feature a threaded cap portion 103 positioned at a top portion of the water bottle 100, which when a cap 105 with correspondingAttorney Reference No. 389163-000040 threads is screwed onto the portion 103 can provide secure sealing for liquid contents while allowing for rapid removal and replacement during operational scenarios. It is important to note that while various configurations of male and female indentations are discussed herein as retention mechanisms, the invention is not so limited and other retention mechanisms can be utilized, such as protrusions, detents, snap-fit clips, or compression surfaces. In some embodiments, the cap 105 can be a modular cap that is adapted to receive one or more of hydration tubes, filtration elements, and / or pressure-activated dispensers.

[0050] With reference to FIG. 3, the water bottle 100 can maintain the elongated rectangular form with rounded edges and corners that characterize the overall design. The threaded cap portion 103 may be positioned at the upper end of the water bottle 100 to provide access to the internal volume for filling and drinking operations. The rear profile can include additional markings such as a fill line indicating fill capacity, in this embodiment identified as "800mL", near the top portion (or other capacity), which can assist users in determining appropriate fill levels. The slim profile can be maintained with consistent width throughout the length, which may facilitate even distribution of thermal energy across surfaces that come into contact with the user's body during thermoregulation operations. In some embodiments, the water bottle100 can be reversible in orientation within the pouch insert 200 so that heating or cooling can be selectively applied to the user’s body.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 4, the water bottle 100 can feature the first female indentation 101 extending along one side surface, which may be configured to provide secure retention when engaged with corresponding male protrusions on the insert 200. In addition, as shown in FIG. 5, the water bottle 100 can be configured with a second female indentation 102 that extends along the side surface of the water bottle 100. The second female indentation 102 may be positioned to complement the first female indentation 101 on the opposite side of the water bottle 100, creating a balanced engagement system that facilitates secure retention when interfaced with corresponding male protrusions of a pouch insert. The first female indentation101 and the second female indentation 102 can be positioned on opposite sides of the body to create a balanced engagement system that prevents inadvertent removal during active use. The engagement between the first female indentation 101 and the second female indentation 102 with corresponding male protrusions on the insert 200 may create sufficient friction and tension to maintain secure positioning while allowing for controlled removal when needed.Attorney Reference No. 389163-000040

[0052] Referring to FIG. 6, one portion of the pouch insert 200 can be configured with a first male protrusion 201 and a second male protrusion 202 that extend from the surface of the pouch insert 200. The first male protrusion 201 and the second male protrusion 202 can be positioned on opposite sides of the pouch insert 200 to create a balanced engagement system with the first female indentation 101 and the second female indentation 102 of the water bottle 100. A bottom opening 203 can be formed at the lower portion of the pouch insert 200, featuring a flared and beveled design that facilitates insertion of the water bottle 100. In some embodiments, the bottom opening 203 can be designed similar to a competition or military-style handgun or rifle magazine well, which can enable easier insertion of the water bottle 100 even during dynamic operational situations. A back surface 204 of the pouch insert 200 can extend between the first male protrusion 201 and the second male protrusion 202, forming a continuous surface that helps maintain structural integrity of the pouch insert 200.

[0053] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 8, the pouch insert 200 can be configured as a three-sided structure that comprises an open body-facing side, which may allow direct contact between the water bottle 100 and a user's body for conductive thermoregulation purposes. The open body-facing side of the pouch insert 200 can enable the transfer of thermal energy between the water bottle 100 and the user while maintaining secure retention through the engagement of the first male protrusion 201 and the second male protrusion 202 with the first female indentation 101 and the second female indentation 102. Moreover, the three-sided configuration may eliminate barriers between the water bottle 100 and the user's body, maximizing thermal transfer efficiency while preserving the structural support needed for secure retention.

[0054] As shown in FIGS. 7-10, the pouch insert 200 can maintain an elongated rectangular form with a uniform width throughout the length of the structure. The pouch insert 200 may feature a vertical orientation that includes a top portion transitioning into the main body, with clean lines and consistent dimensions from top to bottom. The front view can reveal the overall geometric profile of the pouch insert 200, which may be designed to interface with corresponding components while maintaining structural stability. The pouch insert 200 can be constructed from high-impact plastic or polymers that provide durability in harsh operational environments while maintaining lightweight characteristics suitable for tactical applications. For example, in some embodiments, a material having a thermal conductivity of at least about 0.2 W / mK or a conductivity similar to that of High Density Polyethylene, Low Density Polyethylene, Polycarbonate, Tritan, or other similar materials.Attorney Reference No. 389163-000040

[0055] With reference to FIG. 8, the first male protrusion 201 and the second male protrusion 202 can be positioned on opposite sides of the pouch insert 200 in a parallel arrangement. The first male protrusion 201 and the second male protrusion 202 may extend outward from the sides of the pouch insert 200 and can be configured to engage with the first female indentation 101 and the second female indentation 102 on the water bottle 100 through friction and tension mechanisms. The first male protrusion 201 and the second male protrusion 202 can function as a lock and key mechanism and a bump-stop to ensure the water bottle 100 can only be inserted in one orientation while preventing over-insertion of the water bottle 100 into the pouch insert 200.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 9, the pouch insert 200 can feature an elongated rectangular shape with rounded edges at the top and bottom portions. The side view shows the consistent width maintained throughout the length of the pouch insert 200 in the illustrated embodiment, which can accommodate the water bottle 100 while providing secure retention capabilities. The pouch insert 200 can be designed to maintain accessibility for insertion and removal operations while preserving the structural integrity needed for reliable performance in tactical environments. The pouch insert 200 may be compatible with standard NATO and U.S. Military issue radio pouches, allowing for retrofitting existing equipment without requiring modifications to the pouches themselves. The flared and beveled bottom opening 203 can facilitate smooth insertion of the water bottle 100 even during dynamic operational situations, while the first male protrusion 201 and the second male protrusion 202 provide the retention mechanism that maintains secure positioning throughout active use scenarios.

[0057]

[0058] FIGS. 12 and 13 illustrate the spatial relationships between the water bottle 100, pouch insert 200, and pouch 300 in a partially assembled state. The pouch insert 200 can reside within the pouch 300. As further shown in FIG. 13, the three-sided configuration with the open body-facing side that allows direct thermal contact between the water bottle 100 and the user's body.

[0059] As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the water bottle 100 is secured within the pouch insert 200 through the engagement of the first male protrusion 201 and the second male protrusion 202 with the first female indentation 101 and the second female indentation 102, creating the friction and tension mechanisms needed for secure retention. The pouch insert 200 is inserted into the pouch 300 completing the system, which is now ready for use. In some embodiments, the pouch 300 may feature textured or patterned surface characteristics thatAttorney Reference No. 389163-000040 enhance durability and handling properties during active use scenarios. In some embodiments, as discussed above, the integrated system can be compatible with standard NATO and U.S. Military issue radio pouches, allowing for retrofitting existing equipment without requiring modifications to the pouches themselves.

[0060] Referring to FIG. 16, the water bottle system can be adapted for canine operations, where the water bottle 100 may be mounted on a canine using the pouch insert 200 and the pouch 300. The water bottle 100 can be secured to the side of the canine's body through the engagement system that maintains the water bottle 100 in a position allowing for thermal contact with the canine during movement. The pouch insert 200 and the pouch 300 can work together to provide secure attachment while enabling thermal transfer between the water bottle 100 and the canine's body. The three-sided configuration of the pouch insert 200 can allow direct contact between the water bottle 100 and the canine's body, facilitating conductive thermoregulation that may provide cooling or heating depending on the contents of the water bottle 100.

[0061] As shown in FIG. 17, an alternative mounting configuration for canine or other service animal use can utilize a holster 400 that may be secured to the canine's side for supporting the water bottle 100. The holster 400 can provide a secure mounting mechanism that holds the water bottle 100 in place against the canine's body while maintaining thermal transfer capabilities. The water bottle 100 can appear as a rectangular container with a slim profile that integrates with the holster 400 to enable thermal regulation during canine operations. In some embodiments, the holster 400 can be specifically configured as a wing holster adapted for mounting on a K9 harness. In some embodiments, the holster 400 can maintain the orientation of the water bottle 100 to optimize thermal contact with the canine for enhanced conductive cooling or heating efficiency.

[0062] FIG. 18 demonstrates the integration between the various components in a use case where the water bottle 100 is positioned within a MOLLE holster for use on a vehicle, vest, canine, etc. The holster 400 can feature a structured frame that accommodates the water bottle 100 while maintaining proper alignment and stability during use. The holster 400 can be adapted for insertion and removal of the water bottle 100 while being configured to maintain thermal contact between the water bottle 100 and the canine. The assembled configuration shows how the water bottle 100 interfaces with the holster 400 to provide both secure retention and thermal transfer capabilities. In some embodiments, the holster 400Attorney Reference No. 389163-000040 may allow for rapid deployment and retrieval of the water bottle 100 from vehicle mounts or other quick-access configurations during tactical operations.

[0063] As shown in FIG. 19, the holster 400 can include a first holster protrusion 401 and a second holster protrusion 402 that extend from opposite sides of the holster 400 in a parallel arrangement. The first holster protrusion 401 and the second holster protrusion 402 can be configured to interface with the first female indentation 101 and the second female indentation 102 on the water bottle 100, providing an alternative engagement mechanism to the pouch insert 200 system. The first holster protrusion 401 and the second holster protrusion 402 can be positioned to allow front insertion and removal of the water bottle 100 without requiring a lock and key feature to prevent over-insertion. In some embodiments, the first holster protrusion 401 and the second holster protrusion 402 can be configured for vertical insertion and removal of the water bottle 100, enabling the water bottle 100 to be secured in various orientations including vehicular mounts or stationary clips.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 20, the water bottle 100 is shown within the holster 400. In the illustrated embodiment, the first holster protrusion 401 and the second holster protrusion 402 are formed as parallel recessed areas that hold the sides of the water bottle 100. The first holster protrusion 401 and the second holster protrusion 402 can be positioned to create a configuration that allows for secure engagement with corresponding features of the holster 400. As discussed above, the first holster protrusion 401 and the second holster protrusion 402 can be configured to provide secure retention while allowing for controlled insertion and removal operations. In addition, the holster 400 can be attached to military harnesses (or other harnesses) via Velcro® or various other similar attachment mechanisms.

[0065] In one operational use case, a method of thermoregulating a human user can include filling a water bottle with ice or heated fluid; inserting the water bottle into a pouch insert having an open body-facing side; and wearing the pouch insert adjacent to the user’s torso, thereby transferring thermal energy between the water bottle and the user’s body. In another operational use case, a method of cooling a service canine can include filling a water bottle with chilled fluid; securing the water bottle to the side of the canine using a holster adapted for conductive thermal contact; and maintaining contact between the water bottle and the canine’s body during movement to enable thermal energy transfer. In yet another operational use case, a method of providing thermoregulated hydration in a vehicle can include mounting a holster to a vehicular surface; inserting a water bottle into the holster such that its body-Attorney Reference No. 389163-000040 facing surface remains exposed; and enabling a user to retrieve the water bottle for hydration or thermal application during transit.

[0066] It should be appreciated that the dimensions described herein are merely exemplary in nature and do not limit the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, any thickness of the pad can be used according to one’s desired level of comfort or as traditional used in the field. For example, the pad can be approximately an eighth (1 / 8) of an inch thick. In addition, while the embodiments described herein may be ideal for military and law enforcement, they are not limited to these environments and can find usefulness in a variety of other fields where range of motion and comfort can be increased using one of the disclosed pads.

[0067] While various embodiments have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example and not limitation. It will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art(s) that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope. In fact, after reading the above description, it will be apparent to one skilled in the relevant art(s) how to implement alternative embodiments. For example, other steps may be provided, or steps may be eliminated, from the described flows, and other components may be added to, or removed from, the described systems. Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope of the following claims.

[0068] It is to be understood that the disclosed subject matter is not limited in its application to the details of construction and to the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The disclosed subject matter is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conception, upon which this disclosure is based, may readily be utilized as a basis for the designing of other structures, methods, and systems for carrying out the several purposes of the disclosed subject matter. It is important, therefore, that the claims be regarded as including such equivalent constructions insofar as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the disclosed subject matter.

[0069] In addition, it should be understood that any figures which highlight the functionality and advantages are presented for example purposes only. The disclosed methodology and system are each sufficiently flexible and configurable such that they may be utilized in ways other than that shown.Attorney Reference No. 389163-000040

[0070] Although the term “at least one” may often be used in the specification, claims and drawings, the terms “a”, “an”, “the”, “said”, etc. also signify “at least one” or “the at least one” in the specification, claims and drawings.

[0071] Finally, it is the applicant's intent that only claims that include the express language "means for" or "step for" be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f). Claims that do not expressly include the phrase "means for" or "step for" are not to be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f).

[0072] Although the disclosed subject matter has been described and illustrated in the foregoing illustrative embodiments, it is understood that the present disclosure has been made only by way of example, and that numerous changes in the details of implementation of the disclosed subject matter may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosed subject matter.

Claims

Attorney Reference No. 389163-000040CLAIMS1. A water bottle system, comprising: a water bottle comprising a first female indentation and a second female indentation formed on opposite sides of the water bottle; and a pouch insert comprising a first male protrusion and a second male protrusion configured to engage with the first and second female indentations, wherein the pouch insert is three-sided and comprises an open body-facing side that allows direct contact between the water bottle and a user's body for conductive thermoregulation.

2. The water bottle system of claim 1 , wherein the first male protrusion and the second male protrusion create friction and tension with the first female indentation and the second female indentation sufficient to hold the water bottle securely in place.

3. The water bottle system of claim 1 , wherein the pouch insert comprises a bottom opening that is flared and beveled to facilitate insertion of the water bottle.

4. The water bottle system of claim 3, wherein the first male protrusion and the second male protrusion function as a lock and key mechanism and a bump-stop to ensure the water bottle can only be inserted in one orientation.

5. The water bottle system of claim 4, wherein the flared and beveled bottom opening facilitates smooth insertion of the water bottle even during dynamic operational situations.

6. The water bottle system of claim 1 , wherein the water bottle comprises: an internal cavity configured to store a payload; and an internal sealing mechanism configured to seal the internal cavity.

7. The water bottle system of claim 1 , wherein the pouch insert is compatible with standard NATO and U.S. Military issue radio pouches.

8. The water bottle system of claim 1 , wherein the water bottle and the pouch insert are constructed from a high-impact plastic or polymers.Attorney Reference No. 389163-0000409. The water bottle system of claim 1 , wherein the water bottle is configured to provide conductive cooling when filled with ice or conductive heating when filled with hot water through direct contact with the user's body via the open body-facing side of the pouch insert.

10. The water bottle system of claim 9, wherein the open body-facing side of the pouch insert allows for transfer of thermal energy between the water bottle and the user while maintaining secure retention through the engagement of the male protrusions with the female indentations.

11. A water bottle comprising: a body having external dimensions configured to fit within a pouch; a first female indentation formed on a first side of the body; and a second female indentation formed on a second side of the body opposite the first side; and wherein the first female indentation and the second female indentation are configured to engage with corresponding male protrusions of a pouch insert through friction and tension.

12. The water bottle system of claim 11, wherein the water bottle comprises: an internal cavity configured to store a payload; and an internal sealing mechanism configured to seal the internal cavity.

13. The water bottle of claim 12, wherein the engagement between the first female indentation and the second female indentation with the corresponding male protrusions creates sufficient friction and tension to prevent inadvertent removal during active use.

14. The water bottle of claim 11 , wherein the body is constructed from a high-impact plastic or polymers.

15. The water bottle of claim 11 , wherein the water bottle is configured to provide conductive thermoregulation when filled with ice or hot water and positioned in contact with a user's body.

16. The water bottle of claim 15, wherein the open body-facing side of the pouch insert allows for transfer of thermal energy between the water bottle and the user whileAttorney Reference No. 389163-000040 maintaining secure retention through the engagement of the male protrusions with the female indentations.

17. A holster mechanism for securing a water bottle comprising: a holster body having a first holster protrusion and a second holster protrusion configured to interface with female indentations on a water bottle; and wherein the holster body is adapted for insertion and removal of the water bottle and configured to maintain thermal contact between the water bottle and a user or canine.

18. The holster mechanism of claim 17, wherein the holster body is configured as a canine holster adapted for mounting on a K9 harness to provide thermal regulation for canine units.

19. The holster mechanism of claim 18, wherein the canine holster is configured to maintain orientation of the water bottle to optimize thermal contact with the canine for enhanced conductive cooling or heating efficiency.

20. The holster mechanism of claim 17, wherein the first holster protrusion and the second holster protrusion are positioned to allow front insertion and removal of the water bottle without requiring a lock and key feature to prevent over-insertion.

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