COMPACT CASE WITH FOAM INSERT TO CARRY SMALL BOTTLES AND A FUNNEL

Abstract

The present disclosure provides for a portable case preferably of flexible fabric and a foam insert that defines a plurality of cavities to receive and secure miniature bottle for beverages.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/506,336, filed on May 15, 2017, which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

[0002] The present invention generally relates to a portable carrying device useful for storing and conveying beverages and more particularly relates to a flexible, closeable container device for carrying miniature bottles.

Description of the Related Art

[0003] Simple, portable, hard-walled coolers formed of metal or plastic and designed solely to maintain food and beverages at low temperatures are well known in the art. Over the years, various devices have been made to assist people with storing and carrying food and beverages. For example, hard-sided, insulated containers, such as plastic coolers and jugs, are manufactured in a variety of shapes and sizes by The Coleman Company of Wichita, Kans. Similarly, lightweight, soft-sided coolers that serve similar functions are also known in the art, a variety of which are also manufactured by The Coleman Company. Many of these various types of conventional containers are designed to carry loose items, for example canned beverages, that are less prone to breakage.

[0004] It would be desirable that lightweight, soft-sided containers provide additional functions, such as organization and protection against breakage for glass bottled beverages.

[0005] A need exists none of these include a convenient, effective and efficient manner in which to carry miniature bottles snugly and securely while allowing for fast and easy retrieval.

[0006] Accordingly, there is a need for a compact portable lightweight container to receive and secure miniature bottles for efficient transportation and display by a user.

[0007] As disclosed in this application, the inventor has discovered novel and unique devices and methods for efficient and secure transport of miniature bottles for beverages, which exhibit superlative properties without being dependent on heavy, immobile, expensive or complex components.

[0008] While conventional beverage containers may be suitable for the particular purposes employed, they would not be as suitable for the purposes of the present invention as disclosed herein.

[0009] Embodiments of the present invention provide for devices and methods and disclosed herein and as defined in the annexed claims which provide for organization and protective features in order to efficiently carry and display miniature bottles of beverages of many types upon a variety of surfaces, in an organized manner, for people's convenience and enjoyment.

[0010] Embodiments of the present invention provide for canvas cases as defined in the annexed claims which provide for improved mobility, set up, and displaying characteristics in order to efficiently carry and display miniature bottles of various types of interest in a multitude of environments.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] It is one prospect of the present invention to provide one or more novel devices of simple but effective construction which can be applied to many environments to efficiently and effectively receive, transport and display small bottles for beverages.

[0012] The following presents a simplified summary of the present disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented herein.

[0013] Therefore, in accordance with embodiment of the invention, there is provided a portable case to carry small bottles comprising a flexible fabric forming a rectangular pouch, preferably travel sized, having a bottom floor, side walls, an opening, and a top flap, wherein the top flap is configured to pivot relative to the opening to enclose or to open the case. The case includes a removable foam insert defining a plurality of cavities configured to receive a bottom portion of a small bottle to secure the small bottle against movement relative thereto, said foam insert tightly fitted within said pouch; a tether connector affixed to an outer portion of the top flap; and a strap affixed to a lower exterior portion of at least one side wall of the pouch and configured to be grasped by a user's hand to maneuver said strap around said tether connector when said case is closed.

[0014] Preferably, the strap is characterized as having a length sufficient to extend fully around the pouch and connect to said tether connector.

[0015] The flexible fabric is preferably leather or a canvas cloth.

[0016] The portable case further comprises an elastic band having a first end and a second end, wherein said first end and said second end are each affixed to a portion of the flexible flap, wherein said elastic band is configured to enwrap the rectangular pouch when said case is in a closed position.

[0017] The portable case further comprises an elastic band having a first end and a second end, wherein said first end and said second end are each affixed to a portion of the flexible flap, wherein said elastic band is configured to enwrap the rectangular pouch when said case is in a closed position.

[0018] The portable case further comprises one or more small bottles fitted within one or more respective cavities of said foam insert.

[0019] The foam insert is preferably fabricated from a material selected from a group consisting of plastic, resin, styrofoam, high-density polyethylene, and rubber.

[0020] In another embodiment of the invention, the compact bottled beverage carrier and display is provided comprising: a flexible, closeable, leather display case sized to closely surround and fit tightly against a foam insert, wherein said foam insert provides upstanding sidewall support for said case, said display case comprising a flexible fabric cover, wherein said flexible fabric cover is flexibly positionable from a closed carrier position to an open display case position; and a removeable foam insert having a rectangular form including a floor and side walls configured to nest compatibly within the display case, wherein said foam insert defines a cavity to receive and secure a bottom portion of a bottle.

[0021] The compact bottled beverage carrier and display preferably comprises at least one flexible fabric strap, said strap being attached to and extending outwardly from a bottom portion of the display case. Preferably it further comprises a tether connector in the form of an ornamental button affixed to an outer portion of the flexible fabric cover, wherein the flexible fabric strap can enwrap said ornamental button to maintain the carrier in a closed position for transport.

[0022] The compact bottled beverage carrier and display further comprises at least one or more small bottles fitted within one or more respective cavities of the foam insert.

[0023] In yet another embodiment of the invention, a foldable carrier and display case is provided comprising: a pair of elongated pouches pivotally connected by a sheet of flexible fabric; and at least one elongated foam insert disposed within each pouch, said at least one foam insert defining a plurality of cavities, wherein each cavity is configured to receive a glass bottle and secure said glass bottle against movement relative thereto.

[0024] wherein said elongated pouches are pivotal relative to each other between a freestanding closed pouch carrier position, in which said sheet of flexible fabric extends transversely across and closes the opening of both pouches, to a freestanding open pouch display position, in which said sheet of flexible fabric evades the opening of both pouches.

[0025] The foldable carrier and display case further comprises an elastic band having a first end and a second end, wherein said first end and said second end are each affixed to a portion of one of the elongated pouches, wherein said elastic band is configured to enwrap the other one of the elongated pouches.

[0026] The foldable carrier and display case further comprises an elastic band having a first end and a second end, wherein said first end and said second end are each affixed to a portion of one of the elongated pouches, wherein said elastic band is configured to enwrap the other one of the elongated pouches while said pouches are relatively positioned in the freestanding closed pouch carrier position.

[0027] The foldable carrier and display case further comprises an elastic band having a first end and a second end, wherein said first end and said second end are each affixed to a portion of one of the elongated pouches, wherein said elastic band is configured to enwrap the other one of the elongated pouches while said pouches are relatively positioned in the freestanding open pouch display position.

[0028] Preferably, a portion of the at least one elongated foam insert defines at least one cavity configured to receive and secure a funnel.

[0029] The foldable carrier and display case further comprises a handle affixed to an outer portion of one of the elongated pouches for maneuvering the foldable carrier and display case from the freestanding closed pouch position to the freestanding open pouch position.

[0030] In yet another embodiment, there is provided a portable case to carry small bottles comprising a flexible fabric forming a rectangular pouch, preferably travel sized, having a bottom floor, side walls, an opening, and a top flap, wherein the top flap is configured to pivot relative to the opening to enclose or to open the case. The case includes a removable foam insert defining a plurality of cavities configured to receive a bottom portion of a small bottle to secure the small bottle against movement relative thereto, said foam insert tightly fitted within (and providing upstanding sidewall support to) said pouch; a tether connector affixed to an outer portion of the top flap; and a strap affixed to a lower exterior portion of at least one side wall of the pouch and configured to be grasped by a user's hand to maneuver said strap around said tether connector when said case is closed.

[0031] Preferably, the strap is characterized as having a length sufficient to extend fully around the pouch and connect to said tether connector.

[0032] The flexible fabric is preferably leather or a canvas cloth.

[0033] The portable case further comprises an elastic band having a first end and a second end, wherein said first end and said second end are each affixed to a portion of the flexible flap, wherein said elastic band is configured to enwrap the rectangular pouch when said case is in a closed position.

[0034] The portable case further comprises an elastic band having a first end and a second end, wherein said first end and said second end are each affixed to a portion of the flexible flap, wherein said elastic band is configured to enwrap the rectangular pouch when said case is in a closed position.

[0035] The portable case further comprises one or more small bottles fitted within one or more respective cavities of said foam insert.

[0036] The foam insert is preferably fabricated from a material selected from a group consisting of plastic, resin, styrofoam, high-density polyethylene, and rubber.

[0037] In another embodiment of the invention, the compact bottled beverage carrier and display is provided comprising: a flexible, closeable, leather display case (comprising a pouch) (simulating a clutch purse) sized to closely surround and fit tightly against a foam insert, wherein said foam insert provides upstanding sidewall support for said case, said display case comprising a flexible fabric cover, wherein said flexible fabric cover is flexibly positionable from a closed carrier position to an open display case position; and a removeable foam insert having a rectangular form including a floor and side walls configured to nest compatibly within the display case, wherein said foam insert defines a cavity to receive and secure a bottom portion of a bottle.

[0038] The compact bottled beverage carrier and display preferably comprises at least one flexible fabric strap, said strap being attached to and extending outwardly from a bottom portion of the display case. Preferably it further comprises a tether connector in the form of an ornamental button affixed to an outer portion of the flexible fabric cover, wherein the flexible fabric strap can enwrap said ornamental button to maintain the carrier in a closed position for transport.

[0039] The compact bottled beverage carrier and display further comprises at least one or more small bottles fitted within one or more respective cavities of the foam insert.

[0040] In yet another embodiment of the invention, a foldable carrier and display case is provided comprising: a pair of elongated pouches pivotally connected by a sheet of flexible fabric (preferably canvas or leather); and at least one elongated foam insert disposed within each pouch, said at least one foam insert defining a plurality of cavities, wherein each cavity is configured to receive a glass bottle and secure said glass bottle against movement relative thereto.

[0041] wherein said elongated pouches are pivotal relative to each other between a freestanding closed pouch carrier position (preferably positioned or oriented parallel to each other), in which said sheet of flexible fabric extends transversely across and closes the opening of both pouches, to a freestanding open pouch display position (preferably positioned or oriented parallel to each other), in which said sheet of flexible fabric evades the opening of both pouches.

[0042] The foldable carrier and display case further comprises an elastic band having a first end and a second end, wherein said first end and said second end are each affixed to a portion of one of the elongated pouches, wherein said elastic band is configured to enwrap the other one of the elongated pouches.

[0043] The foldable carrier and display case further comprises an elastic band having a first end and a second end, wherein said first end and said second end are each affixed to a portion of one of the elongated pouches, wherein said elastic band is configured to enwrap the other one of the elongated pouches while said pouches are relatively positioned in the freestanding closed pouch carrier position.

[0044] The foldable carrier and display case further comprises an elastic band having a first end and a second end, wherein said first end and said second end are each affixed to a portion of one of the elongated pouches, wherein said elastic band is configured to enwrap the other one of the elongated pouches while said pouches are relatively positioned in the freestanding open pouch display position.

[0045] A portion of the at least one elongated foam insert defines at least one cavity configured to receive and secure a funnel.

[0046] The foldable carrier and display case further comprises a handle affixed to an outer portion of one of the elongated pouches for maneuvering the foldable carrier and display case from the freestanding closed pouch position to the freestanding open pouch position.

[0047] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0048] Illustrative embodiments of the present invention are described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like numerals throughout the figures identify substantially similar components, in which:

[0049] FIG. 1 is a front elevation view, according to preferred embodiments of the invention;

[0050] FIG. 2 is a side view thereof partially in cutaway;

[0051] FIG. 3 is a top view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0052] FIG. 4 is a front elevation view of an embodiment of the invention;

[0053] FIG. 5 is a side view thereof partially in cutaway;

[0054] FIG. 6 is a front left perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0055] FIG. 7 is a front left perspective view of an embodiment of the invention;

[0056] FIG. 8 is a front right elevation view of an embodiment of the invention;

[0057] FIG. 9 is a front view, according to preferred embodiments of the invention;

[0058] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention;

[0059] FIG. 11 is a back elevation view of an embodiment of the invention;

[0060] FIG. 12 is a top perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0061] FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of FIG. 12 showing exemplary bottle housing and illustrating exemplary spacing of the bottles, according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0062] FIG. 14 is a top view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0063] FIG. 15 is a cross sectional view of FIG. 14 cut along line A-A;

[0064] FIG. 16 is a top view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0065] FIG. 17 is a cross section view thereof showing exemplary bottle housing and illustrating exemplary spacing of the bottles, according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0066] FIG. 18 is a side elevation view of FIG. 16 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0067] FIG. 19 is top plain view in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0068] FIG. 20 is a bottom plain view thereof in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0069] FIG. 21 is bottom plain view showing the base of the bottle housing in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0070] FIG. 22 is a bottom plain view in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0071] FIG. 23 is a top plain view of an embodiment of the invention;

[0072] FIG. 24 is a cross sectional side view thereof showing exemplary bottle housing in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0073] FIG. 25 is a front left perspective view of a foam insert device in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0074] FIG. 26 is a front left perspective view thereof;

[0075] FIG. 27 is a top view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0076] FIG. 28 is a front elevation view, according to preferred embodiments of the invention;

[0077] FIG. 29 is a side view thereof partially in cutaway;

[0078] FIG. 30 is a front perspective inside view, according to preferred embodiments of the invention; and

[0079] FIG. 31 is a front perspective side view of embodiments of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0080] For a further understanding of the nature and function of the embodiments, reference should be made to the following detailed description. Detailed descriptions of the embodiments are provided herein, as well as, the best mode of carrying out and employing the present invention. It will be readily appreciated that the embodiments are well adapted to carry out and obtain the ends and features mentioned as well as those inherent herein. It is to be understood, however, that the present invention may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, persons of ordinary skill in the art will realize that the following disclosure is illustrative only and not in any way limiting, as the specific details disclosed herein provide a basis for the claims and a representative basis for teaching to employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed system, structure or manner. It should be understood that the devices, materials, methods, procedures, and techniques described herein are presently representative of various embodiments. Other embodiments of the disclosure will readily suggest themselves to such skilled persons having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0081] As used herein, "axis" means a real or imaginary straight line about which a three-dimensional body is symmetrical. A "vertical axis" means an axis perpendicular to the ground (or put another way, an axis extending upwardly and downwardly). A "horizontal axis" means an axis parallel to the ground.

[0082] Individual small bottles are awkward to travel with and if the bottles are glass, they are prone to break easily. The invention claimed here solves this problem.

[0083] The bottles are contained in a small case which includes a foam insert. The foam insert has 3-5 pre-cut spaces which house the small bottles for organization and protection during travel.

[0084] The claimed invention differs from what currently exists. Our case is designed to offer the protection that is not available in conventional bags, while its compact size makes it efficient for travel.

[0085] This invention is an improvement on what currently exists. Our case is designed to offer the protection that is not available in conventional bags, while its compact size makes it efficient for travel.

[0086] We have no comment here, there is nothing to compare our product to from the standpoint of improvement. Our product is a new concept.

[0087] There is a huge market for transporting these small bottles in an organized and efficient way. The product is an improvement in entirety given there is nothing available on the market.

[0088] The version of the invention discussed here includes: (1) canvas--the canvas case constructed in one of a number of canvas and vinyl materials; (2) foam insert--the foam insert is manufactured depending on specs to fit between 3 and 5 cutouts; (3) decoration--the canvas case is decorated; (4) bottles--the glass or plastic bottles are added to the insert; (5) funnel--a funnel is added to the finished case; (6) thread--cotton or polyester thread is used to sew the canvas; (7) lining--a polyester lining is sewn to the inside of a portion of the case; (8) strap--an elastic strap is attached to secure the case closed; and (9) branding tag--a woven tag that is sewn to the outside of the case identifying the design as ours.

[0089] Relationship between the components: Canvas (1) is sewn together with thread (6) to the polyester lining (7) and elastic strap (8). At this point, the branding tag (9) is also sewn into the outside of the case for identification. Here decoration (3) is added if necessary. The polyethylene foam (2) is inserted into the constructed case, see (1), (6), (7), (8), and (9). At this point, bottles (4) and funnel (5) would be added. The elastic strap (8) is wrapped around to the back of the case to fasten it. The two primary pieces of the product are constructed separately. Separately, the components do not achieve the desired function. The two primary pieces are an exterior canvas case and a foam insert. The foam insert is created out of two pieces which are glued together. The larger rectangular piece includes the circular cut outs which can be resized and positioned as needed. The flat bottom piece provides a base for the larger piece, also able to be customized as needed. The constructed foam must be inserted into the case to offer the organization and protection desired. The case is created by canvas pieces that are sewn together and include an interior lining. The elastic strap is stitched in place prior to sewing the two sides of the canvas. The foam insert is placed within the canvas case and the elastic strap is fastened around the back of the case. For use--the strap is unfastened and the small bottles are placed within the pre-cut spaces. The front cover is then closed and the elastic strap is fastened back. The case is now ready for travel.

[0090] How the invention works: The case is a very simple product, made of two primary pieces. The case is delivered in ready to use condition with no assembly required. The user only needs to fill and secure the case for it to be in its working capacity. The components are not designed to work separately. The case needs to be assembled to be useful in its true form. The case needs to be secure to be completely functional. Our case is delivered assembled.

[0091] How to make the invention: The two primary components of this invention are a canvas case and a foam insert. One could possibly cut the two foam pieces and create a die to fashion the pre-cut spaces; however, this has been outsourced. The case is created from canvas which has been cut based on a predesigned template. The canvas would then be sewn together including the lining and the elastic. Theoretically, this may be done on site; however, this has also been outsourced. Once the two components are procured, the foam is inserted into the canvas case and the elastic strap is fastened around the back. The necessary elements are simply the case and the foam. The decoration, bottles, funnel, and decoration are optional. We do not believe any further elements are necessary to make our product function better. Our product is a very simple product with very few parts and we do not believe there are interchangeable parts as we have designed it. The case could be resized and would be able to perform the similar function. The different canvas can be used and a similar product would be at hand. We intend to make this product in a number of different sizes going forward and canvases are always changing.

[0092] How to use the invention: The case is delivered with the foam in place, the small bottles and funnel are placed within the pre-cut spaces of the foam. The case is closed securing the elastic strap around the back of the case. The bottles can be replaced as needed. The case is ready for travel. Additionally: The simplicity of the design could allow for other uses not including bottles. The cut outs as intended are fairly standard size and shape. The foam can protect any number of items inside the case and the foam is easily sized.

[0093] As can be seen in the disclosure herein, the flat design of the compact case facilitates storage in tight spaces, while the sturdy foam insert provides protection against breakage of bottles enclosed therein, and the preferably snug fit of the inner surface of the insert protects against unintended removal of the bottles thereby avoiding breakage. Embodiments of the invention provide for a compact case that allows a person to travel practically anywhere with his or her 50 ml. liquor bottles. The compact case is preferably constructed of top grain leather or heavy weight canvas.

[0094] Except as may be expressly otherwise indicated, the article "a" or "an" if and as used herein is not intended to limit, and should not be construed as limiting, the description or a claim to a single element to which the article refers. Rather, the article "a" or "an" if and as used herein is intended to cover one or more such elements, unless the text expressly indicates otherwise.

[0095] This invention is susceptible to considerable variation within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A portable case to carry small bottles comprising: a flexible fabric forming a rectangular pouch having a bottom floor, side walls, an opening, and a top flap, wherein the top flap is configured to pivot relative to the opening to enclose or to open the case; a removable foam insert defining a plurality of cavities configured to receive a bottom portion of a small bottle to secure the small bottle against movement relative thereto, said foam insert tightly fitted within said pouch; a tether connector affixed to an outer portion of the top flap; and a strap affixed to a lower exterior portion of at least one side wall of the pouch and configured to be grasped by a user's hand to maneuver said strap around said tether connector when said case is closed.

2. The portable case of claim 1, wherein a said strap is characterized as having a length sufficient to extend fully around the pouch and connect to said tether connector;

3. The portable case of claim 1, wherein the flexible fabric is leather.

4. The portable case of claim 1, wherein the flexible fabric is a canvas cloth.

5. The portable case of claim 1, further comprising an elastic band having a first end and a second end, wherein said first end and said second end are each affixed to a portion of the flexible flap, wherein said elastic band is configured to enwrap the rectangular pouch when said case is in a closed position.

6. The portable case of claim 1, further comprising an elastic band having a first end and a second end, wherein said first end and said second end are each affixed to a portion of the flexible flap, wherein said elastic band is configured to enwrap the rectangular pouch when said case is in a closed position.

7. The portable case of claim 1, further comprising one or more small bottles fitted within one or more respective cavities of said foam insert.

8. The portable case of claim 1, wherein said foam insert is fabricated from a material selected from a group consisting of plastic, resin, styrofoam, high-density polyethylene, and rubber.

9. A compact bottled beverage carrier and display comprising: a flexible, closeable, leather display case sized to closely surround and fit tightly against a foam insert, wherein said foam insert provides upstanding sidewall support for said case, said display case comprising a flexible fabric cover, wherein said flexible fabric cover is flexibly positionable from a closed carrier position to an open display case position; a removeable foam insert having a rectangular form including a floor and side walls configured to nest compatibly within the display case, wherein said foam insert defines a cavity to receive and secure a bottom portion of a bottle.

10. The compact bottled beverage carrier and display of claim 9, further comprising at least one flexible fabric strap, said strap being attached to and extending outwardly from a bottom portion of the display case.

11. The compact bottled beverage carrier and display of claim 10, further comprising tether connector in the form of an ornamental button affixed to an outer portion of the flexible fabric cover, wherein the flexible fabric strap can enwrap said ornamental button to maintain the carrier in a closed position for transport.

12. The compact bottled beverage carrier and display of claim 9, further comprising at least one or more small bottles fitted within one or more respective cavities of said foam insert

13. A foldable carrier and display case comprising: a pair of elongated pouches pivotally connected by a sheet of flexible fabric; and at least one elongated foam insert disposed within each pouch, said at least one foam insert defining a plurality of cavities, wherein each cavity is configured to receive a glass bottle and secure said glass bottle against movement relative thereto; wherein said elongated pouches are pivotal relative to each other between a freestanding closed pouch carrier position, in which said sheet of flexible fabric extends transversely across and closes the opening of both pouches, to a freestanding open pouch display position, in which said sheet of flexible fabric evades the opening of both pouches.

14. The foldable carrier and display case of claim 13, further comprising an elastic band having a first end and a second end, wherein said first end and said second end are each affixed to a portion of one of the elongated pouches, wherein said elastic band is configured to enwrap the other one of the elongated pouches.

15. The foldable carrier and display case of claim 13, further comprising an elastic band having a first end and a second end, wherein said first end and said second end are each affixed to a portion of one of the elongated pouches, wherein said elastic band is configured to enwrap the other one of the elongated pouches while said pouches are relatively positioned in the freestanding closed pouch carrier position.

16. The foldable carrier and display case of claim 13, further comprising an elastic band having a first end and a second end, wherein said first end and said second end are each affixed to a portion of one of the elongated pouches, wherein said elastic band is configured to enwrap the other one of the elongated pouches while said pouches are relatively positioned in the freestanding open pouch display position.

17. The foldable carrier and display case of claim 13, wherein a portion of the at least one elongated foam insert defines at least one cavity configured to receive and secure a funnel.

18. The foldable carrier and display case of claim 13, further comprising a handle affixed to an outer portion of one of the elongated pouches for maneuvering the foldable carrier and display case from the freestanding closed pouch position to the freestanding open pouch position.