MULTI-LAYER COASTER AND BEVERAGE CONTAINER SLEEVE

Abstract

A multi-layer absorptive coaster includes a bottom layer comprising a waterproof, resilient, slip-resistant material, such as neoprene. Intermediate and top layers comprise fabric with a blend of polyester and cotton. A multi-layer insulative beverage container includes a base having a bottom layer comprising a waterproof material, such as neoprene, and a jacket having a middle layer comprising a waterproof material such as neoprene. The jacket inner and outer layers comprise a fabric with a blend of cotton and polyester. Printing can be applied to the top layer of the base, and the inner and outer layer of the jacket. The material layers are bonded together.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of, and claims priority in, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/743,294, filed May 2, 2007, which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to coasters, and in particular to a multi-layer coaster comprising one or more materials with liquid-absorptive properties.

2. Description of the Related Art

Drinking vessels, such as bottles, cans, glasses, cups and the like are available in a wide range of sizes, shapes and materials. However, in uninsulated vessels, chilled beverages and other contents typically cause condensation from exposure to the ambient atmosphere. Among the factors affecting surface condensation are the ambient humidity level and the temperature of the liquid contents. Generally speaking, higher ambient humidity levels and colder liquid content temperatures tend to increase condensation volume.

Drink coasters are commonly used for absorbing condensation and protecting furniture on which they are placed. Coasters have previously been made of various materials, including cellulose compositions (e.g., paper and fibreboard), plastic, cork, wood and leather. In addition to absorbing moisture, coasters are commonly imprinted with various graphic indicia, including text, designs, logos and commercial material. Commercial printing processes are in common use for mass producing such printed materials.

Another functional criteria for drink coasters relates to resisting sliding on hard surfaces, such as countertops, tabletops, etc. Spillage and other mishaps can thus be minimized. Still further, coasters can provide impact-absorbing protection for furniture pieces on which they are placed.

Heretofore there has not been available a multi-layered absorptive coaster with the advantages and features of the present invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In the practice of the present invention, a multi-layer coaster is provided for absorbing moisture and placing a vessel on a hard surface in an anti-slip, protective relationship. The coaster comprises a bottom layer of a waterproof, anti-slip material, such as neoprene, and at least one upper layer of fabric, such as a polyester and cotton blend all bonded together. An alternative embodiment coaster includes a middle layer of waterproof material, such as neoprene, disposed between, and bonded to, an inner and outer layer of fabric, such as a polyester and cotton blend. An additional alternative embodiment coaster includes a multi-layer sleeve attached to the aforementioned multi-layer coaster for absorbing moisture and providing insulative properties for a vessel. The sleeve comprises a middle layer of waterproof material, such as neoprene, disposed between, and bonded to, a layer of cotton and polyester blend fabric. Printing can be applied to the top layer of the base, and the inner and outer layers of the sleeve.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an exploded, perspective view of a coaster embodying an aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a vertical cross-sectional view thereof.

FIG. 3 is a vertical cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment coaster.

FIG. 4 is a vertical cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment coaster.

FIG. 5 is an upper perspective view of an alternative embodiment coaster and sleeve.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged, fragmentary, cross-sectional view thereof, taking generally along line 6 in FIG. 5.

FIG. 6A is an enlarged, fragmentary, sectional view of an alternative securing arrangement for the coaster and sleeve.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

I. Introduction and Environment

As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention, which may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed structure.

Certain terminology will be used in the following description for convenience in reference only and will not be limiting. For example, up, down, front, back, right and left refer to the invention as oriented in the view being referred to. The words “inwardly” and “outwardly” refer to directions toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center of the embodiment being described and designated parts thereof. Said terminology will include the words specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof and words of similar meaning.

II. Preferred Embodiment Coaster 2

Referring to the drawings in more detail, the reference numeral 2 generally designates a coaster embodying an aspect of the present invention. Without limitation on the generality of useful constructions, the coaster 2 is shown with a neoprene bottom layer 4, an intermediate cotton and polyester blend layer 6 and a top layer 8, also comprising a blend of cotton and polyester. The specific ratio of cotton and polyester in the intermediate and top layers 6, 8 is preferably chosen for its suitability for the particular applications of the coaster 2. For example, a 50%-50% blend is generally suitable for providing moisture absorption and entrapment, in addition to providing a printable surface material adapted for various printing processes, such as screen printing. Various subject matter 10 can be printed on the top layer 8, including digital images provided by individual customers for customized sets of coasters and logos for commercial establishments.

The bottom layer 4 is preferably waterproof in order to avoid saturation and to minimize the possibility of water damage to the underlying structure from liquids soaking through the bottom layer 4. The bottom layer 4 is also preferably resilient and impact resistant, with a certain thickness (e.g. in the range of about ⅛″ to ⅜″) in order to protect the underlying surface. Still further, the bottom layer 4 preferably as a relatively high coefficient of friction in order to avoid sliding on hard, smooth surfaces, such as tabletops and countertops. In addition to the functional features described above, the coaster 2 is preferably capable of being washed in an automatic dishwasher for reuse indefinitely.

It is to be understood that the invention can be embodied in various forms, and is not to be limited to the examples discussed above and shown in the drawings. Other materials and components can be utilized. For example, it will be appreciated that a wide range of compatible materials may be utilized. Moreover, they can be bonded together using various suitable techniques, such as adhesives, pressure bonding, stitching, mechanical fasteners and the like. Still further, the coaster 2 can be formed in various configurations, such as basic geometrical shapes and fanciful configurations.

III. Alternative Embodiment Coaster 102

FIG. 3 shows an alternative embodiment coaster 102 embodying an aspect of the present invention. Without limitation on the generality of useful constructions of the coaster 102, the embodiment is shown with a neoprene bottom layer 104, and at least one cotton and polyester blend top layer 106. The material in the top layer 106 is composed of a ratio of cotton and polyester blend chosen for the ability to provide moisture absorption and entrapment, durability of wear, and adaptability for various printing processes, such as screen printing or garment printing. For example, a 70% cotton, 30% polyester blend generally provides a suitable moisture absorption and durability profile for use with beverage containers.

The bottom layer 104 consists of neoprene with a thickness in the range of about ⅛″ to ⅜″. The material comprising the bottom layer 104 is preferably: durable and impact resistant to provide cushioning for a vessel disposed thereon, and to protect the object in contact with the bottom surface 110; waterproof to avoid transmission of moisture from the top layer 106 to the object in contact with the bottom surface 110; and has a high coefficient of friction to limit sliding of the coaster 103 on smooth surfaces. The bottom layer 104 and top layer 106 are secured together using various suitable techniques, such as adhesives, pressure bonding, stitching, etc. The coaster 103 is formed by a circular die-cut process.

IV. Alternative Embodiment Coaster 120

FIG. 4 shows another alternative embodiment coaster 120 consisting of an inner layer 124, a middle layer 122, and outer layer 126. The middle layer 122 consists of a waterproof material, preferably neoprene, with a thickness in the range of about ⅛″ to ⅜″, to avoid migration of moisture between the inner and outer layers 124, 126. The inner and outer layers 124, 126 consist of a moisture absorbing and wear resistant material, such as 70% cotton, and 30% polyester that is adapted for various printing processes, such as screen printing or garment printing. The middle layer 122 is secured to the inner layer 124 and outer layer 126 by a suitable technique such as adhesives, pressure bonding, etc. The coaster 120 is formed by a die-cut process.

V. Alternative Embodiment Insulative Beverage Container 202

FIGS. 5-6 show an alternative embodiment insulative beverage container 202 consisting of a base 204 and a sleeve 220 attached thereto. The base 204 is similar in composition to the coaster 102 described above in that the base 204 is shown with a neoprene bottom layer 206, and at least one cotton and polyester blend top layer 208. The material in the top layer 208 is composed of a ratio of cotton and polyester blend chosen for the ability to provide moisture absorption and entrapment, and durability of wear. For example, a 70% cotton, 30% polyester blend generally provides a suitable moisture absorption and durability profile for use with beverage containers. The bottom layer 206 consists of neoprene with a thickness in the range of about ⅛″ to ⅜″. The material comprising the bottom layer 206 is preferably: durable and impact resistant to provide cushioning for the object disposed within the container 202, and to protect the object in contact with the bottom surface 210; waterproof to avoid transmission of moisture from the top layer 208 to the object in contact with the bottom surface 210; and has a high coefficient of friction to limit sliding of the base 204 on smooth surfaces. The bottom layer 206 and top layer 208 are secured together using various suitable techniques, such as adhesives, pressure bonding, stitching, etc.

The sleeve 220 is similar in composition to the coaster 120 described above in that the sleeve 220 is shown with a middle layer 222 secured to an inner and outer layer 224, 226 by a suitable technique such as adhesives, pressure bonding, etc. The middle layer 222 consists of a waterproof material, preferably neoprene, to avoid migration of moisture between the inner and outer layers 224, 226. The inner and outer layers 224, 226 consist of a moisture absorbing and wear resistant material, such as 70% cotton, 30% polyester that is adapted for various printing processes, such as screen printing or garment printing. The outer layer 226 is represented in FIG. 5 as having an image 238 thereon.

The sleeve 220 is formed by a rectangular die-cut process. Opposite ends of the sleeve 220 are joined and secured at a seam 232 creating a cylinder with a top and bottom edge 234, 236. The seam 232 is formed by a suitable technique, such as sewing or adhesive bonding.

Referring to FIG. 6, the container 202 may be formed by securing the base 204 to the sleeve 220 using a step joint. The diameter of the top layer 208 of the base 204 is approximately the diameter of the sleeve 220 at the inner surface 228 (i.e., the sleeve 220 inside diameter) when the sleeve 220 is formed into an open-ended cylinder. The diameter of the bottom layer 206 is greater than the diameter of the top layer 208 and approximately equal to the outside diameter of the sleeve 220. The bottom edge 236 of the sleeve 220 is secured to the base 204 by a suitable technique, such as sewing or adhesives, thereby creating an upwardly open-ended container 220 with the inner surface 228 and top layer 208 orientated toward the interior of the container 202. Referring to FIG. 6A, the container may alternatively be formed by securing the base 204 to the sleeve 220 without using a step joint described above. Therefore, the diameter of the top layer 208 and bottom layer 206 are approximately equal to the outside diameter of the sleeve 220. The bottom edge 230 of the sleeve 220 is secured to the top layer 208 of the base 204 by a suitable technique, such as sewing or adhesives.

It is to be understood that while certain aspects of the invention have been shown and described, the invention is not limited thereto and encompasses various other embodiments and aspects.

Claims

1. An insulative beverage container, comprising:

a base comprising a top layer and a bottom layer;

said top layer being bonded to said bottom layer;

a tubular sleeve having upper and lower ends and comprising an inner layer, a middle layer and an outer layer;

said inner and outer layers being bonded to said middle layer; and

said base being bonded to the lower end of said sleeve.

2. The container according to claim 1, which includes:

said base top layer comprising approximately 30% polyester and approximately 70% cotton fabric.

3. The container according to claim 1, which includes:

said base bottom layer comprising neoprene.

4. The container according to claim 1, which includes:

said sleeve inner and outer layers comprising approximately 30% polyester and approximately 70% cotton fabric.

5. The container according to claim 4, which includes:

said sleeve middle layer comprising neoprene.

6. The container according to claim 1, wherein:

the diameter of said top layer is complementary to said inner layer;

7. the diameter of said bottom layer is complementary to said outer layer.

8. The container according to claim 1, wherein:

the diameter of said top layer and said bottom layer are complementary to said outer layer.

9. An insulative beverage container, which comprises:

a circular base comprising a top layer bonded to a bottom layer;

said base top layer comprising approximately 0% polyester and approximately 70% cotton;

said base bottom layer comprising neoprene;

a tubular sleeve comprising an inner layer, a middle layer and an outer layer;

said sleeve inner and outer layers being bonded to said sleeve middle layer;

said sleeve inner and outer layers comprising approximately 50% polyester and approximately 50% cotton;

said sleeve middle layer comprising neoprene;

said sleeve having upper and lower ends;

said sleeve having an outside diameter approximately equal to said base bottom layer outside diameter and said top layer outside diameter; and

said base top layer being bonded to said sleeve lower end.