Device and method of connecting bottles

Abstract

Briefly, some embodiments of the invention may provide devices and methods of connecting standard bottles, and structures made from standard bottles, bottle-connectors and, optionally, accessories. For example, a bottle connector may include a first interface adapted to connect to a predetermined site of a first bottle, and a second interface adapted to connect to a predetermined site of a second bottle. A structure may include, for example, a plurality of bottles interconnected through one or more connectors and optionally having one or more accessories.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to modular structures, and to elements and connectors of modular structures.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Many hundreds of millions of beverage containers are purchased daily, for example, bottles containing water, soda, or soft drinks. After the beverages are consumed, some empty bottles are sent for recycling and others are re-used for various personal utilities; however, many empty bottles are not re-used and are simply disposed of as waste.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Some embodiments of the invention may include, for example, devices and methods for connecting containers, for example, standard-size beverage bottles, e.g., bottles that originally contain beverages, water, soda, soft drinks, or other liquids.

Some embodiments of the invention may include, for example, a structural connector able to be connected to one or more locations of a standard-size bottle. The structural connector may inter-connect, e.g., link, between two or more standard-size bottles, or between a standard size bottle and/or other members, accessories or gadgets.

In some embodiments, the connector may be attached, for example, to a mouth, lip or neck of a bottle, to a threading associated with a predetermined portion of a bottle, to a side area of a bottle, or to a bottom area of a bottle. The connector may be further attached to another bottle or to an accessory or a gadget, e.g., an ornamental accessory of a predefined shape and size or a functional gadget having a predefined functionality. Alternatively, an accessory or gadget may be integrally formed with a connector according to embodiments of the invention and may, thus, be connected directly to a portion of a bottle.

In some embodiments, the connector may include one or more attachment mechanisms, for example, a bottle-mouth fitting adapted to be connected to a mouth of a bottle or to an external threading around or near a mouth, a lip or a neck of a bottle. In some embodiments, the attachment mechanism may include, for example, an attachment plate, a “peal and glue” or “peal and attach” mechanism, a mechanism having a male part inserted into a female part, a pressure-based attachment mechanism, or the like. In some embodiments, the connector may allow moving or rotating a bottle or an accessory after attachment, or otherwise modifying the shape of the assembled structure, e.g., using flexible, semi-flexible or rotate-able components.

In some embodiments, the connector may include, for example, a first interface adapted to connect to a predetermined site of a first bottle, and a second interface adapted to connect to a predetermined site of a second bottle. In some embodiments, at least one of said first and second bottles may be a standard bottle. In some embodiments, at least one of said sites may include a bottle-mouth, a bottle-neck, a lip of a bottle, a bottom of a bottle, or other suitable portions or sites of a bottle.

In some embodiments, the first interface and/or the second interface of the structural connector may include, for example, a bottle-mouth fitting adapted to connect to a mouth of a bottle, or a bottle-neck fitting adapted to connect to a mouth of a bottle.

In some embodiments, the first interface and/or the second interface of the structural connector may include, for example, a bottle-mouth fitting adapted to connect to a mouth of a bottle, a bottle-neck fitting adapted to connect to a mouth of a bottle, or an attachment plate or an attachment portion adapted to attach to a bottle.

In some embodiments, the structural connector may include, for example, first and second parts, said first part having said first interface and said second part having said second interface. Said first and second parts may be interconnectable, for example, the first part may be inserted into the second part, or may be otherwise connected or integrated with the second part, e.g., using a male/female connection mechanism or other suitable mechanism.

In some embodiments, the structural connector may include, for example, a spindle mechanism to enable rotation of said first interface relative to said second interface. The spindle mechanism may optionally include a plurality of protrusions, e.g., to enable a controlled or discrete rotation of said first interface relative to said second interface, or to enable locking or holding of the relative positions of the first interface and the second interface.

In some embodiments, the structural connector may include, for example, a flexible or non-flexible link to connect the first interface to the second interface.

Some embodiments of the invention may include, for example, a structure formed substantially exclusively of bottles and one or more bottle connectors, and optionally having one or more accessories or gadgets. In one embodiment, the structure may include only bottles and one or more bottle connectors; in another embodiment, the structure may include at least one bottle, at least one connector, and at least one accessory or gadget; in an alternate embodiment, the structure may include one or more bottles, one or more connectors, and one or more accessories or gadgets.

In accordance with some embodiments, the structure may be modular and may be implemented, for example, as a toy, a doll, a game, figurative structure, a character, a human-shaped structure, an animal-shaped structure, a machine, a functional device, a functioning device, or the like. In some embodiments, the structure may be relatively easily assembled, for example, by a child or a young person.

In some embodiments, the structure may include, for example, a plurality of bottles interconnected through one or more connectors, wherein one or more of said connectors have an interface adapted to fit a predetermined site of one or more of said plurality of bottles. The bottles may include, for example, standard bottles. The structure may optionally include an accessory integrally formed with one or more of said connectors, e.g., an accessory shaped as a human body part, an accessory is shaped as an animal body part, an ornamental accessory, an accessory having an electrically operated device, an accessory having a mechanical device, or the like.

In some embodiments, the structure may be formed substantially exclusively of a plurality of bottles and one or more connectors

In some embodiments, an accessory may include, for example, an accessory adapted to connect to a structure including a plurality of bottles, said accessory comprising an interface adapted to connect to a predetermined site of a standard bottle, e.g., to a mouth, neck, lip, side or bottom of a bottle.

In some embodiments, for example, the accessory may include an interface having a bottle-mouth fitting adapted to connect to a mouth of a standard bottle, an attachment plate adapted to attach to a predetermined site of a standard bottle, a spindle mechanism to enable rotation of the accessory relative to a bottle, an ornamental accessory integrally formed with the interface, or the like. In some embodiments, for example, the accessory may be shaped as a human body-part, may be shaped as an animal body part, or may include an electrically operated device or a mechanical device. [0019] Some embodiments of the invention may include, for example, a method for connecting bottles. The method may include, for example, connecting, attaching or linking one or more bottles to one or more connectors, and optionally to one or more accessories or gadgets. The method may include, for example, connecting two or more bottles, or connecting a bottle and an accessory, using one or more bottle connectors. The method may be used, for example, to create a figurative structure, a toy, a doll, a game, a character, a human character, an animal character, a machine, a functional device, a functioning device, or the like, using one or more bottles, connectors and/or accessories.

In some embodiments, the method of connecting bottles may include, for example, connecting a predetermined site of a first bottle to a first interface of a connector, and connecting a predetermined site of a second bottle to a second interface of said connector. The method may optionally include, for example, connecting to said first bottle an accessory having an interface adapted to connect to said first bottle

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The subject matter regarded as the invention is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the concluding portion of the specification. The invention, however, both as to organization and method of operation, together with features and advantages thereof, may best be understood by reference to the following detailed description when read with the accompanied drawings in which:

FIGS. 1A-1B are schematic illustrations of a first view and a second view, respectively, of a structure formed of interconnected bottles in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3A-3C, 4A-4D, 5A, 5B, 6A-6C, 7A-7D, 8A-8C, 9A-9C, 10A-10D, 11A-11E, 12A, 12B, 13A-13C, 14A, 14B, 15A-15E, 16A-16C, 17A-17C, 18A-18C, 19A, 19B, 20A-20C, 21A, 21B, 22A-22C, and 23A-23D are schematic illustrations of connectors in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIGS. 2C, 2D, 3D, 3E, 4E, 4F, 5C, 5D, 6D, 6E, 7E, 7F, 8D, 8E, 9D-9F, 10E, 10F, 11F, 11G, 12C, 12D, 13D, 13E, 14C, 14D, 15F-15H, 16D-16F, 17D, 17E, 18D-18F, 19C-19E, 20D-20F, 21C, 21D, 22D, 22E, 23E and 23F are schematic illustrations of connectors connected to a bottle in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIGS. 2E, 2F, 3F, 3G, 4G, 4H, 5E, 5F, 6F, 6G, 7G, 7H, 8F, 8G, 9G, 9H, 10G, 10H, 11H, 11I, 12E, 12F, 13F, 13G, 14E, 14F, 15I-15K, 16G-16I, 17F, 17G, 18G-18I, 19F-19H, 20G-20I, 21E, 21F, 22F, 22G, 23G and 23H are schematic illustrations of connectors connected to a plurality of bottles in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIGS. 24A, 24B, 25A, 25B, 26A-26C, 27A-27C, 29A-29C, 32A, 32B, 33A-33C, and 35A-35D are schematic illustrations of accessories in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIGS. 24C, 24D, 25C, 25D, 28A-28C, 30A-30C, 31A-31C, 34, 35E, and 36A-36C are schematic illustrations of accessories connected to bottles in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIGS. 37A-37C, 3848, 49A-49D, and 50-57 are schematic illustrations of structures accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIGS. 58A-58B are schematic illustrations of a bottle having a removable bottle-saucer in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; and

FIG. 59 is a schematic flow-chart of a method of connecting bottles, connectors and accessories in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements shown in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements for clarity. Further, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, units and/or circuits have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention.

The terms “bottle” or “standard bottle” as used herein may include, for example, a bottle having one or more common properties of popular properties, for example, a bottle having a standard or common diameter of opening, diameter of mouth, size of mouth, or volume. The terms “bottle” or “standard bottle” as used herein may include, for example, various standard popular bottles such as a 1-liter bottle, a 1.5 -liter bottle, a 2-liter bottle, a 3-liter bottle, a 0.5-liter bottle, a 0.33-liter bottle, a 0.25-liter bottle, a 0.66-litter bottle, a 0.75-litter bottle, a 1-quart bottle, a half-gallon bottle, a one-gallon bottle, or a bottle having other common volume, size.

Furthermore, the terms “bottle” or “standard bottle” as used herein may include, for example, a plastic bottle, a glass bottle, a substantially transparent bottle, a non-transparent bottle, a colored bottle, a substantially empty bottle, a substantially full bottle, a bottle containing a liquid, a bottle containing a beverage, a bottle containing sand, a partially filled bottle, a bottle having one or more external stickers or tags indicating a brand or a property of the bottle or its contents or previous contents, or the like.

The term “threading” as used herein may include, for example, one or more threads, dent, projections, indentations, impressions, rails, extensions, flanges and/or protrusions, e.g., similar to an external threading located in proximity to an opening of a bottle and on the external side of a bottleneck, or similar to an internal threading located inside a bottle cap.

The term “fitting” as used herein may include, for example, a device able to fit onto a threading, e.g., a bottle cap, a device similar to a bottle cap, a device including a bottle cap, a lid, a sealing mechanism or device, a rotating or rotate-able cap, a cap able to be screwed-in or screwed-out, a twist-on/twist-off cap, an external cap, an internal cap, a pressure cap, a hermetic cap, a non-hermetic cap, a metal or flexible loop or mechanism able to embrace a bottle or a bottleneck, a metal or flexible loop or mechanism able to grasp or securely hold a bottle or a bottleneck, or other closing mechanism or device.

The term “accessory” as used herein may include, for example, a device or object other than a bottle, adapted to be connected to a bottle in accordance with embodiments of the invention. The term “accessory” as used herein may include, for example, a toy, a doll, a member shaped as a human or animal body organ, a mechanical gadget, an electrical gadget, an electrically operated device, an article of clothing or decoration, an ornamental accessory, or other element or member adapted to be connected to a bottle in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

The term “site” as used herein with reference to a bottle may include, for example, one or more locations, areas or portions of a bottle, e.g., a mouth of a bottle (“bottle-mouth”), a neck of a bottle (“bottle-neck”), a lip of a bottle, an external threading of a bottle, a bottom of a bottle, a side or a curve of a bottle, or a plurality of portions, locations or areas of a bottle.

Although part of the discussion herein may refer, for exemplary purposes, to connecting two bottles, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and embodiments of the invention may include, for example, connecting two bottles, connecting a bottle to an accessory, connecting one or more bottles to one or more accessories, or other suitable combinations of bottles, connectors and/or accessories having various, similar or different sizes, shapes and/or colors.

FIGS. 1A-1B schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of a structure 100 formed of interconnected bottles 110 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Structure 100 may include, for example, a plurality of bottles 110 which may be interconnected using a suitable connection method or device, e.g., using a plurality of connectors 120 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Additionally or alternatively, at least some of bottles 110 may be connected using universal connection methods, for example, by direct gluing or stapling.

FIGS. 2A-2B schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of a connector 200 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Connector 200 may be used, for example, to connect a first bottle to a second bottle, or to connect a bottle to an accessory.

Connector 200 may include two or more bottle fittings, for example, bottle cap fittings 210 and 220. Cap fitting 210 may include an internal threading 211, for example, to fit onto the external threading of a bottleneck of a first bottle, and cap fitting 220 may include an internal threading 221, for example, to fit onto an external threading of a bottleneck of a second bottle.

Cap fittings 210 and 220 may be interconnected, for example, using a link 230, which may be formed of aluminum, copper, a flexible metal wire, a semi-flexible metal wire, a flexible or semi-flexible alloy, or other flexible or semi-flexible material, to allow flexible, yet firm positioning of the first and second bottles relative to each other when connected. For example, link 230 may be shaped, bended or twisted by applying pressure to link 230. In some embodiments, flexible link 230 may be twisted or bent, for example, into a “U” shape, into an “L” shape, into an “S” shape, or into other desired shapes, e.g., to allow a desired relative positioning between two bottles connected by connector 200. In one embodiment, for example, link 230 may optionally include one or more interconnected units 231, which may allow link 230 to be flexible and to be bent or twisted.

In an alternate embodiment, link 230 may include a stiff or non-flexible link, for example, a rod made of plastic, wood, or iron. This may allow, for example, a non-flexible connection between two bottles,

Reference is now made to FIGS. 2C-2D, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 200 connected to a bottle 251 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Further reference is made to FIGS. 2E-2F, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 200 connected to a first bottle 261 and a second bottle 262 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although connector 200 is shown connected to bottles, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and connector 200 may be connected to one or more bottles and/or one or more accessories.

FIGS. 3A-3C schematically illustrate a first view, a second view and a third view, respectively, of a connector 300 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Connector 300 may be used, for example, to connect a first bottle to a second bottle, or to connect a bottle to an accessory.

Connector 300 may include two or more bottle fittings, for example, bottle cap fittings 310 and 320. Cap fitting 310 may include an internal threading 311, for example, to allow attachment of a first bottle to cap 310, and cap fitting 320 may include an internal threading 321, for example, to allow attachment of a second bottle to cap 320.

Cap fittings 310 and 320 may be interconnected, for example, by glue or by another attachment mechanism attaching cap fitting 310 to cap fitting 320, e.g., such that the openings of cap fitting 310 and 320 may face substantially opposite directions.

In one embodiment, optionally, cap fittings 310 and 320 may be interconnected using an attachment mechanism 333, for example, including an internal bolt or rod 340 and two nuts 341 and 342. For example, rod 340 may be inserted through a substantially central hole in cap fitting 310 and may be attached to the internal side of cap fitting 310 using nut 341, and rod 340 may be inserted through a substantially central hole in cap fitting 320 and may be attached to the internal side of cap fitting 320 using nut 342. Optionally, in some embodiments, rod 340 may allow cap fitting 310 to rotate relative to cap 320, or vice versa, thereby allowing a bottle or an accessory connected to cap fitting 310 to rotate relative to a bottle or an accessory connected to cap 320.

Optionally, connector 300 may further include a spindle mechanism 330 to allow cap fitting 310 to rotate relative to cap fitting 320, or vice versa, only when a pre-defined amount of rotational force is applied, or at a relatively slow pace. In one embodiment, for example, spindle mechanism 330 may avoid rotation of cap fitting 310 or cap fitting 320 when rotational force is not applied, or when only a relatively small amount of rotational force is applied.

Spindle mechanism 330 may include, for example, a spindle 331 attached or glued to cap fitting 310, and a spindle 332 attached or glued to cap fitting 320. Spindles 331 and 332 may include a plurality of flanges, teeth or protrusions 350 which may allow a controlled rotation or a relatively slow rotation of cap 310 relative to cap 320, and may stop or limit such rotation when rotational force is not applied or when a relatively small amount of rotational force is applied. In one embodiment, for example, a rotational force may be used to rotate spindle 331 relative to spindle 332, allowing a first protrusion 350 to overcome or slide over a second protrusion 350. In one embodiment, the rotation may produce an audible sound, e.g., a “click” sound.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 3D-3E, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 300 connected to a bottle 351 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Further reference is made to FIGS. 3F-3G, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 300 connected to a first bottle 361 and a second bottle 362 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although connector 300 is shown connected to bottles, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and connector 300 may be connected to one or more bottles and/or one or more accessories.

FIGS. 4A-4D schematically illustrate a first partially-exploded view of a connector 400 in an assembled state, a partially-exploded view of connector 400 in a non-assembled state, a second partially-exploded view of connector 400 in an assembled state, and a third partially-exploded view of connector 400 in an assembled state, respectively, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Connector 400 may be used, for example, to connect a first bottle to a second bottle, or to connect a bottle to an accessory.

Connector 400 may include two or more bottle fittings, for example, bottle cap fittings 410 and 420. Cap fitting 410 may include an internal threading 411, for example, to allow attachment of a first bottle into cap fitting 410, and cap fitting 420 may include an internal threading 421, for example, to allow attachment of a second bottle into cap fitting 420.

Cap fittings 410 and 420 may be interconnected, for example, using attachment mechanism 430, e.g., such that the openings of cap fittings 410 and 420 may face substantially opposite directions.

In one embodiment, attachment mechanism 430 may include, for example, a male part 431 attached to cap fitting 420 and a female part 432 attached to cap fitting 410. Male part 431 may include a bump or protrusion shaped, for example, as frustum, pyramid, cone or sphere; female part 432 may include a bump or protrusion having a cavity shaped and sized to hold male part 431 when male part 431 is inserted or pushed into female part 432. In some embodiments, upon insertion of male part 431 into female part 432, male part 431 may not be easily removed or separated from female part 432.

In one embodiment, upon insertion of male part 431 into female part 432, male part 431 and cap fitting 420 may be able to rotate relative to female part 432 and cap fitting 410, respectively, or vice versa. This may allow, for example, a bottle or an accessory connected to cap fitting 410 to rotate relative to a bottle or an accessory connected to cap 420.

Reference is now made to FIG. 4E, which schematically illustrates a partially-exploded view of connector 400 in an assembled state connected to a bottle 451, and to FIG. 4F, which schematically illustrates a partially-exploded view of connector 400 in a non-assembled state connected to bottle 451, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Further reference is made to FIG. 4G, which schematically illustrates a partially-exploded view of connector 400 in an assembled state connected to a first bottle 461 and a second bottle 462, and to FIG. 4F, which schematically illustrates a partially-exploded view of connector 400 in a non-assembled state connected to first bottle 461 and second bottle 462, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although connector 400 is shown connected to bottles, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and connector 400 may be connected to one or more bottles and/or one or more accessories.

FIGS. 5A-5B schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of a connector 500 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Connector 500 may be used, for example, to connect a first bottle to a second bottle, or to connect a bottle to an accessory.

Connector 500 may include a bottle fitting, for example, a bottle cap fitting 510, and an attachment plate 520. Cap fitting 510 may include an internal threading 511, for example, to allow attachment of a first bottle to cap fitting 510. Plate 520 may include an attachment portion 540 which, when attached to a second bottle or an accessory, may glue or stick to that second bottle or accessory. In one embodiment, a user may apply glue to portion 540 of plate 520 before attaching plate 520 to a bottle or an accessory. In an alternate embodiment, portion 540 may be pre-manufactured or pre-provided to include a glue layer covered by a peal-able or remove-able cover, allowing a user to peal-off or remove the cover and expose the glue layer of portion 540 before attaching portion 540 to a bottle or an accessory. Although substantially circular and flat plate 520 and/or portion 540 are shown, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and plate 520 and/or portion 540 may include non-flat planes or areas and non-circular shapes or contours.

Cap fitting 510 and plate 520 may be interconnected, for example, using a link 530, which may be similar to link 230 of FIGS. 2A-2B. Link 530 may optionally include one or more interconnected units 531, which may be similar to interconnected units 231 of FIGS. 2A-2B.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 5C-5D, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 500 connected to a bottle 551 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Further reference is made to FIGS. 5E-5F, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 500 connected to a first bottle 561 and a second bottle 562 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although connector 500 is shown connected to bottles, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and connector 500 may be connected to one or more bottles and/or one or more accessories.

FIGS. 6A-6C schematically illustrate a first view, a second view and a third view, respectively, of a connector 600 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Connector 600 may be used, for example, to connect a first bottle to a second bottle, or to connect a bottle to an accessory.

Connector 600 may include a bottle fitting, for example, a bottle cap fitting 610, connected to an attachment plate 620. Cap fitting 610 may include an internal threading 611, for example, to allow attachment of a bottle to cap fitting 610. Plate 620 may be similar, for example, to plate 520 of FIGS. 5A-5B. For example, plate 620 may include an attachment portion 640 which may be similar to portion 540 of FIGS. 5A-5B.

In one embodiment, cap fitting 610 and plate 620 may be interconnected using an attachment mechanism 633, for example, including an internal bolt or rod 640 and two nuts 641 and 642. For example, attachment mechanism 633, rod 640, and nuts 641-642 may be similar to attachment mechanism 333, rod 340, and nuts 341-342, respectively.

In one embodiment, optionally, connector 600 may further include a spindle mechanism 630, for example, similar to spindle mechanism 330 of FIGS. 3A-3C. Spindle mechanism 330 may include a plurality of flanges or protrusions 650, for example, similar to protrusions 350 of FIGS. 3A-3C.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 6D-6E, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 600 connected to a bottle 651 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Further reference is made to FIGS. 6F-6G, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 600 connected to a first bottle 661 and a second bottle 662 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although connector 600 is shown connected to bottles, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and connector 600 may be connected to one or more bottles and/or one or more accessories.

FIGS. 7A-7D schematically illustrate a first partially-exploded view of a connector 700 in an assembled state, a partially-exploded view of connector 700 in a non-assembled state, a second partially-exploded view of connector 700 in an assembled state, and a third partially-exploded view of connector 700 in an assembled state, respectively, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Connector 700 may be used, for example, to connect a first bottle to a second bottle, or to connect a bottle to an accessory.

Connector 700 may include a bottle fitting, for example, a bottle cap fitting 710, connected to an attachment plate 720. Cap fitting 710 may include an internal threading 711, for example, to allow attachment of a bottle into cap fitting 710. Plate 720 may be similar, for example, to plate 520 of FIGS. 5A-5B. For example, plate 720 may include an attachment portion 740 which may be similar to portion 540 of FIGS. 5A-5B.

In one embodiment, cap 710 and plate 720 may be interconnected, for example, using attachment mechanism 730, e.g., such that the openings of cap fitting 710 and plate 720 may face substantially opposite directions. Attachment mechanism 730 may include, for example, a male part 731 attached to plate 720 and a female part 732 attached to cap fitting 710. For example, attachment mechanism 730, male part 731 and female part 732 may be similar to attachment mechanism 430, male part 431 and female part 432 of FIGS. 4A-4D.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 7E-7F, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 700 connected to a bottle 751 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Further reference is made to FIGS. 7G-7H, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 700 connected to a first bottle 761 and a second bottle 762 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although connector 700 is shown connected to bottles, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and connector 700 may be connected to one or more bottles and/or one or more accessories.

FIGS. 8A-8C schematically illustrate a first view, a second view and a third view, respectively, of a connector 800 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Connector 800 may be used, for example, to connect three bottles, to connect three accessories, to connect a bottle and two accessories, or to connect two bottles and an accessory.

Connector 800 may include a plurality of bottle fittings, for example, three bottle cap fittings 811-813. Cap fitting 811 may include an internal threading 841, cap fitting 812 may include an internal threading 842, and cap fitting 813 may include an internal threading 843.

Cap fittings 811-813 may be interconnected in a substantially triangular pattern as shown in FIG. 8C, such that the openings of cap fitting 811-813 may face outwards to an area external to the triangular pattern. In some embodiments, for example, cap fitting 811 may be positioned at an angle of about 60 degrees to cap fitting 812, cap fitting 812 may be positioned at an angle of about 60 degrees to cap fitting 813, and cap fitting 813 may be positioned at an angle of about 60 degrees to cap fitting 811. In one embodiment, connector 800 may be pre-manufactured as a solid unit incorporating cap fittings 811-813. In an alternate embodiment, three separate cap fittings 811-813 may be glued or attached to form connector 800.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 8D-8E, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 800 connected to a bottle 851 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Further reference is made to FIGS. 8F-8G, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 800 connected to a first bottle 861, a second bottle 862, and a third bottle 863 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although connector 800 is shown connected to bottles, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and connector 800 may be connected to one or more bottles and/or one or more accessories.

FIGS. 9A-9C schematically illustrate a first view, a second view, and a third view, respectively, of a connector 900 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Connector 900 may be used, for example, to connect three bottles, to connect three accessories, to connect a bottle and two accessories, or to connect two bottles and an accessory.

Connector 900 may include a plurality of attachment plates, for example, three plates 911-913. Plates 911, 912 and/or 913 may be, for example, substantially similar to plate 520 of FIGS. 5A-5B. In one embodiment, plate 911 may include an attachment portion 921, plate 912 may include an attachment potion 922, and plate 913 may include an attachment portion 923; portions 921-923 may be, for example, substantially similar to portion 540 of FIGS. 5A-5B.

Plates 911-913 may be interconnected in a substantially triangular pattern as shown in FIG. 9C, such that portions 921-923 may face outwards to an area external to the triangular pattern. In some embodiments, for example, plate 911 may be positioned at an angle of about 60 degrees to plate 912, plate 912 may be positioned at an angle of about 60 degrees to plate 913, and plate 913 may be positioned at an angle of about 60 degrees to plate 911. In one embodiment, connector 900 may be pre-manufactured as a solid unit incorporating plates 911-913. In an alternate embodiment, three separate plates 911-913 may be glued or attached to form connector 900.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 9D, 9E and 9F, which schematically illustrate a first view, a second view and a third view, respectively, of connector 900 connected to a bottle 951 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Further reference is made to FIGS. 9G-9H, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 900 connected to a first bottle 961 and a second bottle 962 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although connector 900 is shown connected to bottles, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and connector 900 may be connected to one or more bottles and/or one or more accessories.

FIGS. 10A-10D schematically illustrate a first view, a second view, a third view, and a fourth view, respectively, of a connector 1000 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Connector 1000 may be used, for example, to connect a first bottle to a second bottle, or to connect a bottle to an accessory.

Connector 1000 may include a bottle fitting, for example, a bottle cap fitting 1010 connected to an attachment plate 1011. Cap fitting 1010 may include an internal threading 1030, for example, to allow attachment of a bottle into cap fitting 1010. Plate 1011 may be similar, for example, to plate 520 of FIGS. 5A-5B. For example, plate 1011 may include an attachment portion 1020 which may be similar to portion 540 of FIGS. 5A-5B.

Cap fitting 1010 and plate 1011 may be interconnected in a substantially perpendicular pattern as shown in FIG. 10A and FIG. 10D. In some embodiments, for example, plate 1011 may be glued or attached to cap fitting 1010 at an angle of about 90 degrees. In one embodiment, connector 1000 may be pre-manufactured as one unit incorporating cap 1010 and plate 1011.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 10E-10F, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 1000 connected to a bottle 1051 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Further reference is made to FIGS. 10G-10H, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 1000 connected to a first bottle 1061 and a second bottle 1062 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although connector 1000 is shown connected to bottles, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and connector 1000 may be connected to one or more bottles and/or one or more accessories.

FIGS. 11A-11E schematically illustrate a first view, a second view, a third view, a fourth view and a fifth view, respectively, of a connector 1100 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Connector 1100 may be used, for example, to connect three bottles, to connect three accessories, to connect a bottle and two accessories, or to connect two bottles and an accessory.

Connector 1100 may include a bottle fitting, for example, a bottle cap fitting 1110, connected to a plurality of attachment plates, for example, two plates 1111-1112.

Cap fitting 1110 may include an internal threading 1130, for example, to allow attachment of a bottle into cap fitting 1110. Plate 1111 and/or plate 1112 may be similar, for example, to plate 520 of FIGS. 5A-5B. For example, plate 1111 may include an attachment portion 1020 and plate 1112 may include an attachment portion 1121; portions 1120-1121 may be, for example, similar to portion 540 of FIGS. 5A-5B.

Cap fitting 1110 and plates 1111-1112 may be interconnected in a pattern resembling a “U” shape as shown in FIG. 11A. In some embodiments, for example, plate 1111 may be attached to a first side of cap fitting 1110 at an angle of about 90 degrees, and plate 1112 may be attached to a second side of cap fitting 1110 at an angle of about 90 degrees. In one embodiment, connector 1100 may be pre-manufactured as one unit incorporating cap fitting 1110 and plates 1111-1112.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 11F-11G, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 1100 connected to a bottle 1151 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Further reference is made to FIGS. 11H-11I, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 1100 connected to a first bottle 1161, a second bottle 1162 and a third bottle 1163 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although connector 1100 is shown connected to bottles, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and connector 1100 may be connected to one or more bottles and/or one or more accessories.

FIGS. 12A-12B schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of a connector 1200 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Connector 1200 may be used to connect a plurality of bottles and/or accessories, for example, up to five bottles and/or accessories.

Connector 1200 may include a plurality of bottle fittings, for example, five bottle cap fittings 1201-1205. Cap fittings 1201-1205 may include internal threadings 1211-1215, respectively.

Cap fittings 1201-1204 may be interconnected in a substantially square pattern as shown in FIG. 12A, which may be connected substantially perpendicular to cap fitting 1205 as shown in FIG. 12B. For example, cap fittings 1201-1205 may be interconnected using a cross-shaped link 1245, such that cap fitting 1201 may be substantially perpendicular to cap fitting 1202, cap fitting 1202 may be substantially perpendicular to cap fitting 1203, cap fitting 1203 may be substantially perpendicular to cap fitting 1204, cap fitting 1204 may be substantially perpendicular to cap fitting 1201, and cap fittings 1201-1204 may be substantially perpendicular to cap fitting 1205.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 12C-12D, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 1200 connected to a bottle 1251 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Further reference is made to FIGS. 12E-12F, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 1200 connected to five bottles 1261-1265 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although connector 1200 is shown connected to bottles, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and connector 1200 may be connected to one or more bottles and/or one or more accessories.

FIGS. 13A-13C schematically illustrate a first view, a second view and a third view, respectively, of a connector 1300 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Connector 1300 may be used to connect a plurality of bottles and/or accessories, for example, up to five bottles and/or accessories.

Connector 1300 may include a plurality of bottle fittings, for example, four bottle cap fittings 1301-1304, which may be similar to cap fittings 1201-1204 of FIG. 12. Additionally, Connector 1300 may include a connector 1305, which may include a connector in accordance with embodiments of the invention, for example, a connector similar to connector 1500 described herein with reference to FIG. 15.

Cap fittings 1301-1304 may be interconnected in a substantially square pattern as shown in FIG. 13A, which may be connected substantially perpendicular to connector 1305 as shown in FIG. 13B. For example, cap fittings 1301-1304 and connector 1305 may be interconnected such that cap fitting 1301 may be substantially perpendicular to cap fitting 1302, cap fitting 1302 may be substantially perpendicular to cap fitting 1303, cap fitting 1303 may be substantially perpendicular to cap fitting 1304, cap fitting 1304 may be substantially perpendicular to cap fitting 1301, and cap fittings 1301-1304 may be substantially perpendicular to connector 1305.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 13D-13E, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 1300 connected to a bottle 1351 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Further reference is made to FIGS. 13F-13G, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 1300 connected to five bottles 1361-1365 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although connector 1300 is shown connected to bottles, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and connector 1300 may be connected to one or more bottles and/or one or more accessories.

FIGS. 14A-14B schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of a connector 1400 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Connector 1400 may be used, for example, to connect a first bottle to a second bottle, or to connect a bottle to an accessory.

Connector 1400 may include two or more attachment plates, for example, plates 1411 and 1412. Plate 1411 and/or plate 1412 may be similar, for example, to plate 520 of FIGS. 5A-5B. For example, plate 1411 may include an attachment portion 1421, and plate 1412 may include an attachment portion 1422; portions 1421 and/or 1422 may be similar to portion 540 of FIGS. 5A-5B. Plates 1411 and 1412 may be connected, for example, using a link 1430, which may be similar to link 230 of FIGS. 2A-2B.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 14C-14D, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 1400 connected to a bottle 1451 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Further reference is made to FIGS. 14E-14F, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 1400 connected to a first bottle 1461 and a second bottle 1462 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although connector 1400 is shown connected to bottles, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and connector 1400 may be connected to one or more bottles and/or one or more accessories.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 15A-15C, which schematically illustrate a first view, a second view and a third view, respectively, of a connector 1500 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Connector 1500 may be used, for example, to connect a first bottle to a second bottle, or to connect a bottle to an accessory.

Connector 1500 may include two or more attachment plates, for example, plates 1511 and 1512. Plate 1511 and/or plate 1512 may be similar, for example, to plate 520 of FIGS. 5A-5B. For example, plate 1511 may include an attachment portion 1521, and plate 1512 may include an attachment portion 1522; portions 1521 and/or 1522 may be similar to portion 540 of FIGS. 5A-5B. Plates 1511 and 1512 may be connected, for example, using a spindle mechanism 1530, which may be similar to spindle mechanism 330 of FIGS. 3A-3C. Reference is made to FIGS. 15D and FIGS. 15E, which show plate 1511 and plate 1512, respectively, having a plurality of protrusions 1550, which may be similar, for example, to protrusions 350 of FIGS. 3A-3C.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 15F-15H, which schematically illustrate a first view, a second view and a third view, respectively, of connector 1500 connected to a bottle 1551 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Further reference is made to FIGS. 15I-15K, which schematically illustrate a first view, a second view and a third view, respectively, of connector 1500 connected to a first bottle 1561 and a second bottle 1562 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although connector 1500 is shown connected to bottles, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and connector 1500 may be connected to one or more bottles and/or one or more accessories.

FIGS. 16A-16C schematically illustrate a first partially-exploded view of a connector 1600 in an assembled state, a partially-exploded view of connector 1600 in a non-assembled state, and a second partially-exploded view of connector 1600 in an assembled state, respectively, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Connector 1600 may be used, for example, to connect a first bottle to a second bottle, or to connect a bottle to an accessory.

Connector 1600 may include an attachment plate 1610 connected to an attachment plate 1620. Plate 1610 and/or plate 1620 may be similar, for example, to plate 520 of FIGS. 5A-5B. For example, plate 1610 may include an attachment portion 1611, plate 1620 may include an attachment portion 1621, and portions 1611 and/or 1621 may be similar to portion 540 of FIGS. 5A-5B.

In one embodiment, plate 1610 and plate 1620 may be interconnected, for example, using attachment mechanism 1630 having a male part 1631 and a female part 1632. For example, attachment mechanism 1630, male part 1631 and female part 1632 may be similar to attachment mechanism 430, male part 431 and female part 432 of FIGS. 4A-4D, respectively.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 16D-16F, which schematically illustrate a first view, a second view, and a third view, respectively, of connector 1600 connected to a bottle 1651 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Further reference is made to FIGS. 16G-16I, which schematically illustrate a first view, a second view, and a third view, respectively, of connector 1600 connected to a first bottle 1661 and a second bottle 1662 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although connector 1600 is shown connected to bottles, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and connector 1600 may be connected to one or more bottles and/or one or more accessories.

FIGS. 17A-17C schematically illustrate a first view, a second view, and a third view, respectively, of a connector 1700 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Connector 1700 may be used, for example, to connect a first bottle to a second bottle, or to connect a bottle to an accessory.

Connector 1700 may include a bottle fitting, for example, a cap fitting 1710, connected to an attachment plate 1720. Cap fitting 1710 may include an internal threading 1711, for example, to allow attachment of a bottle into cap fitting 1710. Plate 1720 may be similar, for example, to plate 520 of FIGS. 5A-5B. For example, plate 1720 may include an attachment portion 1740 which may be similar to portion 540 of FIGS. 5A-5B.

In one embodiment, cap 1710 and plate 1720 may be interconnected using an attachment mechanism 1733, for example, similar to attachment mechanism 333 of FIGS. 3A-3C.

In one embodiment, optionally, connector 1700 may include a spindle mechanism 1730; for example, spindle mechanism 1730 may be similar to spindle mechanism 330 of FIGS. 3A-3C, and may include a plurality of flanges or protrusions 1750 which may be similar to protrusions 350 of FIGS. 3A-3C.

In some embodiments, cap fitting 1710 may be relatively smaller or bigger than plate 1720, for example, to allow connection of bottles having different neck sizes or opening sizes.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 17D-17E, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 1700 connected to a bottle 1751 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Further reference is made to FIGS. 17F-17G, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 1700 connected to a first bottle 1761 and a second bottle 1762 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although connector 1700 is shown connected to bottles, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and connector 1700 may be connected to one or more bottles and/or one or more accessories.

FIGS. 18A-18C schematically illustrate a first view, a second view, and a third view, respectively, of a connector 1800 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Connector 1800 may be used, for example, to connect a first bottle to a second bottle, or to connect a bottle to an accessory.

Connector 1800 may include an attachment plate 1810 connected to an attachment plate 1820. Plate 1810 and/or plate 1820 may be similar, for example, to plate 520 of FIGS. 5A-5B. For example, plate 1810 may include an attachment portion 1811, plate 1820 may include an attachment portion 1821, and portions 1811 and/or 1822 may be similar to portion 540 of FIGS. 5A-5B.

In one embodiment, plate 1810 and plate 1820 may be interconnected using an attachment mechanism 1833, for example, similar to attachment mechanism 333 of FIGS. 3A-3C.

In one embodiment, optionally, connector 1800 may include a spindle mechanism 1830; for example, spindle mechanism 1830 may be similar to spindle mechanism 330 of FIGS. 3A-3C, and may include a plurality of flanges or protrusions 1850 similar to protrusions 350 of FIGS. 3A-3C.

In some embodiments, plate 1810 may be relatively smaller or bigger than plate 1820, for example, to allow connecting bottles having different neck sizes or opening sizes.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 18D-18F, which schematically illustrate a first view, a second view, and a third view, respectively, of connector 1800 connected to a bottle 1851 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Further reference is made to FIGS. 18G-18I, which schematically illustrate a first view, a second view, and a third view, respectively, of connector 1800 connected to a first bottle 1861 and a second bottle 1862 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although connector 1800 is shown connected to bottles, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and connector 1800 may be connected to one or more bottles and/or one or more accessories.

FIGS. 19A-19B schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of a connector 1900 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. Connector 1900 may be used, for example, to connect a first bottle to a second bottle, or to connect a bottle to an accessory.

Connector 1900 may include an attachment plate 1911 connected to an attachment plate 1912. Plate 1911 and/or plate 1912 may be similar, for example, to plate 520 of FIGS. 5A-5B. For example, plate 1911 may include an attachment portion 1921, plate 1912 may include an attachment portion 1922, and portions 1921 and/or 1922 may be similar to portion 540 of FIGS. 5A-5B.

In one embodiment, plate 1911 and plate 1912 may be interconnected, for example, at an angle of about 135 degrees, or at another suitable angle.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 19C-19E, which schematically illustrate a first view, a second view, and a third view, respectively, of connector 1900 connected to a bottle 1951 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Further reference is made to FIGS. 19F-19H, which schematically illustrate a first view, a second view, and a third view, respectively, of connector 1900 connected to a first bottle 1961 and a second bottle 1962 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although connector 1900 is shown connected to bottles, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and connector 1900 may be connected to one or more bottles and/or one or more accessories.

FIGS. 20A-20C schematically illustrate a first view, a second view, and a third view, respectively, of a connector 2000 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. Connector 2000 may be used, for example, to connect a first bottle to a second bottle, or to connect a bottle to an accessory.

Connector 2000 may include an attachment plate 2011 connected to an attachment plate 2012. Plate 2011 and/or plate 2012 may be similar, for example, to plate 520 of FIGS. 5A-5B. For example, plate 2011 may include an attachment portion 2021, plate 2012 may include an attachment portion 2022, and portions 2021 and/or 2022 may be similar to portion 540 of FIGS. 5A-5B.

In one embodiment, plate 2011 and plate 2012 may be interconnected, for example, at an angle of about 45 degrees, or at another suitable angle.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 20D-20F, which schematically illustrate a first view, a second view, and a third view, respectively, of connector 2000 connected to a bottle 2051 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Further reference is made to FIGS. 20G-20I, which schematically illustrate a first view, a second view, and a third view, respectively, of connector 2000 connected to a first bottle 2061 and a second bottle 2062 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although connector 2000 is shown connected to bottles, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and connector 2000 may be connected to one or more bottles and/or one or more accessories.

FIGS. 21A-21B schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of a connector 2100 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. Connector 2100 may be used, for example, to connect a first bottle to a second bottle, or to connect a bottle to an accessory.

Connector 2100 may include an attachment plate 2111 connected to an attachment plate 2112. Plate 2111 and/or plate 2112 may be similar, for example, to plate 520 of FIGS. 5A-5B. For example, plate 2111 may include an attachment portion 2121, plate 2112 may include an attachment portion 2122, and portions 2121 and/or 2122 may be similar to portion 540 of FIGS. 5A-5B.

In one embodiment, plate 2111 and plate 2112 may be interconnected, for example, at an angle of about 90 degrees, or at another suitable angle.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 21C-21D, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 2100 connected to a bottle 2151 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Further reference is made to FIGS. 21E-21F, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 2100 connected to a first bottle 2161 and a second bottle 2162 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although connector 2100 is shown connected to bottles, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and connector 2100 may be connected to one or more bottles and/or one or more accessories.

FIGS. 22A-22C schematically illustrate a first view, a second view, and a third view, respectively, of a connector 2200 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. Connector 2200 may be used, for example, to connect a first bottle to a second bottle, or to connect a bottle to an accessory.

Connector 2200 may include an attachment plate 2211 having two attachment portions located on opposite sides of plate 2211. For example, plate 2211 may include a portion 2221 and a portion 2222, which may be similar to portion 540 of FIGS. 5A-5B. Although substantially circular and flat plate 2211, portion 2221 and/or portion 2222 are shown, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and plate 2211, portion 2221 and/or portion 2222 may include non-flat planes or areas and non-circular shapes or contours.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 22D-22E, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 2200 connected to a bottle 2251 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Further reference is made to FIGS. 22F-22G, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 2200 connected to a first bottle 2261 and a second bottle 2262 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although connector 2200 is shown connected to bottles, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and connector 2200 may be connected to one or more bottles and/or one or more accessories.

FIGS. 23A-23D schematically illustrate a first view, a second view, a third view, and a fourth view, respectively, of a connector 2300 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Connector 2300 may be used, for example, to connect one or more bottles and/or one or more accessories.

Connector 2300 may include a plurality of bottle fittings, for example, attachment plates 2301-2303, which may be interconnected using a link 2310. Plate 2301, plate 2302 and/or plate 2303 may be similar, for example, to plate 520 of FIGS. 5A-5B. Link 2310 may be similar, for example, to link 230 of FIGS. 2A-2B. It is noted that connector 2300 may include other bottle fittings and/or other connectors, in addition to or instead of attachment plates 2301-2303.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 23E-23F, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 2300 connected to a bottle 2351 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Further reference is made to FIGS. 23G-23H, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of connector 2300 connected to a first bottle 2361 and a second bottle 2362 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although connector 2300 is shown connected to bottles, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and connector 2300 may be connected to one or more bottles and/or one or more accessories.

FIGS. 24A-24B schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of a hand-shaped accessory 2400 which may be connected to a bottle in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention.

Accessory 2400 may include, for example, a member 2401 and a connector 2402. Member 2401 may include, for example, a hand-shaped part, a part shaped as a human or animal body organ, an inanimate object, a toy, a doll, a gadget, or the like. Connector 2402 may include a bottle fitting or a connector in accordance with embodiments of the invention, for example, a connector having an internal threading 2403.

In some embodiments, accessory 2400 may include moving parts and/or non-moving parts, and may optionally include a dedicated sub-unit to achieve a desired functionality, e.g., an electrically operated or mechanical sub-unit allowing the accessory 2400 to move, to rotate, to vibrate, to produce audible sounds, to produce or display visual images or movies, to respond to a command or an action by a user, to modify a property of accessory 2400, or the like.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 24C-24D, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of accessory 2400 connected to a bottle 2451 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although accessory 2400 is shown connected to a bottle, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and accessory 2400 may be connected to a plurality of bottles, to one or more other accessories, or to a structure of bottles and/or accessories.

FIGS. 25A-25B schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of a hand-shaped accessory 2500 which may be connected to a bottle in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention.

Accessory 2500 may include, for example, a member 2501 and a connector 2502. Member 2501 may include, for example, a hand-shaped part, a part shaped as a human or animal body organ, an inanimate object, a toy, a doll, a gadget, or the like. Connector 2502 may include a bottle fitting or a connector in accordance with embodiments of the invention, for example, a connector similar to connector 1500 of FIGS. 15A-15C.

In some embodiments, accessory 2500 may include moving parts and/or non-moving parts, and may optionally include a dedicated sub-unit to achieve a desired functionality, e.g., an electrically operated or mechanical sub-unit allowing the accessory 2500 to move, to rotate, to vibrate, to produce audible sounds, to produce or display visual images or movies, to respond to a command or an action by a user, to modify a property of accessory 2500, or the like.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 25C-25D, which schematically illustrate a first view and a second view, respectively, of accessory 2500 connected to a bottle 2551 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Although accessory 2500 is shown connected to a bottle, the present invention is not limited in this regard, and accessory 2500 may be connected to a plurality of bottles, to one or more other accessories, or to a structure of bottles and/or accessories.

FIGS. 26A-26C schematically illustrate a first view, a second view, and a third view, respectively, of a hat-shaped accessory 2600 which may be connected to a bottle in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments accessory 2600 may be adapted to connect, for example, to a bottle, to a plurality of bottles, to one or more other accessories, or to a combination or structure of bottles and/or connectors and/or other accessories. In one embodiment, accessory 2600 may include, may be attached to, or may be integrated with a connector in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

In some embodiments, accessory 2600 may include moving parts and/or non-moving parts, and may optionally include a dedicated sub-unit to achieve a desired functionality, e.g., an electrically operated or mechanical sub-unit allowing the accessory 2600 to move, to rotate, to vibrate, to produce audible sounds, to produce or display visual images or movies, to respond to a command or an action by a user, to modify a property of accessory 2600, or the like.

FIGS. 27A-27C schematically illustrate a first view, a second view, and a third view, respectively, of an eye-shaped accessory 2700 which may be connected to a bottle in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments accessory 2700 may be adapted to connect, for example, to a bottle, to a plurality of bottles, to one or more other accessories, or to a combination or structure of bottles and/or connectors and/or other accessories. In one embodiment, accessory 2700 may include, may be attached to, or may be integrated with a connector in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

In some embodiments, accessory 2700 may include moving parts and/or non-moving parts, and may optionally include a dedicated sub-unit to achieve a desired functionality, e.g., an electrically operated or mechanical sub-unit allowing the accessory 2700 to move, to rotate, to vibrate, to produce audible sounds, to produce or display visual images or movies, to respond to a command or an action by a user, to modify a property of accessory 2700, or the like.

FIGS. 28A-28C schematically illustrate a first view, a second view, and a third view, respectively, of a person-shaped structure 2800 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Structure 2800 may include, for example, a plurality of bottles 2801 and a plurality of connectors 2802. Structure 2800 may optionally include, for example, two hand-shaped accessories 2803 which may be similar to accessory 2500 of FIGS. 25A-25B. Structure 2800 may optionally include, for example, two eye-shaped accessories 2804 which may be similar to accessory 2700 of FIGS. 27A-27C. Structure 2800 may optionally include, for example, a hat-shaped accessory 2805 which may be similar to accessory 2600 of FIGS. 26A-26C. Structure 2800 may optionally include other bottles, connectors and/or accessories in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 29A-29C schematically illustrate a first view, a second view, and a third view, respectively, of a wheel-shaped accessory 2900 which may be connected to a bottle in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments accessory 2900 may be adapted to connect, for example, to a bottle, to a plurality of bottles, to one or more other accessories, or to a combination or structure of bottles and/or connectors and/or other accessories. In one embodiment, accessory 2900 may include, may be attached to, or may be integrated with a connector in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

In some embodiments, accessory 2900 may include moving parts and/or non-moving parts, and may optionally include a dedicated sub-unit to achieve a desired functionality, e.g., an electrically operated or mechanical sub-unit allowing the accessory 2900 to move, to rotate, to vibrate, to produce audible sounds, to produce or display visual images or movies, to respond to a command or an action by a user, to modify a property of accessory 2900, or the like.

FIGS. 30A-30C schematically illustrate a first view, a second view, and a third view, respectively, of a vehicle-shaped structure 3000 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Structure 3000 may include, for example, a plurality of bottles, a plurality of connectors, and a plurality of wheel-shaped accessories, e.g., similar to accessory 2900 of FIGS. 29A-29C. Structure 3000 may optionally include additional or alternate accessories in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 31A-31C schematically illustrate a first view, a second view, and a third view, respectively, of a bicycle-shaped or motorcycle-shaped structure 3100 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Structure 3100 may include, for example, a plurality of bottles, a plurality of connectors, and a plurality of wheel-sbaped accessories, e.g., similar to accessory 2900 of FIGS. 29A-29C. Structure 3100 may optionally include additional or alternate accessories in accordance with embodiments of the invention, e.g., one or more headlight-shaped accessories 3101.

FIGS. 32A-32B schematically illustrate a first view and a second view of a loop accessory 3200 which may be connected to a bottle in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments accessory 3200 may be adapted to connect, for example, to a bottle, to a plurality of bottles, to one or more other accessories, or to a combination or structure of bottles and/or connectors and/or other accessories. In one embodiment, accessory 3200 may include, may be attached to, or may be integrated with a connector in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

Accessory 3200 may include, for example, a base or plate 3201 having an attachment portion 3203, an a loop 3202 having a “U” shape, an “O” shape, or other suitable shape able to hold a string or wire which may be threaded or inserted through loop 3202.

FIGS. 33A-33C schematically illustrate a first view, a second view and a third view, respectively, of a crane accessory 3300 which may be connected to a bottle or may include one or more bottles in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, accessory 3300 may be adapted to connect, for example, to a bottle, to a plurality of bottles, to one or more other accessories, or to a combination or structure of bottles and/or connectors and/or other accessories. In one embodiment, accessory 3300 may include, may be attached to, or may be integrated with a connector in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

Accessory 3300 may include, for example, one or more bottles 3301, optionally interconnected using one or more connectors in accordance with embodiments of the invention. Accessory 3300 may further include one or more loop accessories 3302, e.g., similar to accessory 3200 of FIGS. 32A-32B. In some embodiments, a string 3303 may be inserted through accessories 3200. The string 3303 may be connected at a first end to a reel 3304 having a rotate-able handle 3305. The string 3303 may circulate around a wheel 3306 and may be connected at a second end to a hook 3307. Accessory 3300 may be operated, for example, such that a user may rotate the handle 3305, thereby pulling the string 3303 and elevating the hook 3307 or an object connected to hook 3307.

In one embodiment, accessory 3300 may be used, for example, as a crane to lift or pull an object. In an alternate embodiment, accessory 3300 may be used, for example, as a fishing rod for fishing.

FIG. 34 schematically illustrates a crane structure 3400 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Structure 3400 may include, for example, a plurality of bottles interconnected through a plurality of connectors. Structure 3400 may further include accessory 3300 of FIGS. 33A-33C, or one or more of the components described with reference to FIGS. 32A-32B and FIGS. 33A-33C.

FIGS. 35A-35C schematically illustrate a first view, a second view, and a third view, respectively, of a rotating base accessory 3500 which may be connected to a bottle in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, accessory 3500 may be adapted to connect, for example, to a bottle, to a plurality of bottles, to one or more other accessories, or to a combination or structure of bottles and/or connectors and/or other accessories. In one embodiment, accessory 3500 may include, may be attached to, or may be integrated with a connector in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

Accessory 3500 may include, for example, a base or plate 3501 having an attachment portion 3502. Accessory 3500 may further include a rotate-able member 3503, for example, a member able to be mechanically rotated by a user applying a circular force, a member able to rotate on demand using an internal electrically operated motor, or the like. Accessory 3500 may further include, for example, a bottle fitting 3504, e.g., having an external threading 3505.

Reference is now made to FIG. 35D, which schematically illustrates a rotor accessory 3510 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Accessory 3510 may include, for example, bottles 3511-3514 which may be interconnected using a connector 3516, e.g., similar to connector 1200 of FIGS. 12A-12B. Accessory 3510 may further include a rotateable accessory 3515, e.g., similar to accessory 3500 of FIGS. 35A-35C. Accessory 3500 may be used or operated, for example, as a rotating rotor, as a rotating wing or wings of a windmill, as a revolving tray, as a carousel, or the like.

Reference is now made to FIG. 35E, which schematically illustrates helicopter structure 3520 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Structure 3520 may include, for example, a plurality of bottles interconnected through a plurality of connectors. Structure 3520 may further include accessory 3510 of FIG. 35D.

FIGS. 36A-36C schematically illustrates a first view, a second view and a third view, respectively, of a dog structure 3600 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Structure 3600 may include, for example, a plurality of bottles interconnected through a plurality of connectors. Structure 3600 may optionally include one or more accessories, for example, two ear-shaped accessories 3601.

FIGS. 37A-37C schematically illustrates a first view, a second view and a third view, respectively, of a person structure 3700 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Structure 3700 may include, for example, a plurality of bottles interconnected through a plurality of connectors. Structure 3700 may optionally include one or more accessories.

Each of FIGS. 38-48 schematically illustrates a person structure in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention, including, a plurality of bottles interconnected through a plurality of connectors, and optionally including one or more accessories.

FIGS. 49A-49D schematically illustrates a first view, a second view, a third view, and a fourth view, respectively, of a snake structure 4900 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Structure 4900 may include, for example, a plurality of bottles interconnected through a plurality of connectors. Structure 4900 may optionally include one or more accessories, for example, two eye-shaped accessories 4901.

FIG. 50 schematically illustrates a dog structure 5000 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. Structure 5000 may include, for example, a plurality of bottles interconnected through a plurality of connectors, and optionally one or more accessories.

FIG. 51 schematically illustrates a dog structure 5100 in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the invention. Structure 5100 may include, for example, a plurality of bottles interconnected through a plurality of connectors, and optionally one or more accessories.

FIG. 52 schematically illustrates a cat structure 5200 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. Structure 5200 may include, for example, a plurality of bottles interconnected through a plurality of connectors, and optionally one or more accessories.

FIG. 53 schematically illustrates a mouse structure 5300 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. Structure 5300 may include, for example, a plurality of bottles interconnected through a plurality of connectors, and optionally one or more accessories.

FIG. 54 schematically illustrates a frog structure 5400 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. Structure 5400 may include, for example, a plurality of bottles interconnected through a plurality of connectors, and optionally one or more accessories.

FIG. 55 schematically illustrates a truck structure 5500 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. Structure 5500 may include, for example, a plurality of bottles interconnected through a plurality of connectors, and optionally one or more accessories.

FIG. 56 schematically illustrates an airplane structure 5600 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. Structure 5600 may include, for example, a plurality of bottles interconnected through a plurality of connectors, and optionally one or more accessories.

FIG. 57 schematically illustrates a motorcycle structure 5700 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. Structure 5700 may include, for example, a plurality of bottles interconnected through a plurality of connectors, and optionally one or more accessories.

FIGS. 58A-58B schematically illustrate a bottle 5810 having a removable bottle-saucer 5820 in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. Bottle-saucer 5820 may be removed or detached from bottle 5810, or connected to bottle 5810, for example, by applying a rotational force, by applying pressure, by rotation, or by other attachment mechanism. Bottle-saucer 5820 may be an integral part of bottle 5810, or may be an external add-on accessory able to connect to a standard bottle 5810.

In some embodiments, bottle-saucer 5820 may include a cavity 5821 able to store one or more objects, e.g., a miniature structure 5830 having one or more miniature bottles interconnected through one or more miniature connectors, and optionally having one or more miniature accessories.

FIG. 59 is a schematic flow-chart of a method of connecting bottles, connectors and/or accessories in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. The method may be used, for example, in conjunction with one or more bottles, connectors and/or accessories.

As indicated at box 5910, the method may include, for example, connecting a first object to a first object, e.g., connecting a first bottle to a second bottle, connecting a bottle to an accessory, or connecting another combination of bottles and/or accessories. In some embodiment, the connecting may include, for example, attaching, rotating, twisting, pressing, gluing, sticking, pushing, pulling, pushing a male part into a female part, applying rotational force, applying force, turning or rotating a spindle, removing or pealing a peal-able cover and exposing an adhesive layer or portion, or otherwise linking bottles and/or accessories. In one embodiment, a plurality of connecting operations may be performed, for example, resulting in a structure made of bottles, connectors and/or accessories.

As indicated at box 5920, optionally, the method may include, for example, modifying a property of a structure created by connecting bottles, connectors and/or accessories. This may include, for example, modifying a shape of a connector or a structure, bending or twisting a connector, rotating or turning an accessory or a bottle, activating or de-activating an accessory able to perform a function, or the like. In one embodiment, this may include, for example, disconnecting or removing a previously-connected bottle, connector and/or accessory.

While certain features of the invention have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications, substitutions, changes, and equivalents may occur to those skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the invention.

Claims

1. A structural connector comprising:

a first interface adapted to connect to a predetermined site of a first bottle; and

a second interface adapted to connect to a predetermined site of a second bottle.

2. The structural connector of claim 1, wherein at least one of said first and second bottles is a standard bottle.

3. The structural connector of claim 1, wherein at least one of said predetermined site of said first bottle and said predetermined site of said second bottle comprises a bottle-mouth.

4. The structural connector of claim 1, wherein at least one of said predetermined site of said first bottle and said predetermined site of said second bottle comprises a bottle-neck.

5. The structural connector of claim 1, wherein said first interface comprises a bottle-mouth fitting adapted to connect to a mouth of said first bottle.

6. The structural connector of claim 5, wherein said second interface comprises a bottle-mouth fitting adapted to connect to a mouth of said second bottle.

7. The structural connector of claim 1, wherein said first interface comprises an attachment plate adapted to attach to said predetermined site of said first bottle.

8. The structural connector of claim 7, wherein said second interface comprises an attachment plate adapted to attach to said predetermined site of said second bottle.

9. The structural connector of claim 1, wherein said structural connector comprises first and second parts, said first part having said first interface and said second part having said second interface, and wherein said first and second parts are interconnectable.

10. The structural connector of claim 1, comprising a spindle mechanism to enable rotation of said first interface relative to said second interface.

11. The structural connector of claim 10, wherein said spindle mechanism comprises a plurality of protrusions to enable a controlled rotation of said first interface relative to said second interface.

12. The structural connector of claim 1, comprising a flexible link to connect said first interface to said second interface.

13. The structural connector of claim 1, comprising a non-flexible link to connect said first interface to said second interface.

14. A structure comprising a plurality of bottles interconnected through one or more connectors, wherein one or more of said connectors have an interface adapted to fit a predetermined site of one or more of said plurality of bottles.

15. The structure of claim 14, wherein said plurality of bottles comprise a plurality of standard bottles.

16. The structure of claim 14, further comprising an accessory integrally formed with one or more of said connectors.

17. The structure of claim 16, wherein said accessory is shaped as a human body part.

18. The structure of claim 16, wherein said accessory is shaped as an animal body part.

19. The structure of claim 16, wherein said accessory is an ornamental accessory.

20. The structure of claim 16, wherein said accessory comprises an electrically operated device.

21. The structure of claim 16, wherein said accessory comprises a mechanical device.

22. The structure of claim 14, wherein said structure is a toy.

23. The structure of claim 14, wherein said structure is a doll.

24. The structure of claim 14, wherein said structure is a human-shaped structure.

25. The structure of claim 14, wherein said structure is an animal-shaped structure.

26. The structure of claim 14, wherein said structure is a machine.

27. The structure of claim 14, wherein said structure is formed substantially exclusively of said plurality of bottles and said one or more connectors.

28. An accessory adapted to connect to a structure including a plurality of bottles, said accessory comprising an interface adapted to connect to a predetermined site of a standard bottle.

29. The accessory of claim 28, wherein said site comprises a mouth of said bottle.

30. The accessory of claim 28, wherein said site comprises a neck of said bottle.

31. The accessory of claim 28, wherein said interface comprises a bottle-mouth fitting adapted to connect to a mouth of said standard bottle.

32. The accessory of claim 28, wherein said interface comprises an attachment plate adapted to attach to said predetermined site of said standard bottle.

33. The accessory of claim 28, comprising a spindle mechanism to enable rotation of said accessory relative to said standard bottle.

34. The accessory of claim 28, wherein said accessory is an ornamental accessory integrally formed with said interface.

35. The accessory of claim 28, wherein said accessory is shaped as a human body part.

36. The accessory of claim 28, wherein said accessory is shaped as an animal body part.

37. The accessory of claim 28, comprising an electrically operated device.

38. The accessory of claim 28, comprising a mechanical device.

39. A method of connecting bottles, the method comprising:

connecting a predetermined site of a first bottle to a first interface of a connector; and

connecting a predetermined site of a second bottle to a second interface of said connector.

40. The method of claim 39, further comprising connecting to said first bottle an accessory having an interface adapted to connect to said first bottle.