DRINKING VESSEL WITH ERGONOMIC RIM

Abstract

A drinking vessel with an ergonomic rim for maximizing the contact area between the rim of the drinking vessel and the lips of a user is provided for. The drinking vessel includes a concave surface proximal the rim of the drinking vessel that mimics the curvature of a user's lower lip, thereby increasing contact area and reducing spillage. The drinking vessel may also include a rim configured to engage with a lid. An angled rim may also reduce the amount of wrist rotation required by a user to drink from the vessel.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/279,908, filed May 16, 2014, which claims priority to, and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/824,897, filed May 17, 2013, for all subject matter common to both applications. The disclosures of said non-provisional and provisional applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. This application is also a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. Design patent application No. 29/516,541, filed Feb. 3, 2015, for all subject matter common to both application. The disclosures of said design patent application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

1. FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Examples of the present disclosure relates to ergonomic drinking cups for enabling a user to easily drink from the cup while avoiding spills of the liquids contained within the cup. Examples of the present disclosure also relate to cups with drinking edges that serve a dual purpose of creating more contact between a user's lips and the cup's rim for easier drinking and less dribbling, while simultaneously serving as an edge with which a removable lid for the ergonomic drinking cup could be attached.

In other examples, the present disclosure may relate to ergonomic handles suitable for enabling a user to easily grip and control the handle and any corresponding structure (i.e., implement or container) coupled thereto. In particular, the present invention relates to an ergonomic handle having an elongate structure with combinations of convex and concave curvatures configured to mimic a contour of a palm and fingers of a user gripping the handle, and having a cross-sectional length and width that is derived from hand dimensional data, wherein the handle is operable in conjunction with a container, implement, or other structure.

2. BACKGROUND

Generally, handles for use with containers or implements such as tools or utensils are often thin, difficult to grasp, in some instances are too closely attached to the implement or container, and are not long enough to provide enough room for the average user's hand, making handles generally uncomfortable and difficult to use. In fact, many users recognize the discomfort of grasping or holding handles of containers, such as coffee mugs, tea cups, or tea pots. In many handle configurations, users with relatively larger than average hands can only fit one, two, three, or sometimes zero fingers inside many such handles, making the act of holding the container very uncomfortable and strenuous on their wrists, hands, and fingers. In addition, as people develop chronic medical conditions such as arthritis, it becomes more difficult to firmly grasp handles conventionally found on containers and implements. Studies suggest that contorting one's joints in unnatural ways, such as users must do when trying to drink from a mug with a small and thin handle, may lead to, or worsen, arthritis and other joint conditions.

In addition, as people develop chronic medical conditions such as arthritis, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, or stroke, among others, it becomes more difficult to drink from a cup without avoiding unintended spills due to tremors or a diminished ability to firmly grasp the cup. An ergonomic grip on a handle may help provide for a firmer grip, thereby reducing spillage. Furthermore, an ergonomic rim may also provide for a more reliable drinking connection between a cup or vessel and the lips of a drinker, thereby further reducing spillage. In some instances, drinks are prepared for a user in a separate preparation area and then transported to a serving area and additional spillage may occur during transport. Thus, there exists a need for a drinking vessel with a lip that serves the dual purpose of both reducing spills caused by tremors and reduced mobility and being configured to couple with a cup lid so as to also avoid spills during transport.

It is possible that until now, handles of drinking containers have not been designed to be ergonomic because of factors including the additional cost of production, the increase in weight, or the physical constraints of the material being used.

Different materials have different physical constraints. For example, working with clay (the raw material for ceramic coffee mugs) requires that the ceramic be 1.5 cm (0.6 inches) or less in thickness in at least one dimension. When baking or setting the ceramic, these sections that are greater than 1.5 cm (0.6 inches) in all dimensions are prone to cracking, exploding, or not thoroughly drying. As such, configuring handles and drinking lips to be more ergonomic has previously been limited by the inability to make large diameter handles out of conventional materials, such as clay, for conventional containers such as ceramic coffee mugs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

There is a need for an improved ergonomic handle and rim that can be utilized in conjunction with containers or implements to alleviate or reduce the difficulties users experience with conventional handles and rims. The present invention is directed toward further solutions to address this need, in addition to having other desirable characteristics.

In accordance with an example of the present invention, an improved handle for drinking and eating containers such as mugs, cups, and the like is provided. The improved handle is a comfortable and ergonomic alternative to existing ceramic handles; it is shaped to mimic hand geometries, has the appropriate thickness to be medically ergonomic, is structurally sound, has ample room for most large user hands, can have multiple comfortable positions for a user's thumb, does not heat up excessively, is lightweight, is easy to clean, and is aesthetically pleasing. This handle can be used for many different types of containers, including but not limited to mugs, bowls, vases, tea cups, bowls, drinking glasses, pots, pans, measuring cups, and pitchers, as well as for implements, such as tools and utensils.

In accordance with another example of the present invention, a handle includes an elongate grip region having a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The elongate grip region of the handle includes a first side, a second side, a third side, and a fourth side, combining to form an entire outer surface of the elongate grip region. The handle includes a first grip area on the first side extending between the first end and the second end. The first grip area has a midpoint between the first end and the second end. The handle includes a second grip area on the second side extending between the first end and the second end and opposite the first grip area and first side. The handle includes a third grip area on the third side extending between the first end and the second end and connecting the first grip area with the second grip area. The handle includes a fourth grip area on the fourth side extending between the first end and the second end, opposite the third grip area and third side, and connecting the first grip area with the second grip area. The first grip area on the first side includes a contoured surface having a convex curvature out from the handle originating from the second end and extending beyond the midpoint toward the first end. The convex curvature transitions to a concave curvature. The concave curvature then transitions to a second convex curvature proximal the first end. The convex curvature, concave curvature, and second convex curvature are configured so as to together mimic a curvature of a user's palm along an area of contact of the palm with the elongate grip region when a user grips the elongate grip region. The second grip area on the second side includes a contoured surface having a convex curvature out from the handle and extending entirely between the first end and the second end of the elongate grip region. The second grip is configured so as to mimic a curvature of a user's fingers when curled to grip the handle along an area of contact of the fingers with the elongate grip region.

In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, the third grip area on the third side can include an indented region extending between the first end and the second end of the elongate grip region. The fourth grip area on the fourth side, likewise can include an indented region extending between the first end and the second end of the elongate grip region.

In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, an effective diameter of the handle is greater than 1.5 cm (0.6 inches). In another aspect, an effective outer circumference of the handle is greater than about 4 cm (1.57 inches). In another aspect, the handle has an effective diameter of greater than 1.5 cm (0.6 inches), while simultaneously no cross-sectional portion of the handle has a thickness of greater than 1.5 cm (0.6 inches). In another aspect, the handle has an effective diameter of about 2.5 cm (0.98 inches). In another aspect, the handle has an effective outer circumference of about 7.9 cm (3.1 inches).

In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, the indented region of the third grip area on the third side is sized, dimensioned, and configured to receive a user's metacarpophalangeal joints on a palm side of the user's hand. In another aspect, the indented region of the fourth grip area on the fourth side is sized, dimensioned, and configured to receive a user's metacarpophalangeal joints on a palm side of the user's hand. In another aspect, the indented region of the third grip area on the third side is generally a mirror image configuration of the indented region of the fourth grip area on the fourth side. In another aspect, the indented region of the third grip area on the third side and the indented region of the fourth grip area on the fourth side intersect creating an opening therethrough.

In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, the handle has a generally I-shaped cross-section at a midpoint of the handle.

In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, the handle is disposed in combination with another structure to form a container or implement. In another aspect, the handle is disposed in combination with a blade to form a cutting tool. In another aspect, the handle is disposed in combination with a spatula to form a grilling utensil.

In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, the handle is made of or manufactured of metal, wood, glass, enamel, ceramic, synthetic, plastic, or composite materials, or combinations thereof.

In accordance with an example of the present disclosure, a container includes a base. The container includes a wall surrounding the base and forming an interior chamber defined by the base and an opening with a rim opposite the base. The wall has an exterior surface and an interior surface. The container includes a handle coupled with the wall, via a first connecting member and a second connecting member, at the exterior surface. The container includes an elongate grip region disposed on the handle and having a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The first connecting member transitions the wall proximal the rim into the grip region proximal the first end, and the second connecting member transitions the wall proximal the base into the grip region proximal the second end. The first connecting member and the second connecting member connecting the elongate grip region with the wall of the container. The elongate grip region of the handle includes a first side, a second side, a third side, and a fourth side, combining to form an entire outer surface of the elongate grip region. The container includes a first grip area on the first side extending between the first end and the second end. The first grip area has a midpoint between the first end and the second end. The container includes a second grip area on the second side extending between the first end and the second end and opposite the first grip area and first side. The container includes a third grip area on the third side extending between the first end and the second end and connecting the first grip area with the second grip area. The container includes a fourth grip area on the fourth side extending between the first end and the second end, opposite the third grip area and third side, and connecting the first grip area with the second grip area. The first grip area on the first side includes a contoured surface having a convex curvature out from the handle originating from the second end and extending beyond the midpoint toward the first end. The convex curvature transitions to a concave curvature. The concave curvature then transitions to a second convex curvature proximal the first end. The convex curvature, concave curvature, and second convex curvature are configured so as to together mimic a curvature of a user's palm along an area of contact of the palm with the elongate grip region when a user grips the elongate grip region. The second grip area on the second side includes a contoured surface having a convex curvature out from the handle toward the wall of the container and extending entirely between the first end and the second end of the elongate grip region. The second grip area is configured so as to mimic a curvature of a user's fingers when curled to grip the handle along an area of contact of the fingers with the elongate grip region.

In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, the third grip area on the third side can include an indented region extending between the first end and the second end of the elongate grip region. The fourth grip area on the fourth side likewise can include an indented region extending between the first end and the second end of the elongate grip region. The container includes a thumb rest region disposed on the first connecting member and configured to engage a thumb of a user in a neutral posture thumb position when gripping the elongate grip region.

In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, the container includes a stability nub disposed on a lower base portion of the second connecting member and providing stability and support for the handle and the container when resting on a flat surface.

In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, the second side and the second grip area are positioned to form a gap between the elongate grip and the exterior surface of the wall of the container. In another aspect, the gap is sized and dimensioned to be about 2.2 cm (0.85 inches).

In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, the container includes a mug, tea cup, bowl, pitcher, drinking glass, pot, pan, or measuring cup.

In accordance with an example of the present disclosure, a container made of ceramic material has a ceramic base. A ceramic wall surrounds the base and forms an interior chamber defined by the base with an opening with a rim opposite the base. The wall has an exterior surface and an interior surface. A ceramic handle couples with the wall, via a first connecting member and a second connecting member, at the exterior surface. The handle includes an elongate grip region having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the elongate grip region of the handle comprising a first side, a second side, a third side, and a fourth side, combining to form an entire outer surface of the elongate grip region; a first grip area on the first side extending between the first end and the second end; a second grip area on the second side extending between the first end and the second end and opposite the first grip area and first side; a third grip area on the third side extending between the first end and the second end and connecting the first grip area with the second grip area; and a fourth grip area on the fourth side extending between the first end and the second end, opposite the third grip area and third side, and connecting the first grip area with the second grip area. An indented region is disposed in the third grip area on the third side. The first grip area, the second grip area, the third grip area, the fourth grip area, the indented region disposed on the third grip area, and the indented region disposed on the fourth grip area, are made of the ceramic material. The handle has an effective diameter of greater than 1.5 cm (0.6 inches), while simultaneously no cross-sectional portion of the handle has a thickness of greater than 1.5 cm (0.6 inches).

In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, the container further includes an indented region disposed in the fourth grip area on the fourth side. An effective diameter of the handle can be greater than 1.5 cm (0.6 inches), and an effective outer circumference of the handle can be greater than about 4 cm (1.57 inches). The handle can have an effective diameter of about 2.5 cm (0.98 inches) and an effective outer circumference of about 7.9 cm (3.1 inches). The handle can include a generally I-shaped cross-section at a midpoint of the handle.

In accordance with other aspects of the present disclosure, a drinking vessel is provided-for, comprising a base, one or more side walls having an exterior and an interior wall surface that together define an interior chamber, a rim at a top end of said one or more side walls, one or more concave surfaces on said exterior wall surface proximate said rim, and wherein said one or more concave surfaces are configured to ergonomically engage with the labium inferius oris of an intended user. In some examples, the rim may be configured to releasably engage with a lid. The concave surface may also substantially mimic the contours of the vermillion zone of a labium inferius oris. In other examples, the concave surface has an effective radius of less than 30 mm or, alternatively, an effective radius of about 10-20 mm. In some examples, the concave surface extends around the entire circumference of the drinking vessel. In other examples, the concave surface extends over only a portion, but not the entire circumference of the drinking vessel. In some examples, the effective radius of the concave surface covers more than a 20-degree rotation, but less than 110-degree rotation. In some examples, the drinking vessel further comprises a rim with a lip contact region on the exterior wall surface of said drinking vessel that measures between 5 and 20 mm from the midpoint of the concave surface to the tip of the rim. In other examples, the lip contact region measures about 10 mm.

In yet further examples, the drinking vessel may further comprising a handle wherein said handle comprises a grip having a top end, a bottom end; a first side distal from a container; a second side opposite said first side; a third left-hand side; and a fourth right-hand side combining to form an entire outer surface of the grip, wherein said first, second, third, and fourth sides extend between said top and said bottom end. In some examples, the first side of the handle comprises a convex curvature, originating from the top end and extending across a horizontal midpoint of the grip, the convex curvature transitioning to a concave curvature prior to a vertical midpoint of the grip, the concave curvature then transitioning to a second convex curvature that extends across the horizontal midpoint of the grip at the bottom end. The horizontal midpoint may comprise a center line between the first side and the second side whereas the vertical midpoint may comprise a center line between said top end and said bottom end. In some examples, at least one of the third and/or fourth sides comprises an indented region that is configured to receive at least on metacarpophalangeal joint on a palm side of a user's hand.

In accordance with other aspects of the present disclosure, a drinking vessel is provided-for, comprising a base, one or more side walls having an exterior and an interior wall surface that together define an interior chamber, a rim at a top end of said one or more side walls, one or more concave surfaces on said exterior wall surface proximate said rim; and wherein said rim is configured to releasably engage with a lid. In some examples, the one or more concave surfaces are configured to ergonomically engage with the labium inferius oris of an intended user. In other examples, the concave surface is formed by taking a cast of a user's lip, and forming a mold, at least in part, from the cast. In some examples, the drinking vessel may be formed at least partially of ceramic material. In other examples, the drinking vessel may be formed at least partially of plastic material. In yet further examples, the drinking vessel is formed at least partially of paper material. In yet further examples, the drinking vessel is formed at least partially of glass material. In yet further examples, the drinking vessel is formed at least partially of metal material. In some implementations, the exterior wall surface proximal said rim may have an angle of greater than or equal to 110 degrees and less than or equal to 200 degrees from horizontal for engaging with a lid.

In accordance with other aspects of the present disclosure, a container is provided-for, comprising a base, one or more side walls having an exterior and an interior wall surface that together define an interior chamber, a rim at a top end of said one or more side walls, one or more concave surfaces on said exterior wall surface proximate said rim, wherein said rim is configured to releasably engage with a lid, and wherein said one or more concave surfaces are configured to ergonomically engage with the lower lip of an intended user.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other characteristics of the present invention will be more fully understood by reference to the following detailed description in conjunction with the attached drawings, in which:

FIG. 1A is a side view of a handle in a generally vertical orientation, with break lines indicating possible points of connection with another structure;

FIG. 1B is a side view of the handle of FIG. 1A in a generally horizontal orientation, with break lines indicating possible points of connection with another structure.

FIG. 2A is a side view of the handle operable in conjunction with a container.

FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of the handle operable in conjunction with the container of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 3A is an end view of the handle operable in conjunction with the container of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional end view of the handle operable in conjunction with the container of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 4A is a top view of the handle operable in conjunction with the container of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional top view of the handle operable in conjunction with the container of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 5A is a side view of the handle operable in conjunction with a cutting tool.

FIG. 5B is a side view of the handle operable in conjunction with a utensil.

FIG. 6 is a side view of the handle operable in conjunction with the container of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 7A is an elevational view of an example of a container with a rim configured for ergonomically engaging with the lips of a user and being engaged with a lid.

FIG. 7B is a top perspective view of an example of a container with a rim configured for ergonomically engaging with the lips of a user and being separated from a lid.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An illustrative example of the present disclosure relates to an ergonomic handle configuration that has a larger diameter than known conventional handles. The larger diameter dimension was determined based on anthropometric hand measurement data and ideal grip span for optimal grip strength. The handle is configured with a predetermined combination of convex and concave curvatures that combine in such a way as to mimic a curvature of a user's palm along an area of contact of the palm with the handle, as well as to mimic a curvature of a user's fingers when curled to grip the handle along an area of contact of the fingers with the handle, when a user grips the handle. In addition, implementations of the handle in combination with a container or implement further include a thumb rest that is specifically configured to engage a thumb of a user in a neutral posture thumb position when gripping the handle. Finally, implementations of the handle with a container or implement can further include a stability nub disposed on a lower base portion of the handle providing additional stability and support for the handle and container or implement when resting on a flat surface. The configuration is believed to aid users having certain medical conditions, such as arthritis and other joint conditions, by reducing pain and discomfort or reducing incidence of such conditions.

As utilized herein, the term “ergonomic” and variations thereof should be interpreted in accordance with its conventional meaning, namely, an applied science concerned with designing and arranging things people use so that the people and things interact most efficiently and safely, and also including elements of biotechnology, human engineering, and human factors.

FIGS. 1A through 6, wherein like parts are designated by like reference numerals throughout, illustrate an examples of ergonomic handles, alone and in several implementations. Although the present disclosure will be described with reference to the examples illustrated in the figures, it should be understood that many alternative forms can embody the inventions of the present disclosure. One of skill in the art will additionally appreciate different ways to alter the parameters of the examples disclosed, such as the size, shape, or type of elements or materials, in a manner still in keeping with the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 1A and 1B show a handle 10 with break lines at either end indicating the handle 10 may be coupled or connected with additional structure beyond the handle depicted in the figure. FIG. 1A shows the handle in a vertical orientation, for example, while FIG. 1B shows the identical handle in horizontal orientation. The orientation of the handle 10 will depend on the particular container or implement to which the handle 10 is connected. Those of skill in the art will further appreciate that handle 10 can be arranged or configured at any angle between the two depicted (i.e., 0° and 90°), such that this disclosure is by no means limited to the positions illustrated.

The handle 10 includes an elongate grip region 12 having a first end 14 and a second end 16 opposite the first end 12. The elongate grip region 12 of the handle 10 further includes a first side 18, a second side 20, a third side 22, and a fourth side 24 (the backside of the elongate grip region 12, not shown in this figure), combining to form an entire circumferential outer surface of the elongate grip region 12. That is, the handle 10 includes the elongate grip region 12, which is formed of generally four sides or areas that combine to create the entire elongate grip region 12. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that each of the sides 18, 20, 22, 24 may be abruptly defined, such as with more defined corners or edges, or may not be specifically defined by any edges or corners, such as with a generally cylindrical shaped elongate grip region 12. All variations between these two extremes are contemplated by the present disclosure. The identification of each of the sides 18, 20, 22, 24 is provided merely for clarity of description when discussing specific features and configurations of each side, relative to the hand of a user gripping the elongate grip region 12.

More specifically, a first grip area 26 on the first side 18 extends between the first end 14 and the second end 16. The first grip area 26 has a midpoint 34 between the first end 14 and the second end 16. A second grip area 28 on the second side 20 extends between the first end 14 and the second end 16 and is on a side of the handle 10 that is opposite the first grip area 26 and first side 18. A third grip area 30 on the third side 22 extends between the first end 14 and the second end 16, and connects the first grip area 26 with the second grip area 28. A fourth grip area 32 (not shown in this figure because it is on the backside of the handle 10) on the fourth side 24 extends between the first end 14 and the second end 16, opposite the third grip area 30 and third side 22, and connecting the first grip area 26 with the second grip area 28. The first grip area 26 on the first side 18 has a contoured surface having a convex curvature 36 out from the handle 10 originating from the second end 16 and extending beyond the midpoint 34 toward the first end 14. The convex curvature 36 transitions to a concave curvature 38. The concave curvature 38 then transitions to a second convex curvature 40 proximal the first end 14. The end result of the configuration described is that the convex curvature 36, concave curvature 38, and second convex curvature 40 are configured so as to, together in combination, mimic a curvature of a user's palm along an area of contact of the palm with the elongate grip region 12 when a user grips the elongate grip region 12, wrapping their fingers around the elongate grip region 12 with their palm against the first grip area 26. These curvatures can be mathematically defined, using multi-order polynomial equations, that were derived from empirical evidence. The equations were determined by mapping out hand geometries along the user's palm, and along the user's fingers. This data was then converted into smoothed equations, using a mathematical curve fitting function. The two multi-order polynomial curves that are utilized in accordance with an illustrative example of the present invention in the design, dimension, and configuration handle 10 are (1): y=1.82×100.6×4−3.33×10−4×3+1.73×10−2×2−2.49×10−1×+28.9 and (2): y=2.14×10−6×4−3.66×10−4×3+1.74×10−2×2−2.05×10−1×+30.0. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that multi-ordered polynomial curves can be manipulated slightly and still produce a same or similar result. As such, the above equations are intended as representative of the type of curves that are required to form handles in accordance with the teachings of the present invention, but are by no means specifically limiting. Equivalent multi-order polynomial equations defining equivalent curves having the desired features and functionality of the presently claimed invention are considered to be included in the subject matter of the present disclosure and invention.

The second grip area 28 on the second side 20 has a contoured surface having a convex curvature 42 out from the handle 10 and extending entirely between the first end 14 and the second end 16 of the elongate grip region 12. The convex curvature 42 is configured so as to mimic a curvature of a user's fingers when curled to grip the handle 10 along an area of contact of the fingers with the elongate grip region 12 (i.e., along the second grip area 28). Said differently, the convex curvature 42 is sized, dimensioned, and configured to enable an average user's hand to comfortably rest against the top (if the user's hand was placed at the very top of the handle), or at the bottom (if the user's hand was placed at the very bottom of the handle). This convex curvature 42 reduces any pinch-points, and reduces the likelihood that a hand would slip by keeping the top of the transverse interior top flat, and not angled upwards.

In accordance with one example, the third grip area 30 on the third side 22 has an indented region 44 extending between the first end 14 and the second end 16 of the elongate grip region 12. The indented region 44 is sized, dimensioned, and configured to receive the basilar joint palm portion and/or the distal phalanx finger portions of an average user's hand. The fourth grip area 32 on the fourth side 24 has an indented region 46 (not shown in this figure because it is on the backside of the handle 10) extending between the first end 14 and the second end 16 of the elongate grip region 12. The indented region 46 is likewise sized, dimensioned, and configured to receive the basilar joint palm portion and/or the distal phalanx finger portions of an average user's hand. The indented regions 44, 46 enable the configuration wherein at least one point on all cross-sections is 1.5 cm (0.6 inches) or less.

In FIGS. 1A and 1B, the fourth side 24, the fourth grip area 32, and the indented region 46, are all not shown in these figures because they are on the back side of the handle 10. However, FIG. 2A shows the back side of the handle 10, and correspondingly these components. For purposes of simplicity of description, it is intended that the fourth side 24 is essentially a mirror image configuration of the third side 22, the fourth grip area 32 is essentially a mirror image configuration of the third grip area 30, and the indented region 46 is essentially a mirror image configuration of the indented region 44. That said, one of skill in the art will appreciate that there is no requirement that the mirror image configurations occur. Rather, the configurations may have structural and shape differences, as desired. Yet, for purposes of the present description, it is assumed that these configurations are essentially mirror images of each other.

While the present disclosure is directed to the handle 10 as described herein, handles are mostly found in combination with other devices, such as containers or implements. Depending on the particular container or implement, the handle 10 is typically positioned in a generally vertical orientation, such as depicted in FIG. 1A, or a generally horizontal orientation, such as depicted in FIG. 1B. Certain example implementations of the present handle 10 will now be described below.

The handle 10 can be formed of ceramic or another suitable material, which is comfortable and ergonomic and can be affixed to various containers, including mugs, tea cups, drinking glasses, bowls, pots, pans, measuring cups, and other such containers. The physiological characteristics of the average human hand, as described later herein, fall within a general range of typical dimensions. As a result of such average user hand dimensions, it was determined by the present inventors that a preferred effective diameter of the handle should be generally greater than about 1.5 cm (0.6 inches), which results in an effective outer circumference of about 4 cm (1.57 inches) to achieve the most ergonomic configuration and optimize hand grip strength. In accordance with one example, users have demonstrated a preference for handles having an effective diameter of about 1 inch (2.54 cm) to 1.5 inches (3.81 cm). The effective diameter accommodates a number of different cross-sectional shapes, including but not limited to a circle, oval, square, rectangle, or any other suitable shape which is generally greater in effective diameter than about 1.5 cm (0.6 inches). In accordance with an example, the inventors have found that a handle 10 having an effective diameter of about 2.5 cm (0.98 inches) and an effective outer circumference of about 7.9 cm (3.1 inches) provides sufficient structure to comfortably and ergonomically wrap one's hand around such a handle 10. Handles 10 sized and dimensioned in accordance with the quantities expressed herein result in a more ergonomic and therapeutically effective handle, especially for users having stiff or arthritic hand conditions, or other such conditions.

The phrase “effective diameter” as utilized throughout the present description is intended to be utilized consistent with its ordinary and known usage. Specifically, the effective diameter is the measurement of the diameter of an imaginary flexible tube wrapped tightly around the object and not folded upon itself. For example, a tube wrapped around the letter “C” would follow the curvature of the letter on the top, bottom, and left sides, and then extend directly across the gap on the right side. The dimension of the diameter of the tube is the effective outer diameter. Correspondingly, the phrases “effective cross-sectional area” or “effective outer circumference” as utilized throughout the present description are intended to be utilized consistent with their ordinary and known usage. Specifically, the effective cross-sectional area or circumference are the measurements of the total cross-sectional area or circumference that result from measurement of an imaginary flexible tube wrapped tightly around the object and not folded upon itself, and the corresponding calculations to determine area or circumference. The dimension or calculation of the cross-sectional area of the tube that results is the effective cross-sectional area, while the dimension or calculation of the circumference that results is the effective outer circumference.

In accordance with some examples, the handle 10 as described herein can be coupled or connected with additional structure beyond the handle 10. FIGS. 2A through 4B and 6 illustrate the handle 10 coupled or connected with a container 48. The container includes a base 50. A wall 52 surrounds the base 50 and forms an interior chamber 54 defined by the base 50 and an opening with a rim 56 opposite the base 50. The wall 52 has an exterior surface 58 interior surface 60. The handle 10 couples with the wall 52 of the container 48 by operation and configuration of a first connecting member 62 and a second connecting member 64. The first connecting member 62 transitions the wall 52 proximal the rim 56 into the elongate grip region 12 proximal the first end 14. The second connecting member 64 transitions the wall 52 proximal the base 50 into the elongate grip region 12 proximal the second end 16. The first connecting member 62 and the second connecting member 64 connect the elongate grip region 12 with the wall 52 of the container 48 at the exterior surface 58.

The first connecting member 62 is further configured to include a thumb rest region 66. The thumb rest region 66 is sized, dimensioned, and configured to support a thumb of a user's hand as they are gripping the elongate grip region 12. Specifically, the thumb rest region 66 is disposed on the first connecting member 62 and configured to engage a thumb of a user in a neutral posture thumb position when gripping the elongate grip region 12. A neutral posture thumb position is one in which a resting position of each joint in the thumb experiences the least tension or pressure on nerves, tendons, muscles, and bones of the thumb. It is also the position in which muscles are at their resting length, meaning they are neither contracted nor stretched. By being in a neutral posture thumb position, the thumb of the user and its corresponding joints are in an ergonomically beneficial orientation.

In the examples of the handle 10 coupled or connected with the container 48 in FIGS. 2A through 4B, both the handle 10 and the container can be made of ceramic or clay material. Because ceramic must be no greater than 1.5 cm (0.6 inches) thick to cure properly, the handle 10 as described herein incorporates one or more indentations in the form of the indented regions 44, 46, that allow for a larger effective diameter structure while still maintaining the 1.5 cm (0.6 inches) or less thickness requirement. When ceramic is thicker than 1.5 cm (0.6 inches), it is prone to cracking, exploding, or simply not thoroughly drying. These openings, including grooves, holes, and other shapes, can extend completely through the handle 10, as would be appreciated by those of skill in the art. The term “thickness” in accordance with its usage herein indicates a relative measure of the distance between the two closest edges of the ceramic material at any interior point of the ceramic material. In other words, in the I-shape depicted in FIG. 4B, the distance between the top and the bottom of the “I” can be greater than 1.5 cm (0.6 inches) because the distance between the two vertical portions of the “I” are the two closest edges. In accordance with some implementations, indented regions 44, 46 do not extend completely through the handle 10; rather, they are formed in various directions, shapes, and sizes, and are located on either side of the handle 10 or at various points on the handle 10. Holes and grooves that do not extend completely through the handle 10 may be placed in one or more surfaces of the handle 10. These openings satisfy the physical constraint for proper setting or drying of the ceramic material by ensuring that any point on the handle has a thickness of 1.5 cm (0.6 inches) or less on at least one dimension.

In addition, one of skill in the art will appreciate that the indented regions 44, 46, whether they pass completely through the handle 10 or not, are sized, dimensioned, and configured to enable easy cleaning, to more readily dissipate extreme temperatures from the handle 10, to not compromise the structural integrity of the handle 10 in any way, to not interfere with the comfort of holding the handle 10, to reduce the overall weight of the handle 10, and be aesthetically pleasing.

In accordance with some examples, the indented regions 44, 46 are sized, dimensioned, and configured to be sufficiently wide as to enable a conventional sink sponge or other cleaning apparatus to easily access all surfaces of the handle 10. By increasing the surface area of the ceramic material on the handle 10, heat dissipates more rapidly, and the air-filled gaps act as additional insulators. The indented regions 44, 46 can be configured so that the structural integrity of the handle 10 is not compromised, regardless as to whether a user grips with excessive force. The indented regions 44, 46 are disposed so that they do not interfere with the overall comfort of the handle 10, or minimally impact and/or improve upon the tactile comfort when holding the handle 10. The indented regions 44, 46 provide a means to reduce the overall weight of the handle 10 as well.

The handle 10, itself, can have one of several different cross-sectional shapes, including a circle, oval, square, rectangle, irregular shape, I-shaped, or any other suitable shape. The cross-section of the indented regions 44, 46, can likewise have a shape of circle, oval, square, rectangle, irregular shape, or any other suitable shape. The indented regions 44, 46 are sized, dimensioned, and configured to comfortably receive the portion of the user's hand comprising the base knuckles of the user's fingers on the palm side of the user's hand (i.e., the metacarpophalangeal joints) as well as to allow the handle cross-section thickness to be no greater than 1.5 cm (0.6 inches) on any one dimension, be easy to clean, have large enough radii to be comfortable when being held and be easily manufactured, and be aesthetically pleasing. As the user grips the handle 10, the metacarpophalangeal joints on the palm side of the user's hand are received within one of the indented regions 44, 46, depending on which hand is being used (a right hand would grip the handle 10 from the right side such that indented region 46 would be utilized, while a left hand would grip the handle 10 from the left side such that indented region 44 would be utilized). For an average user's hand, the dimensions of the indented regions 44, 46 may be approximately 0.76 cm (0.3 inches) deep and 1.0 cm (0.4 inches) wide. The shape of the indent follows the geometry of the handle itself and the radii inside the indents and on the edges of the indents are large enough for ease of cleaning, ease of manufacturing, and comfort when holding.

In accordance with some examples, the handle 10 as described herein coupled or connected with additional structure beyond the handle 10 as described and shown in FIGS. 2A through 4 can be configured so as to not include the indented regions 44, 46. Such an example is depicted in FIG. 6, wherein the container 48 is the same as depicted elsewhere herein, but the handle 10 has been configured without the indented regions 44, 46. Such a configuration for the handle 10 may be utilized, for example, when the handle is manufactured of a non-ceramic material, or material that does not have the limitations of ceramic materials relating to the maximum thickness allowed as described herein. It should be appreciated that the handle 10 as shown in FIG. 6 both includes all of the concave and convex curvatures on the first side 18 and second side 20 as described herein, and is also intended to depict possible configurations for the elongate handle 10 itself, whether coupled with a container, utensil, tool, or other device, such that the example depicted in this figure without indented regions can be implemented in numerous ways. The example depicted in this figure is in no way limited for use only with a container.

In accordance with another example, the second side 20 and the second grip area 28 (which are the closest of the sides of the elongate grip region 12 to the container 48) are positioned about 2.2 cm (0.85 inches) from the exterior surface 58 of the wall 52 of the container 48, forming a gap 68. The gap 68 of 2.2 cm (0.85 inches) or more provides sufficient distance for the average user hand to fit around the handle 10 while gripping the handle 10, without requiring their knuckles or other portions of their hand to make contact with the exterior surface 58 of the container 48. The first and second connecting members 62, 64 must be sized and dimensioned to result in the distance of 2.2 cm (0.85 inches) or more between the elongate grip region 12 and the container 48, as would be appreciated by those of skill in the art, given the benefit of the present disclosure.

The handle 10 in accordance with some implementations has been designed to accommodate a typical user's hand, which is on average 9.0 cm (3.54 inches) in hand breadth for men and 7.9 cm (3.1 inches) in hand breadth for women; this hand breadth is measured across the ends of the metacarpal bones (metacarpophalangeal joints); the 95th percentile hand breadth length for adult males is 9.8 cm (3.86 inches) and 8.6 cm (3.4 inches) for women. This information was used to determine the length of the elongate grip region having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, which was determined to be no less than 7.6 cm (3.0 inches). In comparison, many conventional mugs have handles that provide about 3.5 cm to 5.0 cm (1.4 inches to 2.0 inches) of space for a user's hand breadth.

The thickness of the handle 10 was determined from the size of the proximal, middle, and distal phalanges, the portion of a user's hand that wraps around the inside of the handle 10, specifically to optimize a user's hand grip strength. Research has shown that optimal grip strength occurs with grip spans between 2.4-5.1 cm (1-2 inches). Grip strength declines outside of this range. The proximal phalanx is used to determine gap 68. Conventional handles are generally no more than 2.0 cm (0.8 inches) wide, no more than 1.0 cm (0.4 inches) thick, and the handles are typically angled downward, reducing the amount of space for any user's fingers as one moves down the handle, and providing for less-than-optimal grip strength. As such, the handle 10 of the present invention is sized, dimensioned, and configured, in a superior ergonomic configuration, both as to the handle 10 itself, as well as the distance it is mounted from the container 48.

In accordance with an example, the second connecting member 64 can further include a stability nub 78 disposed on a lower base portion thereof. The stability nub 78 provides additional stability and support for the handle 10 and the container 48 or implement when resting on a flat surface by making contact with the flat surface.

FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate the handle 10 coupled or connected with the additional structure in the form of the container 48 from top view (FIG. 4A) and a top cross-sectional view (FIG. 4B). As can be seen, in addition to the contour described herein to mimic the palm of a user's hand (convex curvature 36, concave curvature 38, second convex curvature 40), the handle 10 can further include a transverse convex curve 70 to effect or result in a rounded handle feel for the user. Those of skill in the art will appreciate other shapes or contours that may be utilized in conjunction with the present invention.

Also shown in FIG. 4B, is a cross-section around the midpoint 34 of the elongate grip region 12 of the handle 10. As can be seen in this example illustrative implementation of the present invention, the cross-section is a generally I-shaped cross-sectional area 72. The I-shape configuration enables the fabrication of the handle 10 in accordance with the dimensions described herein for ergonomic improvement, while also enabling fabrication of the handle 10 in compliance with the rules concerning ceramic materials and the thickness limitations described herein. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that other cross-sectional area shapes may also be permissible in a manner that is compliant with the characteristics of the present invention.

The handle 10 may be affixed to a drinking container, such as a coffee cup or beer mug, or another container, such as a vase, bowl, pot, or pan, or any other such container 48, such that the examples described herein are merely illustrative.

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate two different example implementations of the handle 10 in combination with another structure. In short, the handle 10 of the present invention may be utilized in combination with an additional structure beyond the handle 10 to form a number of different containers or implements (including utensils and tools). FIG. 5A depicts the handle 10 in combination with a blade 75 to form a cutting tool 74. Note that in this implementation, the handle 10 would typically be utilized in a horizontal orientation, in accordance with FIG. 1B. FIG. 5B depicts the handle 10 in combination with a spatula 77 to form an implement in the form of a grilling utensil 76. Again, the handle 10 would typically be utilized in a horizontal orientation, in accordance with FIG. 113 when combined with the spatula 77. Those of skill in the art will appreciate there are a substantial number of different possible combinations of containers and implements that may be constructed or configured in combination with the handle 10 of the present invention, such that the present invention is by no means limited to the specific illustrative examples of containers and implements described herein.

In operation, a user may grasp the handle 10, placing the palm of their hand against the first grip area 26 on the first side 18. When doing so, the contoured surface having the convex curvature 36, the concave curvature 38, and the second convex curvature 40 mimics a curvature of the user's palm along an area of contact of the palm with the elongate grip region 12. This enables total contact between the contoured palm and the elongate grip region 12 without the user experiencing pressure points or other uncomfortable points of irregularity against their hand.

As the user wraps their fingers around the elongate grip region 12 with their palm against the first grip area 26, their fingers match up with the second grip area 28 on the second side 20 with its contoured surface having the convex curvature 42 out from the handle 10 and extending entirely between the first end 14 and the second end 16 of the elongate grip region 12. The convex curvature 42 is configured so as to mimic a curvature of a user's fingers when curled to grip the handle 10 along an area of contact of the fingers with the elongate grip region 12 (i.e., along the second grip area 28). Furthermore, the indented regions 44, 46 receive the metacarpophalangeal joints of the user's hand on the palm side. As such, the user experiences no pressure points or other uncomfortable points of irregularity against their hand. The structure of the handle 10 and elongate grip region 12 decrease the likelihood that a hand would slip by keeping the top of the transverse interior top flat, and not angled upwards. If the handle 10 is implemented in combination with a container 48, then the first connecting member 62 includes the thumb rest region 66. As such, the thumb of the user is placed on the thumb rest region 66 when the user's hand is fully gripping the handle 10 and elongate grip region 12, and the thumb of the user is able to engage the thumb rest region 66 in a neutral posture thumb position.

One of skill in the art will appreciate that the handle 10 can be made of a number of different materials, including but not limited to metal, wood, glass, enamel, ceramic, synthetic, plastic, or composite materials, or combinations thereof, such that the present invention is by no means limited to the specific material examples illustrated herein.

FIGS. 7A and 7B depict another example of this disclosure that may be designed and configured to provide a dual-purpose rim 56 for ergonomically engaging with the lip of a user while also providing a means to engage with a removable lid 82. In some examples of this implementation a container 48 comprises a base 50 and side walls 52, wherein the sidewalls have an exterior wall surface 58 and an interior wall surface 60 that together define an interior chamber 54. In some examples, sidewalls 52 may be generally cylindrical or conical as shown, for example in FIGS. 7A and 7B, while still providing for a generally circular cross-section along its length. In other examples, container 48 may comprise a bowl or other vessel for retaining liquids or food and the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to a drinking cup.

In some examples, rim 56 may be designed and configured to engage with the lips of a drinker so as to form a more reliable connection between those two surfaces in order to avoid unwanted spillage during drinking. For example, a drinker may engage with a container 48 with their lower lip, or labium inferius oris, contacting rim 56 along the exterior wall surface 58 proximate rim 56. In some examples, the exterior wall 58 proximate rim 56 may typically contact the reddish area of the lower lip, known as the vermilion zone. Known drinking containers typically have a circular rim 56 that is simply a terminus end of wall 52. In some examples, rim 56 may comprise a vertical end of wall 52, for example where container 48 is cylindrical, or may comprise an angled end of wall surface 52, for example where wall 52 is conical. In other examples, rim 56 may comprise a rounded nub for engaging with a lid. However, in both of these circumstances, rim 56 fails to maximize the contact surface area between rim 56 and the lips of a user because the exterior wall surface 58 proximal rim 56 is not designed to mimic the contours of the vermillion zone of a labium inferius oris. Therefore the contacting surface of a user's lips are askew from the surface of exterior surface 58 proximal rim 56, thereby limiting the resulting contact area and engagement between the two surfaces.

In an alternative example, exterior wall surface 58 proximal rim 56 may comprise a concave curvature 80 for engaging with the lip of a user (whereas interior wall surface 60 may be convex). Suitable effective radii for concave curvature 80 may be determined based on anthropometric lip measurement data. Typically, the vermillion zone of labium inferius oris comprises a convex curvature that has an effective radius of less than 30 mm, although different effective radii of curvatures may be employed to effectively mimic vermillion zone of labium inferius oris from lips of different sizes. For example, concave curvature 80 having an effective radius of between 25-30 mm, 20-25 mm, 15-20 mm, 10-15 mm, 5-10 mm, or 0-30 mm. Of course, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that different radii may be employed to meet the needs of any given user.

In some examples, concave curvature 80 may be formed to the actual curvature of a specific user or users by taking casts of the vermillion zone of the labium inferius oris of an intended user. Furthermore, it is to be understood that concave curvature 80 proximate rim 56, need not be perfectly semi-circular or smooth. Rather, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the effective radii discussed herein encompasses irregular surfaces or a series of angled portions connecting to form an overall curvature. Furthermore, concave curvature 80 need not extend around the entire circumference of rim 56. Rather, concave curvature 80 may, in some examples, extend only along a portion of rim 56 that may be intended for serving as a drinking surface. However, it may be preferable for concave curvature 80 to extend around the entire circumference of rim 56 because, as one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate, concave curvature 80 may help retain the circularity of and strengthen rim 56, particularly in ceramic implementations. As one of skill in the art will also appreciate, the phrase “effective radius” as utilized throughout the present description is intended to be utilized consistent with its ordinary and known usage and that the effective radius is the measurement of the radius of an imaginary flexible tube wrapped tightly around the object and not folded upon itself.

Concave curvature 80 should preferably be wide enough to maximize contact with the lip of a drinker without over-extending concave curvature 80 such that it protrudes uncomfortably into the mouth of a user. Thus, in some examples, concave curvature 80 may span a desired rotational range in order to maximize the contact area between the rim 56 and the vermillion zone of the labium inferius oris of an intended user without over-extending into the mouth of a user. Again, suitable rotational ranges for concave curvature 80 may be determined based on anthropometric lip measurement data. A typical rotational range for a vermillion zone of the labium inferius oris may span as much as 110-degrees in some cases but typically no less than 20-degrees, although different rotational ranges may be employed to effectively mimic vermillion zone of labium inferius oris from lips of different sizes. For example, rotational ranges for concave curvature 80 may be employed in groups including, 20-40 degrees, 40-60 degrees, 60-80 degrees, 80-100 degrees, and/or 100-110 degrees.

In some examples, a desired rotational range for concave curvature 80 may be determined by taking anthropometric lip measurement from actual users or by creating casts of the lips of intended users. As one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate, a proper rotational range for a given convex curvature 80 will also depend on the angle of exterior wall surface 58, which may cause concave curvature 80 to have a more acute angle as it begins to transition from exterior wall surface 58 to rim 56 as shown, for example, in FIGS. 7A and 7B. In some examples, the resulting surface of a container according to the present disclosure may have a length of 5-20 mm and preferably about 10 mm measured from a midpoint of concave curvature 80 to the edge of rim 56, providing a sufficient surface area for increasing the contact area between a user's lip and the surface of a drinking vessel.

As also shown, for example, in FIGS. 7A and 7B, an exemplary cup according to this disclosure may also be configured to serve a dual purpose of providing an ergonomic rim for contacting the lip of a user while also providing an engagement point for a lid 82 at rim 56. Lid 82 may comprise a lid for engaging with a container 48. In some examples, lid 82 may comprise a semi-rigid paper, plastic, or rubber lid, for example, with an engagement feature 84, such as spring-like engagement tabs, disposed around its circumference. Engagement feature 84 may be configured to matingly engage with a ridge or rim of a vessel, such as rim 56 as shown, for example in FIGS. 7A and 7B. However, any suitable means of engagement may be employed as known to one of ordinary skill in the art in order to removably fasten lid 82 to container 48.

In some examples, in order to serve the dual purpose of an ergonomic rim and an engagement point for a lid 82, rim 56 may comprise a terminal end of exterior wall surface 58 and interior wall surface 60 at a point where the angles of the surfaces are suitable for engaging with and retaining lid 82 while still allowing rim 56 to ergonomically engage with the lip of a user. In some examples, the angles of exterior wall surface 58 and interior wall surface 60 proximate rim 56 may be equal to or greater than 110-degrees (from horizontal), but less than or equal to 200-degrees. As one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate the above-described parameters for convex curvature 80 (e.g. the disclosed radii, rotational range, and length) are equally applicable for either increasing the contact area between rim 56 and a user's lips or configuring rim 56 to engage with an engagement feature 84 of a lid 82, or both. Furthermore, one additional benefit of an angled rim, aside from providing an engagement point for engagement feature 84 is that it also may reduce the amount of wrist rotation required by a user in order to pour liquids form the vessel. This may be particularly useful for users with a limited range of motion and/or diminished grip strength due to conditions such as arthritis, for example.

As one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate, a rim that is configured to perform the dual functions of receiving a lid and providing an ergonomic surface to maximize the contact area between a user's lip and the rim of a cup may be particularly well-suited for use with patient and/or elderly populations. By improving the contact area between the lip of a user and the rim of a vessel, the designs of the present disclosure help ensure a stronger connection between the drinker and the vessel and minimizes accidental spillage that may be cause by tremors or instability caused by a medical condition or a loss of grip strength. Of course, a dual-function rim may be employed with or without an ergonomic handle of the present disclosure, in order to further improve drinking vessel stability.

A rim according to the present disclosure may also provide a useful means for covering liquids within a vessel with a lid so as to avoid spills and accidents while transporting liquids from a preparation area to a serving area. A lid may also help maintain the liquids in a sanitary condition. Drinking vessels have not previously included a rim 56 to serve such dual functions, and healthcare staff are often required to cover drinking vessels with plastic wrap or covers not specifically designed for the drinking vessel at great expense in terms of both time and materials. The present disclosure provides a drinking vessel with a dual-purpose rim for both improving contact area between a rim and a user's lips as well as releasably engaging with a lid. However, as one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate, a drinking vessel of the present disclosure is not limited to use within the healthcare field and may be employed for everyday usage as a more stable, sanitary, and safe drinking vessel.

Numerous modifications and alternative implementations of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the foregoing description. Accordingly, this description is to be construed as illustrative only and is for the purpose of teaching those skilled in the art the best mode for carrying out the present invention. Details of the structure may vary substantially without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure, and exclusive use of all modifications that come within the scope of the appended claims is reserved. Within this specification examples have been described in a way which enables a clear and concise specification to be written, but it is intended and will be appreciated that examples may be variously combined or separated without parting from the invention. It is intended that the present invention be limited only to the extent required by the appended claims and the applicable rules of law.

It is also to be understood that the following claims are to cover all generic and specific features of the inventions described herein, and all statements of the scope of the invention which, as a matter of language, might be said to fall therebetween.

Claims

1. A drinking vessel comprising:

a base, one or more side walls having an exterior and an interior wall surface that together define an interior chamber;

a rim at a top end of said one or more side walls;

one or more concave surfaces on said exterior wall surface proximate said rim; and

wherein said one or more concave surfaces are configured to ergonomically engage with the labium inferius oris of an intended user.

2. The drinking vessel of claim 1, wherein said rim is configured to releasably engage with a lid.

3. The drinking vessel of claim 2, wherein said concave surface substantially mimics the contours of the vermillion zone of a labium inferius oris.

4. The drinking vessel of claim 2, wherein said concave surface has an effective radius of less than 30 mm.

5. The drinking vessel of claim 2, wherein said concave surface has an effective radius of about 10-20 mm.

6. The drinking vessel of claim 4, wherein said concave surface extends around the entire circumference of said drinking vessel.

7. The drinking vessel of claim 4, wherein said concave surface extends over a portion, but not the entire circumference of said drinking vessel.

8. The drinking vessel of claim 4, wherein said effective radius covers more than a 20-degree rotation, but less than 110-degree rotation.

9. The drinking vessel of claim 8, wherein said drinking vessel further comprises a rim with a lip contact region on the exterior wall surface of said drinking vessel that measures between 5 and 20 mm from the midpoint of concave surface to the rim.

10. The drinking vessel of claim 9, wherein said lip contact region measures about 10 mm.

11. The drinking vessel of claim 2, further comprising a handle wherein said handle comprises:

a grip having a top end, a bottom end, a first side distal from a container, a second side opposite said first side, a third left-hand side, and a fourth right-hand side, combining to form an entire outer surface of the grip, wherein said first, second, third, and fourth sides extend between said top and said bottom end;

wherein the first side comprises a convex curvature, originating from the top end and extending across a horizontal midpoint of the grip, the convex curvature transitioning to a concave curvature prior to a vertical midpoint of the grip, the concave curvature then transitioning to a second convex curvature that extends across the horizontal midpoint of the grip at the bottom end;

wherein said horizontal midpoint comprises a center line between said first side and said second side and said vertical midpoint comprises a center line between said top end and said bottom end; and

at least one of said third or fourth side comprises an indented region that is configured to receive at least on metacarpophalangeal joint on a palm side of a user's hand.

12. A drinking vessel comprising:

a base, one or more side walls having an exterior and an interior wall surface that together define an interior chamber;

a rim at a top end of said one or more side walls;

one or more concave surfaces on said exterior wall surface proximate said rim; and

wherein said rim is configured to releasably engage with a lid.

13. The drinking vessel of claim 12, wherein said one or more concave surfaces are configured to ergonomically engage with the labium inferius oris of an intended user.

14. The drinking vessel of claim 13, wherein said concave surface is formed by taking a cast of a user's lip, and forming a mold, at least in part, from the cast.

15. The drinking vessel of claim 13, wherein said drinking vessel is formed at least partially of ceramic material.

16. The drinking vessel of claim 13, wherein said drinking vessel is formed at least partially of plastic material.

17. The drinking vessel of claim 13, wherein said drinking vessel is formed at least partially of paper material.

18. The drinking vessel of claim 13, wherein said drinking vessel is formed at least partially of glass material.

19. The drinking vessel of claim 13, wherein said drinking vessel is formed at least partially of metal material.

20. The drinking vessel of claim 13, wherein said exterior wall surface proximal said rim has an angle of greater than or equal to 110 degrees and less than or equal to 200 degrees from horizontal.

21. The drinking vessel of claim 13, further comprising a handle wherein said handle comprises:

a grip having a top end, a bottom end, a first side distal from a container, a second side opposite said first side, a third left-hand side, and a fourth right-hand side, combining to form an entire outer surface of the grip, wherein said first, second, third, and fourth sides extend between said top and said bottom end;

wherein the first side comprises a convex curvature, originating from the top end and extending across a horizontal midpoint of the grip, the convex curvature transitioning to a concave curvature prior to a vertical midpoint of the grip, the concave curvature then transitioning to a second convex curvature that extends across the horizontal midpoint of the grip at the bottom end;

wherein said horizontal midpoint comprises a center line between said first side and said second side and said vertical midpoint comprises a center line between said top end and said bottom end; and

at least one of said third or fourth side comprises an indented region that is configured to receive at least on metacarpophalangeal joint on a palm side of a user's hand.

22. A container comprising:

a base, one or more side walls having an exterior and an interior wall surface that together define an interior chamber;

a rim at a top end of said one or more side walls;

one or more concave surfaces on said exterior wall surface proximate said rim;

wherein said rim is configured to releasably engage with a lid;

wherein said one or more concave surfaces are configured to ergonomically engage with the lower lip of an intended user.