Cookware vessel with removable handle

According to one example, a cookware vessel includes a bracket coupled to an exterior of a vessel, and a detachable handle. The handle includes a grip portion, a coupling fixedly attached to the grip portion, an actuator rotatingly coupled to the handle, and a spring. The coupling has a channel that is configured to surround at least a portion of an upper horizontally extending rod of the bracket. The actuator has a top portion configured to engage and disengage an upper edge of the bracket when the actuator is rotated forward and backward. The actuator also has hooks configured to engage and disengage a lower horizontally extending rod of the bracket when the actuator is rotated forward and backward. The spring is configured to apply a force to the actuator so as to rotate the actuator forward, when the actuator is released by a user.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates generally to cookware vessels, and more specifically to a handle that is detachable from a cookware vessel (such as a pot or pan), and also a cookware vessel adapted to receive said handle.

BACKGROUND

Traditionally, a cookware vessel (such as a pot or a pan) includes a handle that is permanently attached to the cookware vessel. Other traditional cookware vessels include a handle that is detachable from the cookware vessel. Such traditional detachable handles, however, may be deficient.

SUMMARY

According to a first example, a cookware vessel includes a vessel, a bracket, and a detachable handle. The vessel has a bottom portion surrounded by a substantially upright sidewall that terminates at a rim to define an interior volume for holding a food item. The bracket is coupled to an exterior of the substantially upright sidewall adjacent to the rim. The bracket has a channel that extends upward from a lower opening in an underside of the bracket. The handle includes an elongated grip portion, an elongated plate, a U-shaped coupling, an elongated rod, an actuator, and a spring. The elongated grip portion has a distal end and a spaced apart proximal end, in which the distal and proximal ends thereof define a principal axis of the handle. The elongated plate is disposed within at least a portion the elongated grip portion, and extends outward in a forward direction from the proximal end of the elongated grip portion. The elongated plate has an elongated concave depression on an underside of the elongated plate that extends along the same direction as the principal axis. The U-shaped coupling has an outer vertical plate and a spaced apart inner vertical plate that are each connected to the other at a bottom portion thereof. The inner vertical plate has an upper end that is coupled to a proximal end of the elongated plate. The outer vertical plate is configured to be received within the channel of the bracket when the handle is in a secure latched engagement to the vessel. The elongated rod is disposed to laterally translate along the underside of the elongated plate within the elongated concave depression. When the elongated rod is moved forward, a tip of the elongated rod is configured to extend through an aperture in the inner vertical plate so as to be positioned in-between the inner and outer vertical plates. When the elongated rod is moved backward, the tip of the elongated rod is configured to retract back through the aperture in the inner vertical plate. The tip of the elongated rod has a nonsymmetric bevel shape defined by an upper tapered edge and a lower tapered edge that meet at a vertex disposed below a center line of the elongated rod. The upper tapered edge is longer than the lower tapered edge in a principal axis of the elongated rod. The actuator is coupled, directly or indirectly, to the elongated rod, and is configured to be manually moved by a user. The actuator is further configured, when moved by the user, to directly or indirectly move the elongated rod backward so as to cause the tip of the elongated rod to retract back through the aperture in the inner vertical plate. The spring is coupled to the elongated rod. The spring is configured to apply a force to the elongated rod so as to move the elongated rod forward, when the actuator is released by the user, to cause the tip of the elongated rod to extend through the aperture in the inner vertical plate so as to be positioned in-between the inner and outer vertical plates.

Another example is any such cookware vessel, where the outer vertical plate of the handle and the channel of the bracket have a complementary inward and upward taper on two or more opposing sides, or have a complementary inward and upward taper on three or more adjacent sides, or have a complementary inward and upward taper on four adjacent sides.

Another example is any such cookware vessel, where the bracket further includes a front face having an aperture. When the outer vertical plate of the handle is at least partially positioned within the cavity of the bracket, the tip of the elongated rod is configured to extend through the aperture of the front face of the bracket.

Another example is any such cookware vessel, where the bracket is integrated with a flange that is coupled to the exterior of the substantially upright sidewall adjacent to the rim.

Another example is any such cookware vessel, where at least a portion of the actuator is positioned on or in a bottom of the elongated grip portion.

Another example is any such cookware vessel, where at least a portion of the actuator is positioned at or in the distal end of the elongated grip portion.

Another example is any such cookware vessel, where the handle further includes a rocker arm and a pullable arm. The rocker arm is coupled directly to the actuator, and is further coupled directly to the pullable arm. The rocker arm is configured to rotate around a swivel point. The pullable arm is coupled directly to the elongated rod. The actuator is further configured, when moved by the user, to indirectly move the elongated rod backward by rotating the rocker arm, which causes the pullable arm to directly move the elongated rod backward.

Another example is any such cookware vessel, where the handle is configured to detach from the vessel without the user manually moving the actuator.

According to a second example, a cookware vessel includes a vessel, a bracket, and a detachable handle. The vessel has a bottom portion surrounded by a substantially upright sidewall that terminates at a rim to define an interior volume for holding a food item. The bracket is coupled to an exterior of the substantially upright sidewall adjacent to the rim. The bracket has two vertically spaced apart rods that extend horizontally along the bracket. The two rods include an upper rod and a lower rod. The handle includes a grip portion, a coupling fixedly attached to the grip portion, an actuator rotatingly coupled to the handle, and a spring coupled to the actuator. The coupling has a channel and an indented bottom portion. The channel is configured to surround at least a portion of the upper rod when positioned against the upper rod. The indented bottom portion is configured to contact a side portion of the lower rod when positioned against the lower rod. The actuator has a top portion configured to engage an upper edge of the bracket when the actuator is rotated forward and further configured to disengage from the upper edge of the bracket when the actuator is manually rotated backward by a user. The actuator further has one or more hooks that are configured to engage the lower rod of the bracket when the actuator is rotated forward and further configured to disengage from the lower rod of the bracket when the actuator is manually rotated backward by the user. The spring is configured to apply a force to the actuator so as to rotate the actuator forward, when the actuator is released by the user, to cause the top portion of the actuator to engage the upper edge of the bracket, and further to cause the one or more hooks of the actuator to engage the lower rod of the bracket.

Another example is any such cookware vessel, where the two rods extend horizontally in-between two opposing sidewalls of the bracket. Another example is any such cookware vessel, where the actuator is rotatingly coupled to a lower shell of the handle or to the coupling of the handle. Another example is any such cookware vessel, where the one or more hooks of the actuator are two horizontally spaced apart hooks. Another example is any such cookware vessel, where the two rods each have a cylindrical shape, and where the channel of the coupling has a semi-cylindrical shape.

According to a third example, a cookware vessel includes a vessel, a bracket, and a detachable handle. The vessel has a bottom portion surrounded by a substantially upright sidewall that terminates at a rim to define an interior volume for holding a food item. The bracket is coupled to an exterior of the substantially upright sidewall adjacent to the rim, and has a channel that extends upward from a lower opening in an underside of the bracket. The handle includes a coupling fixedly attached to the handle, an actuator rotatingly coupled to the coupling, and a spring coupled to the actuator. The coupling has an outer vertical plate that is configured to be received within the channel of the bracket. The actuator has a top portion that is configured to engage an upper edge of the bracket when the actuator is rotated forward, and that is further configured to disengage from the upper edge of the bracket when the actuator is manually rotated backward by a user. The spring is configured to apply a force to the actuator so as to rotate the actuator forward, when the actuator is released by the user, to cause the top portion of the actuator to engage the upper edge of the bracket.

Another example is any such cookware vessel, where the outer vertical plate of the coupling comprises two spaced apart upright cones, and where the channel of the bracket comprises two spaced apart conical slots. Another example is any such cookware vessel, where the spring is tilted upward and forward relative to the handle.

According to a fourth example, a cookware vessel includes a vessel, a bracket, and a detachable handle. The vessel has a bottom portion surrounded by a substantially upright sidewall that terminates at a rim to define an interior volume for holding a food item. The bracket is coupled to an exterior of the substantially upright sidewall adjacent to the rim. The bracket has a channel that extends upward from a lower opening in an underside of the bracket. The handle includes a grip portion, a U-shaped coupling that is coupled to the grip portion, a rod, an actuator, and a spring. The U-shaped coupling has an outer vertical plate and a spaced apart inner vertical plate each connected to the other at a bottom portion. The outer vertical plate is configured to be received within the channel of the bracket, and the inner vertical plate has an aperture. The rod is configured to laterally translate along the handle. When the elongated rod is moved forward, a tip of the elongated rod is configured to extend through the aperture in the inner vertical plate so as to be positioned in-between the inner and outer vertical plates. When the elongated rod is moved backward, the tip of the elongated rod is configured to retract back through the aperture in the inner vertical plate. The rod has two stops that project orthogonally from the rod. The actuator has an aperture through which the rod extends so that a back portion of the actuator is in contact with a forward portion of the two stops of the rod. The actuator is configured to be manually moved by a user, and is further configured, when moved by the user, to move the rod backward so as to cause the tip of the rod to retract back through the aperture in the inner vertical plate. The spring has an aperture through which the rod extends so that a forward portion of the spring is in contact with a back portion of the two stops of the rod. The spring is configured to apply a force to the rod so as to move the rod forward, when the actuator is released by the user, to cause the tip of the rod to extend through the aperture in the inner vertical plate so as to be positioned in-between the inner and outer vertical plates.

In a fifth example, a cookware vessel comprises a vessel having a bottom portion surrounded by substantially upright sidewalls that terminate at a rim to define an interior volume for containing a fluid, a bracket coupled to an exterior of the substantially upright sidewall proximal to the rim, in which the bracket has a channel that extends upward from a lower opening in an underside of the bracket for receiving a removable portion of a handle, the handle being configured for replaceable detachment from the bracket and comprising; an elongated grip portion having a distal end and a spaced apart proximal end, in which the distal and proximal ends define a principal axis of the handle, an elongated plate disposed within the elongated grip portion that extends from a position between the proximal and distal ends of the grip portion to a proximal end disposed beyond the proximal end of the grip portion, in which the elongated plate has an elongated concave depression on the underside thereof that extends along the same direction as the principal axis, a U-shaped coupling having an outer vertical plate and a spaced apart inner vertical plate each connected to the other at a bottom thereof by a lateral section, in which the inner vertical plate has an upper end that is coupled to the proximal end of the elongated plate, an outer vertical plate is configured to be received within the channel of the bracket when the handle is in secure latched engagement to the cookware vessel, an elongated rod disposed to laterally translate along and underside of the elongated plate such that a proximal end thereof can be removably positioned from between the inner and outer vertical plates by passing through a penetration in the inner vertical plate, in which the proximal end of the elongated rod has a nonsymmetric bevel shape defined by an upper tapered edge and a lower tapered edge that meet at a vertex disposed below a center line of the elongated rod, in which the upper tapered edge is longer than the lower tapered edge in a principal axis of the elongated rod, an actuator coupled to the elongated rod and having a lower portion that extends beyond an underside of the grip portion, in which the actuator is configured to latch in a first position that withdraws the proximal end of the elongated rod from the penetration in the inner vertical plate and a spring coupled to the elongated rod that is operative to urge the nonsymmetric bevel on the elongated rod through the penetration in the inner vertical plate when the actuator is released.

Another example is any such cookware vessel in which the outer vertical plate and the channel of the bracket have a complementary inward and upward taper on two or more opposing sides. Another example is any such cookware vessel in which the outer vertical plate and the channel of the bracket have a complementary inward and upward taper on three or more adjacent sides. Another example is any such cookware vessel in which the outer vertical plate in the channel of the bracket have a complementary inward and upward taper on four adjacent sides. Another example is any such cookware vessel in which the elongated plate is secured within the grip portion of the handle by two or more screws that extend from an underside of the handle up through penetrations within the elongated plate to be received within complementary threaded cavities within an upper portion of the handle.

In a sixth example, a cookware vessel comprises a vessel having a bottom portion surrounded by substantially upright sidewalls that terminate at a rim to define an interior volume for containing a fluid, a bracket coupled to an exterior of the substantially upright sidewall proximal to the rim, in which the bracket has a channel that extends upward from a lower opening in an underside of the bracket for receiving a removable portion of a handle, the handle being configured for replaceable detachment from the bracket and comprising; a handle with an elongated grip portion having a distal end and a spaced apart proximal end, in which the distal and proximal ends define a principal axis of the handle, a coupling at a proximal end of the elongated grip portion configured for entering the channel of the bracket, an elongated rod disposed to laterally translate within at least a portion of handle, the elongated rod having a beveled tip with at least two facets, a spring coupled to the elongated rod that is operative to urge the beveled tip to enter an aperture in the bracket when the coupling enters the channel, an actuator coupled to the elongated rod that extends outward from a portion of the handle that is configured to laterally translate the elongated rod to withdraw the tip from aperture in the bracket.

Another example is any such cookware vessel in which the beveled tip is configured to urge the elongated rod backward to store energy in the spring when an upper portion of one of the rod and an upper bevel on the tip first encounters the bracket as the coupling is inserted in the channel. Another example is any such cookware vessel in which the lower bevel of the tip is disposed to act as a wedge on a lower edge of the aperture so that remaining stored energy in the spring urges the coupling further upward into the channel.

According to a seventh example, a cookware article is configured with a bracket on an exterior side wall for receiving a removable handle. The bracket has an interior channel that extends from an opening in an underside that receives an arm or plate of the U-shaped coupling. The U-shaped coupling on the end of an elongated plate that extends into a grip portion of the handle. The elongated plate has a concave depression on an underside that provides a guiding surface for the elongated rod to translate along the plate such that a beveled end thereof can extend through penetration in the U-shaped coupling to secure the coupling within the bracket. The interior channel of the bracket and the portion of the U-shaped coupling that is received therein have a complementary upward and inward taper that are urged into secured contact by a spring that urges the beveled end to extend beyond the bracket between the opposing arms that form the U-shaped coupling.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present disclosure are best understood by referring toFIGS.1A-12Jof the drawings, like numerals being used for like and corresponding parts of the various drawings.

As is discussed above, a cookware vessel (such as a pot or a pan) includes a handle that is permanently attached to the cookware vessel. Other traditional cookware vessels include a handle that is detachable from the cookware vessel. Such traditional detachable handles, however, may be deficient. For example, such traditional detachable handles require considerable mechanical complexity, as well as a particular structure on the cookware vessel for engaging the detachable handle. This particular structure can be an outward extending flange with a lockable mating feature designed to engage an internal fixture of the detachable handle. As another example, a problematic deficiency in traditional detachable handles is the lack of a snug engagement with the receiving component on the cookware vessel. This results in so called “play” of the handle, in which the handle can move in different directions to some extent without a corresponding displacement of the cookware vessel. This can be annoying and distracting to users, as it leads to uncertainty as to whether the handle is securely connected to the cookware vessel. It can also lead to spillage of food when the user moves the cookware vessel rapidly, as “play” can result in a lack of initial movement, leading the user to apply excessive force. However, after a slight lag time, this leads to a greater than desired acceleration of the vessel. The eventual deacceleration when the user stop moving the handle can cause the still moving contents of the cookware vessel to overflow the rim, thereby spilling. In contrast, the cookware vessels1000ofFIGS.1A-12Jmay address one or more of the deficiencies.

FIGS.1A-8Billustrate one example of a cookware vessel1000. As is illustrated inFIG.1A, the cookware vessel1000includes a vessel100for receiving and holding one or more food items (e.g., solid foods, liquids, fluids, etc.) to be cooked or heated. The vessel100includes a bottom101, and a sidewall102that is connected to a perimeter of the bottom101. The sidewall102extends upward to a rim104that defines an interior volume for holding the food item(s). The vessel100may have any shape and/or size. Also, the sidewall102may extend straight upward (i.e., at a 90 degree angle to the bottom101), may slope upward (e.g., at a 70 degree angle to the bottom101), and/or may be curvilinear. An example of a vessel100having a sidewall102that extends straight upward is illustrated inFIGS.5A-5C.

The cookware vessel1000further includes a handle200that may be detached and reattached to the vessel100. This detachability of the handle200may allow the handle200to be removed so that the cookware vessel1000may be shipped or stored compactly (due to the handle no longer protruding laterally). Furthermore, such detachability of the handle200may also allow a set of two or more cookware vessels1000to be nested together for more compact storage. The handle200may have any shape and/or size. For example, the handle200may be straight or curvilinear, and it may be disposed at any angle with respect to a vertical reference plane of the bottom101of the vessel100.

To assist in detaching and reattaching the handle200, the cookware vessel1000includes a bracket120positioned on the sidewall102in a location below the rim104. When the sidewall102is sloped, the bracket120may be disposed well below the rim104to avoid increasing the width needed for packing and storage. In other examples, the bracket120may extend laterally beyond (e.g., above) the perimeter of the rim104. The bracket120may be integrated with or positioned on an external side of a flange115(shown inFIG.1B) that is connected (e.g., directly connected) to the sidewall102of the vessel100, such as with bolts, welds, rivets, and/or any other connector. The handle200may be detached from and re-attached to the bracket120. Further details regarding examples of the bracket120are discussed below.

To further assist in detaching and re-attaching the handle200, the handle200may include a U-shaped coupling210(shown inFIG.2C) that is connected at its distal end to an elongated plate220. The distal end refers to the end that is further away (i.e., distal) from the vessel100(e.g., the end that is positioned to the right in the figures), while the proximal end refers to the end that is closer (i.e., proximal) to the vessel100(e.g., the end that is positioned to the left in the figures). The elongated plate220in turn extends into a grip portion230of the handle200. At least a portion of the U-shaped coupling210is configured to readily engage and disengage from the bracket120. In some examples, the coupling210is not limited strictly to a U-shape. In one or more of such examples, the outer vertical plate214(that enters the cavity120cin the bracket120) can have a different configuration with respect to the grip230of the handle200.

In some examples, the U-shaped coupling210(and the functional equivalent in other examples) is configured to be securely engaged within the bracket120by an actuator260in the handle200. This structure may eliminate the potential gaps between components that leads to the undesirable “play” in traditional systems.

Furthermore, cookware vessel1000may provide an easier and more reliable means for attachment to the bracket120of the cookware vessel100. For example, in operation, a user of cookware vessel100only utilizes the actuator260to remove the handle200from the vessel100, not to attach the removed handle200to the vessel100. In contrast to this, in traditional detachable handles, the user is required to manually engage an actuator to attach the handle to the cookware vessel. As such, these traditional detachable handles are more complicated, and require a user to simultaneously perform multiple functions in order to re-attach the detachable handle.

As another example, the cookware vessel1000ofFIGS.1A-8Bmay further assist the user in re-attaching the handle200(in contrast to traditional handles). As such, re-attachment of the handle200may not need to be fully completed by a user. As an example of this, the cookware vessel1000may include a spring driven actuation mechanism that urges a rod of the handle200forward, and further urges the handle200to completely enter and engage the bracket120in a latched state. This results in a fully re-attached handle200, in some examples. Furthermore, to remove the handle200, the user can simple engage the actuator260and pull the handle200away from the vessel100, thereby removing the handle200from the latched state.

As is discussed above, the cookware vessel1000includes a bracket120positioned on the sidewall102of the vessel100. In the example illustrated inFIGS.1C-1D, the bracket120includes a cavity120c(shown inFIG.1C). The cavity120chas a lower opening120that may generally extend forward from a rear of the bracket120closest the sidewall102(e.g., the left-side ofFIG.1D) to the bottom of a generally vertical front face121of the bracket120. The front face121includes an aperture122positioned in a location above the lower opening120o. The aperture122essentially subdivides the front face121of the bracket120into a lower segment1211sthat extends from the lower edge1211of the front face121to a bottom edge1212of the aperture122, and an upper segment121is positioned above the aperture122. In operation, the aperture122receives and supports the elongated rod240of the handle200(discussed below) when the handle200is attached to the bracket120.

The adjacent faces of the bracket120that surround cavity120care defined by opposite facing sidewalls123and124(shown inFIG.1C), each being separated from the other by the medially disposed front face121of the bracket120. All three of the faces or sidewalls121,123, and124of the bracket120preferably slope inward from the opening120o, so as to provide a wedge shaped cavity120cfor receiving one or more complimentary portions of the handle200. For example, a portion of the U-shaped coupling210(shown inFIG.2C) is shaped and/or sized (or configured in any other manner) to enter the cavity120cwhen the handle200is attached to the bracket120. The interior sidewalls of the cavity120cmay be curvilinear, planar, or any combination of curvilinear shapes.

In the example illustrated inFIG.2C, the U-shaped coupling210includes an outer vertical plate214and an inner vertical plate211that are joined together at a lower portion, so as to define the U-shape of the U-shaped coupling210. This joining may create a sideways “C” shape, and may define a channel in the U-shaped coupling210, as is illustrated. The outer vertical plate214of the U-shaped coupling210may be shaped and/or sized to be fully received within the cavity120cof the bracket120, when the handle200is attached to the vessel100. The outer vertical plate214of the U-shaped coupling210preferably has a wedge-like shape, such as the same wedge-like shape of the cavity120cof the bracket120c, in some examples.

In the example illustrated inFIGS.3A-3D, the handle200includes an elongated rod240, a spring250, and an actuator260that may assist in attaching and detaching the handle200to the vessel100.

The elongated rod240refers to a moveable structure that can move back and forth in relation to the handle200so that a beveled tip240tof the elongated rod240can extend into (and retract out of) the aperture122of the bracket120. When extended into the aperture122, the elongated rod240may assist in securing the handle200to the vessel100. Furthermore, when the elongated rod240is retracted out of the aperture122, the handle200may be detached from the vessel100(e.g., by pulling downward on the handle200). When the elongated rod240is moved forward (so as to extend into the aperture122), the beveled tip240tmay extend out of an aperture212in the U-shaped coupling210(shown inFIG.2C). When the elongated rod240is moved backward (so as to retract out of the aperture122), the beveled tip240tmay retract back into the aperture212in the U-shaped coupling.

The elongated rod240may be disposed to translate along a concave depression222in the lower surface221of the elongated plate220of the handle220, as is illustrated inFIG.3C(which illustrates the elongated plate220and the elongated rod240in a sectional view that is perpendicular to the principal elongated axis of each member of the handle200). A portion of the elongated plate220may be held between an upper shell231and lower shell232of the grip portion230. Screws may secure the upper and lower shells231and232together. The lower shell232may urge the elongated rod240towards the concave depression222, which may keep the elongated rod240in contact with the concave depression222.

The beveled tip240tof the elongated rod240is preferably configured with three facets, in some examples. An example of these three facets is illustrated inFIGS.4A and4B, as upper facet241, intermediate facet242, and lower facet243. Upper facet241extends from an upper surface of the elongated rod240beyond the centerline thereof, and disposed with respect to the upper surface of the elongated rod240at an angle α. The angle α ranges from about (i.e., +/−5 degrees) 20 degrees to about 60 degrees, and preferably from about 25 degrees to about 55 degrees, and more preferably about 40 degrees to about 50 degrees, in some examples. Intermediate facet242extends from an intersection with the upper facet241to near the lower surface of the elongated rod240, being disposed at an angle β that is defined with respect to a base that is coplanar with the lower facet243. The angle β ranges from about 10 degrees to about 40 degrees, and preferably from about 15 degrees to about 35 degrees, and more preferably from about 18 degrees to about 30 degrees, in some examples. The lower facet243is disposed at an angle γ with respect to the lower surface of the elongated rod240, where angle γ ranges from about 0 degrees to about 15 degrees, and preferably from about 1 degree to about 10 degrees, and more preferably about 1 degree to about 5 degrees, in some examples. The facets241,242, and243preferably intersect to define 2 parallel linear edges, which are generally disposed parallel to the bottom of the bracket120, as illustrated inFIG.4B.

In some examples, the elongated rod240may be tilted at an acute angle θ with respect to the horizontal plane of the bottom101of the vessel100, as is illustrated inFIG.4C. In such an example, when angle θ is from about 5 degrees to about 25 degrees, angle α, angle β, and angle γ are mostly preferably about 45 degrees, about 20 degrees, and about 3 degrees, respectively. An upper portion of the elongated rod240adjacent the tip240tmay act as the upper facet241when it encounters the lower edge1211of the bracket120. In some examples, the beveled tip240tpreferably has 3 facets disposed at optimum angles. The beveled top240tmay also have an obtuse angle ω between the lower facet241and the intermediate facet242.

In some examples, the sloping of the facets241,242, and243of the beveled tip240tallows for tolerance variations in the aperture212and/or aperture122. Furthermore, use of the concave depression222to guide the elongated rod240to the aperture122of the bracket120may also help eliminate potential “play”, in some examples, as the spring250acts (via the elongated rod240) to complete the contact of the outer vertical plate214within the complementary cavity120cof the bracket120. Others examples of the function and benefits of the shape of the beveled tip240t(which may be defined by facets241,242and243) is discussed below with regard toFIGS.7A-8B.

While the elongated rod240is illustrated as having a cross-sectional area that is circular, it can have alternate shapes, such as being square, elliptical, rectangular, any other shape that allows the beveled tip240tto be inserted into the aperture122(e.g., a channel shape), or any combination of the preceding. In some examples, alternative non-circular shapes of the elongated rod240do not preclude the tip240tfrom presenting two or more facets at a preferred range of angles to provide a secure and “play” free coupling of the handle200to the vessel100. Furthermore, the elongated rod240can have other shapes that also urge a wedge-shaped portion into a bracket120, such as a channel shape. Also, the elongated rod240may be straight or curvilinear.

In some examples, a front facet of the elongated rod240(or any other portion of the handle200that engages the face121of the bracket120) preferably has a complementary tapering shape to the exterior of the face121of the bracket120. In some examples, inner and outer faces of the bracket120may have complimentary inward or outward tapers to fully mate on a different set of two or more spaced apart faces of the U-shaped coupling210(or any other equivalent coupling structure of the handle200).

As is discussed above, the handle200further includes the spring250and the actuator260. The spring250refers to a structure or device that resiliently applies force to the elongated rod240. The spring250may apply force to a distal end of the elongated rod240, causing the beveled tip240tto extend towards the bracket120. This may allow the elongated rod240to be locked in place (at least temporarily), when the beveled tip240thas extended into the aperture122in the bracket120. Although the spring250is illustrated as applying force to the elongated rod240, in other examples, it may apply force to the actuator260directly, rather than the elongated rod240.

The actuator260refers to a structure or device that can apply an opposing force to the elongated rod240, so as to temporarily retract the beveled tip240tout of the aperture122in the bracket120. When activated (or otherwise in use), the actuator260may apply force to the elongated rod240, causing the elongated rod240to push back against the force of the spring250. This may compress the spring250, causing the beveled tip240tto retract out of aperture122in the bracket120. When de-activated (or released, or otherwise not in use), the actuator260may no longer apply force to the elongated rod240, causing the spring250to once again move the beveled tip240ttowards the bracket120(or otherwise extend the beveled tip240taway from the grip230of the handle200).

The actuator260may have any size, shape, and/or positioning that allows it to apply an opposing force to the elongated rod240. In the example illustrated inFIGS.2B and3A, the actuator260has a button-like shape, and it is positioned on the bottom of the grip230. In the example illustrated inFIGS.5A-5C, the actuator260is shaped as a downward extending trigger, and it is also positioned on the bottom of the grip230. In other examples, the actuator260can also be optionally positioned on the top or sides of the grip230. In some examples, the actuator260may include a portion261that is able to flex to allow a rear stop portion262to extend upward over a portion of the lower shell232, an example of which is illustrated inFIG.3D. This flex allows the portion261to move upwards into a cavity in the lower shell232, so as to allow the actuator260to be moved further backwards. As is further illustrated inFIG.3D, the actuator260further includes an upper portion260uthat is connected (via two mating components) to the elongated rod240, allowing the actuator260to apply the opposing force to the elongated rod240.

FIG.6A-6Billustrate example steps for the removal of the handle200from the vessel100.FIG.6Aschematically shows movement of the actuator260used to disengage the handle200so it can be removed from the vessel100as shown inFIG.6Bby a downward movement of the grip portion230.

As shown inFIG.6A, the actuator260is moved backwards (in the direction of arrow501) by the user. This movement removes the tip240tof the elongated rod240from the aperture122in the bracket120. Then, as is illustrated inFIG.6B, the handle200can be lowered by the user in the direction of arrow502, so that the U-shaped coupling210is removed from the bracket120. This detaches the handle200from the vessel100.

FIGS.7A-8Billustrate example steps for the attachment of the handle200to the vessel100.FIG.7Aschematically shows the handle200being positioned for reattachment to the bracket120of the vessel100by insertion of a portion therein.FIG.7Bshows the handle200first engaging the bracket120and the movement of the elongated rod240as the handle200is raised.FIG.8Ashows the subsequent progress in the handle200engaging the bracket120as the elongated rod240starts to advance into the aperture122in the bracket120.FIG.8Bshows the position of the handle components prior to being completely engaged with the bracket120.

As is shown inFIGS.7A-7B, the user positions the outer vertical plate214of the handle200below the bracket120, and more specifically below the opening120oof the bracket120. The user may then perform an upward movement of the handle200(in the direction of arrow502) so as to insert the outer vertical plate214(or another equivalent structure of the handle200) into the cavity120cof the bracket120.

On inserting the outer vertical plate214into the cavity120c, the lower edge1211and the bottom edge1212of the bracket120encounter (or otherwise touch) the beveled tip240tof the elongated rod240in that order before the elongated rod240can fully advance into the aperture122in the bracket120. This is seen inFIGS.7B and8B.

As the user lifts the handle200, the upper facet241encounters the lower edge1211on the bracket120, as is seen inFIG.7B. The angle of the facet241may displace some of the upward force laterally against the elongated rod240, causing the elongated rod240to move backwards against the spring250(compressing it). Then, when the handle200is raised further, the intermediate facet242encounters the bottom edge1212, which permits the compressed spring250to advance the elongated rod240forward towards the bracket120. This is shown inFIG.8A. This movement of the elongated rod240forward may urge the handle200upward as the lower facet243then encounters the bottom edge1212. As such, if the handle200was prematurely released by the user before the outer vertical plate214fully enters the cavity120c, the upward movement (caused by lower facet243) may continue to push the handle200upwards, allowing the outer vertical plate214to fully enter the cavity120cof the bracket120. This attaches the handle200to the vessel100, as is seen inFIG.8B. It also may eliminate a potential for “play” in the connection or coupling with the handle200to the bracket120, in some examples. Furthermore, the attachment of the handle200does not require activation of the actuator260by the user.

In some examples, the function of the spring250is not merely to urge the beveled tip240tinto the aperture122in the bracket120, but also to cause the beveled tip240tto act on the lower edge1212of the aperture122to urge the outer vertical plate214(or its equivalent) completely upward into the cavity120c(with the weight of the vessel100and its contents applying an opposing force). This may allow the handle200to fully attach to the vessel100even when the user is no longer moving the handle200upward. In some examples, the placement of the edge between facets241and242below the center line of the rod240allows the elongated rod240to start to act via the spring250to urge the handle200upward even when a user releases the handle grip230so that the handle200will then self-latch with the bracket120. The user need not use (or remember to use) the actuator260to latch the handle200to the vessel100.

FIGS.9A-9Cillustrate another example of a handle200that may be detached and re-attached to the vessel100. In the example illustrated inFIGS.9A-9C, the actuator260is a laterally pushable knob (or other pushable structure) that is positioned at a distal end of grip230of the handle200. When not being pushed by a user, the actuator260may extend out of the distal end of the grip230of the handle200. Alternatively, when pushed by a user, the actuator260may move laterally into a cavity in the distal end of the grip230of the handle200.

In the illustrated example, the handle200further includes a rocker arm280, a pulling arm270, and the elongated rod240. The actuator260is coupled to the rocker arm280. The rocker arm280is coupled to the pulling arm270. The pulling arm270is coupled to the elongated rod240. In an example of operation, when the user pushes actuator260(e.g., pushes the actuator260towards the left side ofFIGS.9A-9C), the rocker arm280rotates (e.g., clockwise inFIGS.9A-9C) around a swivel point. This pulls the pulling arm270backwards (e.g., towards the right side ofFIGS.9A-9C), which also pulls the elongated rod240backwards (e.g., towards the right side ofFIGS.9A-9C). As is discussed above, the movement may withdraw the beveled tip240tfrom the aperture122of the bracket120(and it may also compress the spring250). The handle200can then be removed from the bracket120by moving the handle200downwards in relation to the vessel100, causing the outer vertical plate214of the U-shaped coupling210to be removed from the cavity120cof the bracket120.

Although the spring250is illustrated as being fixed in a cavity that is positioned to the right and above the rod240, the spring250may be positioned in a different location. Furthermore, the spring250may be replaced with a torsion spring at the rocker arm280, in some examples.

FIGS.10A-10Billustrate a further example of a handle200that may be detached and re-attached to the vessel100.FIG.10Ais a exploded view of the handle200, andFIG.10Bis a half section perspective view along a symmetric axis of the handle200. The vessel100, flange115, and bracket120are not illustrated inFIGS.10A-10B.

Handle200is preferably a shorter or helper handle for cookware, in some examples. To assist in providing a shorter handle, the rod240may be shortened (in comparison to the elongated rod200discussed above). To further assist in providing a shorter handle, the spring250may be a leaf spring, a flat spring, or a plate spring (as opposed to the coiled linear spring discussed above as an example of spring250inFIGS.1A-9C). In the example illustrated inFIGS.10A-10B, the spring250is a plate spring that is folded into a v shape with a flat center.

Furthermore, the actuator260may be positioned on a top portion of the grip230at a location adjacent the proximal end of the grip230of the handle200. The actuator260may be moved (by the user) linearly in a slot or track included in the handle200.

The rod240of the handle200may also include one or more stops245(e.g., two stops245aand245b) that project orthogonally from the rod240. The spring250may apply force to the distal portion of the stop(s)245(i.e., the right side portion of the stops245inFIGS.10A-10B), so as to urge the rod240forward (i.e., to left side inFIGS.10A-10B). To assist with this, the spring250may include an aperture through which the rod240may be inserted, as is illustrated. This may allow the front side of the spring250to press directly against the distal portion of the stop(s)245. Additionally, the actuator260may apply an opposing force to the proximal portion of the stop(s)245(i.e., the left side portion of the stops245inFIGS.10A-10B), so as to urge the rod240backwards (i.e., to right side inFIGS.10A-10B). To assist with this, the actuator260may also include an aperture through which the rod240may be inserted, as is illustrated. This may allow the back side of the actuator260to press directly against the proximal portion of the stop(s)245.

In an example of operation, the user may push the actuator260backwards in a track, as is illustrated by the arrow included inFIGS.10A-10B. This may cause the actuator260to apply force to the proximal portion of the stop(s)245, which may move the rod240backwards (i.e., to right side inFIGS.10A-10B). As is discussed above, the movement may withdraw the beveled tip240tfrom the aperture122of the bracket120(and it may also compress the spring250). The handle200can then be removed from the bracket120by moving the handle200downwards in relation to the vessel100, causing the outer vertical plate214of the U-shaped coupling210to be removed from the cavity120cof the bracket120. When the user stops pushing on the actuator260, the compressed spring250may move the rod240forward again (i.e., to the left side inFIGS.10-10B).

FIGS.11A-11Eillustrate a further example of a handle200that may be detached and re-attached to the vessel100, and also illustrate another example of a bracket120that may be used to detach and re-attach the handle200to the vessel100.FIG.11Ais a semi-transparent perspective view of the handle200attached to the bracket120(with the vessel100not illustrated).FIG.11Bis a perspective view of a coupling210of the handle200.FIG.11Cis a side cross-sectional view of the handle200attached to the bracket120.FIGS.11D-11Eare side cross-sectional views showing an example sequence of steps for attaching the handle200to the bracket120of the vessel100.

In the example illustrated inFIGS.11A-11E, the handle200does not include the elongated rod240. Instead, the actuator260of the handle200can engage (e.g., clip into, clamp onto) a portion of the bracket120. This may assist in securing the handle200to the vessel100, in some examples.

As is illustrated inFIGS.11A-11E, the handle200includes a coupling210, a spring250, and the actuator260. The coupling210is configured to readily engage and disengage from the bracket120. For example, the coupling210may include an outer vertical plate214that enters the cavity120cin the bracket120. The outer vertical plate214may have any shape and/or size that allows it to fit within the cavity120cin the bracket120. In the illustrated example, the outer vertical plate214is shaped as two adjacent upright cones. The cones may matingly engage with the opening120c(which is the form of two adjacent conical slots that substantially match the shape and size of the upright cones of the outer vertical plate214). The two adjacent cones are optionally split (as is seen inFIG.11B), which may them more compressible to provide a snugger fit within the bracket120, in some examples. In other examples, the outer vertical plate214may be a single cone, a U-shaped wedge (similar to that discussed above), any other shape (and any size) that allows the outer vertical plate214to fit within the cavity120cin the bracket120. In some examples, the coupling210and the outer vertical plate214may be made of casting metal.

As is illustrated inFIG.11B, the coupling210may further include a tilted shelf positioned behind the outer vertical plate214. This shelf may contains an upward and forward facing shaft279. The shaft279may center and stabilize the position of the spring250. The actuator260may have a complimentary extending shaft281to center and stabilize the other side of the spring250.

The spring250may apply a force to the actuator260. In the illustrated example, the spring250is a torsion or compression spring. The spring250may be positioned at a tilt, as is illustrated inFIGS.11A-11E. As a result, the force from the spring250may cause the actuator260to rotate forwards (i.e., to the left inFIGS.11A-11E) in a counter-clockwise direction. This rotation may allow the actuator260to engage (e.g., clamp onto, clip into) a portion of the bracket120, so as to assist in securing the handle200to the vessel100. The force from the spring250may also resist rotation of the actuator260backwards (i.e., to the right inFIGS.11A-11E) in a clockwise direction.

As is discussed above, the actuator260is configured to engage (e.g., clip into, clamp onto) a portion of the bracket120. This may assist in securing the handle200to the vessel100, in some examples. For example, it may lock the handle200in place with the vessel100, thereby eliminating (or reducing) any “play” between the two components.

The actuator260may engage any portion of the bracket120. For example, as is illustrated inFIGS.11A-11E, the actuator260may engage an upper edge128of the bracket120. To assist in this engagement, the actuator260may include one or more outwardly extending structures (e.g., a lip, ridges, etc.) that may fit into corresponding inwardly extending structures (e.g., a divot, an aperture) included on the upper edge128of the bracket120(or vice versa). The engagement may be further assisted by the rotational movement of the actuator260discussed above (e.g., the rotational movement in the counter-clockwise direction, causing a clamping motion). To create this rotational movement, the actuator260may include one or more rotational couplings265that rotatingly couple the actuator260to the coupling210, as is illustrated inFIG.11C. The rotational coupling265may be an arm that includes two opposing bores. Each of these bores may receive a respective cylindrical shaft267that faces inward from opposing upright cones of the outer vertical plate214, as is illustrated inFIGS.11B and11C. The rotational axis of the actuator260is thus defined by the common axis of the bore and cylinders267, in some examples.

Although the actuator260is discussed above as engaging with a portion of the bracket120, in some example, the actuator260may alternatively (or additionally) engage with the flange115(to which the bracket120may be attached or integrated with, as is discussed above).

The actuator260may further include a downward and backward facing shaft281. Similar to shaft279of the coupling210, the shaft281of the actuator260may center and stabilize the position of the spring250.

FIGS.11D-11Eare partial side cross-sectional views showing an example sequence of steps for attaching the handle200to the bracket120of the vessel100. As is seen inFIG.11D, when the handle200is moved upward by the user, a top front edge of the actuator260(which may include one or more facets, as is discussed above) may contact a lower edge of the bracket120. The contact (when combined with the upward force provided by the user) may cause the actuator260to rotate backwards (i.e., to the right inFIGS.11D-11E) in a clockwise direction. This may prevent the user from having to engage the actuator260in order to attach the handle200to the vessel100. The user may then continue to move the handle200upward, causing the outer vertical plate214(in the form of two adjacent upright cones) to enter the cavity120c(which is the form of two adjacent conical slots that substantially match the shape and size of the upright cones of the outer vertical plate214).

As is seen inFIG.11E, the upward movement of the handle200causes the actuator260to move upward over the upper edge128of the bracket120. When this occurs, the force from the spring250(not illustrated inFIGS.11D-11E) may rotate the actuator260forward (i.e., to the left inFIGS.11D-11E) in a counter-clockwise direction. As such, the actuator260may engage (e.g., clip into, clamp onto) the upper edge128of the bracket120, so as to assist in securing the handle200to the vessel100. In some examples, the rotational clamping motion of the actuator260may cause the handle200to continue to attach to the vessel100even if the user stops pushing the handle200upwards, as is discussed above.

To remove the handle200, the user may push down on the actuator260, causing it to rotate backwards (i.e., to the right inFIGS.11D-11E) in a clockwise direction. Then the user may move the handle200downward in relation to the vessel100, causing the outer vertical plate214(in the form of two adjacent upright cones) to exit the cavity120c(which is the form of two adjacent conical slots that substantially match the shape and size of the upright cones of the outer vertical plate214). This may detach the handle200from the vessel100.

FIGS.12A-12Jillustrate another example of a handle200that may be detached and re-attached to the vessel100, and also illustrate another example of a bracket120that may be used to detach and re-attach the handle120to the vessel100.FIG.12Ais a cross-sectional view of the handle200detached from the bracket120.FIG.12Bis a cross-sectional view of the handle200attached to the bracket120.FIG.12Cis a perspective view of the bracket120.FIG.12Dis a perspective view of a coupling210of the handle200.FIG.12Eis a perspective view of an actuator260of handle200.FIGS.12F-12Jillustrate, in schematic cross-sectional elevation views, an example sequence of steps for detaching the handle200from the vessel100.

In the example illustrated inFIGS.12A-12J, the bracket120does not include a cavity120cand aperture122(and one or more other components shown inFIGS.1A-8B). Instead, the bracket120includes two sidewalls126, and two rods130that extend horizontally between the two sidewalls126, as is seen inFIG.12C. The two rods130include an upper rod130a, and further include a lower rod130bthat is spaced apart from the upper rod130aby a vertical distance. Each rod130may have any shape and/or size that allows handle200to be attached to the bracket120via the rods130. In the illustrated example, the rods130have a cylindrical shape, with the upper rod130ahaving a larger diameter than the lower rod130b.

As is also illustrated inFIGS.12A-12J, the handle200includes a coupling210, a spring250, and the actuator260. The coupling210is configured to readily engage and disengage from the bracket120. For example, the coupling210may be positioned up against the rods130, allowing the coupling210to engage with the bracket210. In the illustrated example, the coupling210includes a channel218that may fit against the upper rod130a, so as to at least partially surround the upper rod130a. The channel218may have any shape and/or size. As is illustrated, the channel218is shaped as a semi-cylindrical channel with an upward facing opening for engaging the upper rod130a, so as to at least partially surround the upper rod130a. The coupling210may further include an indented bottom portion224that may be positioned against a side portion of the lower rod130b. The indented bottom portion224may operate in conjunction with one or more hooks268of the actuator260(discussed below) so as to at least partially surround the lower rod130b.

The spring250may apply a force to the actuator260. In the illustrated example, the spring250is a torsion or compression spring. The spring250may be positioned at a tilt, as is illustrated inFIGS.12A-12J. As a result, the force from the spring250may cause the actuator260to rotate forwards (i.e., to the left inFIGS.12A-12J) in a counter-clockwise direction. This rotation may allow the actuator260to engage (e.g., clamp onto, clip into) a portion of the bracket120, so as to assist in securing the handle200to the vessel100. The force from the spring250may also resist rotation of the actuator260backwards (i.e., to the right inFIGS.12A-12J) in a clockwise direction.

To position the spring250at a tilt, the handle200may include an upward and forward facing shaft279positioned within a cavity in the handle200. The shaft279may center and stabilize the position of the spring250. The actuator260may have complimentary extending shaft281to center and stabilize the other side of the spring250.

The actuator260is configured to engage (e.g., clip into, clamp onto) a portion of the bracket120. This may assist in securing the handle200to the vessel100, in some examples. For example, it may lock the handle200in place with the vessel100, thereby eliminating (or reducing) any “play” between the two components.

The actuator260may engage any portion of the bracket120. For example, as is illustrated inFIGS.12A-12J, the actuator260may engage an upper edge128of the bracket120. To assist in this engagement, the actuator260may include one or more outwardly extending structures (e.g., a lip, ridges, etc.) that may fit into corresponding inwardly extending structures (e.g., a divot, an aperture) included on the upper edge128of the bracket120(or vice versa). The engagement may be further assisted by the rotational movement of the actuator260discussed above (e.g., the rotational movement in the counter-clockwise direction, causing a clamping motion). To create this rotational movement, the actuator260may include one or more rotational couplings265that rotatingly couple the actuator260to an inside portion of the handle200, as is illustrated inFIG.12B. In some examples, the rotational couplings265may rotatingly couple the actuator260to a lower shell232of the handle200. In other examples, the rotational couplings265may rotatingly couple the actuator260to the back side of the coupling210.

In the illustrated example, the rotational coupling265is a single arm that includes two opposing bores (or a single bore that extends entirely through the arm). Each of these bores may receive a respective cylindrical shaft267that faces inward. The rotational axis of the actuator260is thus defined by the common axis of the bore and cylinders267, in some examples.

Although the actuator260is discussed above as engaging with a portion of the bracket120, in some example, the actuator260may alternatively (or additionally) engage with the flange115(to which the bracket120may be attached or integrated with, as is discussed above).

As is illustrated, the actuator260is further configured to engage the lower rod130bof the bracket120. For example, the actuator260may include one or more hooks268that may engage the lower rod130bof the bracket120. In the illustrated example, the actuator260includes two forward facing hooks268that are positioned at a location vertically below the channel218of the coupling210. In the illustrated example, the hooks268are spaced apart from each other (e.g., they are on opposing sides of the actuator260), and are positioned on the bottom of the actuator260at (or relatively adjacent) the pivot axis at the bottom thereof.

When engaged with the lower rod130b, the hooks268may extend over the top and front side of the lower rod130b, thereby squeezing the lower rod130bin-between the hooks268of the actuator260and the indented bottom portion224of the coupling210. Furthermore, when the actuator260is rotated backwards (i.e., to the right inFIGS.12A-12J) in a clockwise direction, the hooks260may lift upwards (by also rotating backwards) so as to disengage from the lower rod130b, as is illustrated inFIG.12G.

The actuator260may further include a downward and backward facing shaft281. Similar to shaft279of the handle200, the shaft281of the actuator260may center and stabilize the position of the spring250. The spring250may be contained between the shaft279of the handle200, and the shaft281of the actuator260.

While the actuator260may rotate relative to the handle200(as is discussed above), the coupling210may remain fixed in place in the handle200. As such, any movement of the handle200(e.g., upward, downward, rotation) causes the coupling210to move with the handle200.

FIGS.12F-12Jillustrate, in schematic cross-sectional elevation views, an example sequence of steps for detaching the handle200from the vessel100. InFIG.12F, the handle200is fully attached to the bracket120(and therefore to the vessel100, not shown). AtFIG.12G, a user presses on the actuator260, causing it to rotate backwards (i.e., to the right inFIGS.12F-12J) in a clockwise direction. This causes the hooks268to lift upwards (by also rotating backwards) so as to disengage from the lower rod130b, as is illustrated inFIG.12G.

InFIG.12H, the handle200is rotated upwards (e.g., counter-clockwise) relative to the bracket120. This rotation of the handle200may cause the hooks268to be rotated to a position where they are clear from the lower rod130b, as is illustrated inFIG.12H. It may further cause the channel218to be rotated with respect to the upper rod130a. When rotating the handle200inFIG.12H, the actuator260may remain engaged by the user. That is, the user may continue to push the actuator260. In other examples, the handle200may include a locking function that may temporarily hold the actuator260in its engaged position.

InFIG.12I, the handle200is move downward and laterally away from the bracket120. This may cause the channel218to disengage from the upper rod130a, as is illustrated inFIG.12I. When this occurs, the handle200is de-attached from the vessel100, in some examples.

To attach the handle200to the vessel100, the illustrated steps ofFIGS.12F-12Jmay be repeated in reverse. In doing so, when the top section of the actuator260is positioned vertically above the upper edge128of the bracket120and the channel218is engaged with the upper rod130a(as is seen inFIG.12G), the user may release the actuator260. The compressed spring250(not illustrated inFIGS.12F-12J) may then urge the actuator260to rotate forward. This may cause the hooks268to engage with the lower rod130b. It may also cause the actuator260to engage the upper edge128of the bracket120. This may firmly seat the upper rod130ain the channel218of the coupling210, which attaches the handle200to the vessel100, in some examples. It may further eliminate (or reduce) any spacing in-between the components of the handle200and the vessel100, so as to eliminate (or reduce) any “play” in-between the components, in some examples.

Modifications, additions, and/or substitutions may be made to the cookware vessel1000of any one or more ofFIGS.1A-12J, the components of the cookware vessel1000of any one or more ofFIGS.1A-12J, and/or the functions of the cookware vessel1000of any one or more ofFIGS.1A-12Jwithout departing from the scope of the specification. For example, the components of the cookware vessel1000of any one or more ofFIGS.1A-12Jmay have any suitable shape, and may be made of any suitable material (e.g., casting metal). Furthermore, one or more of the components illustrated inFIGS.1A-12Jmay be added to or removed from any of the cookware vessels1000illustrated inFIGS.1A-12J.

This specification has been written with reference to various non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments or examples. However, it will be recognized by persons having ordinary skill in the art that various substitutions, modifications, or combinations of any of the disclosed embodiments or examples (or portions thereof) may be made within the scope of this specification. Thus, it is contemplated and understood that this specification supports additional embodiments or examples not expressly set forth in this specification. Such embodiments or examples may be obtained, for example, by combining, modifying, or reorganizing any of the disclosed components, elements, features, aspects, characteristics, limitations, and the like, of the various non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments or examples described in this specification. In this manner, Applicant reserves the right to amend the claims during prosecution to add features as variously described in this specification.