Bottle popper with pivoting handle

A bottle opener apparatus comprises a bottle rest configured to rest on a portion of a bottle placed within the bottle opener, a lower body collar attached to the bottle rest, an upper body collar slidably connected to the lower body collar, one or more levers attached to the upper body collar and to the lower body collar, the one or more levers configured to remove a bottle cap from the bottle and eject the bottle cap into the air when the upper collar slides relative to the inner collar in an ejection movement, one or more sensors configured to collect data when the bottle is placed within the inner collar, and a transmitter configured to transmit the collected data to an external receiver.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to bottle openers.

BACKGROUND

Soda, beer, champagne and wine bottles have been opened in various ways throughout the years. Some ways have been more tedious than others. Generally, the experience of opening a bottle is a rather mundane task and simply executes the function of opening the container. While some bottles employ removable corks and tabs, a considerable number of bottles include a removable cap that is made out of one or more metallic materials.

SUMMARY

In some embodiments, a bottle opener apparatus comprises a bottle rest configured to rest on a portion of a bottle placed within the bottle opener, a lower body collar attached to the bottle rest, an upper body collar slidably connected to the lower body collar, one or more levers attached to the upper body collar and to the lower body collar, the one or more levers configured to remove a bottle cap from the bottle and eject the bottle cap into the air when the upper collar slides relative to the inner collar in an ejection movement, one or more sensors configured to collect data when the bottle is placed within the inner collar, and a transmitter configured to transmit the collected data to an external receiver.

In some implementations, the levers are fixedly attached to the upper body collar at one end and slidably attached to the lower body collar near a second end. An upper handle is attached to the upper body collar and a lower handle attached to the lower body collar. The upper handle is pivotably attached to the lower handle. The upper handle is configured to pivotably rotate with respect to the lower handle and thereby slide the upper body collar with respect to the lower body collar. The levers are configured to eject the bottle cap into the air straight from the bottle opener or at an angle.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring toFIG. 1, a bottle opener100is an apparatus that improves the user experience of opening a bottle by enabling the cap of the bottle to be ejected into the air. The bottle opener100is mounted on top of a container such as a beer, soda, champagne or wine bottle and is able to fit on various size bottles due to its adjustability. Levers inside the bottle opener100attach to the bottle's cap, and a user pulling down an outer surface104of the bottle opener100causes the bottle cap to be removed from the bottle and ejected into the air.

InFIG. 1the bottle cap is hidden from view as it is inside the bottle opener100while the bottle opener100is positioned on a bottle102. The bottle opener100is at rest on top of the bottle102. The outer surface of the bottle opener104is largely smooth, which allows for brand advertising. The outer surface104of the bottle opener100can also have a grip surface for right handed and/or left handed people (e.g., an ergonomically shaped grip surface). The outer surface104can be made up from various different materials and combinations of different materials for example, steel, titanium, copper, gold, rubber, etc. The outer surface104of opener can be various shapes and sizes, and in one embodiment the outer surface104can be 1 to 6 inches tall, 1 to 4 inches wide in diameter, and cylindrical in shape.

An opening106at the top of the bottle opener100allows for the bottle opener100to eject the bottle cap into the air. The bottle opener100has an inner body collar200(shown inFIG. 2) that rests on the bottle102itself. The bottom portion109of the bottle opener100may include one or more scanners116and temperature sensors118. The scanners116, which can include an optical scanner, can identify the brand of the beverage inside bottle102and with help from a global positioning system (GPS) receiver214(shown inFIG. 2), collect data of the geographical location of the bottle102when it is being opened by the bottle opener100. The temperature sensor118measures the temperature of the bottle102while it is in contact with, and while it is being opened by, the bottle opener100.

The bottle opener100allows the end user to look forward to the act of opening the bottle and an eventual next bottle. The bottle opener100can be waterproof, heatproof, and coldproof. It can be durable to withstand falls and other hazardous situations. In some cases, the bottle opener100can support a lighter mechanism for starting a fire with various chemical reactions.

As shown inFIG. 1, the bottle opener100includes a display114that can be a light emitting diode (LED)/liquid crystal display (LCD) or another form of light emitting diode such as Indium Tin Oxide, OLED, nanotubes, and/or nanobuds.

Electronic paper could be used as the display114, as a light-emitting screen that can display live animated advertisements from companies and other messages. Various other technologies of display could be used as well for the display114. The display114can be bendable, as are displays of some televisions and cell phones. A middle portion of the display could be fastened and secured to the outer surface104of the opener100while the other parts of the display114could detach from the outer surface104(e.g. unfold from the middle portion and spread out) to be made into a flat screen. This multifunctional display114could allow users to see a bigger picture.

A wireless transmitter112allows data to be collected and stored in a central memory within the bottle opener100, allowing data to be collected and then transmitted, e.g., to inform various beverage producers and brands of various data. Data could also be sent to a computer network with the help of the wireless transmitter112. Nanotechnology and quantum chips could be used to improve the technology on the bottle opener100as computing power is more efficiently scaled to fit the bottle opener structure. Artificial intelligence could also be implemented with a central processing unit (CPU) so that the technology of the bottle opener100can naturally evolve and be automatically updated with the latest software/other technological advances.

The bottle opener100can also be configured to communicate wirelessly via the wireless transmitter112with other devices such as, laptops, smartphones, tablets etc. This communication allows for orders to be made between various other devices at one time, for example, by inputting a certain code so that an end user can redeem rewards as well as receive updates while in range of a wireless signal. Also, brands can send, with the permission of in-range patrons, invitations to sign up for email updates of the brand and also identify the establishment or business that the patron is visiting at the time, including a private residence. The wireless transmitter112can exchange information and data on and off of the opener100through Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular or other various frequencies.

On the sides of the bottle opener100are one, two, three or more air purification slots122that offers an air purification/deodorizer system that makes the surrounding area more pleasant in smell. Sound speakers124can be located right above the air purification/deodorizer system122. The sound speakers can provide sound for advertisements, can be turned on or off, and can play programmable sound effects when the bottle opener100is ejecting a bottle cap. Sound effects can come from advertisers, brands, sports teams, etc. The sound speakers124could be used for various other purposes. Buttons to control this feature could be added to the bottle opener100.

A microphone126is voice activated and can be located above the display114, allowing end users to control the bottle opener100and its various functions with voice commands. There can be one, two, three or more microphones126. Buttons to control this feature could be added to the bottle opener100.

A geo mapping technology128maps and scans the area surrounding the bottle opener100to detect the number of people that are in proximity when the product is opened. With the implementation of an infrared scanner, the bottle opener can measure the body temps of surrounding people and use that information for brands. Face recognition scanners can also help in detecting people by using spatial geometry software in order to identify facial features.

The geomapping technology128can implement a wireframe model method of three dimensional subsurface mapping commonly employed for the preparation of digital elevation models in surveying, hydrology, geology, and mining. The wireframe model maps a set of points having known triaxial (x,y,z) Cartesian coordinates. Prior to plotting, a gridding routine is used to place randomly located field data in a regular grid with spacing selected by the drafter. Wireframe plotting results in an open (x,y) grid with the height of each grid node corresponding to the z coordinate at that point. The wireframe model has a number of advantages over other 3D modeling methods. These include simplicity of presentation, flexibility in the use of color, and high impact value as a presentation tool. To use the technology so that the bottle opener can collect the necessary data of the surrounding area, cameras along with optical scanners would survey the area and based on those images, and a digital wireframe of the surrounding area would be composed. These scanning technologies working together could make it possible to detect clothing brands, presence of machines, whether the end user is outside or inside when opening bottle, etc. The geomapping technology128can use sonar, for which there are various examples of mini devices available. Ultrasonic echo-location is used to detect objects. The device vibrates to indicate the distance to objects where the faster the vibration rate, the nearer the object. The settings as to how far objects are, comes with this device. With the use of sonar, digital wireframes, cameras and optical scanners, the geo mapping technology128could have a comprehensive understanding of the surrounding areas as a bottle102is opened. This information may be transmitted to various beverage brands via the wireless transmitter112to help them get a clearer picture of the types of environments in which their product is typically being used. Information produced can include a size of the surrounding area, whether it is an indoor or outdoor location, and a time of day recorded when the bottle opener100is used to open a bottle.

The geo mapping technology128could utilize sonar and emit high frequency pulses in order to be able to accurately detail the surrounding area. The geo mapping technology128could also utilize digital wireframes of the surrounding area that could measure the size of surrounding area, including buildings, outdoor areas and other standing structures inside and outside. The sound speakers124along with a camera136, could help the geo mapping technology128determine its surroundings. The camera136(which could be one, two, three or more cameras) could capture images and determine what the objects are internally, process them, push the images to a remote site, and/or store them. The camera136could have night vision and other heat sensing technologies to determine the difference between people, animals, cars, walls, and other objects that give off heat. This feature is for the purpose of letting brands know how many people or potential customers are around their product when it is opened. If the bottle opener100can grab the attention of these people, then future revenue is possible. Augmented reality technology could improve the functionality of the geo mapping technology128and also leave virtual messages for other smart devices. Augmented reality adds graphics, sounds, haptic feedback and smell to the real world. The bottle opener100could provide businesses a way to engage their customers by providing virtual coupons on the street, or providing messages that encourage patrons to visit their establishment. The patrons would be at home and would be able to still engage with a business by seeing, engaging, and/or retrieving different objects from their phone, such as is available in popular cellphone-based games. This interaction could be interactive or informational. Augmented reality provides end users a more engaging experience for businesses. Augmented reality can also incorporate the sound features that the bottle opener100comes with. Adding sound effects to the opening of bottles is a form of augmented reality. Buttons to control this feature could be added to the bottle opener100. The device can also store the collected data for brands to better understand how the consumption of their products, affect various age groups, genders, etc. of people.

The bottle opener100can also include a breathalyzer130that is located near the microphone126, which can allow detection of a blood alcohol level of a user by normal speech. Breath analyzers may further be used to quickly identify a slew of other disorders, including cancer, leading to early detection and treatment. Buttons to control this feature could be included on the bottle opener100.

A fingerprint scanner132scans fingers for identification if requested. This feature could also detect heart rate, blood pressure, and other health related items. The fingerprint scanner132could be located near the bottom of the outer surface104of bottle opener100and could also be at one, two, three or more other locations on the bottle opener. Buttons to control this feature could be included on the bottle opener100.

Temperature bands134located on the bottom109of the bottle opener100act as a temperature maintenance tool that is removable from the bottle opener100and made of replaceable elastic, durable rubber, metal or other material. The temperature bands134are thin rings that expand to adjust to the size of the base of the bottle102. An example would be a stretchable rubber material including an embedded metallic material (e.g., copper coil) that could help regulate the temperature of the liquid inside of the bottle while still being elastic. When the temperature band134is removed from the bottle opener100, it is instantly activated and helps retain the cool temperature when placed on a bottle. By removing one of the temperature bands134, the user can place the temperature band134onto the base of the bottle102before and during consumption of the liquid in the bottle. The temperature bands134are not cold on the exterior nor cold to the user's skin. The temperature bands134could have sensors to detect temperatures.

The temperature bands134could also provide a light show inside of the bottle that looks like live animations, laser shows, and even advertisements being incorporated for brands. Buttons to control this feature could be added to the bottle opener100. The temperature bands134would be able to work on various materials such as, glass, plastic, ceramic, as well as others, including various shapes of glasses and mugs. Other forms and shapes of the temperature bands134could be developed where, in addition to bands, there could be disposable stickers that could be placed on a bottle and activated once placed. These stickers would have the same technology as the temperature bands134. Both the stickers and the temperature bands could work, independently or cooperatively, with the bottle opener100after authorization with a certain code if purchased separately from the bottle opener100.

On the bottom and inside of the opener100(e.g., near a top of the bottle102where the cap is before ejection), a scanner116can be included that can scan the shape and/or logo of a bottle cap, and the barcode of the bottle being consumed by the end user. This feature will be especially important for brands who would like to better understand their consumers. This data will be tabulated and stored, allowing brands to receive a plethora of information, such as where geographically their consumers opened and consumed their bottles. This could be possible with the use of the GPS receiver214. Brands can also learn how soon after purchase their products are being consumed by having the bottle cap popped off and scanned.

The technology on this opener can also connect with other appliances in homes or businesses that have temperature controlled features, such as a refrigerator.

The operation of opening a bottle and scanning the bottle cap can be combined in a single action. The scanner116scans the bottle cap logo and/or other brand identification features that are scannable while sitting on top of the bottle. In some cases, the bottle102without a cap fastened to it cannot be scanned. The action of the bottle opener actually opening and popping off the cap in conjunction with the scanner, can, in some cases, be necessary for the scanning to fully function properly.

How many bottles are being purchased and consumed by an end user would be useful information to brands, as would determining on what days the end user is more likely to open and consume their bottles. Brands could offer specials accordingly. Other information could include if the beverage was consumed at a residence or park or at an event, how far away from their purchase the beverage was consumed, the temperature at which customers are consuming the product, etc. For the end user, by scanning their products they are allowing brands to better understand their interest in their product and can be rewarded with offers and bonuses for scanning a certain amount of that brand's product, such as sales or promotions. This bottle opener100offers both brands and end users a technological advantage over the market. The satisfaction of ejecting a bottle cap off of a bottle, the ability to scan and receive loyalty rewards as a customer, and the collection of data for the purpose of increasing the efficiency of marketing and promotion for brands, makes this device a game changer for this industry.

In some implementations, the bottle opener100can include a safety stopper that controls the ejection of the bottle cap while still allowing for the popping sound to take place. The safety stopper can include a hood, an enclosure, or another stopping device that extends over the opening106at the top of the bottle opener100to control the ejection of the bottle cap by blocking, catching, redirecting, or otherwise preventing the upward travel of the bottle cap. For example, the safety stopper can include a concave or convex hood, net, or other part that extends over the opening106and redirects the ejected bottle cap downward or in another direction that enhances user safety. While the safety stopper can prevent the upward travel of the bottle cap, the sound produced from ejecting the bottle cap can remain substantially unaffected. In some implementations, the safety stopper can be removably attached to the bottle opener100. In other implementations, the safety stopper can slide or fold into or around the bottle opener100to allow a user to optionally deploy the safety stopper. Deployment and retraction of the safety stopper can be manual or automatic (e.g., via a button added to the bottle opener100, in response to ejection of the bottle cap, etc.). Furthermore, the height of the safety stopper can be adjustable to allow the user to control the distance between the opening106and the stopper. In some cases, the stopper can include a magnetic material, a suction device, and/or another mechanism to catch the bottle cap as it is ejected. Once captured, the bottle cap can be disposed of by ejecting it from the safety stopper (e.g., via an ejection mechanism coupled with the safety stopper, by retracting the safety stopper, etc.). In some implementations, the safety stopper can store the bottle cap in a compartment within the bottle opener100for later disposal. In one example, the safety slider could slide the bottle cap into an internal collection area within the inner body collar that could store one or more bottle caps and release them in an organized (e.g., stacked) or disorganized arrangement.

In some implementations, the bottle opener100can include a conventional bottle opener (not shown). The conventional bottle opener can be fixedly or removably attached to any part of the bottle opener100including, for example, the outer surface104or the bottom portion109. The bottle opener100can also include other accessories such as sparklers or confetti configured to deploy upon user interaction and/or ejection of the bottle cap.

In some implementations, the bottle opener100can be attached to another device, such as a vehicle, an appliance, a smartphone, a tool, or a machine, among others. Furthermore, in some implementations, multiple bottle openers100can be combined to create a multiple bottle opener device, such as multiple bottle opener1100as described with reference toFIGS. 11 and 12.

FIG. 2shows the inside mechanical workings of the bottle opener100and its components. The bottle102is inside the bottle opener100and the cap206is still connected to the bottle102. The outer surface104of the outer body collar105is smooth so brands can print their logos on the surface. The outer body collar105is slidable relative to the inner body collar200. The opening of the bottle opener106allows for the cap to be ejected into the air. The bottom portion108of the inner body collar200of the opener is what contacts the bottle102.

A wireless transmitter212can be implanted into the inner body collar200of the bottle opener100. A scanner208can be infrared or optical based. The scanner208can also be passive or active in detecting the brand of bottle and the cap. A light source can automatically shine a light or flash when not enough ambient light is provided.

The scanner208is located on the inside of the outer body collar105, and scans and identifies the brand shown on the bottle cap206and sends the data to a database as well as the CPU210implanted inside of the inner body collar200. The CPU210or computing device could be more than one chip. The CPU210could collect and aid the wireless data exchange from the wireless transmitter212which can both send and receive data. The CPU210along with the wireless transmitter212and other necessary technology could make it possible for customers to sign into a bottle opener from their phone and send the geographical data of where a product was opened and consumed with the help of a GPS receiver214. That corresponding data would be collected and the user could be able to play music and sign up for various offers from the establishment or business that user is currently at, using the bottle opener100. In addition, advertisers could send that user offers, games to play, contests, etc. Games could be uploaded by businesses or brands for users to play by themselves or against other patrons to win prizes. Future reservations could be made directly through bottle opener100for easier use. Patrons could also communicate with other patrons, through their respective bottle openers by sending a message request, for example “Message request from table one.” This offers a discreet way for patrons to communicate with each other.

The temperature sensors118can include a temperature heating source that helps maintains the temperature of the bottle. The temperature sensors118can incorporate lasers or other sensor technology and can be located on the most bottom portion of the bottler opener100, contacting the bottle102. Laser pulse heating of liquid particles can kill pathogenic bacteria and cancer cells. The temperature sensors118with the use of the wireless transmitter212can communicate with various appliances to help regulate the necessary temperatures desired by user. This data can also be collected and sent to brands for the purpose of knowing their customers' desired temperature for consuming their product.

The CPU210collects the data that is being scanned and is able to send that data wirelessly through the wireless transmitter212to the necessary databases for brands. Air purification vents122are located in the middle of the bottle opener100, such as very discreetly under the display114(shown inFIG. 1).

The inner body collar200is inside of the outer body collar105that includes the outer surface104of the bottle opener. This inner body collar200works in conjunction with the outer body collar105by sharing a space cavity that houses springs204(or another type of compression device). The springs204rest on a projection201of the inner body collar200at one end and at a projection107of the outer body collar105at the other end. When the outer body collar105is pulled downwards, the projection107of the outer body collar105exerts force on the springs204, compressing them against the projection201of the inner body collar200. Pulling down the outer body collar105also causes levers202to pivot around articulation points203(e.g., rotatable pins) and the levers202pivot upwards (ejecting bottle cap206off of the bottle102as shown inFIG. 3).

InFIG. 2the springs204are in an uncompressed state. The levers202can be one, two, three or more in quantity. The levers202can be made of a metallic, plastic, or other materials necessary for ejecting the bottle cap206. The bottle opener100can eject the bottle cap206with a lever mechanism and/or by other methods necessary for ejecting the bottle cap206, such as by twisting the bottle cap206, sliding the bottle cap206vertically, horizontally, or in another direction, applying a magnetic force to the cap, or applying pressure to the bottle102, to the bottle cap206, and/or to the liquid inside the bottle102(e.g., by laser technology). While the levers202are shown to pivot about articulation points203, it is understood that in alternative implementations, the axis of rotation can be anywhere along the length of the levers202. In some implementations, the levers may not rotate at all and may act as a fixed lifting claw. In some implementations, the mechanism used to eject the bottle cap206can be selected based on the type of bottle cap206(e.g., if the bottle cap206is a twist-off cap, a twisting mechanism can be employed to eject the cap). In general, however, the bottle opener100can be configured to open any type of bottle cap206including, but not limited to, a crown cap, a twist-off cap, a cork, another closure mechanism, or any combination thereof.

FIG. 3shows the mechanical functionality of the bottle opener100as it is pulled down in the direction of arrow306. The levers202pivot upwards in direction of arrow308around articulation points203and contact the bottle cap206right under its rim. The end of the levers202that contact the bottle cap206can have a hook, or curved portion as shown, so as to better fit under the bottle cap206, or fit between the bottle cap206and the bottle102. Pulling down the outer surface104of the bottle opener in the direction of the arrow306enough so that the springs204are in their most compressed state provides enough force to the levers202for an ejectment movement and for the bottle cap206to be ejected into the air (FIG. 4). The levers202have a slot301that houses one, two, or more pins300that allow the lever202to pivot upwards in direction308and return to its resting point after ejecting the bottle cap206.

The bottle opener100can be adjustable so that it can open champagne and wine bottles as well as beer and soda bottles. Chargeable batteries304are located within the outer surface104of the bottle opener. The bottle opener100alternatively can be plugged into a charger and the batteries can be replaced if necessary after a period of time. Solar/light charging capabilities are also possible. Magnetic material inside of bottle opener allows for various uses, e.g., allowing the bottle opener to adhere to a refrigerator or other metallic surfaces.

FIG. 4shows the mechanical functionality of the bottle opener100as the bottle cap206is ejected. The springs204are fully or close to fully compressed. The levers202are pointing upwards. The ejection of the bottle cap206is done at a speed that allows it to propel approximately 3 to 5 feet or more in the air. In some implementations, the bottle opener100can enable the user to control the ejection speed and height of the bottle cap206. For example, the bottle opener100can include one or more buttons or switches which allow the user to set a desired ejection speed and/or height. One or more stoppers or other mechanical devices in the bottle opener100can then set the maximum force applied to the bottle cap206by the levers202(e.g., by modulating the compression of the springs204) based on the user input. In this manner, the user can set the ejection height of the bottle cap anywhere between 0 feet in the air (e.g., prying off the bottle cap206) and 5 feet or more in the air. The springs204can be one, two, three or more in quantity. The force applied to each of the springs204can be identical or be varying in force applied to each of the springs204or varying in the amount of force applied to the cap by each lever202. This can allow the cap to be ejected in a certain direction; either straight up in the air or in any possible direction according to how the springs204are applied and fixed in the bottle opener, or how the levers are applied and fixed in the bottle opener. For example, the springs204can be equal in length and have the same potential energy storage. The springs204can be different lengths and have the same potential energy storage. The springs204can be different lengths and have different potential energy storage. The levers202can be at attached at different angles or be longer or shorter than each other and thus have differing lever arms and provide differing amounts of force to the bottle cap206.

During the ejecting of the bottle cap206, programmable sound effects can be implemented into the bottle opener100and played via the speakers302. Sound effects can be turned on or off.

FIG. 5shows the bottle opener100returning to its resting state with springs204uncompressed after the bottle cap206has been ejected and the springs204have been released of their tension. The levers202have returned to their resting position, with the single or possible double or more pins300sliding inside the slots301to accommodate the up and down motion of the levers202as they are pulled by outer body collar105.

FIG. 6is a keychain version of bottle opener600. A graphical arrow626is shown as the direction the bottle opener600needs to be pulled for it to function. When pulling on the two finger slots610, the user would compress the spring612, so that lifting claws616can eject the bottle cap off of the bottle. The lifting claws616could be a lever or some other mechanical tool that allows for the function to take place. A round metal piece that the lifting claws616are part of, has collapsible joints644that are compressed along with the spring612. The collapsible joints644houses bendable metals rods646that run inside the entire bottle opener600so that it can lessen the diameter of the round metal piece614once the round metal piece614is round the bottle neck. The bendable metal rods646could be made out of other various materials. Once the bottle cap is ejected, the spring612is decompressed.

The round metal piece614returns to its normal round shape to allow for another bottleneck to be placed inside of it. A lighter feature can be included as described earlier for the ability to produce fire via a chemical reaction. An advertisement area604on the bottle opener600allows brands to put their logos on the bottle opener600. The advertisement area604can have messages, logos, advertisements, messages, etc. on this portion of the bottle opener600. Scanners606are located in one or more locations on the bottle opener600. The scanners606function in the same manner as the scanners116described earlier with respect toFIG. 1. The scanners606could be moved to other areas of the bottle opener600and be placed in a downward angle for when the bottle is entering the round metal piece614. The round metal piece614could assist the function of ejecting the bottle cap off of the bottle. The round metal piece614could also be claw shaped or other various shapes and made out of other various materials. The display602is located next to the spring612. The display602functions in the same manner as the display114described earlier with respect toFIG. 1. A geo mapping technology636tool is located above the display602or can be located in other places. The geo mapping technology636functions in the same manner as the geo mapping technology128described earlier with respect toFIG. 1.

The temperature sensors618are positioned inside of the round metal piece614. The temperature sensors618functions in the same manner as the temperature sensors118described earlier with respect toFIG. 1. The microphone632is located inside of the breathalyzer634on the side of the bottle opener600. The microphone632and the breathalyzer634functions in the same manner as the microphone126and the breathalyzer130described earlier with respect toFIG. 1. The CPU620is located inside of the bottle opener600as well as the GPS receiver622. The CPU620and the GPS receiver622function in the same manner as the CPU210and the GPS receiver214described earlier with respect toFIG. 2. The wireless transmitter630is located in the middle of the bottle opener600. The wireless transmitter630functions in the same manner as the wireless transmitter112described earlier with respect toFIG. 1. The air purification system628is on the edge of the bottle opener600near the back. The air purification system628functions in the same manner as the air purification system122described earlier with respect toFIG. 1. Batteries624are close to the keychain section of the bottle opener600. The batteries624function in the same manner as the batteries304described earlier with respect toFIG. 3. The keychain loop638for the bottle opener600to be attached to a set of keys is made out of metal or other various materials. The keychain loop638can be a single loop, double loop, or more loops and could be assisting the bottle opener600. Sound speakers642located next to the batteries624and opposite the air purification system628. The sound speakers642function in the same manner as the sound speakers124described earlier with respect toFIG. 1. The bottle opener600at the side/inside view640shows the inner technology that allows the bottle opener600to function.

The processor752can process instructions for execution within the computing device750, including instructions stored in the memory764. The processor may also include separate analog and digital processors. The processor may provide, for example, for coordination of the other components of the device750, such as control of user interfaces, applications run by device750, and wireless communication by device750.

Processor752may communicate with a user through control interface758and display interface756coupled to a display754. The display754may be, for example, a TFT LCD display or an OLED display, or other appropriate display technology. The display interface756may comprise appropriate circuitry for driving the display754to present graphical and other information to a user. The control interface758may receive commands from a user and convert them for submission to the processor752. In addition, an external interface762may provide communication with processor752, so as to enable near area communication of device750with other devices. External interface762may provide, for example, for wired communication (e.g., via a docking procedure) or for wireless communication (e.g., via Bluetooth or other such technologies).

The memory764stores information within the computing device750. In one implementation, the memory764is a computer-readable medium. In one implementation, the memory764is a volatile memory unit or units.

In another implementation, the memory764is a non-volatile memory unit or units. Expansion memory774may also be provided and connected to device750through expansion interface772, which may include, for example, a SIMM card interface. Such expansion memory774may provide extra storage space for device750, or may also store applications or other information for device750. Specifically, expansion memory774may include instructions to carry out or supplement the processes described above, and may include secure information also. Thus, for example, expansion memory774may be provided as a security module for device750, and may be programmed with instructions that permit secure use of device750. In addition, secure applications may be provided via the SIMM cards, along with additional information, such as placing identifying information on the SIMM card in a non-hackable manner.

Device750may communicate wirelessly through communication interface766, which may include digital signal processing circuitry where necessary. Communication interface766may provide for communications under various modes or protocols, such as GSM voice calls, SMS, EMS, or MMS messaging, CDMA, TDMA, PDC, WCDMA, CDMA2000, or GPRS, among others. Such communication may occur, for example, through radio-frequency transceiver768. In addition, short-range communication may occur, such as using a Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or other such transceiver (not shown). In addition, GPS receiver module770may provide additional wireless data to device750, which may be used as appropriate by applications running on device750.

Device750may also communicate audibly using audio codec660, which may receive spoken information from a user and convert it to usable digital information. Audio codex760may likewise generate audible sound for a user, such as through a speaker, e.g., in a handset of device750. Such sound may include sound from voice telephone calls, may include recorded sound (e.g., voice messages, music files, etc.) and may also include sound generated by applications operating on device750. The computing device750may be implemented in a number of different forms, as shown in the figure. For example, it may be implemented as a cellular telephone780. It may also be implemented as part of a smartphone782, personal digital assistant, or other similar mobile device.

FIGS. 8, 9, 10A, 10B, and 10Cillustrate a second embodiment of a bottle opener800that improves the user experience of opening a bottle by allowing the cap of the bottle to be ejected into the air. Levers inside the bottle opener800attach underneath the bottle's cap, and a user pressing down on a handle804of the bottle opener800causes the bottle cap to be removed from the bottle and ejected into the air.

The bottle opener800can include one or more of the features described above with respect toFIG. 1and bottle opener100, e.g., a display, scanners, temperature sensors, wireless transmitter, air purification slots, sound speakers, microphones, geo mapping technology, a breathalyzer, a fingerprint scanner, and/or a safety stopper, among others. The bottle opener800can be waterproof, heatproof, and coldproof. It can be durable to withstand falls and other hazardous situations.

FIGS. 8 and 9show the mechanical workings of the bottle opener800and its components. In some implementations, the bottle opener800has a pivotable handle804that creates the action of removing a bottle cap from a bottle. In other implementations, the bottle opener800includes a fixed handle with a trigger mechanism that creates the action of removing the bottle cap from the bottle. The pivotable handle804has two portions, including an upper handle806and a lower handle808. The upper handle806can pivot with respect to the lower handle808, or vice versa. The top surface of the upper handle806is smooth so that brands can print their logos on the handle surface. An upper body collar810is attached to the upper handle806and a lower body collar812is attached to the lower handle808. In some cases, the upper body collar810may be considered an outer body collar and the lower body collar812may be considered an inner body collar. The upper body collar810is slidable relative to the lower body collar812. Additionally, the lower body collar812is in contact with a bottle rest816. The upper body collar810and the lower body collar812as well as the bottle rest816each has a central opening814. When the upper body collar810, lower body collar812, and the bottle rest816are assembled, the central opening814allows for the bottle cap to be ejected into the air.

The upper body collar810is generally annular in shape while the lower body collar812and bottle rest816can each optionally include a gap818(best seen inFIG. 9and partially inFIG. 10B), allowing a bottle top and bottle cap to be easily inserted in the bottle opener800. While the gap818is shown at a front aspect of the bottle opener, it is understood that the gap can be at any portion of the lower body collar812and the bottle rest816, or the gap may not be present at all.

In some implementations, the lower body collar812can be a standalone bottle opener. This would provide a single-action simplified technique of opening the bottle that can be performed with just one hand.

The bottle rest816attaches to a bottom portion of the lower body collar812. As best seen inFIG. 9, the bottle rest816is generally U-shaped when seen from above (seeFIG. 10Balso) and is generally flat in profile (as also seen inFIG. 10A). The bottle rest816has a ledge820at the inside aspect of the bottle rest816(e.g., the inner portion of the bottle rest816that defines the perimeter of the central opening814of the bottle rest816). The bottle rest816rests on lips852of the lower body collar812(as best seen inFIG. 10A). The ledge820is thin, and sized to fit between a bottle cap and the protrusion generally found near the lip of glass bottles. The ledge820of the bottle rest816also has cut-outs830ranged around the ledge820. The number of cut-outs generally corresponds to the number of levers822in the bottle opener800. The bottle rest816of the opener is what primarily contacts the bottle, e.g., rests against the lip of a glass bottle and at least partially contacts the lower surface of the bottle cap.

The lower body collar812generally fits beneath and mates with the upper body collar810. Each of the lower body collar812and upper body collar810has various protrusions and recesses832that allow the upper body collar810to register with the lower body collar812when the bottle opener is assembled. The protrusions and recesses832are shaped and sized so that the upper body collar810slides upward and away from the lower body collar812due to downward movement of the upper handle806. Accordingly the surfaces of the upper body collar810and the lower body collar812that contact each other are smooth so as to reduce friction. In some instances a lubricant can be placed on these surfaces, or the surfaces may be made of low-friction material. As best seen inFIG. 9, the upper body collar810has one or more lever recesses834on its inner surface (e.g., the surface defining the perimeter of the central opening814).

The bottle opener800includes one or more levers822. As best seen inFIG. 10C, each lever822has an upper protrusion824and a lower protrusion826joined by a lever body828. The levers822can be one, two, three or more in quantity. The levers807can be made of a metallic, plastic, or other materials necessary for ejecting the bottle cap. The bottle opener800can eject a bottle cap with the described lever mechanism and/or by other methods necessary for ejecting the bottle cap, such as by twisting the cap, sliding the cap vertically, horizontally, or in another direction, applying a magnetic force to the cap, or applying pressure to the bottle, to the bottle cap, and/or to the liquid inside the bottle (e.g., by laser technology).

The lower body collar812works in conjunction with the upper body collar810, the ledge820, and the levers822. Each lever recess834on the inner surface of the upper body collar810is sized and shaped such that the upper protrusion824of a lever and part of the lever body828fit into the lever recess834. Once the bottle opener800is assembled, the lever822is held in place with respect to the upper body collar810by the interlocking of the upper protrusion824of the lever and the lever recess834. The lower protrusion826of the levers822fits within the cut-outs830of the bottle rest816. Referring toFIG. 10C, the bottom surface836of the lower protrusion826of the levers822is generally flush with a bottom surface838of the bottle rest816. A top surface840of the lower protrusion826is generally flush with a bottom surface842of the bottle rest816. In some instances the top surface840of the lower protrusion826is slightly higher than the bottom surface842of the bottle rest816.

The upper handle806is pivotally attached to the lower handle808at a pivot point844with a suitable pivot arrangement. For example, referring toFIG. 9, a pin846can be part of a pin and hole arrangement, and pierce appropriately sized holes848in the upper handle806and the lower handle808. Other arrangements as is known in the art are also possible. Due to the arrangement at the pivot point844, the upper handle806can be moved (e.g., grasped and pressed by a user) so that it rotates about the pivot point844, pivoting the upper handle806with respect to the lower handle808and thereby moving the upper body collar810with respect to the lower body collar812. A rotation stop850can limit movement of the upper handle806with respect to the lower handle808. The rotation stop850can be attached to one or both of the upper handle806and the lower handle808. The rotation stop850can connect to the lower handle808and act as a spring to cause the upper handle806to return to the open resting position. The rotation stop850can include a spring-like portion and a non-spring-like portion that acts to permit the user to firmly press the upper handle806against the lower handle808. In general, the bottle opener800and its different components can be made of metal, plastic, glass, carbon fiber, ceramic, another material, or any combination thereof. Furthermore, the bottle opener800and its components can be any color or any combination of multiple different colors. In some implementations, the upper handle806and the lower handle808can be made of plastic, and the other parts of the bottle opener800described above can be made of metal, or other sturdy material.

To operate the bottle opener800, a user first places the bottle opener around the top of a bottle, sliding the bottle through the gap818of the bottle opener800, and placing the bottle rest816against the top surface of the bottle's lip, providing a stabilizing force for the bottle opener800. When in place, the lower protrusions826of the levers822can also rest against the top surface of the bottle lip. The lower protrusions826of the levers822also press against the lower edge of the bottle cap. In some instances, the user may press slightly on the handle804to bring the protrusion826into contact with the bottle cap.

To eject the bottle cap, the user pushes forcefully and rapidly down on the upper handle806. Due to the pivot point844, the upper handle806rotates, creating an upward force on the upper body collar810and causing it to slide upwards and away from the lower body collar812. As the upper protrusion824of the lever is fixed within the lever recess834of the upper body collar810, this causes the levers822to slide upwards and exert a force on the bottle cap. This force ejects the bottle cap off of the bottle.

In some instances the end of the levers822(e.g., the lower protrusions826) that contact the bottle cap can have a hook or curved shape so as to better fit under the bottle cap, or fit between the bottle cap and the bottle. Pulling down the handle804of the bottle opener provides enough force to the levers822for an ejectment movement and for the bottle cap to be ejected into the air. The ejection of the bottle cap is done at a speed that allows it to propel approximately 5 to 10 feet or more in the air. In some implementations, the bottle opener800can enable the user to control the ejection speed and height of the bottle cap. For example, the bottle opener800can include one or more buttons or switches which allow the user to set a desired ejection speed and/or height. One or more stoppers (e.g., the rotation stop850) or other mechanical devices in the bottle opener800can then set the maximum force to be applied to the bottle cap by the levers822based on the user input. In this manner, the user can set the ejection height of the bottle cap anywhere between 0 feet in the air (e.g., prying off the bottle cap) and 10 feet or more in the air. The levers can be one, two, three or more in quantity. The force applied to each of the levers822can be identical or be varying in force applied to each of the lever822or varying in the amount of force applied to the cap by each lever822. This can allow the cap to be ejected in a certain direction; either straight up in the air or in any possible direction according to how the levers822are applied and fixed in the bottle opener. The levers822can be at attached at different angles (e.g., the lever recesses834can be at a slight angle rather than at a right angle as shown) or be longer or shorter than each other and thus have differing lever arms and provide differing amounts of force to the bottle cap. For example, the lower protrusion826of one lever822may be thicker or thinner than the lower protrusion826of a second lever822; such disparity in size will change the magnitude and direction of the forces acting on a bottle cap as the bottle opener800ejects it into the air.

In some implementations, a safety stopper852may limit the upward travel of the bottle cap while leaving a popping sound of an ejected bottle cap largely unaffected, providing the same functionality as the safety stopper described in relation toFIG. 1. When the safety stopper852is in a deployed state (as shown inFIG. 9), it may partially occlude the central opening814of the bottle opener800. A safety stopper deployment mechanism854can be implemented to deploy and retract the safety stopper. In some cases, the safety stopper deployment mechanism854can be a button or a slide. Deployment and retraction of the safety stopper852can be manual or automatic (e.g., via a button added to the bottle opener800, in response to ejection of the bottle cap, as part of the expansion and/or contraction of the multiple bottle opener, etc.). In some cases, the stopper852can include a magnetic material, a suction device, and/or another mechanism to catch each bottle cap as it is ejected. Once captured, the bottle cap can be disposed of by ejecting it from the safety stopper852(e.g., via an ejection mechanism coupled with the safety stopper, by retracting the safety stopper, etc.). In some implementations, the safety stopper852can store one or more bottle caps in the handle804or another compartment attached to the bottle opener800for later disposal. The handle804can include one or more magnets, suction devices, and/or another mechanism to organize and store the bottle caps in a space-efficient manner. The handle804can also include an indicator that lets the user know how many bottle caps are stored in the handle and when the handle's storage is full.

Alternatively, or in addition, to the safety stopper852, the bottle opener can include an ejectable net860for catching a flying bottle cap. The ejectable net860can be made of various materials and can be foldable or collapsible to fit within the lower body collar812or the lower handle808. The ejectable net860can be deployed and retracted automatically or manually by pressing a net deployment button858. While the net deployment button858is shown at a side of the lower handle808, it is understood that the net deployment button858can be located anywhere along the surface of the bottle opener800. In one example, when the net deployment button858is pressed, the net860is ejected from either side of the lower body collar812to catch the flying bottle cap. In some examples, the net860can be deployed from other parts of the lower body collar812or the lower handle804.

In some embodiments, the bottom handle can be used as a standalone bottle popper without use of the top handle. The user can simply press down on the handle which would allow the portion of the popper that first contacts the top of the bottle cap to pivot underneath the bottle cap, ejecting it into the air. The safety stopper can slide out, attached or folded out from the handle. The safety stopper will be able to collect the popped bottle caps into the handle. Once full, the safety stopper can be opened to discard the bottle caps.

FIGS. 11 and 12illustrate a third embodiment of a bottle opener1100that improves the user experience of opening one or more bottles by allowing the cap of each bottle to be ejected into the air simultaneously or sequentially. Levers or other ejection mechanisms inside the bottle opener1100attach underneath each bottle's cap, and a user pressing down on a handle1104of the bottle opener1100causes each bottle cap to be removed from the bottle and ejected into the air.

The bottle opener1100can include one or more of the features described above with respect toFIG. 1and bottle opener100andFIGS. 8, 9, 10A, 10B, and 10Cand bottle opener800, e.g., a display, scanners, temperature sensors, wireless transmitter, air purification slots, sound speakers, microphones, geo mapping technology, a breathalyzer, a fingerprint scanner, one-handed operation, an ejectable net and/or a safety stopper, among others. The bottle opener1100can be waterproof, heatproof, and coldproof. It can be durable to withstand falls and other hazardous situations.

In general, the bottle opener1100can be configured to open any number of bottles simultaneously or sequentially, including two (2) bottles, four (4) bottles, twelve (12) bottles, eighteen (18) bottles, twenty-four (24) bottles, thirty (30) bottles, and other varying numbers of bottles. For example, the illustrations inFIGS. 11 and 12depict the bottle opener1100configured to open six (6) bottles simultaneously or sequentially. In some implementations, the bottle opener1100can be adjustable to accommodate a variable number of bottles. For instance, the bottle opener1100can include one or more hinges and/or sliding mechanisms that allow the bottle opener1100to increase or decrease the number of holes available for opening bottles. A user can expand or contract the bottle opener1100manually or automatically, such as by using a button or switch included on the bottle opener1100. In some cases, one or more of the components of the bottle opener1100can be modular and/or interchangeable to allow the bottle opener1100to open a variable number of bottles. For example, the components that make up the opening and ejection mechanism for each individual bottle can be modular to allow the components to be connected in any arrangement and open any number of bottles. The bottle opener1100can also include an enclosure that houses two or more of the bottle openers described herein to open multiple bottles. In other implementations, the bottle opener1100can have fixed outer dimensions designed to facilitate the opening of a predetermined number of bottles. As a non-limiting example, the bottle opener1100can be configured to open 6 bottles arranged in a container (e.g. a box, a beer carrier, etc.) having the following dimensions: 7½″ Long (19.5 cm)×5″ Wide (12.7 cm)×8¼″ Tall (20.95 cm). Alternatively, the bottle opener1100can be configured to open 24 bottles arranged in a container having the following dimensions: 2⅝×2⅝9⅝″.

FIGS. 11 and 12show the mechanical workings of the bottle opener1100and its components. As illustrated inFIG. 11, in some implementations, the bottle opener1100has a pivotable handle1104that creates the action of removing a bottle cap from one or more bottles. The pivotable handle1104has two portions, including an upper handle1106and a lower handle1108. The upper handle1106can pivot with respect to the lower handle1108, or vice versa. The top surface of the upper handle1106is smooth so that brands can print their logos on the handle surface. In some implementations, an upper plate1109is attached to the upper handle1106, and a lower plate1111is attached to the lower handle1108. Although depicted as separate pieces inFIGS. 11 and 12, in some implementations the upper plate1109and the lower plate1111can be a single part. The upper plate1109includes a plurality of upper body collars1110, and the lower plate1111includes a plurality of lower body collars1112. Each upper body collar1110is slidable relative to the corresponding lower body collar1112. Additionally, each lower body collar1112is in contact with a bottle rest1116. Each of the upper body collars1110, the lower body collars1112, and the bottle rest1116may be formed from a single part or multiple separate parts for each of the bottles to be opened by the bottle opener1100.

The upper body collars1110and the lower body collars1112, as well as the bottle rest1116, form a plurality of central openings1114A-F to accommodate multiple bottles. The central openings1114A-F can be spaced a predetermined distance apart to allow multiple bottles housed in standard packaging to easily slide into the bottle opener1100. For example, the distance between the centers of adjacent central openings1114A-F can be about 1 inches, about 1.5 inches, about 2 inches, or about any other length corresponding to the spacing of bottles in a container. In some implementations, the central openings1114A-F can be adjustable to accommodate varying bottle shapes and/or varying distances between adjacent bottles. When the upper body collars1110, the lower body collars1112, and the bottle rest1116are assembled, the central openings1114A-F allow for the bottle cap of each bottle to be ejected into the air. Each upper body collar1110has a generally annular portion around one of the central openings1114A-F, while each of the lower body collars1112and the bottle rest1116have a gap around a portion of the central opening1114A-F. Each gap allows a bottle top and bottle cap to be easily inserted in the bottle opener1100.

Each lower body collar1112generally fits beneath and mates with the corresponding upper body collar1110. Each of the lower body collars1112and upper body collars1110has various protrusions and recesses that allow the upper body collar1110to register with the corresponding lower body collar1112when the bottle opener is assembled. The protrusions and recesses are shaped and sized so that the upper body collar1110slides upward and away from the lower body collar1112due to movement of the upper handle1106. Accordingly, the surfaces of each upper body collar1110and lower body collar1112that contact each other are smooth so as to reduce friction. In some instances a lubricant can be placed on these surfaces, or the surfaces may be made of low-friction material.

The bottle opener1100can include one or more levers1122for each bottle cap. The levers1122can be made of a metallic, plastic, or other materials necessary for ejecting the bottle cap. The bottle opener1100can eject a bottle cap with the described lever mechanism and/or by other methods necessary for ejecting the bottle cap, such as by twisting the cap, sliding the cap vertically, horizontally, or in another direction, applying a magnetic force to the cap, or applying pressure to the bottle, to the bottle cap, and/or to the liquid inside the bottle (e.g., by laser technology).

The upper handle1106is pivotally attached to the lower handle1108at a pivot point1144with a suitable pivot arrangement. For example, a pin can be part of a pin and hole arrangement, and can pierce appropriately sized holes in the upper handle1106and the lower handle1108at the pivot point1144. Other arrangements as is known in the art are also possible. Due to the arrangement at the pivot point1144, the upper handle1106can be moved (e.g., grasped and pressed by a user) so that it rotates about the pivot point1144, pivoting the upper handle1106with respect to the lower handle1108and thereby moving one or more of the upper body collars1110with respect to the lower body collars1112. A rotation stop can limit movement of the upper handle1106with respect to the lower handle1108. The rotation stop can be attached to one or both of the upper handle1106and the lower handle1108. The rotation stop can connect to the lower handle1108and act as a spring to cause the upper handle1106to return to the open resting position. The rotation stop can include a spring-like portion and a non-spring-like portion that acts to permit the user to firmly press the upper handle1106against the lower handle1108. The bottle opener1100and its different components can be made of metal, plastic, glass, carbon fiber, ceramic, another material, or any combination thereof. Furthermore, the bottle opener1100and its components can be any color or any combination of multiple different colors.

To operate the bottle opener1100, a user first places the bottle opener around the top of one or more bottles, sliding each bottle through the gap in one of the central openings1114A-F, and placing the bottle rest1116against the top surface of each bottle's lip, providing a stabilizing force for the bottle opener1100. To eject the bottle cap, the user pushes forcefully and rapidly down on the upper handle1106. Due to the pivot point1144, the upper handle1106rotates, creating an upward force on one or more of the upper body collars1110and causing them to slide upwards and away from the corresponding lower body collars1112. This causes the levers1122to slide upwards and exert a force on one or more bottle caps. This force ejects each bottle cap off of the bottle.

Referring toFIG. 12, in some implementations, a user can operate the bottle opener1100using a trigger mechanism1160that creates the action of removing a bottle cap from the one or more bottles. The trigger mechanism1160can include a handle1162, one or more individual triggers1164A-F, and a universal trigger1166. Each of the individual triggers1164A-F can be configured to eject a bottle cap through a corresponding one of the central openings1114A-F. In this case, the bottle opener1100can include a single trigger1164A-F for each of the central openings1114A-F. Each of the individual triggers1164A-F can be spaced, for example, between about 0.5 centimeters and about 1.5 centimeters apart along the length of the handle1162, though other arrangements are within the scope of this disclosure. In other cases, each of the individual triggers1164A-F can correspond to more than one of the central openings1164A-F. Thus, the number of individual triggers1164A-F need not always be equal to the number of central openings1114A-F.

Each of the individual triggers1164A-F can be configured to exert the necessary force to eject a bottle cap through each of the one or more corresponding central openings1114A-F. For example, in some implementations the handle1162can be attached to the lower plate1111and/or lower body collars1112, and the individual triggers1164A-F can be attached to or otherwise coupled with the upper plate1109and/or one or more of the upper body collars1110. Actuation of one or more of the individual triggers1164A-F can cause one or more of the upper body collars1110to slide upwards and away from the corresponding lower body collars1112. This causes the levers1122to slide upwards and exert a force on the respective bottle caps, ejecting the bottle caps off of the bottle. In other implementations, the individual triggers1164A-F can be coupled with a different ejection mechanism configured to exert the force necessary to eject a bottle cap through each of the one or more corresponding central openings1114A-F (e.g., by twisting the bottle cap, sliding the bottle cap vertically, horizontally, or in another direction, applying a magnetic force to the cap, or applying pressure to the bottle, to the bottle cap, and/or to the liquid inside the bottle102). Accordingly, a user can selectively and sequentially open one or more bottles in the bottle opener1100by actuating one or more of the individual triggers1164A-F. The universal trigger1166can be configured to eject some or all of the bottle caps in the bottle opener1100simultaneously, for example, by actuating all of the individual triggers1164A-F simultaneously, by applying the necessary force directly to the upper plate1109, the lower plate1111, the upper body collar1110, the lower body collar1112, and/or the levers1122, etc. In some implementations, the individual triggers1164A-F and/or the universal trigger1166can be digital triggers, and the bottle opener1100can cause one or more of the bottle caps to eject in response to receiving a signal indicating that the individual triggers1164A-F and/or the universal trigger1166were actuated.

In some instances the end of the levers1122that contact the bottle cap can have a hook or curved shape so as to better fit under the bottle cap, or fit between the bottle cap and the bottle. The levers for each bottle cap can be one, two, three or more in quantity. Pulling down the handle1104or actuating trigger mechanism1160of the bottle opener provides enough force to the levers1122for an ejectment movement and for each bottle cap to be ejected into the air. The ejection of each bottle cap is done at a speed that allows it to propel approximately 5 to 10 feet or more in the air. In some implementations, the bottle opener1100can enable the user to control the ejection speed and height of each bottle cap. For example, the bottle opener1100can include one or more buttons or switches which allow the user to set a desired ejection speed and/or height for some or all of the bottle caps. One or more stoppers (e.g., the rotation stop) or other mechanical devices in the bottle opener1100can then set the maximum force to be applied to the bottle cap by the levers1122based on the user input. In this manner, the user can set the ejection height of a particular bottle cap anywhere between 0 feet in the air (e.g., prying off the bottle cap) and 10 feet or more in the air.

In some implementations, some or all of the bottle caps in the bottle opener1100can be ejected simultaneously, regardless of the type of bottle or bottle cap. In other implementations, one or more of the bottles caps in the bottle opener1100can be ejected sequentially in a desired arrangement or order. The bottle opener1100can allow a user to select which bottles to open during a given ejection, as well as the order to open them in. In some cases, this feature can be automatic, such as through use of one or more buttons or switches provided on the bottle opener1100to select the bottles for opening and the opening order. In other cases, this feature can be manual, for example, by use of the one or more individual triggers1164A-F (i.e., to open some or all of the bottles in an order) or use of the universal trigger1166(i.e., to open all bottles simultaneously). The force applied to each of the levers1122can be identical or be varying in force applied to each of the lever1122or varying in the amount of force applied to the cap by each lever1122. This can allow the cap to be ejected in a certain direction; either straight up in the air or in any possible direction according to how the levers1122are applied and fixed in the bottle opener. The levers1122can be attached at different angles or be longer or shorter than each other and thus have differing lever arms and provide differing amounts of force to the bottle cap.

In some implementations, the bottle opener1100can include a safety stopper as described above. The safety stopper can control the ejection of the bottle cap while still allowing for the popping sound to take place. In some implementations, the safety stopper can slide or fold into or around the handle1162or another part of the bottle opener1100to allow a user to optionally deploy the safety stopper. Deployment and retraction of the safety stopper can be manual or automatic (e.g., via a button added to the bottle opener1100, in response to ejection of the bottle cap, as part of the expansion and/or contraction of the multiple bottle opener, etc.). In some cases, the stopper can include a magnetic material, a suction device, and/or another mechanism to catch each bottle cap as it is ejected. Once captured, the bottle cap can be disposed of by ejecting it from the safety stopper (e.g., via an ejection mechanism coupled with the safety stopper, by retracting the safety stopper, etc.). In some implementations, the safety stopper can store one or more bottle caps in the handle1162or another compartment attached to the bottle opener1100for later disposal. The handle1162can include one or more magnets, suction devices, and/or another mechanism to organize and store the bottle caps in a space-efficient manner. The handle1162can also include an indicator that lets the user know how many bottle caps are stored in the handle and when the handle's storage is full.

In some implementations, the bottle opener1100can include one or more attachments or accessories as described above. For example, the bottle opener1100can include sparklers or confetti configured to deploy upon user interaction and/or ejection of the bottle cap. In some cases, the sparklers or confetti can be configured to deploy during ejection of each bottle cap or during ejection of specific bottle caps, such as the first or the last bottle cap.

In some implementations, the bottle opener1100can open one or more bottles automatically (e.g., without user interaction with the handle1104, the trigger mechanism1160, etc.). For example, the bottle opener1100can automatically engage the ejection mechanisms described herein to open one or more bottles in response to detecting the presence of the one or more bottles in the central openings1114A-F (e.g., by using scanners or other detection mechanisms).

FIG. 13illustrates an embodiment of a bottle opener1300that improves the user experience of opening a bottle by allowing the cap of the bottle to be ejected into the air. Levers inside the bottle opener1300attach underneath the bottle's cap, and a user pressing up on a handle1304of the bottle opener1300causes the bottle cap to be removed from the bottle and ejected into the air. The lower portion of the bottle opener1300can be a standalone bottle opener. This provides a single-action simplified technique of opening the bottle that can be performed with just one hand.

The bottle opener1300can include one or more of the features described above with respect toFIG. 1and bottle opener100, e.g., a display, scanners, temperature sensors, wireless transmitter, air purification slots, sound speakers, microphones, geo mapping technology, a breathalyzer, a fingerprint scanner, and/or a safety stopper, among others. The bottle opener1300can be waterproof, heatproof, and coldproof. It can be durable to withstand falls and other hazardous situations.

The bottle opener1300is similar in many respects to the opener800shown inFIG. 8. In some implementations, the bottle opener1300has a pivotable handle1304that creates the action of removing a bottle cap from a bottle. The pivotable handle1304has two portions, including an upper handle1306and a lower handle1308. The lower handle1308can pivot with respect to the upper handle1306(or vice versa). The top surface of the upper handle1306is smooth so that brands can print their logos on the handle surface. An upper body collar1310is attached to the upper handle1306and a lower body collar1312is attached to the lower handle1308. In some cases, the upper body collar1310may be considered an outer body collar and the lower body collar1312may be considered an inner body collar. The upper body collar1310is slidable relative to the lower body collar1312. Additionally, the lower body collar1312is in contact with a bottle rest1316. The upper body collar1310and the lower body collar1312as well as the bottle rest1316each has a central opening1314. When the upper body collar1310, lower body collar1312, and the bottle rest1316are assembled, the central opening1314allows for the bottle cap to be ejected into the air.

The upper body collar1310is generally annular in shape while the lower body collar1312and bottle rest1316can each optionally include a gap, allowing a bottle top and bottle cap to be easily inserted in the bottle opener1300. While the gap1318is shown at a front aspect of the bottle opener, it is understood that the gap can be at any portion of the lower body collar1312and the bottle rest1316, or the gap may not be present at all.

The bottle rest1316attaches to a bottom portion of the lower body collar1312. The bottle rest1316is generally U-shaped when seen from above and is generally flat in profile, although the bottle rest1316has a ledge1320at the inside aspect of the bottle rest1316(e.g., the inner portion of the bottle rest1316that defines the perimeter of the central opening1314of the bottle rest1316). The ledge1320is thin, and sized to fit between a bottle cap and the protrusion generally found near the lip of glass bottles. The ledge1320of the bottle rest1316also has cut-outs1330ranged around the ledge1320. The number of cut-outs generally corresponds to the number of levers1322in the bottle opener1300. The bottle rest1316of the opener is what primarily contacts the bottle, e.g., rests against the lip of a glass bottle and at least partially contacts the lower surface of the bottle cap.

The lower body collar1312generally fits beneath and mates with the upper body collar1310. Each of the lower body collar1312and upper body collar1310has various protrusions and recesses1332that allow the upper body collar1310to register with the lower body collar1312when the bottle opener is assembled. The protrusions and recesses1332are shaped and sized so that the upper body collar1310slides relative to the lower body collar1312due to an upward movement of the lower handle1306. Accordingly the surfaces of the upper body collar1310and the lower body collar1312that contact each other are smooth so as to reduce friction. In some instances a lubricant can be placed on these surfaces, or the surfaces may be made of low-friction material. The upper body collar1310has one or more lever recesses1334on its inner surface (e.g., the surface defining the perimeter of the central opening1314).

The bottle opener1300includes one or more levers1322. Each lever1322has a lower protrusion1326. Unlike the levers shown inFIG. 9, the levers1322are attached via a lever fixture1394. The levers1322can be one, two, three or more in quantity. The levers1307can be made of a metallic, plastic, or other materials necessary for ejecting the bottle cap. The bottle opener1300can eject a bottle cap with the described lever mechanism and/or by other methods necessary for ejecting the bottle cap, such as by twisting the cap, sliding the cap vertically, horizontally, or in another direction, applying a magnetic force to the cap, e.g., with magnet1390, or applying pressure to the bottle, to the bottle cap, and/or to the liquid inside the bottle (e.g., by laser technology).

The upper handle1306is pivotally attached to the lower handle1308at a pivot point with a suitable pivot arrangement. For example, a dowel or pin1346can be part of a pin and hole arrangement, and pierce appropriately sized holes1348in the upper handle1306and the lower handle1308. Other arrangements as is known in the art are also possible. Due to the arrangement at the pivot point1344, the upper handle1306can be moved (e.g., grasped and pressed by a user) so that it rotates about the pivot point, pivoting the upper handle1306with respect to the lower handle1308and thereby moving the upper body collar1310with respect to the lower body collar1312. A spring1350can limit movement of the upper handle1306with respect to the lower handle1308. The spring1350can be attached to one or both of the upper handle1306and the lower handle1308and cause the bottle opener1300to return to the open resting position. The spring1350can act to permit the user to firmly press the upper handle1306against the lower handle1308. The spring1350can be a torsion spring, or other type of spring. In general, the bottle opener1300and its different components can be made of metal, plastic, glass, carbon fiber, ceramic, another material, or any combination thereof. Furthermore, the bottle opener1300and its components can be any color or any combination of multiple different colors. In some implementations, the upper handle1306and the lower handle1308can be made of plastic, and the other parts of the bottle opener1300described above can be made of metal, or other sturdy material.

The bottle opener1300is operated similarly to the bottle opener800ofFIG. 9.

FIG. 14is a schematic of an embodiment of a bottle opener1400. The bottle opener1400can similar to the above-described embodiments, such as bottle opener100,800, or bottle opener1300. However, the bottle opener1400has a handle1404that is bent at an angle with respect to the bottle opener's upper body collar1410and lower body collar1412, at bend1496. The angle can be between 30° and 60°, e.g., 45°.

FIG. 15is a schematic of an embodiment of a bottle opener1500with a bent handle, similar to opener1400inFIG. 14. The bottle opener1500has the additional feature of an ejected bottle cap collector1592. The ejected bottle cap collector1592can be in the form of a cap or attachment that fits over the upper body collar1510. As shown, the ejected bottle cap collector1592can also fit over at least a portion of the top handle1506.

In some embodiments, the bottom handle can be used as a standalone bottle popper without use of the top handle. The user can simply press down on the handle which would allow the portion of the popper that first contacts the top of the bottle cap to pivot underneath the bottle cap, ejecting it into the air, or into the ejected bottle cap collector.

The ejected bottle cap collector1592acts as the safety stopper described above, and controls the ejection of the bottle cap while still allowing for the popping sound to take place. Here, the safety stopper or ejected bottle cap collector1592is a hooded enclosure that catches upwardly travelling bottle cap. In some implementations, the safety stopper in the form of the ejected bottle cap collector1592can be removably attached to the bottle opener1500. In other implementations, the safety stopper can slide or fold into or around the bottle opener1500to allow a user to optionally deploy the safety stopper. Once captured, the bottle cap can be disposed of by ejecting it from the ejected bottle cap collector1592(e.g., via an ejection mechanism coupled with the safety stopper, by retracting the safety stopper, etc.). In some implementations, the ejected bottle cap collector1592can store the bottle cap in a compartment within the bottle opener1500for later disposal.

Other implementations are within the scope of the following claims. For example, the actions recited in the claims can be performed in a different order and still achieve desirable results. For example, the bottle opener can also include sensors and emitters that provide purifying ultra violet (UV) lights, antimicrobial, fiber optic and other light technology to clean and detect the caloric and other nutritional/informational qualities of contents inside a bottle. The components of the bottle poppers can be scaled to handle different types of bottles, jars, cans, and other types of containers with similar types of caps, lids, etc. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims.