Container assembly and accessories therefor

A container assembly includes a container, a plunger assembly including a plunger, a lid including a lid lever connected to actuate the plunger of the plunger assembly, and a housing disposed in the container and configured to receive mixing media. The lid and the plunger may define a fluid chamber. The plunger assembly may include a rod connected to the lid and the housing. The rod may include an internal fluid passage providing fluid communication between the housing and an opposite end of the rod. The rod may include at least one aperture disposed proximate the end of the rod. Rotation of the lid lever may cause rotation of the rod and translation of the plunger. Translation of the plunger may cause fluid disposed between the plunger and the housing to flow into the housing via at least one inlet port of the housing.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure generally relates to container assemblies that may be used with fluids, such as beverages, and accessories that may be used with container assemblies.

BACKGROUND

This background description is set forth below for the purpose of providing context only. Therefore, any aspects of this background description, to the extent that it does not otherwise qualify as prior art, is neither expressly nor impliedly admitted as prior art against the instant disclosure.

Some beverage containers or coffee mugs may hold coffee or other beverages, but may not be configured for brewing the beverage. Other devices may brew beverages (e.g., a coffee maker), but such devices are often not portable and/or may not be configured to allow for consumption of the beverage directly from the device. Some containers may only be configured for a single purpose and may not be compatible with other uses or applications.

There is a desire for solutions/options that minimize or eliminate one or more shortcomings of The foregoing discussion is intended only to illustrate examples of the present field and should not be taken as a disavowal of scope.

SUMMARY

In embodiments, a container assembly may include a container, a plunger assembly including a plunger, a lid including a lid lever connected to actuate the plunger of the plunger assembly, and/or a housing disposed in the container and configured to receive mixing media. The lid and the plunger may define a fluid chamber. The plunger assembly may include a rod connected to the lid and the housing. The plunger may be connected to the rod via a threaded engagement. The rod may include an internal fluid passage providing fluid communication between the housing and an end of the rod. The rod may include at least one aperture disposed proximate the end of the rod. Rotation of the lid lever may cause rotation of the rod and translation of the plunger. Translation of the plunger may cause fluid disposed between the plunger and the housing to flow into the housing via at least one inlet port of the housing.

With embodiments, a container assembly may include a fluid flow path that extends from the at least one inlet port of the housing to a fluid chamber provided between the plunger and the lid via (i) a fluid passage in a body of the housing, (ii) a first puncturing protrusion of the housing, (iii) a second puncturing protrusion, (iv) an outlet of the housing, (v) an internal fluid passage of the rod, and/or (vi) at least one aperture disposed proximate an end of the rod.

In embodiments, a container assembly may include a cartridge adapter having a puncturing protrusion. A housing may include a first puncturing protrusion and a second puncturing protrusion. A container assembly may include a power pod including a drive lever configured to cause rotation of the lid lever and an electric motor connected to drive the drive lever. A housing may include a body and/or a cover connected to the body. A first puncturing protrusion may be connected to the body and/or a second puncturing protrusion may be connected to the body.

With embodiments, a lid may include a first port, a second port, and/or a trigger configured to selectively seal the first port and the second port. A trigger may include a connecting member, a trigger button connected to the connecting member, a first protrusion connected to the connecting member and configured to seal the first port, and/or a second protrusion connected to the connecting member and configured to seal the second port. A connecting member may be connected to the lid via a hinge. A connecting member may be rotatably connected to the second protrusion; and the second protrusion is rotatably connected to the lid via a hinge. A second protrusion may be configured to rotate about a first axis relative to the connecting member and/or to rotate about a second axis relative to the hinge. The first axis may be offset from the second axis. A trigger may include a spring biasing the trigger button to a closed position. A trigger button may be at least partially disposed in a recess formed in an outer surface of the lid. In embodiments, a container may include one or more axially-extending rails engaged with the plunger to restrict rotation of the plunger.

With embodiments, a container assembly may include a second lid assembly. A second lid assembly may include a second lid and/or a tamper diffuser. A tamper diffuser may include at least one fluid channel and at least one diffusing hole. In an assembled configuration, the second lid may be connected with a container such that the tamper diffuser is disposed at least partially in a housing. A plunger may include a tubular section configured to at least partially receive the housing.

In embodiments, a container assembly may include a driver assembly. The driver assembly may include an outer wall, an axial wall connected to the outer wall, and/or a drive connector connected to the outer wall and the lid lever. A blade may be connected with the drive connector. A mixing paddle may be connected with the drive connector. With embodiments, a cooling jacket may be disposed at least partially around the container and/or configured to hold a cooling material. In embodiments, a container assembly may include an inner rod connected to the lid lever and/or configured to slide within a rod of a plunger assembly. A flange may be connected to the inner rod. The flange may be configured to permit fluid flow through the rod in a first direction and prevent fluid flow through the rod in a second direction.

Various aspects of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the various embodiments, when read in light of the accompanying drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present disclosure, examples of which are described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. While the present disclosure will be described in conjunction with embodiments and/or examples, it will be understood that they are not intended to limit the present disclosure to these embodiments and/or examples. On the contrary, the present disclosure is intended to cover alternatives, modifications and equivalents, which may be included within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

In embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 1A and 1B, a container assembly100may include a container110, a plunger assembly130, a housing170, and/or a lid260that may be configured for connection with container110. Lid260may be configured to actuate plunger assembly130.

With embodiments, container110may include one or more of a variety of shapes, sizes, configurations, and/or materials. For example, and without limitation, container110may include a generally hollow cylindrical configuration with an first end112that may be open and a second end114that may be closed. In embodiments, container110may include stainless steel and/or may include a polymer (e.g., a dishwasher safe plastic).

With embodiments, plunger assembly130may include a plunger132that may be connected to a rod150(e.g., a threaded rod). Plunger132may be connected to rod150such that rotation of rod150may cause translation of plunger132. For example and without limitation, plunger132may be threaded/screwed onto rod150, which may include an external thread160. Plunger132may include a shape that corresponds to a shape of container110. For example and without limitation, an outer edge134of plunger132may be partially or entirely engaged with an inner surface116of container110. Plunger132may include, for example, and generally conical shape that may include a relative small diameter at a first axial end136(e.g., proximate first end112of container110) and a relatively larger diameter at a second axial end138(e.g., proximate second end114of container110). Plunger132may include a sealing element or sealing material140that may be connected to and/or disposed at outer edge134of plunger132. Sealing element or sealing material140may provide a fluid seal between plunger132and inner surface116of container110. Plunger132may move between a first position in which plunger132may be disposed at or about first end112of container110and a second position in which plunger132may be disposed at or about second end114of container110. As plunger132moves between first position and second position, plunger132may push material (e.g., fluid92), disposed between plunger132and second end114, toward second end114.

With embodiments, container assembly100may include a housing170that may be disposed in and/or connected to container110. As generally illustrated inFIGS. 1B, 2A, 2C, 3A, 4A, 5A, 8A, 8B, 9A, and 9B, for example, housing170may be connected to rod150(e.g., a second end154of rod150). Housing170may be disposed in container110at or about second end114of container110. Housing170may be configured to receive/house a cartridge230Nand/or other media (e.g., a media disc234, such as generally illustrated inFIG. 19). Housing170may include a body172and/or a cover194. Body172may include, for example, a generally cylindrical configuration and/or may be configured to receive a cartridge230N. Body172may include a first end174that may be closed and/or a second end176that may be open. Second end176may be configured to receive a cartridge230N(e.g., cartridges230Nmay be inserted into body172through second end176. Body172may include a ledge190(e.g., a circumferential ledge) that may be configured to engage a flange232of a cartridge230Nand/or limit an insertion depth of a cartridge230Ninto body172. Ledge190may be disposed at or about second end176of body172and/or may be disposed at an end of a threaded section178of body172.

In embodiments, cover194may be configured for connection with body172and/or to proximate second end176of body172. For example and without limitation, body172and cover194may include corresponding threaded sections178,194A and/or body172and cover194may screw together. In embodiments, a cartridge230Nmay be inserted through second end176into body172and then cover194may be screwed onto/into body172, which may retain and/or restrict movement of the cartridge230Nwithin housing170. With embodiments, in a reversed configuration, cover194may be connected to rod150and body172may be configured for connection with cover194.

In embodiments, housing170may include a seal element180that may be disposed at or about an outer edge172A of body172. Seal element180may be configured to provide a fluid seal between housing170and inner surface116of container110.

In embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 1B, 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 4A, 4B, 4C, 5A, 5B, 20A, 20B, 20C, 21A, 21B, and 21C, a cartridge230Nmay include one or more of a variety of shapes, sizes, configurations, and/or materials. A cartridge230Nmay hold/store, at least temporarily, media90for mixing/brewing. For example and without limitation, a cartridge2301may hold coffee grounds, tea, hot chocolate mix, beverage powders, and/or concentrated beverage liquids, among other things. A cartridge230Nmay include, for example, a K-Cup®, a filter that may be configured to hold brewing media (e.g., a reusable coffee filter, such as generally illustrated in connection with cartridge2304), an espresso cartridge (e.g., cartridge2307), and/or another configuration.

In embodiments, housing170may be configured to puncture a cartridge230N(e.g., a plastic side wall and/or a foil cover of a cartridge230N). For example and without limitation, body172may include a first puncturing protrusion200and/or cover194may include a second puncturing protrusion220. First puncturing protrusion200may be connected with body172at or about a center of body172(e.g., aligned with longitudinal axis102) proximate first end174of body172and may extend in an axial direction. Second puncturing protrusion220may be connected at or about a center of cover194(e.g., aligned with longitudinal axis102and/or first puncturing protrusion200). Puncturing protrusions200,220may include generally cylindrical configurations that may include internal fluid passages202,222, and/or may include tips204,224configured to puncture cartridges230N(e.g., sharp tips).

With embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C(and20A and21A), container assembly100and/or housing170may include a cartridge adapter/basket240. Cartridge adapter240may be configured to hold and/or support certain cartridges230N, such as less common cartridges, differently-shaped cartridges, and/or cartridges of more than one size. A cartridge230Nmay be inserted, at least partially, into cartridge adapter240, which may be inserted into body172. Cartridge adapter240may include a flange242that may engage housing170and/or body172(e.g., ledge190) to limit the insertion depth of cartridge adapter240into body172. Cartridge adapter240may include an adapter puncturing protrusion244that may be configured to puncture a cartridge230N. Adapter puncturing protrusion244may be used, for example, instead of first puncturing protrusion200of housing170(e.g., if the cartridge230Nis not tall enough to be punctured by both first puncturing protrusion200and second puncturing protrusion220). With embodiments, mixing media90may be disposed directly into cartridge adapter240(e.g., cartridge adapter may function as a cartridge230Nin at least some configurations).

In embodiments, cartridge adapter240may be adjustable (e.g., include an adjustable height) to accommodate cartridges230Nof different sizes, such as cartridge2302, which may include a first height, and cartridge2303, which include a greater second height.

With embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 2B, 4A, 4B, and 4C, a cartridge230N(e.g., cartridge2304) may be configured as a filter and may be used with a cartridge adapter or basket (e.g., a reusable coffee filter). Cartridge2304may include one or more mesh or screen portions252that may allow fluid to flow through (e.g., out) and may not allow solid material (e.g., coffee grounds) to flow through. Cartridge adapter240may include one or more mesh or screen portions246that may allow fluid to flow through (e.g., out) and may not allow solid material (e.g., coffee grounds) to flow through. First puncturing protrusion200and/or second puncturing protrusion220may engage cartridge adapter240, but may not permanently deform cartridge adapter240. For example and without limitation, cartridge adapter240may include corresponding apertures, flaps, and/or valves248that may be configured to receive first puncturing protrusion200and/or second puncturing protrusion220. In embodiments, fluid92may flow into cartridge via first puncturing protrusion200and/or second puncturing protrusion220, may mix with media90in cartridge2304, and/or flow out of cartridge2304via one or more mesh or screen portions252.

In embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 1A, 1B, 1D, 6A, 6B, 7A, 7B, 8A, 8B, 9A, 9B, 10A, 10B, 11A, 11B, 13A, 13B, 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D,15A,15B,16A,16B,16C, and16D, lid260may be configured to connect with and/or close first end112of container110and may include one or more of a variety of shapes, sizes, configurations, and/or materials. Lid260may include a connection portion262, a first port264, a second port266, a lid lever268, and/or a trigger280. First port264and/or second port266may include a first fluid passage264A and/or a second fluid passage266A, respectively, that may extend from a first end260A of lid260to a second end260B of lid260and/or may provide fluid communication between first end260A of lid260and second end260B of lid260(e.g., between container110and a surrounding environment). In embodiments, at least one of first port264and second port266may be used to dispense fluid (e.g., mixed fluid94) from container110while the other of first port264and second port266may (e.g., simultaneously) allow gas/air96to enter container110to replace the volume of the dispensed fluid94. Lid260may include one or more readially-extending support ribs260C.

With embodiments, first end112of container110may include a connection portion120that may be configured for connection with lid260. For example and without limitation, connection portion120may include threads120A and lid260may include a connection portion262that may include corresponding threads262A to screw onto and/or into connection portion120of container110.

In embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 1B, 6A, 6B, 6C, 8A, 8B, 9A, 9B, 10A, 10B, 11A, 11B, 13A, 13B, 14B, 14D, 15A, 15B, 16B, 16D, lid lever268may be configured to rotate relative to lid260and/or may be configured to rotate rod150. Lid260may be disposed at a first end260A of lid260(e.g., a top of lid260) and may be configured for actuation/rotation, such as by a user and/or by a device (e.g., a power pod340, an actuator690, or other actuator). Rotation of lid lever268in a first direction (e.g., clockwise) may cause rod150to rotate in the first direction and may cause plunger132to translate in a first direction (e.g., toward second end114of container110). Rotation of lid lever268in a second direction (e.g., counterclockwise) may cause rod150to rotate in the second direction and may cause plunger132to translate in a second direction (e.g., away from second end114of container110).

With embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 1B, 8A, 9A, and 9B, container assembly100may be configured to cause a fluid92(e.g., water) to mix with a mixing media90(e.g., coffee) that may be disposed in housing170(e.g., in a cartridge230N). Mixed fluid94may then be provided to a chamber144(e.g., fluid chamber) provided/defined between plunger132and first end112of container110. Mixed fluid94may be dispensed directly from the chamber144(e.g., a user may drink mixed fluid94from chamber144via first port264and/or second port266).

In embodiments, housing170may be disposed in container110with rod150and fluid92(e.g., water) and may be added to container110(e.g., between housing170and first end112of container110). Plunger132may be connected to rod150and lid260may be connected to container110. Connecting lid260to container110may include connecting lid lever268to rod150such that rotation of lid lever268causes rotation of rod150.

In a first configuration, translation of plunger132toward second end114(and housing170) may force fluid92to enter housing170, such as via one or more inlet ports182. Inlet ports182may include, for example, screened sections184that may permit fluid flow, but may restrict particle flow, into housing170. Fluid92that enters housing170may flow through one or more fluid passages186of housing170to second puncturing protrusion220. Fluid passages186may, for example, be disposed in body172and/or cover194. Fluid92may flow through second puncturing protrusion220and into a cartridge230N, where fluid92may mix with mixing media90(e.g., coffee grounds) and/or interact with housing170(e.g., be filtered/conditioned) to form a mixed fluid94. Mixed fluid94may exit housing170by flowing through first puncturing protrusion200and/or through an outlet port188of housing170. Outlet port188of housing170may be connected to an inner fluid passage156of rod150. Mixed fluid94that flows to housing outlet port188may flow from a second end154of rod150to a first end152of rod150(e.g., up). One or more apertures158may be disposed at or about first end152of rod150and mixed fluid94may exit rod150and/or may flow into chamber144via aperture(s)158. Chamber144may be disposed and/or defined between (i) plunger132and (ii) lid260and/or first end112of container110.

In a second configuration, such as generally illustrated inFIG. 8B, container110may include one or more fluid passages122disposed in a wall118of container110. In such a configuration, plunger132may cause fluid92(e.g., water) to flow through a top192of housing (e.g., through one or more apertures or screen/mesh sections192A). Fluid that flows through top192of housing170may flow through first puncturing protrusion200and into a cartridge230Nwhere fluid92may mix with a mixing media90to form mixed fluid94. Mixed fluid94may then exit cartridge230Nby flowing through second puncturing protrusion220(e.g., as a result of fluid pressure generated via plunger132). Second puncturing protrusion220may be in fluid communication with fluid passage(s)122. Mixed fluid94that flows through second puncturing protrusion220may flow through fluid passage(s)122toward a first end112of container110. Wall118of container110may include one or more apertures124at or about first end112of container110that may permit mixed fluid94to flow from passage(s)122to chamber144.

In embodiments, such as the first configuration, the second configuration, and/or other configurations, as plunger132translates toward second end114of container110, chamber144may increase in size/volume and mixed fluid94may continue to flow into chamber144. If lid lever268stops being rotated (e.g., if plunger132reaches housing170), plunger132may stop translating and fluid mixing (e.g., brewing) may be complete. Mixed fluid94may be dispensed through one or more ports264,266of lid260without any assembly or disassembly steps (e.g., no additional steps other than opening one or more outlet ports). For example and without limitation, a user may drink mixed fluid from one or more of ports264,266without adjusting or removing plunger132, rod150, and/or housing170(e.g., beverages may be brewed in and consumed from the same assembly).

In embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 6B and 6C, ports264,266of lid may be opened and/or closed via a rotating cover278. For example and without limitation, rotation of cover278in a first direction (e.g., counterclockwise) may open ports264,266and/or rotation of cover278in a second direction (e.g., clockwise) may close ports264,266. Ports264,266may, for example, be sector-shaped (e.g., generally resemble a pizza or pie slice).

With embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 7A and 7B, container assembly100may include a handle198. At least a portion198A of handle198may slide over connection portion120of container110and connecting lid260with container110may restrict movement of portion198A (e.g., lid260may sandwich portion198A between lid260and container110).

With embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 1B, 8A, 8B, 9A, 9B, 10A, 10B, 13A, 13B, 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D, 15A, 15B, 16A, 16B, 16C, 16D, 17A, 17B, and17C, trigger280may be configured for selectively opening and/or closing first port264and/or second port266. Trigger280may include a trigger button282, a connecting member284, a first protrusion290, a second protrusion292, and/or a hinge294. Connecting member284may connect trigger button282with hinge294. Connecting member284may include a first end286and a second end288and may extend in a generally radial/horizontal direction. Trigger button282may be disposed and/or connected at or about first end286. Hinge294may be connected to second end288. First protrusion290may extend (e.g., perpendicularly/vertically) from connecting member284(e.g., from a portion of connecting member284between first end286and second end288) and may be configured to selectively seal/close first port264according to the position of connecting member284. Second protrusion292may extend (e.g., vertically) from connecting member284(e.g., from at or about second end288) and may be configured to seal/close second port266according to the position of connecting member284. Hinge294may be connected (e.g., fixed) to an inner surface270of lid260and may be rotatably connected to connecting member284, such as via a rotatable connection with second protrusion292. Second protrusion292may be rotatably connected at or about to second end288of connecting member284. For example and without limitation, second protrusion292may be configured to rotate relative to connecting member284about a first axis296and/or second protrusion292may be configured to rotate relative to hinge294about a second axis298, which may be offset from first axis296.

With embodiments, trigger button282may be disposed at least partially in a recess272of lid260that may be disposed in an outer surface274of lid260(e.g., formed in a lateral side of lid260). Trigger button282may translate, at least to some degree, within recess272. For example and without limitation, trigger button282may move from a closed position, such as the position generally illustrated inFIGS. 14A and 14B, to an open position, such as the position generally illustrated inFIGS. 14C and 14D. In the closed position, first protrusion290may close first port264, which may restrict and/or prevent fluid (e.g., mixed fluid94) flow from chamber144out through first port264. Additionally or alternatively, in the closed position, second protrusion292may close second port266, which may restrict and/or prevent fluid (e.g., mixed fluid94) flow from chamber144out through second port266.

If an opening force is applied to trigger button282, such as a force directed radially inward, connecting member284may move/translate (e.g., from left to right inFIGS. 14A-14D). As connecting member284moves, first protrusion290may move out of a sealing engagement with first port264(e.g., may move to the right/radially inward). Additionally or alternatively, movement of connecting member284may cause second protrusion292to rotate about first axis296and/or second axis298(e.g., counterclockwise) and/or out of a sealing engagement with second port266. A sealing material300(e.g., a rubber, a plastic, a polymer, etc.) may be connected to first protrusion290and/or second protrusion292and may be configured to promote fluid sealing of first protrusion290and/or second protrusion292with lid260.

With embodiments, at least one of first port264and second port266(e.g., second port266) may be used primarily as a vent to allow air96to enter chamber144while mixed fluid94flows out of chamber144via the other of first port264and second port266(e.g., first port264).

In embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 14A-14D, trigger280may include a spring302that may bias trigger button282into a closed position. For example and without limitation, spring302may include a coil spring that may be wrapped around connecting member284in recess between lid260and trigger button282.

In embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 15A and 15B, first protrusion290may include a sealing tab320that may extend from an end290A of first protrusion290and, at least in a closed position, may extend at least partially into first port264. Additionally or alternatively, second protrusion292may include a sealing tab322that may be connected (e.g., rotatably) to an end292A of second protrusion292and, at least in a closed position, may extend at least partially into second port266.

With embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 16A-16D, lid260may include an internal recess330that may be configured to receive at least a portion of connecting member284, such as second end288of connecting member284. Additionally or alternatively, internal recess330may be configured to at least partially receive second protrusion292. Internal recess330may provide fluid communication between chamber144and second port266. In such configurations, trigger280may not include hinge294and/or second protrusion292may be non-rotatably connected with connecting member284. For example and without limitation, if connecting member284is moved from a closed position to an open position, first protrusion290and second protrusion292may both translate out of sealing engagement with first port264and second port266, respectively. A spring332may be disposed between an inner surface270of lid260and second protrusion292(e.g., wrapped around connecting member284) and spring302may bias trigger button282(via connecting member284) into a closed position.

With embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 1C and 12A-13B, container assembly may include a power pod340. Power pod340may be configured to actuate lid lever268. Power pod340may include a drive lever342, an electric motor346, an energy storage device348(e.g., a battery), an electronic control unit (ECU)350, a first power input360, a second power input362, a first control input364, and/or a second control input366. With embodiments, ECU350may be configured to control electric motor346, such as according to first control input364and/or second control input366. First control input364may include a forward/reverse switch. If first control input364is in a first/forward position, ECU350may cause electric motor346to operate in a first direction. If first control input364is in a second/reverse position, ECU350may cause electric motor346to operate in a second direction. Second control input366may include, for example, a speed switch that may include a plurality of positions corresponding to various desired speeds of electric motor346. ECU350may cause electric motor346to operate at speeds corresponding to the position of second control input366. Energy storage device348may be connected and/or provide electrical energy/current to ECU350and/or electric motor346. First power input360may include, for example, a DC (direct current) input, such as a USB (universal serial bus) connector configured to receive power from a USB cable. Second power input362input may include, for example, and AC (alternating current) input that may be configured to receive AC power (e.g., from a wall outlet). First power input360and/or second power input362may be connected to one or more of energy storage device348, electric motor346, and ECU350and may be configured to charge energy storage device348and/or provide electrical energy/current to one or more of electric motor346, energy storage device348, and ECU350.

In embodiments, drive lever342may be connected to electric motor346such that drive lever342may rotate with drive lever342. Drive lever may include a first flange344A and/or a second flange344B. First flange344A and/or second flange344B may be configured to engage lid lever268of lid260. For example and without limitation, operation of electric motor346may cause rotation of drive lever342, which may cause first flange344A and/or second flange344B to cause rotation of lid lever268, which may cause plunger132to translate within container110. Power pod340may include a pod crank352that may be configured to drive a drive lever342(e.g., manually). Pod crank352may rotate relative a remainder of power pod340(e.g., other than drive lever342).

With embodiments, power pod340may include a start button368. Start button368may be disposed at or about a center of power pod340and/or may be aligned with a center of lid (e.g., axis102) when power pod340is connected with lid260. For example and without limitation, lid260may include a protrusion276that may extend outward from lid260(e.g., vertically) and, upon connection of power pod340with lid260, protrusion276may engage/activate start button368. Start button368may be connected with ECU350and/or engagement of start button368may cause ECU350to cause electric motor346to operate (e.g., power pod340may operate automatically upon connection of power pod340with lid260).

In embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 17A, 17B, and 17C, second end114of container110may be open and a second lid370may be configured to connect with and/or close second end114. Second lid370may, for example, screw onto or into container110. Cartridges230Nmay be inserted into and/or removed from housing170via second end114. With embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 17B and 17C, container assembly100may include a heating element390,392. For example and without limitation, a heating element390may be disposed in rod150and may be powered via an electrical connection with power pod340(e.g., protrusion276of lid260may electrically connect with start button368of power pod340). Rod150may include a heat resistant material (e.g., ceramic) that may be able to withstand relatively temperatures (e.g., up to and/or exceeding 200 degrees Fahrenheit). Additionally or alternatively, a heating element392may be disposed in wall118of container110. Second lid370may include a battery pack372that may provide power to heating element392. Second lid370may include a first control input374(e.g., a temperature dial), a second control input376(e.g., an on/off switch), and/or a charging port378that may be used to charge battery pack372and/or to charge other devices (e.g., power pod340, portable electronic devices, etc.).

With embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 18A and 18B, container may include one or more axially-extending rails400. Rails400may engage corresponding recesses142of plunger132and/or rails400may restrict rotational movement of plunger132. For example and without limitation, rails400may prevent plunger132from rotating with rod150. In embodiments with more than one rail400, rails400may be equally spaced from each other (e.g., circumferentially).

With embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 20A, 20B, and 20D, a cartridge230N (e.g., cartridge2305) may include media90and/or an aerator410. Media90may include one or more of a variety of materials and/or fluids. For example, and without limitation, media90may include liquid flavoring, brewing media, hops, and/or materials. Container assembly100may operate to cause a fluid92to mix with mixing media90, which may include adding additional flavor to fluid92(e.g., adding a flavoring to coffee, mixing beer with hops, etc.).

In embodiments, aerator410may be configured to introduce a gas (e.g., air96) into a liquid (e.g., of fluid92). For example and without limitation, fluid92may include wine and aerator410may aerate the wine as the wine flows through cartridge2305. Air provided by aerator410to a fluid92may be initially present in aerator410(e.g., a cartridge2305may include a volume of air96that may be used to aerate liquids).

With embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 21A, 21B, 21C, a cartridge230N(e.g., cartridge2306) may be configured entirely as an aerator/conditioner410(as opposed to also including media90). Cartridge2306may be configured for aerating and/or conditioning fluids92(e.g., beverages). For example and without limitation, cartridge2306may be configured to produce beer foam/head (e.g., relatively uniform bubbles in the beer to create a condensed/dense foam or head), to create froth for a latte or cappuccino (e.g., from within), and/or to aerate wine. Housing170may include a screen or mesh section420that may be configured to filter out relatively large particles (e.g., foreign objects, brewing media, etc.) from flowing into housing (e.g., from container110) and/or from flowing out of housing (e.g. into rod150).

With embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 22A, 22B, 22C, 23A, 23B, 23C, 24A, 24B, and 24C, container assembly100may be configured for making espresso. Container assembly100may include a container110, a plunger assembly130, housing170, a lid260, and/or a second lid assembly430. Lid260may be configured to actuate plunger assembly130to cause fluid92(e.g., water) to flow to a cartridge230N(e.g., cartridge2307) holding brewing media90, such as espresso grounds or similar. Plunger132may be configured to at least partially receive housing170. For example and without limitation, plunger132may include a tubular section450that may extend toward housing170and/or may be configured to slide over housing170(e.g., to a flange460of housing170). Plunger132may include a second seal element452that may be configured to provide a fluid seal between tubular section450and inner surface116of container110.

In embodiments, housing170may be used in conjunction with second lid assembly430. Second lid assembly430may be configured for connection with second end114of container110and may include a second lid432and/or a tamper diffuser434. Second lid432may connect with (e.g., screw onto/into) second end114of container110. Housing170may include a radial flange460configured to be secured between container110and second lid432(e.g., at least a portion of flange460may be sandwiched between second lid432and container110). Flange460may include a screen or mesh section or sections462that may be disposed radially between an outer edge464of flange460and an outer wall466of housing170. A screen or mesh portion462may permit fluid92(e.g., water) to flow through screen or mesh portion462and/or may permit fluid92to flow into second lid432.

With embodiments, a tamper diffuser434may be connected to second lid432such that upon connection of second lid432with container110(e.g., in an assembled configuration), tamper diffuser434may be aligned with housing170and/or may at least partially enter housing170. In embodiments, a height434H (e.g., in an axial direction) of tamper diffuser434may correspond to an expected amount of brewing media90and/or may compact/tamp brewing media90in housing170. For example and without limitation, a compacting/tamping pressure provided by tamper diffuser434may be about 30 psi when about 18 g-21 g of brewing media90is disposed in housing170, which may correspond to a double shot of espresso.

In embodiments, tamper diffuser434may include one or more channels436(e.g., fluid channels) and/or one or more diffusion holes438. Fluid92that flows into second lid432may flow into channels436and/or holes438and into housing170where fluid92may mix with media90(e.g., espresso grounds) to form a mixed fluid94. Mixed fluid94may then flow through rod150to apertures158and/or into chamber144, from where it may be dispensed/consumed (e.g., via first port264). Tamper diffuser434may include a generally cylindrical configuration and channels436may be disposed at radial sides434A of tamper diffuser434and/or an axial end434B of tamper diffuser434. Diffusion holes438may be disposed in axial end434B of tamper diffuser434and may extend through to a second axial end434C of tamper diffuser434to provide fluid communication between second lid432and housing170.

With embodiments, tamper diffuser434may include an extension440(see, e.g.,FIGS. 23A, 23B, and 23C). Extension440may be configured to increase the height434H of tamper diffuser434such that tamper diffuser434may still compact/tamp brewing media90when a lesser amount of brewing media90is disposed in housing (e.g., for single shots of espresso). For example and without limitation, tamper diffuser434with extension440may provide 30 psi of pressure even for a single shot of espresso (e.g., about 1 ounce). Extension440may, for example, screw into tamper diffuser434.

With embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 25A, 25B, 25C, and 25D, a cartridge230Nmay include an espresso cartridge, such as cartridge2307(e.g., a Nespresso® cartridge). For example, and without limitation, cartridge2307may be inserted into a cartridge adapter470, which may puncture holes, via first and second puncturing protrusions474,476, in the top and bottom of cartridge2307. Cartridge adapter470with cartridge2307may be inserted into housing170and/or second lid432may be connected to container110. As plunger132moves toward housing170, fluid92(e.g., water) may flow through screen or mesh section462, into second lid432, from second lid432through second puncturing protrusion476, and/or into cartridge2307where it may mix with media90to form mixed fluid94. Mixed fluid94may flow through first puncturing protrusion474, into rod150, through apertures158, and/or into chamber144from where it may be dispensed and/or consumed. Cartridge adapter470may include a flange472that may engage housing170(e.g., ledge190).

In embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 26A, 26B, 26C, 26D, and 26E, a container assembly100may include a drive assembly490. Drive assembly490may include an outer wall492, an axial wall494, and/or a drive connector496. Outer wall492may be configured for connection with container110and/or lid260. For example and without limitation, outer wall may include an external thread492A for screwing into internal threads262A of lid260and/or may include internal threads492B for screwing onto external threads120A of container110. Axial wall494may be connected to an inner surface492C of outer wall492. Drive connector496may be connected to axial wall494and may be configured for connection with lid lever268. For example and without limitation, drive connector496may be connected with lid lever268in a manner similar to that of rod150, and drive connector may rotate with lid lever268.

With embodiments, a blade510may be connected with drive connector496. For example and without limitation, rotation of lid lever268may cause rotation of drive connector496, which may cause rotation of blade510, which may mix, chop, blend, froth, grind, process, and/or otherwise contact fluid and/or material in container110and/or drive assembly490(e.g., mix beverages, froth beverages, grind coffee beans, grind spices, etc.). In some configurations, such as generally illustrated inFIG. 26E, a cap514may close off blade in drive assembly490(e.g., instead of connecting with container110). Such configurations may be used, for example, to grind coffee beans and/or spices as cap514may limit the distance beans/spices can move away from blade510. With embodiments, blade510may include a plurality of blade portions512that may be circumferentially spaced from each other.

In embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 27A, 27B, 27C, and 27D, a mixing paddle520may be connected to drive assembly490(e.g., drive connector496). Mixing paddle520may include a plurality of axially-extending paddle portions522that may be spaced from each other. Mixing paddle520may be used, for example, in connection with making ice cream. Rotation of lid lever268(e.g., via power pod340) may cause rotation of mixing paddle520, which may mix or whip fluids and/or materials92disposed in container110and/or drive assembly490.

With embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 27C and 27D, container assembly100may include a cooling jacket530that may be disposed at least partially around container100(e.g., around radial sides and second end114of container110). Cooling jacket530may be configured to hold a cooling material532, such as iced salt water, which may contact a wall118of container110and/or cool container110and any fluids/materials therein.

In embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 28A and 28B, drive assembly may include a gear arrangement540. Gear arrangement540may be configured to increase the torque or speed output of drive assembly490relative to a torque or speed output of lid lever268. Gear arrangement540may include, for example, a first gear542connected to lid lever268, and a second gear544connected to first gear542and to drive connector496.

With embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 29A and 29B, container assembly may include a salad spinner550. Salad spinner550may include an outer container552and an inner container554configured to spin relative to outer container552. Inner container554may be connected with lid260such that rotation of lid lever268(e.g., via power pod340) causes rotation of inner container554relative to outer container552. For example and without limitation, inner container554may be connected to lid lever268(e.g., in a similar manner to rod150) and/or may be connected to drive assembly490. Outer container552and/or inner container554may include outer diameters552D,554D that may be larger than an outer diameter260D of lid260(e.g., at least twice as large). If lettuce (or other material) is placed in inner container554and lid lever268is rotated, the lettuce may spin with inner container554and water or other material on the lettuce may be forced to the outer container552(e.g., effectively drying the lettuce).

With embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 30A, 30B, 30C, 30D, 31A, 31B, 32A, and 32B, container assembly100may include a food processor560. Food processor560may include a container562and a blade566configured to spin relative to container562. Blade566may be connected with lid260such that rotation of lid lever268(e.g., via power pod340) causes rotation of blade566relative to container562. For example and without limitation, blade566may be connected to lid lever268(e.g., in a similar manner to rod150) and/or may be connected to drive assembly490. Container562and/or blade566may include outer diameters562D,556D that may be larger than outer diameter260D of lid. Container562may include an aperture564through which food580may be inserted into container562. Blade566may include one or more cutting portions568. If food580is inserted through aperture564in container562while blade566is spinning (e.g., via lid lever268rotation and/or power pod340actuation), food580may engage blade566, which may process (e.g., slice, cut, etc.) the food580.

In embodiments, blade566may include a disc-like configuration, cutting portions568may extend radially, and/or aperture564may be disposed in an axial surface of container562(see, e.g.,30A,30B,30C, and30D). Processed food580may move through blade566farther into container562. In other embodiments, blade566may include a drum-like configuration, cutting portions568may extend axially, and/or aperture564may be disposed in a radial surface of container562(see, e.g.,FIGS. 31A, 31B, 32A, and 32B). With embodiments, container assembly100may be mounted to a stand582(see, e.g.,FIGS. 32A and 32B). Container562may include an open end570and food580processed by food processor560may exit container562through open end570and fall into an adjacent receptacle584, such as a bowl.

In embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 33A, 33B, 33C, 33D, and 33E, a container assembly100may be configured for dispensing paste-like materials600, such as frosting/icing, cookie dough, cake batter, and/or pancake/waffle batter, among others. A plunger assembly130may include a plunger132, a rod150, and/or a rod stabilizer602. Rod stabilizer602may be configured to stabilize and/or limit movement of rod150within container110. For example and without limitation, rod stabilizer602may be connected at or about second end154of rod150and/or may include an outer diameter602D about equal to an inner diameter110D of container110. In such configurations, a housing170may not be disposed in container110.

With embodiments, container assembly100may include a cap/nozzle606that may be connected to and/or at least partially close second end114of container110. As plunger132translates toward second end114of container110, material may flow/move out of container110through cap/nozzle606. Container assembly100may include a shaping disc608that may be connected between container110and cap/nozzle606and may provide a shape, at least temporarily, to material600that flows through shaping disc608. For example and without limitation, shaping disc608may include a star-shape aperture610and material600may flow/move from container110through shaping disc608and/or out through cap/nozzle606. Cap/nozzle606may include a threaded section606A for connecting with container110.

In embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 34A, 34B, 34C, and 34D, a container assembly100may include a charging pod620and/or a light/lamp pod640. Charging pod620may include a driving gear622, an electrical generator624, and/or an energy storage device628(e.g., a rechargeable battery or batteries). Driving gear622may be connected with a lid lever168such that rotation of lid lever168causes rotation of driving gear622. Driving gear622may be connected to (e.g., engaged with) an input shaft or gear626of electrical power generator624such that rotation of driving gear622may cause rotation of input shaft626. Rotation of input shaft626may cause electrical generator624to generate electrical energy, which may be provided to energy storage device628and/or light pod640, for example.

With embodiments, light pod640may include a container110and a plurality of lights642(e.g., light emitting diodes or LEDs) disposed in container110. Wall118of container110may be at least semi-transparent and/or may permit light from lights to pass through. Lights642may be disposed in one or more of a variety of positions within container110. For example and without limitation, a plurality of lights642may be connected to and/or arranged in a column646that may be aligned with a center of container110(e.g., axis102) and may extend from a first end112of container110toward second end114of container110. At or about second end114of container110, light pod640may include a flashlight configuration648with one or more lights642directed in an axial direction away from first end112. Flashlight configuration648may include a reflective surface650that may be disposed around the one or more axially-directed lights642.

In embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 34A and 34C, lid260may include a crank660that may be connected to lid lever268to facilitate rotation of lid lever268. Crank660may rotate between a folded position in which crank660may at least partially abut lid lever268(e.g., lay on lid lever268) and an unfolded position in which crank660may extend in a radial direction. Crank660may include a folding handle portion662.

In embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 34E, 34F, 34G, and 34H, a container assembly may include a battery pod670that may be configured for connection (e.g., electrical and/or physical) with charging pod620. Battery pod670may include one or more batteries or cells672(or other energy storage device) that may be electrically connected together, such as to provide a 12 volt DC output. Batteries/cells672may be at least partially surrounded with insulating material674. Battery pod670may be electrically connected with charging pod620via corresponding terminals676(e.g., positive and negative terminals), which may be circular and/or ring-shaped (see, e.g.,FIG. 34G). Electrical energy generated via electrical generator624may be provided, via terminals676, to battery pod670and battery pod670may store such energy. Electrical power generator624may be actuated by lid lever268and/or foldable crank660. Battery pod670may be charged via electrical power generator624and/or an external source, such as via a first power input678(e.g., a USB power input) and/or a second power input680(e.g., an AC power input) of charging pod620. Battery pod670may include a remaining power/charge indicator682that may be disposed at an outer wall684of battery pod670. In embodiments, battery pod670may include one or more lights642that may be configured in the same or a similar manner as lights642of light pod640.

With embodiments, charging pod620may include one or more control inputs630, such as a power button that may control whether electrical current is output from charging pod620(e.g., to a light pod620or to a battery pod670).

With embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 35A, 35B, 36A, and 36B, a container assembly100may include and/or be connected to an external actuator690. External actuator690may be configured to actuate (e.g., rotate) lid lever268, such as in a similar manner as power pod340. External actuator690may, for example, include a gear arrangement692connected to a tire (or other drive component)694of a vehicle, such as a bicycle. Rotation of tire694may cause rotation of one or more gears of gear arrangement692, which may cause rotation of lid lever268, such as via a drive lever696that may be configured in the same or a similar manner as drive lever342of power pod340. External actuator690may be configured to actuate lid lever268for one or more of a variety of configurations/uses of a container assembly100(e.g., brewing coffee, brewing espresso, spinning salad, blending/chopping/grinding, ice cream making, providing light, etc.).

With embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 37A, 37B, 37C, 37D, 38A, 38B, 38C, 38D, 38E, 38F, 38G, 38H, 38I, 39A, 39B, 39C, and 39D, a container assembly100may be used/utilized with a reservoir tube700. Container assembly100may include a lid260and/or a container110configured to receive reservoir tube700. Lid260may be configured to cause movement of a plunger132along a rod150(e.g., a threaded rod). Container assembly100may be configured to dispense material from reservoir tubes700.

In embodiments, container110and reservoir tube700may include a variety of shapes, sizes, configurations, and/or materials. For example and without limitation, container110and/or reservoir tube700may include corresponding cross-sectional shapes, such as generally rectangular cross-sectional shapes (see, e.g.,FIGS. 37A-37D, 38A-38D, 38H, and 38I). A rectangular cross-section shape may allow for reservoir tubes700to be packaged efficiently (see, e.g.,FIGS. 38D and 38E).

In embodiments, container110and/or reservoir tube700may include generally circular cross-sectional shapes (see, e.g.,FIGS. 38F and 38G). Reservoir tube700may include a single compartment704(see, e.g.,FIGS. 37A-37D, 38A-38G) or may include a plurality of compartments706,708(see, e.g.,FIGS. 38G-38I). Compartments706,708may be spaced arranged circumferentially and/or radially (as opposed to axially). Compartments of rectangular reservoir tubes700(e.g., compartments706) may be rectangular. For example and without limitation, reservoir tube700may be substantially square-shaped and/or compartments706may be rectangular, but not square-shaped. Compartments of circular reservoir tubes700(e.g., compartments708) may be sector-shaped.

With embodiments, reservoir tubes700may be collapsible and/or may include a hollow portion720that may be configured to receive at least a portion of rod150. A reservoir tube700may be inserted into container110from second end114of container110such that rod150extends into hollow portion720. If a lid lever268of lid260is actuated, rod150may rotate, which may cause a plunger132to move toward second end114of container110. As plunger132moves toward second end114, plunger132may force material in reservoir tube700to move/flow out of reservoir tube700and/or may cause reservoir tube700to at least partially collapse. Reservoir tube700may collapse from an initial height (see, e.g.,FIG. 38A), to an intermediate height (see, e.g.,FIG. 38B), and/or to fully collapsed height (see, e.g.,FIG. 38C). Collapsing of reservoir tube700may include reservoir tube700bending/folding at predetermined/designed folding areas722that may be spaced (e.g., equally) along a length of reservoir tube700. Reservoir tube may be filled and/or refilled via a check valve724that may be disposed in a dispensing nozzle726. Dispensing nozzle726may be connected to a second end114of container110.

In embodiments, container assembly100may include an ECU730and/or a display732(e.g., an electronic display) that may display information about the contents of a reservoir tube700. For example and without limitation, container assembly100and/or ECU730may be configured to obtain information from a reservoir tube700, such as via a barcode710, QR (quick response) code, RFD (radio-frequency identification) communication, Bluetooth®, and/or other communication methods. ECU730may be configured to display information from a reservoir tube700on display732. Container assembly100and/or ECU730may be configured to obtain information from external sources (e.g., the internet) and display such external information on display732(e.g., manufacturer coupons, advertising, promotions, etc.). Display732may be a touch display and/or may be configured to allow a user to obtain/download information about the material in reservoir tube700.

With embodiments, a lid lever268of a container assembly100may be connected to an inner rod740that may be configured to slide into and out of a rod150. Lid lever268may be lifted upward from a lid260, which may pull inner rod740up. A flange742may be connected at or about a distal end744of inner rod740and/or flange742may function in a similar manner as a check valve. For example and without limitation, flange742may engage rod150to prevent fluid flow between flange742and rod150when inner rod740is moving away from second end114of container110and may permit fluid flow between flange742and rod150when inner rod740is moving toward second end114of container110.

In embodiments, as lid lever268and inner rod740are moved away from second end114of container110, flange742may pull fluid (e.g., mixed fluid94) disposed in an upper section746of rod150toward first end112of container100and such fluid94may flow out of rod150and into container110via apertures158. As flange742moves away from second end114, a low pressure area may be created in a lower section748of rod150, which may cause mixed fluid94from housing170to flow into lower section748. In embodiments, at least initially, upper section746may be filled with air96and an initial actuation (e.g., pulling up) may push air96into container110, which may push fluid92already in container110toward second end114of container110. If lid lever268and inner rod740are moved toward second end114, flange742may move through mixed fluid94in lower section748and/or mixed fluid94in lower section748may flow past flange742into upper section746such that upper section746may become least partially filled with mixed fluid94. Upon a subsequent movement/actuation of lid lever268and inner rod740away from second end114, flange742may push mixed fluid94from upper section746into container110via apertures158. A spring750may bias inner rod toward second end114. A guide gasket752disposed in rod150and/or around inner rod740may maintain at least a portion of inner rod740in alignment relative to rod150(e.g., centered).

In embodiments, such as generally illustrated inFIGS. 41A, 41B, 41C, and 41D, a container assembly may include a pump760that may be configured to cause fluid92in a container110to flow. Pump760may, for example, be configured as a generally hollow, hemispherical button that may be connected to a first end260A of a lid260. Pump760may be in fluid communication with a rod150via a first orifice762and/or pump760may be in fluid communication with container110via one or more other orifices764. When actuated, pump760may be configured to cause fluid (e.g., mixed fluid94) to flow out of pump760into container110via orifices764and/or create a lower pressure area (e.g., a vacuum) within pump760to draw fluid (e.g., mixed fluid94) from rod150into pump760through first orifice762(see, e.g.,FIG. 41B). Pump760may be configured to return to a rest position (see, e.g., FIGS.41A,41C) after being actuated. For example and without limitation, pump760may include a flexible and/or resilient material, and/or a biasing member766(e.g., a spring) may be connected to and/or disposed in pump760to bias pump760toward a rest position.

In embodiments, at least initially, pump760may be filled with air96and an initial actuation of pump760(e.g., pressing down) may push air96into container. Biasing member766may cause pump760to return to a rest position, which may create a lower pressure area in pump (e.g., relative to rod150and/or container110). Lower pressure in pump760may cause fluid from rod150to flow into pump760. Initially, fluid that flows from rod150into pump760may be primarily air96. If pump760continues to be actuated, fluid that flows from rod150into pump760may be primarily mixed fluid94(e.g., water92that has flowed from container110to a housing170or cartridge230N, mixed with media90, and/or flowed through rod150).

With embodiments, a first check valve768may be connected to rod150such that fluid may flow from housing170toward lid260, but may not flow from lid260toward housing170(e.g., pump760may only receive fluid from rod150and may not push fluid into rod150). Additionally or alternatively, check valves770may be connected with each other orifice764and may be configured to permit fluid flow out of pump760into container110and not permit fluid flow from container110into pump760.

In embodiments, a container assembly100with a pump760may not include a plunger132and/or a plunger132may be removed after a first cycle (e.g., after plunger132reaches housing170). For example and without limitation, if a filtration cartridge2304is used, fluid could be repeatedly cycled/pumped through cartridge2304to provide additional filtering. Additionally or alternatively, if a brewing cartridge (e.g., cartridges2301,2302,2303) is used, fluid could be repeatedly cycled/pumped through the cartridge to increase a strength of the mixed fluid94(e.g., stronger/darker coffee).

Reference throughout the specification to “various embodiments,” “with embodiments,” “in embodiments,” or “an embodiment,” or the like, means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in various embodiments,” “with embodiments,” “in embodiments,” or “an embodiment,” or the like, in places throughout the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Thus, the particular features, structures, or characteristics illustrated or described in connection with one embodiment may be combined, in whole or in part, with the features, structures, or characteristics of one or more other embodiments without limitation given that such combination is not illogical or non-functional.

Joinder references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, and the like) are to be construed broadly and may include intermediate members between a connection of elements and relative movement between elements. As such, joinder references do not necessarily imply that two elements are directly connected/coupled and in fixed relation to each other. The use of “e.g.” throughout the specification is to be construed broadly and is used to provide non-limiting examples of embodiments of the disclosure, and the disclosure is not limited to such examples. Uses of “and” and “or” are to be construed broadly (e.g., to be treated as “and/or”). For example and without limitation, uses of “and” do not necessarily require all elements or features listed, and uses of “or” are intended to be inclusive unless such a construction would be illogical.

Furthermore, the mixing and matching of features, elements and/or functions between various examples is expressly contemplated herein so that one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate from this disclosure that features, elements, and/or functions of one example may be incorporated into another example as appropriate, unless described otherwise, above. Moreover, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the present teachings not be limited to the particular examples illustrated by the drawings and described in the specification, but that the scope of the present disclosure will include any embodiments falling within the foregoing description and the appended drawings.