Patent Publication Number: US-11638924-B2

Title: Spray gun cups, receptacles, lids, and methods of use

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a national stage filing under 35 U.S.C. 371 of PCT/US2017/013121, filed Jan. 12, 2017, which claims the benefit of U.S. Application No. 62/279,292, filed Jan. 15, 2016, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference in its/their entirety herein. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Liquid spray guns are commonly used to spray coatings such as stains, primers, paints, sealers and the like onto surfaces. It is known to provide a liquid spray gun with a paint cup that contains the liquid to be sprayed. There is a need for improved paint cups, components thereof, and methods for using the same. 
     SUMMARY 
     It has been observed that paint cups and their components have a tendency to become coated in paint when used in their typical environments (e.g., in the mixing room of an automotive collision repair shop). This coating of paint can present practical difficulties for the painter. For example, even though a paint cup may be transparent when purchased (in order to permit viewing of the contents of the cup), viewing the contents is eventually made difficult or impossible due to the build-up of dried paint. In particular, in order to facilitate mixing of the correct measurements of components of the paint or other substances, transparent paint cup systems often include a mix ratio gauge that is visible from the exterior of the cup. The mix ratio gauge may be a separate insert, or it may be displayed on the paint cup itself. To combat the buildup of paint and maintain visibility of the mix ratio gauge, a painter is required to either use solvent to clean the paint cup, or purchase a new one. If the painter is then forced to purchase a new cup to replace the contaminated one, a significant amount of plastic material may need to be discarded, and the cost of a new cup may be significant. 
     The present disclosure relates to improved spray gun cups, spray gun cup receptacles, and methods of using the same. In certain embodiments, less material can be used to manufacture the spray gun cup receptacle, thereby leading to a spray gun cup that is cheaper to manufacture, is lighter in use, and creates less waste upon disposal. Spray gun cup receptacles according to the present disclosure can also permit increased visibility of the contents of the spray gun cup through their sidewall, due to the provision of apertures therein. This can be particularly beneficial during paint mixing, when the painter may wish to view the levels of the various liquids added to the spray gun cup to ensure the proper volumes and/or ratios of components are used. Because the apertures cannot become coated with paint, the contents of the spray gun cup can continue to be easily viewed even if the remainder of the sidewalls become coated with paint. 
     Moreover, due to the nature and placement of a brace member in the sidewall of the spray gun cup receptacle, the brace member leaves a sufficient portion of the apertures non-occluded, such that the contents of the spray gun cup are visible at every height at from at least one viewing direction. In other words, if a painter wishes to ensure that the level of liquid in the spray gun cup is at a certain height, wherein that height is blocked from view by the brace member in one rotational position, the painter need only rotate the spray gun cup—or view the spray gun cup from another direction—until that height becomes visible. In this way, the painter can determine the precise liquid level of contents at any height, regardless of the opacity of the spray gun cup receptacle. 
     A spray gun cup receptacle according to some embodiments of the present disclosure can provide strength, rigidity, and structure during paint mixing. In some embodiments, the spray gun cup receptacle is left in place while spraying. In such embodiments, the spray gun cup receptacle can also provide strength, rigidity, and structure when connecting the spray gun cup to a spray gun, and in the painting processes itself. These benefits can be achieved while reducing the amount of raw material required for manufacture (as compared to a paint cup with a continuous wall). 
     In some embodiments, a spray gun cup may include a liner that can be inserted into the spray gun cup receptacle. In such cases, the spray gun cup receptacle may serve as an outer support cup. 
     In some embodiments, a spray gun cup may comprise a lid member that may optionally include an integrated filter. An integrated filter can eliminate the need for a separate filter by allowing a user to mix the paint within the paint cup itself (i.e., there is no need to transfer paint from another receptacle). Because the number of transfer steps is reduced, the amount of paint wasted is reduced. Examples of lid members and liners suitable for use in some embodiments of the present disclosure can be found in PCT Publication WO 1998/032539 to Joseph et al. (alternatively US Publication US 2004/0256484 A1, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety). 
     Spray gun cups and spray gun cup receptacles according to the present disclosure can provide the necessary structure to withstand all typical forces in the use of the paint spray system. In the event that a portion of the spray gun cup receptacle blocks a the view of a portion of its contents, the receptacle, the liner, or the mix ratio gauge (where provided) may be rotated or otherwise adjusted to reveal any portion of the contents that was previously concealed by the spray gun cup receptacle. Visibility of the contents, while maintaining sufficient strength, rigidity, and structure as required throughout the mixing, connecting, and painting processes, are thus ensured. 
     Spray gun cups, receptacles, lids, and liners according to the present disclosure can further ease the assembly, use, disassembly, and cleanup compared to known systems. In some embodiments, the lid is able to connect directly to the receptacle without the need of an independent collar, and complementary connection features are provided on the lid and receptacle to assist in part alignment while at the same time speeding connection and reducing mistakes. 
     Moreover, embodiments according to the present disclosure can assist users in separating a liner from a lid to which the liner is securely sealed. The features disclosed herein can provide this functionality while also reducing the likelihood of rupturing the liner and/or causing paint spills. 
     Furthermore, some embodiments can provide improved tactile feedback to a user who is gripping an apertured receptacle to guide the user to avoid improperly pinching or squeezing a liner that is filled with paint, thus reducing the likelihood of costly spills. 
     Additional embodiments disclosed herein can increase flexibility and reduce cost in manufacturing of components (e.g., lids) for spray gun cups. For example, lids disclosed herein can be assembled from modular components, the benefits of which are more fully described below. 
     The present disclosure includes, but is not limited to, the following exemplary embodiments: 
     Embodiment 1 
     A spray gun cup receptacle comprising
         an open end for receiving a liner within a cavity;   a base end opposite the open end, the base end being positionable with respect to a work surface W with the open end facing upwards such that a base plane passing through the base end is parallel to the work surface;   a sidewall surrounding the cavity and connecting the open end to the base end, the sidewall comprising two apertures through which the cavity is visible from outside the spray gun cup receptacle, the two apertures being divided one above the other by a brace member, at least a portion of which is disposed at a brace member angle α relative to the base plane.       

     Embodiment 2 
     The spray gun cup receptacle of Embodiment 1 wherein the brace member angle α is sufficient to render the cavity visible through at least one of the two apertures at any vertical position within the cavity. 
     Embodiment 3 
     The spray gun cup receptacle of any of Embodiments 1 or 2 wherein the brace member defines a brace member trajectory T about the cavity, the brace member trajectory comprising a non-circular ellipse. 
     Embodiment 4 
     The spray gun cup receptacle of any of Embodiments 1-3 wherein the brace member angle α is at least 2 degrees. 
     Embodiment 5 
     The spray gun cup receptacle of any of Embodiments 1-4 wherein the brace member angle α is less than or equal to 30 degrees. 
     Embodiment 6 
     The spray gun cup receptacle of any of Embodiments 1-5 wherein the open end comprises receptacle connection structure to permit a lid member to be secured to the open end. 
     Embodiment 7 
     The spray gun cup receptacle of any of Embodiments 1-5 wherein the receptacle connection structure permits the lid member to be secured by one of: a threaded connection, a helical wedge connection, a snap-fit connection, a push-fit connection, a twist-lock connection, a clip connection, a strap connection, or combinations thereof. 
     Embodiment 8 
     The spray gun cup receptacle of any of Embodiments 1-7 wherein the sidewall comprises one or more generally vertical support members intersecting the brace member. 
     Embodiment 9 
     A spray gun cup comprising
         a spray gun cup receptacle according to any of Embodiments 1-8; and   a liner positioned in the cavity, the liner comprising an open end corresponding to the open end of the spray gun cup receptacle.       

     Embodiment 10 
     The spray gun cup of Embodiment 9 comprising volumetric indicia V position to be visible through the apertures and indicate a volume of contents of the liner. 
     Embodiment 11 
     The spray gun cup of Embodiment 10 wherein the volumetric indicia are on the liner. 
     Embodiment 12 
     The spray gun cup of Embodiment 10 wherein the volumetric indicia are provided on an insert positioned between the spray gun cup receptacle and the liner. 
     Embodiment 13 
     The spray gun cup container of any of Embodiments 9-12 comprising a lid member secured to the open end of the spray gun cup receptacle. 
     Embodiment 14 
     The spray gun cup container of Embodiment 13 wherein the open end of the liner is secured by interaction of the lid member and the open end of the spray gun cup receptacle. 
     Embodiment 15 
     A method of using a spray gun cup comprising
         positioning a spray gun cup receptacle according to any of Embodiments 1-8 on a work surface;   inserting a liner into the open end of the spray gun cup receptacle;   adding a liquid to the liner; and   viewing the level of the liquid through an aperture in the sidewall of the spray gun cup receptacle.       

     Embodiment 16 
     The method of Embodiment 15 comprising, prior to inserting the liner into the open end of the spray gun cup receptacle, inserting an insert comprising volumetric indicia into the open end of the spray gun cup receptacle. 
     Embodiment 17 
     The method of Embodiment 16 comprising determining the volume of the liquid by viewing the volumetric indicia through the aperture. 
     Embodiment 18 
     The method according to any of Embodiments 15-17 comprising adding additional liquid to the liner, and viewing the level of the combined liquids through an aperture in the sidewall of the spray gun cup receptacle. 
     Embodiment 19 
     The method according to any of Embodiments 15-18 comprising securing a lid to the open end of the spray gun cup receptacle, the lid comprising a liquid outlet. 
     Embodiment 20 
     The method of Embodiment 19 comprising attaching the liquid outlet to a spray gun. 
     Embodiment 21 
     The spray gun cup receptacle of any of Embodiments 1-8 comprising a tactile feedback member positioned on the sidewall directly adjacent an aperture. 
     Embodiment 22 
     The spray gun cup receptacle of Embodiment 21 wherein the tactile feedback member comprises a protrusion extending radially-outwardly from the sidewall. 
     Embodiment 23 
     The spray gun cup of any of Embodiments 9-14 wherein the spray gun cup receptacle comprises a tactile feedback member positioned on the sidewall directly adjacent an aperture. 
     Embodiment 24 
     The spray gun cup of Embodiment 23 wherein the tactile feedback member comprises a protrusion extending radially-outwardly from the sidewall. 
     Embodiment 25 
     The method of any of Embodiments 15-20 comprising, after adding liquid to the liner, gripping a sidewall of the spray gun cup receptacle comprising a tactile feedback member directly adjacent the aperture; and using feedback from the tactile feedback member to avoid gripping the liner through the aperture. 
     Embodiment 26 
     A spray gun cup lid comprising 
     a lid body comprising a liquid outlet and an outlet connection member; 
     a flange comprising a lid connection structure to connect the lid to a compatible spray gun cup receptacle, wherein the flange is constructed as a separate part from the lid body and is retained on the lid body by a flange retention feature. 
     Embodiment 27 
     The lid of Embodiment 26 wherein the flange is permitted to rotate with respect to the lid body. 
     Embodiment 28 
     The lid of Embodiment 27 wherein the flange is permitted to rotate through a limited arc. 
     Embodiment 29 
     The lid of Embodiment 28 wherein rotation of the flange is limited by a flange rotation limiting feature. 
     Embodiment 30 
     The lid of Embodiment 29 wherein the flange rotation limiting feature interacts with the flange retention feature to limit rotation. 
     Embodiment 31 
     The lid of Embodiment 26 wherein the flange is rotationally fixed with respect to the lid body. 
     Embodiment 32 
     The lid of any of Embodiments 26-31 comprising a filter positioned to filter a liquid before the liquid exits the liquid outlet. 
     Embodiment 33 
     The lid of any of Embodiments 26-32 wherein the lid body comprises an inner lid body surface which is positioned to funnel paint to the liquid outlet in use. 
     Embodiment 34 
     A spray gun cup lid comprising 
     a lid body comprising a liquid outlet; and 
     a flange positioned at an outer periphery of the lid body, the flange comprising a lid connection structure; the lid connection structure comprising a flange tab comprising a lid engagement member. 
     Embodiment 35 
     The lid of Embodiment 34 wherein the lid engagement member comprises a lid camming surface. 
     Embodiment 36 
     The lid of Embodiment 35 wherein the lid camming surface comprises one of an inclined surface, a curved surface, a flat surface, or a combination thereof. 
     Embodiment 37 
     The lid of any of Embodiments 35-36 wherein the lid body comprises an inner lid body surface and wherein the lid camming surface faces generally toward the inner lid body surface. 
     Embodiment 38 
     The lid of any of Embodiments 35-37 wherein the flange comprises an access window corresponding to the flange tab, the access window providing an opening to access the lid camming surface. 
     Embodiment 39 
     The lid of any of Embodiments 34-38 wherein the flange comprises a flange opening dividing two flange tabs. 
     Embodiment 40 
     The lid of Embodiment 39 wherein the flange comprises at least three flange tabs and at least three flange openings. 
     Embodiment 41 
     The lid of any of Embodiments 39-40 wherein the flange opening(s) permit clearance for a release tab of a compatible liner. 
     Embodiment 42 
     The lid of any of Embodiments 39-41 comprising a flange bridging member connecting two flange tabs proximate a flange opening. 
     Embodiment 43 
     The lid of any of Embodiments 34-41 wherein the lid engagement member comprises an easy-start partial thread. 
     Embodiment 44 
     The lid of any of Embodiments 34-43 wherein the lid engagement member comprises a stop feature to prevent over-rotation of the lid when connecting to a compatible spray gun cup receptacle. 
     Embodiment 45 
     The lid of Embodiment 34 wherein the lid engagement member comprises a snap-fit feature to permit the lid to snap onto a compatible spray gun cup receptacle. 
     Embodiment 46 
     The lid of Embodiments 45 wherein the flange comprises an access window corresponding to the flange tab, the access window providing an opening to access the snap-fit feature. 
     Embodiment 47 
     The lid of any of Embodiments 34-44 wherein the flange is constructed as a separate part from the lid body and is retained on the lid body by a flange retention feature. 
     Embodiment 48 
     The lid of any of Embodiments 34-44 or 47 wherein the lid body comprises an outlet connection member. 
     Embodiment 49 
     The lid of any of Embodiments 47-48 wherein the flange is permitted to rotate with respect to the lid body. 
     Embodiment 50 
     The lid of Embodiment 49 wherein the flange is permitted to rotate through a limited arc. 
     Embodiment 51 
     The lid of Embodiment 50 wherein rotation of the flange is limited by a flange rotation limiting feature. 
     Embodiment 52 
     The lid of Embodiment 51 wherein the flange rotation limiting feature interacts with the flange retention feature to limit rotation. 
     Embodiment 53 
     The lid of any of Embodiments 47-48 wherein the flange is rotationally fixed with respect to the lid body. 
     Embodiment 54 
     The lid of any of Embodiments 34-53 comprising a filter positioned to filter a liquid before the liquid exits the liquid outlet. 
     Embodiment 55 
     The lid of any of Embodiments 34-54 wherein the lid body comprises an inner lid body surface which is positioned to funnel paint to the liquid outlet in use. 
     Embodiment 56 
     A spray gun cup receptacle comprising 
     an open end surrounding a central axis; 
     a receptacle connection structure comprising a receptacle engagement member comprising a partial easy-start thread. 
     Embodiment 57 
     The spray gun cup receptacle of Embodiment 56 wherein the receptacle connection structure comprises at least two receptacle engagement members separated by a space around the periphery of the open end. 
     Embodiment 58 
     The spray gun cup receptacle of Embodiment 57 wherein the space is sized to permit complete clearance of a lid engagement member of a compatible lid when the lid is installed onto the spray gun cup receptacle along the central axis without relative rotation between the lid and the spray gun cup receptacle. 
     Embodiment 59 
     The spray gun cup receptacle of Embodiment 58 wherein at least one of the receptacle engagement members comprises a stop feature to prevent over-rotation of a compatible lid. 
     Embodiment 60 
     The spray gun cup receptacle of any of Embodiments 58-59 wherein at least one of the receptacle engagement members comprises a forward portion that is positioned at a height along the central axis to prevent reverse-rotation of a partially-installed lid. 
     Embodiment 61 
     A spray gun cup comprising 
     a lid comprising 
     a lid body; 
     a flange at the periphery of the lid body and comprising at least two flange tabs separated by a flange opening; and 
     a liner comprising a release tab, wherein the release tab fits within the flange opening when the liner is assembled with the lid. 
     Embodiment 62 
     A spray gun cup comprising 
     a spray gun cup receptacle comprising a receptacle connection structure; and 
     a lid according to any of Embodiments 26-55. 
     Embodiment 63 
     The spray gun cup of Embodiment 62 comprising a liner. 
     Embodiment 64 
     The spray gun cup of Embodiment 63 wherein the liner comprises a release tab. 
     Embodiment 65 
     A spray gun cup comprising 
     a spray gun cup receptacle according to any of Embodiments 56-60; and 
     a lid comprising a lid engagement member comprising an easy-start partial thread. 
     Embodiment 66 
     The spray gun cup of Embodiment 65 wherein the lid engagement member comprises a rear portion that is positioned at a height along the central axis such that the rear portion contacts the forward portion of the receptacle engagement member to prevent reverse-rotation of the lid when it is partially installed. 
     Embodiment 67 
     The spray gun cup of any of Embodiments 65-66 comprising a liner. 
     Embodiment 68 
     The spray gun cup of Embodiment 67 wherein the liner comprises a release tab. 
     Embodiment 69 
     A spray gun cup comprising a spray gun cup receptacle according to any of Embodiments 56-60; and a lid according to any of Embodiments 26-55. 
     Embodiment 70 
     The spray gun cup of Embodiment 69 comprising a liner. 
     Embodiment 71 
     The spray gun cup of Embodiment 70 wherein the liner comprises a release tab. 
     Embodiment 72 
     A method of installing a lid onto a spray gun cup receptacle comprising 
     inserting a liner comprising an open end into an open end of a spray gun cup receptacle such that the open end of the liner rests within the open end of the spray gun cup receptacle, the spray gun cup receptacle comprising a receptacle engagement structure; 
     positioning a lid over the open end of the spray gun cup receptacle such that a lid connection structure on the lid is rotationally aligned with the receptacle connection structure; 
     pushing the lid along a central axis into the open end of the liner to stretch the open end of the liner radially-outwardly around a liner sealing member on the lid; and 
     after pushing the lid into the liner, rotating the lid connection structure to engage with the receptacle connection structure to lock the lid and liner in place against the spray gun cup receptacle. 
     Embodiment 73 
     The method of Embodiment 72 wherein the pushing step comprises pushing the lid essentially into its final position in the liner prior to rotating the lid connection structure. 
     Embodiment 74 
     The method of Embodiment 73 wherein the pushing step comprises pushing a lid rim into contact with a liner rim. 
     Embodiment 75 
     The method of any of Embodiments 72-74 wherein the rotating step comprises engaging a camming surface on the spray gun cup receptacle with a lid camming surface to apply an attractive force along the central axis tending to draw the lid toward the spray gun cup receptacle. 
     Embodiment 76 
     The method of any of Embodiments 72-75 comprising, after rotating step, rotating the lid connection structure in the opposite direction to disengage the lid connection structure from the receptacle connection structure; and 
     removing the liner from the lid. 
     Embodiment 77 
     The method of Embodiment 76 comprising, prior to removing the liner from the lid, lifting the lid, together with the liner, from the spray gun cup receptacle. 
     Embodiment 78 
     The method of any of Embodiments 76-77 wherein removing the liner from the lid comprises gripping a release tab on the liner to peel the liner from the lid sealing member. 
     Embodiment 79 
     A method of installing a lid on a spray gun cup receptacle comprising 
     positioning a lid onto an open end of a spray gun cup receptacle, the lid comprising a lid body, a flange, and a flange tab comprising a lid engagement member; 
     installing the lid onto the spray gun cup receptacle by engaging the lid engagement member with a receptacle engagement member on the spray gun cup receptacle; 
     lifting the flange tab to release the lid engagement member from the receptacle engagement member; and 
     lifting the lid from the spray gun cup receptacle. 
     Embodiment 80 
     The method of Embodiment 79 wherein the installing step comprises rotating the flange with respect to the spray gun cup receptacle. 
     Embodiment 81 
     The method of Embodiment 79 wherein the installing step comprises axially translating the flange toward respect to the spray gun cup receptacle without rotation. 
     Embodiment 82 
     The method of any of Embodiments 79-81 wherein lifting the flange tab and lifting the liner from the spray gun cup receptacle does not require any rotation of the flange with respect to the spray gun cup receptacle. 
     Embodiment 83 
     A spray gun cup lid comprising 
     a modular lid base; and 
     a modular liquid outlet that is formed independently of the modular lid base and is connected at an interface to the modular lid base, the modular liquid outlet comprising an outlet connection member to allow connection to a compatible spray gun. 
     Embodiment 84 
     The lid of Embodiment 83 wherein at least one of the modular lid base or the modular liquid outlet comprises a sealing feature which creates a liquid-tight seal when the modular liquid outlet is installed onto the modular lid base. 
     Embodiment 85 
     The lid of Embodiment 84 wherein the sealing feature is located on a cylindrical protrusion depending from at least one of the modular lid base or the modular liquid outlet. 
     Embodiment 86 
     The lid of any of Embodiments 84-85 wherein the sealing feature comprises at least one radial sealing rib. 
     Embodiment 87 
     The lid of any of Embodiments 84-86 wherein the liquid outlet on the modular liquid outlet comprises an interior surface, and wherein assembly of the modular liquid outlet to the modular lid base creates a liquid-tight seal on the interior surface. 
     Embodiment 88 
     The lid of any of Embodiments 83-87 wherein at least one of the modular lid base or the modular liquid outlet comprises an alignment feature to rotationally position and retain the modular lid base and the modular liquid outlet during assembly. 
     Embodiment 89 
     The lid of any of Embodiments 83-88 wherein the modular liquid outlet is installed onto the modular lid base by one of spin welding, sonic welding, twist-locking, adhesives, threads, mechanical fasteners, deformed posts, or combinations thereof. 
     Embodiment 90 
     The lid of any of Embodiments 83-89 wherein the modular liquid outlet is non-destructively removable from the modular lid base. 
     Embodiment 91 
     The lid of any of Embodiments 83-90 wherein the modular liquid outlet is constructed from a different material than the modular lid base. 
     Embodiment 92 
     The lid of any of Embodiments 83-91 wherein the modular liquid outlet is adapted to alternatively connect to a paint source other than a spray gun cup such that paint can be fed directly to a spray gun via the modular liquid outlet. 
     Embodiment 93 
     A method of designing a spray gun lid to fit a particular model of spray gun comprising 
     determining the paint inlet connection geometry for a particular spray gun; 
     constructing a modular liquid outlet comprising outlet connection geometry to fit the paint inlet connection geometry on the spray gun; and 
     packaging the modular liquid outlet with a modular lid base, wherein the modular liquid outlet is adapted to install onto the modular lid base to for a lid to fit the spray gun. 
     Embodiment 94 
     The method of Embodiment 93 wherein the packaging step comprises installing the modular liquid outlet to the modular lid base such that no further assembly is required. 
     Embodiment 95 
     The method of Embodiment 93 wherein the packaging step comprises leaving the modular liquid outlet and the modular lid base unassembled for later assembly by a downstream customer or end user. 
     Embodiment 96 
     The method of any of Embodiments 93-95 comprising designing a plurality of modular liquid outlets that are installable onto a single modular lid base but fit a plurality of spray guns. 
     Embodiment 97 
     The method of Embodiment 96 comprising, prior to constructing the modular liquid outlet, accepting a request from a customer to provide a lid to fit the particular spray gun. 
     Embodiment 98 
     The method of any of Embodiments 93-97 comprising instructing a downstream customer or user to install a modular liquid outlet for the particular spray gun onto the modular lid base. 
     Embodiment 99 
     A method of using a spray gun lid comprising installing a modular liquid outlet to a modular lid base to form a lid; and connecting the lid to a spray gun. 
     Embodiment 100 
     The method of Embodiment 99 comprising, prior to installing the modular liquid outlet to the modular lid base, choosing from at least two different modular liquid outlets designed to fit different spray guns and determining the correct modular liquid outlet to install. 
     Embodiment 101 
     A spray gun lid kit comprising a modular lid base and at least two modular liquid outlets. 
     Embodiment 102 
     The kit of Embodiment 101 wherein the at least two modular liquid outlets comprise different outlet connection members designed to fit a paint inlet connection geometry on more than one spray gun. 
     Embodiment 103 
     A spray gun lid kit comprising a lid according to any of Embodiments 83-90 and at least one additional modular liquid outlet. 
     Embodiment 104 
     The kit of Embodiment 103 wherein at least two modular liquid outlets comprise different outlet connection members designed to fit a paint inlet connection geometry on more than one spray gun. 
     Embodiment 105 
     A spray gun cup receptacle or method comprising the use of a spray gun cup receptacle as described in any of Embodiments 56-60 and/or 65-82 wherein the spray gun cup receptacle and/or method comprises the features of any of Embodiments 1-25. 
     Embodiment 106 
     A spray gun cup receptacle comprising an open end for receiving a liner within a cavity; a sidewall surrounding the cavity and connecting the open end to the base end, the sidewall comprising an aperture through which the cavity is visible from outside the spray gun cup receptacle; and a tactile feedback member positioned on the sidewall directly adjacent the aperture. 
     Embodiment 107 
     The spray gun cup receptacle of Embodiment 106 wherein the tactile feedback member comprises a protrusion extending radially-outwardly from the sidewall. 
     These, as well as other aspects, advantages, and alternatives, will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art by reading the following detailed description, with reference, where appropriate, to the accompanying drawings. 
     It should be noted that, for simplicity, the term “paint” is used throughout this specification, but it will be understood that this does not limit the spray gun cup receptacle to use with paint and that the spray gun cup receptacle is suitable for use with all liquids which are suitable for use in a liquid spray gun system. 
     Additionally, it will be understood that terms such as “top”, “bottom”, “upper”, “lower”, “under”, “over”, “front”, “back”, “outward”, “inward”, “up”, “down”, “first”, and “second”, which may be used in this disclosure, are used in their relative sense only, unless otherwise noted. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG.  1 A  is an isometric view of an embodiment of a spray gun cup receptacle according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  1 B  is a side view of the embodiment of a spray gun cup receptacle presented in  FIG.  1 A  according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  1 C  is a side view of the embodiment of a spray gun cup receptacle including volumetric indicia according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  1 D  is a cross-sectional view taken at  1 D- 1 D of  FIG.  1 C  of a spray gun cup receptacle according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  2    is a side view of an embodiment of a spray gun cup receptacle according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  3    is a side view of an embodiment of a spray gun cup receptacle according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  4 A  is an isometric view of an embodiment of a spray gun cup according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  4 B  is an isometric view of an embodiment of a spray gun cup including volumetric indicia according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  4 C  is an exploded isometric view of an embodiment of a spray gun cup including an insert comprising volumetric indicia according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  4 D  is an exploded isometric view of an embodiment of a spray gun cup according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  5 A  is an isometric view of an embodiment of a spray gun cup according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  5 B  is an isometric view of an embodiment of a spray gun cup including volumetric indicia according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  5 C  is an exploded isometric view of an embodiment of a spray gun cup including an insert comprising volumetric indicia according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  5 D  is an exploded isometric view of an embodiment of a spray gun cup according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  6    is an isometric view of an embodiment of a spray gun cup according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  7    is an exploded isometric view of the spray gun cup of  FIG.  6   ; 
         FIG.  8    is an exploded isometric view of an alternative embodiment of the spray gun cup of  FIG.  6    wherein the liner is shown without removal features; 
         FIG.  9    is an isometric view of an embodiment of a liner according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  9 A  is a top view of the liner of  FIG.  9   ; 
         FIG.  10    is an isometric view of an embodiment of a spray gun cup receptacle according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  10 A  is a detailed front view of the spray gun cup receptacle of  FIG.  10    detailing a quick-start thread feature; 
         FIG.  10 B  is a detailed cross-section view taken at  10 B- 10 B of  FIG.  10   ; 
         FIG.  11    is an isometric view of an embodiment of a lid according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  11 A  is a front view of the lid of  FIG.  11   ; 
         FIG.  11 B  is a top view of the lid of  FIG.  11   ; 
         FIG.  11 C  is a cross-section view taken at c-c of  FIG.  11 B ; 
         FIG.  11 D  is a cross-section view taken at d-d of  FIG.  11 B ; 
         FIG.  11 E  is a bottom view of the lid of  FIG.  11   ; 
         FIG.  12    is an isometric view of an embodiment of a lid according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  12 A  is a front view of the lid of  FIG.  12   ; 
         FIG.  13    is an isometric view of an embodiment of a lid according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  13 A  is a front view of the lid of  FIG.  13   ; 
         FIG.  14    is an isometric view of an embodiment of a lid according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  14 A  is a top view of the lid of  FIG.  14   ; 
         FIG.  15    is an isometric view of an embodiment of a lid according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  15 A  is a top view of the lid of  FIG.  15   ; 
         FIG.  15 B  is an exploded assembly view of the lid of  FIG.  15   ; 
         FIG.  16    is an isometric view of an embodiment of a lid according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  16 A  is a top view of the lid of  FIG.  16   ; 
         FIG.  16 B  is an exploded assembly view of the lid of  FIG.  16   ; 
         FIG.  16 C  is an isometric view of a lid as shown in  FIGS.  16 - 16 B  additionally comprising a rotation limiting featured; 
         FIG.  16 D  in as exploded assembly view of the lid of  FIG.  16 C ; 
         FIG.  17    is an isometric view of a lid comprising modular components according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  17 A  is an exploded view of the lid of  FIG.  17   ; 
         FIG.  18    is an isometric view of a lid comprising modular components according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  18 A  is an exploded view of the lid of  FIG.  18   ; and 
         FIG.  19    is an isometric view depicting a kit comprising modular lid components as described herein. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     It should be noted that in the accompanying figures, some elements may be present in identical or equivalent multiples; in such cases, only one or more representative elements may be designated by a reference number, but it will be understood that such reference numbers apply to all such identical elements. 
       FIGS.  1 A and  1 B  depict an exemplary embodiment of a spray gun cup receptacle  100  according to the present disclosure. The spray gun cup receptacle  100  comprises an open end  110  providing access to an interior cavity  120 . Opposite the open end  110  is a base end  130 . As shown, the base end  130  comprises an essentially flat configuration having optional feet  132  enabling the base to be stably rested directly on a flat work surface W (not shown in  FIG.  1 A ). The number, shape, and placement of the feet  132  may be varied as needed. In some embodiments, the base end  130  is not itself flat, but can be held at rest on a work surface as above with the assistance of an additional structure (i.e., a holder or the like). 
     Whether the base end  130  is flat or not, a base end plane  134  can be drawn through the base end  130  (while at rest and upright as indicated above) parallel to the work surface W, as shown in  FIG.  1 B . 
     In this embodiment, a sidewall  140  surrounds the cavity  120  and connects the open end  110  to the base end  130 . The sidewall  140  comprises a series of apertures  150  (at least two, but in this particular embodiment eight) that penetrate the sidewall  140  to permit the contents of the cavity  120  to be viewed therethrough. There is no requirement as to how much material is required to constitute a sidewall  140 ; it is to be understood that a sidewall  140  exists so long as the open end  110  and the base end  130  are connected. As shown, the apertures  150  are divided by a brace member  160  and by support members  166 . Generally, the support members  166  provide support in the axial direction (along a central axis  101 , and orthogonal to the base end plane  134 ), while the brace member  160  provides, inter alia, hoop strength to the spray gun cup receptacle  100  at an intermediate position between the open end  110  and the base end  130 . In the embodiment shown, there are four vertical support members  166 . However, it is envisioned that there could be a different number of support members  166  (e.g., one, two, three, five, six, or seven or more), and that the support members  166  could be non-vertical or only generally vertical. By “generally vertical”, it is meant that an imaginary straight line drawn to represent an average of the trajectory of a support member from the base end  130  to the open end  110  is within +/− five degrees of vertical. It should be understood that the term “vertical” as used herein refers to the orientation of geometry assuming the spray gun cup receptacle  100  were resting with a flat base end  130  resting on a level, flat work surface. 
     In some embodiments, the sidewall  140  spray gun cup receptacle  100  may be highly apertured, such that relatively minimal support structure (e.g., brace member  160 ( s ) and/or support member(s)) are provided. In such cases, it may be advantageous to construct the spray cup receptacle (particularly the sidewall  140 ) from a relatively strong material, such as a filled polyamide. 
     It can further be seen in the embodiment of  FIGS.  1 A and  1 B  that the spray gun cup receptacle  100  comprises receptacle connection structure  170  proximate its open end  110 . This receptacle connection structure  170  enables a separate lid member  300  (not shown in  FIGS.  1 A- 1 D ) to be secured to the spray gun cup receptacle  100 . As shown, the receptacle connection structure  170  comprises threads. However, other connection structures may be employed to provide a different connection mechanism (e.g., a helical wedge connection, a snap-fit connection, a push-fit connection, a twist-lock connection, a clip connection, a latch connection, a hinged connection, or combinations thereof). 
     Turning now to  FIG.  1 C , a spray gun cup receptacle  100  similar to those shown in  FIGS.  1 A and  1 B  is further provided with volumetric indicia “V.” The volumetric indicia provide the painter a way to determine the volume and/or ratio of liquid component(s) in the cavity  120 . The volumetric indicia may be provided as a separate insert  600  (see, e.g.,  FIGS.  4 C and  5 C ), imprinted or otherwise disposed on a liner  200 , or otherwise positioned between the spray gun cup receptacle  100  and the cavity  120  where liquids may be contained. 
     As can be seen in  FIGS.  1 B and  1 C , the brace member  160  are disposed at a suitable brace member  160  angle α that permits the volumetric indicia to be viewed at any height within the cavity  120 . For example, although as shown in  FIG.  1 C  the “10 oz.” indicia is hidden behind the brace member  160 , a simple rotation of the volumetric indicia would enable it to be viewed (for example, by rotating the volumetric indicia such that “12 oz.” would appear in the lower right-hand aperture). Alternatively, or in addition, the volumetric indicia may be repeated such that an identical volume marking appears in more than one location, wherein at least one of the locations is not visually occluded by the brace member  160 . In this way, the disposition of the brace member  160  can permit the volume of the contents to be accurately determined at any liquid level. 
     In the exemplary embodiments of  FIGS.  1 A and  1 B , the magnitude of the brace member  160  angle α is about 7.5 degrees as referenced from the base end plane  134 . In the embodiment of  FIG.  1 C , (in order to make the below-described trajectory “T” more visually apparent) the magnitude of the brace member  160  angle α is about 25 degrees as referenced from the base end plane  134 . However, the brace member  160  angle α (or “angles” in the case of more complex shapes) may be chosen as any angle greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees (i.e., the brace member  160  is neither parallel nor orthogonal to the base end plane  134 ) that both facilitates the structural requirements of the spray gun cup receptacle  100  and also provides visibility as described herein at all levels of the cavity  120  through at least one aperture. A brace member  160  should divide at least two apertures  150  such that the apertures  150  are positioned—at least partially—vertically one over the other, and thus brace member  160  angles α much less than 90 degrees (e.g., 30 degrees or less) are expected for most spray gun cup receptacle  100  sizes and geometries. As can be seen in embodiments of the Figures, apertures  150  are divided by brace members disposed at brace member  160  angles α such that an upper aperture is positioned higher than a lower aperture, thereby permitting visibility at all liquid levels. 
     In some embodiments, multiple brace members  160  with different corresponding angles α 1 , α 2 , α 3 , etc. may form more complex shapes (see, e.g.,  FIGS.  2  and  3   ). In some embodiments, the brace member  160  angle α is at least about 2 degrees as referenced from the base end plane  134 . In some embodiments, the brace member  160  angle α is less than or equal to about 30 degrees as referenced from the base end plane  134 . In some embodiments, the brace member  160  angle α is in a range from about 2 degrees to about 30 degrees as referenced from the base end plane  134 , including, without limitation, 4, 7, 11.5, 16, and 25 degrees, including any angle therein. 
     As shown in the embodiment of  FIG.  1 D , the trajectory “T” followed by the brace member  160  as it circumscribes the cavity  120  can be described as a non-circular ellipse. As used herein, “non-circular ellipse” means an ellipse whose eccentricity is not zero. In embodiments where the sidewall  140  of the spray gun cup receptacle  100  is generally cylindrical, the eccentricity may be calculated as the sine of the brace member  160  angle α in degrees (i.e., eccentricity=SIN(α)). Generally, for such embodiments, the eccentricity will increase as the brace member  160  angle α increases, and vice-versa. In some embodiments, the eccentricity of the trajectory “T” is at least 0.03. In some embodiments, the eccentricity of the trajectory “T” is less than or equal to 0.5. In some embodiments, the eccentricity of the trajectory “T” is in a range from about 0.03 to about 0.5. 
     It should be understood that the trajectory “T” need not be strictly elliptical in order to fall within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the spray gun cup receptacle  100  may be formed as generally cylindrical, but with a slight draft angle (e.g., approximately 3 degrees) such that its profile increases from the base end  130  to the open end  110 , resulting in a trajectory “T” along the brace member  160  angle α that is generally elliptical, but in reality is slightly “egg-shaped.” 
     In other embodiments, the brace member  160  may follow a differing trajectory or trajectories. For example,  FIGS.  2  and  3    depict alternative embodiments of spray gun cup  500  receptacles comprising more than one brace member  160  disposed in a manner different from the embodiments of  FIGS.  1 A- 1 D . Alternatively, or in combination, a brace member  160  could be provided to follow a trajectory whose brace member  160  angle α varies as its position about the sidewall  140  varies—e.g., a sinusoidal wave, a square wave, or a sawtooth pattern. Such waves or patterns could be repeating or irregular. Moreover, although the embodiments of spray gun cup  500  receptacles depicted herein all show a generally circular cross-section, this need not be the case. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the spray gun cup receptacle  100  at any given height may comprise a polygon such as a hexagon or octagon or any other shape that permits the functional purposes set forth herein to be realized. For example, in all cases the brace member  160  will be shaped and disposed to enable visibility of the cavity  120  as described elsewhere herein. 
       FIG.  4 A  depicts a spray gun cup  500  comprising a spray gun cup receptacle  100  as shown, for example, in  FIG.  1 A . This embodiment includes a liner  200  positioned in the cavity  120  of the spray gun cup receptacle  100 . The liner  200  has an open end  210  (see  FIGS.  4 C- 4 D ) corresponding to the open end  110  of the spray gun cup receptacle  100 . A lid member  300  is secured to the spray gun cup receptacle  100 , to the liner  200 , or to both. The lid member  300  can be secured in many ways. As shown in  FIGS.  4 A- 4 D , an optional collar  400  (cf.  FIGS.  5 A- 5 D ) captures the lid member  300  and the liner  200  between the collar  400  and the spray gun cup receptacle  100  via collar connection structure  470 —in this case screw threads. Any of the receptacle connection structures  170  earlier described may be used in similar fashion to permit an optional collar  400  to attach to the remainder of the spray gun cup  500 . In addition, or in the alternative, the lid member  300  itself can be provided with lid connection structure  370  to compliment the collar connection structure  470 . In such embodiments, for example, the collar  400  can be configured to attach from below the lid member  300  to capture the liner  200  between the lid member  300  and the collar  400 . In such embodiments (and in other embodiments described herein) the spray gun cup receptacle may remain with the spray gun cup during spraying, or the lid, liner, and collar may be detached or removed from the spray gun cup receptacle  100  as a unit during spraying (in which case the spray gun cup receptacle  100  may be primarily used as a mixing vessel only). 
     As shown, the lid member  300  comprises a liquid outlet  310  and one or more outlet connection members  320  to permit the lid  300  to be connected to the liquid inlet of a spray gun. An outlet connection member  320  may be provided on, about, adjacent, or remote from, the liquid outlet  310  so long as it facilitates secure, liquid-tight connection to a spray gun. Optionally, the lid comprises a filter (not shown) to permit the liquid in the spray gun cup to be filtered prior to spraying. 
     The liquid outlet  310  and/or outlet connection member(s)  320  may be formed integrally with the remainder of the lid  300 . Alternatively, these components may be initially formed as a separate, modular part or assembly comprising connection geometry to permit connection to the remainder of the lid  300 . Example of such a configurations are depicted in  FIGS.  17 - 18 A , which each depict exemplary lid  300  comprising a modular lid base  304  and a modular liquid outlet  330  connected thereto.  FIGS.  17 A and  18 A  depict the assemblies of  FIGS.  17  and  18   , respectively, in a disassembled state, while  FIG.  19    depicts a modular lid base  304  as a kit provided with a plurality of modular liquid outlets  330  configured to fit a variety of spray guns (in this case the alternate spray guns are labeled “B,” “C,” “D,” “E,” etc.). Such an approach can be advantageous, for example, by allowing a single lid/receptacle combination to connect to multiple spray guns without the need for either (i) separate adapters; or (ii) separate tooling to create custom lids for each gun. Instead, a common modular lid base  304  can be manufactured in a single (likely larger) tool, while the smaller modular liquid outlets  330 —which presumably would be manufactured at a lower volume—can be manufactured on smaller, less expensive tooling and equipment. With this approach, changes in the connection geometry to a particular spray gun, or the introduction of new spray guns, can be accommodated without the need to modify of the tooling for the modular lid base. 
     Examples of outlet connection members  320  useful for lids  300  described herein (for example, in the kits described in the preceding paragraph) include, for example, those shown and described in U.S. application Ser. No. 15/375,556 (entitled “Reservoir systems for hand-held spray guns and methods of use”), and in U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 62/322,492, 62/279,619 and 62/279,537 (respectively entitled “Connector systems for hand-held spray guns,” “Wide-Mouthed Fluid Connector for Hand-Held Spray Guns,” and “Button-Lock Fluid Connector for Hand-Held Spray Guns”), the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
     A modular liquid outlet  330  provided as above could alternatively be attached or preassembled to the end of a paint supply line or pouch etc. and in turn connected to the spray gun pain t inlet. In this way, paint could be directly to the spray gun without the need for the modular lid base  304 , the liner  200 , or the spray gun cup receptacle  100 . 
     Constructing the lid  300  using a modular liquid outlet  330  and a modular lid base  304  can provide a further advantage or allowing more complex geometries to be feasibly created than may otherwise be possible using, e.g., injection molding. For example, in a given lid  300 , it may be impossible to form a particular geometry in an injection molded part due to the locations of mold parting lies and the necessary trajectory of slides required to form certain features. However, if the lid  300  is split into modular components, tooling can be designed to directly access surfaces of each modular component that would not have been accessible on the one-piece lid. Thus, further geometric complexity can be achieved. 
     Modular lid components may also be constructed of different materials as desirable for the application. For example, it may be desirable to use an engineering plastic for the modular liquid outlet  330  (due the strength and tolerances required for a secure and durable connection to the spray gun), while lower cost polymers could be used for the modular lid base  304 . 
     A modular liquid outlet  330  could be secured to the modular lid base  304  (or vice versa) in a variety of ways. For example, spin welding, sonic welding, quarter turn locking, other mechanical locking mechanisms, glues/adhesives, threaded, other mechanical fasteners i.e. screws, rivets and/or molded posts that are cold formed/hot formed and mushroomed down to hold/retain the component(s) in place and provide a suitable leak-proof seal. 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIGS.  17 - 17 A , the modular liquid outlet  330  is located against and secured to the modular lid base  304  with the aid of a sealing feature  306  and an alignment feature  309 . In this case, the sealing feature  306  is on the modular lid base  304  and comprises a cylindrical protrusion  307  comprising a one or a plurality of radial sealing ribs  308  adapted to interact with an interior surface  311  of liquid outlet  310  to create a liquid-tight seal upon assembly of the modular liquid outlet  330  to the modular lid base  304 . Likewise, the alignment features  309  assist to locate the two parts together and also to resist relative rotation of the parts once assembled. The two parts may be additionally secured by an adhesive, welding, or the like after assembly, if desired. Alternatively, the fit between the modular liquid outlet  330  and the modular lid base  304  may be constructed to be sufficiently secure without the aid of further fasteners (e.g., by way of a friction fit, snap-fit, thread, or the like). Sealing features  306  and/or alignment features  309 , where used, may be interchanged between the two parts as appropriate. 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIGS.  18 - 18 A , the modular liquid outlet  330  is secured to the modular lid base  304  by way of welding and/or an adhesive or the like. In this case, the adhesive joint and/or weld joint act to both retain and create a liquid-tight seal upon assembly of the modular liquid outlet  330  to the modular lid base  304 . 
     It should be understood that any of the lids  300  described herein and depicted throughout  FIGS.  1 - 16 B  could be constructed in a modular fashion and/or provided in kits as described in the preceding several paragraphs and depicted in  FIGS.  17 - 19   . 
       FIG.  4 B  depicts an embodiment as in  FIG.  4 A  further including volumetric indicia V as described elsewhere herein. 
       FIG.  4 C  depicts an exploded view of a spray gun cup  500  including volumetric indicia provided on an insert  600 . As shown, it can be seen that the insert  600  may comprise a sheet that is deformable to the cavity of the spray gun cup receptacle upon insertion. Alternatively, an insert  600  could be provided as a pre-molded unit that could drop into the spray gun cup receptacle  100  without deformation. 
     An insert  600 , or the corresponding receiving geometry of the spray gun cup receptacle  100 , may be constructed such that the insert  600  is registered in the cavity and with respect to the apertures and thus generally fixed against rotation. In such an embodiment, the insert  600  may be provided as described above with repeating volumetric indicia “V” such that each liquid level is visible from at least one position about the spray gun cup receptacle. In some embodiments, the insert  600  may be registerable in more than one location such that the insert can be inserted and fixed in more than one position. 
       FIG.  4 D  depicts an exploded view of a spray gun cup  500  not including volumetric indicia V, but wherein the contents of the cavity are nonetheless visible at all fluid levels through at least one aperture as described elsewhere herein. In order that the contents of a liner  200 —when provided—are visible, the liner is generally constructed from a transparent or translucent material. 
       FIG.  5 A  depicts a spray gun cup  500  different from the one depicted in  FIG.  4 A  in that no collar  400  is used. Rather, the lid member  300  is adapted to be secured without the need of a collar. The lid member  300 , while otherwise configured as described above, may be provided with lid connection structure  370  that may have alternatively been provided on a collar  400 . For example, the lid member  300  may itself screw directly (via lid connection structure  370 ) into—or on to, or both—the spray gun cup receptacle  100 . Alternatively (or in combination), the lid member  300  could comprise lid connection structure  370  to compliment receptacle connection structure  170  as previously discussed with respect to  FIG.  1 A  (e.g., a snap-fit connection, a push-fit connection, a twist-lock connection, a clip connection, a latch connection, a hinged connection, or combinations thereof). 
       FIG.  5 B  depicts an embodiment as in  FIG.  5 A  further including volumetric indicia V as described elsewhere herein. 
       FIG.  5 C  depicts an exploded view of a spray gun cup  500  including volumetric indicia provided on an insert  600 . As shown, it can be seen that the insert  600  may comprise a sheet that is deformable to the cavity of the spray gun cup receptacle  100  upon insertion. Alternatively, an insert  600  could be provided as a pre-molded unit that could drop into the spray gun cup receptacle  100  without deformation. 
       FIG.  5 D  depicts an exploded view of a spray gun cup  500  not including volumetric indicia, but wherein the contents of the cavity are nonetheless visible at all fluid levels through at least one aperture as described elsewhere herein. As shown in both  FIGS.  5 C and  5 D , the lid connection structure  370  comprises a snap-fit connection with complimentary receptacle connection structure  170 . In order that the contents of a liner  200 —when provided—are visible, the liner is generally constructed from a transparent or translucent material. 
       FIGS.  6  through  8    depict additional embodiments of a spray gun cup  500  that, like the embodiments of  FIGS.  5 A- 5 D , have a lid  300  connected directly to the receptacle connection structure  170  without the need of a separate collar  400 . An exemplary liner for use with such a spray gun cup  500  is shown in  FIGS.  9 - 9 A , while an exemplary spray gun cup receptacle is shown in  FIGS.  10 - 10 A , and various exemplary embodiments of lids  300  are depicted in  FIGS.  11 - 16 B . 
     In the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  6   , the spray gun cup receptacle  100  comprises one or more apertures  150 . Although such apertures  150  could be provided in the manner described above (i.e., intersected by one or more brace members), no brace members are shown here. Adjacent the aperture(s), there are provided one or more tactile feedback members  152  that are proud of the outer wall  104  of the spray gun cup receptacle  100 . Alternatively, a tactile feedback member  152  may be provided as a recess in the outer wall  104 , or, e.g., as a texture on the outer wall  104 . The tactile feedback member(s) allow a user to know, without looking at the spray gun cup  500 , that they are gripping an area adjacent an aperture, such that they can properly locate their hand(s) and avoid inadvertently applying excess pressure (such as by squeezing) to the liner  200  through the aperture(s). It has been found that squeezing the liner  200  when it is filled with paint can cause spilling of paint (by forcing paint upward an out of the open end  210  of the liner  200  or accidental disconnection of the lid  300  from the liner  200  through excess deformation of the open end  210  of the liner  200 . 
     While the exemplary spray gun cup receptacles shown in  FIGS.  6 - 16 B  comprise a different configuration of aperture as compared to  FIGS.  1 - 5 D , it should be understood that any of the lids  300  and spray gun cup receptacles  100  described herein could be used with one another provided any necessary modifications are made to the respective receptacle, lid, and/or optional collar connection structures ( 170 ,  370 ,  470 , respectively). 
       FIGS.  11 - 16 B  depict various exemplary embodiments of lids useful with spray gun cup  500  receptacles described herein. As can be seen in, e.g.,  FIGS.  11 A and  11 C , the lid  300  may comprise one or more liner sealing members  340 . A liner sealing member  340 , when provided, functions as follows: a liner  200  is inserted into the open end  110  of a spray gun cup receptacle  100 ; paint is added through the open end  110  of the liner  200 ; a lid  300  it positioned in the open end  110  of the liner  200  (and receptacle); the lid  300  is secured to the receptacle in a direction along the central axis  101  such that the open end  110  of the liner  200  is stretched radially over the liner sealing member  340  and finally into full sealing engagement. A liner sealing member  340  may comprise one or more radially-outwardly protruding features, such as those shown in  FIGS.  11 - 11 E and  15 - 19   . A liner sealing member may additionally (or alternatively) comprise a chamfered or otherwise tapered surface, such as those shown in  FIGS.  12 - 14 A . 
     The lid  300  may further comprise a liner seal catch  342 , an example of which is most clearly depicted in  FIGS.  12 - 13 A . A liner seal catch  342  can enhance liner retention on the lid  340  and, some embodiments can assist in providing tactile and/or audible reassurance to the end user that the lid  300  is securely seated in the liner  200  by permitting a “snapping” action as discussed in more detail elsewhere in this specification. A liner seal catch  342  is particularly suited for use in conjunction with a chamfered or otherwise tapered liner sealing member  340  as described above because such a tapered surface may lack other features that could assist in resisting against the liner  200  being pulled away from the lid (e.g., the radially-outwardly protruding features shown with the liner sealing member  340  in  FIGS.  11 - 11 E and  15 - 19   ). However, a liner seal catch  342  may be employed as additional support even in those constructions. 
     Although the entire spray gun cup  500  (or only the lid  300  and liner  200 ) may be discarded after use, users may wish to remove the liner  200  from the lid  300  either to add additional paint or to replace the lid  300  with a fresh one (e.g., when a filter  301  in the lid  300  has become clogged or when paint has dried thereon). However, it has been found that, because the liner is stretched to fully seal over the liner sealing member  340 , a liner  200  can be difficult to remove from the lid  300  without damaging the liner  200  or spilling paint. Therefore, the liner  200  may be provided with one or more release tabs  204  that facilitate easy removal of the liner  200  from the lid  300  after assembly. These release tabs  204  are depicted in greater detail in  FIGS.  7 ,  9 , and  9 A .  FIG.  8    depicts an embodiment wherein the liner  200  optionally does not comprise release tabs  204 . 
     The lid  300  may comprise a lid body  360  and be provided with a flange  371  about its periphery. In the depicted embodiments, the flange  371  carries at least a portion of the lid connection structure  370 , and in particular the lid engagement member(s)  372 . In some embodiments, one or more flange openings  380  are provided such that the flange  371  is interrupted about its periphery. The flange opening(s)  380  can allow clearance for the release tab(s)  204  on the liner  200  to extend from the spray gun cup  500  for convenient gripping and lifting of the liner  200 . As shown, the flange opening(s)  380  penetrate the lid connection structure  370 . Accordingly, adjacent the annular interruption(s)  304  are flange tabs  372  upon which are provided lid engagement members  374  to interact with complementary features on the receptacle connection structure  170 . In some embodiments (see, e.g.,  FIGS.  12 - 13 A ) the presence of flange openings  380  can allow access for tooling (for example, injection molding tooling) to form a liner seal catch  342 ). 
     In the embodiment shown, the receptacle engagement member(s)  172  and lid engagement member(s)  372  comprise an easy-start partial thread whereby the lid  300  is easily aligned and attached to the receptacle  100  with a partial turn. A receptacle engagement member  174  comprising an easy-start partial thread is shown in greater detail in  FIGS.  10  and  10 A . As shown, the receptacle engagement member  174  comprises a camming surface  176  facing away from the open end  110  of the spray gun cup receptacle  100 . The camming surface  176  may be linearly inclined, as shown, or may be flat (not inclined), curved, or may comprise any combination of inclined, flat, and/or curved portions. If entirely flat, an inclined or curved surface portion may be provided on the complementary lid camming surface  376  (described in greater detail elsewhere) such that a camming action is facilitated when the parts interact. Regardless of the particular configuration of the camming surface  176 , it is adapted interact with complementary structure on the lid  300  to permit the lid  300  to be securely attached to the spray gun cup receptacle  100  such that the liner  200  is retained in sealing relation between the lid  300  and the receptacle. 
     It should be understood that, although features  176  and  376  are referred to as “camming surfaces,” it is not strictly necessary for a camming action (which should be understood herein as including an application of force along the central axis) to occur during interaction. Rather, in some embodiments (see, e.g., the particular twist-lock embodiment described below), the respective lid and receptacle engagement members ( 374 ,  174 ), which may carry camming surfaces ( 376 ,  176 ) need not apply axial forces during installation and/or removal. 
     As shown, the receptacle engagement member  174  is additionally equipped with a stop feature  178  that prevents over-rotation of the lid  300  during installation and provides the user an indication that the lid  300  has been fully installed onto the spray gun cup receptacle (see, e.g.,  FIGS.  10 - 10 A ). A stop feature  178 , when optionally provided, may be formed as a continuation of the camming surface  176  (as shown), or may be spaced from the camming surface  176 . It has been found that the presence of a stop feature  178  can be especially beneficial on disposable (e.g., plastic) parts where over-rotation can cause deformation of engaging features and ultimately lead to potential failure of the connection. 
     In one embodiment, the lid engagement members  374  are adapted to align and cooperate with the receptacle engagement members  174  such that the lid  300  ( i ) can be “snapped” into the liner  200 ; (i) will not cross-thread; and (iii) will resist being rotated in the wrong direction at the beginning of assembly of the lid to the spray gun cup receptacle. To realize these benefits, a series of design features are employed (while all features are used together in the embodiments shown, they are not intended to be disclosed as inextricably linked, as each can provide benefits without the need of the other(s)). 
     One feature comprises spaces between adjacent receptacle engagement members  174  that permit a lid engagement member  374  to pass fully through until the lid is essentially fully seated against the spray gun cup receptacle (and/or liner  200 )—although not yet fully sealed and tightened—prior to engagement of camming surfaces on either part. In this way, the lid can be “snapped” onto the liner in one brief motion, as opposed to, for example, advancing the two parts together gradually as a thread is tightened. The “snapping” sensation and/or sound derives from a combination of: (i) the liner sealing member(s)  340  being quickly advanced into the open end  210  of the liner  200  such that a portion of the liner  200  rapidly stretches over the liner sealing member  340  and then relaxes; and (ii) the lid rim  312  accordingly impacting the liner rim  212 /receptacle rim  112  as the lid  300  quickly drops into contact. This brief snapping sensation can provide tactile and/or audible reassurance to the end user that the lid  300  and liner  200  are securely attached, although the lid has yet to be secured to the spray gun cup receptacle  100 . 
     In embodiments where in the lid can be essentially fully seated in the liner  200  via a “snapping” action as described above, it may not be necessary to provide an additional camming action (e.g., by way of camming surface  176  and lid camming surface  376 ). Rather, sufficient retention of components may be achieved by a non-camming twist-lock connection. In such an embodiment, the end user would (i) align the respective lid and receptacle engagement members ( 374 ,  174 ); (ii) snap the lid into the liner; and (iii) twist the lid to engage the lid engagement member  374  against the receptacle engagement member  174  in a non-camming fashion, such that the respective engagement members prevent the lid from being pulled off the of the spray gun cup receptacle along the central axis, but don&#39;t necessary provide any compression of the lid  300  against the spray gun cup receptacle  100  or the liner rim  212 . 
     Next, when the lid  300  is seated atop the spray gun cup receptacle  100  and installed to the liner  200 , as described in the preceding paragraph, and before rotation to engage the easy-start partial thread, a rear portion  379  of a lid engagement member  374  is located at a vertical position along the central axis  101  that interferes with a forward portion  179  of the adjacent receptacle engagement member  174  such that the lid cannot be rotated in the reverse direction. Instead, the end user need only rotate the lid in the correct direction to finally lock the lid and liner against the spray gun cup receptacle  100 . 
     Thus, the lid is (i) easily rotationally aligned; (ii) easily brought into the correct axial position against the spray gun cup receptacle; (iii) snapped in place to give reassurance of secure connection; (iv) prevented from rotating in the wrong direction; and (v) easily rotated in the correct direction without risk of cross-threading to engage respective camming surfaces to fully seal and tighten. 
     Provision of the receptacle engagement member(s)  172  as an easy-start partial thread as shown can not only make installation of the lid faster, but it can prevent possible cross-threading, reduce the number of areas where excess paint can collect and foul the assembly, and ease cleanup. 
     As shown in  FIG.  11   , for example, the lid comprises four flange tabs  372 —one corresponding to each receptacle engagement member  174 . The flange tabs  372  may be provided as independent members protruding along the central axis  101  from a radially-outer periphery of the lid  300 , as shown for example in  FIGS.  11 - 12 E and  15 - 16 B . Alternatively, as shown in  FIGS.  13 - 14 A , flange tabs  372  may be connected by flange bridging members  382 . In either case, flange openings  380  may be provided in the area(s) between flange tabs  372 . Flange openings  380  can permit clearance for, for example, liner release tabs  204  as discussed elsewhere, and may additionally provide access for the fingers of an end user to assist in gripping the lid  300  for installation and removal. Such additional gripping functionality may be particularly desirable where end users may be likely to be wearing gloves, and where the end user&#39;s hands (gloved or otherwise) may be slippery with wet paint. 
     In embodiments comprising a flange opening  380 , an additional benefit may be realized in that an end user can more easily lift or pry the flange tab  372  upwardly if necessary to release the lid  300  from the spray gun cup receptacle. Such prying would require significantly greater force were the flange  371  not interrupted by flange openings  380 . Such lifting or prying may be advantageous in embodiments where the lid  300  is a snap-fit or friction-fit onto the spray gun cup receptacle  100 , but may also be useful in removing a lid  300  that has been threaded in place (for example, if a spill or excess paint has dried in the assembly, making removal by turning difficult). It should be noted that such lifting or prying functionality is likely best achieved without a bridging member  382 , it could be facilitated even with a bridging member  382 , so long as each flange tab  372  is nevertheless able to lift sufficiently independently of each other flange tab  372 . 
     In some embodiments (see, e.g.,  FIGS.  12 - 14 A ) one or more access windows  373  are provided in the flange  371  corresponding to the lid engagement member(s)  374 . The access window(s)  373  can provide access by slides in injection-molding tooling for formation of features that would otherwise be underlying the flange tabs  372 —for example, the lid camming surface(s)  376  on lid engagement member(s)  374 . For example, as shown in  FIG.  14 A , the lid camming surfaces  376  are visible through the access windows  373  looking from the top of the lid  300 . 
     In some embodiments (see, e.g.,  FIGS.  11 - 14 A ), the flange  371  is formed integrally with the lid  300  (i.e., the lid body  360  and the flange  371  are integral). In other embodiments (see, e.g.,  FIGS.  15 - 16 B ), the flange  371  is initially formed independently of the lid body  360  and subsequently attached to form the competed lid  300 . In such cases, the flange  371 , after attachment to the lid body  360 , may be configured to rotate relative to the lid body  360  (as in  FIGS.  16 - 16 B ), or may be rotationally fixed relative to the lid body  360  (as in  FIGS.  15 - 15 B ). When configured to rotate relative to the lid body  360 , interaction of the flange  371  and the lid body  360  can permit the lid body  360  to remain in fixed sealing relation against the liner  200  and/or the spray gun cup receptacle  100  while the flange  371  is rotated to cause engagement of the lid connection structure  370  with the receptacle connection structure  170 . Such relative movement can assist in both (i) providing a seal between the lid and liner and/or spray gun cup receptacle, and (ii) reducing the rotational force required to install the lid. 
     Where provided as a separate component, the flange  371  may be retained on the lid  300  via one or more flange retention features  378 . Exemplary embodiments comprising flange retention features  378  are shown in  FIGS.  15 - 16 B . In the embodiment shown in  FIGS.  15 - 15 B , the flange  371  is rotationally fixed relative to the lid  300 . In the embodiment shown in  FIGS.  16 - 16 B , the flange  371  is permitted to rotate relative to the lid  300 . In some embodiments, rotation is permitted about a full three-hundred-sixty degrees about the central axis  101 , while in others rotation may be limited to a partial turn such as, for example, ninety degrees. Where rotation is limited, a flange rotation limiting feature  377  may be provided on one or both of the lid body  360  and/or the flange  371  (see, e.g.,  FIGS.  16 C and  16 D . In this example, flange rotation limiting features  377  are provided on the flange  371  such that they will rotate through a predetermined arc until contact is made with a flange retention feature  378  on the lid body  360 . 
     A separate flange  371  may be assembled in sealing relation with respect to the lid body  360 , even if the flange  371  can rotate relative to the lid body  360  (e.g., by providing a sealing gasket, etc.). However, this is typically not necessary since the lid body  360  carries a liner sealing member (for example, on a skirt protruding from beneath the lid body as shown in in figures) and further comprises an inner lid body surface  361  that funnels paint to the liquid outlet. In other words, the lid body  361  forms a liquid conduit for the paint to flow from the liner into the spray gun such that a separate flange  371  can be movably connected to the lid body without worry of creating a leak path for paint. 
     In some embodiments, the liner  200  comprises a liner rim  212  surrounding the liner open end  210  that can provide additional sealing functionality when clamped between the lid  300  and the spray gun cup receptacle  100 . In such embodiments, the lid  300  may be provided with a lid rim  312  and the spray gun cup receptacle  100  with a receptacle rim  112  surrounding the open end  110 . 
     In such embodiments, it may be desirable that the camming surface  176 —through interaction with a lid camming surface  376  on lid engagement members  374 —enables a clamping force to be applied along the central axis  101  when the lid  300  is attached to the spray gun cup receptacle  100 . In such cases, one or both or the camming surface  176  and/or lid camming surface  376  is provided with geometry to cause relative clamping motion of the lid  300  and the receptacle along the central axis  101  during connection. In one embodiment, such geometry may be provided—at least in part—by an inclined or curved camming surface portion as described above on either or both the camming surface  176  and/or lid camming surface  376 . 
     It will be further appreciated that while various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented herein. It will be readily understood that aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein and illustrated in the figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designed in a wide variety of different combinations, all of which are contemplated herein.