DRINK CUP

CROSS REFERERNCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Number 63/727,357, filed December 3, 2024, the disclosure of which is now expressly incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

[0002] The present disclosure relates to containers, and particularly to cups. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to drink cups.

SUMMARY

[0003] A drink cup in accordance with the present disclosure includes a body and a brim. The body is formed to include an interior region providing a fluid-holding reservoir and the brim is coupled to the body to frame an opening into the interior region.

[0004] In illustrative embodiments, the drink cup includes a body-strengthening system configured to provide means for maximizing rigidity of a selected portion of the drink cup so that unintended deformation of the drink cup is minimized.

[0005] In illustrative embodiments, the drink cup includes a grip portion configured to provide means for enhancing gripability of the drink cup. The grip portion includes a plurality of protrusions that extend radially outwardly away from a central axis of the drink cup. In illustrative embodiments, each of the plurality of protrusions has a square-pyramidal shape.

[0006] Additional features of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of illustrative embodiments exemplifying the best mode of carrying out the disclosure as presently perceived.

BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The detailed description particularly refers to the accompanying figures in which:

[0008]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a drink cup in accordance with the present disclosure showing the drink cup includes a body formed to include an interior region, a brim coupled to an upper portion of a side wall included in the body, a body-strengthening system coupled to the body and including a first strengthening unit and a second strengthening unit, and a grip portion located between the first strengthening unit and the second strengthening unit;

[0009]FIG. 2 is an enlarged sectional view taken from FIG. 1 showing, from top-to-bottom, a brim, a stack shoulder, the upper portion of the side wall, the first strengthening unit, and the grip portion;

[0010]FIG. 3 is an enlarged sectional view taken from FIG. 1 showing, from top-to-bottom, the grip portion, the second strengthening unit, and a lower portion of the side wall;

[0011]FIG. 4 is a side-elevation view of the drink cup of FIG. 1 showing that the grip portion extends entirely between the first strengthening unit and the second strengthening unit;

[0012]FIG. 5 is a sectional view taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 1 showing the drink cup includes, from top-to-bottom along the central axis, the brim, the stack shoulder, the upper portion of the side wall, the first strengthening unit, the grip portion, the second strengthening unit, the lower portion of the side wall, and a floor;

[0013]FIG. 6 is an enlarged portion of FIG. 5 showing the first strengthening unit relative to the central axis and extending between and interconnecting the grip portion and the upper portion of the side wall, and further showing the first strengthening unit includes a first annular strip that extends radially away from the central axis from the grip portion, a second annular strip that extends radially toward the central axis from the first annular strip, and a third annular strip that extends radially away from the central axis from the second annular strip to the upper portion of the side wall;

[0014]FIG. 7 is an enlarged portion of FIG. 5 showing the second strengthening unit relative to the central axis and extending between and interconnecting the lower portion of the side wall and the grip portion, and further showing the second strengthening unit includes a first annular strip extending radially away from the central axis from the lower portion of the side wall, a second annular strip extending radially toward the central axis from the first annular strip, a third annular strip extending radially away from the central axis to the grip portion and spaced apart from the second annular strip, and an annular band extending between and interconnecting the second annular strip and the third annular strip;

[0015]FIG. 8 is an enlarged side-elevation view of FIG. 4 showing the grip portion includes a plurality of protrusions that provide texture to the grip portion, the plurality of protrusions having a series of first protrusions arranged in a row that extends entirely circumferentially about the central axis and a series of second protrusions arranged in a column that extend vertically between the first strengthening unit and the second strengthening unit;

[0016]FIG. 9 is an enlarged side-elevation view of FIG. 8 showing that each of the plurality of protrusions includes a plurality of radially outwardly extending faces that cooperate to define an apex of each of the plurality of protrusions;

[0017]FIG. 9A is an enlarged view of FIG. 9 showing the plurality of protrusions;

[0018]FIG. 10 is an enlarged portion of FIG. 5 showing the apex of each of the plurality of protrusions;

[0019]FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of FIG. 10 showing that the apexes of each of the plurality of protrusions in a column are aligned with one another and the apexes of each of the plurality of protrusions in a row are offset from the apexes of the plurality of protrusions in the column;

[0020]FIG. 12 is another perspective view of the drink cup of FIG. 1;

[0021]FIG. 13 is a top view of the drink cup of FIG. 1;

[0022]FIG. 14 is a bottom view of the drink cup of FIG. 1;

[0023]FIG. 15 is a perspective view of another drink cup in accordance with the present disclosure showing the drink cup includes a body formed to include an interior region, a brim coupled to an upper portion of a side wall included in the body, a body-strengthening system coupled to the body and including a first strengthening unit and a second strengthening unit, and a grip portion located between the first strengthening unit and the second strengthening unit;

[0024]FIG. 16 is an enlarged portion of FIG. 15 showing from top-to-bottom a brim, a stack shoulder, the upper portion of the side wall, the first strengthening unit, and the grip portion;

[0025]FIG. 17 is an enlarged portion of FIG. 15 showing from top-to-bottom the grip portion, the second strengthening unit, and a lower portion of the side wall;

[0026]FIG. 18 is a side-elevation view of the drink cup of FIG. 15 showing that the grip portion extends entirely between the first strengthening unit and the second strengthening unit;

[0027]FIG. 19 is a sectional view taken along line 19-19 of FIG. 15 showing the drink cup includes from top-to-bottom along the central axis, the brim, the stack shoulder, the upper portion of the side wall, the first strengthening unit, the grip portion, the second strengthening unit, the lower portion of the side wall, and a floor;

[0028]FIG. 20 is an enlarged portion of FIG. 19 showing the first strengthening unit relative to the central axis and extending between and interconnecting the grip portion and the upper portion of the side wall, and further showing the first strengthening unit includes a first annular strip that extends radially away from the central axis from the grip portion, a second annular strip that extends radially toward the central axis from the first annular strip, and a third annular strip that extends radially away from the central axis from the second annular strip to the upper portion of the side wall;

[0029]FIG. 21 is an enlarged portion of FIG. 19 showing the second strengthening unit relative to the central axis and extending between and interconnecting the lower portion of the side wall and the grip portion, and further showing the second strengthening unit includes a first annular strip extending radially away from the central axis from the lower portion of the side wall, a second annular strip extending radially toward the central axis from the first annular strip, a third annular strip extending radially away from the central axis to the grip portion and spaced apart from the second annular strip, and an annular band extending between and interconnecting the second annular strip and the third annular strip;

[0030]FIG. 22 is an enlarged side-elevation view of FIG. 18 showing the grip portion includes a plurality of protrusions that provide texture to the grip portion, the plurality of protrusions having a series of first protrusions arranged in a row that extends entirely circumferentially about the central axis and a series of second protrusions arranged in a column that extend vertically between the first strengthening unit and the second strengthening unit;

[0031]FIG. 23 is an enlarged side-elevation view of FIG. 22 showing that each of the plurality of protrusions includes a plurality of radially outwardly extending faces that cooperate to define an apex of each of the plurality of protrusions;

[0032]FIG. 23A is an enlarged view of FIG. 23 showing the plurality of protrusions;

[0033]FIG. 24 is an enlarged sectional view of FIG. 19 showing the apex of each of the plurality of protrusions;

[0034]FIG. 25 is an enlarged sectional view of FIG. 24 showing that the apexes of each of the plurality of protrusions in a column are aligned with one another and the apexes of each of the plurality of protrusions in a row are offset from the apexes of the plurality of protrusions in the column;

[0035]FIG. 26 is another perspective view of the drink cup of FIG. 15

[0036]FIG. 27 is a top view of the drink cup of FIG. 15; and

[0037]FIG. 28 is a bottom view of the drink cup of FIG. 15.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] A first embodiment of a drink cup 10 in accordance with the present disclosure is shown in FIGS. 1-14. The drink cup 10 includes a brim 14, a body-strengthening system 16, and a grip portion 18, as shown in FIGS. 1-3. A second embodiment of a drink cup 210 in accordance with the present disclosure is shown in FIGS. 15-28.

[0039] The drink cup 10 includes the body 12, the brim 14, the body-strengthening system 16, and the grip portion 18, as shown in FIGS. 1-3. Body 12 includes a floor 20 and a side wall 22 that cooperate to form an interior region 24. Brim 14 is coupled to body 12 to frame an opening into interior region 24. Body-strengthening system 16 is coupled to body 12 between floor 20 and brim 14 and is configured to provide means for minimizing a weight of drink cup 10 while maximizing the rigidity of a selected portion of drink cup 10 so that unintended deformation of drink cup 10 is minimized. Grip portion 18 is located between floor 20 and brim 14 and is configured to provide enhanced gripability to drink cup 10, strength to a selected portion of drink cup 10 so that unintended deformation of drink cup 10 is further minimized, and decreased heat transfer between a user’s hand and interior region 24. For example, the user’s hand may contact or touch less of the drink cup 10 due to the grip portion 18 thereby minimizing heat transferred from the user’s hand to the drink cup 10 (and thus, to liquid in the drink cup 10). Grip portion 18 also provides a path for condensation to flow along the drink cup 10 thereby minimizing slickness of the drink cup 10, which further provides enhanced gripability of the drink cup 10.

[0040] Body 12 includes floor 20 and side wall 22, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 4. Side wall 22 is coupled to floor 20 to extend upwardly away from floor 20. Side wall 22 is spaced from a central axis A to define interior region 24 configured to provide a fluid-holding reservoir. Side wall 22 includes a lower portion 22L and an upper portion 22U each spaced apart from one another vertically along central axis A.

[0041] Brim 14 is coupled to body 12 and is configured to frame an opening into interior region 24, as shown in FIG. 1. In some embodiments, brim 14 is adapted to couple to a lid to establish a package. The package includes drink cup 10 and the lid coupled to brim 14. The lid is arranged to block selectively access to interior region 24 of drink cup 10. In some embodiments, the lid may be omitted from the package. Illustratively, brim 14 provides a continuous smooth surface, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. In some embodiments, brim 14 may be rolled to provide improved sealing with the lid and/or improved feeling for a user’s lip. In some embodiments, the rolled brim 14 forms an angle A of about 10 degrees, as shown in FIG. 6. In some embodiments, the rolled brim 14 forms an angle A of about 5 degrees to about 15 degrees. In some embodiments, the rolled brim 14 forms an angle A of about 6 degrees to about 20 degrees.

[0042]Body-strengthening system 16 is located between lower portion 22L of side wall 22 and upper portion 22U of side wall 22, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 4. Body-strengthening system 16 includes a first strengthening unit 28 and a second strengthening unit 30, as shown in FIGS. 1-7. First strengthening unit 28 extends between and interconnects upper portion 22U of side wall 22 and grip portion 18, as shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 6. Second strengthening unit 30 extends between and interconnects grip portion 18 and lower portion 22L of side wall 22 as shown in FIGS. 1, 3, and 7. First strengthening unit 28 and second strengthening unit 30 cooperate to increase rigidity and strength for a portion of side wall 22.

[0043] First strengthening unit 28 includes a first annular strip 32, a second annular strip 34, and a third annular strip 36, as shown in FIG. 6. Second annular strip 34 is located vertically between first annular strip 32 and third annular strip 36 relative to central axis A.

[0044] First annular strip 32 extends radially away from central axis A from grip portion 18, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 8. A lower end of first annular strip 32 is coupled to grip portion 18, and an upper end of first annular strip 32 is coupled to a lower end of second annular strip 34. First annular strip 32 extends along a first curvilinear path.

[0045] Second annular strip 34 extends radially toward central axis A from first annular strip 32, as shown in FIG. 6. The lower end of second annular strip 34 is coupled to the upper end of first annular strip 32, and an upper end of second annular strip 34 is coupled to a lower end of third annular strip 36. Second annular strip 34 extends along a second curvilinear path.

[0046] The upper end of first annular strip 32 and the lower end of second annular strip 34 cooperate to define a peak 28P of first strengthening unit 28, as shown in FIG. 6. In other words, peak 28P defines the transition between first annular strip 32 and second annular strip 34. Peak 28P is curved in illustrative embodiments.

[0047] Third annular strip 36 extends radially away from central axis A from second annular strip 34 to upper portion 22U of side wall 22, as shown in FIG. 6. A lower end of third annular strip 36 is coupled to the upper end of second annular strip 34, and an upper end of third annular strip 36 is coupled to upper portion 22U of side wall 22. Third annular strip 36 extends along a third curvilinear path.

[0048] The upper end of second annular strip 34 and the lower end of third annular strip 36 cooperate to define a trough 28T of first strengthening unit 28, as shown in FIG. 6. In other words, trough 28T defines the transition between second annular strip 34 and third annular strip 36. Trough 28T is curved in illustrative embodiments.

[0049]Peak 28P is a first distance D1 from central axis A and trough 28T is a second distance D2 from central axis A different than the first distance D1, as shown in FIG. 6. The first distance D1 is greater than the second distance D2. The lower end of first annular strip 32 is a third distance D3 from central axis A that is less than the first distance D1 and the second distance D2.

[0050] Second strengthening unit 30 includes a first annular strip 38, a second annular strip 40, a third annular strip 42, and an annular band 44, as shown in FIG. 7. First annular strip 38 extends radially away from central axis A from lower portion 22L of side wall 22. A lower end of first annular strip 38 is coupled to lower portion 22L of side wall 22, and an upper end of first annular strip 38 is coupled to a lower end of second annular strip 40. First annular strip 38 extends along a fourth curvilinear path.

[0051] Second annular strip 40 extends radially toward central axis A from first annular strip 38, as shown in FIG. 7. The lower end of second annular strip 40 is coupled to the upper end of first annular strip 38, and an upper end of second annular strip 40 is coupled to a lower end of annular band 44. Second annular strip 40 extends along a fifth curvilinear path.

[0052] The upper end of first annular strip 38 and the lower end of second annular strip 40 cooperate to define a peak 30P of second strengthening unit 30. In other words, peak 30P defines the transition between first annular strip 38 and second annular strip 40. Peak 30P is curved in illustrative embodiments.

[0053] Annular band 44 extends between and interconnects second annular strip 40 and third annular strip 42, as shown in FIG. 7. A lower end of annular band 44 is coupled to the upper end of second annular strip 40 and an upper end of annular band 44 is coupled to a lower end of third annular strip 42. Annular band 44 is substantially flat and/or planar such that annular band 44 extends along a straight path.

[0054] Third annular strip 42 extends radially away from central axis A from the upper end of annular band 44 to grip portion 18, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. A lower end of third annular strip 42 is coupled to the upper end of annular band 44, and an upper end of third annular strip 42 is coupled to grip portion 18. Third annular strip 42 extends along a sixth curvilinear path.

[0055] Annular band 44 defines a trough 30T of second strengthening unit 30. Trough 30T is located vertically between the upper end of annular band 44 and the lower end of annular band 44. Trough 30T is substantially flat and/or planar.

[0056]Peak 30P is a fourth distance D4 from central axis A, and trough 30T is a fifth distance D5 from central axis A different than the fourth distance D4, as shown in FIG. 7. The fourth distance D4 is greater than the fifth distance D5.

[0057] In some embodiments, body 12 includes a stack shoulder 26 located between upper portion 22U of side wall 22 and brim 14, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 6. Stack shoulder 26 includes a first annular strip 46, a second annular strip 48, and an annular band 50. First annular strip 46 extends radially away from central axis A from upper portion 22U of side wall 22. A lower end of first annular strip 46 is coupled to upper portion 22U of side wall 22, and an upper end of first annular strip 46 is coupled to a lower end of second annular strip 48. First annular strip 46 extends along a seventh curvilinear path.

[0058] Second annular strip 48 extends radially toward central axis A from first annular strip 46, as shown in FIG. 6. The lower end of second annular strip 48 is coupled to the upper end of first annular strip 46, and an upper end of second annular strip 48 is coupled to a lower end of annular band 50. Second annular strip 48 extends along an eighth curvilinear path.

[0059] The upper end of first annular strip 46 and the lower end of second annular strip 48 cooperate to define a peak 26P of stack shoulder 26. In other words, peak 26P defines the transition between first annular strip 46 and second annular strip 48. Peak 26P is curved in illustrative embodiments.

[0060] Annular band 50 extends between and interconnects second annular strip 48 and brim 14, as shown in FIG. 6. A lower end of annular band 50 is coupled to the upper end of second annular strip 48 and an upper end of annular band 50 is coupled to a lower end of brim 14. Annular band 50 is substantially flat and/or planar such that annular band 50 extends along a straight path. In some embodiments, stack shoulder 26 provides a third strengthening unit of body-strengthening system 16.

[0061]As shown in FIG. 5, as lower portion 22L of side wall 22 extends from floor 20 to second strengthening unit 30, lower portion 22L has a generally increasing diameter. A distance between an uppermost portion of lower portion 22L of side wall 22 to central axis A is less than the fourth distance D4 between peak 30P and central axis A, as shown in FIG. 7. As upper portion 22U of side wall 22 extends from first strengthening unit 28 to stack shoulder 26, upper portion 22U has a generally increasing diameter. As grip portion 18 extends from second strengthening unit 30 to first strengthening unit 28, grip portion 18 has a generally increasing diameter.

[0062] Grip portion 18 is located between first strengthening unit 28 and second strengthening unit 30, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 8. Grip portion 18 includes a plurality of protrusions 52 that provide texture to grip portion 18. Textured grip portion 18 provides enhanced gripability of drink cup 10 such that it is easier for a user to grip and hold drink cup 10. Textured grip portion 18 also provides strength to portions of drink cup 10. Lastly, textured grip portion 18 provides for a reduced heat transfer through drink cup 10 from the user’s hand as the surface area of grip portion 18 that the user grips and holds is decreased relative to a drink cup without the textured grip portion 18. Grip portion 18 may also be referred to as a middle portion.

[0063] The plurality of protrusions 52 is arranged in a pattern throughout grip portion 18, as shown in FIG. 8. A first portion of the plurality of protrusions 52 is aligned in a plurality of rows 52R that extend circumferentially entirely around central axis A. A second portion of the plurality of protrusions 52 is aligned in a plurality of columns 52C that extend entirely vertically between first strengthening unit 28 and second strengthening unit 30.

[0064] Each of the plurality of protrusions 52 includes a first lateral face 54, a second lateral face 56 opposite first lateral face 54, a third lateral face 58 located between first lateral face 54 and second lateral face 56, and a fourth lateral face 60 opposite third lateral face 58, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9. First lateral face 54, second lateral face 56, third lateral face 58, and fourth lateral face 60 cooperate to define an apex 52A of each of the plurality of protrusions 52.

[0065] First lateral face 54 is defined by a first side wall 54A, a second side wall 54B, and a third side wall 54C, as shown in FIG. 9A. Second lateral face 56 is defined by a first side wall 56A, a second side wall 56B, and a third side wall 56C. Third lateral face 58 is defined by a first side wall 58A, a second side wall 58B, and a third side wall 58C. Fourth lateral face 60 is defined by a first side wall 60A, a second side wall 60B, and a third side wall 60C.

[0066] Second side wall 54B of first lateral face 54 and second side wall 60B of fourth lateral face 60 are coupled with one another, as shown in FIG. 9A. Third side wall 60C of fourth lateral face 60 and second side wall 56B of second lateral face 56 are coupled with one another. Second side wall 58B of third lateral face 58 and third side wall 56C of second lateral face 56 are coupled with one another. Third side wall 54C of first lateral face 54 and third side wall 58C of third lateral face 58 are coupled with one another.

[0067] The interface between second side wall 54B of first lateral face 54 and second side wall 60B of fourth lateral face 60 of each of the plurality of protrusions 52 included in a row of the plurality of rows 52R is circumferentially aligned with the interface between second side wall 58B of third lateral face 58 and third side wall 56C of second lateral face 56 of the respective protrusion 52, as shown in FIG. 9A. The interface between third side wall 54C of first lateral face 54 and third side wall 58C of third lateral face 58 of each of the plurality of protrusions 52 included in a column of the plurality of columns 52C is vertically aligned with the interface between third side wall 60C of fourth lateral face 60 and second side wall 56B of second lateral face 56 of the respective protrusion 52.

[0068] Each of the plurality of protrusions 52 included in a row of the plurality of rows 52R is vertically offset from a neighboring protrusion 52 in that row, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 9A. For example, a distal end of the interface of second side wall 58B of third lateral face 58 and third side wall 56C of second lateral face 56 of a respective protrusion of a row is vertically offset from a distal end of the interface of second side wall 54B of first lateral face 54 and second side wall 60B of fourth lateral face 60 of a directly adjacent and neighboring protrusion 52 of the row. In other words, a corner formed by second lateral face 56 and third lateral face 58 of a respective protrusion 52 of a row is vertically offset from a corner formed by first lateral face 54 and fourth lateral face 60 of a directly adjacent and neighboring protrusion 52 of the row.

[0069] Each of the plurality of protrusions 52 included in a column of the plurality of columns 52C contacts a neighboring protrusion 52 in that column, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 9A. For example, a distal end of the interface of third side wall 60C of fourth lateral face 60 and second side wall 56B of second lateral face 56 of a respective protrusion 52 in a column contacts first side wall 58A of third lateral face 58 of a directly adjacent and neighboring protrusion 52 in the column. In other words, a corner formed by second lateral face 56 and fourth lateral face 60 of a respective protrusion 52 in a column contacts first side wall 58A of third lateral face 58 of a directly adjacent and neighboring protrusion 52 of the column.

[0070] In each of the plurality of rows 52R, apex 52A of each of the plurality of protrusions 52 in a respective row 52R are offset with one another, as shown in FIG. 9. In each of the plurality of columns 52C, apex 52A of each of the plurality of protrusions 52 in a respective column 52C are offset with one another, as shown in FIG. 9. Apex 52A of each of the plurality of protrusions 52 in a respective row 52R are offset from apex 52A of each of the plurality of protrusions 52 in a respective column 52C, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 11.

[0071] First lateral face 54 of each of the plurality of protrusions 52 are parallel to one another, as shown in FIG. 9. Second lateral face 56 of each of the plurality of protrusions 52 are parallel to one another. Third lateral face 58 of each of the plurality of protrusions 52 are parallel to one another. Fourth lateral face 60 of each of the plurality of protrusions 52 are parallel to one another.

[0072] Each of the plurality of protrusions 52 in a respective column 52C is located partially between two neighboring protrusions in a row 52R and partially between two neighboring protrusions 52 in a directly adjacent and neighboring row 52R. For ease of example, a first protrusion 62, a second protrusion 64, and a third protrusion 66 will be discussed. First protrusion 62 and second protrusion 64 are arranged in a row 52R, and third protrusion 66 is arranged in a column 52C.

[0073] Third protrusion 66 is located partially circumferentially between first protrusion 62 and second protrusion 64. Fourth lateral face 60 of third protrusion 66 is located circumferentially between third lateral face 58 of first protrusion 62 and second lateral face 56 of third protrusion 66. Second lateral face 56 of third protrusion 66 is located circumferentially between fourth lateral face 60 of third protrusion 66 and first lateral face 54 of second protrusion 64. Different protrusions 52 arranged in a directly adjacent row 52R are located on either side of first lateral face 54 and third lateral face 58 of third protrusion 66.

[0074] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of protrusions 52 is a square pyramidal-shape. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of protrusions 52 is a triangular pyramidal-shape. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of protrusions 52 is a pentagonal pyramidal-shape. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of protrusions 52 is a hexagonal pyramidal-shape. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of protrusions 52 is diamond shape.

[0075] In some embodiments, drink cup 10 is formed of polypropylene. In one example, side wall 22 of drink cup 10 has a frustoconical shape. Each of first and second strengthening units 28, 30 is coupled to side wall 22 and are arranged to deviate from the frustoconical shape of side wall 22. In one example, first and second strengthening units 28, 30 extend away from side wall 22, toward central axis A, or combinations thereof. Each of first and second strengthening units 28, 30 can be seen as a deviation or interruption of the frustoconical shape of side wall 22. It will be understood that the drawings are drawn to scale.

[0076] Another drink cup 210 is shown in FIGS. 15-28. The drink cup 210 is substantially similar to the drink cup 10. The description of the drink cup 10 is incorporated by reference to apply to the drink cup 210, except in instances when it conflicts with the specific description and drawings of the drink cup 210.

[0077] A drink cup 210 includes a body 212, a brim 214, a body-strengthening system 216, and a grip portion 218, as shown in FIGS. 15-17. Body 212 includes a floor 220 and a side wall 222 that cooperate to form an interior region 224. Brim 214 is coupled to body 212 to frame an opening into interior region 224. Body-strengthening system 216 is coupled to body 212 between floor 220 and brim 214 and is configured to provide means for minimizing a weight of drink cup 210 while maximizing the rigidity of a selected portion of drink cup 210 so that unintended deformation of drink cup 210 is minimized. Grip portion 218 is located between floor 220 and brim 214 and is configured to provide enhanced gripability to drink cup 210, strength to a selected portion of drink cup 210 so that unintended deformation of drink cup 210 is minimized, and decreased heat transfer between a user’s hand and interior region 224. For example, the user’s hand may contact or touch less of the drink cup 210 due to the grip portion 218 thereby minimizing heat transferred from the user’s hand to the drink cup 210 (and thus, to liquid in the drink cup 210). Grip portion 218 also provides a path for condensation to flow along the drink cup 210 thereby minimizing slickness of the drink cup 210, which further provides enhanced gripability of the drink cup 210.

[0078] Body 212 includes floor 220 and side wall 222, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 18. Side wall 222 is coupled to floor 220 to extend upwardly away from floor 220. Side wall 222 is spaced from a central axis A to define interior region 224 configured to provide a fluid-holding reservoir. Side wall 222 includes a lower portion 222L and an upper portion 222U each spaced apart from one another vertically along central axis A.

[0079] Brim 214 is coupled to body 212 and is configured to frame an opening into interior region 224, as shown in FIG. 15. In some embodiments, brim 214 is adapted to couple to a lid to establish a package. The package includes drink cup 210 and the lid coupled to brim 214. The lid is arranged to block selectively access to interior region 224 of drink cup 210. In some embodiments, the lid may be omitted from the package. Illustratively, brim 214 provides a continuous smooth surface, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16. In some embodiments, brim 214 may be rolled to provide improved sealing with the lid and/or improved feeling for a user’s lip.

[0080]Body-strengthening system 216 is located between lower portion 222L of side wall 222 and upper portion 222U of side wall 222, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 18. Body-strengthening system 216 includes a first strengthening unit 228 and a second strengthening unit 230, as shown in FIGS. 15-21. First strengthening unit 228 extends between and interconnects upper portion 222U of side wall 222 and grip portion 218, as shown in FIGS. 15, 16, and 20. Second strengthening unit 230 extends between and interconnects grip portion 218 and lower portion 222L of side wall 222 as shown in FIGS. 15, 17, and 21. First strengthening unit 228 and second strengthening unit 230 cooperate to increase rigidity and strength for a portion of side wall 222.

[0081] First strengthening unit 228 includes a first annular strip 232, a second annular strip 234, and a third annular strip 236, as shown in FIG. 20. Second annular strip 234 is located vertically between first annular strip 232 and third annular strip 236 relative to central axis A.

[0082] First annular strip 232 extends radially away from central axis A from grip portion 218, as shown in FIGS. 20 and 22. A lower end of first annular strip 232 is coupled to grip portion 218, and an upper end of first annular strip 232 is coupled to a lower end of second annular strip 234. First annular strip 232 extends along a first curvilinear path.

[0083] Second annular strip 234 extends radially toward central axis A from first annular strip 232, as shown in FIG. 20. The lower end of second annular strip 234 is coupled to the upper end of first annular strip 232, and an upper end of second annular strip 234 is coupled to a lower end of third annular strip 236. Second annular strip 234 extends along a second curvilinear path.

[0084] The upper end of first annular strip 232 and the lower end of second annular strip 234 cooperate to define a peak 228P of first strengthening unit 228, as shown in FIG. 20. In other words, peak 228P defines the transition between first annular strip 232 and second annular strip 234. Peak 228P is curved in illustrative embodiments.

[0085] Third annular strip 236 extends radially away from central axis A from second annular strip 234 to upper portion 222U of side wall 222, as shown in FIG. 20. A lower end of third annular strip 236 is coupled to the upper end of second annular strip 234, and an upper end of third annular strip 236 is coupled to upper portion 222U of side wall 222. Third annular strip 236 extends along a third curvilinear path.

[0086] The upper end of second annular strip 234 and the lower end of third annular strip 236 cooperate to define a trough 228T of first strengthening unit 228, as shown in FIG. 20. In other words, trough 228T defines the transition between second annular strip 234 and third annular strip 236. Trough 228T is curved in illustrative embodiments.

[0087]Peak 228P is a first distance D1 from central axis A, and trough 228T is a second distance D2 from central axis A different than the first distance D1, as shown in FIG. 20. The first distance D1 is greater than the second distance D2. The lower end of first annular strip 232 is a third distance D3 from central axis A that is less than the first distance D1 and the second distance D2.

[0088] Second strengthening unit 230 includes a first annular strip 238, a second annular strip 240, a third annular strip 242, and an annular band 244, as shown in FIG. 21. First annular strip 238 extends radially away from central axis A from lower portion 222L of side wall 222. A lower end of first annular strip 238 is coupled to lower portion 222L of side wall 222, and an upper end of first annular strip 238 is coupled to a lower end of second annular strip 240. First annular strip 238 extends along a fourth curvilinear path.

[0089] Second annular strip 240 extends radially toward central axis A from first annular strip 238, as shown in FIG. 21. The lower end of second annular strip 240 is coupled to the upper end of first annular strip 238, and an upper end of second annular strip 240 is coupled to a lower end of annular band 244. Second annular strip 240 extends along a fifth curvilinear path.

[0090] The upper end of first annular strip 238 and the lower end of second annular strip 240 cooperate to define a peak 230P of second strengthening unit 230. In other words, peak 230P defines the transition between first annular strip 238 and second annular strip 240. Peak 230P is curved in illustrative embodiments.

[0091] Annular band 244 extends between and interconnects second annular strip 240 and third annular strip 242, as shown in FIG. 21. A lower end of annular band 244 is coupled to the upper end of second annular strip 240, and an upper end of annular band 244 is coupled to a lower end of third annular strip 242. Annular band 244 is substantially flat and/or planar such that annular band 244 extends along a straight path.

[0092] Third annular strip 242 extends radially away from central axis A from the upper end of annular band 244 to grip portion 218, as shown in FIGS. 21 and 22. A lower end of third annular strip 242 is coupled to the upper end of annular band 244, and an upper end of third annular strip 242 is coupled to grip portion 218. Third annular strip 242 extends along a sixth curvilinear path.

[0093] Annular band 244 defines a trough 230T of second strengthening unit 230. Trough 230T is located vertically between the upper end of annular band 244 and the lower end of annular band 244. Trough 230T is substantially flat and/or planar.

[0094]Peak 230P is a fourth distance D4 from central axis A, and trough 230T is a fifth distance D5 from central axis A different than the fourth distance D4, as shown in FIG. 21. The fourth distance D4 is greater than the fifth distance D5.

[0095] In some embodiments, body 212 includes a stack shoulder 226 located between upper portion 222U of side wall 222 and brim 214, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 20. Stack shoulder 226 includes a first annular strip 246, a second annular strip 248, and an annular band 250. First annular strip 246 extends radially away from central axis A from upper portion 222U of side wall 222. A lower end of first annular strip 246 is coupled to upper portion 222U of side wall 222, and an upper end of first annular strip 246 is coupled to a lower end of second annular strip 248. First annular strip 246 extends along a seventh curvilinear path.

[0096] Second annular strip 248 extends radially toward central axis A from first annular strip 246, as shown in FIG. 20. The lower end of second annular strip 248 is coupled to the upper end of first annular strip 246, and an upper end of second annular strip 248 is coupled to a lower end of annular band 250. Second annular strip 248 extends along an eighth curvilinear path.

[0097] The upper end of first annular strip 246 and the lower end of second annular strip 248 cooperate to define a peak 226P of stack shoulder 226. In other words, peak 226P defines the transition between first annular strip 246 and second annular strip 248. Peak 226P is curved in illustrative embodiments.

[0098] Annular band 250 extends between and interconnects second annular strip 248 and brim 214, as shown in FIG. 20. A lower end of annular band 250 is coupled to the upper end of second annular strip 248 and an upper end of annular band 250 is coupled to a lower end of brim 214. Annular band 250 is substantially flat and/or planar such that annular band 250 extends along a straight path. In some embodiments, stack shoulder 226 provides a third strengthening unit of body-strengthening system 216.

[0099]As shown in FIG. 19, as lower portion 222L of side wall 222 extends from floor 220 to second strengthening unit 230, lower portion 222L has a generally increasing diameter. A distance between an uppermost portion of lower portion 222L of side wall 222 to central axis A is less than the fourth distance D4 between peak 230P and central axis A, as shown in FIG. 21. As upper portion 222U of side wall 222 extends from first strengthening unit 228 to stack shoulder 226, upper portion 222U has a generally increasing diameter. As grip portion 218 extends from second strengthening unit 230 to first strengthening unit 228, grip portion 218 has a generally increasing diameter.

[0100] Grip portion 218 is located between first strengthening unit 228 and second strengthening unit 230, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 22. Grip portion 218 includes a plurality of protrusions 252 that provide texture to grip portion 218. Textured grip portion 218 provides enhanced gripability of drink cup 210 such that it is easier for a user to grip and hold drink cup 210. Textured grip portion 218 also provides strength to portions of drink cup 210. Lastly, textured grip portion 218 provides for a reduced heat transfer through drink cup 210 from the user’s hand as the surface area of grip portion 218 that the user grips and holds is decreased relative to a drink cup without the textured grip portion 218. Grip portion 218 may also be referred to as a middle portion.

[0101] The plurality of protrusions 252 is arranged in a pattern throughout grip portion 218, as shown in FIG. 22. A first portion of the plurality of protrusions 252 is aligned in a plurality of rows 252R that extend circumferentially entirely around central axis A. A second portion of the plurality of protrusions 252 is aligned in a plurality of columns 252C that extend entirely vertically between first strengthening unit 228 and second strengthening unit 230.

[0102] Each of the plurality of protrusions 252 includes a first lateral face 254, a second lateral face 256 opposite first lateral face 254, a third lateral face 258 located between first lateral face 254 and second lateral face 256, and a fourth lateral face 260 opposite third lateral face 258, as shown in FIGS. 22 and 23. First lateral face 254, second lateral face 256, third lateral face 258, and fourth lateral face 260 cooperate to define an apex 252A of each of the plurality of protrusions 252.

[0103] First lateral face 254 is defined by a first side wall 254A, a second side wall 254B, and a third side wall 254C, as shown in FIG. 23A. Second lateral face 256 is defined by a first side wall 256A, a second side wall 256B, and a third side wall 256C. Third lateral face 258 is defined by a first side wall 258A, a second side wall 258B, and a third side wall 258C. Fourth lateral face 260 is defined by a first side wall 260A, a second side wall 260B, and a third side wall 260C.

[0104] Second side wall 254B of first lateral face 254 and second side wall 260B of fourth lateral face 260 are coupled with one another, as shown in FIG. 23A. Third side wall 260C of fourth lateral face 260 and second side wall 256B of second lateral face 256 are coupled with one another. Second side wall 258B of third lateral face 258 and third side wall 256C of second lateral face 256 are coupled with one another. Third side wall 254C of first lateral face 254 and third side wall 258C of third lateral face 258 are coupled with one another.

[0105] The interface between second side wall 254B of first lateral face 254 and second side wall 260B of fourth lateral face 260 of each of the plurality of protrusions 252 included in a row of the plurality of rows 252R is circumferentially aligned with the interface between second side wall 258B of third lateral face 258 and third side wall 256C of second lateral face 256, as shown in FIG. 23A. The interface between third side wall 254C of first lateral face 254 and third side wall 258C of third lateral face 258 of each of the plurality of protrusions 252 included in a column of the plurality of columns 252C is vertically aligned with the interface between third side wall 260C of fourth lateral face 260 and second side wall 256B of second lateral face 256.

[0106] Each of the plurality of protrusions 252 included in a row of the plurality of rows 252R contacts a neighboring protrusion 252 in that row, as shown in FIGS. 23 and 23A. For example, a distal end of the interface of second side wall 258B of third lateral face 258 and third side wall 256C of second lateral face 256 of a respective protrusion of a row contacts a distal end of the interface of second side wall 254B of first lateral face 254 and second side wall 260B of fourth lateral face 260 of a directly adjacent and neighboring protrusion 252 of the row. In other words, a corner formed by second lateral face 256 and third lateral face 258 of a respective protrusion 252 of a row contacts a corner formed by first lateral face 254 and fourth lateral face 260 of a directly adjacent and neighboring protrusion 252 of the row.

[0107] Each of the plurality of protrusions 252 included in a column of the plurality of columns 252C contacts a neighboring protrusion 252 in that column, as shown in FIGS. 23 and 23A. For example, a distal end of the interface of third side wall 260C of fourth lateral face 260 and second side wall 256B of second lateral face 256 of a respective protrusion 252 in a column contacts a distal end of the interface between third side wall 254C of first lateral face 254 and third side wall 258C of third lateral face 258 of a directly adjacent and neighboring protrusion 252 in the column. In other words, a corner formed by second lateral face 256 and fourth lateral face 260 of a respective protrusion 252 in a column contacts a corner formed by first lateral face 254 and third lateral face 258 of a directly adjacent and neighboring protrusion 252 of the column.

[0108] In each of the plurality of rows 252R, apex 252A of each of the plurality of protrusions 252 in a respective row 252R are circumferentially aligned with one another, as shown in FIG. 23. In each of the plurality of columns 252C, apex 252A of each of the plurality of protrusions 252 in a respective column 252C are vertically aligned with one another, as shown in FIG. 23. Apex 252A of each of the plurality of protrusions 252 in a respective row 252R are offset from apex 252A of each of the plurality of protrusions 252 in a respective column 252C, as shown in FIGS. 23 and 25.

[0109] First lateral face 254 of each of the plurality of protrusions 252 are parallel to one another, as shown in FIG. 23. Second lateral face 256 of each of the plurality of protrusions 252 are parallel to one another. Third lateral face 258 of each of the plurality of protrusions 252 are parallel to one another. Fourth lateral face 260 of each of the plurality of protrusions 252 are parallel to one another.

[0110] Each of the plurality of protrusions 252 in a respective column 252C is located partially between two neighboring protrusions in a row 252R and partially between two neighboring protrusions 252 in a directly adjacent and neighboring row 252R. For ease of example, a first protrusion 262, a second protrusion 264, and a third protrusion 266 will be discussed. First protrusion 262 and second protrusion 264 are arranged in a row 252R, and third protrusion 266 is arranged in a column 252C. First protrusion 262 and second protrusion 264 contact one another at corners thereof.

[0111] Third protrusion 266 is located partially circumferentially between first protrusion 262 and second protrusion 264. Fourth lateral face 260 of third protrusion 266 is located circumferentially between third lateral face 258 of first protrusion 262 and second lateral face 256 of third protrusion 266. Second lateral face 256 of third protrusion 266 is located circumferentially between fourth lateral face 260 of third protrusion 266 and first lateral face 254 of second protrusion 264. Different protrusions 252 arranged in a directly adjacent row 252R are located on either side of first lateral face 254 and third lateral face 258 of third protrusion 266.

[0112] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of protrusions 252 is a square pyramidal-shape. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of protrusions 252 is a triangular pyramidal-shape. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of protrusions 252 is a pentagonal pyramidal-shape. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of protrusions 252 is a hexagonal pyramidal-shape. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of protrusions 252 is diamond shape.

[0113] In some embodiments, drink cup 210 is formed of polypropylene. In one example, side wall 222 of drink cup 210 has a frustoconical shape. Each of first and second strengthening units 228, 230 is coupled to side wall 222 and are arranged to deviate from the frustoconical shape of side wall 222. In one example, first and second strengthening units 228, 230 extend away from side wall 222, toward central axis A, or combinations thereof. Each of first and second strengthening units 228, 230 can be seen as a deviation or interruption of the frustoconical shape of side wall 222. It will be understood that the drawings are drawn to scale.

[0114] The following numbered clauses include embodiments that are contemplated and non-limiting:

[0115]Clause 1. A drink cup comprising a body including a floor and a side wall coupled to the floor to extend upwardly away from the floor and spaced from a central axis to define an interior region configured to provide a fluid-holding reservoir.

[0116]Clause 1.1. The drink cup of clause 1, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the side wall including a lower portion and an upper portion each spaced apart from one another vertically along the central axis.

[0117] Clause 1.2. The drink cup of clause 1.1, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, further comprising a body-strengthening system located between the lower portion of the side wall and the upper portion of the side wall.

[0118] Clause 1.3. The drink cup of clause 1.2, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the body-strengthening system includes a first annular strip that extends radially away from the central axis, a second annular strip extending radially toward the central axis from the first annular strip, and a third annular strip extending radially away from the central axis and spaced apart from the first annular strip.

[0119] Clause 1.4. The drink cup of clause 1.3, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, further comprising a grip portion located between the lower portion of the side wall and the upper portion of the side wall.

[0120] Clause 1.5. The drink cup of clause 1.4, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the grip portion includes a square pyramidal-shaped protrusion having a first lateral face, a second lateral face opposite the first lateral face, a third lateral face located between the first lateral face and the second lateral face, and a fourth lateral face opposite the third lateral face.

[0121] Clause 1.6. The drink cup of clause 1.5, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the first lateral face, the second lateral face, the third lateral face, and the fourth lateral face cooperate to define an apex of the square pyramidal-shaped protrusion.

[0122]Clause 2. The drink cup of clause 1, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the square pyramidal-shaped protrusion is a first square pyramidal-shaped protrusion, and wherein the grip portion further includes a second square pyramidal-shaped protrusion including a first lateral face, a second lateral face opposite the first lateral face of the second square pyramidal-shaped protrusion, a third lateral face located between the first lateral face of the second square pyramidal-shaped protrusion and the second lateral face of the second square pyramidal-shaped protrusion, and a fourth lateral face opposite the third lateral face of the second square pyramidal-shaped protrusion.

[0123]Clause 2.1. The drink cup of clause 2, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the first lateral face, the second lateral face, the third lateral face, and the fourth lateral face of the second square pyramidal-shaped protrusion cooperate to define an apex of the second square pyramidal-shaped protrusion.

[0124]Clause 3. The drink cup of clause 2, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the second square pyramidal-shaped protrusion circumferentially neighbors the first square pyramidal-shaped protrusion about the central axis, and wherein a corner formed by the second lateral face and the third lateral face of the first square pyramidal-shaped protrusion is vertically offset from a corner formed by the first lateral face and the fourth lateral face of the second square pyramidal-shaped protrusion relative to the central axis.

[0125]Clause 4. The drink cup of clause 3, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the first lateral face of the first square pyramidal-shaped protrusion and the first lateral face of the second square pyramidal-shaped protrusion are parallel to one another.

[0126] Clause 4.1. The drink cup of clause 4, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the second lateral face of the first square pyramidal-shaped protrusion and the second lateral face of the second square pyramidal-shaped protrusion are parallel to one another.

[0127] Clause 4.2. The drink cup of clause 4.1, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the third lateral face of the first square pyramidal-shaped protrusion and the third lateral face of the second square pyramidal-shaped protrusion are parallel to one another.

[0128] Clause 4.3. The drink cup of clause 4.2, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the fourth lateral face of the first square pyramidal-shaped protrusion and the fourth lateral face of the second square pyramidal-shaped protrusion are parallel to one another.

[0129]Clause 5. The drink cup of clause 4, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the third lateral face of the first square pyramidal-shaped protrusion is located between the first lateral face of the first square pyramidal-shaped protrusion and the first lateral face of the second square pyramidal-shaped protrusion.

[0130]Clause 6. The drink cup of clause 3, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the apex of the first square pyramidal-shaped protrusion and the apex of the second square pyramidal-shaped protrusion are offset from one another.

[0131]Clause 7. The drink cup of clause 2, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the grip portion further includes a third square pyramidal-shaped protrusion located vertically above and at least partially between the first square pyramidal-shaped protrusion and the second square pyramidal-shaped protrusion.

[0132]Clause 8. The drink cup of clause 7, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the third square pyramidal-shaped protrusion includes a first lateral face, a second lateral face opposite the first lateral face of the third square pyramidal-shaped protrusion, a third lateral face located between the first lateral face of the third square pyramidal-shaped protrusion and the second lateral face of the third square pyramidal-shaped protrusion, and a fourth lateral face opposite the third lateral face of the third square pyramidal-shaped protrusion.

[0133]Clause 8.1. The drink cup of clause 8, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the first lateral face, the second lateral face, the third lateral face, and the fourth lateral face of the third square pyramidal-shaped protrusion cooperate to define an apex of the third square pyramidal-shaped protrusion.

[0134]Clause 9. The drink cup of clause 8, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the first lateral face of the third square pyramidal-shaped protrusion, the first lateral face of the second square pyramidal-shaped protrusion, and the first lateral face of the first square pyramidal-shaped protrusion are parallel to one another.

[0135]Clause 10. The drink cup of clause 8, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the fourth lateral face of the third square pyramidal-shaped protrusion and the second lateral face of the third square pyramidal-shaped protrusion are located between the third lateral face of the first square pyramidal-shaped protrusion and the first lateral face of the second square pyramidal-shaped protrusion.

[0136]Clause 11. The drink cup of clause 8, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the apex of the third square pyramidal-shaped protrusion is vertically above and circumferentially offset with the apex of the first square pyramidal-shaped protrusion and the apex of the second square pyramidal-shaped protrusion.

[0137]Clause 12. The drink cup of clause 1, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the grip portion includes a plurality of square pyramidal-shaped protrusions including the square pyramidal-shaped protrusion, each of the plurality of square pyramidal-shaped protrusions having a first lateral face, a second lateral face opposite the first lateral face, a third lateral face located between the first lateral face and the second lateral face, and a fourth lateral face opposite the third lateral face.

[0138]Clause 13. The drink cup of clause 12, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein a first portion of the plurality of square pyramidal-shaped protrusions is aligned in a row, and wherein a first side wall at an interface of the first lateral face and the fourth lateral face of one of the first portion of the plurality of square pyramidal-shaped protrusions and a second side wall at an interface of the second lateral face and the third lateral face of another of the first portion of the plurality of square pyramidal-shaped protrusions neighboring the one of the first portion of the plurality of square pyramidal-shaped protrusions are offset with one another relative to the vertical axis.

[0139]Clause 14. The drink cup of clause 13, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the first portion of the plurality of square pyramidal-shaped protrusions cooperate to extend entirely circumferentially about the central axis.

[0140]Clause 15. The drink cup of clause 13, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein a second portion of the plurality of square pyramidal-shaped protrusions is aligned in a column, and wherein a third side wall at an interface of the first lateral face and the third lateral face of one of the second portion of the plurality of square pyramidal-shaped protrusions and a fourth side wall at an interface of the second lateral face and the fourth lateral face of another of the second portion of the plurality of square pyramidal-shaped protrusions neighboring the one of the second portion of the plurality of square pyramidal-shaped protrusions are circumferentially offset with one another.

[0141]Clause 16. The drink cup of clause 1, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, further comprising a brim coupled to the body to locate the side wall between the brim and the floor and formed to include an opening into the interior region.

[0142]Clause 17. The drink cup of clause 16, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, further comprising a stack shoulder located between the upper portion of the side wall and the brim.

[0143]Clause 18. The drink cup of clause 17, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the stack shoulder includes a first annular strip that extends radially away from the central axis from the upper portion of the side wall, a second annular strip that extends radially toward the central axis from the first annular strip, and an annular band extending between and interconnecting the second annular strip and the brim.

[0144]Clause 19. The drink cup of clause 1, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the body-strengthening system includes a first strengthening unit and a second strengthening unit.

[0145]Clause 19.1. The drink cup of clause 19, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the first strengthening unit has the first annular strip that extends radially away from the central axis from the grip portion, the second annular strip that extends radially toward the central axis from the first annular strip, and the third annular strip that extends radially away from the central axis from the second annular strip to the upper portion of the side wall.

[0146]Clause 20. The drink cup of clause 19, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the first annular strip and the second annular strip cooperate to form a curved peak of the first strengthening unit.

[0147]Clause 21. The drink cup of clause 19, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the second annular strip and the third annular strip cooperate to form a curved trough of the first strengthening unit.

[0148]Clause 22. The drink cup of clause 19, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the first annular strip extends along a first curvilinear path, the second annular strip extends along a second curvilinear path, and the third annular strip extends along a third curvilinear path.

[0149]Clause 23. The drink cup of clause 19, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the second strengthening unit includes a first annular strip extending radially away from the central axis from the lower portion of the side wall, a second annular strip extending radially toward the central axis from the first annular strip of the second strengthening unit, a third annular strip extending radially away from the central axis to the grip portion and spaced apart from the second annular strip of the second strengthening unit, and an annular band extending between and interconnecting the second annular strip of the second strengthening unit and the third annular strip of the second strengthening unit.

[0150]Clause 24. The drink cup of clause 23, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the first annular strip of the second strengthening unit and the second annular strip of the second strengthening unit cooperate to form a curved peak of the second strengthening unit.

[0151]Clause 25. The drink cup of clause 23, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the first annular strip of the second strengthening unit extends along a first curvilinear path, the second annular strip of the second strengthening unit extends along a second curvilinear path, and the third annular strip of the second strengthening unit extends along a third curvilinear path.

[0152]Clause 26. The drink cup of clause 23, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the annular band defines a trough of the second strengthening unit.

[0153]Clause 27. The drink cup of clause 19, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the body-strengthening system further includes a third strengthening unit located vertically above the first strengthening unit relative to the central axis.

[0154] Clause 27.1. The drink cup of clause 27, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the third strengthening unit including a first annular strip that extends radially away from the central axis from the upper portion of the side wall, a second annular strip that extends radially toward the central axis from the first annular strip, and an annular band extending upwardly from the second annular strip.

[0155]Clause 28. The drink cup of clause 27, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the third strengthening unit provides a stack shoulder of the drink cup.

[0156]Clause 29. The drink cup of clause 19, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the grip portion of the drink cup is located between the first strengthening unit and the second strengthening unit.

[0157]Clause 30. A drink cup comprising a body.

[0158]Clause 30.1. The drink cup of clause 30, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the body includes a floor and a side wall coupled to the floor to extend upwardly away from the floor and spaced from a central axis to define an interior region configured to provide a fluid-holding reservoir.

[0159] Clause 30.2. The drink cup of clause 30.1, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the side wall includes a lower portion and an upper portion each spaced apart from one another vertically along the central axis.

[0160] Clause 30.3. The drink cup of clause 30.2, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, further comprising a body-strengthening system located between the lower portion of the side wall and the upper portion of the side wall.

[0161] Clause 30.4. The drink cup of clause 30.3, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, further comprising a grip portion including a plurality of protrusions that provide texture to the grip portion.

[0162] Clause 30.5. The drink cup of clause 30.4, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the plurality of protrusions have a series of first protrusions arranged in a row that extend entirely circumferentially about the central axis and a series of second protrusions arranged in a column that extend vertically between the lower portion of the side wall and the upper portion of the side wall.

[0163] Clause 30.6. The drink cup of clause 30.5, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein each of the plurality of protrusions includes a plurality of radially outwardly extending faces that cooperate to define an apex of each of the plurality of protrusions.

[0164]Clause 31. The drink cup of clause 30, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein each of the plurality of protrusions is a square pyramidal shape.

[0165]Clause 32. The drink cup of clause 30, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the apex of each of the plurality of protrusions in the series of first protrusions are circumferentially aligned.

[0166]Clause 33. The drink cup of clause 30, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the apex of each of the plurality of protrusions in the series of second protrusions are vertically aligned.

[0167]Clause 34. The drink cup of clause 30, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, further comprising a brim coupled to the body to locate the side wall between the brim and the floor and formed to include an opening into the interior region.

[0168]Clause 35. The drink cup of clause 34, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, further comprising a stack shoulder located between the upper portion of the side wall and the brim.

[0169]Clause 36. The drink cup of clause 35, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the stack shoulder includes a first annular strip that extends radially away from the central axis from the upper portion of the side wall, a second annular strip that extends radially toward the central axis from the first annular strip, and an annular band extending between and interconnecting the second annular strip and the brim.

[0170]Clause 37. The drink cup of clause 30, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the body-strengthening system includes a first strengthening unit and a second strengthening unit.

[0171]Clause 37.1. The drink cup of clause 37, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the first strengthening unit has a first annular strip that extends radially away from the central axis from the grip portion, a second annular strip that extends radially toward the central axis from the first annular strip, and a third annular strip that extends radially away from the central axis from the second annular strip to the upper portion of the side wall.

[0172]Clause 38. The drink cup of clause 37, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the first annular strip and the second annular strip cooperate to form a curved peak of the first strengthening unit.

[0173]Clause 39. The drink cup of clause 38, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the second annular strip and the third annular strip cooperate to form a curved trough of the first strengthening unit.

[0174]Clause 40. The drink cup of clause 37, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the second strengthening unit includes a first annular strip extending radially away from the central axis from the lower portion of the side wall, a second annular strip extending radially toward the central axis from the first annular strip of the second strengthening unit, a third annular strip extending radially away from the central axis to the grip portion and spaced apart from the second annular strip of the second strengthening unit, and an annular band extending between and interconnecting the second annular strip of the second strengthening unit and the third annular strip of the second strengthening unit.

[0175]Clause 41. The drink cup of clause 40, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the first annular strip of the second strengthening unit and the second annular strip of the second strengthening unit cooperate to form a curved peak of the second strengthening unit.

[0176]Clause 42. The drink cup of clause 41, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the annular band defines a trough of the second strengthening unit.

[0177]Clause 43. The drink cup of clause 37, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the body-strengthening system further includes a third strengthening unit located vertically above the first strengthening unit relative to the central axis.

[0178]Clause 43.1. The drink cup of clause 43, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the third strengthening unit includes a first annular strip that extends radially away from the central axis from the upper portion of the side wall, a second annular strip that extends radially toward the central axis from the first annular strip, and an annular band extending between and interconnecting the second annular strip and a brim of the drink cup.

[0179]Clause 44. The drink cup of clause 43, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the third strengthening unit provides a stack shoulder of the drink cup.

[0180]Clause 45. The drink cup of clause 37, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the grip portion of the drink cup is located directly between the first strengthening unit and the second strengthening unit.