CORK PENDANT

Abstract

A pendant having a cork and a case having front surface. The pendant includes a window disposed on the front surface of the case and a foldable notecard placeable in the window. Alternately the case may include a note area an inked or embedded message is placeable on the note area. The pendant includes a cord and a securing pin attached to one end for insertion into the cork. The case is attached to a second end of the cord. A finger grip is disposed adjacent to the securing pin. The notecard or the inked or embedded message allows a user to identify cork related information. The cork related information may be cork biography, an occasion, or moments, places, people and memories from the occasion. The cork related information may be information on the wine, champagne or drink that was originated from a bottle sealed with the cork.

Claims

1. A cork-based memory preservation device, comprising: a push pin with a textured handle for insertion into a cork; a pendant attached to the push pin, the pendant having a compartment for holding a note; and a connector for attaching the pendant to the push pin.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the push pin includes a barb or ribs to secure the pin in place.

3. The device of claim 1, wherein the pendant is shaped to represent a brand, hobby, or interest.

4. The device of claim 3, wherein the pendant is decorated with insignias, engraving, lettering, jewels, or enamel.

5. The device of claim 1, wherein the compartment for holding the note includes an enlarged compartment deeper than the insertion space, so the note partially opens-up like an accordion inside and is blocked from sliding out.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein the connector is made of string, twine, metal chains, plastic chains, loop rings, plastic or metal bars, or fabric.

7. A cork-based memory preservation device, comprising: a push pin for insertion into a cork; a pendant attached to the push pin, the pendant having a surface for writing a note; and a connector for attaching the pendant to the push pin.

8. The device of claim 7, wherein the push pin includes a textured handle to facilitate insertion and removal from the cork.

9. The device of claim 8, wherein the textured handle includes a finger grip.

10. The device of claim 7, wherein the pendant is shaped to represent a brand, hobby, or interest.

11. The device of claim 10, wherein the pendant is decorated with insignias, engraving, lettering, jewels, or enamel.

12. The device of claim 7, wherein the connector is made of string, twine, metal chains, plastic chains, loop rings, plastic or metal bars, or fabric.

13. A cork-based memory preservation device, comprising: a push pin for insertion into a cork; a pendant attached to the push pin, the pendant having a compartment for holding a note and note paper with a surface for writing the note; and a connector for attaching the pendant to the push pin.

14. The device of claim 13, wherein the push pin includes a barb or ribs to secure the pin in place.

15. The device of claim 13, wherein the pendant is shaped to represent a brand, hobby, or interest.

16. The device of claim 15, wherein the pendant is decorated with insignias, engraving, lettering, jewels, or enamel.

17. The device of claim 13, wherein the compartment for holding the note includes an enlarged compartment deeper than the insertion space, so the note partially opens-up like an accordion inside and is blocked from sliding out.

18. The device of claim 13, wherein the connector is made of string, twine, metal chains, plastic chains, loop rings, plastic or metal bars, or fabric.

19. The device of claim 13, wherein the push pin includes a textured handle to facilitate insertion and removal from the cork.

20. The device of claim 19, wherein the textured handle includes a finger grip.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0048] A further understanding of the nature and advantages of particular embodiments may be realized by reference to the remaining portions of the specification and the drawings, in which like reference numerals are used to refer to similar components. When reference is made to a reference numeral without specification to an existing sub-label, it is intended to refer to all such multiple similar components.

[0049] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a pendant according to the present invention;

[0050] FIG. 2A is a front elevational view of another pendant before insertion of a push pin for securing the pendant to the cork;

[0051] FIG. 2B is a front elevational view of a second pendant having a different message;

[0052] FIG. 2C is a front elevational view of a third pendant having yet another different messages;

[0053] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the pendant and notecard placeable in the pendant case;

[0054] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the pendant according to the present invention;

[0055] FIG. 5 is a front elevational view of the pendant shown in FIG. 4 with the cork removed to expose the fastener;

[0056] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the pendant according to the present invention;

[0057] FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the case front and rear members;

[0058] FIG. 8 is an assembled view of the case shown in FIG. 7;

[0059] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of blank folded notecards for use in the pendant case shown in FIGS. 1 and 7;

[0060] FIG. 10 shows examples of pendant plates for pendants of FIGS. 4 and 5;

[0061] FIG. 11 shows more examples of pendant plates for pendants of FIGS. 4 and 5;

[0062] FIG. 12 shows additional examples of pendant plates for pendants of FIGS. 4 and 5;

[0063] FIG. 13 shows a pendant having an engraved plate, connector, push pin and finger grip; and

[0064] FIG. 14 shows a wall mounted pendant according to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0065] While various aspects and features of certain embodiments have been summarized above, the following detailed description illustrates a few exemplary embodiments in further detail to enable one skilled in the art to practice such embodiments. The described examples are provided for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0066] In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art however that other embodiments of the present invention may be practiced without some of these specific details. Several embodiments are described herein, and while various features are ascribed to different embodiments, it should be appreciated that the features described with respect to one embodiment may be incorporated with other embodiments as well. By the same token, however, no single feature or features of any described embodiment should be considered essential to every embodiment of the invention, as other embodiments of the invention may omit such features.

[0067] In this application the use of the singular includes the plural unless specifically stated otherwise and use of the terms and and or is equivalent to and/or, also referred to as non-exclusive or unless otherwise indicated. Moreover, the use of the term including, as well as other forms, such as includes and included, should be considered non-exclusive. Also, terms such as element or component encompass both elements and components including one unit and elements and components that include more than one unit, unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0068] Lastly, the terms or and and/or as used herein are to be interpreted as inclusive or meaning any one or any combination. Therefore, A, B or C or A, B and/or C mean any of the following: A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; A, B and C. An exception to this definition will occur only when a combination of elements, functions, steps or acts are in some way inherently mutually exclusive.

[0069] As this invention is susceptible to embodiments of many different forms, it is intended that the present disclosure be considered as an example of the principles of the invention and not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiments shown and described.

[0070] The present disclosure provides a cork-based memory preservation device. This device may serve as a novel way to commemorate special occasions or memorable events associated with a particular bottle of wine or champagne. The device may include a push pin with a textured handle, designed for easy insertion into and removal from a cork. The push pin may be designed to withstand the density and stickiness of the cork, and may be made in various lengths and materials.

[0071] The device may also include a pendant attached to the push pin. The pendant may be customizable and may come in various shapes and designs, such as geometric shapes, animal shapes, sporting equipment, motor vehicles, corporate logos, or any other shape that represents a brand, hobby, or interest. The pendant may be decorated with insignias, engraving, lettering, jewels, or enamel, and may be made from a variety of materials, including but not limited to metals, plastics, or wood.

[0072] The pendant may include a compartment for holding a note, providing a space for the user to write a memory or detail associated with the cork. The compartment may hold the note in place using one of two mechanisms. In one embodiment, the compartment may be deeper than the insertion space, allowing the note to partially open up like an accordion inside and be blocked from sliding out. In another embodiment, the depth of the internal cavity may be carefully measured to hold the note in place with pressure. The pendant may have a surface for writing a note directly on it. The surface may be part of the pendant itself or may be an adhesive material that adheres to the pendant.

[0073] The device may also include a connector for attaching the pendant to the push pin. The connector may be made of various materials, such as string, twine, metal chains, plastic chains, loop rings, plastic or metal bars, or fabric.

[0074] The device may be designed to be sold as individual units or accompanied with bottles of champagne or wine as a keepsake item. The device may also serve as a gift card, providing a more exciting and memorable alternative to traditional gift cards.

[0075] Overall, the cork-based memory preservation device may provide a creative and personalized way to preserve and commemorate special moments associated with a particular bottle of wine or champagne.

[0076] The cork-based memory preservation device may be marketed and sold as individual units. These units may be available for purchase through various channels, such as online platforms, retail stores, vineyards, or gift shops. This flexibility in distribution may allow for a wide range of consumers to access and purchase the device, catering to different purchasing preferences and habits. The device may be designed to accompany bottles of champagne or wine as a keepsake item. This may provide an added value to the purchase of the bottle, enhancing the overall experience for the consumer. For instance, a consumer may purchase a bottle of wine or champagne for a special occasion, and the accompanying device may serve as a tangible memento of that occasion. The consumer may write a note on the pendant, detailing the event, the people present, or any other memorable details associated with the occasion. This note may then be preserved within the pendant, creating a lasting memory associated with the cork from the bottle.

[0077] The device may also be packaged and sold as part of a gift set. For example, a bottle of wine or champagne may be sold with one or more devices as a set, providing a complete gift solution for consumers. This may be particularly appealing for consumers looking for a thoughtful and personalized gift option for special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, or holidays.

[0078] In other aspects, the device may be sold in bulk to vineyards or wineries. These establishments may then offer the device as a complimentary keepsake to customers who purchase their wine or champagne. This may serve as a novel marketing strategy, enhancing customer engagement and brand loyalty.

[0079] The cork-based memory preservation device may provide a novel and personalized way for consumers to commemorate special occasions or memorable events associated with a particular bottle of wine or champagne.

[0080] The push pin may be designed with a textured handle. This textured handle may facilitate the insertion and removal of the push pin from the cork. The texture of the handle may provide a better grip, reducing the risk of slippage during insertion or removal. The handle may be textured in various ways, such as through the use of ridges, grooves, or other surface irregularities. The handle may be made from a variety of materials, including but not limited to metals, plastics, or wood. The push pin may include a barb or ribs to secure the pin in place within the cork. The barb or ribs may be designed to engage with the material of the cork, preventing the pin from being easily dislodged. This may ensure that the pendant remains securely attached to the cork, even when the cork is handled or moved. The barb or ribs may be formed as part of the pin, or may be separate elements that are attached to the pin.

[0081] The push pin may be designed in various formats. For instance, the pin may be smooth, either straight or tapered, allowing for easy insertion into the cork. A straight pin may lock itself in place over time as the cork hardens, while a tapered pin may allow for easier release over time. Alternatively, the pin may be textured, containing a barb or ribs to secure the pin in place. In another example, a spiralized pin may be used, similar to a corkscrew, to allow the pin to securely stay within the cork. The pendant may be decorated with various adornments. These adornments may include insignias, engraving, lettering, jewels, or enamel. These decorations may serve to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the pendant, and may also provide additional information or symbolism related to the occasion or event associated with the cork. For instance, the pendant may be engraved with the date of the event, the names of the individuals present, or a short message or quote. The decorations may be applied to the pendant in a variety of ways, such as through etching, painting, or affixing decorative elements to the surface of the pendant.

[0082] The pendant attached to the push pin may be shaped to represent a brand, hobby, or interest. This may allow the user to personalize the device according to their preferences or the nature of the occasion. For instance, the pendant may be shaped like a tennis racket for a sports enthusiast, a car for an automobile aficionado, or a corporate logo for a company event. This flexibility in the design of the pendant may enhance the appeal of the device, making it a versatile and customizable keepsake. The pendant may include a compartment for holding a note. This compartment may be designed in a way that the note partially opens up like an accordion inside and is blocked from sliding out. This may be achieved by making the compartment deeper than the insertion space. This design may ensure that the note remains securely within the pendant, even when the device is handled or moved. The note may contain details about the occasion, such as the date, the people present, or any memorable moments, providing a tangible record of the event associated with the cork.

[0083] The pendant may be decorated with various adornments to enhance its aesthetic appeal. These adornments may include insignias, engraving, lettering, jewels, or enamel. For instance, the pendant may be engraved with a special message, adorned with jewels for a touch of elegance, or decorated with enamel in various colors. These decorations may add a personal touch to the device, making it a more meaningful and attractive keepsake. The pendant may be made from a variety of materials, including but not limited to metals, plastics, or wood. The choice of material may depend on the desired aesthetic, the cost considerations, or the durability requirements. For instance, a metal pendant may be preferred for its durability and premium feel, while a plastic pendant may be chosen for its cost-effectiveness and versatility in design. In some cases, the pendant may also be coated or decorated with various materials, such as paints, polishes, or polyurethanes, to enhance its appearance or protect it from damage.

[0084] The pendant may include a compartment for holding a note. This compartment may be designed to securely hold the note in place, preventing it from falling out or becoming dislodged during handling or movement of the device. The compartment may be designed in various ways to achieve this secure hold. The compartment may include an enlarged compartment deeper than the insertion space. This design may allow the note to partially open up like an accordion inside the compartment, and be blocked from sliding out. This may be achieved by carefully designing the dimensions of the compartment, such that the depth of the compartment is greater than the thickness of the folded note. When the note is inserted into the compartment, it may expand or unfold slightly within the enlarged space, creating a blockage that prevents the note from sliding out of the compartment.

[0085] The secure hold of the note within the compartment may be achieved by carefully measuring the thickness of the note, whether it is folded or otherwise. The depth of the internal cavity of the compartment may be designed to be just large enough to accommodate the thickness of the note. This may create a pressure fit within the compartment, holding the note in place. The note may be inserted into the compartment with a slight force, and once inside, the pressure from the walls of the compartment may keep the note securely in place. The note may be removed from the compartment by applying a slight force, pushing it out of the compartment.

[0086] The note may be a notecard that is folded in a particular way. The notecard may be folded so that one message may be displayed in a window of the case of the pendant, while another message may be viewable only when the notecard is removed from the case and unfolded. This may allow for multiple messages or pieces of information to be stored within the same notecard, providing a more versatile and efficient use of space within the compartment. The connector for attaching the pendant to the push pin may be made of various materials. These materials may include string, twine, metal chains, plastic chains, loop rings, plastic or metal bars, or fabric. The choice of material for the connector may depend on various factors, such as the desired aesthetic, the weight of the pendant, or the durability requirements. For instance, a metal chain may be chosen for its strength and durability, while a fabric connector may be chosen for its flexibility and soft texture.

[0087] Referring now to the drawings FIGS. 1-14, and more particularly to FIGS. 1 and 2B, there is shown a pendant 10 having a cork 20 and a case 30 having a front surface 32. The pendant includes a window 34 disposed on the front surface 32 of the case 30 and a folded notecard 81 placeable in the window 34. The pendant 10 includes a cord 44 and a securing pin 46 attached to one end of the cord 44. The securing pin 46 is for insertion into the cork 20. The securing pin 46 may include a barb or have a texture to secure the securing pin 46 in the cork 20. The case 30 is attached to a second end of the cord 44 by a loop 88 secured to the case 30. A finger grip 42 is disposed adjacent to the securing pin whereby the securing pin preferably extends from an end of the finger grip, although any configuration may be used. An unfolded notecard 100 allows a user to identify cork related information by writing or inking a related message and then place the folded notecard 100 into the case 30. The cork related information may be cork biography, an occasion, or moments, places, people and memories from the occasion. The cork related information may be information on the wine, champagne or drink that originated from a bottle sealed with the cork 20. The cord 44 may be string, twine, metal chains, plastic chains, loop rings, plastic or metal bars, fabric or any combination thereof. FIG. 2A shows an alternate embodiment with a pendant 10 having a cord 44 and a securing pin 46. The case 30 includes a folded notecard 81 with a holiday message. A cork 20 may be different than cork 20 shown in FIG. 2B. FIG. 2C shows an alternate embodiment with a pendant 10 having a cord 44 and a securing pin 46. The case 30 includes a folded notecard 81 with an anniversary message.

[0088] In an alternate embodiment, a pendant 12 includes a plate 32 rather than the case, the plate 91 shown in FIGS. 4, 5 and 10-13. The plate 91 includes a note area 92 with an inked or embedded message placeable on the note area 92. The inked or embedded message 93 allows a user to identify cork related information. The cord 142 may be string, twine, metal chains, plastic chains, loop rings, plastic or metal bars, fabric or any combination thereof. As shown in FIG. 5, the cord 142 may have a threaded fastener 160 for securing the cord 142 to the cork 20.

[0089] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the pendant 70 which has a rounded rear panel case rather than a flat rear panel case.

[0090] FIG. 7 is a front perspective exploded view of the case 80 having a front panel 17 including an attachment loop 88 and a rear panel 15 securable to the front panel. FIG. 8 is a rear perspective exploded view of the case 80 showing the inset portion 86 allowing for a folded notecard. The rear of the front panel includes depressions 84 (FIG. 8) which engage protrusions 82 on the front of the rear cover (FIG. 7) for removably securing the rear panel to the front panel 17.

[0091] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of blank folded notecards for use in the pendant case shown at least in FIGS. 1 and 7. The notecard 100 is folded so that one message may be displayed in the case window 34 while another message may be viewable only when the notecard 100 is removed from the case and unfolded.

[0092] FIGS. 10-12 shows examples of pendant plates 101, 102 and 106 for pendants of FIGS. 4 and 5.

[0093] FIG. 13 shows a pendant 110 having an engraved plate 112, connector 118, push pin 116 and finger grip 114.

[0094] FIG. 14 shows a wall mount pendant 210 wherein the cork is mounted to a plate 212 and the tag 214 and connector 216 are secured by a cork pushpin 218. The plate 212 may include an adhesive on the rear surface for mounting to a wall or other surface. The plate 212 in this example is an image of a cork. The plate 212 of any design may include a written or engraved note on the front surface and may include a written or engraved note on the rear surface. The cork pushpin 218 is longer than a conventional pushpin (or thumbtack) because it needs to be able to withhold the weight of the pendant, particularly the heavier ones made of metal. The lengths of the preferred push pin may vary from approximately to slightly over 1 inch. A typical shorter pushpin or thumbtack which has a pin less than inch would not be able to withhold the weight of a pendant, particularly if it is articulated vertically.

[0095] The pendant may be used as a gift card. Wine shows, tastings and events are a staple of the wine industry where enthusiasts can sample varieties and take part in the social experience. Purchasing wine from vineyards is a component of this experience, but at events, it is often challenging for the wine or event producer to bring enough wine to sell, and it's often inconvenient to purchase and carry wine to bring home for yourself or as gifts.

[0096] One embodiment of the pendant is a stand-alone package that also acts as a gift-card, to later be given to another individual, or used by the purchaser to redeem an accompanying bottle of wine or champagne. This eliminates the need to purchase the wine, and also make the gift-card giving experience so much more exciting than giving a stand-alone gift card. The recipient may receive a pendant, which is decor for the home, and a gift-card to redeem a bottle of wine/champagne by whomever sponsors the card (Event planner, Host, Hotel, Wine Producer or otherwise).

[0097] The gift card information may be attached to the pendant gift box, and used as a stored-value, funded but the purchaser.

[0098] The invention may include packaging for the gift card pendants label or house a window, so the purchaser can identify the corresponding pendant.

[0099] Since many modifications, variations, and changes in detail can be made to the described embodiments of the invention, it is intended that all matters in the foregoing description and shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Furthermore, it is understood that any of the features presented in the embodiments may be integrated into any of the other embodiments unless explicitly stated otherwise. The scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

[0100] In addition, the present invention has been described with reference to embodiments, it should be noted and understood that various modifications and variations can be crafted by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Accordingly, the foregoing disclosure should be interpreted as illustrative only and is not to be interpreted in a limiting sense. Further it is intended that any other embodiments of the present invention that result from any changes in application or method of use or operation, method of manufacturing, shape, size, or materials which are not specified within the detailed written description or illustrations contained herein are considered within the scope of the present invention.

[0101] Insofar as the description above and the accompanying drawings disclose any additional subject matter that is not within the scope of the claims below, the inventions are not dedicated to the public and the right to file one or more applications to claim such additional inventions is reserved.

[0102] Although very narrow claims are presented herein, it should be recognized that the scope of this invention is much broader than presented by the claim. It is intended that broader claims will be submitted in an application that claims the benefit of priority from this application.

[0103] While this invention has been described with respect to at least one embodiment, the present invention can be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using its general principles. Further, this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this invention pertains and which fall within the limits of the appended claims.