U.S. patent application number 11/469856 was filed with the patent office on 2007-04-05 for beverage container lids with combined display area and cooling/insulating structure.
Invention is credited to Donald S. Farnsworth, John Nava.
Application Number | 20070075080 11/469856 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 31714408 |
Filed Date | 2007-04-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070075080 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Farnsworth; Donald S. ; et
al. |
April 5, 2007 |
Beverage Container Lids With Combined Display Area And
Cooling/Insulating Structure
Abstract
Beverage container lid assemblies provide a combined premium
display area and cooling/insulating structure for the beverage
container.
Inventors: |
Farnsworth; Donald S.;
(Oakland, CA) ; Nava; John; (Ojai, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
HENRICKS SLAVIN AND HOLMES LLP;SUITE 200
840 APOLLO STREET
EL SEGUNDO
CA
90245
US
|
Family ID: |
31714408 |
Appl. No.: |
11/469856 |
Filed: |
September 2, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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10217622 |
Aug 13, 2002 |
7100787 |
|
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11469856 |
Sep 2, 2006 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
220/212 ;
220/254.3; 220/713; 220/780 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47G 19/2227 20130101;
B65D 51/28 20130101; B65D 51/24 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/212 ;
220/780; 220/254.3; 220/713 |
International
Class: |
B65D 51/00 20060101
B65D051/00; A47G 19/22 20060101 A47G019/22; B65D 51/18 20060101
B65D051/18; B65D 41/18 20060101 B65D041/18 |
Claims
1. A lid assembly for a beverage container, the lid assembly
comprising: a lid member including a beverage dispensing aperture
and an upper surface with a rim portion formed thereabout for
securing the lid member to a beverage container, the lid member
being formed with a plurality of spacer members extending upward
from the upper surface, the spacer members providing a combined
premium display area and cooling/insulating structure for the
beverage container; and a mechanism for securing a premium to the
spacer members such that the premium is separated from the upper
surface by a gap which allows airflow over the upper surface.
2. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 1, wherein
the spacer members include perimeter spacer members positioned
about the upper surface adjacent the rim portion.
3. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 1, wherein
the spacer members include a centrally positioned riser member.
4. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 3, wherein
the centrally positioned riser member is formed with a recess for
mechanical coupling to the securing mechanism.
5. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 1, wherein
the spacer members comprise a plurality of ribbed spacer
members.
6. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 5, wherein
the ribbed spacer members provide channels which allow airflow over
the upper surface.
7. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 6, wherein at
least one of the channels begins adjacent the beverage dispensing
aperture and continues across the upper surface.
8. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 1, wherein
the upper surface is at an angle relative to a plane containing a
bottom edge of the rim portion.
9. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 8, wherein a
perimeter of the upper surface is complementary in shape to the
premium.
10. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 8, wherein
an apex of the angle is located near the beverage dispensing
aperture.
11. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 8, wherein
an apex of the angle is located near a portion of the lid member
opposite from the beverage dispensing aperture.
12. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 1, wherein
the securing mechanism comprises an arm member secured to the rim
portion, the arm member including an end portion with a plug sized
to be fitted within the beverage dispensing aperture.
13. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 1, wherein
the premium has a centrally located hole, the securing mechanism
comprises a snap fitting plug member, and the spacer members
include a centrally positioned riser member sized to receive and
mechanically engage the snap fitting plug member.
14. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 1, wherein
the premium has a centrally located hole and the securing mechanism
comprises a snap-on fitting member formed on the upper surface and
sized to fit through the centrally located hole and snap together
with the premium while maintaining the gap between the premium and
the upper surface.
15. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 1, wherein
the securing mechanism comprises a top part secured to the rim
portion, the top part including an end portion with a plug sized to
be fitted within the beverage dispensing aperture.
16. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 1, wherein
the securing mechanism comprises a top part secured to the rim
portion, the top part including a recessed portion sized to fit
over and receive a disk-shaped premium.
17. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 16, wherein
the top part includes an end portion with a plug sized to be fitted
within the beverage dispensing aperture.
18. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 16, wherein
the top part is formed with a protruding clasp member configured
for mechanically coupling the premium to the top part.
19. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 16, wherein
the top part is formed with protrusions that are shaped
complementary to the spacer members for interlocking with the
spacer members.
20. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 16, wherein
the top part further comprises a hinged cover for securing the
premium within the recessed portion.
21. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 1, wherein
the securing mechanism comprises a top part secured to the rim
portion, the top part including a recessed portion sized to fit
over and receive a card-shaped premium.
22. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 21, wherein
the top part includes an end portion with a plug sized to be fitted
within the beverage dispensing aperture.
23. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 1, wherein
the securing mechanism comprises a top part secured to the lid
member.
24. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 23, wherein
the top part is transparent or translucent.
25. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 23, wherein
the top part and the lid member are formed in a complementary
fashion such that the top part can be snap-fitted over the premium
to the lid member.
26. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 1, wherein
the securing mechanism comprises a top part formed in a
complementary fashion with the lid member such that the top part
mechanically engages with the lid member.
27. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 26, wherein
the top part is formed with downwardly extending protrusions.
28. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 26, wherein
the top part is formed with a downwardly extending plug portion
sized to be fitted into the beverage dispensing aperture.
29. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 26, wherein
the top part is formed with a recessed portion sized to receive the
premium therein.
30. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 29, wherein
the top part further includes a cover sized to fit over the premium
and into the recessed portion.
31. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 1, wherein
the securing mechanism comprises an adhesive substance applied to
top portions of the spacer members.
32. A lid assembly for a beverage container, the lid assembly
comprising: a lid member including a beverage dispensing aperture
and an upper surface with a rim portion formed thereabout for
securing the lid member to a beverage container; a fibrous spacer
member sized to fit over the upper surface, the fibrous spacer
member providing a combined premium display area and
cooling/insulating structure for the beverage container; and a
mechanism for securing a premium to the fibrous spacer member such
that the premium is separated from the upper surface by the fibrous
spacer member which allows airflow over the upper surface.
33. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 32, wherein
the premium has a centrally located hole and the securing mechanism
comprises a snap fitting plug member sized to fit through the
centrally located hole and mechanically engage the lid member.
34. A lid assembly for a beverage container, the lid assembly
comprising: a lid member including a beverage dispensing aperture
and an upper surface with a rim portion formed thereabout for
securing the lid member to a beverage container: a corrugated
spacer member sized to fit over the upper surface, the corrugated
spacer member providing a combined premium display area and
cooling/insulating structure for the beverage container: and a
mechanism for securing a premium to the corrugated spacer member
such that the corrugated spacer member separates the premium from
the upper surface and allows airflow over the upper surface.
35. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 34, wherein
the corrugated spacer member comprises a sheet of corrugated
cardboard cut to fit over the upper surface.
36. A lid assembly for a beverage container, the lid assembly
comprising: a lid member including a beverage dispensing aperture
and an upper surface with a rim portion formed thereabout for
securing the lid member to a beverage container; a spacer member
with downwardly extending protrusions configured for mechanically
intermitting the spacer member to the lid member while maintaining
a gap between the spacer member and the upper surface; and a
mechanism for securing a premium to the spacer member.
37. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 36, wherein
a perimeter portion of the lid member is formed with indentations
complementary to one or more of the downwardly extending
protrusions.
38. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 36, wherein
the downwardly extending protrusions includes a plug member sized
to fit within the beverage dispensing aperture.
39. The lid assembly for a beverage container of claim 36, wherein
the premium securing mechanism comprises an upwardly extending post
member.
40. A lid assembly for a beverage container, the lid assembly
comprising: a lid member including a beverage dispensing aperture
and an upper surface with a rim portion formed thereabout for
securing the lid member to a beverage container; and a corrugated
spacer member with at least one downwardly extending protrusion
configured for mechanically interfitting the spacer member to the
lid member, the corrugated spacer member providing a display area
to which a premium can be secured and a cooling/insulating
structure for the beverage container.
41. A premium holder apparatus for a beverage container lid, the
premium holder apparatus comprising: a platform formed with a
plurality of downwardly protruding spacer members and a centrally
disposed downwardly protruding plug-in member sized for fitting
into a straw hole of a beverage container lid and for securing the
platform to the beverage container lid such that a gap is
maintained between the platform and an upper surface of the
beverage container lid; and a mechanism for securing a premium to
the platform.
42. The premium holder apparatus for a beverage container lid of
claim 41, wherein the premium has a centrally located hole and the
securing mechanism comprises a snap-on fitting member upwardly
protruding from the platform and sized to fit through the centrally
located hole and snap together with the premium.
43. The premium holder apparatus for a beverage container lid of
claim 42, wherein the platform, the plug-in member and the snap-on
fitting member are formed with a channel extending
therethrough.
44. A premium holder apparatus for a beverage container lid, the
premium holder apparatus comprising: a plug-in member sized for
fitting into a straw hole of a beverage container lid; and a
mechanism for securing a premium to the plug-in member.
45. The premium holder apparatus for a beverage container lid of
claim 44, wherein the securing mechanism comprises a flexible
member that attaches the premium to the plug-in member.
46. The premium holder apparatus for a beverage container lid of
claim 44, wherein the plug-in member is formed with a channel for a
straw extending therethrough.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/217,622 filed on Aug. 13, 2002.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] A variety of beverage lid assemblies to which premiums
(e.g., digital media disks, CD-ROM business cards, phone cards,
coupons, booklets, advertising materials, etc.) can be attached are
known. However, known beverage lid assemblies are not optimally
suited for use with hot beverage containers (e.g., carry-out cups
for coffee or tea). Among other deficiencies, known beverage lid
assemblies to which premiums can be attached do not adequately
protect the premium from being damaged by heat from a hot beverage
product. Thermal protection is important where the premium is
sensitive to heat, as in the case of media such as CD-ROM and
DataPlay disks. For example, warpage caused by close proximity to
heat from a hot beverage product can cause CD-ROMs to spin unevenly
in the CD reader thereby rendering them unusable, causing consumers
to be upset and manufacturers to incur additional costs.
Additionally, media such as DataPlay disks or other cassette-type
systems that use a closed compartment are vulnerable to
condensation that could damage internal mechanisms. Condensation
can occur on a premium when bathed in steam from a hot beverage or
when cooled to a temperature lower than the dew point by proximity
to an iced beverage. It would be desirable in these situations to
have a lid assembly, for a hot or cold beverage, that insulates the
premium from the pooling of moisture through condensation.
[0003] It would also be desirable to have a lid assembly for a
beverage container that prevents the beverage product from
splashing out of the container onto either a person or the
premium.
[0004] It would also be desirable to have a lid assembly for a
beverage container that allows the beverage product to be dispensed
from the container with the premium still attached to the lid
assembly.
[0005] It would also be desirable to have a lid assembly for a
beverage container that securely holds the premium but also allows
the premium to be removed from the lid assembly with a small amount
of force, thereby lessening the changes of accidentally removing
the lid assembly from the beverage container along with the premium
or otherwise unintentionally separating the lid assembly from the
beverage container.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] Detailed description of embodiments of the invention will be
made with reference to the accompanying drawings:
[0007] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a lid assembly for a
beverage container according to the present invention which
includes an inclined upper surface, elevated risers formed on the
upper surface and a clasp member for securing a premium to the
elevated risers;
[0008] FIG. 1A is a partial cross-sectional side view of the lid
assembly for a beverage container of FIG. 1 showing a mouthpiece
anti-spill plug of the clasp member inserted into a beverage
dispensing aperture of the lid assembly;
[0009] FIGS. 2A and 2B are top and cross-sectional side views,
respectively, of an exemplary embodiment of a lid assembly for a
beverage container according to the present invention which
includes an inclined upper surface and a snap-in plug for securing
a premium with a hole to the lid assembly;
[0010] FIGS. 3A and 3B are top and cross-sectional side views,
respectively, of an exemplary embodiment of a lid assembly for a
beverage container according to the present invention which
includes an inclined upper surface and an upwardly protruding
snap-on fitting for securing a premium with a hole to the lid
assembly;
[0011] FIGS. 4A and 4B are top and side views, respectively, of an
exemplary embodiment of a lid assembly for a beverage container
according to the present invention which includes a level upper
surface, spacers and a snap-in plug for securing a premium with a
hole to the lid assembly;
[0012] FIGS. 4C and 4D are partial cross-sectional side views of
the lid assembly for a beverage container of FIG. 4A;
[0013] FIG. 4E is a perspective view of an exemplary disk premium
and the holder/sip plug of the lid assembly for a beverage
container of FIG. 4A;
[0014] FIGS. 5A and 5B are top and side views, respectively, of an
exemplary embodiment of a lid assembly for a beverage container
according to the present invention which includes a level upper
surface, ribbed spacers and a snap-in plug for securing a premium
with a hole to the lid assembly;
[0015] FIG. 5C is a partial cross-sectional view across an
exemplary disk premium and two of the ribbed spacers of the lid
assembly for a beverage container of FIG. 5A;
[0016] FIGS. 6A and 6B are top and side views, respectively, of an
exemplary embodiment of a lid assembly for a beverage container
according to the present invention which includes a level upper
surface, a fibrous spacer and a snap-in plug for securing a premium
with a hole to the lid assembly;
[0017] FIG. 6C is a partial cross-sectional view across an
exemplary disk premium and the fibrous spacer of the lid assembly
for a beverage container of FIG. 6A;
[0018] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a
lid assembly for a beverage container according to the present
invention which includes a level upper surface, spacers, a
fold-over lid (top part) configured to hold a disk-shaped premium
and formed with a mouthpiece anti-spill plug;
[0019] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a
lid assembly for a beverage container according to the present
invention which includes a level upper surface, spacers, a
fold-over lid (top part) configured to hold a card-shaped premium
and formed with a mouthpiece anti-spill plug;
[0020] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a
lid assembly for a beverage container according to the present
invention which includes a level upper surface, spacers and a
fold-over lid (top part) configured to hold a disk-shaped premium
and with downwardly extending protrusions for interlocking with the
spacers, a cutout to accommodate a mouthpiece of the lid assembly
and a protruding clasp member for mechanically engaging the
disk-shaped premium;
[0021] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of
a lid assembly for a beverage container according to the present
invention which includes a level upper surface, spacers and a
fold-over lid (top part) configured to hold a disk-shaped premium
and with a protruding clasp member for mechanically engaging the
disk-shaped premium, a hinged cover for protecting the premium and
a mouthpiece anti-spill plug;
[0022] FIG. 11A is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of
a lid assembly for a beverage container according to the present
invention which includes an inclined upper surface with an elevated
edge facing a beverage dispensing aperture of the lid assembly, the
upper surface being formed with risers and an upwardly protruding
snap-on fitting for securing a complementary shaped premium with a
hole to the lid assembly;
[0023] FIG. 11B is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of
a lid assembly for a beverage container according to the present
invention which includes an inclined upper surface with an elevated
edge facing away from a beverage dispensing aperture of the lid
assembly, the upper surface being formed with risers and an
upwardly protruding snap-on fitting for securing a complementary
shaped premium with a hole to the lid assembly;
[0024] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of
a lid assembly for a beverage container according to the present
invention which includes an inclined upper surface formed with
risers to accommodate a card-shaped premium and a vented top part
configured to mechanically engage with the lid assembly thereby
securing the premium to the lid assembly;
[0025] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of
a lid assembly for a beverage container according to the present
invention which includes a level upper surface formed with risers
and a top part shaped to enclose a premium therein and including a
protective cover for the premium, the top part being formed with
downwardly protruding spacers for mechanically engaging the risers
and with a plug for fitting within a beverage dispensing aperture
of the lid assembly;
[0026] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of
a lid assembly for a beverage container according to the present
invention which includes a level upper surface formed with risers
and a top part shaped to support a premium thereon and including a
protective cover for the premium, the top part being secured to the
risers with an adhesive substance;
[0027] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of
a lid assembly for a beverage container according to the present
invention which includes a lid member with an upper surface and a
spacer member configured for mechanically interfitting with the lid
member while maintaining a gap between the spacer member and the
upper surface, the spacer member including an upwardly protruding
snap-on fitting for securing a premium with a hole to the lid
assembly;
[0028] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of
a lid assembly for a beverage container according to the present
invention which includes a lid member with a beverage dispensing
aperture and a corrugated spacer member formed with a downwardly
extending protrusion for mechanically interfitting the spacer
member to the lid member., the corrugated spacer member providing
both a premium display area and cooling/insulating structure for
the beverage container;
[0029] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of
a premium holder apparatus for a beverage container lid according
to the present invention which includes a platform with downwardly
protruding spacer members, a downwardly protruding plug-in member
sized for fitting into a straw hole of the beverage container lid,
and an upwardly protruding snap-on fitting member for securing a
premium to the platform;
[0030] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of
a premium holder apparatus for a beverage container lid similar to
that of FIG. 17 but with the platform, the plug-in member and the
snap-on fitting member being formed with a channel extending
therethrough for receiving a straw; and
[0031] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of
a premium holder apparatus for a beverage container lid according
to the present invention which includes a plug-in member sized for
fitting into a straw hole of the beverage container lid and a
flexible member that attaches a premium to the plug-in member, the
plug-in member being formed with a channel extending therethrough
for receiving a straw.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0032] The following is a detailed description of the best
presently known mode of carrying out the invention. This
description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but is made
merely for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of
the invention.
[0033] Beverage lid assembly configurations according to the
present invention include passages between an upper surface of the
lid assembly and a premium that is secured to the lid assembly. The
passages allow airflow between the upper surface and the premium
and thereby promote cooling and protect the premium from
condensation. In some embodiments, the upper surface is inclined
which enhances thermal flow. For example, as the hot beverage
product warms the upper surface, heated air in the inclined passage
between the lid and the premium rises and exits from an upper
portion of the passage as cooler air is drawn into a lower portion
of the passage.
[0034] Referring to FIG. 1, an exemplary embodiment of a lid
assembly 100 according to the present invention is shown. The lid
assembly 100 includes a lid member 102 with an upper surface 104
and a beverage dispensing aperture 106. A rim portion 108 is formed
about the upper surface 104 for securing the lid member 102 to a
beverage container 50. The upper surface 104 is formed as shown
with a plurality of elevated risers or spacer members 110 extending
upward. In the exemplary illustrated embodiment, these perimeter
spacer members 110 are positioned about the upper surface 104
adjacent the rim portion 108. The spacer members 110, in
conjunction with a centrally positioned riser member 112, provide a
combined premium display area and cooling/insulating structure that
accommodates a premium in the form of a digital media disk 60
(e.g., CD, DVD, etc.). Together, the spacer members 110 and the
centrally positioned riser member 112 keep the premium separated
from the upper surface 104. This provides a passage which allows
airflow between the upper surface 104 and the premium and thereby
promotes cooling and protects the premium from condensation. In the
exemplary illustrated embodiment, the upper surface 104 is also
formed at an angle relative to the bottom edge of the rim portion
108 promoting the flow of air through the passage.
[0035] The lid assembly 100 also includes a mechanism for securing
the premium to the spacer members such that the premium is
separated from the upper surface 104 by a gap which allows airflow
over the upper surface 104. Generally, the securing mechanism
comprises a top part secured to the lid member. For example, the
securing mechanism comprises a clasp member for securing a premium
to the elevated risers. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1
and 1A, the securing mechanism comprises an arm member 114 secured
to the rim portion 108, the arm member 114 including an end portion
116 with a plug 118 sized to be fitted within the beverage
dispensing aperture 106. In its sealed position (FIG. 1A), the
mouthpiece anti-spill plug 118 of the clasp member is inserted into
the beverage dispensing aperture 118 of the lid assembly 100. By
way of example, the holder-plug 118 is a formed extension of the
lid or is a part attached to the lid with a holder-plug formed on
the end of the extension that may bend over the CD/premium to
secure the CD/premium to the lid and that can additionally be
positioned to plug into and thereby seal the beverage sipping
aperture. It should be appreciated, however, that the securing
mechanism of the present invention is not limited to the clasp
embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 1A.
[0036] Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, a lid assembly 200 includes a
lid member 202 with an upper surface 204, a beverage dispensing
aperture 206 and a vent 207. A rim portion 208 is formed about the
upper surface 204 for securing the lid member 202 to a beverage
container. The upper surface 204 is formed as shown with a
plurality of elevated risers or spacer members 210 extending
upward. In the exemplary illustrated embodiment, these perimeter
spacer members 210 are positioned about the upper surface 204
adjacent the rim portion 208. The spacer members 210, in
conjunction with a centrally positioned riser member 212, provide a
combined premium display area and cooling/insulating structure that
accommodates a premium in the form of a digital media disk 60 (FIG.
2B). Together, the spacer members 210 and the centrally positioned
riser member 212 keep the premium separated from the upper surface
204. This provides a passage which allows airflow between the upper
surface 204 and the premium and thereby promotes cooling and
protects the premium from condensation. In the exemplary
illustrated embodiment, the upper surface 204 is also formed at an
angle relative to the bottom edge of the rim portion 208 promoting
the flow of air through the passage.
[0037] The lid assembly 200 also includes a mechanism for securing
the premium to the spacer members 210. In the exemplary illustrated
embodiment, the centrally positioned riser member 212 is formed
with a recess 214 for mechanical coupling to a securing mechanism
such as a snap-in plug 216. Thus, the exemplary illustrated
embodiment accommodates a premium with a centrally located hole
with the centrally positioned riser member 212 being sized to
receive and mechanically engage the snap fitting plug member 216 by
means of a friction fit. Alternatively, the holder-plug can be
formed to be fastened to the bottom part of the lid member 202 by
means such as an adhesive contact, hook and loop-type fasteners
(e.g., VELCRO.RTM.), complementary threaded pieces, or other
configurations of interlocking parts thereby securing the premium
to the bottom part. In one embodiment, the snap fitting plug member
216 and the beverage dispensing aperture 206 are sized such that
the lower part of the plug member 216 can be fitted within the
beverage dispensing aperture 206 thereby allowing the snap fitting
plug member 216 to additionally function as a "sip plug".
[0038] Referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, a lid assembly 300 includes a
lid member 302 with an upper surface 304, a beverage dispensing
aperture 306 and a vent 307. A rim portion 308 is formed about the
upper surface 304 for securing the lid member 302 to a beverage
container. The upper surface 304 is formed as shown with a
plurality of elevated risers or spacer members 310 extending
upward. In the exemplary illustrated embodiment, these perimeter
spacer members 310 are positioned about the upper surface 304
adjacent the rim portion 308. The spacer members 310, in
conjunction with a centrally positioned riser member 312, provide a
combined premium display area and cooling/insulating structure that
accommodates a premium in the form of a digital media disk 60 (FIG.
3B). Together, the spacer members 310 and the centrally positioned
riser member 312 keep the premium separated from the upper surface
304. This provides a passage which allows airflow between the upper
surface 304 and the premium and thereby promotes cooling and
protects the premium from condensation. In the exemplary
illustrated embodiment, the upper surface 304 is also formed at an
angle relative to the bottom edge of the rim portion 308 promoting
the flow of air through the passage.
[0039] The lid assembly 300 also includes a mechanism for securing
the premium to the spacer members 310. In the exemplary illustrated
embodiment, the centrally positioned riser member 312 is formed
with an upwardly protruding snap-on fitting 314 for securing a
premium with a hole to the lid assembly. Thus, the exemplary
illustrated embodiment accommodates a premium with a centrally
located hole with the snap-on fitting member 314 being formed and
sized to fit through the centrally located hole and snap together
with the premium while maintaining the gap between the premium and
the upper surface.
[0040] Referring to FIGS. 4A-4E, a lid assembly 400 includes a lid
member 402 with a level upper surface 404, a beverage dispensing
aperture 406 and a vent 407. A rim portion 408 is formed about the
upper surface 404 for securing the lid member 402 to a beverage
container. The upper surface 404 is formed as shown with a
plurality of elevated risers or spacer members 410 extending
upward. In the exemplary illustrated embodiment, these perimeter
spacer members 410 are positioned about the upper surface 404
adjacent the rim portion 408. The spacer members 410, in
conjunction with a centrally positioned riser member 412, provide a
combined premium display area and cooling/insulating structure that
accommodates a premium in the form of a digital media disk 60
(FIGS. 4B-4D). Together, the spacer members 410 and the centrally
positioned riser member 412 keep the premium separated from the
upper surface 404. This provides a passage which allows airflow
between the upper surface 404 and the premium and thereby promotes
cooling and protects the premium from condensation.
[0041] The lid assembly 400 also includes a mechanism for securing
the premium to the spacer members 410. In the exemplary illustrated
embodiment, the centrally positioned riser member 412 is formed
with a recess 414 for mechanical coupling to a securing mechanism
such as a snap-in plug 416. Thus, the exemplary illustrated
embodiment accommodates a premium with a centrally located hole
with the centrally positioned riser member 412 being sized to
receive and mechanically engage the snap fitting plug member 416 by
means of a friction fit. Alternatively, the holder-plug can be
formed to be fastened to the bottom part of the lid member 402 by
means such as an adhesive contact, hook and loop-type fasteners
(e.g., VELCRO.RTM.), complementary threaded pieces, or other
configurations of interlocking parts thereby securing the premium
to the bottom part. In one embodiment, the snap fitting plug member
416 and the beverage dispensing aperture 406 are sized such that
the lower part of the plug member 416 can be fitted within the
beverage dispensing aperture 406 thereby allowing the snap fitting
plug member 416 to additionally function as a "sip plug".
[0042] Referring to FIGS. 5A-5C, a lid assembly 500 includes a lid
member 502 with a level upper surface 504, a beverage dispensing
aperture 506 and a vent 507. A rim portion 508 is formed about the
upper surface 504 for securing the lid member 502 to a beverage
container. The upper surface 504 is formed as shown with a
plurality of ribbed spacer members 510 that extend upward to
provide channels which allow airflow over the upper surface 504. In
the exemplary illustrated embodiment, the ribbed spacer members 510
run (in parallel as shown) across the upper surface 504 beginning
on a side of the lid member adjacent the beverage dispensing
aperture 506 and ending on an opposite side adjacent the vent 507.
The ribbed spacer members 510, in conjunction with a centrally
positioned riser member 512, provide a combined premium display
area and cooling/insulating structure that accommodates a premium
in the form of a digital media disk 60 (FIG. 5B). Together, the
ribbed spacer members 510 and the centrally positioned riser member
512 keep the premium separated from the upper surface 504. This
provides a passage which allows airflow between the upper surface
504 and the premium and thereby promotes cooling and protects the
premium from condensation.
[0043] The lid assembly 500 also includes a mechanism for securing
the premium to the ribbed spacer members 510. In the exemplary
illustrated embodiment, the centrally positioned riser member 512
is formed with a recess 514 for mechanical coupling to a securing
mechanism such as a snap-in plug 516. Thus, the exemplary
illustrated embodiment accommodates a premium with a centrally
located hole with the centrally positioned riser member 512 being
sized to receive and mechanically engage the snap fitting plug
member 516 by means of a friction fit. Alternatively, the
holder-plug can be formed to be fastened to the bottom part of the
lid member 502 by means such as an adhesive contact, hook and
loop-type fasteners (e.g., VELCRO.RTM.), complementary threaded
pieces, or other configurations of interlocking parts thereby
securing the premium to the bottom part. In one embodiment, the
snap fitting plug member 516 and the beverage dispensing aperture
506 are sized such that the lower part of the plug member 516 can
be fitted within the beverage dispensing aperture 506 thereby
allowing the snap fitting plug member 516 to additionally function
as a "sip plug".
[0044] Referring to FIGS. 6A-6C, a lid assembly 600 includes a lid
member 602 with a level upper surface 604, a beverage dispensing
aperture 606 and a vent 607. A rim portion 608 is formed about the
upper surface 604 for securing the lid member 602 to a beverage
container. A spacer member 610 of the lid assembly is formed such
that it provides channels which allow airflow over the upper
surface 604. In the exemplary illustrated embodiment, the spacer
member 610 comprises a piece of fibrous material sized to fit over
the upper surface, the fibrous spacer member providing a combined
premium display area and cooling/insulating structure that
accommodates a premium in the form of a digital media disk 60
(FIGS. 6B and 6C). The fibrous spacer member keeps the premium
separated from the upper surface 604. This provides a passage which
allows airflow between the upper surface 604 and the premium and
thereby promotes cooling and protects the premium from
condensation. Alternatively, the spacer member 610 can comprise a
corrugated spacer member formed, for example, from a sheet of
corrugated cardboard (such as in FIG. 16) cut to fit over the upper
surface. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that the spacer
member 610 can comprise multiple pieces instead of one, or multiple
layers.
[0045] The lid assembly 600 also includes a mechanism for securing
the premium to the spacer member 610. In the exemplary illustrated
embodiment, the centrally positioned riser member 612 is formed
with a recess 614 for mechanical coupling to a securing mechanism
such as a snap-in plug 616. Thus, the exemplary illustrated
embodiment accommodates a premium with a centrally located hole
with the centrally positioned riser member 612 being sized to
receive and mechanically engage the snap fitting plug member 616 by
means of a friction fit. Alternatively, the holder-plug can be
formed to be fastened to the bottom part of the lid member 602 by
means such as an adhesive contact, hook and loop-type fasteners
(e.g., VELCRO.RTM.), complementary threaded pieces, or other
configurations of interlocking parts thereby securing the premium
to the bottom part. In one embodiment, the snap fitting plug member
616 and the beverage dispensing aperture 606 are sized such that
the lower part of the plug member 616 can be fitted within the
beverage dispensing aperture 606 thereby allowing the snap fitting
plug member 616 to additionally function as a "sip plug".
[0046] Referring to FIG. 7, a lid assembly 700 includes a lid
member 702 with a level upper surface 704 and a beverage dispensing
aperture 706. A rim portion 708 is formed about the upper surface
704 for securing the lid member 702 to a beverage container 50. The
upper surface 704 is formed as shown with a plurality of elevated
risers or spacer members 710 extending upward. In the exemplary
illustrated embodiment, these perimeter spacer members 710 are
positioned about the upper surface 704 adjacent the rim portion
708. The spacer members 710 provide a combined premium display area
and cooling/insulating structure that accommodates a premium in the
form of a digital media disk 60. The spacer members 710 keep the
premium separated from the upper surface 704. This provides a
passage which allows airflow between the upper surface 704 and the
premium and thereby promotes cooling and protects the premium from
condensation.
[0047] The lid assembly 700 also includes a mechanism for securing
the premium to the spacer members such that the premium is
separated from the upper surface 704 by a gap which allows airflow
over the upper surface 704. Generally, the securing mechanism
comprises a top part 712 secured to the lid member 702. For
example, the top part 712 is secured to the rim portion 708 with a
hinge mechanism 714. In the exemplary illustrated embodiment, the
bottom part 702 and the top part 712 are mechanically
interconnected with a flexible hinge member 714 that is
(integrally) formed therebetween as shown. In the exemplary
illustrated embodiment, the top part 712 includes a recessed
portion 716 sized to fit over and receive a disk-shaped premium as
well as an end portion 718 with a plug 720 sized to be fitted
within the beverage dispensing aperture 706. By way of example, the
holder-plug 720 is a protrusion molded such that when the top part
712 is fitted to the bottom part 702 it serves to secure the
premium to the bottom part 702 and additionally plugs into and
thereby seals the beverage dispensing aperture 706.
[0048] Various embodiments of lid assemblies according to the
present invention are configured to accommodate items other than
disk-shaped premiums. By way of example, and referring to FIG. 8, a
lid assembly 800 includes a lid member 802 with a level upper
surface 804 and a beverage dispensing aperture 806. A rim portion
808 is formed about the upper surface 804 for securing the lid
member 802 to a beverage container. In the exemplary illustrated
embodiment, the upper surface 804 is formed with a plurality of
elevated risers or spacer members 810 extending upward and
positioned about the upper surface 804 as shown. The spacer members
810 provide a combined premium display area and cooling/insulating
structure that accommodates a premium in the form of a card-shaped
object 62 such as a telephone card. The spacer members 810 keep the
premium separated from the upper surface 804. This provides a
passage which allows airflow between the upper surface 804 and the
premium and thereby promotes cooling and protects the premium from
condensation.
[0049] The lid assembly 800 also includes a mechanism for securing
the premium to the spacer members such that the premium is
separated from the upper surface 804 by a gap which allows airflow
over the upper surface 804. Generally, the securing mechanism
comprises a top part 812 secured to the lid member 802. For
example, the top part 812 is secured to the rim portion 808 with a
hinge mechanism 814. In the exemplary illustrated embodiment, the
bottom part 802 and the top part 812 are mechanically
interconnected with a flexible hinge member 814 that is
(integrally) formed therebetween as shown. In the exemplary
illustrated embodiment, the top part 812 includes a recessed
portion 816 sized to fit over and receive a card-shaped premium as
well as an end portion 818 with a plug 820 sized to be fitted
within the beverage dispensing aperture 806. By way of example, the
holder-plug 820 is a protrusion molded such that when the top part
812 is fitted to the bottom part 802 it serves to secure the
premium to the bottom part 802 and additionally plugs into and
thereby seals the beverage dispensing aperture 806.
[0050] Referring to FIG. 9, a lid assembly 900 includes a lid
member 902 with a level upper surface 904, a beverage dispensing
aperture 906 and a vent 907. A rim portion 908 is formed about the
upper surface 904 for securing the lid member 902 to a beverage
container 50. The upper surface 904 is formed as shown with a
plurality of elevated risers or spacer members 910 extending
upward. In the exemplary illustrated embodiment, these perimeter
spacer members 910 are positioned about the upper surface 904
adjacent the rim portion 908.
[0051] The lid assembly 900 also includes a top part 912 which is
secured to the rim portion 908 with a hinge mechanism 914. In the
exemplary illustrated embodiment, the bottom part 902 and the top
part 912 are mechanically interconnected with a flexible hinge
member 914 that is (integrally) formed therebetween as shown. In
the exemplary illustrated embodiment, the top part 912 includes a
recessed portion 916 sized to fit over and receive a disk-shaped
premium 60. The exemplary illustrated top part 912 is also formed
with a protruding clasp member 918 configured for mechanically
coupling the disk-shaped premium to the top part 912 and with
downwardly extending protrusions 920 that are shaped complementary
to the spacer members 910 for interlocking with the spacer members.
The protruding clasp member 918 functions as a mechanism for
securing the premium to the top part 912 such that, when the top
part 912 is in its closed position with the spacer members 910 and
the protrusions 920 interlocked, the premium is separated from the
upper surface 904 by a gap which allows airflow over the upper
surface 904. Thus, the spacer members 910, recessed portion 916,
protruding clasp member 918 and protrusions 920 provide a combined
premium display area and cooling/insulating structure and keep the
premium separated from the upper surface 904. This provides a
passage which allows airflow between the upper surface 904 and the
premium and thereby promotes cooling and protects the premium from
condensation. The top part 912 can be formed from an opaque
material or from a transparent or translucent material so that the
premium will be visible when the top part is in its closed
position, thereby allowing the consumer to see, for example, a
message, instruction, logo, "peel and win" sticker or other visible
indicia on the premium. The exemplary illustrated top part 912
further includes a cutout 922 to accommodate the beverage
dispensing aperture 906 (mouthpiece) of the lid assembly.
[0052] Referring to FIG. 10, a lid assembly 1000 includes a lid
member 1002 with a level upper surface 1004, a beverage dispensing
aperture 1006 and a vent 1007. A rim portion 1008 is formed about
the upper surface 1004 for securing the lid member 1002 to a
beverage container 50. The upper surface 1004 is formed as shown
with a plurality of elevated risers or spacer members 1010
extending upward. In the exemplary illustrated embodiment, these
perimeter spacer members 1010 are positioned about the upper
surface 1004 adjacent the rim portion 1008.
[0053] The lid assembly 1000 also includes a top part 1012 which is
secured to the rim portion 1008 with a hinge mechanism 1014. In the
exemplary illustrated embodiment, the bottom part 1002 and the top
part 1012 are mechanically interconnected with a flexible hinge
member 1014 that is (integrally) formed therebetween as shown. In
the exemplary illustrated embodiment, the top part 1012 includes a
recessed portion 1016 sized to fit over and receive a disk-shaped
premium 60. The exemplary illustrated top part 1012 is also formed
with a protruding clasp member 1018 configured for mechanically
coupling the disk-shaped premium to the top part 1012, a hinged
cover 1020 with a clasp 1021 for securing the premium within the
recessed portion, and an end portion 1022 with a plug 1024 sized to
be fitted within the beverage dispensing aperture 1006. The
protruding clasp member 1018 functions as a mechanism for securing
the premium to the top part 1012; and the hinged cover 1020, in its
closed position (i.e., with the cover clasp 1021 fitted into its
complementary recess in the top part 1012), provides additional
protection for the premium. The protruding clasp member 1018 and
the hinged cover 1020 keep the premium separated from the upper
surface 1004 by a gap which allows airflow over the upper surface
1004. Thus, the spacer members 1010, recessed portion 1016,
protruding clasp member 1018 and hinged cover 1020 provide a
combined premium display area and cooling/insulating structure and
keep the premium separated from the upper surface 1004. This
provides a passage which allows airflow between the upper surface
1004 and the premium and thereby promotes cooling and protects the
premium from condensation. The top part 1012 and/or the hinged
cover 1020 can be formed from an opaque material or from a
transparent or translucent material so that the premium will be
visible when the top part is in its closed position, thereby
allowing the consumer to see, for example, a message, instruction,
logo, "peel and win" sticker or other visible indicia on the
premium. By way of example, the holder-plug 1024 is a protrusion
molded such that when the top part 1012 is fitted to the bottom
part 1002 it serves to secure the premium to the bottom part 1002
and additionally plugs into and thereby seals the beverage
dispensing aperture 1006. Additionally, it should be appreciated
that in any of the lid assembly embodiments disclosed herein the
hinges can be eliminated and/or alternative securing mechanisms can
be employed.
[0054] Referring to FIG. 11A, a lid assembly 1100 includes a lid
member 1102 with an inclined upper surface 1104 and an elevated
edge 1105 facing a beverage dispensing aperture 1106 of the lid
assembly. A rim portion 1108 is formed about the upper surface 1104
for securing the lid member 1102 to a beverage container. The upper
surface 1104 is formed as shown with a plurality of elevated risers
or spacer members 1110 and an upwardly protruding snap-on fitting
1112 for securing a premium (with a hole that is sized and shaped
complementary to the snap-on fitting) to the lid assembly. In the
exemplary illustrated embodiment, the upper surface 1104 is at an
angle relative to a plane containing a bottom edge of the rim
portion 1108 with an apex of the angle being located near a portion
of the lid member 1102 opposite from the beverage dispensing
aperture 1106. Also, a perimeter of the upper surface 1104 is
complementary in shape to the premium (e.g., a standard 3'' CD-ROM
business card 64, as shown). In the exemplary illustrated
embodiment, the perimeter spacer members 1110 are positioned as
shown about the upper surface 1104 adjacent the perimeter. The
spacer members 1110, in conjunction with the upwardly protruding
snap-on fitting 1112, provide a combined premium display area and
cooling/insulating structure that accommodates the premium.
Together, the spacer members 1110 and the upwardly protruding
snap-on fitting 1112 keep the premium separated from the upper
surface 1104. This provides a passage which allows airflow between
the upper surface 1104 and the premium and thereby promotes cooling
and protects the premium from condensation. The angle of the upper
surface 1104 relative to the plane containing the bottom edge of
the rim portion 1108 promotes the flow of air through the
passage.
[0055] Referring to FIG. 11B, a lid assembly 1150 includes a lid
member 1152 with an inclined upper surface 1154 and an elevated
edge 1155 facing away from a beverage dispensing aperture 1156 of
the lid assembly. A rim portion 1158 is formed about the upper
surface 1154 for securing the lid member 1152 to a beverage
container. The upper surface 1154 is formed as shown with a
plurality of elevated risers or spacer members 1160, an upwardly
protruding snap-on fitting 1162 for securing a premium (with a hole
that is sized and shaped complementary to the snap-on fitting) to
the lid assembly, and a recess portion between the spacer members
1160 and the upwardly protruding snap-on fitting 1162. In the
exemplary illustrated embodiment, the upper surface 1154 is at an
angle relative to a plane containing a bottom edge of the rim
portion 1158 with an apex of the angle being located near the
beverage dispensing aperture 1156. Also, a portion of a perimeter
of the upper surface 1154 is complementary in shape to the premium
(e.g., a standard 3'' CD-ROM business card 64, as shown). In the
exemplary illustrated embodiment, the perimeter spacer members 1160
are positioned as shown about the upper surface 1154 adjacent the
perimeter. The spacer members 1160, in conjunction with the
upwardly protruding snap-on fitting 1162, provide a combined
premium display area and cooling/insulating structure that
accommodates the premium. Together, the spacer members 1160 and the
upwardly protruding snap-on fitting 1162 keep the premium separated
from the upper surface 1154. This provides a passage which allows
airflow between the upper surface 1154 and the premium and thereby
promotes cooling and protects the premium from condensation. The
angle of the upper surface 1154 relative to the plane containing
the bottom edge of the rim portion 1158 promotes the flow of air
through the passage.
[0056] Referring to FIG. 12, a lid assembly 1200 includes a lid
member 1202 with an inclined upper surface 1204 and an elevated
edge 1205 facing away from a beverage dispensing aperture 1206 of
the lid assembly. A rim portion 1208 is formed about the upper
surface 1204 for securing the lid member 1202 to a beverage
container. The upper surface 1204 is formed as shown with a
plurality of elevated risers or spacer members 1210. In the
exemplary illustrated embodiment, the upper surface 1204 is at an
angle relative to a plane containing a bottom edge of the rim
portion 1208 with an apex of the angle being located near the
beverage dispensing aperture 1206. In the exemplary illustrated
embodiment, the spacer members 1210 are positioned as shown about
the upper surface 1204 to provide distributed support for a premium
in the form of a card-shaped object 62 (e.g., a telephone card, as
shown). The spacer members 1210 provide a combined premium display
area and cooling/insulating structure that accommodates the premium
and keeps it separated from the upper surface 1204. This provides a
passage which allows airflow between the upper surface 1204 and the
premium and thereby promotes cooling and protects the premium from
condensation. The angle of the upper surface 1204 relative to the
plane containing the bottom edge of the rim portion 1208 promotes
the flow of air through the passage.
[0057] The lid assembly 1200 also includes a mechanism for securing
the premium to the spacer members 1210 such that the premium is
separated from the upper surface 1204 by a gap which allows airflow
over the upper surface 1204. Generally, the securing mechanism
comprises a top part 1212 which is formed in a complementary
fashion with the lid member 1202 such that the top part 1212 can be
snap fitted or otherwise secured over the premium to the lid member
1202. In the exemplary illustrated embodiment, the top part 1212 is
secured to the lid member 1202 with snap-on fittings 1214 and 1216
that fit into recesses formed in the lid member 1202 on opposite
sides of the inclined upper surface 1204. In the exemplary
illustrated embodiment, the top part 1212 includes a cover portion
1218 which overlays the premium when the top part 1212 is secured
to the lid member 1202 thereby protecting and securing the premium.
The top part 1212 can be formed from an opaque material allowing
(optionally) for the cover portion 1218 to carry a message,
instruction, logo, "peel and win" sticker or other visible indicia
by, for example, either printing directly on the cover portion 1218
or applying printed matter on the cover portion 1218 in the form of
a sticker. Alternatively, the top part 1212 (in a "lens"
embodiment) can be formed from a transparent or translucent
material so that the premium will be visible when the top part is
secured to the lid member, thereby allowing the consumer to see,
for example, a message, instruction, logo, "peel and win" sticker
or other visible indicia on the premium. In the exemplary
illustrated embodiment, the top part 1212 includes air vents 1220
and 1222 which are positioned as shown between the cover portion
1218 and the snap-on fittings 1214 and 1216, respectively, to
permit additional air flow between the premium and the upper
surface 1204.
[0058] Referring to FIG. 13, a lid assembly 1300 includes a lid
member 1302 with a level upper surface 1304 and a beverage
dispensing aperture 1306. A rim portion 1308 is formed about the
upper surface 1304 for securing the lid member 1302 to a beverage
container. The upper surface 1304 is formed as shown with a
plurality of elevated risers or spacer members 1310 extending
upward. In the exemplary illustrated embodiment, these perimeter
spacer members 1310 are positioned about the upper surface 1304
adjacent the rim portion 1308.
[0059] The lid assembly 1300 also includes a mechanism for securing
a premium (e.g., a disk-shaped premium 60, as shown) to the spacer
members 1310. The securing mechanism comprises a top part 1312
formed in a complementary fashion with the lid member 1302 such
that the top part 1312 mechanically engages with the lid member
1302. In the exemplary illustrated embodiment, the top part 1312 is
shaped to enclose a premium therein and includes a base portion
1314 formed with a recessed portion sized to receive the premium
therein and a protective cover 1316 sized to fit over the premium
and into the recessed portion. The underside of the base portion
1314 is formed with downwardly extending protrusions 1318 that are
shaped complementary to the spacer members 1310 for interlocking
with the spacer members 1310 and with a downwardly extending plug
1320 sized to be fitted into the beverage dispensing aperture 1306.
Thus, the spacer members 1310 and the top part 1312 provide a
combined premium display area and cooling/insulating structure and
keep the premium separated from the upper surface 1304. This
provides a passage which allows airflow between the upper surface
1304 and the premium and thereby promotes cooling and protects the
premium from condensation. The protective cover 1316 can be formed
from an opaque material or from a transparent or translucent
material.
[0060] Referring to FIG. 14, a lid assembly 1400 includes a lid
member 1402 with a level upper surface 1404 and a beverage
dispensing aperture 1406. A rim portion 1408 is formed about the
upper surface 1404 for securing the lid member 1402 to a beverage
container. The upper surface 1404 is formed as shown with a
plurality of elevated risers or spacer members 1410 extending
upward. In the exemplary illustrated embodiment, these perimeter
spacer members 1410 are positioned about the upper surface 1404
adjacent the rim portion 1408.
[0061] The lid assembly 1400 also includes a mechanism for securing
a premium (alone) or a premium and a top part 1412 (e.g., a
disk-shaped premium 60 wrapped in a protective plastic cover) to
the spacer members 1410. The protective cover can be formed with
one or more tabs (not shown) for pulling the top part 1412 away
from the lid member 1402. The securing mechanism comprises an
adhesive substance applied to top portions of one or more of the
spacer members 1410. Additional spacer members 1410 without
adhesive can be added to increase the contact area with the premium
so that the lid member 1402 can be correctly pressure fit to the
beverage cup (i.e., with the proper seal) without adding to the
adhesion which might increase the risk of breaking the premium when
it is later separated from the lid member 1402. Alternatively,
friction snaps can be employed instead of an adhesive material.
Thus, the spacer members 1410 and the top part 1412 provide a
combined premium display area and cooling/insulating structure and
keep the premium separated from the upper surface 1404. This
provides a passage which allows airflow between the upper surface
1404 and the premium and thereby promotes cooling and protects the
premium from condensation. The top part 1412 can be formed from an
opaque material or from a transparent or translucent material.
[0062] Referring to FIG. 15, a lid assembly 1500 includes a lid
member 1502 with a level upper surface 1504 (surrounding a recessed
central portion) and a beverage dispensing aperture 1506. A rim
portion 1508 is formed about the upper surface 1504 for securing
the lid member 1502 to a beverage container. In the exemplary
illustrated embodiment, a perimeter portion of the lid member 1502
is formed as shown with a plurality of indentations 1510. The lid
assembly 1500 also includes a top part or spacer member 1512 formed
in a complementary fashion with the lid member 1502 such that the
spacer member 1512 mechanically engages with the lid member 1502
while maintaining a gap between the underside of the spacer member
1512 and the upper surface 1504. In the exemplary illustrated
embodiment, the spacer member 1512 is formed with downwardly
extending protrusions 1514 configured for mechanically interfitting
in a complementary manner with one or more of the indentations
1510, including a plug member 1516 sized to fit within the beverage
dispensing aperture 1506.
[0063] The lid assembly 1500 further includes a mechanism for
securing the premium to the spacer member 1512. In the exemplary
illustrated embodiment, the premium securing mechanism comprises an
upwardly extending post member 1518 formed to mechanically engage
and secure the premium to the top side of the spacer member 1512.
Thus, the spacer member 1512 and upwardly extending post member
1518 provide a combined premium display area and cooling/insulating
structure and keep the premium separated from the upper surface
1504. This provides a passage which allows airflow between the
upper surface 1504 and the premium and thereby promotes cooling and
protects the premium from condensation.
[0064] Referring to FIG. 16, a lid assembly 1600 includes a lid
member 1602 with a level upper surface 1604 (surrounding a recessed
central portion) and a beverage dispensing aperture 1606. A rim
portion 1608 is formed about the upper surface 1604 for securing
the lid member 1602 to a beverage container. The lid assembly 1600
also includes a top part or spacer member 1612 formed in a
complementary fashion with the lid member 1602 such that the spacer
member 1612 mechanically engages with the lid member 1602. The
spacer member 1612 is formed with at least one downwardly extending
protrusion configured for mechanically interfitting the spacer
member 1612 to the lid member 1602. In the exemplary illustrated
embodiment, the spacer member 1612 comprises a corrugated material
(such as a piece of corrugated cardboard sized to accommodate a
disk-shaped premium 60) and the downwardly extending protrusion
comprises a plug member 1616 sized to fit within the beverage
dispensing aperture 1606. In addition to the plug member 1616, a
light stick adhesive can be used on the underside of the spacer
member 1612. Thus, the spacer member 1612 provides a display area
to which the premium can be secured (e.g., with an adhesive) and a
cooling/insulating structure for the beverage container which keep
the premium separated from the upper surface 1604. This provides a
passage which allows airflow between the upper surface 1604 and the
premium and thereby promotes cooling and protects the premium from
condensation.
[0065] Thus, various lid assembly embodiments disclosed herein
provide a small surface area (i.e., less surface area than the
contact between the beverage cup and the bottom part of the lid
assembly) with discrete adhering points which protect against
inadvertent spillage by an aggressive or clumsy consumer during
separation of the premium from the lid assembly. With less friction
(adhesion) between the top part and the bottom part of a two-part
lid assembly than between the bottom part and the beverage cup,
consumers can with little resistance remove the top part without
separating the bottom part from the beverage cup or breaking the
seal between the bottom part and the beverage cup.
[0066] Referring to FIG. 17, a premium holder apparatus 1700
includes a platform 1702 formed as shown with a plurality of
downwardly protruding spacer members 1704 and a centrally disposed
downwardly protruding plug-in member 1706 sized for fitting into a
straw hole 1708 of a beverage container lid 1710 and for securing
the platform 1702 to the beverage container lid 1710 such that a
gap is maintained between the platform 1702 and an upper surface
1712 of the beverage container lid 1710. In the exemplary
illustrated embodiment, the spacer members 1704 are positioned
around the platform adjacent the perimeter of the platform 1702.
The premium holder apparatus 1700 further includes a mechanism for
securing a premium in the form of a digital media disk 60 to the
platform 1702. A protective plastic or other encasing material can
be provided for the premium. In the exemplary illustrated
embodiment, the premium securing mechanism comprises a snap-on
fitting member 1714 upwardly protruding from the platform 1702 and
formed to mechanically engage and secure the premium to the top
side of the platform 1702. Thus, the platform 1702, the spacer
members 1704 and the snap-on fitting member 1714 provide a combined
premium display area and cooling/insulating structure and keep the
premium separated from the upper surface 1712. This provides a
passage which allows airflow between the upper surface 1712 and the
premium and thereby promotes cooling and protects the premium from
condensation.
[0067] Referring to FIG. 18, a premium holder apparatus 1800
includes a platform 1802 formed as shown with a plurality of
downwardly protruding spacer members 1804 and a centrally disposed
downwardly protruding plug-in member 1806 sized for fitting into a
straw hole 1808 of a beverage container lid 1810 and for securing
the platform 1802 to the beverage container lid 1810 such that a
gap is maintained between the platform 1802 and an upper surface
1812 of the beverage container lid 1810. In the exemplary
illustrated embodiment, the spacer members 1804 are positioned
around the platform adjacent the perimeter of the platform 1802.
The premium holder apparatus 1800 further includes a mechanism for
securing a premium in the form of a digital media disk 60 to the
platform 1802. A protective plastic or other encasing material can
be provided for the premium. In the exemplary illustrated
embodiment, the premium securing mechanism comprises a snap-on
fitting member 1814 upwardly protruding from the platform 1802 and
formed to mechanically engage and secure the premium to the top
side of the platform 1802. Thus, the platform 1802, the spacer
members 1804 and the snap-on fitting member 1814 provide a combined
premium display area and cooling/insulating structure and keep the
premium separated from the upper surface 1812. This provides a
passage which allows airflow between the upper surface 1812 and the
premium and thereby promotes cooling and protects the premium from
condensation. In the exemplary illustrated embodiment, the platform
1802, the plug-in member 1806 and the snap-on fitting member 1814
are formed with a channel 1816 extending therethrough for receiving
a drinking straw 1818.
[0068] Referring to FIG. 19, a premium holder apparatus 1900
includes a plug-in member 1902 sized for fitting into a straw hole
1904 of a beverage container lid 1906. The premium holder apparatus
1900 further includes a mechanism for securing a premium (e.g., a
digital media disk 60, as shown) to the plug-in member 1902. A
protective plastic or other encasing material can be provided for
the premium. In the exemplary illustrated embodiment, the premium
securing mechanism comprises a flexible member 1908 (e.g., a piece
of plastic, string or the like) that attaches the premium to the
plug-in member 1902. In the exemplary illustrated embodiment, the
flexible member 1908 is sufficiently long to allow the premium to
dangle from the side of the beverage container lid 1906 and the
plug-in member 1902 is formed with a channel 1910 extending
therethrough for receiving a drinking straw 1912.
[0069] Although the present invention has been described in terms
of the embodiment(s) above, numerous modifications and/or additions
to the above-described embodiment(s) would be readily apparent to
one skilled in the art. It is intended that the scope of the
present invention extends to all such modifications and/or
additions.
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