U.S. patent application number 11/693460 was filed with the patent office on 2008-10-02 for single-use leak/spill prevention container lid and disposable container.
This patent application is currently assigned to C2 Cups LLC. Invention is credited to Mark A. Gamble, Paul R. Metcalfe, Marc A. Mucci, Anil V. Singaraju, Scott E. Urban.
Application Number | 20080237247 11/693460 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39792477 |
Filed Date | 2008-10-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080237247 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Mucci; Marc A. ; et
al. |
October 2, 2008 |
SINGLE-USE LEAK/SPILL PREVENTION CONTAINER LID AND DISPOSABLE
CONTAINER
Abstract
There is described a disposable or single-use container lid
which has an annular rim for frictionally engaging a rolled rim of
a container, such as a paper cup, a central region and an annular
shock-absorbing structure disposed between the annular rim and the
central region. The annular shock-absorbing structure comprises an
outside channel having a non-flat configuration and being formed
around the central region, with the outside channel providing a
predetermined amount of extension and contraction at the location
of the channel to absorb forces or stress applied to the lid and/or
container and facilitate retention of the lid on the container when
forces from dropping, tipping, falling or squeezing are applied
thereto. In a further example, there is also described a disposable
anti-spill drinking lid for a disposable paper container. The lid
comprises an annular engagement rim for frictionally engaging the
rolled rim of the container, and an integral drinking spout
extending from the top surface of the lid and positioned to allow
drinking therethrough by tipping of the container toward a user.
The lid may be formed of a plastic material having tensile strength
and ductility characteristics such that the integral spout can
deflect from its extended position and thereafter substantially
returns to its original position. Further structures, such as an
annular rim which facilitates frictionally engaging the rolled rim
of the container may be provided.
Inventors: |
Mucci; Marc A.; (Canton,
OH) ; Metcalfe; Paul R.; (Solon, OH) ; Urban;
Scott E.; (Cleveland, OH) ; Singaraju; Anil V.;
(Brunswick, OH) ; Gamble; Mark A.; (Bay Village,
OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
HAHN LOESER & PARKS, LLP
One GOJO Plaza, Suite 300
AKRON
OH
44311-1076
US
|
Assignee: |
C2 Cups LLC
Uniontown
OH
|
Family ID: |
39792477 |
Appl. No.: |
11/693460 |
Filed: |
March 29, 2007 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
220/713 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 2543/00796
20130101; B65D 2203/00 20130101; B65D 2543/00685 20130101; B65D
2543/0037 20130101; B65D 2543/00731 20130101; B65D 2543/00805
20130101; B65D 2543/00509 20130101; B65D 2543/00638 20130101; B65D
2543/00296 20130101; B65D 2543/00351 20130101; B65D 2543/00092
20130101; B65D 3/06 20130101; B65D 2543/00046 20130101; B65D
43/0212 20130101; B65D 3/28 20130101; B65D 2543/00555 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/713 |
International
Class: |
A47G 19/22 20060101
A47G019/22 |
Claims
1. An anti-spill lid for a container having a closed end, a
peripherally extending sidewall terminating in a rolled rim, and an
open end, the lid comprising: an annular rim for frictionally
engaging the rolled rim of the container; a central region; and an
annular shock-absorbing structure disposed between the annular rim
and the central region; wherein the annular shock-absorbing
structure is at least one channel formed around the central region,
the at least one channel providing a predetermined amount of
extension and compression at the location of the at least one
channel to absorb forces applied to the lid and/or container and
facilitate retention of the lid on the container when forces from
dropping, tipping, failing or squeezing are applied thereto.
2. The lid of claim 1, wherein the channel is formed to have at
least one radiused section to allow deflection at the location of
the channel upon being subjected to a force to absorb the force and
reduce transmission of the force to the annular rim.
3. The lid of claim 1, wherein the at least one channel is formed
to have a non-flat configuration.
4. The lid of claim 1, wherein the at least one channel is formed
to have a depth in the range of between 0.10 to 0.30 inches.
5. The lid of claim 1, wherein the at least one channel has a width
with a dimension in the range of between 0.25 to 0.60 inches.
6. The lid of claim 1, wherein the at least one channel has a
radiused bottom wall in the range between 0.125 to 0.35 inches.
7. The lid of claim 1, wherein the lid is formed of a material
having tensile strength and ductility characteristics to allow the
extension and compression of the channel and thereafter returning
to the original position.
8. The lid of claim 1, wherein the at least one channel includes at
least one intermediate wall section formed therein.
9. The lid of claim 8, wherein the at least one intermediate wall
section includes a plurality of folds or bends formed in the bottom
wall section.
10. The lid of claim 1, further comprising a domed configuration
formed in the central region, wherein the domed configuration in
the central region has an upper edge which is positioned at or
below the outer level of the of the engagement rim.
11. The lid of claim 1, further comprising a domed configuration is
formed in the central region, wherein the domed configuration in
the central region has an arc which provides stiffness and
dimensional stability upon a force being applied thereto.
12. The lid of claim 1, further comprising a drinking spout
extending from the central region.
13. The lid of claim 12, further comprising a dome structure in the
central region wherein the drinking spout extends from the central
region, and wherein the at least one channel and dome structure
facilitates buckling of the spout from an extended position with a
distal end above the level of the annular rim, to a retracted
position with the distal end at or below the level of the annular
rim upon a force being applied thereto.
14. The lid of claim 12, wherein the spout has an axis, and
dependent on the direction of an applied force, the spout buckles
downwardly in the direction of the axis upon a force being applied
directly to the distal end along the axis, and/or to the side upon
a force being applied in an angular direction to the axis.
15. The lid of claim 12, wherein the lid is constructed of a
plastic material having predetermined tensile strength and
ductility characteristics, wherein the spout upon being deflected
from the extended position returns to the extended position.
16. The lid of claim 12, wherein spout has a leakage prevention
system associated therewith.
17. The lid of claim 1, wherein the annular rim includes an
interior sealing wall, an exterior sealing wall, a connecting
sealing portion between the interior and exterior sealing walls, a
locking edge formed in the exterior wall and a flared skirt
portion, and wherein the interior sealing wall has a length which
extends to a point at or below the level of the rolled rim of the
container when the lid is positioned therewith, and the locking
ledge extends inwardly toward the container to a position which is
over twenty five percent of the thickness of the rolled edge of the
container and engages the lower surface of the rolled edge of the
container.
18. The lid of claim 1, wherein the lid includes a straw system for
acceptance of a drinking straw, wherein the straw system includes
an aperture having side walls which sealingly engage a straw
inserted therein to substantially prevent leakage around the
inserted straw.
19. An anti-spill lid for a container having a closed end, a
peripherally extending sidewall terminating in a rolled rim, and an
open end, the lid comprising: an annular rim for frictionally
engaging the rolled rim of the container; a central region; and
wherein the annular rim includes an interior sealing wall, an
exterior sealing wall, a connecting sealing portion between the
interior and exterior sealing walls, a locking ledge formed in the
exterior wall and a flared skirt portion, and wherein the interior
sealing wall has a length which extends to a point at or below the
level of the rolled rim of the container when the lid is positioned
therewith, and the locking ledge extends inwardly toward the
container to a position which is over twenty five percent of the
thickness of the rolled edge of the container and engages the lower
surface of the rolled edge of the container.
20. The lid of claim 19, wherein the rolled edge of the container
is elongated, and the space between the interior and exterior
sealing surfaces is elongated to substantially match the shape of
the rolled rim of the container.
21. The lid of claim 19, wherein the locking ledge formed in the
exterior wall is formed as a continuous annular surface.
22. The lid of claim 19, wherein the flared skirt portion has a
length to allow grasping between fingers of a user.
23. The lid of claim 19, wherein the connecting portion has an
extending portion adapted to engage the top of the rolled rim of
the container when the lid is positioned thereon.
24. A disposable anti-spill drinking lid for a disposable paper
container having a closed end, a peripherally extending sidewall
terminating in a rolled rim, and an open end, the lid comprising:
an annular engagement rim for frictionally engaging the rolled rim
of the container; an integral drinking spout extending from the top
surface of the lid and positioned to allow drinking therethrough by
tipping of the container toward a user; wherein the lid is formed
of a plastic material having tensile strength and ductility
characteristics such that the integral spout can deflect from its
extended position and thereafter substantially returns to its
original position.
25. The lid of claim 24, wherein the spout has a leakage prevention
system associated therewith.
26. The lid of claim 25, wherein the leakage prevention system is
formed as leakage prevention openings formed in a platform recessed
in the spout.
27. The lid of claim 26, wherein the leakage prevention openings
are normally closed slits which are selectively opened to allow a
liquid to pass therethrough.
28. The lid of claim 24, wherein the spout has an oval type of
shape, with two opposing sides having substantially larger
dimensions than the other opposing sides, with depressions formed
in the larger opposing sides of the spout.
29. The lid of claim 24, wherein the lid is formed of a plastic
material having a gauge in the range of 0.005 to 0.060 inches.
30. The lid of claim 24, wherein the lid is formed of a plastic
material having properties to allow thermoforming thereof.
31. The lid of claim 24, further comprising a central domed
region.
32. The lid of claim 24, further comprising a central depression
region.
33. The lid of claim 24, wherein the lid has a central region from
which the integral spout extends, and an annular shock absorbing
structure disposed around the central region.
34. The lid of claim 24, wherein the integral spout is dimensioned
to accept a drinking straw.
35. The lid of claim 24, wherein the lid is a single-use lid.
36. The lid of claim 24, wherein the lid is formed of a recyclable
material.
37. The lid of claim 35, wherein the lid is made from a material
selected from the group consisting of polypropylene, polyethylene
terephtalate glycol, polyethylene terephtalate, polystyrene,
polyethylene, styrene or combinations thereof.
38. The lid of claim 24, wherein the integral spout is formed to
have compression resistance to inhibit collapsing of the spout from
a biting or chewing action of a user, and wherein the spout upon
being deformed from its original shape returns to the original
shape.
39. An anti-spill single-use lid for a disposable paper container
having a closed end, a peripherally extending sidewall terminating
in a rolled rim, and an open end, the lid comprising: an annular
rim for frictionally engaging the rolled rim of the container; a
central region having a domed configuration; an integral drinking
spout extending from the top surface of the lid and positioned to
allow drinking therethrough by tipping of the container toward a
user, with the integral spout having a leakage prevention system
associated therewith; and an annular shock-absorbing structure
disposed between the annular rim and the central region; wherein
the annular shock-absorbing structure is at least one channel
formed around the central region, the at least one channel having
first and second side walls and a connecting bottom wall, with the
first and second side walls and bottom wall providing a
predetermined amount of extension and contraction at the location
of the at least one channel to absorb forces applied to the lid,
integral spout and/or container and facilitate retention of the lid
on the container when forces from dropping, tipping, falling or
squeezing are applied thereto.
40. A container lid having a straw receiving system for acceptance
of a drinking straw, wherein the straw receiving system comprises
an aperture having a shape and size and a side wall with a length,
wherein the shape and size substantially matches the shape and size
of a straw to be inserted, and the side wall sealingly engages an
exterior wall of a straw inserted therein to substantially prevent
leakage around the inserted straw.
41. The straw system of claim 40 wherein the side wall forms a
sleeve which sealingly engages the exterior of the inserted
straw.
42. The straw system of claim 41 wherein the sleeve has a portion
which extends downwardly from the lid into the container.
43. The straw system of claim 41 wherein the sleeve extends upward
from the lid.
44. The straw system of claim 40 wherein the sleeve is flexible to
permit the user directional control of the straw when the straw is
inserted into the container.
45. The straw system of claim 40 wherein the sleeve has a frangible
platform to seal the container contents prior to insertion of the
straw through the sleeve wherein the frangible platform will remain
attached after the straw is inserted in the sleeve.
46. The straw system of claim 40 wherein the radial dimensions of
the sleeve can be manufactured to sealingly engage with the radial
dimensions of commercially-available straws.
47. The straw system of claim 40 wherein the shape of the sleeve
can be manufactured to sealingly engage with the varying shapes of
commercially-available straws.
48. The straw system of claim 40 wherein the sleeve includes at
least one bead to sealingly engage the straw and prevent leakage of
contents of container between the straw and lid at the straw
insertion hole.
49. The straw system of claim 40 wherein the straw sleeve is
located anywhere on the lid surface.
50. A disposable cup for single-use types of applications,
comprising a side wall form made of a paper material which is
selectively shaped to form the side wall of a cup, and a bottom
wall form selectively combined with the side wall form to produce a
cup having an open top for receiving and retaining a liquid, the
side wall form making a frustoconical side wall with an internal
lining of a liquid-impervious material, and a top portion thereof
being formed into a rolled rim at a mouth of the cup at a top
thereof, and a portion of the side wall form being overlapped at
the edges to form an overlap region in the frustoconical shaped
side wall of the cup, with at least a portion of the overlap region
adjacent the top thereof having a tapered portion such that upon
formation of the rolled rim, any disconformity in the overlap
region of the rolled rim is minimized.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to container lids, and
particularly single-use type of container lids which are leak and
spill proof and may be used by users of all ages. The invention
also relates to a single-use or disposable container arrangement
for use with the disposable lid.
BACKGROUND
[0002] In the field of food service, particularly quick service
restaurants, convenience stores or the like, disposable or
single-use cups are used for beverages of different types, such as
soda or water. The cups may be formed of paper or plastic for
example. These cups have disposable lids for use therewith,
particularly for taking the food out of the restaurant. Quick
service restaurants may have take out windows, and many times
people ordering at the take out window or otherwise taking the food
and beverage order on a to go basis, need lids to allow effective
access to the beverage while trying to provide some protection
against spillage. People on the go may eat their food and beverage
order in the car or other similar environment where it is desired
not to spill the beverages associated with the order. Further, many
such restaurants have children's meals that may have child-sized
drinks or child-oriented cups for use with such special meals.
[0003] With these types of disposable cups and associated lids, the
lid is typically provided a straw hole formed by cross slits
through the lid, through which a straw is inserted prior to
drinking. Disposable cups and lids are also used for other
products, such as coffee, soups or other hot liquid products. With
coffee cups, an associated disposable lid is provided, but such
beverages are not typically drank with a straw, so some other
system for accessing the beverage for drinking is included in the
lid, such as a small drinking slot or area which is folded back to
form a drink opening. Sometimes, such coffee lids include an
upstanding spout having the opening formed in the top thereof
through which the person drinks. Although such coffee lids tend to
restrict the flow of coffee by use of a limited size opening, such
lids are not leak or spill proof.
[0004] Such disposable beverage lids or lids for other liquid
products, whether for use with a straw or of the coffee type style,
are not effective at preventing leaks when a cup is not upright, as
the beverage leaks from the straw hole slits, slot or other opening
used for drinking, around the edges of the lid or the like.
Further, such lids are easily disengaged from the cup if dropped or
if another force is applied to the cup or lid. The problem of
spillage occurring if the cup is other than upright, or complete
disengagement if dropped for example, is a particular problem for
young children, and any spilled cup may result in a sticky mess for
the restaurant or customer, and will always result in an unhappy
customer.
[0005] Sippy-cups, otherwise known as training cups, have been
produced for many years. These cups generally have a spout which
the child drinks from, having a leak resistant function which
allows the child to suck liquid through, but prevents liquid from
coming through on its own accord. This feature is to prevent a
spill in the likely event of the child knocking the cup on its
side, holding it upside down, dropping it on the floor, etc. The
lid is also generally designed to be securely fastened and not come
off in the event of a drop. Training or sippy cups are typically
used to transition children from drinking from a bottle to drinking
from an unrestricted cup. Generally, such cups have lids which are
attached to the cup by screw threads or a strong snap fit. Lids of
this type may also be employed by others when on the go, or the
elderly or others with motor skill limitations to prevent leakage
and spilling. Although such lids may be effective at preventing
leaks, they are not made to be disposable but instead are made in a
multi-use form and used with a particular non-disposable cup, such
as made of plastic, which is washable for repeated use. Such cups
and lids are generally formed using injection molding techniques,
with thick walls formed in the lid to make it rigid. The plastic
materials used to make such lids is generally not recyclable
[0006] For other situations, there have been developed travel cups
for use by other than children typically, which have lids with a
drinking spout or slot formed for drinking. Travel cups are again
not made to be disposable but are made in a multi-use form. Such
cups may be formed with an insulation layer to keep beverages cold
or hot. The lids on such travel cups are similarly not disposable
and made to be washable for repeated use. Similar to the coffee
type cups and lids mentioned above, such travel cups are not made
to prevent leakage, but instead merely restrict the flow of
beverage to facilitate drinking hot beverages. In some cases a
drinking opening is selectively closable to help prevent
spillage.
[0007] The cost of the single-use cups is lower than a multi-use
sippy cup, as the disposable or single-use cups are generally made
of paper and the lids are thermoformed plastic, while the multi-use
cups and lids may be of injection molded plastic or other more
expensive material or manufacturing process. It would be desirable
to provide a disposable single-use type of cup and lid system which
is inexpensive to produce, and yet could provide enhanced
performance in preventing leakage or spillage.
[0008] Accordingly, there is need in the art for a single-use cup
lid which prevents leakage when the cup is not upright and which
does not disengage upon being subjected to forces that may be
incurred during normal use, such as dropping, tipping, falling or
squeezing of the cup/lid with a liquid or the like therein. It
would be desirable to make the lid difficult to disengage from a
cup to prevent spillage, even while used by young children.
SUMMARY
[0009] In one aspect, a disposable or single-use cup lid is
described. The anti-spill lid has an annular rim for frictionally
engaging a rolled rim of a container, such as a paper cup, and a
central region having a domed configuration. An annular
shock-absorbing structure is disposed between the annular rim and
the central region. The annular shock-absorbing structure comprises
an outside channel or other structure having a non-flat
configuration and being formed around the central region, with the
outside channel providing a predetermined amount of extension and
contraction at the location of the channel to absorb forces or
stress applied to the lid and/or container and facilitate retention
of the lid on the container when forces from dropping, tipping,
falling or squeezing are applied thereto.
[0010] In an example, the invention is also directed to a
disposable anti-spill drinking lid for a disposable paper cup
having a closed end, a peripherally extending sidewall terminating
in a rolled rim, and an open end. The lid comprises an annular
engagement rim for frictionally engaging the rolled rim of the
container, and an integral drinking spout extending from the top
surface of the lid and positioned to allow drinking therethrough by
tipping of the container toward a user. The lid may be formed of a
plastic material having tensile strength and ductility
characteristics such that the integral spout can deflect from its
extended position and thereafter substantially returns to its
original position.
[0011] An anti-spill single-use lid is also provided for a
disposable paper cup having a closed end, a peripherally extending
sidewall terminating in a rolled rim, and an open end. The lid
comprises an annular rim for frictionally engaging the rolled rim
of the container, and a central region having a domed
configuration. An integral drinking spout extending from the top
surface of the lid is positioned to allow drinking therethrough by
tipping of the container toward a user. The integral spout may have
a leakage prevention system associated therewith. An annular
shock-absorbing structure may be disposed between the annular rim
and the central region, wherein the annular shock-absorbing
structure is at least one channel formed around the central region.
The at least one channel provides a predetermined amount of
extension and contraction at the location of the at least one
channel to absorb and relieve forces applied to the lid, integral
spout and/or container and facilitates retention of the lid on the
container when forces from dropping, tipping, falling or squeezing
are applied thereto. The domed configuration is generally
positioned at a level at or below the annular rim, and provides
dimensional stability and other functions in association with the
lid and spout.
[0012] The foregoing and other aspects will become apparent from
the following detailed description of the invention when considered
in conjunction with the accompanying drawing figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] FIG. 1 is a partial exploded perspective view of a drinking
cup and a lid.
[0014] FIG. 2 is an enlarged cross sectional view of the cup lid as
shown in FIG. 1.
[0015] FIG. 3A-3C are views of the deflection capabilities
associated with an integral spout of the cup lid in the example of
FIG. 2.
[0016] FIG. 4A-4E depict various embodiments of stress or force
absorbing channel configurations according to examples in
association with example of the cup lid of FIG. 2.
[0017] FIGS. 5A-5C show an enlarged partial cross sectional view
and alternate examples in partial top views, of an integral
drinking spout associated with the example of the cup lid shown in
FIG. 2.
[0018] FIGS. 6A and 6B show enlarged partial exploded cross
sectional views of the cup lid engagement system associated with
the example of the cup lid shown in FIG. 2.
[0019] FIGS. 7A-7B show perspective and top views respectively, of
an alternate example of a cup lid.
[0020] FIG. 8 is a cross sectional view of an alternate example of
a cup lid with an integral drinking spout oriented toward a
user.
[0021] FIG. 9 is a cross sectional view of an alternate example of
a cup lid with an integral drinking spout adapted for selective
insertion of a straw.
[0022] FIGS. 10A-10B show top and cross-sectional views of
alternate example of a cup lid not having an integrated drinking
spout associated therewith, and FIG. 10C shows a top view of
another example.
[0023] FIGS. 11A-11D show perspective and cross-sectional views of
alternate examples of a cup lid having an alternative integrated
drinking spout and reinforcing structures associated therewith.
[0024] FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of an alternate embodiment
of a lid for use with a single-use type of cup.
[0025] FIGS. 13A and 13B show cross sectional views of an alternate
example of a lid having an integral straw hole formed therein.
[0026] FIG. 14 is a plan view of a form for producing a cup
according to the example shown in FIG. 1.
[0027] FIGS. 15A-15B show partial side views of the lip overlap
area associated with the form as shown in FIG. 14, with FIG. 15A
showing the prior construction of a paper cup and FIG. 15B showing
the example of the invention.
[0028] FIG. 16A is a partial top view of a side of the form
according to prior art cups in the overlap area as shown in FIG.
15, and FIGS. 16B and 16C show alternative examples of this overlap
area.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0029] Shown in FIG. 1 is a lid 20 for a drinking cup or other
single-use type of container 10. The lid 20 is particularly useful
in conjunction with disposable drinking cups, especially the type
of cups that are customarily available at quick service stores or
restaurants. As shown in FIG. 1, such a cup 10 is typically formed
from a coated paper material with a bottom (not shown), a sidewall
12, and a rolled rim 14 at the top. The lid 20 is adapted to engage
the cup in a manner that it remains attached to the cup 10 even
when the cup is dropped, falls from a table, or encounters some
other force that would typically result in the lid 20 disengaging
from the cup 10 and the contents of the cup spilling and creating a
mess. The lid 20 may be thermoformed of a polymeric material, and
may have a nominal wall thickness of between about 0.005 and 0.060
inches for example. Lid 20 has an upper surface 22 with a perimeter
forming a circular engagement rim 24 which has an engagement groove
formed on the underside of the lid to receive the upper rim 14 of
the cup 10. A drinking spout 26, integrally molded with the rest of
the lid, extends upward from surface 22 to a top end 28. The
drinking spout 26 is shaped and sized to be comfortably received in
the mouth, and may be sized for use by an adult or child for
drinking. The lid 20 may also have a flared lower outside edge 36
which extends laterally from an edge of the cup 10 when the lid 20
is positioned thereon, to facilitate attachment and/or removal of
the lid from the cup 10 if desired.
[0030] As seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, the upper end 28 of the spout
includes a recessed area 30, from which the beverage is dispensed
during drinking. The recessed area 30 includes an interior surface
34 in which a leakage prevention system 32 is formed. The surface
or platform 34 is disposed interior to the spout 26 in a spaced
position relative to the upper end 28. The spout 26 may also be
provided with indentations 27 formed on opposing sides of the spout
26, which allow the lips of the drinker to more comfortably engage
the spout 26 and to provide grips to allow the user to remove the
lid 20 by pulling on the spout 26.
[0031] The engagement rim 24 further comprises an interior sealing
wall 42, connecting sealing wall 43 and an exterior sealing wall
44, disposed downwardly from the rim 24. The outer wall 44 and
engagement rim 24 is useful in guiding the lid 20 onto the lip 14
of cup 12. The outside wall 44 further comprises a locking ledge or
an undercut 46 which frictionally engages the underside of the
rolled rim 14 of the cup 10, thereby "locking" the lid 20 onto the
cup 10. Adjacent the inner wall 42, a large radiused fillet may be
provided to distribute stress in this region, and help prevent
cracking of the lid 20 at this location. The engagement rim 24
forms a substantially air-tight seal with cup 10, to create, in
conjunction with the leakage prevention system 32, a small vacuum
upon suction being applied through the spout 26. The lid 20 also
comprises a central domed region 40, from which the spout 26
extends. Adjacent the outer engagement rim 24 and before the domed
region 40, an outer shock absorbing structure, such as a channel 50
is provided. The channel 50 provides shock absorbing
characteristics in conjunction with other functions.
[0032] The outer shock-absorbing channel 50 and domed region 40
allow deflection of the spout 26 or the lid 20 in general, upon an
external force being applied thereto, facilitating absorption of
any forces or shock applied to the lid 20 and/or spout 26. A force
according to the invention are those forces that would be
experienced when the container 10 is full of a liquid or the like,
and the cup/lid assembly is dropped, tipped over, falls from a
height, or is squeezed for example, in ordinary use thereof as a
single-use container. For example, the lid 20 is adapted to
maintain its engagement with container 10 when the container/lid
assembly is full, and when dropped from a height of up to eight
feet, or for another predetermined height up to five feet for
example. Dropping the full container/lid assembly from a height
such as these is probably the most severe forces that would be
possibly applied during normal use. Further, the lid 20 is designed
to absorb forces that may be applied thereto when positioned on the
container 10, regardless of the direction from which the external
force is applied.
[0033] As shown in FIG. 2, the channel 50 may have a predetermined
width and be configured as a curved or concave section having a
radius. The channel 50 in this example is fully curved and
tangential to the engagement rim 24. This configuration minimizes
stress at the location between the channel 50 and rim 24. The
radius also allows the desired extension or contraction to absorb
shock forces as will be described, and helps maintain dimensional
stability to accommodate forces applied to the cup 10 and lid 20
positioned thereon, without disengagement of lid 20. The channel 50
provides shock absorbing qualities if the cup/lid is subjected to
forces, such as by dropping, tipping, falling, squeezing or the
like. For example, the predetermined width of the channel 50 is
designed to accommodate the deflection that may occur in the spout
26 or sides of the lid 20 if the cup/lid assembly is exposed to
these types of external forces. As an example, and with reference
to FIGS. 4A-4D which show configurations of the channel 50, the
channel 50 may have dimensions measured from location 73 including
a width in the range between 0.25 to 0.60 inches, depth between
0.10 to 0.30 inches, and may also include a radius between 0.12 to
0.35 inches. The curved geometry of the channel 50 provides more
surface area, which provides a larger amount of material to bend
and flex, in effect pre-stretching the material, and allowing
significant deflection characteristics. The channel 50 therefore
accommodates a predetermined extension or contraction through its
width and sidewalls, to facilitate allowing the edges of the lid 20
and/or the drinking spout 26 to deflect upon a force being exerted
on the lid 20 and/or to the container/lid assembly. The channel 50
is designed to effectively absorb forces that may be applied to the
lid if the cup is dropped or the like. The channel 50 functions to
provide the requisite stiffness for the lid 20 while also
permitting forces to be absorbed without permanently deforming or
cracking the lid 20, and to help prevent disengagement of the lid
20 from the cup 10. When a cup 10 engaged with the lid 20 is
subjected to a force that would cause a lid of the prior art to
crack or buckle and disengage from the container/cup, the
shock-absorbing channel 50 compresses and/or extends to absorb the
force and temporarily allow deformation of the lid 20 and/or
drinking spout 26, to prevent the lid 20 from disengaging from its
position on the cup 10. The channel 50 allows the spout 26 to
deflect in any direction and distribute any external forces that
are applied thereto, so as to prevent the forces applied to the
spout from being exerted on the engagement rim 24, and thereby
facilitate retention of the lid on the cup. Further, the domed
geometry of the center region 40, upon general side (non-spout)
impact, keeps the center region stiff and dimensionally stable, so
the entire lid does not deform too far out of circular which
combined with the predetermined extension or contraction of channel
50 helps maintain the engagement of lid 20 to the rim 14 of
container 10, as at least portions of the engagement rim 24 do not
have forces or stress applied thereto. As seen in FIG. 2, the dome
40 is formed such that its upper extent is at or below the upper
level of the engagement rim 24, to provide resistance to bending of
the lid 20 when subjected to external forces from the side, and to
minimize exposure to external forces to the top or central portion
of the lid 20.
[0034] As shown in FIGS. 3A, 3B and 3C, the spout 26 may be
subjected to force from a number of directions when dropped. Rather
than permanently deforming or cracking, or causing the lid 20 to
disengage from the cup 10, the spout 26 temporarily deflects in the
direction of the force and then resiliently returns to its original
configuration. As shown in FIG. 3A, if an external force is applied
directly to the top of the spout 26, the spout 26 is able to fully
retract to a position at or below the level of the engagement rim
24. Upon the cup/lid assembly being dropped directly on its top,
the spout 26 will absorb the force, without undue forces being
exerted on engagement rim 24 that may cause disengagement of the
rim 24 from the lip 14 of container 10. The outer channel 50 and
dome 40 facilitate predetermined buckling of the spout 26 from an
extended position with a distal end above the level of the annular
rim, to a retracted position with the distal end at or below the
level of the annular engagement rim 24 upon a force being applied
thereto. The outer channel 50 and central dome 40 effectively allow
the spout 26 to flex or deflect in a predetermined manner to allow
this deflection and absorb such forces. Similarly, as shown in
FIGS. 3B and 3C, if an external force is applied from an angular
direction, such as from the outside or inside of the spout 26
respectively, the spout 26 deflects again to a fully retracted
position, at or below the level of the engagement rim 24. Upon the
cup/lid assembly being dropped directly on its top, or if a force
is applied from a side direction to the spout 26, the spout 26 will
temporarily deflect and absorb the force, without undue forces
being exerted on engagement rim 24 that may cause disengagement of
the rim 24 from the lip 14 of container 10. As seen in FIG. 3, the
outer channel 50 and center dome 40 allow for a predetermined
amount of extension or compression, and direct the buckling around
the spout 26 to predetermined regions of the lid 20. The amount of
extension or compression may be dependent in part upon the shape
and dimensions associated with the channel 50 and dome 40.
Deformation from impact forces is therefore localized in the
center, leaving portions of the outer edge of the channel 50
substantially unaffected, thereby preserving engagement with the
rim 14 of the cup 10. Similarly to the deflection of the spout 26,
if forces are applied to other portions of the lid 20, such as the
edge of the cup/lid assembly, the channel 50 again allows for
localized deflection to occur and absorption of the force without
undue forces being applied to other areas of the engagement rim 24,
such that the lid 20 does not disengage from the container 10.
[0035] The channel 50 may have a different configuration to
facilitate providing the predetermined extension and/or compression
for directing and enabling deflection of the spout 26 or other
portions of the lid 20 and the distribution of applied forces in
the desired manner. As seen in FIGS. 4A-E, the channel 50 may have
different shapes and/or dimensions to accommodate the desired
extension and/or compression. For example, instead of a radius as
shown in the embodiment of FIG. 2, there may be associated with the
channel 50 a bottom wall 70 with differing designs providing
alternative performance characteristics in achieving these
functions, either alone or in conjunction with side walls 72. For
example, the bottom wall 70 of a channel 50 may have a concave or
radiused configuration as described previously, in association with
side walls 72 having a top and bottom curved or radiused section
and a length as set forth in FIG. 4A. This configuration allows
further extension/compression in association with the side walls
72, and relating to the curved bottom wall 70. As seen in FIG. 4B,
the side walls 72 may have a top and bottom curved or radiused
sections and a length and the bottom wall 70 may have a straight
shape, with the radiused top and bottom sections and length of the
side walls 72 providing desired extension/compression
characteristics. Other configurations may include having multiple
folds or bends in the bottom wall 70, such as a sawtooth design in
FIG. 4C, with multiple wall sections 74 formed in bottom wall 70, a
sinusoidal design in FIG. 4D, with multiple wall sections 74 formed
in bottom wall 70, or a squarewave type of design in FIG. 4E, with
multiple wall sections 74 formed in bottom wall 70. Any other
design which permits predetermined extension/compression of the lid
10 via the channel 50 is contemplated. As an alternative, the
configuration shown in FIG. 4B and other examples may also include
an interior bead portion 76 adjacent the interior wall 42 of the
sealing rim 24, which may be provided for adding structural
integrity and isolating the wall 42 from forces to some degree.
[0036] Turning now to FIGS. 5A and 5B, the integral spout 26 with
platform 34 disposed therein below the distal end 28 of the spout
26 is described in further detail. The spout 26 may have an oval
type of shape, with two opposing sides having substantially larger
dimensions than the other opposing sides, with depressions 27
formed in the larger opposing sides of the spout. The configuration
of spout 26 resists collapse upon application of external forces.
When a user desires to drink from the container, the spout 26 is
placed in the user's mouth and external suction is applied to the
spout 26 which causes the liquid contained within the container 10
to flow through the leakage prevention system 32 having at least
one opening 80 in platform 34 and into the user's mouth. FIG. 5B
depicts the at least one opening 80 as a plurality of slits which
act as flow restrictors and are particularly useful in sippy or
training cup type applications. The plurality of slits 80 permit
liquid to flow from the container 10 to the mouth of the user when
external suction from the mouth is applied or when squeezed such as
by a biting or teething type action, but prevent leakage of liquid
when the lid 20 and container 10 are in an other than upright
position. The leakage prevention system 32 may alternatively be a
plurality of slots, holes or the like, any of which function to
substantially prevent flow or leakage through the surface 34 when
not drinking or sipping through the spout 26. The leakage
prevention system 32 may be normally closed slits as shown that
open upon some suction or biting/teething force being applied
during drinking, or normally open holes or slots which are small
enough to avoid leakage under normal non-suction conditions by
capillary action. Although substantially preventing flow when not
drinking, the leakage prevention system 32 also provides an
acceptable flow rate during drinking conditions. The slits, slots,
holes or the like 80 form a total flow area for desired flow rates
during drinking. As seen in FIG. 5B, the outer edge 27 of the spout
26 adjacent the channel 50 may be straight to minimize stress or
cracking at this location upon being subjected to an external
force.
[0037] In the examples of FIG. 5, it is also seen that the platform
34 in spout 26 is disposed below the end 28 of the spout 26, and
adds structural rigidity to the spout 26 by acting as a brace to
forces that may compress the spout 26. For use with small children
for example, the children may be learning to drink from a cup by
themselves. Such children are prone to teething, biting or chewing
on things, including training cup spouts. While teething, this may
especially be the case. Further, upon drinking from spout 26, the
suction applied may tend to cause the spout 26 to collapse. The
platform 34 increases the compression resistance of the spout 26
and inhibits the spout 26 from collapsing while being sucked on or
bitten on by a child. The surface 34 is also formed at a location
spaced from the distal end 28 to a degree such that the lips or
tongue of the user will not interact with the leakage prevention
system 32, such that no sharp edges or the like can be encountered
by the user. The at least one opening 80 in the platform 34 may
have sharp edges as a result of the configuration thereof and/or
the manufacturing process or via puncture with a straw or similar
device. As the spout 26 is placed in a user's mouth when drinking,
recessing any sharp edges below the end 28 of the spout 26 avoids
the possibility of a user inadvertently injuring the lips, tongue,
or mouth while drinking. An alternative example is shown in FIG.
5C, where the plurality of openings 80 are positioned on the sides
of the recessed area 30, to remove them from possible contact with
the lips or tongue and create less of a direct path through which
water might leak.
[0038] As seen in FIGS. 5A-5C, the configuration of spout 26 may
facilitate the desired buckling of the spout due to the application
of an external force thereto. The spout 26 is designed to
distribute forces applied to the spout 26 to the channel 50 and/or
dome region 40, and if the force is sufficient, to cause buckling
of the spout as shown in FIG. 3. The characteristics of the spout
26 in conjunction with the other characteristics of the lid 20,
facilitate the distribution of stress applied to the spout 26 in a
predictable pattern. The stress applied to the spout 26 is directed
to the channel 50 and domed region 40 in a manner that causes
buckling of the dome region and/or extension/contraction of the
channel 50 to absorb and reduce the stress applied to the
engagement rim 24. Also, the shape of the base of spout 26 has
significantly rounded corners to distribute stress.
[0039] An example of the invention also contemplates the use of a
sippy type of spout 26 with a regular single-use lid having
characteristics such as are currently being used, and without the
additional features as described, such as the domed region, a shock
absorbing channel or channels, or an engagement rim structure as
described previously. This would provide the advantage of having a
sippy type of spout instead of or in conjunction with the typical
straw opening. For example, the integral spout 26 in prior
embodiments may provide a sippy-type of beverage container for use
by children or others, in association with a single use container
and lid, such as used in quick service stores or restaurants. The
engagement rim 24 of lid 20 is also adapted to facilitate being
retained in association with the rim 14 of container 10. As shown
in FIG. 6A, the inner sealing wall 42 has an extended length
engaging a substantial portion of the interior surface 90 of the
container 10. The length of the wall 42 extends to a position below
the lower surface 92 of the rolled rim 14. This extended length of
the interior sealing wall 42 provides effective sealing of liquid
contents in the container 10, and also provides additional
frictional engagement between sealing wall 42 of the engagement rim
24 with wall 90 of container 10. If desired, the interior sealing
surface 42 may be comprised of one or more sealing beads or bosses
(not shown) extending circumferentially and toward the side of
container 10 and pressing on the side of the container 10 when the
lid is attached thereto to provide sealing at this location, much
like an O-ring, to aid in sealing. Additionally, the space 94
created between the walls 42 and 44 of the rim 24 is designed to
closely match the configuration of rolled rim 14 on container 10,
and the sealing surface 43 provides additional protection against
leakage. In the example shown, the rolled rim 14 may be configured
to have an elongated oval type shape, and the space 94 is also
formed as an elongated section. The use of an elongated rolled rim
14 and similar configuration in engagement rim 24 provides
additional surface area to frictionally engage the rolled rim 14,
to facilitate preventing unwanted disengagement of the lid 20 from
container 10. The oval type shape of the space 94 also provides
additional surface area which can move relative to the rolled rim
to some degree before being disengaged therefrom. The elongated
channel 94 also allows some movement of the rolled rim 14 before it
is disengaged, thereby permitting the lid 20 to move up and/or down
an amount when subjected to a force from dropping or other
unexpected disturbance, without disengaging. Similarly, the rolled
rim may also be of a more circular configuration, with the area 94
and wall 44 designed to closely match this shape. To further
enhance the function of preventing unwanted disengagement of the
lid 20 from container 10, the engagement rim 24 is also provided
with a deeply inset undercut 46. The undercut 46 reduces the space
between walls 42 and 44 to a narrow opening, thereby forming an
upper locking ledge 96, which securely engages the underside 92 of
the rolled rim 14 of container 10, and facilitates maintaining the
engagement rim 24 with the rolled rim 14. The locking ledge 96
extends to a position which is over twenty five percent of the
thickness of the rolled edge of the container and engages the lower
surface of the rolled edge of the container. As a further example,
the locking ledge may extend between 25-80 percent of the thickness
of the rolled edge of the container.
[0040] The structures of the engagement rim 24 and associated
structures, such as the channel 50 and/or domed region 40 resist
disengagement of the lid 20 unless a force which is greater than
the forces applied when the cup/lid is dropped, tipped over or
squeezed for example, to effectively "lock" the lid 20 on container
10. Further, the engagement rim 24 of the lid 20 provides a leak
proof seal with the rolled rim 14 of container 10. FIG. 6B shows an
alternate example with an inwardly extending bead 98 on the top
connecting sealing surface 43 between the interior sealing surface
42 and exterior sealing surface 44, which extends into engagement
with the top surface of the rolled rim 14, to aid in sealing. The
bead 98 presses on the top at one point radially, much like an
O-ring, to aid in sealing. Additionally, the bead 98 may allow some
extension or compression at this location to facilitate absorbing
shock imposed on the rim. If desired, the interior sealing surface
42 and/or exterior sealing surface 44 may also be provided with an
inwardly extending bead or beads to aid in sealing.
[0041] In an alternate example of a lid 20 as shown in FIGS. 7A and
7B, the configuration of spout 26 may include stress distribution
structures or arms 82 designed to distribute forces applied to the
spout 26. The arm sections 82 may be designed to distribute forces
applied to the spout 26 in a predetermined manner, and in this
example, generally extend from the center of the spout 26 in an
angled direction toward the periphery of the lid 20. The stress or
forces applied to the spout 26 are distributed from the edges or
corners of the spout 26 to the outer channel 50 via the arms 82,
and to the adjacent domed region 40. An interior channel 60 may
also be provided. These structures may also provide for
distribution of stress applied to the spout 26 in a predictable
pattern, to effectively absorb the stress and cause the lid 20 to
relieve applied stress by buckling, and without cracking or being
disengaged from the container 10. Further, the position and extent
of the channels 50 and/or 60 may be altered, such as providing a
partial channel 60 adjacent the interior of the spout 26 rather
than an oval shaped channel 60 as shown in this example. The
channels could also be formed to extend around the sides of the
spout 26, and could merge if desired. It is contemplated to provide
alternative designs of outer channel 50 in conjunction with an
inner channel 60 to provide the desired deflection characteristics
of the spout 26 and other portions of the lid 20. Additionally, the
spout 26 may have an outer section 84 which is curved or radiused
to provide stiffness and structural integrity at this location, and
distribute force or stress toward the edges of the spout 26 and
arms 82 as well as adjacent structures including the channel 50,
domed region 40 and inner channel 60 for example.
[0042] The configuration of the lid 20 avoids the problems with the
thermoformed lids typically used in the quick service stores or
restaurants for example. These known lids are found to immediately
disengage or crack upon being exposed to a force such as by tipping
on a table or dropping on the floor from a table height, standing
height (such as up to five to eight feet) or higher. The lid
according to the examples herein does not disengage from the cup
when dropped from a normal standing height by means of the various
structures and attributes described. The lid 20 provides the
ability to absorb shock and disperse stress to allow significant
forces to be incurred without disengagement of the lid 20, and more
particularly to effectively absorb forces which may be incurred
upon dropping a full cup/lid assembly which is full of a beverage
from a height of six feet without disengagement of the lid 20 from
the cup 10. The function of retaining the lid 20 on the cup 10 may
also be facilitated by adjusting the thickness and type of material
from which the lid 20 constructed. In this example, the lid 20 may
be formed of a polypropylene material, having strength and
ductility characteristics which allow for deformation of the lid 20
and areas thereof such as the integrated drinking spout 26, while
resisting cracking and having a stiffness to absorb applied forces
as described. This type of material has tensile strength and
ductility such that it also immediately returns to its original
shape after deformation, to thereby facilitate maintaining
engagement with the cup 10 and improve the customer experience (the
customer does not need to manually return it to its original
shape). This type of material also has a softer feel when in
contact with the users mouth which is ergonomically more pleasing
during use. The thickness of the material may vary between 0.005
inches to 0.060 inches depending on the application. Other
materials which provide the differing characteristics include PETG
materials, PET materials, polystyrene materials and polyethylene
materials for example. The material may have ductility
characteristics to allow the desired amount of deflection without
splitting or cracking. In an embodiment, the lid is a single-use
lid, which is cost-effectively manufactured, such as by
thermo-forming, and may be made of a polymeric recyclable
material.
[0043] As also shown in the example of FIG. 7, there may further be
a plurality of spaced apart reinforcing ribs 100 formed in the
engagement rim 24. These spaced apart ribs 100 may be added to the
outer vertical wall 44 which may be used to provide additional
rigidity as well as providing gripping functionality of the lid 20
via the engagement rim 24.
[0044] An alternate example of a lid 20 is shown in FIG. 8, wherein
the integrated drinking spout 26 is designed to be directed
slightly outwardly toward the user for drinking therefrom. Forming
the integrated spout 26 to have an axis which is angled toward the
user may facilitate drinkability from the cup/lid assembly or
provide desired aesthetics for various applications.
[0045] A further example of a lid is shown in FIG. 9 which has an
integrated drinking spout 26 which is adapted to be transformed for
selective use with and to accommodate a drinking straw 102. Prior
art cup lids available at quick service stores or restaurants or
the like typically contain two perpendicular slits through which a
user inserts a straw. Such a design does not completely surround
the inserted straw, leaving gaps through which liquid may flow if
the cup is tipped or knocked over. In this embodiment, the spout 26
again may include a leakage prevention system associated therewith.
If a user desires to use a straw instead of spout 26 to drink the
contents, the straw is selectively insertable into the recessed
area of the spout 26, and with an amount of force applied to the
straw 102, the platform 34 (shown in previous examples) may be made
to be frangible to allow it to be selectively broken or detached to
allow the straw to be inserted into the cup. The platform may be
provided with its periphery or portion thereof formed with partial
or complete perforations which allow the platform 34 to be
selectively deflected out of the way of the straw 102 for insertion
thereof. The recessed area 30 is designed to accept a standard size
drinking straw 102 while frictionally engaging the straw about the
straw's circumference. Unlike the prior art straw openings, no gap
exists around the straw 102 to provide a path for liquid to low
through in the event that a cup equipped with the disclosed lid is
tipped or knocked over, except through the straw itself. Although
the embodiment in FIG. 9 depicts a straw of the variety typically
available at quick service stores or restaurants, it should be
understood that the opening 30 can be sized to accept any size
straw. It is further envisioned that a user may selectively break
or detach the platform 34 to allow greater flow of a drink directly
through the spout 26 and opening 30 without using a straw.
[0046] An alternate example of a lid 20 is shown in FIGS. 10A and
10B, wherein the integrated drinking spout 26 shown in prior
examples may not be used, and the lid 20 may be used for products
which are not intended to be drunk from the cup/lid assembly, such
as soups, ice cream, yogurt, or various other products. Providing a
lid which resists disengagement from the container 10 as described
previously facilitates transporting or storing such products prior
to eating. Also, as shown in FIG. 1 .degree. C., slits 99 may be
added to the center of lid in much the same way as current
single-use lids, in order to leverage the superior retention and
durability of the lid in the event it is subjected to external
forces during use, such as from falling, tipping or squeezing.
Alternatively, the integral straw hole as described with reference
to FIGS. 13 A and B hereafter may be used.
[0047] In further contemplated embodiments as shown in FIGS.
11A-11D, an alternate integral spout 110 is used. Further, instead
of providing a fully domed central region 40 as set forth in prior
examples, the lid 20 of this example may comprise a depression 112
in the middle of the central dome area as shown in FIGS. 11A and
11B, which is designed to accommodate a user's nose while tipping
the container 10/lid 20 assembly toward their face. The depression
112 slopes downward away from the spout 110. There may also be
provided an aperture (not shown) in the depression 112 to permit
any fluid overflow to pass from the depression 112 to the interior
of the container 10 when the container 10 is oriented in an upright
position. As seen in FIGS. 11C and 11D, such an alternate integral
spout design 110 may also be used in association with other aspects
of prior embodiments, such as the domed central region 40, at least
one shock absorbing channel 50 and/or engagement rim 24. Other
features associated with the prior examples may also be
incorporated in such an embodiment
[0048] An example of the invention as shown in FIG. 12 also
contemplates the use of a sippy type of spout 26 with a regular or
standard type of single-use lid 120. The lid 120 has
characteristics such as are currently used in a variety of
environments, such as quick service restaurants, convenience stores
or many other similar uses, where beverages are purchased for
consumption in single-use containers with associated lids. The
single-use containers are typically formed of paper, and the lids
120 are formed of plastic, such as by thermoforming techniques. The
lid 120 may be formed of styrene or other suitable materials, and
instead of or in addition to a straw hole generally provided in
such lids, the lid 120 includes a sippy type of spout 26, having
leakage prevention. This lid 120 may provide the benefits of a
sippy style drinking opening to facilitate use by children or
others. The lid 120 may be configured without or with one or more
of the features as described with reference to other embodiments
herein, including one or more of the provision of a domed central
region, a shock absorbing channel or channels, or an engagement rim
structure as described previously. This would provide the advantage
of having a sippy type of spout instead of or in conjunction with
the typical straw opening. For example, the integral spout 26 in
prior embodiments may provide a sippy-type of beverage container
for use by children or others, in association with a single use
container and lid combination.
[0049] FIGS. 13A and 13B show cross sectional views of an alternate
example of a lid 20 having an integral straw hole system 130 formed
therein. As previously referred to in relation to FIG. 9, many
beverages from quick service stores or restaurants and the like may
be desirably consumed through a straw. In this example, the
integral straw hole 130 accepts any type of straws of the variety
typically available at quick service restaurants, and has an
opening 132 which can be sized to accept any size straw. It is
further envisioned that a user may selectively break or detach a
sealing platform 134 which closes the opening 132 before use. As
seen in FIG. 13B, the platform 134 is broken upon insertion of the
straw 140, and the side wall forms a sleeve 136 which engages the
straw 140 to effectively seal the outside surface thereof. In this
manner, if the cup/lid is tipped, no leakage will occur around the
exterior of straw 140. The sealing platform 134 may be frangible to
facilitate breaking upon insertion of a straw 140, and any suitable
structure, such as shown at 138, may be used which tends to break
in a predetermined manner to allow a straw 140 to be inserted. The
frangible platform 134 may remain attached after the straw 140 is
inserted. The straw receiving system opening 132 generally
comprises a circular aperture having a diameter and a side wall
with a length, wherein the diameter substantially matches the size
of a straw to be inserted. The side wall sealingly engages the
straw inserted therein to substantially prevent leakage around the
inserted straw. The side wall forms a sleeve which sealingly
engages the exterior of the inserted straw. The sleeve may have a
portion which extends downwardly from the lid into the container
and/or a portion which extends upward from the lid surface. The
sleeve may be flexible to permit the user directional control of
the straw when the straw is inserted into the container, without
disruption of the sealing engagement with the straw 140. The shape
of the sleeve can be manufactured to sealingly engage with the
varying shapes of commercially-available straws 140. The sleeve 136
may further include one or more beads to sealingly engage the straw
and prevent leakage of contents of container between the straw and
lid at the straw insertion hole. The straw system may be located
anywhere on the lid surface. The lid and integral straw receiving
system may be formed of a plastic material as previously discussed
and may have a gauge as described in other examples. Additionally,
the straw insertion system may be used either alone or in
conjunction with other features of the lid as previously described,
and though being shown in conjunction with the domed region 40,
channel 50 and engagement rim 24, could simply be used in a
standard type of disposable lid, such as in place of or in
conjunction with an integral spout, such as shown in the example of
FIG. 12.
[0050] As shown in FIGS. 14-16, a container 10 configuration for
use with any of the examples of a lid 20 according to the invention
may be provided. As shown in FIG. 14, the side portion of a
container 10 may be formed of a paper form 150, having a
predetermined shape to be rolled into a container configuration. An
overlap area 152 is provided on one edge. A bottom portion 154 may
be used for attaching a bottom to the form 150. The top section 156
of the form 150 is selectively rolled during formation of a
container to form the rolled rim 14 as previously discussed. The
overlap area 152 is formed upon rolling of the form 150 upon itself
to form the container 10 side wall. In such a container
configuration 10, the overlap area 152 of prior art containers is
generally formed to have uniform thickness as seen in FIG. 16A. In
the overlap region 152 of prior art containers as seen in FIG. 15A,
this causes a disconformity or bump 153 at the overlap area in the
rolled rim 14, which can adversely effect the leak proof seal
between the rolled rim and engagement rim 24 of the lid 20 as
previously discussed. To alleviate this disconformity or bump 153
in this area, the form 150 of the invention may be manufactured to
have a tapered portion 158 in at least the top of the overlap
region 152, as shown in FIGS. 16B and 16C, with 16C substantially
eliminating the disconformity and 16B being acceptable and possibly
more manufacturable. Providing the tapered portion 158 in the
overlap area 152 provides a smooth transition between the layers of
the form 150 in the overlap region 152. The tapered portion 158 may
be formed in any suitable manner, such as by swaging of material
from the form 150 in this area, compression of the material in this
area or any other suitable method. In this manner, the overlap
region 152 does not create a disconformity or bump as seen in FIG.
15B.
[0051] Other modifications and amendments may be made to the design
of the disclosed container lid without departing from the spirit
and scope of the accompanying claims.
* * * * *