U.S. patent application number 12/288953 was filed with the patent office on 2010-04-29 for drinking container lid apparatus with manually actuated valve.
Invention is credited to Everett L. Ruse, JR..
Application Number | 20100102060 12/288953 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42116494 |
Filed Date | 2010-04-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100102060 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ruse, JR.; Everett L. |
April 29, 2010 |
Drinking container lid apparatus with manually actuated valve
Abstract
A lid for controlled drinking from a drinking container having a
mouth includes a central portion defining an edge. The lid includes
a linear actuator having an outer portion extending beyond the edge
and a inner portion extending within the edge. The lid further
includes a gate valve having a pivot positioned proximate a center
of the central portion, about which the gate valve can pivot
between a closed position wherein the gate valve essentially
occludes an opening defined in the central portion, and an open
position wherein the gate valve does not essentially occlude the
opening. The gate valve is engaged with the linear actuator and
responsive to motion thereof to move the gate valve between the
closed and open positions. A biasing mechanism biases the gate
valve towards the closed position.
Inventors: |
Ruse, JR.; Everett L.;
(Spokane, WA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Gregory IPL, P.C.
601 W. Main Avenue, Suite 904
SPOKANE
WA
99201-3825
US
|
Family ID: |
42116494 |
Appl. No.: |
12/288953 |
Filed: |
October 24, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
220/254.9 ;
220/262; 220/303; 220/326; 220/348; 220/714; 222/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 43/0204 20130101;
B65D 47/265 20130101; B65D 2543/00092 20130101; B65D 2517/0022
20130101; B65D 2543/00296 20130101; B65D 2517/0098 20130101; B65D
2543/00046 20130101; B65D 2543/00842 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/254.9 ;
220/262; 220/303; 220/348; 220/326; 220/714; 222/1 |
International
Class: |
B65D 51/18 20060101
B65D051/18; B65D 43/02 20060101 B65D043/02 |
Claims
1. An apparatus forming a lid to facilitate controlled drinking
from a drinking container having a mouth, comprising: a central
portion defining an edge configured to engage with an upper portion
of the drinking container such that the central portion covers the
mouth of the drinking container when the apparatus is engaged
therewith; a linear actuator having a outer portion extending
beyond the edge, and a inner portion extending within the edge, the
linear actuator being slidably coupled to the central portion and
responsive to a force applied to the linear actuator to urge outer
portion the towards the edge; an opening defined in the central
portion adjacent the edge to facilitate a person tipping the
apparatus and drinking container to obtain a drink therefrom; a
gate valve having a pivot positioned proximate a center of the
central portion, about which the gate valve can pivot between a
closed position wherein the gate valve essentially occludes the
opening, and an open position wherein the gate valve does not
essentially occlude the opening, the gate valve being in engaged
communication with the linear actuator and responsive to motion
thereof to move the gate valve between the closed and open
positions; at least one biasing mechanism configured to bias the
gate valve towards the closed position so that a drinker can
depress the linear actuator to drink and thereafter release the
linear actuator and the gate valve is biased into a closed position
to essentially prevent spillage from the drinking container when
fitted with the apparatus.
2. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one
biasing mechanism comprises a spring disposed between the linear
actuator and the central portion and biased to urge the outer
portion away from the edge of the central portion.
3. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one
biasing mechanism comprises a plastic spring which is part of a
unitary body including the linear actuator, the plastic spring
having a proximal portion coupled to the linear actuator and a
distal portion in contact with the central portion, the plastic
spring being driven into compression responsive to motion of the
linear actuator to move the gate valve towards the open
position.
4. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the opening is
adjacent the edge at a location distal from the outer portion of
the linear actuator.
5. An apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the central portion
defines a wall, the central portion further including a collar
formed at the edge and surrounding the wall, the collar defined by
a lower peripheral portion including an inwardly extending lip to
affirmatively engage the mouth.
6. An apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the central portion
defines a wall, the central portion further including a collar
formed at the edge and surrounding the wall, the collar defined by
a lower peripheral portion including threads for affirmatively and
threadingly engaging the mouth.
7. An apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the gate valve is
responsive to translational motion of the linear actuator towards
the pivot to thereby move the gate valve between the closed and
open positions, the apparatus further comprising a clip connected
to the central portion and configured to limit translational
movement of the linear actuator towards the pivot.
8. An apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the inner portion of
the linear actuator includes a narrowed portion offset from the
pivot, the gate valve includes a tang, and the narrowed portion and
the tang are engaged with one another to thereby place the linear
actuator and the gate valve in engaged communication with one
another.
9. An apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the central portion
includes a gate stopper configured to prevent over-rotation of the
gate valve past the opening when the gate valve is in the closed
position.
10. An apparatus forming a drinking cap for a beverage container,
the cap including in combination: a wall having a circular shape
and defining a periphery; an opening extending through the wall
near the periphery to allow a person to drink from the beverage
container; at least one engagement feature for engaging the cap in
substantially sealed relationship with the beverage container such
that the cap covers a mouth of the beverage container and may
prevent spillage therefrom; an actuator engaged with the wall for
linear movement along a substantially planar portion thereof, the
actuator having a outer portion extending past the periphery and a
inner portion extending inward of the periphery; a gate valve
mechanically coupled to the inner portion of the actuator and
having a pivot point centrally positioned on the wall, the gate
valve pivoting parallel to the wall about the pivot point to
uncover the opening, responsive to depression of the actuator
towards the periphery; and a spring biasing the actuator outwardly
from the periphery and the gate valve towards a closed position
covering the opening.
11. An apparatus according to claim 10 wherein the spring comprises
a plastic spring having a first end coupled to one of the linear
actuator or the wall.
12. An apparatus according to claim 10 wherein the spring includes
a first end coupled to the linear actuator and therefrom extends to
contact one of the wall, or a protrusion therefrom, to bias the
gate valve into the closed position.
13. An apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the actuator
slidably moves between a first position where one edge of the gate
valve is biased against a gate stopper secured to the wall and a
second position where the gate valve is not biased against the gate
stopper.
14. An apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the engagement
feature comprises a collar extending about the periphery, the
collar including an inwardly extending rib for affirmatively
engaging an outer portion of the mouth.
15. An apparatus forming a removable closure device for a drinking
vessel having a mouth through which liquid contents are drank, the
closure device comprising: a cover portion capable of completely
covering the mouth, the cover portion defining a periphery and an
aperture adjacent the periphery; a collar formed along the
periphery, the collar configured to snap onto and affirmatively
engage the mouth to attach the closure device to the vessel, and to
snap off the mouth to remove the closure device from the vessel; an
actuator having a first end extending beyond the periphery and a
second end proximate a center of the cover portion, the actuator
being slidably moveable between a first position and a second
position, where in the first position the first end extends farther
outward of the periphery than in the second position; a valve
coupled to the actuator and moving responsive to motion of the
actuator, the valve having an open position away from the aperture
when the actuator is in the first position, and a closed position
over the aperture when the actuator is in the second position, the
valve being mechanically biased towards the closed position.
16. An apparatus as claimed in claim 15, further comprising a
plastic spring providing the mechanical bias.
17. An apparatus as claimed in claim 15, further comprising
mechanical stops excluding motion of the gate valve outside of a
range of positions extending between and including the open and
closed positions.
18. An apparatus as claimed in claim 15, wherein the valve includes
a body and a tang, the body being rotatably secured to the cover
portion by a pivot pin, the valve rotating about the pivot pin and
parallel to the cover portion, and away from the closed position,
responsive to pressure being applied to the first end of the
actuator.
19. An apparatus as claimed in claim 15, wherein the valve includes
a body and a tang, the body being rotatably secured to the cover
portion by a first pivot pin and being rotatably secured to the
second end of the actuator by a second pivot pin proximate the
first pivot pin, the valve rotating about the first pivot pin and
parallel to the cover portion, and away from the closed position,
responsive to pressure being applied to the first end of the
actuator.
20. An apparatus as claimed in claim 15 further comprising a
drinking vessel having a mouth through which liquid contents are
drank, wherein the cover portion is engaged with the mouth of the
vessel.
21. A method of enabling contents to be removed from a drinking
container having a mouth through which the contents can be removed,
comprising: providing a drinking cap having an opening formed there
through; providing a gate valve slidably movable from a closed
position over the opening to an open position away from the
opening; providing an actuator engaged with the gate valve, and
configured to move the gate valve from the closed position to the
open position in response to moving the actuator in a lineal
motion; placing the drinking cap over the mouth of the container;
moving the actuator in a lineal motion to thereby move the gate
valve away from the opening thereby allowing contents to be removed
from the drinking container through the mouth and the opening.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] Many different types of drinking vessels have been developed
over the course of human history. Such include cups, bowls,
bottles, cans, glasses, mugs as well as other types of drinking
vessels. In all cases, there is a chamber suited for containment of
a liquid, or beverage, and an opening through which the person
using the drinking vessels is able to extract a portion of the
beverage. Extraction is commonly accomplished by changing the
vessel's orientation or changing the pressure around the fluid.
[0002] However, the opening or mouth can also allow the beverage in
the drinking vessel to spill. This can happen for any of many
reasons. When a beverage does spill, what is spilt is usually lost,
and may also cause damage to the items it comes in contact with.
Some beverages can stain various items, cause resident inks or dyes
to run due to a solvent-like action thus rendering the item
damaged. Examples are car upholster, car seat covers, home
furniture, carpeting and many other things that can suffer damage
or even deterioration due to the spillage and type of liquid that
has been spilt.
[0003] In instances where the beverage is heated, there are
additional risks associated with spilling thereof. When this type
of drink is spilled, it has the potential to burn people or animals
which have contact with the spilt liquid.
[0004] Other problems arise when a drinking container is invaded by
insects such as bees, wasps, or other pests which are small enough
to enter through the container discharge. Many people have received
stings and bites from drink invaders when enjoying a beverage
outdoors. The invader is attracted to the beverage and are often
able to enter the container without the user knowing. Stings and
bites are likely to cause pain to the user and can also present
serious harm to people who have allergic reactions to such. The
shock from such an attack can also cause choking and instills fear
in using such drink containers outdoors, especially in the case of
people who already fear such invaders.
[0005] Also, it is a well known problem, and has been for many
years, that open beverages in motor vehicles commonly spill. Cars
are now typically fitted with drink holders and the increasing
popularity of drive-thru fast food increases the use of drinking
containers in cars. Even prior to the inclusion of the cup holders
as a standard feature in most vehicles, many people had aftermarket
holders of various types and approaches to hold the containers at a
convenient location and in a manner that was hoped to prevent
spillage. Unfortunately many of these devices and the containers
used with them don't prevent spillage, especially when the vehicle
undergoes acceleration in various directions or deceleration.
[0006] When a spill occurs in a vehicle which is in motion, this
typically distracts the vehicle operator. This is especially
exemplified in the case of hot beverages burning the vehicle
operator, but any spilling may equally affect concerned vehicle
owners just the same. Such distractions may result in a collision
with another vehicle or a pedestrian, either of which often result
in the death of, or serious injury to, people involved.
[0007] Children and individuals with impaired motor skills, may
more often lose their grip on drinking vessels, and, even if the
vessel is not dropped, the contents may be spilt. People who are
multitasking while drinking, such as car operators often do, are
also more likely to accidentally drop a drinking vessel. Also, such
people do not benefit from overly complex and difficult to operate
lid devices.
[0008] Although many attempts have been made to provide an easy to
use, effective container and container top that prevents spillage,
most or all suffer from continuing problems which proves this
problem is not easily solved and thus advancements are sought
after.
[0009] Some or all of the problems explained above and other
problems may be helped or solved by the inventions shown and
described herein. Such inventions may also be used to address other
problems not set out above or which are only understood or
appreciated at a later time. The future may also bring to light
currently unknown or unrecognized benefits which may be appreciated
or more fully appreciated in the future associated with the novel
inventions shown and described herein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] Preferred forms, configurations, embodiments and/or diagrams
relating to and helping to describe preferred aspects and versions
of the inventions are explained and characterized herein, often
with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings and all
features shown therein also serve as part of the disclosure of the
inventions of the current document, whether described in text or
merely by graphical disclosure alone. Such drawings are briefly
described below.
[0011] FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of a first preferred
embodiment of the apparatus according to the inventions hereof;
[0012] FIG. 2 depicts a left side view thereof; the right side
being a mirror view thereof without the disengagement feature;
[0013] FIG. 3 depicts a side view of the apparatus engaged with a
common drinking container;
[0014] FIG. 4 depicts a side view of the apparatus engaged with
another type of common drinking container;
[0015] FIG. 5 depicts a bottom view thereof;
[0016] FIG. 6 depicts a close-up view thereof of the portion
indicated by circle line 6 of FIG. 5;
[0017] FIG. 7 depicts a bottom view thereof in an open
position;
[0018] FIG. 8 depicts a close-up bottom view thereof of the portion
indicated by circle line 8 of FIG. 7;
[0019] FIG. 9 depicts a bottom view of a second preferred
embodiment of the apparatus according to the inventions hereof;
[0020] FIG. 10 depicts a close-up bottom view thereof of the
portion indicated by circle line 10 of FIG. 9.
DESCRIPTION
[0021] A table of subsections for the detailed description is set
out below.
TABLE-US-00001 Table of Subsections Introductory Notes General
Overview of Apparatus FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 4 First Embodiment FIGS. 5
and 6 FIGS. 7 and 8 Second Embodiment FIGS. 9 and 10 Methods Manner
of Use and Utility of the Inventions Preferred Manners of Making
Interpretation Notes
Introductory Notes
[0022] The readers of this document should understand that the
embodiments described herein may rely on terminology used in any
section of this document and other terms readily apparent from the
drawings and the language common therefor as may be known in a
particular art and such as known or indicated and provided by
dictionaries. Dictionaries were used in the preparation of this
document. Widely known and used in the preparation hereof are
Webster's Third New International Dictionary (.COPYRGT. 1993), The
Oxford English Dictionary (Second Edition, .COPYRGT.1989), and The
New Century Dictionary (.COPYRGT.2001-2005), all of which are
hereby incorporated by reference for interpretation of terms used
herein and for application and use of words defined in such
references to more adequately or aptly describe various features,
aspects and concepts shown or otherwise described herein using more
appropriate words having meanings applicable to such features,
aspects and concepts.
[0023] This document is premised upon using one or more terms with
one embodiment that may also apply to other embodiments for similar
structures, functions, features and aspects of the inventions.
Wording used in the claims is also descriptive of the inventions,
and the text of both claims and abstract are incorporated by
reference into the description entirely in the form as originally
filed. Terminology used with one, some or all embodiments may be
used for describing and defining the technology and exclusive
rights associated herewith.
[0024] The readers of this document should further understand that
the embodiments described herein may rely on terminology and
features used in any section or embodiment shown in this document
and other terms readily apparent from the drawings and language
common or proper therefor. This document is premised upon using one
or more terms or features shown in one embodiment that may also
apply to or be combined with other embodiments for similar
structures, functions, features and aspects of the inventions and
provide additional embodiments of the inventions.
[0025] Each embodiment has been assigned unique 100 series
reference numerals. Embodiments that share like features will use
the same 10 series identifier with their unique 100 series
embodiment identifier. For example, a feature may be identified as
112 for a first embodiment and 212 for a second embodiment. Such
allows for easy recognition of like features and prevents
redundancy in the description since like features will not be
re-described for each embodiment unless otherwise needed.
General Overview of Apparatus
[0026] FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 4
[0027] To facilitate an understanding of the inventions, a general
overview of an apparatus 101 in accordance with a preferred
embodiment of the inventions is first provided. Reference is given
to FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 4. Much of what will be described in this
section applies equally as well to the second embodiment, apparatus
201, as it does to the first embodiment, apparatus 101, unless
otherwise mentioned.
[0028] Looking at FIG. 1, a perspective view of an apparatus 101 is
depicted. The apparatus 101 may at as a lid for controlled drinking
from a container, in accordance with the teachings of the present
inventions. Apparatus 101 may have a wall or central portion. In
FIG. 1, such is shown as wall 110 with surface 111 visible. A
collar, or edge, may also be present. Such is shown as collar 114,
which extends about the periphery of the wall 110.
[0029] At least one linear actuator may be present. Such is shown
as linear actuator 120, which acts to provide control over the
egress of a container's contents. The apparatus may contain at
least one gate valve. Such is shown as gate valve 140, which acts
to occlude an opening 149 in the wall 110. At least one outer, or
first, portion, or button, may also be present. Such is shown as
outer portion 122, which may extend beyond the apparatus's
periphery through a passage in the collar 114. Outer portion 122 is
an exterior portion of linear actuator 120. As is shown, outer
portion 122 may include a bent segment 121. Such extends generally
perpendicular to the linear actuator 120, advantageously providing
a surface for the application of pressure thereto, during operation
thereof. When the apparatus is engaged with a drink container, a
user may apply force to outer portion 122 via bent segment 121 with
a digit of their hand, or by some other convenient means. Such
would cause the linear actuator to slidably rotate the gate valve
140 with respect to opening 149, thus allowing passage of the
beverage, or other contents present in the container, through
opening 149.
[0030] At least one removal feature may be present. Such is shown
as removal feature 160. The removal feature provides a gripping
surface which may aid disengagement when prying the apparatus from
a drinking container.
[0031] At least one straw feature may be present. This optional
feature is shown as straw feature 147 in wall 110. Such
advantageously facilitates insertion of a straw, or similar device,
through wall 110, where it can then access the drinking container's
contents. Straw feature 147 comprises weakened portions of wall
110, which can be separated and thus provide an opening through
wall 110 for passage of a straw therethrough.
[0032] Looking at FIG. 2, a left side view of apparatus 101 is
depicted. Such illustrates the benefit of bent segment 121. Bent
segment 121 provides an area for application of pressure thereto to
facilitate operation of linear actuator 120. Although bent segment
121 is directed upward, it may also be advantageous to have such
directed downward, both upward and downward, or in some other
fashion.
[0033] Linear actuator 120 extends through, and slidably moves
within, a passage in collar 114. Such has a similar cross sectional
shape to that of linear actuator 120 and is sufficiently small so
that it may prevent escape of container contents therethrough.
Additional means may also be used to prevent egress of contents
therethrough.
[0034] Looking at FIG. 3, a left side view is shown of apparatus
101 engaged, or coupled, with a common drinking vessel 50, taking a
shape similar to most soda cans. Such illustrates the potential use
of the apparatus with this type of common container. The apparatus
101 may engage a drinking vessel, such as illustrated with vessel
50, by application of force along direction arrow 165 to the
apparatus, more likely to wall surface 111 and possibly collar 114.
The apparatus engages with a container via at least one engagement
feature. Such is shown with the current embodiment as at least one
rib or thread 116, illustrated in FIGS. 5, 7 and 8, binding on an
uneven surface, rib or thread on the drinking container. An upper
rib is common to many drinking vessels. However, additional methods
of engagement may also be used, when a rib is not present. More
will be described later on engagement of the device to a
container.
[0035] In the situation of FIG. 3, where a can is used, such and
other similar containers usually have limited openings or mouths in
the top surface of the container which allow egress of the
contained drink. When using a container with a limited opening, the
user may benefit from positioning the container's opening with
respect to the opening 149. Such may be accomplished by aligning
the two openings such that the container's opening is directly
underneath or face to face with opening 149.
[0036] Looking at FIG. 4, a left side view is shown of apparatus
101 engaged, or coupled, with another common drinking vessel 52,
such vessel or container taking a shape similar to many cups and
glasses. Such illustrates the potential use of the apparatus with
another type of common container. The apparatus may disengage a
drinking vessel, such as illustrated with vessel 52, by application
of force along direction arrow 166 to the apparatus, more likely to
removal feature 160. Various other containers may be used as well,
even though use therewith is not explicitly shown or described
herein. Such containers include containers with substantially
planer tops that do not have protrusions that would contact the
wall 110 and the moving components attached thereto. Contact with
such parts may prevent apparatus 101 from engaging with the
container and/or hinder operation thereof.
[0037] It may be advantageous to relocate the components attached
to surface 112 (FIGS. 5-8) to surface 111 of wall 110. Such would
benefit use with containers that have protrusions which may contact
the apparatus's moving parts and prevent motion thereof. At least
one guard plate may also be present to cover the moving parts and
prevent introduction of objects into the space necessary for
movement of these parts.
First Embodiment
[0038] FIGS. 5 and 6
[0039] Looking at FIGS. 5 and 6, a bottom view of apparatus 101, in
a closed state, is shown. A closed state is defined as when the
gate valve 140 essentially fully occludes opening 149 and thus may
be capable of preventing unwanted spillage from the container.
[0040] FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate the internal workings of apparatus
101. Such shows linear actuator 120 and it's inner, or second,
portion 124. Inner portion 124 extends within the collar 114
periphery, continuing from the outer portion 122. At least one
narrowed portion may be present on linear actuator 120. Such is
shown as distal narrowed portion 123 in FIG. 6. Such is attached
to, or engaged with, the gate valve 140. The gate valve may have a
tang portion. Such is shown as tang portion 142, which provides
attachment or engagement of narrowed portion 123 thereto; with such
attachment or engagement allowing for sufficient rotation of the
gate valve 140 from a closed to an open position.
[0041] The entirety of the linear actuator 120 is shown as being
formed from one unitary body. However, it may also be advantageous
to form such from several bodies which would be sufficiently
attached to one another. Such may also allow for use of differing
materials for each part if such is found to be desirable.
[0042] At least one clip may be present. In FIG. 5, clips 117 are
shown. Such extend from wall 110, out surface 112, along the sides
of inner portion 124 of linear actuator 120, then pass across the
inner portion's outer surface. The clips 117 act to limit the
translational movement of linear actuator 120 to directions along
arrow 161. It may prove advantageous to have at least one clip that
spans part, or the entire width, of linear actuator 120. Looking
back to FIG. 1, recessions 119 can be seen in opposite surface 111.
Such are where the clips 117 are formed out of wall 110. Clips 117
may be formed by molding them into wall 110, as is shown, or
through other configurations and methods to produce clips 117.
[0043] The apparatus may comprise at least one biasing mechanism.
As shown in FIG. 5, biasing mechanisms, or springs, 125 are
attached on both sides of the inner portion 124. Such act to bias
the linear actuator 120, and thus gate valve 140, toward a closed
position, as demonstrated in FIGS. 1, 2, 5 and 6, thus maintaining
a default, closed position during non-use of the linear actuator.
In the closed position, gate valve 140 occludes opening 149,
therefore helping prevent the unwanted escape of the beverage
container's contents when the linear actuator 120 is not being
depressed. The springs 125 may be formed out of a unitary body with
the linear actuator 120, as shown, or they may also be a separate
piece, possibly of a differing material, attached thereto. In the
case of more than one spring, it may prove beneficial to have at
least one spring in a differing shape or configuration from the
rest. Such additional spring configurations may include a curved
spring, a hair pin spring, or other spring. The at least one
biasing mechanism can therefore be a spring disposed between the
linear actuator 120 and the central portion 110, and biased to urge
the outer portion 122 away from the edge 114 of the central
portion. For example, the biasing mechanism can be a coil spring
attached at a first end to the edge or collar 114, and attached at
a second end to the linear actuator 120 at a location distal from
the collar 114. In another example, the biasing mechanism can be a
leaf-spring arrangement similar to springs 125 depicted in FIG. 5,
but with the fixed ends of the springs being secured to the surface
112, and the free ends in contact with protrusions or the like on
the linear actuator 120. In yet another variation the biasing
member can be a coil spring or folding spring attached at a first
end to the tang 142 at a location proximate the free end of the
tang, and at a second end at location on the surface 112 distal
from the tang.
[0044] The apparatus 101 may comprise at least one pivot. A pivot,
or pivot pin, 143, which is shown attached to the wall 110, secures
gate valve 140 thereto. Such prevents translation of gate valve 140
while allowing rotation thereof. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, gate
valve 140 includes tang portion 142, which extends diagonally
outward away from the main body of the gate valve 140, into the
path of the narrowed portion 123. The tang portion may have a hole,
channel or similar, 146, providing passage of the narrowed portion
123 therethrough. Such allows engagement of the two with free
rotation and limited translational movement. The segment of the
narrowed portion 123, which passes through channel 146, is
adequately shaped to allow the necessary movement therein during
opening and closing movements. Such may be rounded or possibly
circular in shape, as indicated by exemplary pin 145 which is
received in channel 146, or another shape which effectively mates
with the channel 146. The narrowed portion 123 passes to one side
of the pivot 143 where it engages the gate valve 140. During
sliding motion of the linear actuator 120, such creates a
rotational moment about the pivot, which causes the gate valve 140
to slidably rotate there around.
[0045] In FIG. 5, the opening rotational path is indicated by
arcuate direction arrow 162. This occurs responsive to pressure
being applied to the outer portion 122 of the linear actuator 120,
causing motion thereof, along direction arrow 161. As a result, the
spring 125 is driven into or further into compression and thus
creates forces for restoring the linear actuator 120 and gate valve
140 to the closed position, when the drinker no longer applies the
pressure to outer portion 122.
[0046] It will be appreciated from the discussion above that the
outer portion 122 protrudes outward from the collar 114 periphery
when the gate valve 140 is in the closed position as depicted in
FIG. 5, but extends at least partially inward of the collar 114
periphery when the gate valve 140 is in the open position as
depicted in FIG. 7. Thus the term outer portion for part 122 is not
intended as limiting the location of the entire part at all times
to a location outward from the collar 114 periphery.
[0047] The apparatus may comprise at least one gate stopper. In
FIGS. 5, 7 and 8, a gate stopper, or stop, 141 is shown. Such may
be present, acting to prevent over-rotation of the gate valve 140.
When the gate valve 140 has returned to a closed position, it will
contact gate stopper 141. Such contact prevents further rotation
putting the gate valve 140 into a position which may not fully
occlude opening 149, or which may cause narrowed portion 123 and
tang 142 to bind.
[0048] One form of an engagement feature 116 (FIGS. 5, 7 and 8)
previously discussed was the use of at least one rib. Such
typically is employed with at least one corresponding rib (not
shown) on the container 50 (FIG. 3) or 52 (FIG. 4) to provide
positive engagement therebetween. With the use of plastic, and many
other materials, to form collar 114, such materials give and bend.
When the apparatus is forced down on a container, the rib on the
container and the rib 116 on the apparatus will be similar in size
and will come in contact. When enough force is applied, the collar
will give and deform slightly to allow passage of the apparatus's
at least one rib 116 around the container's at least one rib, or
vise-versa if the container's material is more flexible than the
apparatus's. A similar amount of force, in a direction opposite
that which was used to engage the two, is then necessary to reverse
the process, or rather, disengage the two.
[0049] It proves advantageous to have a multitude of different
engagement configurations for securing a container to the apparatus
for use. Such would allow the apparatus use with a broader
assortment of containers. One such an engagement may be achieved
with at least one thread on the upper outer periphery of the
container. In such a case, the apparatus would need at least one
thread 116 which effectively engage with the container's periphery
threads through a screwing action.
[0050] Another option is to have a container with at least one
sufficiently large lip around the upper periphery. At least one
matching lip could be placed around the outer periphery of collar
114 and a clasping band, with at least one sufficiently large
channel, shaped for receiving the present lips, could be secured
there around, engaging the apparatus to the container.
[0051] Yet another option is to use at least one screw which would
pass through a threaded, or non-threaded, hole in the collar 114.
Such would be directed from the outside of the collar inward toward
the container. To engage the container, the screws could be
tightened until a sufficient frictional force is created to prevent
disengagement of the apparatus. This engagement option may also
prove advantageous with the presence of an uneven surface on the
container. Such may reduce the needed friction if the at least one
screw is tightened such that it cannot pass over, or from, the
uneven surface. Additional methods and means for securing the
apparatus 101 to an upper portion of a container, not shown or
described herein, may also prove advantageous in securing the
apparatus to a container. In certain embodiments no specific
feature is required on the container for engagement of the
apparatus therewith. For example, when rib 216 is replaced by, or
supplemented with, a compressible sealing member, such as a rubber
o-ring, then friction between the compressible sealing member and
the container can be sufficient to maintain the apparatus in
position on the container. In yet another variation the apparatus
101 can be engaged with a container using clips or the like located
at the periphery of the upper portion 110, and configured to engage
a feature at the upper portion of the container. In this latter
example the apparatus 101 can exclude the collar 114.
[0052] FIGS. 7 and 8
[0053] Looking at FIGS. 7 and 8, a bottom view of apparatus 101 is
depicted, with the gate valve 140 in an open state. An open state
can also include any position of the gate valve 140 between closed
(as depicted in FIG. 5) and fully open (as essentially depicted in
FIG. 7), where only a portion of the opening 149 is occluded by
gate valve 140. In any of these open states, it is possible for at
least a portion of the container's contents to pass through opening
149.
[0054] The apparatus may comprise at least one projection. As the
linear actuator 120 is pressed inward, springs 125 bend against
projections 118 creating the biasing forces which will return the
linear actuator to it's default position with the gate valve 140
closed, as depicted in FIG. 5. Arcuate direction arrow 164 in FIG.
7 indicates the motion of the gate valve 140 in response to the
movement of the linear actuator 120 along direction arrow 163. Such
occurs when the pressure to the outer portion 122 is removed and
the springs 125 are allowed to return to their normal state shown
in FIGS. 5 and 6.
[0055] The apparatus may comprise at least one linear actuator
stopper. In FIGS. 7 and 8, linear actuator stoppers 129 are shown.
Such contact the inside of collar 114 at the closed state (i.e.,
when the gate valve 140 is in the closed position, as depicted in
FIG. 5), thus preventing further outward movement of the linear
actuator 120. This is advantageous in that it prevents
over-rotation of the gate valve 140 during the transition from an
open to a closed state. Over-rotation of the gate valve 140 may
position it such that it does not fully occlude opening 149, even
though it is intended to be in a closed position. Such
over-rotation may therefore lead to spilling of the container's
contents.
[0056] In one variation, the apparatus 101 includes a sealing
member disposed between the inner surface 112 of wall 110 and the
outward-facing surface of the gate valve 140. Such can facilitate
in further reducing leakage of fluids or contents from the
container through the opening 149 when the gate valve 140 is in the
closed position. The sealing member can be a raised surface area,
or an applied sealant, disposed around either the periphery of
opening 149 near surface 112, and/or around the periphery of the
gate valve 140 on a side thereof facing the surface 112. The
sealing member can also be a tongue-and-groove configuration formed
of complimentary features disposed around the opening 149 and the
gate valve. In this latter example the tongue and groove can each
be tapered at the edges to facilitate separation thereof when a
force is applied to the gate valve 140 by the linear actuator 120
in direction 161 (FIG. 5).
Second Embodiment
[0057] FIGS. 9 and 10
[0058] Looking at FIGS. 9 and 10, a bottom view of a second
embodiment 201, according to the inventions hereof, is shown. Such
utilizes a rack and pinion arrangement to rotate gate valve
240.
[0059] Narrow portion 223 is shown as having teeth 274 for applying
tangential force to the gate valve 240 about pivot 243. Such teeth
274 are shaped to effectively match teeth 272 present on the gate
valve 240. Teeth 274 may take other shapes that are found to be
advantageous. Such may also be present in quantities of at least
one to accommodate various degrees of rotation of the gate valve
240.
[0060] Gate valve 240 has teeth 272 along part of it's periphery
near pivot 243. Such can take various shapes if it is found
advantageous. Teeth 272 engage with teeth 274 to effect movement of
gate valve 140 in direction 262. It may be advantageous to place
teeth along more or less of the periphery 276 of the portion of the
gate valve 240 proximate the pivot 243 than is depicted in FIGS. 9
and 10. Such would allow for varying degrees of rotation for the
gate valve 240.
[0061] In FIG. 9 three clips 217 are shown guiding linear actuator
220. One additional clip 217 is shown near narrowed portion 223,
over the embodiment depicted in FIG. 7 for apparatus 101. At least
one clip 217 may be present in a configuration that limits the
translational movement of linear actuator 220 as desired.
Methods
[0062] After choosing a suitable container with means for
engagement or coupling to the apparatus, the container is then
filled with the desired beverage, fluid or possibly other
foodstuff.
[0063] To engage the container with the apparatus, a method
suitable to the chosen container and apparatus, and their
engagement features, is used to engage the apparatus and the
container. Such may be by placing the apparatus onto the container
mouth, then applying downward pressure to the wall 110 and collar
114, along the central axis of the container. Such would be the
method if a rib is present on the apparatus and the container has a
rib or uneven surface such that it allows similar engagement
therewith as engagement means.
[0064] Another possible method of engagement would by placing the
apparatus onto the container mouth, then screwing the lid onto the
container. Such would be the method if suitable threads are present
on the apparatus and the container as engagement means.
[0065] Another possible method of engagement would be by placing
the apparatus onto the container mouth, then adjusting the at least
one screw, present around the periphery of the collar, until the
friction force created thereby is sufficient to retain the
apparatus. Such would be the method if such screws are present on
the apparatus. Additionally, other methods suitable to other
engagement features may be used.
[0066] Once the apparatus is engaged with the container, a user may
take a drink therefrom. Such would be accomplished by first opening
the gate valve 140. By depressing the outer portion 122 the linear
actuator 120 and narrowed portion 123 will create a moment about
pivot 143, causing the gate valve 140 to rotate into an open
position. Further depressing linear actuator 120 may expose more of
opening 149. Additionally, releasing pressure from the outer
portion 122 of linear actuator 120 will cause the at least one
spring 125 to drive linear actuator 120 outward from the collar
114, rotating the gate valve 140 into a position which occludes
more of opening 149.
[0067] After an open position is chosen, the user can take a drink,
as they would normally from the container, by placing their lips
adjacent opening 149 along collar 114, then tipping the container
to dispense the fluids therein. Controlling the dispensing rate is
accomplished by either changing the container's angle to gravity,
or by changing the position of gate valve 140 relative to opening
149, thus changing the area of opening 149 occluded thereby.
[0068] After the user is finished drinking, fully releasing the
linear actuator 120 will cause springs 125 to drive the linear
actuator outward from the collar 114 and thus cause rotation of
gate valve 140 into a closed position, fully occluding opening 149
and helping prevent unwanted spilling therefrom.
Manner of Use and Utility of the Inventions
[0069] A container, which can sufficiently engage with the
apparatus, is first selected and filled with the desired contents,
most likely fluids. The apparatus is then engaged to the container
through a method described above, which may be by pressing or
screwing the two together or by other means. Once engaged, the user
can apply force to the outer portion of linear actuator 120. Such
causes the rotation of gate valve 140 from the closed position to
an open position. The container can then be tipped to bring the
fluid, or other, contents to the opening 149. The user can then
drink from the apparatus with their lips adjacent opening 149
against collar 114. Further tipping and/or depression of the linear
actuator 120 will increase the content's rate of flow from the
mouth 149. Doing the opposite will impede the rate of flow
therefrom. After the user is finished, fully releasing the linear
actuator 120 will cause the gate valve 140 to close, helping to
prevent unwanted spillage from opening 149.
[0070] The inventions hereof may be useful for controlling the
dispensing of fluid contents from a drinking container. Such may
also be useful with dispensing other foodstuffs as well.
Preferred Manners of Making
[0071] Various portions and components of apparatus within the
scope of the inventions, including for example, structural
components, can be formed by one or more various suitable
manufacturing processes known to those in the art of container
lids. Similarly, various portions and components of apparatus
within the scope of the inventions can be made from suitable
materials known to those in the art of container lids.
Interpretation Notes
[0072] The above description has set out various features,
functions, methods and other aspects of the inventions. This has
been done with regard to the currently preferred embodiments
thereof. Time and further development may change the manner in
which the various aspects are implemented. Such aspects may further
be added to by the language of the claims which are incorporated by
reference hereinto as originally filed.
[0073] The scope of protection accorded the inventions as defined
by the claims is not intended to be necessarily limited to the
specific sizes, shapes, features or other aspects of the currently
preferred embodiments shown and described. The claimed inventions
may be implemented or embodied in other forms while still being
within the concepts shown, described and claimed herein. Also
included are equivalents of the inventions which can be made
without departing from the scope of concepts properly protected
hereby.
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