U.S. patent application number 12/830283 was filed with the patent office on 2012-01-05 for rapid-flow and smooth-spouted container lid.
Invention is credited to Wade Antoine Powell.
Application Number | 20120000923 12/830283 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 45398922 |
Filed Date | 2012-01-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120000923 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Powell; Wade Antoine |
January 5, 2012 |
RAPID-FLOW AND SMOOTH-SPOUTED CONTAINER LID
Abstract
A lid (110) is provided for attaching to the rim (118) of the
open end (116) of a container (112). The lid includes a large
content discharge opening (124) in a smooth spout (122) around
which the lips of a user can form a seal. The lid further includes
a small vent opening (128) through the lid, or between the lid and
the container. The large opening in the smooth spout and the small
vent opening in the lid allow for unobstructed and rapid dispensing
of the contents of the container, such as a liquid beverage, in a
controlled and spill-free manner during consumption.
Inventors: |
Powell; Wade Antoine;
(Lexington, KY) |
Family ID: |
45398922 |
Appl. No.: |
12/830283 |
Filed: |
July 2, 2010 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
220/780 ;
220/367.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 43/0212 20130101;
B65D 2543/00796 20130101; B65D 2543/00685 20130101; B65D 2543/00509
20130101; B65D 2543/00092 20130101; B65D 2543/00527 20130101; B65D
2205/02 20130101; B65D 2543/00731 20130101; B65D 2543/00296
20130101; B65D 2543/00046 20130101; B65D 2543/00768 20130101; B65D
2543/00537 20130101; B65D 2543/00638 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/780 ;
220/367.1 |
International
Class: |
B65D 41/16 20060101
B65D041/16; B65D 51/16 20060101 B65D051/16 |
Claims
1. A lid for placement onto the rim of a container at its open end,
comprising: a. a mounting skirt having a retention feature suitable
for securing said lid to said container, b. a smooth spout having a
content discharge opening large enough to allow rapid flow of the
contents of said container and small enough to fit comfortably into
the mouth of a user, allowing said user to form a seal with their
lips around said smooth spout, and c. a vent opening that allows
air to enter into said container as contents are dispensed through
said content discharge opening, whereby said lid allows for
unobstructed and rapid dispensing of the contents of said container
in a controlled manner.
2. The lid of claim 1, wherein said smooth spout is located at a
proximal end of said lid.
3. The lid of claim 1, wherein said smooth spout is located at the
center of said lid.
4. The lid of claim 1, wherein said vent opening includes a channel
formed between said lid and the wall of said container at its open
end, an inlet located at an end of said channel outside of said
container, and an outlet located at another end of said channel
inside of said container.
5. The lid of claim 4, wherein the channel of said vent opening
wraps around said lid substantially adjacent to the rim of said
container.
6. The lid of claim 1, wherein said vent opening is formed through
said lid.
7. The lid of claim 6, wherein said vent opening is provided by a
cut which forms a vent tab in said lid, and wherein said vent tab
is bendable at a hinge.
8. The lid of claim 6, wherein said vent opening is provided by one
or more holes through said lid.
9. A lid for placement onto the rim of a cup at its open end,
comprising: a. a mounting skirt having a retention feature suitable
for securing said lid to said cup, b. a smooth spout having a
content discharge opening large enough to allow rapid flow of
liquid of said cup and small enough to fit comfortably into the
mouth of a user, allowing said user to form a seal with their lips
around said smooth spout, and c. a vent opening that allows air to
enter into said cup as liquid is dispensed through said content
discharge opening, whereby said lid allows for unobstructed and
rapid dispensing of the liquid of said cup in a controlled manner
so that spillage is prevented during consumption.
10. The lid of claim 9, wherein said smooth spout is located at a
proximal end of said lid.
11. The lid of claim 9, wherein said smooth spout is located at the
center of said lid.
12. The lid of claim 9, wherein said vent opening includes a
channel formed between said lid and the wall of said cup at its
open end, an inlet located at an end of said channel outside of
said cup, and an outlet located at another end of said channel
inside of said cup.
13. The lid of claim 12, wherein the channel of said vent opening
wraps around said lid substantially adjacent to the rim of said
cup.
14. The lid of claim 9, wherein said vent opening is formed through
said lid.
15. The lid of claim 14, wherein said vent opening is provided by a
cut which forms a vent tab in said lid, and wherein said vent tab
is bendable at a hinge.
16. The lid of claim 14, wherein said vent opening is provided by
one or more holes through said lid.
17. A lid for placement onto the rim of a container at its open
end, comprising: a. retention means for securing said lid to said
container, b. dispensing means for allowing rapid flow of the
contents of said container through said lid, c. sealing means for
allowing a user to seal the lips of their mouth to said lid to
prevent spillage of the contents of said container through said
dispensing means when drinking, and d. venting means for allowing
air to enter into said container as contents are dispensed through
said dispensing means to prevent a flow-inhibiting vacuum condition
within said container, whereby said lid allows for unobstructed and
rapid dispensing of the contents of said container in a controlled
manner.
18. The lid of claim 17, wherein said retention means includes a
retention feature, and wherein said retention feature forms a
mechanical interlock between said lid and said container.
19. The lid of claim 17, wherein said dispensing means and said
sealing means include a content discharge opening large enough to
allow rapid flow of the contents of said container and a smooth
spout small enough to fit comfortably into the mouth of said user
of said lid.
20. The lid of claim 17, wherein said venting means includes a vent
opening with a channel between said lid and said container or a
vent opening with one or more holes through said lid.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] This invention relates to container lids, and more
particularly relates to lids that allow for unobstructed and rapid
dispensing of the contents of the container in a controlled manner.
The invention is particularly suitable for individuals desiring to
drink a beverage rapidly without spilling the liquid, such as
runners who need to hydrate quickly while in motion. The invention
is also suitable for any individual whose situation or circumstance
makes the controlled and rapid dispensing of the contents of the
container challenging or difficult.
[0003] 2. Discussion of Related Art
[0004] There are many variations of lids for containers. Many
container lids include one or more holes for the purpose of pouring
or drinking of the contents of the container. Many lids have a
primary purpose of preventing spillage of the contents when the
user is not drinking from the container through the lid, but these
lids generally contain small flow-inhibiting openings or other
features, such as valves, doors, levers, and the like, that prevent
unobstructed and rapid dispensing of the contents of the container.
There are many situations or circumstances where an individual
would desire to dispense the contents of a container rapidly and in
a controlled manner in order to prevent spillage of the contents,
especially when drinking.
[0005] One such circumstance is especially present for runners of
long-distance races. During strenuous physical activities,
especially those involving distance races of 10 kilometers or more,
a runner's body can become dehydrated, unless the lost fluid is
replaced. To maintain the body's physical capabilities, it is
essential that fluids and nutrients be provided in a timely and
appropriate manner. In marathon races, there may be as many as
twenty aid or fluid stations spaced at convenient intervals
throughout the race course where volunteers typically hand out to
the runners plastic or paper containers filled with water or other
suitable fluids. Some runners reluctantly feel compelled to come to
a complete stop to drink the fluids in an effort to prevent
spillage and choking as the fluid is consumed from these open
containers, thus sacrificing precious time in the race. Other
runners attempt to maintain their pace as they pass these aid or
fluid stations. As the runner takes the container and attempts to
drink, much of the fluid is splashed and spilled. The fluid often
is splashed or spilled up their nose, into their eyes, across their
face, down their neck, onto their clothing, etc. If the liquid
contains fruit sugars and electrolytes, the runner's skin and
clothing become encrusted with sticky and crystalline residue which
causes discomfort and irritation, and reduces concentration and
efficiency. Many of these runners also frequently choke when
attempting to drink from a conventional cup container. Sometimes
the fluid is provided in a closed plastic bottle. In this
situation, the runner may be able to prevent spillage by sealing
their mouth around the top of the bottle, but upon drinking, a
vacuum is created and the fluid flow is restricted until air is
allowed back into the bottle through the drinking opening.
[0006] Another situation where the ability to drink rapidly and
controllably is valued is when one is riding in a moving vehicle,
such as in a car, train, airplane, etc. In these situations, the
environment of the moving vehicle can make drinking fluids rapidly
without spillage a challenge. Attempting to drink rapidly from an
open container can be very difficult during turns, on rough roads,
during rapid accelerations or decelerations, during turbulence,
etc.
[0007] Young children, the elderly, and those with physical
impairments that limit their ability to control muscles involved in
holding and positioning containers at one's mouth for drinking may
also have difficulty drinking rapidly and in a controlled manner
without spilling when drinking. Sometimes straws are used with or
without lids on the containers to aid individuals like these.
However, straws require suction and inherently limit the flow rate
of the liquid. Straws usually are not attached to the container and
typically move around freely, further complicating the task of
drinking.
[0008] There are many other situations and circumstances, such as
at fast-food restaurants, parties, public events, or other
locations, where individuals are likely to be jostled or bumped by
other people. The jostling and bumping can cause the liquid to
spill out of the container and over the hands and clothing of the
person using the container or over the clothing of persons in the
vicinity of the user. The task of drinking without spilling is
further complicated in these situations, and as such, there is
value in providing a better solution for these drinking and
container dispensing needs.
[0009] Hayes Jr., U.S. Pat. No. 4,795,052, describes a spill-proof
lid that includes a liquid chamber and a vent chamber formed within
the lid itself whether manufactured as two separate pieces or in
one single piece. The liquid chamber begins with a small mouthpiece
on the top side of the lid, follows a curvilinear path, and ends on
the bottom side of the lid in close proximity to the mouthpiece.
The liquid chamber resembles a curved straw integral to the lid and
requires suction to produce liquid through the chamber. In order to
provide the spill-proof characteristics of this invention, the
cross-sectional area of the liquid chamber must remain small, thus
preventing rapid and unobstructed dispensing of the contents of the
container.
[0010] Heath et al., U.S. Pat. No. 7,134,570 B1, describe a
disposable lid that grips the inner and outer walls of the lip of a
cup. Two surfaces of the disposable lid converge together to form a
sharp edge. A small liquid discharge port is provided adjacent to
the apex of the sharp edge. A slit in the shape of a cross in the
lid is provided for insertion of a straw and as a vent opening to
prevent creation of a vacuum in the cup during use with the lid.
Liquid is unobstructed as it travels from the cup to the liquid
discharge port. The sharp edge on the lid makes sealing of the lips
around the liquid discharge port difficult. The small size of the
described liquid discharge port prevents rapid flow of the liquid
through the port without significant suction. The slit provided for
the insertion of a straw requires enough suction through the liquid
discharge port to bend the lid adjacent the slit to create a vent
opening, thus impeding the free flow and rapid flow of the contents
of the cup.
[0011] Dark, U.S. Pat. No. 7,168,589 B2, describes a
spill-resistant container including a cup and a cap. The cap has a
spout extending upward and a vent opening, wherein the opening of
the spout and the vent opening correspond to two of several
recesses in the ledge of the cup. The cap can be rotated relative
to the cup to selectively open and close the spout and the vent.
Because the spill-resistant container is designed to be closed, the
opening of the spout is limited in size. Although the user can seal
around the spout with their lips, the small size of the opening of
the spout prevents rapid and unobstructed dispensing of the
contents of the container.
[0012] Edelstein et al., U.S. Pub. No. 2008/0061069 A1, describe a
drink cup lid for mounting over the open mouth of a beverage
container. The lid includes an annular rim, a concentric and
smaller annular channel, and a central hub. A small drink aperture
is provided along the side wall of the annular channel. Because the
small drink aperture is positioned in the annular channel, the user
is not able to form a seal around the small drink aperture with
their lips when drinking. The design of this drink cup lid does not
prevent spillage while drinking and does not allow for unobstructed
and rapid dispensing of the contents of the cup.
[0013] Durdon, U.S. Pat. No. 7,175,042 B2, describes a disposable
cup lid for placement onto the rim of a drinking cup. The cup lid
includes a small drinking access port and a large condiment opening
that can be closed with a sealing cap attached to the cup lid. The
small drinking access port prevents unobstructed and rapid
dispensing of the contents of the cup. In other embodiments, a
fold-back tab and a tear tab are described which provide for rapid
dispensing of the contents of the cup. Although the condiment
opening, the fold-back tab, or the tear tab might provide for
unobstructed and rapid dispensing of the contents of the cup, the
cup lid does not allow the user to form a seal around the condiment
opening, the fold-back tab, or the tear tab with their lips when
drinking, and thereby could not provide for rapid flow without
spillage.
[0014] Cai, U.S. Pub. No. 2008/0054005 A1, describes a hot cup lid
providing alternating modes of access to the contents of a cup
through a small sipping opening or an enlarged drinking opening
selectively closed by a tear flap. In order to provide rapid
dispensing of the contents of the cup, the tear flap must be opened
and used to drink the contents. However, the cup lid described does
not allow the user to form a seal around the enlarged drinking
opening with their lips when drinking, and thereby does not provide
for rapid flow without spillage.
[0015] The aforementioned inventions do not adequately meet the
needs of those users described earlier. More specifically, cup lids
like the lids in the aforementioned inventions are not being used
with success by runners in long-distance races, nor are they being
used with success to meet the needs of the other users described
earlier. Therefore, it would be advantageous to have a container
lid with a small vent opening and a large content discharge opening
in a smooth spout around which the lips of a user can form a seal,
thereby allowing for unobstructed and rapid dispensing of the
contents of the container, such as a liquid beverage, in a
controlled manner so that spillage is prevented during
consumption.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0016] In accordance with the present invention, a container lid is
provided for attaching to the rim of the open end of a container.
The lid includes a large content discharge opening in a smooth
spout around which the lips of a user can form a seal. The lid
further includes a small vent opening through the lid or between
the lid and the container. The large opening in the smooth spout
and the small vent in the lid allow for unobstructed and rapid
dispensing of the contents of the container, such as a liquid
beverage, in a controlled manner.
[0017] In a first embodiment of the present invention, the
container lid includes a recess and a low-profile smooth spout,
which limits the overall height of the combination of the lid and
the container. The vent opening is provided between the lid and the
container. In the event that any part of the contents inadvertently
spills out of the vent, the contents will be directed away from the
face of the user. The recess also allows the user to drink
comfortably without their nose coming in contact with the lid, and
without having to tilt their head back further to dispense all of
the contents.
[0018] In a second embodiment of the present invention, the
container lid includes a raised and smooth spout located in the
center of the lid. The central location of the smooth spout allows
the user to dispense the contents without the need to orient the
lid and container first. The vent opening is provided between the
lid and the container and follows a long circular channel above the
rim of the container. This circular vent opening allows air to flow
freely into the container while the contents are being dispensed
without the possibility for the contents to flow out of the vent
opening. The prevention of spills through the vent opening is
achieved in any orientation.
[0019] In other embodiments of the present invention, the container
lid includes a raised and smooth spout located adjacent one edge of
the lid and container. These embodiments allow for a larger volume
of contents than the first embodiment, and allow for a shallower
container tilting angle than the second embodiment. In these
embodiments a variety of vent openings located on the opposite edge
of the lid are provided, including a vent opening between the lid
and the container, a vent opening with a tab through the container
that allows for the flow of air or the insertion of a straw, and a
vent opening with one or more small holes through the lid.
[0020] Each embodiment includes aspects that provide greater
benefits to different groups of users depending upon the dispensing
tasks they are trying to perform.
[0021] These and other advantages of one or more aspects will
become apparent from a consideration of the ensuing description and
accompanying drawings. It is expressly understood, however, that
the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description
only, and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the
invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] The accompanying drawings illustrate the present invention.
In such drawings:
[0023] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a
container lid in keeping with the present invention.
[0024] FIG. 1B is another perspective view of a first embodiment of
a container lid in keeping with the present invention.
[0025] FIG. 1C is a cross-sectional view of a first embodiment
taken along line 1C-1C in FIG. 1A.
[0026] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a
container lid in keeping with the present invention.
[0027] FIG. 2B is another perspective view of a second embodiment
of a container lid in keeping with the present invention.
[0028] FIG. 2C is a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment
taken along line 2C-2C in FIG. 2A.
[0029] FIG. 2D is a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment
taken along line 2D-2D in FIG. 2B.
[0030] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a
container lid in keeping with the present invention.
[0031] FIG. 3B is another perspective view of a third embodiment of
a container lid in keeping with the present invention.
[0032] FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional view of a third embodiment
taken along line 3C-3C in FIG. 3A.
[0033] FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a
container lid in keeping with the present invention.
[0034] FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment
taken along line 4B-4B in FIG. 4A.
[0035] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of a
container lid in keeping with the present invention.
[0036] FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of a fifth embodiment
taken along line 5B-5B in FIG. 5A.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PRESENTLY PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0037] FIGS. 1A and 1B are perspective views of a first embodiment
of a container cap, closure, cover, or lid 110 and a cup, can, or
container 112 having a bottom 114 and an open end 116. The lid 110
is shown attached to the container 112 at a lip or rim 118 of the
open end 116 of the container 112 by means of an annular clamp or
mounting skirt 120. The illustrated mounting skirt 120 is of the
type typically incorporated into durable or disposable
drink-through or pour-through lids, and is adapted to be press-fit
onto the open end of a cup, can, or container and held in place by
means of friction or snapped onto the open end of a cup, can, or
container and held in place by means of a mechanical interlock. The
structure of the mounting skirt may take any form without departing
from the scope of the present invention, provided that it is
suitable for securing the lid 110 to a durable or disposable
container. The lid 110 itself may also be either durable or
disposable.
[0038] The lid 110 comprises a mouthpiece or smooth spout 122 with
an orifice, aperture, access port, or content discharge opening 124
located at a proximal end 126 and a vent chamber, vent path, or
vent opening 128 located at a distal end 130. The distal end 130 of
the lid 110 refers to the portion farthest away from the user when
drinking through the lid 110, whereas the proximal end 126 refers
to the portion of the lid 110 facing the user when drinking,
generally adjacent to the smooth spout 122. The lid 110 further
includes a sidewall 132 that is generally located adjacent to the
inside portion of the open end 116 of the container 112, except at
the proximal end 126 of lid 110, where the sidewall 132 forms a
part of the smooth spout 122. The sidewall 132 allows the lid 110
to provide a recess 134 for the user to place the upper lip of
their mouth around the smooth spout 122 or to place their nose when
drinking. The recess 134 allows the user to drink more comfortably
by tilting the container, as opposed to tilting their head
backwards to uncomfortable angles.
[0039] FIG. 1C is a cross-sectional view of the first embodiment
taken along line 1C-1C of FIG. 1A. FIG. 1C provides more detailed
illustrations of the mounting skirt 120 and the vent opening 128 of
the lid 110. A clasping feature, hooking feature, detent, or
retention feature 136 of the mounting skirt 120 ensures that the
lid 110 remains attached to the container 112 during use. The vent
opening 128 comprises a channel 138 formed between the lid 110 and
the wall at the open end 116 of the container 112, an inlet 140
located at an end of the channel 138 outside of the container 112,
and an outlet 142 located at another end of the channel 138 inside
of the container 112. When liquid stored in the container 112 is
dispensed via the content discharge opening 124 of the smooth spout
122 of the lid 110, air may flow into the container 112 by entering
at the inlet 140, passing through the channel 138, and exiting at
the outlet 142 of the vent opening 128. The vent opening 128
prevents a flow-inhibiting vacuum condition within the container
112.
[0040] When using the lid 110 for drinking, the user grips and
orients the container 112 so that the proximal end 126 and the
smooth spout 122 point toward the user, places and seals their lips
around the smooth spout 122, and tilts the container 112. When the
container 112 is tilted towards the user, the contents stored in
the container 112 flow into the smooth spout 122, through the
content discharge opening 124, and into the user's mouth without
spillage. The content discharge opening 124 is large enough to
allow rapid flow of the contents of the container 112, and the
smooth spout 122 is small enough to fit comfortably in the mouth of
a user. As the contents of the container 112 flow into the user's
mouth, air may flow into the container 112 via the vent opening 128
at the distal end 130 of the lid 110 to replace the volume of the
contents that dispense into the user's mouth. The flow of air
through the vent opening 128 prevents a flow-inhibiting vacuum
condition within the container 112 and allows unrestricted drinking
of the contents. The user then tilts the container 112 and lid 110
back to an upright position to cease the flow of the contents, such
as a liquid beverage, and to return the remaining contents, if any,
to the container 112.
[0041] When using the lid 110 for pouring, the user grips and
orients the container 112 so that the proximal end 126 and the
smooth spout 122 are at the lowest point as the container 112 is
tilted. When the container 112 is tilted, the contents stored in
the container 112 flow into the smooth spout 122 and out of the lid
110 through the content discharge opening 124. The large content
discharge opening 124 allows for unobstructed and rapid dispensing
of the contents of the container 112 in a controlled manner. As
liquid contents of the container 112 flow through the content
discharge opening 124 in the smooth spout 122, air may flow into
the container 112 via the vent opening 128 at the distal end 130 of
the lid 110 to replace the volume of liquid dispensed. The flow of
air through the vent opening 128 allows for laminar flow of the
liquid and prevents a flow-inhibiting vacuum condition within the
container 112. The user then tilts the container 112 and lid 110
back to an upright position to cease the flow of the contents and
to return the remaining contents, if any, to the container 112.
[0042] The contents can initially be placed in the container 112
before or after the lid 110 is attached to the container 112. When
the lid 110 is already attached to the container 112, the contents
can be poured into the container 112 through the large content
discharge opening 124 in the smooth spout 122 of the lid 110. The
large content discharge opening 124 also allows for additions of
condiments, or other additives, to the existing contents of the
container 112.
[0043] FIGS. 2A and 2B are perspective views of a second embodiment
of a lid 210 and the container 112. The lid 210 is shown attached
to the container 112 at the open end 116 of the container 112 by
means of a mounting skirt 220. The lid 210 comprises a smooth spout
222 with a content discharge opening 224 located at the center of
the lid 210 and a vent opening 228 located at the top of the
mounting skirt 220. The lid 210 further includes a sidewall 232
that is generally located adjacent to the inside portion of the
open end 116 of the container 112 and a recess 234 that is
generally located between the smooth spout 222 and the sidewall
232. The lid 210 itself may be either durable or disposable.
[0044] FIG. 2C is a cross-sectional view of the second embodiment
taken along line 2C-2C of FIG. 2A. FIG. 2D is a cross-sectional
view of the second embodiment taken along line 2D-2D of FIG. 2B.
FIGS. 2C and 2D provide more detailed illustrations of the mounting
skirt 220 and the vent opening 228 of the lid 210. A retention
feature 236 of the mounting skirt 220 ensures that the lid 210
remains attached to the container 112 during use. The vent opening
228 comprises a channel 238 formed between the lid 210 and the rim
118 at the open end 116 of the container 112, an inlet 240 located
at an end of the channel 238 outside of the container 112 (shown in
FIG. 2C), and an outlet 242 located at another end of the channel
238 inside of the container 112 (shown in FIG. 2D). When liquid
stored in the container 112 is dispensed via the content discharge
opening 224 of the smooth spout 222 of the lid 210, air may flow
into the container 112 by entering at the inlet 240, passing
through the channel 238, and exiting at the outlet 242 of the vent
opening 228. The vent opening 228 prevents a flow-inhibiting vacuum
condition within the container 112.
[0045] When using the lid 210 for drinking, the user grips the
container 112, places and seals their lips around the smooth spout
222, and tilts the container 112. The smooth spout 222 is centered
on lid 210, and therefore, the container 112 does not need to be
oriented prior to tilting. When the container 112 is tilted towards
the user, the contents stored in the container 112 flow into the
smooth spout 222, through the content discharge opening 224, and
into the user's mouth without spillage. The content discharge
opening 224 is large enough to allow rapid flow of the contents of
the container 112, and the smooth spout 222 is small enough to fit
comfortably in the mouth of a user. As the contents of the
container 112 flow into the user's mouth, air may flow into the
container 112 via the vent opening 228 of the lid 210 to replace
the volume of the contents that dispense into the user's mouth.
Because the inlet 240 and outlet 242 of the vent opening 228 are
near one another, and because the channel 238 of the vent opening
228 wraps around the lid 210 substantially adjacent the rim 118 of
the container 112, liquid will not flow from one end of the channel
238 to the other end when the container 112 is tilted. The flow of
air through the vent opening 228 prevents a flow-inhibiting vacuum
condition within the container 112 and allows unrestricted drinking
of the contents. The user then tilts the container 112 and lid 210
back to an upright position to cease the flow of the contents, such
as a liquid beverage, and to return the remaining contents, if any,
to the container 112.
[0046] When using the lid 210 for pouring, the user grips and tilts
the container 112 allowing the contents stored in the container 112
to flow into the smooth spout 222 and out of the lid 210 through
the content discharge opening 224. The large content discharge
opening 224 allows for unobstructed and rapid dispensing of the
contents of the container 112 in a controlled manner. As liquid
contents of the container 112 flow through the content discharge
opening 224 in the smooth spout 222, air may flow into the
container 112 via the vent opening 228 to replace the volume of
liquid dispensed. The flow of air through the vent opening 228
allows for laminar flow of the liquid and prevents a
flow-inhibiting vacuum condition within the container 112. The user
then tilts the container 112 and lid 210 back to an upright
position to cease the flow of the contents and to return the
remaining contents, if any, to the container 112.
[0047] The contents can initially be placed in the container 112
before or after the lid 210 is attached to the container 112. When
the lid 210 is already attached to the container 112, the contents
can be poured into the container 112 through the large content
discharge opening 224 in the smooth spout 222 of the lid 210. The
large content discharge opening 224 also allows for additions of
condiments, or other additives, to the existing contents of the
container 112.
[0048] FIGS. 3A and 3B are perspective views of a third embodiment
of a lid 310 and the container 112. The lid 310 is shown attached
to the container 112 at the open end 116 of the container 112 by
means of a mounting skirt 320. The lid 310 comprises a smooth spout
322 with a content discharge opening 324 located at a proximal end
326 and a vent opening 328 located at a distal end 330. The distal
end 330 of the lid 310 refers to the portion farthest away from the
user when drinking through the lid 310, whereas the proximal end
326 refers to the portion of the lid 310 facing the user when
drinking, generally adjacent to the smooth spout 322. The lid 310
itself may be either durable or disposable.
[0049] FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional view of the third embodiment
taken along line 3C-3C of FIG. 3A. FIG. 3C provides more detailed
illustrations of the mounting skirt 320 and the vent opening 328 of
the lid 310. A retention feature 336 of the mounting skirt 320
ensures that the lid 310 remains attached to the container 112
during use. The vent opening 328 comprises a channel 338 formed
between the lid 310 and the rim 118 of the container 112, an inlet
340 located at an end of the channel 338 outside of the container
112, and an outlet 342 located at another end of the channel 338
inside of the container 112. When liquid stored in the container
112 is dispensed via the content discharge opening 324 of the
smooth spout 322 of the lid 310, air may flow into the container
112 by entering at the inlet 340, passing through the channel 338,
and exiting at the outlet 342 of the vent opening 328. The vent
opening 328 prevents a flow-inhibiting vacuum condition within the
container 112.
[0050] FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a
lid 410 and the container 112. The lid 410 is shown attached to the
container 112 at the open end 116 of the container 112 by means of
a mounting skirt 420. The lid 410 comprises the smooth spout 322
with the content discharge opening 324 located at a proximal end
426 and a vent opening 428 located at a distal end 430. The distal
end 430 of the lid 410 refers to the portion farthest away from the
user when drinking through the lid 410, whereas the proximal end
426 refers to the portion of the lid 410 facing the user when
drinking, generally adjacent to the smooth spout 322. The lid 410
itself may be either durable or disposable.
[0051] FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the fourth embodiment
taken along line 4B-4B of FIG. 4A. FIG. 4B provides more detailed
illustrations of the mounting skirt 420 and the vent opening 428 of
the lid 410. A retention feature 436 of the mounting skirt 420
ensures that the lid 410 remains attached to the container 112
during use. The vent opening 428 comprises a vent flap or vent tab
444 formed by a cut in the lid 410 at the distal end 430 and
bendable at a fold or hinge 446. When liquid stored in the
container 112 is dispensed via the content discharge opening 324 of
the smooth spout 322 of the lid 410, air may flow into the
container 112 by entering through the lid 410 at the vent tab 444
and exiting into the container 112. The vent opening 428 prevents a
flow-inhibiting vacuum condition within the container 112.
[0052] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of a lid
510 and the container 112. The lid 510 is shown attached to the
container 112 at the open end 116 of the container 112 by means of
the mounting skirt 420. The lid 510 comprises the smooth spout 322
with the content discharge opening 324 located at the proximal end
426 and a vent opening 528 located at the distal end 430. The lid
510 itself may be either durable or disposable.
[0053] FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of the fifth embodiment
taken along line 5B-5B of FIG. 5A. FIG. 5B provides more detailed
illustrations of the vent opening 528 of the lid 510. The vent
opening 528 comprises one or more vent holes 548 that pass through
the lid 510 at the distal end 430. When liquid stored in the
container 112 is dispensed via the content discharge opening 324 of
the smooth spout 322 of the lid 510, air may flow into the
container 112 by entering through the lid 410 at one or more of the
vent holes 548 and exiting into the container 112. The vent holes
548 prevent a flow-inhibiting vacuum condition within the container
112.
[0054] When using lid 310, lid 410, or lid 510 for drinking, the
user grips and orients the container 112 so that the smooth spout
322 points toward the user, places and seals their lips around the
smooth spout 322, and tilts the container 112. When the container
112 is tilted towards the user, the contents stored in the
container 112 flow into the smooth spout 322, through the content
discharge opening 324, and into the user's mouth without spillage.
The content discharge opening 324 is large enough to allow rapid
flow of the contents of the container 112, and the smooth spout 322
is small enough to fit comfortably in the mouth of a user. As the
contents of the container 112 flow into the user's mouth, air may
flow into the container 112 via vent opening 328, vent opening 428,
or vent opening 528 of lid 310, lid 410, or lid 510, respectively,
to replace the volume of the contents that dispense into the user's
mouth. The flow of air through vent opening 328, vent opening 428,
or vent opening 528 prevents a flow-inhibiting vacuum condition
within the container 112 and allows unrestricted drinking of the
contents. The user then tilts the container 112 and lid 310, lid
410, or lid 510 back to an upright position to cease the flow of
the contents, such as a liquid beverage, and to return the
remaining contents, if any, to the container 112.
[0055] When using lid 310, lid 410, or lid 510 for pouring, the
user grips and orients the container 112 so that the smooth spout
322 is at the lowest point as the container 112 is tilted. When the
container 112 is tilted, the contents stored in the container 112
flow into the smooth spout 322 and out of lid 310, lid 410, or lid
510 through the content discharge opening 324. The large content
discharge opening 324 allows for unobstructed and rapid dispensing
of the contents of the container 112 in a controlled manner. As
liquid contents of the container 112 flow through the content
discharge opening 324 in the smooth spout 322, air may flow into
the container 112 via vent opening 328, vent opening 428, or vent
opening 528 of lid 310, lid 410, or lid 510, respectively, to
replace the volume of liquid dispensed. The flow of air through
vent opening 328, vent opening 428, or vent opening 528 allows for
laminar flow of the liquid and prevents a flow-inhibiting vacuum
condition within the container 112. The user then tilts the
container 112 and lid 310, lid 410, or lid 510 back to an upright
position to cease the flow of the contents and to return the
remaining contents, if any, to the container 112.
[0056] The contents can initially be placed in the container 112
before or after lid 310, lid 410, or lid 510 is attached to the
container 112. If lid 310, lid 410, or lid 510 is already attached
to the container 112, the contents can be poured into the container
112 through the large content discharge opening 324 in the smooth
spout 322 of lid 310, lid 410, or lid 510. The large content
discharge opening 324 also allows for additions of condiments, or
other additives, to the existing contents of the container 112.
[0057] The container 112 to which the different described
embodiments may be attached may be of a variety of shapes, sizes,
and materials, so long as it comprises a bottom 114, an open end
116, and a rim 118. Common materials for containers include paper,
plastic, metal, and glass. A common shape for the rim of a
container is circular, but may alternatively be substantially
square, oval, or of another shape. Lid 110, lid 210, lid 310, lid
410, and lid 510 are thermoformed, or vacuum-formed, from extruded
plastics sheet material, and then punched or stamped to create
essential features. Those of ordinary skill in the art will
recognize, however, that alternative materials and methods of
manufacture could also be used, such as plastics that are injection
molded, sheet metals that are punched and extruded, or papers that
are formed to a mold and trimmed. The description of the current
preferred embodiments should not be construed to limit the scope of
the invention to any one particular material or method of
manufacture. Rather, the scope of the invention should be
considered only in reference to the claims, and should include
alternative structures, materials, and elements that would be known
to those of ordinary skill in the art.
[0058] Furthermore, at least one embodiment of the container lid
allows individuals, such as runners, to easily and comfortably
intake liquid refreshment in a controlled manner while in motion
without spillage of the contents. The embodiments permit
individuals to selectively intake measured quantities of fluids
during any one swallow, thereby not requiring any gulping, which
tends to increase the amount of air carried into the stomach cavity
causing discomfort to the individual. The embodiments of the
container lid allow individuals of varying age, ability, and
circumstance to enjoy an unobstructed, non-turbulent, and rapid or
free flow of the contents of the container through the
smooth-spouted lid. The embodiments of the container lid also
provide an effective way to drink liquids containing pieces of ice,
as the spout of the container lid and the tongue of the user work
in conjunction to hold back the ice while the liquid is channeled
in a controlled manner into the user's mouth without spillage.
[0059] While the above description contains many specificities,
these should not be construed as limitations on the scope, but
rather as an exemplification of several embodiments thereof. Many
other variations are possible. For example, the container and the
lid can be permanently bonded to one another. The lid can be formed
in alternative shapes to match the shape of the accompanying
container, including shapes that are substantially square, oval,
rectangular, etc. The lid can be scaled to different sizes and the
essential elements of the lid can be adjusted to fit the required
size. The lid can be provided in a variety of colors or patterns,
or in various degrees of transparency or opacity. The specific
elements of one embodiment may be used with the complementary
elements of another embodiment, such as the spout of one embodiment
and the vent opening of another embodiment.
[0060] Accordingly, the scope should be determined not by the
embodiments illustrated, but by the appended claims and their legal
equivalents.
* * * * *