Disposable Lid with Integrated Straw-type Mouthpiece, Finger Indentations and Pressure Equalization Valve to Fit Standard Sized Disposable Drinking Cups

Abstract

A lid for a drinking cup that combines a straw and a lid (hereafter referred to as a straw-lid) and which comprises an integrated straw-type mouthpiece portion as a primary feature for the purpose of eliminating the traditional drinking straw. The lid also comprises finger indentations to promote stability while tipping the cup forward to drink from the integrated straw-type mouthpiece, and a pressure equalization valve to encourage ease of flow and prevent a vacuum. The lid is fitted to the top of a variety of standard sized disposable or reusable cups and is constructed of disposable or reusable materials, particularly polymeric by method of thermoforming or injection molding.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONField of the Invention[0001]The present invention relates to a lid that comprises a straw portion integrated into and rising up from the surface of the lid platform with no descending portion. The intention of the present invention is to combine a straw and lid (hereafter may be referred to as a straw-lid) to eliminate the need for a separate straw for drinking beverages from cups. The straw-lid is attached securely to a cup opening with the leak-proof feature comprising a contour crease and band seal below the rolled edge of the lid rim. The straw-lid is further secured for use by way of finger indentations located on the top side of the lid platform which encourage the user to hold the straw-lid in place while tipping the cup containing the beverage toward the mouth to drink with confidence. A pressure equalization valve integrated into the top of the straw-lid promotes air flow and continuous drinking while the opening in the straw tip of the mouthpiece...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a new way to drink from a cup with a straw-lid. The straw mouthpiece is designed to accommodate facial features and allows for easy drinking while driving, walking, or in a room of people. Users are encouraged to press a finger onto the lid to secure it in place and prevent the beverage from spilling or seepage. The unique design reduces the amount of plastic needed to produce a straw and lid separately by half and is made of recyclicable material. The invention also allows for easy replacement of existing lids and helps prevent unnecessary plastic waste. Overall, the invention provides a more convenient, secure, and eco-friendly way to drink from a cup with a straw-lid.

Problems solved by technology

Since the unique method of drinking from a cup with a straw-lid may bring about doubtful or insecure usage, at least until the user is confident in its effectiveness, users are encouraged to press a finger onto the top of the lid and are directed to do so by making use of the contoured finger indentations integrated in the lid design.

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