Cups, cup blanks, and methods of forming cups

Abstract

A cup (100), a blank (500) for the cup (100) and a method for forming the cup (100) are provided. The cup (100) for holding a liquid includes a base (110), a wall (200), a first closure flap (310) and a second closure flap (320). The base (110) and the wall (200) define a container having a space (202) for holding a liquid. The first closure flap (310) and the second closure flap (320) are attached to and extend from the wall (200), the first closure flap (310) and the second closure flap (320) are foldable relative to the wall (200), the first closure flap (310) and the second closure flap (320) are foldable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the first closure flap (310) and the second closure flap (320) define a lid (300) in the closed position. The cup (100) further includes the lid (300) defined by the first closure flap (310) being folded at least twice into the closed position and the second closure flap (320) being folded at least once into the closed position.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a cup, in particular but not exclusively a cup having a closable lid. BACKGROUND

[0002] Disposable items are common in today's society. Disposable cups, such as paper or plastic cups, are now commonly used in the catering industry. These disposable items are often discarded or recycled after a single or limited use.

[0003] Catering cups are often provided with a separate lid to prevent spillage from the cup. These lids are often separate components which are placed and secured to the cup after the cup has been filled with a liquid or solid, such as a beverage or food. The user can then remove the lid to access the beverage or food, after which the lid can be discarded or recycled with the cup.

[0004] These separable lids often need to be disposed of separately from the rest of the cup, for example, for recycling, as they are made from a different material. In many cases, the lid is often made from a recyclable plastic, but this plastic is more expensive to recycle than the cup.

[0005] Furthermore, these removable lids can cause practical difficulties for the end user, as they are often incorrectly positioned on the cup, leading to spillage. In use, the end user can need to expend additional effort to correctly attach the lid to the cup, such as by accurately aligning the lid with the upper edge of the cup, whilst applying an even force to ensure the lid is fitted to the edge of the cup. If the lid is not positioned or aligned correctly, spillage can occur when the user uses the cup. SUMMARY

[0006] The present invention relates to a cup, in particular but not exclusively a cup having a closable lid. The present invention also relates to a blank for a cup and a method of forming a cup.

[0007] According to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a cup for holding a liquid, comprising:

[0008] a base,

[0009] a wall,

[0010] the base and the wall defining a container having a space for holding a liquid,

[0011] a first closure flap and a second closure flap, the first closure flap and the second closure flap being attached to and extending from the wall,

[0012] The first closure flap and the second closure flap are foldable relative to the wall, the first closure flap and the second closure flap are foldable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the first closure flap and the second closure flap define a lid when in the closed position; and

[0013] The lid defined by the first closure flap being folded at least twice to the closed position and the second closure flap being folded at least once to the closed position.

[0014] In one configuration, the cup includes a first transverse fold feature, the first closure flap is attached to the wall at the first transverse fold feature, and the first closure flap includes a pair of opposing angled fold features defined on the first closure flap.

[0015] In one configuration, the first closure flap is folded twice and the second closure flap is folded once to the closed position, wherein the first closure flap is folded along the pair of angled fold features and is folded along the first transverse fold feature such that the first closure flap is moved to the closed position, and the second closure flap is folded along the second transverse fold feature to the closed position.

[0016] In one configuration, the first closure flap includes a pair of opposing side flaps and a middle flap extending between the side flaps, each side flap is attached to the middle flap along a longitudinal fold feature, each side flap is attached to the wall at a side fold feature, and the middle flap is attached to the wall at a first transverse fold feature.

[0017] In one configuration, the middle flap is attached to the wall along the first transverse fold feature, and each side flap is attached to the wall along the side fold feature.

[0018] In one configuration, each side flap includes an arcuate edge and the middle flap includes a curved edge, wherein the arcuate edge of each side flap includes a first curved portion and a second curved portion defining the arcuate edge.

[0019] In one configuration, each side flap includes a distal panel and a proximal panel, the proximal panel of each side flap is proximal to the middle flap, the distal panel is distal to the middle flap; and the angled fold feature on each side flap separates the proximal panel and the distal panel.

[0020] In one configuration, each side flap is folded about the side fold feature and the proximal panel is folded about the angled fold feature to be positioned on top of the distal panel to define the two folds of the first closure flap.

[0021] In one configuration, the first transverse fold feature and the second transverse fold feature are curved edges.

[0022] In one configuration, the first closure flap includes a locking opening and the second closure flap includes a locking tab; when the first closure flap and the second closure flap are in the closed position, the second closure flap rests on top of the first closure flap and the locking tab of the second closure flap engages into the locking opening of the first closure flap thereby locking the first and second closure flaps in the closed position.

[0023] In one configuration, the second closure flap is foldable about a second transverse fold feature, wherein the second closure flap is foldable between an open position and a closed position, wherein in the closed position the second closure flap rests on top of the first closure flap.

[0024] In one configuration, the second closure flap is foldable about the second transverse fold feature between 0 degrees and 180 degrees.

[0025] In one configuration, when the second closure flap is at 0 degrees, the second closure flap is in a fully open position, when the second closure flap is at 180 degrees, the second closure flap is in a closed position, and wherein when at 0 degrees, the second closure flap is perpendicular to the first closure flap, and when the second closure flap is at 0 degrees, a user can view the interior of the cup.

[0026] In one configuration, the cup includes a third transverse fold feature, the third transverse fold feature disposed on the second closure flap, the third transverse fold feature located proximate the second transverse fold feature, and wherein the second closure flap is foldable about the third transverse fold feature.

[0027] In one configuration, the second closure flap is movable about the third transverse fold feature between 0 degrees and 90 degrees.

[0028] In one configuration, the second transverse fold feature and the third transverse fold feature are arcuate fold features.

[0029] In one configuration, the second transverse fold feature and the third transverse fold feature include opposing curves.

[0030] In one configuration, the first closure flap is longer than the second closure flap.

[0031] In one configuration, when the first closure flap is folded into the closed position, the first closure flap folded about the diagonal fold feature forms a pair of opposing arcuate lips due to the arcuate edges of each side flap of the first closure flap and the arcuate edge of the middle flap of the first closure flap forming a transverse lip.

[0032] In one configuration, the pair of opposing arcuate lips and the transverse lip form a sealing structure thereby preventing spillage of a beverage from the cup when the cup is tilted or inclined towards a drinking orientation or when the cup is tilted towards the middle flap.

[0033] In one configuration, the wall includes a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge, the longitudinal edges overlap to form a cylindrical or prismatic shape and define the container, and at least one of the first longitudinal edge and the second longitudinal edge includes a cutout therein.

[0034] In one configuration, the second longitudinal edge includes a C-shaped cutout therein.

[0035] In one configuration, when the first longitudinal edge and the second longitudinal edge overlap to form a cylinder or prism, the C-shaped cutout is positioned at a side tuck feature, the C-shaped cutout improves foldability of each side tuck.

[0036] In one configuration, the first closure flap includes a curved upper surface, and the second closure flap includes a curved upper surface, the upper surface of the first closure flap and the upper surface of the second closure flap curve in the same direction.

[0037] In one configuration, the first closure flap and the second closure flap include a concave curve.

[0038] In one configuration, the middle flap of the first closure flap and the second closure flap include a concave curve.

[0039] In one configuration, each side tuck feature is defined along a straight edge of the wall, and the upper surface of the first closure flap and the upper surface of the second closure flap include a concave curve, and wherein the straight edge of each side makes it easier to fold the flap because the tension on the flap is in one direction.

[0040] In one configuration, audible feedback or tactile feedback is provided when the locking tab is engaged into the locking opening, and / or audible feedback or tactile feedback is provided when the locking tab is disengaged from the locking opening.

[0041] In one configuration, the audible feedback includes an audible click due to the curved upper surface of the first closure flap and the curved upper surface of the second closure flap.

[0042] In one configuration, the locking tab is disengaged from the locking opening by a force applied on the upper surface of the first closure flap or the upper surface of the middle flap.

[0043] In one configuration, the first closure flap includes an exit opening formed on the first closure flap.

[0044] In one configuration, the cup further includes a foldable lid, the lid is movable between a closed position and an open position, the exit opening is exposed when the lid is in the open position such that contents of the cup can exit the exit opening, and the exit opening is covered by the lid when the lid is in the closed position such that the contents of the cup are retained within the cup.

[0045] In one construction, the second closure flap is foldable to form a lip arranged to be taken by a user to access liquid held within the space.

[0046] In one construction, the lid is biased into the closed position due to a concave curvature of an upper surface of the first closure flap.

[0047] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to a blank for a cup, the blank comprising:

[0048] a wall;

[0049] a first closure flap attached to and extending from the wall;

[0050] a second closure flap attached to and extending from the wall;

[0051] the first and second closure flaps are integral with the wall, the blank being a unitary structure,

[0052] the first closure flap comprises a pair of opposing arcuate edges and a medial edge extending between the arcuate edges,

[0053] the first closure flap panel comprises two diagonal fold features,

[0054] the first closure flap is attached to the wall at a first transverse fold feature,

[0055] the second closure flap is attached to the wall at a second transverse fold feature,

[0056] wherein, in use, the first closure flap is first foldable about at least the diagonal fold features and is foldable about the first transverse fold feature, the second closure flap is foldable about the second transverse fold feature; and

[0057] the lid is formed by the first closure flap being folded twice and the second closure flap being folded once.

[0058] In one construction, the blank comprises a third transverse fold feature provided on the second closure flap, the second closure flap is foldable about the third transverse fold feature and / or the second transverse fold feature, and wherein the second and third transverse fold features are curved.

[0059] In one construction, the third transverse fold feature and the second transverse fold feature comprise opposing curves.

[0060] In one construction, the third transverse fold feature comprises a convex curve and the second transverse fold feature comprises a concave curve.

[0061] In one construction, the first closure flap includes a first side flap, a second side flap, and a middle flap extending between and connecting the first side flap and the second side, the middle flap being attached to the wall along a first transverse fold feature, each side flap being attached to the wall at a side fold feature, and each side flap including an arcuate edge, the middle flap including a curved edge, the curved edge connecting each arcuate edge.

[0062] In one construction, each arcuate edge includes a first curved portion and a second curved portion, the first curved portion and the second curved portion including different curvatures or different arc lengths or different radii.

[0063] In one construction, the wall includes a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge, the longitudinal edges opposing each other and bounding the wall, wherein the first longitudinal edge or the second longitudinal edge includes a cutout.

[0064] According to a third aspect, the invention relates to a method of forming a cup using a blank, wherein the blank includes a wall, the wall including a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge, the blank further including a first closure flap attached to and extending from the wall, and a second closure flap attached to and extending from the wall, the first closure flap and the second closure flap being integral with the wall, the blank being a unitary structure, the first closure flap including a pair of opposing arcuate edges and a middle edge extending between the arcuate edges, the first closure flap including two oblique fold features, the first closure flap being attached to the wall at a first transverse fold feature, the second closure flap being attached to the wall at a second transverse fold feature, the method including the steps of:

[0065] attaching a portion of the wall adjacent the second longitudinal edge to a portion of the wall adjacent the first longitudinal edge to form a cylindrical or prismatic body, the cylindrical or prismatic body defining a hollow space therein to define a container,

[0066] forming or attaching a base,

[0067] forming a lid, in particular by folding the first closure flap along the at least two oblique fold features to fold two portions of the first closure flap inwardly, folding the first closure flap about the first transverse fold feature such that the first closure flap is in a closed position, and folding the second closure flap about the second fold feature such that the second closure flap rests on top of the first closure flap in the closed position, the first closure flap and the second closure flap being folded to form the lid,

[0068] the second closure flap including a locking tab, the first closure flap including a locking opening, the locking tab being inserted into the locking opening to lock the second closure flap to the first closure flap and form a closed lid that prevents or reduces leakage of contents of the cup.

[0069] According to another aspect of the application, there is provided a disposable beverage cup for an electric beverage dispenser, comprising:

[0070] a bottom;

[0071] a wall,

[0072] the bottom and the wall defining a receptacle having a space for holding a beverage;

[0073] a first closure flap and a second closure flap, the first closure flap and the second closure flap being attached to the wall and extending therefrom,

[0074] the first closure flap and the second closure flap being foldable relative to the wall, the first closure flap and the second closure flap being foldable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the first closure flap and the second closure flap define a lid when in the closed position; and

[0075] the lid being defined by the first closure flap being folded at least twice into the closed position and the second closure flap being folded at least once into the closed position;

[0076] wherein the bottom and the wall are dimensioned to be adapted to have the beverage cup stand approximately 15 centimetres high or close to the height of a dispensing position of the beverage dispenser, such that one of the first and second closure flaps in the open position is arranged to fit in a slot between a wall of the beverage dispenser and a nozzle;

[0077] wherein the cup comprises a first transverse fold feature at which the first closure flap is attached to the wall, and the first closure flap comprises a pair of opposing diagonal fold features defined on the first closure flap;

[0078] wherein the first closure flap is folded twice and the second closure flap is folded once into the closed position, wherein the first closure flap is folded along the pair of diagonal fold features and is folded along the first transverse fold feature such that the first closure flap moves into the closed position, and the second closure flap is folded along the second transverse fold feature into the closed position;

[0079] wherein the first closure flap comprises a pair of opposing side flaps and a middle flap extending between the side flaps, each side flap being attached to the middle flap along a longitudinal fold feature, each side flap being attached to the wall at a side fold feature, and the middle flap being attached to the wall at the first transverse fold feature;

[0080] wherein the middle flap is attached to the wall along the first transverse fold feature, and each side flap is attached to the wall along the side fold feature;

[0081] wherein each side flap includes an arcuate edge and the middle flap includes a curved edge, wherein the arcuate edge of each side flap includes a first curved portion and a second curved portion defining the arcuate edge;

[0082] wherein each side flap includes a distal panel and a proximal panel, the proximal panel of each side flap is proximal to the middle flap, and the distal panel is distal to the middle flap; and a slanted fold feature on each side flap separates the proximal panel and the distal panel;

[0083] wherein each side flap is folded about a side fold feature and the proximal panel is folded about a slanted fold feature to be positioned on top of the distal panel to define two folds of the first closure flap;

[0084] wherein the first transverse fold feature and the second transverse fold feature are curved edges;

[0085] wherein the first closure flap includes a locking opening and the second closure flap includes a locking tab; when the first closure flap and the second closure flap are in the closed position, the second closure flap rests on top of the first closure flap, and the locking tab of the second closure flap is engaged into the locking opening of the first closure flap to lock the first and second closure flaps in the closed position;

[0086] wherein the second closure flap is foldable about the second transverse fold feature, wherein the second closure flap is foldable between an open position and a closed position, wherein in the closed position the second closure flap rests on top of the first closure flap; wherein the second closure flap is foldable between 0 degrees and 180 degrees about the second transverse fold feature;

[0087] wherein the second closure flap is in a fully open position when the second closure flap is at 0 degrees, the second closure flap is in a closed position when the second closure flap is at 180 degrees, and wherein when at 0 degrees, the second closure flap is perpendicular to the first closure flap, and when the second closure flap is at 0 degrees, a user can view the interior of the container to determine the liquid level of the beverage in the cup;

[0088] wherein the cup includes a third transverse fold feature, the third transverse fold feature is disposed on the second closure flap, the third transverse fold feature is proximate to the second transverse fold feature, and wherein the second closure flap is foldable about the third transverse fold feature;

[0089] wherein the second closure flap is movable between 0 degrees and 90 degrees about the third transverse fold feature;

[0090] wherein the second transverse fold feature and the third transverse fold feature are arcuate fold features;

[0091] wherein the second transverse fold feature and the third transverse fold feature include opposing curves;

[0092] wherein the first closure flap is longer than the second closure flap;

[0093] wherein the first closure flap forms a pair of opposing arcuate lips around the angled fold feature when the first closure flap is folded into the closed position due to the arcuate edges of each side flap of the first closure flap and the arcuate edge of the middle flap of the first closure flap forming a transverse lip.

[0094] wherein the pair of opposing arcuate lips and the transverse lip form a seal that prevents spillage of the beverage from the cup when the cup is tilted or angled towards a drinking orientation or when the cup is tilted towards the middle flap;

[0095] wherein the first closure flap comprises a curved upper surface and the second closure flap comprises a curved upper surface, the upper surface of the first closure flap and the upper surface of the second closure flap being curved in the same direction;

[0096] wherein the first closure flap and the second closure flap comprise a concave curvature;

[0097] wherein the middle flap of the first closure flap and the second closure flap comprise a concave curvature;

[0098] wherein each side fold feature is defined along a straight edge of the wall and the upper surface of the first closure flap and the upper surface of the second closure flap comprise a concave curvature, and wherein the straight edge of each side makes it easier to fold the flap as the tension on the flap is in one direction;

[0099] wherein audible feedback or tactile feedback is provided when the locking tab is engaged into the locking opening and / or audible feedback or tactile feedback is provided when the locking tab is disengaged from the locking opening;

[0100] wherein the audible feedback comprises an audible click due to the curved upper surface of the first closure flap and the curved upper surface of the second closure flap;

[0101] wherein the locking tab is disengaged from the locking opening by a force applied on the upper surface of the first closure flap or the upper surface of the middle flap;

[0102] wherein the first closure flap comprises an exit opening formed on the first closure flap;

[0103] wherein the cup further comprises a foldable lid, the lid being movable between a closed position and an open position, the exit opening being exposed when the lid is in the open position such that the beverage of the cup can exit the exit opening, and the exit opening being covered by the lid when the lid is in the closed position such that the beverage of the cup is retained within the cup;

[0104] In which the second closure flap is foldable to form a lip, the lip being arranged to provide user access to liquid held within the space.

[0105] An advantage of this aspect of the invention is that the beverage cup or container can be used in a commercial or mass catering environment, such as a coffee shop or fast food kitchen. In these environments, beverage dispensers (such as coffee machines or soft drink machines) are of a corresponding size and can have a nozzle that extends down towards the bottom of a filling platform in which the cup is normally rested when being filled. In this example, when the flap is in the open position, the flap can engage with a slot between the wall of the dispenser and the nozzle, thereby enabling the cup to be mounted within the filling platform of the dispenser, whilst the nozzle can direct beverage into the cup. The opening enables the operator to see the progress of the filling of the cup, whilst mounting the flap in the slot (if at an appropriate height) will assist in retaining the cup in the beverage dispenser when it is accidentally knocked out of position. Thereby, the risk of accidents and spillage is reduced.

[0106] Reference to a numerical range disclosed herein (e.g., 1-10) is intended to include reference to all rational numbers within that range (e.g., 1, 1.1, 2, 3, 3.9, 4, 5, 6, 6.5, 7, 8, 9, 10) and any range of rational numbers within that range (e.g., 2-8, 1.5-5.5, 3.1-4.7), all subranges of all ranges expressly disclosed herein are therefore, expressly

[0107] It should be understood that alternative embodiments or configurations can include any or all combinations of two or more of the components, elements or features illustrated, described or

[0108] As used herein, the term "and / or" means "and" or "or", or both, as the context allows.

[0109] As used herein, the term "(s)" following a noun means the plural and / or singular forms of the noun.

[0110] In this specification, the term "cup" includes a cup or other receptacle or container having a generally circular or polygonal base and a wall extending from the base and having a cylindrical shape or a polygonal prism shape and forming a space for holding a liquid and / or a solid (e.g., food and / or beverage). Further, in this specification, the term "liquid" can include any fluid of any viscosity and can also extend to include solids, such as a pile of fine or large particles, such as but not limited to sugar crystals, salt crystals, candy or spice pieces, or the like. Thus, in this specification, the term "liquid" can be considered to be any content in fluid or solid form that can be taken or otherwise poured from the cup.

[0111] Further, it is noted that at least some embodiments can be described as a method (i.e., a process) that is depicted as a flow table, a flowchart, a structure diagram, or a block diagram. Although a flow table can describe operations as a sequential process, many of the operations can be performed in parallel or concurrently. In addition, the order of the operations can be re-arranged. A method (i.e., a process) terminates when its operations are completed.

[0112] In this specification, the word "comprise," and variations of the word, such as "comprising," "comprises," and "comprised of," are used in their inclusive sense and not in an exclusive or exhaustive sense. That is, usage of the word "comprise" or its variations should not be interpreted as excluding additional elements, substances, or method steps.

[0113] Conditional language, such as "can," "could," "might," or "may," unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements, and / or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that one or more embodiments are required to include a certain feature, element and / or step. Or, put another way, the

[0114] Degree language, such as the terms "about," "approximately," "substantially," and "largely" as used herein, mean values, amounts, or characteristics that are close to that which is stated to be the desired value, amount, or characteristic. For example, the terms "about," "approximately," "substantially," and "largely" can refer to amounts that are within less than 10%, 5%, 1%, 0.1%, and 0.01% of the stated amount.

[0115] The application (or applications) as described herein can also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, and any two or more parts elements or features can be combined to form further parts, elements or features, and any or all combinations of any two or more of the parts, elements or features can be provided, and reference to an item in the specification as indicating a particular integer does not, unless expressly stated otherwise, foreclose the existence of any equivalent item(s) having the same or a similar function. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0116] Although any other form falling within the scope of the application is possible, the preferred embodiments will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0117] Figure 1 An exemplary form of a cup with a lid is shown;

[0118] Figure 2 An exemplary form of a blank for forming a cup is shown; Figure 1 An exemplary form of a cup is shown with the second closure flap in a folded back position;

[0119] Figure 3 An exemplary form of a cup is shown with the first closure flap in a folded back position; Figure 1 An exemplary form of a cup is shown with the first closure flap in a folded back position;

[0120] Figure 4 An exemplary form of a cup is shown with a first fold formed within the first closure flap;

[0121] Figure 5 An exemplary form of a cup is shown with a second fold formed within the second closure flap;

[0122] Figure 6 An exemplary form of a cup is shown with the first closure flap in a closed position;

[0123] Figure 7 An exemplary form of a cup is shown with the second closure flap folded to a closed position;

[0124] Figure 8 An exemplary form of a cup is shown with a force applied to an upper surface of the second closure flap to engage a locking tab of the second closure flap into a locking opening;

[0125] Figure 9 An exemplary form of a cup is shown with the locking tab engaged in the locking opening to lock the lid in a closed position;

[0126] Figure 10 An exemplary form of a cup is shown with a force applied to an upper surface of the second closure flap to unlock the locking tab;

[0127] Figure 11 An exemplary form of a cup is shown with the locking tab disengaged from the locking opening;

[0128] Figure 12An exit opening is shown as well as a lid covering the exit opening in a closed position;

[0129] Figure 13 The lid is shown in an open position so that the exit opening is available and open;

[0130] Figure 14 The longitudinal edges are shown overlapping and attached to each other with a cutout in one of the longitudinal edges;

[0131] Figure 15 and Figure 16 A side view showing the second closure flap moved to a rearward folded orientation; and

[0132] Figure 17 and Figure 18 A front view showing the second closure flap moved to a rearward folded orientation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0133] Cups, such as paper cups and plastic cups, are common in modern society for holding food and / or beverages, i.e. solids and / or liquids. Cups are often disposable cups that are discarded in a landfill or recycled. Commonly used cups often have a separate lid that is attached to the cup to seal the cup. The lid can often include an opening for dispensing the contents of the cup. The lid also needs to be discarded in a landfill or recycled. The lid is often made of a different plastic material than the cup. The lid can be somewhat challenging to use because the lid needs to be pushed onto the rim of the cup. This can be challenging and the lid is often mispositioned on the cup. In addition, the lid must be pushed onto the cup with an even force around the lid in order to properly secure the lid to the cup. This can be challenging for people, resulting in misplacement of the lid or crushing of the lid.

[0134] The present invention relates to an improved cup. The present invention relates to a cup having a closable and openable lid. The present invention relates to a cup having an integral lid that is formed as part of the cup. The lid can be easily opened and closed by folding at least two flaps of the cup to define the lid in a closed position. The integral lid makes it easier to close the cup compared to a separate lid that needs to be pushed onto the cup. In addition, the integral lid can be reused with the cup or can be recycled or discarded with the cup. The integral lid reduces the number of components and helps to reduce the overall waste generated because the cup does not have a separate lid.

[0135] The present invention relates to a cup, particularly but not exclusively a cup having a closable lid. The cup includes an integral lid, i.e. a lid that is not a separate component. The lid is formed as part of the cup.

[0136] In one construction, a cup for holding a liquid or a solid includes a bottom, a wall extending from the bottom, the wall defining a cylinder or a prism having a hollow space therein for holding a liquid or a solid, a lid including at least two closure flaps, wherein the lid is moved to a closed position by a three-fold deployment, wherein the three-fold deployment includes folding at least one of the closure flaps once and folding the other flap at least twice. The flap that is folded twice can include at least two diagonal fold features and one transverse fold feature. The flap is first folded along the transverse fold feature and then folded along the diagonal fold features.

[0137] In one construction, a cup for holding a liquid or a solid includes a bottom, a wall extending from the bottom, the wall defining a cylinder or a prism having a hollow space therein for holding a liquid or a solid, a lid including at least two closure flaps, wherein the lid is moved to a closed position by a three-fold deployment, wherein the three-fold deployment includes folding at least one of the closure flaps once and folding the other flap at least twice. The flap that is folded twice can include at least two diagonal fold features and one transverse fold feature. The flap is first folded along the transverse fold feature and then folded along the diagonal fold features.

[0138] In one construction, a cup for holding a liquid or a solid includes a bottom, a wall extending from the bottom, the wall defining a cylinder or a prism having a hollow space therein for holding a liquid or a solid, a lid including at least two closure flaps, wherein the lid is moved to a closed position by a three-fold deployment, wherein the three-fold deployment includes folding at least one of the closure flaps once and folding the other flap at least twice. The flap that is folded twice can include at least two diagonal fold features and one transverse fold feature. The flap is first folded along the transverse fold feature and then folded along the diagonal fold features.

[0139] A cup is formed from a blank. The blank defines a wall, a first closure flap, and a second closure flap. The blank further includes a plurality of folding features. The closure flaps are foldable along the folding features to fold between an open position and a closed position. The first closure flap includes at least two angled folding features. The blank includes a first transverse folding feature and a second transverse folding feature. The first closure flap is associated with the first transverse folding feature to enable the first closure flap to fold along the first transverse folding feature. The second closure flap is associated with the second folding feature to enable the second closure flap to fold along the second folding feature.

[0140] In another form, a blank for forming a cup of a cup includes: a wall; a first closure flap attached to and extending from the wall; a second closure flap attached to and extending from the wall, the first and second closure flaps being integral with the wall, the blank being a unitary structure, the first closure flap including a pair of opposed arcuate edges and a medial edge extending between the arcuate edges, the first closure flap including two angled folding features, the first closure flap being attached to the wall at a first transverse folding feature, the second closure flap being attached to the wall at a second transverse folding feature, wherein in use, the first closure flap can be folded first about at least the angled folding features and can be folded about the first transverse folding feature, the second closure flap can be folded about the second transverse folding feature; and a lid formed by the first closure flap being folded twice and the second closure flap being folded once. The blank includes a third transverse folding feature disposed on the second closure flap, the second closure flap being foldable about the third transverse folding feature and / or the second transverse folding feature, and wherein the second and third transverse folding features are curved. The third and second transverse folding features include opposing curves.

[0141] Figure 1 Embodiments of a cup 100 for holding a liquid or a solid therein are shown. The cup 100 includes a base 110 and a wall 200. The wall 200 is attached to the base and extends upwardly from the base 110. The wall 200 terminates at a top 120. The top 120 is open. The wall 200 is an upright wall. The wall 200 is a continuous wall shaped as a cylinder or a prism, as shown. The wall 200 defines a container with a space 202 therein. A liquid or a solid or other thing can be placed and held within the container 202. The wall 200 bounds the space 202. The base 110 is integral with the wall 200. The base 110 can be formed by bending or folding a lower portion of the wall to form the base. The folded or bent lower portion can be adhered or welded or attached together by any other suitable means to form the base. Figure 1

[0142] ​Alternatively, the bottom 110 can be a separate component that is coupled to the lower portion of the wall 200. In this alternative construction, the bottom 110 can be a separate disc-shaped component that is adhered to the lower portion (e.g., the lower edge of the wall) to form the bottom 110.

[0143] The cup 100 includes a lid 300. The lid 300 is integral with the wall 200 and is positioned around the top 120. The lid 300 is connected to the wall 200. The lid 300 and the wall 200 can form a unitary structure. The lid 300 is configured to move between an open position and a closed position. The lid 300 is folded to the closed position and unfolded to the open position. A benefit of the integral lid 300 is that the lid can be easily closed and opened because the user can easily fold and unfold the lid. The user does not need to properly align the lid with the upper edge of the cup and then apply an even force to secure the lid. Furthermore, the integral lid means that the lid cannot be lost.

[0144] The lid 300, the wall 200, and the bottom 110 are all formed from the same material. For example, in one form, the cup 100 can be formed from paper or paperboard. In another form, the cup 100 (i.e., the bottom 110, the wall 200, and the lid 300) can be formed from cardboard. In another form, the cup 100 (i.e., the bottom 110, the wall 200, and the lid 300) can be made from a natural fiber material such as jute. In another form, the cup 100 can be formed from a composite material that includes natural fibers and synthetic fibers. In another form, the cup 100 can be made from a plastic material or a polymer such as a thermoplastic polymer. In another form, the cup 100 can be formed from a recycled plastic material or a recyclable plastic material.

[0145] In one exemplary construction, the material of the cup 100 can be a multi-layered paperboard having at least two overlapping layers of fibers. The multi-layered paperboard can include three or more layers. At least one layer, such as the middle layer, can include chemical pulp or bleached chemical pulp or bleached chemical thermomechanical pulp. The outer layers can be formed from bleached pulp. The multi-layered paperboard can be coated with a suitable coating material to provide heat resistance or strength to the paperboard. For example, a material having liquid barrier or impact resistance properties can be added as a coating. Some examples of coatings can include a polymeric film or a biopolymer coating, a PE coating, a PP coating, or a plant-based coating, which is better because it is fully biodegradable. The material of the cup 100 can also include pigments to provide color.

[0146] The cup can include graphics, indicia, or other markings disposed on the cup. For example, the outer surface of the wall 200 can include indicia or other markings such that the indicia and other markings are visible to the user. The outer surface or exterior of the lid 300 can include indicia, graphics, or other markings that are visible to the user, for example, when the user is drinking from the cup.

[0147] The cup 100 can be any suitable size. The cup 100 can be sized to have a volume of 4-20 ounces. The container, i.e. the space 202, can comprise a volume of 4-20 ounces. For example, the cup 100 can be sized such that the volume of the cup, i.e. the space 202, can be any one of 4 ounces, 5 ounces, 6 ounces, 7 ounces, 8 ounces, 9 ounces, 10 ounces, 12 ounces, 16 ounces, 20 ounces. Alternatively, the cup 100 can be sized and shaped to define any suitable volume. The cup 100 can comprise a standard volume size.

[0148] When the cup 100 is formed from the blank 500 as shown in Figure 2 The cup 100 can be a truncated cone. The cup 200 comprises a truncated conical shape as shown in Figure 1 The cup wall 200 can be formed as a tapered cylinder or a tapered prism having a polygonal cross-section. The wall 200 tapers inwardly towards the base 110 so that the base 110 is narrower than the top 120. Preferably, the wall 200 forms a tapered cylinder. Preferably, the base is circular and the top is generally circular. Preferably, the cup is shaped so that it can be stacked with the base 110 nestable within the top 120, thereby enabling a plurality of cups to be stacked together for storage or transportation. Some example configurations of the cup 100 will be described.

[0149] In one construction, the cup 100 can include a top portion that is 62 millimeters in diameter, a height of 62 millimeters, and a bottom portion that is 46 millimeters in diameter. In another construction, the cup 100 includes a top portion that is 70 millimeters in diameter, a height of 80 millimeters, and a bottom portion that is 46 millimeters in diameter. In another construction, the cup 100 includes a bottom portion that is 46 millimeters in diameter, a height of 92 millimeters, and a top portion that is 70 millimeters in diameter. In yet another construction, the cup 100 includes a bottom portion that is 48 millimeters in diameter, a height of 102 millimeters, and a top portion that is 73 millimeters in diameter. In another construction, the cup 100 includes a bottom portion that is 57 millimeters in diameter, a height of 90 millimeters, and a top portion that is 80 millimeters in diameter. In another construction, the cup includes a bottom portion that is 60 millimeters in diameter, a height of 95 millimeters, and a top portion that is 90 millimeters in diameter. In another construction, the cup 100 includes a top portion that is 90 millimeters in diameter, a height of 109 millimeters, and a bottom portion that is 60 millimeters in diameter. In a further construction, the cup 100 includes a bottom portion that is 60 millimeters, a top portion that is 90 millimeters in diameter, and a height of 111 millimeters. In another construction, the cup 100 includes a bottom portion that is 60 millimeters in diameter, a height of 136 millimeters, and a top portion that is 90 millimeters in diameter. In a further construction, the cup 100 includes a bottom portion that is 60 millimeters in diameter, a height of 150 millimeters, and a top portion that is 90 millimeters in diameter. The dimensions of the cup can be designed according to any of the constructions described. Alternatively, the cup 100 can include any other suitable dimensions.

[0150] Figure 1 An exemplary form of the cup 100 is shown. Figure 2 An exemplary form of the cup 100 is shown. Figure 1 A blank 500 for the cup 100 is shown. The blank 500 defines a two-dimensional form of the cup. The blank 500 is a two-dimensional form of the cup. The blank 500 is a sheet of material that can be cut or punched or stamped out of the cup. The blank 500 is rolled and folded to form the cup as shown in Figure 1 and other figures.

[0151] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the cup 100 includes a first closure flap 310 and a second closure flap 320.

[0152] The first closure flap 310 and the second closure flap 320 are formed integrally with the wall 200, as shown in Figure 2 .

[0153] The first closure flap 310 and the second closure flap 320 are formed integrally with the wall 200. The first closure flap 310 and the second closure flap 320 extend outwardly from the wall 200, as shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2The first closure flap 310, the second closure flap 320 and the wall 200 form a single continuous structure, i.e. a unitary structure. In other words, the cup, i.e. the closure flaps and the wall, form one integral structure. The first closure flap 310 is longer than the second closure flap 320, i.e. has a greater height.

[0154] As shown in Figure 2 The first closure flap 310 and the second closure flap 320 extend upwardly from the wall 200. The first closure flap 310 is attached to the wall 200 by a first transverse fold feature 400. The second closure flap 320 is attached to the wall 200 by a second transverse fold feature 402. The first closure flap 310 is foldable about the first transverse fold feature 400 and the second closure flap 320 is foldable about the second transverse fold feature 402.

[0155] The first closure flap 310 comprises a plurality of portions. Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The first closure flap comprises a pair of side flaps 311, 312 and a middle flap 313. The first closure flap 310 comprises a first side flap 311 and a second side flap 312. The middle flap 313 extends between the side flaps 311, 312. The middle flap 313 connects the two side flaps 311, 312. Each side flap 311, 312 is attached on opposite edges of the middle flap 313 at longitudinal fold features. The first side flap 311 is attached to the middle flap 313 at a first longitudinal fold feature 420. The second side flap 312 is attached to the middle flap at a second longitudinal fold feature 421. The longitudinal fold features 420, 421 extend perpendicularly on the first closure flap 310.

[0156] The first side flap 311 is attached to the wall 200 at a first side fold feature 430. The second side flap 312 is attached to the wall 200 at a second side fold feature 431. The middle flap 313 is attached to the wall at the first transverse fold feature 400. The first side flap 311, the second side flap 312 and the middle flap 313 form a unitary structure.

[0157] Each side flap 311, 312 includes an arcuate edge. The first side flap 311 includes a first arcuate edge 330. The second side flap 312 includes a second arcuate edge 331. The arcuate edges 330, 331 can be identical or approximately similar in size and shape to each other. The side flaps 311, 312 are identical or approximately similar in size and shape to each other. The arcuate edge 330, 331 of each side flap includes a first curved portion 332 and a second curved portion 333, the two curved portions defining the arcuate edge. The first curved portion 332 and the second curved portion 333 each have a different arc length, i.e. circumference. In the illustrated example, the second curved portion 333 is longer than the first curved portion. The intermediate flap 313 also includes a curved edge 334. The arcuate edges 330, 331 and the curved edge 334 define the free edge of the first closure flap 310. The arcuate edges 330, 331 and the curved edge are the free edge.

[0158] Each side flap 311, 312 includes a distal panel 340 and a proximal panel 342. The proximal panel 342 of each side flap is proximal to the intermediate flap 313. The distal panel 340 is distal to the intermediate flap 313. The first closure flap 310 includes two inclined fold features 440, 441. Each side flap includes an inclined fold feature. The inclined fold features 440, 441 separate the proximal panel 342 and the distal panel 340. Each side flap 311, 312 is foldable along the inclined fold features 440, 441. In use, each side flap 311, 312 is folded about the side fold features 430, 431.

[0159] The first transverse fold feature 400 includes a curved shape. The first transverse fold includes an arc. The first transverse fold feature 400 includes a concave curvature. Concave in this context means curved towards the base 110, i.e. the lower edge 210 of the wall. The lower edge 210 of the wall is arcuate. The lower edge 210 includes a convex curvature, i.e. curved towards the top 120. The lower edge 210 is used to form the base 110 or can alternatively form a separate part, e.g. a disc of material, attached to the lower edge 210 as part of forming the cup.

[0160] The cup 100 includes a third transverse fold feature 404. The third transverse fold feature 404 is provided on the second closure flap 320. The second transverse fold feature 404 is located proximal to the second transverse fold feature 402. The second transverse fold feature 402 and the third transverse fold feature 404 are curved. The two transverse fold features 402, 404 include opposing curvatures. In the illustrated configuration, the second transverse fold feature 402 includes a concave curvature. The third transverse fold feature 404 includes a convex curvature.

[0161] As Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the first closure flap 310 includes a locking opening 600. The locking opening 600 can be semi-circular in shape. The locking opening 600 can include another suitable shape, such as a crescent shape. The locking opening 600 is a cutout within the first closure flap 310. The second closure flap 320 includes a locking tab 602. The locking tab 602 extends outwardly from the free edge 334 of the second closure flap 320. The free edge 334 is preferably a straight edge but can include a curve therein when the cup 100 is formed by rolling up the wall 200.

[0162] The wall 200 includes a first longitudinal edge 212 and a second longitudinal edge 214. The second longitudinal edge 214 can include a C-shaped cutout 216. When the first longitudinal edge 212 and the second longitudinal edge 214 are overlapped to form a cylinder or a prism, the C-shaped cutout 216 is positioned at a side fold feature, as shown. Figure 14 The C-shaped cutout 216 helps to reduce the folding stiffness, enabling the two side flaps 311, 312 to be folded with similar force applied by a user. This makes folding the side flaps and the first closure flap 310 more intuitive and easier. The C-shaped cutout can be an optional feature.

[0163] The wall also includes one or more vertical fold features 450 formed on and / or within the wall 200. As shown at least Figure 1 and Figure 2 The wall 200 includes four vertical fold features 450. The vertical fold features extend along the wall for a distance. The vertical fold features 450 extend longitudinally along the wall 200, i.e. parallel to the longitudinal axis of the wall 200. Two of the vertical fold features are aligned with the longitudinal fold features 420, 421. The other two of the vertical fold features extend away from the second closure flap 320 and are aligned with the vertical edges 321, 322 of the second closure flap 320. The four vertical fold features 450 help to make the wall 200 easier to roll up. The wall can be folded or rolled up to attach the two longitudinal edges 214, 212 together. The vertical fold features 450 help to make the wall 200 easier to roll up. The vertical fold features 450 can be lines or areas of weakness.

[0164] The cup 100 also includes an outlet opening 700 and a foldable cover 702, as shown at Figure 12 and Figure 13 The foldable cover 702 is movable between a closed position and an open position. When the cover 702 is in the open position, the outlet opening 700 is exposed. When the cover 702 is in the open position, the outlet opening 700 can be used by a user so that the contents of the cup can come out of the opening 700. When the cover is in the closed position, the outlet opening 700 is covered by the cover 702.

[0165] The cup 100 is formed using an automated process. The cup 100 can be formed by a cup former. The blank 500 can be used as a model to punch or cut the shape of the blank. The cup 100 is formed by rolling up the wall and attaching the longitudinal edges 212, 214 to each other. The longitudinal edges 212, 214 can be adhered together or welded together. The vertical fold feature 450 can assist in rolling up the wall to form the frustoconical shape of the cup 100. The blank 500 can be used to cut out multiple models to form multiple cups 100.

[0166] The use of the cup 100 will now be described. The lid 300 is formed by folding the first closure flap 310 and the second closure flap 320. The first closure flap 310 is folded twice to move the first closure flap 310 to the closed position. The second closure flap 320 is folded once to move the second closure flap 320 to the closed position. Figures 4 to 6 The process of folding the first closure flap 310 to the closed position is shown. The lid 300 is formed from a three-fold deployment. The first closure flap 310 is folded twice and the second closure flap 320 is folded once to close the lid. Figure 4 The first fold of the first closure flap 310 is shown. The first closure flap is folded along the diagonal fold features 440, 441. Figure 5 The second fold of the first closure flap 310 is shown, where the first closure flap is folded about the first transverse fold feature 400. Figure 6 The folded position of the first closure flap 310 is shown. Figure 7 The second closure flap 320 is shown being folded about the second transverse fold feature 402. Figure 9 The lid in the closed position is shown.

[0167] With reference to Figure 4 The first closure flap is folded along the side fold features 430, 431 and the transverse fold feature 400. In particular, the side flaps 311, 312 are folded inwards, i.e. towards each other along the side fold features 430, 431. The middle flap 313 is folded inwards along the transverse fold feature.

[0168] The first closure flap 310 is folded about the diagonal fold features 440, 441, as Figure 4 and Figure 5The first closure flap 310 is shown in a fully closed orientation. As shown, the side flaps 311, 312 are folded inwardly and the arcuate edges 330, 331 are folded toward each other. The intermediate flap 313 rests on top of the folded side flaps 311, 312. The first curved portion 332 of each side flap 311, 312 is longer than the second curved portion 333. When in the folded position, the first curved portion 332 of each side flap 311, 312 extends closer to each other than the second curved portion 333 of each side flap 311, 312. The two curved portions 332, 333 form a curved sealing surface, preventing the contents of the cup from spilling out.

[0169] Figure 6 The first closure flap 310 is shown in a fully closed orientation. As shown, the side flaps 311, 312 are folded inwardly and the arcuate edges 330, 331 are folded toward each other. The intermediate flap 313 rests on top of the folded side flaps 311, 312. The first curved portion 332 of each side flap 311, 312 is longer than the second curved portion 333. When in the folded position, the first curved portion 332 of each side flap 311, 312 extends closer to each other than the second curved portion 333 of each side flap 311, 312. The two curved portions 332, 333 form a curved sealing surface, preventing the contents of the cup from spilling out. Figure 5 The curvature of the curved edge 334 of the intermediate flap 313 corresponds to the curvature of the second transverse fold feature 402, as shown in Figures

[0170] , Figure 1 , 5 and 6. As shown, the intermediate flap 313 has a length that extends across the top such that the curved edge 334 of the intermediate flap 313 is in contact with the second transverse fold feature 402. Figure 6 Figure 6 The intermediate flap 313 is shown extending across the top 120 and from one side of the cup to the other, closing the cup.

[0171] Figure 6 The matching curvature of the second transverse fold feature 402 and the curved edge 334 of the intermediate flap 313 is shown. The advantage of the matching curvature is that it improves the seal of the cup and helps prevent or at least reduce the chance of the contents of the cup from leaking out.

[0172] The second closure flap 320 is folded about the second transverse fold feature 402, as shown in Figures Figure 7 ​The second closure flap 320 rests on top of the middle flap 313, as shown. Figure 9 The locking tab 602 is pushed into the locking opening 600, as shown. Figure 8 In addition, the user applies a downward force to insert the locking tab 602 into the locking opening 600. The locking tab received in the locking opening locks the second closure flap 320 to the first closure flap 310, thereby locking the lid in the closed position.

[0173] The second folding feature 402 is concave in shape to enable easy folding of the second closure flap 320 to the closed position, and to enable the user to easily engage the locking tab 602 into the locking opening 600. The second folding feature 402 is concave in shape to enable the user to fold the second closure flap 320 without disturbing the folded first closure flap 310, and to reduce the force required to fold the second closure flap 320 and the locking tab 320.

[0174] The locking tab 602 can be unlocked from the locking opening 600 by applying a force on the upper surface of the lid 300, as shown. Figure 10 More specifically, when in the folded deployment, to open the lid 300, the user can apply a force (i.e., push down) on the second closure flap 320, as shown by the arrow in Figure 10 The locking tab 602 is removed from the locking opening 600, and the second closure flap 320 moves upward, as shown. Figure 11 The second closure flap 320 is biased upward due to the concave shape of the second transverse folding feature 402. This concave shape of the folding feature 402 provides additional tension to create a better seal.

[0175] Preferably, audible or tactile feedback is provided when the locking tab 602 is engaged into the locking opening 600. Further, audible or tactile feedback is provided when the locking tab 602 is disengaged from the locking opening 600. The audible feedback includes an audible click due to the curved upper surface of the first closure flap 310 and the curved upper surface of the second closure flap 320. The audible click is also due to the second closure flap 320 being biased upward, i.e., the second closure flap bulges and retracts to create the click. The closure flap 320 bulges due to being biased upward, i.e., moving upward.

[0176] The locking opening 600 is shown in this example as a cutout. However, the opening 600 can take other forms, including a slit, a cut, a slot, or any other receiving structure that can be cut or pressed into the flap to receive the locking tab 602.

[0177] The second closure flap 320 can be folded back. The second closure flap 320 is configured to be folded between 0 degrees to 180 degrees. When the second closure flap is at 0 degrees, the second closure flap 320 is in a fully open position, as shown in Figure 2 and Figure 16 When the second closure flap is at 180 degrees, the second closure flap 320 is in a closed position, as shown in Figure 9 and Figure 10 The second closure flap 320 is perpendicular to the first closure flap 310 at 0 degrees, as shown in Figure 16 The second closure flap 320 can also be positioned at 90 degrees, as shown in Figure 15

[0178] A third transverse folding feature 404 is provided on the second closure flap 320. The third transverse folding feature 404 is positioned near the second transverse folding feature 402. The second closure flap 320 can be folded about the third transverse folding feature to enable the second closure flap to be moved between 0 degrees to 180 degrees, and any position in between 0 degrees to 180 degrees is relative to the horizontal line. As shown in Figure 3 and Figure 16 When the second closure flap 320 is fully folded back, i.e. at 0 degrees, the user can view the inside of the cup and determine the fill level of the cup. The second closure flap 320 folded back enables the user to view the fill level when the cup is being filled, e.g. by a beverage dispenser. In addition, the second closure flap 320 can also be folded back by the user to open the cup, while forming a lip for the user to drink from or to directly access the contents of the cup.

[0179] Figure 17 and 18 A front view of the cup is shown. Figure 17 The second closure flap 320 is shown at a 90 degree position relative to the horizontal line. Figure 17 The second transverse folding feature 402 and the third transverse folding feature 404 are shown. The second transverse folding feature 402 and the third transverse folding feature 404 are curved. The two folding features are curved in opposite directions. Figure 17 The convex curvature of the third transverse folding feature 404 and the concave curvature of the second transverse folding feature 402 are shown more clearly. As shown in Figure 18 which is a front view of Figure 16 the second closure flap 320 is folded about the third transverse folding feature to a 0 degree position, i.e. the closure flap is folded back to expose the hollow space 202.

[0180] ​The second and third lateral folding features 402, 404 include opposing curves. The third lateral folding feature 404 is a convex curve while the second lateral folding feature 402 is a concave folding feature 402. The convex third lateral folding feature 404 enables the second closure flap 320 to be folded back without disturbing or disrupting the rest of the structure, for example, the folded first flap 310. Figure 16 The second flap 320 is shown in a folded back position. Figures 4 to 6 The second closure flap 320 is shown in a folded back position while the first closure flap 310 is folded without any disturbance.

[0181] Figure 12 And 13 The outlet opening 700 and the foldable lid 702 are shown. Figure 12 The lid 702 in a closed position and the outlet opening 700 covered are shown. Figure 13 The lid 702 in an open position and the outlet opening 700 available for use by a user are shown. The outlet opening 700 and the lid 702 remain closed due to the curvature of the first and second closure flaps 310, 320. The lid 702 needs to be manually opened, thereby reducing the chances of accidental spillage through the outlet opening 700. The lid 702 in combination with the curved lip formed by the folded side flaps improves the sealing of the cup. The outlet opening 700 is sized to enable a straw or stirrer to be placed in the cup. The opening 700 is sized enough to enable a user to drink through it.

[0182] Figure 14 The longitudinal edges are shown overlapped to form a cylindrical or prismatic shape to define the container. The second longitudinal edge 214 includes a cutout 216. The cutout 216 is a C-shaped cutout. When the first and second longitudinal edges are overlapped to form a cylinder or prism, the C-shaped cutout 216 is positioned at the side folding feature, the C-shaped cutout improves the foldability of each side flap. The C-shaped cutout reduces the stiffness of the side flaps, making it easier to fold the side flaps. The side flaps 311, 312 can be folded with similar force exerted by the end user, making it easier to form the lid.

[0183] Figure 12 And 13 The lid 300 is shown in a closed configuration. The lid 300 includes a curved upper surface. The upper surface of the lid 300 is curved inward, i.e., concave. As Figure 12 And 13As shown, the first closure flap 310 and the second closure flap 320 each comprise a curved upper surface. The upper surface 314 of the first closure flap 310 and the upper surface 324 of the second closure flap are curved in the same direction. The first closure flap 310 and the second closure flap 320 comprise a concave curvature, i.e. the flaps are curved inwards. More specifically, the middle flap 313 of the first closure flap and the second closure flap 320 comprise a concave curvature, as shown. Figure 12 and Figure 13

[0184] The cup 100 comprises straight sides. Each side fold feature 430, 431 is defined along a straight edge of the wall 200. The upper surface 314 of the first closure flap and the upper surface of the second closure flap comprise a concave curvature. The straight sides of the cup on each side make folding easier as the tension on the side flaps is in one direction. The concave curvature of the first closure flap 310 and the second closure flap 320 together with the straight sides create a tension, i.e. an inwards biasing force, making it easier to fold the closure flaps. Furthermore, the concave curvature of the upper surface enables a user's nose to be received within the space created by the curved surface, making it easier to drink from the cup 100.

[0185] The cup 100 described herein provides several advantages as described herein. The shape and structure of the cup 100 makes it easier to close the lid. The cup comprises first and second closure flaps defining the lid. The closure flaps are integral with the wall of the cup, thus forming an integral lid. The first closure flap is folded twice and the second closure flap is folded once to form the closed lid, as shown. Figure 12 The triple fold deployment enables a simple closing method. The first closure flap comprises two side flaps with arcuate edges, i.e. arcuate free edges. The side flaps are folded inwards, the arcuate edges forming a plurality of overlapping sealing edges. The side flaps and the middle flap are positioned on top of each other, forming a plurality of sealing surfaces, thus reducing the chance of leakage from the cup. The second closure flap can be folded back to enable easier viewing of the contents of the cup. The cup comprises two fold features with two opposing curves. This enables the second closure flap to be folded through 180 degrees, thus enabling the second closure flap to be closed and fully open.

[0186] The term "fold feature" as described herein defines a folding structure that enables a flap to be folded about the fold feature. The fold feature can be a fold line. Alternatively, the fold feature can be a weakened area of the flap or wall or other structure of the cup. For example, the fold feature can be a half-cut curve and / or line, a perforated curve and / or line.

[0187] The description of one of any of these alternative embodiments is to be considered exemplary. Any one of the alternative embodiments and features of the alternative embodiments can be used in combination with each other or with the embodiments described with reference to the drawings. ​

[0188] The foregoing merely describes preferred embodiments of the application and modifications can be made therein by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the application. Although the application has been described with reference to a number of preferred embodiments, it will be understood that the application can be practiced with many other forms.

Claims

1. A cup for holding a liquid, comprising: a bottom, a wall, the bottom and the wall defining a container having a space for holding the liquid, a first closure flap and a second closure flap, the first and second closure flaps being attached to and extending from the wall, the second closure flap not being connected to the first closure flap, the first and second closure flaps being foldable relative to the wall, the first and second closure flaps being foldable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the first and second closure flaps define a lid when in the closed position; and the lid defined by the first closure flap being folded at least twice to a closed position and the second closure flap being folded at least once to a closed position, wherein the first closure flap comprises a pair of opposing side flaps and a middle flap extending between the side flaps, wherein the middle flap is attached to the wall along a first transverse fold feature, each side flap being attached to the wall along a side fold feature, wherein the first closure flap is folded along a pair of angled fold features and is folded along the first transverse fold feature to move the first closure flap to a closed position, and the second closure flap is folded along a second transverse fold feature to a closed position, such that the second closure flap rests on top of the first closure flap, wherein the first and second transverse fold features comprise concave curved edges, wherein the side fold features comprise straight edges, such that the first and second closure flaps form a concave curve when closed; wherein the middle flap has a curved edge corresponding to the curve of the second transverse fold feature and has a length extending across the top of the cup such that the curved edge is in contact with the second transverse fold feature; and wherein the first closure flap comprises a locking opening and the second closure flap comprises a locking tab that is receivable in the locking opening when the lid is in the closed position.

2. The cup of claim 1, wherein, The cup comprises the first transverse fold feature at which the first closure flap is attached to the wall, and the first closure flap comprises a pair of opposing angled fold features defined on the first closure flap.

3. The cup of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first closure flap is folded twice and the second closure flap is folded once to close the flaps.

4. The cup of claim 1, wherein, Each side flap is attached to the middle flap along a longitudinal fold feature.

5. The cup of claim 1, wherein each side flap comprises an arcuate edge, wherein the arcuate edge of each side flap comprises a first curve and a second curve defining the arcuate edge.

6. The cup of claim 1, wherein, Each side flap comprises a distal panel and a proximal panel, the proximal panel of each side flap being proximal to the middle flap and the distal panel being distal to the middle flap; the angled fold feature on each side flap separates the proximal panel and the distal panel.

7. The cup of claim 6, wherein, Folding the first closure flap at least twice includes folding each side flap about the side fold feature and folding the proximal panel about the angled fold feature to be positioned atop the distal panel.

8. The cup of claim 1, wherein, The second closure flap is foldable about a second transverse fold feature between 0 degrees and 180 degrees.

9. The cup of claim 1, wherein, The second closure flap is in a fully open position when the second closure flap is at 0 degrees, the second closure flap is in a closed position when the second closure flap is at 180 degrees, and wherein the second closure flap is perpendicular to the first closure flap when at 0 degrees, and a user can view the interior of the container when the second closure flap is at 0 degrees.

10. The cup of claim 9, wherein, The cup includes a third transverse fold feature disposed on the second closure flap, the third transverse fold feature being proximate to the second transverse fold feature, and wherein the second closure flap is foldable about the third transverse fold feature.

11. The cup of claim 10, wherein, The second closure flap is movable about the third transverse fold feature between 0 degrees and 90 degrees.

12. The cup of claim 10, wherein, The third transverse fold feature is an arcuate fold feature.

13. The cup of claim 12, wherein, The second transverse fold feature and the third transverse fold feature include opposing curves.

14. The cup of claim 1, wherein, The first closure flap is longer than the second closure flap.

15. The cup of claim 1, wherein, When the first closure flap is folded to a closed position, the first closure flap is folded about the angled fold feature to form a pair of opposing arcuate lips due to arcuate edges of each side flap of the first closure flap, and a transverse lip due to an arcuate edge of the middle flap of the first closure flap.

16. The cup of claim 15, wherein, The pair of opposing arcuate lips and the transverse lip form a sealing structure to prevent contents of the cup from spilling when the cup is tilted toward the middle flap.

17. The cup of claim 1, wherein, The wall includes a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge that overlap to form a cylindrical or prismatic shape and define the container, and at least one of the first longitudinal edge and the second longitudinal edge includes a cutout therein.

18. The cup of claim 17, wherein, The second longitudinal edge includes a C-shaped cutout therein.

19. The cup of claim 18, wherein the C-shaped cutout is positioned at a side fold feature when the first longitudinal edge and the second longitudinal edge overlap to form the cylindrical or prism, the C-shaped cutout improving foldability of each side flap.

20. The cup of claim 1, wherein, Audible or tactile feedback is provided when the locking tab is engaged into the locking opening and / or when the locking tab is disengaged from the locking opening.

21. The cup of claim 20, wherein, The audible feedback includes an audible click due to a curved upper surface of the first closure flap and a curved upper surface of the second closure flap.

22. The cup of claim 1, wherein, The locking tab is disengaged from the locking opening by a force applied on an upper surface of the first closure flap or an upper surface of the middle flap.

23. The cup of claim 1, wherein, The first closure flap includes an exit opening formed on the first closure flap.

24. The cup of claim 23, wherein, The cup further comprises a foldable lid, the lid being movable between a closed position and an open position, the outlet opening being exposed when the lid is in the open position such that contents of the cup can exit the outlet opening, and the outlet opening being covered by the lid when the lid is in the closed position such that the contents of the cup are retained within the cup.

25. The cup of claim 24, wherein, The lid is biased to the closed position due to the concave curvature of the first closure flap.

26. The cup of claim 1, wherein, The second closure flap is foldable to form a lip arranged for a user to access the liquid retained within the space.

27. A blank for a cup, the blank comprising: a wall, a first closure flap attached to and extending from the wall, a second closure flap attached to and extending from the wall, the first and second closure flaps being integral with the wall, the blank being a unitary structure, the second closure flap not being connected to the first closure flap, the first closure flap comprising a pair of opposing arcuate edges and a medial edge extending between the arcuate edges, the first closure flap panel comprising two diagonal fold features, the first closure flap being attached to the wall at a first transverse fold feature, the second closure flap being attached to the wall at a second transverse fold feature, wherein, in use, the first closure flap is first foldable about at least the diagonal fold features and is foldable about the first transverse fold feature, the second closure flap is foldable about the second transverse fold feature, such that the second closure flap rests on top of the first closure flap, and a lid is formed by the first closure flap being folded twice and the second closure flap being folded once; wherein the first closure flap comprises a pair of opposing side flaps and a medial flap extending between the side flaps, wherein the medial flap is attached to the wall along the first transverse fold feature, each side flap is attached to the wall along a side fold feature, wherein the first and second transverse fold features comprise a concave curved edge, wherein the side fold features comprise a straight edge, such that the first and second closure flaps form a concave curve when closed; wherein the medial flap has a curved edge corresponding to the curve of the second transverse fold feature, and has a length extending across the top of the cup such that the curved edge is in contact with the second transverse fold feature; and wherein the first closure flap comprises a locking opening, the second closure flap comprises a locking tab, the locking tab being receivable in the locking opening when the lid is in a closed position.

28. The blank of a cup according to claim 27, wherein, The blank comprises a third transverse fold feature provided on the second closure flap, the second closure flap being foldable about the third transverse fold feature and / or the second transverse fold feature, and wherein the second and third transverse fold features are curved.

29. The blank of a cup according to claim 28, wherein, The third and second transverse fold features comprise opposing curves.

30. The blank for a cup of claim 28, wherein, The third transverse fold feature comprises a convex bend and the second transverse fold feature comprises a concave bend.

31. The blank for a cup of claim 27, wherein, Each of the pair of opposing arcuate edges comprises a first bend and a second bend, the first and second bends comprising different curvatures or different arc lengths or different radii.

32. The blank for a cup of claim 27, wherein, The wall comprises a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge, the first and second longitudinal edges opposing each other and bounding the wall, wherein the first or second longitudinal edge comprises a cutout.

33. The blank for a cup of claim 27, wherein, The second closure flap is further foldable about a third transverse fold feature between 0 degrees and 90 degrees to enable a user to view the interior of the cup, and wherein the third transverse fold feature comprises a convex bend.

34. A method of closing a lid of a cup, the cup comprising: a bottom, a wall, the bottom and the wall defining a container having a space for holding a liquid, a first closure flap and a second closure flap, the first and second closure flaps attached to and extending from the wall, the second closure flap not connected to the first closure flap, the first and second closure flaps foldable relative to the wall, the first and second closure flaps foldable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the first and second closure flaps define a lid when in the closed position; wherein the first closure flap comprises a pair of opposing side flaps and a middle flap extending between the side flaps, each of the side flaps comprising an angled fold feature, wherein the middle flap is attached to the wall along a first transverse fold feature, each side flap is attached to the wall along a side fold feature, and the second closure flap is attached to the wall along a second transverse fold feature, wherein the first and second transverse fold features comprise concave bend edges, wherein the side fold features comprise straight edges; wherein the middle flap has a curved edge corresponding to the bend of the second transverse fold feature and has a length extending across a top of the cup; and wherein the first closure flap comprises a locking opening and the second closure flap comprises a locking tab, the locking tab receivable in the locking opening when the lid is in the closed position, the method comprising: folding the middle flap along the angled fold feature; folding the middle flap along the first transverse fold feature to move the first closure flap to the closed position, wherein the curved edge of the first closure flap is in contact with the second transverse fold feature; folding the second closure flap along the second transverse fold feature to the closed position such that the second closure flap rests on top of the first closure flap, wherein the first and second closure flaps form a concave bend when closed due to the straight side fold features and the concave bend of the first and second transverse fold features, applying a downward force to the second closure flap such that the locking tab is received in the locking opening.

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