Lid for drinking container with magnetic sealing mechanism

Abstract

A lid for a drinking container includes a lid base, a movable arm, and an actuator. The base defines a drinking opening. The arm is coupled to the base and is located within the base. The actuator is accessible from the outside of the base. A first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit are coupled to one of the arm or the actuator. A third magnetic unit is coupled to the other of the arm or the actuator. The arm is movable between a sealed position, in which the drinking opening is sealed, and an open position, in which the drinking opening is unsealed. The actuator is movable between a first position and a second position. When the actuator is in the second position, a magnetic force holds the arm in the open position, and when the actuator is in the first position, a magnetic force holds the arm in the sealed position.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 068,189, filed on August 20, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to drinking containers for beverages. More particularly, some embodiments relate to containers having a sealing mechanism. Background Art

[0004] It may be desirable for a drinking container to have a sealed position, in which the drinking opening of the drinking container is sealed, and an open position, in which the drinking opening is unsealed. It may also be desirable for a drinking container to have relatively few parts that may contact a beverage contained in or consumed through the drinking container. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Some embodiments described herein relate to a lid for a drinking container, comprising a lid base, a movable arm, and an actuator. The lid base defines a drinking opening therethrough. The movable arm is coupled to the lid base and disposed within the interior of the lid base. The actuator is accessible from the exterior of the lid base. A first magnet unit and a second magnet unit are coupled to one of the movable arm or the actuator. A third magnet unit is coupled to the other of the movable arm or the actuator. The movable arm is movable between a sealed position and an open position, wherein the drinking opening is sealed in the sealed position and the drinking opening is unsealed in the open position. The actuator is movable between a first position and a second position. When the actuator is in the second position, a magnetic force holds the movable arm in the open position, and when the actuator is in the first position, a magnetic force holds the movable arm in the sealed position.

[0006] Some embodiments described herein relate to a lid for a drinking container, comprising a lid base, a movable arm, and an actuator. The lid base defines a drinking opening therethrough. The movable arm is coupled to the lid base and is located within the interior of the lid base. A first magnet unit is coupled to the movable arm. The actuator is accessible from the exterior of the lid base. A second magnet unit is coupled to the actuator. The movable arm is movable between a sealed position and an open position, wherein the drinking opening is sealed in the sealed position and the drinking opening is unsealed in the open position. The movable arm is biased toward a biased position, which is one of the sealed position or the open position. The actuator is movable between a first position and a second position. When the actuator moves to the second position, the force between the first magnet unit and the second magnet unit overcomes the bias of the movable arm and moves the movable arm away from the biased position.

[0007] Some embodiments described herein relate to a method for sealing and opening a drinking opening of a drinking container. The method includes moving an actuator, accessible from the exterior of a lid base, from a first position to a second position, and moving the actuator from the second position to the first position. Moving the actuator from the first position to the second position changes a magnetic force on a movable arm within the lid, thereby moving the movable arm to open the drinking opening of the lid base. Moving the actuator from the second position to the first position changes the magnetic force on the movable arm, thereby moving the movable arm to seal the drinking opening. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a part of the specification, illustrate the disclosure and, together with the description, further serve to explain the principles thereof and enable one skilled in the relevant art to make and use the same.

[0009] Figure 1 An upper rear perspective view of a drinking vessel is shown.

[0010] Figure 2 Shown Figure 1 view of a drinking container.

[0011] Figure 3 Shown Figure 1 An exploded upper rear perspective view of a portion of a drinking vessel.

[0012] Figure 4 Shown Figure 1 An exploded front lower perspective view of a portion of a drinking vessel.

[0013] Figure 5 Shown in Figure 2 The V-V' line is intercepted Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a drinking container, wherein an actuator of the drinking container is in a first position and a movable arm of the drinking container is in a sealing position.

[0014] Figure 6 Shown in Figure 2 The V-V' line is intercepted Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a drinking container, wherein the actuator of the drinking container is in a second position and the movable arm of the drinking container is in an open position.

[0015] Figure 7 Shown in Figure 2 The VII-VII' line is intercepted Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a drinking container, wherein an actuator of the drinking container is in a first position and a movable arm of the drinking container is in a sealing position.

[0016] Figure 8 Shown in Figure 2The VII-VII' line is intercepted Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a drinking container, wherein the actuator of the drinking container is in a second position and the movable arm of the drinking container is in an open position.

[0017] Figure 9 Shown in Figure 2 The IX-IX' line is intercepted Figure 1 sectional view of a portion of a drinking container, wherein a locking member of the drinking container is in a locked position.

[0018] Figure 10 Shown in Figure 2 The IX-IX' line is intercepted Figure 1 sectional view of a portion of a drinking container, wherein a locking member of the drinking container is in an unlocked position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that embodiments including structures, systems, and methods may be practiced without these specific details. The descriptions and representations herein conform to the standards used by those experienced or skilled in the art to most effectively convey the essence of their work to others skilled in the art. In some cases, well-known methods, processes, assemblies, and elements have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring aspects of the present disclosure.

[0020] References in the specification to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "an example embodiment," "some embodiments," etc., indicate that the described embodiments may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the present disclosure is prepared such that when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is within the knowledge of those skilled in the art to apply such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments, whether or not explicitly described.

[0021] The following examples are illustrative but not limiting of the present disclosure. Other suitable modifications and adjustments of the various conditions and parameters normally encountered in the art and obvious to those skilled in the art are all within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0022] People use reusable drinking containers to hold a variety of beverages. It is often desirable for a drinking container to have a sealing mechanism that seals the drinking opening of the drinking container when the user is not drinking from the drinking container. Sealing the drinking opening can, for example, allow a user to carry the drinking container without worrying about the carried beverage leaking onto the user or their belongings. Sealing the drinking opening can also, for example, allow the carried beverage to maintain a desired temperature. Users may also prefer drinking containers that can be easily sealed and opened, making it easy for the user to drink from the drinking container.

[0023] It may also be desirable for a drinking vessel to have relatively few parts that contact a beverage contained in or consumed through the drinking vessel. This may be desirable, for example, so that dirt or debris on certain parts does not contaminate the beverage within the drinking vessel, or so that there are relatively few parts that a user needs to clean (e.g., to remove beverage deposits from the parts).

[0024] Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a lid for a beverage container that can be used to easily seal and open a drinking opening. Some components are isolated from the internal volume of the drinking container so that beverages carried in or consumed through the drinking container do not contact these components. The lid includes a movable arm that moves in response to a magnetic force to seal and open the drinking opening. The lid also includes an actuator (e.g., a button) accessible from the outside of the lid. Two magnet units are located on the movable arm, and another magnet unit is located on the button. When the button is in an unpressed position, the magnetic force (e.g., attraction) between the magnet unit on the button and one of the magnet units on the movable arm holds the movable arm in a sealed position. When the button is in a pressed position, the magnetic force (e.g., repulsion) between the magnet unit on the button and another magnet unit on the movable arm holds the movable arm in an open position.

[0025] In some embodiments, only one magnet unit is located on the movable arm. In some such embodiments, when the button is in the unpressed position, a magnetic force (e.g., an attractive force) between the magnet unit on the button and the magnet unit on the movable arm holds the movable arm in the sealed position. In other such embodiments, when the button is in the pressed position, a magnetic force (e.g., a repulsive force) between the magnet unit on the button and the magnet unit on the movable arm holds the movable arm in the open position.

[0026] In some embodiments, when the user presses the button, the resulting movement of the magnet unit on the button changes the magnetic force on the movable arm, thereby causing the movable arm to move (e.g., toward the open position). In some embodiments, when the user releases the button, the resulting movement of the magnet unit on the button changes the magnetic force on the movable arm, thereby causing the movable arm to move (e.g., toward the sealed position).

[0027] In some embodiments, the button is biased toward the unpressed position so that the button automatically moves to the unpressed position when the force holding the button in the pressed position is removed. In some embodiments, a magnetic interaction between a magnet unit on the button and a magnet unit on the movable arm biases the button toward the unpressed position.

[0028] In some embodiments, the movable arm is biased toward one of the sealing position or the open position, and pressing the button causes a force between the magnet unit on the button and the magnet unit on the movable arm to overcome the bias of the movable arm. For example, the movable arm may be biased toward the sealing position, and pressing the button may cause a force between the magnet unit on the button and the magnet unit on the movable arm to overcome the bias, thereby moving the movable arm away from the sealing position.

[0029] In some embodiments, the actuator may be locked so that the drinking opening cannot be accidentally opened.

[0030] These and other embodiments are discussed in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0031] Figure 1-2 A drinking vessel 10 according to some embodiments is shown. The drinking vessel 10 may include a vessel 1000 and a lid 20 for the vessel 1000. The lid 20 may include multiple components, including a lid base 100 and an actuator 700.

[0032] The lid base 100 may include a drinking opening 104 through which a user may drink from a beverage contained in the container 1000 when the lid 20 is assembled with the container 1000. The lid base 100 may also include a vent 106 through which the interior volume of the container 1000 may be vented when the lid 20 is assembled with the container 1000. The lid base 100 may be formed from a food-grade plastic (e.g., polypropylene, copolyester, copolymers sold under the name Eastman Tritan, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyoxymethylene (POM), or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)) or a metal (e.g., steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, or titanium) and may be formed as a single, unitary piece.

[0033] The lid 20 can form a seal when assembled with the container 1000. The term "seal," as used herein and elsewhere in this document, does not necessarily require a perfect airtight seal; rather, a seal that prevents the passage of liquid fluids is sufficient. The drinking opening 104 and the vent 106 can be the only openings extending through the lid base 100 to the container 1000, and the drinking opening 104 and the vent 106 can be sealed in some configurations, as will be discussed in more detail below.

[0034] The actuator 700 is accessible from the exterior of the cover substrate 100. The actuator 700 may be or include, for example, a button 702 (e.g., Figure 1 ), a switch, a lever, or other suitable mechanical mechanism. Actuator 700 can be moved between a first position and a second position to seal or unlock drinking opening 104, as discussed in more detail below. Additionally or alternatively, actuator 700 can be moved between a first position and a second position to seal or unlock vent 106.

[0035] In embodiments where the actuator 700 is or includes a button 702, the actuator 700 can be moved from a first position to a second position, for example, by pressing the button 702, and from the second position to the first position, for example, by releasing the button 702. The actuator 700 can be formed from any suitable material (e.g., polypropylene, copolyester, copolymers sold as Eastman Tritan, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyoxymethylene (POM), or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)), glass, or metal (e.g., steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, or titanium), and can be formed as a single, unitary piece.

[0036] In some embodiments, the lid 20 includes a locking member 800 to prevent the actuator 700 from moving and thereby preventing the drinking opening 104 from opening. A user can move the locking member 800 from the unlocked position to the locked position, for example, by engaging a portion of the locking member 800 (e.g., a tab 804) and sliding the locking member 800 (e.g., about the locking axis 80 (see FIG. 1 ) when viewed from the top of the lid 20). Figure 4 ) in a counterclockwise direction of the first position). When the locking member 800 is in the locked position, the actuator 700 is prevented from moving from the first position to the second position to open the drinking opening 104. When the locking member 800 is in the unlocked position, the actuator 700 is free to move from the first position to the second position.

[0037] In some embodiments, a user can move the locking member 800 from the unlocked position or the locked position to the disassembled position, for example, by engaging a portion of the locking member 800 and sliding the locking member 800 (e.g., in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction about the locking axis 80). When the locking member 800 is in the disassembled position, the actuator 700 can be removed from the cover base 100.

[0038] The locking member 800 is movable from each of its positions, eg, the unlocked position, the locked position, and the disassembled position, to each of its other positions.

[0039] Figure 3 and Figure 4An exploded view of a drinking vessel 10 according to some embodiments is shown. As shown, the lid 20 includes a lid base 100, an actuator 700, a magnet unit 900, a locking member 800, a lid sealing member 200, a movable arm 300, a magnet unit 400, and a magnet unit 500. The drinking vessel 10 may further include a container 1000.

[0040] The lid base 100 can define a mouth 102 through which a drinking opening 104 extends. The lid base 100 can also define one or more vents 106. The vents 106 can extend between an interior 132 of the lid base 100 and an exterior 134 of the lid base 100. The lid base 100 can include a vent cover 108 such that the vents 106 are at least partially obscured from view.

[0041] The cover substrate 100 may define an actuator chamber 112. The actuator 700 may be at least partially positioned within the actuator chamber 112 and may be accessible from outside the cover substrate 100. For example, Figure 1 As shown, a portion of the actuator 700 may protrude through the opening 114 in the upper sidewall 122 of the cover base 100. The actuator 700 may be movable (e.g., slidable) within the actuator chamber 112 between a first position and a second position (e.g., by pressing and releasing the actuator 700 as a button).

[0042] In some embodiments, the actuator 700 can include a spring finger 718 that contacts a portion of the cover base 100 when the cover 20 is assembled. The spring finger 718 can help retain the actuator 700 within the actuator chamber 112 and / or reduce noise generated by the cover 20 when the actuator 700 moves relative to the cover base 100.

[0043] In some embodiments, the actuator 700 is removable from the actuator chamber 112. The actuator 700 can include a handle 716, for example, to assist in removing the actuator 700 from the actuator chamber 112.

[0044] For example, Figure 3 As shown, the actuator 700 may include a compartment 704 to receive the magnet unit 900 .

[0045] The magnet unit 900 may be or include one or more magnets. In some embodiments, the magnet unit 900 includes a housing containing one or more magnets.

[0046] The compartment 704 can be spaced apart from the contact surface of the actuator 700 (e.g., the button 702) by the central portion 706 so that the magnet unit 900 is spaced apart from the outer edge of the cover base 100 after the cover 20 is assembled. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the magnet unit 900 is spaced apart from the rear edge of the cover base 100.

[0047] In some embodiments, the magnet unit 900 is bonded to the actuator 700 by an adhesive. In some embodiments, the magnet unit 900 is bonded to the actuator 700 by other chemical bonding (e.g., welding, molding, or potting) and / or mechanical means (e.g., press fit or snap fit).

[0048] The compartment 704 can be configured such that when the magnet unit 900 is received in the compartment 704, the magnet unit 900 is located at or near the lower surface of the actuator 700. As such, the magnetic field generated by the magnet unit 900 is relatively stronger at a position just below the lower surface of the actuator 700 than the magnetic field that would be generated by the magnet unit 900 if the magnet unit 900 were located farther above the lower surface of the actuator 700.

[0049] As mentioned, in some embodiments, the cover base 100 includes a locking member 800. In embodiments including the locking member 800, the actuator 700 may include a recess 708 for receiving the locking member 800, and the locking member 800 may be movable within the recess 708 when the cover 20 is assembled. In some embodiments, the locking member 800 may be rotated within the recess 708 when the cover 20 is assembled. For example, Figure 4 As shown, the locking member 800 can be rotated about the locking member axis 80. For example, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 As shown, when the lid 20 is assembled, a portion of the locking member 800 (e.g., the tab 804) can protrude through the opening 712 in the actuator 700, allowing a user to engage the locking member 800 from the exterior of the lid 20. The user can move the locking member 800 between a plurality of positions (e.g., from a locked position to an unlocked position) by engaging the tab 804 and sliding the locking member 800 (e.g., in a clockwise direction about the locking axis 80 as viewed from the top of the lid 20).

[0050] In some embodiments, the locking member 800 can be moved between three positions: a locked position, an unlocked position, and a disassembled position. As will be discussed in more detail below, when the locking member 800 is in the locked position, the actuator 700 is prevented from moving from the first position to the second position. When the locking member 800 is in the unlocked position, the actuator 700 is free to move from the first position to the second position. When the locking member 800 is in the disassembled position, the actuator 700 can be removed from the cover base 100 (e.g., by pulling the actuator 700 out of the actuator chamber 112). In some embodiments, the locking member 800 can only be moved between two positions, e.g., a locked position and an unlocked position.

[0051] The lid base 100 may include an attachment mechanism 110 on a lower sidewall 118 of the lid base 100. The container 1000 may include a corresponding attachment mechanism 1010 near an upper edge of the container that is configured to engage with the attachment mechanism 110 to removably attach the container 1000 to the lid 20. The attachment mechanisms 110 and 1010 may be threaded connectors (e.g., Figure 3 ), friction fit connectors, snap connectors, or any other suitable releasable attachment mechanism. The attachment of the lid base 100 to the container 1000 is not limited to the arrangement shown in the figures. For example, in some embodiments, the lid base 100 can be attached to the outside of the container 1000 rather than the inside of the container 1000.

[0052] When assembled with the container 1000, the lid seal 200 can be compressed between the lid base 100 and the inner surface of the container 1000 to form a seal between the lid 20 and the container 1000. The lid seal 200 can be a removable component (e.g., a removable gasket) or can be an integrally formed part of the lid base 100 or the container 1000.

[0053] The movable arm 300 can be positioned within the interior 132 of the cover substrate 100 and movably coupled to the cover substrate 100. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the movable arm 300 is coupled to the cover substrate 100 by engagement of one or more receiving portions 126 of the cover substrate 100 with one or more engagement portions 302 of the movable arm 300.

[0054] In some embodiments, the movable arm 300 may be rotatable within the cover base 100. For example, Figure 7-8 As shown, the movable arm 300 is rotatable about a movable arm axis 30 that extends through the receiving portion 126 of the cover base 100 and the engaging portion 302 of the movable arm 300. In some embodiments, for example, Figure 4As shown, the receiving portion 126 can be circular, a channel 128 narrower than the diameter of the circular receiving portion 126 can extend downwardly from the receiving portion 126, and the engaging portion 302 can be formed as a portion of a cylinder. In such an embodiment, the movable arm 300 can be held in a vertical direction (from Figure 4 The movable arm 300 is assembled with the cover base 100 by sliding the engaging portion 302 through the channel 128 and into the receiving portion 126. The movable arm 300 can then be rotated toward a horizontal orientation (e.g., in Figure 4 ), wherein the channel 128 prevents the engaging portion 302 from sliding out of the receiving portion 126. In this way, the engaging portion 302 is securely held in the receiving portion 126.

[0055] In other embodiments, the movable arm 300 can be moved in another manner relative to the cover base 100, such as by sliding. The movable arm 300 can be formed from a food-grade material.

[0056] The movable arm 300 may include a drinking opening sealing portion 602. When the lid 20 is assembled, the drinking opening sealing portion 602 can move with the movable arm 300 so that the drinking opening sealing portion 602 seals the drinking opening 104 when the movable arm 300 is in a specific position. The movable arm 300 may include a vent sealing portion 604. When the lid 20 is assembled, the vent sealing portion 604 can move with the movable arm 300 so that the vent sealing portion 604 seals the vent 106 when the movable arm 300 is in a specific position.

[0057] The movable arm 300 can be in a sealing position relative to the cover base 100 (eg Figure 5 as shown) and the open position (as Figure 6 When the movable arm 300 is in the sealing position, the drinking opening 104 is sealed by the drinking opening sealing portion 602. For example, the drinking opening sealing portion 602 can be pressed against the surface or surrounding area of ​​the drinking opening 104 to seal the drinking opening 104. When the movable arm 300 is in the open position, the drinking opening sealing portion 602 does not seal the drinking opening 104 (e.g., allowing a user to drink from the drinking container 10 through the drinking opening 104).

[0058] In some embodiments, when the movable arm 300 is in the sealed position, the vent 106 is sealed by the vent sealing portion 604. For example, the vent sealing portion 604 can be pressed against a surface or surrounding area of ​​the vent 106 to seal the vent 106. In some embodiments, when the movable arm 300 is in the open position, the vent sealing portion 604 does not seal the vent 106 (e.g., allowing a user to vent the drinking container 10 through the vent 106).

[0059] In the illustrated embodiment, the drinking opening sealing portion 602 is formed as a membrane. However, the drinking opening sealing portion 602 can have any shape and configuration sufficient to seal the drinking opening 104. For example, in other embodiments, the drinking opening sealing portion 602 can be formed as a plug or a gasket. The drinking opening sealing portion 602 can be integrally formed as part of the movable arm 300 (e.g., by co-molding), or can be a separate component or part of a separate component attached to the movable arm 300. The drinking opening sealing portion 602 can be made of a food-grade material suitable for forming a seal between the lid base 100 and the movable arm 300.

[0060] In the illustrated embodiment, the vent seal portion 604 is formed as a membrane. However, the vent seal portion 604 can have any shape and configuration sufficient to seal the vent opening 106. For example, in other embodiments, the vent seal portion 604 can be formed as a plug or a gasket. The vent seal portion 604 can be integrally formed as part of the movable arm 300 (e.g., by co-molding), or can be a separate component attached to the movable arm 300. The vent seal portion 602 can be made of a food-grade material suitable for forming a seal between the lid base 100 and the movable arm 300.

[0061] For example, Figure 3 As shown, the movable arm 300 may include one or more compartments 306 for accommodating the magnet unit 400 and / or the magnet unit 500 .

[0062] In some embodiments, the magnet unit 300 and the magnet unit 400 are both located on the same side of a vertical plane passing through the rotation axis of the movable arm.

[0063] The magnet unit 400 may be or include one or more magnets. In some embodiments, the magnet unit 400 includes a housing containing one or more magnets. The magnet unit 500 may be or include one or more magnets. In some embodiments, the magnet unit 500 includes a housing containing one or more magnets.

[0064] The compartment 306 may be positioned in the movable arm 300 such that, after the lid 20 is assembled, the magnet unit 400 and / or the magnet unit 500 are spaced apart from the outer edge of the lid 20. The compartment 306 may be configured such that, when the magnet unit 400 and / or the magnet unit 500 is housed in the compartment 306, the magnet unit 400 and / or the magnet unit 500 is located at or near the upper surface of the movable arm 300. Thus, the magnetic field generated by the magnet unit 400 and / or the magnet unit 500 is relatively stronger at a position just above the movable arm 300, compared to the magnetic field generated by the magnet unit 400 and / or the magnet unit 500 if the magnet unit 400 and / or the magnet unit 500 were located further below the upper surface of the movable arm 300.

[0065] In some embodiments, the magnet unit 400 and / or the magnet unit 500 is bonded to the movable arm 300 by an adhesive. In some embodiments, the magnet unit 400 and / or the magnet unit 500 is bonded to the movable arm 300 by other chemical bonding (e.g., by welding, molding, or potting) and / or by mechanical means (e.g., press-fitting). In some embodiments, the movable arm 300 includes a magnet cover 308 to separate the magnet unit 400 and / or the magnet unit 500 from the interior 132 of the cover base 100 after the cover 20 is assembled. In some embodiments, the magnet cover 308 is integrally formed with the movable arm 300 (e.g., the movable arm 300 can be molded in a first molding operation, and the magnet cover 308 can be formed in a second molding operation after the magnet unit 400 and / or the magnet unit 500 are bonded to the movable arm 300).

[0066] In some embodiments, the movable arm 300 may include a noise reduction portion (eg, a portion formed of silicone) to reduce noise when the movable arm 300 moves from the sealed position to the open position, or vice versa.

[0067] In some embodiments, the movable arm 300 is removable from the cover substrate 100. The movable arm 300 may include, for example, a handle 312 to assist in removing the movable arm 300 from the cover substrate 100.

[0068] As will be discussed in greater detail below, when the actuator 700 moves between the first position and the second position (e.g., when the actuator 700 is pressed as a button), the magnet unit 900 located in the compartment 704 of the actuator 700 moves from the first position to the second position, thereby changing the magnetic field experienced by the magnet unit 400 and / or the magnet unit 500. As a result, the magnetic force on the magnet unit 400 and / or the magnet unit 500 causes the movable arm 300 coupled to the magnet unit 400 and / or the magnet unit 500 to move from a sealed position (in which the drinking opening 104 is sealed) to an open position (in which the drinking opening 104 is not sealed). Similarly, when the actuator 700 moves from the second position to the first position (e.g., when the actuator 700 is released as a button), the magnet unit 900 moves from the second position to the first position, thereby changing the magnetic field experienced by the magnet unit 400 and / or the magnet unit 500. As a result, the magnetic force on the magnet unit 400 and / or the magnet unit 500 causes the movable arm 300 to move from the open position to the sealed position. In some embodiments, the motion may be reversed (i.e., such that moving the actuator 700 from the first position to the second position causes the movable arm 300 to move from the open position to the sealed position, and such that moving the actuator 700 from the second position to the first position causes the movable arm 300 to move from the sealed position to the open position).

[0069] The movable arm 300 may not be mechanically coupled to the actuator 700. That is, moving the actuator 700 (eg, from a first position to a second position or vice versa) does not exert any mechanical force on the movable arm 300 (only magnetic forces, as described herein).

[0070] The container 1000 can be any type of container. The container 1000 can be cylindrical (e.g., Figure 1 –2) or have other exterior or interior shapes. In some embodiments, the container 1000 can be double-walled to enhance the thermal insulation properties of the container 1000. In some embodiments, the area between the double walls of the container 1000 can be hermetically sealed and at least a partial vacuum can be formed. In some embodiments, the container 1000 can be formed from stainless steel. In some embodiments, the container 1000 can be made from another food-grade material, such as a food-grade plastic (e.g., polypropylene, copolyester, a copolymer sold under the name Eastman Tritan, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyoxymethylene (POM), or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), glass, or other metals (e.g., steel, aluminum, copper, or titanium).

[0071] Figure 5-10 Detailed views of embodiments for implementing certain features described are shown. The specific structures and mechanisms shown and described (here and elsewhere in this document) may not be the only way to implement the described functions, and each element may be implemented using other shapes, structures, and appearances than those specifically shown and described.

[0072] Figure 5-6 is a cross-sectional view showing the relative positions of certain components of the cover 20 during operation. As described above, during operation, a user can move (e.g., slide) the actuator 700 from a first position to a second position (e.g., by pressing the actuator 700 like a button). Figure 5 and Figure 7 shows an assembled cross-sectional view of the upper portion of the drinking vessel 10 when the actuator 700 is in the first position, and Figure 6 and Figure 8 An assembled cross-sectional view of the upper portion of the drinking vessel 10 is shown when the actuator 700 is in the second position. Figure 5 and Figure 6 The part is in Figure 2 The V-V' line is intercepted vertically. Figure 7 and Figure 8 The score is Figure 2 The horizontal section is taken at the position of the VII-VII′ line offset relative to the top of the cover 20.

[0073] For example, Figure 5As shown, the cover base 100 includes a dividing wall 120. The dividing wall 120 is shown curved upward toward the front of the cover base 100 to partially define the mouth 102. The mouth 102 is located near the edge of the cover base 100 - offset from the center of the cover base 100 - so that it is in a comfortable position for the user when drinking from the mouth. As shown, the drinking opening 104 extends through the mouth 102. The drinking opening 104 can have a stadium-shaped cross-section at the upper portion of the mouth 102. In some embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the drinking opening 104 can change from the upper portion of the drinking opening 104 to the lower portion of the drinking opening 104. The drinking opening 104 can have a circular cross-section at the lower portion of the drinking opening 104, for example Figure 7 The lower portion of the drinking opening 104 may have other shapes, such as a stadium shape or a rectangular shape.

[0074] The lid base 100 includes a lower sidewall 118 extending downward from the underside of the partition wall 120. Together, the lower sidewall 118 and the partition wall 120 define an interior 132 of the lid base 100. When the lid 20 is assembled with the container 1000, the interior 132 of the lid base 100 is in fluid communication with the interior 1006 of the container 1000. The lid base 100 may also include an upper sidewall 122 extending upward from the upper side of the partition wall 120. In some embodiments, the upper sidewall 122 and the partition wall 120 may define a cavity 135. However, in other embodiments, the lid base 100 does not include the cavity 135. The drinking opening 104 extends through the partition wall 120 and opens into the interior 132 of the lid base 100. The vent 106 extends through the partition wall 120 and opens into both the interior 132 of the lid base 100 and the exterior 134 of the lid base 100. The vent 106 may be located on a side of the actuator chamber 112 such that the vent 106 does not interfere with the actuator 700 .

[0075] The actuator 700 can extend from the rear of the lid base 100 toward the front of the lid base 100 within the actuator chamber 112. The actuator 700 and the actuator chamber 112 can be isolated from the interior 132 of the lid base 100 and the drinking opening 104 so that a beverage carried within the container 1000 and / or consumed by a user through the drinking opening 104 does not contact the actuator 700 or the actuator chamber 112. Such isolation can be desirable, for example, so that dust or debris on the actuator 700 or in the actuator chamber 112 is less likely to contaminate the beverage within the container 1000. Isolation can also be desirable so that, for example, the actuator 700 does not become contaminated by sediment from a beverage carried within the container 1000.

[0076] The movable arm 300 may extend from the rear portion of the cover substrate 100 toward the front portion of the cover substrate 100 within the interior of the cover substrate 100. Figure 4As discussed, the movable arm 300 is movably coupled to the cover base 100 such that the movable arm 300 can rotate about the movable arm axis 30. For example, the movable arm 300 can be movably coupled to the cover base 100 at a mounting portion 124 that extends downwardly from the partition platform 120 of the cover base 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting portion 124 includes a receiving portion 126, and the movable arm 300 includes a corresponding engaging portion 306. The engaging portion 306 of the movable arm 300 is received in the receiving portion 126 of the mounting portion 124, thereby allowing the movable arm 300 to rotate about the movable arm axis 30 (see, e.g., FIG. 1 ). Figure 7 For example, the movable arm 300 can be moved from a sealed position (e.g., Figure 5 and Figure 7 ) to the open position (e.g., as shown) Figure 6 and Figure 8 In some embodiments, the movable arm 300 can move in different ways. For example, the movable arm can translate forward and backward and / or move up and down.

[0077] When the movable arm 300 is in the sealing position, e.g. Figure 5 As shown, the drinking opening 104 is sealed by a drinking opening sealing portion 602. The drinking opening sealing portion 602 is located below the drinking opening 104 and can be located on and move with the movable arm 300. In some embodiments, the drinking opening sealing portion 602 can seal the drinking opening 104 by pressing against the partition wall 120 through which the drinking opening 104 extends.

[0078] In some embodiments, when the movable arm 300 is in the sealing position, the vent 106 is sealed by the vent sealing portion 604 of the sealing member 600. The vent sealing portion 604 is located below the vent 106 and can be located on the movable arm 300 and move with the movable arm 300. In some embodiments, the vent sealing portion 604 can seal the vent 106 by pressing against the partition wall 120 through which the vent 106 extends.

[0079] In some embodiments, the movable arm 300 can be moved (eg, rotated) by applying a force (eg, a magnetic force) to the movable arm 300. Figure 5-6 In the embodiment, applying a downward force (relative to the axis 30) to the front of the movable arm 300 can move the movable arm 300 away from the sealing position in a first rotational direction, while applying an upward force (relative to the axis 30) to the front of the movable arm 300 can move the movable arm toward the sealing position in a second rotational direction.

[0080] As described above, in some embodiments, the magnet unit 900 is positioned in the compartment 704 of the actuator 700, and the magnet unit 400 and / or the magnet unit 500 is positioned in the compartment 306 of the movable arm 300. In some embodiments, the positions of the magnet unit 900 and the magnet unit 400 and / or the magnet unit 500 may be reversed. That is, the magnet unit 900 may be coupled to the movable arm 300, and the magnet unit 400 and / or the magnet unit 500 may be coupled to the actuator 700.

[0081] In the illustrated embodiment, the magnet unit 900 is arranged such that the north pole (labeled "N") of the magnet unit 900 is located on the bottom surface of the actuator 700, the magnet unit 400 is arranged such that the north pole (labeled "N") of the magnet unit 400 is located on the top surface of the movable arm 300, and the magnet unit 500 is arranged such that the south pole (labeled "S") of the magnet unit 500 is located on the top surface of the movable arm 300. However, each arrangement can be reversed to achieve the desired magnetic interaction. That is, the magnet unit 900 can be arranged such that the south pole of the magnet unit 900 is located on the bottom surface of the actuator 700, the magnet unit 400 can be arranged such that the south pole of the magnet unit 400 is located on the top surface of the movable arm 300, and / or the magnet unit 500 can be arranged such that the north pole of the magnet unit 500 is located on the top surface of the movable arm 300.

[0082] For example, Figure 5 As shown, when the actuator 700 is in the first position, the magnet unit 500 coupled to the movable arm 300 can interact with the magnet unit 900 coupled to the actuator 700. For example, the magnet unit 500 can be attracted to the magnet unit 900. In the illustrated embodiment, the magnet unit 900 and the magnet unit 500 are arranged such that when the actuator 700 is in the first position, the north pole of the magnet unit 900 faces the south pole of the magnet 500. As a result, when the actuator 700 is in the first position, the magnet unit 900 exerts an upward force on the front of the movable arm 300, thereby pulling the movable arm in the first rotational direction and maintaining the movable arm 300 in the sealed position.

[0083] exist Figure 6 , the actuator 700 has moved from the first position to the second position (e.g., by pushing the button 702 toward the front of the drinking vessel 10). Figure 6 , the actuator 700 has moved a short distance between the first position and the second position. However, the actuator 700 can be configured to translate more or less than shown. For example, Figure 6As shown, when the actuator 700 is in the second position, the magnet unit 400 coupled to the movable arm 300 can interact with the magnet unit 900 coupled to the actuator 700. For example, the magnet unit 400 can be repelled by the magnet unit 900. In the illustrated embodiment, the magnet unit 900 and the magnet unit 400 are arranged such that when the actuator 700 is in the second position, the north pole of the magnet unit 900 faces the north pole of the magnet unit 400. As a result, when the actuator 700 is in the second position, the magnet unit 900 applies a downward force on the front of the movable arm 300, thereby pushing the movable arm in the second rotational direction and maintaining the movable arm 300 in the open position.

[0084] In the illustrated embodiment, the magnet unit 400 and the magnet unit 500 are provided on the movable arm 300, thereby enabling the actuator 700 to maintain the movable arm 300 in either the sealed position or the open position depending on the position of the actuator 700. However, in some embodiments, only one of the magnet unit 400 or the magnet unit 500 is provided on the movable arm 300. In such embodiments, the magnet unit 900 coupled to the actuator 700 can maintain the movable arm 300 in only one of the sealed position or the open position. In some such embodiments, a biasing member can bias the movable arm 300 toward the other position.

[0085] For example, Figure 5-6 As shown, when a force (given by Figure 6 70 is applied to the actuator 700 in a direction generally toward the front of the container 10, and the actuator 700 and the coupled magnet unit 900 move toward the front of the container 10. As the magnet unit 900 moves toward the front of the container 10, the magnetic force on the magnet unit 400 changes. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, as the magnet unit 900 moves toward the front of the container 10, the magnet unit 400 may experience an increasing repulsive force, thereby causing the movable arm 300 to move toward the open position along the second rotational direction. The force represented by the arrow 70 can be applied, for example, by a user pushing a contact surface (e.g., button 702) of the actuator 700.

[0086] In some embodiments, for example, Figure 5-6 As shown, the biasing force can bias the actuator 700 toward the first position (e.g., along Figure 5 75) such that the actuator 700 automatically moves to the first position when the force holding the actuator in the second position is removed (eg, when the force applied by the user to the button 702 is removed).

[0087] In some embodiments, the magnetic interaction between the magnet unit 900 coupled to the actuator 700 and the magnet unit 500 coupled to the movable arm 300 can bias the actuator 700 toward the first position. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the actuator 700 is biased by the magnet unit 500 to return to (or remain in) the first position. For example, Figure 6 As shown, when the actuator 700 is in the second position, the magnet unit 900 interacts with both the magnet unit 400 and the magnet unit 500. Due to the relative strengths and positioning of the magnet units 900, 400, and 500, in the absence of a force holding the actuator 700 in the second position, the magnet unit 900 will move toward the magnet unit 500. However, because the actuator 700 is only free to translate, the magnet 900, along with the actuator 700, will translate toward the rear of the container 10.

[0088] In other embodiments, the actuator 700 can be biased to return to (or remain in) the first position by a physical component, such as a compression spring or elastic material that pushes the actuator 700 to the first position. In some embodiments, the actuator 700 can be biased toward the second position rather than the first position.

[0089] In some embodiments, a user can apply a force to a portion of the actuator 700 to move (e.g., translate) the actuator 700. Typically, the force applied by the user can overcome a biasing force (e.g., a user-applied force to move the actuator 700 from a first position to a second position can overcome a biasing force that biases the actuator 700 toward the first position).

[0090] As mentioned, in some embodiments, the biasing force can move the actuator 700 from the second position to the first position (e.g., in the direction of arrow 75 generally toward the rear of the container 10). In other embodiments, a force applied by the user can move the actuator 700 from the second position to the first position (e.g., in the direction of arrow 75 generally toward the rear of the container 10). For example, Figure 5-6 As shown, when the actuator 700 moves in a direction generally toward the rear of the container 10, the actuator 700 and the coupled magnet unit 900 move toward the rear of the container 10. As the magnet unit 900 moves toward the rear of the container 10, the magnetic force on the magnet unit 500 changes. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, as the magnet unit 900 moves toward the rear of the container 10, the magnet unit 500 may experience an increasing attractive force, thereby causing the movable arm 300 to move in the first rotational direction toward the sealing position.

[0091] In some embodiments, the movable arm 300 is biased toward a biased position, which can be one of a sealing position or an open position. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the movable arm 300 is biased toward the sealing position. That is, in the absence of mechanical forces on components of the lid 20, the movable arm 300 will return to (or remain in) the sealing position. In embodiments where the movable arm 300 is biased toward the biased position, moving the actuator 700 can cause a magnetic interaction that overcomes the bias. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, when the movable arm 300 is in its biased position (i.e., the sealing position), moving the actuator 700 from the first position to the second position causes the magnet unit 900 to interact with the magnet unit 400, as described above, so that the bias of the movable arm 300 can be overcome and the movable arm 300 moves to the open position.

[0092] In some cases, pressure may build up inside the drinking container 10, such as when the drinking container 10 is used to carry hot beverages. If a user attempts to open the drinking opening 104 and / or the vent 106 by moving the actuator 700 to the second position to move the movable arm 300 to the open position, and if the pressure inside the drinking container is sufficiently high, the movable arm 300 may not rotate to the open position. The user can then remove or loosen the lid 20 from the container 1000 to release the built-up pressure. In this way, the magnetic sealing mechanism helps reduce the possibility of unwanted pressure release through a small opening.

[0093] As previously mentioned, there may be times when a user wishes to keep the container 1000 sealed. For example, a user may wish to keep the container 1000 sealed so that the beverage carried within the container 1000 does not leak onto the user or the user's belongings when the drinking container 10 is placed in a user's backpack or other bag (where the drinking container 10 may encounter forces from other items in the user's bag, or may change orientation). In such a case (as in other cases), the user may be able to place the container 1000 into a locked configuration in which the actuator 700 is inhibited from moving to the second position, thereby inhibiting the actuator 700 from causing the movable arm 300 to rotate to the open position. This locked configuration is Figure 9 and described in more detail below. Figure 9 and Figure 10 The relative positions of the lid base 100, the actuator 700, the locking member 800, and portions of the other components of the lid 20 are shown when the lid 20 is in two operating states; the two states include a locked configuration in which the actuator 700 is in a first position ( Figure 9 ), and the unlocked configuration in which the actuator 700 is in the first position ( Figure 10 In some embodiments, the cover 20 may have a removable configuration. Figure 9 and Figure 10 The part is in Figure 2The horizontal section is taken at the position of the IX-IX' line offset relative to the top of the cover 20.

[0094] As discussed, the cover substrate 100 can define an actuator chamber 112 in which the actuator 700 and the locking member 800 are located. Figure 4 As shown, the locking member 800 may have a post 808 extending from a lower portion of the locking member 800. For example, Figure 3 As shown, the bottom of the actuator chamber 112 may include a recess 117 , a compartment 115 , and a channel 116 .

[0095] When the lid 20 is in the locked configuration, e.g. Figure 9 As shown, the post 808 is received in the compartment 115. When a force is applied to the actuator 700 in a direction generally toward the front of the container 10, the compartment 115 interferes with the post 808, thereby preventing the actuator 700 from moving to the second position.

[0096] When the lid 20 is in the disassembled configuration, the post 808 is received in the recess 117 and aligned with the channel 116. When a force is applied to the actuator 700 in a direction generally toward the rear of the container 10, the post 808 slides through the channel 116 and out of the actuator chamber 112. As a result, the locking member 800 and the actuator 700 can be removed from the actuator chamber 112 of the lid base 100. For example, it may be desirable to remove the actuator 700 and the locking member 800 from the lid base 100 so that the user can thoroughly clean the drinking container 10.

[0097] When the lid 20 is in the unlocked configuration, e.g. Figure 10 As shown, the post 808 is received in the recess 117. When a force is applied to the button 702 in a direction generally toward the front of the container 10, the post 808 does not generally interfere with the edge of the recess 117. Thus, the actuator 700 can move from the first position to the second position.

[0098] The locking member 800 can be moved from each of its three positions—the unlocked position, the locked position, and the disassembled position—to each of its other positions, for example, by engaging a portion of the locking member 800 (e.g., the tab 804) and sliding the locking member (e.g., in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction about the locking axis 80). In the illustrated embodiment, when the locking member 800 is in its most counterclockwise position relative to the actuator 700 as viewed from the top of the lid 20, the lid 20 is in the locked position; when the locking member 800 is in its most clockwise position relative to the actuator 700 as viewed from the top of the lid 20, the lid 20 is in the unlocked position; and when the locking member 800 is in an intermediate position relative to the actuator 700, the lid 20 is in the disassembled position. However, the unlocked position, the locked position, and the disassembled position can be provided at different relative positions of the locking member 800 and the actuator 700.

[0099] In some embodiments, the actuator 700 may include one or more notches 714 on the inner surface, and the locking member 800 may include a bump 806 on the outer surface. The bump 806 may interact with (e.g., be received by) the notch 716 to help maintain the locking member 800 in the locked, unlocked, or disassembled position, as appropriate, and may provide feedback to the user during use. For example, when the user moves the locking member 800 to the locked position, the user may hear a click or feel tactile feedback when the locking member 800 reaches the locked position (e.g., due to the bump 806 being received by the notch 716). In some embodiments, the positions of the bump 806 and the notch 716 may be reversed (i.e., such that the actuator 700 includes the bump and the locking member 800 includes the corresponding notch).

[0100] It should be understood that the Detailed Description section, and not the Summary and Abstract sections, is intended to be used to interpret the claims. The Summary and Abstract sections may describe one or more, but not all, exemplary embodiments of the disclosed inventions as contemplated by the inventors, and thus, are not intended to limit the disclosed inventions and the appended claims in any way.

[0101] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will fully reveal the generality of the claimed invention so that others can easily modify and / or adjust these specific embodiments for various applications by applying knowledge within the scope of the art without excessive experimentation, without departing from the general concept of the claimed invention. Therefore, based on the teachings and guidance presented herein, such adjustments and modifications are intended to fall within the meaning and scope of the equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It should be understood that the terms or terminology herein are for the purpose of description rather than limitation, so that the terms or terminology of this specification will be interpreted by those skilled in the art based on teaching and guidance.

[0102] The breadth and scope of the claimed invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A lid for a drinking container, the lid comprising: a lid base defining a drinking opening therethrough; a movable arm coupled to the cover base and located inside the cover base; a first magnet unit coupled to the movable arm; an actuator accessible from the exterior of the cover base; as well as a second magnet unit coupled to the actuator, characterised in that the movable arm is movable between a sealing position in which the drinking opening is sealed and an open position in which the drinking opening is not sealed, wherein the movable arm is biased toward a biased position, the biased position being one of a sealed position or an open position; wherein the actuator is movable between a first position and a second position, and When the actuator moves to the second position, the magnetic repulsion between the first magnet unit and the second magnet unit overcomes the bias of the movable arm and causes the movable arm to move away from the biased position.

2. The cover according to claim 1, wherein The movable arm is held away from the biased position when the actuator is in the second position, and automatically returns to the biased position when the actuator is moved from the second position.

3. The cover according to claim 2, wherein When the actuator is in the second position, the magnetic repulsion force between the first magnet unit and the second magnet unit holds the movable arm away from the biased position.

4. The cover according to claim 1, wherein The actuator translates to move to and from the second position, and wherein the movable arm rotates to move between the sealing position and the open position.

5. The cover according to claim 4, wherein The drinking opening is located at the front of the lid, and The actuator translates horizontally toward the front of the cover to move between the first position and the second position.

6. The cover according to claim 1, wherein The drinking opening is located at the front of the lid, and The actuator can be moved to the second position by pressing a portion of the actuator located at the rear of the cover.

7. The cover according to claim 1, wherein The actuator is biased toward the first position such that upon removal of a force holding the actuator in the second position, the actuator automatically moves from the second position to the first position.

8. The cover according to claim 1, wherein The cover substrate defines an actuator chamber, and the actuator is at least partially positioned within the actuator chamber.

9. The cover according to claim 1, wherein The drinking opening extends between a lower volume and an upper volume of the lid base, and The actuator is isolated from the lower volume and the upper volume of the cover substrate.

10. The cover according to claim 1, wherein the cover base defining a vent therethrough, wherein, when the movable arm is in the sealing position, the vent is sealed, and Wherein, when the movable arm is in the open position, the vent is not sealed.

11. The cover according to claim 1, wherein The movable arm is not mechanically connected to the actuator.

12. The cover according to claim 1, wherein The biased position is a sealing position.

13. A drinking container comprising: The cover as claimed in claim 1; as well as A container, wherein the lid is configured to be attached to the container to enclose an interior volume of the container.

14. The drinking container according to claim 13, wherein When the lid is attached to the container, the movable arm is located within the interior volume of the container and the actuator is located outside the interior volume of the container.

15. A method for sealing and opening a drinking opening of a drinking container, comprising: moving an actuator accessible from an exterior of the lid base from a first position to a second position, wherein moving the actuator from the first position to the second position changes a magnetic force on a movable arm within the lid, thereby moving the movable arm due to one of magnetic attraction or magnetic repulsion to open a drinking opening of the lid base; as well as moving the actuator from the second position to the first position, wherein moving the actuator from the second position to the first position changes the magnetic force on the movable arm, thereby moving the movable arm to seal the drinking opening due to the other of magnetic attraction or magnetic repulsion; wherein moving the actuator from the first position to the second position comprises pressing the actuator, and wherein moving the actuator from the second position to the first position occurs automatically upon releasing the actuator.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein A magnetic interaction between a first magnet unit coupled to the actuator and a second magnet unit coupled to the movable arm changes the magnetic force on the movable arm.

17. The method according to claim 15, wherein Moving the movable arm to seal the drinking opening includes rotating the movable arm about an axis in a first rotational direction, and wherein moving the movable arm to open the drinking opening includes rotating the movable arm about the axis in a second rotational direction.

18. The method according to claim 15, wherein The drinking opening extends between a lower volume and an upper volume of the lid base, wherein the movable arm is located in the lower volume of the cover base, wherein the actuator is located between the lower volume and the upper volume of the cover base, and Wherein, the actuator is isolated from the lower volume and the upper volume of the cover substrate.

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