Beverage container lid with magnetic sealing mechanism

Abstract

A lid for a container includes a lid body, a movable arm, a first magnet unit coupled to the movable arm, an actuator, and a second magnet unit coupled to the actuator. The actuator is movable between a first position and a second position. The movable arm is movable between a sealed position, in which the drink opening of the lid is sealed, and an open position, in which the drink opening is not sealed. When the actuator is in the first position, at least one of a biasing force and a magnetic attraction force between the first magnet unit and the second magnet unit holds the movable arm in the sealed position. When the actuator moves toward the second position, a magnetic repulsive force between the first magnet unit and the second magnet unit moves the movable arm toward the open position.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 360,531, filed July 27, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to containers for beverages. More specifically, some embodiments relate to beverage container lids with sealing mechanisms. Background Technology

[0004] It may be desirable for a beverage container to have a sealed position and an open position, in which the drinking opening of the beverage container is sealed and in which the drinking opening is not sealed. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Some embodiments disclosed herein relate to a lid for a container, comprising a lid body, a movable arm, a first magnetic unit coupled to the movable arm, an actuator accessible from the outside of the lid body, and a second magnetic unit coupled to the actuator. The lid body may define a drinking opening therethrough. The movable arm may be coupled to the lid body and located inside the lid body. The movable arm is movable between a sealed position and an open position, in which the drinking opening is sealed and in the open position, the drinking opening is unsealed. The actuator is movable between a first position and a second position. When the actuator is in the first position, at least one of a biasing force and a magnetic attraction force between the first and second magnetic units can hold the movable arm in the sealed position. When the actuator moves toward the second position, a magnetic repulsion force between the first and second magnetic units can move the movable arm toward the open position.

[0006] Some embodiments disclosed herein relate to a lid for a container, comprising a lid body, a movable arm, a first magnetic unit coupled to the movable arm, an actuator accessible from the outside of the lid body, and a second magnetic unit coupled to the actuator. The lid body may define a drinking opening and a venting opening therethrough. The movable arm may be coupled to the lid body and located inside the lid body. The movable arm is movable between a sealed position, a venting position, and an open position. The actuator is movable between a first position and a second position. When the movable arm is in the sealed position, the venting opening and the drinking opening may be sealed. When the movable arm is in the venting position, the venting opening may not be sealed, while the drinking opening may be sealed. When the movable arm is in the open position, the venting opening and the drinking opening may not be sealed. In response to the actuator moving from the first position to the second position, the magnetic force between the first and second magnetic units causes the movable arm to move from the sealed position to the venting position and then to the open position.

[0007] Some embodiments disclosed herein relate to a lid for a container, comprising a lid body, a movable arm, a first magnetic unit coupled to the movable arm, an actuator accessible from the outside of the lid body, and a second magnetic unit coupled to the actuator. The lid body may define a drinking opening therethrough. The movable arm may be coupled to the lid body and located inside the lid body. The movable arm is movable between a sealed position, in which the drinking opening is sealed, and in an open position, the drinking opening is unsealed. The actuator may slide linearly along a travel axis from a first position to a second position. When the actuator moves toward the second position, a force between the first and second magnetic units may move the movable arm away from the sealed position. At least one of the first and second magnetic units may be angled relative to the travel axis.

[0008] Brief description of the attached figures

[0009] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form part of the specification, illustrate the present disclosure and, together with the specification, further serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure and enable those skilled in the art to make and use the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the upper rear part of the container is shown.

[0011] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 The rear view of the container.

[0012] Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 An exploded rear three-dimensional view of a portion of the container.

[0013] Figure 4 It shows Figure 1 A partial exploded front perspective view of a container.

[0014] Figure 5 It shows in Figure 2 The line V-V' was intercepted at that position. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a container, wherein the actuator of the container is in a first position and the movable arm of the container is in a sealed position.

[0015] Figure 6 It shows in Figure 2 The line V-V' was intercepted at that position. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a container, wherein the actuator of the container is in the second position and the movable arm of the container is in the ventilated position.

[0016] Figure 7 It shows in Figure 2 The line V-V' was intercepted at that position. Figure 1A cross-sectional view of a portion of a container, wherein the actuator of the container is in the second position and the movable arm of the container is in the open position.

[0017] Figure 8 It shows in Figure 2 The line V-V' was intercepted at that position. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the container, in which the container's actuator has been removed and the container's movable arm is in the cleaning position.

[0018] Figure 9 It shows in Figure 2 The line IX-IX' was intercepted at position IX-IX. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a container, wherein the container's locking member is in the locked position.

[0019] Figure 10 It shows in Figure 2 The line IX-IX' was intercepted at position IX-IX. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a container, wherein the locking member of the container is in the unlocked position.

[0020] Figure 11 It shows in Figure 2 The line IX-IX' was intercepted at position IX-IX. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the container, with the container's locking mechanism in the disassembled position. Detailed Implementation

[0021] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of this disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that embodiments including structures, systems, and methods can be practiced without these specific details. The descriptions and illustrations herein conform to the standards used by those experienced or skilled in the art to most effectively convey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art. In some instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, and elements have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring various aspects of this disclosure.

[0022] The description of an embodiment, including terms such as "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "exemplary embodiment," and "some embodiments," may include specific features, structures, or characteristics, but each embodiment may not necessarily include that specific feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Moreover, this disclosure is designed so that when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, a person skilled in the art will understand that the feature, structure, or characteristic is applicable in conjunction with other embodiments, whether explicitly described or not.

[0023] The following examples are illustrative and not limiting of this disclosure. Other suitable modifications and adjustments to various conditions and parameters commonly encountered in the art and which will be apparent to those skilled in the art are within the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0024] People use reusable beverage containers to hold a variety of drinks. It is generally desirable for beverage containers to have a sealing mechanism to seal the drinking opening when the user is not drinking from it. A sealed drinking opening can, for example, allow the user to carry the beverage container without worrying about the beverage spilling onto the user or their belongings. A sealed drinking opening can also, for example, allow the beverage to maintain a desired temperature. Users may prefer beverage containers that can be easily sealed and unsealed so that they can easily drink from the container.

[0025] It may also be desirable for beverage containers to have relatively few parts that come into contact with the beverage contained in or consumed through the beverage container. This may be desirable, for example, so that dirt or debris on certain parts will not contaminate the beverage inside the container, or so that the user needs to clean (e.g., remove beverage deposits from the parts) relatively few parts.

[0026] Some embodiments of this disclosure provide a lid for a beverage container that can be used to easily seal and unseal the drinking opening. Several components are isolated from the internal volume of the container such that beverages contained inside the container or consumed through the container do not come into contact with these components. The lid includes a movable arm that moves in response to magnetic force to seal and unseal the drinking opening. The lid also includes an actuator (e.g., a button) accessible from the outside of the lid. One magnetic unit is located on the movable arm, and another magnetic unit is located on the actuator. In some embodiments, when the actuator is in the unpressed position, a biasing force (e.g., provided by a spring) and a magnetic attraction between the magnetic units on the actuator and the magnetic units on the movable arm collectively hold the movable arm in a sealed position. When the actuator is pressed, the magnetic repulsion between the magnetic units on the actuator and the magnetic units on the movable arm overcomes the spring force and moves the movable arm toward an open position.

[0027] In some implementations, when the user releases the actuator, the actuator moves toward its original unpressed position due to one or both of a biasing force (e.g., provided directly by a spring or other elastic element) or a repulsive force between a magnet unit on the actuator and a magnet unit on the movable arm. The resulting movement of the magnet unit on the actuator reduces the magnetic force acting on the movable arm, thereby allowing the biasing force to return the movable arm to the sealed position.

[0028] In some embodiments, the cap includes a separately sealed drinking opening and a venting opening. When the actuator is pressed, the venting opening is unsealed before the drinking opening, which avoids or reduces venting of the container through the drinking opening. In some embodiments, a movable arm facilitates this venting feature. In such embodiments, the movable arm is movable between a sealed position (where both the drinking and venting openings are sealed), a venting position (where the venting opening is not sealed and the drinking opening is sealed), and an open position (where neither the venting nor the drinking opening is sealed). When the actuator is pressed, a magnetic force (e.g., magnetic repulsion) between a first magnetic unit on the actuator and a second magnetic unit on the movable arm causes the movable arm to move from the sealed position to the venting position and then to the open position. In some embodiments, the user can switch the cap between a venting mode (where only the venting opening is not sealed) and a drinking mode (where neither the venting nor the drinking opening is sealed) without moving the actuator. More precisely, as will be described, the lid automatically changes from ventilation mode to drinking mode when the actuator is held in the same position.

[0029] In some implementations, the actuator slides linearly along the travel axis as it moves from the unpressed position to the pressed position, and one (or both) of the magnet units are angled relative to the travel axis. Compared to caps with similar features but without angled magnet units, caps with angled magnet units allow for a smoother transition of the movable arm from the sealed position to the open position. Users may prefer a smooth transition to a more abrupt one, and a smooth transition can reduce noise associated with releasing the drinking opening seal, or it can reduce liquid splashing from the drinking opening of the cap.

[0030] In some implementations, the actuator can be locked so that the drinking opening cannot be accidentally unsealed.

[0031] These and other implementation schemes are discussed in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0032] Figures 1 to 2 A container 10 according to some embodiments is shown. Container 10 may include a vessel 1000 and a lid 20 for the vessel 1000. Lid 20 may include multiple components, including a lid body 100 and an actuator 700. Container 10 may be, for example, a container for drinking beverages from a beverage container.

[0033] The lid 100 may include a drinking opening 104 through which a user can drink beverages contained in the vessel 1000 when the lid 20 is assembled with the vessel 1000. The lid 100 may also include a venting opening 106 through which the internal volume of the vessel 1000 can be vented when the lid 20 is assembled with the vessel 1000. The lid 100 may be formed of food-grade plastics (e.g., polypropylene, copolyester, copolymers sold as Eastman Tritan, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyoxymethylene (POM), or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)) or metals (e.g., steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, or titanium) and may be formed as a single, integral piece.

[0034] The lid 20 can form a seal when assembled with the vessel 1000. The term "seal" as used herein and elsewhere does not necessarily require a perfect airtight seal; rather, a seal that prevents the passage of liquid fluid is sufficient. The drinking opening 104 and the vent opening 106 may be the only openings extending through the lid 100 to the vessel 1000, and in some configurations, the drinking opening 104 and the vent opening 106 may be sealed together or separately, as will be discussed in more detail below.

[0035] The actuator 700 is accessible from the outside of the cover 100. The actuator 700 may be, or include, for example, a button 702 (such as...). Figure 1 (as shown), a switch, lever, or other suitable mechanical mechanism. The actuator 700 is movable between a first position and a second position to seal or unseal the drinking opening 104, as will be discussed in more detail below. Additionally or alternatively, the actuator 700 is movable between a first position and a second position to seal or unseal the vent opening 106.

[0036] In embodiments where actuator 700 is or includes button 702, actuator 700 can be moved from a first position to a second position, for example, by pressing button 702, and from the second position to the first position, for example, by releasing button 702. 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 integral piece.

[0037] In some embodiments, the lid 20 includes a locking member 800 to prevent movement of the actuator 700, thereby preventing the opening of the drinking opening 104. A user can, for example, engage a portion of the locking member 800 (e.g., a protrusion 804) and slide the locking member 800 (e.g., viewed from the top of the lid 20, around the locking axis 80 (see...) Figure 9 The locking member 800 is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position in a counterclockwise direction. 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 release the seal of 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.

[0038] In some implementations, the user can move the locking member 800 from the unlocked or locked position to the detached 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 around the locking axis 80). When the locking member 800 is in the detached position, the actuator 700 can be removed from the cover 100.

[0039] The locking member 800 can be moved from each of its positions (e.g., unlocked position, locked position, and detached position) to each of its other positions.

[0040] Figure 3 and Figure 4 An exploded view of a container 10 according to some embodiments is shown. As shown, the lid 20 includes a lid body 100, an actuator 700, a magnet unit 500, a locking member 800, a lid sealing member 200, a movable arm 300, a magnet unit 400, a sealing arm 900, a cam 600, and a spring 650. The container 10 may also include a vessel 1000.

[0041] The lid 100 may define a spout 102, and a drinking opening 104 may extend through the spout 102. The spout 102 may define one or more drinking openings 104. The lid 100 may also define one or more vent openings 106. The vent opening 106 may extend between the interior 132 of the lid 100 and the atmosphere outside the lid 100, or between the interior 132 of the lid 100 and a portion of the lid 100 that opens to the atmosphere outside the lid 100.

[0042] The cover 100 may define an actuator chamber 112. The actuator 700 may be at least partially located within the actuator chamber 112 and accessible from the outside of the cover 100. For example, as Figure 1 As shown, a portion of the actuator 700 may protrude through an opening 114 in the upper sidewall 122 of the cover 100. The actuator 700 may move (e.g., slide) 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).

[0043] In some embodiments, when the cover 20 is assembled, the actuator 700 may include a spring finger 718 that contacts a portion of the cover 100. The spring finger 718 may 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 100.

[0044] In some implementations, the actuator 700 may be removed from the actuator chamber 112. The actuator 700 may include, for example, a gripping portion 716 to assist in removing the actuator 700 from the actuator chamber 112.

[0045] For example Figure 3 As shown, the actuator 700 may include a compartment 704 for receiving the magnet unit 500.

[0046] The magnet unit 500 may be or include one or more magnets with aligned magnetic poles, which together perform the same function as a single magnet. In some embodiments, the magnet unit 500 includes a housing containing one or more magnets.

[0047] The compartment 704 can be spaced a distance from the contact surface of the actuator 700 (e.g., button 702) via its central portion 706, such that when the cover 20 is assembled, the magnet unit 500 is spaced apart from the outer edge of the cover 100. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the magnet unit 500 is spaced apart from the rear edge of the cover 100. In some embodiments, the compartment 704 is horizontally spaced from the outer edge (e.g., the rear edge) of the cover 100. In some embodiments, the compartment 704 is spaced apart from the outer edge (e.g., the rear edge) of the cover 100 in the direction of travel of the actuator 700. In some embodiments, the compartment 704 is spaced apart from the rear edge of the cover 100 by more than half the diameter of the cover 100.

[0048] In some embodiments, the magnet unit 500 is connected to the actuator 700 by an adhesive. In some embodiments, the magnet unit 500 is connected to the actuator 700 by other chemical bonding methods (e.g., by welding, molding, or potting) and / or mechanical methods (e.g., press-fit or snap-fit).

[0049] The compartment 704 can be configured such that when the magnet unit 500 is received in the compartment 704, the magnet unit 500 is at or near the lower surface of the actuator 700. In this way, the magnetic field generated by the magnet unit 500 at a position directly below the lower surface of the actuator 700 will be relatively stronger than if the magnet unit 500 were further positioned above the lower surface of the actuator 700.

[0050] As mentioned, in some embodiments, the cover 100 includes a locking member 800. The locking member 800 is optional; the cover 20 need not include a lock in all embodiments. In some embodiments, the cover 20 does not include a lock. In embodiments that include the locking member 800, the actuator 700 may include a recess 708 for receiving the locking member 800, and the locking member 800 may move within the recess 708 when the cover 20 is assembled. In some embodiments, the locking member 800 may rotate within the recess 708 when the cover 20 is assembled. For example, as... Figure 9 As shown, the locking member 800 can rotate about the locking member axis 80. For example, Figure 1 As shown, when the cover 20 is assembled, a portion of the locking member 800 (e.g., protrusion 804) can protrude through the opening 712 in the actuator 700 so that a user can engage the locking member 800 from the outside of the cover 20. The user can move the locking member 800 between various positions (e.g., from the locked position to the unlocked position) by engaging the protrusion 804 and sliding the locking member 800 (e.g., in a clockwise direction about the locking axis 80 when viewed from the top of the cover 20).

[0051] In some embodiments, the locking member 800 is movable between three positions (locked position, unlocked position, and dismounted 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 dismounted position, the actuator 700 can be removed from the cover 100 (e.g., by pulling the actuator 700 out of the actuator chamber 112). In some embodiments, the locking member 800 is movable only between two positions, such as the locked position and the unlocked position.

[0052] The lid 100 may include an attachment mechanism 110 on the lower sidewall 118 of the lid 100. The vessel 1000 may include a corresponding attachment mechanism 1010 near its upper edge, configured to engage with the attachment mechanism 110 to removably attach the vessel 1000 to the lid 20. The attachment mechanisms 110 and 1010 may be threaded connections (such as… Figure 3 (as shown), friction-fitting connectors, snap-fitting connectors, or any other suitable releasable attachment mechanism. The attachment of the lid 100 to the vessel 1000 is not limited to the arrangement shown in the figures. For example, in some embodiments, the lid 100 may be attached above the vessel 1000 rather than inside the vessel 1000.

[0053] When assembled with the vessel 1000, the lid sealing member 200 can be pressed between the lid body 200 and the inner surface of the vessel 1000 to form a seal between the lid 20 and the vessel 1000. The lid sealing member 200 can be a removable part (e.g., a removable gasket) or can be an integral part of the lid body 100 or the vessel 1000.

[0054] The movable arm 300 can be positioned inside 132 of the cover 100 and movably coupled to the cover 100. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the movable arm 300 is coupled to the cover 100 by engagement of one or more receiving portions 126 of the cover 100 and one or more engaging portions 302 of the movable arm 300.

[0055] In some embodiments, the movable arm 300 can rotate within the cover 100. For example, as... Figures 5 to 8 As shown, the movable arm 300 can rotate about the movable arm axis 30, which extends through the receiving portion 126 of the cover 100 and the engaging portion 302 of the movable arm 300.

[0056] In other embodiments, the movable arm 300 can move relative to the lid 100 in another manner, such as by sliding. However, a rotatable movable arm can allow for a tighter seal of the vent opening 106 or the drinking opening 104 compared to a sliding movable arm 300. The movable arm 300 can be formed of a food-grade material.

[0057] The movable arm 300 may include a vent sealing portion 304. When the cover 20 is assembled, the vent sealing portion 304 can move together with the movable arm 300 such that when the movable arm 300 is in certain positions, the vent sealing portion 304 seals the vent opening 106.

[0058] In the illustrated embodiment, the vent seal portion 304 is formed as a partition. However, the vent seal portion 304 can have any shape and configuration sufficient to seal the vent opening 106. For example, in other embodiments, the vent seal portion 304 can be formed as a plug or a gasket. The vent seal portion 304 can be integrally formed as part of the movable arm 300 (e.g., by co-molding), or it can be a separate component attached to the movable arm 300. The vent seal portion 304 can be formed of a food-grade material suitable for forming a seal between the cover 100 and the movable arm 300.

[0059] The sealing arm 900 can be positioned within the interior 132 of the cover 100 and movably coupled to the movable arm 300. In the illustrated embodiment, the sealing arm 900 is coupled to the movable arm 300 via engagement of one or more pins 904 of the sealing arm 900 and one or more slots 310 of the movable arm 300. In some embodiments, the sealing arm 900 is movable relative to the movable arm 300 (e.g., pivotable, slidable, or a combination thereof). For example, as... Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the pin 904 of the sealing arm 900 can slide within the slot 310 of the movable arm 300, thereby allowing the sealing arm 900 to slide relative to the movable arm 300 (e.g., generally upward or generally downward). Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the pin 904 of the sealing arm 900 can pivot within the slot 310 of the movable arm 300, thereby allowing the sealing arm 900 to pivot relative to the movable arm 300. In some embodiments, the pin 904 has a circular cross-section, and the slot 310 has an elongated stadium shape. This can, for example, contribute to the ability of the sealing arm 900 to slide and pivot relative to the movable arm 300 as described above.

[0060] The sealing arm 900 is movable between a sealed position and an open position. In the sealed position, the sealing arm 900 seals the drinking opening 104; in the open position, the sealing arm 900 does not seal the drinking opening 104. In some embodiments, the sealing arm 900 includes a drinking opening sealing portion 902 to seal the drinking opening 104 when in the sealed position. Figure 5 As shown, when the cap 20 is assembled, the sealing arm 900 can extend upward into the drinking opening 104 of the cap body 100. The drinking opening 104 can be, for example, an elongated drinking opening 104, thereby forming a channel. The drinking opening sealing portion 902 can move together with the sealing arm 900 such that when the sealing arm 900 is in certain positions, the drinking opening sealing portion 902 seals the drinking opening 104.

[0061] In the illustrated embodiment, the drinking opening sealing portion 902 is formed as a partition or flange that forms a sealing surface around its outer periphery. However, the drinking opening sealing portion 902 can have any shape and configuration sufficient to seal the drinking opening 104. For example, in other embodiments, the drinking opening sealing portion 902 can be formed as a stopper, partition, or gasket. The drinking opening sealing portion 902 can be integrally formed as part of the sealing arm 900 (e.g., by co-molding), or it can be part of a separate component attached to the sealing arm 900. The drinking opening sealing portion 902 can be formed of a food-grade material suitable for forming a seal between the cap 100 and the sealing arm 900.

[0062] The movable arm 300 can be in a sealed position relative to the cover 100 (e.g.) Figure 5 As shown), ventilation location (e.g.) Figure 6 (as shown) and opening position (as shown) Figure 7 Move between (as shown).

[0063] When the movable arm 300 is in the sealed position (e.g.) Figure 5 As shown, the drinking opening 104 is sealed (e.g., by means of the sealing arm 900 and the drinking opening sealing portion 902). In some embodiments, the drinking opening sealing portion 902 seals the drinking opening 104 from below or presses against the surface or surrounding of the drinking opening 104 to seal the drinking opening 104. In some embodiments, the vent opening 106 is sealed (e.g., by means of the movable arm 300 and the vent opening sealing portion 304) when the movable arm 300 is in the sealed position. For example, the vent opening sealing portion 302 may press against the surface or surrounding of the vent opening 106 or block the vent opening 106 from below to seal the vent opening 106.

[0064] When the movable arm 300 is in the ventilated position (e.g.) Figure 6 As shown), the vent opening 106 is not sealed. In some embodiments, when the movable arm 300 is in the ventilated position, the drinking opening 104 is sealed (e.g., by means of the sealing arm 900 and the drinking opening sealing portion 902).

[0065] When the movable arm 300 is in the open position, the drinking opening 104 is not sealed (e.g., allowing a user to drink from the container 10 through the drinking opening 104). In some embodiments, the vent opening 106 is not sealed when the movable arm 300 is in the open position.

[0066] In some embodiments, the movable arm 300 is biased toward the sealed position. That is, in the absence of mechanical force on the components of the cover 20, the movable arm 300 will return to (or remain in) the sealed position. In the illustrated embodiment, a spring 650 (which may be, for example, a torsion spring) biases the movable arm 300 toward the sealed position. However, in other embodiments, the movable arm 300 may be biased toward the sealed position by magnetic force or by a different physical component, such as a compression spring or elastic material that pushes the movable arm 300 to the sealed position.

[0067] For example Figure 3 As shown, the movable arm 300 may include a compartment 306 for receiving the magnet unit 400.

[0068] The magnet unit 400 may be or include one or more magnets with aligned magnetic poles, which together perform the same function as a single magnet. In some embodiments, the magnet unit 400 includes a housing containing one or more magnets.

[0069] The compartment 306 can be positioned within the movable arm 300 such that, when the cover 20 is assembled, the magnet unit 400 is spaced apart from the outer edge of the cover 20. The compartment 306 can be configured such that, when the magnet unit 400 is received within the compartment 306, the magnet unit 400 is positioned at or near the upper surface of the movable arm 300. In this way, the magnetic field generated by the magnet unit 400 will be relatively stronger at a position directly above the movable arm 300 compared to if the magnet unit 400 were further positioned below the upper surface of the movable arm 300.

[0070] In some embodiments, the magnet unit 400 is attached to the movable arm 300 by an adhesive. In some embodiments, the magnet unit 400 is attached to the movable arm 300 by other chemical bonding methods (e.g., by welding, molding, or potting) and / or mechanical methods (e.g., press fitting). In some embodiments, the movable arm 300 includes a magnet cover 308 for separating the magnet unit 400 from the interior 132 of the cover body 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 may be molded in a first molding operation, and the magnet cover 308 may be formed in a second molding operation after the magnet unit 400 and the movable arm 300 are attached).

[0071] The cam 600 may be positioned inside the cover 100 at 132 and movably coupled to the movable arm 100. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the cam 600 is coupled to the movable arm 300 via engagement of one or more receiving portions 602 of the cam 600 and one or more engaging portions 312 of the movable arm 300. In some embodiments, the cam 600 may be movable (e.g., pivotable) relative to the movable arm 300.

[0072] As will be discussed in more detail below, when the actuator 700 moves between a first position and a second position (e.g., when the actuator 700 is pressed as a button), the magnet unit 500 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. Therefore, the magnetic force acting on the magnet unit 400 causes the movable arm 300 coupled to the magnet unit 400 to move from a sealed position (in which the drinking opening 104 is sealed) to a ventilated position (in which the vent opening 106 is not sealed) or 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 500 moves from the second position to the first position, thereby changing the magnetic field experienced by the magnet unit 400. Therefore, the reduction in the magnetic force acting on the magnet unit 400 causes the movable arm 300 to move from the vented or open position to the sealed position (e.g., due to the biasing force applied by the spring 650).

[0073] The movable arm 300 may be non-mechanically connected to the actuator 700. That is, the movable actuator 700 (e.g., from a first position to a second position or vice versa) does not apply any mechanical force (magnetic force only, as described herein) to the movable arm 300.

[0074] Once the cover 20 is assembled, the movable arm 300, the sealing arm 900, and the cam 600 can all be positioned inside the container 10. Therefore, once the cover 20 is assembled, the actuator 700 may be the only movable part of the cover 20 that can be accessed from the outside of the container 10.

[0075] The vessel 1000 can be any type of vessel. The vessel 1000 can be cylindrical, or have other external or internal shapes (such as, for example...). Figures 1 to 2 (As shown). In some embodiments, the vessel 1000 may be double-walled to enhance its thermal insulation properties. In some embodiments, the area between the double walls of the vessel 1000 may be hermetically sealed and may form at least a partial vacuum. In some embodiments, the vessel 1000 may be made of stainless steel. In some embodiments, the vessel 1000 may be made of another food-grade material, such as food-grade plastics (e.g., polypropylene, copolyester, copolymers sold as Eastman Tritan, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyoxymethylene (POM), or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)), glass, or other metals (e.g., steel, aluminum, copper, or titanium).

[0076] Figures 5 to 11Detailed views are shown of embodiments for implementing some of the features already described. The specific structures and mechanisms shown and described (here and elsewhere in this document) may not be the only way to achieve the described functions, and each element may be implemented using other shapes, structures, and appearances besides those specifically shown and described.

[0077] Figures 5 to 7 This is a cross-sectional view showing the relative positions of certain components of the cover 20 during operation. As described above, during operation, the user can move the actuator 700 from a first position (e.g., slide) to a second position (e.g., by pressing the actuator 700 like a button). Figure 5 An assembled cross-sectional view of the upper portion of the container 10 is shown when the actuator 700 is in the first position, and Figure 6 and Figure 7 An assembled cross-sectional view of the upper portion of the container 10 is shown when the actuator 700 is in the second position. Figures 5 to 7 The cross section is in Figure 2 It is perpendicularly intercepted at the position of line V-V'.

[0078] For example Figure 5 As shown, the lid 100 may include a partition wall 120. The partition wall 120 curves upward toward the front of the lid 100 to partially define the spout 102. The spout 102 is located near the edge of the lid 100—offset from the center of the lid 100—such that the spout 102 is in a comfortable position for the user when drinking from it. As shown, a drinking opening 104 may extend through the spout 102. The drinking opening 104 may have a stadium-shaped cross-section at the upper portion of the spout 102. In some embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the drinking opening 104 may vary from the upper portion to the lower portion of the drinking opening 104.

[0079] The lid 100 may include a lower sidewall 118 extending downward from below the partition wall 120. The lower sidewall 118 and the partition wall 120 may together define an interior 132 of the lid 100. When the lid 20 is assembled with the vessel 1000, the interior 132 of the lid 100 may be in fluid communication with the interior 1006 of the vessel 1000. The lid 100 may also include an upper sidewall 122 extending upward from above 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 100 does not include a cavity 135.

[0080] In some embodiments, the drinking opening 104 extends from the interior 132 of the lid 100, through the partition wall 120, and into the atmosphere outside the lid 20.

[0081] In some embodiments, the vent opening 106 extends from the interior 132 of the cover 100, through the partition wall 120, and to the atmosphere. For example, in some embodiments, when the vent opening 106 is not sealed, air from the interior 132 of the cover 100 can pass through the vent opening 106, through the actuator chamber 112, and to the atmosphere outside the cover 20. In other embodiments, when the vent opening 106 is not sealed, air from the interior 132 of the cover 100 can pass through the vent opening 106, through the ventilation path provided in the actuator 700, and to the exterior 134 of the cover 100 to the atmosphere.

[0082] The actuator 700 may extend from the rear of the cover 100 toward the front of the cover 100 within the actuator chamber 112. The actuator 700 and the actuator chamber 112 may be isolated from the interior 132 of the cover 100 and the drinking opening 104, making it unlikely that the beverage contained inside the vessel 1000 and / or the beverage consumed by the user through the drinking opening 104 will come into contact with the actuator 700 or the actuator chamber 112. This isolation may be desirable, for example, to make it unlikely that dust or debris on the actuator 700 or in the actuator chamber 112 will contaminate the beverage inside the vessel 1000. Isolation may also be desirable to make, for example, the actuator 700 unlikely to be soiled by deposits of the beverage contained inside the vessel 1000. In some implementations, the spring finger 718 of the actuator 700 may contact a portion of the cover 100 defining the actuator chamber 112 to 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 100.

[0083] The movable arm 300 can extend from the rear of the cover 100 toward the front of the cover 100 from inside the cover 100. (See above for reference.) Figure 4 The movable arm 300 discussed can be movably coupled to the cover 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 100 at a mounting portion 124 extending downward from the partition platform 120 of the cover 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting portion 124 includes a receiving portion 126, and the movable arm 300 includes a corresponding engaging portion 302. The engaging portion 302 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. For example, the movable arm 300 can be rotated from a sealed position (e.g., ...). Figure 5 Rotate to the ventilation position (as shown) (e.g.) Figure 6 (As shown). In some embodiments, the movable arm 300 can move in different ways. For example, the movable arm can move translatively back and forth and / or up and down.

[0084] A sealing arm 900 can extend from a movable arm 300 (e.g., from the front portion of the movable arm 300) into a drinking opening 104, which can be an elongated drinking opening 104 extending through a spout 102. In an embodiment where the sealing arm 900 extends through the spout 102 into the elongated drinking opening 104, the sealing arm 900 can seal the drinking opening 104 inside the spout 102 (e.g., at or near the top of the drinking opening 104). This can, for example, help reduce the possibility of liquid spillage within the drinking opening 104 but above the seal between the drinking opening 104 and the sealing arm 900, even when the drinking opening 104 is sealed. (Refer to the above...) Figure 4 As discussed, the sealing arm 900 can be movably coupled to the movable arm 300, such that the sealing arm 900 can pivot, slide, or both relative to the movable arm 300. For example, the sealing arm 900 can be movably coupled to the movable arm 300 by engagement of a pin 904 and a slot 310, which allows the sealing arm 900 to pivot, slide, or both relative to the movable arm 300.

[0085] In some implementations, the movable arm 300 can be moved (e.g., rotated) by applying a force (e.g., magnetic force) to it. For example, in... Figures 5 to 7 As can be seen, applying a downward force to the front portion of the movable arm 300 (relative to axis 30) can move the movable arm 300 away from the sealing position in the first rotational direction, while applying an upward force to the front portion of the movable arm 300 (relative to axis 30) can move the movable arm toward the sealing position in the second rotational direction.

[0086] When the movable arm 300 is in the sealed position (e.g.) Figure 5 As shown, the drinking opening 104 is sealed (e.g., by means of the sealing arm 900 and the drinking opening sealing portion 902). In some embodiments, the drinking opening sealing portion 902 seals the drinking opening 104 from below or presses against the surface or surrounding of the drinking opening 104 to seal the drinking opening 104. In some embodiments, the vent opening 106 is sealed (e.g., by means of the movable arm 300 and the vent opening sealing portion 302) when the movable arm 300 is in the sealed position. For example, the vent opening sealing portion 302 may press against the surface or surrounding of the vent opening 106 or block the vent opening 106 from below to seal the vent opening 106.

[0087] In some cases, pressure may build up inside container 10, such as when container 10 is used to hold hot beverages. If the pressure inside container 10 is high enough, it may prevent movable arm 300 from moving to its open position (e.g., by applying an upward force to the front portion of movable arm 300) or prevent sealing arm 900 from moving to its open position.

[0088] To release accumulated pressure, the movable arm 300 can be moved (e.g., rotated) to a ventilated position (such as...). Figure 6 (As shown). Moving the movable arm 300 to the vented position may require less force than moving it to the open position. When the movable arm 300 is in the vented position, the vent opening 106 is not sealed. Therefore, the interior 132 of the cover 100 and the interior 1006 of the vessel 1000 are in fluid communication with the atmosphere outside the container 10, and the pressure inside the container 10 can be released through the vent opening 106.

[0089] In some embodiments, when the movable arm 300 is in the ventilated position, the drinking opening 104 is sealed (e.g., by means of the sealing arm 900 and the drinking opening sealing portion 902). In some embodiments, the movable connection between the movable arm 300 and the sealing arm 900 allows the movable arm 300 to move to the ventilated position while the drinking opening 104 remains sealed. This can, for example, help reduce the possibility of unintended pressure release through the drinking opening 104. This can also, for example, allow the movable arm 300 to move to the ventilated position with less force than would be required if the sealing arm 900 also moved. Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, when the movable arm 300 moves from its closed position to its ventilated position, the slot 310 of the movable arm 300 can slide, pivot, or both relative to the pin 904 of the sealing arm 900, thereby allowing the sealing arm 900 to remain in its sealed position.

[0090] When pressure is released through the vent opening 106, the movable arm 300 can automatically move (e.g., rotate further) from its vented position to its open position (e.g., ...). Figure 7 (As shown). For example, this may occur because when the pressure inside container 10 is released, the upward force acting on sealing arm 900 decreases, and this upward force is then balanced and overcome by the downward force applied to sealing arm pin 904 by movable arm slot 310. The downward force is generated by the repulsive force of magnet units 400 and 500. In this way, continuing to apply the repulsive force of the magnets applied to movable arm 300 to move movable arm 300 to its venting position will cause movable arm 300 to move beyond the venting position to the open position.

[0091] In some embodiments, when the movable arm 300 moves to its open position, the movable connection between the movable arm 300 and the sealing arm 900 causes the sealing arm 900 to move away from its sealing position (e.g., to its open position). For example, as... Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, when the movable arm 300 moves from its vented position to its open position, the upper portion of the slot 310 of the movable arm 300 engages the upper portion of the pin 904 of the sealing arm 900, thereby pulling the sealing arm 900 away from its sealed position. Therefore, when the movable arm 300 is in the open position, the drinking opening 104 is not sealed (e.g., allowing the user to drink from the container 10 through the drinking opening 104).

[0092] As mentioned, in some embodiments, the movable arm 300 can be moved (e.g., rotated) by applying a force (e.g., a magnetic force) to the movable arm 300. In some embodiments, the interaction between the magnet unit 500 located in the compartment 704 of the actuator 700 and the magnet unit 400 located in the compartment 306 of the movable arm 300 generates a magnetic force that moves the movable arm 300.

[0093] In the illustrated embodiment, magnet unit 500 is arranged such that the south pole (labeled "S") of magnet unit 500 is positioned at the bottom surface of actuator 700, and magnet unit 400 is arranged such that the south pole (labeled "S") of magnet unit 400 is positioned at the top surface of movable arm 300. However, each arrangement can be reversed to achieve the desired magnetic interaction. That is, magnet unit 500 can be arranged such that the north pole of magnet unit 500 is positioned at the bottom surface of actuator 700, and magnet unit 400 can be arranged such that the north pole of magnet unit 400 is positioned at the top surface of movable arm 300.

[0094] For example Figure 5As shown, when the actuator 700 is in the first position, the magnet unit 400 coupled to the movable arm 300 can interact with the magnet unit 500 coupled to the actuator 700. For example, the magnet unit 400 can be attracted to the magnet unit 500. In the illustrated embodiment, the magnet units 400 and 500 are arranged such that when the actuator 700 is in the first position, the magnet units 400 and 500 are attracted. (For example, at the offset positions of the illustrated magnet units 400 and 500, the attractive forces between the N side of magnet unit 500 and the S side of magnet unit 400, and between the S side of magnet unit 500 and the N side of magnet unit 400, are greater than the repulsive forces between the S side of magnet unit 500 and the S side of magnet unit 400, and between the N side of magnet unit 500 and the N side of magnet unit 400.) Therefore, in this first position, magnet unit 500 applies an upward force to the front portion of movable arm 300, thereby pulling the movable arm in the first rotational direction and holding the movable arm 300 in the sealed position.

[0095] In some embodiments, the movable arm 300 is also biased toward the sealed position. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, a spring 650 (which may be, for example, a torsion spring) pushes the movable arm 300 in a first rotational direction, thereby holding the movable arm 300 in the sealed position.

[0096] exist Figure 6 In this case, actuator 700 has moved from a first position to a second position (e.g., by pushing button 702 toward the front of container 10). In some embodiments, actuator 700 slides linearly along the travel axis 90 as it moves from the first position to the second position.

[0097] exist Figure 6 In the figure, actuator 700 has already moved a short distance between the first and second positions. However, actuator 700 can be configured to translate more or less than shown in the figures. 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 500 coupled to the actuator 700. For example, the magnet unit 400 can be repelled by the magnet unit 500. In the illustrated embodiment, the magnet units 500 and 400 are arranged such that when the actuator 700 is in the second position, the south pole of the magnet unit 500 faces the south pole of the magnet unit 400. Therefore, when the actuator 700 is in the second position, the magnet unit 500 applies a downward force to the front portion of the movable arm 300, thereby pushing the movable arm 300 toward the vented or open position in the second rotational direction. In an embodiment where the movable arm 300 is biased toward the sealed position (e.g., by means of the spring 650), the magnetic repulsion between the magnet units 400 and 500 can overcome the biasing force and move the movable arm 300 toward the vented or open position.

[0098] In some embodiments, in response to the actuator moving from a first position to a second position, the magnetic force between magnet unit 400 and magnet unit 500 causes the movable arm 300 to move from a sealed position to a vented position, and then to an open position. In some embodiments, the actuator 700 remains in the second position when the movable arm 300 moves from the vented position to the open position. As described above, this may occur, for example, because when the pressure within container 10 is released, the upward force acting on the front portion of the movable arm 300 due to the pressure within container 10 decreases. Therefore, continuing to apply a downward force to the front portion of the movable arm 300 to move the movable arm 300 to its vented position will cause the movable arm 300 to move beyond the vented position to the open position.

[0099] In some embodiments, the magnet unit 500 is angled relative to the travel axis 90. In the illustrated embodiment, the magnet unit 500 is at an angle of approximately 10 degrees relative to the travel axis 90. However, in other embodiments, the magnet unit 500 is at an angle greater than or less than 10 degrees. For example, the magnet unit 500 may be at an angle between -90 degrees and 90 degrees relative to the travel axis 90 (e.g., between 2 degrees and 20 degrees (positive or negative) or between 5 degrees and 15 degrees (positive or negative)).

[0100] In some embodiments where the magnet unit 500 is angled relative to the travel axis 90, the magnetic force between magnet unit 500 and magnet unit 400 can take effect earlier during the travel of actuator 700 as actuator 700 moves from a first position to a second position (relative to a cover where magnet unit 500 is not angled). Therefore, the angled magnet unit 500 allows for a weaker magnetic force between magnet unit 500 and magnet unit 400 when actuator 700 is in the first position, while achieving a similar magnetic force between magnet unit 500 and magnet unit 400 when actuator 700 is in the second position. This, in turn, can facilitate a smoother transition of movable arm 300 from a sealed position to a vented or open position.

[0101] In some embodiments, the magnet unit 400 is angled relative to the travel axis 90. In the illustrated embodiment, the magnet unit 400 is at an angle of approximately 10 degrees relative to the travel axis 90. However, in other embodiments, the magnet unit 400 is at an angle greater than or less than 10 degrees. For example, the magnet unit 400 may be at an angle between -90 degrees and 90 degrees relative to the travel axis 90 (e.g., between 2 degrees and 20 degrees (positive or negative) or between 5 degrees and 15 degrees (positive or negative)).

[0102] In some embodiments where the magnet unit 400 is angled relative to the travel axis 90, (relative to a cover where the magnet unit 400 is not angled) the magnetic force between magnet units 500 and 400 can increase more rapidly when the actuator 700 moves from a first position to a second position. Therefore, the angled magnet unit 400 allows for a weaker magnetic force between magnet units 500 and 400 when the actuator 700 is in the first position, while achieving the same magnetic force between magnet units 500 and 400 when the actuator 700 is in the second position. This, in turn, can facilitate a smoother transition of the movable arm 300 from a sealed position to a vented or open position.

[0103] In some embodiments, both magnet unit 400 and magnet unit 500 are angled relative to the travel axis 90. In some such embodiments, magnet unit 400 and magnet unit 500 are angled at the same angle relative to the travel axis 90. For example, in some embodiments, magnet unit 400 and magnet unit 500 are angled between -90 degrees and 90 degrees relative to the travel axis 90 (e.g., between 2 degrees and 20 degrees (positive or negative) or between 5 degrees and 15 degrees (positive or negative)).

[0104] In some embodiments where both magnet units 400 and 500 are angled relative to the travel axis 90, the magnetic force between magnet units 500 and 400 can increase more rapidly when actuator 700 moves from a first position to a second position (relative to a cover where neither magnet units 400 nor 500 are angled). Therefore, the angled magnet units 400 and 500 allow for a weaker magnetic force between magnet units 500 and 400 when actuator 700 is in the first position, while achieving the same magnetic force between magnet units 500 and 400 when actuator 700 is in the second position. This, in turn, can facilitate a smoother transition of movable arm 300 from a sealed position to a vented or open position.

[0105] For example Figures 5 to 6 As shown, when a force is applied to the actuator 700 in a direction generally toward the front of the container 10 (by... Figure 6 When arrow 70 indicates that the actuator 700 and the coupled magnet unit 500 move toward the front of the container 10, the magnetic force on the magnet unit 400 changes as the magnet unit 500 moves toward the front of the container 10. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, when the magnet unit 500 moves toward the front of the container 10, the magnet unit 400 may experience an increased repulsive force, thereby causing the movable arm 300 to move toward the venting or open position in the second rotational direction. The force indicated by arrow 70 can be applied, for example, by a user pushing on the contact surface of the actuator 700 (e.g., button 702).

[0106] In some implementations, such as, for example Figures 5 to 6 As shown, the bias force can be directed toward the first position (e.g., in...). Figure 5 The actuator 700 is biased in the direction of the middle arrow 75 such that when the force holding the actuator 700 in the second position is removed (e.g., when the force applied by the user to the button 702 is removed), the actuator 700 automatically moves to the first position. In the illustrated embodiment, the resilient tip 720 of the actuator 700 biases the actuator 700 toward the first position (e.g., when the actuator 700 is in the second position, by pressing against the wall of the actuator chamber 112). However, in other embodiments, the actuator 700 may be biased toward the first position by magnetic force or by a different physical component (e.g., a compression spring or resilient material that pushes the actuator 700 to the first position).

[0107] In some implementations, a user may 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 force applied by the user 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).

[0108] As mentioned, in some embodiments, a biasing force can move actuator 700 from a second position to a first position (e.g., generally toward the rear of container 10 in the direction of arrow 75). In other embodiments, a force applied by a user can move actuator 700 from a second position to a first position (e.g., generally toward the rear of container 10 in the direction of arrow 75). For example... Figures 5 to 6 As shown, when actuator 700 moves in a direction generally toward the rear of container 10, actuator 700 and coupled magnet unit 500 move toward the rear of container 10. As magnet unit 500 moves toward the rear of container 10, the magnetic force on magnet unit 400 changes. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, as magnet unit 500 moves toward the rear of container 10, magnet unit 400 may experience an increased attractive force (or a decreased repulsive force), thereby causing movable arm 300 to move toward a sealed position in a first rotational direction. In an embodiment where movable arm 300 is biased toward a sealed position (e.g., by spring 650), the biasing force can also cause movable arm 300 to move toward a sealed position in the first rotational direction when actuator 700 moves from a second position to a first position.

[0109] In some embodiments, the movable arm 300 is biased toward the sealed position. That is, in the absence of mechanical force on the components of the cover 20, the movable arm 300 will return to (or remain in) the sealed position. In the illustrated embodiment, a spring 650 (which may be, for example, a torsion spring) biases the movable arm 300 toward the sealed position. However, in other embodiments, the movable arm 300 may be biased toward the sealed position by magnetic force or by a different physical component, such as a compression spring or elastic material that pushes the movable arm 300 to the sealed position.

[0110] In embodiments where the movable arm 300 is biased toward a sealed position, the movable actuator 700 can induce a magnetic interaction that overcomes the bias. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, when the movable arm 300 is in the sealed position, moving the actuator 700 from a first position to a second position, as described above, causes the magnet unit 500 to interact with the magnet unit 400, such that the bias of the movable arm 300 can be overcome and the movable arm 300 moves to the open position.

[0111] As shown and described, one advantage of the lid 20 is that its mechanism for sealing and unsealing its drinking opening 104 does not extend through the wall of the lid 20. This eliminates the need for an opening through the wall of the lid 20 to accommodate the mechanism, which could provide an additional point of failure for leakage. For this purpose, the drinking opening sealing portion 902 is positioned inside the lid 20 (and therefore within the container to which the lid 20 is part), and can be in a sealed position within the lid 20 (where the drinking opening sealing portion 902 seals the drinking opening 104). Figure 5 (as shown in the image) and unsealed positions (where the drinking opening sealing portion 902 does not seal the drinking opening 104 (in the image)). Figure 6 As shown in the diagram, the sealing portion 902 moves between the sealed and unsealed positions. Therefore, when the sealing portion 902 moves between the sealed and unsealed positions, the sealing portion 902 (and the associated sealing arm 900, movable arm 300 and cam 600) remains within any wall of the cover 20 and does not extend through any wall of the cover 20.

[0112] Accordingly, the actuator 700 is located outside the cover 20 and accessible from the outside of the cover 20, and does not extend through any wall of the cover 20. However, when the actuator 700 is actuated by the user as described, it causes the sealing portion 902 to move from a sealed position to a non-sealed position, and in doing so, it does not cause any element of the cover 20 to move through the wall of the cover 20. This configuration allows the internal seal to be sealed and desealed by an external actuator without any mechanism extending through the wall of the cover 20, which helps eliminate the need for an opening through the wall of the cover 20, thereby reducing the possibility of leakage.

[0113] As previously mentioned, users may sometimes want to clean the lid 20. In this case, the user can place the lid 20 in the cleaning configuration, wherein the movable arm 300 and the vent seal 304 are kept away from the partition platform 120, and / or wherein the sealing arm 900 and the drinking seal member 902 do not seal the drinking opening 104. This cleaning configuration is shown in... Figure 8 . Figure 8 The cross section is in Figure 2 It is perpendicularly intercepted at the position of line V-V'.

[0114] To position the lid 20 in the cleaning configuration, the user can grasp the gripping portion 604 of the cam 600 and rotate the cam 600 relative to the movable arm 300. As the cam 600 rotates relative to the movable arm 300, the arm 606 of the cam 600 can contact a portion of the lid 100 (e.g., the partition platform 120). The interaction between the arm 606 of the cam 600 and the lid 100 applies a downward force to the front portion of the movable arm 300, thereby pushing the movable arm in a second rotational direction and rotating the movable arm 300 in the cleaning position. The cam 600 can be held in this configuration by a biasing force applied to the movable arm 300 by the spring 650, such that the cam 600 is oriented towards... Figure 7 To move the indicated position back, a force must be applied to overcome the bias (e.g., due to the user intentionally moving cam 600).

[0115] When the movable arm 300 is in the cleaning position, the sealing arm 900 may not seal the drinking opening 104 and may move freely within the drinking opening 104.

[0116] In some implementations, the cover 20 does not have a cleaning structure, in which case the cam 600 is not included in the cover 20.

[0117] As previously mentioned, users may sometimes want container 10 to remain sealed. For example, a user may want container 10 to remain sealed so that when container 10 is placed in the user's backpack or other bag (where container 10 may be subjected to forces from other items in the user's bag, or may change orientation), the beverage contained inside container 10 will not leak onto the user or the user's belongings. In this case (as in other cases), the user can place container 10 in a locking configuration, where actuator 700 is prevented from moving to a second position, thereby preventing actuator 700 from causing movable arm 300 to rotate to the open position. This locking configuration is shown in Figure 9 And will be described in more detail below.

[0118] Figures 9 to 11 This illustrates the three operating states of the cover 20 (with the actuator 700 in the first position, in a locked configuration). Figure 9 The unlocking mechanism with actuator 700 in the first position ( Figure 10 ) and the disassembly structure of actuator 700 in the first position ( Figure 11 The relative positions of some parts of the cover 100, actuator 700, locking member 800 and other components of the cover 20. Figures 9 to 11 The cross section is in Figure 2 It is horizontally cut off at the position of the line IX-IX' at the top of the cover 20.

[0119] As discussed, the cover 100 may define an actuator chamber 112 in which the actuator 700 and locking member 800 are positioned. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the locking member 80 may have a post 808 extending from the lower portion of the locking member 800. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the bottom portion of the actuator chamber 112 may include a recess 117, a compartment 115, and a channel 116.

[0120] When the cover 20 is in the locked configuration, for example, as Figure 9 As shown, the column 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 column 808, thereby preventing the actuator 700 from moving to the second position.

[0121] When the cover 20 is in a disassembled configuration, for example, as Figure 11 As shown, post 808 is received in recess 117 and aligned with channel 116. When force is applied to actuator 700 in a direction generally toward the rear of container 10, post 808 slides through channel 116 and out of actuator chamber 112. Therefore, locking member 800 and actuator 700 can be removed from actuator chamber 112 of cover 100. Removal of actuator 700 and locking member 800 from cover 100 may be desirable, for example, to allow the user to thoroughly clean container 10.

[0122] When the actuator 700 is repositioned inside the cover 100, it will initially be in Figure 11 The disassembly configuration is shown. However, when the user presses the actuator 700 (e.g., as part of an assembly operation or as part of opening the drinking opening 104 as described above), the post 808 will move along the angled wall of the recess 117 to transition to the unlocked configuration, such that when the actuator 700 is released, the post 808 will be in the unlocked position. Figure 10 The unlocking mechanism is shown. This helps prevent the cover 20 from being accidentally left in the disassembly mechanism and ensures that even if the user forgets to remove the lock from the disassembly position during assembly, they will not face the risk of the actuator 700 falling off after pressing it once.

[0123] When cover 20 is in the unlocked configuration, for example, as Figure 10 As shown, post 808 is received in recess 117. When force is applied to button 702 in a direction generally toward the front of container 10, post 808 generally does not interfere with the edge of recess 117. Therefore, actuator 700 can move from a first position to a second position.

[0124] For example, by engaging a portion of the locking member 800 (e.g., protrusion 804) and sliding the locking member (e.g., in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction about the locking axis 80), the locking member 800 can be moved from each of its three positions—unlocked position, locked position, and disengaged position—to each of its other positions. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover 20 is in the locked position when the locking member 800 is at its counterclockwise limit relative to the actuator 700 as viewed from the top of the cover 20; the cover 20 is in the unlocked position when the locking member 800 is at its clockwise limit relative to the actuator 700 as viewed from the top of the cover 20; and the cover 20 is in the disengaged position when the locking member 800 is in an intermediate position relative to the actuator 700. However, the unlocked position, locked position, and disengaged position can be located at different relative positions of the locking member 800 and the actuator 700.

[0125] It should be understood that the detailed description section (rather than the summary and abstract sections) is intended to interpret the claims. The summary and abstract sections may describe one or more (but not all) exemplary embodiments of the disclosed invention as conceived by the inventors, and therefore are not intended to limit the disclosed invention and the appended claims in any way.

[0126] The above description of specific embodiments will fully reveal the general nature of the claimed invention, enabling others to easily modify and / or adapt such specific embodiments for various applications by applying knowledge within the scope of the art, without excessive experimentation and without departing from the general concept of the claimed invention. Therefore, based on the teachings and guidance presented herein, such modifications and alterations are intended to fall within the meaning and equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It should be understood that the wording or terminology herein is for descriptive rather than limiting purposes, and that the terminology or terminology in this specification will be interpreted by those skilled in the art based on the teachings and guidance.

[0127] The breadth and scope of the claimed invention should not be limited by any of the above exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A lid for a container, the lid comprising: A lid that defines a drinking opening that passes through it; A movable arm is attached to the lid and located inside the lid, the movable arm being movable between a sealed position and an open position, in which the drinking opening is sealed and in which the drinking opening is not sealed; A first magnet unit is connected to the movable arm; An actuator that can be accessed from the outside of the cover, the actuator being movable between a first position and a second position; and The second magnet unit is connected to the actuator. When the actuator is in the first position, at least one of the bias force and the magnetic attraction force between the first magnet unit and the second magnet unit holds the movable arm in the sealed position. When the actuator moves toward the second position, the magnetic repulsion between the first magnet unit and the second magnet unit causes the movable arm to move toward the open position.

2. The cover according to claim 1, wherein, The cover defines a ventilation opening, and The drinking opening and the venting opening are the only openings through the lid.

3. The cover according to claim 1, wherein, No mechanism for sealing or unsealing the drinking opening penetrates the lid.

4. The cover according to claim 1, wherein, The movable arm is biased toward the sealed position by the biasing force, and The spring provides the biasing force.

5. The cover according to claim 1, wherein, When the force holding the actuator in the second position is removed, the actuator automatically moves from the second position to the first position.

6. The cover according to claim 1, wherein, When the actuator moves from the second position to the first position, the magnetic repulsion between the first magnet unit and the second magnet unit decreases, and the movable arm returns to the sealed position.

7. The cover according to claim 1, wherein, When the movable arm moves from the sealed position to the open position, it pivots about the axis of rotation.

8. The cover according to claim 7, wherein, The first magnet unit and the second magnet unit are both located on the same side of a vertical plane passing through the rotation axis of the movable arm.

9. The cover according to claim 1, wherein, The cover defines a ventilation opening therethrough. When the movable arm is in the sealed position, the ventilation opening and the drinking opening are sealed. When the movable arm is in the ventilated position, the vent opening is not sealed, while the drinking opening is sealed. When the movable arm is in the open position, the ventilation opening and the drinking opening are not sealed.

10. The cap of claim 9, further comprising a sealing arm movably coupled to the movable arm and movable between a sealed position and an open position, wherein in the sealed position the sealing arm seals the drinking opening and in the open position the sealing arm does not seal the drinking opening.

11. The cover according to claim 1, wherein, The actuator slides linearly along the travel axis to move between the first position and the second position, and One of the first magnet unit or the second magnet unit is at an angle relative to the travel axis.

12. The cover according to claim 11, wherein, The first magnet unit and the second magnet unit are both at an angle relative to the travel axis.

13. The lid according to claim 12, wherein, One of the first magnet unit or the second magnet unit is at an angle between 2 degrees and 20 degrees relative to the travel axis.

14. A container comprising: The cover according to claim 1; and A vessel, wherein the lid is configured to be attached to the vessel to enclose the internal volume of the vessel.

15. A lid for a container, the lid comprising: A lid that defines a drinking opening and a venting opening that pass through it; A movable arm is attached to the cover and located inside the cover, the movable arm being movable between a sealed position, a ventilated position and an open position; A first magnet unit is connected to the movable arm; An actuator that can be accessed from the outside of the cover, the actuator being movable between a first position and a second position; and The second magnet unit is connected to the actuator. When the movable arm is in the sealed position, the ventilation opening and the drinking opening are sealed. When the movable arm is in the ventilated position, the vent opening is not sealed, while the drinking opening is sealed. When the movable arm is in the open position, the ventilation opening and the drinking opening are not sealed. In response to the actuator moving from the first position to the second position, the magnetic force between the first magnet unit and the second magnet unit causes the movable arm to move from the sealed position to the ventilated position, and then to the open position.

16. The cover according to claim 15, wherein, When the movable arm moves from the ventilated position to the open position, the actuator remains in the second position.

17. The cap of claim 15, further comprising a sealing arm movably coupled to the movable arm and movable between a sealed position and an open position, wherein in the sealed position the sealing arm seals the drinking opening and in the open position the sealing arm does not seal the drinking opening.

18. The cover according to claim 17, wherein: When the movable arm is in the sealed position, the movable arm seals the vent opening and the sealing arm seals the drinking opening. When the movable arm is in the ventilated position, the sealing arm seals the drinking opening.

19. The cover according to claim 17, wherein, In response to the movable arm moving to its open position, the sealing arm moves to its open position.

20. The cover according to claim 17, wherein, The movable arm defines a slot, and the sealing arm includes a pin that is slidable within the slot of the movable arm.

21. The cover according to claim 20, wherein, When the movable arm moves from the vented position to its open position, the pin of the sealing arm pivots within the slot, and When the movable arm moves from its sealed position to the ventilated position, the pin of the sealing arm slides within the slot.

22. The cap of claim 17, further comprising a drinking spout in fluid communication with the drinking opening. The sealing arm seals the drinking opening inside the spout.

23. The cover according to claim 15, wherein, The actuator slides linearly along the travel axis to move between the first position and the second position, and One of the first magnet unit or the second magnet unit is at an angle relative to the travel axis.

24. A container comprising: The cover according to claim 15; and A vessel, wherein the lid is configured to be attached to the vessel to enclose the internal volume of the vessel.

25. A lid for a container, the lid comprising: A lid that defines a drinking opening that passes through it; A movable arm is attached to the lid and located inside the lid, the movable arm being movable between a sealed position and an open position, in which the drinking opening is sealed and in which the drinking opening is not sealed; A first magnet unit is connected to the movable arm; An actuator that can be approached from the outside of the cover, the actuator being able to slide linearly from a first position to a second position along the travel axis; and The second magnet unit is connected to the actuator. When the actuator moves toward the second position, the force between the first magnet unit and the second magnet unit causes the movable arm to move away from the sealed position. At least one of the first magnet unit and the second magnet unit is at an angle relative to the travel axis.

26. The cover according to claim 25, wherein, The first magnet unit and the second magnet unit are both at an angle relative to the travel axis.

27. The cover according to claim 25, wherein, The first magnet unit is angled relative to the travel axis at a first angle. The second magnet unit is at an angle of a second angle relative to the travel axis, and Wherein the first angle is equal to the second angle.

28. The cover according to claim 25, wherein, One of the first magnet unit or the second magnet unit is at an angle between 2 degrees and 20 degrees relative to the travel axis.

29. The cover according to claim 25, wherein, The movable arm is biased toward the sealed position, and When the actuator moves toward the second position, the force between the first magnet unit and the second magnet unit overcomes the bias of the movable arm.

30. A container comprising: The cover according to claim 25; and A vessel, wherein the lid is configured to be attached to the vessel to enclose the internal volume of the vessel.

31. A beverage container comprising: The lid has a drinking opening that passes through it; A sealing element disposed within the container, the sealing element being movable between a sealed position and an unsealed position, wherein in the sealed position the sealing element seals the drinking opening from the inside of the container, and in the unsealed position the sealing element does not seal the drinking opening; and An actuator, wherein when the actuator is actuated by a user, the seal transitions from the sealed position to the unsealed position. The actuator is accessible from the outside of the cover without extending through it. The actuation of the actuator does not cause any element of the cover to move through the wall of the cover.

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