Closure element for cup

Abstract

The closure element is adapted for use with the cup to form a container when combined with the cup. The container is configured to hold a beverage or granular material. The closure element includes a sealing portion and an annular sealing wall extending around the sealing portion. The annular sealing wall is inclined at an angle alpha between 2 and 8 degrees with respect to the axis A and is intended to contact an inner surface of the annular inner wall of the cup to seal the container. The closure element further includes a spout configured to dispense the beverage or granular material to a user. The closure element is configured to be pressed into the cup such that the annular sealing wall engages with the inner surface of the annular inner wall of the cup to form a tight seal between the closure element and the cup.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to the technical field of containers, and more specifically to a closure element used in a paper cup for beverages or granular materials. [Background technology]

[0002] Containers for beverages or granular substances, i.e. liquid or semi-liquid foods, come in all shapes and sizes. Many containers are made of plastic materials and are intended for single use only, which can be problematic from an environmental point of view. Some common containers for beverages are made entirely of non-degradable plastics, while others consist of a paper cup with a plastic lid.

[0003] Many takeaway cups available in the prior art have lids attached to a rim that extends around the top of the cup. Generally, these cups are made of thin paper or plastic and are very unstable, and slippage of the beverage is common. When attaching the lid, it can be difficult to know if the lid is correctly placed on the rim, which can result in spillage of the beverage. Furthermore, if the cup and lid are collided, jerked, or dropped, lids attached by fastening to a rim usually have a portion that extends outward beyond the cup, and can easily become displaced, causing the beverage to spill.

[0004] When hot drinks are served in takeaway cups, they can be too hot to hold in your hand. Therefore, many cafes and restaurants have started serving double cups, where the cup with the drink is housed inside an extra cup to provide additional insulation. However, because the second cup is not connected to the first, the first cup can easily slide inside the second, spilling the drink and making the structure difficult to handle.

[0005] There is therefore a need in the art to provide a new type of container for both beverages and particulate matter that at least partially overcomes some of the problems discussed above. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The inventor has come to the idea that there is a need for a new type of closure element or lid, which can be used with existing cups or provided with dedicated cups to create a container for beverages or granular substances, making it possible to effectively seal the container, solving some of the problems mentioned above. The inventor has come to the idea that a closure element attached to the cup inside the cup can be more effective than currently available lids. Furthermore, the inventor has come to the idea that there is a need for a closure element that can be used with takeaway cups already available and sold, to solve the common problems of such cups. Furthermore, the inventor has come to the idea that there is a need in the art for a closure element that is suitable for a container containing more than one cup, since the two cups and the air between these two cups provide good protection against heat.

[0007] Air is a good insulator and materials that contain air are often used as insulation in homes and buildings, for example. Providing some embodiments of beverage containers that use air to insulate the beverage is advantageous both in that the beverage is kept at a suitable temperature for an extended period of time and in that the user does not get burned if the contents of the beverage container are hot.

[0008] To reduce plastic pollution, more and more sustainable solutions are available on the market. The molding of paper pulp or fibrous material is a standard method for making containers, trays, and other types of packaging materials. In general, the steps are as follows: a mold is made to mirror the final paper product, holes are drilled in the mold and a screen is attached to its surface, the mold is dipped into the paper pulp, and a vacuum is pulled through the holes to make the layer of paper pulp stick to the mold. The screen prevents the pulp from blocking the holes. The mold is removed, the paper pulp stuck to the sides of the mold is removed and dried, and the paper product has been produced. Depending on the type of paper product, different techniques may be used to remove the product from the mold. In what is known as "wet" manufacturing, a transfer molding mold is mated with the fibrous product and the formed "wet part" is transferred to a hot press, which compresses and dries the fibrous material to increase density and provide a smooth exterior finish.

[0009] Other methods of forming paper pulp are available, for example, pressing the material between male and female molds to remove moisture from the material and produce a paper product of the desired shape.

[0010] Paper materials, like fiber-based products, are recyclable, biodegradable, compostable and do not end up in the ocean in the same volume as plastics. Therefore, they are suitable to be used as an alternative to many plastic products currently available. Takeaway cups or mugs are often made of paper materials, but the lids are generally made of plastic. Therefore, another objective is to provide products that are made without non-degradable materials or at least with a minimal amount of non-degradable materials that do not affect other factors, such as providing containers with good integrity and ability to safely hold liquids.

[0011] Paper materials have many advantages over plastic products. However, beverage containers made from paper materials may require some lining or coating depending on the beverage to be served and the time the beverage is to be kept in the container. This may be, for example, some coating along the inner surface of the container that is impermeable to water. The coating may be made from many different materials, such as cellulosic materials or plastics, preferably biodegradable materials.

[0012] When hot beverages are served in paper takeaway cups, the cups are often too hot for the user to hold comfortably. Some cafes hand out hot beverages in double cups, i.e. one cup contained within another, to provide some insulation for the user. However, the lid is simply placed on the cup containing the beverage. This can result in an unstable structure where the cups move relative to one another. Furthermore, single-element takeaway cups are not very stable or rigid in themselves, increasing the risk of the beverage spilling.

[0013] The present disclosure seeks to provide aspects of a container that overcome at least some of the above-mentioned drawbacks. More specifically, the present disclosure aims to provide a closure element adapted for use with a cup forming a container for a beverage or granular material that is stable and provides a comfortable experience for the user.

[0014] In a first aspect of the disclosure, a closure element is provided that is adapted for use with a cup having a top opening with a first area A1 in a cross-section perpendicular to an axis A. The closure element and the cup are adapted to form a container when combined, the container extending along the same axis A and configured to hold a beverage or granular material. The closure element comprises a sealing portion with a second area A2 in a cross-section perpendicular to the axis A. The second area A2 is essentially equal to the first area A1. The sealing portion may be a sealing plate, but may have other shapes. The closure element further comprises an annular sealing wall extending around the sealing portion. The annular sealing wall is inclined at an angle alpha between 2 and 8 degrees with respect to the axis A and is intended to contact an inner surface of an annular inner wall of the cup to seal the container. The closure element further comprises a spout configured to dispense the beverage or granular material to a user. The closure element is configured to be pressed into the cup such that the annular sealing wall engages with an inner surface of the annular inner wall of the cup to form a tight seal between the closure element and the cup. The closure element is made of a cellulosic or fibrous paper material.

[0015] Thus, a closure element is provided that is adapted for use with a cup to form a container. The first function is to hold the beverage or granular material and to tightly seal the container with the closure element by engaging the interior of the cup. The closure element is advantageous in that it provides a new and original way of sealing a container. Furthermore, it can be used with a variety of known paper cups. Prior art containers are closed with lids that are attached to a rim that extends around the container, but can be difficult to close. Such lids must precisely match the shape of the rim to allow attachment. Furthermore, when attaching the lid, it can be difficult to know when the lid is properly attached, so that the contents can spill. The present invention is advantageous because it allows a user to very easily know when the container is closed and when the closure element is properly positioned.

[0016] In particular, the closure elements disclosed herein may be advantageously used with a variety of common cups, since the shape with the outer annular surface may fit into the most common commercially available cups with a beveled inner surface. The cup does not need to have an opening of a precise size that matches the circumference of the closure device, since the closure device may be pushed down through the opening of the cup, or in some cases only a portion of the closure device may be inserted into the opening, and still function to seal the container. This makes it easier for the user to attach the closure device to the cup, and allows for some variation in the size and precise pushing of the closure device without compromising an effective seal. However, the closure device may of course be provided in many different sizes to accommodate various cup sizes. Furthermore, the shape and manner of sealing makes the sealing function of the closure device independent of whether the cup has a protruding outer edge or the shape of the edge.

[0017] According to another aspect, there is provided a container configured to hold a beverage or granular material and extending along an axis A. The container comprises a first cup made of a cellulosic or fibrous paper material, the first cup including an opening of a first area A1, and a closure element as described herein. The cup has an inner annular wall inclined at the same angle alpha with respect to the axis A as the annular wall of the closure device.

[0018] According to another embodiment, the container may further comprise a second cup configured to at least partially accommodate the first cup. This embodiment is advantageous as it provides the container with more structural integrity, making it more stable. Furthermore, when the closure element is pressed into the first cup, the first cup is pushed outwardly towards the second cup. This ensures that the first and second cups are engaged and held together, adding both structural integrity and insulation for the user, for example when the beverage being served is hot. It is envisioned that the cups are simply made cups that can be used in many different locations, and the closure element is provided to enable a novel and practical way of sealing these cups.

[0019] As disclosed herein, in addition to positioning the outer annular wall of the closure device to seal against the inner wall of the cup, the specified angle of the annular wall and the closure device being made from a cellulosic or fibrous paper material together act to provide a very tight seal as described in further detail below.

[0020] The angle alpha, i.e. the angle of the annular sealing wall, is between 2 and 8 degrees, more preferably between 4 and 6 degrees. Such an angle is advantageous because if the angle alpha is too large the closure element will not effectively seal the container. If the angle is between 2 and 8 degrees, the closure element can be forced into the opening of most common cups to achieve a tight seal. More preferably, if the angle alpha is between 4 and 6 degrees, this helps to achieve a more tight seal.

[0021] According to another aspect, the closure element further comprises a removable and attachable lid element arranged to cover the spout. The lid element and the spout are adapted to seal the container to prevent spillage when the lid element is arranged over the spout. This aspect is advantageous because the spout can be resealed with the lid element. In some aspects, the spout can have a permeable surface that can be penetrated, for example, by a straw. However, in other aspects, it can be advantageous to have a lid element that can reseal the container. It is also envisioned that in certain aspects both a lid element and a permeable surface can be used, and the lid element can be constructed such that it can be used to penetrate the permeable surface.

[0022] According to another aspect, the spout includes a first set of threads extending around the spout and the lid element includes a second set of threads, the lid element being configured to be screwed onto the spout. This aspect is advantageous because the lid element can be screwed onto the spout to be resealable, making it easier for a user to carry the container around without spilling.

[0023] According to another aspect, the spout includes a first protruding lip extending around the spout, the lid element includes a first receiving recess configured to receive the protruding lip, and the lid element is configured to be pressed onto the spout. This aspect is advantageous in that the container is resealable.

[0024] According to another aspect, the spout includes a permeable surface configured to be penetrated. This aspect is advantageous in that it allows a user to easily access the contents of the container.

[0025] According to another aspect, the lid element includes a sharp portion configured to be used by a user to pierce the permeable surface to access the beverage or particulate matter, this aspect is advantageous in that it allows a user to easily open the container and access the contents.

[0026] According to another aspect, the closure element includes a second protruding lip extending around the annular sealing wall and the cup includes a second receiving recess extending around the inner annular wall of the cup and configured to receive the second protruding lip when the closure element is pressed into the cup. This aspect is advantageous in that the seal between the closure element and the cup is further enhanced by the interaction of the protruding lip and the receiving recess.

[0027] The closure device is made of a paper material. In an embodiment that includes a container with a cup and a closure device, the entire container, i.e. the closure element and the cup, is preferably made of a paper material, more preferably made of the same paper material. Using a paper material is advantageous because it is biodegradable and more environmentally friendly than plastic. It is even more advantageous because it is easy to make the paper material very stiff or hard, which is preferable to flexible plastic. It is even more advantageous because a cup made of a paper material, or in a particular embodiment two cups made of paper material pressed together, provide a stronger structure. By paper material is meant any kind of paper material, cellulosic material, or fiber-based material that is recyclable and / or biodegradable. The paper material can be formed by various mixtures of fiber material, recycled material, or other types of materials used in paper manufacturing.

[0028] According to another embodiment, the paper material is formed from a fiber-based slurry that includes a fiber base that includes at least 50% by weight of old corrugated container (OCC). In some embodiments, the fiber-based slurry may further include a moisture barrier and / or an oil barrier. The moisture barrier and oil barrier may each be in the range of about 1-4% by weight. This embodiment is advantageous because the OCC is a recycled material that further reduces the environmental footprint of the product.

[0029] According to another embodiment, the paper material is formed from a fiber-based slurry that includes a fiber base that includes at least 10% softwood (SW). In some embodiments, the fiber-based slurry may further include a moisture barrier and / or an oil barrier. The moisture barrier and oil barrier may each be in the range of about 1-4% by weight. This embodiment is advantageous because SW, such as bamboo or bagasse, is a more environmentally favorable material than plastic. Furthermore, the fiber-based slurry with the above ingredients creates a good mix for beverage containers or bottles. This embodiment is further advantageous because some SW materials are residuals from other industries and therefore are materials that do not unnecessarily deplete the earth's resources, which may help lower the environmental footprint of the product.

[0030] According to another embodiment, the fiber-based slurry further comprises a strength additive in the range of 1.5-4% by weight. This embodiment is advantageous because the addition of the strength additive makes the product, the bottle, more rigid in terms of improving dry strength. Furthermore, other benefits such as increased drainage and retention are characteristic of the addition of the strength additive.

[0031] In embodiments involving a cup, at least the inner surface of the cup may include an impermeable coating layer. This embodiment may be advantageous because the container may hold a beverage for an extended period of time without affecting the container and / or the beverage. The coating may be made from many different materials. It is further envisioned that the inner surface of the closure element may be lined with such an impermeable coating layer.

[0032] It should be noted that other embodiments using all possible combinations of the features described in the above embodiments may be envisaged. Thus, the present disclosure also relates to all possible combinations of the features described herein. Any embodiment described herein can be combined with other embodiments described herein, and the present disclosure relates to all combinations of features. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0033] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0034] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates a schematic representation of a container according to the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] 1 illustrates a schematic representation of a container according to the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] 1 illustrates a schematic representation of a container according to the present disclosure. [Figure 4] 1 illustrates a schematic representation of a container according to the present disclosure. [Figure 5a] 1A-1C illustrate schematic diagrams of embodiments of a closure element according to embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5b] 1A-1C illustrate schematic diagrams of embodiments of a closure element according to embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5c] 1A-1C illustrate schematic diagrams of embodiments of a closure element according to embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5d] 1A-1C illustrate schematic diagrams of embodiments of a closure element according to embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0035] As shown in the figures, the sizes of elements and regions may be exaggerated for illustrative purposes and are thus provided to illustrate the general structure of an embodiment.

[0036] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which presently preferred embodiments are shown. However, the present invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. These embodiments are provided for completeness and completeness, and to fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0037] It will be understood that the shape of the embodiment shown in the drawings may vary depending on the use of the container. Different shapes are convenient in different situations, and the container may or may not resemble, for example, a standard take-out cup or plastic bottle currently available. The drawings are not intended to narrow the scope of coverage for the shape of the container.

[0038] 1, an example of a closure element 130 adapted for use with a cup 110 which, when combined, forms a container 100.

[0039] In some embodiments, the closure element 130 is provided to be adapted for use with a cup to form a container. The first function is to hold the beverage or particulate material and to tightly seal the container with the closure element by engaging the interior of the cup. The closure element is advantageous in that it provides a new and original way to seal a container. Furthermore, the shape with the outer annular surface may be advantageously used with a variety of common cups, as it may fit into most common commercially available cups with a sloping inner surface. The cup does not need to have an opening of a precise size that matches the circumference of the closure device, since the closure device may be pushed down and passed through the opening of the cup, or in some cases only a portion of the closure device may be inserted into the opening and still function to seal the container. However, the closure device 130 may of course be provided in many different sizes to accommodate various cup sizes. Furthermore, the shape and manner of sealing makes the sealing function of the closure device independent of whether the cup has a protruding outer edge or the shape of the edge.

[0040] According to another aspect, there is provided a container 100 configured to hold a beverage or particulate material and extending along an axis A. The container 100 comprises a cup 110 including an opening having a first area A1 and a closure element 130 as described herein. The cup has an inner annular wall 150 inclined at the same angle alpha with respect to the axis A as the annular sealing wall 150 of the closure device 130.

[0041] The container 100 is configured to hold a beverage or granular material. In particular, the term beverage or granular material is intended to encompass any liquid, semi-liquid, or granular food product intended for consumption by a user or used to prepare any type of food or beverage. The container 100 extends along an axis A. As mentioned above, the cup 110 may be an already available takeaway cup or may be a custom cup provided with a closure element 130.

[0042] The cup 110 includes an opening 115 having a first area A1 in a cross section perpendicular to the axis A. The opening may be circular, such that the first area A1 corresponds to the area of ​​a circle. The cup 110 is configured to hold a beverage or particulate material and may be filled through the opening 115. The cup 110 further includes an annular inner wall 120 inclined at an angle alpha (α) with respect to the axis A.

[0043] The closure element 130 includes a sealing portion 140 having a second area A2 in a cross section perpendicular to the axis A. The second area A2 is essentially equal to the first area A1. The sealing portion 140 is shown as a flat plate in the drawings, but may have any shape suitable for sealing a container. The sealing portion 140 may be a disk. The sealing portion 140 is intended to seal at or near the opening 115 to seal the container and retain the contents therein.

[0044] The closure element 130 further comprises an annular sealing wall 150 extending around the closure portion 140. The annular sealing wall 150 is inclined at an angle alpha (α) relative to the axis A. The closure element 130 is configured to be pressed into the first cup 110 such that the annular sealing wall 150 engages the inner annular wall 120 to seal the container 100.

[0045] In the drawings, the closure element is illustrated as having a second area A2 of the sealing portion 140, i.e., the area of ​​the closure element 130 in a cross section perpendicular to the axis A, equal to the area A1 of the cup opening, such that when combined, the top of the sealing portion 140 fits flush with the top of the cup. However, the second area A2 may be equal to, slightly smaller than, or slightly larger than the area A1 of the cup opening. If the second area A2 is slightly smaller than the area A1 of the cup opening, the closure element may be pushed a little further into the cup, so that it seals the opening at a position slightly below the cup opening. Similarly, if the second area A2 is slightly larger than the area A1 of the cup opening, the closure element will seal the opening such that the cross section perpendicular to the axis A along which the second area A2 is measured is somewhat above the cup opening. This makes it easier for the user to attach the closure element 130 to the cup 110 and allows for some differences in cup size without compromising an effective seal.

[0046] The container 100 further comprises a spout 160 located anywhere on the closure 140 that is configured to dispense a beverage or particulate material to a user. The spout can be of a variety of sizes and shapes.

[0047] 1 shows the closure element 130 not pressed into the cup 110 and can represent how the closure element 130 is provided to form the container 100. After the container 100 is initially filled, the closure element 130 can be pressed into the cup 110 to effectively seal it.

[0048] The angle alpha (α) is between 2 and 8 degrees. It may also be between 4 and 6 degrees. The angle alpha (α) may be selected depending on the material of the container 100 and also depending on the friction generated between the annular sealing wall 120 of the closure element 130 and the inner annular wall 150 of the cup 110. Too large an angle alpha (α) is not preferred since the closure element 130 may slip out of the first cup 110 during use. An angle alpha (α) of about 6 degrees is preferred. However, as mentioned above, different angles may be preferred for different embodiments and materials. The angle alpha (α) may be, for example, 2 degrees, 2.5 degrees, 3 degrees, 3.5 degrees, 4 degrees, 4.5 degrees, 5 degrees, 5.5 degrees, 6 degrees, 6.5 degrees, 7 degrees, 7.5 degrees, or 8 degrees.

[0049] The closure element 130 is made of a paper material, preferably a cellulosic or fiber-based paper material. In embodiments including the container 100 with the cup 110 and the closure device 130, the entire container is preferably made of a paper material, more preferably made of the same paper material. In some embodiments, only certain parts of the container may be made of a paper material. For example, the annular sealing wall of the closure element 130 is preferably made of a paper material, while other parts of the closure element 130 may be of other materials. Furthermore, the inner wall of the cup 110 is preferably made of a paper material, since the paper material provides a high friction surface, increasing the friction when sealing the closure element 130 to the cup 110. However, if materials are provided for the closure element 130 and the cup 110, it is preferred that all or most of them are biodegradable and environmentally friendly materials.

[0050] By paper material is meant any material made of fiber-based, cellulosic, or similar materials that are biodegradable and recyclable.

[0051] The closure element 130 and cup 110, if provided, may be made of, for example, a fiber-based material, for example, a fiber-based slurry may be pressed or shaped to form some paper material, cardboard material, or other biodegradable material.

[0052] The paper material can be formed from a fiber-based slurry. Fiber-based products are biodegradable and compostable and do not end up in the ocean in the same volumes as plastics. They are therefore suitable for use as an alternative to many of the plastic products currently available. Additionally, the use of fiber-based materials provides a high friction surface, enhancing the seal between the annular sealing wall of the closure element and the cup.

[0053] In different embodiments, portions of the container 100 may be formed with different types of fiber-based slurries. A few examples are given here, but they are not to be considered limiting and other materials and mixtures and proportions are contemplated.

[0054] The paper material can be formed from a fiber-based slurry that can include at least 50% by weight of recycled corrugated cardboard (OCC), and in some embodiments, can include a moisture barrier and an oil barrier, each of which can be in the range of about 1-4% by weight.

[0055] In another embodiment, the paper material can be formed from a fiber-based slurry that can include at least 10% softwood (SW), and in some embodiments, can include a water barrier and an oil barrier, each of which can be in the range of about 1-4% by weight.

[0056] The fiber-based slurry may also have base fibers from any of the following groups: bagasse, bamboo, newsprint (NP). Other types of fiber materials may also be used to form the paper material.

[0057] The fiber-based slurry may also contain strength additives in the range of 1.5-4% by weight, which may be added to improve structural rigidity.

[0058] Molding paper pulp or fibrous material is a standard method for making containers, trays, and other types of packaging materials. In general, the steps are to make a mold to be a mirror image of the final paper product, drill holes in the mold and attach a screen to its surface, dip the mold into the paper pulp, and once the mold is immersed in the paper pulp, pull a vacuum through the holes to make the layer of paper pulp stick to the mold. The screen prevents the pulp from blocking the holes.

[0059] The mold is removed and the paper pulp stuck to the sides of the mold is removed and dried to produce a paper product. Depending on the type of paper product, different techniques may be used to remove the product from the mold. In what is known as "wet" manufacturing, a transfer molding mold engages the fibrous product and transfers the formed "wet section" to a hot press, which compresses and dries the fibrous material to increase density and provide a smooth exterior finish. Other molding techniques may be used to provide the desired shape and structural integrity, among others.

[0060] The closure element 130 and the cup 110, if provided, can be formed according to the above-mentioned procedure with a fiber-based slurry and a vacuum former. They can be formed, for example, by a method including the steps of providing a fiber-based slurry mixture; immersing a mould containing a wire mesh containing a mirror image of the portion of the beverage container to be formed; then drawing a vacuum through the wire mesh to accumulate the fiber-based slurry on the surface of the wire mesh; then removing the mould from the fiber-based slurry mixture and removing the moulded portion from the surface of the wire mesh; finally pressing the moulded portion in a hot press. However, it is also possible to incorporate other steps of standard vacuum forming into the method to achieve a functional closure element 130 or cup 110.

[0061] The closure element 130 and cup 110, if provided, may be formed in other ways as well. For example, female and male molds for the closure element 130 or cup 110 may be constructed. The female mold may be filled with a fiber-based slurry or other suitable material. The male mold may then be used to press the material against the side of the female mold to produce the precise shape. These molds may be constructed such that moisture in the material is wicked through the mesh of the female and male molds during pressing.

[0062] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other methods of forming the closure element 130 and cup 110, if provided, are possible and various options are available. Depending on the part and depending on the various features of the embodiment, different methods of forming the paper material may be preferred.

[0063] Furthermore, if the closure element 130 and the cup 110 are provided, it may be advantageous for them to include a water-tight coating. The coating may be made of a plastic material and may be a thin sheet that covers the inside of the closure element 130 or the cup 110. The coating is impermeable, allowing the beverage to be preserved without the beverage penetrating the coating and reaching the walls of the closure element 130 or the cup 110. The coating may be made of a plastic material or any other suitable material that is water-tight, for example any cellulosic material. However, the coating is preferably a biodegradable material or at least has a low environmental footprint.

[0064] Depending on the beverage to be stored in the container 100 and the time the beverage is stored, the closure element 130 or cup 110 may include such a coating. Coatings may be necessary for certain beverages, as some beverages have a greater effect or damage on paper materials than others. Furthermore, depending on the storage time of the beverage in the container 100, a coating may be preferred. The longer the beverage is held in the container 100, the higher the risk that the closure element 130 or cup 110 will be affected by the beverage. Thus, a coating may be preferred for a closure element 130 or cup 110 that is configured to store beverages for long periods of time. The coating may have various thicknesses, depending on the material from which the coating is made and depending on the beverage to be stored.

[0065] Furthermore, it is also possible for parts of the beverage container to include other materials. For example, the closure element 130 and / or the cup 110 may include plastic, silicon, or metal in certain parts. This may be advantageous to make some parts of the closure element 130 and / or the cup 110 from a material suitable for durable long-term use and also to make some parts of the closure element 130 and / or the cup 110 from an environmentally friendly material such as a fiber-based material.

[0066] Referring to FIG. 2, an example of a closure element 130 that is pressed into the cup opening to form the container 100 is disclosed.

[0067] The closure element 130 and cup 110 correspond to the closure element 130 and cup 110 of Figure 1, further details of which may be seen in relation to Figure 1, except that the closure element 130 is pressed into the cup 110. The angle alpha (α) ensures that there is sufficient friction between the annular sealing wall 150 of the closure device 130 and the inner annular wall 150 of the cup 110 such that the closure element 130 keeps the container 100 closed and sealed.

[0068] The arrangement of the outer annular sealing wall of the closure device 130, the designated angle of the annular sealing wall, and the closure device made of a cellulosic or fiber-based paper material, in combination, act to provide a very tight seal. An angle alpha of 2-8 degrees corresponds to most commonly available drinking cups, and by itself provides a good seal between the annular sealing wall 150 of the closure element 130 and the annular inner wall of the cup 110. Furthermore, making the closure element 130 out of a cellulosic or fiber-based paper material provides an at least slightly rough surface to the surface of the annular sealing wall, which creates high friction when pressed against the inner wall of the cup. This further increases friction when attached to a cup also made of a cellulosic or fiber-based paper material. Thus, when the closure element 130 is pressed into the cup, a tight seal is created. This is such that in some embodiments, once the closure element 130 is attached to the cup, it is difficult or requires significant force for a user to remove it.

[0069] The intended use of the closure element 130 is to provide a tight seal on a container and to maintain the seal over time without the closure element 130 falling off or becoming dislodged. Thus, the closure element 130 is not primarily intended to be a lid that is attached and then removed by a user, for example, to drink the contents. Filling or drinking by a user is preferably accomplished via the spout 160.

[0070] In some embodiments, the closure element 130 further comprises a removable and attachable lid element 180 configured to cover the spout 160, as will be described in further detail below in connection with Figures 5a-5d. In particular, the lid element 180 and the spout 160 are adapted to seal the container 100 when the lid element 180 is positioned over the spout 160, such that spillage from the container is essentially prevented. In other words, the spout opening is adapted to be tightly sealed when covered by the lid element 160.

[0071] When the closure element 130 is combined with a cup, i.e., pressed into the cup, the container formed provides a convenient container for filling and drinking a beverage while being spill-resistant and leak-resistant.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 3, an example of a closure element 130 and cup 110 forming a container 100 in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention is disclosed.

[0073] In FIG. 3, the closure element 130 and cup 110 include additional optional features compared to FIGS.

[0074] The closure element 130 includes a protruding lip 132 that extends around the second annular wall 150. The cup 110 includes a receiving recess 112 that extends around the annular sealing wall 150 and is configured to receive the protruding lip 132 when the closure element 130 is pressed into the cup 110.

[0075] When pushing the closure element 130 into the first cup 110, the user knows when the closure element 130 is correctly positioned and when the protruding lip 132 and the receiving recess 112 join together. The protruding lip 132 and the receiving recess 112 also help seal the container 100, allowing for a better and more reliable user experience.

[0076] It is further contemplated that at least a portion of the closure element 130 may have a contrasting color to the first cup 110 so that a user can clearly recognize when the closure element 130 is correctly positioned within the first cup 110 .

[0077] With reference to FIG. 4, another exemplary embodiment of a container 100 is disclosed.

[0078] 4 includes a second cup 170. The second cup 170 is configured to at least partially contain the first cup 110. Thus, the first cup 110 is disposed within the second cup 170.

[0079] The embodiment of Figure 4 is advantageous because the closure element 130 presses the first cup 110 towards the second cup 170. This brings the cups 110, 170 into contact and friction between the cups causes the second cup 170 to stick to the first cup 110. Furthermore, having the two cups joined in this way increases the stability of the structure.

[0080] The embodiment with two cups 110, 170 also provides increased insulation for the user when filled with hot or cold drinks or substances.

[0081] 5a-5d, an example of a spout 160 disposed on a closure element 130 is disclosed in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.

[0082] 5a-5d, the closure element 130 further includes a lid element 180 disposed to cover the spout 160. The lid element 180 may include a pointed portion 185 configured to be used by a user to pierce the permeable surface 165 to access the beverage or particulate matter stored within the container.

[0083] 5b includes such a permeable surface 165 configured for an object to penetrate therethrough. For example, the top of the lid 180 can be used to press a sharpened tip 185 against the permeable surface 165.

[0084] In Figure 5c, spout 160 includes a first set of threads 162 extending around spout 160, and lid element 180 includes a second set of threads 182, with lid element 180 configured to be screwed onto spout 160. This embodiment is advantageous in that lid element 180 can be screwed onto spout 160 making it resealable and easy to reopen. Additionally, a user may find it easier to carry the container around without spilling when lid element 160 is placed over the spout opening.

[0085] In Figure 5d, spout 160 includes a protruding lip 164 extending around spout 160, and lid element 180 includes a receiving recess 184 configured to receive protruding lip 164, with lid element 180 configured to be pressed onto spout 160. This embodiment is advantageous in that the container is both resealable and easy to reopen.

[0086] Also, the spout 160 and lid element 180 may be any other conventional spout and lid solution available and suitable for the present invention.

[0087] Although particular combinations of features and elements are described above, each feature or element can be used alone without the other features and elements, or in various combinations with or without the other features and elements.

[0088] Moreover, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims, those skilled in the art will understand and implement variations of the disclosed embodiments in practicing the claimed invention. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements, and the indefinite articles "a" or "an" do not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that certain features are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these features cannot be used to advantage.

Claims

1. A closure element (130) adapted for use in a cup (110) having an upper opening (115) with a first area A1 in a cross section perpendicular to an axis A, the closure element (130) and the cup (110) are adapted to form a container (100) when combined; the container (100) extends along the axis A and is configured to hold a beverage or particulate material; The closure element (130) comprises: a sealing portion (140) having a second area A2 in a cross section perpendicular to the axis A, the second area A2 being essentially equal to the first area A1; an annular sealing wall (150) extending around the sealing portion (140), inclined at an angle alpha (α) relative to the axis A, and intended to contact the inner surface of the annular inner wall of the cup (110) to seal the container (100); The closure element (130) further comprises a spout (160) configured to dispense the beverage or particulate material to a user; the closure element (130) is configured to be pressed into the cup such that the annular sealing wall (150) engages the inner surface of the annular inner wall of the cup (110) to form a tight seal between the closure element (130) and the cup (110); the angle alpha is between 2 and 8 degrees; The closure element (130) is made of a cellulosic or fibrous paper material.

2. a removable and attachable lid element (180) positioned to cover said spout (160); 2. The closure element (130) of claim 1, wherein the lid element (180) and the spout (160) are adapted to seal the container (100) and essentially prevent spillage from the container when the lid element (180) is positioned over the spout (160).

3. the spout (160) includes a first set of threads (162) extending around the spout (160); the lid element (180) comprises a second set of threads (182); The closure element (130) of claim 2, wherein the lid element (180) is configured to be screwed onto the spout (160).

4. the spout includes a first protruding lip (164) extending around the spout; the lid element comprises a first receiving recess (184) configured to receive the protruding edge (164); The closure element (130) of claim 2, wherein the lid element (180) is configured to be pressed onto the spout (160).

5. The closure element (130) of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the spout (160) comprises a permeable surface (165) configured to be penetrated.

6. The closure element (130) of claim 2, wherein the lid element (180) comprises a pointed portion (185) configured to be used by a user to pierce the permeable surface (165) of the spout (160) to access the beverage or particulate matter.

7. A container (100) configured to hold a beverage or particulate material and extending along an axis A, comprising: a first cup (110) made of a cellulosic or fibrous paper material, the first cup (110) having an opening (115) with a first area A1 in a cross section perpendicular to an axis A, and an inner annular wall (120) inclined at said angle alpha (α) with respect to said axis A; A closure element (130) according to claim 1; A container (100) comprising:

8. 8. The container (100) of claim 7, further comprising a second cup (170) configured to at least partially contain the first cup.

9. The closure element (130) comprises a second protruding edge (132) extending around the annular sealing wall (150); 8. The container (100) of claim 7, wherein the first cup (110) includes a second protruding edge (132) that extends around the inner annular wall and is adapted to interact with a second receiving recess (112) of the cup (110) configured to receive the second protruding edge (132) when the closure element (130) is pressed into the cup (110).

10. 10. The closure element (130) of claim 1, wherein the paper material is formed from a fiber-based slurry including a fiber base that includes at least 50% by weight recycled corrugated cardboard (OCC).

11. A container (100) as described in claim 7, wherein the paper material is formed from a fiber-based slurry including a fiber base containing at least 50% by weight recycled corrugated cardboard (OCC).

12. 10. The closure element (130) of claim 1, wherein the paper material is formed from a fiber-based slurry including a fiber base that includes at least 10% softwood (SW).

13. A container (100) as described in claim 7, wherein the paper material is formed from a fiber-based slurry including a fiber base containing at least 10% softwood (SW).

14. the fiber-based slurry further comprises a moisture barrier and / or an oil barrier; The closure element (130) of claim 10, wherein the moisture barrier and the oil barrier are each in the range of about 1-4% by weight.

15. The fiber-based slurry further comprises a moisture barrier and / or an oil barrier; 12. The container (100) of claim 11, wherein the moisture barrier and the oil barrier are each in the range of about 1-4% by weight.

16. The closure element (130) of claim 10, wherein the fiber-based slurry further comprises a strength additive in the range of 1.5 to 4 weight percent.

17. A container (100) as described in claim 11, wherein the fiber-based slurry further comprises a strength additive in the range of 1.5 to 4 weight percent.

18. The closure element (130) of claim 1, wherein at least an inner surface of the closure device (130) comprises an impermeable coating layer.

19. A container (100) as described in claim 7, wherein at least the inner surface of the closure device (130) and / or the cup (110) is provided with an impermeable coating layer.

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