Container lid

Abstract

To provide a container lid with improved operability for opening. [Solution] A lid for a container comprising a top surface, an opening / closing valve, and an opening formed in the top surface of the lid which is opened and closed by the rotation of the opening / closing valve, wherein the opening / closing valve has a concave portion having an opening toward the inside of the container, and when the container with the lid on is tilted to drink the liquid inside the container, the liquid inside the container flows into the concave portion, and the force of the liquid flowing into the concave portion maintains the open state of the opening / closing valve.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a lid for a container that houses a liquid or the like.

Background Art

[0002] Liquid beverages are likely to spill. They are often provided with a lid on the container. For example, restaurants and the like use containers with lids for takeout or delivery.

[0003] Basically, a container includes a bottom portion, a body portion erected from the bottom portion, and a flange portion formed at the upper end of the body portion. Basically, a lid includes a lid top surface corresponding to the container opening and a lid side fitting portion corresponding to the container flange portion. Containers are often made of paper, but the material is not particularly specified. Lids are often made of resin, but the material is not particularly specified.

[0004] In recent years, from the perspective of environmental consideration, lids for beverage containers that allow direct drinking of beverages without using a straw have been proposed (Patent Document 1).

[0005] In a reference example often seen in the conventional type, an opening and a small lid with a protrusion that rotatably opens and closes the opening are provided on the lid top surface, and an engagement groove for engaging and holding the protrusion of the inverted small lid in the open state is provided.

[0006] Conventional lids are roughly classified into a low lid type (see FIG. 9A) and a high lid type (see FIG. 9B). For convenience, when the top surface position is at the same height as or below the lid side fitting position, it is classified as the low lid type, and when the top surface position is clearly higher than the lid side fitting position, it is classified as the high lid type.

[0007] [[ID=3I]] The low lid type includes a lid top surface 11, a lid side fitting portion 14 provided at the periphery of the lid top surface and fitted to the opening edge of the container, and a circumferential skirt portion 15 extending downward from the lid side fitting portion 14. An opening / closing mechanism 16 is provided at the periphery of the lid top surface. By opening the opening / closing mechanism 16 and bringing the lower lip into contact with the vicinity of the circumferential skirt portion 15 from the lid side fitting portion 14, it becomes possible to drink. This range is the drinking mouth 19.

[0008] The tall-lid type comprises a lid top surface 11, a peripheral projection 12 extending from the periphery of the lid top surface, a lid side surface 13 extending downward from the periphery of the lid top surface, a lid-side fitting portion 14 provided at the lower part of the lid side surface 13 and fitted to the container opening edge, and a circumferential skirt portion 15 extending downward from the lid-side fitting portion 14. An opening and closing mechanism 16 is provided on the periphery of the lid top surface. By opening the opening and closing mechanism 16 and bringing the lower lip into contact with the area from the peripheral projection 12 to the vicinity of the lid side surface 13, it becomes possible to drink. This area is the drinking spout 19.

[0009] Conventional straw-free drinking utensils, both low-lid and high-lid types, have their own advantages and disadvantages compared to straw-insertion types.

[0010] The elimination of the need for a straw reduces the environmental impact. On the other hand, if the lid is made of resin, the straw-free type uses more resin than the straw-insertion type, and the lid itself contributes to the environmental burden.

[0011] Compared to the straw insertion operation in straw-insertion type dispensers, the lift-up and engagement / holding operation of the protruding lid in straw-free type dispensers requires practice and skill. This presents operational challenges for children, the elderly, and those with limited dexterity.

[0012] With straw-free drinks, the container is tilted to drink, which can cause residual liquid to accumulate in various places on the lid. Also, with cold beverages, ice may come out of the opening when drinking from a straw-free drink.

[0013] For straw-free drinks, a larger opening is necessary for gulping. As a result, spills are more likely with even slight vibrations. Ice also comes out more easily. There is a risk of dust and insects entering through the large opening.

[0014] On the other hand, the large opening also allows you to enjoy the aroma.

[0015] Low-lid and high-lid containers each have their advantages and disadvantages. High-lid containers are often used for hot beverages such as coffee.

[0016] With a high lid, the distance to the liquid surface is increased, making spills less likely. This increased distance allows you to check the temperature of hot beverages while drinking. With a high lid, the lower lip contact point is further away from the lower end of the circumferential skirt, reducing the risk of lip cutting by the end. With a high lid, the material thickness needs to be increased to compensate for the height. As a result, it becomes more rigid, and the opening and closing mechanism operates properly (making it easier to open).

[0017] Low-lid designs allow for a closer proximity between the container and the drinking spout, thus minimizing residual liquid. Their simpler construction makes them easier to manufacture with thinner walls, reducing environmental impact. Furthermore, the reduced distance to the liquid surface allows for a more enjoyable aroma experience. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0018] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2008-308224 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0019] Conventional lids require practice and skill to lift up and engage, posing challenges in usability. Closing the opening also presents operational challenges.

[0020] Conventional lids require a large opening to enjoy the aroma. However, this large opening can lead to problems.

[0021] The first problem that this invention aims to solve is to provide a lid with improved operability, such as opening.

[0022] The second problem that this invention aims to solve is to provide a lid that allows the aroma to be enjoyed while drinking. [Means for solving the problem]

[0023] The lid of the present invention for solving the above-mentioned first problem is a lid of a container comprising a lid top surface, an opening / closing valve, and an opening formed on the lid top surface that is to be opened or closed by the rotation of the opening / closing valve. The opening / closing valve is formed with a concave portion having an opening facing the inside of the container. When the container covered with the lid is tilted to drink the liquid inside the container, the liquid inside the container flows into the concave portion, and the opening state of the opening / closing valve is configured to be maintained by the force of the liquid flowing into the concave portion.

[0024] When the container covered with the lid is tilted to drink the liquid inside the container, the liquid inside the container flows into the concave portion (the concave portion is also referred to as a hydraulic pressure receiving portion). Since the hydraulic pressure acts on the hydraulic pressure receiving portion, the opening / closing valve (the opening / closing valve is also referred to as an opening valve) rotates and opens. It becomes drinkable.

[0025] In the above invention, preferably, when the container covered with the lid is tilted to drink the liquid inside the container, the liquid inside the container flows into the concave portion, and the opening state of the opening / closing valve is maintained by the force of the liquid flowing into the concave portion. When the container is restored to its original upright state, the liquid that has flowed into the concave portion returns from the concave portion into the container, and the opening / closing valve rotates to the closed position and the closed state is maintained.

[0026] In the above invention, preferably, the opening / closing valve rotates about a rotation axis, and in a direction parallel to the rotation axis, there is a connecting portion connecting the main body portion of the lid top surface and the opening / closing valve, and cutting portions formed at both ends of the connecting portion. For example, in a direction orthogonal to the rotation axis, it is continuous from the main body portion of the lid top surface to the opening / closing valve (opening valve), and in a direction parallel to the rotation axis, there is a connecting portion connecting the main body portion of the lid top surface and the opening valve, and cutting portions formed at both ends of the connecting portion.

[0027] Since both ends of the connecting portion are cut, the length of the rotation axis becomes shorter and it becomes easier to rotate. By being continuous from the main body portion to the opening valve in the connecting portion, elasticity remains. Thereby, the hydraulic pressure action is released and the opening valve closes.

[0028] In the above invention, preferably, the length of the opening valve in the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis is longer than the width of the opening valve in the rotation axis direction.

[0029] In the above invention, preferably, the width of the concave portion in the on-off valve in the direction parallel to the pivot axis is at least twice the length of the pivot axis, and the length of the on-off valve in the direction perpendicular to the pivot axis is longer than the width of the on-off valve in the direction of the pivot axis. By doing so, the rotatability is further improved.

[0030] In the above invention, preferably, a guide wall is provided that guides the contents of the container to the drinking spout when the container is tilted to drink the contents. In this way, the contents are less likely to spill. The guide wall is continuous from the outer end of the opening to the drinking spout. The guide wall is in contact with the side surface of the container.

[0031] In the above invention, the height of the guide wall is, for example, 8 to 16 mm.

[0032] In the above invention, preferably, a fragrance window portion is provided that opens and closes in accordance with the rotation of the opening valve.

[0033] In the above invention, preferably, an incense window portion is provided on the inner end side of the opening with a pivot shaft in between, an incense window valve opens and closes the incense window portion via the pivot shaft, and a column is provided that is continuous with the opening valve and the incense window valve.

[0034] In the above invention, preferably, a fragrance window portion is provided so as to be cut into the inner end side of the opening / closing valve, and a fixed valve is provided so as to be corresponding to the fragrance window portion and protrudes from the main body portion on the top surface of the lid across the pivot axis of the opening / closing valve.

[0035] As a result, the incense window opens and closes in conjunction with the rotation of the opening valve.

[0036] This allows the aroma to be enjoyed while drinking. In other words, the second problem mentioned above is solved by providing an aroma window.

[0037] The first problem described above can also be solved by a lid for a container comprising: a top surface of the lid; a side surface of the lid extending downward from the periphery of the top surface of the lid; a lid-side fitting portion fitted to a container at the lower part of the side surface of the lid; a drinking spout provided around the periphery of the top surface of the lid for contact with the lower lip; an opening provided on the top surface of the lid at a position lower than the drinking spout and corresponding to the drinking spout; and an on / off valve that rotates to open or close the opening, wherein the on / off valve has a concave portion having an opening toward the inside of the container, and when the container with the lid on is tilted to drink the liquid inside the container, the liquid inside the container flows into the concave portion, and the force of the liquid flowing into the concave portion maintains the open state of the on / off valve.

[0038] This invention can be applied to both low-lid and high-lid types. [Effects of the Invention]

[0039] The lid opening mechanism is now easier to operate. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0040] [Figure 1] Perspective view of the overall configuration of the first embodiment [Figure 2] Cross-sectional view of the overall configuration of the first embodiment [Figure 3] Plan view of the main part of the first embodiment [Figure 4] Operational Diagram of the First Embodiment [Figure 5] Enlarged view of the main part of the second embodiment [Figure 6] Enlarged view of the main part of a modified example of the second embodiment [Figure 7] Perspective view of the entire structure of the modified high-cover design. [Figure 8] Enlarged view of the main part of the high-roof torture device. [Figure 9] Conventional Configuration Diagram [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0041] The present invention is a lid for a container. The lid comprises a top surface, an on / off valve, and an opening formed in the top surface of the lid, which is opened and closed by the rotation of the on / off valve. The on / off valve has a concave portion that opens toward the inside of the container. When the container with the lid on is tilted to drink the liquid inside, the liquid inside the container flows into the concave portion. The force of the liquid flowing into the concave portion maintains the open state of the on / off valve. Preferably, when the container is returned to its original upright position from a tilted state, the liquid that had flowed into the concave portion returns from the concave portion to the inside of the container, and the on / off valve rotates to the closed position and maintains the closed state.

[0042] The aforementioned on-off valve rotates, for example, around a pivot shaft. The lid has a connecting portion that connects the main body portion of the top surface of the lid to the on-off valve in a direction parallel to the axis, and cut portions formed at both ends of the connecting portion. The width of the concave portion in the on-off valve in a direction parallel to the pivot axis is preferably, for example, about twice or more the length of the pivot axis. The length of the on-off valve in a direction perpendicular to the pivot axis is preferably longer than the width of the on-off valve in the direction of the pivot axis.

[0043] The container is equipped with a guide wall that directs the contents to the drinking spout when the container is tilted to drink the contents. The height of the guide wall is, for example, 8 to 16 mm.

[0044] Preferably, the device comprises a fragrant window portion connected to the inner end of the opening with a pivot shaft in between, a fragrant window valve that opens and closes the fragrant window portion via the pivot shaft, and a column continuous with the opening valve and the fragrant window valve.

[0045] Preferably, the valve comprises a fragrant window portion provided so as to be cut into the inner end side of the on-off valve, and a fixed valve that protrudes from the main body portion on the top surface of the lid, straddling the pivot axis of the on-off valve, and is provided to correspond to the fragrant window portion.

[0046] The following describes a lid representing one embodiment (the first embodiment), along with a diagram. ~Configuration of the First Embodiment~ Figure 1 is a perspective view of the overall configuration of the first embodiment. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the overall configuration.

[0047] The lid comprises a lid top surface 11, a lid side fitting portion 14, and a circumferential skirt portion 15.

[0048] The lid surface 11 is roughly shaped like a mortar. The lid surface 11 comprises a main body located in the center and a peripheral part located around the periphery. It curves downwards towards the center. When the center is lower, the drinker's nose is less likely to touch the top surface when the container is tilted.

[0049] The lid-side fitting portion 14 is erected from the periphery of the top surface of the lid. In the lid-side fitting portion 14, the inner wall portion, the top portion, and the outer wall portion form a gate-like shape, and the container flange (container opening edge) is inserted into the internal space of the gate-like shape, resulting in a fitted state.

[0050] The top surface of the lid 11 is basically located lower than the top of the lid-side fitting portion 14, and is classified as a low-lid type.

[0051] The circumferential skirt portion 15 extends downward from the outer wall portion of the lid-side fitting portion 14.

[0052] The top and outer wall portion of the lid-side fitting portion 14 form the drinking spout 19 that the drinker's lower lip comes into contact with (see Figure 4).

[0053] An opening and closing mechanism 17 is provided on the top surface 11 of the lid, corresponding to the drinking spout 19.

[0054] Figure 3 is a plan view of the main part of the first embodiment. The opening / closing mechanism 17 is the main part in this embodiment.

[0055] An opening-forming surface 21 is formed on the main body portion of the lid top surface 11 at a lower position. An opening 22 is formed in the opening-forming surface 21. The opening 22 allows communication between the inside of the lid (contents side) and the outside of the lid (non-contents side). The opening-forming surface 21 is located 8 to 16 mm below the top of the lid-side fitting portion 14. More preferably, it is located 10 to 15 mm below.

[0056] To prevent the lip from being cut by the opening end face, the opening of a typical low-lid type is positioned at least 4 mm (equivalent to a safe length) below the top of the lid-side fitting portion. In this embodiment, it is positioned lower than the general type in order to ensure the movement range of the opening and closing mechanism 17.

[0057] The pivot shaft 23 is located on the inner end side (closer to the center) of the opening 22. The opening valve 24 is located corresponding to the opening 22. The opening 22 can be opened and closed via the pivot shaft 23.

[0058] In the direction perpendicular to the pivot axis 23, the area from the outer opening region of the opening-forming surface 21 to the opening valve 24 is continuous. The connecting portion 25 connects the outer opening region of the opening-forming surface 21 to the opening valve 24. The connecting portion 25 retains the elasticity of the opening-forming surface 21.

[0059] In the direction parallel to the pivot axis 23, it has a connecting portion 25 and cutting portions 26, 26 formed at both ends of the connecting portion 25.

[0060] The outer region of the opening-forming surface 21 and the opening valve 24 are continuous via a connecting portion 25. They are separated everywhere except at the connecting portion 25. This forms the opening 22.

[0061] The connecting portion 25 is located at a lower position than the top surface 14. The thickness of the connecting portion 25 is thinner than that of other areas. For example, the thickness of other areas is 0.2 mm or more, while the thickness of the connecting portion 25 is less than 0.2 mm. Preferably, it is about 0.1 mm (half of the basic thickness). This ensures rotational function.

[0062] The pivot shaft 23 may be a hinge mechanism. If the width of the connecting portion 25 is to be widened, it may be perforated. This ensures the rotation function.

[0063] The hydraulic pressure receiving portion 27 is located slightly towards the outer end (farthest from the center) of the opening valve 24. If the approximate center position of the hydraulic pressure receiving portion 27 is about 3 to 20 mm from the top of the lid-side fitting portion 14 toward the center, it is susceptible to the effects of hydraulic pressure. The hydraulic pressure receiving portion 27 protrudes from the contents side to the non-contents side. The hydraulic pressure receiving portion 27 has a concave shape. This concave portion has an opening toward the inside of the container (see Figures 2 and 4).

[0064] When the container is tilted during drinking, the beverage enters the hydraulic pressure receiving section 27 (see Figure 4). Hydraulic pressure acts on the hydraulic pressure receiving section 27. A moderately wide width (parallel to the rotation axis) of the hydraulic pressure receiving section 27 makes it easier for the hydraulic pressure to act. For example, it was preferable for the width of the hydraulic pressure receiving section 27 to be 1.5 times or more the length of the connecting section 25. It was even preferable if it was 2 times or more. In the prototype example, the width of the hydraulic pressure receiving section 27 was 16 mm for a connecting section 25 length of 5 mm.

[0065] The hydraulic pressure receiving portion 27 rotates more easily due to hydraulic pressure if the length of the opening valve 24 in the direction perpendicular to its rotation axis is longer than the width in the direction of its rotation axis. In the prototype example, the length of the opening valve 24 in the direction perpendicular to its rotation axis was 30 mm, while the width in the direction of its rotation axis was 20 mm.

[0066] The hydraulic pressure receiving section 27 should have an appropriate height to allow hydraulic pressure to act on it more easily. The top of the hydraulic pressure receiving section 27 should be, for example, 1 to 5 mm above the opening forming surface 21. In the prototype example, the height was 3 mm. If the height of the hydraulic pressure receiving section 27 is too high, it becomes difficult to secure the movement range of the opening and closing mechanism 17.

[0067] The opening / closing mechanism 17, which includes the opening forming surface 21, the opening 22, the pivot shaft 23, and the opening valve 24, is surrounded by a guide wall 28 that extends from the outer end of the opening 22 to the drinking spout 19 and guide walls 29, 29 that are erected along the left and right ends of the opening 22. The left and right guide walls 29, 29 are continuous with the lid side fitting portion 14. The guide wall 29 prevents liquid leakage from the opening 22 to the left and right, and the guide wall 28 guides the liquid to the drinking spout 19.

[0068] The guide wall 28 has the same inclination as the side of the container and is in contact with the side of the container (see Figure 4). The guide wall 28 has sufficient height, which reduces the risk of liquid leakage.

[0069] The guide walls 29, 29 ultimately increase the rigidity of the opening-forming surface 21. This suppresses co-rotation and makes the opening and closing of the opening valve 24 smoother.

[0070] ~Operation of the First Embodiment~ Before hydraulic pressure is applied, the end face of the opening 22 and the end face of the opening valve 24 come into contact with each other, maintaining the closed state.

[0071] Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram of the operation of the first embodiment. With the above configuration, when the drinker places their lower lip against the drinking spout 19 and tilts the container, liquid pressure flows into (acts upon) the liquid pressure receiving section 27.

[0072] The hydraulic pressure causes the opening valve 24 to rotate around the pivot axis 23.

[0073] As the device is further rotated by the hydraulic pressure, the degree of opening of the opening 22 increases, allowing the beverage to flow out. The upper lip is extended towards the guide wall 28 to suck in the beverage. At this time, sufficient space is ensured in the opening / closing mechanism 17, so that the hydraulic pressure receiving part 27 does not come into contact with the nose.

[0074] When the container is returned to its upright position, the liquid in the hydraulic pressure receiving section 27 begins to return to the container. The hydraulic pressure is released. Due to the elasticity of the connecting section 25, the opening valve 24 rotates in the opposite direction. The degree of opening of the opening 22 decreases, and the beverage can no longer flow out.

[0075] The opening 22 opens and closes due to hydraulic pressure. If you want to drink little by little, you can do so by repeatedly opening and closing it in small increments.

[0076] As the liquid volume decreases, the hydraulic pressure effect is expected to decrease as well. However, repeated opening and closing makes the opening valve 24 easier to rotate. As a result, the liquid remains drinkable even when the remaining amount is low.

[0077] If you want to drink it quickly or eat ice, you can push the opening valve 24 180 degrees with your finger to plastically deform the connecting part 25 and maintain the open state of the opening 22.

[0078] ~Effects of the First Embodiment~ The effects of the first embodiment will be described. The first embodiment has a distinctive opening and closing mechanism 17.

[0079] The opening 22 opens semi-automatically solely by hydraulic pressure. This eliminates the need for the complicated opening and engaging / holding operations of conventional designs, resulting in superior operability.

[0080] Conventional small lids with protrusions and engagement grooves are unnecessary. The simple structure makes it easy to create a thin-walled design, resulting in reduced environmental impact.

[0081] The opening 22 remains closed when not in use. This prevents liquid spillage due to vibration and prevents dust and insects from entering.

[0082] When the opening valve 24 was pushed in, for example, 10-15 mm towards the non-content side via the hydraulic pressure receiving section 27, the planar opening width of the opening 22 in the prototype model was approximately 5 mm. Since ice used in cold beverages is often 5 mm or larger, ice coming out of the opening 22 is suppressed.

[0083] The first embodiment applies an opening and closing mechanism 17, which is characteristic of low-lid type containers.

[0084] From the standpoint of preventing liquid spillage and confirming temperature, high-lid containers are generally used for hot beverages such as coffee. In the first embodiment, liquid spillage can be suppressed, and temperature can be confirmed by controlling the flow rate. Therefore, the low-lid type of the first embodiment can also be used for hot beverages. Even with the low-lid type, there are no issues related to lift-up operation.

[0085] Generally, in a high-lid type, the lower lip contact position is further away from the lower end surface of the circumferential skirt, thus reducing the risk of lip cutting by the end surface compared to a low-lid type. In contrast, in the first embodiment, as the upper lip extends toward the guide wall 28, the lower lip also moves away from the lower end surface of the circumferential skirt, so even in a low-lid type, the risk of lip cutting by the end surface is low.

[0086] Compared to high-lidded containers, low-lidded containers have a structure that allows the container and drinking spout to be closer together, which helps to reduce residual liquid. They are also easier to make with thinner walls, which reduces the environmental impact.

[0087] ~Second Embodiment~ Figure 5 is an enlarged view of the main part of the second embodiment. The opening / closing mechanism 17 of the first embodiment is the opening / closing mechanism 18 in the second embodiment. The opening / closing mechanism 18 is the main part in this embodiment. The basic configuration of the lid top surface 11, lid side fitting part 14, circumferential skirt part 15, etc., is the same for the first and second embodiments. The configuration of the opening forming surface 21, opening 22, pivot shaft 23, opening valve 24, connecting part 25, cutting part 26, hydraulic pressure receiving part 27, guide walls 28, 29, etc., is the same for the first and second embodiments.

[0088] The opening / closing mechanism 18 of the second embodiment is an addition of a fragrance window mechanism to the opening / closing mechanism 17 of the first embodiment.

[0089] On the opening-forming surface 21, an opening corresponding to the incense window portion 32 is provided in conjunction with the inner end side of the opening 22, with a pivot shaft 23 in between. The opening 32 allows communication between the inside of the lid (contents side) and the outside of the lid (non-contents side).

[0090] The incense window valve 34 is provided corresponding to the opening 32. The opening 32 can be opened and closed via the pivot shaft 23. When the opening 32 is in the open position, the incense window portion 32 is formed.

[0091] The opening valve 24 and the vent valve 34 are connected via a connecting portion 25 and a column 35. The column 35 transmits the rotational movement of the opening valve 24 to the vent valve 34. In the prototype example, the column 35 is positioned to protrude towards the non-contents side, but it may also be positioned to protrude towards the contents side, as long as the movement can be transmitted.

[0092] The cutting line forming the opening 32 is not continuous with the cutting portion 26 and has a connecting portion perpendicular to the rotation axis. In other words, the connecting portion 25 expands toward the center. This ensures that the rotational movement of the opening valve 24 is reliably transmitted to the window valve 34.

[0093] The left and right guide walls 29, 29 (not shown) are provided so as to surround the left and right sides of the incense window section 32. As a result, the rigidity of the opening-forming surface 21 is increased. Co-rotation is suppressed. The opening and closing of the incense window section 32 becomes smoother.

[0094] When the drinker places their lower lip against the drinking spout 19 and tilts the container, hydraulic pressure acts on the hydraulic pressure receiving section 27. This causes the opening valve 24 to rotate around the pivot axis 23. The degree of opening of the opening 22 increases, and the beverage can flow out.

[0095] The rotational movement of the opening valve 24 is transmitted to the incense window valve 34 via the column 35. When the degree of opening of the opening 22 increases, the incense window portion 32 The degree of opening also increases.

[0096] The fragrance window 32 is located near the drinker's nose. Therefore, even if the opening of the fragrance window 32 is small, the aroma can be fully enjoyed. However, the fragrance window 32 can be made larger. It is not necessary to enlarge the opening 22 in order to enjoy the aroma.

[0097] When the container is returned to its original position, the hydraulic pressure is released. Due to the elasticity of the connecting part 25, the opening valve 24 rotates in the opposite direction. The degree of opening of the opening 22 decreases. The beverage can no longer flow out. The rotational movement of the opening valve 24 is transmitted to the aroma window valve 34 via the column 35. As the degree of opening of the opening 22 decreases, the degree of opening of the aroma window 32 also decreases. The aroma window 32 opens and closes in accordance with the rotation of the opening valve 24.

[0098] The effects of the second embodiment will now be described. The configuration of the second embodiment is similar to that of the first embodiment. Therefore, the second embodiment has the effects of the first embodiment.

[0099] The opening / closing mechanism 18 of the second embodiment is the opening / closing mechanism 17 of the first embodiment with the addition of a fragrance window mechanism.

[0100] In conventional designs, the fragrance could be enjoyed by making the opening larger. In contrast, the second embodiment allows the fragrance to be enjoyed even with a smaller opening.

[0101] As a result of making the opening 22 smaller, the effects of suppressing liquid spillage due to vibration, suppressing the entry of dust and insects, and suppressing ice leakage are improved.

[0102] While it is possible to enjoy the aroma in conventional designs, the drinker's sense of smell becomes accustomed to the scent over time, making it gradually more difficult to enjoy. In contrast, in the second embodiment, the aroma window 32 is closed when not drinking. The aroma window 32 is open only when drinking. Each time, the drinker's sense of smell recognizes the aroma, allowing them to enjoy it repeatedly.

[0103] The incense window section 32 also functions as a steam vent. This eliminates the need for a separate steam vent.

[0104] High-lid containers are often used for hot beverages such as coffee to prevent spills and to check the temperature. In contrast, the first and second embodiments resolve the problems associated with conventional low-lid containers, and the first and second embodiments can also use low-lid containers.

[0105] Low-capped bottles, compared to high-capped bottles, allow you to enjoy the aroma more because the liquid level is closer to the surface.

[0106] ~Modified Example of the Second Embodiment~ Figure 6 is a perspective view of the main part of a modified example of the second embodiment. This is a modified example relating to the window mechanism of the opening and closing mechanism 18.

[0107] In the opening valve 24, a notch is formed on the inner end side, and this notch corresponds to the incense window portion 36.

[0108] On the opening-forming surface 21, a protrusion extends across the pivot shaft 23 towards the opening, and this protrusion corresponds to the fixed valve 38. The fixed valve 38 corresponds to the incense window portion 36.

[0109] The fixed valve 38 is part of the opening-forming surface 21, but functions as a valve that opens and closes the incense window portion 32 as the opening valve 24 rotates.

[0110] The fixed valve 38 is immobile as part of the opening-forming surface 21. The fixed valve 38 functions even without the column 35. By providing the column 35 and increasing the rigidity of the fixed valve 38, co-rotation is suppressed, and the opening and closing of the opening valve 24 becomes smoother.

[0111] The hydraulic pressure causes the opening valve 24 to rotate, and the inlet 36 also opens. When the hydraulic pressure is released, the elasticity of the connecting part 25 causes the opening valve 24 to rotate in the opposite direction, and the inlet 36 also closes. The inlet 36 opens and closes in conjunction with the rotation of the opening valve 24.

[0112] The effect of the modified incense window mechanism is similar to that of the second embodiment.

[0113] ~Modified High-Lid Type~ Figure 7 is a perspective view of a modified version of the first embodiment. Figure 8 is an enlarged view of the main part of the modified version. In the first and second embodiments, the present invention was applied to a low-lid type, but it may also be applied to a high-lid type.

[0114] From the standpoint of preventing liquid spills and allowing for temperature confirmation, high-lid containers are generally used for hot beverages such as coffee. In this modified example, the opening and closing mechanism 17 is applied to a high-lid container.

[0115] In conventional high-lid containers (see Figure 9), peripheral protrusions 12 are provided that rise from the periphery of the top surface of the lid in order to reduce the risk of the upper lip being cut by the outer end surface of the opening, to increase the rigidity of the top surface of the lid and make the lift-up operation smoother, and to reduce the risk of liquid spillage when drinking.

[0116] In contrast, in the modified design, sufficient height is ensured for the guide wall 28, reducing the risk of the upper lip being cut by the outer end surface of the opening 22. In the modified design, drinking becomes possible through hydraulic pressure, eliminating the need for a lift-up operation. In the modified design, the upper lip extends towards the guide wall 28, reducing the risk of spillage during drinking. As a result, in the modified design, there is less need to provide the peripheral protrusion 12 of the conventional high lid.

[0117] As shown in the figure, omitting the peripheral protrusion 12 simplifies the structure compared to conventional high-cap designs. This reduces residual liquid generation and lowers the environmental impact. The peripheral protrusion 12 may also be present. [Industrial applicability]

[0118] The lid of the present invention may be of the low-lid type or the high-lid type. The shape is preferably circular in plan view, but may also be rectangular or polygonal in plan view. The lid is preferably made of resin, but may be made of other materials such as paper. The contents may be cold beverages or hot beverages. It is not limited to liquids, but may also be fluids, powders, or granules. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0119] 11 Top surface of lid 12 Peripheral protrusion 13 Side surface of lid 14 Fitting part on lid side 15 Peripheral skirt part 16 Opening / closing mechanism (conventional type) 17 Opening / closing mechanism (first embodiment) 18 Opening / closing mechanism (second embodiment) 19 Drinking spout 21 Opening forming surface 22 Opening 23 Pivot shaft 24 Opening valve (opening / closing valve) 25 Connecting part 26 Cutting part 27 Hydraulic pressure receiving part (concave shape with opening toward the inside of the container) 29 Guide wall 32 Window part 34 Window valve 35 Column 36 Window part 38 Fixed valve

Claims

1. A container lid comprising a top surface, an opening / closing valve, and an opening formed in the top surface of the lid which is opened and closed by the rotation of the opening / closing valve, wherein the opening / closing valve is configured with a concave portion having an opening toward the inside of the container, and when the container with the lid on is tilted to drink the liquid inside the container, the liquid inside the container flows into the concave portion, and the force of the liquid flowing into the concave portion maintains the open state of the opening / closing valve.

2. The lid according to claim 1, wherein when the container with the lid on is tilted in order to drink the liquid inside, the liquid inside the container flows into the concave portion, and the force of the liquid flowing into the concave portion maintains the open state of the on / off valve, and when the container is returned to its original upright state, the liquid that had flowed into the concave portion returns from the concave portion to the container, and the on / off valve rotates to the closed position and maintains the closed state.

3. The lid according to claim 1, wherein the on-off valve rotates about a pivot axis, and has a connecting portion that connects the main body portion of the top surface of the lid to the on-off valve in a direction parallel to the pivot axis, and cut portions formed at both ends of the connecting portion.

4. The lid according to claim 1, wherein the width of the concave portion in the direction parallel to the pivot axis of the on / off valve is more than twice the length of the pivot axis, and the length in the direction perpendicular to the pivot axis of the on / off valve is longer than the width of the on / off valve in the direction of the pivot axis.

5. The lid according to claim 1, comprising a guide wall that guides the contents of the container to the drinking spout when the container is tilted to drink the contents.

6. The lid according to claim 5, wherein the height of the guide wall is 8 to 16 mm.

7. The lid according to claim 1, comprising: a fragrant window portion connected to the inner end of the opening with a pivot shaft in between; a fragrant window valve that opens and closes the fragrant window portion via the pivot shaft; and a column continuous with the opening valve and the fragrant window valve.

8. The lid according to claim 1, comprising: a fragrance window portion provided so as to be cut into the inner end side of the opening / closing valve; and a fixed valve that protrudes from the main body portion of the top surface of the lid, straddling the pivot axis of the opening / closing valve, and is provided to correspond to the fragrance window portion.

9. A container lid comprising: a top surface; a side surface of the lid extending downward from the periphery of the top surface of the lid; a lid-side fitting portion fitted to a container at the lower part of the side surface of the lid; a drinking spout provided around the periphery of the top surface of the lid for contact with the lower lip; an opening provided on the top surface of the lid at a position lower than the drinking spout and corresponding to the drinking spout; and an on / off valve that rotates to open or close the opening, wherein the on / off valve has a concave portion having an opening toward the inside of the container, and when the container covered with the lid is tilted to drink the liquid inside the container, the liquid inside the container flows into the concave portion, and the force of the liquid flowing into the concave portion maintains the on / off valve in an open state.

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