Straw gripper and tab separator for disposable cups or lids and method of use

Abstract

1. A straw gripper and tab separator for a disposable cup or lid, comprising: a tab extending from the periphery of the drink lid / cup, the tab having an outer edge with a straw capture and alignment port for aligning a straw with the outer edge, the straw capture and alignment port having a slit dividing the planar tab into a first tab section and a second tab section, the first tab section having a first straw contact finger defined therein and the second tab section having a second straw contact finger defined therein, the straw contact fingers each separated by the slit, straw contact finger notch ends meeting at a second slit end, the straw contact fingers configured to be hinged open and closed to releasably secure a straw against a straw contact rim formed in the planar tab by the notches in the first and second straw contact fingers.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure is directed to take-out drink containers. More particularly, the present disclosure is directed to a device for securing a straw to a portable drink container. [Background technology]

[0002] Quick-service food and fast-casual dining establishments offer customers low-cost disposable beverage cups (especially for carbonated beverages) and lids to add structure to the cup and prevent spills during transport, and such lids require straws to access the fluid in the covered container or cup. Straws offer safety advantages compared to strawless beverages (with or without sip lids), and straws of appropriate materials (for both cold and hot drinks) are necessary for people with any physical challenges.

[0003] Carrying and transporting a drinking straw in a disposable beverage cup is inconvenient. When a customer orders a beverage with other food items, the drinking straw(s) are typically bagged with the food item, and the presence of the straw is often not immediately apparent. Within food and beverage establishments and drive-through windows, service personnel often hold the cup and straw in one hand and use unsteady movements to deliver the cup and straw to the customer. Additionally, within the store, carryout customers often must locate the straw in a crowded environment.

[0004] At drive-thru windows, in-store counters, and delivery locations, customers are often inconvenienced by asking, "Do you have a straw(s) in your bag?" Unfortunately, addressing this common customer concern takes time from food and beverage and delivery service workers and operations.

[0005] Food and beverage establishment workers and delivery drivers experience frustration when separating disposable cup lids from stacks of lids (removing them from shipping boxes and various types of counter racks and displays). It is difficult to separate a single lid or multiple lids without touching the underside of one or more lids. Sometimes, lids fall to the floor, causing workers to place the fallen, soiled lid on a customer's cup. Workers often touch the underside of a cup lid when attempting to remove one or more lids from a stack, often leading workers to discard the mishandled lid (for hygiene reasons). This problem costs companies money in wasted packaging and lost time (in low-margin businesses where every second and every saving counts).

[0006] Another drawback of conventional disposable cup lids and lid storage and display systems is that when a beverage or soda dispenser (or customer) grabs the rim of a top lid in a stack, a percentage of the time two or more lids come off together, forcing the dispenser to separate the lids and obtain the individual lids. The dispenser then often throws the remaining lids in the trash rather than returning them to the stack. Furthermore, if the dispenser takes the time to return the touched lids to the stack, this action can leave the remaining lids in an unsanitary condition.

[0007] It is therefore readily apparent that there is a discernible unmet need for a straw gripper and tab separator for disposable cup lids and methods of use that can be configured to address at least some aspects of the problems discussed above. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Briefly, in an exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure may overcome the above-mentioned drawbacks by providing an apparatus for securing a straw to a lid or cup, the preferred apparatus comprising a tab extending from the periphery of the drink lid / cup, the tab having an outer edge with a straw capture and alignment port for aligning the straw with the outer edge, the straw capture and alignment port having a slit dividing the planar tab into a first tab section and a second tab section, the first tab section having a first straw contact finger configured therein and the second tab section having a second straw contact finger configured therein. The present invention may fulfill a recognized need for a straw gripper and tab separator for a disposable cup lid and method of use to provide an apparatus having straw-contacting fingers, each separated by a slit, with straw-contacting finger notch ends meeting at a second slit end, and the straw-contacting fingers configured to be hinged to releasably secure a straw against a straw-contacting rim formed in a planar tab by the notches in the first straw-contacting finger and the second straw-contacting finger.

[0009] Thus, in one aspect, the present disclosure may allow for drinking straws (of multiple sizes) to be attached to the exterior of beverage lids of various sizes and shapes for the purpose of visually ensuring the presence of the straw during handling and transport, and may allow for easy and safe transport and transportation of the cup with the straw attached.

[0010] Thus, in another aspect, the present disclosure may enable attachment of multiple sizes of packaged and unpackaged drinking straws to a variety of sized and configured drinking cup lids.

[0011] Thus, in another aspect, the present disclosure provides a tab that helps store lids in a stack and easily pull one lid from the stack of lids.

[0012] In an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for securing a straw to a drink lid having a peripheral flange, the drink lid is secured to the rim of a drinking cup having a sidewall, the drink lid comprising: a planar tab extending from the peripheral flange of the drink lid, the planar tab having an outer edge with a straw capture and alignment port for aligning a straw with the outer edge; the straw capture and alignment port having a slit for dividing the planar tab into a first tab section and a second tab section, the slit having a first slit end and a second slit end; the first tab section having a first straw contact finger configured therein; a second tab section having a second straw contact finger formed in the planar tab, the first and second straw contact fingers each separated by the slit, and wherein cutouts of the first and second straw contact fingers meet at the second slit end, the first and second straw contact fingers being hinged to releasably secure a straw against a straw contact rim formed in the planar tab by the cutouts of the first and second straw contact fingers.

[0013] A second exemplary embodiment of a device for securing a straw to a rim of a drinking cup having a sidewall includes a planar tab extending from the rim of a beverage lid, the planar tab having an outer edge with a straw capture and alignment port for aligning a straw with the outer edge; the straw capture and alignment port having a slit for dividing the planar tab into a first tab section and a second tab section, the slit having a first slit end and a second slit end; the first tab section having a first straw contact finger configured therein and the second straw contact finger configured therein; the second tab section having a first tab section and a second tab section, the first straw contact finger and the second straw contact finger each separated by the slit, and cutouts of the first straw contact finger and the second straw contact finger meeting at the second slit end, the first straw contact finger and the second straw contact finger being hinged to releasably secure a straw to a straw contact rim formed in the planar tab by the cutouts of the first straw contact finger and the second straw contact finger.

[0014] It is an object of the disclosure herein to provide an easy method of dispensing straws with bulk-dispensed beverages that maintains the straws in the sterile condition in which they were manufactured and packaged without prematurely positioning the straws through conventional holes in the beverage lid.

[0015] It is an object of the disclosure herein to provide a structure for attachment of a straw to a beverage container or lid without interfering with easy stacking and storage of the container and lid.

[0016] It is an object of the disclosure herein to provide a straw retention structure that is inexpensive to manufacture and easy to deploy in large commercial environments such as quick service food restaurants or other food service operations.

[0017] A feature of the present disclosure includes securing any number of sizes of straws held with and without a wrapper.

[0018] Features of the present disclosure include retaining the straw in the body of the cup, which aids in insertion into disposable cup carriers and bags, and into automobile cup holders.

[0019] A feature of the present disclosure includes one or more straw support flaps or fingers having two contact points for gripping the perimeter area of ​​the straw.

[0020] A feature of the present disclosure includes one or more straw support flaps or fingers that fold down and out when pressed against by a straw to form a gripper lever that provides additional surface area for gripping the straw.

[0021] A feature of the present disclosure includes one or more straw support flaps or fingers that do not use the friction of the inside or inner edge of the circular shape to grip the straw.

[0022] A feature of the present disclosure includes one or more straw support flaps or fingers that become downward facing levers and use a downwardly curved top or upper surface to grip the straw, utilizing the spring action of the "finger" (lever) elastic material rather than the straw, thus allowing for gripping of multiple sizes of straws.

[0023] Features of the present disclosure include one or more straw support flaps or fingers that grip the straw, and a third contact point on the straw that touches the side of the cup to hold the straw next to the cup.

[0024] A feature of the present disclosure includes a lid handling tab in combination with a straw gripper mounted on the tab as a lid handling or de-nesting (removing one or more lids from a stack of lids) device.

[0025] Features of the present disclosure include added customer and public safety (ensuring customers that they have a straw provides an extra degree of driving and walking safety compared to drinking a non-alcoholic beverage without a straw while driving and walking).

[0026] Features of the present disclosure include providing a less intrusive and more hygienic method for disposable cup lid management, including easy separation of one or more lids from a stack or pile of lids, and providing a hygienic tub lid separator as an attachment to a drinking cup.

[0027] Features of the present disclosure include full compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Traditional plastic straws are a safety and convenience "device" for people with physical disabilities. The present disclosure assists this group of people with disabilities by allowing them to quickly see whether a straw is provided with their beverage while ordering at the drive-thru or at the counter for takeout.

[0028] Features of the present disclosure include the convenience of attaching a straw to a drink container with minimal effort and without the user having to search for the straw.

[0029] Features of the present disclosure include portability, where the straw can be easily attached to a drink container that can be carried on the go without hassle.

[0030] Features of the present disclosure include being environmentally friendly by attaching one immediately visible straw to the drink container; currently, when a straw is placed in a bag for a customer (in-store), the customer often does not realize that a straw has been provided and therefore asks for an additional straw, which increases environmental waste and business costs.

[0031] Features of the present disclosure include incorporating the tab design integral to current lid designs using current manufacturing techniques, reducing costs, and utilizing the same material options such as polystyrene, PET, polypropylene, and advanced biopolymers without redesigning manufacturing equipment.

[0032] A feature of the present disclosure includes its ability to hold a drinking straw vertically and along the sidewall of a cup.

[0033] A feature of the present disclosure includes a tab or lid flange that facilitates de-nesting of cup lids from the box and lid rack before placing the lid on the cup. This feature improves sanitation and reduces waste. Currently, beverage establishment personnel accidentally separate or de-nest two or more lids, sometimes touching the inside of one or more lids before the lids are discarded.

[0034] A feature of the present disclosure includes that the tab or lid flange improves the ease of removing the lid from the cup for those who choose to add something to the cup, such as flavoring, sweetener, protein powder, or stir the contents within the cup.

[0035] A feature of the present disclosure includes one or more hinged fingers having a surface contact that holds the straw against an opposing planar perimeter edge of the one or more hinged fingers.

[0036] These and other features of the straw gripper and tab separator for disposable cup lids and method of use will become more apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing Summary of the Invention, as well as the following Brief Description of the Drawings, Detailed Description of Exemplary Embodiments thereof, and Claims, when read in light of the accompanying drawings or figures.

[0037] The present disclosure of a straw gripper and tab separator for disposable cup lids and method of use will be better understood by reading the detailed description of the preferred and selected alternative embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings or figures, in which like reference numerals indicate like structure and refer to like elements throughout. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0038] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective side view of a prior art beverage container or drinking cup, lid, and straw.

[0039] [Figure 2.1] 1A and 1B are perspective top views of exemplary embodiments of drink lids having straw grippers and tab separators shown as front entrances according to select embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0040] [Figure 2.2] 1A-1C are perspective top views of exemplary embodiments of drink lids having straw grippers and tab separators showing preferred locations of notch endpoints according to select embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0041] [Figure 3] 3 is an exploded top view of an exemplary embodiment of a straw gripper and tab separator showing straw gripping finger(s) according to select embodiments of the present disclosure of FIG. 2. FIG.

[0042] [Figure 3.1] 10A-10C are exploded top views of alternative exemplary embodiments of a straw gripper and tab separator according to select embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0043] [Figure 3.2] 10A-10C are exploded top views of alternative exemplary embodiments of a straw gripper and tab separator according to select embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0044] [Figure 3.3] 10A-10C are exploded top views of alternative exemplary embodiments of a straw gripper and tab separator according to select embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0045] [Figure 3.4] 10A-10C are exploded top views of alternative exemplary embodiments of a straw gripper and tab separator according to select embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0046] [Figure 3.5] FIG. 10 is an exploded top view of an alternative exemplary embodiment of a straw gripper and tab separator, shown as a side entry, according to select embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0047] [Figure 4] 3 is an exploded top view of an exemplary embodiment of a straw gripper and tab separator showing a straw capture cavity according to a selected embodiment of the present disclosure of FIG. 2. FIG.

[0048] [Figure 5] 3 is a perspective top view of an exemplary embodiment of a straw gripper and tab separator showing a straw held by straw gripping finger(s) within the straw capture cavity according to select embodiments of the present disclosure of FIG. 2. FIG.

[0049] [Figure 6] 3 is a perspective top view of an exemplary embodiment of a straw gripper and tab separator showing a straw held by straw gripping finger(s) within the straw capture cavity according to select embodiments of the present disclosure of FIG. 2. FIG.

[0050] [Figure 7] 12A-12C are exploded top views of alternative exemplary embodiments of drink lids having straw grippers and tab separators shown as side entrances according to select embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0051] [Figure 8] 10A-10C are perspective side views of alternative exemplary embodiments of a drink lid having a straw gripper and tab separator, a straw, and a cup in use, according to select embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0052] [Figure 9] 10A-10C are perspective side views of alternative exemplary embodiments of a straw gripper and tab separator, showing a straw held by straw gripping finger(s) within a straw capture cavity attached to the rim of a cup, according to select embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0053] It should be noted that the drawings presented are intended for illustrative purposes only, and as such, it is neither desired nor intended to limit the disclosure to any or all of the precise details of construction shown, except as may be deemed essential to the claimed disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0054] In describing exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, as illustrated in the figures, specific terminology is used for the sake of clarity. However, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the specific terminology selected. It should be understood that each specific element includes all technical equivalents that operate in a similar manner to achieve a similar function. However, the claimed embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. The examples set forth herein are non-limiting examples and are merely examples among other possible examples. It should be recognized that optimal dimensional relationships, including variations in size, material, shape, form, position, connection, function, and manner of operation, assembly, and use, are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0055] 1 , there is illustrated an exemplary embodiment of a prior art disposable drinking cup C used as a container for holding a drink or beverage B therein, such as, by way of example and not limitation, a carbonated drink, juice, smoothie, sports drink or other frozen or iced drink, coffee, tea, and other hot drinks. When beverage B is purchased for takeout from a food and beverage establishment, beverage B is typically served in a disposable drinking cup C having a disposable lid L to keep beverage B inside cup C during transport, strengthen cup C, and prevent beverage B from spilling, splashing, or splashing from cup C. Disposable drinking lid L may include a port or knockout or other provision therein, such as a straw hole SH, for providing access to beverage B and for inserting a straw S through lid L and dipping one end of straw S into the beverage B liquid contained in cup C. Because removing the lid L to insert the straw S can be difficult and cumbersome, contributing to weakening of the cup C and potential spillage of the beverage B, the lid L is preferably designed to accept the straw S. The straw S provides a convenient way to access the beverage B with the lid L in place in the cup C, allowing for safe consumption of the beverage B, while allowing the customer to maintain an unobstructed forward view while driving or walking. As used herein, the straw S may include packaging W, and as used herein, the straw S is intended to refer to a straw with or without packaging.

[0056] It is contemplated herein that cup C and lid L may be constructed of thermoplastic materials such as plastic, paper, treated and wax or polymer coated paper, polystyrene, PET, polypropylene, advanced bioplastics, aluminum, carbon fiber, cellulose acetate and other suitable plastics, as well as any other applicable or equivalent material from which cup C and lid L can be manufactured to hold beverage B therein. These parts may be joined via welding, spot welding, epoxy, or 3D printing, depending on the construction materials.

[0057] With respect to the disclosure herein, it should be recognized that optimal dimensional relationships, including variations in size, material, shape, form, configuration, location, connection features, function, and manner of operation, assembly, and use, are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0058] Thus, the present disclosure herein is a cup, container, or container lid, including but not limited to, a container or lid or container and lid combination of the type commonly used to dispense bulk-dispensed beverages, characterized by an integrated component used to releasably attach and hold a straw to the exterior of the container or vertically adjacent to the exterior of the container. The integrated component may be part of the container or part of the lid and may take any of a variety of shapes, some of which are described in more detail below.

[0059] Additional features and advantages of the present disclosure will be set forth in the description which follows, and will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the present disclosure. The foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the present disclosure.

[0060] 2.1, 2.2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, there is illustrated, by way of example and not limitation, an exemplary embodiment of a device for sealing a cup C having a rim R, such as the drink lid of FIG. 1, having a straw support structure or device integrated therein, such as a straw gripper and tab separator 10 and components thereof, according to selected embodiments. In this first embodiment, the lid L may include a preferably circular, planar body, such as a beverage lid 12, having a peripheral flange 14 configured to conform and mate with the upper outer edge or rim R of a container, such as the cup C, for covering an opening of the container to prevent beverage B from spilling, splashing, or splashing from the cup C. Additionally, the lid L may include a protruding planar tab 16 extending from the peripheral flange 14. The protruding planar tab 16 may include an outer edge 23 and may have the straw gripper and tab separator 10 integrated therein. Additionally, the straw gripper and tab separator 10 may be integrated within the planar tab 16 and positioned anywhere around the peripheral flange 14 of the lid 12. Additionally, the outer edge 23 may include recesses, such as straw capture and alignment ports 20, for aligning the straw S with the planar tab 16.

[0061] In some cases, the straw gripper and tab separator 10 may preferably utilize areas of material in the manufactured form that would otherwise be cut away in the production process.

[0062] Additionally, the planar tab 16 may include a notch, separator, gap, or divider therein, such as a slit 25, that divides the planar tab 16 into a left or first tab section 21 and a right or second tab section 22, each extending as a flat, planar tab from the peripheral flange 14 of the lid 12. The slit 25 may include a front or first slit end 26 and a rear or second slit end 27. The first tab section 21 and the second tab section 22 may each include a portion of the straw capture and alignment port 20 configured as a front end or outer edge 23 of the first tab section 21 and the second tab section 22. In this embodiment, the straw capture and alignment port 20 may face outward from the center CE of the lid 12, or may be configured perpendicular to a tangent to the peripheral flange 14.

[0063] It is contemplated herein that the straw capture and alignment port 20 may be configured as an inverted partial arc, such as a semicircle, in an opposite curved arc to the flange 14, and may be configured as other shapes and sizes that are angled rather than arced to provide a guide and catch for alignment and insertion of the straw S, 18 into the straw gripper and tub separator 10.

[0064] It is further contemplated herein that slit 25 may be configured as a gap or other cutout as contemplated by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0065] Still further, one or both of the first tab region 21 and the second tab region 22 may include a series of cutouts or notches extending in a direction toward the center C of the lid 12 and central to the straw capture and alignment port 20 or slit 25 to form one or more foldable or hingeable straw contact members or flaps, such as straw contact finger(s) 30 hinged to the first tab region 21 adjacent the straw capture port 20. In a preferred embodiment, the first tab region 21 may include a first straw contact finger 31 and the second tab region 22 may include a second straw contact finger 32, which are centered about the slit 25 and meet at a second slit end 27 to create an opening or access between the first straw contact finger 31 and the second straw contact finger 32. The slit 25 is preferably formed near where the first straw contact finger 31 and the second straw contact finger 32 are touching, substantially touching, or near each other. Furthermore, the first end 31.1 of the first straw contact finger 31 may be connected and hinged to the first tab section 21, and the first end 32.1 of the second straw contact finger 32 may be connected and hinged to the second tab section 22. Furthermore, the first straw contact finger 31 and the second straw contact finger 32 may extend into the straw capture port 20 and be hinged or flexibly folded therein to form the straw capture cavity 50 formed between the hinged first straw contact finger 31 and the second straw contact finger 32, and the rear rim wall of the straw contact rim 40. The straw contact rim 40 may be sized and shaped to match the outer surface configuration of the straw S, 18. Additionally, the straw-contacting rim 40 is preferably adjacent to or touching the peripheral flange 14 of the lid 12. In this embodiment, the first straw-contacting finger 31 and the second straw-contacting finger 32 may be configured to point or face inward toward the center CE of the lid 12 or perpendicular to the peripheral flange 14 or a tangent thereto.

[0066] It is contemplated herein that the first straw contact finger 31 and the second straw contact finger 32 may be cutouts in the planar tabs 16 of the first tab section 21 and the second tab section 22 as the first straw contact finger cutout 31 and the second straw contact finger cutout 32.

[0067] It is further contemplated herein that the first straw contact finger 31 and the second straw contact finger 32 are each separated by a slit 25, and the notch ends of the first straw contact finger 31 and the second straw contact finger 32 meet at a second slit end 27.

[0068] In a preferred embodiment, it is further contemplated herein that the notch start points of the first straw contact finger 31 and the second straw contact finger 32 are equally spaced around the slit 25 and perpendicular to the first slit end of the straw capture and alignment port 20.

[0069] It is further contemplated herein that one of the first tab section 21 and the second tab section 22 may include a straw contact finger 30 for releasably securing the straw S, 18 to the straw contact rim 40.

[0070] Herein, the first straw contact finger 31 and the second straw contact finger 32 may include upper and lower surfaces 60, for example, the first straw contact finger 31 may include a first finger upper surface 61 and the second straw contact finger 32 may include a second finger upper surface 62, which are hingedly or flexibly utilized to grasp, contact, and secure the straw S, 18 within the straw capture cavity 50 by pushing or poking the straw S, 18 within the straw capture cavity 50.

[0071] It is further contemplated herein that the first straw contact finger 31 and the second straw contact finger 32 may be configured to releasably secure the straw S, 18 within the straw capture cavity 50 without having to contact the straw contact rim 40.

[0072] Additionally, the material selection for the lid L may include flexibility characteristics that provide hingeability, flexibility, and bendability, such as the movement of the hinges 70 between the first tab section 21 and the first straw contact finger 31, and between the second tab section 22 and the second straw contact finger 32, to allow for inward biasing of components such as the hinges 70 to allow repeated gripping and release forces of the straw S, 18 therein. Additionally, preferably, the endpoints of the notches in the first tab section 21 and the second tab section 22 that form the first straw contact finger 31 and the second straw contact finger 32 are preferably centered on the centerline CL of each arch section of the straw capture and alignment port 20, respectively, and are adjacent to or perpendicular to a tangent line TL from the arc or rounded corner of the straw capture and alignment port 20, as shown in FIG. 2.2, for example.

[0073] It is further contemplated herein that the first straw contact finger 31 and the second straw contact finger 32 may be configured in any size or shape to provide surface area contact and / or edge contact with the straw S, 18 to releasably retain or secure the straw S, 18 within the straw capture cavity 50.

[0074] It is further contemplated herein that the straw-contacting rim 40 may be configured in any size or shape to provide surface area contact and / or edge contact with the straw S, 18 to releasably retain or secure the straw S, 18 within the straw capture cavity 50 of the straw gripper and tub separator 10.

[0075] Furthermore, the straw capture cavity 50 is not an opening when not in use, but is closed and ready to receive a straw S, 18. The straw capture cavity 50 is preferably sized to be approximately the same shape as the straw S, 18 so that the straw S can be positioned inside the straw gripper and tab separator 10 and removably held in place by sliding it from above or below the straw capture cavity 50 or by being pushed from outside the straw capture cavity 50.

[0076] It is still further contemplated herein that the first tab area 21 and first straw contacting finger 31, as well as the second tab area 22 and second straw contacting finger 32, may include ridges and / or concave or convex shapes formed therein to strengthen the straw gripper and tab separator 10.

[0077] It is still further contemplated herein that the straw S may include a straw wrapper (straw S), collectively identified as a straw S, that may be removably secured within the straw gripper and tub separator 10.

[0078] It is still further contemplated herein that the straw gripper and tub separator 10 may be utilized to grip a spoon, fork, chopsticks, or other utensil, for example, when the beverage B includes contents such as a frozen, strong, hot, meal, or other beverage requiring such utensil (collectively referred to as a "straw S"). This and other straw S configurations (side surfaces or cross-sections) are contemplated herein to be gripped by the straw gripper and tub separator 10.

[0079] Figures 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, and 3.5 illustrate, by way of example and not limitation, alternative embodiments of the straw gripper and tab separator 10.n and components thereof, according to selected embodiments.

[0080] FIG. 3.1 illustrates a tie-like configuration, for example, straw gripper and tab separator 10.3 may include an angled straw capture and alignment port 20, one or more foldable or hingeable straw contacting members or flaps, such as straw contacting finger(s) 30, such as first straw contacting finger 31 and second straw contacting finger 32, formed from angled cuts separated by angled slits 25, and an angled or tent configuration of a rear rim wall, such as straw contacting rim 40.

[0081] FIG. 3.2 illustrates a thinly slit, smiley-face configuration, for example, the straw gripper and tab separator 10.4 may include a straw capture and alignment port 20, one or more foldable or hingeable straw contacting members or flaps, such as straw contacting finger(s) 30, such as first straw contacting finger 31 and second straw contacting finger 32, formed from angled cuts separated by a slit 25, and an angled or tented portion with a gap to form an additional hinge 70 configuration of the rear rim wall, such as straw contacting rim 40.

[0082] FIG. 3.3 illustrates a barrel and cross configuration, for example, straw gripper and tab separator 10.5 may include a semicircular straw capture and alignment port 20, one or more foldable or hingeable straw contacting members or flaps, such as straw contacting finger(s) 30, such as first straw contacting finger 31, second straw contacting finger 32, third straw contacting finger 33, and fourth straw contacting finger 34, separated by a cross slit 25, and a rear rim wall, such as straw contacting rim 40.

[0083] FIG. 3.4 illustrates an oval perforated, frowning face configuration, for example, where straw gripper and tab separator 10.6 may include angled straw capture and alignment port 20, one or more foldable or hingeable straw contacting members or flaps, such as straw contacting finger(s) 30, such as first straw contacting finger 31 and second straw contacting finger 32, separated by slit 25, and a rear rim wall, such as straw contacting rim 40. Additionally, straw gripper and tab separator 10.6 may include holes, such as aperture 80, or more specifically, first aperture 81 and second aperture 82, in first straw contacting finger 31 and second straw contacting finger 32, respectively.

[0084] FIG. 3.5 illustrates a barrel and cross configuration, for example, the straw gripper and tab separator 10.7 may include a semicircular straw capture and alignment port 20, one or more foldable or hingeable straw contacting members or flaps, such as straw contacting finger(s) 30, such as first straw contacting finger 31 and second straw contacting finger 32, formed from arc cuts separated by a gap slit 25, and a rear rim wall, such as straw contacting rim 40.

[0085] Additionally, other configurations of straw grippers and tab separators 10 having one or more straw contacting finger(s) 30 separated by slit(s) 25 or the like, known to those skilled in the art, are contemplated herein.

[0086] Referring now to FIG. 7 , a second exemplary embodiment of a device for sealing a cup C having a rim R, such as the drink lid of FIG. 1 , is illustrated, by way of example and not limitation, having a straw support structure or device integrated therein, such as a straw gripper and tab separator 10.1 and components thereof, according to selected embodiments. In this second embodiment, the lid L may include a protruding planar tab 16 having a straw gripper and tab separator 10 protruding from one or more locations along the peripheral flange 14 of the lid 12. Additionally, the planar tab 16 may include a cutout therein, such as a slit 25, that divides the planar tab 16 into a left or first tab section 21 and a right or second tab section 22, each extending as a flat planar tab from the peripheral flange 14 of the lid 12. The slit 25 may include a front or first slit end 26 and a rear or second slit end 27. The first tab section 21 and the second tab section 22 may each include a portion of the straw capture and alignment port 20 configured as a front end or outer edge 23 of the first tab section 21 and the second tab section 22. In this embodiment, the straw capture and alignment port 20 may be oriented or facing circumferentially adjacent to, parallel to, or tangential to and adjacent to the peripheral flange 14 of the lid 12.

[0087] In this embodiment, the first straw contact finger 31 and the second straw contact finger 32 may be oriented or facing towards or parallel to the peripheral flange 14 of the lid 12 or a tangent thereto.

[0088] Still further, one or both of the first tab section 21 and the second tab section 22 may include a series of cutouts or notches central to the straw capture and alignment port 20 to form one or more foldable or hingeable straw contact members, such as straw contact finger(s) 30 that extend circumferentially adjacent to or tangentially and proximate to the peripheral flange 14 of the lid 12 and are hinged to the first tab section 21 proximate the straw capture port 20. In a preferred embodiment, the first tab section 21 may include a first straw contact finger 31 and the second tab section 22 may include a second straw contact finger 32 that have a central slit 25 that meet at a second slit end 27 to create an opening or access between the first straw contact finger 31 and the second straw contact finger 32. The slit 25 is preferably formed such that the first straw contact finger 31 and the second straw contact finger 32 are touching, substantially touching, or near each other, and are oriented or facing circumferentially adjacent to, or tangential to, and proximate to, the peripheral flange 14 of the lid 12. Furthermore, the first end 31.1 of the first straw contact finger 31 may be connected and hinged to the first tab section 21, and the first end 32.1 of the second straw contact finger 32 may be connected and hinged to the second tab section 22. Additionally, the first straw contact finger 31 and the second straw contact finger 32 may extend into the straw capture port 20 and be hinged or flexibly folded therein to form a straw capture cavity 50 formed between the hinged first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32 and the rear rim wall of the straw contact rim 40. The straw contact rim 40 may be sized and shaped to match the outer surface configuration of the straw S, 18. Additionally, the straw contact rim 40 preferably faces or faces circumferentially adjacent to or tangentially and proximate to the peripheral flange 14 of the lid 12.

[0089] 8, there is illustrated an exemplary embodiment of a device for sealing a cup C, such as a drink lid L, having a straw support structure or device integrated therein, such as a straw gripper and tab separator 10, 10.1, 10.3, 10.4, 10.5, 10.6, by way of example and not limitation. In use, the lid L may be attached to the rim R of the cup C, 18. Preferably, the straw gripper and tab separator 10, 10.1, 10.3, 10.4, 10.5, 10.6 releasably grasps, secures, or holds the straw 18, S proximate the first straw end 18.1 at at least two contact points, such as with any two of the first straw contacting finger 31, the second straw contacting finger 32, and / or the rear rim wall of the straw contacting rim 40, and the second straw end 18.2 may contact the lower end of the side wall SW of the cup C, 19 to provide an additional contact point, such as a third contact point 33, for the straw 18, S, which contacts the second straw end 18.2 and thus helps prevent the straw 18, S from popping out of the straw gripper and tab separator 10, 10.1, 10.3, 10.4, 10.5, 10.6.

[0090] 9, a third exemplary embodiment of a utensil cup C having a rim R is illustrated, by way of example and not limitation, having a straw support structure or utensil integrated therein, such as a straw gripper and tab separator 10.2. In this third embodiment, the cup C, 19, may include a rim R, 17 having a peripheral flange 14 configured to conform and mate with the upper outer edge or rim R of a container, such as the cup C, for a beverage lid 12 to cover an opening of the container to prevent a beverage B from spilling, splashing, or splashing from the cup C. Additionally, the rim R, 17 may include a protruding planar tab 16 having the straw gripper and tab separator 10.2 protruding from one or more locations along the peripheral rim R, 17. In some cases, the straw gripper and tab separator 10.2 may preferably utilize an area of ​​material in the manufactured form that would otherwise be cut away in the production process. Further, the planar tab 16 may include a left or first tab section 21 and a right or second tab section 22, each extending as a flat, planar tab 16 from the peripheral flange 14 of the lid 12. The first tab section 21 and the second tab section 22 may include a recess or straw alignment notch therebetween, such as a straw capture and alignment port 20 configured as a circumferentially facing edge of the first tab section 21 and the second tab section 22, which faces or is circumferentially adjacent or proximate to the peripheral flange 14 of the lid 12.

[0091] Still further, one or both of the first tab section 21 and the second tab section 22 may include a series of adjacent notches or narrow slots that extend circumferentially adjacent or proximate to or facing the peripheral flange 14 of the lid 12 and may be central to the straw capture and alignment port 20 to form one or more foldable or hingeable straw contact members, such as straw contact finger(s) 30 hinged to the first tab section 21 proximate the straw capture port 20. In a preferred embodiment, the first tab section 21 may include a first straw contact finger 31 and the second tab section 22 may include a second straw contact finger 32 with an opening between the fingers, such as a slit 33 between the first and second straw contact fingers 31, 32. Additionally, the first end 31.1 of the first straw contact finger 31 may be connected and hinged to the first tab section 21, and the first end 32.1 of the second straw contact finger 32 may be connected and hinged to the second tab section 22. Additionally, the first straw contact finger 31 and the second straw contact finger 32 may extend into the straw capture port 20 and be hinged or flexibly folded or bent inward to form the straw capture cavity 50 formed between the hinged first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32 and the rear rim wall of the straw contact rim 40. The straw contact rim 40 may be sized and shaped to match the outer surface configuration of the straw S, 18.

[0092] It is still further contemplated herein that the straw gripper and tab separator 10 may be an integrated feature of the cup C along the sidewall SW or rim R for holding or removably attaching the straw S, 18 vertically to the outside of the cup C.

[0093] With respect to the descriptions herein, it should be recognized that optimal dimensional relationships, including variations in size, material, shape, form, configuration, position, connection, function, and manner of operation, assembly, and use, are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0094] It is further understood herein that parts and elements of the present disclosure may be arranged or positioned elsewhere based on one skilled in the art without departing from the present disclosure.

[0095] With regard to the above description, it should be recognized that optimal dimensional relationships, including variations in size, material, shape, form, location, actuation mechanisms, features, functions, and modes of operation, assembly, and use, are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0096] The foregoing description and drawings include illustrative embodiments. With regard to the exemplary embodiments described, those skilled in the art should note that the disclosure therein is merely exemplary, and that various other alternatives, adaptations, and modifications may be made within the scope of the present disclosure. The mere listing or numbering of method steps in a particular order does not constitute any limitation on the order of the method steps. Numerous modifications and other embodiments will occur to one skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing description and associated drawings. Although specific terms may be used herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. Moreover, the present disclosure has been described in detail, and it should be understood that various changes, substitutions, and alterations can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims. Accordingly, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments illustrated herein, but is limited only by the following claims.

Claims

1. 1. A device for securing a straw to a cup lid having a peripheral flange, the cup lid being secured to the rim of a drinking cup having a sidewall, the device comprising: a substantially horizontal, planar tab extending outward from the peripheral flange of the cup lid, the substantially horizontal, planar tab having an outer edge with a straw capture and alignment port; the straw capture and alignment port has a slit for dividing the planar tab into a first tab section and a second tab section, the slit having a first slit end and a second slit end; the first tab section has a first substantially horizontal straw contact finger defined therein, the second tab section has a second substantially horizontal straw contact finger defined therein, the first substantially horizontal straw contact finger and the second substantially horizontal straw contact finger are each separated by the slit, and end points of the notches in the first substantially horizontal straw contact finger and the second substantially horizontal straw contact finger meet at an end of the second slit; the first substantially horizontal straw contact finger and the second substantially horizontal straw contact finger are hinged to releasably secure the straw against a straw contact rim formed in the planar tab by notches in the first substantially horizontal straw contact finger and the second substantially horizontal straw contact finger.

2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the alignment port is semicircular.

3. The device of claim 1 , wherein the straw capture and alignment port faces outward from the center of the cup lid.

4. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the notch start points of the first substantially horizontal straw contact finger and the second substantially horizontal straw contact finger are equally spaced around the slit and perpendicular to the first slit end of the straw capture and alignment port.

5. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the straw capture and alignment port, the first substantially horizontal straw contact finger, the slit, and the second substantially horizontal straw contact finger are configured perpendicular to the perimeter flange.

6. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the straw capture and alignment port, the first substantially horizontal straw contact finger, the slit, and the second substantially horizontal straw contact finger are configured parallel to the perimeter flange.

7. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the first substantially horizontal straw contacting finger and the second substantially horizontal straw contacting finger are configured to be hinged about the slit so as to fold inward to form a straw capture cavity.

8. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the straw-contacting rim, the first substantially horizontal straw-contacting finger, and the second substantially horizontal straw-contacting finger are configured to be hinged about the slit so as to fold inward to form a straw-capturing cavity.

9. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein at least two of the straw-contacting rim, the first substantially horizontal straw-contacting finger, and the second substantially horizontal straw-contacting finger are configured to be hinged about the slit so as to fold inward to form a straw-capturing cavity.

10. 10. The device of claim 1, wherein the first substantially horizontal straw contact finger and the second substantially horizontal straw contact finger are sized and shaped to match the configuration of the straw.

11. The device of claim 1 , wherein the straw-contacting rim is sized and shaped to match the configuration of the straw.

12. The device of claim 1 , wherein the first substantially horizontal straw-contacting finger and the second substantially horizontal straw-contacting finger have upper surfaces for gripping the straw.

13. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein at least two of the straw-contacting rim, the first substantially horizontal straw-contacting finger, and the second substantially horizontal straw-contacting finger are configured to be hinged about the slit so as to fold inward to grip the straw therein.

14. 14. The device of claim 13, further comprising a second straw end in contact with the sidewall of the cup.

15. 1. A device for securing a straw to a rim of a drinking cup having a sidewall, said device comprising: a substantially horizontal, planar tab extending outwardly from the rim of the drinking cup, the substantially horizontal, planar tab having an outer edge with a straw capture and alignment port; the straw capture and alignment port has a slit for dividing the planar tab into a first tab section and a second tab section, the slit having a first slit end and a second slit end; the first tab section has a first substantially horizontal straw contact finger defined therein, the second tab section has a second substantially horizontal straw contact finger defined therein, the first substantially horizontal straw contact finger and the second substantially horizontal straw contact finger each being separated by the slit, and notch ends of the first substantially horizontal straw contact finger and the second substantially horizontal straw contact finger meet at the second slit end; the first substantially horizontal straw contact finger and the second substantially horizontal straw contact finger are hinged to releasably secure the straw against a straw contact rim formed in the planar tab by notches in the first substantially horizontal straw contact finger and the second substantially horizontal straw contact finger.

16. 16. The device of claim 15, wherein the first substantially horizontal straw contact finger notch start and the second substantially horizontal straw contact finger notch start are equally spaced around the slit and perpendicular to the first slit end of the straw capture and alignment port.

17. 16. The device of claim 15, wherein the straw capture and alignment port, the first substantially horizontal straw contact finger, the slit, and the second substantially horizontal straw contact finger are configured perpendicular to the rim.

18. 16. The device of claim 15, wherein the straw capture and alignment port, the first substantially horizontal straw contact finger, the slit, and the second substantially horizontal straw contact finger are configured parallel to the rim.

19. 16. The device of claim 15, wherein at least two of the straw-contacting rim, the first substantially horizontal straw-contacting finger, and the second substantially horizontal straw-contacting finger are configured to be hinged about the slit so as to fold inward to form a straw-capturing cavity.

20. 16. The device of claim 15, wherein at least two of the first substantially horizontal straw-contacting finger, the second substantially horizontal straw-contacting finger, and the straw-contacting rim are configured to be hinged about the slit so as to fold inward to grip the straw therein.

21. 21. The device of claim 20, further comprising a second straw end in contact with the sidewall of the cup.

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