Beverage container lid with magnetic sealing mechanism

Abstract

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

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to beverage containers. More specifically, some embodiments relate to a lid for a beverage container having a sealing mechanism.

Background Art

[0002] It may be desirable for a beverage container to have a closed position where the drinking opening of the beverage container is sealed and an open position where the drinking opening is not sealed.

Summary of the Invention

[0003] Some embodiments disclosed herein are directed to a lid for a container, including a lid body, a movable arm, a first magnet unit coupled to the movable arm, an actuator accessible from outside the lid body, and a second magnet unit coupled to the actuator. The lid body may define a drinking opening that passes through the lid body. The movable arm may be coupled to the lid body and located inside the lid body. The movable arm may be movable between a closed position where the drinking opening is sealed and an open position where the drinking opening is not sealed. The actuator may be movable between a first position and a second position. When the actuator is in the first position, at least one of the biasing force and the attracting magnetic force between the first magnet unit and the second magnet unit can hold the movable arm in the closed position. When the actuator is moved toward the second position, the repulsive magnetic force between the first magnet unit and the second magnet unit can move the movable arm toward the open position.

[0004] Some embodiments disclosed herein relate to a lid for a container, comprising a lid body, a movable arm, a first magnetic unit coupled to the movable arm, an actuator accessible from outside the lid body, and a second magnetic unit coupled to the actuator. The lid body may define a drinking opening and a vent opening that penetrate the lid body. The movable arm may be coupled to the lid body and located inside the lid body. The movable arm may be movable between a sealed position, a vented position, and an open position. The actuator may be movable between a first position and a second position. When the movable arm is in the sealed position, the vent opening and the drinking opening may be sealed. When the movable arm is in the vented position, the vent opening may not be sealed, and the drinking opening may be sealed. When the movable arm is in the open position, the vent opening and the drinking opening may not be sealed. As the actuator moves from a first position to a second position, the magnetic force between the first and second magnet units can move the movable arm from a sealed position to a ventilated position, and then to an open position.

[0005] Some embodiments disclosed herein relate to a lid for a container, comprising a lid body, a movable arm, a first magnetic unit coupled to the movable arm, an actuator accessible from outside the lid body, and a second magnetic unit coupled to the actuator. The lid body may define a drinking opening through the lid body. The movable arm may be coupled to the lid body and located inside the lid body. The movable arm may be movable between a sealed position in which the drinking opening is sealed and an open position in which the drinking opening is not sealed. The actuator may be slidable linearly along a movement axis from a first position to a second position. When the actuator is moved toward the second position, the force between the first magnetic unit and the second magnetic unit can move the movable arm away from the closed position. At least one of the first and second magnetic units may be inclined with respect to the movement axis.

[0006] The accompanying drawings incorporated herein and forming part thereof further serve to illustrate and describe the principles thereof, and to enable those skilled in the art to fabricate and use them. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] The upper rearward perspective view of the container is shown. [Figure 2] Figure 1 shows a rear view of the container. [Figure 3] Figure 1 shows a disassembled upper rearward perspective view of a portion of the container. [Figure 4] Figure 1 shows a disassembled lower front perspective view of a portion of the container. [Figure 5] Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the container in Figure 1, cut at the line V-V' in Figure 2, where the container actuator is in the first position and the container's movable arm is in the sealed position. [Figure 6] Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the container in Figure 1, cut at the line V-V' in Figure 2, where the container's actuator is in the second position and the container's movable arm is in the ventilation position. [Figure 7] Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the container in Figure 1, cut at the line V-V' in Figure 2, where the container's actuator is in the second position and the container's movable arm is in the open position. [Figure 8] Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the container in Figure 1, cut at the line V-V' in Figure 2, with the container's actuator removed and the container's movable arm in the cleaning position. [Figure 9] Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the container in Figure 1, cut at the position of line IX-IX', where the container's locking member is in the locked position. [Figure 10] Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the container in Figure 1, cut at the position of line IX-IX', where the container's locking member is in the unlocked position. [Figure 11] Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the container in Figure 1, cut at the position of line IX-IX', where the container's locking member is in the disassembled position. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] The following description includes numerous specific details to provide a complete understanding of the embodiments of this disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that embodiments, including structures, systems, and methods, can be carried out without these specific details. The descriptions and expressions herein conform to the standards used by those skilled in the art to best convey the research of those skilled in the art to others skilled in the art. In some cases, well-known methods, procedures, components, and elements are not described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring aspects of this disclosure.

[0009] References in this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an exemplary embodiment,” and “several embodiments” indicate that the embodiments described may include certain features, structures, or characteristics, but all embodiments may include certain features, structures, or characteristics. Furthermore, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiments. Moreover, when certain features, structures, or characteristics are described in relation to one embodiment, whether explicitly described or not, it is assumed that applying such features, structures, or characteristics in relation to other embodiments will be within the knowledge of those skilled in the art.

[0010] The following examples illustrate, but do not limit, this disclosure. Other suitable modifications and adaptations of various conditions and parameters commonly encountered in the art and apparent to those skilled in the art are within the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0011] People use reusable beverage containers to carry various beverages. Often, it is desirable for beverage containers to have a sealing mechanism that seals the drinking opening when the user is not drinking from the container. Sealing the drinking opening allows the user to carry the container without worrying about the beverage leaking onto the user or their belongings. Sealing the drinking opening can also allow the beverage to maintain a desired temperature. Users may appreciate beverage containers that are easy to seal and open, allowing them to easily drink from the container.

[0012] Furthermore, it may be desirable for beverage containers to have relatively few components that come into contact with the beverage contained within the container or the beverage consumed through the container. This may be desirable, for example, to prevent dirt or debris on certain components from contaminating the beverage inside the container, or to reduce the number of components that the user needs to clean (e.g., by removing beverage residue from the components).

[0013] Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide lids for beverage containers that can be used to easily seal and open a drinking opening. Some of the components are isolated from the internal volume of the container so that the beverage carried in or consumed through the container does not come into contact with the components. The lid includes a movable arm that moves in response to a magnetic force to seal and open the drinking opening. The lid also includes an actuator (e.g., a button) accessible from the outside of the lid. A magnetic unit is positioned on the movable arm, and another magnetic unit is positioned on the actuator. In some embodiments, when the actuator is in a non-pressed position, a biasing force (e.g., provided by a spring) and an attractive magnetic force between the magnetic unit on the actuator and the magnetic unit on the movable arm together hold the movable arm in the sealed position. When the actuator is pressed, a repulsive magnetic force between the magnetic unit on the actuator and the magnetic unit on the movable arm overcomes the spring force, moving the movable arm toward the open position.

[0014] In some embodiments, when the user releases the actuator, the actuator moves toward its original uncompressed position due to either or both a biasing force (provided directly by, for example, a spring or other elastic element) or a repulsive force between the magnet unit on the actuator and the magnet unit on the movable arm. The movement brought about by the magnet unit located on the actuator reduces the magnetic force on the movable arm, thereby allowing the biasing force to return the movable arm to the closed position.

[0015] In some embodiments, the lid includes a drinking opening and a vent opening that are sealed separately. When the actuator is pressed, the vent opening is opened before the drinking opening, thereby avoiding or reducing ventilation of the container through the drinking opening. In some embodiments, a movable arm contributes to this ventilation feature. In such embodiments, the movable arm is movable between a sealed position in which both the drinking opening and the vent opening are sealed, a vented position in which the drinking opening is sealed and the vent opening is not sealed, and an open position in which neither the vent opening nor the drinking opening is sealed. When the actuator is pressed, a magnetic force (e.g., repulsive force) between a first magnetic unit on the actuator and a second magnetic unit on the movable arm moves the movable arm from the sealed position to the vented position, and then to the open position. In some embodiments, the user does not move the actuator to change the lid from a vented mode (where only the vent opening is not sealed) and a drinking mode (where neither the vent opening nor the drinking opening is sealed). Rather, as explained, while the actuator remains in the same position, the lid automatically switches from ventilation mode to drinking mode.

[0016] In some embodiments, the actuator slides linearly along the axis of movement when moving from a non-pressed position to a pressed position, and one (or both) of the magnet units are angled with respect to the axis of movement. Compared to a lid with similar features but without an angled magnet unit, a lid with an angled magnet unit results in a smoother transition of the movable arm from a sealed position to an open position. Users may prefer a smoother transition to a more abrupt one, and a smoother transition can reduce the noise associated with opening the drinking opening or reduce splashing of liquid from the lid through the drinking opening.

[0017] In some embodiments, the actuator may be locked to prevent the drinking opening from being accidentally opened. These and other embodiments are described in more detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0018] Figures 1 and 2 show containers 10 according to several embodiments. Container 10 may include a container body 1000 and a lid 20 for the container body 1000. The lid 20 may include a lid body 100 and an actuator 700, among other components. Container 10 may be, for example, a beverage container or other container for drinking beverages.

[0019] The lid body 100 may include a drinking opening 104, and when the lid 20 is assembled to the container body 1000, the user can drink the beverage contained in the container body 1000 through the drinking opening 204. The lid body 100 may also include a vent opening 106, which allows ventilation of the internal volume of the container body 1000 when the lid 20 is assembled to the container body 1000. The lid body 100 may be formed from food-grade plastic (e.g., polypropylene, copolyester, copolymer sold as Eastman Tritan®, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyoxymethylene (POM), or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)) or metal (e.g., steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, or titanium), and may be formed as a single, one-piece component.

[0020] The lid 20 can form a seal when assembled to the container body 1000. The term "seal" as used herein and elsewhere in this document does not necessarily require a perfectly airtight seal, but rather a seal that can prevent the passage of liquid fluids is sufficient. The drinking opening 104 and the ventilation opening 106 may be the only openings extending through the lid body 100 to the container body 1000, and the drinking opening 104 and the ventilation opening 106 may be sealed together or separately in some configurations, as discussed in more detail below.

[0021] The actuator 700 may be accessible from the outside of the lid body 100. The actuator 700 may be, for example, a button 702 (as shown in FIG. 1), a switch, a lever, or other suitable mechanical mechanism, or may include the same. The actuator 700 may be movable between a first position and a second position to seal or unseal the drinking opening 104, as described in more detail below. Additionally or alternatively, the actuator 700 may be movable between a first position and a second position to seal or unseal the ventilation opening 106.

[0022] In embodiments where the actuator 700 is the button 702 or includes the same, the actuator 700 may be movable from the first position to the second position, for example, by pressing the button 702, and may be movable from the second position to the first position, for example, by releasing the button 702. The actuator 700 may be formed of any suitable material (e.g., polypropylene, copolyester, a copolymer sold under the trade name Eastman Tritan®, high density polyethylene (HDPE), polyoxymethylene (POM), or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)), glass, or metal (e.g., steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, or titanium), and may be formed as a single integral part.

[0023] In some embodiments, the lid 20 includes a locking member 800 that prevents the actuator 700 from moving, thereby preventing the opening of the drinking opening 104. The user can move the locking member 800 from the unlocked position to the locked position by, for example, engaging a portion of the locking member 800 (e.g., a nub 804) and sliding the locking member 800 (for example, counterclockwise around the locking axis 80 (see Figure 9) as viewed from the top of the lid 20). When the locking member 800 is in the locked position, the actuator 700 is prevented from moving from the first position to the second position to open the drinking opening 104. When the locking member 800 is in the unlocked position, the actuator 700 can move freely from the first position to the second position.

[0024] In some embodiments, the user can move the locking member 800 from the unlocked or locked position to the disassembled position by, for example, engaging with a portion of the locking member 800 and sliding the locking member 800 (for example, clockwise or counterclockwise around the locking axis 80). When the locking member 800 is in the disassembled position, the actuator 700 can be removed from the lid body 100.

[0025] The locking member 800 may be movable from each of its positions (for example, the unlocked position, the locked position, and the disassembled position) to each of the other positions. Figures 3 and 4 show exploded views of the container 10 according to several embodiments. As shown, the lid 20 includes a lid body 100, an actuator 700, a magnet unit 500, a locking member 800, a lid sealing member 200, a movable arm 300, a magnet unit 400, a sealing arm 900, a cam 600, and a spring 650. The container 10 may also include a container body 1000.

[0026] The lid body 100 may define a drinking spout 102 through which a drinking opening 104 extends. The drinking spout 102 may define one or more drinking openings 104. The lid body 100 may also define one or more ventilation openings 106. The ventilation openings 106 may extend between the interior 132 of the lid body 100 and the outside air outside the lid body 100, or between the interior 132 of the lid body 100 and a portion of the lid body 100 that is open to the outside air outside the lid body 100.

[0027] The lid body 100 may define an actuator chamber 112. The actuator 700 may be located at least partially within the actuator chamber 112 and may be accessible from outside the lid body 100. For example, as shown in Figure 1, a portion of the actuator 700 may protrude through an opening 114 in the upper side wall 122 of the lid body 100. The actuator 700 may be movable (e.g., slidable) within the actuator chamber 112 between a first position and a second position (e.g., by pressing and releasing the actuator 700 as a button).

[0028] In some embodiments, the actuator 700 may include a spring finger 718 that contacts a portion of the lid body 100 when the lid 20 is assembled. The spring finger 718 can help retain the actuator 700 within the actuator chamber 112 and / or reduce noise generated by the lid 20 when the actuator 700 moves relative to the lid body 100.

[0029] In some embodiments, the actuator 700 is removable from the actuator chamber 112. The actuator 700 may include, for example, a grip 716 to assist in removing the actuator 700 from the actuator chamber 112.

[0030] For example, as shown in Figure 3, the actuator 700 may include a compartment 704 for receiving the magnet unit 500. The magnet unit 500 may be one or more magnets having aligned poles that function together as a single magnet, or may include such magnets. In some embodiments, the magnet unit 500 includes an outer housing that houses one or more magnets inside.

[0031] The compartment 704 may be spaced by the central portion 706 by a certain distance from the contact surface of the actuator 700 (e.g., button 702) so that the magnet unit 500 is spaced away from the outer edge of the lid body 100 when the lid 20 is assembled. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the magnet unit 500 is spaced away from the rear edge of the lid body 100. In some embodiments, the compartment 704 is spaced horizontally away from the outer edge (e.g., rear edge) of the lid body 100. In some embodiments, the compartment 704 is spaced away from the outer edge (e.g., rear edge) of the lid body 100 in the direction of movement of the actuator 700. In some embodiments, the compartment 704 is spaced away from the rear edge of the lid body 100 by more than half the diameter of the lid body 100.

[0032] In some embodiments, the magnet unit 500 is joined to the actuator 700 with an adhesive. In some embodiments, the magnet unit 500 is joined to the actuator 700 by other chemical bonding (e.g., welding, molding, or potting) and / or mechanical means (e.g., press fitting or snap fitting).

[0033] The compartment 704 may be configured such that, once the magnet unit 500 is received within the compartment 704, the magnet unit 500 is located on or near the lower surface of the actuator 700. In this way, the magnetic field generated by the magnet unit 500 is relatively strong at a position just below the lower surface of the actuator 700 compared to the magnetic field generated by the magnet unit 500 when it is positioned further above the lower surface of the actuator 700.

[0034] As described above, in some embodiments, the lid body 100 includes a locking member 800. The locking member 800 is optional, and the lid 20 does not need to include a locking portion in all embodiments. In some embodiments, the lid 20 does not include a locking portion. In embodiments including a locking member 800, the actuator 700 may include a recess 708 for receiving the locking member 800, and the locking member 800 may be movable within the recess 708 once the lid 20 is assembled. In some embodiments, the locking member 800 may be rotatable within the recess 708 once the lid 20 is assembled. For example, as shown in Figure 9, the locking member 800 may be rotatable about the locking member axis 80. For example, as shown in Figure 1, once the lid 20 is assembled, a portion of the locking member 800 (e.g., a nub 804) may protrude through an opening 712 in the actuator 700 so that a user can engage the locking member 800 from outside the lid 20. The user may move the locking member 800 between several positions (for example, from a locked position to an unlocked position) by engaging the nub 804 and sliding the locking member 800 (for example, clockwise around the locking axis 80 when viewed from the top of the lid 20).

[0035] In some embodiments, the locking member 800 is movable between three positions: a locked position, a unlocked position, and a disassembled position. As will be discussed in more detail below, when the locking member 800 is in the locked position, the actuator 700 is prevented from moving from the first position to the second position to open the drinking opening 104. When the locking member 800 is in the unlocked position, the actuator 700 can move freely from the first position to the second position. When the locking member 800 is in the disassembled position, the actuator 700 can be removed from the lid body 100 (for example, by pulling the actuator 700 out of the actuator chamber 112). In some embodiments, the locking member 800 is movable between only two positions: a locked position and a unlocked position.

[0036] The lid body 100 may include a mounting mechanism 110 on the lower side wall 118 of the lid body 100. The container body 1000 may include a corresponding mounting mechanism 1010 near the upper edge of the container, configured to engage with the mounting mechanism 110 for detachably attaching the container body 1000 to the lid 20. The mounting mechanisms 110 and 1010 may be screw connectors, friction-fit connectors, snap-fit ​​connectors, or any other suitable detachable mounting mechanisms (as shown in Figure 3). The attachment of the lid body 100 to the container body 1000 is not limited to the arrangement shown in the figure. For example, in some embodiments, the lid body 100 may be attached over the container body 1000 rather than inside the container body 1000.

[0037] When the lid sealing member 200 is assembled to the container body 1000, it is pressed between the lid body 100 and the inner surface of the container body 1000, thereby forming a seal between the lid body 20 and the container body 1000. The lid sealing member 200 may be a detachable component (e.g., a detachable gasket), or it may be an integrally formed part of the lid body 100 or the container body 1000.

[0038] The movable arm 300 may be positioned inside the lid body 100 132 and may be movably coupled to the lid body 100. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the movable arm 300 is coupled to the lid body 100 via engagement between one or more receiving portions 126 of the lid body 100 and one or more engaging portions 302 of the movable arm 300.

[0039] In some embodiments, the movable arm 300 may be rotatable within the lid body 100. For example, as shown in Figure 5-8, the movable arm 300 may rotate about a movable arm axis 30 that extends through the receiving portion 126 of the lid body 100 and the engaging portion 302 of the movable arm 300.

[0040] In other embodiments, the movable arm 300 is movable relative to the lid body 100 by another means, such as sliding. However, a rotatable movable arm may allow for a tighter seal of the ventilation opening 106 or the drinking opening 104 than a sliding movable arm 300. The movable arm 300 may be formed of a food-grade material.

[0041] The movable arm 300 may include a ventilated sealing portion 304. Once the lid 20 is assembled, the ventilated sealing portion 304 may move with the movable arm 300 so that the ventilated sealing portion 304 seals the ventilation opening 106 when the movable arm 300 is in a particular position.

[0042] In the illustrated embodiment, the ventilated seal portion 304 is formed as a diaphragm. However, the ventilated seal portion 304 may have any shape and configuration sufficient to seal the vent opening 106. For example, in other embodiments, the ventilated seal portion 304 may be formed as a plug or a gasket. The ventilated seal portion 304 may be integrally formed as part of the movable arm 300 (e.g., by composite molding), or it may be a separate component attached to the movable arm 300. The ventilated seal portion 304 may be formed of a food-grade material suitable for forming a seal between the lid body 100 and the movable arm 300.

[0043] The sealing arm 900 is located inside 132 of the lid body 100 and may be movably coupled to the movable arm 300. In the illustrated embodiments, the sealing arm 900 is coupled to the movable arm 300 via engagement between one or more pins 904 of the sealing arm 900 and one or more slots 310 of the movable arm 300. In some embodiments, the sealing arm 900 may be movable relative to the movable arm 300 (e.g., pivotable, slidable, or a combination thereof). For example, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, the pins 904 of the sealing arm 900 can slide within the slots 310 of the movable arm 300, thus allowing the sealing arm 900 to slide relative to the movable arm 300 (e.g., substantially upward or substantially downward). As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the pins 904 of the sealing arm 900 can pivot within the slots 310 of the movable arm 300, thus allowing the sealing arm 900 to pivot relative to the movable arm 300. In some embodiments, the pin 904 has a circular cross-section, and the slot 310 has an elongated stadium shape. This can contribute, for example, to the ability of the sealing arm 900 to slide and pivot relative to the movable arm 300 as described above.

[0044] The sealing arm 900 may be movable between a sealed position in which the sealing arm 900 seals the drinking opening 104 and an open position in which the sealing arm 900 does not seal the drinking opening 104. In some embodiments, the sealing arm 900 includes a drinking opening sealing portion 902 for sealing the drinking opening 104 when in the sealed position. As shown in Figure 5, once the lid 20 is assembled, the sealing arm 900 may extend into the drinking opening 104 of the lid body 100 (which may be, for example, an elongated drinking opening 104 forming a passage). The drinking opening sealing portion 902 may move with the sealing arm 900 so that the drinking opening sealing portion 902 seals the ventilation opening 104 when the sealing arm 900 is in a particular position.

[0045] In the illustrated embodiment, the drinking opening sealing portion 902 is formed as a diaphragm or flange that forms a sealing surface around it. However, the drinking opening sealing portion 902 may have any shape and configuration sufficient to seal the drinking opening 104. For example, in other embodiments, the drinking opening sealing portion 902 may be formed as a plug, diaphragm, or gasket. The drinking opening sealing portion 902 may be integrally formed as part of the sealing arm 900 (e.g., by composite molding), or it may be a separate component or part of a component attached to the sealing arm 900. The drinking opening sealing portion 902 may be formed of a food-grade material suitable for forming a seal between the lid body 100 and the sealing arm 900.

[0046] The movable arm 300 may be movable relative to the lid body 100 between a sealed position (shown in Figure 5), a ventilated position (shown in Figure 6), and an open position (shown in Figure 7). When the movable arm 300 is in the sealed position (as shown in Figure 5), the drinking opening 104 is sealed (for example, by the sealing arm 900 and the drinking opening sealing portion 902). In some embodiments, the drinking opening sealing portion 902 seals the drinking opening 104 by sealing it from below or by pressing on the surface or periphery of the drinking opening 104. In some embodiments, when the movable arm 300 is in the sealed position, the ventilation opening 106 is sealed (for example, by the movable arm 300 and the ventilation opening sealing portion 304). For example, the ventilation opening sealing portion 302 may seal the ventilation opening 106 by pressing on the surface or periphery of the ventilation opening 106 or by blocking the ventilation opening 106 from below.

[0047] When the movable arm 300 is in the ventilation position (as shown in Figure 6), the ventilation opening 106 is not sealed. In some embodiments, when the movable arm 300 is in the ventilation position, the drinking opening 104 is sealed (for example, by the sealing arm 900 and the drinking opening sealing portion 902).

[0048] When the movable arm 300 is in the open position, the drinking opening 104 is not sealed (for example, so that a user can drink from the container 10 through the drinking opening 104). In some embodiments, when the movable arm 300 is in the open position, the ventilation opening 106 is not sealed.

[0049] In some embodiments, the movable arm 300 is biased toward the sealed position. That is, if no mechanical force is applied to the components of the lid 20, the movable arm 300 returns to (or remains in) the sealed position. In the illustrated embodiment, a spring 650 (which may be, for example, a torsion spring) biases the movable arm 300 toward the sealed position. However, in other embodiments, the movable arm 300 may be biased toward the sealed position by a magnetic force or a different physical component, such as a compression spring or elastic material that pushes the movable arm 300 toward the sealed position.

[0050] For example, as shown in Figure 3, the movable arm 300 may include a compartment 306 for receiving the magnet unit 400. The magnet unit 400 may consist of one or more magnets having aligned poles that function together as a single magnet, or may include such magnets. In some embodiments, the magnet unit 400 includes an outer housing that houses one or more magnets.

[0051] The compartment 306 may be positioned within the movable arm 300 such that the magnet unit 400 is spaced apart from the outer edge of the lid 20 when the lid 20 is assembled. The compartment 306 may be configured such that, once the magnet unit 400 is received within the compartment 306, the magnet unit 400 is positioned on or near the upper surface of the movable arm 300. In this way, the magnetic field generated by the magnet unit 400 is relatively strong at a position just above the movable arm 300 compared to the magnetic field generated by the magnet unit 400 if it were positioned further below the upper surface of the movable arm 300.

[0052] In some embodiments, the magnet unit 400 is joined to the movable arm 300 with adhesive. In some embodiments, the magnet unit 400 is joined to the movable arm 300 by other chemical bonding (e.g., welding, molding, or potting) and / or mechanical means (e.g., press fitting). In some embodiments, the movable arm 300 includes a magnet cover 308 for separating the magnet unit 400 from the interior 132 of the lid body 100 when the lid 20 is assembled. In some embodiments, the magnet cover 308 is formed integrally with the movable arm 300 (for example, the movable arm 300 may be formed in a first molding step, and the magnet cover 308 may be formed in a second molding step after the magnet unit 400 has been joined to the movable arm 300).

[0053] The cam 600 is positioned inside the lid body 100 132 and may be movably coupled to the movable arm 300. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the cam 600 is coupled to the lid body 300 via engagement between one or more receiving portions 602 of the cam 600 and one or more engaging portions 312 of the movable arm 300. In some embodiments, the cam 600 may be movable (e.g., pivotable) relative to the movable arm 300.

[0054] As will be explained in more detail below, when the actuator 700 moves between a first position and a second position (for example, when the actuator 700 is pressed as a button), the magnet unit 500 located within the compartment 704 of the actuator 700 moves from the first position to the second position, thereby changing the magnetic field that the magnet unit 400 experiences. As a result, the magnetic force on the magnet unit 400 moves the movable arm 300 coupled to the magnet unit 400 from a sealed position where the drinking opening 104 is sealed to a ventilated position where the ventilation opening 106 is not sealed, or to an open position where the drinking opening 104 is not sealed. Similarly, when the actuator 700 moves from the second position to the first position (for example, when the actuator 700 is released as a button), the magnet unit 500 moves from the second position to the first position, thereby changing the magnetic field that the magnet unit 400 experiences. As a result, the decrease in magnetic force in the magnet unit 400 causes the movable arm 300 to move from the ventilated or open position to the sealed position (for example, due to the biasing force applied by the spring 650).

[0055] The movable arm 300 does not need to be mechanically connected to the actuator 700. That is, moving the actuator 700 (for example, from a first position to a second position or vice versa) will exert no mechanical force on the movable arm 300 (only magnetic force, as described herein).

[0056] The movable arm 300, the sealing arm 900, and the cam 600 may all be positioned inside the container 10 when the lid 20 is assembled. Therefore, the actuator 700 may be the only movable component of the lid 20 that is accessible from the outside of the container 10 when the lid 20 is assembled.

[0057] The container body 1000 may be any type of container body. The container 1000 may be cylindrical (as shown, for example, in Figures 1-2) or may have a different external or internal shape. In some embodiments, the container body 1000 may have double walls to enhance the thermal insulation of the container body 1000. In some embodiments, the area between the double walls of the container body 102 may be sealed and form at least a partial vacuum. In some embodiments, the container body 1000 may be formed from stainless steel. In some embodiments, the container body 1000 may be formed from food-grade plastics (e.g., polypropylene, copolyester, copolymer sold as Eastman Tritan®, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyoxymethylene (POM), or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)), glass, or another food-grade material such as another metal (e.g., steel, aluminum, copper, or titanium).

[0058] Figures 5 to 11 show detailed diagrams of embodiments for implementing some of the features described above. The specific structures and mechanisms illustrated and described here and elsewhere in this document may not be the only way to achieve the functions described, and each element may be implemented using shapes, structures, and appearances other than those specifically illustrated and described.

[0059] Figures 5 to 7 are cross-sectional views showing the relative positions of specific components of the lid 20. As described above, during operation, the user may move the actuator 700 from a first position to a second position (e.g., by sliding it) (e.g., by pressing the actuator 700, such as a button). Figure 5 shows an assembled cross-sectional view of the top of the container 10 when the actuator 700 is in the first position, and Figures 6 and 7 show assembled cross-sectional views of the top of the container 10 when the actuator 700 is in the second position. The cross-sections in Figures 5-7 are cut perpendicularly at the position of line V-V' in Figure 2.

[0060] For example, as shown in Figure 5, the lid body 100 may include a partition wall 120. The partition wall 120 shown curves upward toward the front of the lid body 100 and partially defines the drinking spout 102. The drinking spout 102 is positioned near the edge of the lid body 100, offset from the center of the lid body 100, so that it is in a comfortable position for the user when drinking from the spout. As shown, the drinking opening 104 may extend through the drinking spout 102. The drinking opening 104 may have a stadium-shaped cross section above the drinking spout 102. In some embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the drinking opening 104 may change from the top to the bottom portion of the drinking opening 104.

[0061] The lid body 100 may have a lower side wall 118 extending downward from the lower side of the partition wall 120. The lower side wall 118 and the partition wall 120 may both define the interior 132 of the lid body 100. When the lid 20 is assembled to the container body 1000, the interior 132 of the lid body 100 may be in fluid communication with the interior 1006 of the container body 1000. The lid body 100 may also include an upper side wall 122 extending upward from the upper side of the partition wall 120. In some embodiments, the upper side wall 122 and the partition wall 120 may define a cavity 135. However, in other embodiments, the lid body 100 does not include a cavity 135.

[0062] In some embodiments, the drinking opening 104 extends from the inside 132 of the lid body 100, through the partition wall 120, and is open to the outside atmosphere of the lid 20. In some embodiments, the ventilation opening 106 extends from the interior 132 of the lid body 100, through the partition wall 120, and is open to the atmosphere. For example, in some embodiments, if the ventilation opening 106 is not sealed, air from the interior 132 of the lid body 100 can pass through the ventilation opening 106, through the actuator chamber 112, and out to the atmosphere outside the lid 20. In other embodiments, if the ventilation opening 106 is not sealed, air from the interior 132 of the lid body 100 can pass through the ventilation opening 106, through a ventilation path provided in the actuator 700, and out to the exterior 134 of the lid body 100, which is open to the atmosphere.

[0063] The actuator 700 may extend into the actuator chamber 112 from the rear of the lid body 100 toward the front of the lid body 100. The actuator 700 and the actuator chamber 112 may be isolated from the interior 132 of the lid body 100 and the drinking opening 104 so as to reduce the likelihood of the beverage being carried in the container body 1000 and / or consumed by the user through the drinking opening 104 coming into contact with the actuator 700 or the actuator chamber 112. This isolation may be desirable, for example, to prevent dirt or debris on the actuator 700 or in the actuator chamber 112 from potentially contaminating the beverage in the container body 1000. This isolation is also desirable, for example, to prevent the actuator 700 from being contaminated by deposits from the beverage being carried in the container body 1000. In some embodiments, the spring fingers 718 of the actuator 700 can contact the portion of the lid body 100 that defines the actuator chamber 112, thereby holding the actuator 700 within the actuator chamber 112 and / or helping to reduce noise generated by the lid 20 when the actuator 700 moves relative to the lid body 100.

[0064] The movable arm 300 may extend inside the lid body 100 from the rear to the front of the lid body 100. As described above with reference to Figure 4, the movable arm 300 may be movably coupled to the lid body 100 such that the movable arm 300 is rotatable about the movable arm axis 30. For example, the movable arm 300 may be movably coupled to the lid body 100 at a mounting portion 124 that extends downward from the separation platform 120 of the lid body 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting portion 124 includes a receiving portion 126, and the movable arm 300 includes a corresponding engaging portion 302. The engaging portion 302 of the movable arm 300 is received within the receiving portion 126 of the mounting portion 124, thereby allowing the movable arm 300 to rotate about the movable arm axis 30. For example, the movable arm 300 can rotate from a sealed position (for example, as shown in Figure 5) to a ventilated position (for example, as shown in Figure 6). In some embodiments, the movable arm 300 may move in different ways. For example, the movable arm may move forward and backward and / or up and down in translation.

[0065] The arm 900 may extend from the movable arm 300 (for example, from the front portion of the movable arm 300) into the drinking opening 104, and the drinking opening 104 may be an elongated drinking opening 104 extending through the drinking spout 102. In embodiments in which the sealing arm 900 extends through the drinking spout 102 into the elongated drinking opening 104, the sealing arm 900 may seal the drinking opening 104 inside the drinking spout 102 (for example, at or near the top of the drinking opening 104). This can help reduce the possibility of liquid spilling from inside the drinking opening 104 but over the seal between the drinking opening 104 and the sealing arm 900, even if the drinking opening 104 is sealed. As described above with reference to Figure 4, the sealing arm 900 may be movably coupled to the movable arm 300 such that the sealing arm 900 is pivotable, slidable, or both relative to the movable arm 300. For example, the sealing arm 900 may be movably connected to the movable arm 300 via the engagement of a pin 904 with a slot 310, thereby allowing the sealing arm 900 to pivot, slide, or both relative to the movable arm 300.

[0066] In some embodiments, the movable arm 300 can be moved (e.g., rotated) by applying a force (e.g., magnetic force) to the movable arm 300. For example, as shown in Figures 5-7, applying a downward force (relative to the axis 30) to the front portion of the movable arm 300 can move the movable arm 300 in a first rotational direction away from the sealed position, while applying an upward force (relative to the axis 30) to the front portion of the movable arm 300 can move the movable arm in a second rotational direction toward the sealed position.

[0067] When the movable arm 300 is in the sealed position (as shown in Figure 5), the drinking opening 104 is sealed (for example, by the sealing arm 900 and the drinking opening sealing portion 902). In some embodiments, the drinking opening sealing portion 902 seals the drinking opening 104 by sealing it from below or by pressing on the surface or periphery of the drinking opening 104. In some embodiments, when the movable arm 300 is in the sealed position, the ventilation opening 106 is sealed (for example, by the movable arm 300 and the ventilation opening sealing portion 302). For example, the ventilation opening sealing portion 302 may seal the ventilation opening 106 by pressing on the surface or periphery of the ventilation opening 106 or by blocking the ventilation opening 106 from below.

[0068] Under certain circumstances, for example, when the container 10 is used to carry hot beverages, the pressure inside the container 10 may increase. If the pressure inside the container 10 is sufficiently high, the pressure may prevent the movable arm 300 from moving to the open position (for example, by applying an upward force to the front portion of the movable arm 300) or prevent the sealing arm 900 from moving to its open position.

[0069] To release the increased pressure, the movable arm 300 may be moved (e.g., rotated) to the venting position (as shown in Figure 6). Moving the movable arm 300 to the venting position may require less force than moving it to the open position. When the movable arm 300 is in the venting position, the vent opening 106 is not sealed. Therefore, the interior 132 of the lid body 100 and the interior 1006 of the container body 1000 can be in fluid communication with the atmosphere outside the container 10, and the pressure inside the container 10 can be released through the vent opening 106.

[0070] In some embodiments, when the movable arm 300 is in the venting position, the drinking opening 104 is sealed (for example, by the sealing arm 900 and the drinking opening sealing portion 902). In some embodiments, the movable coupling between the movable arm 300 and the sealing arm 900 described above allows the movable arm 300 to move to the venting position while the drinking opening 104 is sealed. This can help reduce the possibility of undesirable pressure release through the drinking opening 104, for example. This can also allow the movable arm 300 to move to the venting position with less force than would be required if the sealing arm 900 also moved. As shown in Figures 5 and 6, when the movable arm 300 moves from the closed position to the venting position, the slot 310 of the movable arm 300 can slide, pivot, or both relative to the pin 904 of the sealing arm 900, thereby allowing the sealing arm 900 to remain in its sealed position.

[0071] As the pressure is released through the vent opening 106, the movable arm 300 can automatically move (for example, rotate further) from the vented position to the open position (as shown in Figure 7). This can occur, for example, as the pressure inside the container 10 is released, the upward force acting on the sealing arm 900 decreases, then balances with the downward force applied to the sealing arm pin 904 by the movable arm slot 310, with the downward force prevailing. The downward force is generated by the repulsive force of the magnet units 400 and 500. In this way, by continuously applying the repulsive force of the magnets applied to the movable arm 300 to move it to the vented position, the movable arm 300 is moved beyond the vented position to the open position.

[0072] In some embodiments, the movable coupling between the movable arm 300 and the sealing arm 900 described above causes the sealing arm 900 to move away from the sealed position (for example, to the open position) when the movable arm 300 moves to the open position. For example, as shown in Figures 6 and 7, when the movable arm 300 moves from the vented position to the open position, the upper part of the slot 310 of the movable arm 300 engages with the upper part of the pin 904 of the sealing arm 900, thereby pulling the sealing arm 900 away from the sealed position. Thus, when the movable arm 300 is in the open position, the drinking opening 104 is not sealed (for example, so that a user can drink from the container 10 through the drinking opening 104).

[0073] As described above, in some embodiments, the movable arm 300 can be moved (e.g., rotated) by applying a force (e.g., magnetic force) to the movable arm 300. In some embodiments, the interaction between a magnetic unit 500 located in the compartment 704 of the actuator 700 and a magnetic unit 400 located in the compartment 306 of the movable arm 300 generates a magnetic force that moves the movable arm 300.

[0074] In the illustrated embodiment, the magnet unit 500 is positioned such that its south pole (indicated as "S") is located on the bottom surface of the actuator 700, and the magnet unit 400 is positioned such that its south pole (indicated as "S") is located on the top surface of the movable arm 300. However, to achieve the desired magnetic interaction, the positions may be reversed. That is, the magnet unit 500 may be positioned such that its north pole is located on the bottom surface of the actuator 700, and the magnet unit 400 may be positioned such that its north pole is located on the top surface of the movable arm 300.

[0075] For example, as shown in Figure 5, when the actuator 700 is in a first position, the magnet unit 400 coupled to the movable arm 300 may interact with the magnet unit 500 coupled to the actuator 700. For example, the magnet unit 400 may be attracted to the magnet unit 500. In the illustrated embodiment, the magnet units 400 and 500 are arranged such that they attract each other when the actuator 700 is in a first position. (For example, at the offset positions of the illustrated magnet units 400 and 500, the attractive forces between the north side of magnet unit 500 and the south side of magnet unit 400, and between the south side of magnet unit 500 and the north side of magnet unit 400, are greater than the repulsive forces between the south side of magnet unit 500 and the south side of magnet unit 400, and between the north side of magnet unit 500 and the north side of magnet unit 400.) As a result, at this first position, magnet unit 500 applies an upward force to the front portion of the movable arm 300, thereby pulling the movable arm in the first rotational direction and maintaining the movable arm 300 in the sealed position.

[0076] In some embodiments, the movable arm 300 is also biased toward the sealed position. In the illustrated embodiment, a spring 650 (which may be, for example, a torsion spring) biases the movable arm 300 toward the sealed position.

[0077] In Figure 6, the actuator 700 is moved from a first position to a second position (for example, by pushing the button 702 toward the front of the container 10). In some embodiments, the actuator 700 slides linearly along the movement axis 90 when moving from the first position to the second position.

[0078] In Figure 6, the actuator 700 moves a short distance between a first position and a second position. However, the actuator 700 may be configured to move more or less in translation than shown in the figure. For example, when the actuator 700 is in the second position, as shown in Figure 6, the magnet unit 400 coupled to the movable arm 300 may interact with the magnet unit 500 coupled to the actuator 700. For example, the magnet unit 400 may be repelled by the magnet unit 500. In the illustrated embodiment, the magnet units 500 and 400 are positioned such that the south pole of the magnet unit 500 faces the south pole of the magnet unit 400 when the actuator 700 is in the second position. As a result, when the actuator 700 is in the second position, the magnet unit 500 applies a downward force to the front portion of the movable arm 300, thereby pushing the movable arm 300 in a second rotational direction toward the ventilated or open position. In an embodiment in which the movable arm 300 is biased toward a sealed position (for example by a spring 650), the repulsive magnetic force between the magnet unit 400 and the magnet unit 500 overcomes the biasing force, allowing the movable arm 300 to move toward a ventilated or open position.

[0079] In some embodiments, as actuator 700 moves from a first position to a second position, the magnetic force between magnet unit 400 and magnet unit 500 moves the movable arm 300 from a sealed position to a ventilated position, and then to an open position. In some embodiments, actuator 700 remains in the second position while the movable arm 300 moves from the ventilated position to the open position. As described above, this can occur, for example, when the pressure inside the container 10 is released, by a decrease in the upward force acting on the front portion of the movable arm 300 due to the pressure inside the container 10. As a result, by continuing to apply a downward force acting on the front portion of the movable arm 300 to move it to the ventilated position, the movable arm 300 moves beyond the ventilated position to the open position.

[0080] In some embodiments, the magnet unit 500 is inclined with respect to the moving axis 90. In the illustrated embodiment, the magnet unit 500 is inclined at approximately 10 degrees with respect to the moving axis 90. However, in other embodiments, the magnet unit 500 is inclined at a greater or less than 10 degrees. For example, the magnet unit 500 may be inclined at -90 to 90 degrees (e.g., 2 to 20 degrees (positive or negative) or 5 to 15 degrees (positive or negative)) with respect to the moving axis 90.

[0081] In some embodiments where the magnet unit 500 is inclined with respect to the movement axis 90, the magnetic force between the magnet unit 500 and the magnet unit 400 can take effect earlier in the movement of the actuator 700 as it moves from a first position to a second position (relative to a lid where the magnet unit 500 is not inclined). Thus, the inclination of the magnet unit 500 allows for a weakening of the magnetic force between the magnet unit 500 and the magnet unit 400 when the actuator 700 is in the first position, while maintaining a similar magnetic force between the magnet unit 500 and the magnet unit 400 when the actuator 700 is in the second position. This, in turn, can contribute to a smoother transition of the movable arm 300 from a sealed position to a ventilated or open position.

[0082] In some embodiments, the magnet unit 400 is inclined with respect to the moving axis 90. In the illustrated embodiment, the magnet unit 400 is inclined at approximately 10 degrees with respect to the moving axis 90. However, in other embodiments, the magnet unit 400 is inclined at a greater or less than 10 degrees. For example, the magnet unit 400 may be inclined at -90 to 90 degrees (e.g., 2 to 20 degrees (positive or negative) or 5 to 15 degrees (positive or negative)) with respect to the moving axis 90.

[0083] In some embodiments where the magnet unit 400 is inclined with respect to the movement axis 90, the magnetic force between the magnet unit 500 and the magnet unit 400 can increase more rapidly as the actuator 700 moves from a first position to a second position (relative to a lid where the magnet unit 400 is not inclined). Thus, the inclination of the magnet unit 400 allows for a weakening of the magnetic force between the magnet unit 500 and the magnet unit 400 when the actuator 700 is in the first position, while achieving a similar magnetic force between the magnet unit 500 and the magnet unit 400 when the actuator 700 is in the second position. This, in turn, can contribute to a smoother transition of the movable arm 300 from a sealed position to a ventilated or open position.

[0084] In some embodiments, both magnet unit 400 and magnet unit 500 are inclined with respect to the moving axis 90. In some such embodiments, magnet unit 400 and magnet unit 500 are inclined at the same angle with respect to the moving axis 90. For example, in some embodiments, magnet unit 400 and magnet unit 500 may be inclined at -90 to 90 degrees (e.g., 2 to 20 degrees (positive or negative) or 5 to 15 degrees (positive or negative)) with respect to the moving axis 90.

[0085] In some embodiments where both magnet unit 400 and magnet unit 500 are inclined with respect to the movement axis 90, the magnetic force between magnet unit 500 and magnet unit 400 can increase more rapidly as actuator 700 moves from a first position to a second position (relative to a lid where both magnet unit 400 and magnet unit 500 are not inclined). Thus, the inclination of magnet unit 500 and magnet unit 400 allows for a weakening of the magnetic force between magnet unit 500 and magnet unit 400 when actuator 700 is in the first position, while achieving a similar magnetic force between magnet unit 500 and magnet unit 400 when actuator 700 is in the second position. This, in turn, can contribute to a smoother transition of the movable arm 300 from a sealed position to a ventilated or open position.

[0086] For example, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, when a force (represented by arrow 70 in Figure 6) is applied to the actuator 700 in a direction generally toward the front of the container 10, the actuator 700 and the coupled magnet unit 500 move toward the front of the container 10. As the magnet unit 500 moves toward the front of the container 10, the magnetic force acting on the magnet unit 400 changes. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, as the magnet unit 500 moves toward the front of the container 10, the magnet unit 400 receives an increasing repulsive force, thereby causing the movable arm 300 to move in a second rotational direction toward the ventilated or open position. The force represented by arrow 70 may be applied, for example, by a user pressing a contact surface of the actuator 700 (e.g., button 702).

[0087] In some embodiments, for example as shown in Figures 5-6, the biasing force may bias the actuator 700 toward the first position (for example, in the direction of arrow 75 in Figure 5) so that the actuator 700 automatically moves toward the first position in response to the removal of the force holding the actuator 700 in the second position (for example, in response to the removal of the force applied by the user to button 702). In the illustrated embodiments, the elastic tip 720 of the actuator 700 biases the actuator 700 toward the first position (for example, by compressing against the wall of the actuator chamber 112 when the actuator 700 is in the second position). However, in other embodiments, the actuator 700 may be biased toward the first position by a magnetic force or a different physical component, for example, a compression spring or elastic material that pushes the actuator 700 toward the first position.

[0088] In some embodiments, the user may apply force to a portion of the actuator 700 to move (e.g., translate) the actuator 700. Generally, the force applied by the user can overcome the biasing force (for example, the force applied by the user to move the actuator 700 from a first position to a second position can overcome the biasing force that biases the actuator 700 toward the first position).

[0089] As described above, in some embodiments, a biasing force can move the actuator 700 from a second position to a first position (for example, generally toward the rear of the container 10 in the direction of arrow 75). In other embodiments, a force applied by the user can move the actuator 700 from a second position to a first position (for example, generally toward the rear of the container 10 in the direction of arrow 75). For example, as shown in Figures 5-6, when the actuator 700 moves generally toward the rear of the container 10, the actuator 700 and the coupled magnet unit 500 move toward the front of the container 10. As the magnet unit 500 moves toward the rear of the container 10, the magnetic force acting on the magnet unit 400 changes. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, as the magnet unit 500 moves toward the rear of the container 10, the magnet unit 400 experiences an increasing attractive force (or decreasing repulsive force), thereby moving the movable arm 300 toward the sealed position in a second rotational direction. In embodiments in which the movable arm 300 is biased toward the sealed position (for example by a spring 650), when the actuator 700 is moved from the second position to the first position, the biasing force may also move the movable arm 300 toward the sealed position in a first rotational direction.

[0090] In some embodiments, the movable arm 300 is biased toward the sealed position. That is, if no mechanical force is applied to the components of the lid 20, the movable arm 300 returns to (or remains in) the sealed position. In the illustrated embodiment, a spring 650 (which may be, for example, a torsion spring) biases the movable arm 300 toward the sealed position. However, in other embodiments, the movable arm 300 may be biased toward the sealed position by a magnetic force or a different physical component, such as a compression spring or elastic material that pushes the movable arm 300 toward the sealed position.

[0091] In embodiments in which the movable arm 300 is biased toward a sealed position, moving the actuator 700 can induce a magnetic interaction that overcomes the bias. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, when the movable arm 300 is in the sealed position, moving the actuator 700 from a first position to a second position causes the magnet unit 500 to interact with the magnet unit 400, as described above, to overcome the bias of the movable arm 300, and the movable arm 300 moves to the open position.

[0092] As illustrated and described, one advantage of the lid 20 is that the mechanism for sealing and opening the drinking opening 104 does not extend through the walls of the lid 20. This eliminates the need for an opening to accommodate the mechanism through the walls of the lid 20, which could provide an additional point of failure for leakage. For this purpose, the drinking opening sealing portion 902 is located inside the lid 20 (and therefore inside the container of which the lid 20 is a part) and is movable within the lid 20 between a sealed position (shown in Figure 5) that seals the drinking opening 104 and an unsealed position (shown in Figure 6) that does not seal the drinking opening 104. Thus, the sealing portion 902 (and associated sealing arm 900, movable arm 300, and cam 600) remain within either wall of the lid 20 while the sealing portion 902 moves between the sealed and unsealed positions and do not extend through any wall of the lid 20.

[0093] In this regard, the actuator 700 is located outside the lid 20, accessible from the outside of the lid 20, and does not pass through any of the walls of the lid 20. However, when the actuator 700 is operated by the user as described, it moves the sealing portion 902 from the sealed position to the unsealed position, without causing any element of the lid 20 to move through the walls of the lid 20. This configuration allows the internal seal to be sealed and unsealed by an external actuator without the use of any mechanism extending through the walls of the lid 20, which helps eliminate the need for an opening that penetrates the walls of the lid 20, thereby reducing the possibility of leakage.

[0094] As mentioned above, the user may want to clean the lid 20. In such a situation, the user may be able to position the lid 20 in a cleaning configuration in which the movable arm 300 and the ventilated sealing portion 304 are held away from the separation platform 120 and / or the sealing arm 900 and the beverage sealing member 902 do not seal the drinking opening 104. This cleaning configuration is shown in Figure 8. The cross section in Figure 8 is cut vertically at the position of line V-V' in Figure 2.

[0095] To position the lid 20 in the cleaning configuration, the user may grasp the grip 604 of the cam 600 and rotate the cam 600 relative to the movable arm 300. As the cam 600 rotates relative to the movable arm 300, the arm 606 of the cam 600 may come into contact with a portion of the lid body 100 (e.g., the separation platform 120). The interaction between the arm 606 of the cam 600 and the lid body 100 can apply a downward force to the front portion of the movable arm 300, thereby pushing the movable arm in a second rotational direction and rotating the movable arm 300 to the cleaning position. Since the cam 600 can be held in this configuration by a biasing force applied to the movable arm 300 by the spring 650, in order to return the cam 600 to the position shown in Figure 7, a force must be applied to overcome that biasing force (e.g., by the user intentionally moving the cam 600).

[0096] When the movable arm 300 is in the washing position, the sealing arm 900 does not need to seal the drinking opening 104 and may move freely within the drinking opening 104. In some embodiments, the lid 20 does not have a cleaning configuration, in which case the cam 600 is not included in the lid 20.

[0097] As mentioned above, there may be cases where the user wants to keep the container 10 sealed. For example, when the container 10 is placed in the user's backpack or other bag (which may be subjected to forces from other items in the user's bag that contain it, or whose orientation may change), the user may want to keep the container 10 sealed so that the beverage carried in the container 10 does not leak into the user or the user's belongings. In such situations (as in other cases), the user can place the container 10 in a locking configuration that prevents the actuator 700 from moving to a second position, thereby preventing the actuator 700 from rotating the movable arm 300 to the open position. This locking configuration is shown in Figure 9 and will be described in more detail below.

[0098] Figures 9 to 11 show the relative positions of the lid body 100, actuator 700, locking member 800, and other components of the lid 20 when the lid 20 is in three operating states: a locked configuration with actuator 700 in a first position (Figure 9), an unlocked configuration with actuator 700 in a first position (Figure 10), and a disassembled configuration with actuator 700 in a first position (Figure 11). The cross-sections in Figures 9-11 are horizontally cut off from the top of the lid 20 at the position of line IX-IX' in Figure 2, offset from the top.

[0099] As described, the lid body 100 may define an actuator chamber 112 in which the actuator 700 and the locking member 800 are located. For example, as shown in Figure 4, the locking member 800 may have a post 808 extending from the lower portion of the locking member 800. For example, as shown in Figure 3, the bottom of the actuator chamber 112 may include a recess 117, a compartment 115, and a channel 116.

[0100] When the lid 20 is in a locked configuration, for example as shown in Figure 9, the post 808 is received within the compartment 115. When a force is generally applied to the actuator 700 toward the front of the container 10, the compartment 115 interferes with the post 808, thereby preventing the actuator 700 from moving to a second position.

[0101] When the lid 20 is in a disassembled configuration, for example as shown in Figure 11, the post 808 is received in the recess 117 and aligns with the channel 116. When force is generally applied to the actuator 700 toward the rear of the container 10, the post 808 slides out of the actuator chamber 112 through the channel 116. As a result, the locking member 800 and the actuator 700 can be removed from the actuator chamber 112 of the lid body 100. For example, it may be desirable to remove the actuator 700 and the locking member 800 from the lid body 100 so that the user can thoroughly clean the container 10.

[0102] When the actuator 700 is replaced within the lid body 100, it initially assumes the disassembled configuration shown in Figure 11. However, when the user presses the actuator 700 (for example, as part of the assembly process, or as part of opening the drinking opening 104 as described above), the post 808 rides up along the inclined wall of the recess 117 and transitions to the unlocked configuration, and when the actuator 700 is released, the post 808 assumes the unlocked configuration shown in Figure 10. This can help prevent the lid 20 from being accidentally left in the disassembled configuration and ensures that there is no risk of the actuator 700 falling after being pressed once, even if the user forgets to move the locking part from the disassembled position during assembly.

[0103] When the lid 20 is in the unlocked configuration, for example, as shown in Figure 10, the post 808 is received within the recess 117. When force is generally applied to the button 702 toward the front of the container 10, the post 808 generally does not interfere with the edge of the recess 117. Thus, the actuator 700 can be moved from the first position to the second position.

[0104] The locking member 800 may be movable from each of the three positions, namely the unlocked position, the locked position, and the disassembled position, to each of the other positions, for example, by engaging with a part of the locking member 800 (e.g., a nub 804) and sliding the locking member (e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise about the locking axis 80). In the illustrated embodiment, when the locking member 800 is in the most counterclockwise position relative to the actuator 700 as viewed from the top of the lid 20, the lid 20 is in the unlocked position when the locking member 800 is in the most clockwise position relative to the actuator 700 as viewed from the top of the lid 20, and the lid 20 is in the disassembled position when the locking member 800 is in an intermediate position relative to the actuator 700. However, the unlocked position, the locked position, and the disassembled position may be provided at different relative positions of the locking member 800 and the actuator 700.

[0105] It should be understood that the section on modes for carrying out the invention, rather than the section on summary and abstract of the invention, is intended to be used to interpret the claims. The sections on means for solving the problem and abstract may describe one or more exemplary embodiments of the disclosed invention as contemplated by the inventors, but not all exemplary embodiments, and are therefore not intended to limit the disclosed invention and the appended claims in any way.

[0106] The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments sufficiently reveal the general nature of the claimed invention so that others can readily modify and / or adapt such specific embodiments for various uses without excessive experimentation and without departing from the general concept of the invention, by applying the knowledge of those skilled in the art. Such adaptations and modifications are therefore intended to be within the meaning and scope of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments, based on the teachings and guidance presented herein. Expressions or terms herein are for illustrative purposes only, not limiting purposes. Therefore, it should be understood that terms or expressions herein should be interpreted by those skilled in the art in light of the teachings and guidance.

[0107] The breadth and scope of the claimed invention should not be limited by any of the exemplary embodiments described above, but should be defined solely in accordance with the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A lid for a container, A lid body that defines a drinking opening that penetrates the lid body, A movable arm connected to the lid body and located inside the lid body, the movable arm being movable between a sealed position in which the drinking opening is sealed and an open position in which the drinking opening is not sealed, A first magnet unit coupled to the movable arm, An actuator accessible from the outside of the lid body, which is movable between a first position and a second position, The actuator comprises a second magnet unit coupled to the actuator, When the actuator is in the first position, at least one of the biasing force and attractive magnetic force between the first magnet unit and the second magnet unit holds the movable arm in the sealed position. When the actuator is moved toward the second position, the repulsive magnetic force between the first magnet unit and the second magnet unit moves the movable arm toward the open position, the lid.

2. The lid body defines a ventilation opening, The lid according to claim 1, wherein the drinking opening and the ventilation opening are the only openings that penetrate the lid body.

3. The lid according to claim 1, wherein the mechanism for sealing or opening the drinking opening does not penetrate the lid body.

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

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

6. The lid according to claim 1, wherein when the actuator is moved from the second position to the first position, the repulsive magnetic force between the first magnet unit and the second magnet unit decreases, and the movable arm returns to the sealed position.

7. The lid according to claim 1, wherein the movable arm pivots about a rotation axis when moving from the sealed position to the open position.

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

9. The lid body defines a ventilation opening that penetrates the lid body, When the movable arm is in the sealed position, the ventilation opening and the drinking opening are sealed. When the movable arm is in the ventilation position, the ventilation opening is not sealed, and the drinking opening is sealed. The lid according to claim 1, wherein when the movable arm is in the open position, the ventilation opening and the drinking opening are not sealed.

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

11. The actuator slides linearly along the axis of movement so as to move between the first position and the second position. The lid according to claim 1, wherein one of the first magnet unit or the second magnet unit is inclined with respect to the axis of movement.

12. The lid according to claim 11, wherein both the first magnet unit and the second magnet unit are inclined with respect to the axis of movement.

13. The lid according to claim 12, wherein one of the first magnet unit or the second magnet unit is inclined at an angle of 2 to 20 degrees with respect to the axis of movement.

14. It is a container, The lid according to claim 1, A container comprising: a container body, wherein the lid is configured to be attached to the container body to close the internal volume of the container body.

15. A lid for a container, The lid body defines a drinking opening and a ventilation opening that penetrate the lid body, A movable arm connected to the lid body and located inside the lid body, the movable arm being movable between a sealed position, a ventilated position and an open position, A first magnet unit coupled to the movable arm, An actuator accessible from the outside of the lid body, which is movable between a first position and a second position, The actuator comprises a second magnet unit coupled to the actuator, When the movable arm is in the sealed position, the ventilation opening and the drinking opening are sealed. When the movable arm is in the ventilation position, the ventilation opening is not sealed, and the drinking opening is sealed. When the movable arm is in the open position, the ventilation opening and the drinking opening are not sealed. A lid wherein, as the actuator moves from the first position to the second position, the magnetic force between the first magnet unit and the second magnet unit moves the movable arm from the sealed position to the ventilated position, and then to the open position.

16. The lid according to claim 15, wherein the actuator remains in the second position while the movable arm moves from the ventilation position to the open position.

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

18. When the movable arm is in the sealed position, the movable arm seals the ventilation opening, and the sealing arm seals the drinking opening. The lid according to claim 17, wherein when the movable arm is in the ventilation position, the sealing arm seals the drinking opening.

19. The lid according to claim 17, wherein the sealing arm moves to the open position in response to the movable arm moving to the open position.

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

21. A lid according to claim 20, wherein the pin of the sealing arm pivots within the slot when the movable arm moves from the ventilation position to the open position, The pin of the sealing arm slides within the slot as the movable arm moves from its sealed position to the ventilated position, forming a lid.

22. The drinking opening is further provided with a drinking spout that communicates with fluid, The lid according to claim 17, wherein the sealing arm seals the drinking opening on the inside of the drinking spout.

23. The actuator slides linearly along the axis of movement so as to move between the first position and the second position. The lid according to claim 15, wherein one of the first magnet unit or the second magnet unit is inclined with respect to the axis of movement.

24. It is a container, The lid according to claim 15, A container comprising: a container body, wherein the lid is configured to be attached to the container body to close the internal volume of the container body.

25. A lid for a container, A lid body that defines a drinking opening that penetrates the lid body, A movable arm connected to the lid body and located inside the lid body, the movable arm being movable between a sealed position in which the drinking opening is sealed and an open position in which the drinking opening is not sealed, A first magnet unit coupled to the movable arm, An actuator accessible from the outside of the lid body, which is capable of sliding linearly along the axis of movement from a first position to a second position, The actuator comprises a second magnet unit coupled to the actuator, When the actuator is moved toward the second position, the force between the first magnet unit and the second magnet unit moves the movable arm away from the sealed position. A lid in which at least one of the first magnet unit or the second magnet unit is inclined with respect to the axis of movement.

26. The lid according to claim 25, wherein both the first magnet unit and the second magnet unit are inclined with respect to the axis of movement.

27. The first magnet unit is inclined at a first angle with respect to the moving axis, The second magnet unit is inclined at a second angle with respect to the moving axis, The lid according to claim 25, wherein the first angle is equal to the second angle.

28. The lid according to claim 25, wherein one of the first magnet unit or the second magnet unit is inclined at an angle of 2 to 20 degrees with respect to the axis of movement.

29. The movable arm is biased toward the sealed position, The lid according to claim 25, wherein when the actuator is moved toward the second position, the force between the first magnet unit and the second magnet unit overcomes the biasing force of the movable arm.

30. It is a container, The lid according to claim 25, A beverage container comprising: a container body, wherein the lid is configured to be attached to the container body to close the internal volume of the container body.

31. It is a container, A lid having a drinking opening that penetrates the lid body, A seal disposed within the container, wherein the seal is movable between a sealed position in which it seals the drinking opening from the inside of the container and an unsealed position in which it does not seal the drinking opening. An actuator comprising: an actuator which, when the actuator is operated by a user, moves the seal from the sealed position to the unsealed position, The actuator is accessible from outside the lid and does not extend through the lid. A container in which the operation of the actuator does not cause any movement of any element of the lid through the wall of the lid.

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