Closure and lid, and method for forming a closure and lid

Abstract

To provide an openable / closable lid assembly for a beverage container.SOLUTION: A lid assembly comprises an edge for engaging with an opening of a container, an intermediate wall extending below the edge, and a slider mechanism slid manually. The slider mechanism includes an upper thread, a lower thread and a gasket. The upper thread is magnetically coupled to the lower thread by a magnetic attraction between an upper thread magnet and a lower thread magnet.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - reference to Related Applications This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 749,443, filed October 23, 2018, entitled "CLOSURE AND LID AND METHOD OF FORMING CLOSURE AND LID", which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all and every non - limiting purpose. Further, this application is a divisional application of Japanese Patent Application No. 2021 - 522098, filed October 22, 2019, and is also a divisional application of Japanese Patent Application No. 2023 - 115792, filed July 14, 2023.

[0002] The present disclosure herein generally relates to lids for beverages, and more specifically to closable lids for beverage containers used for drinking beverages or foods.

Background Art

[0003] Beverage containers can hold warm or cold drinking liquids such as water, coffee, tea, soft drinks, or alcoholic beverages such as beer. These beverage containers can be made of various materials such as stainless steel, glass, plastic, cardboard, or paper materials. Lids can be provided on the beverage containers to provide an opening for pouring the contents of the beverage container. In certain instances, it may be desirable to selectively close and store the container so that the contents of the container do not spill.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] This summary provides an introduction to some general concepts related to the present invention in a simplified form that is further described in the following modes for carrying out the invention. This summary is not intended to identify the main features or essential features of the present invention.

[0005] Aspects of the disclosure in this specification may relate to lid assemblies that can be opened and closed for beverages. In one embodiment, the lid assembly may include a manually movable slider, which may include a tab or handle. In a particular embodiment, the slider may be configured to perform one or more of the following: a closed position in which the slider covers the opening to help prevent the contents of the container from spilling, and an open position in which the slider removes the cover from the opening so that the contents of the container can be consumed; and being removable from the lid so that the lid and slider can be cleaned, while remaining fixed to the lid during movement between the closed and open positions.

[0006] The above summary and the embodiments for carrying out the invention described below will be better understood when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which the same reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements in all of the various drawings in which the reference numerals appear. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] An isometric view of a lid assembly that is removably attached to a container, according to one or more embodiments described herein. [Figure 2A] An isometric view of the lid assembly in a closed configuration according to one or more embodiments described herein is shown. [Figure 2B] This specification shows isometric views of the lid assembly in an open configuration according to one or more embodiments described herein. [Figure 3] A schematic isometric view of an exploded lid assembly according to one or more embodiments described herein is shown. [Figure 4] A schematic cross-sectional view of the lid assembly 100 according to one or more embodiments described herein is shown. [Figure 5A] This specification shows isometric views of a lid assembly without a slider mechanism, according to one or more embodiments described herein. [Figure 5B] This specification shows isometric views of a lid assembly without a slider mechanism, according to one or more embodiments described herein. [Figure 6A] An isometric view of the lower thread according to one or more embodiments described herein is shown. [Figure 6B] An isometric view of the lower thread according to one or more embodiments described herein is shown. [Figure 7A] An isometric view of the upper thread according to one or more embodiments described herein is shown. [Figure 7B] An isometric view of the upper thread according to one or more embodiments described herein is shown. [Figure 8A] This specification shows isometric and partial cross-sectional views of the lower gasket according to one or more embodiments described herein. [Figure 8B] This specification shows isometric and partial cross-sectional views of the lower gasket according to one or more embodiments described herein. [Figure 9] A schematic cross-sectional view of a lid assembly in a closed configuration according to one or more embodiments described herein is shown. [Figure 10] A schematic cross-sectional view of a lid assembly in an open configuration according to one or more embodiments described herein is shown. [Figure 11] A schematic cross-sectional view of a lid assembly in a partially open configuration according to one or more embodiments described herein is shown. [Figure 12] This specification describes various steps for disassembling the slider mechanism and removing it from the lid assembly according to one or more embodiments described herein. [Figure 13] A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a lid assembly attached to a container, according to one or more embodiments described herein, is shown. [Figure 14A] This specification describes alternative implementations of a slider mechanism that result in an alternative disassembly mechanism, according to one or more embodiments described herein. [Figure 14B] This specification describes alternative implementations of a slider mechanism that result in an alternative disassembly mechanism, according to one or more embodiments described herein. [Figure 14C] This specification describes alternative implementations of a slider mechanism that result in an alternative disassembly mechanism, according to one or more embodiments described herein. [Figure 14D]This specification describes alternative implementations of a slider mechanism that result in an alternative disassembly mechanism, according to one or more embodiments described herein. [Figure 14E] This specification describes alternative implementations of a slider mechanism that result in an alternative disassembly mechanism, according to one or more embodiments described herein. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] The following descriptions of various examples and components of this disclosure refer to the accompanying drawings, which form part of them and are shown as various exemplary structures and environments in which aspects of this disclosure can be implemented. It should be understood that other structures and environments may be used, and structural and functional modifications may be made from the structures and methods specifically described without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0009] Furthermore, terms such as “front side,” “back side,” “top,” “base,” “bottom,” “side,” “front,” and “rear” are used herein to describe various exemplary features and elements, and these terms are used herein for convenience, for example, based on the exemplary orientation and / or typical orientation of use shown in the figures. Nothing herein should be construed as requiring a specific three-dimensional or spatial orientation of a structure to be included within the scope of the claims.

[0010] Figure 1 shows an isometric view of a lid assembly 100 detachably coupled to a container 105 according to one or more embodiments described herein. The container 105 is a container of one embodiment to which the lid assembly 100 may be configured to be detachably coupled. Thus, the container 105 may be configured to store a volume of liquid, and the lid assembly 100 may be configured to seal the opening of the container 105.

[0011] Figures 2A and 2B respectively show isometric views of the lid assembly 100 in a closed configuration and an open configuration. The lid assembly 100 generally includes a slider mechanism 102 configured to move between a closed position (shown in Figure 2A) and an open position (shown in Figure 2B) to selectively close or open a first opening 104 through which liquid stored within the container 105 is configured to flow. Further details regarding the slider mechanism 102 are considered in relation to the preceding drawings. The lid assembly 100 may additionally include a sidewall 106, which may define a groove 108 for placement of a gasket 110. Thus, the gasket 110 may provide a seal between the lid assembly 100 and the container 105. However, other sealing methods for sealing the lid assembly 100 to the container 105 are contemplated. The lid assembly 100 may also include an edge 112 for engaging the opening of the container 105. The edge 112 may also include a top wall 114 and a gripping element 116 and / or an optional lid tab (not shown) extending from the top wall 114 to assist the user in removing the lid assembly 100 from the container 105.

[0012] The lid assembly 100 may also include an intermediate wall 118 extending beneath the edge 112. The upper surface 120 of the intermediate wall 118 may define a recess 122 for receiving the slider mechanism 102. In one embodiment, as the slider mechanism 102 moves between the closed position shown in Figure 2A and the open position shown in Figure 2B, the recess 122 may define a guide channel. As shown in Figure 2B, the first opening 104 for drinking or pouring liquid from the container may also be formed within the recess 122. The recess 122 may also include a second opening 124, which is described in further detail with respect to Figure 5A. A detent 126 may extend from the upper surface 120 of the intermediate wall 118 into the recess 122. This detent 126 may be configured to abut the slider mechanism 102 when in the open position shown in Figure 2B to prevent liquid from being compressed between the slider mechanism 102 and an end wall 128 of the recess 122 (which, if not, could result in splashing of liquid that may accumulate within the recess 122 as a result of the user drinking from or pouring through the first opening 104).

[0013] Figure 3 schematically shows an exploded isometric view of the lid assembly 100 according to one or more aspects described herein. In particular, FIG. 3 schematically shows the plurality of elements that make up the slider mechanism 102, as discussed with respect to FIGS. 2A and 2B. Thus, the slider mechanism 102 may include an upper thread 130 configured to be positioned within the recess 122 on the upper surface 120 of the intermediate wall 118. The upper thread 130 may include an upper thread magnet 132 enclosed therein. In one embodiment, the upper thread magnet 132 may be enclosed within a cavity in the upper thread 130 and overmolded with a polymer overmold plug element 134. Without departing from the scope of these disclosures, additional and alternative sealing methods may be used to secure the upper thread magnet 132 within the upper thread 130. Additionally, the upper thread magnet 132 may be formed of any suitable ferromagnetic material, or failing that, a magnetic material. The upper thread 130 is discussed in further detail with respect to FIGS. 7A and 7B.

[0014] The slider mechanism 102 may additionally include a lower thread 136 configured to be positioned adjacent to the bottom surface 138 of the intermediate wall 118 (shown in FIG. 5B). The lower thread 136 may include a lower thread magnet 140 enclosed therein. In one embodiment, the lower thread magnet 140 may be enclosed within a cavity in the lower thread 136 and overmolded with a polymer overmold plug element 142. Additionally, the slider mechanism 102 may include a lower gasket 144 configured to extend around the outer perimeter of the lower thread 136. The lower thread 136 is described in further detail with respect to FIGS. 6A and 6B.

[0015] In one embodiment, the magnetic attraction between the upper thread magnet 132 and the lower thread magnet 140 magnetically couples the upper thread 130 to the lower thread 136 across the intermediate wall 118. Thus, manual operation of the upper thread 130 above the upper surface 6 of the intermediate wall 118 results in a sliding motion of the upper thread 130 and the lower thread 136.

[0016] Figure 4 schematically shows a cross-sectional view of the lid assembly 100 according to one or more embodiments described herein. As shown, the slider mechanism 102 is in a closed configuration so that the first opening 104 is sealed by the slider mechanism 102. In one embodiment, the lower thread magnet 140 may have a cylindrical geometry with a hollow center. Thus, the lower thread magnet 140 is described as a ring magnet that otherwise extends around the central tube 146 through the overmolded plug element 142 and the lower thread 136. In another embodiment, the lower thread magnet 140 may have a three-dimensional cylindrical geometry.

[0017] Figures 5A and 5B show isometric views of the lid assembly 100 without the slider mechanism 102. In particular, Figure 5A shows a view of the top surface 120 of the intermediate wall 118, and Figure 5B shows a view of the bottom surface 138 of the intermediate wall 118. As shown, the lid mechanism 100 includes a first opening 104 and a second opening 124. In one embodiment, a portion of the slider mechanism 102 is configured to extend through the second opening 124 when the upper thread 130 is magnetically connected to the lower thread 136.

[0018] The second opening 124 may include a detent 148 extending from the intermediate wall 118 to the second opening 124. When the slider mechanism 102 is in the closed position shown in Figure 2A, these detents 148 are configured to be received in a channel 150 (see Figure 6A) extending along a portion of the central tube 146 of the lower thread 136. Thus, the detents 148 are configured to provide a restraint to prevent the slider mechanism 102 from being moved inadvertently, thereby inadvertently opening the first opening 104. In one embodiment, the slider mechanism 102 may be configured to lock in the open and / or closed configurations shown in Figures 2A and 2B. It is further intended that a locking mechanism in addition to the detents 148 may be used to further prevent the slider mechanism 102 from being moved inadvertently.

[0019] Figure 5B shows the bottom surface 138 of the intermediate wall 118. Thus, as shown, the bottom surface 138 defines a first inclined feature 152 on the first side of the second opening 124. The first inclined feature 152 has a crest surface 154 spaced apart between two valley recesses 156. Similarly, the second inclined feature 158 is located on the second side of the second opening 124. The second inclined feature 158 includes a crest surface 160 spaced apart between two valley recesses 162.

[0020] The lid assembly 100 additionally includes a recessed pocket 161 extending into the inner surface 163 of the side wall that extends below the bottom surface 138 of the intermediate wall 118. Thus, when the slider mechanism 102 is in the closed position shown in Figure 2A, the recessed pocket 161 receives a portion of the lower thread 136. The lid assembly 100 also includes a recessed vent pocket 165, so that when liquid is poured from the first opening 104, the geometry of the recessed vent pocket 165 allows air to flow into the container 105.

[0021] Figures 6A and 6B show isometric views of the lower thread 136 according to one or more embodiments described herein. Thus, the lower thread 136 includes an inner surface 164 configured to be positioned adjacent to the bottom surface 138 of the intermediate wall 118. The inner surface 164 includes a lower thread inclination 166. The lower thread inclination 166 is configured to be received in one of the valley recesses of the first inclined feature portion 152 and the second inclined feature portion 158. Thus, when the slider mechanism 102 slides between the open and closed configurations, the lower thread inclination 166 is configured to slide across the first inclined feature portion 152 and the second inclined feature portion 158. When the slider mechanism 102 transitions between the open and closed configurations, the lower thread inclination 166 comes into contact with the peak surfaces 154 and 160. Furthermore, since the crest surfaces 154 and 160 are raised relative to the valley recesses on both sides of the crest surfaces 154 and 160, this biases the upper thread 130 and lower thread 136, further separating them from each other. Thus, since the magnetic force between the upper thread magnet 132 and the lower thread magnet 140 is inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them, the magnetic attraction is reduced when the lower thread inclination 166 contacts the crest surfaces 154 and 160. In one embodiment, this reduction in magnetic force provides smooth movement of the slider mechanism 102 between the open and closed positions. Moreover, when the lower thread inclination 166 is positioned within the valley recesses of the first inclined feature section 152 and the second inclined feature section 158, the relatively shorter distance between the upper thread magnet 132 and the lower thread magnet 140 results in a relatively stronger magnetic attraction that helps to fix the slider mechanism 102 in the open or closed configuration.

[0022] The lower thread 136 and upper thread 130 are symmetrical around the vertical axis to allow the slider mechanism to be installed in the lid assembly 100 in any of four different directions. The lower thread 136 additionally includes a central tube 146 extending from the inner surface 164. Furthermore, the central tube 146 includes tab ears 168 configured to extend through a second opening 124. The lower thread 136 further includes a channel 170 configured to receive a portion of the lower gasket 144. Additionally, the lower thread 136 includes lower vent channels 171a and 171b. Thus, when the slider mechanism 102 is in an open configuration, a portion of the lower thread 136 extends over a portion of the recessed vent pocket 165. Furthermore, one of the lower vent channels 171a or 171b is positioned on the recessed vent pocket 165, thereby creating a channel through which air can pass from the slider mechanism 102 into the internal cavity of the container 105.

[0023] Figure 6B shows an isometric view of the outer surface 172 of the lower thread 136. In one embodiment, a knob 174 (also referred to as a finger tab 174) extends from the outer surface 172. This knob 174 is configured to be grasped by the user to install the slider mechanism 102 within the lid assembly 100. This installation process will be described in more detail with reference to Figure 12.

[0024] Figures 7A and 7B show isometric views of the upper thread 130. The upper thread 130 may include two symmetrical flanges 176a and 176b, both configured to selectively cover and seal the first opening 104 for pouring liquid from the second opening 124 in the container and recess 122 (also referred to as the guide channel 122). A tab or handle 178 is configured for the user to grip to selectively move the upper thread 130, thereby causing the slider mechanism 102 to be in an open position for uncovering the first opening 104 on the lid assembly 100, or in a closed position for covering the first opening 104 on the lid assembly 100. The tab or handle 178 may include two inwardly tapered portions 180a and 180b for gripping purposes.

[0025] Figure 7B shows a diagram of the inside 182 of the upper thread 130. Thus, the upper thread 130 includes upper vent channels 184a and 184b. Thus, when the slider mechanism 102 is in an open configuration, the vent path is partially formed by a portion of the lower thread 136 extending over a portion of the recessed vent pocket 165. Additionally, one of the lower vent channels 171a or 171b is positioned over the recessed vent pocket 165, thereby providing a channel through which air can pass from the slider mechanism 102 to the internal cavity of the container 105. When the upper vent channels 184a and 184b allow air to pass from the external environment to the slider mechanism 102, this vent path between the external environment and the internal cavity of the container 105 is completed. The upper thread recesses 186a and 186b are configured to receive portions of the tab ears 168 of the lower thread 136.

[0026] Figures 8A and 8B show isometric and partial cross-sectional views of the lower gasket 144 according to one or more embodiments described herein. Thus, when the slider mechanism 102 is in the closed configuration shown in Figure 2A, the lower gasket 144 is configured to seal the first opening 104. Additionally, the lower gasket 144 is configured to seal the second opening 124. In one embodiment, the inner surface 188 of the lower gasket 144 is configured to be positioned on the outer surface 172 of the lower thread 136. An opening 190 within the lower gasket 144 is configured to allow the knob 174 of the lower thread 136 to extend. In one limitation, the lower gasket 144 may be made of silicone. However, additional or alternative polymer materials may be used without departing from the scope of these disclosures.

[0027] The cross-sectional view in Figure 8B shows the spring feature portion 192 of the lower gasket 144. Thus, the spring feature portion 192 allows the seal formed by the gasket 144 to move and remain in contact with the bottom surface 138 of the intermediate wall 118. Therefore, in both the open and closed configurations, the relatively high magnetic force biasing the lower thread 136 toward the bottom surface 138 of the intermediate wall 118 compresses the spring feature portion 192 of the lower gasket 144. Furthermore, when the lower thread inclination 166 is positioned on the crest surfaces 154 and 160, the magnetic force is relatively low, and the lower thread 136 moves away from the bottom surface 138, the spring feature portion 192 extends outward toward the bottom surface 138, maintaining contact with the bottom surface 138 and maintaining the seal of the lower gasket 144 at the bottom surface 138.

[0028] Figures 9A and 9B schematically show cross-sectional views of the lid assembly 100 in a closed configuration. As shown, the slider mechanism 102, including the upper thread 130 and the lower thread 136, seals the first opening 104. Figure 9B shows a more detailed view of a portion of the cross-section in Figure 9A. Thus, Figure 9B shows a portion of the lower thread 136 and the lower gasket 144 received in the recessed pocket 161 of the lid assembly 100.

[0029] Figures 10A and 10B schematically show cross-sectional views of the lid assembly 100 in an open configuration. As shown, the first opening 104 is completely covered by a slider mechanism 102 including an upper thread 130 and a lower thread 136. Figure 10B schematically shows a more detailed view of a portion of the cross-section in Figure 10A. In particular, Figure 10B shows a portion of the lower gasket 144 sliding over a portion of the recessed vent pocket 165. The overlap of the portion of the lower gasket 144 over the portion of the recessed vent pocket 165 results in a gap 194 through which air can enter the container 105 when liquid is poured in from the first opening 104.

[0030] Figures 11A and 11B schematically show cross-sectional views of the lid assembly 100 in a partially open configuration. As shown, the first opening 104 is partially covered by a slider mechanism 102 including an upper thread 130 and a lower thread 136. Figure 11B schematically shows a more detailed view of a portion of the cross-section in Figure 11A. In particular, Figure 11B shows the separation 196 (or gap 196) between the upper thread 130 and the lower thread 136. This separation 196 results from the inclination 166 of the lower thread abutting the crests 154 and 160, as previously described.

[0031] Figures 12A to 12D illustrate the various steps for disassembling the slider mechanism 102 and removing it from the lid assembly 100. As previously mentioned, the slider mechanism 102 includes an upper thread 130 and a lower thread 136. Furthermore, the upper thread includes an upper thread magnet 132, and the lower thread 136 includes a lower thread magnet 140 and a lower gasket 144. Figure 12A shows the lid assembly 100 in an open configuration with the slider mechanism 102 fully installed. To remove the slider mechanism, for example, to facilitate cleaning of the lid assembly 100, the upper thread 130 can be manually lifted from the top surface 120. Figure 12B shows the upper thread 130 after it has been removed from the top surface 120. Once the upper thread 130 is removed, the lower thread 136 is no longer held to the bottom surface 138 by magnetic attraction between the upper thread magnet 132 and the lower thread magnet 140. However, when the tab ear 168 extends through the second opening 124 and grips a portion of the upper surface 120, the tab ear 168 prevents the lower thread 136 from falling into the container 105.

[0032] To remove the lower thread 136 from the lid assembly 100, the lower thread 136 is rotated 90° so that the tab tabs 168 can pass through the second opening 124. Figure 12D shows the upper thread 130 and lower thread 136 completely removed from the lid assembly 100.

[0033] Figure 13 schematically shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the lid assembly 100 connected to the container 105. In one embodiment, the lid assembly 100 may be resealably connected to the container 105 by threaded elements on both the side wall 106 of the lid assembly 100 and the side wall 202 of the container 105. Elements 204 and 206 are threads on the side walls 106 and 202, respectively. Furthermore, without departing from the scope of these disclosures, it is intended that any threaded geometry may also be used to secure the lid assembly 100 to the container 105. Alternatively, the various lid assembly 100 structures described throughout this disclosure may be implemented without threaded connections between the lid assembly 100 and the container 105. In one embodiment, the lid assembly 100 may be secured to the container 105, among other things, by a interference fit.

[0034] Figures 14A to 14E show alternative implementations of the slider mechanism with an alternative disassembly mechanism. Thus, Figure 14A shows an isometric view of the lid assembly 300 including the slider mechanism 301. The lid assembly 300 may be similar to the lid assembly 100, and the slider mechanism 301 may be similar to the slider mechanism 102. The slider mechanism 301 may include an upper thread 302 similar to the upper thread 130 and a lower thread 306 similar to the lower thread 136. To disassemble the slider mechanism, the upper thread 302 may be manually removed from the lid assembly 300. Similar to the lower thread 136, the lower thread 306 may include tab tabs 308 to prevent the lower thread 306 from falling into the container when the upper thread 302 is removed. However, in order to remove the lower thread 306 from the lid assembly 300, the lower thread 306 is slid into the position shown in Figure 14C so that the geometry of the tab ear 308 aligns with the geometry of the opening 309 in the intermediate wall 310 of the lid assembly 300. When positioned in the configuration shown in Figure 14C, the lower thread 306 can pass through the opening 309, as shown in Figure 14D. Figure 14E shows the upper thread 302 and lower thread 306 completely removed from the lid assembly 300.

[0035] In one implementation, the lid assembly may include a rim defining the top wall, which is a rim for engaging with the container opening, and the lid assembly may additionally include a side wall defining a groove for the placement of an upper gasket. An intermediate wall may extend below the rim, and the upper surface of the intermediate wall defines a recess. The recess may have a first opening, a second opening, and an air vent. The bottom surface of the intermediate wall may define a first inclined feature having a ridge spaced apart between two valley recesses. The first inclined feature may be positioned on the first side of the second opening, and the second inclined feature may have a ridge spaced apart between two valley recesses, and the second inclined feature may be positioned on the second side of the second opening. The lid assembly may additionally include a slider mechanism configured to be manually slidable to selectively provide a closed position by covering both the first and second openings, and an open position by covering only the second opening. The slider mechanism may include an upper thread configured to be positioned within a recess on the upper surface of the intermediate wall. Furthermore, the upper thread may have a magnet sealed within it. The slider mechanism may additionally include a lower thread configured to be positioned near the bottom surface of the intermediate wall. The lower thread may additionally include an inner surface having a lower thread inclination protruding therefrom, the lower thread inclination configured to selectively receive into the first groove of the two groove recesses on the first side of the second opening and the first groove of the two groove recesses on the second side of the second opening when the slider mechanism is in the open position. The lower thread inclination is further configured to receive into the second groove of the two groove recesses on the first side of the second opening and the second groove of the two groove recesses on the second side of the second opening when the slider mechanism is in the closed position. The lower thread may also include a lower thread magnet sealed within it. The lower thread also has a central tube having tab lugs at its distal end, which are configured to extend from the inner surface of the lower thread and extend through a second opening. The slider mechanism may also include a lower gasket, which is configured to extend around the outer circumference of the inner surface of the lower thread and to be compressed between the lower thread and the lower surface of the intermediate wall.Furthermore, the magnetic attraction between the upper thread magnet and the lower thread magnet is configured to magnetically connect the upper thread to the lower thread.

[0036] In another embodiment, when the slider mechanism slides between the open and closed positions, the lower thread inclination of the lid assembly is configured to slide on the peaks of the first and second inclined features.

[0037] In one embodiment, as the lower thread slope slides from a pair of selected valley recesses to a crest, the lower thread moves away from the upper thread.

[0038] In another embodiment, the lower gasket further includes a gasket spring portion in which the lower threads remain in contact with the bottom surface of the intermediate wall as they move away from the upper threads.

[0039] The second opening of the lid assembly further includes a detent extending from the intermediate wall to the second opening, which is configured to be received by a channel extending along a portion of the central tube when the slider mechanism is in the closed position.

[0040] To prevent compression between the upper thread and the end wall of the recess on the upper surface of the intermediate wall, the lid assembly further includes a detent extending into the recess on the upper surface of the intermediate wall, which is configured to abut against the upper thread when in the open position.

[0041] The upper thread of the lid assembly can be manually removed from the lid assembly by applying manual force to overcome the magnetic force between the upper thread magnet and the lower thread magnet.

[0042] When the upper thread is removed from the lid assembly, the tab tabs of the lid assembly may be configured to catch on the side of the second opening to prevent the lower thread from separating from the lid assembly.

[0043] The lower thread may further include finger tabs extending from the outer surface.

[0044] The lower thread of the lid assembly may be manually detached from the lid assembly by manually activating a finger tab to rotate the lower thread 90 degrees relative to the second opening in the intermediate wall.

[0045] The lid assembly may also have recessed pockets extending into the inner surface of the side walls that extend below the intermediate wall. The recessed pockets may receive a portion of the lower thread when the slider mechanism is in the closed position.

[0046] The lid assembly may also include vent pockets in the bottom surface of the intermediate wall, and when the lid assembly is installed on the container in the open position, the lower gasket slides over the vent pockets, allowing air to pass between the air outside the container and the internal cavity.

[0047] The lower threaded magnet may be a ring magnet extending around the central tube.

[0048] In another embodiment, the container assembly may include a container having an inner wall with a first end extending into an internal storage chamber through a container opening, and an outer wall with a second end forming the outer shell of the container and configured to support the container on its surface. The container assembly may additionally include a lid adapted to seal the container opening. The lid may further include a rim for engaging with the container opening and defining a top wall. The lid may have a side wall defining a groove for the placement of an upper gasket, and an intermediate wall extending below the rim, the upper surface of which defines a recess having a first opening, a second opening, and an air vent. The bottom surface of the intermediate wall may define a first inclined feature having a ridge spaced apart between two valley recesses. The first inclined feature may be positioned on the first side of the second opening. The second inclined feature may have a crest that is spaced apart between two valley recesses, and the second inclined feature is positioned on the second side of the second opening. The lid may further include a slider mechanism configured to slide manually to selectively provide a closed position by covering both the first and second openings, and an open position by covering only the second opening. The slider mechanism may further include an upper thread configured to be positioned in the recess on the upper surface of the intermediate wall. The upper thread may seal an upper thread magnet. The slider mechanism may also include a lower thread configured against the bottom surface of the intermediate wall. The lower thread may further include an inner surface having a protruding lower thread inclination, which is configured to selectively receive the first valley recess of the two valley recesses on the first side of the second opening and the first valley recess of the two valley recesses on the second side of the second opening when the slider mechanism is in the open position. The lower thread inclination is configured to receive into the second groove of the two grooves on the first side of the second opening and into the second groove of the two grooves on the second side of the second opening when the slider mechanism is in the closed position. The lower thread can seal the lower thread magnet. The lower thread may additionally include a central tube extending from the inner surface of the lower thread, the central tube having tab lugs connected to a distal end configured to extend through the second opening.The slider mechanism may additionally include a lower gasket configured to extend around the outer circumference of the inner surface of the lower thread and to be compressed between the lower thread and the lower surface of the intermediate wall. Magnetic attraction between the upper thread magnet and the lower thread magnet may magnetically connect the upper thread to the lower thread.

[0049] In one embodiment, the inner wall of the container includes a threaded side wall configured to receive a threaded structure on the side wall of the lid.

[0050] The container may also include a sealed vacuum cavity between the inner and outer walls.

[0051] In another embodiment, when the slider mechanism slides between an open position and a closed position, the lower thread inclination may slide on the peaks of the first and second inclined feature portions.

[0052] In one embodiment, the lower thread inclination may move away from the upper thread as it slides from a pair of selected valley recesses to a crest.

[0053] As the lower thread moves away from the upper thread, the lower gasket of the container assembly may further include a gasket spring portion that remains in contact with the bottom surface of the intermediate wall.

[0054] The second opening of the container assembly may further include a detent extending from the intermediate wall to the second opening, the detent being configured to receive into a channel extending along a portion of the central tube when the slider mechanism is in the closed position.

[0055] To prevent compression between the upper thread and the end wall of the recess on the upper surface of the intermediate wall, the container assembly may additionally include a detent extending into the recess on the upper surface of the intermediate wall, configured to abut against the upper thread when in the open position.

[0056] The upper thread can be manually removed from the lid assembly by applying manual force to overcome the magnetic force between the upper thread magnet and the lower thread magnet.

[0057] The upper thread of the lid assembly can be manually removed from the lid assembly by applying manual force to overcome the magnetic force between the upper thread magnet and the lower thread magnet.

[0058] When the upper thread is removed from the lid assembly, the tab tabs of the lid assembly may be configured to catch on the side of the second opening to prevent the lower thread from separating from the lid assembly.

[0059] The lower thread may further include finger tabs extending from the outer surface.

[0060] The lower thread of the lid assembly may be manually detached from the lid assembly by manually activating a finger tab to rotate the lower thread 90 degrees relative to the second opening in the intermediate wall.

[0061] The container assembly may also have recessed pockets extending into the inner surface of the side walls that extend below the intermediate wall. The recessed pockets may receive a portion of the lower thread when the slider mechanism is in the closed position.

[0062] The container assembly may also include vent pockets in the bottom of the intermediate wall, and when the lid assembly is attached to the container in the open position, the lower gasket slides over the vent pockets, allowing air to pass between the air outside the container and the internal cavity.

[0063] The lower threaded magnet may be a ring magnet extending around the central tube.

[0064] In another implementation, the lid assembly may include a rim for engaging with the opening of the container and an intermediate wall extending below the rim, the upper surface of which the intermediate wall has a first opening, a second opening, and an air vent. The bottom surface of the intermediate wall may define a first inclined feature having a crest spaced apart between two valley recesses. The first inclined feature may be positioned on the first side of the second opening. The second inclined feature may have a crest spaced apart between two valley recesses, and the second inclined feature may be positioned on the second side of the second opening. The lid assembly may further include a slider mechanism configured to be manually slidable to selectively provide a closed position by covering both the first and second openings, and an open position by covering only the second opening. The slider mechanism may further include an upper thread configured to be positioned in a recess on the upper surface of the intermediate wall, the upper thread may seal an upper thread magnet. The slider mechanism may additionally include a lower thread configured to be positioned near the bottom surface of the intermediate wall. The lower thread may further include an inner surface having a protruding lower thread inclination. The lower thread inclination is configured to selectively receive into the first groove of the two grooves on the first side of the second opening and the first groove of the two grooves on the second side of the second opening when the slider mechanism is in the open position. The lower thread inclination is configured to selectively receive into the second groove of the two grooves on the first side of the second opening and the second groove of the two grooves on the second side of the second opening when the slider mechanism is in the closed position. A lower thread magnet may be sealed within the lower thread. The slider mechanism may additionally include a lower gasket configured to extend around the outer circumference of the inner surface of the lower thread and to be compressed between the lower thread and the bottom surface of the intermediate wall. Magnetic attraction between the upper thread magnet and the lower thread magnet may magnetically connect the lower thread to the upper thread.

[0065] In another embodiment, a method for forming a lid assembly may include one or more of the following: injection molding a lid body of a first shot of material; injection molding a first plate portion of a second shot of material onto the lid body; injection molding a second plate portion of a third shot of material onto the lid body; and injection molding a sealing portion of a third shot of material to seal the first and second plate portions to the lid body. The method may further include in-molding a magnet assembly into the second plate portion. A channel may be formed between the first and second plate portions, and the second shot of material may be combined with the third shot of material. The method may also include trapping an air pocket between the lid body and both the first and second plate portions.

[0066] This disclosure is disclosed above and in the accompanying drawings with reference to various examples. However, the purpose of this disclosure is not to limit the scope of the invention, but to provide examples of various features and concepts relating to the invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize that numerous modifications and changes can be made to the examples described above without departing the scope of the invention. Preferred embodiments of the present invention are described below in separate sections. Embodiment 1 A lid assembly, A rim for engaging with the opening of the container, a rim defining the top wall, An intermediate wall extending below the aforementioned edge, wherein the upper surface of the intermediate wall defines a recess, the recess having a first opening and a second opening, and the bottom surface of the intermediate wall defines a first inclined feature portion located on the first side of the second opening and a second inclined feature portion located on the second side of the second opening, The apparatus comprises a slider mechanism configured to be manually slidable in order to selectively provide a closed position and an open position by covering both the first opening and the second opening, the slider mechanism is An upper thread configured to be positioned within the recess on the upper surface of the intermediate wall, the upper thread containing a sealed upper thread magnet, A lower thread configured to be positioned in close proximity to the bottom surface of the intermediate wall, An inner surface having a lower thread inclination protruding therefrom, wherein the lower thread inclination is configured to slide across the first inclined feature portion when the slider mechanism moves between the open position and the closed position, The lower thread further comprises a lower thread magnet sealed within the lower thread, A gasket is provided, which is configured to extend around the outer circumference of the inner surface of the lower thread and to be compressed between the lower thread and the bottom surface of the intermediate wall, A lid assembly in which the upper thread is magnetically connected to the lower thread by the magnetic attraction between the upper thread magnet and the lower thread magnet. Embodiment 2 The lid assembly according to Embodiment 1, wherein the lower thread is a central tube extending from the inner surface of the lower thread, and further comprises a central tube having a tab lug configured to extend through the second opening at the distal end of the central tube. Embodiment 3 The lid assembly according to Embodiment 2, wherein the tab ears are configured to catch on the first and second sides of the second opening, preventing the lower thread from separating from the lid assembly when the upper thread is removed from the lid assembly. Embodiment 4 The lid assembly according to Embodiment 2, wherein the upper thread has an upper thread recess configured to receive a portion of the tab ear. Embodiment 5 The lid assembly according to Embodiment 1, wherein the first inclined feature portion includes a first peak surface and a first valley recess, and the second inclined feature portion includes a second peak surface and a second valley recess. Embodiment 6 The lid assembly according to Embodiment 5, wherein the lower thread moves away from the upper thread as the inclination of the lower thread slides from the first valley recess and the second valley recess to the first crest and the second crest. Embodiment 7 The lid assembly according to Embodiment 1, further comprising a detent extending into the recess of the upper surface of the intermediate wall, wherein the detent is configured to abut against the upper thread when in the closed position, thereby preventing the liquid from being compressed between the upper thread and the end wall of the recess of the upper surface of the intermediate wall. Embodiment 8 The lid assembly according to Embodiment 1, wherein the lower thread further comprises a knob extending from the outer surface, the knob being configured to be grasped by a user. Embodiment 9 The lid assembly according to embodiment 8, wherein the lower thread can be manually removed from the lid assembly by manually operating the knob to rotate the lower thread 90 degrees relative to the second opening in the intermediate wall. Embodiment 10 A container assembly, It is a container, An inner wall having a first end portion in which the container opening extends into the internal storage chamber, An outer wall forming the outer shell of the container, having a second end portion configured to support the container on its surface, A lid adapted to seal the opening of the container, A rim for engaging with the container opening, An intermediate wall extending below the aforementioned edge, wherein the upper surface of the intermediate wall defines a recess, the recess having a first opening and a second opening, and the bottom surface of the intermediate wall defines a first inclined feature portion located on the first side of the second opening and a second inclined feature portion located on the second side of the second opening, The device comprises a slider mechanism configured to be manually slidable to selectively provide a closed position and an open position by covering both the first opening and the second opening, the slider mechanism is An upper thread configured to be positioned within the recess on the upper surface of the intermediate wall, the upper thread containing a sealed upper thread magnet, A lower thread configured to be positioned in close proximity to the bottom surface of the intermediate wall, An inner surface having a lower thread inclination protruding therefrom, wherein the lower thread inclination is configured to slide across the first inclined feature portion when the slider mechanism moves between the open position and the closed position, The lower thread further comprises a lower thread magnet sealed within the lower thread, A gasket is provided, which is configured to extend around the outer circumference of the inner surface of the lower thread and to be compressed between the lower thread and the bottom surface of the intermediate wall, A container assembly in which the upper thread is magnetically connected to the lower thread by the magnetic attraction between the upper thread magnet and the lower thread magnet. Embodiment 11 The container assembly according to embodiment 10, wherein the inner wall of the container is provided with a threaded side wall configured to receive a threaded structure at the side wall of the lid. Embodiment 12 The container assembly according to embodiment 10, wherein the container further comprises a sealed vacuum cavity between the inner wall and the outer wall. Embodiment 13 The container assembly according to Embodiment 10, wherein the first inclined feature portion includes a first peak surface and a first valley recess, and the second inclined feature portion includes a second peak surface and a second valley recess. Embodiment 14 The container assembly according to Embodiment 13, wherein the lower thread moves away from the upper thread as the inclination of the lower thread slides from the first valley recess and the second valley recess to the first crest and the second crest. Embodiment 15 The container assembly according to Embodiment 10, further comprising a detent extending into the recess of the upper surface of the intermediate wall, wherein the detent is configured to abut against the upper thread when in the closed position, thereby preventing the liquid from being compressed between the upper thread and the end wall of the recess of the upper surface of the intermediate wall. Embodiment 16 The lower thread is a central tube extending from the inner surface of the lower thread, and further comprises a central tube having a tab lug at the distal end of the central tube, configured to extend through the second opening, The container assembly according to Embodiment 10, wherein the tab ears are configured to catch on the first and second sides of the second opening, preventing the lower thread from separating from the lid assembly when the upper thread is removed from the lid assembly. Embodiment 17 A lid assembly, A rim for engaging with the opening of the container, An intermediate wall extending below the aforementioned edge, wherein the upper surface of the intermediate wall has a first opening and a second opening, and the bottom surface of the intermediate wall defines a first inclined feature portion located on the first side of the second opening and a second inclined feature portion located on the second side of the second opening, The device comprises a slider mechanism configured to be manually slidable to selectively provide a closed position and an open position by covering both the first opening and the second opening, the slider mechanism is An upper thread is configured to be positioned within a recess on the upper surface of the intermediate wall, A lower thread configured to be positioned in close proximity to the bottom surface of the intermediate wall, An inner surface having a lower thread inclination protruding therefrom, wherein the lower thread inclination is configured to slide across the first inclined feature portion when the slider mechanism moves between the open position and the closed position, A lower thread magnet sealed within the lower thread, A lid assembly comprising: a gasket configured to extend around the outer circumference of the inner surface of the lower thread and to be compressed between the lower thread and the bottom surface of the intermediate wall. Embodiment 18 The lid assembly according to Embodiment 17, wherein the first inclined feature portion includes a first peak surface and a first valley recess, and the second inclined feature portion includes a second peak surface and a second valley recess. Embodiment 19 The lid assembly according to embodiment 18, wherein the lower thread moves away from the upper thread as the inclination of the lower thread slides from the first valley recess and the second valley recess to the first crest and the second crest. Embodiment 20 The lid assembly according to embodiment 17, wherein the lower thread is a central tube extending from the inner surface of the lower thread, and further comprises a central tube having a tab lug configured to extend through the second opening at the distal end of the central tube.

Claims

1. A lid assembly, A rim that engages with the opening of the container, An intermediate wall extending below the aforementioned edge, having a first surface, a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a first opening configured for fluid flow, The device comprises a slider mechanism configured to be manually slidable in order to selectively provide a closed position by covering the first opening and an open position by leaving the first opening uncovered, wherein the slider mechanism An upper thread configured to be positioned on the first surface of the intermediate wall, It comprises a lower thread configured to be positioned adjacent to the second surface of the intermediate wall, The upper thread and the lower thread are magnetically connected, and manual operation of the upper thread results in the movement of both the upper and lower threads in the lid assembly.

2. The lid assembly according to claim 1, wherein the upper thread comprises an upper thread magnet containing a ferromagnetic material or a magnetic material.

3. The lid assembly according to claim 1, wherein the lower thread comprises an inner surface and a lower thread magnet.

4. The lid assembly according to claim 3, wherein the lower thread comprises a gasket configured to extend around the outer circumference of the inner surface of the lower thread, the gasket configured to be compressed between the lower thread and the second surface of the intermediate wall.

5. The lid assembly according to claim 3, further comprising a central tube having a tab lug at its distal end, wherein the intermediate wall has a second opening, and the lower thread is configured to extend from the inner surface of the lower thread and through the second opening.

6. The lid assembly according to claim 5, wherein when sliding between the lower thread open position and the closed position, the lower thread moves away from the upper thread.

7. The lid assembly according to claim 1, wherein the second surface of the intermediate wall includes a first inclined feature having a first ridge surface spaced apart between two valley recesses.

8. A lid assembly, A wall comprising an upper surface, a bottom surface opposite the upper surface, a first opening configured for fluid flow, and a second opening, The device comprises a slider mechanism configured to selectively close or open the first opening, the slider mechanism being An upper thread having an upper thread magnet, configured to be positioned on the upper surface of the wall, It comprises a lower thread having a lower thread magnet, which is configured to be positioned adjacent to the bottom surface of the wall, A lid assembly in which the upper thread is connected to the lower thread by the magnetic attraction between the upper thread magnet and the lower thread magnet.

9. The lid assembly according to claim 8, wherein the bottom surface of the wall includes a first inclined feature having a first ridge surface spaced apart between two valley recesses, the first inclined feature being located on the first side of the second opening.

10. The lid assembly according to claim 8, wherein the bottom surface of the wall includes a second inclined feature having a second ridge surface spaced apart between two valley recesses, the second inclined feature being located on the second side of the second opening.

11. The lid assembly according to claim 8, wherein the lower thread comprises a lower ventilation channel.

12. The lid assembly according to claim 8, wherein the lower thread comprises an inner surface and a gasket configured to extend around the outer circumference of the inner surface of the lower thread.

13. The lid assembly according to claim 12, comprising a central tube having tab ears configured to extend from the inner surface and through the second opening, wherein the lower threads extend from the inner surface and through the second opening.

14. A lid assembly, A rim that engages with the opening of the container, A wall extending below the aforementioned edge, having a first surface, a second surface opposite to the first surface, a first opening configured for fluid flow, and a second opening, The device comprises a slider mechanism configured to selectively provide a closed position by covering the first opening and an open position by not covering the first opening, and the slider mechanism is configured to provide a closed position by leaving the first opening open. An upper thread is configured to be positioned on the first surface of the wall, and the upper thread magnet is enclosed inside the upper thread, It comprises a lower thread configured to be positioned adjacent to the second surface of the wall, and a lower thread magnet enclosed inside, A lid assembly in which the upper thread is connected to the lower thread by a magnetic attraction between the upper thread magnet and the lower thread magnet, and manual operation of the upper thread results in the movement of both the upper and lower threads.

15. The lid assembly according to claim 14, wherein the second surface of the wall includes a first inclined feature having a first ridge surface spaced apart between two valley recesses, the first inclined feature being located on the first side of the second opening.

16. The lid assembly according to claim 14, wherein the second surface of the wall includes a second inclined feature having a second ridge surface spaced apart between two valley recesses, the second inclined feature being located on the second side of the second opening.

17. The lid assembly according to claim 14, wherein the wall comprises a recess for receiving the slider mechanism.

18. The lid assembly according to claim 17, wherein the recess includes the first opening and the second opening.

19. The lid assembly according to claim 14, wherein the lower thread comprises an inner surface and a gasket configured to extend around the outer circumference of the inner surface of the lower thread.

20. The lid assembly according to claim 19, comprising a central tube having tab ears configured to extend from the inner surface and through the second opening, and further comprising a knob extending from the outer surface configured to be grasped by a user.

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