Container closure device with information indicator

Abstract

Disclosed herein are devices, methods, and systems for sealing an open-ended container with a flexible container closure lid. The lid includes a plurality of deflectable buttons or dimples associated with presenting information. In some embodiments, the button or dimple may be depressed by a user's finger. In some embodiments, the information relates to the type of food, time, day, and / or month. The lid may be rectangular or circular and may be constructed of silicone, and may further include a sealing structure. The button or dimple may be ergonomically contoured and positioned for ease of access, require a low, predictable actuation force, and provide tactile feedback. In some embodiments, the button or dimple is sized based on label readability.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority pursuant to 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 763,457, filed Feb. 26, 2025, titled “Container Closure Device With Time / Expiration,” which is hereby incorporate by reference herein in its entirety.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to re-closeable / sealable containers including a container lid, and in particular, a container lid with a button or dimple for presenting information to a user.BACKGROUND

[0003] It is a widespread practice to store perishable goods in re-closeable / sealable containers. While a closure or seal may help reduce spoilage, goods may eventually spoil even under optimal storage conditions, and ingesting spoiled goods can cause foodborne illness. To mitigate this risk, users commonly date goods to track storage duration and classify the type of goods to estimate expected shelf life. Common approaches include written notations (e.g., date of preparation and type of goods) and indicator stickers, but these can be problematic in legibility, durability, and the container closure's reusability. Existing solutions therefore fall short in addressing these issues.

[0004] Accordingly, there is a need for devices, methods, and systems that reliably contain perishable goods and provide an indication to the user of whether the goods in the container are safe for consumption.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0005] Disclosed herein are devices, methods, and systems for sealing an open-ended container with a flexible closure lid. The lid includes a top having a first surface, at least one deflectable button or dimple formed on the first surface as an integral part thereof, and a label at or near the button or dimple for presenting information. In some embodiments, the button or dimple may be depressed by a user's finger. In some embodiments, the information relates to the type of food, time, day, and / or month. The lid may be rectangular or circular and may be constructed of silicone, and may further include a sealing structure. The button or dimple may be ergonomically contoured and positioned for ease of access, require a low, predictable actuation force, and provide tactile feedback. In some embodiments, the button or dimple is sized based on label readability.

[0006] Also disclosed are methods of sealing a container with a lid and presenting information using a deflectable button or dimple. The method includes sealing a container with a lid, where the lid including at least one deflectable button formed on the first surface as an integral part thereof, and a label at or near the button for presenting information, and actuating the at least one deflectable button to present information. In some embodiments, the button or dimple may be depressed by a user's finger. In some embodiments, the information relates to the type of food, time, day, and / or month. The lid may be rectangular or circular and may be constructed of silicone, and may further include a sealing structure. The button or dimple may be ergonomically contoured and positioned for ease of access, require a low, predictable actuation force, and provide tactile feedback. In some embodiments, the button or dimple is sized based on label readability.

[0007] In some aspects, a reusable lid is disclosed. The lid includes a surface with at least one integral dynamic tactile feature, and the surface or the at least one dynamic tactile feature includes an information set. The information set selected from at least one of a letter, a number, a symbol or a combination thereof. The at least one integral dynamic tactile feature transitions from a raised configuration to a recessed configuration or from a recessed configuration to a raised configuration in response to a force applied to the dynamic tactile feature. In some aspects, the information set is positioned adjacent to, on or within said tactile feature. In some aspects, the information set is positioned on the lid and adjacent to said tactile feature. In some aspects, the information set is molded, co-molded, or embedded on or within said tactile feature. In some aspects, the information set is in Braille. In some aspects, the lid is made of silicone.

[0008] In another aspect, a storage container lid is disclosed. The lid includes at least one information conveying feature integrally molded with the lid, the feature comprising an information set, the information set selected from at least one of a letter, a word, a number, a date, a symbol or a combination thereof. The information conveying feature transitions from a raised configuration to a recessed configuration or from a recessed configuration to a raised configuration in response to a force applied to said feature to convey information about contents of a storage container associated with the lid. In some aspects, the storage container is also included and the storage container is a food storage container. In some aspects, the lid further includes a bottom surface opposite a top surface and at least one sealing structure positioned around a portion of a perimeter of the bottom surface of the lid. In some aspects, the lid is made of silicone. In some aspects, the information set is molded, co-molded, or embedded on or within the information conveying feature.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] FIG. 1A is a top perspective view of a rectangular container according to the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 1B is a top perspective view of a circular container according to the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 2A is a top perspective view of a rectangular container with a lid according to the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 2B is a portion of a sectional view of a rectangular container with a lid shown in FIG. 2A according to the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 2C is a top perspective view of a circular container with a lid according to the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 2D is a portion of a sectional view of a circular container with a lid shown in FIG. 2C according to the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 3A is a top perspective view of an embodiment of a container lid according to the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 3B a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of a rectangular container lid according to the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 3C a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of a circular container lid according to the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 4A is a top perspective view of an embodiment of a circular container lid according to the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 4B is a sectional view of an embodiment of a container lid of FIG. 4A according to the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 4C is a top perspective view of an embodiment of a circular container lid according to the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 4D is a sectional view of an embodiment of a circular container lid of FIG. 4C according to the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 5 is a detailed view of a container lid according to the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 6A is a detailed view of an indicator button or dimple in an undepressed configuration according to the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 6B is a detailed view of an indicator button or dimple in a depressed configuration according to the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 7A depicts an indicator button or dimple in an undepressed configuration according to the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 7B depicts an indicator button or dimple in a depressed configuration after being engaged by a user according to the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 8 is a top view of an embodiment of the container lid according to the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 9A is a top view of an embodiment of the container lid according to the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 9B is a top view of an embodiment of the container lid according to the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 10A is a top view of an embodiment of the container lid according to the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 10B is a top view of an embodiment of the container lid according to the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 11 is a top view of an embodiment of the container lid according to the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 12 is a top view of an embodiment of the container lid according to the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] Disclosed herein are devices, systems, and methods for conveying information on a closure device (e.g., lid) of a food, perishable or non-perishable good container to a user thereof. For example, information on the lid may help indicate when food in the container was prepared, assisting the user in tracking storage duration. In another example, information on the lid may help indicate the type of food stored in the container, assisting the user in determining an appropriate storage period.

[0035] One unique aspect of the disclosed subject matter is that the lid comprises a plurality of pop-up / down buttons / dimples positioned on or within the top surface of the lid. These buttons / dimples may have labels positioned on or near them. In use, the user presses a button or dimple to identify when the food in the container was created; alternatively, the user can press a button or dimple to identify when the food will expire. In some embodiments, the buttons / dimples may also indicate the type of food within the container. In some embodiments, the labels may use different configurations, such as abbreviations, different numeral systems, and Braille. The disclosed methods, devices, and systems allow users to keep track of storage times and avoid consuming spoiled food.

[0036] The disclosed lid can be configured for multiple forms of date or data tracking. In one embodiment, the lid includes labels and / or buttons depicting days of the week, which may be useful for short-term refrigerator storage. In other embodiments, the buttons and / or labels indicate months of the year, which may be useful for longer-term storage.

[0037] In various embodiments, the user may customize the buttons and / or labels to indicate information such as the type of food, a date or time, and user-specific data.

[0038] Typically, containers for use with the disclosed lids may be bowl-shaped or of other shapes, with inner and outer surfaces that define an open or a storage space. Illustrative containers are shown in FIGS. 1A-1B. Referring to FIGS. 1A-1B, the container 100 includes a container body 102. The container body 102 includes an outer side surface 104, an inner side surface 106, an inner bottom surface 108, an outer top edge 110, an inner top edge 112, and a container top surface 114. The inner side surface 106, inner bottom surface 108, and inner top edge 112 define an interior volume 116. The inner top edge 112 defines an opening 118 forming an open end 120 of the container body 102 in fluid communication with an interior volume 116. The outer top edge 110 defines the perimeter of the open end 120.

[0039] In most embodiments, the open end 120 is configured to receive a closure member or lid. The open end 120 may be at the top of the container (e.g., towards the container top surface 114), although other embodiments may position the open end 120 at the bottom or side.

[0040] Positioned around the open end 120 may be a plurality of structures and / or surfaces that aid in engaging the closure member / lid. For example, the structures and / or surface may be configured to engage a soft gasket on the lid that presses against the container top surface 114 and wraps around the outer top edge 110 to create a tight, leak-resistant, airtight seal. In another example, the structures and / or surface may include snap-fit features that engage complementary snap-fit features on the lid. In yet another example, the structures and / or surface may include or engage air-removal features of the lid to improve sealing.

[0041] Food or other perishable or non-perishable goods may be stored inside the interior volume 116 of the container.

[0042] As discussed further with respect to at least FIGS. 2A-4D, the disclosed lids may be used with a variety of containers 100 or food storage devices 100. Because the containers may be of various shapes, the lids may have complementary shapes.

[0043] In some embodiments, the container is rectangular as shown in FIG. 1A and is paired with a rectangular lid as shown in FIG. 2A. The container body 102 includes four outer side surfaces 104, four inner side surfaces 106, an inner bottom surface 108, four outer top edges 110, four inner top edges 112, and a container top surface 114. The inner side surfaces 106, the inner bottom surface 108, and the inner top edges 112 define a rectangular interior volume 116.

[0044] In some embodiments, the container may be bowl-shaped or cylindrical, and the disclosed lid may be round or circular, as seen in FIG. 2C. For example, referring to FIG. 1B, the container is cylindrical. The container body 102 includes a curved outer side surface 104, a curved inner side surface 106, a circular inner bottom surface 108, a circular outer top edge 110, a circular inner top edge 112, and a container top surface 114. The inner side surface 106, inner bottom surface 108, and inner top edge 112 define a cylindrical interior volume 116.

[0045] The container 100 may be constructed of various materials, including food-safe materials, preferably rigid and dimensionally stable to help maintain a reliable seal with the lid. In some embodiments, the container 100 is glass, such as tempered glass, which has properties such as transparency, scratch resistance, and tolerance of temperature changes (e.g., useful for refrigerator, oven, and dishwasher use). In other embodiments, the container 100 may be a durable polymer, for example polypropylene, which has properties such as reduced weight and impact resistance. In still other embodiments, the container 100 may be stainless steel or other coated metal to provide strength and enhanced barrier properties for perishable goods. One or more of the outer side surface 104, outer top edge 110, and container top surface 114 may include a seal configured to cooperate with a gasket on the lid to help maintain a tight, leak-resistant, and airtight seal. Surfaces in contact with food may include non-stick or easy-clean finishes. The material of the container 100 may be selected to withstand repeated washing and thermal cycling without warping, which could affect the seal.

[0046] FIGS. 2A and 2C depict container-lid assemblies 200 configured to be positioned over the open end of the container. These are shown in perspective (FIGS. 2A and 2C) and sectional views (FIGS. 2B and 2D). Referring to FIGS. 2A-2D, the lid 218 includes a lid outer side surface 220, a lid inner side surface 222, a lid inner bottom surface 224, a lid outer bottom surface 226, a lid outer top edge 228, a lid outer bottom edge 230, a lid inner bottom edge 232, a lid top surface 234, an apron 236, and a button or dimple 238. The button or dimple may also be referred to as a dynamic tactile feature or an information conveying feature.

[0047] The lid top surface 234 includes the lid outer top edge 228. Extending from the lid outer top edge 228, and generally perpendicular to the plane of the lid top surface 234, is an outer surface defining part of an apron 236. The outer surface of the apron 236 terminates at a lid outer bottom edge 230. The apron is defined by the lid outer side surface 220, lid inner side surface 222, and lid outer bottom surface 226, where the side surfaces 220 and 222 are generally perpendicular to the lid outer bottom surface 226, and the lid inner side surface 222 terminates at a lid inner bottom edge 232.

[0048] The lid top surface 234 may include at least one button or dimple 238. Each button or dimple 238 includes a top portion 240 with a first surface 242, a bottom portion 244 with a second surface 246. As discussed with respect to FIGS. 6A-6B, the button or dimple 238 is depressible and may be in a raised or undepressed configuration 600a or a recessed or depressed configuration 600b. As shown in FIGS. 2B and 2D, the button or dimple 238 is in a raised or undepressed configuration 600a. In the raised or undepressed configuration 600a, the top portion 240 and the first surface 242 are in a raised position, while the bottom portion 244 and the second surface 246 are in a recessed position.

[0049] The lid 218 may be constructed from various materials, preferably those that are easily deformable. In some embodiments, the lid is made from a flexible material, for example plastic or silicone. In one embodiment, the lid is made from silicone. Silicone is used because it is a flexible yet durable material and thus permits controlled deformation of the button or dimple surfaces.

[0050] The lid 218 may be used with a container or food storage device 202. Because the container 202 may have various shapes, the lid 218 is configured to have a complementary shape.

[0051] For example, the container 202 may be rectangular and is paired with a rectangular lid, as shown in FIGS. 2A-2B. The container 202 includes four container outer side surfaces 204, four container inner side surfaces 206, a container inner bottom surface 208, four container outer top edges 210, four container inner top edges 212, and a container top surface 214. The container inner side surfaces 206, container inner bottom surface 208, and container inner top edges 212 define a rectangular container interior volume 216. The container 202 is configured to be coupled to a rectangular lid 218. Specifically, the size and design of the container 202 and lid 218 may be determined based at least in part on the material and dimensions of the container outer side surfaces 204, the container outer top edges 210, the container top surface 214, the lid inner side surfaces 222, lid inner bottom surface 224, lid inner bottom edges 232, and the apron 236.

[0052] As a similar example, referring to FIGS. 2C-2D, the container 202 is round or cylindrical and may include or define a central, circular opening. The container 202 is configured to be coupled with a round or cylindrical lid 218.

[0053] The container 202 and the accompanying lid 218 may be sized to optimize the user experience. For example, the container 202 and lid 218 may be sized and shaped for easy, comfortable handling in everyday use. In many embodiments, the container 202 has a low, balanced profile that can be grasped securely with one hand, with gently rounded corners and a smooth rim that is comfortable against the fingers. The lid 218 may include a small overhang or lift tab or grip portion to start opening, and may include a light textured surface to prevent slipping with wet or gloved hands. The size and shape of the container 202 and lid 218 may fit a refrigerator shelf or personal storage device or carrier (e.g., a handbag, a backpack, a lunch bag). The overall height may be shallow enough to stack without tipping. Weight is distributed such that the container 202 is stable when full, and the lid 218 utilizes only a modest, predictable force to close and open, reducing hand strain over repeated use.

[0054] As depicted in FIGS. 2B and 2D, the lid inner bottom surface 224 and the lid top surface 234 may include at least one raised (e.g., the top portion 240) or depressed (e.g., the bottom portion 244) portion, depending on the configuration. For example, the top portion 240 is defined by a first surface 242, and the bottom portion 244 is defined by a second surface 246. As depicted in FIGS. 6A-6B, the button or dimple 238 may be in a raised or undepressed configuration 600a (shown in FIG. 6A) or a recessed or depressed configuration 600b (shown in FIG. 6B).

[0055] FIGS. 3A-3C depict perspective views of a lid 300 without showing the container. FIG. 3A is top perspective view of an embodiment of a container lid, FIG. 3B is a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of a rectangular container lid, and FIG. 3C is a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of a circular container lid.

[0056] As described with respect to FIGS. 2A-2D, the lid 300 includes a lid body 302. The lid body 302 includes a lid outer side surface 304, a lid inner side surface 306, a lid inner bottom surface 308, a lid outer bottom surface 310, a lid outer top edge 312, a lid outer bottom edge 314, a lid inner bottom edge 316, a lid top surface 318, an apron 320, and a button or dimple 322.

[0057] The lid top surface 318 extends to the lid outer top edge 312. Extending from the lid outer top edge 312, and generally perpendicular to the plane of the lid top surface 318, is an outer surface defining part of an apron 320. The outer surface of the apron 236 terminates at a lid outer bottom edge 314. The apron 320 is defined by the lid outer side surface 304, lid inner side surface 306, and lid outer bottom surface 310, where the side surfaces 304 and 306 are generally perpendicular to the lid outer bottom surface 310, and the lid inner side surface 306 terminates at a lid inner bottom edge 316.

[0058] The lid top surface 318 may include at least one button or dimple 322. As shown in FIGS. 3A-3C, the button or dimple 322 may be raised or be recessed relative to the lid top surface 318 and / or the lid inner bottom surface 308. The button or dimple 322 may have any shape, size, or configuration. The button or dimple 322 is configured to be ergonomically contoured and positioned for ease of access, require a low, predictable actuation force, and provide tactile feedback, thereby facilitating comfortable, efficient, and repeatable use. For example, the distance from the lid outer top edge 312 may define the location of the button or dimple 322 to promote comfortable and efficient user interaction. As discussed with respect to FIGS. 8-12, the button or dimple 322 may include a label positioned on or near the button or dimple 322. The shape, size, and configuration of the button or dimple 322 may be determined by the written notation of the label. That is, in some embodiments, the label may be molded or co-molded on the button or on the lid. In some embodiments, the label may be printed on the button or on the lid. In either example, the button or dimple 322 may have a size or shape to fit a whole word, date, or symbol (e.g., Tuesday or 2025), or a portion of a word, date, or symbol (e.g., T or Tu or Tues. or 25).

[0059] FIGS. 4A-4D depict perspective and sectional views of a cylindrical lid 400 without the container. FIGS. 4A and 4C are top perspective views of an embodiment of a container lid, FIG. 4B is a sectional view of the lid 400 about line 8B-8B in FIG. 4A, and FIG. 4D is a sectional view of the lid 400 about line 9B-9B in FIG. 4C.

[0060] As described with respect to FIGS. 2A-3C, the lid 400 includes a lid body 402. The lid body 402 includes a lid outer side surface 404, a lid inner side surface 406, a lid inner bottom surface 408, a lid outer bottom surface 410, a lid outer top edge 412, a lid outer bottom edge 414, a lid inner bottom edge 416, a lid top surface 418, an apron 420, and a button or dimple 422. The button or dimple 422 includes a first portion 424, a first surface 426, a second portion 428, and a second surface 430. The first portion 424 is defined by a first surface 426, and the second portion 428 is defined by a second surface 430.

[0061] The lid top surface 418 extends to the lid outer top edge 412. Extending from the lid outer top edge 412, and generally perpendicular to the plane of the lid top surface 418, is an outer surface defining part of an apron 420. The outer surface of the apron 420 terminates at a lid outer bottom edge 414. The apron 420 is defined by the lid outer side surface 404, lid inner side surface 406, and lid outer bottom surface 410, where the side surfaces 404 and 406 are generally perpendicular to the lid outer bottom surface 410, and the lid inner side surface 406 terminates at a lid inner bottom edge 416. The lid top surface 318 may include a plurality of button or dimple 322.

[0062] Referring to FIGS. 4B and 4D, the lid 400 may include structures and / or surfaces configured to engage the container to create a tight, leak-resistant, and airtight seal. In some embodiments, a seal structure 432 may be coupled to the lid 400 to improve seal capability between the container and the lid 400 and to mitigate against accidental removal of the lid 400. For example, the lid may include one or more grooves or raised ribs 432 formed on the lid inner side surface 406. The seal structure 432 is configured to work with the container's rim to both seal and hold the lid 400 in place. The grooves or raised ribs may be used with one or more soft gaskets (e.g., silicone or food-safe TPE) arranged to create the seal with a friction-fit to secure the lid 400 to prevent accidental removal. Furthermore, the seal structure 432 may be made from material of different elasticity and stiffness to address the sealing and retention needs. Alternatively, the seal structure 432 may have different cross sections. For example, cross-sections of differing sizes may be combined into a tapered seal structure 432 that increases in friction as the lid 400 settles into the container.

[0063] FIG. 5 is a detailed view of a container lid according to the present disclosure. The view shows a cross section of the lid 500. Referring to FIG. 5, the lid 500 includes a lid body 502. The lid body 502 includes a lid outer side surface 504, a lid inner side surface 506, a lid inner bottom surface 508, a lid outer bottom surface 510, a lid outer top edge 512, a lid outer bottom edge 514, a lid inner bottom edge 516, a lid top surface 518, an apron 520, a button or dimple 522.

[0064] The lid top surface 518 extends to the lid outer top edge 512. Extending from the lid outer top edge 512, and generally perpendicular to the plane of the lid top surface 518, is an outer surface defining part of an apron 520. The apron outer surface 532 terminates at a lid outer bottom edge 514. The apron inner surface 534 terminates at the lid outer bottom edge 514. The apron is defined by the lid outer side surface 504, lid inner side surface 506, and lid inner bottom surface 508, where the side surfaces 504 and 506 are generally perpendicular to the bottom surface 508, and the lid inner side surface 506 terminates at a lid inner bottom edge 516. The lid top surface 518 may include at least one button or dimple 522. The button or dimple 522 includes a first portion 524, a first surface 526, a second portion 528, and a second surface 530. The first portion 524 is defined by a first surface 526, and the second portion 528 is defined by a second surface 530.

[0065] As discussed with respect to FIGS. 1A-2D, structures and / or surfaces of the containers 100, 202 may be configured to engage the lid and to create a tight, leak-resistant, airtight seal. The lid 500 may include structures and / or surfaces configured to accomplish this goal. In some embodiments, one or more seal structures 536 may be coupled to the lid 500 to improve seal capability between the container and the lid 500. The lid 500 can employ various seal designs to keep air and liquid in. For example, a soft gasket made of silicone or soft, food-safe plastic may be molded onto the lid 500 or placed as a removable ring in a groove or against an edge, a corner or one or more surfaces of the lid 500 (e.g., lid inner side surface 506 and lid inner bottom edge 516). The gasket can have different shapes—flat, rounded, or with two small lips—to press evenly against the container rim. Another option is a soft foam strip for a compressible seal, or small circular ridges on the underside of the lid that that create multiple thin sealing lines. In another example, silicone may be used for heat and dishwasher use.

[0066] Referring to FIGS. 6A-6B, the button or dimple 602 includes a first portion 604 having a first surface 606 and a second portion 608 having a second surface 610. The first portion 604 is defined by a first surface 606, and the second portion 608 is defined by a second surface 610.

[0067] As depicted in FIGS. 6A-6B, the button or dimple 602 is depressible and may be in a raised or undepressed configuration 600a (top) or a recessed or depressed configuration 600b (bottom).

[0068] In the raised or undepressed configuration 600a, the first portion 604, defined by the first surface 606, is raised relative to the rest of lid top surface 612, and the second portion 608, defined by the second surface 610 is raised relative to the rest of the lid bottom surface 614.

[0069] In the recessed or depressed configuration 600b, the configuration is opposite, where the first portion 604, defined by the first surface 606, is recessed or depressed relative to the rest of the lid top surface 612, and the second portion 608, defined by the second surface 610 is depressed or recessed relative to the rest of the lid bottom surface 614.

[0070] As depicted in FIGS. 7A-7B, the button or dimple 702 may be changed from a raised or undepressed configuration 700a to a recessed or depressed configuration 700b by a pressing motion (or downward force) 714 applied by a user 712 (e.g., a finger). The button or dimple 702 is configured with sufficient elasticity and stiffness such that the pressing motion 714 generates sufficient load / force, and the button or dimple 702 transitions from the raised or undepressed configuration 700a to the recessed or depressed configuration 700b.

[0071] As an illustrative example, when a user's pressing motion 714 provides sufficient load / force to overcome the stiffness of a button or dimple 702 in a raised or undepressed configuration 700a, the button or dimple 702 changes to a recessed or depressed configuration 700b. During this transition, the first portion 704, defined by the first surface 706, transitions from being raised relative to the rest of the lid top surface 716 to being recessed relative to the rest of the lid top surface 716, and the second portion 708, defined by the second surface 710, transitions from being raised relative to the rest of the lip bottom surface 718 to being recessed relative to the rest of the lip bottom surface 718.

[0072] Although not shown, after the button or dimple 702 is changed from a raised or undepressed configuration 700a to a recessed or depressed configuration 700b, a user may reverse the configuration by pressing the button or dimple 702 with sufficient load in the opposite direction. The user may apply the load on the second surface 710 in a direction from the second portion 708 toward the first portion 704.

[0073] FIGS. 8-12 each show a top view of various embodiments of lids and a button associated with various information. Referring to FIGS. 8-12, the lid 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200 includes a lid body 802, 902, 1002, 1102, 1202. Each lid body 802, 902, 1002, 1102, 1202 includes a lid top surface 806, 906, 1006, 1106, 1206, the perimeter of which is defined by the lid outer top edge 804, 904, 1004, 1104, 1204. The lid top surface 806, 906, 1006, 1106, 1206 includes either written notation 810 near a button or dimple 808 or an indicator button or dimple 908, 1008, 1108, and 1208 that incorporates written notation within (or embedded / molded in) the button or dimple.

[0074] As discussed with respect to FIGS. 3A-3C and 6A-6B, the button or dimple 322 may be raised or be recessed relative to the lid top surface 318 and / or the lid inner bottom surface 308. The shape, size, and configuration of the button or dimple 322 may be determined by the type of written notation of the label, which may be determined based on the target user. For example, the written notation may present information representing hours, days of the week, months of the year, or food types, or combination thereof. The disclosed features are shown separately, but may, in some embodiments, be combined without limitation, including (1) hours and weeks, (2) weeks and types, (3) weeks and months and types. The written notation or label may be in different languages (e.g., English, Spanish, French, Russian, Arabic, Hebrew, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Hindi, Swahili, and Afrikaans), signs, symbols, numerical systems, written systems (e.g., Braille—see FIG. 12), and other methods of communicating information.

[0075] For example, in use, a user may press down on the button or dimple 808, 908, 1008, 1108, 1208 to identify when the food in the container was created or placed in the container. Alternatively, the user may press the button or dimple 808, 908, 1008, 1108, 1208 to identify when the food will expire. In some embodiments, the button or dimple 808, 908, 1008, 1108, 1208 may also identify the type of food within the container.

[0076] Referring to FIG. 8, the lid 800 includes a plurality of button or dimple 808. Each button or dimple 808 has a corresponding written notation or label 810. The button or dimple 808 and the written notation 810 may be spaced apart to allow the user to view the written notation 810 while pressing the button or dimple 808, while remaining sufficiently proximate to the button for the user to understand that the written notation 810 corresponds with the associated button or dimple 808.

[0077] For example, as seen in FIG. 8, seven buttons or dimples 808 and seven corresponding written notations 810 are disposed on the lid 800. The written notations 810 indicate the days of the week (from left to right: “MON” for Monday, “TUE” for Tuesday, “WED” for Wednesday, “THUR” for Thursday, “FRI” for Friday, “SAT” for Saturday, and “SUN” for Sunday).

[0078] Referring to FIGS. 9A-12, the lid 900, 1000, 1100, 1200 includes a plurality of indicator buttons or dimples 908, 1008, 1108, 1208. Each indicator button or dimple 908, 1008, 1108, 1208 has a corresponding written notation or label. The written notation may be sized to ensure user readability, and the indicator button or dimple 908, 1008, 1108, 1208 may be sized to accommodate the written notation to maintain readability. The written notation may be abbreviated (e.g., relative to FIG. 8) to reduce the size of the indicator button or dimple 908, 1008, 1108, 1208. Depending on the written notation, the indicator button or dimple 908, 1008, 1108, 1208 may be increased in size to accommodate for larger written notation. The increase in the size of the indicator button or dimple 908, 1008, 1108, 1208 may be balanced with a reduced number of indicator buttons or dimples 908, 1008, 1108, 1208 if the size of the container is limited (e.g., comfort, ease of use, etc.).

[0079] For example, as shown in FIG. 9A, twelve indicator buttons or dimples 908 are disposed on the lid 900. The indicator buttons or dimples 908 include abbreviated written notations or labels indicating the months of the year (starting from the 12 o'clock position counting clockwise: “J” for January, “F” for February, “M” for March, “A” for April, “M” for May, “J” for June, “J” for July, “A” for August, “S” for September, “O” for October, “N” for November, and “D” for December”).

[0080] In another example, as shown in FIG. 9B, seven indicator buttons or dimples 908 are disposed on the lid 900. The indicator buttons or dimples 908 include abbreviated written notations or labels indicating the days of the week (from left to right: “M” for Monday, “T” for Tuesday, “W” for Wednesday, “T” for Thursday, “F” for Friday, “S” for Saturday, and “S” for Sunday). Compared to the written notations 810 in FIG. 8, the written notations or labels in FIG. 9B are further abbreviated to meet size and spacing requirements.

[0081] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 10A, the written notation or label on indicator buttons or dimples 1008 is a numerical system. Referring to FIG. 10A, twelve indicator buttons or dimples 1008 are disposed on a circular lid 1000. The indicator buttons or dimples 1008 are arranged in a circular pattern and include Arabic numerals. The numbers represent hours or time of day (starting from the 1 o'clock position counting clockwise: “1” may represent one hour or one A.M. or one P.M., “2” may represent two hour or two A.M. or two P.M., etc.).

[0082] In some embodiments, as seen in FIG. 10B, the written notation or label on the indicator buttons or dimples 1008 need not use a single, uniform method of communication (e.g., all Arabic numerals or all written English) or have the same shape (e.g., all circular or all rectangular). Referring to FIG. 10B, fourteen indicator buttons or dimples 1008 are disposed on a rectangular lid 1000. Two rows of six circular indicator buttons or dimples 1008 are arranged from left to right (The bottom row bears “1”, “2”, “3”, “4”, “5”, and “6”, and the top row bears “7”, “8”, “9”, “10”, “11”, and “12”). A middle row of two rectangular indicator buttons or dimples 1008 is disposed in between the top and bottom rows and bear the written notation or label of “A.M.” (ante meridiem) and “P.M.” (post meridiem). The arrangement in FIG. 10B allows a user to select an hour of the day and distinguish between A.M. and P.M.

[0083] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 11, the written notation or label on the indicator buttons or dimples 1108 may indicate the type of food or other perishable or non-perishable goods. The written notation or label may include a mix of abbreviated and unabbreviated words or other form of communication designed to effectively convey the desired information to the user. The number and size of the indicator buttons or dimples 1108 may be adjusted accordingly, especially if the lid 1100 is limited in size. Referring to FIG. 11, four indicator buttons or dimples 1108 are in a semi-circular pattern and are sized to accommodate for unabbreviated words (“FISH”, “MEAT”, and “GRAIN”) and a lesser-abbreviated word (“VEG.” meaning vegetable).

[0084] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 12, the written notation or label on the indicator buttons or dimples 1208 is configured to be perceivable by users who are blind or have low vision. Referring to FIG. 12, seven indicator buttons or dimples 1208 are disposed on a lid 1200. The indicator buttons or dimples 1208 are arranged in a semicircular manner and incorporate Braille cells—raised dot arrangements that convey letters, numbers, and punctuation—representing the days of the week (from left to right in a counterclockwise direction: “” for Monday, “” for Tuesday, “” for Wednesday, “” for Thursday, “” for Friday, “” for Saturday, and “” for Sunday). The Braille features may be formed or coupled to the lid 1200 by injection molding, overmolding, or metal embossing.

[0085] The description of certain embodiments included herein is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the scope of the disclosure or its applications or uses. In the included detailed description of embodiments of the present apparatus and methods, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and which are shown by way of illustration specific to embodiments in which the described devices, methods, and systems may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice presently disclosed devices, methods, and systems, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized, and that structural and logical changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Moreover, for the purpose of clarity, detailed descriptions of certain features will not be discussed when they would be apparent to those with skill in the art so as not to obscure the description of embodiments of the disclosure. The included detailed description is therefore not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the disclosure is defined only by the appended claims.

[0086] From the foregoing it will be appreciated that, although specific embodiments of the invention have been described herein for purposes of illustration, various modifications may be made without deviating from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0087] The particulars shown herein are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure and are presented in the cause of providing what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of various embodiments of the invention. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details of the invention in more detail than is necessary for the fundamental understanding of the invention, the description taken with the drawings and / or examples making apparent to those skilled in the art how the several forms of the invention may be embodied in practice.

[0088] As used herein and unless otherwise indicated, the terms “a” and “an” are taken to mean “one,”“at least one,” or “one or more,” Unless otherwise required by context, singular terms used herein shall include pluralities and plural terms shall include the singular.

[0089] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words ‘comprise’, ‘comprising’, and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to”. Words using the singular or plural number also include the plural and singular number, respectively. Additionally, the words “herein,”“above,” and “below,” and words of similar import, when used in this application, shall refer to this application as a whole and not to any particular portions of the application.

[0090] All relative, directional, and ordinal references (including top, bottom, side, front, rear, first, second, third, and so forth) are given by way of example to aid the reader's understanding of the examples described herein. They should not be read to be requirements or limitations, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use unless specifically set forth in the claims. Connection references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, joined, and the like) are to be construed broadly and may include intermediate members between a connection of elements and relative movement between elements. As such, connection references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected and in fixed relation to each other, unless specifically set forth in the claims.

[0091] Of course, it is to be appreciated that any one of the examples, embodiments or processes described herein may be combined with one or more other examples, embodiments and / or processes or be separated and / or performed amongst separate devices or device portions in accordance with the present systems, devices and methods.

[0092] Finally, the above discussion is intended to be merely illustrative of the present devices, methods, and systems and should not be construed as limiting the appended claims to any particular embodiment or group of embodiments. Thus, while the present devices, methods, and systems has been described in particular detail with reference to exemplary embodiments, it should also be appreciated that numerous modifications and alternative embodiments may be devised by those having ordinary skill in the art without departing from the broader and intended spirit and scope of the present devices, methods, and systems as set forth in the claims that follow. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative manner and are not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A flexible container closure lid for sealing an open-ended container, said flexible container closure lid comprising:a top having a first surface;at least one deflectable button formed on the first surface as an integral part thereof; anda label at or near said button for presenting information.

2. The flexible container closure lid of claim 1, wherein the button is depressed with pressure from a finger of a user.

3. The flexible container closure lid of claim 1, wherein the information is selected from the group consisting of: type of food, time, day, or month or a combination thereof.

4. The flexible container closure lid of claim 1, wherein the information is in Braille.

5. The flexible container closure lid of claim 1, wherein the lid is made of silicone.

6. The flexible container closure lid of claim 1, wherein the lid further comprises a bottom opposite the top and at least one seal structure positioned on the bottom of the lid.

7. The flexible container closure lid of claim 1, wherein the button is configured to be one or more of:ergonomically contoured;positioned for ease of access;require a low, predictable actuation force; andprovide tactile feedback.

8. The flexible container closure lid of claim 1, wherein the label is positioned adjacent to, on or within the button or the lid.

9. The flexible container closure lid of claim 1, wherein the label is molded, co-molded, or embedded on or within the button or the lid.

10. A reusable lid comprising:a surface with at least one integral dynamic tactile feature, the surface or the at least one dynamic tactile feature comprising an information set, the information set selected from at least one of a letter, a number, a symbol or a combination thereof,wherein the at least one integral dynamic tactile feature transitions from a raised configuration to a recessed configuration or from a recessed configuration to a raised configuration in response to a force applied to the dynamic tactile feature.

11. The reusable lid of claim 10, wherein the information set is positioned adjacent to, on or within said tactile feature.

12. The reusable lid of claim 10, wherein the information set is positioned on the lid and adjacent to said tactile feature.

13. The reusable lid of claim 10, wherein the information set is molded, co-molded, or embedded on or within said tactile feature.

14. The reusable lid of claim 10, wherein the information set is in Braille.

15. The reusable lid of claim 10, wherein the lid is made of silicone.

16. A storage container lid, the lid comprisingat least one information conveying feature integrally molded with the lid, the feature comprising an information set, the information set selected from at least one of a letter, a word, a number, a date, a symbol or a combination thereof,wherein said information conveying feature transitions from a raised configuration to a recessed configuration or from a recessed configuration to a raised configuration in response to a force applied to said feature to convey information about contents of a storage container associated with the lid.

17. The storage container lid of claim 16, wherein the lid further comprises a bottom surface opposite a top surface and at least one sealing structure positioned around a portion of a perimeter of the bottom surface of the lid.

18. The storage container lid of claim 16, wherein the lid is made of silicone.

19. The storage container lid of claim 16, wherein the information set is molded, co-molded, or embedded on or within the information conveying feature.

20. The storage container lid of claim 16, further comprising the storage container, wherein the storage container is a food storage container.

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