Drinkware assemblies

Abstract

In embodiments, a modular drinkware assembly includes a base, a lid, and an interchangeable collar. The base defines a fluid-holding volume. The lid includes a fluid outlet aperture and is directly couplable to the base. The interchangeable collar is one of a plurality of interchangeable collars. The interchangeable collar removably couples the base to the lid. Any other one of the plurality of interchangeable collars is configured to be interchanged with the interchangeable collar to removably couple the base to the lid.

Description

DRINKWARE ASSEMBLIESBYJAMES IRA MCKENRICKCHRISTIAN ZACHRICHJESUS E. LINARESATTORNEY DOCKET: DSR0224WOINCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0001] Any and all applications to which a foreign and / or domestic priority is claimed are identified in the Application Data Sheet filed with the present application, are hereby incorporated by reference herein, and are made a part of the present disclosure.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present specification generally relates to drinkware assemblies and, more specifically, but without limitation, modular drinkware assemblies having interchangeable components and / or drinkware assemblies having magnetically tethered closures.BACKGROUND

[0003] Individuals often have a multitude of drinkware which serve different purposes for delivering liquid to a user in a variety of ways. For example, an individual may have a drinkware, such as cups, specific to transporting and drinking each of water, coffee, tea, soda, soup, etc. Such may lead to difficulty in storing the various types of drinkware due to space constraints.

[0004] In some cases, a drinkware may have a lid with an opening, spout, straw, or the like for drinking fluid. For travel it is often desirable to have drinkware in a closedconfiguration to prevent leakage of fluid. This may lead to use of a cap, for example. However, a cap may be easily lost or misplaced.

[0005] Accordingly, a need exists for alternative drinkware assemblies that have modularity in design for alternating use to a specific beverage or preference. A need also exists for alternative drinkware assemblies that include closure means that preclude misplacement and loss.SUMMARY

[0006] In one embodiment, a modular drinkware assembly includes a base, a lid, and an interchangeable collar. The base defines a fluid-holding volume. The lid includes a fluid outlet aperture and is directly couplable to the base. The interchangeable collar is one of a plurality of interchangeable collars. The interchangeable collar removably couples the base to the lid. Any other one of the plurality of interchangeable collars is configured to be interchanged with the interchangeable collar to removably couple the lid to thebase .

[0007] In some embodiments, interchangeable collar comprises a first connecting portion extending into the base and a second connecting portion extending above the base and receiving a lid connector of the lid.

[0008] In some embodiments, the interchangeable collar comprises an outer wall which is substantially flush with a lid outer wall, a base outer wall, or both.

[0009] In some embodiments, the interchangeable collar comprises an outer wall having a texture patterned thereon.

[0010] In some embodiments, the interchangeable collar comprises a loop strap.

[0011] In some embodiments, the loop strap comprises a coupling removably fixing the loop strap into a loop configuration.

[0012] In some embodiments, the interchangeable collar comprises a handle.

[0013] In some embodiments, the modular drinkware assembly further comprises a joint at an external surface of the interchangeable collar and a magnet ring connectedto the joint, wherein the ring is moveable to carry the drinkware assembly or magnetically attach a peripheral.

[0014] In some embodiments, the interchangeable collar comprises one or more interior recesses for removably receiving an accessory.

[0015] In some embodiments, the modular drinkware assembly may further comprise a flow reducer removably mounted to one or more interior recesses of the interchangeable collar.

[0016] In some embodiments, the modular drinkware assembly may further comprise an infuser having a flange and a plurality of teeth which are sized and spaced for engagement with the one or more interior recesses.

[0017] In some embodiments, the modular drinkware assembly may further comprise a cap which is positioned at an upper end of the infuser.

[0018] In another embodiment, a drinkware assembly includes a base and a lid. The base defines a fluid-holding volume. The lid is coupled to the base and includes a main body having a fluid outlet aperture, a tether, and a closure coupled to the tether. The tether and the closure are moveable between an opened position and a closed position, wherein the tether is magnetically coupled to the main body in the opened position, the closed position, or both.

[0019] In some embodiments, the tether may comprise a tether magnet embedded therein and the main body comprises a main body magnet embedded therein, wherein rotation of the tether from the closed position to the open position aligns and attracts the tether magnet to the main body magnet.

[0020] In some embodiments, the lid may further comprise a straw and the tether that collapses the straw in the closed position.

[0021] In some embodiments, the straw may be pivotally coupled to the main body and the tether.

[0022] In some embodiments, the drinkware assembly further comprises a collar coupling the lid to the base.

[0023] In yet another embodiment, a modular drinkware assembly includes a base defining a fluid-holding volume, a lid coupled to the base, and an interchangeable collar of a plurality of interchangeable collars. The lid includes main body having a fluid outlet aperture, a tether; and a closure coupled to the tether. The closure and the tether are moveable between an opened position and a closed position, wherein the tether is magnetically coupled to the main body in the opened position, the closed position, or both. The interchangeable collar removably couples the base to the lid, wherein any other one of the plurality of interchangeable collars is configured to be interchanged with the interchangeable collar to removably couple the base to the lid.

[0024] In some embodiments, the plurality of interchangeable collars may comprise: a handle collar, a loop strap collar, and, a magnetic carry ring.

[0025] In some embodiments, the interchangeable collar may comprises an outer wall having a texture patterned thereon.

[0026] These and additional features provided by the embodiments described herein will be more fully understood in view of the following detailed description, in conjunction with the drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0027] The embodiments set forth in the figures are illustrative and exemplary in nature and not intended to limit the subject matter defined by the claims. The following detailed description of the illustrative embodiments can be understood when read in conjunction with the following figures, where like structure is indicated with like reference numerals and in which:

[0028] FIG. 1 A depicts a perspective view of a drinkware assembly, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0029] FIG. IB depicts a more detailed view of a collar and lid of the drinkware assembly of FIG. 1, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0030] FIG. 1C depicts a side view of the interchangeable collar of FIG. IB, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0031] FIG. ID depicts a top perspective view of the interchangeable collar of FIG. 1C, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0032] FIG. IE depicts another top perspective view of the interchangeable collar of FIG. 1C, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0033] FIG. IF depicts a top view of the interchangeable collar of FIG. IE, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0034] FIG. 1G depicts a side view of the interchangeable collar of FIG. 1C without a seal, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0035] FIG. 1H depicts an exploded view of the interchangeable collar according to one or more embodiments shown and described;

[0036] FIG. II depicts an assembled view of the interchangeable collar of FIG. 1H according to one or more embodiments shown and described;

[0037] FIG. 2A depicts an interchangeable collar with a handle as opposed to a loop strap illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1H, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0038] FIG. 2B depicts an interchangeable collar without a handle or strap, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0039] FIG. 2C depicts the interchangeable collar with ring of FIG. 2B, with a ring as opposed to the handle and loop strap engaging a smart device and the smart device shown in two different positions;

[0040] FIG. 2D depicts the interchangeable collar with the ring of FIG. 2C, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0041] FIG. 3 A depicts the lid of FIG. 1A in greater detail including a main body, a tether, and a closure shown in phantom, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0042] FIG. 3B depicts the tether and closure of FIG. 3 A moved to an opened position, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0043] FIG. 3C depicts an exploded view of the main body and tether of FIG. 3 A and 3B, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0044] FIG. 3D depicts a cross section of the lid as assembled to a base of FIG. 3 A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0045] FIG. 4 A depicts an alternative lid from that depicted in FIGS. 1 A - 3C including a main body and a tether, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0046] FIG. 4B depicts an exploded view of the lid of FIG. 4A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0047] FIG. 4C depicts an underside exploded view of the tether and the closure of FIG. 3A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0048] FIG. 4D depicts an upper perspective view of the tether and closure of FIGS. 4A-4C moved to an opened position, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0049] FIG. 5A depicts yet another alternative lid from that of FIGS. 1A-4D including a straw, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0050] FIG. 5B depicts a cross section of the lid of FIG. 5A in the closed position, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0051] FIG. 5C depicts the lid of FIG. 5 A in an opened configuration, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0052] FIG. 6A depicts yet another alternative lid from that of FIGS. 1A-5B including a collapsible spout, a main body, and a tether, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein; and

[0053] FIG. 6B depicts the collapsible spout collapsed into a closed position by the tether, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] The present disclosure is directed to various embodiments of a drinkware assembly, and in particular, a modular drinkware assembly which may include interchangeable collars and / or lids to allow a user to modify the drinkware to some configurations. For example, as will be described in greater detail herein, embodiments may include an interchangeable collar which may be exchanged for any number of interchangeable collars so as to provide a customized assembly. For example, interchangeable collars may include features which may make the drinkware assembly more useful for certain purposes. For example, the interchangeable collar may include a handle, a strap, etc. A handle may be more comfortable for a user in certain situations, while a strap may have increased utility for travel. In some embodiments the lid or portions thereof may be interchangeable with other lids which provide for different spouts, straws, openings, etc. as needed by the user. Such interchangeability may increase usability and functionality of the drinkware assembly, such as for different hot or cold drinks. For example, a simple opening may be more desirable when drinking something hot as opposed to a straw or spout when drinking something cold. Additionally, embodiments as provided herein, may include a lid having a main body, a closure, and a tether coupling the main body to the closure. In embodiments the tether may be magnetically attracted to the main body so as to maintain the closure in an open or closed position during use. Accordingly, the closure remains coupled to the main body of lid and may more easily stay in the opened or closed position until changed by a user. These and additional features and benefits will be described in greater detail below.

[0055] Referring now to FIGS. 1A and IB, a drinkware assembly 100, also referred to as a modular drinkware assembly, is generally depicted. The drinkware assembly 100 includes a base 110 and a lid 150. In embodiments, the drinkware assembly 100 further includes an interchangeable collar 120. A greater or fewer number of components or features may be included without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0056] The base 110 may generally define a fluid-holding volume 112. The fluidholding volume 112 may be suitable for holding hot and / or cool liquids. In some embodiments, the base 110 may be insulated, dual walled, or the like for maintaining liquid temperature. To that end, the base 110 may be formed of any suitable material(s) including plastic, stainless steel, foam, etc. The base 110 may have any suitable shape such as cylindrical as shown. In embodiments the base 110 may include receiving end 114 for receiving one of the lid 150, the interchangeable collar 120, or both. That is, the receiving end 114 may be sized to receive and couple to either the lid 150 or the interchangeable collar 120. In some embodiments, the receiving end 114 has a reduced diameter as opposed to the remainder of the body, such as to define a neck region. In other embodiments, the receiving end 114 does not have a reduced diameter relative to the remainder of the body.

[0057] The interchangeable collar 120 may be coupled to the base 110, such as at the receiving end 114 of the base 110 via any coupling technique, such as via threaded connection, press fit, or the like. Referring to FIGS. 1C and 3D, the interchangeable collar 120 may include a first connecting portion 122 for connecting to the receiving end 114 of the base 110. FIG. 1C depicts the interchangeable collar 120 in isolation and illustrates the first connecting portion 122 being a threaded connector. In embodiments, the first connecting portion 122 may include a seal 123 (depicted best in FIG. 3D), such as an O-ring or similar type seal for sealing against an interior surface or land of the base 110 to prevent leakage between the first connector and the receiving end 114 of the base 110.

[0058] A second connecting portion 124 may extend from the first connecting portion122. The second connecting portion 124 may be sized to receive a lid connector 151 of the lid 150. In embodiments, an opening of the second connecting portion 124 maybe the same size as an opening of the receiving end 114 of the base 110, thereby allowing the lid 150 to couple to either the interchangeable collar 120 or the base 110. The second connecting portion 124 may include threading to threadingly engage the lid 150. Alternatively, the lid 150 may be press-fit into the second connecting portion 124. In embodiments, the second connecting portion 124 may include a lid seal 125 for sealing against the lid 150 thereby preventing leakage between the interchangeable collar 120 and the lid 150. For example, the lid seal 125 may be an O-ring or similar structure. The seal 125 may be rubber, elastomer, silicone, metallic or other material capable of sealing and may also be a food grade suitable. In some embodiments, the lid seal 125 may be included as part of the lid 150 as opposed to the interchangeable collar 120.

[0059] The first connecting portion 122 and the second connecting portion 124 may be connected by an angled portion which reduces in diameter between the second connecting portion 124 and the first connecting portion 122. Accordingly in view of the above description and as depicted most clearly in FIG. 3D, when assembled, the first connecting portion 122 of the interchangeable collar 120 extends into the base 110 and the second connecting portion 124 of the interchangeable collar 120 extends above the base 110 and receives a lid connector 151 of the lid 150. In embodiments, the interchangeable collar 120 includes an outer wall 126, the outer wall 126 may form part of the first connecting portion 122 and / or the second connecting portion 124. When assembly the outer wall 126 may be substantially flush with a lid outer wall 156 of the lid 150, a base outer wall 113 of the base 110, or both, as depicted. Such flush assembly may provide for a smooth and visually appealing transition between each component. Further, in some embodiments, when the interchangeable collar 120 is removed, the lid 150 may be placed directly on the base 110.

[0060] In embodiments, formed on or within the outer wall 126 of the interchangeable collar 120 may be a texture 127 patterned thereon or therein. For example, the texture 127 may include a plurality of ridges, bumps, valleys, indents, knurling, or the like formed on or within the outer wall 126 to provide a texture thereon. The texture 127 may improve a user’s ability to grip the interchangeable collar 120 allowing for ease in twisting or grasping the interchangeable collar 120.

[0061] In embodiments, the interchangeable collar 120 may have or be able to receive one or more accessories. Referring to FIGS. 1A-1I, the interchangeable collar 120 may include a loop strap 130. In embodiments the loop strap 130 may be a strap enclosable in a loop 131 form, such as may be used for carrying or hanging the drinkware assembly 100. In embodiments, the loop strap 130 may have a first end 132 and a second end 134. In the depicted embodiment, the first end 132 may be coupled to the outer wall 126, such as via hinge connection formed on or coupled to the outer wall 126. For example, a first arm and a second arm may extend from the outer wall 126 and a bar may be held therebetween. The first end 132 may wrap around the bar and may be rotatable about the bar. Accordingly, the loop strap 130 may pivot about an axis of the hinge connection.

[0062] In embodiments, the second end 134 and the first end 132 of the loop strap 130 may include a coupling that removable fixes the loop strap 130 in to a loop configuration. That is, the coupling may couple the first end 132 to the second end 134 and form the loop 131. For example, second end 134 may include a pin attachment 136 which may be pushed through an opening 135 formed in the first end 132. A lip 137 of the pin attachment 136 may engage the first end 132 around the opening 135 to hold the second end 134 to the first end 132. The loop strap 130, pin attachment 136, the opening 135, and / or the lip 137 may be flexible. The pin attachment 136, such as the lip 137 may be oversized relative to the opening 135. The lip 137 and pin attachment 136 may be flexed to pass through the opening 135 and may expand once through the opening 135 to retain the first and second ends 132, 134 together. Other coupling techniques are contemplated including snap connections, other fasteners, or the like. It is contemplated that by allowing the second end 134 to be uncoupled from the first end 132, the loop 131 may be attached to different structures (e.g., fences, such as fences at ballparks, rails, rods, etc.) without needing to pass the loop strap 130 over an end of the structure.

[0063] The loop strap 130 may be formed of any suitable material or combination of materials. For example, the loop strap 130 may be formed of a flexible plastic, rubber, leather, woven fabric, etc.

[0064] With additional reference now to FIGS. 1H and II, the interchangeable collar 120 may be utilized with an additional modular functionality. The interchangeable collar 120 is shown with an infuser 1143. The infuser 1143 may be used to house tea bags, fruit, flavor packs, or other such materials that may be desirable for infusion with a drinking fluid, such as water. The infuser 1143 is seated in the interchangeable collar and may be removed when not needed. For example, in some embodiments, the flow reducer 143 (FIG. ID) may be removed and replaced by the infuser as desired, and subsequently the infuser removed and replaced by the flow reducer 143 or other such structure.

[0065] The instant infuser 1143 may comprise a flange 1145 that surrounds an upper end of the infuser. The infuser 1143 may also comprise one or more screens 1146 depending from the flange 1145. The screen 1146 may be a wire mesh or may be a material that is perforated. The apertures or perforations may be of same sizes, or varying sizes within a specific size range desired. Additionally, the screen 1146 may be of various sizes. The screen 1146 allows water or other fluid to pass through to the volume wherein a tea bag or fruit, for example, may be located. The screen 1146 comprises a circular cross-section but may be any of various cross-sectional shapes that fit through the collar 120 and within the base 110. Additionally, the screen 1146 may be of various lengths that extend through the collar and into the base. The infuser 1143 has a length that allows the collar 120 to be positioned on the base 110, without the infuser 1143 bottoming out on at the bottom inner surface of the base 110. The screen 1146 may be entirely porous or may have areas of solid material amongst the perforations for rigidity. Likewise, the infuser 1143 may further comprise an infuser bottom or base 1147 at the lower end of the infuser and the infuser base 1147 may be porous, solid, or a combination. In some embodiments, the screen 1146 of the infuser 1143 may be a stainless steel or other food grade material. The flange 1145 may be formed of, among other things, rubber, plastic, or the like. In some embodiments, the flange 1145 may be defined by a metallic portion that is coated or covered with a rubber or plastic material.

[0066] Extending from the flange 1145 may be teeth or protrusions 1148. The teeth or protrusions 1148 may be one or more teeth or protrusions which are sized andspaced to align with interior recesses 138 of the collar 120. The teeth or protrusions 1148 and the recesses 138 may be aligned and similarly sized and spaced so that the teeth 1148 are received by the recesses 138 in specific positions. The teeth or protrusions 1148 may extend away from the flange 1145 and have a curved peripheral edge. Once the teeth or protrusions 1148 are aligned with the recesses 138, the teeth 1148 may be seated therein. The teeth 1148 may be frictionally engaged or have an additional tab or other engagement feature or mechanisms to mateably engagement and retain the flange 1145 and teeth 1148 in the collar 120. Likewise, other features than the teeth may be used to mateably engage the infuser 1143 with the interchangeable collar 120.

[0067] Additionally, the upper end of the infuser screen 1146 and flange 1145 may be open to receive contents for the infuser as well as a cap 1150. The cap 1150 may enclose the infuser upper end so that contents within the infuser 1143 cannot escape when the drinking assembly 100 is turned up to drink. The cap 1150 may have a peripheral edge or rim and a downwardly depending sidewall from the bottom surface of the cap 1150. The peripheral edge may have a size that is slightly larger than the opening at the upper end of the screen, so that the peripheral edge of the cap 1150 engages the outer edge of the flange 1145 when the cap 1150 is seated in the flange 1145. Additionally, the sidewall of the cap may engage the flange or upper end of the screen 1146 structure so that there is a sealing engagement limiting leakage at the upper end of the infuser 1143. In some embodiments, the screen 1146 may include a shoulder and sidewall which engage the downward sidewall of the cap 1150, in order to improve sealing engagement.

[0068] Referring briefly to FIG. 2A, in another embodiment instead of the loop strap 130, a handle 140 may extend from the outer wall 126. The handle 140 may take various forms. In embodiments, the handle 140 is rigid and may be integrally formed with the interchangeable collar 120. In some embodiments, the handle 140 may include a grip 142. In some embodiments, the grip 142 may be of softer material than the rest of the handle 140, such as a rubber or foam- type material for added comfort.

[0069] In some embodiments, the interchangeable collar 120 may have neither a handle 140 nor a loop strap 130. In such embodiments, the texture 127 may extend 360 degrees around the outer wall 126.

[0070] The interchangeable collar 120 may be formed of any suitable materials or combinations of materials such as plastics, rubber, metal, etc. and / or combinations of one or more materials.

[0071] In embodiments, it is contemplated that a user may have various interchangeable collars and may switch them out as desired. Accordingly, a user may customize the drinkware assembly 100 to their liking or the particular situation. For example, if riding a bike, the loop strap 130 may be useful for allowing a user to have the drinkware assembly 100 hang from the handle bars. When holding a very hot or cold drink a handle 140 may be a more comfortable way to hold the drinkware assembly 100. In some cases, it may not be desirable to have either the handle 140 or the loop strap 130, such as when riding in a car with the intention of placing the drinkware assembly 100 in a cup holder.

[0072] In embodiments, the interchangeable collar 120 may also be compatible with additional accessories. For example and with reference to FIGS. ID- IF, the interchangeable collar 120 may include one or more interior recesses 138 formed therein (e.g., two or more, three or more, etc.). In the particular embodiment, the interchangeable collar 120 includes four interior recesses 138. An accessory may be received within the interior recesses 138 and extend diametrically across the interior of the interchangeable collar 120. For example, a flow reducer 143 may be mounted, such as removably mounted, to the interchangeable collar 120 via the one or more interior recesses 138 to reduce a flow of fluid to the lid 150. In embodiments, the flow reducer 143 may have one or more openings 145 formed therethrough which operate to reduce flow through the interchangeable collar 120 to an amount lesser than flow without the flow reducer. The flow reducer 143 may also function as a retainer, such as an ice dam or blocker, or a flow regulator.

[0073] In embodiments, the lid seal 125 may extend over the one or more recesses such that when the lid 150 is in place the accessory or flow reducer 143 which extendsinto the recesses 138 is compressed between the lid seal 125 and the interchangeable collar 120. Such as illustrated in FIG. 3D.

[0074] It is noted that the above-described the interchangeable collar 120 may be used in any of the embodiments described herein.

[0075] As noted above, the drinkware assembly 100 includes a lid 150. In various embodiments, there may be a plurality of lids having different features, which may be interchangeable with one another with the base 110 and the interchangeable collars 120. In embodiments, the lid 150 may couple to the interchangeable collar 120 or directly to base 110 when the interchangeable collar 120 is not in use. The lid 150 may generally include a main body 152, a tether 160, and a closure 170. As will be described in various embodiments, the tether 160 may be magnetically coupled to the main body 152 to maintain the tether 160 in a desired position.

[0076] Referring additionally to FIGS. 2C and 2D, two figures are shown depicting a further embodiment of a collar 120. The collar 120 of these figs has a ring extending from an outer surface of the collar 120. With reference to FIG. 2D first, the drink assembly 100 is shown with the ring 129 in the in an upward position. The ring 129 is movably connected to the collar 120 and may be used to carry the drink assembly, for example by one or more fingers. The ring 129 is generally circular but may also be of various shapes that cooperate with a smart device as described further herein. Thus, the term ring should not be considered limiting as other shapes which may be used to carry the drink assembly or retain such smart device fall within the scope of the term.

[0077] Additionally, the ring 129 may be magnetized to retain a peripheral device, such as a smart phone or other smart device for example. The ring 129 may be pivotable between at least two positions. For example, as the ring 129 is shown in an up position (FIG. 2D) but may be rotated about a horizontal axis to a downward position (FIG. 2C). The ring 129 may have frictional engagement with the collar 120 as well to aid in retaining the ring 129 between the first and second maximum movement positions. The collar 120 and ring 129 may be connected at a joint 128 which allows movement of the ring 129 about one or more axes relative to the collar 120. In the depicted embodiment, for example, collar 120 may move between upperand lower positions about a first horizontal axis that is generally tangent to the outer surface of the collar 120. Further, the ring 129 may also be movable about a second axis that extends radially relative to the collar 120. For example, when the ring 129 is horizontally positioned, the collar 120 may rotate about the second radially extending axis.

[0078] The collar 120 may comprise one or more axes defining the joint 128 for adjustment of the ring 129. The collar 120 may comprise a pair of mounts 126a, 126b which extend from the outer surface of the collar 120. Additionally, a crossbar 128c may extend between the pair of mounts 126a, 126b all of which together define the first pivot axis. This first pivot axis 128a extends generally parallel to a tangent line of the collar and allows pivoting of the ring 129 up and down about a horizontal axis. The joint 128 may also comprise the second axis 128b, which is generally radially extending relative to the collar 120 and the ring 129 so that the ring 129 may rotate about the second axis 128b. The second axis may also be perpendicular to the first axis 128a of the joint 128, and the second axis 128b may be defined at the connection of the crossbar 128c and the collar 120.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 2C, the drink assembly 100 is shown with a smart phone positioned in either of two positions. The position depicts the smart phone may be rectangular with a long axis. In one position, the phone is shown with the long axis extending horizontally, while in a second position, the phone is shown with the long axis extending vertically. Additionally, the ring 129 may be adjusted to further vary the orientation of the smart phone (peripheral) and the smart phone (peripheral relative to the drink assembly 100.

[0080] Referring now to FIGS. 3A-3D, the main body 152 of the lid 150 may be one integral component or multiple components coupled to one another. In general the main body 152 includes a base body portion 158 couplable to the interchangeable collar 120 or the base 110. For example, the base body portion 158 may include the lid connector 151 which, for example, threadingly engages the interchangeable collar 120 or, when desired, the base 110. That is, the base body portion 158 may have a first outer diameter du sized to be received within the interchangeable collar 120 or the base 110. Accordingly, an inner diameter dcof the interchangeable collar 120 and aninner diameter ds of the base 110 where the base body portion of the lid 150 would engage may be equal to one another. In embodiments, to provide a more visually pleasing appearance, an outer diameters of the lid 150, the interchangeable collar 120, and the base 110 may be substantially equal to one another to provide a substantially smooth transition between each part. For example, the outer wall 126 of the interchangeable collar may be substantially flush with a lid outer wall 156, a base outer wall 113, or both.

[0081] In embodiments, the main body 152 may include or define a fluid outlet aperture 154. As will be described in greater detail below, the fluid outlet aperture 154 may take on a variety of forms, such as a spout, recessed opening, raised opening, straw opening, of the like. In embodiments, the main body 152 may include a fluid outlet body portion 155 which may be integral with the base body portion 158 or is received within an opening 153 of the base body portion 158 and coupled thereto. Accordingly, in embodiments, the fluid outlet body portion 155 defines or provides the fluid outlet aperture 154. The fluid outlet body portion 155 may be sized and shaped to be received within the opening 135 of the main body 152 and seal thereto. For example, a fluid-tight seal may be formed between the fluid outlet body portion 155 and the base body portion 158, such as via a rubber seal or the like. In embodiments the fluid outlet body portion 155 may snap or interference or pressure fit to the base body portion 158. In embodiments, one or more portions of the lid 150 may be formed of or include a malleable material such as rubber to provide fluid-tight seals.

[0082] Referring to FIG. 3 A and 3B, the main body 152 may include a main body magnet 172 embedded within the main body 152. For example, the base body portion 158 may include a magnet receiving aperture 174 within which the main body magnet 172 (such as a disk magnet, square magnet, or other shape magnet may be positioned). In embodiments, such as shown the fluid outlet body portion 155 may include an extension part 157 that extends under a portion of the base body portion 158, such that the main body magnet 172 is maintained in position by the base body portion 158. The main body magnet 172 may be a permanent magnet or a non-permanent magnet magnetic material which becomes magnetized when in proximity to a magnet.

[0083] Still referring to FIGS 3 A - 3D, the fluid outlet aperture 154 is illustrated as a raised opening or spout. In embodiments, the fluid outlet aperture 154 may be round as depicted and threaded on an inner diameter of the fluid outlet aperture 154. The closure 170 may thread onto the fluid outlet aperture 154 to seal or close off the fluid outlet aperture 154 when not being used. For example, the closure 170 may have an outer part 173 and an inner part 177 concentrically positioned within the outer part 173. The inner part 177 may be externally threaded to engage the internal threading of the fluid outlet aperture. Accordingly, the inner part 177 may act as an internal plug or seal on the closure 170. The closure 170 may be moved from a closed position, coupled to the fluid outlet aperture 154 to an opened position where the closure 170 is moved away from the fluid outlet aperture 154 such as to allow a user to drink from the fluid outlet aperture 154.

[0084] In embodiments, the tether 160 couples the closure 170 to the lid 150, such as the main body 152 (e.g., the base body portion 158) of the lid 150. The tether 160 may be an elongate substrate which is pivotally or rotationally coupled to the main body 152 so as to be able to move from the opened position, such as illustrated in FIG. 3B to the closed position such as illustrated in FIG. 3 A. For example, the tether 160 may be coupled to the base body portion 158 above the fluid outlet body portion 155, such that when in the closed position, the tether 160, e.g., the elongate substrate, overlies the fluid outlet body portion 155. In embodiments, the tether 160 is coupled to the base body portion 158 via a pin hinge. For example, a first pin 163a and a second pin 163b may extend from the tether 160 to engage mating apertures formed in the base body portion 158. For example, the mating apertures may be formed on sidewall of a recessed area as shown. In embodiments, the first pin 163a and the second pin 163b may have a reduced diameter at the portion which engages the base body portion 158, which may allow the connection of the pins to be snapped into place within the mating apertures of the base body portion 158. For example, the pins may be coupled to or integral with the tether and extend to engage with the base body portion 158, such as in vertical walls 159a, 159b. In some embodiments, a single pin may extend through the body of the tether as opposed to two separate pins as depicted.

[0085] In embodiments, the tether 160 may define a closure opening 171 for receiving the closure 170. The closure 170 may rotate within the closure opening 171, but remains held by the tether 160. For example, a flange and recess engagement may allow the closure 170 to be mounted to the tether 160 within the closure opening 170 while allowing the closure 170 to rotate.

[0086] In embodiments, a tether magnet 175 (such as a disk magnet, square magnet, or any shape magnet) may be positioned or embedded within the tether 160. For example, the tether 160 may have a recess formed therein within which the tether magnet 175 is positioned. The tether magnet 175 may be a permanent or nonpermanent magnetic material. When the tether 160 is pivoted to the opened position, the tether magnet 175 may be aligned with and magnetically attracted to the main body magnet 172 to maintain the tether 160 and the closure 170 in the opened configuration. That is, the poles of the tether magnet 175 and the main body magnet 172 may be arranged such that when moved to the opened position, opposite poles of the magnet face one another, thereby attracting one another toward each other. Accordingly, when a user tilts the drinkware assembly 100 to drink, the tether 160 and closure 170 will not move to the closed position until operated by a user to overcome the magnetic attraction.

[0087] In embodiments, the tether 160 may be held in the closed position via magnetic attraction. For example, another main body magnet 172’ may be embedded within the main body 152 such as within the fluid outlet body portion 155, such that when the tether 160 and closure 170 are pivoted to the closed position the tether magnet 175 may magnetically attract to the other main body magnet 172’. Other arrangements are contemplated and possible.

[0088] In embodiments, the tether 160 may have a tab 161 configured to engage with the main body 152 of the lid 150, such as the base body portion 158. For example, the tab 161 may mate with a recess or another tab of the base body portion 158, and snap into place when moved to the closed position.

[0089] As also shown in the section view of FIG. 3D, is can be seen that the outer diameter of the collar 120 may be the same as the neck or outer wall 113 of the base110. The lower end of each of the lid 150 and the collar 120 have the same profile and size, so that either or both may be connected to the base 110.

[0090] FIGS. 4A-4D depicts yet another lid 250 which may be interchangeable with any of the lids described herein. The lid 250 may include similar components as described above, which operate in a similar manner, accordingly, the description above is applicable to the present embodiment unless otherwise noted or apparent. For example, the lid 250 includes a main body 252, a closure 270, and a tether 260.

[0091] As with the embodiment above, the main body 252 of the lid 250 may be one integral component or multiple components coupled to one another. In general the main body 252 includes a base body portion 258 couplable to the interchangeable collar 120 or the base 110. For example, the base body portion 258 may include a threaded portion which threadingly engages the interchangeable collar 120 as illustrated in FIG. 4D or, when desired, the base 110.

[0092] In embodiments, the main body 252 may include or define a fluid outlet aperture 254. In the illustrated embodiment, the fluid outlet aperture 254 is recessed as opposed to the previous embodiment where the fluid outlet aperture 154 was a spout and extended from the surface of the main body 152. In some embodiments, the fluid outlet aperture 254 is not recessed. As in the embodiment above, the main body 252 may include a fluid outlet body portion 255 which may be integral with the base body portion 258 or is received within a recessed area 261 so as to be arranged within opening 256 of the base body portion 258. The fluid outlet body portion 255 defines or provides the fluid outlet aperture 254. The fluid outlet body portion 255 may seal against the base body portion 258 in a manner such as described above. In embodiments, the fluid outlet body portion 255 may snap into connection with the base body portion 258 such as via interlocking tab(s) and recess(es).

[0093] Similar to the embodiment above, the main body 252 may include a magnet receiving aperture 274 within which a main body magnet 272 may be positioned. In embodiments, such as shown the fluid outlet body portion 255 may include an extension part 257, depicted in FIG. 4B, that extends under a portion of the base body portion 258, such that the main body magnet 272 is maintained in position by the basebody portion 258. The main body magnet 272 may be a permanent magnet or a nonpermanent magnet magnetic material which becomes magnetized when in proximity to a magnet. In embodiments, the main body magnet may be embedded within the main body, such as the base body portion 258 or the fluid outlet body portion 255, such that the magnet is not visible to a user. Such may also protect the magnet from getting lost, for example.

[0094] As noted above, the fluid outlet aperture 254 is a recessed opening with a recessed area 259 arranged around the fluid outlet aperture 254. The closure 270 may be an extension that extends into the fluid outlet aperture 254 and seals against edges of the fluid outlet aperture 254 to provide a fluid-tight seal. The closure 270 may be moved from a closed position, positioned within the fluid outlet aperture 254, to an opened position where the closure 270 is moved away from the fluid outlet aperture 254. In embodiments, the tether 260 couples the closure 270 to the lid 250, such as the main body portion 258 of the lid 250. The tether 260 may be an elongate substrate which is pivotally coupled to the main body 252 such as the base body portion 158 so as to be able to move from the opened position, such as illustrated in FIG. 4D to a closed position such as illustrated in FIG. 4A. For example, the tether 260 may be coupled to the base body portion 258 above the fluid outlet body portion 255, such that when in the closed position, the tether 260, e.g., the elongate substrate, overlies the fluid outlet body portion 255.

[0095] Referring specifically to FIGS. 4B and 4C, in embodiments, the tether 260 may define a closure mount 275 for receiving the closure 270. For example, the closure 270 may include a closure body 280 sized and shaped to be received within the closure mount 275 such as via an interference or similar fit. When moved to the closed position both the closure mount 275 and the closure body 280 may be received within the recessed area 259 and assist in providing a fluid-tight seal. Additionally, a vent plug 281 of some embodiments is shown for cooperation with a vent 282, which improves fluid flow from the fluid outlet aperture 254.

[0096] As in embodiments above, a tether magnet 276 (such as a disk magnet, square magnet, other shape magnet, or the like) may be positioned or embedded within the tether 260. For example, the tether 260 may have a recess formed therein within whichthe tether magnet 276 is positioned. That is the tether 260 may have a magnet recess 278 depicted in FIG. 4C, and the tether magnet 276 may fit within the magnet recess 278 and be held in place by the closure body 280, for example. The tether magnet 276 may be a permanent or non-permanent magnetic material. When the tether 260 is pivoted to the opened position, the tether magnet 276 may be aligned with and magnetically attracted to the main body magnet 272 to maintain the tether 260 and the closure 270 in the opened configuration. Similar to embodiments described above, it is also contemplated that the tether 260 may be magnetically attracted to a magnet within the main body 252 when in the closed position.

[0097] FIG. 5A-5C illustrate yet another embodiment of a lid 350 which may be used in place of any of the lids described herein. The lid 350 may include similar component as described above, which operate in a similar manner, accordingly, the description above is applicable to the present embodiment unless otherwise noted or apparent. For example, the lid 350 includes a main body 352, a closure 370, and a tether 360. However, in the present embodiment, within the fluid outlet aperture 354 is a collapsible straw 380.

[0098] As with the embodiment above, the main body 352 of the lid 350 may be one integral component or multiple components coupled to one another. In general the main body 352 includes a base body portion 358 couplable to the interchangeable collar 120 or the base 110. For example, the base body portion 358 may include a threaded portion which threadingly engages the interchangeable collar 120 as illustrated in FIG. 5B or, when desired, the base 1 10.

[0099] In embodiments, and with reference to FIG. 5B and 5C, the main body 352 may include or define a fluid outlet aperture 354. In the illustrated embodiment, the fluid outlet aperture 354 is recessed. As in the embodiment above, the main body 352 may include a fluid outlet body portion 355 which may be integral with the base body portion 358 or is received within a recessed area 359 so as to be arranged within an opening of the base body portion 358. The fluid outlet body portion 355 defines or provides the fluid outlet aperture 354, on or within which collapsible straw 380 may be positioned. The fluid outlet body portion 355 may seal against the base body portion 358 such as described above.

[0100] Similar to the embodiment above, the main body 352 may include a main body magnet 372 embedded within the main body 352. For example, the base body portion 158 or the fluid outlet body portion 355 may include a magnet receiving aperture within which the main body magnet 172 (such as a disk magnet or other magnet may be positioned). As in embodiments above, the main body magnet 172 may be a permanent magnet or a non-permanent magnet magnetic material which becomes magnetized when in proximity to a magnet.

[0101] In the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 5A-5C, the fluid outlet aperture 354 is shaped to receive and seal against the collapsible straw 380. The closure 370 in the present embodiment may be integral with the tether 360 such as an engagement surface, which directs the collapsible straw 380 to bend. Upon bending, the collapsible straw 380 may substantially seal against itself to provide a fluid-tight seal. That is in embodiments, merely causing the collapsible straw 380 to bend may seal the straw in a closed position.

[0102] Accordingly, as in embodiments above, the closure 370 may be moved from a closed position, engaged with the collapsible straw 380 and an opened position where the closure 370 is moved away from the collapsible straw 380 allowing the straw to expand or spring upward thereby opening the fluid flow path through the collapsible straw 380. Similar to the embodiments above, the tether 160 may be an elongate substrate which is pivotally coupled to the main body 352 so as to be able to move from an open position, such as illustrated in FIG. 5C to a closed position such as illustrated in FIG. 5A. For example, the tether 160 may be coupled to the base body portion 358 above the fluid outlet body portion 355, such that when in the closed position, the tether 360, e.g., the elongate substrate, overlies the fluid outlet body portion 355.

[0103] As in embodiments above, a tether magnet 376 (such as a disk magnet, square magnet, or any shape magnet or the like) may be positioned or embedded within the tether 360. For example, the tether 360 may have a recess 378, depicted in FIG. 5C formed therein within which the tether magnet 376 is positioned. That is the tether 360 may have a magnet recess 378 depicted in FIG. 5B, and the tether magnet 376 may fit within the magnet recess 378. The tether magnet 276 may be a permanent ornon-permanent magnetic material. When the tether 360 is pivoted to the opened position, the tether magnet 376 may be aligned with and magnetically attracted to the main body magnet 372 to maintain the tether 360 and the closure 370 in the opened configuration. Similar to embodiments described above, it is also contemplated that the tether 360 may be magnetically attracted to a magnet within the main body 252 when in the closed position.

[0104] Referring now to FIG. 6A and 6B, yet another lid 450 is depicted. The lid 150 may be interchangeable with any of the lids described above. However, in the present embodiment, the lid 450 includes a collapsible spout 467. The collapsible spout 467 may be pivotally coupled to the main body 452 of the lid 450 within recess 480. A tether 460 such as described above may be pivotally coupled to the collapsible spout 467. In particular, the tether may have a closure 470 coupled thereto that when moved to the closed configuration, overlies an opening of the collapsible spout. 467. In the closed position, the tether 460 may be supported on surface 455 which may ramp upward to a flat area, as shown, such that the upper surface of the tether 460 is flush with lid top surface 458. In the depicted embodiment, the tether 460 is pivotally coupled to the collapsible spout 467 such that the tether 460 and closure 470 may be moved to a position out of the way of access to the collapsible spout 467 to allow a user to drink from the spout. In the present embodiment, the tether 460 may or may not be magnetically coupled to main body 452 or portions thereof such as described in the embodiments above.

[0105] It should now be understood that embodiments of the present disclosure and directed to drinkware assemblies. In particular, embodiments are directed to modular drinkware assemblies which may include interchangeable collars and / or lids, which allow a user to modify the drinkware to a desired configuration. Additionally, embodiments as provided herein, may include a lid having a main body, a closure, and a tether coupling the main body to the closure. In embodiments the tether may be magnetically attracted to the main body so as to maintain the closure in an open or closed position during use. Accordingly, the closure remains coupled to the main body of lid and may more easily stay in the open or closed position until changed by a user.

[0106] It is noted that the terms "substantially" and "about" may be utilized herein to represent the inherent degree of uncertainty that may be attributed to any quantitative comparison, value, measurement, or other representation. These terms are also utilized herein to represent the degree by which a quantitative representation may vary from a stated reference without resulting in a change in the basic function of the subject matter at issue.

[0107] While particular embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter. Moreover, although various aspects of the claimed subject matter have been described herein, such aspects need not be utilized in combination. It is therefore intended that the appended claims cover all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of the claimed subject matter.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A modular drinkware assembly comprising: a base defining a fluid-holding volume; a lid comprising a fluid outlet aperture, the lid being directly couplable to the base; and an interchangeable collar of a plurality of interchangeable collars, the interchangeable collar removably coupling the base to the lid, wherein any other one of the plurality of interchangeable collars is configured to be interchanged with the interchangeable collar to removably couple the lid to the base.

2. The modular drinkware assembly of claim 1, wherein the interchangeable collar comprises a first connecting portion extending into the base and a second connecting portion extending above the base and receiving a lid connector of the lid.

3. The modular drinkware assembly of claim 1, wherein the interchangeable collar comprises an outer wall which is substantially flush with a lid outer wall, a base outer wall, or both.

4. The modular drinkware assembly of claim 1, wherein the interchangeable collar comprises an outer wall having a texture patterned thereon.

5. The modular drinkware assembly of claim 1, wherein the interchangeable collar comprises a loop strap.

6. The modular drinkware assembly of claim 5, wherein the loop strap comprises a coupling removably fixing the loop strap into a loop configuration.

7. The modular drinkware assembly of claim 1, wherein the interchangeable collar comprises a handle.

8. The modular drinkware assembly of Claim 1, further comprising a joint at an external surface of said interchangeable collar and a magnet ring connected to said joint, wherein said ring is moveable to carry the drinkware assembly or magnetically attach a peripheral.

9. The modular drinkware assembly of claim 1, wherein the interchangeable collar comprises one or more interior recesses for removably receiving an accessory.

10. The modular drinkware assembly of claim 9, further comprising a flow reducer removably mounted to one or more interior recesses of the interchangeable collar.

11. The modular drinkware assembly of Claim 9, further comprising an infuser having a flange and a plurality of teeth which are sized and spaced for engagement with said one or more interior recesses.

12. The modular drinkware assembly of Claim 11, further comprising a cap which is positioned at an upper end of said infuser.

13. A drinkware assembly comprising: a base defining a fluid-holding volume; anda lid coupled to the base and comprising: a main body having a fluid outlet aperture; a tether; and a closure coupled to the tether, the tether and the closure moveable between an opened position and a closed position, wherein the tether is magnetically coupled to the main body in the opened position, the closed position, or both.

14. The drinkware assembly of claim 10, wherein the tether comprises a tether magnet embedded therein and the main body comprises a main body magnet embedded therein, wherein rotation of the tether from the closed position to the open position aligns and attracts the tether magnet to the main body magnet.

15. The drinkware assembly of claim 10, wherein the lid further comprises a straw and the tether collapses the straw in the closed position.

16. The drinkware assembly of claim 12, wherein the straw is pivotally coupled to the main body and the tether.

17. The drinkware assembly of claim 10, further comprising a collar coupling the lid to the base.

18. A modular drinkware assembly comprising: a base defining a fluid-holding volume; a lid coupled to the base and comprising:a main body having a fluid outlet aperture; a tether; and a closure coupled to the tether, wherein the closer and the tether are moveable between an opened position and a closed position, wherein the tether is magnetically coupled to the main body in the opened position, the closed position, or both; and an interchangeable collar of a plurality of interchangeable collars, the interchangeable collar removably coupling the base to the lid, wherein any other one of the plurality of interchangeable collars is configured to be interchanged with the interchangeable collar to removably couple the base to the lid.

19. The modular drinkware assembly of claim 15, wherein the plurality of interchangeable collars comprises: a handle collar; a loop strap collar; and, a magnetic carry ring.

20. The modular drinkware assembly of claim 15, wherein the interchangeable collar comprises an outer wall having a texture patterned thereon.

21. The modular drinkware assembly of claim 15, wherein the tether comprises a tether magnet embedded therein and the main body comprises a main body magnet embedded therein, wherein rotation of the tether from the closed position to the open position aligns and attracts the tether magnet to the main body magnet.

22. The modular drinkware assembly of claim 15, wherein the tether is pivotally coupled to the main body of the lid.

23. The modular drinkware assembly of claim 15, further comprising a flow reducer removably mounted to one or more interior recesses of the interchangeable collar.

Images