Lid assembly for a drinking container

Abstract

The present invention relates to a lid assembly for a drinking container. An aspect of the present invention relates lid assembly (1) for a drinking container (2) having a container body (5) for containing a liquid, the lid assembly (1) comprising: - a lid housing (10) configured to engage an opening (6) of the container body (5) to retain the liquid within the container (2); - a first opening (12) in the lid housing (10) for dispensing the liquid across a rim (13) of the lid housing (10); - a first cover (25) for covering the first opening (12) in a first position and for allowing access to the first opening (12) in a second position; - a first straw (19) for dispensing the liquid through the first straw (19); and - a second opening (18) for receiving the first straw (19). The lid housing (10) further comprising: - a recess (17), wherein the second opening (18) for receiving the first straw (19) is located in the bottom of the recess (17); and - a second cover (40) for covering the recess (17) in a first position and for allowing access to the recess (17) and the second opening (18) in a second position.

Description

[0001] LID ASSEMBLY FOR A DRINKING CONTAINER

[0002] Technical field

[0003] The present invention relates to a lid assembly for a drinking container. More particularly, the present invention relates to a lid assembly having a double drinking function. Furthermore, the present invention also relates to a drinking container including such a lid assembly.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Drinking containers often comprise a container body and a lid assembly. The container body encloses a holding volume for holding a drinking liquid and has top opening via which a drinking liquid can be brought into the holding volume and can be removed from the holding volume. The lid assembly is provided for being mounted on the container body at the top opening to close off the top opening and prevent drinking liquid from spilling out of the holding volume.

[0006] The lid assembly may be a simple cap which is screwable in the top opening of the container body. There do however exist more complex lid assemblies which provide a drinking opening through which a user of the drinking container can drink the drinking liquid present in the holding volume of the container body, and some kind of mechanism to open and close the drinking opening. However, with the increased complexity of the lid assembly it becomes more difficult to properly clean its different components to prevent contamination of the drinking liquid in the drinking container.

[0007] Other types of lid assemblies for drinking containers include openings for allowing controlled passage of the drinking liquid to a user of the drinking container. In some cases, the opening is a hole or a slot for receiving a drinking straw. In other cases, the opening is a hole or a slot for sipping directly through the lid. Various forms of such drinking vessels are known in the art.

[0008] For example, W02016117850A1 describes a container having a built-in filter installed at the lower end of a stopper which is inserted into the beverage container; a straw connected to the upper end of the filter; and discharge holes connected through the outside and the inside of the filter respectively such that a beverage passing through the filter and a beverage not passing through the filter are discharged through separate discharge holes.

[0009] US2022354282A1 describes a cup lid disposed with a direct drinking mouth assembly that includes a direct drinking mouth flap, a direct drinking mouth plug and an air inlet plug, and a and a drinking nozzle assembly that includes a drinking nozzle flap, a drinking nozzle seat, a drinking nozzle and an air inlet valve. US10512347B1 describes a dual-dispensing lid that includes a pour orifice, a pour spout corresponding with the pour orifice, and a pour cap selectively detachable from direct contact with the pour spout.

[0010] Although such type of lid assemblies are typically configured for a single mode of access, such as with a straw or with a drinking spout, drinking containers with a lid having a dual mode of access are known. Unfortunately, such drinking containers often require the strawto be removed from the lid before the opening in the lid to be closed. Other types of drinking containers may facilitate for the straw to remain inside the drinking container and lid assembly, but this often increases the total height of the drinking container. Additionally, when closing the opening while still containing the straw, it is often difficult to prevent liquid from spilling from the straw resulting in leakage when reopening the drinking straw opening.

[0011] Yet other types of drinking containers may include assemblies with flexible straws designed to be bent or compressed back into the container. However, the bends in such straws often promote bacterial growth by allowing water and saliva to remain stagnant, making them difficult to properly remove and clean. Additionally, the materials used for flexible straws are more prone to breakage due to wear and tear resulting from repeated bending during use. Such damage may compromise the structural integrity of the straw, leading to reduced performance, leakage, or the need for frequent replacement.

[0012] The present invention thus aims to provide a drinking container and / or lid assembly that solves at least some of the abovementioned problems. Special attention is paid to functionality, durability, reliability, cleanability, hygiene, simplicity, and user-friendliness.

[0013] SUMMARY

[0014] To meet the above needs, the invention providesfor a lid assembly for a drin king container having a container body for containing a liquid, the lid assembly comprising: a lid housing configured to engage an opening of the container body to retain the liquid within the container; a first opening in the lid housing for dispensing the liquid across a rim of the lid housing; a first cover for covering the first opening in a first position and for allowing access to the first opening in a second position; a first straw for dispensing the liquid through the first straw; and a second opening for receiving the first straw. The lid further comprising a recess wherein the second opening for receiving the first straw is located in the bottom of the recess, and a second cover for covering the recess in a first position and for allowing access to the recess and the second opening in a second position.

[0015] In one embodiment of the lid assembly, at least a top part of the first straw is positioned inside the recess when the second cover is in its first covering position and the remaining of the first straw is positioned below the top of the lid housing of the lid assembly.

[0016] In one embodiment, wherein the first straw has a length sufficient for drawing liquid from a bottom of the container body of the drinking container.

[0017] In one embodiment, the first straw is a substantially straight straw.

[0018] In one embodiment, the lid assembly for a d rinking container further comprising a third opening which is located in the recess, to allow liquid which is present in the recess to flow back into the container body of the drinking container.

[0019] In one embodiment, the lid assembly for a drinking container further comprising a holding element, the holding element being provided in the second opening in the recess, to allow the positioning of the first straw inside the second opening.

[0020] In one embodiment, the lid assembly for a drinking container further comprising a second straw, the second straw being removably connected to the holding element.

[0021] In one embodiment, the first straw is able to slide through the holding element and inside the second straw when the first and second straws are assembled inside the lid assembly.

[0022] In one embodiment, the first and second straws are substantially straight straws

[0023] In one embodiment, the first and / or second straws are made of a rigid material configured to prevent bending of the first and / or second straws.

[0024] In one embodiment, the first straw comprises a rigid element positioned around the outside of the first straw such that the total outer circumference of the rigid element and the first straw is wider than the second opening thus preventing the first drinking straw from entering over its entire length through the second opening.

[0025] In an alternative embodiment, the length of the first straw is longer than the length of the second straw. The first drinking straw preferably has a resistance mechanism to prevent accidental removal of the first straw from the second straw.

[0026] The resistance mechanism comprises a first element which is provided on the outer circumference of the first drinking straw. Preferably, the resistance mechanism comprises a second element. The second element of the resistance mechanism preferably comprises an overmold, preferably a silicone overmold connected to the holding element, The first drinking straw which is provided with the first element on its outer circumference will be able to slide through an opening formed inside the overmold. As soon as the first element of the resistance mechanism which is placed on the outer circumference of the first drinking straw comes into contact with the overmold, a resistance is created when the user aims to withdraw the first drinking straw out of the overmold. The created resistance is noticeable by the user since the sliding of the first drinking straw becomes less easy and thus provides feedback to the user of the drinking containerthatthe bottom end of the first drinking straw is reachingthe top of the second straw. Preferably, the overmold is part of or inserted inside the holding element which is able to hold the second straw inside the second opening of the lid housing. Alternatively, the second element of the resistance mechanism is provided on the inside of the second straw, nearthe top end of the second straw. In this case, the resistance mechanism will provide feedback to the user of the drin king container when the first straw is being pulled out of the second straw, thus preventing accidental removal of the first straw from the second straw and out of the lid assembly.

[0027] In one embodiment, the lid assembly for a drinking container comprising a fourth opening positioned inside the recess, the fourth opening preferably being an airvent positioned in a side wall of the recess.

[0028] In one embodiment, the lid assembly further comprises a pivot axis, and wherein the first cover pivots around the pivot axis to move from the first covering position to the second open position. In a further embodiment, the second cover pivots around the pivot axis to move from the first covering position to the second open position. Further, the first cover and second cover are able to pivot simultaneously around the pivot axis to move from their first covering position to the second open position.

[0029] In one embodiment, the first cover comprises a first leg, a second leg and a third leg, the third leg being positioned between the first and second leg to preferably form a U-shape, such that the second cover can be positioned inside the opening formed by the first, second and third leg.

[0030] In one embodiment, the first cover comprises a protrusion element, the protrusion element being complementary to the first drinking opening and positioned on the first cover such that the protrusion element is positioned inside the first opening when the first cover is in the first covering position. The protrusion element may comprise of a protrusion which in itself is complementary in shape to the first drinking opening, it may comprise of a protrusion and a sealing element such as a sealing ring placed over the protrusion, or it may comprise of the sealing element directly attached to the first cover.

[0031] In one embodiment, the second cover comprises an abutment element, the abutment element being complementary to the circumference or the opening of the first straw and positioned on the second cover such that the abutment element is positioned around the circumference of the first straw or inside an open end of the first straw when the second cover is in the first covering position to prevent the liquid from escaping the first straw. The abutment element can be a protrusion shaped in such a way that it will encapsule the top of the open end of the first straw. The abutment element can alternatively be a bulge shaped in such a way that it fits inside the top of the open end of the first straw. As a further alternative, the abutment element can consist of both protrusion and the bulge where the protrusion will encapsule the top of the open end and the bulge will fit inside the top of the open end of the first straw.

[0032] The invention further comprises a drinking container comprising a container body and a lid assembly.

[0033] DESCRIPTION OFTHE FIGURES

[0034] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a lid assembly and a container body in an exploded view according to the present invention.

[0035] Figures 2A-B show two side views of the lid assembly and the drin king container of figure 1 , when the lid assembly is placed on the drinking container.

[0036] Figure 3 shows a top view of the lid assembly of figure 1 , when the first and second cove r are in a closed position.

[0037] Figure 4 shows a 3D view of the lid assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 5 shows a top view of the lid assembly of Figure 3, when the first and second cover are in an open position.

[0039] Figures 6A-D show a 3D view of the lid assembly of the present invention when placed on the drinking container. In Figure 6A, the first and second cover are in a closed position. In Figure 6B, the first cover is in an open position, while the second cover is in a closed position. In Figure 6C, the first cover is in a closed position, while the second cover is in an open position while the first straw is in its lowered position. In Figure 6D, the first cover is in a closed position while the second cover is in an open position whereby the first straw is extended upwardly.

[0040] Figure 7 shows a 3D view of the lid assembly and container body in an exploded view.

[0041] Figure 8A shows a cross section of a side view of an alternative embodiment of the lid assembly and first and second straw, wherein the first straw is foreseen with a resistance mechanism. Figure 8B shows an enlarged view A of the bottom of the first and second straw with the resistance mechanism in more detail. Figure 8C shows an enlarged view of the top of the second straw in more detail, wherein the top of the second straw is held into place by a silicone overmold inside the second opening of the lid housing.

[0042] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated and make part of this disclosure. This description is meant to aid the reader in understanding the technological concepts more easily, but it is not meant to limit the scope of the present disclosure, which is limited only by the claims.

[0044] An aspect of the invention relates to a lid assembly for a drinking container having a container bodyfor containinga liquid, the lid assembly comprising: a lid housing configured to engage an opening of the container body to retain the liquid within the container; a first opening in the lid housing configured to dispense the liquid from the drinking container across a rim of the lid housing; a first cover configured to cover the first opening in a first position, thereby preventing access to the first opening, and further configured to uncover the first opening in a second position, thereby providing access to the first opening; a first straw configured to dispense and / or draw the liquid from the drinking container through the first straw; and a second opening configured to receive the first straw.

[0045] The lid further comprises a recess wherein the second opening configured to receive the first straw is located in the bottom of the recess, and a second cover configured to cover the recess in a first position, thereby preventing access to the first opening, and further configured to uncover the recess in a second position, thereby providing access to the recess.

[0046] As used herein, the term “straw” refers to an elongated, tubular structure configured to draw liquid from within the container when suction is applied at one end. A straw comprises a hollow passage extending along its length, allowing fluid communication between its opposite ends. A straw is typically designed to be inserted through an opening and extend toward the bottom of a container to facilitate efficient extraction of liquid. The skilled person thus appreciates that a straw is distinct from a dispensing opening, as a dispensing opening relies on tilting the container for dispensing the liquid, rather than drawing liquid upward through suction. Unlike straws, dispensing openings are typically positioned near the top of a container and do not extend into the container body to reach the liquid at lower levels.

[0047] Since the second opening for receiving the first drinking straw is positioned in a recess of the lid, it is possible for the first drinking straw to be pushed below the top of the lid without the first drinking straw to be pushed below the bottom of the lid. By doing so, no additional height of the lid assembly is needed to provide for a closure of the opening when the first drinking straw remains in place.

[0048] In one embodiment of the lid assembly, at least a top part of the first drinking straw is positioned inside the recess when the second cover is in its first covering position and the remaining of the first straw is positioned below the top of the lid housing of the lid assembly.

[0049] By doing so, it is possible for a user of the drin king container to leave the first drin king straw inside the container and lid assembly while still closing the cover of the second opening.

[0050] In one embodiment, the lid assembly for a d rinking container further comprising a third opening which is located in the recess, to allow liquid which is present in the recess to flow back into the drinking body of the drinking container.

[0051] People often use covered drinking containers when they are on the move, and it may be desirable to cover the openings in the lid assembly when moving around, thereby preventing access. When the first and second cover are in their closed position and the first drinking straw remains inside the drinking container and lid assembly, it is still possible for some liquid to escape through the top of the first drinking straw, or even through the opening in the recess. However, by providing a third opening in the recess, the liquid which escapes during movement is able to flow back into the drinking container. Thus, when a user of the drinking container holds the drinking container in an essentially horizontal position with the intention to drink the liquid in the container, the liquid which is present in the recess will flow back into the container through the third opening. By the time the user will open the second cover thus providing access to the first drinking straw, the liquid will already be flown back into the drinking container or will at least be located at the bottom of the recess such that it is of no hindrance to the user of the drinking container.

[0052] In one embodiment, the first straw is a substantially straight straw. As used herein, the term "straight straw" refers to a drinking straw having a substantially linear shape along its length, without bends, curves, or kinks. A straight straw is configured to provide an unobstructed flow path for liquid from one end to the other, and is typically designed to be inserted through an opening in a lid assembly such that it extends downwardly toward the bottom of a drinking container. The provision of a straight straw ensures a reliable and efficient liquid flow, minimizing the risk of blockages and reducing cleaning difficulties associated with curved or bent straws. In one embodiment, the lid assembly for a drin king container further comp rising a holding element, the holding element being provided in the second opening in the recess, to allowthe positioning of the first straw inside the second opening.

[0053] The holding element provides for a tightfit of the drinking straw inside the second opening, while the holding element simultaneously is able to provide a closer fit of the second opening around the first drinking straw, thus preventing the amount of liquid which is able to be spilled out of the container body through this second opening into the recess.

[0054] In one embodiment, the lid assembly for a drinking container further comprising a second straw, the second straw being removably connected to the holding element. When using the second straw, it is possible to insert a shorter first straw, while still being able to drinkfrom the drinking container with such a shorter first straw. Although it is preferable that the second straw is removable from the holding element, the holding element and the second straw may be formed as a single component to reduce the number of components needed forthe lid assembly.

[0055] In one embodiment, the first drinking straw is configured to slide through the holding element and inside the second straw when the first and second straws are assembled or positioned inside the lid assembly.

[0056] By using a first and second straw, whereby the first straw is positioned inside the second straw and function as telescopic straws, it provides for a more secure guidance of the drinking straw in and out of the lid assembly. Also, when using a first straw which is able to slide inside the second straw, a more compact design is possible due. That way, a more secure retaining of the telescopic straws insidethe drinkingcontainercan be achieved, while stillallowingthefirst straw to be pulled out of the second straw such that the first and second straw will work together to suck the liquid from the bottom of the drinking container through the drinking straws. Also, the length of the second straw can be such that it essentially equals the total interior length of the container body, thus allowing for a user of the drinking container to completely empty the liquid inside the drin king container when using the drinking straw.

[0057] In one embodiment, the first and second straws are substantially straight straws. Preferably, the first and / or second straws are made of a rigid material configured to prevent bending of the first and / or second straws. As used herein, the term "rigid" refers to a material or structure that maintains its shape under normal conditions of use and is resistant to bending, twisting, or deformation. A rigid straw is a straw that remains substantially straight and unyielding when subjected to forces typically encountered during drinking, insertion, or removal from a lid assembly. Such straws are typically made from rigid materials such as hard plastic. This is in contrast to a flexible straw, which refers to a straw that can be bent, folded, or compressed to accommodate various storage or drinking configurations, and is typically made from flexible materials such as soft plastic.

[0058] The provision of substantially straight and rigid straws is structurally more robust, reducing the likelihood of breakage due to repeated bending or wear during use. Additionally, the predictable shape and rigidity of such straws can improve compatibility with lid assemblies designed to securely receive and hold the straws during use and storage.

[0059] In one embodiment, the first drinking straw comprises a rigid element positioned around the outside of the first drinking straw such that the total outer circumference of the rigid element and the first straw is wider than the second opening thus configured to prevent the first drin king straw from entering over its entire length inside the second straw.

[0060] When the first drinking straw is shorter in length then the second straw, it is preferred to provide for a rigid element such as a rim positioned around the outside of the first drinking straw to prevent the first strawfrom falling to the bottom of the container body while positioned inside the second strawand thus being belowthe second openinginthe recess ofthe lid assembly. Without such a rigid element, the first straw would be able to be lowered completely inside the second straw and a user may in that case have difficulties extracting the first straw again from the second straw. Even if no second straw is used, such a rigid element around the first straw is convenient, since it again will prevent the drinking straw from falling inside the container body thus eliminatin the need for the userto unscrew the lid assemblyfrom the container body in orderto retrieve the drinking straw from the container body.

[0061] In an alternative embodiment, the length of the first straw is longer than the length of the second straw. In a further alternative embodiment, the first drinking straw may comprise a resistance mechanism. In an even further alternative embodiment, the length of the first straw is longer than the length of the second straw and the first drinking straw comprises a resistance mechanism configured to prevent accidental removal of the first strawfrom the second straw. The resistance mechanism is configured as a first overmolded element, providing an additional layer on the outer surface near the bottom of the first drinking straw. Preferably, the resistance mechanism comprises a second element, whereby the second element is formed as a silicone overmold.

[0062] Preferably, the silicone overmold is part of or connected to the holding element, whereby an opening inside the silicone overmold will allow the positioning of the first straw inside the second opening of the lid housing. When the first element placed on the outer surface ofthe first drinking straw comes into contact with the silicone overmold, a resistance is created between the first element of the resistance mechanism and the second element of the resistance mechanism. The created resistance is noticeable by the user since the sliding of the first drinking straw becomes less easy and thus provides feedback to the user of the drinking container that the bottom end of the first drinking straw is reaching the silicone overmold.

[0063] Additionally, the silicone overmold is able to hold the second straw in place inside the second opening of the lid housing, and allows the first drin king straw to be positioned inside the second straw, thus allowing an extension of the total length of drin king straw when the first drin king straw is pulled partially out of the second straw. Alternatively, the second element of the resistance mechanism is provided on the interior or inside of the second straw near the top end of the second straw, and whereby the first element and the second element co-operate to provide a barrier when a user intends to withdraw the first straw completely out of the second straw. Although there may no longer be a risk for the first drin king straw to enter completely inside the second straw when the first straw is sufficiently long, a user could unintentionally pull out the first drinking straw completely from the second straw. In order to prevent such unintentional removal, the resistance mechanism, and more specifically a first element of the resistance mechanism, is positioned on the outer surface of the first drinking straw which will thus provide feedback to the user of the drinking container when the user intents to pull the first straw beyond a point of the lid housing, thus preventing accidental or unintentional removal of the first straw from the second opening in the lid housing and out of the lid assembly.

[0064] In one embodiment, the lid assembly for a drinking container comprising a fourth opening configured to be positioned inside the recess, the fourth opening preferably being an air vent configured to be positioned in a side wall of the recess.

[0065] Such an airvent, for example a valve, has the advantage that air can still circulate and a user will notfeel anycounter pressure while drin king from the first drin king open ingin the lid housing when the second cover is in its closed position and the first straw is closed off by the second cover.

[0066] In one embodiment, the lid assembly further comprises a pivot axis, and wherein the first cover is configured to pivot around the pivot axis to move from the first covering position to the second open position. In a further embodiment, the second cover is configured to pivot around the pivot axis to move from the first covering position to the second open position. Further, the first cover and second cove rare configured to pivot simultaneously around the pivot axis to move from their first covering position to the second open position.

[0067] Both the first and the second cover are positioned around the same pivot axis, thus limiting the number of components while providing a compact design of the lid assembly. Also, by rotating around the same pivot axis, the first and second cover will not be of any hinderance to one another when being pivoted around the pivot axis. In one embodiment, the first cover comprises a first leg, a second leg and a third leg, the third leg being positioned between the first and second leg to preferably form a U-shape, such that the second cover is configured to be positioned inside the opening formed by the U-shaped form.

[0068] Since the first cover is formed as a U-shape which can be positioned around the second cover, both the first and second cover can be manipulated individually without being hindered by the position of the other cover thus providing for a compact design of the lid assembly.

[0069] In one embodiment, the first cover comprises a protrusion element, the protrusion element is configured to be complementary to the first drinking opening and positioned on the first cover such that the protrusion is positioned inside the first opening when the first cover is in the first covering position.

[0070] The protrusion is positioned in such a way and its shape is complementary to the first opening such that the protrusion may be form-fittingly received within the circumferential side wall of the first opening and will thus snugly fit within and against an inner surface of the circumferential side wall of the first opening to close off the first opening when the first cover is in a closed and covering position. That way, no liquid will be able to escape from the drinking container and lid assembly when a user is moving the drinking container. In order for a tight closure by the protrusion, a sealing element such as a rubber or silicon ring may be provided on the protrusion or the sealing element may be directly attached to the first cover.

[0071] In one embodiment, the second cover comprises an abutment element, the abutment element is configured to be complementary to the circumference or the opening of the first straw and configured to be positioned on the second cover such that the abutment element is configured to be positioned around the circumference of the first straw or inside an open end of the first straw when the second cover is in the first covering position to prevent the liquid from escaping the first straw. The abutment element can be a protrusion or holder shaped in such a way that it will encapsule the top of the open end of the first straw such that the holder will close off the opening of the first drinking straw when the second cover is in a closed and covering position. The abutment element can alternatively be a bulge shaped in such a way that it fits inside the top of the open end of the first straw. As a further alternative, the abutment element can consist of both the protrusion and the bulge where the protrusion will encapsule the top of the open end and the bulge will fit inside the top of the open end of the first straw. That way, no liquid will be able to escape via the first drinking straw when a user is moving the drinking container. Also, if the first drin king straw is not yet in its fully downward position, the protrusion or bulge will be able to push the first drinking straw downwards and further inside the second straw before closing the recess via the second cover. In order for a tight closure of the recess by the second cover, a sealing element such as a rubber protrusion or ring may be provided on the second cover and may be form-fittingly received within the circumferential side wall of the recess and will thus snugly fit within and against an inner surface of the circumferential side wall of the recess to close off the recess when the second cover is in a closed and covering position.

[0072] The invention further comprises a drinking container comprising a container body and a lid assembly.

[0073] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of a lid assembly 1 and a drinking container 2 in an exploded view. The lid assembly 1 comprises a lid housing 10 having an outer surface 11 , through an upper portion or rim 13 of which a first drinking opening 12 (see figure 5) extends. The drinking opening 12 is arranged non-centrally, at a drinking side of the lid housing 10. This makes it easier for the user to sip the drinking liquid present in the container. "Drinking side", as used herein, refers to a side of the lid housing 10 through which the drinking opening 12 extends.

[0074] Further, a recess 17 is provided in the top of the lid housing 10. In the bottom of the recess 17, a second opening 18 (see figure 5) is provided, through which a first drinking straw 19 can be positioned. Preferably, the recess 17 may be provided in an imaginary half of the top of the lid housing 10.

[0075] Preferably, a holding element 20 is foreseen which is mounted inside the second opening 18 in the bottom of the recess 17. The holding element 20 has a hollow tube-like structure, having a top side 21 and a bottom side 22. Advantageously, ribs can be foreseen on the outside of the hollow tube, such that the holding element 20 can be lightweighted while still being sufficiently rigid to be able to provide for a holding function. The top side 21 is foreseen with a rim which can be closely fitted inside the second opening 18 such that the holding element 20 will remain inside the second opening 18 after installation thereof. The inner diameter of the opening in the top side 21 is essentially the same or slightly larger than the outer diameter of the first drinking straw 19 such that, when the first drinking straw 19 is placed via the holding element 20 through the second opening 18 in the recess 17, the first drinking straw 19 experiences a close fit inside the holding element 20. Preferably the first straw has a length sufficient for drawing liquid from the bottom of the drinking container.

[0076] On the bottom side 22 of the holding element 20, a similar rim is foreseen as on the top side 21 for receiving a second straw 24. The rim on the bottom side 22 having an inner diameter which is essentially the same or slightly larger than the outer diameter of a second straw which can thus be closely fitted inside the holding element 20. Although it is possible to permanently connect the second straw 24 to the holding element 20, it is preferable to connect the drinking straw 24 in a removable way suc that cleaning of the different elements of the lid assembly 1 can be done in a more convenient way.

[0077] When using a first rim with a first diameter on the top side 21 and a second rim with a second diameter on the bottom side 22 of the holding element 20, it is possible for the second straw 24 to have an inner diameter which is larger than the outer diameter of the first drinking straw 19 such that the first drin king straw 19 when beinginserted via thetop side 21 of the holding element 20 can slide inside the hollow interior of the holding element 20 and further inside the second straw 24. The first rim on the top side 21 will accommodate for the first drinking straw 19 while the second rim on the bottom side 21 will accommodate for the second straw 24. Preferably, the second straw 24 will be firmly positioned inside the second rim on the bottom side 22 of the holding element 20, while the first drinking straw 19 will be allowed a certain amount of freedom inside the first rim on the top side 21 of the holding element 20 such that it can slide easily through the first rim on the top side 21 , inside the hollow holding element 20 and through the second straw 24.

[0078] In the embodiment shown, the lid housing 10 further comprises a downwardly extending side wall 14 that features an external screw thread 15, co-acting with an internal screw thread 15' provided at the top opening of the container body 5.

[0079] The lid assembly further comprises a sealing ring, such as a rubber or silicon ring 16, which is typically placed on the circumference of the downwardly extending side wall 14 above the external screw thread 15 and touching the end rim 13 of the outer surface 11 of the lid housing 10. Preferably, the sealing ring is fixedly connected to the side wall 14 e.g. by gluing the sealing ring 16 to the side wall 14.

[0080] To close the first opening 12 of the lid assembly 1 , a first cover 25 is further provided, pivotably connectable to the lid housing 10 such that the first cover 25 can be positioned from an open position to a closed position. When movingthe first cover 25 around its pivot axis 26 into an open position, the first drinking opening 12 may give access to the holding volume of the container body 5.

[0081] The first cover 25 comprises a first leg 27, a second leg 28 and a third leg 29, whereby the third leg 29 is positioned between the first 27 and second leg 28 to form a U-shape. Preferably, a handle or tab 32 is foreseen on the third leg 29 for easy opening and closing of the first cover 25. Further, the first cover 25 is foreseen with a protrusion element such as a bulge or protrusion 30 positioned on the side of the first cover 25 facing the first drinking opening 12 when the first cover 25 is in its closed position. Preferably although not necessarily, the bulge 30 is covered with a sealing element 31 such as a silicon or rubber sealing which closelyfits over the bulge 30. The bulge 30 together with the sealing element 31 is positioned on the first cover 25 in such a way that when the first cover 25 is in its closed position, the bulge 30 and sealing element 31 will be positioned inside the first drinking opening 12 to securely close of the first drinking opening 12 thus preventing liquid from inside the container body 5 of the drinking container 2 to be able to escape therefrom. Preferably, the sealing element 31 is easily removable and replaceable to enhance the cleaning possibilities of the lid assembly 1 , or when the sealing element 31 needs to be replaced to maintain a leak-proof closure of the first drinking opening 12. As an alternative, the sealing element 31 can be permanently connected to the first cover 25 by e.g. gluing the sealing element 31 to the first cover 25. When using a sealing element 31 removably or permanently placed on the first cover 25, the sealing element 31 will in fact form the protrusion which is complementary to the first drinking opening 12 as to close of the first drinking opening 12 when in the first cover 25 is in its closed position.

[0082] Likewise, to close the recess 17 of the lid assembly 1 , a second cover 40 is further provided, pivotably connectable to the lid housing 10 such that the second cover 40 can be positioned from an open position to a closed position. Preferably the pivot axis 26 of the first cover 25 is the same pivot axis 26 as of the second cover 40. Such a design will increase the compactness of the lid assembly 1. When moving the second cover 40 around its pivot axis 26 into an open position, the recess 17 will become accessible and the top of the first drin king straw 19 which is located inside the recess 17 will become visible and can be pulled out from the recess 17 over a specific length such that the user of the drinking container 2 can drink more easily from the drinking straw 19. The second cover 40 preferably has a shape which is congruent to the inner form of the U-shaped first cover 25. When the first cover 25 and the second cover 40 have a congruent shape, the two covers can be positioned closely together while still allowing pivoting around the same axis 26. Although the shape of the first cover 25 in the embodiment of figure 1 is a U-shape, other shapes are equally feasible, such as a half round shape, a triangular shape, or a polygonal shape. When a different shape is used to define the first cover 25, the second cover 40 will preferably have a corresponding shape.

[0083] Further, a sealing element 41 such as a rubber protrusion is positioned on the side of the second cover 40 facing the recess 17 when the second cover 40 is in its closed position. The sealing element 41 such as a silicon or rubber sealing is positioned on the second cover 40 in such a way that when the second cover 40 is in its closed position, the sealing element 41 will be positioned inside the recess 17 to securely close of the recess 17 thus preventing liquid from inside the drinking body 5 to be able to escape therefrom. Preferably, the sealing element 41 is easily removable and replaceable to enhance the cleaning possibilities of the lid assembly 1 , or when the sealing element 41 needs to be replaced to maintain a leak-proof closure of the recess 17. As an alternative, the sealing element 41 can be permanently connected to the second cover 40 by e.g. gluing the sealing element 41 to the second cover 40.

[0084] Preferably, on the bottom of the second cover 40 facing the recess 17 when in its closed position, there is an abutment element foreseen such as a protrusion 42 (see figure 5) which is able to function as an additional closure for the open end of the first drin king straw 19. When the drin king straw 19 is in its withdrawn position, being the position where the majority of the length of the drinking straw 19 is pushed inside the container body 5 and only a top end remains in the recess 17, and when the second cover 40 is in its closed position, the walls of the protrusion 42 will encircle the outer circumference of the end of the first drinking straw 19.

[0085] The protrusion 42 can also be shaped in such a way that when the first drinking straw 19 is not yet fully in its withdrawn position, the protrusion 42 will guide the drinking straw 19 downwards as to position the end of the drinking straw 19 completely inside the recess 17 and inside the protrusion 42, thus closing of the end of the drinking straw 19 while preventing leakage or spillage of the liquid inside the container body 5 via the drinking straw 19. To prevent the first drinking straw to be pushed to deep inside the container body 5, or to fall through the hollow holding element 20, a rigid element such as an abutment 23 is foreseen on the outside of the first drinking straw 19. The abutment 23 will increase locally the outside diameter of the drinking straw 19, such that the drinking straw 19 is not able to go more downwardly inside the holding element 20, since the locally increased outer diameter is now greater than the interior diameter of the hollow holding element 20 and upper rim of the top of the holding element 20. It is preferred that the abutment 23 is permanently connected to the drinking straw 19, since this abutment 23 can in that case also function as a fixed limitation for the lowest position of the drinking straw 19 inside the recess 17, such that the protrusion 42 will always be correctly positioned in relation to the top opening of the drinking straw 19.

[0086] Finally, it is preferred that a handle or tab 33 is foreseen on the second cover 40 for easy opening and closing of the second cover 40.

[0087] For the first cover 25 and the second cover 40 to pivot around the same pivot axis 26, both covers 25, 40 need to be connected to the same pivot points. For that objective, the lid housing 10 is provided with two holes 43 positioned a distance from each other on pivot axis 26.

[0088] At approximately the respective ends of the first 27 and second 28 leg of the first cover 25 and on the outside thereof, connection means 44 are foreseen to connect the first cover 25 to the holes 43 in the lid housing 10. These connection means 44 can be in the form of a protruding hub which are complementary with the holes 43. For the second cover 40 to be connected to the first cover 25, a second pair of holes 45 are foreseen on the inside of the ends of the first 27 and second 28 leg of the first cover 25. Also, another pair of connection means 46 such as protruding hubs, are foreseen on the outside of the second cover 40 which can be placed inside the holes 45 of the first cover 25. For the first cover 25 and the second cover 40 to be placed along the same pivot axis 26, the holes 43, 45 and the hubs 44, 46 need to be aligned with each other along the same pivot axis 26.

[0089] Figure 1 further shows the drinking container 2 having an opening 6 through which liquid can be easily poured into the drinking container 2. Further, the drinking container 2 may have a handle 7 which is fixedly connected to the container body 5. In figures 6A-6D, an alternative handle 7’ is shown, where a sleeve-like handle 7’ can be placed around the outside of the drinking container 2. Such a sleeve-like handle 7’ will be wedged around the circumference when the container body 5 of the drinking contained has e.g. a conical outer shape.

[0090] The bottom of the drinking container 2 can be provided with a non-slip coverin s such that the drinking container 2 can be more stable when placed onto a surface.

[0091] In a second embodiment, the abutment 23 of the first embodiment which is foreseen on the drinking straw 19 is no longer present. Instead, a resistance mechanism is provided which will prevent accidental removal of the first drinking straw 19 from the lid assembly.

[0092] The resistance mechanism comprises an additional layer of material which is placed on the outer circumference of the first drinking straw 19. Preferably, the additional layer of material is achieved by using an overmolding process, whereby the material is molded over the outer circumference of the first drin king straw 19 near the bottom of the first drin king straw 19 to create the resistance mechanism.

[0093] It is advantageous that the container body 5 (as described above) may be combined with different lid assemblies 1 according to the first and second embodiment of the invention. Embodiments of lid assemblies 1 and container bodies 5 according to the first and second embodiment of the invention, as described herein, are closely related. Their individual characteristics, as well as the advantages corresponding thereto may therefore be exchanged. For example, the lid assemblies 1 according to any of the herein described aspects of the invention may be provided with the same container body 5.

[0094] Figures 2A-B show two side views of the lid assembly 1 and the drinking container 2 of figure 1 , when the lid assembly 1 is placed on the container body 5 of the drinking container. As can be seen from these figures, the outer surface 11 of the lid housing is in line with the outer surface of the container body 5. Although this is preferred, such a flush positioning is not mandatory. In figure 2B, it is clear that the handle 32 positioned on the third leg 29 of the first cover 25 is extending over the edge of the lid housing 10 to provide easy grippingfor the userwhen opening the first cover 25.

[0095] In Figure 3, a top view of the lid assembly 1 of figure 1 is shown, when the first 25 and second cover 40 are in a closed position. From figure 3, it is clear that the first cover 25 has a U-shaped form in which the second cover 40 is positioned. The first 25 and second cover40 are positioned such that their rotation axis coincides with pivot axis 26. The handle 32 located at the third leg 29 of the first cover 25 extends over the edge of the lid housing 10, while the handle 33 of the second cover 40 is shaped such that the second cover 40 and its handle 33 stay within the boundaries of the free space within the first cover 25. Although it is preferred that the shape of the second cover 40 is overall complementary to the inner free space of the U-shaped first cover 25, it is important that the second cover 40 and its handle 33 do not overlap or lay on top of the legs 27, 28, 29 of the first cover 25, as this may interfere with the rotation circle of the first cover 25.

[0096] Further, the third leg 29 of the first cover 25 may be shaped such that, when the first cover 25 is in its fully opened position, the handle 32 on the third leg 29 may extend over the edge of the lid housing 10 and it can be removably fixated to the edge of the lid housing 10. Therefore, the third leg 29 is shaped such that it follows the contours of the edge of the lid housing 10 and the handle 32 will be able to snap over the edge of the lid housing 10 such that the first cover 25 will remain positioned at the edge of the lid housing when the first cover 25 is in its fully opened position. By doing so, the user of the drinking container 2 will not be hindered by the first cover 25 while drinking from the first drinking opening 12 since the first cover 25 is fixated on the edge of the lid housing 10. Likewise, the outer shape of the second cover 40 may be shaped such that the second cover 40 may be positioned on top of the lid housing 10 but inside of the outer rim of the lid housing 10 when rotated in its fully opened position. That way, the second cover 40 will be of no hindrance to the user of the drinking container 2 while drinking from the drinking straw 19 through the second opening 18 in the recess 17.

[0097] As is clear from the top view of the lid assembly 1 in figure 3, the pivot axis 26 is preferably off center from the center axis of the lid housing 10. By placing the pivot axis 26 off center will allow the first 25 and second 40 cover to be compact, while still being able to close respectively the first drinking opening 12 and recess 17 in their respective closed positions and being stowed away in their respective open positions.

[0098] Figure 4 shows a 3D assembled view of the lid assembly 1 of figure 1 . In figure 4, the second cover 40 is positioned in a slightly opened position to indicate that the second cover 40 is able to rotate around the pivot axis 26 without the need for the first cover 25 to simultaneously rotate with the second cover 40, or without the need for the first cover 25 to be in the opened position in order for the second cover 40 to be opened.

[0099] Figure 5 shows a similar top view of the lid assembly 10 as the top view of Figure 3, however the first 25 and second 40 cover are now opened to allow access to the first drinking opening 12 and the recess 17 containing the drinking straw 19 inside the second opening 18.

[0100] Recess 17 is further provided with a third opening 50 located in the bottom of recess 17. Although the protrusion 42 provided on the bottom side of the second cover 40 is intended to prevent liquid from escaping from the drinking straw 19 when the drinking straw 19 is pushed inwardly inside the recess 17 and the second cover 40 to close off the recess 17, it may be possible for liquid to be spilled from the drin king straw 19 or to escape via the second opening 18 located in the recess 17. Even when the holding element 20 is provided in the second opening 19, there may remain some space between the inner surface of the holding element 20 and the outer surface of the drinking straw 19 which could allow liquid to escape inside the recess when the drinking container 2 is being transported by a user. For such spilled liquid contained inside the recess 17 to flow back to the interior of the container body 5, the third opening 50 is provided in the bottom of the recess 17. Such a third opening 50 may simply be a hole on the bottom of the recess 17, or it may take the shape of a funnel to ease the liquid to flow from the recess 17 back into the container body 5 when the drinking container 2 is placed in its upward position.

[0101] When no third opening 50 is provided and the drinking straw 19 can be positioned in a close fit inside the second opening 18 or inside the holding element 20, it may be beneficial to include an airvent 52 in a side wall or bottom wall of the recess 17. Such an airvent 52 will allow for a user to drink from the drinking straw 19 without experiencing any difficulties while sucking the liquid through the drinking straw 19.

[0102] An additional air vent 54 may be present on the top of the lid housing 10. When the second cover 40 is in its closed position, thus sealing the recess 17 which contains the second opening 18, and a user is drin king from the first opening 12, the mouth of the user may be positioned completely around the first opening 12. By providing the additional airvent 54 in the lid housing 10, the user will be able to drink from the first drinking opening 12 without experiencing any difficulties, even when the second cover 40 is in its closed position.

[0103] In this top view, it is further shown that the top of the lid housing 10 surrounding the first drinking opening 12 is shaped such that the first cover 25 is able to sink in this lowered shaped, thus lowering the total height of the lid assembly 1 and provide for a more compact design. Also, such a lowered layout will have the advantage that accidental opening of the first 25 and / or second 40 cover is unlikely to occur. In figures 6A-D, 3D views of the lid assembly 1 of the present invention are shown when placed on a container body 5. In Figure 6A, the first 25 and second 40 cover are in a closed position, thus closing off access to the drinking opening 12 and the recess 17 holding the drinking straw 19. As can be seen from figure 6A, the handle 32 of the first cover 25 extends slightly over the rim of the lid housing 10. Further, it is clear from figure 6A that the top of the lid housing 10 has a lowered area in which the second cover 40 can be positioned when it is in a fully opened position as is shown in figures 6C and 6D.

[0104] In Figure 6B, the first cover 25 is in an open position thus providing access to the first drinking opening 12, while the second cover 40 is in a closed position. As is clear from this view, the bottom side of the first cover 25 holds the protrusion 30 with the sealing 31 which will, when the first cover 25 is closed, close off and seal the first drinking opening 12 and effectively prevents liquid from unintentionally escaping the container body 5 of the drinking container 2.

[0105] In Figure 6C, the first cover 25 is in a closed position, while the second cover 40 is in an open position while the first drin king straw 19 is still in its lowered position and contained inside recess 17. As is clear from this view, the bottom side of the second cover 40 holds the protrusion 42 which will, when the second cover 40 is closed, encircle the drinking straw 19 and will effectively prevent liquid from unintentionally escaping the container body 5 via the drinking straw 19.

[0106] In Figure 6D, the first cover 25 is in a closed position while the second cover 40 is in its open position whereby the first drinking straw 19 is extended upwardly such that a user can use the drinking straw 19 to drink the liquid contained inside the container body 5 in a more convenient manner.

[0107] In figures 6A-D, the second type of handle 7’ is shown positioned around the container body 5 of the drinking container 2. However, it is clear that the first type of handle 7 may be used instead of the handle 7’ as shown in these figures.

[0108] Figure 7 shows a 3D view of the lid assembly 1 and container body 5 in an exploded view, whereby the lid housing 10 is removed from the container body 5 allowing a view on the second straw 24 and the interior of the container body 5.

[0109] As can be seen from the figure 7, the container body 5 is now foreseen with an external screw thread 15” instead of an internal screw thread 15’ as shown in figure 1 . In such a case, the lid housing 10 will be equipped with an internal screw thread (not shown) on the downwardly extending side wall 14. Also, on the bottom of the second cover 40, a bulge 47 is foreseen instead of the protrusion 42 as shown in e.g. figure 5. The bulge 47 will again be able to function as an additional closure for the open end of the first drinking straw 19. When the drinking straw 19 is in its withdrawn position, being the position where the majority of the length of the drinking straw 19 is pushed inside the container body 5 and only the top end remains in the recess 17, and when the second cover 40 is in its closed position, the bulge 47 will be able to closely fit inside the inner circumference of the open end of the drinking straw 19.

[0110] When the bulge 47 is foreseen with rounded edges or is shaped as e.g. a dome, the bulge 47 will be able to guide the drinking straw 19 downwards as to position the end of the drinking straw 19 completely inside the recess 17 and allowing the bulge 47 to secure itself inside the open end of the drinking straw 19, thus closing of the end of the drinking straw 19 while preventing leakage or spillage of the liquid inside the container body 5 via the drinking straw 19.

[0111] Figure 8A shows a cross section of a side view of an second embodiment of the lid assembly 1 and first 19 and second 24 straw, wherein the first straw 19 is foreseen with a resistance mechanism 60. In Figure 8A, the lid assembly 1 is foreseen with downwardly extending side wall 14 featuring an external screw thread 15, which can co-act with an internal screw thread 15’ provided at the top opening of a container body 5 (see figure 1 ). The telescopic straws 19, 24 are inserted through opening 18 in the recess 17 and when the lid assembly 1 is screwed onto a container body 5, the telescopic straws 19, 24 are typically located inside the container body 5. Likewise to the holding element 20 as shown in e.g. figure 1 , a holding element may be foreseen in the opening 18 of the recess 17, such that the telescopic straws 19, 24 are maintained in a close fit inside the recess 17. However, such a holding element is not mandatory and the lid assembly 1 remains functional without such a holding element.

[0112] Figure 8B shows an enlarged view A of the bottom of the first 19 and second 24 straw with the resistance mechanism 60 in more detail. The resistance mechanism 60 comprises a first element 62 formed by an additional layer of material which is placed on the outer circumference of the first drinking straw 19. Preferably, the additional layer of material 62 is achieved by using an overmolding process, whereby the material is molded over the outer circumference of the first drinking straw 19 near the bottom of the first drinking straw 19 to create the resistance mechanism 60. Preferably, the additional layer of material 62 is formed of a material which has a high friction coefficient, such that a user, when he attempts to withdraw the first straw 19 out of the second straw, will experience some resistance.

[0113] Figure 8C shows an enlarged view B of the top of the second straw 24 and in particular a second element 64 of the resistance mechanism 60 is shown in more detail. The second element is configured as a silicon overmold 64 which can be form fitted within the second opening 18 of the lid housing 10. The silicon overmold 64 is foreseen with an opening to allow the first drinking straw 19 to be positioned inside the opening of the overmold 64 and to move along the second opening 18 of the lid housing 10. Additionally, the silicon overmold 64 can be configured to receive the top end of the second straw 24 and hold the top end of the second straw 24 in place inside the second opening 18 of the lid housing 10. Since the outer diameter of the second straw 24 is wider than the outer diameter of the first drinking straw 19, the opening in the silicon overmold 64 is formed with different internal diameters, the wider internal diameter being complementary to the outer diameter of the second straw 24 and the narrower internal diameter complementary to the outer diameter of the first drinking straw 19. Hence, the different internal diameters of the silicone overmold 64 will prevent the second straw 24 from being inserted completely through the opening of the silicone overmold 64, thus holding it in place inside the second opening 18 of the lid housing 10. When a user is now pulling out the first drinking straw 19 through the second opening 18 of the lid housing 10, the first element 62 of the resistance mechanism 60 will come into contact with the second element 64 of the resistance mechanism. As soon as the first element 62 reaches the second element 64 such as the silicone overmold, the silicone material of the overmold 64 and the first element 62 will create a friction which is noticeable by the user when the user tries to pull the first straw 19 out of the lid housing 10. This friction is thus able to provide feedback to the user that the first straw 19 is in the vicinity of the second opening 18 of the lid housing 10, and that a continued pulling will result in the first straw 19 being removed from the lid housing 10.

[0114] Alternatively, the second element 64 of the resistance mechanism 60 can be similar to the first element 62 on the first drinking straw 19, whereby an additional layer of material (not shown) is provided on the inside of the second straw 24. Alternatively, a circular and U-shaped rubber (not shown) can be placed over the top of the second straw 24 as to form the second element of the resistance mechanism 60 by reducing the inner diameter of the second straw 24 at its top end. The first element 62 and the second element will co-operate with each other such that, when the user attempts to withdraw the first straw 19 completely out of the second straw 24, the user will need to pull the first element 62 located on the first straw 19 past the second element located in the second straw 24. Although the use of a first element 62 and a second element is preferred, it is possible to only use the first element 62 and rely on the friction between the first element 62 and the interiorwall of the second straw 24.

[0115] Example - production and materials of such a lid assembly 1

[0116] In addition to any of the above, the lid housing 10 may comprise polypropylene (PP), and preferably a HTPP. For instance, said housing 10 comprises a HTPP frame, optionally provided externally with a TPE overmold, for enhanced gripping properties. The lid housing 10 may comprise multiple parts that are joined / formed together permanently - for instance via gluing, or via multi component injection molding. The lid housing may thus comprise a HTPP screw part (featuring internal screw thread), joined or formed together with a HTPP cover part. The drinking container 2 may further be provided with an external handle, for instance comprising acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). ABS advantageously has a high impact resistance and material toughness. The lid assembly 1 may further be provided with external covers 25, 40, for covering the drinking opening 12 and the recess 17 in a non-used / stored configuration. The covers 25, 40 may comprise PP, preferably HTPP. The sealing elements 31 , 41 may or may not comprise a silicon. Latter material has a high durability and is nontoxic. The lid assembly 1 and container body 5 may further comprise one or more sealing rings 16 comprising silicon. Any container body 5 herein may comprise stainless steel. Preferably such container bodies 2 are double-walled.

[0117] It is supposed that the present invention is not restricted to any form of realization described previously and that some modifications can be added to the presented example of fabrication without reappraisal of the appended claims.

[0118] It is understood that although specific embodiments, constructions, configurations, and materials for devices according to the present invention have been discussed herein, various changes or modifications in form and detail may be made without departing from the scope of this invention. For example, any drawings provided are merely representative of possible procedures. Functionality may be added to or removed from block diagrams, and operations may be interchanged among functional blocks. Steps may also be added or omitted in the methods described within the scope of the present invention.

[0119] Additionally, while certain embodiments, constructions, and configurations are described as providing an “improvement,” it should be understood that any such improvement represents a benefit based on a comparison to similar devices, structures, systems, or methods in the art, depending on the context. The degree of improved performance may vary between disclosed embodiments, and no uniformity in the amount, degree, or realization of improved performance should be assumed to apply universally across all embodiments.

[0120] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referringto the same embodiment.

[0121] As used herein, the terms “comprising”, “comprises” and “comprised of” as used herein are synonymous with “including”, “includes” or “containing”, “contains”, and are inclusive or open- ended and do not exclude additional, non-recited members, elements or method steps. The terms “comprising”, “comprises” and “comprised of” when referring to recited members, elements or method steps also include embodiments which “consist of” said recited members, elements or method steps. The singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include both singular and plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0122] As used herein, relative terms, such as “left,” “right,” “front,” “back,” “top,” “bottom,” “over,” “under,” etc., are used for descriptive purposes and not necessarily for describing permanent relative positions. It is to be understood that such terms are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments as described herein are capable of operation in other orientations than those illustrated or described herein unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0123] Objects described herein as being “adjacent” to each other reflect a functional relationship between the described objects, that is, the term indicates the described objects must be adjacent in a way to perform a designated function which may be a direct ( / .e. physical) or indirect (i.e. close to or near) contact, as appropriate forthe context in which the phrase is used.

[0124] Objects described herein as being “connected” or “coupled” reflect a functional relationship between the described objects, that is, the terms indicate the described objects must be connected in a way to perform a designated function which may be a direct or indirect connection in an electrical or nonelectrical ( / . e. physical) manner, as appropriate for the context in which the term is used.

[0125] Likewise, "Releasably connectable", and expressions related thereto are understood to mean being able to be repeatedly connected / disconnected (or engaged / disengaged) with application of human-scale work effort (e.g. through the use of the hands, feet, or human appendage), not generally requiring the use of a tool. Two mutually releasably connectable members can be configured between a "connected configuration" and a "released configuration". In said released configuration, there is no longer a direct connection between the members involved. Preferably, in said released configuration, there is no longer a connection between the members involved. Preferably at least one member of two mutually releasably connectable members provides some operable release mechanism, for releasing the members from their connected configuration.

[0126] As used herein, the term “substantially” refers to the complete or nearly complete extent or degree of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result. For example, an object that is “substantially” enclosed would mean that the object is either completely enclosed or nearly completely enclosed. The exact allowable degree of deviation from absolute completeness may in some cases depend on the specific context. However, generally speaking the nearness of completion will be so as to have the same overall result as if absolute and total completion were obtained. The use of “substantially” is equally applicable when used in a negative connotation to refer to the complete or near complete lack of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result.

[0127] As used herein, the term “about” is used to provide flexibility to a numerical value or range endpoint by providing that a given value may be “a little above” or “a little below” said value or end point, depending on the specific context. Unless otherwise stated, use of the term “about” in accordance with a specific number or numerical range should also be understood to provide support for such numerical terms or range without the term “about”. For example, the recitation of “about 30” should be construed as not only providing support for values a little above and a little below 30, but also for the actual numerical value of 30 as well. The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers and fractions subsumed within the respective ranges, as well as the recited endpoints. Furthermore, the terms first, second, third and the like in the description and in the claims, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a sequential or chronological order, unless specified. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments of the disclosure described herein are capable of operation in other sequences than described or illustrated herein.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A lid assembly (1) for a drinking container (2) having a container body (5) for containing a liquid, the lid assembly (1 ) comprising: a lid housing (10) configured to engage an opening (6) of the container body (5) to retain the liquid within the drinking container (2); a first opening (12) in the lid housing (10) configured to dispense the liquid from the drinking container (2) across a rim (13) of the lid housing (10); a first cover (25) movable between a first covering position, in which the first cover (25) is configured to cover the first opening (12), and a second open position, in which the first cover (25) is configured to allow access to the first opening (12); a first straw (19) configured for drawing the liquid from the drinking container (2) through the first straw (19); and a second opening (18) configured to receive the first straw (19); wherein the lid housing (10) further comprises: a recess (17), wherein the second opening (18) configured to receive the first straw (19) is located at a bottom of the recess (17); and a second cover (40) movable between a first covering position, in which the second cover (40) is configured to cover the recess (17), and a second open position, in which the second cover (40) is configu red to allow access to the recess (17) and the second opening(18).

2. The lid assembly (1) according to claim 1 , wherein at least a top part of the first straw (19) is positioned inside the recess (17) when the second cover (40) is in the first covering position and the remaining part of the first straw (19) is positioned below the top of the lid housing (10) of the lid assembly (1 ).

3. The lid assembly (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first straw(19) has a length sufficient for drawing liquid from a bottom of the container body (5) of the drinking container (2).

4. The lid assembly (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first (19) straw is a substantially straight straw.

5. The lid assembly (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a third opening (50) located at the bottom of the recess, wherein the third opening (50) isconfigured to allow liquid present in the recess (17) to flow back into the container body (5).

6. The lid assembly (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a holding element (20) provided in the second opening (18) in the recess (17), wherein the holding element (20) is configured to allow positioning of the first straw (19) inside the second opening (18).

7. The lid assembly (1) according to claim 6, further comprising a second straw (24) removably connected to the holding element (20).

8. The lid assembly (1 ) according to claim 7, wherein the first straw (19) is configured to slide through an opening in the holding element (20) and inside the second straw (24) when the first (19) and second (24) straws are assembled in the lid assembly (1 ).

9. The lid assembly (1 ) according to claims 7 or 8, wherein the first (19) and / or second (24) straws are substantially straight straws made of a rigid material configured to prevent bending of the first (19) and / or second (24) straws.

10. The lid assembly (1 ) according to any one of claims 7 to 9 , wherein a length of the first straw (19) is greaterthan a length of the second straw (24), and / orwherein the first straw (19) comprises a resistance mechanism (60, 62) configured to prevent accidental removal of the first straw (19) from the second straw (24).11 . The lid assembly (1) according to anyone of the preceding claims, wherein the first straw (19) comprises a rigid element (23) positioned around an outer surface of the first straw (19); wherein a combined outercircumference of the rigid element (23) and thefirst straw (19) is greater than a circumference of the second opening (18), thereby preventing the first straw (19) from entering over its entire length through the second opening (18).

12. The lid assembly (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a fourth opening (52) positioned inside the recess (17), wherein the fourth opening (52) is configured to function as an airvent.

13. The lid assembly (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lid assembly (1) further comprising a pivot axis (26), wherein the first cover (25) is configured to pivot around the pivot axis (26) to move from the first covering position to the second open position.

14. The lid assembly (1 ) according to claim 13, wherein the second cover (40) is configured to pivot around the pivot axis (26) to move from the first covering position to the second open position.

15. The lid assembly (1) according to claim 14, wherein the first cover (25) and second cover (40) are configured to pivot simultaneously around the pivot axis (26) to move from their respective first covering positions to their respective second open positions.

16. The lid assembly (1) according to anyone of the preceding claims, wherein the first cover (25) comprises a first leg (27), a second leg (28) and a third leg (29), the third leg (29) being positioned between the first (27) and second (28) leg to form an arc-shaped arrangement, such that the second cover (40) is positioned within an opening formed by the first (27), second (28) and third (29) leg.

17. The lid assembly (1) according to anyone of the preceding claims, wherein the first cover (25) further comprises a protrusion element (30, 31 ) configured to be complementary to the first opening (12); wherein the protrusion element (30, 31 ) is positioned on the first cover (25) and configured to engage with the first opening (12) when the first cover (25) is in the first covering position.

18. The lid assembly (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second cover (40) further comprises an abutment element (42, 47) configured to be complementary to an outer surface and / or an open end of the first straw (19); wherein the abutment element (42, 47) is positioned on the second cover (40) and configured to engage around the outer surface of the first straw (19) and / or inside the open end of the first straw (19) when the second cover (40) is in the first covering position, thereby preventing the liquid from escaping through the first straw (19).

19. A drinking container (2) comprising a container body (5) configured for containing a liquid, characterized in that the drinking container (2) further comprises a lid assembly (1) according to any one of the previous claims.

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