Patent ID: 6431382
Filing Date: 2002-08-13
Classification: B65D

Abstract:
An assembly for use in combination with a beverage container, comprising:a cap removably fixed to an opening in the container, the cap having a plug projecting into the container; a neck surrounding the opening, the neck having an inner surface; an inset located within the container, the insert held in position on an inner surface of the container and defining a guide means directed toward the opening, the insert including a first surface engaging the inner surface of the neck, the guide means including a first guide surface substantially aligned axially with the first surface, surrounded by and spaced radially from the first surface, having an inner surface surrounding the straw and permitting a portion of the straw length to be drawn through the first guide surface toward the opening; a second guide surface substantially aligned axially with the first surface, having an inner surface surrounding the straw and preventing the straw from passing through the second guide surface toward the opening; the insert further comprises webs mutually connecting the first surface of the insert, the first guide surface and second guide surface, the webs mutually spaced angularly about a central axis of the insert; and a drinking straw located within the container, passing through the guide means, and having a first end fitted within and engaging the plug such that removal of the cap from the container draws the first end of the straw outward from the container through the opening.