Patent Publication Number: US-9848721-B2

Title: Universal lid for food and drink containers

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a national stage 35 U.S.C. 371 filing of International Application No. PCT/US2014/031582, filed on Mar. 24, 2014. 
     This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/804,714, filed Mar. 24, 2013, which is expressly incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     The present disclosure is directed to a universal lid for food and drink containers. More particularly, the present disclosure is directed to a universal lid that can be applied to containers of various sizes and includes an opening for accessing the contents without removing the lid. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     Various groups of people need containers with spill-proof lids. Consider in particular the needs of a parent and child. Children often knock their drinks over and, as a result, usually drink from sippy cups. Parents purchase numerous sippy cups, so that there is an ample supply of these cups for use. Consider also, an adult drinking coffee in the morning and needing to leave for work or to walk the dog. A special travel mug must be used to prevent the coffee from spilling during their commute to work or outing. In addition, it is helpful to have spill-proof food containers from which children can snack. Again, parents must purchase numerous snack traps, so that there is an ample supply of these containers for use. In all three of these examples, there is a predetermined lid for each container so that in order to use the cup or snack trap, the lid and container must match. As a result, people can spend time searching for the matching lid and containers, which can be frustrating. In addition, storage of the lids and containers can use up limited storage space in the kitchen. Furthermore, when on the go, carrying conventional sippy cups, snack traps and/or travel mugs can increase the need for a large bag and toting around multiple devices. 
     While many spill-proof lids have been created which allow food and drink access by mouth or hand, they are not versatile and can only fit one particularly sized vessel. Without the required sized vessel, the lid becomes useless. Some lids have been created to fit a selective number of different sized containers. However, these lids are also useless with out the matching containers. Furthermore, these lids may not include an area which allows you to drink the liquid or reach in to pull food out. As a result, you must remove the lid to drink or eat, which could be messy. 
     Thus, a need exists for a lid that can fit various sized containers and allow a user to access food or drink therein without removing the lid. Furthermore, a need exists for these containers to be usable by children and/or adults. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     The present disclosure relates to a stretchy, flexible lid, which can be pulled over a container or vessel used to hold liquid or food. This flexible lid may contain a spill-proof access point by which liquid can be drunk from the mouth and/or food can be reached with fingers or otherwise retrieved. The flexibility of the lid material allows it to be stretched to fit over a variety of vessels of different shapes and sizes. This universality or ability of the lid to change sizes makes the lid practical for use anywhere that food and drink are consumed including, but not limited to, in the house, in the car, at restaurants, outdoors, while traveling or on-the-go. In addition, the lid of the present disclosure provides an easy to use, inexpensive to manufacture lid for various uses. The lid also allows a caregiver to select the container material for their child. 
     The present invention uniquely allows a user to add a spill-proof lid to any drinking cup in one&#39;s possession such as in a kitchen cupboard, at a restaurant or anywhere. 
     The present lid includes a flexible top wall with an outlet and a flexible sidewall integrally formed therewith. The top wall and sidewall can be stretched to fit a plurality of different sized containers and allow access to food or liquid therein without removing the lid. Upon applying the lid on the container, the flexible sidewall stretches from an initial state to a second state where the top wall and said sidewall are taut and the flexible sidewall closes the container opening. In use, a user can obtain a fluid from the container through the outlet. 
     The outlet may be sealable and may be self-sealing. In the self-sealing examples, the outlet is selectively openable. When a user applies pressure by mouth or by inserting their hand, the outlet is in an open state. When the user releases the pressure, by removing their mouth ceasing sucking or removing their hand from the outlet, the outlet automatically closes. 
     Furthermore, a seal may be created between the container sidewall and the flexible sidewall. 
     The top wall may include a spout, a stopper and opening arrangement, opening sized to fit a variety of different sized straws, or an opening sized to fit a user&#39;s hand. 
     The lid may include one or more of the following features: a hinge for folding the lid for storage, integrally formed handle(s), roll-stop projection(s), a vent hole, a securing strap, a tapered sidewall. 
     With respect to the tapered sidewall the diameter of the lid at the top may be greater than the diameter of the lid at the bottom. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       In the accompanying drawings that form a part of the specification and are to be read in conjunction therewith, illustrate by way of example and not limitation, with like reference numerals referring to like elements, wherein: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a first exemplary universal lid of the present disclosure showing a spill-proof mouthpiece suitable for liquid applications for children, the lid is shown exploded from a container; 
         FIG. 2  is a top view of the first exemplary lid of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a bottom view of the first exemplary lid of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 4  is a front view of the first exemplary lid of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a side view of the first exemplary lid of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 6  is a cross-sectional view of the first exemplary lid of  FIG. 1  installed on the container of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view of a second exemplary lid of the present disclosure showing a spill-proof mouthpiece with a leak-proof seal feature near a closed position, more suitable for adult use; 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view of the second exemplary lid of  FIG. 6  with the seal feature in an open position; 
         FIG. 9  is a side view of the second exemplary lid of  FIG. 6 ; 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of a third exemplary lid of the present disclosure showing the lid on a container; 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of a fourth exemplary lid of the present disclosure showing a spill-proof access point suitable for liquid applications for adult use; 
         FIG. 12  is a top view of the fourth exemplary lid of  FIG. 11 ; 
         FIG. 13  is a front view of the fourth exemplary lid of  FIG. 11 ; 
         FIG. 14  is a cross-sectional view of the fourth exemplary lid along line  14 - 14  of  FIG. 13 ; 
         FIG. 15  is a front, perspective view of a fifth exemplary lid of the present disclosure showing a spill-proof access point suitable for liquid applications for children; 
         FIG. 16  is a rear, perspective view of the fifth exemplary lid of  FIG. 15 ; 
         FIG. 17  is a cross-sectional view of the fifth exemplary lid of  FIG. 15  along line  17 - 17  of  FIG. 16 , with the lid shown in an original state; 
         FIG. 18  is a cross-sectional view of two fifth exemplary lids of  FIG. 15  shown in a folded state and stacked, where an alternative vent is shown; 
         FIG. 19  is a cross-sectional view of the fifth exemplary lid of  FIG. 15  along line  19 - 19  of  FIG. 16 , with the lid shown in an original state; 
         FIG. 20  is a side, perspective view of the fifth exemplary lid of  FIG. 15  shown in use; 
         FIGS. 21-22  are perspective views of a sixth exemplary lid of the present disclosure showing a spill-proof access point suitable for liquid applications for children, where the lid is connected to two different containers; 
         FIG. 23  is a perspective view of a seventh exemplary lid of the present disclosure showing a spill-proof access point suitable for liquid applications for children, where the spout is in an open position; 
         FIG. 24  is a cross-sectional view of the seventh exemplary lid of  FIG. 23  along line  24 - 24  thereof; 
         FIG. 25  is a perspective view of the seventh exemplary lid of  FIG. 23 , where the spout is in a closed or folded position; 
         FIG. 26  is a perspective view of a eighth exemplary lid of the present disclosure showing a spill-proof access point suitable for liquid applications for children, where a strap and a spout are in an open position; 
         FIG. 27  is a perspective view of the eighth exemplary lid of  FIG. 26 , where the strap is in a closed position; 
         FIG. 28  is a perspective view of the eighth exemplary lid of  FIG. 26 , where the strap and spout are in a closed position; 
         FIG. 29  is a perspective view of a ninth exemplary lid of the present disclosure showing a spill-proof access point suitable for liquid applications for children; 
         FIG. 30  is a partial, cross-sectional view of the ninth exemplary lid of  FIG. 29 ; 
         FIG. 31  is a side view of the ninth exemplary lid of  FIG. 29 , with the lid shown in an original state; 
         FIG. 32  is a cross-sectional view of the ninth exemplary lid of  FIG. 29  shown in a folded state, where an alternative vent is shown; 
         FIG. 33  cross-sectional view of the ninth exemplary lid of  FIG. 29  in use; 
         FIGS. 34-35  are perspective views of the ninth exemplary lid of  FIG. 29  in use on two different sized containers; 
         FIG. 36  is a front, perspective view of a tenth exemplary lid of the present disclosure showing a spill-proof access point suitable for liquid applications for children, the lid is shown in use on a container; 
         FIG. 37  is a rear, perspective view of the tenth exemplary lid of  FIG. 36 ; 
         FIG. 38  is a cross-sectional view of the tenth exemplary lid of  FIG. 36 ; 
         FIG. 39  is a perspective view of the tenth exemplary lid of  FIG. 36  in use with a carrying case adjacent thereto; 
         FIG. 40  is a perspective view of an eleventh exemplary lid of the present disclosure showing a spill-proof access point suitable for food applications; 
         FIG. 41  is a rear view of the eleventh exemplary lid of  FIG. 40 ; 
         FIG. 42  is a partial, cross-sectional, side view of the eleventh exemplary lid of  FIG. 41  along line  42 - 42  thereof and showing the lid installed on a bowl; 
         FIG. 43  is a bottom view of the eleventh exemplary lid of  FIG. 40 ; 
         FIG. 44  is a perspective view of a twelfth exemplary lid of the present disclosure showing a spill-proof access point suitable for food applications; 
         FIG. 45  is a top, perspective view of a thirteenth exemplary lid of the present disclosure showing a spill-proof access point suitable for food applications; 
         FIG. 46  is a bottom, perspective view of the thirteenth exemplary lid of  FIG. 45 ; 
         FIG. 47  is a side view of the thirteenth exemplary lid of  FIG. 45  shown installed on a bowl; and 
         FIG. 48  is a cross-sectional view of the thirteenth exemplary lid of  FIG. 47  shown along line  48 - 48  thereof. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , universal lid  10  of a first exemplary configuration is shown. During use, lid  10  may be applied to a plurality of containers, cups, or drinking vessels one such container being container  12 . Container  12  includes container sidewall  14  defining opening  16  and chamber  18 . Container  12  further includes lip  20 . Chamber  18  contains liquid  22 . Container opening  16  has outer opening diameter D O . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1-2 , lid  10  further includes flexible top wall  24  with an integrally formed upwardly extending mouthpiece, spout or spout portion  26 . Spout  26  defines elongated channel  27  (shown in  FIG. 6 ) and includes spill-proof lid openings or outlets  28 . Although three openings  28  are shown, an alternative embodiment may have one, two or more than three openings. Openings  28  may be selectively openable and may be self-sealing due to the configuration and material used. As a result, a user may obtain a fluid  18  from container  12  from spout  26 . Pressure may be applied to spout portion  26 , in order to open openings  28 . This may be done by a user gently biting down on spout portion  26 . Alternatively, a user can apply pressure by sucking on spout portion  26  to open openings  28 . Once the pressure is released, openings  28  automatically close. Spout portion  26  may be designed with the contours of a child&#39;s mouth in consideration. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1-3 , lid  10  also includes flexible sidewall  30  extending downwardly from and surrounding top wall  24  to define chamber  32  (shown in  FIG. 3 ) therein with chamber opening  32   a . Chamber  32  and channel  27  are in fluid communication, as shown in  FIG. 6 . In an initial state, chamber opening  32   a  has a first size and in a second state (shown in  FIG. 6 ) chamber opening pa has a second size different from the first size. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 3 , inner sidewall diameter D S  (shown in  FIG. 3 ) is less than outer opening diameter D O  (see  FIG. 1 ) of container  12  so that upon applying or installing lid  10  on container  12 , top wall  24  and/or sidewall  30  stretch from the initial state to the second state and sidewall  30  is located adjacent container sidewall  14  and closes container opening  16 . In addition, sidewall  30  applies a compressive force on container  12  to create a first seal (as discussed below). Direction of compressive force F is shown in  FIG. 6 , and exists continuously around the circumference of container  12 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , sidewall  30  further includes free edge  34 . In the present example, free edge  34  includes a pair of integrally formed, diametrically opposed handles  36 . Referring to  FIGS. 2-5 , each handle  36  defines opening  38 . 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 1-3 , in the present example, top wall  24  and sidewall  30  may be generally circular in shape. In  FIGS. 1-5 , lid  10  is shown in an unstretched or initial state where chamber opening  32   a  has a first size and where lid  10  has not been installed on container  12 . 
     In an initial state, as shown in  FIG. 5 , lid  10  may have a tapered shape from top wall  24  to free edge  34 . As a result, lid  10  has first diameter D 1  greater than second Diameter D 2 . The least amount of taper may be 3 degrees, however a larger taper may also be used. 
       FIGS. 1-5  show lid  10  as it applies to vessels containing liquid. In use, referring to  FIG. 1 , flexible lid  10  is stretched over container  12  so that mouthpiece  26  is situated over container opening  16  near lip  20  and container opening has a second size larger than first size. Sides or sidewalls  30  of lid  10  are pulled down the side or sidewall  14  of container  12  using handles  36  until lid  10  becomes “taut” across top or top wall  24  and “taut” along sides or sidewall  30 . “Taut” means top wall  24  and sidewall  30  have no slack and as a result are tightly drawn. 
     Handles  36 , thus, aid in pulling lid  10  onto container  12 . When lid  10  is in the stretched state, sidewall  30  of lid compresses against sidewall  14  of container  12 . As shown in  FIG. 6 , seal  40  is thus created between container sidewall  14  and lid sidewall  30 . As a result, vessel or container  12  can now be tipped over or held upside down without the fear of liquid  22  pouring out. First seal is strong enough to remain secure upon inversion (or turning container  12  completely upside down when the container contains some liquid or is completely full. 
     This same method is followed regardless of the size of container opening D O  (See  FIG. 1 ), provided it falls within the required range for that exemplary lid  10 . Each exemplary lid  10  is designed to fit a size range of containers  12  appropriate to its function. 
     The sizing of lid  10  in  FIG. 1  to  FIG. 5  is sufficient to work on the vast majority of drinking vessels that a user may have available. The vessels of various sizes may have opening diameter D O  of 60 mm (2 23/64 inches) to 90 mm (3 35/64 inches). Lid  10  may have a first size or sidewall less than about 60 mm and may stretch to a second size to accommodate an opening diameter D O  of 95 mm thus difference between the first and second sizes may be at least about 30 mm. However, the present invention is not limited to the present size and if used with larger or smaller containers the size of lid  10  can be adjusted to accommodate other size ranges of containers. 
     Lid  10  maybe easily removed from container  12  by stretching and removing lid  10  from therefrom. Then, container  12  can be refilled, cleaned or the like. When additional consumption of the liquid may be desired, lid  10  may be replaced again on the same or a different container. 
     The resilient nature of the material forming lid  10  as well as sidewall diameter D S  of lid (see  FIG. 3 ) in the unstretched state being smaller than outer diameter D O  of the container used therewith, allows lid  10  to exert a compressive force on container  12  and securely connects lid  10  with container  12  and allows lid  10  to remain thereon until it is removed. 
     Lid  10  and spout  26  are molded into an elastic, relatively rigid predetermined shape. As a result, lid  10  and spout  26  are sufficiently rigid to maintain their shape and elastic so that they return to their original shape upon release. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 7-9 , second exemplary lid  110  is shown. Lid  110  is similar to lid  10  of  FIG. 1  in that it is tapered. Lid  110  is different from lid  10  in that lid  110  is configured for use by an adult. Referring to  FIG. 7 , lid  110  includes top wall  124  with integrally formed central portion  124   a , intermediate portion  124   b , and exterior portion  124   c . Intermediate portion  120  extends at an angle with respect to central portion  124   a  thereabout. Intermediate portion  124   b  and exterior portion  124   c  form mouthpiece or spout portion  126 . Spout portion  126  defines opening  128 . Spout portion  126  may be designed with the contours of an adult&#39;s mouth in consideration. Opening  128  and lid  110  may reduce splashing of a liquid from a cup. 
     Referring to  FIG. 7  to  FIG. 9 , lid  110  includes spill-proof feature  129  including prongs  129   a , flexible arm  129   b  and stopper  129   c . Movable stopper  129   c  may selectively open and close opening  128 . Prongs  129   a  are configured and dimensioned to secure arm  129   b  therebetween to hold spill-proof feature  129  in an open position (as shown in  FIG. 7 ). Stopper  129   c  and opening  128  are configured and dimensioned so that in its closed position, stopper  129   c  may be secured within opening or drinking hole  128  and prevents spilling and leaking of liquid therefrom. As a result, a spill-proof seal may created when stopper  129   c  is installed in opening  128 . In addition, in the closed position feature  129  acts to trap in heat from hot liquids so that they may remain hot for longer. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1 and 10 , sidewall  130  of lid  110  may have a tapered shape so that the front has first length L 1  less than rear second length L 2 . Sidewall  130  further includes free edge  134  that includes cutout feature  135  to help lid  110  fit around handle H (see  FIG. 10 ) of mug  212  (see  FIG. 10 ). 
     Lid  110  may be sufficiently sized to cover the range of drinking vessel sizes that an adult would expect to drink from. This lid size may accommodate opening diameter D O  (see  FIG. 1 ) of about 65 mm (2 9/16 inches) to about 100 mm (3 15/16 inches). Thus, in this example the first size may be less than about 65 mm and the second size may accommodate opening diameter D O  of about 100 mm and the difference may be 35 mm. 
     This embodiment is applied in the same way as stated above with respect to lid  10 . By stretching lid  110  over vessel  112  (shown in  FIG. 10 ) and pulling it all the way down sides  114  of vessel  112  to create a spill-proof seal therewith (as previously discussed). Lid  110  can be used on a variety or plurality of containers of different sizes, as previously discussed with respect to lid  10 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 10 , third exemplary lid  110 ′ is shown. Lid  110 ′ is similar to lid  110  of  FIG. 6  except lid  110 ′ does not include cutout  135  (shown in  FIG. 9 ). Lid  110 ′ is show on container  112 ′ with handle H. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 11-14 , fourth exemplary lid  210  is shown. Lid  210  is similar to lid  110  of  FIG. 1  and is configured for use with an adult. Except spill-proof feature  229  may be configured differently. Spill-proof feature  229  includes securement recess  229   a , stopper  229   b , and closure recess  229   c . When feature is in a fully open position, stopper  229   b  is within securement recess  229   a  and stopper  229   b  and recess  229   c  are configured and dimensioned to hold stopper  229   b  within recess  229   c . When feature  229  is moved to a closed position, stopper  229   b  is within closure recess  229   c  and these features are configured and dimensioned to hold stopper  229   b  therein in a spill-proof manner and seal opening  228 . 
     Lid  210  is also different from lid  110  in that top wall  224  includes central portion  224   a  and rounded exterior portion  224   b . Furthermore, lid  210  includes sidewall  230  with thickened area or rim  235 . Rim  235  allows a user to more easily grasp lid  210  for removal thereof. 
     This embodiment is applied in the same way as stated above with respect to lid  10 . By stretching lid  210  over a vessel and pulling it all the way down sides  114  of vessel  112  to create a spill-proof seal therewith (as previously discussed). Lid  210  can be used on a variety of container of different sizes as previously discussed with respect to lid  10 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 15-17 , fifth exemplary lid  310  is shown. Lid  310  is similar to lid  10  of  FIG. 1  except lid  310  does not include handles  36  (shown in  FIG. 1 ) and spout portion  326  has a different shape from spout portion  26  (shown in  FIG. 1 ). Spout portion  326  of lid  310  may be formed of the same material as the rest of top wall  324  or spout portion  326  may be formed of a different material as the rest of top wall  324 . For example, spout portion  326  may be formed of a harder, bite-proof second material and remainder of top wall  324  formed of a softer first material. The first and second materials can be silicones with different hardness values co-molded together, for example. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 17-19 , in addition, lid  310  includes sidewall  330  with upper section  330   a  and lower section  330   b  joined by hinge section  330   c . Upper section  330   a  and lower section  330   b  have first thickness t 1  and hinge section  330   c  has second thickness t 2 , where second thickness t 2  is less than first thickness t 1 . As a result, when upward and inward forces F (shown in  FIG. 17 ) are applied to lower section  330   b , hinge section  330   c  allows lower section  330   b  to fold into upper section  330   a  in to a folded position. As a result, the size of lid  310  is reduced for storage and transport. Once folded, lid  310  can be stacked on another lid  310 ′ in a nested arrangement as shown in  FIG. 18 . To unfold lid  310 , a force opposite to force F is applied to lower section  330   b  to remove it from upper section  330   a.    
     Referring to  FIGS. 15 and 17 , top wall  324  includes vent opening  325 . Vent opening  325  may have a funnel shape so that it is larger at the top and decreases in diameter downwardly. Vent opening  325  aids in allowing liquid to be sucked out of container  312  (shown in  FIG. 20 ). 
     In addition, sidewall  330  of lid  310  may include a thickened rim  334  that may include an outwardly extending projection  324   a . If a container with lid  310  thereon is knocked over, roll-stop projection  324   a  prevents lid  310  from rolling. Thus, potentially preventing lid  310  and cup attached thereto from rolling off a surface, for example a table. In an alternative example, lid may include more than roll-stop one projection  324   a . For example, two or more spaced apart projections may be used or a series of tabs, bumps or shaped edges may be used as roll-stops. 
     In an initial state (as shown in  FIG. 17 ), lid  310  is also tapered, however the taper is greater than that of lid  10 . Lid  310  may have a taper where first diameter D 1  at free edge  334  is over 25% narrower than second diameter D 2  at top wall  324 . The lid may be about 35% narrower at the bottom than at the top. 
     This embodiment is applied in the same way as stated above with respect to lid  10 . Referring to  FIG. 20 , by stretching lid  310  over vessel  312  (in the unfolded state) and pulling it all the way down the sides  314  of vessel  312  to create a spill-proof seal therewith (as previously discussed). Lid  310  may be used on a variety of containers of different sizes as previously discussed with respect to lid  10 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 21-22 , sixth exemplary lid  410  is shown. Lid  410  is similar to lid  10  of  FIG. 1  except lid  410  does not include handles  36  with openings  38  (shown in  FIG. 1 ), but includes tabs  436  for assisting in pulling lid  410  onto containers  412  and  413 . Furthermore, lid  410  has spout portion  426  with a different shape from spout portion  26  (shown in  FIG. 1 ), but similar to mouthpiece  326  (shown in  FIG. 54 ). 
     In  FIGS. 21 and 22 , lid  410  is shown in use stretched over containers  412  and  413 . Container  412  has one opening diameter D O  (see  FIG. 1 ). In  FIG. 22 , container  413  has opening diameter D O  (see  FIG. 1 ) different from container  412 . In addition, containers  412  and  313  have different overall shapes, heights and materials. Lid  410  may be used like lid  10 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 23-25 , seventh exemplary lid  510  is shown. Lid  510  is similar to lid  410  of  FIG. 21  except lid  510  includes chamber  511  defined adjacent sidewall  530  and integrally formed therewith. Furthermore, spout portion  526  is configured and dimensioned to be bendable so that when not in use spout portion  526  can be disposed within chamber  511  (as shown in  FIG. 25 ) so that spout portion  526  remains clean. Spout portion  526  is shown in the folded or stored position in  FIG. 25  and in the in use position in  FIGS. 23 and 24 . Lid  510  may be applied to a container like lid  10 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 26-28 , eighth exemplary lid  610  is shown. Lid  610  is similar to lid  410  of  FIG. 21  except lid  610  includes notch  611  and channel  631  defined within sidewall  630 . Furthermore, sidewall  630  includes integrally formed strap  632 . Channel  631  receives strap  632  and assists in securing strap  632  in position on lid  610 . Strap  632  further includes opening  632   a  defined therein and working end portion  633  defining a series of spaced apart paired projections  633   a ,  633   b ,  633   c ,  633   d . When strap  632  is secured around lid  610  as shown in  FIG. 227 , opening  632   a  and projections  633   b  are configured and dimensioned to secure strap  632  about lid  610 . This aids in securing lid  610  to a container (not shown) by increasing the dexterity and force necessary to remove lid  610 . Thus, a child may find removal of lid  610  more difficult. 
     In lid  610 , spout portion  626  may be configured in a cylinder and dimensioned to be bendable so that when not in use spout portion  626  can be disposed within groove  611  (as shown in  FIG. 28 ) so that it may be spill-proof when not in use. In the in-use position (see  FIG. 27 ), spout portion  626  allows liquid to flow therethrough. Applying of lid  610  to various containers is similar to lid  10 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 29-31 , ninth exemplary lid  710  is shown. Lid  710  is similar to lid  310  of  FIG. 15  and includes hinge section  730   c  as part of sidewall  730 . As a result, lid  710  can be used in an unfolded state, as shown in  FIGS. 29-31  and stored in a folded state, as shown in  FIG. 32 . Lid  710  may be folded and stacked as previously discussed with respect to lid  310 . Changing lid  810  from unfolded or original state to the folded state and vice versa is accomplished as discussed with respect to lid  310 . Lid  710  further includes funnel-shaped vent  725  similar to vent  325 . 
     Lid  710  is different from lid  310  in that it lacks a spout portion like spout portion  326  and includes opening  728  suitable for use with straw S (see  FIG. 33 ). Furthermore, lid  710  is shaped to have a continuous radius of curvature between the sidewall  730  and top wall  724  (as seen in  FIG. 33 ). 
     In  FIGS. 34-35 , lid  710  is shown in-use, stretched over containers  712  and  713 . Container  712  has one opening diameter D O . (see  FIG. 1 ). In  FIG. 35 , container  713  has opening diameter D O  (see  FIG. 1 ) different from container  812 . In addition, containers  712  and  713  have different overall shapes, heights and materials. Use and sealing of lid  710  to a container is similar to lid  210 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 33 , when a user inserts straw S into opening  728 , lid  710  creates second seal S 2  about straw S. As a result, opening  728  becomes a spill-proof opening. Thus, spill-proof first seal is formed between sidewall  730  of lid  710  and container  712  or  713  (as previously discussed with respect to lid  10 ) and second spill-proof seal S 2  is created between lid  710  and straw S. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 36-38 , tenth exemplary lid  810  is shown. Lid  810  similar to lid  310  of  FIG. 15 , except lid  810  includes different spout portion  826 . Top wall  824  is formed of two different materials. The spout portion  826  includes first layer  827   a  of soft material and co-molded second outer layer  827   b  of a harder material. First layer  827   a  includes slit  828   a  aligned with larger opening  828   b  defined in second layer  828   b . When a user sucks liquid out of lid  810 , the pressure causes slit  827   a  to selectively open allowing liquid to flow out of opening  828   b . When the pressure is released, slit  827   a  automatically closes making lid  810  spill-proof. Alternatively, spout portion  826  may be formed of a single layer of material substantially more rigid than remainder of lid  810 , this allows mouthpiece  826  to be bite proof. 
     Spout portion  826  may have a figurative or decorative shape, such as for example, an animal shape. Lid  810  shows exemplary teddy bear (as shown) shaped spout  826 . Furthermore, mouthpiece  826  and remainder of lid  810  may be of different colors. In  FIG. 38 , lid  810  is shown in use stretched over container  812 . Applying of lid  810  to container  812  is similar to lid  310 . 
     Lid  810  may include a hinge section similar to lid  310 . When in a folded position lid  810  may be stored in a carrying case C (shown in  FIG. 39 ). Carrying case C may be used with various lids and sized to contain the lid for clean transport and storage. Carrying case is formed using conventional manufacturing methods and may include a living hinge and a snap fit. Carrying case C may be formed to have a decorative shape C′. Lid  810  may also include a roll-stop projection as previously discussed. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 40-42 , eleventh exemplary lid  910  is shown. Lid  910  is similar to lid  10  of  FIG. 1  except lid  910  is configured for use with container  912  that contains food F. Referring to  FIG. 40 , lid  910  includes top wall  924  with a self-sealing spill-proof opening  928  in the form of elongated slit  929 . Top wall  924  includes two overlapping movable flaps  924   a  and  924   b . When a user&#39;s hand (not shown) is inserted into slit  929 , flaps  924   a  and  924   b  move to an open state to allow access to food F. When the hand is removed, flaps  924   a  and  924   b  return to their initial state and food F cannot be spilled from container  912 . Opening  928  may be sized to fit a child&#39;s hand therethrough. 
     Sidewall  930  may include integral handle  936  defining opening  938 . Handle  936  assists in pulling lid  910  onto container  912 . Handle  936  also allows the child to easily hold and carry vessel  912  around. 
     Sidewall  930  further includes free edge  934 . In the present embodiment, free edge  934  may be shaped so that sidewall  930  has first length L 1  at the front greater than second length L 2  at the rear. In an alternative example, first and second lengths L 1  and L 2  may be substantially the same. 
     Furthermore, free edge  934  further includes strap  934   a  extending across lid  910  (as best shown in  FIG. 43 ). Strap  934   a  may be flexible, and when installed onto container as shown in  FIG. 45  applies an upward force on container  912  to help secure lid  910  thereon. Strap  934   a  may be used to offer additional securement of lid  910  to vessel  912 . In an alternative, example lid  910  may not include strap  934   a  or may include strap, which has a different shape such as a cross-shape. 
     Lid  910  may be applied in the same way as stated above with respect to lid  10 . By stretching lid  910  over vessel  912  (shown in  FIG. 40 ) and pulling it all the way down the sides  914  of vessel  912  until lid  910  becomes taut across top  1024  and taut alongside sidewall  930  (see  FIG. 42 ). As a result, lid  910  and vessel  921  have a spill-proof connection, as previously discussed with respect to lid  10 . 
     In  FIG. 41-45  lid  910  is sufficiently sized to fit a range of vessels that a child might be expected to hold with one hand while accessing the contents with the other hand. Such vessels may have an opening diameter of 90 mm (3 15/16 inches to 125 mm (4 59/64 inches), which is a difference of about 35 mm. 
     Referring to  FIG. 44 , twelfth exemplary lid  1010  is shown. Lid  1010  is similar to lid  910  of  FIG. 40  except lid  1010  has elongated slit  1028  without flaps  924   a  and  924   b  of  FIG. 40 . Slit  1028  may be self-sealing. Lid  1010  may be applied to a variety of containers like lid  910 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 45 and 46 , thirteenth exemplary lid  1110  is shown. Lid  1110  is similar to lid  910  of  FIG. 40  except lid  1110  has different shaped opening  1128  for accessing food within a container and strap  1129  has buckle feature  1129   a  for installing and removal. Buckle feature  1129   a  allows strap  1129  to be adjustable. 
     Opening  1128  may have a generally cruciate or cross-shape, however other shapes may be used. In addition, opening  1128  has a funnel shape so that it tapers from a wider width at the top to the more narrow width at the bottom. This allows access to the contents but keeps the contents of the bowl inside when the bowl is inverted. Upon inversion (as shown in  FIGS. 47 and 48 ), food F falls around the perimeter of the funneled opening  128 . Lid  1110  may be applied to a variety of containers like lid  910 . 
     Lids  10 ,  110 ,  110 ′,  210 ,  310 ,  410 ,  510 ,  610 ,  710 ,  810 ,  910 ,  1010 , and  1110  may be integrally formed of a single, unitary material using processes, such as for example compression molding, casting, injection molding, 3D printing, or the like. Covers  10 ,  110 ,  110 ′,  210 ,  310 ,  410 ,  510 ,  610 ,  710 ,  810 ,  910 ,  1010  and  1110  may be formed of a material with one or more of the following properties: stretchy (elongation of greater than 400% at break or between 800% to 1100% at break), flexible, resilient, food safe, dishwasher safe, BPA and Phthalate-free, waterproof material, strong, high chemical resistance, high ultraviolet resistance, high stability, and allergen-free material. Examples of materials, which may be used are Rubber, Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE) such as TPU and TPR, and Silicone. In alternative embodiments, other materials know to those with skill in the art may be used. In one example, silicone of a 10 Shore A-15 Shore A may be used which has an elongation of 800%-1100% at break. 
     In some embodiments such as lid  810  (shown in  FIG. 32 ), certain features like mouthpiece  826  may require a harder, stiffer material. An example might be plastics such as Polypropylene or Polyethylene, silicones with a harder durometer, rubbers of a harder durometer, the synthetic polymers sold under the trademark NYLON®, Acrylonitrile Styrene, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, the copolyester sold under the trademark Triton™, Polycarbonite. It may also be necessary in some embodiments like lid  810  to co-mold the soft plastic of the lid with a hard plastic of a feature in order to benefit from the properties of both. 
     Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conception, upon which this disclosure is based, may readily be utilized as a basis for designing other products. Therefore, the claims are not to be limited to the specific examples depicted herein. For example, the features of one example disclosed above may be used with the features of another example. For example, the downwardly tapered sidewall may be incorporated any of the examples. For example, the hinge may be incorporated into other examples. The integrally formed handle(s) may be formed in other examples. For example, the roll-stop projection may be used on other lids. For example, lids may have all or some combination of downwardly tapered sidewall, hinge, rim, vent hole, handles, roll-stop projection, and/or securing strap. Lids of each exemplary configuration may be formed in a variety of sizes and depths, so that they can be used with a variety of containers. Thus, the details of these components as set forth in the above-described examples, should not limit the scope of the claims. 
     Further, the purpose of the Abstract is to enable the U. S. Patent and Trademark Office, and the public generally, and especially the scientists, engineers and practitioners in the art who are not familiar with patent or legal terms or phraseology, to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and essence of the technical disclosure of the application. The Abstract is neither intended to define the claims of the application nor is intended to be limiting on the claims in any way.