Patent Description:
It may be desirable for a drinking vessel to have a sealed position, in which a drinking opening of the drinking vessel is sealed, and an open position, in which the drinking opening is not sealed. It may also be desirable for a drinking vessel to have relatively few components that may contact a beverage contained in or consumed through the drinking vessel.

Existing prior art includes <CIT>, which relates to a container with an automatic lid closure.

The invention is defined by a lid for a drinking vessel in accordance with claim <NUM> and by a method of sealing and unsealing a drinking opening of a drinking vessel in accordance with claim <NUM>. Some embodiments described herein are directed to a lid for a drinking vessel including a lid base, a movable arm, and an actuator. The lid base defines a drinking opening therethrough. The movable arm is coupled to the lid base and disposed in an interior of the lid base. The actuator is accessible from an exterior of the lid base. A first magnet unit and a second magnet unit are coupled to one of the movable arm or the actuator. A third magnet unit is coupled to the other of the movable arm or the actuator. The movable arm is movable between a sealed position, in which the drinking opening is sealed, and an open position, in which the drinking opening is not sealed. The actuator is movable between a first position and a second position. A magnetic force maintains the movable arm in the open position while the actuator is in the second position, and a magnetic force maintains the movable arm in the sealed position while the actuator is in the first position.

Some embodiments described herein are directed to a lid for a drinking vessel including a lid base, a movable arm, and an actuator. The lid base defines a drinking opening therethrough. The movable arm is coupled to the lid base and located in an interior of the lid base. A first magnet unit is coupled to the movable arm. The actuator is accessible from an exterior of the lid base. A second magnet unit is coupled to the actuator. The movable arm is movable between a sealed position, in which the drinking opening is sealed, and an open position, in which the drinking opening is not sealed. The movable arm is biased toward a biased position, the biased position being one of the sealed position or the open position. The actuator is movable between a first position and a second position. When the actuator is moved to the second position, a force between the first and second magnet units overcomes the bias of the movable arm and causes the movable arm to move away from the biased position.

Some embodiments described herein are directed to a method for sealing and unsealing a drinking opening of a drinking vessel. The method includes an operation of moving an actuator accessible from an exterior of a lid base from a first position to a second position, and an operation of moving the actuator from the second position to the first position. Moving the actuator from the first position to the second position changes a magnetic force on a movable arm within the lid and thereby moves the movable arm to unseal a drinking opening of the lid base. Moving the actuator from the second position to the first position changes the magnetic force on the movable arm and thereby moves the movable arm to seal the drinking opening.

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a part of the specification, illustrate the present disclosure and, together with the description, further serve to explain the principles thereof and to enable a person skilled in the pertinent art to make and use the same.

People use reusable drinking vessels to carry a variety of beverages. It is often desirable for a drinking vessel to have a sealing mechanism to seal a drinking opening of the drinking vessel when a user is not drinking from it. Sealing the drinking opening can, for example, allow a user to carry the drinking vessel without worrying that the beverage being carried will leak on the user or the user's belongings. Sealing the drinking opening can also, for example, allow the beverage being carried to maintain a desired temperature. Users may appreciate a drinking vessel that can be easily sealed and unsealed so that the user can easily drink from the drinking vessel.

It may also be desirable for a drinking vessel to have relatively few components that come into contact with a beverage contained in or consumed through the drinking vessel. This may be desirable, for example, so that dirt or debris on certain components does not contaminate a beverage within the drinking vessel or so that there are relatively few component for a user to clean (e.g., to remove beverage deposits from the components).

Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a lid for a beverage container that can be used to easily seal and unseal a drinking opening. Several of the components are isolated from an interior volume of the drinking vessel such that a beverage carried inside the drinking vessel or consumed through the drinking vessel do not contact the components. The lid includes a movable arm that moves in response to a magnetic force to seal and unseal a drinking opening. The lid also includes an actuator (e.g., a button) accessible from an exterior of the lid. Two magnet units are located on the movable arm, and another magnet unit is located on the button. When the button is in an unpressed position, a magnetic force (e.g., an attractive force) between the magnet unit on the button and one of the magnet units on the movable arm holds the movable arm in the sealed position. When the button is in the pressed position, a magnetic force (e.g., a repulsive force) between the magnet unit on the button and the other magnet unit on the movable arm holds the movable arm in the open position.

In some embodiments, only one magnet unit is located on the movable arm. In some such embodiments, when the button is in the unpressed position, a magnetic force (e.g., an attractive force) between the magnet unit on the button and the magnet unit on the movable arm holds the movable arm in the sealed position. In other such embodiments, when the button is in the pressed position, a magnetic force (e.g., a repulsive force) between the magnet unit on the button and the magnet unit on the movable arm holds the movable arm in the open position.

In some embodiments, when a user presses the button, the resulting movement of a magnet unit located on the button changes a magnetic force on the movable arm, thereby causing the movable arm to move (e.g., toward an open position). In some embodiments, when a user releases the button, the resulting movement of the magnet unit located on the button changes the magnetic force on the movable arm, thereby causing the movable arm to move (e.g. toward a sealing position).

In some embodiments, the button is biased toward the unpressed position such that the button automatically moves to the unpressed position upon removal of a force holding the button in the pressed position. In some embodiments, a magnetic interaction between a magnet unit on the button and a magnet unit on the movable arm biases the button toward the unpressed position.

In some embodiments, the movable arm is biased toward one of the sealed position or the open position, and pressing the button causes a force between a magnet unit on the button and a magnet unit on the movable arm to overcome the bias of the movable arm. For example, the movable arm may be biased toward the sealed position, and pressing the button may cause a force between the magnet unit on the button and a magnet unit on the movable arm to overcome the bias, thereby moving the movable arm away from the sealed position.

In some embodiments, the actuator may be locked so that the drinking opening is not accidently unsealed.

These and other embodiments are discussed below in more detail with reference to the figures.

<FIG> show a drinking vessel <NUM> according to some embodiments. Drinking vessel <NUM> may include a container <NUM> and a lid <NUM> for container <NUM>. Lid <NUM> may include multiple components, including a lid base <NUM> and an actuator <NUM>.

Lid base <NUM> may include a drinking opening <NUM> through which a user can drink a beverage contained within container <NUM> when lid <NUM> is assembled with container <NUM>. Lid base <NUM> may also include a vent opening <NUM> through which an interior volume of container <NUM> can vent when lid <NUM> is assembled with container <NUM>. Lid base <NUM> may be formed of food-grade plastic (e.g., polypropylene, copolyester, the copolymer sold as Eastman Tritan, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyoxymethylene (POM), or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)), or metal (e.g., steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, or titanium), and may be formed as a single, unitary piece.

Lid <NUM> when assembled with container <NUM> can create a seal. The term seal as used here and elsewhere in this document does not necessarily require a perfect hermetic seal; rather a seal capable of inhibiting passage of liquid fluid is sufficient. Drinking opening <NUM> and vent opening <NUM> may be the only openings extending though lid base <NUM> to container <NUM>, and drinking opening <NUM> and vent opening <NUM> may be sealed in some configurations, as will be discussed in greater detail below.

Actuator <NUM> may be accessible from an exterior of lid base <NUM>. Actuator <NUM> may be or include, for example, a button <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>), a switch, a lever, or other suitable mechanical mechanism. Actuator <NUM> may be moveable between a first position and a second position in order to seal or unseal drinking opening <NUM>, as will be discussed in greater detail below. Additionally or alternatively, actuator <NUM> may be moveable between a first position and a second position in order to seal or unseal venting opening <NUM>.

In embodiments where actuator <NUM> is or includes a button <NUM>, actuator <NUM> may be moveable from the first position to the second position, for example, by pressing button <NUM>, and from the second position to the first position, for example, by releasing button <NUM>. Actuator <NUM> may be formed of any suitable material (e.g., polypropylene, copolyester, the copolymer sold as Eastman Tritan, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyoxymethylene (POM), or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)), glass, or metal (e.g., steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, or titanium), and may be formed as a single, unitary piece.

In some embodiments, lid <NUM> includes a locking member <NUM> to inhibit movement of actuator <NUM> and thereby inhibit opening of drinking opening <NUM>. A user may move locking member <NUM> from an unlocked position to a locked position, for example, by engaging a portion of locking member <NUM> (e.g., nub <NUM>) and sliding locking member <NUM> (e.g., in a counterclockwise direction about a locking axis <NUM> (see <FIG>), viewed from the top of lid <NUM>). When locking member <NUM> is in the locked position, actuator <NUM> is inhibited from moving from the first position to the second position to unseal drinking opening <NUM>. When locking member <NUM> is in the unlocked position, actuator <NUM> is free to move from the first position to the second position.

In some embodiments, a user may move locking member <NUM> from an unlocked position or a locked position to a disassembly position, for example, by engaging a portion of locking member <NUM> and sliding locking member <NUM> (e.g., in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction about locking axis <NUM>). When locking member <NUM> is in the disassembly position, actuator <NUM> can be removed from lid base <NUM>.

Locking member <NUM> may be movable from each of its positions-e.g., unlocked position, locked position, and disassembly position-to each of its other positions.

<FIG> and <FIG> show exploded views of drinking vessel <NUM> according to some embodiments. As shown, lid <NUM> includes lid base <NUM>, actuator <NUM>, a magnet unit <NUM>, locking member <NUM>, a lid sealing member <NUM>, a movable arm <NUM>, a magnet unit <NUM>, and a magnet unit <NUM>. Drinking vessel <NUM> may also include container <NUM>.

Lid base <NUM> may define a spout <NUM> through which drinking opening <NUM> extends. Lid base <NUM> may also define one more venting openings <NUM>. Venting opening <NUM> may extend between an interior <NUM> of lid base <NUM> and an exterior <NUM> of lid base <NUM>. Lid base <NUM> may include a vent cover <NUM> such that venting opening <NUM> is at least partially obscured from view.

Lid base <NUM> may define an actuator chamber <NUM>. Actuator <NUM> may be positioned at least partially within actuator chamber <NUM> and may be accessible from the exterior of lid base <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG>, a portion of actuator <NUM> may protrude through an opening <NUM> in upper side wall <NUM> of lid base <NUM>. Actuator <NUM> may be movable (e.g., slidable) within actuator chamber <NUM> between a first position and second position (e.g., by pressing and releasing actuator <NUM> as a button).

In some embodiments, actuator <NUM> may include a spring finger <NUM> in contact with a portion of lid base <NUM> when lid <NUM> is assembled. Spring finger <NUM> may help hold actuator <NUM> within actuator chamber <NUM> and/or reduce noise produced by lid <NUM> when actuator <NUM> moves with respect to lid base <NUM>.

In some embodiments, actuator <NUM> is removable from actuator chamber <NUM>. Actuator <NUM> may include, for example, a grip <NUM> to aid in removing actuator <NUM> from actuator chamber <NUM>.

As shown, for example, in <FIG>, actuator <NUM> may include a compartment <NUM> to receive magnet unit <NUM>.

Magnet unit <NUM> may be or include one or more magnets. In some embodiments magnet unit <NUM> includes an outer housing containing one or more magnets therein.

Compartment <NUM> may be spaced a distance away from a contact surface of actuator <NUM> (e.g., button <NUM>) by a center portion <NUM> such that magnet unit <NUM> is spaced away from an outer edge of lid base <NUM> when lid <NUM> is assembled. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, magnet unit <NUM> is spaced away from a rear edge of lid base <NUM>.

In some embodiments, magnet unit <NUM> is joined with actuator <NUM> with an adhesive. In some embodiments, magnet unit <NUM> is joined with actuator <NUM> by other chemical bonding (e.g., by welding, molding, or potting) and/or mechanical means (e.g., a press or snap fit).

Compartment <NUM> may be configured such that magnet unit <NUM> is at or near a lower surface of actuator <NUM> when magnet unit <NUM> is received in compartment <NUM>. In this way, a magnetic field generated by magnet unit <NUM> will be relatively strong at a location just below the lower surface of actuator <NUM>, compared to a magnetic field generated by magnet unit <NUM> if magnet unit <NUM> were positioned further above the lower surface of actuator <NUM>.

As mentioned, in some embodiments lid base <NUM> includes locking member <NUM>. In embodiments that include locking member <NUM>, actuator <NUM> may include a recess <NUM> for receiving locking member <NUM>, and locking member <NUM> may be movable within recess <NUM> when lid <NUM> is assembled. In some embodiments, locking member <NUM> may be rotatable within recess <NUM> when lid <NUM> is assembled. For example, as shown in <FIG>, locking member <NUM> may be rotatable about locking member axis <NUM>. As shown, for example, in <FIG>, when lid <NUM> is assembled, a portion of locking member <NUM> (e.g., nub <NUM>) may protrude through an opening <NUM> in actuator <NUM> so that a user can engage locking member <NUM> from the exterior of lid <NUM>. A user may move locking member <NUM> between positions (e.g., from a locked position to an unlocked position) by engaging nub <NUM> and sliding locking member <NUM> (e.g., in a clockwise direction about locking axis <NUM>, viewed from the top of lid <NUM>).

In some embodiments, locking member <NUM> is movable between three positions-a locked position, an unlocked position, and a disassembly position. As will be discussed in more detail below, when locking member <NUM> is in the locked position, actuator <NUM> is inhibited from moving from the first position to the second position. When locking member <NUM> is in the unlocked position, actuator <NUM> is free to move from the first position to the second position. When locking member <NUM> is in the disassembly position, actuator <NUM> can be removed from lid base <NUM> (e.g., by pulling actuator <NUM> out of actuator chamber <NUM>). In some embodiments, locking member <NUM> is movable between only two positions, for example, the locked position and the unlocked position.

Lid base <NUM> may include attachment mechanism <NUM> on a lower side wall <NUM> of lid base <NUM>. Container <NUM> may include a corresponding attachment mechanism <NUM> near an upper edge of the container, configured to engage with attachment mechanism <NUM> to removably attach container <NUM> to lid <NUM>. Attachment mechanisms <NUM> and <NUM> may be threaded connectors (as shown in <FIG>), friction fit connectors, snap-fit connectors, or any other suitable releasable attachment mechanism. The attachment of lid base <NUM> to container <NUM> is not limited to the arrangement shown in the figures. For example, in some embodiments, lid base <NUM> may attach over container <NUM> rather than inside container <NUM>.

When assembled with container <NUM>, lid sealing member <NUM> may be pressed between lid base <NUM> and an inner surface of container <NUM>, to create a seal between lid <NUM> and container <NUM>. Lid sealing member <NUM> may be a removable component (e.g., a removable gasket), or may be an integrally-formed part of lid base <NUM> or container <NUM>.

Moveable arm <NUM> may be positioned in interior <NUM> of lid base <NUM> and be movably coupled to lid base <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, movable arm <NUM> is coupled to lid base <NUM> through engagement of one or more receiving portions <NUM> of lid base <NUM> and one more engaging portions <NUM> of movable arm <NUM>.

In some embodiments, movable arm <NUM> may be rotatable within lid base <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG>, movable arm <NUM> may rotate about movable arm axis <NUM> extending through receiving portions <NUM> of lid base <NUM> and engaging portions <NUM> of movable arm <NUM>. In some embodiments, for example as shown in <FIG>, receiving portions <NUM> may have a circular shape, a channel <NUM> narrower than the diameter of the circular receiving portion <NUM> may extend down from receiving portions <NUM>, and engaging portions <NUM> may be shaped as segments of a cylinder. In such embodiments, movable arm <NUM> can be assembled with lid base <NUM> by holding movable arm <NUM> in a vertical orientation (rotated <NUM> degrees counterclockwise from the orientation shown in <FIG>), and sliding engaging portions <NUM> though channel <NUM> and into receiving portion <NUM>. Movable arm <NUM> can then be rotated toward the horizontal orientation (shown, for example, in <FIG>) in which channels <NUM> inhibit engaging portions <NUM> from sliding out of receiving portions <NUM>. In this way, engaging portions <NUM> are held securely in receiving portions <NUM>.

In other embodiments, movable arm <NUM> is movable relative to lid base <NUM> in another manner such as, for example, by sliding. Movable arm <NUM> may be formed of food-grade material.

Moveable arm <NUM> may include a drinking opening sealing portion <NUM>. When lid <NUM> is assembled, drinking opening sealing portion <NUM> may move with movable arm <NUM> such that drinking opening sealing portion <NUM> seals drinking opening <NUM> when moveable arm <NUM> is in certain positions. Moveable arm <NUM> may include a vent sealing portion <NUM>. When lid <NUM> is assembled, vent sealing portion <NUM> may move with movable arm <NUM> such that vent sealing portion <NUM> seals venting opening <NUM> when moveable arm <NUM> is in certain positions.

Movable arm <NUM> may be moveable relative to lid base <NUM> between a sealed position (as shown in <FIG>) and an open position (as shown in <FIG>). When movable arm <NUM> is in the sealed position, drinking opening <NUM> is sealed by drinking opening sealing portion <NUM>. For example, drinking opening sealing portion <NUM> may press against a surface of or around drinking opening <NUM> to seal drinking opening <NUM>. When movable arm <NUM> is in an open position, drinking opening sealing portion <NUM> does not seal drinking opening <NUM> (e.g., so that a user may drink from drinking vessel <NUM> through drinking opening <NUM>).

In some embodiments, when movable arm <NUM> is in the sealed position, venting opening <NUM> is sealed by venting opening sealing portion <NUM>. For example, venting opening sealing portion <NUM> may press against a surface of or around venting opening <NUM> to seal venting opening <NUM>. In some embodiments, when movable arm <NUM> is in the open position, venting opening sealing portion <NUM> does not seal venting opening <NUM> (e.g., so that a user may vent drinking vessel <NUM> through venting opening <NUM>).

In the illustrated embodiment, drinking opening sealing portion <NUM> is formed as a diaphragm. However, drinking opening sealing portion <NUM> may have any shape and configuration sufficient to seal drinking opening <NUM>. For example, in other embodiments, drinking opening sealing portion <NUM> may be formed as a plug or gasket. Drinking opening sealing portion <NUM> may be integrally formed as part of movable arm <NUM> (for example, through co-molding) or may be or be a part of a separate component attached to movable arm <NUM>. Drinking opening sealing portion <NUM> may be formed of a food-grade material suitable to create a seal between lid base <NUM> and movable arm <NUM>.

In the illustrated embodiment, vent sealing portion <NUM> is formed as a diaphragm. However, vent sealing portion <NUM> may have any shape and configuration sufficient to seal vent opening <NUM>. For example, in other embodiments, vent sealing portion <NUM> may be formed as a plug or gasket. Vent sealing portion <NUM> may be integrally formed as part of movable arm <NUM> (for example, through co-molding) or may be a separate component attached to movable arm <NUM>. Vent sealing portion <NUM> may be formed of a food-grade material suitable to create a seal between lid base <NUM> and movable arm <NUM>.

As shown, for example, in <FIG>, movable arm <NUM> may include one or more compartments <NUM> for receiving magnet unit <NUM> and/or magnet unit <NUM>.

In some embodiments, magnet unit <NUM> and magnet unit <NUM> are both located to the same side of a vertical plane passing through the rotation axis of the movable arm.

Magnet unit <NUM> may be or include one or more magnets. In some embodiments magnet unit <NUM> includes an outer housing containing one or more magnets therein. Magnet unit <NUM> may be or include one or more magnets. In some embodiments magnet unit <NUM> includes an outer housing containing one or more magnets therein.

Compartment <NUM> may be positioned in movable arm <NUM> such that magnet unit <NUM> and/or magnet unit <NUM> are spaced away from an outer edge of lid <NUM> when lid <NUM> is assembled. Compartment <NUM> may be configured such that magnet unit <NUM> and/or magnet unit <NUM> are positioned at or near an upper surface of movable arm <NUM> when magnet unit <NUM> and/or magnet unit <NUM> are received in compartment <NUM>. In this way, a magnetic field generated by magnet unit <NUM> and/or magnet unit <NUM> will be relatively strong at a location just above moveable arm <NUM>, compared to a magnetic field generated by magnet unit <NUM> and/or magnet unit <NUM> if magnet unit <NUM> and/or magnet unit <NUM> were positioned further below an upper surface of movable arm <NUM>.

In some embodiments, magnet unit <NUM> and/or magnet unit <NUM> are joined with movable arm <NUM> with an adhesive. In some embodiments, magnet unit <NUM> and/or magnet unit <NUM> are joined with movable arm <NUM> by other chemical bonding (e.g., by welding, molding, or potting) and/or by mechanical means (e.g., a press fit). In some embodiments, movable arm <NUM> includes a magnet cover <NUM> to separate magnet units <NUM> and/or magnet unit <NUM> from interior <NUM> of lid base <NUM> when lid <NUM> is assembled. In some embodiments, magnet cover <NUM> is integrally formed with movable arm <NUM> (e.g., movable arm <NUM> may be molded in a first molding operation and magnet cover <NUM> may be formed in a second molding operation after magnet unit <NUM> and/or magnet unit <NUM> are joined with movable arm <NUM>).

In some embodiments, moveable arm <NUM> may include a noise reduction portion (for example, a portion formed of silicone) to reduce noise when movable arm <NUM> moves from the sealed position to the open position or vice versa.

In some embodiments, movable arm <NUM> is removable from lid base <NUM>. Movable arm <NUM> may include, for example, grip <NUM> to aid in removing movable arm <NUM> from lid base <NUM>.

As will be discussed in greater detail below, when actuator <NUM> moves between the first position and second position (e.g., when actuator <NUM> is pressed, as a button), magnet unit <NUM>, which is located in compartment <NUM> of actuator <NUM>, moves from a first position to a second position, thereby changing the magnetic field experienced by magnet unit <NUM> and/or magnet unit <NUM>. As a result, a magnetic force on magnet unit <NUM> and/or magnet unit <NUM> causes movable arm <NUM>, which is coupled to magnet unit <NUM> and/or magnet unit <NUM>, to move from a sealed position, in which drinking opening <NUM> is sealed, to an open position, in which drinking opening <NUM> is not sealed. Similarly, when actuator <NUM> moves from the second position to the first position (e.g., when actuator <NUM> is released, as a button), magnet unit <NUM> moves from a second position to a first position, thereby changing the magnetic field experienced by magnet unit <NUM> and/or magnet unit <NUM>. As a result, a magnetic force on magnet unit <NUM> and/or magnet unit <NUM> causes movable arm <NUM> to move from the open position to the sealed position. In some embodiments, the movements may be reversed (i.e., such that moving actuator <NUM> from the first position to the second position causes movable arm <NUM> to move from the open position to the sealed position, and such that moving actuator <NUM> from the second position to the first position causes movable arm <NUM> to move from the sealed position to the open position).

Movable arm <NUM> may not be mechanically linked to actuator <NUM>. That is, moving actuator <NUM> (e.g., from the first position to the second position or vice versa) would not exert any mechanical force on movable arm <NUM> (only magnetic force, as described herein).

Container <NUM> may be any type of container. Container <NUM> may be cylindrical (as shown, for example, in <FIG>) or have another exterior or interior shape. In some embodiments, container <NUM> may be double-walled to enhance thermal insulative properties of container <NUM>. In some embodiments, an area between container <NUM>'s double walls may be hermetically sealed and may form at least a partial vacuum. In some embodiments, container <NUM> may be formed of stainless steel. In some embodiments, container <NUM> may be formed of another food-grade material, such as a food-grade plastic (e.g., polypropylene, copolyester, the copolymer sold as Eastman Tritan, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyoxymethylene (POM), or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)), glass, or another metal (e.g., steel, aluminum, copper, or titanium).

<FIG> show detailed views of an embodiment for implementing some features as have been described. The specific structures and mechanisms shown and described (here and anywhere else in this document) may not be the only way to accomplish the functions described, and each element may be implemented using other shapes, structures, and appearances than specifically shown and described.

<FIG> are cross-sectional views showing relative positions of certain components of lid <NUM> during operation. As mentioned above, during operation a user may move (e.g. slide) actuator <NUM> from a first position to a second position (e.g., by pressing actuator <NUM> like a button). <FIG> and <FIG> show assembled cross-sectional views of an upper portion of drinking vessel <NUM> when actuator <NUM> is in the first position, and <FIG> and <FIG> show assembled cross-sectional views of an upper portion of drinking vessel <NUM> when actuator <NUM> is in the second position. The sections in <FIG> and <FIG> are taken vertically at the position of line V-V' of <FIG>. The sections in <FIG> and <FIG> are taken horizontally at the position of line VII-VII' of <FIG> offset from the top of lid <NUM>.

As shown, for example, in <FIG>, lid base <NUM> includes dividing wall <NUM>. The illustrated dividing wall <NUM> curves upward toward the front of the lid base <NUM> to partially define spout <NUM>. Spout <NUM> is located near the edge of lid base <NUM>-offset from a center of lid base <NUM>-so that it is in a comfortable location for a user when the user is drinking from the spout. As shown, drinking opening <NUM> extends through spout <NUM>. Drinking opening <NUM> may have a stadium-shaped cross section at an upper portion of spout <NUM>. In some embodiments, the cross sectional shape of drinking opening <NUM> may change from an upper portion of drinking opening <NUM> to a lower portion of drinking opening <NUM>. Drinking opening <NUM> may have a circular cross section at a lower portion of drinking opening <NUM>, as shown, for example, in <FIG>. The lower portion of drinking opening <NUM> may have other shapes, such as a stadium or rectangular shape.

Lid base <NUM> includes a lower side wall <NUM> extending downward from a lower side of dividing wall <NUM>. Together, lower side wall <NUM> and dividing wall <NUM> define an interior of <NUM> of lid base <NUM>. When lid <NUM> is assembled with container <NUM>, interior <NUM> of lid base <NUM> is in fluid communication with an interior <NUM> of container <NUM>. Lid base <NUM> may also include an upper side wall <NUM> that extends upward from an upper side of dividing wall <NUM>. In some embodiments, upper side wall <NUM> and dividing wall <NUM> may define a cavity <NUM>. However, in other embodiments, lid base <NUM> does not include a cavity <NUM>. Drinking opening <NUM> extends through dividing wall <NUM> and opens into interior <NUM> of lid base <NUM>. Vent opening <NUM> extends through dividing wall <NUM> and opens into interior <NUM> of lid base <NUM> and exterior <NUM> of lid base <NUM>. Vent opening <NUM> may be positioned to a side of actuator chamber <NUM> so that vent opening <NUM> does not interfere with actuator <NUM>.

Actuator <NUM> may extend within actuator chamber <NUM> from a rear of lid base <NUM> toward a front of lid base <NUM>. Actuator <NUM> and actuator chamber <NUM> may be isolated from interior <NUM> of lid base <NUM> and drinking opening <NUM> such that a beverage carried inside container <NUM> and/or consumed by a user through drinking opening <NUM> will not contact actuator <NUM> or actuator chamber <NUM>. This isolation may be desirable, for example, so that dirt or debris on actuator <NUM> or in actuator chamber <NUM> is not likely to contaminate a beverage within container <NUM>. The isolation may also be desirable so that, for example, actuator <NUM> does not become soiled with deposits from a beverage carried within container <NUM>.

Movable arm <NUM> may extend from a rear of lid base <NUM> toward a front of lid base <NUM> in an interior of lid base <NUM>. As discussed above with reference to <FIG>, movable arm <NUM> may be movably coupled to lid base <NUM> such that movable arm <NUM> is rotatable about movable arm axis <NUM>. For example, movable arm <NUM> may be movably coupled to lid base <NUM> at mounting portion <NUM> extending downward from dividing platform <NUM> of lid base <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, mounting portion <NUM> includes receiving portions <NUM>, and moveable arm <NUM> includes corresponding engaging portions <NUM>. Engaging portions <NUM> of moveable arm <NUM> are received into receiving portions <NUM> of mounting portion <NUM>, thereby allowing moveable arm <NUM> to rotate about movable arm axis <NUM> (see, e.g., <FIG>). For example, moveable arm <NUM> may rotate from the sealed position (as shown, for example in <FIG> and <FIG>) to the open position (as shown, for example, in <FIG> and <FIG>). In some embodiments, moveable arm <NUM> may move in a different manner. For example, moveable arm may move translationally forward and backward and/or up and down.

When movable arm <NUM> is in the sealed position, for example, as shown in <FIG>, drinking opening <NUM> is sealed by drinking opening sealing portion <NUM>. Drinking opening sealing portion <NUM> is positioned below drinking opening <NUM> and may be located on and move along with moveable arm <NUM>. In some embodiments, drinking opening sealing portion <NUM> may seal drinking opening <NUM> by pressing against dividing wall <NUM> through which drinking opening <NUM> extends.

In some embodiments, when movable arm <NUM> is in a sealed position, vent opening <NUM> is sealed by vent sealing portion <NUM> of sealing member <NUM>. Vent sealing portion <NUM> is positioned below vent opening <NUM> and may be located on and move along with moveable arm <NUM>. In some embodiments, vent sealing portion <NUM> may seal vent opening <NUM> by pressing against dividing wall <NUM> through which vent opening <NUM> extends.

In some embodiments, moveable arm <NUM> can be moved (e.g., rotated) by applying a force (e.g., a magnetic force) to movable arm <NUM>. As can be seen, for example, in <FIG>, application of a downward force to a front portion of movable arm <NUM> (relative to axis <NUM>) may move movable arm <NUM> in a first rotational direction away from the sealed position, while application of an upward force to a front portion of moveable arm <NUM> (relative to axis <NUM>) may move movable arm in a second rotational direction toward the sealed position.

As discussed above, in some embodiments, magnet unit <NUM> is positioned in compartment <NUM> of actuator <NUM> and magnet unit <NUM> and/or magnet unit <NUM> are positioned in compartment <NUM> of movable arm <NUM>. In some embodiments, the location of magnet unit <NUM> and magnet unit <NUM> and/or magnet unit <NUM> may be reversed. That is, magnet unit <NUM> may be coupled to movable arm <NUM>, and magnet unit <NUM> and/or magnet unit <NUM> may be coupled to actuator <NUM>.

In the illustrated embodiment, magnet unit <NUM> is arranged such that a north pole of magnet unit <NUM> (labeled "N") is positioned at a bottom surface of actuator <NUM>, magnet unit <NUM> is arranged such that a north pole of magnet unit <NUM> (labeled "N") is positioned at a top surface of movable arm <NUM>, and magnet unit <NUM> is arranged such that a south pole of magnet unit <NUM> (labeled "S") is positioned at a top surface of movable arm <NUM>. However, each of the arrangements may be reversed to achieve a desired magnetic interaction. That is, magnet unit <NUM> can be arranged such that a south pole of magnet unit <NUM> is positioned at a bottom surface of actuator <NUM>, magnet unit <NUM> can arranged such that a south pole of magnet unit <NUM> is positioned at a top surface of movable arm <NUM>, and/or magnet unit <NUM> can be arranged such that a north pole of magnet unit <NUM> is positioned at a top surface of movable arm <NUM>.

As shown, for example, in <FIG>, when actuator <NUM> is in the first position, magnet unit <NUM> coupled to movable arm <NUM> may interact with magnet unit <NUM> coupled to actuator <NUM>. For example, magnet unit <NUM> may be attracted to magnet unit <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, magnet unit <NUM> and magnet unit <NUM> are arranged such that a north pole of magnet unit <NUM> faces a south pole of magnet <NUM> when actuator <NUM> is in the first position. As a result, when actuator <NUM> is in the first position, magnet unit <NUM> applies an upward force on a front portion of movable arm <NUM>, thereby pulling movable arm in a first rotational direction and maintaining movable arm <NUM> in the sealed position.

In <FIG>, actuator <NUM> has been moved from the first position to the second position (e.g., by pushing button <NUM> toward the front of drinking vessel <NUM>). In <FIG>, actuator <NUM> has moved a short distance between the first and second positions. However, actuator <NUM> may be configured to translate more or less than shown in the figures. As shown, for example, in <FIG>, when actuator <NUM> is in a second position, magnet unit <NUM> coupled to movable arm <NUM> may interact with magnet unit <NUM> coupled to actuator <NUM>. For example, magnet unit <NUM> may be repelled by magnet unit <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, magnet unit <NUM> and magnet unit <NUM> are arranged such that a north pole of magnet unit <NUM> faces a north pole of magnet unit <NUM> when actuator <NUM> is in the second position. As a result, when actuator <NUM> is in the second position, magnet unit <NUM> applies a downward force on a front portion of movable arm <NUM>, thereby pushing movable arm in the second rotational direction and maintaining movable arm <NUM> in the open position.

In the illustrated embodiment, magnet unit <NUM> and magnet unit <NUM> are provided on movable arm <NUM>, thereby enabling actuator <NUM> to hold movable arm <NUM> in either the sealed position or the open position, depending on the position of actuator <NUM>. In some embodiments, however, only one of magnet unit <NUM> or magnet unit <NUM> is provided on movable arm <NUM>. In such an embodiment, magnet unit <NUM> coupled to actuator <NUM> may hold movable arm <NUM> in only one of the sealed position or the open position. In some such embodiments, a biasing member may bias movable arm <NUM> toward the other position.

As illustrated, for example, in <FIG>, when a force (represented by arrow <NUM> in <FIG>) is applied to actuator <NUM> in a direction generally toward the front of vessel <NUM>, actuator <NUM> and coupled magnet unit <NUM> move toward a front of vessel <NUM>. As magnet unit <NUM> moves toward a front of vessel <NUM>, a magnetic force on magnet unit <NUM> changes. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, as magnet unit <NUM> moves toward the front of vessel <NUM>, magnet unit <NUM> may experience an increasing repulsive force, thereby causing movable arm <NUM> to move in a second rotational direction toward the open position. The force represented by arrow <NUM> may, for example, be applied by a user pushing on a contact surface (e.g., button <NUM>) of actuator <NUM>.

In some embodiments, as illustrated, for example, in <FIG>, a biasing force may bias actuator <NUM> toward the first position (e.g., in the direction of arrow <NUM> in <FIG>) such that actuator <NUM> automatically moves to the first position upon removal of a force holding actuator <NUM> in the second position (e.g., upon removal of a force applied by a user to button <NUM>).

In some embodiments, a magnetic interaction between magnet unit <NUM> coupled to actuator <NUM> and magnet unit <NUM> coupled to movable arm <NUM> may bias actuator <NUM> toward the first position. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, actuator <NUM> is biased to return to (or remain in) the first position by magnet unit <NUM>. As shown, for example, in <FIG>, when actuator <NUM> is in the second position, magnet unit <NUM> interacts with both magnet unit <NUM> and magnet unit <NUM>. Due to the relative strength and positioning of magnet units <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, magnet unit <NUM> will move toward magnet unit <NUM> in the absence of a force holding actuator <NUM> in the second position. Because actuator <NUM> is only free to translate, however, magnet <NUM> along with actuator <NUM> will translate toward a rear of vessel <NUM>.

In other embodiments, actuator <NUM> may be biased to return to (or remain in) the first position by a physical component, e.g., a compression spring or elastic material that pushes actuator <NUM> to the first position. In some embodiments, actuator <NUM> may be biased toward the second position rather than the first position.

In some embodiments, a user may apply a force to a portion of actuator <NUM> to move (e.g., translate) actuator <NUM>. Generally, the force applied by a user may overcome the biasing force (e.g., a force applied by a user to move actuator <NUM> from the first position to the second position may overcome a biasing force biasing actuator <NUM> toward the first position).

As mentioned, in some embodiments, a biasing force may move actuator <NUM> from the second position to the first position (e.g., in the direction of arrow <NUM> generally toward the rear of vessel <NUM>). In other embodiments, a user-applied force may move actuator <NUM> from the second position to the first position (e.g., in the direction of arrow <NUM> generally toward the rear of vessel <NUM>). As illustrated, for example, in <FIG>, when actuator <NUM> moves in a direction generally toward the rear of vessel <NUM>, actuator <NUM> and coupled magnet unit <NUM> move toward a rear of vessel <NUM>. As magnet unit <NUM> moves toward a rear of vessel <NUM>, a magnetic force on magnet unit <NUM> changes. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, as magnet unit <NUM> moves toward the rear of vessel <NUM>, magnet unit <NUM> may experience an increasing attractive force, thereby causing movable arm <NUM> to move in a first rotational direction toward the sealed position.

In some embodiments, movable arm <NUM> is biased toward a biased position, which may be one of the sealed position or the open position. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, movable arm <NUM> is biased toward the sealed position. That is, in the absence of a mechanical force on a component of lid <NUM>, movable arm <NUM> will return to (or remain in) the sealed position. In embodiments in which movable arm <NUM> is biased toward a biased position, moving actuator <NUM> may cause a magnetic interaction that overcomes the bias. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, when movable arm <NUM> is in its biased position (i.e., the sealed position), moving actuator <NUM> from the first position to the second position causes magnet unit <NUM> to interact with magnet unit <NUM>, as discussed above, such that the bias of movable arm <NUM> may be overcome and movable arm <NUM> moves to the open position.

Under some circumstances, pressure may build up inside drinking vessel <NUM>, for example when drinking vessel <NUM> is used to carry a hot beverage. If a user attempts to open drinking opening <NUM> and/or vent opening <NUM> by moving actuator <NUM> to the second position in order to move movable arm <NUM> to the open position and if the pressure inside drinking vessel is sufficiently high, movable arm may not rotate to the open position. A user can then remove or loosen lid <NUM> from container <NUM> to relieve the built-up pressure. In this way, the magnetic sealing mechanism helps reduce the possibility of an undesirable pressure release through a small opening.

As discussed previously, a user may sometimes want container <NUM> to stay sealed. For example, a user may want container <NUM> to stay sealed so that a beverage being carried inside container <NUM> will not leak on a user or a user's belongings when drinking vessel <NUM> is placed in the user's backpack or other bag (where drinking vessel <NUM> may encounter forces from other items in the user's bag, or may change orientation). In such a situation (as in others), a user may be able to place vessel <NUM> in a locked configuration in which actuator <NUM> is inhibited from moving to the second position, thereby inhibiting actuator <NUM> from causing movable arm <NUM> to rotate to the open position. This locked configuration is shown in <FIG> and described in more detail below. <FIG> and <FIG> show relative positions of portions of lid base <NUM>, actuator <NUM>, locking member <NUM>, and other components of lid <NUM> when lid <NUM> is in two operational states: a locked configuration with actuator <NUM> in the first position (<FIG>), and an unlocked configuration with actuator <NUM> in the first position (<FIG>). In some embodiments, lid <NUM> may have a disassembly configuration. The sections in <FIG> and <FIG> are taken horizontally at the position of line IX-IX' of <FIG> offset from the top of lid <NUM>.

As discussed, lid base <NUM> may define an actuator chamber <NUM> into which actuator <NUM> and locking member <NUM> are positioned. As shown, for example, in <FIG>, locking member <NUM> may have a post <NUM> extending from a lower portion of locking member <NUM>. As shown, for example, in <FIG>, a bottom portion of actuator chamber <NUM> may include a recess <NUM>, a compartment <NUM>, and a channel <NUM>.

When lid <NUM> is in the locked configuration, for example, as shown in <FIG>, post <NUM> is received in compartment <NUM>. When a force is applied to actuator <NUM> in a direction generally toward the front of vessel <NUM>, compartment <NUM> interferes with post <NUM>, thereby inhibiting actuator <NUM> from moving to the second position.

When lid <NUM> is in the disassembly configuration, post <NUM> is received in recess <NUM> and is aligned with channel <NUM>. When a force is applied to actuator <NUM> in a direction generally toward the rear of vessel <NUM>, post <NUM> slides through channel <NUM> and out of actuator chamber <NUM>. As a result, locking member <NUM> and actuator <NUM> can be removed from actuator chamber <NUM> of lid base <NUM>. Removing actuator <NUM> and locking member <NUM> from lid base <NUM> may be desirable, for example, so that a user may thoroughly clean drinking vessel <NUM>.

When lid <NUM> is in the unlocked configuration, for example, as shown in <FIG>, post <NUM> is received in recess <NUM>. When a force is applied to button <NUM> in a direction generally toward the front of vessel <NUM>, post <NUM> generally does not interfere with edges of recess <NUM>. Accordingly, actuator <NUM> can be moved from the first position to the second position.

Locking member <NUM> may be movable from each of its three positions-unlocked position, locked position, and disassembly position-to each of its other positions, for example, by engaging a portion of locking member <NUM> (e.g., nub <NUM>) and sliding locking member (e.g., in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction about a locking axis <NUM>). In the illustrated embodiment, lid <NUM> is in the locked position when locking member <NUM> is in the counterclockwise-most position, viewed from the top of lid <NUM>, relative to actuator <NUM>, lid <NUM> is in unlocked position when locking member <NUM> is in the clockwise-most position, viewed from the top of lid <NUM>, relative to actuator <NUM>, and lid <NUM> is in a disassembly position when locking member <NUM> is in an intermediate position relative to actuator <NUM>. However, the unlocked position, locked position, and disassembly position may be provided at different relative positions of locking member <NUM> and actuator <NUM>.

In some embodiments, actuator <NUM> may include one or more indentations <NUM> on an inner surface, and locking member <NUM> may include a bump <NUM> on an exterior surface. Bump <NUM> may interact with (e.g., be received by) indentation <NUM> to help maintain locking member <NUM> in the locked, unlocked, or disassembly position, as the case may be, and may provide a user with feedback during use. For example, as a user moves locking member <NUM> to a locked position, the user may hear a click or feel tactile feedback when locking member <NUM> reaches the locked position (e.g., resulting from bump <NUM> being received by indentation <NUM>). In some embodiments, the positions of bump <NUM> and indentation <NUM> may be reversed (i.e., such that actuator <NUM> includes a bump and locking member <NUM> includes a corresponding indentation).

Claim 1:
A lid (<NUM>) for a drinking vessel (<NUM>), the lid comprising:
a lid base (<NUM>) defining a drinking opening (<NUM>) therethrough;
a movable arm (<NUM>) coupled to the lid base (<NUM>) and located in an interior of the lid base (<NUM>);
a first magnet unit (<NUM>;<NUM>) coupled to the movable arm (<NUM>);
an actuator (<NUM>) accessible from an exterior of the lid base (<NUM>); and
a second magnet unit (<NUM>) coupled to the actuator (<NUM>),
wherein the movable arm (<NUM>) is movable between a sealed position, in which the drinking opening (<NUM>) is sealed, and an open position, in which the drinking opening (<NUM>) is not sealed;
wherein the movable arm (<NUM>) is biased toward a biased position, the biased position being one of the sealed position or the open position;
wherein the actuator (<NUM>) is movable between a first position and a second position,
wherein when the actuator (<NUM>) is moved to the second position, a force between the first magnet unit (<NUM>;<NUM>) and the second magnet unit (<NUM>) overcomes the bias of the movable arm (<NUM>) and causes the movable arm (<NUM>) to move away from the biased position,
wherein the drinking opening (<NUM>) extends between a lower volume and an upper volume of the lid base (<NUM>), and
wherein the actuator (<NUM>) is isolated from the lower volume and the upper volume of the lid base (<NUM>).