Patent Description:
This application is generally directed towards a liquid dispensing container and, more specifically, to a liquid dispensing container that may include a multi-position valve and/or a straw.

Conventional containers may hold a variety of different types of liquids and fluids such as water, beverages, drinks, juices and the like. Conventional containers can also hold various items such as energy drinks, protein drinks, shakes, foodstuffs, dressings, sauces, and liquid meal replacements.

These known beverage containers may be used in a wide variety of environments such as at home, office, gym or health club, and while traveling. Known beverage containers may also be used during activities such as exercising, driving a car, or riding in an automobile, bus, train, or airplane.

In some situations, a squeeze-type container, in which the contents of the container are dispensed by inverting and squeezing the container, may be desired. A squeeze-type container may be useful before, during or after active participation in a sports activity, such as bicycling, climbing, jogging, or hiking. Known squeeze-type containers may be designed to be used under stressful conditions and with just enough flexibility to allow a beverage to be "squirted out," while maintaining their structural integrity for grasping or holding by the user and retaining generally the same shape. Known squeeze-type containers may also be designed to be opened and re-closed with the user's mouth so as to allow drinking while minimally interfering with an ongoing activity.

These known squeeze-type containers may be referred to as water bottles, and many water bottles are reusable and refillable. Water bottles are commonly used for hydration, such as by cyclists, and traditional water bottles commonly include a body, a cap, and a valve that is movable relative to the cap between open and closed positions. In the open position, liquid can be dispensed from the bottle and, in the closed position, liquid is inhibited from being dispensed from the bottle.

Water bottle valves are frequently in the form of poppet-style valves that include a poppet that can be moved between open and closed positions. A poppet-style valve typically moves perpendicularly relative to the cap to allow fluid to be dispensed from the water bottle or to seal the opening in the cap. In particular, the poppet-style valve may be moved away from the cap to open a traditional water bottle and allow fluid to flow through the valve. When the poppet-style valve is moved towards or contacts the cap, the valve may be closed and fluid may not flow through the valve. Fluid is normally dispensed from a conventional water bottle by inverting the bottle and allowing the contents to flow through the valve in the open position. In order to expedite water flow through the valve, the bottle may be formed from a lightweight and deformable plastic material, and the water may be more quickly dispensed by squeezing the bottle.

In related art, <CIT> discloses a lip-openable lid provided for use in connection with a container or container cap having a valve seat and an opening for egress of container contents. A lip-openable container is also provided that employs the lip-openable lid. The lid is comprised of a gasket with a lip-engageable annular wall, a central portion radially inward of the wall, and a peripheral flange that is engageable with the valve seat. The lid includes a rigid support that has liquid flow openings, supports the central portion of the gasket and positions the gasket against the valve seat. The lid can also include means for securing the gasket to the support. The central portion of the gasket is comprised of a flexible elastomer and is capable of flexing and stretching to displace the flange from the valve seat when downward pressure is applied against the gasket. When downward pressure is applied, the central portion of the gasket contacts the rigid support and flexes and stretches downward from and/or over the rigid support. The annular wall and the flange can be comprised of flexible elastomeric material. The flange can include a rigidifying material.

Further in related art, <CIT> discloses a closure cap for a beverage container that enables people to share beverages from the same container in a hygienic manner. The closure cap comprises a central capping member with a plurality of drinking tubes attached thereto. Each tube can be opened for drinking while the remaining tubes stay closed and they are preferably distinguishable from each other by markings, color, etc. In particular embodiments, each of the drinking tubes or the central member comprises a one-way valve allowing beverage to flow through the drinking tubes in only the outward direction, thereby preventing saliva, or beverage that has entered a drinker's mouth, from returning to the container. ; In such embodiments, the closure cap preferably has one or more pressure equalizing holes to equalize the air pressure inside the container as the beverage is consumed, and optional one-way valves to prevent beverage leakage via the pressure equalizing holes.

Further in related art, <CIT> discloses a squeezable bottle that includes a pliable bottle skin, an outlet and a spinal assembly within the pliable skin, for providing longitudinal rigidity along an elongated axis of the bottle.

In some situations, squeeze-type containers requiring inversion of the bottle for dispensing the liquid can be undesirable. For example, a bicyclist or motorist must tilt his or her head back and divert his or her attention from the road at least momentarily in order to consume the contents of a squeeze-type container. Also, a squeeze-type container, with its inherent requirement of container elevation, can be undesired in some situations. For example, in circumstances where height or space may be limited, or where concealment is desired, it may be difficult or undesirable to invert the bottle and/or position the person's head for drinking from a conventional squeeze-type container. Further, during more leisurely or slow-paced activities, such as walking, a person may not want to tilt his or her head back and continually invert and squeeze a container in order to consume the contents of the container.

In such situations, a container equipped with a straw may be useful. Conventional containers, however, often require removal of the cap and insertion of the straw into the opening into the container. This process may be time-consuming, require physical dexterity, and many times the straw may be lost before it is used. In addition, many straw-equipped containers may allow the contents to spill or leak through the opening and/or the straw, especially when the container is full. Also, some known straw-equipped containers only allow the contents of the container to be consumed through the straw, unless the straw is physically removed from the container. Physical removal of the straw, however, may undesirably take a significant amount of time. Additionally, it may be especially difficult to consume all or the last contents of many straw-equipped containers, which may waste some of the contents and the remaining contents may disadvantageously leak from the container. Further, fast, high-volume consumption of the liquid, which may be desired during or after sports activities, can be difficult, especially when the contents of the container are low.

A need therefore exists for a liquid dispensing container that eliminates the above-described disadvantages and problems. This need is met by a liquid dispensing container according to the invention as defined by the features of the independent claim <NUM>.

One aspect is a container that is sized and configured to hold one or more liquids. For example, the container may hold one or more liquids, beverages, drinks, juices, vitamin enhanced beverages, energy drinks, thirst-quenchers, flavored waters, and the like. The container may also hold solutions and/or solids such as energy drinks, protein drinks, shakes, liquid meal replacements, etc. In addition, the container may be a shaker cup and the contents can be shaken, stirred, mixed and/or blended as desired, such as supplements, vitamins, protein powders, etc. This may allow the container to be used to create protein drinks, shakes, smoothies, dressings, sauces, etc. The container could also be a water bottle in which water and other types of fluids can be transported and/or consumed. The container could further include foodstuffs such as fruits, vegetables, soups, and the like.

Advantageously, the container may be reusable and refillable, which may allow the container to be used for many different purposes over an extended period of time. The container may also be easily carried and portable. For example, the container may be conveniently held in one-hand by the user. Additionally, the container may be insulated to help keep the contents at a desired temperature, such as at a lower or higher temperature. In addition, the container may include a small number of parts and components, which may facilitate manufacturing and assembly. Further, the container may be easily disassembled and cleaned. As discussed in greater detail below, the container includes a lid or cap that allows the container to be easily filled from various sources.

The container may also include a handle and/or grip, which may minimize slipping of the hand and/or fingers. The handle and/or grip may also facilitate carrying of the container. For instance, the container may include one or more ribs, projections, textured surfaces, and the like. In addition, the container may be sized and configured to be disposed in a cup holder, bicycling water bottle cage, and the like, which may facilitate transportation, storage, and/or use of the container.

Another aspect is a container that may be at least partially constructed of a deformable, squeezable material, such as plastic or other materials with suitable characteristics and properties. For example, the container may be constructed from a flexible material that allows the container to be squeezed and then the container may resiliently return to at least generally the same shape and configuration. The container may have a relatively large opening to allow the container to be easily filled, cleaned, and/or washed. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate, after reviewing this disclosure, that the container could have other shapes, sizes, configurations and/or arrangements depending, for example, upon the intended use of the container.

The liquid dispensing container includes a straw and the straw allows the contents of the container to be sipped or sucked through the straw. The straw may also allow a user to drink from the container while the container is in a generally upright position. Significantly, the straw may allow a user to drink from the container when the container is disposed in a generally vertical position. For example, in one exemplary embodiment, the generally vertical position may include whenever the container is within a <NUM>° angle of vertical. That is, the straw may allow the user to drink from the container when the container is disposed between a generally upright to a generally horizontal position. In another exemplary embodiment, the user may drink from the straw when an upper end of the straw is disposed above the lower end of the straw. For example, lower end of the straw may be disposed at least proximate the lower inner surface of the container and the upper end of the straw may be disposed at least proximate the opening in the lid. The user may easily drink through the straw when the container is positioned such that the upper end of the straw, which may be located at least proximate the valve assembly, is above the lower end of the straw.

The liquid dispensing container includes a valve assembly for dispensing the contents of the container, preferably through an opening in a lid. Optionally, the valve assembly at least partially extends through and/or is aligned with an opening in the lid. The opening may be located at or at least proximate the center of the lid, toward the periphery or outer edge of the lid, or other desired portion of the lid. The valve assembly may include a gasket, washer, sealing ring and/or liner to help seal the opening when the valve is in the closed position. The valve assembly may create a liquid and/or air-tight seal, which may prevent the contents of the container from leaking or spilling.

Advantageously, the valve assembly may increase the potential uses and functionality of the container. For example, the valve assembly includes a conduit that is movable between a first open position, which allows the contents to be discharged by inverting and/or squeezing the container, and a second open position, which allows the contents to be discharged by sucking through the straw and/or squeezing the container so that fluids flow through the straw. Thus, increased flexibility is provided in that the user may drink from the container by "squirting" or using the container as a conventional water bottle when the valve assembly is in the first open position, or by sucking or squeezing through a straw when the valve assembly is in the second open position. The conduit is also moveable to a third or closed position, which prevents fluid flow through the valve assembly.

Preferably, a force may be required to move the valve between the various positions. For example, when the valve is in the first open position, a force or other intentional act may be required to move the valve from the first open position to the second open position. Similarly, when the valve is in a closed position, a force or other intentional act may be required to open the valve, which may help prevent unintended opening of the valve. Further, a force or intentional act may be required to move the valve from the first or second open positions to the closed position, which may facilitate faster consumption of the liquids within the container.

The user may move the valve between the three positions by pulling a nozzle upward using his or her fingers or mouth. For example, the valve may be disposed in the closed position and the nozzle may be pulled upwardly or away from the container and into the first open position. In the first open position, fluid is allowed to flow from the container and through the nozzle by squirting and/or inverting the bottle, which allows the container to be used in a manner similar to a conventional water bottle. In this position, fluid flows directly through the valve assembly and not through the straw. The nozzle may also be pulled upwardly or away from the container and into the second open position, which allows the user to drink through the straw, such as when the container in the generally upright position. The valve assembly may be moved to the closed position by depressing the nozzle in a downward direction and/or towards the container. In view of this disclosure, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the valve may move between various positions depending, for example, upon the intended use of the container. It will further be appreciated that the valve assembly may be closed when the nozzle is in any desired position relative to the bottle, such as in an intermediate or extended position.

The liquid dispensing container includes a valve assembly with a nozzle, whereas the valve assembly may be provided with a spout, straw cap, and valve housing. The nozzle, spout, straw cap, and valve housing may be coupled or joined by, for example, fitting, snapping, threading, connecting, attaching, or fastening. When the nozzle and spout are in a first position, the contents of the container may be discharged by inverting and/or squirting fluid from the container. When the nozzle and spout are in a second position, the contents of the container may be discharged by sucking and/or squeezing fluid through the straw. The straw cap and valve housing may remain stationary or fixed relative to the lid when the nozzle and spout are moved relative to the lid. One or more gaskets, washers, sealing rings, liners and the like may be used in connection with the nozzle, spout, straw cap and/or valve housing to help seal the valve assembly and/or help prevent fluids from leaking from the container.

The liquid dispensing container includes a lid. The lid may be coupled or connected to the container by a threaded connection and that may allow the lid to be quickly secured to the container in a straightforward manner. The lid may also be selectively or permanently attached to the container. The lid may also include a gasket, washer, sealing ring or liner to help seal the opening of the container. The lid may be constructed from plastic, metal, a combination or plastic and metal, or other materials with suitable characteristics and properties. The lid may also include an air valve. The air valve may be a one-way valve designed to decrease or relieve the pressure that can be created in a tightly sealed container when sucking through a straw. The air valve, for example, may be created with an access hole in the lid above a slit valve in the lid gasket. In view of this disclosure, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the lid could be larger or smaller, with any suitable number of openings or apertures of varying sizes, depending, for example, upon the intended use of the container.

Advantageously, the container may be constructed from relatively few parts that may be quickly and efficiently manufactured. For instance, the container includes a body for containing the liquid, such as a bottle, reservoir or the like. The body includes an opening and a lid, cap or closure is used to at least partially seal the opening. The container also includes a valve assembly that controls fluid flow through an opening in the lid. It will be appreciated that the container, body, valve assembly, and lid can include any number of parts and components depending, for example, upon the intended use of the container.

The liquid dispensing container includes a body; a lid attached to the body; and a valve assembly movable between a closed position, a first open position and a second open position. The valve assembly includes a nozzle and the nozzle is movable within an opening in the lid. The nozzle is movable relative to the lid between the closed position, the first open position and the second open position. The valve assembly includes a conduit coupled to the nozzle and the conduit includes a first opening that allows fluid flow into an interior portion of the conduit and a second opening that allows fluid flow into the interior portion of the conduit. In addition, the valve assembly may include a straw connector coupled to the lid; a straw cap at least partially disposed within the straw connector; and a straw coupled to the straw connector. When the valve assembly is in the closed position, the valve assembly prevents fluid flow through the nozzle. When the valve assembly is in the first open position, a first fluid passageway allows fluid to flow through the first opening in the conduit and the nozzle. When the valve assembly is in the second open position, a second fluid passageway allows fluid to flow through the straw, the straw cap, the second opening in the conduit and the nozzle.

When the valve assembly of the liquid dispensing container is in the closed position, the nozzle, and the conduit coupled to the nozzle, are disposed in the closed position; when the valve assembly is in the first open position, the nozzle, and the conduit coupled to the nozzle, are disposed in the first open position; and when the valve assembly is in the second open position, the nozzle, and the conduit coupled to the nozzle, are disposed in the second open position. In addition, when the valve assembly is in the closed position, fluid is not able to flow through the first passageway or the second passageway; when the valve assembly is in the first open position, fluid is not able to flow through the second passageway; and when the valve assembly is in the second open position, fluid is not able to flow through the first passageway. Additionally, the positioning of the valve assembly determines whether fluid can flow through the first passageway and/or the second passageway. Also, no fluid is able to flow through the straw when the valve assembly is in the first open position; and fluid is able to flow through the straw when the valve assembly is in the second open position. Further, fluid in the body of the container is able to flow through the straw and the second opening in the conduit and the nozzle when the valve assembly is in the second open position; and fluid is not able to flow through the first opening in the conduit when the valve assembly is in the second open position. Finally, when the valve assembly is in the first open position, fluid can be discharged from the body by inverting and sucking on the nozzle and/or squeezing the container; and when the valve assembly is in the second open position, the fluid can be discharged from the body by sucking and/or squeezing through a straw.

When the valve assembly is in the closed position, the fluid is not able to flow through the first passageway or the second passageway; when the valve assembly is in the first open position, the fluid is not able to flow through the second passageway; and when the valve assembly is in the second open position, the fluid is not able to flow through the first passageway.

These and other aspects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following brief description of the drawings, the drawings, the detailed description of preferred embodiments, and appended claims.

The appended drawings contain figures of preferred embodiments to further illustrate and clarify the above and other aspects, advantages, and features of the present invention. It will be appreciated that these drawings depict only preferred embodiments of the invention and are not intended to limit its scope. Additionally, it will be appreciated that while the drawings may illustrate preferred sizes, scales, relationships, and configurations of the invention, the drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:.

The present invention is generally directed towards liquid dispensing containers. It will be understood that, in light of the present disclosure, the liquid dispensing containers disclosed herein may have a variety of suitable shapes, sizes, configurations, and arrangements. It will also be understood that the liquid dispensing containers can include any suitable number of parts and components, such as containers, valve assemblies, lids, straws, and the like; and the liquid dispensing containers may include any appropriate number and combination of features, parts, aspects, and the like. In addition, while the liquid dispensing containers are illustrated in the accompanying figures as having particular styles and configurations, it will be appreciated that the liquid dispensing containers may have other styles and configurations. Furthermore, the liquid dispensing containers may be successfully used in connection with other types of devices.

Additionally, to assist in the description of various exemplary embodiments of the liquid dispensing containers, words such as top, bottom, front, rear, sides, right, and left may be used to describe the accompanying figures which may be, but are not necessarily, drawn to scale. It will further be appreciated that the liquid dispensing containers may be disposed in a variety of desired positions or orientations, and used in numerous locations, environments, and arrangements. A detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the liquid dispensing containers now follows.

<FIG> is a perspective view of an exemplary container <NUM> according to one or more embodiments of the invention. The container <NUM> may be a squeeze-type bottle in which fluids may be propelled from the container by squeezing the sides of the container. The container <NUM> may then resiliently return to its original configuration when pressure is no longer being applied. Thus, in one configuration or embodiment, the container <NUM> may be a water bottle. In another configuration or embodiment, a user may drink from the container <NUM> using a straw. Therefore, the container <NUM> may serve multiple purposes and may allow fluids to be easily and conveniently stored, transported and consumed.

As shown in the accompanying figures, the container <NUM> includes a lid <NUM> with an opening <NUM>. The opening <NUM> may be surrounded by a raised surface, such as a flange <NUM>, and a nozzle <NUM> is at least partially disposed in the opening. The nozzle <NUM> is designed to allow fluid to flow from the container <NUM>. The nozzle <NUM> may include a distal end <NUM> and the end of the nozzle may be curved or beveled. The distal end <NUM> of the nozzle <NUM> may also include one or more gripping portions <NUM>, such as flanges, protrusions, grooves and the like, which may facilitate grasping and/or moving the nozzle between one or more positions. For example, the gripping portion <NUM> may include an annular flange located at least proximate the distal end <NUM> of the nozzle <NUM> and the flange may aid in moving the nozzle between one or more positions. In particular, the nozzle <NUM> may be moved between first, second and third positions, and one or more of these positions is a closed position. For instance, when the distal end <NUM> of the nozzle <NUM> is disposed at least proximate or adjacent the flange <NUM> surrounding the opening <NUM>, the nozzle may be in the closed position. The distal end <NUM> of the nozzle <NUM> may move outwardly and away from the flange <NUM> surrounding the opening <NUM> and into a first open position in which the end of the nozzle is a first distance away from the flange. The distal end <NUM> of the nozzle <NUM> may also move outwardly and away a second distance away from the flange <NUM> and into a second open position. The three different positions of the nozzle <NUM> are in <FIG> and are discussed in more detail below.

As shown in <FIG>, the lid <NUM> may include one or more gripping members <NUM>. The gripping members <NUM> may be any suitable combination of protrusions, projections, bumps, recesses, indentations, textured surfaces, and the like. The gripping members <NUM> may help a user grip the lid <NUM>. The gripping members <NUM> may also facilitate attaching and/or removal of the lid <NUM> to a body <NUM> of the container <NUM>. The body <NUM> may be sized and configured to hold liquids and fluids such as water, flavored water, sports drinks, beverages, gels, supplements, and the like. It will be appreciated that the body <NUM> of the container <NUM> may have various shapes, sizes, configurations and arrangements depending, for example, upon the intended use of the container.

As shown in the accompanying figures, the body <NUM> of the container <NUM> may have a generally cylindrical configuration and the top of the container may be tapered. The body <NUM> may include a recessed portion <NUM>, such as groove or receiving channel, to facilitate holding the container <NUM>. If desired, the body <NUM> may include one or more gripping portions <NUM>, such as a textured surface, which may also facilitate holding the container <NUM>. The gripping portions <NUM> may be at least partially disposed in the recessed portion <NUM>, if desired. It will be appreciated that the recessed portions <NUM> and/or the gripping portions <NUM> may be any suitable combination of protrusions, projections, bumps, recesses, indentations, textured surfaces, and the like. The recessed and gripping portions <NUM>, <NUM>, however, are not required.

The body <NUM> may be sized and configured to allow the container <NUM> to be used in connection with various items such as bicycle water bottle cages, cup holders, and the like. The container <NUM> may include a carrying member <NUM>, such as a handle. The carrying member <NUM> may have a generally loop-shaped configuration which may allow the container <NUM> to be easily and conveniently carried. The carrying member <NUM> may also allow the container <NUM> to be easily connected to other structures such as by a clip, line, fastener, and the like.

The container <NUM> may be constructed from durable, long-lasting materials. The container <NUM> may also be constructed from materials that allow it to be reused and/or recycled. For example, the lid <NUM> may be constructed from a relatively rigid material such as plastic. In particular, the lid <NUM> may be constructed from materials such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or other materials with similar properties and/or characteristics. The body <NUM> may be constructed from a relatively flexible material that allows the bottle to be squeezed or deformed, and then resiliently return to its original position. For instance, the body <NUM> may be constructed from low-density polyethylene (LDPE) or other materials with similar properties and/or characteristics. In view of this disclosure, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the container <NUM> and it various parts, such as the lid <NUM> and body <NUM>, may be constructed from various materials with desired properties such as different types of plastics, glass, metal, composites and the like. Additionally, the lid <NUM> and/or body <NUM> may be constructed from at least partially transparent or translucent materials, which may allow the user to see the type and amount of fluids in the container <NUM>. Further, the carrying member <NUM> may be constructed from a relatively durable material, such as plastic, and the carrying member may be flexible to allow it to be disposed in a variety of positions and locations. As discussed below, the carrying member <NUM> may be attached to the container <NUM> by a retaining member, such as a ring, and the retaining member may be disposed between the lid <NUM> and the body <NUM>. It will be appreciated that the carrying member <NUM> may be attached to any suitable portion of the container <NUM> and the carrying member may be attached by other means, such as pivotally attaching the carrying member to the lid <NUM> or the body <NUM>. The carrying member <NUM>, however, is not required.

As shown in <FIG>, the container <NUM> includes a valve assembly <NUM> and a straw <NUM> and the container <NUM> may include a lid gasket <NUM> and a retaining member <NUM>. The lid gasket <NUM> may help create a fluid-tight seal between the lid <NUM> and the body <NUM> of the container <NUM>. The valve assembly <NUM> helps control the flow of fluid from the container <NUM>. In particular, the valve assembly <NUM> is applicable to control whether fluid can flow from the container <NUM> and the valve assembly is applicable to control whether fluid flows through the straw <NUM> or through another passageway. Thus, the valve assembly <NUM> does not only determine if fluid can flow out of the container <NUM>, but also the pathway the fluid may follow. The retaining member <NUM> may be used to couple the carrying member <NUM> to the container <NUM>.

In greater detail, the valve assembly <NUM> includes the nozzle <NUM> and the nozzle is movable within the opening <NUM> in the lid <NUM>. The gripping portion <NUM> of the nozzle <NUM> may consist of an outwardly extending annular flange located at the distal end <NUM> and the nozzle may include a first receiving portion <NUM> and a second receiving portion <NUM>. A seal, gasket or the like may be at least partially disposed in the first and/or second receiving portions, if desired. As shown in the accompanying figures, the nozzle <NUM> may have a generally cylindrical configuration and the nozzle may be sized and configured to fit within the generally circular opening <NUM> in the lid <NUM>.

The valve assembly <NUM> also includes a conduit <NUM>, which may have an elongated body <NUM> and an outwardly extending portion <NUM> with an uneven or irregular surface <NUM> may be disposed at one end of the body. The other end of the conduit <NUM> may include a base <NUM> and the base may have a larger diameter than the body <NUM>. If desired, a tapered section and/or an engaging portion <NUM>, such as an annular ring, may be disposed between the body <NUM> and the base <NUM> of the conduit <NUM>. The base <NUM> may include a receiving portion <NUM>, such as a groove or channel, and a plurality of openings <NUM> disposed at least proximate the base.

The conduit <NUM> is hollow to allow fluid to flow through the conduit. In addition, fluid is able to flow into the conduit <NUM> through the openings <NUM>, which may be formed in a sidewall of the body <NUM>, and/or an opening <NUM> in the end of the conduit. Thus, fluid is able to enter the conduit <NUM> through one or more openings <NUM> and/or <NUM>. Therefore, fluid is able to flow through two different pathways into the conduit <NUM>. Fluid may exit the conduit <NUM> through an upper opening <NUM> of the conduit <NUM>.

The valve assembly <NUM> may also include a straw cap <NUM> and a straw connector <NUM>. As shown in the accompanying figures, the straw <NUM>, the straw cap <NUM> and the straw connector <NUM> may be coupled or in fluid connection to allow fluid to flow through the straw and into the straw cap. The straw <NUM>, the straw cap <NUM> and/or the straw connector <NUM> may be connected by a friction, interference or snap fit connection. The straw <NUM>, the straw cap <NUM> and the straw connector <NUM> may also be connected by other suitable means and these components may be selectively connected for purposes such as assembly and/or cleaning. These and other components of the container <NUM> may also be integrally formed as part of a unity, one-piece structure if desired.

In greater detail, as illustrated in <FIG>, the lid gasket <NUM> may be disposed in the lid <NUM> and the lid gasket may help create a fluid-tight seal between the lid and the body <NUM> of the container <NUM>. In addition, the nozzle <NUM> may be at least partially disposed in the opening <NUM> in the lid <NUM> and the upper portion of the conduit <NUM> may be disposed inside the nozzle. The nozzle <NUM> is coupled to the conduit <NUM> such that the nozzle and the conduit move together. For example, the nozzle <NUM> may be constructed from plastic and it may be over-molded onto at least a portion of the conduit <NUM>. In particular, the nozzle <NUM> may be over-molded onto the upper portion of the conduit <NUM>. In this embodiment, as the nozzle <NUM> moves up and down relative to the opening <NUM> in the lid <NUM>, the conduit <NUM> also moves up and down. As described in more detail below, the movement of the nozzle <NUM> and conduit <NUM> creates different pathways through which fluid is able to flow through the valve assembly <NUM>. It will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, after viewing this disclosure, that the nozzle <NUM> and conduit <NUM> may be coupled and/or interconnected in a variety of suitable configurations and arrangements. It will also be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, after viewing this disclosure, that the nozzle <NUM> and conduit <NUM> could be a unitary, one-piece structure or different structures that do not have to be coupled or interconnected.

The straw cap <NUM> and the straw connector <NUM> may remain in a generally fixed position relative to the lid <NUM>. For example, the straw connector <NUM> may be coupled to the lid <NUM> by one or more threads <NUM>. In addition, the straw cap <NUM> may be coupled to the straw connector <NUM> by a connecting member <NUM> such as a tab, protrusion, projection, fastener, and the like. For example, the connecting member <NUM> may be disposed within a receiving portion <NUM> in the straw connector <NUM> to couple the straw cap and the straw connector. The connecting member <NUM> and the receiving portion <NUM> may be connected by friction, interference or snap fit connection. After reviewing this disclosure, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the various components of the valve assembly <NUM> may be coupled and connected using other appropriate structures, connectors and the like.

In greater detail, the straw cap <NUM> may include an upper portion <NUM> that may be at least partially disposed within the base <NUM> of the conduit <NUM>. As seen in <FIG>, the upper portion <NUM> of the straw cap <NUM> may include a plurality of openings <NUM> and a lower portion <NUM> of the straw cap may have a larger diameter than the upper portion. An angled or tapered surface <NUM> may connect the upper and lower portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the straw cap <NUM>. The lower portion <NUM> of the straw cap <NUM> may include a hollow interior portion that is in fluid communication with the openings <NUM> in the upper portion <NUM> of the straw cap. The straw cap <NUM> may also include one or more gaskets or seals. For example, a first gasket or seal <NUM> may be disposed at least proximate the upper portion <NUM> of the straw cap <NUM> and a second gasket or seal <NUM> may be disposed at least proximate the angled surface <NUM>.

The straw connector <NUM> may include one or more openings that allow fluid to flow into the straw connector. For example, the straw connector <NUM> may include a first plurality of openings <NUM> and the first plurality of openings may allow a large volume of fluid to enter the straw connector. The straw connector <NUM> may also include a second plurality of openings <NUM> and these openings, for example, may allow additional fluid to flow into the straw connector and/or allow fluid to drain. Advantageously, the first and/or second plurality of openings <NUM>, <NUM> may allow a large volume of fluid to flow through the straw connector <NUM>. The straw connector <NUM> may also include a guide or positioning member <NUM>, which may be designed to help position the valve assembly <NUM> in a desired position. The straw connector <NUM> may further include an end <NUM> that is configured to be coupled to the straw <NUM>. The straw <NUM> may be selectively coupled to the straw connector <NUM>, which may facilitate assembly and/or cleaning of the container <NUM>.

As discussed above, the valve assembly <NUM> may include a number of gaskets or seals, such as the first and second gaskets <NUM>, <NUM>, which may help create a leak-proof and/or fluid-tight seal. The valve assembly <NUM> may also include additional gaskets or seals to help create a leak-proof and/or fluid-tight structure. Additionally, one or more gaskets or seals may be used to help create the desired fluid passageways.

The valve assembly <NUM> is applicable to prevent fluid from flowing through the nozzle <NUM>. The valve assembly <NUM> is also applicable to allow fluid to flow through a first passageway and through the nozzle <NUM>. In addition, the valve assembly <NUM> is applicable to allow fluid to flow through a second passageway and through the nozzle <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG>, when the valve assembly <NUM> is in the closed position, the positioning of the conduit <NUM> relative to the straw cap <NUM> may prevent fluid from flowing into the nozzle <NUM>. In particular, the upper portion <NUM> of the straw cap <NUM> and the first seal <NUM> may be disposed in the body <NUM> of the conduit <NUM> and that may prevent fluid from entering the upper portion of the conduit. Because the upper portion <NUM> of the straw cap <NUM> and the first seal <NUM> may block fluid flow into the body <NUM> of the conduit <NUM>, fluid may not enter the nozzle <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, when the valve assembly <NUM> is in the first open position, the upper portion <NUM> of the straw cap <NUM> and the first seal <NUM> may prevent fluid flow through the straw cap <NUM> and into the conduit <NUM>. The valve assembly <NUM>, however, may allow fluid flow through the openings <NUM> in the sidewall of the body <NUM> of the conduit <NUM>. The first fluid passage way is illustrated in broken lines in A-A in <FIG>. As shown in <FIG>, when the valve assembly <NUM> is in the second open position, fluid is able to flow through a second passageway. The second passageway may allow fluid flow through the straw <NUM> and the straw cap <NUM>. The second seal <NUM> may help prevent fluid flow between the conduit <NUM> and the straw cap <NUM>. It will be appreciated that the seals <NUM>, <NUM> may be any suitable type of seal such as O-rings, gaskets and the like. The second fluid passageway is illustrated by broken lines B-B in <FIG>.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the lid <NUM>, the valve assembly <NUM> and the straw <NUM> are connected. In addition, the opening <NUM> in the lid <NUM>, the nozzle <NUM>, the straw <NUM>, the straw cap <NUM>, and the straw connector <NUM> may be generally aligned along a central axis. The opening <NUM> in the lid <NUM>, the nozzle <NUM>, the straw <NUM>, the straw cap <NUM>, and the straw connector <NUM>, however, could be disposed at one or more angles depending, for example, upon the intended use of the container <NUM>.

When the container <NUM> is used, the nozzle <NUM> may be moved between the closed and open positions. In particular, the nozzle <NUM> may be moved between the closed position shown in <FIG>, the first open position as shown in <FIG>, and the second open position as shown in <FIG>. Advantageously, when the nozzle <NUM> is moved, the conduit <NUM> also moves and the positioning of the nozzle and conduit controls fluid flow through the nozzle. That is, positioning of the nozzle <NUM> determines whether or not fluid will flow through the nozzle. The positioning of the nozzle <NUM> also controls the pathway that fluid can flow through the valve assembly <NUM>, and that determines whether fluids can be sucked and/or squeezed through the straw <NUM> or whether fluids can be poured or squeezed out through the nozzle <NUM> when the container <NUM> is inverted.

In greater detail, in the closed position illustrated in <FIG>, the upper portion <NUM> of the straw cap <NUM> and the seal <NUM> may prevent fluid from entering the elongated body <NUM> of the conduit <NUM>. In this configuration, the lower portion of the nozzle <NUM> and the lower portion of the body <NUM> of the conduit <NUM> may be generally aligned, and the upper portion <NUM> of the straw cap <NUM> may be disposed in the lower portion of the body <NUM> to prevent fluid from entering the conduit <NUM>. If fluid cannot enter the body <NUM> of the conduit <NUM>, fluid cannot flow through the nozzle <NUM>. In the closed position, the base <NUM> of the conduit <NUM> may contact or abut the straw connector <NUM> and the distal end <NUM> of the nozzle <NUM> may be disposed at least proximate the flange <NUM> surrounding the opening <NUM> in the lid <NUM>.

In the first open position, illustrated in <FIG>, the nozzle <NUM> and the conduit <NUM> may be moved upwardly such that the receiving portion <NUM> is aligned with and receives an engaging portion <NUM> of the guide member <NUM> of the straw connector <NUM>. When the engaging portion <NUM> is disposed in the receiving portion <NUM>, the nozzle <NUM> may be disposed in the first open position. In the first open position, the distal end <NUM> of the nozzle <NUM> may be disposed a first distance from the flange <NUM> and the base <NUM> of the conduit <NUM> may be spaced apart from the straw connector <NUM> by a distance. A first fluid passageway may be created to allow fluid to flow through the nozzle <NUM>. In this embodiment, fluid may not flow through the straw <NUM> or the straw cap <NUM>. Instead, fluid may flow directly through the openings <NUM> in the sidewall of the body <NUM> and into the conduit <NUM> to the nozzle <NUM>.

In greater detail, fluid may flow through the first plurality of openings <NUM> in the straw connector <NUM> and into the plurality of openings <NUM> in the conduit <NUM> when the valve assembly <NUM> is in the first open position. This may allow, for example, fluid to flow from the body <NUM>, through the openings <NUM> in the straw connector <NUM> and into the openings <NUM> in the conduit <NUM>. Fluid can then flow through the body <NUM> of the conduit <NUM> and out the nozzle <NUM>. Advantageously, when the valve assembly <NUM> is in the first open position, the body <NUM> of the container <NUM> may be squeezed and that may force fluid through the first passageway created by the openings <NUM> in the straw connector <NUM>, the openings <NUM> in the conduit <NUM>, the body <NUM> of the conduit and the nozzle <NUM>. This may allow the container <NUM> to function as a water bottle, for instance, because when the container is inverted and/or squeezed, fluid may flow from the body <NUM> directly into the conduit <NUM> and out of the nozzle <NUM>. In addition, particularly if the container <NUM> is at least substantially filled, fluid may be squirted out by squeezing the container and causing fluid to flow through the first passageway.

In the first open position, the upper portion <NUM> of the straw cap <NUM> and the first seal <NUM> may prevent fluid flow between the straw cap <NUM> and the conduit <NUM>, which may prevent fluid from leaking into the straw cap. Additionally, the seal <NUM> may help prevent fluid flow between the flange <NUM> of the lid <NUM> and the nozzle <NUM>. Thus, in the first open position, fluid may only flow through the openings <NUM> in the body <NUM> of the conduit <NUM> and out the nozzle, and fluid may not flow through the straw <NUM> or the straw cap <NUM>.

In the second open position, illustrated in <FIG>, the nozzle <NUM> and the conduit <NUM> may be positioned such that the annular flange <NUM> abuts, contacts and/or engages an interior portion <NUM>. The interior portion <NUM> may be part of the nozzle <NUM> and/or the lid <NUM>. When the annular flange <NUM> of the conduit <NUM> abuts, contacts and/or engages the interior portion <NUM> of the lid <NUM>, any further outward movement of the nozzle <NUM> and the conduit <NUM> may be prevented. When the annular flange <NUM> abuts, contacts and/or engages the interior portion <NUM> of the lid <NUM>, a fluid-tight seal may be created. In the second open position, the openings <NUM> in the conduit <NUM> are no longer aligned or in fluid communication with the openings <NUM> in the straw connector <NUM> Thus, fluid is not able to flow from the body <NUM> of the container <NUM> and through the openings <NUM> in the straw connector <NUM> to the openings <NUM> in the body <NUM> of the conduit <NUM>. Fluid may be able to flow, however, through a second passageway created by the straw <NUM> and the straw cap <NUM>. Specifically, fluid may flow through the straw <NUM>, the lower portion <NUM> of the straw cap <NUM>, the openings <NUM> in the straw cap, the opening <NUM> in the bottom of the conduit <NUM>, the body <NUM> of the conduit, and the nozzle <NUM>. Therefore, when a user sucks on the nozzle <NUM> or squeezes the container <NUM>, fluid may flow through the straw <NUM> and into the straw cap <NUM>. The fluid may then travel out of the openings <NUM> in the straw cap <NUM>, into the opening <NUM> in the lower portion of the conduit <NUM>, through the conduit <NUM> and out the nozzle <NUM>.

When it is desired to use the container <NUM>, the lid <NUM> may be removed from the body <NUM> and the container may be easily filled with fluids such as water, sports drinks, and the like. The lid <NUM> may then be connected to the body <NUM> by any type of suitable connection, such as a threaded connection. When the nozzle <NUM> is in the closed position, no fluid flows through the nozzle. If a user desires to use the container <NUM> as a water bottle, the nozzle <NUM> may be moved into the first open position and the container may be inverted to allow fluid to be squeezed out of the container. In this position, fluid may also flow out of the container <NUM> under the force of gravity. In addition, in this first position, fluid may be squirted out of the container. If a user desires to drink from the container <NUM> using the straw <NUM>, the nozzle <NUM> may be moved into the second open position and the user may suck on the nozzle which causes fluid to flow through the straw <NUM> and into the passageway created by the straw cap <NUM> and the opening <NUM> in the lower portion of the conduit <NUM>. When the nozzle is in the second open position, the container <NUM> can also be squeezed to cause fluid to flow through the straw <NUM>. Significantly, the different passageways may allow the container <NUM> to be used in upright and inverted positions, and may allow the container to be used as a water bottle or a bottle with a straw <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A liquid dispensing container (<NUM>) comprising:
a body (<NUM>);
a lid (<NUM>) attached to the body (<NUM>);
a valve assembly (<NUM>) comprising:
a nozzle (<NUM>); and
a conduit (<NUM>) coupled to the nozzle (<NUM>),
wherein the nozzle (<NUM>) and the conduit (<NUM>) are movable relative to the lid (<NUM>) between a closed position, a first open position and a second open position; and
a straw (<NUM>) coupled to the valve assembly (<NUM>);
wherein:
when the nozzle (<NUM>) and the conduit (<NUM>) are in the closed position, the valve assembly (<NUM>) prevents fluid from being discharged from the body (<NUM>);
when the nozzle (<NUM>) and the conduit (<NUM>) are in the first open position, a first passageway (A-A) is formed that passes through first openings (<NUM>) in the conduit (<NUM>) to allow the fluid to be discharged from the body (<NUM>) by inverting and/or squeezing the container;
when the nozzle (<NUM>) and the conduit (<NUM>) are in the second open position, a second passageway (B-B) is formed that passes through the straw (<NUM>) and a second opening (<NUM>) in the conduit (<NUM>) that is different than the first openings (<NUM>) to allow the fluid to be discharged from the body (<NUM>) by sucking and/or squeezing through the straw (<NUM>);
when the nozzle (<NUM>) and the conduit (<NUM>) are in the first open position, the fluid cannot flow through the second passageway (B-B); and
when the nozzle (<NUM>) and the conduit (<NUM>) are in the second open position, the fluid cannot flow through the first passageway (A-A).