Patent ID: 12239251

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the embodiments, including structures, systems, and methods, may be practiced without these specific details. The description and representation herein comport with standards used by those experienced or skilled in the art to most effectively convey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art. In some instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, and elements have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring aspects of the disclosure.

References in the specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an example embodiment,” “some embodiments,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, this disclosure has been prepared such that when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to apply such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described.

The following examples are illustrative, but not limiting, of the present disclosure. Other suitable modifications and adaptations of the variety of conditions and parameters normally encountered in the field, and which would be apparent to those skilled in the art, are within the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

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 accidentally unsealed.

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

FIGS.1-2show a drinking vessel10according to some embodiments. Drinking vessel10may include a container1000and a lid20for container1000. Lid20may include multiple components, including a lid base100and an actuator700.

Lid base100may include a drinking opening104through which a user can drink a beverage contained within container1000when lid20is assembled with container1000. Lid base100may also include a vent opening106through which an interior volume of container1000can vent when lid20is assembled with container1000. Lid base100may 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.

Lid20when assembled with container1000can 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 opening104and vent opening106may be the only openings extending though lid base100to container1000, and drinking opening104and vent opening106may be sealed in some configurations, as will be discussed in greater detail below.

Actuator700may be accessible from an exterior of lid base100. Actuator700may be or include, for example, a button702(as shown inFIG.1), a switch, a lever, or other suitable mechanical mechanism. Actuator700may be moveable between a first position and a second position in order to seal or unseal drinking opening104, as will be discussed in greater detail below. Additionally or alternatively, actuator700may be moveable between a first position and a second position in order to seal or unseal venting opening106.

In embodiments where actuator700is or includes a button702, actuator700may be moveable from the first position to the second position, for example, by pressing button702, and from the second position to the first position, for example, by releasing button702. Actuator700may 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, lid20includes a locking member800to inhibit movement of actuator700and thereby inhibit opening of drinking opening104. A user may move locking member800from an unlocked position to a locked position, for example, by engaging a portion of locking member800(e.g., nub804) and sliding locking member800(e.g., in a counterclockwise direction about a locking axis80(seeFIG.4), viewed from the top of lid20). When locking member800is in the locked position, actuator700is inhibited from moving from the first position to the second position to unseal drinking opening104. When locking member800is in the unlocked position, actuator700is free to move from the first position to the second position.

In some embodiments, a user may move locking member800from an unlocked position or a locked position to a disassembly position, for example, by engaging a portion of locking member800and sliding locking member800(e.g., in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction about locking axis80). When locking member800is in the disassembly position, actuator700can be removed from lid base100.

Locking member800may be movable from each of its positions—e.g., unlocked position, locked position, and disassembly position—to each of its other positions.

FIGS.3and4show exploded views of drinking vessel10according to some embodiments. As shown, lid20includes lid base100, actuator700, a magnet unit900, locking member800, a lid sealing member200, a movable arm300, a magnet unit400, and a magnet unit500. Drinking vessel10may also include container1000.

Lid base100may define a spout102through which drinking opening104extends. Lid base100may also define one more venting openings106. Venting opening106may extend between an interior132of lid base100and an exterior134of lid base100. Lid base100may include a vent cover108such that venting opening106is at least partially obscured from view.

Lid base100may define an actuator chamber112. Actuator700may be positioned at least partially within actuator chamber112and may be accessible from the exterior of lid base100. For example, as shown inFIG.1, a portion of actuator700may protrude through an opening114in upper side wall122of lid base100. Actuator700may be movable (e.g., slidable) within actuator chamber112between a first position and second position (e.g., by pressing and releasing actuator700as a button).

In some embodiments, actuator700may include a spring finger718in contact with a portion of lid base100when lid20is assembled. Spring finger718may help hold actuator700within actuator chamber112and/or reduce noise produced by lid20when actuator700moves with respect to lid base100.

In some embodiments, actuator700is removable from actuator chamber112. Actuator700may include, for example, a grip716to aid in removing actuator700from actuator chamber112.

As shown, for example, inFIG.3, actuator700may include a compartment704to receive magnet unit900.

Magnet unit900may be or include one or more magnets. In some embodiments magnet unit900includes an outer housing containing one or more magnets therein.

Compartment704may be spaced a distance away from a contact surface of actuator700(e.g., button702) by a center portion706such that magnet unit900is spaced away from an outer edge of lid base100when lid20is assembled. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, magnet unit900is spaced away from a rear edge of lid base100.

In some embodiments, magnet unit900is joined with actuator700with an adhesive. In some embodiments, magnet unit900is joined with actuator700by other chemical bonding (e.g., by welding, molding, or potting) and/or mechanical means (e.g., a press or snap fit).

Compartment704may be configured such that magnet unit900is at or near a lower surface of actuator700when magnet unit900is received in compartment704. In this way, a magnetic field generated by magnet unit900will be relatively strong at a location just below the lower surface of actuator700, compared to a magnetic field generated by magnet unit900if magnet unit900were positioned further above the lower surface of actuator700.

As mentioned, in some embodiments lid base100includes locking member800. In embodiments that include locking member800, actuator700may include a recess708for receiving locking member800, and locking member800may be movable within recess708when lid20is assembled. In some embodiments, locking member800may be rotatable within recess708when lid20is assembled. For example, as shown inFIG.4, locking member800may be rotatable about locking member axis80. As shown, for example, inFIG.1, when lid20is assembled, a portion of locking member800(e.g., nub804) may protrude through an opening712in actuator700so that a user can engage locking member800from the exterior of lid20. A user may move locking member800between positions (e.g., from a locked position to an unlocked position) by engaging nub804and sliding locking member800(e.g., in a clockwise direction about locking axis80, viewed from the top of lid20).

In some embodiments, locking member800is movable between three positions—a locked position, an unlocked position, and a disassembly position. As will be discussed in more detail below, when locking member800is in the locked position, actuator700is inhibited from moving from the first position to the second position. When locking member800is in the unlocked position, actuator700is free to move from the first position to the second position. When locking member800is in the disassembly position, actuator700can be removed from lid base100(e.g., by pulling actuator700out of actuator chamber112). In some embodiments, locking member800is movable between only two positions, for example, the locked position and the unlocked position.

Lid base100may include attachment mechanism110on a lower side wall118of lid base100. Container1000may include a corresponding attachment mechanism1010near an upper edge of the container, configured to engage with attachment mechanism110to removably attach container1000to lid20. Attachment mechanisms110and1010may be threaded connectors (as shown inFIG.3), friction fit connectors, snap-fit connectors, or any other suitable releasable attachment mechanism. The attachment of lid base100to container1000is not limited to the arrangement shown in the figures. For example, in some embodiments, lid base100may attach over container1000rather than inside container1000.

When assembled with container1000, lid sealing member200may be pressed between lid base100and an inner surface of container1000, to create a seal between lid20and container1000. Lid sealing member200may be a removable component (e.g., a removable gasket), or may be an integrally-formed part of lid base100or container1000.

Moveable arm300may be positioned in interior132of lid base100and be movably coupled to lid base100. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, movable arm300is coupled to lid base100through engagement of one or more receiving portions126of lid base100and one more engaging portions302of movable arm300.

In some embodiments, movable arm300may be rotatable within lid base100. For example, as shown inFIGS.7-8, movable arm300may rotate about movable arm axis30extending through receiving portions126of lid base100and engaging portions302of movable arm300. In some embodiments, for example as shown inFIG.4, receiving portions126may have a circular shape, a channel128narrower than the diameter of the circular receiving portion126may extend down from receiving portions126, and engaging portions302may be shaped as segments of a cylinder. In such embodiments, movable arm300can be assembled with lid base100by holding movable arm300in a vertical orientation (rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise from the orientation shown inFIG.4), and sliding engaging portions302though channel128and into receiving portion126. Movable arm300can then be rotated toward the horizontal orientation (shown, for example, inFIG.4) in which channels128inhibit engaging portions302from sliding out of receiving portions126. In this way, engaging portions302are held securely in receiving portions126.

In other embodiments, movable arm300is movable relative to lid base100in another manner such as, for example, by sliding. Movable arm300may be formed of food-grade material.

Moveable arm300may include a drinking opening sealing portion602. When lid20is assembled, drinking opening sealing portion602may move with movable arm300such that drinking opening sealing portion602seals drinking opening104when moveable arm300is in certain positions. Moveable arm300may include a vent sealing portion604. When lid20is assembled, vent sealing portion604may move with movable arm300such that vent sealing portion604seals venting opening106when moveable arm300is in certain positions.

Movable arm300may be moveable relative to lid base100between a sealed position (as shown inFIG.5) and an open position (as shown inFIG.6). When movable arm300is in the sealed position, drinking opening104is sealed by drinking opening sealing portion602. For example, drinking opening sealing portion602may press against a surface of or around drinking opening104to seal drinking opening104. When movable arm300is in an open position, drinking opening sealing portion602does not seal drinking opening104(e.g., so that a user may drink from drinking vessel10through drinking opening104).

In some embodiments, when movable arm300is in the sealed position, venting opening106is sealed by venting opening sealing portion604. For example, venting opening sealing portion604may press against a surface of or around venting opening106to seal venting opening106. In some embodiments, when movable arm300is in the open position, venting opening sealing portion604does not seal venting opening106(e.g., so that a user may vent drinking vessel10through venting opening106).

In the illustrated embodiment, drinking opening sealing portion602is formed as a diaphragm. However, drinking opening sealing portion602may have any shape and configuration sufficient to seal drinking opening104. For example, in other embodiments, drinking opening sealing portion602may be formed as a plug or gasket. Drinking opening sealing portion602may be integrally formed as part of movable arm300(for example, through co-molding) or may be or be a part of a separate component attached to movable arm300. Drinking opening sealing portion602may be formed of a food-grade material suitable to create a seal between lid base100and movable arm300.

In the illustrated embodiment, vent sealing portion604is formed as a diaphragm. However, vent sealing portion604may have any shape and configuration sufficient to seal vent opening106. For example, in other embodiments, vent sealing portion604may be formed as a plug or gasket. Vent sealing portion604may be integrally formed as part of movable arm300(for example, through co-molding) or may be a separate component attached to movable arm300. Vent sealing portion602may be formed of a food-grade material suitable to create a seal between lid base100and movable arm300.

As shown, for example, inFIG.3, movable arm300may include one or more compartments306for receiving magnet unit400and/or magnet unit500.

In some embodiments, magnet unit300and magnet unit400are both located to the same side of a vertical plane passing through the rotation axis of the movable arm.

Magnet unit400may be or include one or more magnets. In some embodiments magnet unit400includes an outer housing containing one or more magnets therein. Magnet unit500may be or include one or more magnets. In some embodiments magnet unit500includes an outer housing containing one or more magnets therein.

Compartment306may be positioned in movable arm300such that magnet unit400and/or magnet unit500are spaced away from an outer edge of lid20when lid20is assembled. Compartment306may be configured such that magnet unit400and/or magnet unit500are positioned at or near an upper surface of movable arm300when magnet unit400and/or magnet unit500are received in compartment306. In this way, a magnetic field generated by magnet unit400and/or magnet unit500will be relatively strong at a location just above moveable arm300, compared to a magnetic field generated by magnet unit400and/or magnet unit500if magnet unit400and/or magnet unit500were positioned further below an upper surface of movable arm300.

In some embodiments, magnet unit400and/or magnet unit500are joined with movable arm300with an adhesive. In some embodiments, magnet unit400and/or magnet unit500are joined with movable arm300by other chemical bonding (e.g., by welding, molding, or potting) and/or by mechanical means (e.g., a press fit). In some embodiments, movable arm300includes a magnet cover308to separate magnet units400and/or magnet unit500from interior132of lid base100when lid20is assembled. In some embodiments, magnet cover308is integrally formed with movable arm300(e.g., movable arm300may be molded in a first molding operation and magnet cover308may be formed in a second molding operation after magnet unit400and/or magnet unit500are joined with movable arm300).

In some embodiments, moveable arm300may include a noise reduction portion (for example, a portion formed of silicone) to reduce noise when movable arm300moves from the sealed position to the open position or vice versa.

In some embodiments, movable arm300is removable from lid base100. Movable arm300may include, for example, grip312to aid in removing movable arm300from lid base100.

As will be discussed in greater detail below, when actuator700moves between the first position and second position (e.g., when actuator700is pressed, as a button), magnet unit900, which is located in compartment704of actuator700, moves from a first position to a second position, thereby changing the magnetic field experienced by magnet unit400and/or magnet unit500. As a result, a magnetic force on magnet unit400and/or magnet unit500causes movable arm300, which is coupled to magnet unit400and/or magnet unit500, to move from a sealed position, in which drinking opening104is sealed, to an open position, in which drinking opening104is not sealed. Similarly, when actuator700moves from the second position to the first position (e.g., when actuator700is released, as a button), magnet unit900moves from a second position to a first position, thereby changing the magnetic field experienced by magnet unit400and/or magnet unit500. As a result, a magnetic force on magnet unit400and/or magnet unit500causes movable arm300to move from the open position to the sealed position. In some embodiments, the movements may be reversed (i.e., such that moving actuator700from the first position to the second position causes movable arm300to move from the open position to the sealed position, and such that moving actuator700from the second position to the first position causes movable arm300to move from the sealed position to the open position).

Movable arm300may not be mechanically linked to actuator700. That is, moving actuator700(e.g., from the first position to the second position or vice versa) would not exert any mechanical force on movable arm300(only magnetic force, as described herein).

Container1000may be any type of container. Container1000may be cylindrical (as shown, for example, inFIGS.1-2) or have another exterior or interior shape. In some embodiments, container1000may be double-walled to enhance thermal insulative properties of container1000. In some embodiments, an area between container1000's double walls may be hermetically sealed and may form at least a partial vacuum. In some embodiments, container1000may be formed of stainless steel. In some embodiments, container1000may 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).

FIGS.5-10show 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.

FIGS.5-6are cross-sectional views showing relative positions of certain components of lid20during operation. As mentioned above, during operation a user may move (e.g. slide) actuator700from a first position to a second position (e.g., by pressing actuator700like a button).FIGS.5and7show assembled cross-sectional views of an upper portion of drinking vessel10when actuator700is in the first position, andFIGS.6and8show assembled cross-sectional views of an upper portion of drinking vessel10when actuator700is in the second position. The sections inFIGS.5and6are taken vertically at the position of line V-V′ ofFIG.2. The sections inFIGS.7and8are taken horizontally at the position of line VII-VII′ ofFIG.2offset from the top of lid20.

As shown, for example, inFIG.5, lid base100includes dividing wall120. The illustrated dividing wall120curves upward toward the front of the lid base100to partially define spout102. Spout102is located near the edge of lid base100—offset from a center of lid base100—so that it is in a comfortable location for a user when the user is drinking from the spout. As shown, drinking opening104extends through spout102. Drinking opening104may have a stadium-shaped cross section at an upper portion of spout102. In some embodiments, the cross sectional shape of drinking opening104may change from an upper portion of drinking opening104to a lower portion of drinking opening104. Drinking opening104may have a circular cross section at a lower portion of drinking opening104, as shown, for example, inFIG.7. The lower portion of drinking opening104may have other shapes, such as a stadium or rectangular shape.

Lid base100includes a lower side wall118extending downward from a lower side of dividing wall120. Together, lower side wall118and dividing wall120define an interior of132of lid base100. When lid20is assembled with container1000, interior132of lid base100is in fluid communication with an interior1006of container1000. Lid base100may also include an upper side wall122that extends upward from an upper side of dividing wall120. In some embodiments, upper side wall122and dividing wall120may define a cavity135. However, in other embodiments, lid base100does not include a cavity135. Drinking opening104extends through dividing wall120and opens into interior132of lid base100. Vent opening106extends through dividing wall120and opens into interior132of lid base100and exterior134of lid base100. Vent opening106may be positioned to a side of actuator chamber112so that vent opening106does not interfere with actuator700.

Actuator700may extend within actuator chamber112from a rear of lid base100toward a front of lid base100. Actuator700and actuator chamber112may be isolated from interior132of lid base100and drinking opening104such that a beverage carried inside container1000and/or consumed by a user through drinking opening104will not contact actuator700or actuator chamber112. This isolation may be desirable, for example, so that dirt or debris on actuator700or in actuator chamber112is not likely to contaminate a beverage within container1000. The isolation may also be desirable so that, for example, actuator700does not become soiled with deposits from a beverage carried within container1000.

Movable arm300may extend from a rear of lid base100toward a front of lid base100in an interior of lid base100. As discussed above with reference toFIG.4, movable arm300may be movably coupled to lid base100such that movable arm300is rotatable about movable arm axis30. For example, movable arm300may be movably coupled to lid base100at mounting portion124extending downward from dividing platform120of lid base100. In the illustrated embodiment, mounting portion124includes receiving portions126, and moveable arm300includes corresponding engaging portions306. Engaging portions306of moveable arm300are received into receiving portions126of mounting portion124, thereby allowing moveable arm300to rotate about movable arm axis30(see, e.g.,FIG.7). For example, moveable arm300may rotate from the sealed position (as shown, for example inFIGS.5and7) to the open position (as shown, for example, inFIGS.6and8). In some embodiments, moveable arm300may move in a different manner. For example, moveable arm may move translationally forward and backward and/or up and down.

When movable arm300is in the sealed position, for example, as shown inFIG.5, drinking opening104is sealed by drinking opening sealing portion602. Drinking opening sealing portion602is positioned below drinking opening104and may be located on and move along with moveable arm300. In some embodiments, drinking opening sealing portion602may seal drinking opening104by pressing against dividing wall120through which drinking opening104extends.

In some embodiments, when movable arm300is in a sealed position, vent opening106is sealed by vent sealing portion604of sealing member600. Vent sealing portion604is positioned below vent opening106and may be located on and move along with moveable arm300. In some embodiments, vent sealing portion604may seal vent opening106by pressing against dividing wall120through which vent opening106extends.

In some embodiments, moveable arm300can be moved (e.g., rotated) by applying a force (e.g., a magnetic force) to movable arm300. As can be seen, for example, inFIGS.5-6, application of a downward force to a front portion of movable arm300(relative to axis30) may move movable arm300in a first rotational direction away from the sealed position, while application of an upward force to a front portion of moveable arm300(relative to axis30) may move movable arm in a second rotational direction toward the sealed position.

As discussed above, in some embodiments, magnet unit900is positioned in compartment704of actuator700and magnet unit400and/or magnet unit500are positioned in compartment306of movable arm300. In some embodiments, the location of magnet unit900and magnet unit400and/or magnet unit500may be reversed. That is, magnet unit900may be coupled to movable arm300, and magnet unit400and/or magnet unit500may be coupled to actuator700.

In the illustrated embodiment, magnet unit900is arranged such that a north pole of magnet unit900(labeled “N”) is positioned at a bottom surface of actuator700, magnet unit400is arranged such that a north pole of magnet unit400(labeled “N”) is positioned at a top surface of movable arm300, and magnet unit500is arranged such that a south pole of magnet unit500(labeled “S”) is positioned at a top surface of movable arm300. However, each of the arrangements may be reversed to achieve a desired magnetic interaction. That is, magnet unit900can be arranged such that a south pole of magnet unit900is positioned at a bottom surface of actuator700, magnet unit400can arranged such that a south pole of magnet unit400is positioned at a top surface of movable arm300, and/or magnet unit500can be arranged such that a north pole of magnet unit500is positioned at a top surface of movable arm300.

As shown, for example, inFIG.5, when actuator700is in the first position, magnet unit500coupled to movable arm300may interact with magnet unit900coupled to actuator700. For example, magnet unit500may be attracted to magnet unit900. In the illustrated embodiment, magnet unit900and magnet unit500are arranged such that a north pole of magnet unit900faces a south pole of magnet500when actuator700is in the first position. As a result, when actuator700is in the first position, magnet unit900applies an upward force on a front portion of movable arm300, thereby pulling movable arm in a first rotational direction and maintaining movable arm300in the sealed position.

InFIG.6, actuator700has been moved from the first position to the second position (e.g., by pushing button702toward the front of drinking vessel10). InFIG.6, actuator700has moved a short distance between the first and second positions. However, actuator700may be configured to translate more or less than shown in the figures. As shown, for example, inFIG.6, when actuator700is in a second position, magnet unit400coupled to movable arm300may interact with magnet unit900coupled to actuator700. For example, magnet unit400may be repelled by magnet unit900. In the illustrated embodiment, magnet unit900and magnet unit400are arranged such that a north pole of magnet unit900faces a north pole of magnet unit400when actuator700is in the second position. As a result, when actuator700is in the second position, magnet unit900applies a downward force on a front portion of movable arm300, thereby pushing movable arm in the second rotational direction and maintaining movable arm300in the open position.

In the illustrated embodiment, magnet unit400and magnet unit500are provided on movable arm300, thereby enabling actuator700to hold movable arm300in either the sealed position or the open position, depending on the position of actuator700. In some embodiments, however, only one of magnet unit400or magnet unit500is provided on movable arm300. In such an embodiment, magnet unit900coupled to actuator700may hold movable arm300in only one of the sealed position or the open position. In some such embodiments, a biasing member may bias movable arm300toward the other position.

As illustrated, for example, inFIGS.5-6, when a force (represented by arrow70inFIG.6) is applied to actuator700in a direction generally toward the front of vessel10, actuator700and coupled magnet unit900move toward a front of vessel10. As magnet unit900moves toward a front of vessel10, a magnetic force on magnet unit400changes. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, as magnet unit900moves toward the front of vessel10, magnet unit400may experience an increasing repulsive force, thereby causing movable arm300to move in a second rotational direction toward the open position. The force represented by arrow70may, for example, be applied by a user pushing on a contact surface (e.g., button702) of actuator700.

In some embodiments, as illustrated, for example, inFIGS.5-6, a biasing force may bias actuator700toward the first position (e.g., in the direction of arrow75inFIG.5) such that actuator700automatically moves to the first position upon removal of a force holding actuator700in the second position (e.g., upon removal of a force applied by a user to button702).

In some embodiments, a magnetic interaction between magnet unit900coupled to actuator700and magnet unit500coupled to movable arm300may bias actuator700toward the first position. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, actuator700is biased to return to (or remain in) the first position by magnet unit500. As shown, for example, inFIG.6, when actuator700is in the second position, magnet unit900interacts with both magnet unit400and magnet unit500. Due to the relative strength and positioning of magnet units900,400, and500, magnet unit900will move toward magnet unit500in the absence of a force holding actuator700in the second position. Because actuator700is only free to translate, however, magnet900along with actuator700will translate toward a rear of vessel10.

In other embodiments, actuator700may 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 actuator700to the first position. In some embodiments, actuator700may be biased toward the second position rather than the first position.

In some embodiments, a user may apply a force to a portion of actuator700to move (e.g., translate) actuator700. Generally, the force applied by a user may overcome the biasing force (e.g., a force applied by a user to move actuator700from the first position to the second position may overcome a biasing force biasing actuator700toward the first position).

As mentioned, in some embodiments, a biasing force may move actuator700from the second position to the first position (e.g., in the direction of arrow75generally toward the rear of vessel10). In other embodiments, a user-applied force may move actuator700from the second position to the first position (e.g., in the direction of arrow75generally toward the rear of vessel10). As illustrated, for example, inFIGS.5-6, when actuator700moves in a direction generally toward the rear of vessel10, actuator700and coupled magnet unit900move toward a rear of vessel10. As magnet unit900moves toward a rear of vessel10, a magnetic force on magnet unit500changes. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, as magnet unit900moves toward the rear of vessel10, magnet unit500may experience an increasing attractive force, thereby causing movable arm300to move in a first rotational direction toward the sealed position.

In some embodiments, movable arm300is biased toward a biased position, which may be one of the sealed position or the open position. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, movable arm300is biased toward the sealed position. That is, in the absence of a mechanical force on a component of lid20, movable arm300will return to (or remain in) the sealed position. In embodiments in which movable arm300is biased toward a biased position, moving actuator700may cause a magnetic interaction that overcomes the bias. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, when movable arm300is in its biased position (i.e., the sealed position), moving actuator700from the first position to the second position causes magnet unit900to interact with magnet unit400, as discussed above, such that the bias of movable arm300may be overcome and movable arm300moves to the open position.

Under some circumstances, pressure may build up inside drinking vessel10, for example when drinking vessel10is used to carry a hot beverage. If a user attempts to open drinking opening104and/or vent opening106by moving actuator700to the second position in order to move movable arm300to 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 lid20from container1000to 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 container1000to stay sealed. For example, a user may want container1000to stay sealed so that a beverage being carried inside container1000will not leak on a user or a user's belongings when drinking vessel10is placed in the user's backpack or other bag (where drinking vessel10may 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 vessel10in a locked configuration in which actuator700is inhibited from moving to the second position, thereby inhibiting actuator700from causing movable arm300to rotate to the open position. This locked configuration is shown inFIG.9and described in more detail below.FIGS.9and10show relative positions of portions of lid base100, actuator700, locking member800, and other components of lid20when lid20is in two operational states: a locked configuration with actuator700in the first position (FIG.9), and an unlocked configuration with actuator700in the first position (FIG.10). In some embodiments, lid20may have a disassembly configuration. The sections inFIGS.9and10are taken horizontally at the position of line IX-IX′ ofFIG.2offset from the top of lid20.

As discussed, lid base100may define an actuator chamber112into which actuator700and locking member800are positioned. As shown, for example, inFIG.4, locking member800may have a post808extending from a lower portion of locking member800. As shown, for example, inFIG.3, a bottom portion of actuator chamber112may include a recess117, a compartment115, and a channel116.

When lid20is in the locked configuration, for example, as shown inFIG.9, post808is received in compartment115. When a force is applied to actuator700in a direction generally toward the front of vessel10, compartment115interferes with post808, thereby inhibiting actuator700from moving to the second position.

When lid20is in the disassembly configuration, post808is received in recess117and is aligned with channel116. When a force is applied to actuator700in a direction generally toward the rear of vessel10, post808slides through channel116and out of actuator chamber112. As a result, locking member800and actuator700can be removed from actuator chamber112of lid base100. Removing actuator700and locking member800from lid base100may be desirable, for example, so that a user may thoroughly clean drinking vessel10.

When lid20is in the unlocked configuration, for example, as shown inFIG.10, post808is received in recess117. When a force is applied to button702in a direction generally toward the front of vessel10, post808generally does not interfere with edges of recess117. Accordingly, actuator700can be moved from the first position to the second position.

Locking member800may 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 member800(e.g., nub804) and sliding locking member (e.g., in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction about a locking axis80). In the illustrated embodiment, lid20is in the locked position when locking member800is in the counterclockwise-most position, viewed from the top of lid20, relative to actuator700, lid20is in unlocked position when locking member800is in the clockwise-most position, viewed from the top of lid20, relative to actuator700, and lid20is in a disassembly position when locking member800is in an intermediate position relative to actuator700. However, the unlocked position, locked position, and disassembly position may be provided at different relative positions of locking member800and actuator700.

In some embodiments, actuator700may include one or more indentations714on an inner surface, and locking member800may include a bump806on an exterior surface. Bump806may interact with (e.g., be received by) indentation716to help maintain locking member800in 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 member800to a locked position, the user may hear a click or feel tactile feedback when locking member800reaches the locked position (e.g., resulting from bump806being received by indentation716). In some embodiments, the positions of bump806and indentation716may be reversed (i.e., such that actuator700includes a bump and locking member800includes a corresponding indentation).

It is to be appreciated that the Detailed Description section, and not the Summary and Abstract sections, is intended to be used to interpret the claims. The Summary and Abstract sections may set forth one or more but not all exemplary embodiments of the disclosed invention(s) as contemplated by the inventor(s), and thus, are not intended to limit the disclosed invention(s) and the appended claims in any way.

The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the claimed invention that others can, by applying knowledge within the skill of the art, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments, without undue experimentation, without departing from the general concept of the claimed invention. Therefore, such adaptations and modifications are intended to be within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments, based on the teaching and guidance presented herein. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation, such that the terminology or phraseology of the present specification is to be interpreted by the skilled artisan in light of the teachings and guidance.

The breadth and scope of the claimed invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the claims and their equivalents.