US20090020544A1 - Spill-Proof Cup Assembly - Google Patents
Spill-Proof Cup Assembly Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20090020544A1 US20090020544A1 US12/171,581 US17158108A US2009020544A1 US 20090020544 A1 US20090020544 A1 US 20090020544A1 US 17158108 A US17158108 A US 17158108A US 2009020544 A1 US2009020544 A1 US 2009020544A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- valve member
- cover
- assembly according
- cavity
- flow control
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 62
- 230000035622 drinking Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 28
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 25
- 239000012528 membrane Substances 0.000 abstract description 38
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 abstract description 4
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 7
- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000012858 resilient material Substances 0.000 description 3
- 229920003051 synthetic elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000005061 synthetic rubber Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000004075 alteration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 235000015203 fruit juice Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
- A47G19/00—Table service
- A47G19/22—Drinking vessels or saucers used for table service
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
- A47G19/00—Table service
- A47G19/22—Drinking vessels or saucers used for table service
- A47G19/2205—Drinking glasses or vessels
- A47G19/2266—Means for facilitating drinking, e.g. for infants or invalids
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
- A47G19/00—Table service
- A47G19/22—Drinking vessels or saucers used for table service
- A47G19/2205—Drinking glasses or vessels
- A47G19/2266—Means for facilitating drinking, e.g. for infants or invalids
- A47G19/2272—Means for facilitating drinking, e.g. for infants or invalids from drinking glasses or cups comprising lids or covers
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D47/00—Closures with filling and discharging, or with discharging, devices
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D47/00—Closures with filling and discharging, or with discharging, devices
- B65D47/04—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps
- B65D47/06—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubes; with discharge nozzles or passages
Definitions
- This invention relates to a spill-proof cup assembly and, in particular, a spill-proof cup assembly with a flow control mechanism.
- a spill-proof cup assembly including a container with an open end; a cover adapted to cover said open end of said container to define a cavity for containing a fluid, said cover having a drinking spout, a vent, and a support leading from said drinking spout towards said cavity; and a flow control mechanism engageable with said cover, wherein said flow control mechanism includes a first valve member and a second valve member; wherein said first valve member includes an edge which is movable, when said flow control mechanism is engaged with said cover, between a first position in which said edge is in abutment with an interior surface of said cover to prevent fluid communication through said vent into said cavity, and a second position in which said edge of said first valve member is out of abutment with said interior surface of said cover to allow fluid communication through said vent into said cavity; wherein said second valve member is movable between a first position in which a first surface of said second valve member is in abutment with a sleeve
- a spill-proof cover assembly including a cover adapted to cover an open end of a container to define a cavity for containing a fluid, said cover having a drinking spout, a vent, and a support leading from said drinking spout towards said cavity; and a flow control mechanism engageable with said cover, wherein said flow control mechanism includes a first valve member and a second valve member; wherein said first valve member includes an edge which is movable, when said flow control mechanism is engaged with said cover, between a first position in which said edge is in abutment with an interior surface of said cover to prevent fluid communication through said vent into said cavity, and a second position in which said edge of said first valve member is out of abutment with said interior surface of said cover to allow fluid communication through said vent into said cavity; wherein said second valve member is movable between a first position in which a first surface of said second valve member is in abutment with a sleeve of said flow control mechanism to
- FIG. 1 is a perspective exploded view of a spill-proof cup assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 2A is a top perspective view of a cover forming part of the spill-proof cup assembly of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 2B is a top view of the cover of FIG. 2A ;
- FIG. 2C is a side view of the cover of FIG. 2B ;
- FIG. 2D is a sectional view taken along the line A-A of FIG. 2C ;
- FIG. 2E is a sectional view taken along the line K-K of FIG. 2C ;
- FIG. 3A is a bottom perspective view of a first flow control mechanism forming part of the spill-proof cup assembly of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3B is a first top perspective view of the flow control mechanism of FIG. 3A ;
- FIG. 3C is a second top perspective view of the flow control mechanism of FIG. 3A ;
- FIGS. 4A to 4C are sectional views showing the manner of operation of the spill-proof cup assembly shown in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 5 is a reverse side view of a second kind of flow control mechanisms suitable for forming part of the spill-proof cup assembly of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 5A is a top perspective view of a flow control mechanism with its reserve side view as shown in FIG. 5 ;
- FIG. 5B is a top view of the spout valve membrane of the mechanism shown in FIG. 5A ;
- FIG. 5C is a top perspective view of a further flow control mechanism with its reserve side view as shown in FIG. 5 ;
- FIG. 5D is a top view of the spout valve membrane of the mechanism shown in FIG. 5C ;
- FIG. 5E is a top perspective view of a yet further flow control mechanism with its reserve side view as shown in FIG. 5 ;
- FIG. 5F is a top view of the spout valve membrane of the mechanism shown in FIG. 5E ;
- FIG. 6 is a reverse side view of a third kind of flow control mechanisms suitable for forming part of the spill-proof cup assembly of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 6A is a top perspective view of a flow control mechanism with its reserve side view as shown in FIG. 6 ;
- FIG. 6B is a top view of the spout valve membrane of the mechanism shown in FIG. 6A ;
- FIG. 6C is top perspective view of further flow control mechanism with its reserve side view as shown in FIG. 5 ;
- FIG. 6D is a top view of the spout valve membrane of the mechanism shown in FIG. 6C .
- FIG. 6E is a top perspective view of a yet further flow control mechanism with its reserve side view as shown in FIG. 6 ;
- FIG. 6F is a top view of the spout valve membrane of the mechanism shown in FIG. 6E ;
- FIG. 7 is a reverse side view of a fourth kind of flow control mechanisms suitable for forming part of the spill-proof cup assembly of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 7A is a top perspective view of a flow control mechanism with its reserve side view as shown in FIG. 7 ;
- FIG. 7B is a top view of the spout valve membrane of the mechanism shown in FIG. 7A ;
- FIG. 7C is a top perspective view of a further flow control mechanism with its reserve side view as shown in FIG. 7 ;
- FIG. 7D is a top view of the spout valve membrane of the mechanism shown in FIG. 7C ;
- FIG. 7E is a top perspective view of a yet further flow control mechanism with its reserve side view as shown in FIG. 7 ;
- FIG. 7F is a top view of the spout valve membrane of the mechanism shown in FIG. 7E
- FIG. 7G is a top perspective view of a still further flow control mechanism with its reserve side view as shown in FIG. 7 ;
- FIG. 7H is a top view of the vent valve membrane of the mechanism shown in FIG. 7G ;
- FIG. 7I is a top perspective view of a yet still further flow control mechanism with its reserve side view as shown in FIG. 7 ;
- FIG. 7J is a top view of the vent valve membrane of the mechanism shown in FIG. 7I .
- FIG. 1 shows a perspective exploded view of a spill-proof cup assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, generally designated as 10 .
- the assembly 10 includes a cover 12 , a flow control mechanism 14 and an open-end cup 16 .
- the flow control mechanism 14 is made of a resilient material, e.g. synthetic rubber, and is adapted to be releasably frictionally engaged with the cover 12 to form a spill-proof cover assembly.
- a neck 18 of the cup 16 is provided with external threads 20 for establishing releasable threaded engagement with threads 22 on an inner surface of the cover 12 .
- an enclosed cavity is formed for containing a liquid, e.g. water or fruit juice.
- the flow control mechanism 14 serves to control the flow of the liquid contained in the cup assembly 10 to the outside environment and the flow of air from the outside environment into the cup assembly 10 , in a manner to be discussed below.
- the cover 12 has a body 23 with a drinking spout 24 fixed with two parallel support columns 26 extending into the cover 12 .
- the support columns 26 are integrally formed with the body 23 of the cover 12 .
- Each support column 26 is of a generally semi-circular cross section, and the two columns 26 are spaced apart from each other, allowing fluid communication between the interior of the cover 12 and the outside environment via the spout 24 .
- the two columns 26 are surrounded by a circular wall 28 integrally formed with the cover 12 .
- the cover 12 also has a vent 30 leading into the interior of the cover 12 .
- a circular interior surface 32 facing towards an open end 34 of the cover 12 is surrounded by four sleeves 36 which are spaced apart from each other by a slot 38 .
- Each of the sleeves 36 is of a generally arc-shaped cross-section.
- FIGS. 3A to 3C such show various views of the flow control mechanism 14 .
- the mechanism 14 is integrally formed of a resilient material, e.g. synthetic rubber, and has two frusto-conical valve membranes 52 , 54 made of the same resilient material.
- the vent valve membrane 52 has a generally convex outer surface 56 and a generally concave inner surface 58 joined with each other by a circular edge 60 .
- the spout valve membrane 54 such also has a generally convex outer surface 62 and a generally concave inner surface 64 joined with each other by a circular edge 66 .
- the valve membrane 54 is surrounded by a taller outer circular sleeve 68 and a shorter inner circular sleeve 72 which are concentric with each other.
- FIGS. 4A to 4C show the inter-engagement among the cover 12 , the flow control mechanism 14 , and the cup 16 when in use, i.e. when the spill-proof cup assembly 10 is properly assembled, and with liquid, e.g. water 70 , contained in a cavity 71 defined by the cover 12 and the cup 16 , and in the situation in which the cup assembly 10 is positioned upside down.
- liquid e.g. water 70
- the circular edge 60 of the valve membrane 52 abuts the circular interior surface 32 to close the vent 30 , and thus prevents the water 70 in the cavity 71 from exiting the assembly 10 via the vent 30 .
- the convex outer surface 62 of the valve membrane 54 abuts a free end of the shorter circular sleeve 72 to prevent the water 70 in the cavity 71 of the cup 16 from entering the interior cavity 74 of the cover 12 , and thus out of the drinking spout 24 to the outside environment.
- valve membrane 54 Upon application of a suction force via the drinking spout 24 , the valve membrane 54 is caused to deform such that the convex outer surface 62 of the valve membrane 54 is out of abutment with the circular sleeve 72 .
- the water 70 in the cavity 71 of the cup 16 is then allowed to enter the interior cavity 74 of the cover 12 via a number of openings 76 of the flow control mechanism 14 , subsequently through the space between the valve membrane 54 and the circular sleeve 72 , then through the space between the columns 26 , via the drinking spout 24 , and eventually out of the cup assembly 10 .
- a pressure difference is developed across the valve membrane 52 .
- the atmospheric pressure is larger than the air pressure in the cavity 74 .
- the valve membrane 52 is deformed, in particular the edge 60 of the valve membrane 52 is forced out of abutment with the circular interior surface 32 of the cover 12 whereby air is drawn from the outside environment via the vent 30 into the cavity 71 until a pressure equilibrium is reached.
- valve membrane 54 Upon cessation of the application of the suction force through the drinking spout 24 , the valve membrane 54 returns to its normal stable configuration as shown in FIG. 4C by virtue of its own resilience, so as to close the space between the valve membrane 54 and the circular sleeve 72 . Similarly, the valve membrane 52 also returns to its normal stable configuration as shown in FIG. 4C by virtue of its own resilience, so as to close the vent 30 . In the situation as shown in FIG. 4C , although water is contained in the cavity 74 , such is prevented by the atmospheric pressure from exiting the cup assembly 10 via the drinking spout 24 .
- valve membrane 54 a may be circular (as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B ), oval (as shown in FIGS. 5C and 5D ) or rectangular (as shown in FIGS. 5E and 5F ).
- a free edge of the valve membrane 54 b may be reinforced with a thickened lip portion 78 .
- valve membrane 54 c has a generally concave outer surface 80 and a generally convex inner surface 82 , and the cross section of the valve membrane 54 c may be circular (as shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B ), oval (as shown in FIGS. 7C and 7D ) or rectangular (as shown in FIGS. 7E and 7F ).
- FIGS. 7G to 7J further show that the cross section of the valve membrane 52 may be oval (as shown in FIGS. 7G and 7H ) or rectangular (as shown in FIGS. 7I and 7J ) in shape.
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- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Pediatric Medicine (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Table Devices Or Equipment (AREA)
- Closures For Containers (AREA)
Abstract
A spill-proof cup assembly is disclosed as including a cup with an open end, a cover for covering the open end of the cup to define a cavity for containing a liquid, the cover having a drinking spout, a vent, and support columns leading from the drinking spout towards the cavity, and a flow control mechanism engageable with the cover, and the flow control mechanism includes a first valve membrane and a second valve membrane, in which the first valve member includes an edge which is movable, when the flow control mechanism is engaged with the cover, between a first position in which the edge is in abutment with an interior surface of the cover to prevent fluid communication through the vent into the cavity, and a second position in which the edge of the first valve member is out of abutment with the interior surface of the cover to allow fluid communication through the vent into the cavity, and the second valve membrane is movable between a first position in which a generally convex surface of the second valve membrane is in abutment with a sleeve of the flow control mechanism to prevent fluid communication through the drinking spout from the cavity, and a second position in which the generally convex surface of the second valve membrane is out of abutment with the sleeve of the flow control mechanism to allow fluid communication through the drinking spout from the cavity, and the second valve membrane includes a generally concave surface engaged with the support columns of the cover for movement between the first and second positions.
Description
- This invention relates to a spill-proof cup assembly and, in particular, a spill-proof cup assembly with a flow control mechanism.
- There are in existence various spill-proof cup assemblies designed for preventing or at least minimizing out-flow of content in the cup assemblies when, for example, the cup assemblies are accidentally knocked over. A number of such mechanisms for achieving spill-proof effect are rather complicated in structure and thus with a high production cost.
- It is thus an object of the present invention to provide a spill-proof cup assembly and a spill-proof cover assembly in which the aforesaid shortcoming is mitigated, or at least to provide a useful alternative to the trade and public.
- According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a spill-proof cup assembly including a container with an open end; a cover adapted to cover said open end of said container to define a cavity for containing a fluid, said cover having a drinking spout, a vent, and a support leading from said drinking spout towards said cavity; and a flow control mechanism engageable with said cover, wherein said flow control mechanism includes a first valve member and a second valve member; wherein said first valve member includes an edge which is movable, when said flow control mechanism is engaged with said cover, between a first position in which said edge is in abutment with an interior surface of said cover to prevent fluid communication through said vent into said cavity, and a second position in which said edge of said first valve member is out of abutment with said interior surface of said cover to allow fluid communication through said vent into said cavity; wherein said second valve member is movable between a first position in which a first surface of said second valve member is in abutment with a sleeve of said flow control mechanism to prevent fluid communication through said drinking spout from said cavity, and a second position in which said first surface of said second valve member is out of abutment with said sleeve of said flow control mechanism to allow fluid communication through said drinking spout from said cavity; and wherein said second valve member includes a second surface which remains in contact with said support of said cover during movement of said second valve member between its said first and second positions.
- According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a spill-proof cover assembly, including a cover adapted to cover an open end of a container to define a cavity for containing a fluid, said cover having a drinking spout, a vent, and a support leading from said drinking spout towards said cavity; and a flow control mechanism engageable with said cover, wherein said flow control mechanism includes a first valve member and a second valve member; wherein said first valve member includes an edge which is movable, when said flow control mechanism is engaged with said cover, between a first position in which said edge is in abutment with an interior surface of said cover to prevent fluid communication through said vent into said cavity, and a second position in which said edge of said first valve member is out of abutment with said interior surface of said cover to allow fluid communication through said vent into said cavity; wherein said second valve member is movable between a first position in which a first surface of said second valve member is in abutment with a sleeve of said flow control mechanism to prevent fluid communication through said drinking spout from said cavity, and a second position in which said first surface of said second valve member is out of abutment with said sleeve of said flow control mechanism to allow fluid communication through said drinking spout from said cavity; and wherein said second valve member includes a second surface which remains in contact with said support of said cover during movement of said second valve member between its said first and second positions.
- Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective exploded view of a spill-proof cup assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 2A is a top perspective view of a cover forming part of the spill-proof cup assembly ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 2B is a top view of the cover ofFIG. 2A ; -
FIG. 2C is a side view of the cover ofFIG. 2B ; -
FIG. 2D is a sectional view taken along the line A-A ofFIG. 2C ; -
FIG. 2E is a sectional view taken along the line K-K ofFIG. 2C ; -
FIG. 3A is a bottom perspective view of a first flow control mechanism forming part of the spill-proof cup assembly ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3B is a first top perspective view of the flow control mechanism ofFIG. 3A ; -
FIG. 3C is a second top perspective view of the flow control mechanism ofFIG. 3A ; -
FIGS. 4A to 4C are sectional views showing the manner of operation of the spill-proof cup assembly shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 5 is a reverse side view of a second kind of flow control mechanisms suitable for forming part of the spill-proof cup assembly ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 5A is a top perspective view of a flow control mechanism with its reserve side view as shown inFIG. 5 ; -
FIG. 5B is a top view of the spout valve membrane of the mechanism shown inFIG. 5A ; -
FIG. 5C is a top perspective view of a further flow control mechanism with its reserve side view as shown inFIG. 5 ; -
FIG. 5D is a top view of the spout valve membrane of the mechanism shown inFIG. 5C ; -
FIG. 5E is a top perspective view of a yet further flow control mechanism with its reserve side view as shown inFIG. 5 ; -
FIG. 5F is a top view of the spout valve membrane of the mechanism shown inFIG. 5E ; -
FIG. 6 is a reverse side view of a third kind of flow control mechanisms suitable for forming part of the spill-proof cup assembly ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 6A is a top perspective view of a flow control mechanism with its reserve side view as shown inFIG. 6 ; -
FIG. 6B is a top view of the spout valve membrane of the mechanism shown inFIG. 6A ; -
FIG. 6C is top perspective view of further flow control mechanism with its reserve side view as shown inFIG. 5 ; -
FIG. 6D is a top view of the spout valve membrane of the mechanism shown inFIG. 6C , -
FIG. 6E is a top perspective view of a yet further flow control mechanism with its reserve side view as shown inFIG. 6 ; -
FIG. 6F is a top view of the spout valve membrane of the mechanism shown inFIG. 6E ; -
FIG. 7 is a reverse side view of a fourth kind of flow control mechanisms suitable for forming part of the spill-proof cup assembly ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 7A is a top perspective view of a flow control mechanism with its reserve side view as shown inFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 7B is a top view of the spout valve membrane of the mechanism shown inFIG. 7A ; -
FIG. 7C is a top perspective view of a further flow control mechanism with its reserve side view as shown inFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 7D is a top view of the spout valve membrane of the mechanism shown inFIG. 7C ; -
FIG. 7E is a top perspective view of a yet further flow control mechanism with its reserve side view as shown inFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 7F is a top view of the spout valve membrane of the mechanism shown inFIG. 7E -
FIG. 7G is a top perspective view of a still further flow control mechanism with its reserve side view as shown inFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 7H is a top view of the vent valve membrane of the mechanism shown inFIG. 7G ; -
FIG. 7I is a top perspective view of a yet still further flow control mechanism with its reserve side view as shown inFIG. 7 ; and -
FIG. 7J is a top view of the vent valve membrane of the mechanism shown inFIG. 7I . -
FIG. 1 shows a perspective exploded view of a spill-proof cup assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, generally designated as 10. Theassembly 10 includes acover 12, aflow control mechanism 14 and an open-end cup 16. - The
flow control mechanism 14 is made of a resilient material, e.g. synthetic rubber, and is adapted to be releasably frictionally engaged with thecover 12 to form a spill-proof cover assembly. Aneck 18 of thecup 16 is provided withexternal threads 20 for establishing releasable threaded engagement withthreads 22 on an inner surface of thecover 12. When thecover 12 is thus engaged with thecup 16, an enclosed cavity is formed for containing a liquid, e.g. water or fruit juice. Theflow control mechanism 14 serves to control the flow of the liquid contained in thecup assembly 10 to the outside environment and the flow of air from the outside environment into thecup assembly 10, in a manner to be discussed below. - As shown in
FIGS. 2A to 2E , thecover 12 has abody 23 with adrinking spout 24 fixed with twoparallel support columns 26 extending into thecover 12. Thesupport columns 26 are integrally formed with thebody 23 of thecover 12. Eachsupport column 26 is of a generally semi-circular cross section, and the twocolumns 26 are spaced apart from each other, allowing fluid communication between the interior of thecover 12 and the outside environment via thespout 24. The twocolumns 26 are surrounded by acircular wall 28 integrally formed with thecover 12. - The
cover 12 also has avent 30 leading into the interior of thecover 12. A circularinterior surface 32 facing towards anopen end 34 of thecover 12 is surrounded by foursleeves 36 which are spaced apart from each other by aslot 38. Each of thesleeves 36 is of a generally arc-shaped cross-section. - Turning now to
FIGS. 3A to 3C , such show various views of theflow control mechanism 14. Themechanism 14 is integrally formed of a resilient material, e.g. synthetic rubber, and has two frusto-conical valve membranes vent valve membrane 52 has a generally convexouter surface 56 and a generally concaveinner surface 58 joined with each other by acircular edge 60. As to thespout valve membrane 54, such also has a generally convexouter surface 62 and a generally concaveinner surface 64 joined with each other by a circular edge 66. Thevalve membrane 54 is surrounded by a taller outercircular sleeve 68 and a shorter innercircular sleeve 72 which are concentric with each other. -
FIGS. 4A to 4C show the inter-engagement among thecover 12, theflow control mechanism 14, and thecup 16 when in use, i.e. when the spill-proof cup assembly 10 is properly assembled, and with liquid,e.g. water 70, contained in acavity 71 defined by thecover 12 and thecup 16, and in the situation in which thecup assembly 10 is positioned upside down. - As shown in
FIG. 4A , in this upside down position, thecircular edge 60 of thevalve membrane 52 abuts the circularinterior surface 32 to close thevent 30, and thus prevents thewater 70 in thecavity 71 from exiting theassembly 10 via thevent 30. At the same time, the convexouter surface 62 of thevalve membrane 54 abuts a free end of the shortercircular sleeve 72 to prevent thewater 70 in thecavity 71 of thecup 16 from entering theinterior cavity 74 of thecover 12, and thus out of thedrinking spout 24 to the outside environment. - Upon application of a suction force via the
drinking spout 24, thevalve membrane 54 is caused to deform such that the convexouter surface 62 of thevalve membrane 54 is out of abutment with thecircular sleeve 72. Thewater 70 in thecavity 71 of thecup 16 is then allowed to enter theinterior cavity 74 of thecover 12 via a number ofopenings 76 of theflow control mechanism 14, subsequently through the space between thevalve membrane 54 and thecircular sleeve 72, then through the space between thecolumns 26, via thedrinking spout 24, and eventually out of thecup assembly 10. - Upon flowing of the
water 70 from thecavity 71 of thecup 16 into theinterior cavity 74 of thecover 12, a pressure difference is developed across thevalve membrane 52. In particular, the atmospheric pressure is larger than the air pressure in thecavity 74. When such a pressure difference is large enough, thevalve membrane 52 is deformed, in particular theedge 60 of thevalve membrane 52 is forced out of abutment with the circularinterior surface 32 of thecover 12 whereby air is drawn from the outside environment via thevent 30 into thecavity 71 until a pressure equilibrium is reached. - Upon cessation of the application of the suction force through the
drinking spout 24, thevalve membrane 54 returns to its normal stable configuration as shown inFIG. 4C by virtue of its own resilience, so as to close the space between thevalve membrane 54 and thecircular sleeve 72. Similarly, thevalve membrane 52 also returns to its normal stable configuration as shown inFIG. 4C by virtue of its own resilience, so as to close thevent 30. In the situation as shown inFIG. 4C , although water is contained in thecavity 74, such is prevented by the atmospheric pressure from exiting thecup assembly 10 via thedrinking spout 24. - It can be seen that during the course of the deformation of the
valve membrane 54 between its normal stable configuration as shown inFIGS. 4A and 4C and the deformed configuration as shown inFIG. 4B , the concaveinner surface 64 remains in contact with thecolumns 26 and is supported by thecolumns 26 for the resilient deformational movement. - It can be seen in
FIGS. 5 to 5F that the cross section of thevalve membrane 54a may be circular (as shown inFIGS. 5A and 5B ), oval (as shown inFIGS. 5C and 5D ) or rectangular (as shown inFIGS. 5E and 5F ). In addition, and as shown inFIGS. 6 to 6F , a free edge of thevalve membrane 54b may be reinforced with a thickenedlip portion 78. - As shown further in
FIGS. 7 to 7F , thevalve membrane 54c has a generally concaveouter surface 80 and a generally convexinner surface 82, and the cross section of thevalve membrane 54c may be circular (as shown inFIGS. 7A and 7B ), oval (as shown inFIGS. 7C and 7D ) or rectangular (as shown inFIGS. 7E and 7F ). -
FIGS. 7G to 7J further show that the cross section of thevalve membrane 52 may be oval (as shown inFIGS. 7G and 7H ) or rectangular (as shown inFIGS. 7I and 7J ) in shape. - It should be understood that the above only illustrates examples whereby the present invention may be carried out, and that various modifications and/or alterations may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention.
- It should also be understood that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any appropriate sub-combinations.
Claims (28)
1. A spill-proof cup assembly including:
a container with an open end;
a cover adapted to cover said open end of said container to define a cavity for containing a fluid, said cover having a drinking spout, a vent, and a support leading from said drinking spout towards said cavity; and
a flow control mechanism engageable with said cover, wherein said flow control mechanism includes a first valve member and a second valve member;
wherein said first valve member includes an edge which is movable, when said flow control mechanism is engaged with said cover, between a first position in which said edge is in abutment with an interior surface of said cover to prevent fluid communication through said vent into said cavity, and a second position in which said edge of said first valve member is out of abutment with said interior surface of said cover to allow fluid communication through said vent into said cavity;
wherein said second valve member is movable between a first position in which a first surface of said second valve member is in abutment with a sleeve of said flow control mechanism to prevent fluid communication through said drinking spout from said cavity, and a second position in which said first surface of said second valve member is out of abutment with said sleeve of said flow control mechanism to allow fluid communication through said drinking spout from said cavity; and
wherein said second valve member includes a second surface which remains in contact with said support of said cover during movement of said second valve member between its said first and second positions.
2. An assembly according to claim 1 wherein said first valve member is generally frusto-conical in shape.
3. An assembly according to claim 1 wherein said second valve member is generally frusto-conical in shape.
4. An assembly according to claim 1 wherein said first surface of said second valve member is generally concave and said second surface of said second valve member is generally convex.
5. An assembly according to claim 1 wherein said first surface of said second valve member is generally convex and said second surface of said second valve member is generally concave.
6. An assembly according to claim 1 wherein said second valve member is movable from its first position to its second position upon application of a suction force via said drinking spout.
7. An assembly according to claim 1 wherein said first valve member is movable from its first position to its second position when the atmospheric pressure is larger than the pressure in said cavity by a sufficient amount.
8. An assembly according to claim 1 wherein movement of said second valve member from its first position to its second position is adapted to bring about movement of said first valve member from its first position to its second position.
9. An assembly according to claim 1 wherein said first valve member is resilient and is biased towards its first position.
10. An assembly according to claim 1 wherein said second valve member is resilient and is biased towards its first position.
11. An assembly according to claim 1 wherein said edge of said first valve member is generally circular, oval or rectangular in shape.
12. An assembly according to claim 1 wherein an outer edge of said second valve member is generally, circular, oval or rectangular in shape.
13. An assembly according to claim 3 wherein an outer edge of said second valve member is reinforced with a lip portion.
14. A spill-proof cover assembly, including:
a cover adapted to cover an open end of a container to define a cavity for containing a fluid, said cover having a drinking spout, a vent, and a support leading from said drinking spout towards said cavity; and
a flow control mechanism engageable with said cover, wherein said flow control mechanism includes a first valve member and a second valve member;
wherein said first valve member includes an edge which is movable, when said flow control mechanism is engaged with said cover, between a first position in which said edge is in abutment with an interior surface of said cover to prevent fluid communication through said vent into said cavity, and a second position in which said edge of said first valve member is out of abutment with said interior surface of said cover to allow fluid communication through said vent into said cavity;
wherein said second valve member is movable between a first position in which a first surface of said second valve member is in abutment with a sleeve of said flow control mechanism to prevent fluid communication through said drinking spout from said cavity, and a second position in which said first surface of said second valve member is out of abutment with said sleeve of said flow control mechanism to allow fluid communication through said drinking spout from said cavity; and
wherein said second valve member includes a second surface which remains in contact with said support of said cover during movement of said second valve member between its said first and second positions.
15. An assembly according to claim 14 wherein said first valve member is generally frusto-conical in shape.
16. An assembly according to claim 14 wherein said second valve member is generally frusto-conical in shape.
17. An assembly according to claim 14 wherein said first surface of said second valve member is generally concave and said second surface of said second valve member is generally convex.
18. An assembly according to claim 14 wherein said first surface of said second valve member is generally convex and said second surface of said second valve member is generally concave.
19. An assembly according to claim 14 wherein said second valve member is adapted to move from its first position to its second position upon application of a suction force via said drinking spout.
20. An assembly according to claim 14 wherein said first valve member is adapted to move from its first position to its second position when the atmospheric pressure is sufficiently larger than the pressure in said cavity.
21. An assembly according to claim 14 wherein, when said assembly is engaged with a container, movement of said second valve member from its first position to its second position is adapted to bring about movement of said first valve member from its first position to its second position.
22. An assembly according to claim 14 wherein said first valve member is resilient and is biased towards its first position.
23. An assembly according to claim 14 wherein said second valve member is resilient and is biased towards its first position.
24. An assembly according to claim 14 wherein said edge of said first valve member is generally circular, oval or rectangular in shape.
25. An assembly according to claim 14 wherein an outer edge of said second valve member is generally, circular, oval or rectangular in shape.
26. An assembly according to claim 16 wherein an outer edge of said second valve member is reinforced with a lip portion.
27. An assembly according to claim 25 wherein an outer edge of said second valve member is reinforced with a lip portion.
28. An assembly according to claim 12 wherein an outer edge of said second valve member is reinforced with a lip portion.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
GB0714143.5 | 2007-07-19 | ||
GB0714143A GB2455963A (en) | 2007-07-19 | 2007-07-19 | Spill-proof cup assembly |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20090020544A1 true US20090020544A1 (en) | 2009-01-22 |
Family
ID=38476659
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/171,581 Abandoned US20090020544A1 (en) | 2007-07-19 | 2008-07-11 | Spill-Proof Cup Assembly |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20090020544A1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN101444390A (en) |
GB (1) | GB2455963A (en) |
Cited By (12)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20100044386A1 (en) * | 2007-04-13 | 2010-02-25 | Ilan Samson | Cap for a Spill-Proof Beverage Container |
US20110056968A1 (en) * | 2009-09-10 | 2011-03-10 | Mcnamara Conor | Sippy cup assembly |
US20110089178A1 (en) * | 2009-10-20 | 2011-04-21 | Capitol Cups, Inc. | Leak proof container |
USD667558S1 (en) * | 2003-08-05 | 2012-09-18 | Luv N' Care, Ltd. | Drinking cup cap |
USD671793S1 (en) | 2010-09-13 | 2012-12-04 | Luv N' Care, Ltd. | Drinking product |
US8678228B2 (en) * | 2012-06-28 | 2014-03-25 | Zak Designs, Inc. | Liquid metering assembly |
US9307852B2 (en) | 2013-10-15 | 2016-04-12 | Zak Designs, Inc. | Fluid dispensing valve |
EP3103733A1 (en) * | 2015-06-11 | 2016-12-14 | Artsana S.p.A. | Closure device for containers |
US20190008297A1 (en) * | 2015-08-06 | 2019-01-10 | Handi-Craft Company | Valve assembly for a leak resistant drinking cup |
US10398241B2 (en) | 2014-01-29 | 2019-09-03 | Jackel International Limited | Valve assembly |
USD1018203S1 (en) * | 2021-11-03 | 2024-03-19 | Elgin Chan | Sippy cup |
USD1032292S1 (en) * | 2021-10-28 | 2024-06-25 | Elgin Chan | Straw cup |
Families Citing this family (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN105686537B (en) * | 2016-03-05 | 2017-06-30 | 中山市美满生活电器有限公司 | A kind of intelligent kettle |
CN108968585B (en) * | 2018-06-15 | 2020-11-06 | 义乌市鼎莎针织有限公司 | Internet water cup capable of setting reminding of drinking water |
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US5706973A (en) * | 1997-01-30 | 1998-01-13 | E. S. Robbins Corporation | Drinking cup and cover with flow control elements |
US6269968B1 (en) * | 1999-11-18 | 2001-08-07 | Niko Products, Inc. | Valve arrangement for an automatically sealing cup |
US6732882B2 (en) * | 2002-05-08 | 2004-05-11 | Niko Products, Inc. | No-spill cover assemly for a drink container |
Family Cites Families (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US5890620A (en) * | 1997-08-14 | 1999-04-06 | Belcastro; Domenic | Automatically sealing cup |
ATE304307T1 (en) * | 2000-03-16 | 2005-09-15 | Cosco Man Inc | SPILL PROOF CUP |
-
2007
- 2007-07-19 GB GB0714143A patent/GB2455963A/en not_active Withdrawn
-
2008
- 2008-07-11 US US12/171,581 patent/US20090020544A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2008-07-21 CN CNA2008102147490A patent/CN101444390A/en active Pending
Patent Citations (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5706973A (en) * | 1997-01-30 | 1998-01-13 | E. S. Robbins Corporation | Drinking cup and cover with flow control elements |
US6269968B1 (en) * | 1999-11-18 | 2001-08-07 | Niko Products, Inc. | Valve arrangement for an automatically sealing cup |
US6732882B2 (en) * | 2002-05-08 | 2004-05-11 | Niko Products, Inc. | No-spill cover assemly for a drink container |
Cited By (18)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
USD667558S1 (en) * | 2003-08-05 | 2012-09-18 | Luv N' Care, Ltd. | Drinking cup cap |
US20100044386A1 (en) * | 2007-04-13 | 2010-02-25 | Ilan Samson | Cap for a Spill-Proof Beverage Container |
US8403164B2 (en) * | 2007-04-13 | 2013-03-26 | Ilan Samson | Cap for a spill-proof beverage container |
US20110056968A1 (en) * | 2009-09-10 | 2011-03-10 | Mcnamara Conor | Sippy cup assembly |
US8256642B2 (en) | 2009-09-10 | 2012-09-04 | Helen Of Troy Limited | Sippy cup assembly |
US8505767B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2013-08-13 | Jean-Pierre Giraud | Leak proof container |
WO2011047839A3 (en) * | 2009-10-20 | 2011-06-16 | Capitol Cups, Inc. | Leak proof container |
US20110089178A1 (en) * | 2009-10-20 | 2011-04-21 | Capitol Cups, Inc. | Leak proof container |
USD671793S1 (en) | 2010-09-13 | 2012-12-04 | Luv N' Care, Ltd. | Drinking product |
US8678228B2 (en) * | 2012-06-28 | 2014-03-25 | Zak Designs, Inc. | Liquid metering assembly |
US9307852B2 (en) | 2013-10-15 | 2016-04-12 | Zak Designs, Inc. | Fluid dispensing valve |
US10398241B2 (en) | 2014-01-29 | 2019-09-03 | Jackel International Limited | Valve assembly |
EP3103733A1 (en) * | 2015-06-11 | 2016-12-14 | Artsana S.p.A. | Closure device for containers |
US9834343B2 (en) | 2015-06-11 | 2017-12-05 | Artsana S.P.A. | Closure device with cup-shaped valve for containers |
US20190008297A1 (en) * | 2015-08-06 | 2019-01-10 | Handi-Craft Company | Valve assembly for a leak resistant drinking cup |
US10799046B2 (en) * | 2015-08-06 | 2020-10-13 | Handi-Craft Company | Valve assembly for a leak resistant drinking cup |
USD1032292S1 (en) * | 2021-10-28 | 2024-06-25 | Elgin Chan | Straw cup |
USD1018203S1 (en) * | 2021-11-03 | 2024-03-19 | Elgin Chan | Sippy cup |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
GB2455963A (en) | 2009-07-01 |
GB0714143D0 (en) | 2007-08-29 |
CN101444390A (en) | 2009-06-03 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: SEA PROFIT (HONG KONG) LIMITED, HONG KONG Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:YUEN, YAT KEUNG;REEL/FRAME:021225/0902 Effective date: 20080628 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |