EP3405075A1

EP3405075A1 - Beverage container

Info

Publication number: EP3405075A1
Application number: EP16793978.4A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Elizabeth GOODCHILD; Chris Howsam
Original assignee: G&g Venture Capitalist Ltd
Current assignee: G&g Venture Capitalist Ltd
Priority date: 2015-11-04
Filing date: 2016-11-02
Publication date: 2018-11-28
Also published as: GB201519491D0; WO2017077296A1; GB201812077D0; GB2561516A

Abstract

A reusable beverage container (2) including a hollow body (4) and a lid (5) removably secured to the hollow body (4). The lid (5) includes a handle (6) and a drinking aperture (52). The body (4) includes an outer body (40) that surrounds an inner body (41) within which a beverage is receivable. The body (4) includes a cavity (90) described between bottom walls of the inner and outer bodies (40, 41). An electronic identification device (9) is mounted within the cavity (90) and secured to the outer body (40) so that it is spaced from the inner body (41). The electronic identification device (9), for example an NFC or RFID chip, includes a unique identifier associated with an individual and may be used as part of a loyalty and/or financial transaction system (100).

Description

BEVERAGE CONTAINER

This invention relates generally to beverage containers, holders therefor and monitoring systems. More specifically, although not exclusively, this invention relates to beverage containers and holders incorporating visual and/or electronic information carriers and monitoring systems for tracking one or more features of use relating thereto.

Beverage containers that incorporate information carriers are, per se, known. These information carriers can take various forms, for example displays that show discernible visual information to a user, coded visual tags such as barcodes and electronic information tags for more secure identification. US7007819 describes a drinks container with a clear outer casing having a display space between the outer casing and a wall of the drinks container that is adapted to receive a personalised photograph. US2008309495 describes a single-use drinks container incorporating an electronic information carrier moulded into its base for identifying the package and confirming its authenticity.

The applicants have observed that there is an increasing trend by retailers to develop systems for gaining insight into customer behavioural patterns, to offer incentives such as money back offers or points to redeem, and to use the data collected to achieve more targeted marketing to customers. These systems often take the form of loyalty systems in which customers provide personal information to create an account and associate their purchases with the account in exchange for promotional offers. Such systems generally utilise loyalty cards scanned at the point of purchase in order to track these purchases.

It is therefore a first non-exclusive object of the invention to provide a beverage container that either enables or facilitates retailers to provide incentives to their customers. It is a further, more general non-exclusive object of the invention to provide a monitoring system that monitors one or more behaviours of their customers.

Accordingly, a first aspect of the invention provides a beverage container and/or dispenser comprising a hollow body, a lid removably secured to the hollow body and having a drinking aperture therethrough and an electronic identifier mounted on or in the hollow body, wherein the electronic identifier includes a unique identifier associated with an individual. It will be understood that a beverage may comprise a drink of any type, for example water, tea, coffee, hot chocolate or any other drink. For clarity, the term beverage container will be used hereinafter but may be replaced with the term beverage dispenser.

Preferably, the beverage container comprises a reusable beverage container, for example configured, adapted and/or intended for multiple uses. The hollow body may comprise a recess or cavity within which the electronic identifier is received, mounted, affixed, secured, contained and/or housed. More preferably, the hollow body comprises two or more parts, for example wherein the recess or cavity is at least partially described or defined by and/or between the parts, e.g. between opposing surfaces thereof. The two or more parts may comprise layers or components that may be formed of the same or different materials. The parts may comprise an inner part, for example an inner sleeve or receptacle, which may be operable or configured to receive and/or retain a beverage. The parts may comprise an outer part, for example an outer sleeve or housing, which may be operable or configured to at least partially surround the inner part.

The inner part may be formed of a reflective and/or metal material. The outer part may be formed of a rigid and/or plastics material. The inner part may be formed of a pressed metal material. The body may comprise one or more insulating pockets, e.g. air pockets, between the inner and outer parts. The outer part may comprise one or more recesses and/or ribs, e.g. for creating the pockets between the inner and outer parts. The identifier may be mounted, secured or adhered to the outer part within the recess or cavity and/or may be spaced from the inner part, e.g. such that the identifier is not in direct thermal contact with the inner part. The identifier may be mounted, secured or adhered to the outer part within the recess or cavity by an adhesive or adhesive means, for example an adhesive layer, strip or glue. Alternatively, the identifier may be mounted by a mechanical means, such as a lever or tab.

The electronic identifier may be mounted at or adjacent the base of the beverage container, for example between base or bottom or lower walls of the inner and outer parts. In embodiments, the outer part, for example the base or bottom or lower wall thereof, e.g. an upper or inner surface of such wall, includes a depression. In embodiments, the inner part, for example the base or bottom or lower wall thereof, e.g. a lower or outer surface of such wall, includes a depression. In embodiments, one or each of a pair of respective opposing surfaces of the inner and outer part comprises a depression, for example wherein the recess or cavity is at least partially described or defined by and/or between such opposing surfaces and/or depression(s).

The unique identifier may comprise a unique string that is readable by a reader and/or a monitoring system and/or may comprise information relating to or about the individual, for example relating to the identity of the individual, such as one or more of a name, address, telephone number, email address and the like. The electronic identifier may comprise an electronic identification means or device, for example a tag or chip. Preferably, the electronic identifier comprises a near field communication means or device, such as a tag or chip. Alternatively, the electronic identifier may comprise a radio frequency identification means or device, such as a tag or chip. More preferably, the electronic identifier comprises a passive near field communication or radio frequency identification means or device. The electronic identifier may be operable, in use, to be powered by electromagnetic induction from magnetic fields produced near a reader. Additionally or alternatively, the electronic identifier may be operable, in use, to collect energy from interrogating radio waves and/or to act as a passive transponder.

It is also possible that the electronic identifier is an active near field communication or radio frequency identification means or device, for example wherein the beverage container or the electronic identifier comprises a power source, e.g. a battery, and/or may operate within a predetermined distance, such as one or more, e.g. twenty or fifty or one hundred, metres from the reader.

The beverage container may be provided in combination with a beverage container holder.

Another aspect of the invention provides a beverage container assembly comprising a beverage container, e.g. as described above and/or below, and a beverage container holder, wherein the beverage container is receivable in and/or releasably connectable to the holder.

The beverage container and/or the holder may comprise a display module, e.g. for displaying information, e.g. promotional information..

A further aspect of the invention provides a beverage container assembly comprising a beverage container and a beverage container holder for receiving the beverage container, the beverage container and/or the holder comprising a display module for displaying information, e.g. promotional information.

Yet another aspect of the invention provides a beverage container holder for receiving a beverage container, the holder comprising a display module for displaying information, e.g. promotional information

The display module may comprise an electronic display, for example a liquid crystal or other suitable electronic display. The display module may comprise a power source, which may comprise a source of electrical energy, e.g. a mains power connection, and/or an electrical energy storage means or device, e.g. one or more batteries, fuel cells or other suitable energy storage means. The display module may comprise one or more solar cells, which may be operatively connected to the display, e.g. to provide power thereto, and/or to the one or electrical energy storage means or device, if present. The display module may be configured to display promotional information selected based on the unique identifier and/or relevant to a detected user. In embodiments, the electronic display may comprise a touchscreen, e.g. for receiving one or more inputs from a user. The display module may comprise a receiver, e.g. for receiving information or one or more commands or command signals, for example from a monitoring system. The display module may comprise a transmitter, e.g. for sending information, for example to a monitoring system. In embodiments, the display comprises a memory means or memory on which is stored information or one or more scripts. The script(s) may each relate to a predetermined promotion or to one or more suggested products to be purchased. The display module may be operable or configured, e.g. on receipt of a command or command signal, to execute one of the scripts and/or to display information associated therewith. The holder or display module may comprise an electronic identifier, which may include a unique identifier associated therewith.

The display module may comprise a window, for example a transparent or translucent or least partially transparent window, which may be connected or connectable to one or each of the beverage container and/or the holder. The window may be movable between a first or open condition in which an insert carrying information is receivable between the window and an adjacent surface, e.g. an adjacent surface of the beverage container and/or the holder, and a second or closed condition in which an insert is at least partially retained between the window and the adjacent surface. The holder may include a transparent or translucent window movably connected or connectable thereto, wherein the window is movable between a first condition in which an insert carrying information is receivable between the window and an adjacent surface and a second condition in which such an insert is at least partially retained between the window and the adjacent surface.

Movement may comprise one or more of pivoting, sliding or twisting. The insert may be receivable within a recess or cavity described or defined by and/or between the window and the adjacent surface. In embodiments, the display module may comprise retaining means for retaining the window in the second condition. The retaining means may comprise cooperating apertures and/or arms or catches, one of which may be included on, in or connected to the window and the other of which may be included on, in or connected to the beverage container and/or holder. Preferably, the window comprises at least one arm or catch that cooperates with a corresponding aperture in the beverage container or holder. More preferably, the window is pivotably connected along a first edge to the beverage container or holder, wherein the one or more arms or catches may be spaced from the first edge.

The display module may comprise a tool for releasing the retaining means. The beverage container or the holder may comprise one or more release apertures, for example through which the tool may be inserted, in use, to release the retaining means. The tool may comprise one or more projections configured to cooperate with the one or more release apertures. The tool may be insertable, in use, into the apertures of the display module such that at least one projection contacts the window or catches or arms thereof and/or urges the window away from the adjacent surface, e.g. thereby overcoming the retaining means.

The beverage container may comprise a valve means or valve, hereinafter valve, e.g. for selectively closing, for example sealably closing, the aperture. The beverage container or valve may comprise and an actuator for operating the valve. The valve comprising a lever, which may be pivotably connected to the body and/or lid at one of its end. The lever may be operatively connected to the actuator at its other end and/or may carry a valve member at an intermediate position between its ends. The actuator may be operable to cause the lever to pivot, in use, from a closed position, e.g. in which the valve member closes the drinking aperture, to an open position, e.g. in which the valve member is moved from the closed position, for example to enable the contents of the hollow body to be dispensed from the drinking aperture.

Another aspect of the invention provides a beverage container comprising a hollow body with a lid having a drinking aperture, a valve for selectively closing the aperture and an actuator for operating the valve, the valve comprising a lever pivotably connected to the body and/or lid at one of its end, operatively connected to the actuator at its other end and carrying a valve member at an intermediate position between its ends, wherein the actuator is operable to cause the lever to pivot, in use, from a closed position in which the valve member closes the drinking aperture to an open position in which the valve member is moved from the closed position to enable the contents of the hollow body to be dispensed from the drinking aperture.

The aperture may comprise a first aperture and the beverage container may comprise a further, e.g. a second, aperture. The valve member may comprise a first valve member and the beverage container may comprise a further, e.g. a second, valve member, e.g. for selectively closing the second aperture. The actuator may be operable to cause the valve to move, in use, from a closed condition, e.g. in which the valve members close the drinking apertures, to an open position, e.g. in which the valve members are moved from the closed position, for example to enable the contents of the hollow body to be dispensed from at least one of the drinking apertures

Another aspect of the invention provides a beverage container comprising a hollow body with a lid having first and second drinking apertures, a valve with first and second valve members each for selectively closing a respective one of the apertures and an actuator for operating the valve, wherein the actuator is operable to cause the valve to move, in use, from a closed condition in which the valve members close the drinking apertures to an open position in which the valve members are moved, e.g. substantially simulataneously, from the closed position to enable the contents of the hollow body to be dispensed from at least one of the drinking apertures.

The actuator may comprise a linear actuator and/or may be operable or actuatable to move the valve member(s) toward or away from the aperture(s). The lid may comprise a valve seat at least partially surrounding the or each aperture, for example against which the or each valve member seats in use. The lever may comprise a flexible material, for example wherein movement of the actuator, e.g. in a first direction, causes the lever to flex and/or pivot, e.g. to move the valve member(s) away from the aperture(s) or valve seat(s). Where the lever comprises a flexible material, operation or movement of the actuator in a second direction may allow or causes the lever to move or return toward an unflexed or relaxed condition or shape, for example moving the valve member(s) toward the valve seat(s). The lever may comprise a resilient material, for example to bias the valve member(s) toward a closed condition.

The or each valve member may comprise a convex or tapered surface and/or may cooperate with the or its respective aperture or valve seat to close, e.g. seal, the aperture. At least a portion of the or each valve member may extend into the aperture, for example when the valve is in a closed condition. The first and/or second aperture may each comprise a pair of apertures, for example two or more apertures. The first and/or second valve member may comprise a pair of valve members, for example two or more valve members. Each aperture may comprise a valve seat at least partially surrounding it. The or each valve seat may surround, e.g. entirely surround, the or each aperture.

The convex or tapered surface of the or each valve member may comprise a part-spherical or part-ellipsoidal surface. The convex or tapered surface of the or each valve member may comprise a first radius of curvature. The convex or tapered surface of the or each valve member may comprise a second radius of curvature. The first and second radii of curvature may be similar or identical or different. The first radius of curvature may be orthogonal to the second radius of curvature. The convex or tapered surface of the or each valve member may comprise a frusto-conical surface.

At least a portion of the or each valve member may comprise a flexible and/or resilient material. In embodiments the or each valve member may comprise a concave or rebated surface, for example on the obverse of the or each valve member to the convex or tapered surface. Obverse in this context having its normal meaning, e.g. the other or opposite side.

At least a portion of the or each valve seat may comprise a flexible and/or resilient material. The or each valve seat may comprise a tapered lead-in, for example a chamfer or rounded edge, to the or each aperture. The beverage container may comprise a handle. Where the beverage container comprises two apertures the apertures may be located adjacent opposing sides of the periphery of the lid. The handle may be positioned or positionable substantially equidistant, for example equidistant, between the apertures with respect to the peripheral rim of the lid.

The beverage container may comprise biasing means, e.g. configured to bias the valve member or members toward a closed condition. Operation, in use, of the actuator may counter the biasing means, e.g. to open the or each aperture.

The linear actuator (where provided) may be operatively connected to and actuated by a push button, e.g. a button operable by one or more of linear or rotational motion. The linear actuator may comprise a piston reciprocal within a sleeve or housing. The beverage container may comprise a bellows seal connected or abutting at one end to the sleeve or housing (where provided) and connected or abutting at its other end to the piston. Translation of the piston may cause movement, contraction or expansion of the bellows seal. The bellows seal may be located or locatable at least partially within the sleeve. The bellows seal may comprise one or more bellows wafers between its ends. In an expanded state an inner surface of the sleeve may be free from the bellows seal between its ends, for example free from the one or more bellows wafers. In a contracted state the inner surface of the sleeve may be contacted by the bellows seal between its ends, for example by the one or more bellows wafers. Contact of the bellows seal between its ends (e.g. the one or more bellows wafers) with an inner surface of the sleeve may generate a fluid tight seal within the sleeve.

One of the beverage container and holder may comprise a recess. The other of the beverage container and holder may comprise a projection or catch, for example a sprung projection or catch, which may engage the recess. The assembly may be configured such that rotation or tilting, in use, of the beverage container relative to the holder causes the catch to retract from the recess, e.g. thereby releasing the beverage container from the holder.

The beverage container may comprise the recess and the holder may comprise the sprung catch. The recess may comprise an annular rebate, e.g. with an interruption. The sprung catch may be biased towards engagement with the recess. Engagement of the sprung catch with the recess (e.g. annular rebate) may secure and/or lock the beverage container relative to the holder. Engagement of the sprung catch with the interruption may release and/or unlock the beverage container relative to the holder. The interruption may comprise a taper towards the annular rebate, for example more than one taper towards the annular rebate.

In embodiments, the beverage container comprises an annular rebate with an interruption and the holder comprises a sprung catch biased toward the engagement with the recess, wherein the assembly is configured such that rotation, in use, of the beverage container relative to the holder causes the catch to align with the interruption and retract from the recess thereby releasing the beverage container from the holder.

The holder (where provided) may comprise a coupling for securing the holder to a trolley or any other suitable surface, e.g. a table. The coupling may comprise a rebate configured to engage the handle of a trolley. The coupling may comprise securing means for securing the holder to the handle of a trolley. The securing means may comprise an adhesive and/or one or more mechanical fasteners, e.g. hook and loop fasteners or bolts. The coupling may comprise an aperture through the holder, for example wherein the aperture may be configured to cooperate with the handle of a trolley.

The beverage container and the holder may each comprise an electronic identifier, for example which may be paired or associated with each other. The holder may comprise a power source, for example an inductive power source. The holder may comprises an electronic detection means, e.g. for detecting the presence of the electronic identification device received in it. The electronic detection means may comprise a reader for reading an electronic identifier. The electronic detection means or reader may be operable or configured to transmit or suitable for transmitting information detected and/or read from an electronic identification device received, in use, within the holder.

Another aspect of the invention provides a monitoring system for managing customer information, the system comprising:

a) one or more or a plurality of beverage containers, e.g. as described above, each with a unique electronic identifier mounted therein or thereon;

b) a memory means on which is stored a database including a plurality of unique identifiers and user information associated with each identifier; c) electronic detection means for detecting the presence of the electronic identifier within a predetermined zone; and

d) a processor operatively connected to the memory means and to the electronic detection means;

wherein the processor is configured or programmed on detection by the electronic detection means of an electronic identifier within the predetermined zone to retrieve from the memory means user information associated with the detected identifier and to store on the memory means information relating to the detection together with associated user information.

The memory means on which the database is stored may be remote from the electronic detection means and/or the processor. The monitoring system may comprise one or more first subsystem(s) or component(s), e.g. one or more in-store subsystem(s) or component(s), and/or a second subsystem or component, e.g. a remote or central subsystem or component. The second subsystem or component may comprise the memory means and, optionally, the processor. Additionally or alternatively, the or each first subsystem or component may comprise the electronic detection means and/or the processor.

The system may be operable to receive, in use, in or on the memory means user information associated with a unique identifier, for example a new unique identifier. For example, the electronic identifier of a beverage container may be activated by sending to the system or memory means user information and one or more details of the unique identifier. In embodiments, the user information may be obtained from an in-store loyalty system. In embodiments, the user information may be received via a website or smartphone application. In embodiments, the user information includes personal information, for example relating to the identity of the individual, such as one or more of a name, address, telephone number, email address and the like. In embodiments, the user information includes the details of one or more loyalty schemes, e.g. store-specific loyalty schemes, with which the user wishes the unique identifier to be associated. In embodiments, the user information includes the details of one or more financial accounts or transaction cards, for example a bank account, bank card or credit card.

The system may be operable to detect the dispensing of a beverage into the beverage container, for example by detecting the presence of the electronic identifier within a predetermined dispensing zone and/or detecting the initiation of a beverage dispensing event. At least part of the electronic detection means may be comprised or incorporated within a beverage dispensing device or system, for example a coffee machine. The monitoring system may comprise such a beverage dispensing device or system. Alternatively, the monitoring system may comprise a central electronic detection means that is capable of detecting the presence of the electronic identifier within a subzone, e.g. a beverage dispensing subzone, of the predetermined zone.

The system may be operable or configured on detection of the dispensing of a beverage into the beverage container to initiate a payment transaction. The payment transaction may comprise a financial transaction and/or may comprise the deduction of points associated with the individual. The system may further comprise a beverage dispensing device which includes at least part of the electronic detection means.

The system may be operable or configured to track the movement of the electronic identification device between two or more subzones within the predetermined zone and/or to store on the memory means information relating to the movement together with associated user information. The system may be configured to send a message or command to an electronic device, e.g. a telecommunications device such as a mobile telephone or smartphone or tablet or a display module of the container or holder, to display promotional information or information relating to one or more products. The information may be linked to the detected subzone. In embodiments, the information relates to one or more products associated with the detected user, for example pre-selected as being a 'favourite' product or a product purchased previously by the detected user. It is envisaged that the message may include any other promotional information relevant to the detected user.

The system may further comprise a plurality of holders each suitable for receiving a respective beverage container. Each holder or a display module thereof may comprise a receiver and/or an electronic identifier, which may include a unique identifier associated therewith, and/or a memory means or memory on which is stored one or more scripts each relating to a predetermined promotion or to one or more suggested products to be purchased. The monitoring system may be operable or configured to detect the electronic identifier of each of the beverage container and of the holder and to associate them, for example by determining their relative position. The monitoring system may be operable or configured to send a command or command signal to a holder associated with a beverage container. The command or command signal may be configured to cause the holder or a display module thereof to select and/or execute one of the scripts stored on the memory means or memory, e.g. thereby to display information associated therewith.

Each holder may comprise an electronic detection means for detecting the presence of the electronic identification device received thereby. The electronic detection means may comprise an electronic identification device reader and/or a power source for detecting and/or transmitting information read from an electronic identification device received, in use, within the holder. The system may be configured or programmed or operable to receive information from the reader of the holder. In embodiments, the holder comprises an input means, for example a touchscreen forming part of the or a display module. The holder may be configured or programmed or operable to transmit and/or the system may be configured or programmed or operable to receive information received by or inputted to the input means.

In embodiments, each holder comprises a display module including an electronic display and a receiver for receiving one or more messages or commands from the system, the system being configured to send a message or command to one of the holders to cause the electronic display to display promotional information selected based at least in part on the unique identifier

The system or processor may be configured to determine the location and/or time of reading of an electronic identifier. The location and/or time of reading (where determined) may be logged on the memory means or a further memory means and/or may be associated with the detected electronic identifier.

For the avoidance of doubt, any of the features described herein apply equally to any aspect of the invention.

Another aspect of the invention provides a computer program element comprising and/or describing and/or defining a three-dimensional design for use with a simulation means or a three-dimensional additive or subtractive manufacturing means or device, e.g. a three- dimensional printer or CNC machine, the three-dimensional design comprising an embodiment of one or more elements of the beverage container or holder described above. A further aspect of the invention provides a computer program element comprising computer readable program code means for causing a processor to execute a procedure to implement one or more features of the aforementioned system. A yet further aspect of the invention provides the computer program element embodied on a computer readable medium. A yet further aspect of the invention provides a computer readable medium having a program stored thereon, where the program is arranged to make a computer execute a procedure to implement one or more features of the aforementioned system.

A yet further aspect of the invention provides a control means or control system or controller comprising the aforementioned computer program element or computer readable medium.

For purposes of this disclosure, and notwithstanding the above, it is to be understood that any controller(s), control units and/or control modules described herein may each comprise a control unit or computational device having one or more electronic processors. The controller may comprise a single control unit or electronic controller or alternatively different functions of the control of the system or apparatus may be embodied in, or hosted in, different control units or controllers or control modules. As used herein, the terms "control unit" and "controller" will be understood to include both a single control unit or controller and a plurality of control units or controllers collectively operating to provide the required control functionality. A set of instructions could be provided which, when executed, cause said controller(s) or control unit(s) or control module(s) to implement the control techniques described herein (including the method(s) described herein). The set of instructions may be embedded in one or more electronic processors, or alternatively, may be provided as software to be executed by one or more electronic processor(s). For example, a first controller may be implemented in software run on one or more electronic processors, and one or more other controllers may also be implemented in software run on or more electronic processors, optionally the same one or more processors as the first controller. It will be appreciated, however, that other arrangements are also useful, and therefore, the present invention is not intended to be limited to any particular arrangement. In any event, the set of instructions described herein may be embedded in a computer-readable storage medium (e.g., a non-transitory storage medium) that may comprise any mechanism for storing information in a form readable by a machine or electronic processors/computational device, including, without limitation: a magnetic storage medium (e.g., floppy diskette); optical storage medium (e.g., CD-ROM); magneto optical storage medium; read only memory (ROM); random access memory (RAM); erasable programmable memory (e.g., EPROM ad EEPROM); flash memory; or electrical or other types of medium for storing such information/instructions.

Within the scope of this application it is expressly envisaged that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. Features described in connection with one aspect or embodiment of the invention are applicable to all aspects or embodiments, unless such features are incompatible.

Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a beverage container assembly according to a first embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2 is a perspective view of the beverage container of Figure 1 ;

Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the beverage container of Figure 1 ;

Figure 4 is a sectional view of the beverage container of Figure 1 taken through the line AA of Figure 2, showing the valve in a first, closed condition;

Figure 5 is a sectional view of the beverage container of Figure 1 taken through the line AA of Figure 2, showing the valve in a second, open condition;

Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of the beverage container holder of Figure

1 ;

Figure 7 is a part sectional view of the beverage container assembly of Figure 1 showing the beverage container in a first, engaged condition with the holder;

Figure 8 is a part sectional view of the beverage container assembly of Figure 1 showing the beverage container in a second, disengaged condition with the holder; Figure 9 is a perspective view of a tool according to an embodiment of the invention, for opening the window of the holder;

Figure 10 is a perspective view of the holder of Figure 1 showing the tool of Figure 9 inserted thereinto and the window in a first, open condition;

Figure 1 1 is a sectional perspective view of the holder of Figure 1 showing the holder affixed to a trolley handle;

Figure 12 is a schematic of a system for monitoring for beverage container assemblies according to one embodiment of the invention;

Figure 13 is a perspective view of a beverage container assembly according to another embodiment of the invention; and

Figure 14 is a rear perspective view of the holder of the beverage container assembly of Figure 13.

Referring now to Figure 1 , there is shown a reusable beverage container assembly 1 according to one embodiment of the invention, including a beverage container 2 and a beverage container holder 3 both of which are substantially formed from a moulded plastics material.

Referring now to Figures 2 to 4, there is shown the beverage container 2 of Figure 1 , wherein like references depict like features. The beverage container 2 includes a hollow body 4, a lid 5 with a handle 6 connected thereto, a valve 7 and a piston 8.

The hollow body 4 includes an outer body 40 formed from moulded plastic material and an inner body 41 formed (e.g. pressed) from a thin metal material and shaped to conform generally to the outer body 40 which is generally cylindrical in shape, tapering towards its base 42 which forms a base 20 of the beverage container 2. The inner body 41 defines a receptacle within which a beverage is receivable. The lower portion 43 of the hollow body 4 includes an annular rebate 44 interrupted by a projection 45 which tapers 46 towards the annular rebate 44 on both of its edges. The lid 5 includes a central portion 50, round in plan, surrounded by a peripheral rim 51. The central portion 50 includes a first, upper surface 50a and a second, lower surface 50b and is curved relative to the peripheral rim 51. Two drinking apertures 52, circular in plan, are included in the central portion 50 and through the thickness thereof. The central portion 50 includes recesses 53 into the upper surface 50a which surround each of the drinking apertures 52, where each recess 53 has an ovoid shape in plan and forms a well around each of the drinking apertures 52. The drinking apertures 52 include a tapered lead-in (not shown) at their boundary with the lower surface 50b.

The peripheral rim 51 includes an annular rebated portion 51 a extending around its lower edge and including a projecting annular bead 51 b configured to have a similar outer diameter to the inner diameter of the hollow body 4 near to an upper edge 47 thereof.

The central portion 50 of the lid 5 includes a pair of pivots 54 depending from the lower surface 50b thereof. Each pivot 54 includes first and second projections 54a, 54b defining a C-shaped pivot slot 54c therebetween. The lower surface 50b of the central portion 50 of the lid 5 also includes valve seats (not shown) surrounding each of the drinking apertures 52.

A seal 55 formed from resilient rubber is located around an outer surface of the peripheral rim 51 of the lid 5 such that, in a closed condition (as shown in Figure 4), the seal 55 abuts the upper edge 47 of the hollow body 4, thereby providing a fluid tight seal thereagainst.

The handle 6 is formed from a moulded plastics material and includes an elongate extension 60 which is ergonomically curved for gripping by a user. The handle 6 includes a cavity 61 which includes pivot recesses (not shown) and is configured to retain a push button 62. The push button 62 is also formed from a moulded plastics material and has a substantially flat activation surface 62a, rounded pivot projections 62b which are pivotable within the pivot recesses, and a rounded urging surface 62c. A catch 63, including a peripheral restraining rim 63a, is configured to be held via snap fit within the cavity 61 so as to capture the push button 62 therewithin.

The lid 5 also includes a sleeve 56 formed integrally therewith and having the form of a hollow cylindrical shape which projects through the peripheral wall 51 of the lid 5. The inside of the sleeve 56 communicates with the cavity 61 of the handle 6 and also with the inside of the lid 5 (between the lower surface 50b of the central portion 50 and the peripheral rim 51). The sleeve 56 has a constant internal diameter.

The valve 7 includes two hemispherical valve members 70 mounted to a lever 71 that includes a flat and rigid support plate portion 72 formed integrally with a resilient and flexible armature 73. The support plate 72 includes a pivot axis 74 on the opposite side to the armature 73. The support plate 72 includes two apertures 75 through its thickness which are configured to allow the first projections 54a of the pivots 54 to be inserted therethrough such that the pivot axis 74 is captivated within the pivot slot 54c. The armature 73 has a connector 76 formed integrally at its free end and includes a ball 78.

The hemispherical valve members 70 are formed from rubber and are configured to partially project into the drinking apertures 52 when pushed thereagainst (as will be described below).

The piston 8 with a driven end 80 and a driving end 81 connected by a connection rod 82 is located substantially within the sleeve 56. The driven end 80 and driving end 81 have an external diameter which is configured to be similar to the internal diameter of the sleeve 56, whilst the connection rod 82 has a lesser external diameter. The driven end 80 of the piston 8 includes a driving surface 83. The connection rod 82 includes a projecting annular rim 84 adjacent the driven end 80 of the piston 8. The driving end 81 of the piston 8 includes a recessed socket 85 configured to accept the ball 78 of the connector 76 of the valve 7. A bellows seal 86 including multiple bellows wafers 87 is disposed around the connection rod 82 and within the sleeve 56. One end of the bellows seal 86 is attached to the connection rod 82 via snap fit over the projecting annular rim 84.

The beverage container 2 also includes a near field communication (NFC) or radio frequency identification (RFID) tag 9 captivated between the lower walls of the outer and inner bodies 40, 41 and including a signature or serial number. In this embodiment, the outer body 40 includes a recess which describes, together with an outer surface of the inner body 41 , a cavity 90 within which the NFC/RFID tag 9 is received.

The beverage container 2 is constructed prior to use. The push button 62 is inserted into the cavity 61 of the handle 6 and the piston 8 with the bellows seal 86 surrounding it is inserted into the sleeve 56 of the lid 5 such that the driving surface 83 of the piston 8 contacts the rounded urging surface 62c of the push button 62. The ball 78 of the connector 76 of the valve 7 is inserted into the recessed socket 85 of the piston 8 and the first projections 54a of the pivots 54 are inserted through the apertures 75 of the support plate 72. In this position the natural resilience of the flexible armature 73 biases the support plate 72 toward the lower surface 50b of the central portion 50 of the lid 5, such that the hemispherical valve members 70 are urged toward the valve seats surrounding the drinking apertures 52. The valve seats, around each of the drinking apertures 52, form a continuous seal against the rounded surface of the hemispherical valve members 70, thereby providing a fluid tight seal thereagainst and therearound.

The hollow body 4 may be at least partially filled with a beverage before the lid 5 is attached by a screw fitting, with the annular rebated portion of the lid 5 pushed onto the upper edge 47 of the hollow body until the seal 55 abuts the upper edge 47.

Referring now to Figures 4 and 5 there is shown a method of operation of the valve 7 of a beverage container 2 according to one embodiment of the invention. When a user intends to drink or dispense a beverage from within the beverage container 2 the user first activates the push button 62 in the handle 6. By applying pressure to the activation surface 62a the push button 62 pivots about the rounded pivot projections 62b captured within the pivot recesses, thereby translating the rounded urging surface 62c toward the piston 8. The rounded urging surface 62c urges against the driving surface 83 of the driven end 80 of the piston 8, urging the piston 8 along the sleeve 56, away from the handle 6. The driving end 81 of the piston 8, connected to the driven end 80 via the connecting rod 82, is urged toward the pivots 54 depending from the lower surface 50b of the central portion 50 of the lid 5. The distance between the driving end 81 of the piston 8 and the pivots 54 is therefore relatively reduced and the flexible armature 73 flexes to accommodate this reduced distance.

The resilience of the armature 73 acts to rotate the pivot axis 74 of the support plate 72 within the pivot slot 54c and to urge the free end of the support plate 72 away from the lower surface 50b of the central portion 50 of the lid 5. The apertures 75 through the support plate 72 slide relative to the first projections 54a whilst the pivot axis 74 of the support plate 72 rotates within the pivot slot 54c. The support plate 72 is hence angled relative to its starting position and relative to the lower surface 50b of the central portion 50 of the lid 5. The hemispherical valve members 70 are fixed relative to the support plate 72 and are therefore disengaged from the valve seats surrounding the drinking apertures 52 by this pivoting, thereby removing the seal and allowing the flow of fluid therethrough (see Figure 5).

Removing pressure from the activation surface 62a of the push button 62 reverses the process, whereby the resilience of the flexible armature 73 drives the piston 8 back toward the handle 6, such that the driving surface 83 of the piston 8 urges the rounded urging surface 62c of the push button 62 away from the sleeve 56 into a starting position. Meanwhile, the resilience of the flexible armature 73 causes the pivot axis 74 of the support plate 72 to rotate in the reverse direction within the pivot slot 54c and the free end of the support plate 72 pivots back toward the lower surface 50b of the central portion 50 of the lid 5. The apertures 75 through the support plate 72 slide relative to the first projections 54a whist the pivot axis 74 of the support plate 72 rotates within the pivot slot 54c. In this way the support plate 72 is returned to its initial position (see Figure 4) whereby the hemispherical valve members 70 are engaged against the valve seats surrounding the drinking apertures 52 and fluid is prevented from flowing therethrough.

Advantageously, an improved seal relative to flat valve members is provided by the hemispherical valve members 70 against their respective valve seats. By extending partially into their respective drinking apertures 52 the hemispherical valve members 70 provide an improved seal thereof. Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory it is believed that the partial extension of the hemispherical valve members 70 into their respective drinking apertures 52 provides an increased contact surface area between the hemispherical valve members 70 and portions of the lid 5 (e.g. the valve seats and the drinking apertures 52) consequently providing a stronger and more reliable seal. Furthermore, the tapered lead-in of the drinking apertures 52 provides even greater contact surface area between the hemispherical valve members 70 and portions of the lid 5, thereby enhancing the above effect further.

The applicant has surprisingly found that by providing at least two drinking apertures 52 in the lid 5 of the beverage container 2 drinking therefrom is improved. When a user is drinking from (or dispensing a beverage from) the beverage container 2 a beverage may flow through one of the drinking apertures 52 while the other drinking aperture 52 provides an opening through which air may flow into the beverage container 2, thence maintaining internal pressure therein and consequently leading to improved flow therefrom. In this way pressure related beverage flow issues from the beverage container 2 are mitigated against. Furthermore, by providing two drinking apertures 52 disposed on either side of the lid 5 (relative to the position of the handle 6) it is possible for the beverage container 2 to be comfortably used by either a right or left handed user without any additional modification.

Referring now to Figures 6 and 7, there is shown an exploded view of the holder 3 shown in Figure 1. The holder 3 includes a generally cylindrical hollow receptacle 30 including one partially closed end 30a and with a support body 31 projecting from a portion of the side of the hollow receptacle 30. The hollow receptacle 30 is configured to have an internal diameter and shape similar to but slightly greater than the external diameter and shape of the lower portion 43 of the hollow body 4 of the beverage container 2(see Figure 2). The hollow receptacle 30 includes an aperture 30b through its side from which the support body 31 projects, where the aperture 30b is adjacent the partially closed end 30a.

The support body 31 includes a display module 32 including a transparent window 33 and a display recess 34 into a display surface 35 of the support body 31 , where the display surface 35 is angled relative to a base surface 3a of the holder 3. The display recess 34 is configured to accept an insert 34a carrying information, where the insert 34a is formed from a generally rectangular sheet of paper, cardboard, plastic or any other suitable medium. The transparent window 33 includes pivot arms 33a projecting from its side edges 33b adjacent its upper edge 33c. Arm apertures (not shown) in the display surface 35 of the support body 31 are configured to pivotably receive and retain the pivot arms 33a. The transparent window 33 further includes clips 33d projecting from its side edges 33b adjacent its lower edge 33e. Clip apertures 34b (see Figure 10) in the display recess 34 of the support body 31 are configured to releasably capture the clips 33d via interference fit. An attachment recess 36 extends through the support body 31 tangentially to the hollow receptacle 30 and is configured to have a constant cross-section which is just wider than a trolley handle TH (see Figure 11) for the receipt thereof.

The support body 31 also includes a cavity 37 disposed adjacent and in communication with the aperture 30b through the hollow receptacle 30. The cavity 37 is configured to accept a clip 38 and a retaining device 39 with a compression spring 39a disposed therebetween. The clip 38 includes a rounded pivot 38a and a catch 38b projecting from a first major surface 38c. The catch 38b includes a lower, flat edge 38d and un upper, rounded edge 38e. The compression spring 39a acts against the obverse, second major surface 38f of the clip 38 and against the retaining device 39, which is held in position by a bolt 39b. The rounded pivot 38a of the clip 38 is pivotably supported at its free ends within apertures (not shown) within the cavity 37. The clip 38 is pivotable within the cavity 37 such that the catch 38b is movable through the aperture 30b through the hollow receptacle 30.

Referring now to Figures 7 and 8 there is shown a beverage container 2 inserted into a holder 3 as shown in Figure 1. When the beverage container 2 is inserted into the holder 3 such that the annular rebate 44 is disposed adjacent the aperture 30b through the hollow receptacle 30 (as shown in Figure 7) the compression spring 39a biases the clip 38 to pivot towards the hollow receptacle 30 such that the catch 38b projects through the aperture 30b. During insertion of the beverage container 2 into the holder 3 the edge of the base 20 of the beverage container 2 contacts the upper, rounded edge 38e of the catch 38b pushing the it back towards the retention device 39 whilst compressing the compression spring 39a. When the annular rebate 44 is aligned with the catch 38b, the compression spring 39a biases the clip 38 back towards the hollow receptacle 30 so that the catch 38b engages with the annular rebate 44. The lower, flat edge 38d of the catch 38b acts against the lower edge of the annular rebate 44 thereby preventing removal of the beverage container 2 from the housing 3.

Rotation of the beverage container 2 within the housing 3 by a sufficient rotational distance results in engagement of the projection 45 with the catch 38b. The projection 45 acts against the catch 38b to push the clip 38 back toward the retention device 39 (e.g. away from the hollow receptacle 30), compressing the compression spring 39a, such that the catch 38b is disengaged from the annular rebate 44. The tapered edges 46 of the projection 45 facilitate a smooth passage of the catch 38b thereover and a smooth compression of the compression spring 39a. In this position (see Figure 8) the beverage container 2 may be removed, i.e. lifted out, from the holder 2.

Referring now to Figure 9 there is shown a tool 9 for opening the window 33 of a holder 3 according to the invention. The tool 9 is formed from a moulded plastics material and includes a generally flat main body 90 with first, second and third keys 91 , 92, 93 projecting from the same surface and in the same direction. Each of the keys 91 , 92, 93 has a generally rectangular cross-section. The first and third keys 91 , 93 project by a similar distance and at their free ends each include an angled distal engaging surface 94 and are configured to engage complementary guide recesses (not shown) in a base surface 3a of the holder 3 (see Figure 7), where the recesses are aligned and communicate with the clip apertures. The second key 92 projects beyond the first and third keys 91 , 93 and includes at its distal free end an urging surface 95 angled relative to the direction that the second key 92 projects (where the angle is chosen to correspond to the angle of the display surface 34 relative to the base surface 3a of the holder 3). The second key 92 is configured to be insertable into a release recess (not shown) in the base surface 3a of the holder 3, where the release recess communicates with the display recess 34.

Referring now to Figure 10 there is shown the holder 3 of Figure 1 into which the tool 9 of Figure 9 has been inserted. In a second, closed condition the window 33 is closed relative to the display recess 34 with an insert 34a disposed therebetween, with the clips 33d of the window 33 are engaged with the clip apertures 34b of the support body 31. When a user inserts the tool 9 into the base surface 3a of the holder 3 the first and third keys 91 , 93 are inserted into respective guide recesses and the second key 92 is inserted into the release recess. When the user inserts the tool by a sufficient distance the engaging surfaces 94 of the first and third keys 91 , 93 contact an inner surface of the clips 33d of the window 33 to urge them outwardly to a disengaged position and, following continued insertion of the tool 9, the clips 33d are urged out of the clip apertures 34b of the display recess 34. Simultaneously the urging surface 95 of the second key 92 contacts the insert 34a (or alternatively the window 33 of the holder 3) and urges the insert 34a and window 33 into the first, open condition shown in Figure 10. Advantageously, the angle of the urging surface 95 corresponds to the angle of the display surface 34 therefore providing increased surface area of contact between the second key 92 and the insert 34a (or window 33) during urging, hence decreasing localised pressure thereon. Because of this reduction in localised pressure the applicant has surprisingly found that damage to the insert 34a (or window 33) during opening with the tool is mitigated.

Referring now to Figure 11 there is shown the holder 3 of Figure 1 attached to a trolley handle TH which has the form of a hollow elongate cylinder and is formed from a metallic material. Two parallel holes TH1 extend through the trolley handle TH, where the holes TH1 are configured to each receive a bolt B. The holder 3 is attached to the trolley handle TH via insertion thereof into the attachment recess 36 with subsequent affixing thereto via bolts B through affixing apertures within the holder 3 and through the parallel holes TH1 in the trolley handle TH. Nuts N, which sit within suitably sized and located recesses within the holder 3, secure the bolts B in position thereby securing the holder 3 relative to the trolley handle TH.

Referring now to Figure 12 (where like features are identified by like integers preceded by Ί Ο') there is shown a system 100 for monitoring beverage container assemblies including a beverage container 102 and a holder 103, where an NFC/RFID tag 109 is located in the beverage container 102. The system 100 further includes a remote server 200 having an NFC/RFID scanner 201 , a processor 202 and a memory module 203 on which is stored a database of NFC/RFID signatures each associated with a user or owner of a beverage container 102. In use, the NFC/RFID scanner 201 scans for NFC/RFID tags 109 within a predetermined area. Upon detection and reading of an NFC/RFID tag 109 (for example located in the beverage container 102) the processor 202 compares the signature of the read NFC/RFID tag 109 with the database of NFC/RFID signatures stored on the memory module 203. Identification of a read NFC/RFID signature with one stored in the database results in the processor 202 storing the identification on the memory module 203.

In this embodiment, the system also includes a coffee machine 190 for dispensing coffee into the beverage container 102. The coffee machine 190 includes an NFC/RFID tag reader 191 that is configured to read the NFC/RFID tag 109 of a beverage container 102 that is to be filled. Upon dispensing of the coffee, the NFC/RFID tag reader 191 of the coffee machine 190 is configured to transmit details of the NFC/RFID tag 109 to the server 200 and the server 200 is configured to initiate a transaction to either deduct loyalty points associated with the user or owner or to cause a financial transaction to be initiated, for example to take payment from bank account details associated with an account associated with the user or owner.

The server 200 may be located adjacent the coffee machine 190 or remotely therefrom. In some embodiments, a first component or subsystem of the server 200 is located adjacent the coffee machine 190, for example in the same store, while another component or subsystem thereof is located remotely and operable to communicate with the first component or subsystem. For example, the memory module 203 and/or the processor 202 may be on a remote server (not shown) that communicates with the NFC/RFID scanner 201. Thus, a central remote server (not shown) may be configured to regulate the use of the beverage container 2, 102 across a plurality of different stores. In such cases, the user information stored in the memory 203 may include both personal information, such as one or more of a name, address, telephone number, email address and the like, and the details of one or more loyalty schemes, e.g. store-specific loyalty schemes, with which the unique identifier is associated.

The system 100 is operable to receive, in use, in or on the memory 203 user information associated with a new NFC/RFID tag 9, 109. For example, the NFC/RFID tag 9, 109 for a particular beverage container 2, 102 may be activated or amended by sending to the system 100 user information and details of the unique identifier 9, 109 via a website or smartphone application.

Referring now to Figures 13 and 14, there is shown a beverage container assembly 301 according to another embodiment of the invention, wherein similar features are depicted by the same references and will not be described further. The assembly 301 according to this embodiment differs from the assembly 1 according to the first embodiment in that the holder 303 includes an NFC/RFID tag 331 having a unique signature or serial number, an operating module 332, an electronic display 333 operatively connected to the operating module 332 and a solar cell array 334 operatively connected to the operating module 332 and the electronic display 333 for supplying power. The operating module 332 includes a memory, processor, wireless receiver and power source, none of which are shown for simplicity.

The NFC/RFID tag 331 is similar to the NFC/RFID tag 9 associated with the beverage container 2, but includes a different unique signature or serial number to enable the monitoring system 100 to detect an association between the tags 9, 331 by their relative locations. In this embodiment, the memory of the operating module 332 includes a plurality of scripts on a memory each of which includes a computer program element for causing the electronic display 333 to display predetermined promotional information. In use, the monitoring system 100 detects an association between the tags 9, 331 and sends a command signal to the operating module 332 to execute a predetermined one of the scripts to display promotional information that is relevant to the user associated with the tag 9 of the beverage container 2.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that several variations to the aforementioned embodiments are envisaged without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, although the beverage container 2, holder 3 and tool 9 are described above as being formed from a plastics material this need not be the case and any or all may be partially or entirely formed from a suitable metallic and/or wooden material. Additionally or alternatively, although the insert 34a is described as being formed from a sheet of paper this need not be the case and the insert 34a may be formed from any suitable material, for example a plastics material or a wooden or card material. Additionally or alternatively the insert 34a may be laminated with a protective and/or antibacterial substance. Additionally or alternatively although the insert 34a is described as being generally rectangular this need not be the case and the insert 34a may instead be any suitable shape. Additionally or alternatively there may be more than one insert 34a in which case the plural inserts 34a may be disposed between the same window 33 and display surface 35 or between different windows 33 and display surfaces 35.

Although the holder 3 is shown affixed to a trolley handle TH this need not be the case and the holder 3 may additionally or alternatively by affixed to any other portions of a trolley and/or to other surfaces, for example table tops and/or internal surfaces of vehicles. Additionally or alternatively, although attachment of the holder 3 to the trolley handle TH (or any suitable surface) is shown as being effected via an attachment recess 36 and bolts B, this need not be the case and the holder 3 may additionally or alternatively be attached via temporary or permanent adhesive and/or via any other mechanical fasteners, for example hook and loop fasteners or spring-loaded clips. Additionally or alternatively, although the hollow body 4 is shown above as including an outer and inner body 40, 41 this need not be the case and the hollow body 4 may instead include only one body. Additionally or alternatively, the inner body 41 (where present) need not be formed from a metallic material and may instead by formed from a plastics material, e.g. moulded therefrom.

It will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that any number of combinations of the aforementioned features and/or those shown in the appended drawings provide clear advantages over the prior art and are therefore within the scope of the invention described herein.

Claims

A beverage container comprising a hollow body and a lid removably secured to the hollow body and having a drinking aperture therethrough, the body comprising inner part with a receptacle for receiving a beverage, an outer part which surrounds the inner part and a cavity described between bottom walls of the inner and outer parts within which is mounted an electronic identification device comprising a unique identifier associated with an individual.

Container according to claim 1 , wherein the electronic identifier is secured to the outer part and spaced from the inner part such that the electronic identifier is not in direct thermal contact with the inner part.

Container according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the body comprises one or more insulating pockets between the inner and outer parts.

Container according to any preceding claim, wherein the unique identifier comprises a unique string that is readable by a reader and/or information relating to the individual.

Container according to any preceding claim, wherein the electronic identification device comprises a passive near field communication device.

A beverage container assembly comprising a beverage container according to any preceding claim and a beverage container holder for receiving the beverage container, the holder comprising a display module for displaying promotional information.

Assembly according to claim 6, wherein the display module comprises an electronic display.

Assembly according to claim 7, wherein the display module is configured to display promotional information selected based on the unique identifier.

9. Assembly according to claim 6, wherein the display module includes a transparent or translucent window connected thereto, wherein the window is movable, in use, between a first condition, in which an insert carrying information is receivable between the window and an adjacent surface, and a second condition in which such an insert is at least partially retained between the window and the adjacent surface.

10. Assembly according to claim 9, wherein the insert is receivable within a recess or cavity described between the window and the adjacent surface.

1 1. Assembly according to claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the window is pivotable along a first edge and comprises at least one arm or catch spaced from the first edge which cooperates with a corresponding aperture in the holder.

12. Assembly according to any one of claims 6 to 1 1 , wherein the holder comprises an electronic identification device reader and a power source for transmitting information read from an electronic identification device received, in use, within the holder.

13. Assembly according to any one of claims 6 to 12, wherein the beverage container comprises an annular rebate with an interruption and the holder comprises a sprung catch biased toward the engagement with the recess, the assembly being configured such that rotation, in use, of the beverage container relative to the holder causes the catch to align with the interruption and retract from the recess thereby releasing the beverage container from the holder.

14. Assembly according any one of claims 6 to 13, wherein the beverage container comprises a valve for selectively closing the aperture and an actuator for operating the valve, the valve comprising a lever pivotably connected to the body and/or lid at one of its end, operatively connected to the actuator at its other end and carrying a valve member at an intermediate position between its ends, wherein the actuator is operable to cause the lever to pivot, in use, from a closed position in which the valve member closes the drinking aperture to an open position in which the valve member is moved from the closed position to enable the contents of the hollow body to be dispensed from the drinking aperture.

15. Assembly according to any one of claims 6 to 14, wherein the lid of the beverage container comprises first and second drinking apertures, the beverage container comprising a valve with first and second valve members each for selectively closing a respective one of the apertures and an actuator for operating the valve, the actuator being operable to cause the valve to move, in use, from a closed condition in which the valve members close the drinking apertures to an open position in which the valve members are moved from the closed position to enable the contents of the hollow body to be dispensed from at least one of the drinking apertures.

16. Assembly according to claim 15 further comprising a handle, wherein the apertures are located adjacent opposing sides of the periphery of the lid and the handle is positioned substantially equidistant between the apertures with respect to the peripheral rim of the lid.

17. A monitoring system for managing customer information, the system comprising: a) a plurality of beverage containers according to any one of claims 1 to 8 each with a unique electronic identification device mounted therein or thereon; b) a memory means on which is stored a database including a plurality of unique identifiers and user information associated with each identifier;

c) electronic detection means for detecting the presence of the electronic identification device within a predetermined zone; and

wherein the processor is configured or programmed on detection by the electronic detection means of an electronic identification device within the predetermined zone to retrieve from the memory means user information associated with the detected electronic identification device and to store on the memory means information relating to the detection together with associated user information.

18. System according to claim 17, wherein the system is operable to send a message to an electronic device to display promotional information selected based on the unique identifier.

19. System according to claim 17 or claim 18, wherein the system is operable to detect the dispensing of a beverage into the beverage container and to store on the memory means information relating to the dispensing of the beverage.

20. System according to claim 19, wherein the system is configured on detection of the dispensing of a beverage into the beverage container to initiate a payment transaction.

21. System according to any one of claims 17 to 20 further comprising a beverage dispensing device which includes at least part of the electronic detection means.

22. System according to any one of claims 17 to 21 , wherein the system or processor is configured to track the movement of the electronic identification device between two or more subzones within the predetermined zone and to store on the memory means information relating to the movement together with associated user information.

23. System according to any one of claims 17 to 21 further comprising a plurality of beverage container holders each suitable for receiving a respective beverage container, each holder comprising an electronic identifier, the system being operable to pair the electronic identifier of one of the beverage containers with that of one of the holders.

24. System according to claim 23, wherein each holder comprises a display module including an electronic display and a receiver for receiving one or more messages or commands from the system, the system being configured to send a message or command to one of the holders to cause the electronic display to display promotional information selected based at least in part on the unique identifier.