GB2621451A

GB2621451A - Cap assembly for use with a food container

Info

Publication number: GB2621451A
Application number: GB2308917.0A
Authority: GB
Inventors: OKHAI Yusuf
Original assignee: Aydya Ltd
Current assignee: Aydya Ltd
Priority date: 2022-06-14
Filing date: 2023-06-14
Publication date: 2024-02-14
Also published as: WO2023242572A1; WO2023242575A1; GB202308917D0; GB2621452A; GB202308920D0; WO2023242574A1; GB2621450A; GB202308916D0; GB202308915D0; WO2023242573A1; GB2621449A

Abstract

A cap assembly C for a food container S comprises a base 2 having a side wall and an upper wall: an outlet on the upper wall; a lid 3; a pivot hinge 4 about which the lid is rotatable; and a closed lid lock 5 to releasably lock the lid in a closed lid position, the lock arranged on the base side wall and below the plane of the base upper wall. The lock may comprise a latching member (LA, fig. 23) and an actuator to control rotational motion of the latching member between latching and unlatching positions, preferably by means of a pivot pin (5b.) The lock may also include: a locking member (LO) and a locking member actuator to interconnect the locking and latching members, and to control lateral motion of the locking member relative to the latching member between a locking position to lock the latching member and an unlocking position to unlock the latching member. The locking member actuator maintains the interconnection between the locking and latching members during lateral motion of the locking member relative to the latching member between the locking and unlocking positions.

Description

CAP ASSEMBLY FOR USE WITH A FOOD CONTAINER

Field of Invention

The present invention relates to a cap assembly for use with a food, non-drink, storage container, and a food, non-drink storage system comprising the cap assembly and food storage container.

Background to the invention

Food, non-drink, storage containers are suitable for storing food. Such food containers are not drink containers for storing a drink and from which a drink can be consumed.

Summary of the Invention

A first aspect of the present invention relates to a cap assembly for use with a food, non-drink storage container (a "food container").

In use, the cap assembly is mountable atop an open end of the food container.

The cap assembly comprises: a base an outlet arranged on the base; a lid; a pivot hinge about which the lid is rotatable relative to the base between a closed lid position and an open lid position; and a closed lid lock to releasably lock the lid in the closed lid position.

When the lid is in the closed lid position, the outlet is shrouded by the lid to inhibit the dispensing of food through the outlet.

When the lid is in the open lid position, the outlet is accessible by a user to allow for the dispensing of food through the outlet.

When the lid is locked by the closed lid lock, the lid is unmovable and fixed in the closed lid position.

When the lid is released from the closed lid lock, the lid is free to move between the closed lid position and the open lid position.

The base may comprise an upper wall on which the outlet is arranged, and a side wall.

The closed lid lock may be arranged on the base side wall and below the plane of the base upper wall.

Configuring the closed lid lock below the plane of the base upper wall advantageously allows user access to the outlet with minimal interference with the closed lid lock.

The closed lid lock may comprise a latching member configured to latch the lid when the lid is arranged in the closed lid position. The latching member may comprise any suitable fastening means, including, for example, a hook or a protrusion configured to form a latching engagement with the lid when the latching member is in a latching position (and the lid is in the closed lid position).

The latching member may be movable between the latching position and an unlatching position relative to the lid in the closed lid position. When the latching member is arranged in the latching position, the latching member is configured to engage the lid in the closed lid position, thereby providing a first locking effect on the lid. When the latching member is arranged in the unlatching position, the latching member is unable to engage the lid in the closed lid position. The lid is thereby free to move between the closed lid position and open lid position as desired.

The latching member may be movable in a rotational direction between the latching position and the unlatching position The closed lid lock may comprise a locking member to lock the latching member in the latching position. The locking member may comprise any suitable locking means, including, for example, the locking member may comprise a locking member abutment configured to form an abutting engagement with a locking position abutment when the locking member is in a locking position so as to prohibit the movement of the latching member.

The locking member may be movable between the locking position and an unlocking position relative to the latching member. When the locking member is arranged in the locking position, the latching member is prohibited from moving and is thereby fixed in the latching position. When the locking member is arranged in the unlocking position, the latching member is free to move between the latching position and the unlatching position. In an example, when the latching member is arranged in the latching position and latching the lid in the closed lid position, the locking member may be arranged in the locking position to lock the latching member in the latching position, thereby providing a second locking effect on the lid. When the opening of the cap assembly is desired, the locking member may be arranged in the unlocking position to allow the latching member to be moved to an unlatching position and the releasing of the lid.

The locking member may be movable relative to the latching member in a linear direction between the locking position and the unlocking position.

The closed lid lock may comprise a toggle to interconnect the latching member and the locking member, wherein the toggle is configured to allow the locking member to move together with the latching member (as a conjoined unit) between the latching position and the unlatching position and wherein the toggle is configured to allow the locking member to move relative to the latching member between the locking position and the unlocking position whilst maintaining the interconnection. The toggle acts as a locking member actuator to control the motion of the locking member relative to the latching member between the locking position and the unlocking position. For example, the toggle controls lateral motion of the locking member relative to the latching member between the locking position and the unlocking position.

The toggle may comprise a protrusion, a first recess to form a mating engagement with the protrusion when the locking member is arranged in the locking position, and a second recess to form a mating engagement with the protrusion when the locking member is arranged in the unlocking position. The protrusion, first recess and second recess are configured so as to control the direction of motion and displacement of the locking member between the locking position and the unlocking position. For example, the protrusion, first recess and second recess are configured to allow the locking member to move in a linear direction and with a linear displacement relative to the latching member between the locking position and the unlocking position. The first recess and second recess define the locking position and the unlocking position respectively. The protrusion may be resiliently deformable under a user force to engage and disengage with each recess, and thereby allow the locking member to move between the first recess (the locking position) and the second recess (the unlocking position). Using the resiliently deformable protrusion provides smooth transition between the first recess (the locking position) and the second recess (the unlocking position). Using a resiliently deformable protrusion advantageously helps to avoid wear of the toggle and thereby aids the lifespan of the interconnection. Using the resiliently deformable protrusion and recesses advantageously provides tactile feedback to the user, and this allows the user to feel when the locking member has moved to the locking position or the unlocking position as desired. A noise may be generated as the protrusion moves between the first recess and the second recess, and this aids the user in knowing the locking member has moved between the locking position and the unlocking position. The protrusion may be arranged on the locking member. The first recess and the second recess may be arranged on the latching member. The mating engagement between the protrusion and recesses interconnects the locking member and latching member.

Hence the interconnection is maintained when the locking member is in the locking position and the unlocking position.

The closed lid lock may comprise a latching member actuator to control the motion of the latching member between the latching position and the unlatching position. The latching member actuator may comprise a pivot about which the latching member is rotatable between the latching position and the unlatching position. The pivot may comprise a pivot pin defining the pivot axis, and whereby the latching member is coupled to the pivot pin. The latching member may comprise a pivot hole through which the pivot pin extends.

The latching member actuator may comprise a biasing spring to bias the latching member toward the latching position. The biasing spring may be mounted on the latching member via a spring mount and below the pivot axis.

The latching member actuator may comprise a latching position abutment configured to form an abutting engagement with the latching member or the locking member when the latching member is arranged in the latching position. The latching position abutment defines the latching position and inhibits further rotation of the latching member beyond the latching position.

The latching member actuator may comprise an unlatching position abutment configured to form an abutting engagement with the latching member or the locking member when the latching member is arranged in the unlatching position. The unlatching abutment defines the unlatching position and inhibits further rotation of the latching member beyond the unlatching position. The locking member may comprise an outer surface accessible by a user.

The closed lid lock may be user activated by a user activating force applied to the outer surface of the locking member.

The latching member actuator may be user activated to move the interconnected locking member and latching member from the latching position to the unlatching position. For example, the latching member actuator may be configured to be activated by an unlatching force applied to the outer surface of the locking member to rotate the interconnected locking member and the latching member in a rotational unlatching direction from the latching position to the unlatching position.

The toggle may be user activated to move the locking member relative to the latching member between the locking position and the unlocking position as desired.

For example, the toggle may be configured to be activated by a locking force applied to the outer surface of locking member to slide the locking member in a linear locking direction relative to the latching member from the unlocking position to the locking position. The toggle may be configured to be activated by an unlocking force applied to the outer surface of the locking member to slide the locking member in a linear unlocking direction (opposite to the linear locking direction) relative to the latching member from the locking position to the unlocking position.

The closed lid lock may comprise a guide to guide the movement of the locking member between the locking position and the unlocking position relative to the latching member. In an example, the guide may comprise a least one guide hole formed in the locking member to receive the pivot pin. As such, the guide hole is configured to guide the movement of the locking member relative to the pivot pin, and thereby the latching member, as the locking member moves between the locking position and the unlocking position. The guide hole is configured to guide the direction and displacement of the locking member when moving between the locking position and the unlocking position. For example, the guide hole may be an elongate aperture to guide linear movement and linear displacement of the locking member relative to the pivot pin, and the latching member, between the locking position and thereby the unlocking position.

The pivot hinge interconnecting the base and the lid and about which the lid is rotatable relative to the base between the closed lid position and the open lid may comprise a pivot axis configured a spaced distance beyond a perimeter of the base.

Configuring the pivot axis the spaced distance beyond the perimeter/periphery/peripheral edge of the base advantageously allows the lid to be rotated around the pivot axis between the closed lid position and the opened lid position without interfering with the base. As such, the lid does not make any restricting contact with the base that may inhibit the rotation of the lid between the closed lid position and the open lid position.

Spacing the pivot axis from the base allows the lid to be rotated backwardly relative to the base to the open lid position, whereby the lid extends downwardly from the pivot hinge and the lid is arranged below the pivot axis. As such, the lid is sufficiently located away from the outlet so as not to impair user access to the outlet. Hence, the arrangement of the lid in the open lid position improves user access, the safety of the user and dispensing of food via the cap assembly.

Spacing the pivot axis from the base allows the lid to be rotated forwardly relative to the base to the closed lid position, whereby the lid is arranged to extend from the pivot hinge across the base, shrouding the outlet and in sealing engagement with the base.

In the open lid position, the lid may be configured to extend downwardly below the pivot axis substantially parallel to base side wall and/or a side wall of the food container. In the open lid position, a portion of the lid may abut the base side wall and/or the food container side wall, forming a contact engagement. The lid abutting portion may have a corresponding profile to the base side wall and/or the food container side wall, whereby the lid abutting portion is configured to sit flush with the base side wall and/or the food container side wall when the lid is in the open lid position.

The pivot axis may be configured below the plane of the base upper wall. As such, the lid is arranged below the plane of the base upper wall when in the open lid position. Hence, the lid is not within the user's line of vision across the base upper wall when in the open lid position.

The pivot hinge may comprise: a pivot arm extending from the base, the pivot arm defining the spaced distance beyond the base; and a pivot pin arranged at a distal end of the pivot arm, the pivot pin defining the pivot axis, and the lid being rotatably coupled to the pivot pin.

The pivot hinge may be a spring loaded pivot hinge. The spring loaded pivot hinge may have an open bias so as to bias the lid away from the closed lid position. The pivot hinge may comprise a biasing spring mounted on the pivot pin, wherein the biasing spring is configured to exert an open biasing force on the lid away from the closed lid position.

The cap assembly may comprise an open lid lock to releasably lock the lid in the open lid position.

The open lid lock may comprise a mating member and a recess configured to form a mating engagement when the lid is in the open lid position, and thereby maintain the lid in the open lid position. The mating member may be resiliently deformable under a user force to locate the mating member in the recess when moving the lid to the open lid position. The mating member may be resiliently deformable under a user force to dislocate the mating member from the recess and thereby allow the lid to move from the open lid position. The mating member may be arranged on the lid, and the recess may be arranged on the pivot hinge.

The cap assembly may comprise an intermediate lid lock to releasably lock the lid in an intermediate lid position between the closed lid position and the open lid position.

The intermediate lid lock may comprise an abutting member and an abutment configured to form an abutting engagement when the lid is in the intermediate position, and thereby maintain the lid in the intermediate position. The abutting member may be resiliently deformable under a user force to disengage the abutting member from the abutment and thereby allow the lid to move beyond the intermediate lid position to the open lid position or the closed lid position, depending on the rotating direction of the lid about the pivot axis. The abutting member may be arranged on the lid, and the abutment may be arranged on the pivot hinge. The abutment may comprise a protrusion, a ridge or an edge.

The cap assembly may comprise a handle. The handle may be coupled to the pivot hinge and separately rotatable about the pivot axis relative to the lid. The handle may be rotatable to a closed handle position where the user cannot hold the cap assembly via the handle. The handle may be rotatable to an open handle position where the user can hold the cap assembly via the handle. The handle may be rotatable about the pivot axis between a first closed handle position and a second closed handle position, the handle having in an open handle position there between.

In the first closed handle position, the handle may be arranged a first finger access space (distance) from the lid to allow user finger access to the handle. As such, the user can access the handle to move the handle from the first closed handle position. The lid may comprise an inclined surface to form the first finger access space between the handle and the lid.

The lid may comprise a handle recess to receive the handle in the first closed handle position. The handle may be configured to be flush with the lid when it is received in the handle recess in the first closed handle position. The handle recess may comprise the inclined surface to form the first finger access space between the handle recess and the handle when the handle is arranged in the first closed handle position within the handle recess.

In the second closed handle position, the handle may be arranged a second finger access space (distance) from the base to allow user finger access to the handle. As such, the user can access the handle to move the handle from the second closed position.

The cap assembly may comprise a first closed handle lock to releasably lock the handle in the first closed handle position.

The cap assembly may comprise a second closed handle lock to releasably lock the handle in the second closed handle position.

The cap assembly may comprise an open handle lock to releasably lock the handle in the open handle position.

A second aspect of the present invention relates to a food storage system comprising: a food container having an open end; a cap assembly mountable atop the open end of the food container and according to the first aspect of the invention.

The food container may be configured to store any suitable type of food. For example, the food container may be configured to store solid food, liquid food, a solid-liquid food mixture, cooked food, raw food, hot food, cold food, frozen food, and/or one or more food ingredient. The food container is a non-drink, food storage container.

Brief Description of the Drawings

An embodiment of the present invention will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 depicts a perspective view of a first embodiment of a food storage system comprising cap assembly mounted atop a food container, where the cap lid is in the closed lid position and the cap handle is in the first closed handle position; Figure 2 depicts a side view of the food storage system of Figure 1, where the cap lid is in the closed lid position and the cap handle is in the first closed handle position; Figure 3 depicts a side view of the food storage system of Figure 1, where the cap lid is in the open lid position and the cap handle is in the first closed handle position; Figure 4 depicts a rear view of the food storage system of Figure 1, where the cap lid is in the open lid position and the cap handle is in the first closed handle position; Figures 5, 9 and 14 depict a perspective view of the food storage system of Figure 1, where the cap lid is in the closed lid position and the cap handle is in the first closed handle position, Figures 6 and 13 depict a perspective view of the food storage system of Figure 1, where the cap lid is in the open lid position and the cap handle is in the first closed handle position; Figures 7 and 10 depict a perspective view of the food storage system of Figure 1, where the cap lid is in the intermediate lid position and the cap handle is in the first closed handle position; Figures 8, 11, 15 depict a cross-sectional view of the food storage system of Figure 1, where the cap lid is in the closed lid position and the cap handle is in the first closed handle position; Figure 12 depicts a cross-sectional view of the food system of Figure 1, where the cap lid is in the open lid position and the cap handle is in the first closed handle position; Figures 16 and 17 depict a perspective view of the food storage system of Figure 1, where the cap lid is in the closed lid position and the cap handle is in the open handle position Figure 18 depicts a cross sectional view of the food storage system of Figure 1, wherein the cap lid is in the closed lid position and the cap handle is in the second closed handle position; Figure 19 depicts a side view of the food storage system of Figure 1, where the cap lid is in the closed lid position and the cap handle is in the second closed handle position; Figure 20 depicts a perspective view of the food storage system of Figure 1, where the cap lid is in the closed lid position and the cap handle is in the second closed handle position; Figures 21, 22, 25 depict a cross-sectional view of the cap assembly of the food storage system of Figure 1, where the closed lid lock is locking the cap lid in the closed lid position (the latching member is in the latching position and the locking member is in the locking position); Figure 23 depicts a perspective exploded view of the closed lid lock of the cap assembly of the food storage system of Figure 1; Figures 24 and 26 depict a cross-sectional view of the cap assembly of the food storage system of Figure 1, where the cap lid is released from the closed lid lock (the latching member is in the unlatching position and the locking member is in the unlocking position); Figures 27 and 28 depict exploded views of the latching member and latching actuator of the closed lid lock of the cap assembly of the food storage system of Figure 1; Figure 29 depicts a view of the latching member and latching actuator of the closed lid lock of the cap assembly of the food storage system of Figure 1; Figures 30 and 31 depict perspective views of the locking member of the closed lid lock of the cap assembly of the food storage system of Figure 1; Figure 32 depicts a perspective view of the conjoined locking member and latching member of the closed lid lock of the cap assembly of the food storage system of Figure 1; Figures 33 and 34 depict a view of the conjoined locking member and latching member, a front view of the cap assembly and a cross-sectional view of the cap assembly of the food storage system of Figure 1, where the latching member is in the latching position and the locking member is in the locking position; Figures 35 and 36 depict a view of the conjoined locking member and latching member, a front view of the cap assembly and a cross-sectional view of the cap assembly of the food storage system of Figure 1, where the latching member is in the latching position and the locking member is in the unlocking position.

One skilled in the art will readily recognise from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the invention described herein and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

Detailed Description of the Invention

Figures 1 to 36 depict an embodiment of a food storage system comprising a food container S and a cap assembly C for use with the food container S. The food container S is a vessel for storing food suitable for consumption. The food container S may be suitable for storing any suitable type of food. For example, the food container S may be configured to store solid food, liquid food, a solid-liquid food mixture, cooked food, raw food, and/or one or more food ingredient. The food container is not a drink container for storing a drink and from which a drink can be consumed.

The cap assembly C is mountable atop the food container S. Together, the food container S and cap assembly form the food storage system. The food storage system has a longitudinal axis LL'. When the cap assembly is open, food can be dispensed from the food container through an outlet of the cap assembly. When the cap assembly is closed, food is sealed within the food container.

In the present invention, the food container S comprises a body 1 having an open end or mouth. The body comprises an internal cavity in which food can be stored.

Food can be added or removed from the internal cavity through the open end. The body may be defined by walls having any suitable construction and material. For example, the walls may have a single or double-walled construction. The walls may have a thermally insulated construction. The food container may have any suitable configuration, for example a cuboid or cylindrical configuration. In the embodiment depicted in the Figures (e.g. see Figures 1 to 4), the food container has an open top cylinder configuration. The food container has a cylindrical shaped body comprising a circular side wall la and a flat lower wall lb. The side wall narrows forming a neck lc. A top edge of the neck lc defines the open end (not shown). Food can be stored in an internal cavity id defined by the walls.

In the present invention and as shown in the Figures, the cap assembly C comprises a base 2 having an outlet, a lid 3 and a pivot hinge 4. The pivot hinge 4 comprises a pivot axis AA' about which the lid 3 can rotate relative to the base 2.

As shown in the Figures (e.g. Figures 1 to 4), the cap assembly C is mountable atop the food container S to cover the open end of the food container.

The base 2 of the cap assembly C is configured to form a fluid-tight/air-tight engagement (sealing engagement) with the food container S and cover the open end. By establishing the sealing engagement, the cap assembly restricts food from being dispensed from the food container other than through the outlet. In the embodiment shown in the Figures, the base 2 may comprise a base seal (not shown) to engage and seal the neck lc when the base is mounted on the neck lc to cover the open end of the food container S. The base 2 of the cap assembly C may have any suitable configuration. The base preferably corresponds to the shape of the food container S to provide a continuous profile. The base may comprise a side wall and an upper wall. In the embodiment depicted in the Figures, the base has a substantially cylindrical shape corresponding to the cylindrical food container, and comprises a circular side wall 2a and an upper wall 2b. The perimeter of the base is defined by the circular side wall 2a.

The outlet of the cap assembly C allows food to be dispensed from the food container S through the cap assembly C. The outlet is configured to allow a user to dispense food directly from the outlet. The outlet may be configured to allow a user access to food stored in the food container via the outlet. The outlet may be located on the base upper wall 2b. The outlet may have any suitable configuration. The outlet may comprise an aperture formed in the base upper wall. In the embodiment depicted in the Figures (e.g. see Figure 7), the outlet may comprise an a generally circular aperture 2c formed in the base upper wall 2b.

The base 2 of the cap assembly C may be releasably mountable on the food container S to allow for the removal and remounting of the cap assembly C on the food container S. The cap assembly and/or food container may comprise a releasable attachment to releasably attach the base 2 of the cap assembly and the food container S, forming a releasable sealing engagement. In the embodiment depicted (e.g. see Figure 8), the attachment comprises an internal thread 2e arranged on an inner surface of the base to form a releasable sealing engagement with a corresponding external thread (not shown) arranged on the neck lc of the food container.

The lid 3 of the cap assembly is interconnected to the base 2 via the pivot hinge 4. The lid 3 is rotatably coupled to the pivot hinge 4 and is rotatable about the pivot axis AA' relative to the base 2 between a closed lid position and an open lid position relative to the base 2.

The lid 3 of the cap assembly C is configured to cover the outlet 2c and close the cap assembly when arranged in the closed lid position. The lid is configured to open the cap assembly and provide user access to the outlet and allow for dispensing of food when arranged in the open lid position.

The pivot axis AA of the pivot hinge 4 is arranged at a spaced distance beyond the perimeter/periphery/peripheral edge of the base 2. This spaced arrangement of the pivot axis AA' allows the lid 3 to rotate without interference with the base 2. The lid 3 is rotatable about the pivot axis AA' in a direction towards the outlet 2c(and the base upper wall 2b) to arrange the lid 3 in the closed lid position. Rotation of the lid in the direction towards the outlet may be referred to as rotation in a "forwards direction" about the pivot axis AA'. Due to the pivot AA' being arranged at the spaced distance beyond the perimeter of the base 2, the lid can be rotated forwardly to the closed lid position without interference with the base side wall 2a. The lid 3 is rotatable about the pivot axis AA' in a direction away from the outlet (and the base upper wall 2b) to arrange the lid in the open lid position. Rotation of the lid in the direction away from the outlet may be referred to as rotation in a "backwards direction" about the pivot axis AA'. Due to the pivot axis AA' being arranged at the spaced distance beyond the perimeter of the base 2, the lid can be rotated backwardly to the open lid position without interference with the base upper wall 2b. As such, the lid 3 can be rotated between the closed lid position and the open lid position without interference (restricting contact) with the base 2.

The pivot axis AA' of the pivot hinge 4 may be arranged below the plane of the base upper wall. For example, in the embodiment shown in the Figures, the pivot axis AA' of the pivot hinge 4 is arranged below the plane of base upper wall 2b.

The pivot hinge 4 of the cap assembly C may have any suitable pivot configuration. The pivot hinge 4 may comprise a pivot pin to define the pivot axis AA', whereby the lid is rotatably coupled to the pivot pin to allow for the rotation of the lid 3 about the pivot axis AA' relative to the base 2. The pivot pin may be rotatable or fixed.

The pivot hinge 4 of the cap assembly C may comprise a pivot arm extending from the base where the pivot pin is arranged at a distal end of the pivot arm. Due to the configuration of the pivot arm extending from the base, the pivot axis is arranged a spaced distance beyond the periphery of the base. The distance along the pivot arm between the base and the pivot axis AA' defines the spaced distance. In the embodiment shown in the Figures, the pivot hinge comprises a pivot arm 4a extending from the base side wall 2a, and a pivot pin 4b arranged at a distal end of the pivot arm. The pivot pin 4b extends through a pivot hole formed in the distal end of the pivot arm. A first end of the pivot pin protrudes from one end of the pivot hole, and a second end of the pivot pin protrudes from the other, opposing, end of the pivot hole. The pivot pin 4b defines the pivot axis AN and is rotatable within the pivot hole. As shown in the Figures, the pivot arm 4a extends generally perpendicularly from the base side wall 2a. The pivot arm 4a arranges the pivot pin 4b (defining the pivot axis AA') a spaced distance from the base side wall 2a, and thereby beyond the perimeter of the base 2. An upper surface of the pivot arm 4a is generally flush with the base upper wall 2b. As such, the pivot pin 4b in the pivot hole, and thereby the pivot axis AA', are arranged below the plane of the base upper wall 2b.

The pivot hinge 4 of the cap assembly may be a spring loaded pivot hinge. The spring loaded pivot hinge may have an open bias so as to bias the lid away from the closed lid position or a closed bias so as to bias the lid away from the open lid position. The pivot hinge may comprise a biasing spring mounted on the pivot pin, wherein the biasing spring is configured to exert a biasing force on the lid. For example, in the embodiment shown (e.g. see Figure 7 and 10), the pivot hinge 4 comprises a biasing spring 4c mounted on the pivot pin 4b to exert a biasing force on the lid 3 away from the closed lid position.

The lid 3 of the cap assembly C may have any suitable shape. The lid shape preferably corresponds to the shape of the base 2. The lid may comprise at least one arm to connect with the pivot hinge. The lid may comprise a side wall and an upper wall. In the embodiment depicted in the Figures, the lid comprises a side wall 3a and a sloping upper wall 3b. The lid also comprises a pair of parallel arms, first lid arm 3c and second lid arm 3d. The first lid arm 3c is coupled to the first end of the pivot pin 4b and the second lid arm 3d is coupled to the second end of the pivot pin 4b.

When the lid 3 of the cap assembly C is arranged in the closed lid position, the lid 3 extends from the pivot axis AA' across the base 2. The lid 3 shrouds the food outlet and engages with the base, thereby closing the cap assembly C. The lid 3 preferably forms a fluid-tight/air-tight engagement (sealing engagement) with the base 2 and/or the outlet 2c to prohibit the leakage of food from the closed cap assembly. Due to the spaced distance of the pivot AA' from the perimeter of the base, the lid extends from the pivot axis AA' and across the base without interference with the base. In the embodiment shown in the Figures (e.g. see Figures 1, 2, 5, 8 and 9), the lid 3 extends from the pivot axis AA' across the base upper wall 2b. The lid upper wall 3b covers the out 2c. A lower edge (rim) of the lid side wall 3a abuts the base upper wall 2b, forming a contact engagement. Since the pivot axis AN is arranged below the plane of the base upper wall 2b the lid 3 is thereby arranged substantially above the pivot axis AA' when in the closed lid position.

The lid 3 of the cap assembly C may comprise a lid seal to form a sealing engagement with the base 2 when the lid is arranged in the closed lid position.

The cap assembly C may comprise a closed lid lock to releasably lock the lid 3 in the closed lid position relative to the base 2, and thereby maintain closure of the cap assembly (maintain the sealing engagement between the lid and the base). When the opening of the cap assembly is desired, the closed lid lock can be activated to release the lid, and thereby allow for the lid to be rotated backwardly about the pivot axis AA' towards the open lid position. Further details of the closed lid lock are described below.

When arranged in the open lid position, the lid 3 extends backwardly and away from the pivot axis AA' of the pivot hinge 4 in a direction below the pivot axis AA'. As such, the lid is arranged at least substantially below the pivot axis AA'. Extending away from the pivot axis AN in a direction below the pivot axis AA' may be referred to as extending in a "downwardly" direction. Due to the spaced distance of the pivot axis AA' from the perimeter of the base 2, the lid 3 extends downwardly below the pivot axis AA' without interference with the base upper wall 2b. See, for example, Figures 3, 4, 6, 12 and 13.

As in the embodiment shown in the Figures, where the pivot axis AA' of the pivot hinge 4 may be arranged below the plane of the base upper wall 2b, the lid 3 is thereby arranged below the plane of the base upper wall when in the open lid position.

When the lid 3 is in the open lid position, the cap assembly C is open and the outlet is accessible to the user to allow the user to dispense food from the food container S via the cap assembly C. Due to the configuration of the lid 3 in the open lid position, the user is able to view and/or access food from the outlet with minimal interference between the user and the lid 3, and with minimal visibility of the lid. As such, the lid in the open lid position does not impair the user's access to the outlet or impair the user's visibility when dispensing food from the outlet.

In the open lid position, the lid 3 may extend in a direction generally parallel to the base side wall 2a and/or the food container side wall la. As in the embodiment shown (e.g. see Figures 3 and 12), a portion 3f of the lid upper wall 3b may abut the base side wall 2a and/or the food container side wall la when the lid is arranged in the open lid position. As such, the lid abutting portion 3f forms a contact engagement with the base side wall 2a and/or the food container side wall la. As depicted in the Figures, the lid abutting portion 3f may have a concave profile that is configured to correspond to the circular profile of the base side wall 2a and/or the food container side wall la to allow the lid to sit flush against the base 2 and/or the food container S when in the open lid position.

The cap assembly C may comprise an open lid lock to releasably maintain the lid 3 in the open lid position relative to the base 2, and thereby maintain the opening of the cap assembly C. The open lid lock may be any suitable locking means. The open lid lock may be user activated and/or automatically activated. The open lid lock may comprise a mating member and a recess configured to receive and form a mating engagement with the corresponding mating member. The mating member may be resiliently deformable under a user force to engage and/or disengage with the recess. The mating member may comprise any suitable resiliently deformable material, including plastic or rubber. The mating member and recess may comprise any suitable configuration. The mating member may be arranged on the lid 3, and the recess may be arranged on the pivot hinge 4. In the embodiment depicted (e.g. see Figures 6, 9, 12 and 13, the mating member of the open lid lock comprises a pair of parallel mating protrusions, a first protrusion 6a and a second protrusion 6b, extending from the lid. As shown in the Figures, the first protrusion 6a and second protrusion 6h extend outwardly from the lid in a gap space between the first lid arm 3c and second lid arm 3d. The protrusions are formed from a resiliently deformable plastic and are resiliently deformable under a user force. The recess of the open lid lock comprises an indent Sc arranged on the pivot hinge 4, and configured to receive the first protrusion 6a and second protrusion 6b. In this embodiment, the indent 6c is an underside recessed portion of the pivot arm 4a between the base side wall 2a and a bullnose abutment 7a at the distal end of the pivot arm 4a. The indent Sc extends the width of the pivot arm 4a. When opening the cap assembly C is desired, the lid 3 is rotated backwardly about the pivot axis AN of the hinge 4 towards the open lid position, whereby when the lid 3 is in the open lid position the protrusions 6a, 6b extend in a direction towards the underside of the pivot arm 4a. As such, the indent Sc receives and forms a mating engagement with the protrusions 6a, 6b to hold the lid 3 in the open lid position. When the closing of the cap assembly is desired, a user can apply a force to resiliently deform and disengage the protrusions 6a, 6b from the indent Sc, and thereby allow for the lid to be rotated forwardly about the pivot axis AA' of the pivot hinge 4 towards the closed lid position.

The cap assembly C may further comprise an intermediate lid lock to releasably lock the lid 3 in an intermediate lid position between the closed lid position and the open lid position. The intermediate lid lock may lock the lid in the intermediate position as the lid 3 is rotated between the closed lid position and the open lid position. The intermediate lid lock may lock the lid 3 in the intermediate position as the lid is rotated backwardly about the pivot axis AA' of the pivot hinge 4 from the closed lid position towards the open lid position. The intermediate lock may lock the lid 3 in the intermediate position as the lid is rotated forwardly about the pivot axis AN of the pivot hinge 4 from the open lid position towards the closed lid position. The intermediate lid lock may be user activated and/or automatically activated.

When arranged in the intermediate lid position, the lid 3 extends backwardly and away from the pivot axis AA' in an outwardly direction away from the pivot hinge 4 and the base 2. Due to the spaced distance of the pivot axis AA' from the perimeter of the base, the lid 3 extends outwardly from the pivot axis AA' in a direction away from the base without interference with the base. As shown in the embodiment depicted in the Figures (e.g. see Figures 7 and 10), the lid 3 may extend away from the pivot axis AA' in a direction generally parallel with the pivot arm 4a and generally perpendicular to the base side wall 2a when in the intermediate lid position.

The intermediate lid lock may be any suitable locking means. The intermediate lid lock may comprise an abutting member and an abutment configured to form an abutting engagement when the lid 3 is in the intermediate position, and thereby maintain the lid 3 in the intermediate lid position. The abutting member may be resiliently deformable under a user force to disengage the abutting member from the abutment and thereby allow the lid 3 to move beyond the intermediate lid position to the open lid position or the closed lid position, depending on the rotating direction of the lid about the pivot axis AA' of the pivot hinge 4. The abutting member may comprise any suitable resiliently deformable material, including plastic or rubber. The abutting member and abutment may have any suitable configuration. The abutting member may be arranged on the lid, and the abutment may be arranged on the pivot hinge 4. The mating member of the open lid lock and the abutting member of the intermediate lid lock may be the same or different components. The abutment may comprise a protrusion, a ridge or an edge formed on the pivot hinge 4. In the embodiment depicted (e.g. see Figures 7, 10 and 11) the first protrusion 6a and the second protrusion 6b extending from the lid in the gap space between the first lid arm 3c and second lid arm 3d also act as abutting members for the intermediate lid lock. The abutment of the intermediate lid lock comprises the bullnose 7a formed at the distal end of the pivot arm 4a. The bullnose 7a has a curved or teardrop shape, and it extends from the underside of the distal end of the pivot arm 4a. The bullnose 7a extends the width of the pivot arm 4a. As the lid 3 is rotated about the pivot axis AA', the protrusions 6a, 6b will abut the bullnose 7a and form an abutting engagement thereby stopping any further rotation of the lid and holding the lid in the intermediate lid position. The protrusions 6a, 6b may be configured to slide across the pivot arm surface as the lid 3 rotates about the pivot axis AA' until the protrusion 6a, 6b abuts the bullnose 7a. The protrusions 6a, 6b and bullnose 7a are configured to abut to hold the lid 3 in the intermediate lid position as the lid is rotated backwardly about the pivot axis AA' from the closed lid position towards the open lid position.

Likewise, the protrusions 6a, 6b and bullnose 7a are configured to abut to hold the lid in the intermediate lid position as the lid is rotated forwardly about the pivot axis AA' from the open lid position towards the closed lid position. To release the lid from the intermediate lid position, a user can apply a force to resiliently deform the protrusions 6a, 6b and push them beyond the bullnose 7a. Once released, the lid can then continue to be rotated about the pivot axis AA' to the open lid position or the closed lid position as desired.

To further assist the user, the cap assembly C may comprise a handle. The handle may be coupled to the pivot hinge 4 and separately rotatable about the pivot axis AA' relative to the lid 3 to allow the handle to rotate relative to the lid. The lid is rotatable to a closed handle position, where the handle is unusable by the user to hold the cap assembly. The lid is rotatable to an open handle position where the handle is usable by the user to hold the cap assembly.

As in the embodiment shown (e.g. see Figures 14 to 20), the cap assembly C may comprise a handle 8 having an aperture 8a through which a user can extend one or more finger. The handle 8 is rotatably coupled to the pivot hinge 4 to rotate about the pivot axis AA'. The handle 8 is separately rotatable about the pivot axis AA' relative to the lid 3. The handle may comprise a pair of parallel arms, a first handle arm 8b and a second handle arm 8c. The first handle arm 8b is coupled to the first end of the pivot pin 4b and the second handle arm 8c is coupled to the second end of the pivot pin 4b. The handle 8 is rotatable about the pivot axis AA' in a forwards direction towards the lid 3 and in a backwards directions away from the lid. As in the embodiment shown, the handle 8 may be rotatable between a first closed handle position and a second closed handle position. The handle may be rotatable to an open handle position therebetween the first closed handle position and the second closed handle position.

When the handle 8 is arranged in the first closed handle position, the handle may extend from the pivot axis AA' across the lid. See Figures 14 and 15.

As in the embodiment shown in the Figures, the lid 3 may comprise a handle recess 9 in which to receive the handle 8 when arranged in the first closed handle position.

The handle recess 9 is configured so that the handle 8 can sit flush within the recess when the handle is arranged in the first closed handle position. In the embodiment shown, the recess is formed in the lid abutting portion 3g with the concave profile. The handle 8 has a corresponding concave profile such that when the handle is arranged in the first closed handle position, the lid abutting portion 3f and the closed handle form a homologous concave surface.

The lid 3 may comprise a first finger access space to provide a finger sized gap space between the lid and the handle when arranged in the first closed handle position. The first finger access space allows the user to access and lift the handle to rotate it away from the lid. A wall of the handle recess 9 may be indented to form the first finger access space, for example a side wall of the recess. A wall of the handle recess 9 may be inclined to form the first finger access space between the lid and the handle. In the embodiment depicted (e.g. see Figures 15 & 17), the rear wall 9a of the handle recess is inclined such that a first finger access space 10 is formed between the lid 3 and the handle 8 when the handle is arranged in the first closed handle position within the handle recess 9. As such, the user can extend one or more finger through the handle aperture 8a and under the handle 8 to raise and rotate the handle from the first closed handle position when desired.

When the handle 8 is arranged in the open handle position, the handle 8 extends outwardly from the pivot axis AA' in a direction away from the lid 3 and the base 2. In the embodiment shown, the handle extends from the pivot axis AA' in an upwardly direction away from the lid. The handle 8 may be rotated about the pivot axis AA' to the open handle position from the first closed handle position or the second closed handle position as desired. A user can extend one or more finger through the aperture 8a to hold the cap assembly. See Figures 16 and 17.

When the handle 8 is arranged in the second closed handle position, the handle 8 may extend backwardly and away from the pivot axis AA' in a direction below the pivot axis AA'. In the second closed handle position, the handle 8 may extend in a generally parallel direction to the base side wall 2a. As in the embodiment shown in Figures 18 to 20, the handle may abut the base side wall 2a, forming a contact engagement, when arranged in the second closed handle position. A second finger access space may be formed between the handle 8 and the base 2, when the handle is in the second closed handle position, to allow use access to the handle. In the embodiment as shown, the second finger access space may be formed due to the concave profile of the handle 8.

The cap assembly C may comprise a closed handle lock to releasably lock the handle 8 in the closed handle position. The closed handle lock may have any suitable configuration. As in the embodiment shown in the Figures, the cap assembly may comprise a first closed handle lock to releasably lock the handle in the first closed handle position. In the embodiment depicted (e.g. see Figure 17), the first closed handle lock comprises a protrusion 11 formed in the recess 9 to form an abutting engagement with the handle 8 when the handle is located in the first closed lid position within the recess 9. The cap assembly may comprise a second closed handle lock to releasably lock the handle in the second closed handle position.

The cap assembly C may comprise an open handle lock to releasably lock the handle 8 in the open handle position. The open handle lock may have any suitable configuration. In the embodiment shown (e.g. see Figure 17), the open handle lock comprises a protrusion 12 arranged on an outside surface of one or more of the handle arms 8b, Sc to form an abutting engagement with the corresponding adjacent lid arm 3e, 3f.

As described above, and as shown in the Figures (see in particular Figures 21 to 36), the cap assembly C may comprise a closed lid lock 5 to releasably lock the lid 3 in the closed lid position relative to the base 2, and thereby maintain the closure of the cap assembly. The closed lid lock may comprise any suitable locking means.

As shown in the embodiment in the Figures, the closed lid lock 5 may be mounted on the base side wall 2a and arranged at least substantially below the plane of the base upper wall 2b. As such, the user can access the outlet 2c with minimal interference (restricting contact) with the closed lid lock 5.

The closed lid lock 5 may comprise a latching member LA to latch (engage) the lid 3, when the lid 3 is arranged in the closed lid position. The latching member may be configured to provide a first locking effect on the lid 3 in the closed lid position.

The closed lid lock 5 may further comprise a locking member LO to lock the latching member. The locking member LO may be configured to provide a second locking effect on the lid 3 in the closed lid position, in addition to the first locking effect provided by the latching member LA. As such the closed lid lock 5 provides a double locking effect on the lid 3. To double lock the lid 3 in the closed position, the lid may be latched by the latching member LA and the latching member LA may then be locked by the locking member LO. To release the double locked lid 3, the latching member LA may be unlocked from the locking member LO, and the lid 3 may then be unlatched from the latching member LA.

The latching member LA may be movable between a latching position and an unlatching position relative to the lid 3 in the closed lid position. When the latching member LA is arranged in the latching position, the latching member LA is configured to latch (engage) the lid 3 arranged in the closed lid position. When the latching member LA is arranged in the unlatching position, the latching member LA is spaced from the lid 3 and unable to latch (engage) the lid 3 arranged in the closed lid position.

The locking member LO may be movable between the locking position and an unlocking position relative to the latching member LA. When the locking member LO is arranged in the locking position, the latching member LA is fixed in the latching position and thereby unable to move from the latching position to the unlatching position. When the locking member LO is arranged in the unlocking position, the latching member LA is free to move between the latching position and the unlatching position.

Figures 21, 22, 25, and 34 depict cross-sectional views of an example of the closed lid lock 5 where the locking member LO is arranged in the locked position and the latching member LA is arranged in the latching position. Hence the lid 3 is double locked in the closed position by the closed lid lock 5.

Figure 36 depicts a cross-section view of an example of the closed lid lock 5 where the locking member LO is arranged in the unlocked position and the latching member LA is arranged in the latching position. Hence, the lid 3 is single locked in the closed lid position by only the latching member LA. The latching member LA is unlocked from the locking member LO, and is free to move between the latching position and unlatching position as desired.

Figures 24 and 26 depict cross-sectional views of an example of the closed lid lock 5 where the locking member LO is arranged in the unlocked position and the latching member LA is arranged in the unlatching position. Hence, the lid 3 is released from the closed lid lock 5 and able to move to the open lid position as desired.

The closed lid lock 5 may comprise a housing defined by a perimeter wall PW and rear wall RW. The latching member LA and locking member LO are mounted in the housing. The latching member LA is arranged to the rear of the locking member LO, between the locking member LO and the rear wall RW. An outer surface 0 of the locking member LO faces outwardly and is accessible to a user. The outer surface 0 of the locking member LO defines an outer surface of closed lid lock 5. See Figures 21, 22 and 23.

The latching member LA may comprise any suitable fastening means to latch the lid in the closed lid position. For example, as in the embodiment depicted, the latching member LA may comprise a hook 5a to grab and hold a lid catch 3h when the latching member LA is in the latching position and the lid 3 is in the closed lid position. The hook 5a may be arranged at an upper end of the latching member LA, and faces inwardly towards the base 2 and lid 3.

As explained above, when the locking member LO is arranged in the unlocking position, the latching member LA may be movable between the latching position and an unlatching position relative to the lid 3 in the closed lid position. In the latching position, the latching member LA is configured so as to engage the lid 3 in the closed lid position and thereby provide the initial locking effect on the lid (e.g. see Figures 8, 11, 15, 18, 21, 22, 25, 34 and 36 where the lid 3 is arranged in the closed lid position and the latching member LA is arranged in the latching position such that the hook 5a is configured to engage the lid catch 3h). In the unlatching position, the latching member LA is configured a spaced distance from lid 3 and thereby unable to engage the lid catch 3h. As such, when the latching member LA is moved from the latching position to the unlatching position, the lid 3 is released from the latching member LA and the lid 3 becomes free to move from the closed lid position (e.g. see Figures 12, 24 and 26 where the latching member LA is arranged in the unlatching position such that the hook 5a is unable to engage the lid catch 3h, and the lid 3 is free to rotate about the pivot hinge 4 from the closed lid position towards the open lid position).

The latching member LA may be movable in any suitable motion or direction between the latching position and the unlatching position. The closed lid lock 5 may comprise a latching member actuator to control the movement of the latching member LA between the latching position and the unlatching position. The latching member actuator may be a rotational actuator whereby the latching member LA is rotatable between latching position and the unlatching position. For example, as shown in the Figures (e.g. see Figures 29, 32, 33 and 36), the latching member actuator of the closed lid lock may comprise a pivot having a pivot axis XX' and about which the latching member LA is rotatable between the latching position and the unlatching position. The latching member LA may be rotatable about the pivot axis XX' in a direction towards the lid 3 (and the base 2) to arrange the latching member LA in the latching position. The latching member LA may be rotatable about the pivot axis XX' in a direction away from the lid 3 (and the base 2) to arrange the latching member LA in the unlatching position, at a spaced distance from the lid 3 (and the base 2).

As in the embodiment depicted in the Figures, the closed lid lock 5 may comprise a toggle to interconnect the latching member LA and locking member LO, whereby the toggle is configured to allow the latching member LA and locking member LO to move as a conjoined unit between the latching position and the unlatching position.

As such, when the latching member actuator is activated, the latching member LA rotates together with the locking member LO about the pivot axis AA' between the latching position and the unlatching position.

The pivot of the latching member actuator may have any suitable pivot configuration.

For example, as in the embodiment shown in the Figures (see in particular Figures to 29, 32, 33, 36), the pivot of the latching member actuator may comprise a pivot pin 5b defining the pivot axis XX'. The latching member LA may comprise a pivot hole Sc through which the pivot pin extends so as to rotatably couple the latching member LA to the pivot pin 5b. The pivot hole Sc may be arranged in a central region of the latching member LA. The pivot hole Sc may be formed on the inner surface of the latching member LA as shown. The ends of the pivot pin 51b, 52b may be securely coupled to opposing sides of the housing peripheral wall PW so as to mount the pivot pin 5b in the housing.

The latching member actuator of the closed lid lock 5 may comprise a latching position abutment configured to form an abutting engagement with the latching member LA or the locking member LO when the latching member is arranged in the latching position. The latching position abutment may control the rotation of the latching member LA to the latching position, and thereby define the latching position.

As shown in Figures 21, 22, 25, 34 and 36 the latching member actuator of the closed lid lock may comprise a latching position abutment 5d protruding from the rear wall RW of the housing of the closed lid lock position, whereby the latching position abutment 5d is configured to form an abutting engagement with an inner surface of the latching member LA when the latching member LA (interconnected with the locking member LO by the toggle) is arranged in the latching position. As in the embodiment shown (e.g. see Figures 21, 22, 25, 34 and 36), the latching position abutment 5d may be configured to abut the latching member LA whereby the latching member LA is substantially upright in the latching position. The latching position abutment 5d may prevent further rotation of the latching member LA beyond the latching position.

The latching member actuator of the closed lid lock 5 may comprise an unlatching abutment configured to form an abutting engagement with the latching member LA or the locking member LO when the latching member is arranged in the unlatching position. The unlatching position abutment may control the rotation of the latching member LA to the unlatching position, and thereby define the unlatching position. As shown (e.g. see Figures 24 and 26), the latching member actuator of the closed lid lock 5 may comprise an unlatching position abutment 5e protruding from the rear wall RW of the housing of the closed lid lock position, whereby the unlatching position abutment 5e is configured to form an abutting engagement with a corresponding locking abutment 5h of the locking member LO when the locking member LO is arranged in the unlocking position and the latching member LA (interconnected with the locking member LO by the toggle) is arranged in the unlatching position. As in the embodiment shown (e.g. see Figures 24 and 26) the unlatching position abutment 5e may be configured to abut the locking abutment 5h of the locking member LO whereby the latching member LA is inclined away from the lid 3 (and the base 2) in the unlatching position. The locking abutment 5h of the locking member LO may be configured to form an abutting engagement with the underside of the unlatching position abutment 5e when the latching member LA is arranged in the unlatching position and the locking member LO is arranged in the unlocking position. The unlatching position abutment 5e may be configured to allow the latching member LA to be rotated about the pivot axis XX' by an angle of approximately 10 to 30 degrees from the latching position to the unlatching position. The unlatching position abutment 5e may prevent further rotation of the latching member LA beyond the unlatching position.

The latching member LA may have a latching bias so as to bias the latching member LA towards the latching position, or an unlatching bias so as to bias the latching member LA towards the unlatching position. The closed lid lock 5 may comprise a biasing spring to exert a biasing force on the latching member LA. For example, as in the embodiment shown, the closed lid lock may comprise a biasing spring 5f with a latching position bias. The biasing spring 5f may be arranged below the pivot axis XX' between the inner surface of the latching member LA and the housing rear wall RW to exert a biasing force on the latching member LA towards latching position.

The biasing spring 5f may bias the latching member LA into abutting engagement with the latching position abutment 5d. As shown in the Figures, the biasing spring 5f may be mounted on a spring mount 5g arranged on the inner surface and at the lower region of the latching member LA below the pivot hole Sc and thereby below the pivot axis XX' of the pivot pin 5b.

The latching member actuator may be user activated to move the latching member LA from the latching position to the unlatching position, and thereby release the lid 3. As in the embodiment shown, (due to the latching member LA being arranged to the rear of the locking member LO, and the latching member LA and locking member LO being conjoined by the toggle) the latching member actuator may be activated by a user applying an unlatching force to the outer surface 0 of the locking member LO, for example by pushing the outer surface 0 with a finger. When the unlatching force is applied to the lower region of the outer surface 0 below the pivot axis XX' of the pivot pin 5b, the unlatching force counters the latching position bias of the biasing spring 5f, and the latching member (and interconnected locking member LO) rotates about the pivot axis XX' of the pivot pin 5b from the latching position to the unlatching position. The lid catch 3h is thereby released from the hook 5a and free to move from the closed lid position. See Figures 25 and 26 where the latching member LA (and interconnected locking member LO) moves from the latching position in Figure 25 to the unlatching position in Figure 26.

The locking member LO may comprise any suitable locking means to lock the latching member LA in the latching position and thereby prohibit movement of the latching member from the latching position and the unlatching position. The locking member may comprise a locking member abutment configured to form an abutting engagement with a locking position abutment when the locking member is in the locking position. For example, as in the embodiment depicted in the Figures (e.g. see Figures 21, 22 25 and 34), the locking member may comprise the locking member abutment 5h configured to form an abutting engagement with the unlatching position abutment 5e when the locking member is the locking position, whereby the axis of abutting engagement YY' may be perpendicular to the pivot axis)0(' of the pivot pin 5b so as to prohibit rotation of the latching member LA about the pivot axis XX' of the pivot pin 5b from the latching position to the unlatching position. As such, when the locking member LO is in the locking position, the locking member abutment 5h abuts the unlatching position abutment 5e (acting as a locking position abutment) such that movement of the latching member LA from the latching position to the unlatching position is prohibited.

As explained above, the locking member LO may be movable between the locking position and an unlocking position relative to the latching member LA. When the locking member LO is arranged in the locking position, the latching member LA is fixed in the latching position and thereby unable to move from the latching position to the unlatching position. When the locking member LO is arranged in the unlocking position, the latching member LA is free to move between the latching position and the unlatching position. The locking member may be arranged in the locking position to lock the latching member in the latching position, thereby providing a second locking effect on the lid. When the opening of the cap assembly is desired, the locking member may be arranged in the unlocking position to allow the latch to be moved from the latching position to the unlatching position and the releasing of the lid. The locking member may be arranged in the locking position, or an alternative locking position, to lock the latching member in the unlatching position, thereby prohibiting any locking of the lid in the closed lid position.

The locking member LO may be movable in any suitable motion or direction between the locking position and the unlocking position relative to the latching member LA.

The closed lid lock may comprise a locking member actuator to control the movement of the locking member LO. The locking member actuator may be a linear actuator whereby the locking member LO is slidable in a linear direction relative to the latching member LA between the locking position and the unlocking position. As in the embodiment depicted in the Figures, the toggle acts as a locking member actuator to control the motion of the locking member relative to the latching member between the locking position and the unlocking position.

As in the embodiment depicted in the Figures, the toggle may comprise a protrusion, a locking position recess to form a mating engagement with the protrusion when the locking member is arranged in the locking position, and an unlocking position recess to form a mating engagement with the protrusion when the protrusion is arranged in the unlocking position. The protrusion and respective recesses are configured to control the direction of motion and the displacement of the locking member LO between the locking position and the unlocking position relative to the latching member LA. The protrusion may be resiliently deformable under a user force to engage and disengage with each recess, and thereby allow the locking member LO to move between the locking position and the unlocking position. The protrusion may comprise any suitable resiliently deformable material, including plastic or rubber.

Using the resiliently deformable protrusion provides smooth transition of the locking member LO between the locking position and the unlocking position. Using a resiliently deformable protrusion advantageously helps to avoid wear of the latching member LA-locking member LO interconnection and thereby aids the lifespan of the interconnection. Using the resiliently deformable protrusion advantageously allows the user to feel when the locking member LO has moved between the recesses to the locking position or the unlocking position as desired. A noise may be generated as the protrusion moves between the locking position recess and the unlocking position recess, and this aids the user in knowing the locking member LO has moved between the locking position and the unlocking position. The protrusion may be arranged on the locking member LO. The locking position recess and the unlocking position recess may be arranged on the latching member LA.

The toggle may be user activated to move the locking member LO relative to the latching member LA between the locking position and the unlocking position as desired. For example (e.g. see Figures 27 to 29, 33 to 36) when the toggle is configured to allow the locking member LO to move linearly relative to the latching member LA, the toggle may be configured to be activated by a user applying a locking force to the outer surface 0 of locking member so as to slide the locking member in a linear locking direction relative to the latching member from the unlocking position to the locking position. The locking force causes the protrusion to disengage from the unlocking position recess and engage with the locking position recess. The toggle may be configured to be activated by a user applying an unlocking force to the outer surface 0 of the locking member to slide the locking member in a linear unlocking direction (opposite to the linear locking direction) relative to the latching member from the locking position to the unlocking position. The unlocking force causes the protrusion to disengage from the locking position recess and engage with the unlocking position recess.

In the embodiment depicted in the Figures (e.g. see Figures 27 to 29 and 33 to 36) the closed lid lock comprises a first toggle and a second toggle. The first toggle comprises a first protrusion P1, a first locking position recess LPR1 and a first unlocking position recess UPR1. The second toggle comprises a second protrusion P2, a second locking position recess LPR2 and a second unlocking position recess UPR2. The protrusions are arranged on opposing inner surfaces of the locking member LO. The recesses are arranged on opposing side edges of the latching member LA. The recesses of each toggle are arranged linearly along the side edge of the latching member LA to cause the locking member LO to move linearly relative to the latching member LA as the protrusions move between the recesses. The linear distance between each locking position recess and corresponding unlocking position recess defines the linear displacement of the locking member LO relative to the latching member between the locking position and the unlocking position.

Figures 33 and 34 show external, internal and cross-sectional views of the closed lid lock 5 where the locking member LO is arranged in the locked position relative to the latching member LA and the latching member LA is arranged in the latching position. As such, the lid 3 is double locked by the closed lid lock 5. As depicted, the protrusions P1, P2 are arranged in mating engagement with the corresponding locking position recesses LPR1, LPR2. The locking abutment 5h is arranged in abutting engagement with the unlatching position abutment 5e (where the axis of abutting engagement W' between the locking abutment 5h and 5e is perpendicular to the pivot axis XX') to prohibit rotation of the latching member LA from the latched position. The hook 5a is arranged in latching engagement with the lid catch 3h.

Figures 35 and 36 show external, internal and cross-sectional views of the closed lid lock where the locking member LO is arranged in the unlocked position relative to the latching member LA and the latching member LA is arranged in the latching position. As such, the lid 3 is single locked by the closed lid lock 5. As depicted, the hook 5a is arranged in latching engagement with the lid catch 3h. The protrusions P1, P2 are arranged in mating engagement with the corresponding unlocking position recesses UPR1, UPR2, causing the locking abutment 5h to be displaced from the unlatching position abutment 5e. As such, the latching member LA is free to rotate between the latching position and the unlatching position as desired.

As explained above, the toggle may be user activated to move the locking member LO relative to the latching member LA between the locking position and the unlocking position as desired. For example, as shown in Figures 33 and 34, the first toggle and second toggle may be configured to be activated by applying a locking force to the outer surface 0 of the locking member LO so as to slide the locking member in a linear locking direction relative to the latching member LA from the unlocking position to the locking position. The locking force causes the protrusions P1 and P2 to disengage from the respective unlocking position recesses UPR1 and UPR2 and engage with the respective locking position recesses LPR1 and LPR2. For example, as shown in Figures 35 and 36, the first toggle and second toggle may be configured to be activated by applying an unlocking force to the outer surface 0 of the locking member LO so as to slide the locking member in a linear unlocking direction (opposite to the linear locking direction) relative to the latching member LA from the locking position to the unlocking position. The unlocking force causes the protrusions P1 and P2 to disengage from the respective locking position recesses LPR1 and LPR2 and engage with the respective unlocking position recesses UPR1 and UPR2.

The closed lid lock may comprise a guide to guide the movement of the locking member LO between the locking position and the unlocking position relative to the latching member LA. The guide is configured to guide the direction and displacement of the locking member LO when moving between the locking position and the unlocking position. As in an embodiment shown in the Figures (e,g, see Figures 30, 31, 32, 33, 35), the guide may comprise as corresponding pair of guide holes G formed in the locking member LO to receive each end 51b, 52b of pivot pin. The guide holes G may be configured to guide the movement of the locking member LO relative to the pivot pin 5b and the latching member LA, as the locking member LO moves between the locking position and the unlocking position. The guide holes G may be an elongate aperture to guide linear movement and linear displacement of the locking member relative to the pivot pin and the latching member, between the locking position and the unlocking position.

To double lock the lid 3, the latching member LA may arranged in the latching position to latch the lid 3, and the locking member LO may arranged in the locking position to lock the latching member LA in the latching position. For example, see the embodiment of the cap assembly C in Figures 21, 22, 25 and 34 where the lid 3 is double locked by the closed lid lock 5, whereby the latching member LA is arranged in the latching position to latch the lid catch 3h and the locking member LO is arranged in the locking position to lock the latching member LA.

To release the lid, the locking member LO may be arranged in the unlocking position so that the latching member LA is free to move from the latching position, and the latching member LA may be arranged in the unlatching position to unlatch the lid. For example, see the embodiment of the cap assembly in Figures 35 and 36 where the locking member LO is initially arranged in the unlocking position to unlock the latching member LA. Also see the embodiment of the cap assembly in Figures 24 and 26 where the lid 3 is released from the closed lid lock 5, whereby the locking member LO is arranged in the unlocking position to unlock the latching member LA and the latching member LA is arranged in the unlatching position to unlatch the lid catch 3h.

Although the invention has been described above with reference to a preferred embodiment, it will be appreciated that various changes or modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the defined claims.

Optional features described in relation to the invention can be combined. Any subject matter described in this specification can be combined with any other subject matter in the specification to form any combination.

The embodiment described herein should be understood to have broad application, and is meant to illustrate one possible way of carrying out the invention, without intending to suggest that the scope of this disclosure, including the claims, is limited to that embodiment. Furthermore, the terminology and phraseology used herein is solely used for descriptive purposes and should not be construed as limiting in scope.

All singular forms of elements, or any other components described herein are understood to include plural forms thereof and vice versa. Language such as "including", "comprising", "having", "containing", or "involving" and variations thereof, is intended to be broad and encompass the subject matter listed thereafter, equivalents, and additional subject matter not recited, and is not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers or steps. Likewise, the term "comprising" is considered synonymous with the terms "including" or "containing" for applicable legal purposes. Thus, throughout the specification and claims unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise" or variations thereof such as "comprises" or "comprising" will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers. Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles and the like is included in the specification solely for the purpose of providing a context for the present invention. It is not suggested or represented that any or all of these matters formed part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present invention. In this disclosure, whenever a composition, an element or a group of elements is preceded with the transitional phrase "comprising", it is understood that we also contemplate the same composition, element or group of elements with transitional phrases "consisting essentially of", "consisting", "selected from the group of consisting of', "including", or "is" preceding the recitafion of the composition, element or group of elements and vice versa. In this disclosure, the words "typically" or "optionally" are to be understood as being intended to indicate optional or non-essential features of the invention which are present in certain examples but which can be omitted in others without departing from the scope of the invention.

References to directional and positional descriptions such as upper and lower and directions e.g. "forwardly", "backwardly", "downwardly" etc are to be interpreted by a skilled reader in the context of the examples described to refer to the orientation of features shown in the drawings, and are not to be interpreted as limiting the invention to the literal interpretation of the term, but instead should be as understood by the skilled addressee.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A cap assembly usable with a food container, wherein the cap assembly is mountable atop the food container, the cap assembly comprising: a base having a side wall and an upper wall, an outlet arranged on the base upper wall; a lid; a pivot hinge about which the lid is rotatable relative to the base between a closed lid position and an open lid position; a closed lid lock to releasably lock the lid in the closed lid position, whereby the closed lid lock is arranged on the base side wall and below the plane of the base upper wall.
2 A cap assembly according to claim 1, whereby the closed lid lock comprises: a latching member; a latching member actuator to control rotational motion of the latching member between a latching position to latch the lid in the closed lid position, and an unlatching position to unlatch the lid.
3. A cap assembly according to claim 2, wherein the latching member actuator comprises a pivot pin, whereby the latching member is rotationally coupled to pivot pin and the latching member is rotatable about the pivot pin between the latching position and the unlatching position.
4. A cap assembly according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the closed lid lock further comprises: a locking member, a locking member actuator to interconnect the locking member and the latching member, and to control lateral motion of the locking member relative to the latching member between a locking position to lock the latching member and an unlocking position to unlock the latching member, whereby the locking member actuator maintains the interconnection between the locking member and the latching member during lateral motion of the locking member relative to the latching member between the locking position and the unlocking position.
5. A cap assembly according to claim 3, wherein the locking member actuator comprises: a protrusion; a first recess to receive the protrusion when the locking member is in the locking position; a second recess to receive the protrusion when the locking member is in the unlocking position;
6. A cap assembly according to claim 5, wherein the protrusion comprises a resiliently deformable material.
7. A cap assembly according to any of claims 4 to 6, wherein the locking member comprises a locking member abutment configured to form an abutting engagement with a locking position abutment when the locking member is arranged in the locking position.
8. A cap assembly according to any of claims 4 to 7, wherein the locking member comprises an outer surface accessible by a user.
9. A cap assembly according to 8, wherein the latching member actuator is user activatable by an unlatching force applied by the user to the outer surface of the locking member to rotationally move the latching member from the latching position to the unlatching position.
10. A cap assembly according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the locking member actuator is user activatable by a locking force applied by the user to the outer surface of the locking member to laterally move the locking member from the unlocking position to the locking position; and wherein the locking member actuator is user activatable by an unlocking force applied by the user to the outer surface of the locking member to laterally move the locking member from the locking position to the unlocking position.
11. A cap assembly according to any of claims 2 to 10, wherein the latching member actuator comprises a latching position abutment configured to form an abutting engagement with the latching member or the locking member when the latching member is arranged in the latching position.
12. A cap assembly according to any of claims 2 to 10, wherein the latching member actuator comprises an unlatching position abutment configured to form an abutting engagement with the latching member or the locking member when the latching member is arranged in the unlatching position.
13. A cap assembly according to any of claims 4 to 7 when dependent on 3, wherein the locking member comprises an elongate guide hole to receive the pivot pin, wherein the elongate guide hole is configured to guide the lateral motion of the locking member relative to the pivot pin as the locking member moves between locking position and the unlocking position.
14. A food storage system comprising: a food container comprising: an open end; a cap assembly comprising: a base, mountable on the food container to cover the open end, the base having a side wall and an upper wall; an outlet arranged on the base upper wall; a lid; a pivot about which the lid can rotate relative to the base between a closed lid position and an open lid position; a closed lid lock to releasably lock the lid in the closed lid position, whereby the closed lid lock is arranged on the base side wall and below the plane of the base upper wall.
15. The food storage system comprising the closed lid lock as defined in any of claims 2 to 13.