US20040211787A9 - No-spill drinking cup apparatus - Google Patents

No-spill drinking cup apparatus Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20040211787A9
US20040211787A9 US10/001,257 US125701A US2004211787A9 US 20040211787 A9 US20040211787 A9 US 20040211787A9 US 125701 A US125701 A US 125701A US 2004211787 A9 US2004211787 A9 US 2004211787A9
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
valve
assembly
cup
valve member
opening
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
US10/001,257
Other versions
US7204386B2 (en
US20030098312A1 (en
Inventor
Nouri Hakim
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
ADMAR INTERNATIONAL Inc
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Family has litigation
First worldwide family litigation filed litigation Critical https://patents.darts-ip.com/?family=22002975&utm_source=google_patent&utm_medium=platform_link&utm_campaign=public_patent_search&patent=US20040211787(A9) "Global patent litigation dataset” by Darts-ip is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Priority to US10/001,257 priority Critical patent/US7204386B2/en
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Priority to US10/083,656 priority patent/US7243814B2/en
Publication of US20030098312A1 publication Critical patent/US20030098312A1/en
Publication of US20040211787A9 publication Critical patent/US20040211787A9/en
Publication of US7204386B2 publication Critical patent/US7204386B2/en
Priority to US11/787,672 priority patent/US7789263B2/en
Application granted granted Critical
Priority to US11/825,793 priority patent/US7789264B2/en
Assigned to LUV N' CARE, LTD. reassignment LUV N' CARE, LTD. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: HAKIM, NOURI E.
Priority to US12/797,061 priority patent/US8695841B2/en
Priority to US12/877,021 priority patent/US9010568B2/en
Priority to US13/346,777 priority patent/US8827107B2/en
Priority to US14/249,203 priority patent/US9510700B2/en
Assigned to ADMAR INTERNATIONAL, INC. reassignment ADMAR INTERNATIONAL, INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: LUV N' CARE, LTD.
Assigned to ADMAR INTERNATIONAL, INC. reassignment ADMAR INTERNATIONAL, INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: HAKIM, NOURI E.
Adjusted expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Fee Related legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D43/00Lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
    • B65D43/02Removable lids or covers
    • B65D43/0202Removable lids or covers without integral tamper element
    • B65D43/0225Removable lids or covers without integral tamper element secured by rotation
    • B65D43/0231Removable lids or covers without integral tamper element secured by rotation only on the outside, or a part turned to the outside, of the mouth of the container
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47GHOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G19/00Table service
    • A47G19/22Drinking vessels or saucers used for table service
    • A47G19/2205Drinking glasses or vessels
    • A47G19/2266Means for facilitating drinking, e.g. for infants or invalids
    • A47G19/2272Means for facilitating drinking, e.g. for infants or invalids from drinking glasses or cups comprising lids or covers
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D47/00Closures with filling and discharging, or with discharging, devices
    • B65D47/04Closures with discharging devices other than pumps
    • B65D47/20Closures with discharging devices other than pumps comprising hand-operated members for controlling discharge
    • B65D47/2018Closures with discharging devices other than pumps comprising hand-operated members for controlling discharge comprising a valve or like element which is opened or closed by deformation of the container or closure
    • B65D47/2031Closures with discharging devices other than pumps comprising hand-operated members for controlling discharge comprising a valve or like element which is opened or closed by deformation of the container or closure the element being formed by a slit, narrow opening or constrictable spout, the size of the outlet passage being able to be varied by increasing or decreasing the pressure
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D51/00Closures not otherwise provided for
    • B65D51/16Closures not otherwise provided for with means for venting air or gas
    • B65D51/1633Closures not otherwise provided for with means for venting air or gas whereby venting occurs by automatic opening of the closure, container or other element
    • B65D51/1644Closures not otherwise provided for with means for venting air or gas whereby venting occurs by automatic opening of the closure, container or other element the element being a valve
    • B65D51/165Closures not otherwise provided for with means for venting air or gas whereby venting occurs by automatic opening of the closure, container or other element the element being a valve formed by a slit or narrow opening
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2543/00Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
    • B65D2543/00009Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
    • B65D2543/00018Overall construction of the lid
    • B65D2543/00046Drinking-through lids
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2543/00Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
    • B65D2543/00009Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
    • B65D2543/00018Overall construction of the lid
    • B65D2543/00064Shape of the outer periphery
    • B65D2543/00074Shape of the outer periphery curved
    • B65D2543/00092Shape of the outer periphery curved circular
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2543/00Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
    • B65D2543/00009Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
    • B65D2543/00018Overall construction of the lid
    • B65D2543/00259Materials used
    • B65D2543/00296Plastic
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2543/00Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
    • B65D2543/00009Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
    • B65D2543/00342Central part of the lid
    • B65D2543/00351Dome-like
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2543/00Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
    • B65D2543/00009Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
    • B65D2543/00444Contact between the container and the lid
    • B65D2543/00481Contact between the container and the lid on the inside or the outside of the container
    • B65D2543/0049Contact between the container and the lid on the inside or the outside of the container on the inside, or a part turned to the inside of the mouth of the container
    • B65D2543/00527NO contact
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2543/00Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
    • B65D2543/00009Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
    • B65D2543/00444Contact between the container and the lid
    • B65D2543/00481Contact between the container and the lid on the inside or the outside of the container
    • B65D2543/00537Contact between the container and the lid on the inside or the outside of the container on the outside, or a part turned to the outside of the mouth of the container
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D2543/00Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
    • B65D2543/00009Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
    • B65D2543/00953Sealing means
    • B65D2543/00962Sealing means inserted
    • B65D2543/00972Collars or rings
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16KVALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K7/00Diaphragm valves or cut-off apparatus, e.g. with a member deformed, but not moved bodily, to close the passage ; Pinch valves
    • F16K7/12Diaphragm valves or cut-off apparatus, e.g. with a member deformed, but not moved bodily, to close the passage ; Pinch valves with flat, dished, or bowl-shaped diaphragm

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a no-spill cup assembly with an improved valve mechanism to prevent liquid from flowing out of the cup when not desired.
  • No-spill cup assemblies are well known in the art. In the past, a variety of such assemblies have been developed and marketed. In general, the goal of a no-spill cup is to provide a construction which minimizes or prevents liquid from emerging out of the cup when liquid flow is not desired, i.e. when the user is not drinking.
  • the assemblies of the prior art are intended to avoid such accidents, their construction is such that they generally do not provide a secure enough protection against undesirable spilling or leakage.
  • liquid will often emerge from them. This can be a particular problem with young children, for whom these cups are usually intended. Accordingly, there is a need in the art for an improved cup assembly for preventing undesired spilling of liquids.
  • an improved cup construction and valve assembly which provides an extremely secure seal against accidental liquid flow from the cup spout.
  • a user places his or her mouth against the spout of the cup assembly to suck liquid out of the cup when desired.
  • the act of sucking at the spout of the cup creates negative pressure or a partial vacuum against a valve in the cup spout, causing the valve to invert, or turn inside out, either partially or totally, thereby unblocking an opening such as an orifice or slit in the valve. Once the opening is unblocked, liquid can flow freely through the valve and spout.
  • valve when not in use, the valve sits in a resting, closed position, with the valve pressed against the center seal-off, thereby sealing off the opening or slit in the valve assembly.
  • the valve in its relaxed state, with no negative pressure applied, the valve sits in a closed position with the fluid opening sealed by the center seal-off.
  • an adjacent valve similarly seals when no negative pressure is applied, thereby blocking off the air vents in the cover of the cup, and further preventing the possibility of fluid flow. Consequently, the closed position provides an extremely secure seal against fluid leakage, such that inadvertent spills or even deliberate attempts to force liquid outside of the cup, such as by turning the cup upside down, or shaking the cup, are ineffective.
  • the cup assembly allows liquid flow to be regulated between regular or maximum flow and minimal flow levels or rates by rotating the position of a valve assembly in the cap or cover of the cup.
  • the valve holder is constructed as a two subunit assembly, with one subassembly holding a valve with a larger slit or orifice for fluid flow than the valve in the second subunit.
  • a low-flow valve or a higher flow valve can be positioned in the hole leading to the spout. In this manner, a dual position valve assembly is provided allowing either regular flow or minimal liquid flow conditions.
  • FIG. 1( a ) is an exploded front view of a no-spill cup assembly in accordance with the present invention.
  • FIG. 1( b ) is an exploded perspective view of the no-spill cup assembly of FIG. 1( a ).
  • FIG. 2( a ) is an exploded front view of a second embodiment of a no-spill cup assembly in accordance with the present invention.
  • FIG. 1( b ) is an exploded perspective view of the no-spill cup assembly of FIG. 2( a ).
  • FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the valve assembly of the present invention.
  • FIG. 4 is an exploded, perspective view of another embodiment of the valve assembly of the no-spill cup, in accordance with the present invention.
  • FIG. 5( a ) is an exploded front view of the cup assembly of the present invention, showing the rotation of the valve holder or assembly, into two alternate positions for placement in the cap or cover of the cup.
  • FIG. 5( b ) is an exploded perspective view, showing the placement of the valve holder into the cap, in either of the two positions illustrated in FIG. 5( a ).
  • FIG. 6 is a series of additional views of the valve holder or assembly of FIG. 3.
  • FIG. 6( a ) is a top view of the valve holder.
  • FIG. 6( b ) is a front view of the valve holder.
  • FIG. 6( c ) is a side view of the valve holder.
  • FIG. 6( d ) is a cross-sectional view of the valve holder wherein the valve is in a relaxed state, sealing off fluid flow.
  • FIG. 6( e ) is a cross-sectional view of the valve holder, showing the valve in an inverted state, to allow fluid flow through the valve.
  • FIG. 7 is an exploded, perspective view of another embodiment of the valve assembly of the no-spill cup, in accordance with the present invention.
  • FIG. 8 is a series of additional views of a further embodiment of the valve assembly shown in FIG. 6.
  • FIG. 8( a ) is a top view of the valve holder or assembly.
  • FIG. 8( b ) is a front view of the valve holder.
  • FIG. 8( c ) is a side view of the valve holder.
  • FIG. 8( d ) is a cross-sectional view of the valve holder wherein the valve is in a relaxed state, sealing off fluid flow.
  • FIG. 8( e ) is a cross-sectional view of the valve holder, showing the valve in an inverted state, to allow fluid flow through the valve.
  • FIG. 9 is a series of additional views of another embodiment of the valve assembly shown in FIG. 8.
  • FIG. 9( a ) is a top view of the valve holder or assembly.
  • FIG. 9( b ) is a front view of the valve holder.
  • FIG. 9( c ) is a side view of the valve holder.
  • FIG. 9( d ) is a cross-sectional view of the valve holder wherein the valve is in a relaxed state, sealing off fluid flow.
  • FIG. 9( e ) is a cross-sectional view of the valve holder, showing the valve in an inverted state, to allow fluid flow through the valve.
  • FIG. 10 is a side view of a no-spill cup with a soft gripping area, in accordance with the present invention.
  • FIG. 11 is a series of additional views of another embodiment of the cap of the present invention.
  • FIG. 11( a ) is a partial sectional view of a cap with an insert molded or glued in gasket, in accordance with the invention.
  • FIG. 11( b ) is a side sectional view of the cap of FIG. 11( a ).
  • FIG. 11( c ) is a top sectional view of the cap of FIG. 11( b ).
  • FIG. 12 is a series of additional views of another embodiment of the cap of the present invention.
  • FIG. 12( a ) is a partial sectional view of a cap with a molded lip which wedges against into the inside surface of the cup, in accordance with the invention.
  • FIG. 12( b ) is a side sectional view of the cap of FIG. 12( a ).
  • FIG. 12( c ) is a top sectional view of the cap of FIG. 12( b ).
  • FIG. 13 is a side sectional view of a cap having a soft spout, in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 14 is a side sectional view of a cap having a reduced volume spout, in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention.
  • FIGS. 1 ( a ) and 1 ( b ) are a front view and a perspective view, respectively, of an embodiment of the cup assembly, in accordance with the present invention.
  • the volume of the cup or liquid holding portion of the assembly can be adjusted as desired.
  • a 7 oz. drinking cup is provided, as shown in FIG. 1.
  • a 9 oz. drinking cup as shown in FIG. 2, a 61 ⁇ 2 oz. cup, or any other desired size can be provided, as well.
  • the sides of the cup can be provided with no handles, one handle, two handles or any other number of handles, for the user's use to grip the cup.
  • This handle or handle is preferably sized for a child's hands.
  • the outside appearance of the cup and/or the cap can be a solid color, or can be printed with any desired design.
  • a no spill cup with a soft gripping area can be provided, as shown in FIG. 10.
  • a soft ring 102 is provided around the outside of the cup. This ring can be of any width desired, and serves as a finger grip, to make it easier to grasp the cup securely. Preferably, the ring is approximately two inches (2′′) wide.
  • the soft ring 102 has shapes or designs 106 cut out of it, such as stars, ovals, or so forth.
  • the hard cup in turn, has raised areas or protuberances corresponding to those shapes or designs. The soft ring fits snugly over these raised areas of the cup, each of the protruding hard shapes fitting into the cutouts of the soft ring, with the surface of the raised areas and the soft ring being flush when the ring is inserted onto the cup.
  • the cup is constructed from polycarbonate.
  • the cup is constructed from polypropylene. If desired, clear polypropylene can be utilized. Alternatively, any other suitable materials can be used for the components of the no-spill cup.
  • the components of the cup are all made of durable materials, resistant to breakage, dishwasher safe, and preferably color fast.
  • cup 7 includes a no-spill cap or cover 11 , a valve holder or assembly 31 and tumbler cup 22 .
  • No-spill cap 11 includes a spout 14 for drinking liquid from the cup.
  • the spout is sized to allow an individual to place his or her mouth over the spout to drink therefrom.
  • the spout is sized for the mouth of a child, particularly for a child of a young age.
  • No-spill cap 11 forms a cover for placement over tumbler cup 22 .
  • a secure seal is formed such that no liquid can emerge through the connection between the cap 11 and cup 22 .
  • cap 11 is sufficiently secured to cup 22 such that shaking the cup assembly, dropping the cup on the floor, or other vigorous movement of the cup assembly, or application of sharp force thereto, is insufficient to separate the cap from the cup.
  • no-spill cap 11 and tumbler cup 22 include mating male and female screw threads, such that the cap 11 is a screw-on cap which can be easily rotated onto the tumbler cup 22 , as shown in FIG. 2.
  • a snap-on cap is used, as shown in FIG. 1.
  • a resilient ring portion of cap 11 securely fits over lip 10 of tumbler cup 22 , as is well known in the art.
  • a screw-on cap or a snap-on cap are shown as two preferred embodiments, alternatively, any other suitable mechanism to secure the cap to the tumbler cup can be utilized.
  • Either the screw-on cap and/or the snap-on cap can be further provided with a gasket 110 between the tumbler cup and the cap, to further seal the connection between the cup and the cap.
  • This gasket can be part of the tumbler cup 22 or the cap 11 , or can be a separate element inserted between the cap and the cup.
  • the gasket 110 is part of cap 11 , as shown in FIGS. 11 ( a )-( c ).
  • the cap can be provided with a small annular inner lip, on the inside of the cap, which acts as a gasket.
  • This lip as shown in FIGS. 12 ( a )-( c ), wedges inside the cup when the cap is screwed or placed upon it. The lip acts to further prevent the possibility of liquid flow through the contact between the cup and the cap.
  • finger grips are provided on the outside of the cap, such as grooves or the like. These grips facilitate removal and application of the cap, particularly in embodiments requiring the screwing of the cap on and off of the cup.
  • the cap is also preferably interchangeable with numerous tumbler cups of different sizes.
  • the rim of the tumbler cups are all of the same diameter, although the tumbler cups themselves are of different volumes.
  • the same sized cap could be used on a 61 ⁇ 2 oz. cup and/or a 7 oz. cup and/or a 9 oz. cup, and so forth.
  • the cap has a soft spout 130 as shown in FIG. 13.
  • the spout is made of a thermo-elastimer.
  • Spout 130 can be insert molded to a polypropylene cap, providing a combination cap having a hard section for attachment to the cup, and a soft spout portion.
  • the spout has a small channel extending therethrough to reduce the liquid volume which can be trapped within the spout portion.
  • the cap has a reduced volume spout as shown in FIG. 14.
  • Reduced volume spout 140 is designed to reduce the volume of liquid which can be trapped within the spout.
  • Reduced volume spout 140 has a volume reduction member 144 inserted therein to reduce the internal volume of the spout, and to provide a channel 148 for liquid flow.
  • valve assembly subunit 142 extends up into spout 140 to further reduce the amount of liquid which can be trapped in spout 140 .
  • Valve assembly subunit 142 can, for example, extend into volume reduction member 144 . Accordingly, this embodiment reduces the space between the valve and the opening of the drinking spout, to reduce the amount of liquid potentially trapped in this area.
  • no-spill cap 11 includes valve assembly carriers 16 and 18 .
  • valve assembly carriers 16 and 18 are tapered holes provided on the underside of the cap.
  • Valve assembly carrier or tapered hole 18 leads to an open spout 14 , providing a path for liquid flow.
  • valve assembly carrier or hole 18 is fully open on both sides, both on its top surface, which leads to spout 14 , and on its bottom surface opposite tumbler cup 32 , for the flow of liquid out of tumbler cup 22 through hole 18 and through spout 14 into the user's mouth.
  • Valve assembly carrier or tapered hole 16 provides a passage for the flow of air into the cup during use, allowing liquid to exit through opposing hole 18 and spout 14 .
  • Hole 16 is open on one side, i.e. on its lower surface opposite tumbler cup 22 . On the opposing side, hole 16 merges into the inner surface of cap 11 .
  • the inner surface of cap 11 is further provided with one or more, preferably small, vents or holes for air flow, allowing air to flow through the vents of cap 11 and through hole 16 into the cup assembly during use.
  • no-spill cup 7 further includes valve holder or assembly 31 .
  • Valve holder 31 is preferably constructed from a high temperature ABS material, and is dimensioned to fit snugly into cap 11 .
  • valve holder is a separate assembly which fits into cap 11 .
  • the valve holder can be provided as an integral part of cap 11 and/or cup 7 .
  • valve holder 31 can be molded as a part of cap 11 , such that the valve holder is inseparable from the cap.
  • valve holder 31 is a two-subunit assembly connected by bridge 34 .
  • Each subunit of the two-subunit assembly is sized to frictionally fit into and be held by either one of tapered holes 16 and 18 .
  • the spacing between tapered holes 16 and 18 is the same as between the subunits of valve holder 31 , such that the valve holder can be easily secured within cap 11 .
  • the sizing and tapering of holes 16 and 18 and the sizing of valve holder 31 are dimensioned so as to provide a secure, snug mating between the valve assembly and the tapered holes.
  • the top of the valve holder i.e. the side facing the spout
  • the bottom of the valve holder i.e.
  • the side facing the cup has two different diameters.
  • the top is proportioned to fit snugly into the tapered hole, and the bottom is proportioned such that it cannot be inserted into hole 16 or 18 . In this way, a mechanism is provided to prevent the valve holder from being inserted into the holes in the wrong orientation, i.e. upside down.
  • FIG. 3 is an enlarged, exploded, perspective view of the valve holder of the present invention.
  • Valve holder 31 consists of two valve holder subunits 37 and 39 , connected by a bridge 34 . Each valve holder subunit is intended to hold a single valve therein.
  • valve or valve member 42 is intended for placement in subunit 37
  • valve or valve member 45 is intended for placement in subunit 39 .
  • Valves 42 and 45 each include a slit for the passage of liquid. The slit is preferably through the center portion of the valve, and is dimensioned to allow a predetermined flow level or rate of liquid therethrough, as desired.
  • Valve holder subunits 37 and 39 open into sealing units 37 a and 39 ( a ) and valve retainers or endcaps 37 b and 39 ( b ), respectively.
  • subunit 37 is initially in an open position in which the sealing unit and the valve retainer have been pulled or hinged apart.
  • the sealing unit and the valve retainer have a tab 60 connecting them, to prevent the components from being permanently separated accidentally.
  • the valve retainer can be welded into place (e.g. by sonic welding), as shown in FIGS. 4 and 7.
  • the sealing units each have at least one open section 58 , such that, in the valve assembly's disassembled state, fluid can pass, unobstructed, through the sealing unit since no valve is in place.
  • the valve retainers are open on both sides for unobstructed passage of fluid through the valve retainer in the disassembled state when no valve is in place.
  • valve 42 is inserted into the valve holder by placement of the valve between sealing unit 37 a and valve retainer 37 b .
  • the valve retainers can each be folded or hinged back about tab 60 , over the sealing unit 37 (or under sealing unit 39 , in the orientation shown in the figure) and snapped into place to close the subunits, as shown in FIG. 5.
  • the resilience of the sealing unit allows for a tight seal to be established between the valve retainer and the sealing unit. When closed, each subunit secures or encapsulates a valve tightly therein, maintaining the valve in place in the valve holder.
  • subunit 37 For clarity, reference is primarily made to subunit 37 , although subunits 37 and 39 are preferably the same in all features other than the size of the valve opening. For the purposes of the present discussion, it is assumed that subunit 37 is the subunit intended for initial placement into hole 18 .
  • valve 42 upon closing a subunit (e.g. subunit 37 in FIG. 3), valve 42 sits securely against center seal-off stop or center stop 52 in sealing unit 37 a , with the opening 70 in valve 42 being flush against center seal-off stop 52 .
  • Valve 42 includes a top, proximal side which will face the spout of the cap, and a distal side which rests against the center seal-off stop when the valve is placed in valve holder 31 .
  • Center stop 52 functions as a sealing portion or blocking element of the valve assembly which seals off and blocks the flow of fluid through the valve.
  • center stop 52 consists of a solid central area or portion 56 which is impenetrable to the flow of liquid therethrough.
  • Surrounding the central area or portion 56 is preferably a peripheral area or region 58 , having open areas such as slots or so forth, for allowing the passage of liquid therethrough, as shown, for example in FIG. 8( a ).
  • Central area 56 or center stop 52 further includes stems 74 .
  • stems 74 can further be reinforced with braces 72 , which are reinforcing elements, which provide additional material strength to the connection between the stems and the valve holder.
  • valve 42 relaxes to sit securely against the center stop 52 , as shown in FIG. 8( d ).
  • opening or orifice 70 of valve 42 presses firmly against the central area 56 of center stop 52 , preventing any fluid flow through the valve, and maintaining the valve in a closed configuration.
  • Valve 42 is constructed of a flexible material which is designed to fully invert and turn inside out, or to begin to invert and turn inside out, upon creation of a partial vacuum against the top of the valve 42 , as shown in FIG. 8( e ).
  • valve 42 can be a membrane, either in whole or in part.
  • the valve is constructed of Kraton or silicone.
  • a 45 durometer silicone such as Lims 6045 is preferred, which is available from General Electric or from Wacker (a subsidiary of Bayer) of Germany.
  • the materials used for the valve assembly and its components are sufficiently durable and heat resistant that the entire valve assembly can be placed in a dishwasher or boiled.
  • the valve material is constructed of a single material with a greater thickness of material on the center area which seals off on the center stop, and with a thinner portion of material on the sidewalls. Providing a thinner sidewall portion contributes to the flexibility of the valve at its edges, which further assists and encourages inversion of the valve, by causing the valve to flex at the sidewalls first upon application of negative pressure thereto.
  • Preferred dimensions for the valve thickness are approximately 0.4 mm of thickness on the sidewalls and approximately 0.9 mm of thickness on the center area.
  • opening or orifice 70 is displaced away from central area 56 of center stop 52 .
  • the inversion of the valve therefore unblocks opening 70 allowing fluid flow through the subunit.
  • negative pressure is being applied to the top of the valve 42 located next to the spout, negative pressure is likewise being applied to the bottom of the adjacent valve in the other subunit, located in the other tapered hole of the cup cover.
  • this negative pressure opens the second valve as well, by displacing the opening in the other valve away from its center stop. Inversion of valves 42 allows fluid flow to proceed through both subunits of the assembly.
  • Liquid will flow through one subunit of the valve assembly, the subunit connected to the spout, concurrently accompanied by air flow through the other subunit of the assembly, the subunit connected to the air vents. In this manner, liquid smoothly and easily flows though the valve assembly, the spout, and out of the cup.
  • the valve assembly is further provided with a flow bridge 84 .
  • Flow bridge 84 blocks movement or expansion of the valve 42 beyond a certain maximum distance to prevent the valve from overextending itself, or from being subjected to excessive strain or distension, as shown in FIG. 8( e ).
  • the flow bridge prevents the valve from inverting beyond the point where it can no longer easily revert to its original position.
  • the flow bridge provides a shield or a barrier preventing the valve from damage. Thus, it blocks objects such as a spoon or so forth, whether in a dishwasher or otherwise, from easily damaging the valve.
  • valve retainer 81 can alternatively be provided.
  • valve retainer 94 can be provided as well.
  • Valve retainers 81 and 94 serve the same function as valve retainers 37 b and 39 ( b ), holding and securing the valve within the valve assembly. It is preferred that the valve retainer, whichever embodiment is utilized, be sonic welded on, to ensure that the valve cannot be dislodged or removed from the holder.
  • a system for maintaining a tight seal against fluid flow when the cup is not in use.
  • An extremely secure seal is provided, such that excessive or vigorous shaking is ineffective to force fluid out of the cup.
  • the valve construction disclosed results in a much tighter seal than that observed in the no-spill cup assemblies of the prior art. In accordance with the invention, unless the user sucks through the spout, no liquid will flow through the valve.
  • subunits 37 and 39 are preferably identical in all respects excepts for the size of the orifice or slit in valve 42 and the slit in valve 45 . It is preferred that one valve be provided with a larger opening than the other valve, such as a longer slit in one valve than the other. In one embodiment, one valve is provided with an opening in the form of a slit of approximately two hundred thousandths ( ⁇ fraction (200/1000) ⁇ ) of an inch in length, while the second valve is provided with a slit of approximately fifty thousandths ( ⁇ fraction (50/1000) ⁇ ) of an inch. Alternatively, other lengths may, of course, be used as well in accordance with the invention.
  • the present inventor has further provided a novel dual acting flow system for regulating fluid flow.
  • this system the level of flow of liquid out of the cup during use can be easily regulated. Regulation is accomplished by a simple rotation of the valve assembly which converts the cup between a faster or higher liquid flow, and a slower or lower flow system.
  • valve holder 31 can be inserted into cap 11 in either of two configurations.
  • valve 45 having a larger opening or slit, is placed into hole 18 , the hole in communication with spout 14 .
  • a first, higher, flow level of liquid through the valve is established when the user sucks liquid through the spout, due to the use of the valve having the larger opening therein.
  • the other valve 42 having the smaller opening, can be inserted into hole 18 .
  • This valve 42 provides a second, lower flow state, in which liquid can still flow out of the spout, but at a lower flow rate than flow through the first valve. In this way, the rate of flow of liquid out of the cup can be regulated by a parent.
  • a two level flow system is disclosed, greater or fewer flow levels can be provided by varying the number of attached subunits having valves therein, or by providing replacement valve holders having different sized openings 70 therein. In all configurations, however, liquid only flows through the valve when the user sucks through the spout, as disclosed above.
  • the opening 70 can be, for example, a slit, a slot, an orifice, a hole, or so forth. Likewise, by the term opening, it is contemplated that multiple openings of these or any other types can be provided as well.
  • the opening 70 is an “X” shaped slot 78 , as shown in FIG. 7.
  • the opening is a “T” shaped slot 76 , as also shown in FIG. 7.
  • Use of the X-shaped slot 78 shown in FIG. 7, will provide a higher flow rate than the T-shaped slot 76 shown therein.
  • the flow rate depends on the total length of the slots, or in general, on the size of the opening. Accordingly, both the X-shaped slot and the T-shaped slot can be used in a single valve assembly, each placed in its respective subunit. In this preferred embodiment, a two level flow system is provided, as previously discussed.
  • both openings are X-shaped, with one opening larger than the other.
  • a 7 mm opening (the length from end to end of each crossbar of the “X”) can be used for the fast side, and a 6 mm opening for the slow side.
  • valve holder be marked to indicate which subunit is suitable for higher flow, and which for lower flow of liquid therethrough.
  • the valve holders can be explicitly marked “Fast” and “Slow” as shown in FIGS. 7 and 9, respectively.
  • the subunits or the valve holders can be marked with a hare or rabbit, signifying fast flow, and a tortoise or turtle, signifying slow flow, as respectively also shown in FIGS. 7 and 9.
  • the subunit connected to the spout is, of course, the subunit which controls the liquid flow rate.
  • the valve holder can be marked, for example, on the subunit itself, or on the bridge in an area directly adjacent to the subunit, as shown in the figures.
  • the valve holder is marked on the top and bottom (i.e. the sides facing the spout and the cup, respectively), such that the symbols and/or words can be seen from the top when the valve holder is being inserted, and from the bottom, once it has already been inserted, to determine which speed valve is in place in the spout.
  • the words and/or symbols are only on the bottom of the valve, so that the user can see them from the bottom when inserting the valve holder, and can also view the valve holder from the bottom, once inserted.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Pediatric Medicine (AREA)
  • Closures For Containers (AREA)
  • Table Devices Or Equipment (AREA)

Abstract

An improved no-spill cup construction and valve assembly which provides an extremely secure seal against accidental liquid flow from the cup spout. The act of sucking at the cup spout creates negative pressure or a partial vacuum against a valve near the spout, causing the valve to invert which unblocks an opening in the valve. When the opening is unblocked, liquid can flow freely through the valve and spout. When not in use, the valve sits in a resting, closed position, with the valve pressed against a center seal-off, sealing off the opening in the valve assembly. The closed position provides an extremely secure seal against fluid leakage, such that inadvertent spills or even deliberate attempts to force liquid outside of the cup, such as by turning the cup upside down, or shaking the cup, are ineffective. The cup assembly further allows liquid flow to be regulated between regular or maximum flow and minimal flow levels or rates by rotating the position of the valve assembly in the cover of the cup.

Description

    RELATED APPLICATIONS
  • The present application claims all rights of priority to U.S. Nonprovisional application Ser. No. 09/138,588 filed Aug. 21, 1998, U.S. Nonprovisional application Ser. No. 09/271,779 filed Mar. 18, 1999, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/056,218, filed Aug. 21, 1997, all of which are fully incorporated herein by reference.[0001]
  • FIELD OF THE INVENTION
  • The present invention relates to a no-spill cup assembly with an improved valve mechanism to prevent liquid from flowing out of the cup when not desired. [0002]
  • BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  • No-spill cup assemblies are well known in the art. In the past, a variety of such assemblies have been developed and marketed. In general, the goal of a no-spill cup is to provide a construction which minimizes or prevents liquid from emerging out of the cup when liquid flow is not desired, i.e. when the user is not drinking. However, though the assemblies of the prior art are intended to avoid such accidents, their construction is such that they generally do not provide a secure enough protection against undesirable spilling or leakage. Thus, when such cups are inverted, or more significantly, when they are shaken vigorously, liquid will often emerge from them. This can be a particular problem with young children, for whom these cups are usually intended. Accordingly, there is a need in the art for an improved cup assembly for preventing undesired spilling of liquids. [0003]
  • SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
  • It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved no-spill cup assembly. [0004]
  • It is a further object of the present invention to provide a cup assembly which prevents liquid from flowing out of the cup when the user is not drinking. [0005]
  • It is a further object of the invention to provide a cup assembly which minimizes and/or eliminates accidental or undesirable liquid flow or spillage out of the cup. [0006]
  • It is a further object of the invention to provide a cup assembly which provides the ability to regulate the flow rate of liquid out of the cup. [0007]
  • It is a further object of the invention to provide a cup assembly which can be used by young children, to avoid accidental spilling of liquid therefrom. [0008]
  • Further objects of the invention will become apparent in conjunction with the disclosure herein. [0009]
  • In accordance with the invention, an improved cup construction and valve assembly is provided which provides an extremely secure seal against accidental liquid flow from the cup spout. Further to the invention, a user places his or her mouth against the spout of the cup assembly to suck liquid out of the cup when desired. The act of sucking at the spout of the cup creates negative pressure or a partial vacuum against a valve in the cup spout, causing the valve to invert, or turn inside out, either partially or totally, thereby unblocking an opening such as an orifice or slit in the valve. Once the opening is unblocked, liquid can flow freely through the valve and spout. [0010]
  • In contrast, when not in use, the valve sits in a resting, closed position, with the valve pressed against the center seal-off, thereby sealing off the opening or slit in the valve assembly. Thus, in its relaxed state, with no negative pressure applied, the valve sits in a closed position with the fluid opening sealed by the center seal-off. Moreover, in accordance with the dual valve nature of the device in the preferred embodiment, an adjacent valve similarly seals when no negative pressure is applied, thereby blocking off the air vents in the cover of the cup, and further preventing the possibility of fluid flow. Consequently, the closed position provides an extremely secure seal against fluid leakage, such that inadvertent spills or even deliberate attempts to force liquid outside of the cup, such as by turning the cup upside down, or shaking the cup, are ineffective. [0011]
  • In a further embodiment of the invention, the cup assembly allows liquid flow to be regulated between regular or maximum flow and minimal flow levels or rates by rotating the position of a valve assembly in the cap or cover of the cup. The valve holder is constructed as a two subunit assembly, with one subassembly holding a valve with a larger slit or orifice for fluid flow than the valve in the second subunit. Thus, upon rotation of the valve holder, either a low-flow valve or a higher flow valve can be positioned in the hole leading to the spout. In this manner, a dual position valve assembly is provided allowing either regular flow or minimal liquid flow conditions.[0012]
  • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • FIG. 1([0013] a) is an exploded front view of a no-spill cup assembly in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 1(b) is an exploded perspective view of the no-spill cup assembly of FIG. 1(a).
  • FIG. 2([0014] a) is an exploded front view of a second embodiment of a no-spill cup assembly in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 1(b) is an exploded perspective view of the no-spill cup assembly of FIG. 2(a).
  • FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the valve assembly of the present invention. [0015]
  • FIG. 4 is an exploded, perspective view of another embodiment of the valve assembly of the no-spill cup, in accordance with the present invention. [0016]
  • FIG. 5([0017] a) is an exploded front view of the cup assembly of the present invention, showing the rotation of the valve holder or assembly, into two alternate positions for placement in the cap or cover of the cup. FIG. 5(b) is an exploded perspective view, showing the placement of the valve holder into the cap, in either of the two positions illustrated in FIG. 5(a).
  • FIG. 6 is a series of additional views of the valve holder or assembly of FIG. 3. FIG. 6([0018] a) is a top view of the valve holder. FIG. 6(b) is a front view of the valve holder. FIG. 6(c) is a side view of the valve holder. FIG. 6(d) is a cross-sectional view of the valve holder wherein the valve is in a relaxed state, sealing off fluid flow. FIG. 6(e) is a cross-sectional view of the valve holder, showing the valve in an inverted state, to allow fluid flow through the valve.
  • FIG. 7 is an exploded, perspective view of another embodiment of the valve assembly of the no-spill cup, in accordance with the present invention. [0019]
  • FIG. 8 is a series of additional views of a further embodiment of the valve assembly shown in FIG. 6. FIG. 8([0020] a) is a top view of the valve holder or assembly. FIG. 8(b) is a front view of the valve holder. FIG. 8(c) is a side view of the valve holder. FIG. 8(d) is a cross-sectional view of the valve holder wherein the valve is in a relaxed state, sealing off fluid flow. FIG. 8(e) is a cross-sectional view of the valve holder, showing the valve in an inverted state, to allow fluid flow through the valve.
  • FIG. 9 is a series of additional views of another embodiment of the valve assembly shown in FIG. 8. FIG. 9([0021] a) is a top view of the valve holder or assembly. FIG. 9(b) is a front view of the valve holder. FIG. 9(c) is a side view of the valve holder. FIG. 9(d) is a cross-sectional view of the valve holder wherein the valve is in a relaxed state, sealing off fluid flow. FIG. 9(e) is a cross-sectional view of the valve holder, showing the valve in an inverted state, to allow fluid flow through the valve.
  • FIG. 10 is a side view of a no-spill cup with a soft gripping area, in accordance with the present invention. [0022]
  • FIG. 11 is a series of additional views of another embodiment of the cap of the present invention. FIG. 11([0023] a) is a partial sectional view of a cap with an insert molded or glued in gasket, in accordance with the invention. FIG. 11(b) is a side sectional view of the cap of FIG. 11(a). FIG. 11(c) is a top sectional view of the cap of FIG. 11(b).
  • FIG. 12 is a series of additional views of another embodiment of the cap of the present invention. FIG. 12([0024] a) is a partial sectional view of a cap with a molded lip which wedges against into the inside surface of the cup, in accordance with the invention. FIG. 12(b) is a side sectional view of the cap of FIG. 12(a). FIG. 12(c) is a top sectional view of the cap of FIG. 12(b).
  • FIG. 13 is a side sectional view of a cap having a soft spout, in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention. [0025]
  • FIG. 14 is a side sectional view of a cap having a reduced volume spout, in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention. [0026]
  • DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION AND THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
  • As will be shown in conjunction with the attached drawings, a novel cup assembly is disclosed for providing prevention against accidental liquid spills. FIGS. [0027] 1(a) and 1(b) are a front view and a perspective view, respectively, of an embodiment of the cup assembly, in accordance with the present invention. The volume of the cup or liquid holding portion of the assembly can be adjusted as desired. In one embodiment, a 7 oz. drinking cup is provided, as shown in FIG. 1. Alternatively, a 9 oz. drinking cup, as shown in FIG. 2, a 6½ oz. cup, or any other desired size can be provided, as well.
  • The sides of the cup can be provided with no handles, one handle, two handles or any other number of handles, for the user's use to grip the cup. This handle or handle is preferably sized for a child's hands. In addition, the outside appearance of the cup and/or the cap can be a solid color, or can be printed with any desired design. [0028]
  • In a further embodiment of the invention, a no spill cup with a soft gripping area can be provided, as shown in FIG. 10. In accordance with this embodiment, a [0029] soft ring 102 is provided around the outside of the cup. This ring can be of any width desired, and serves as a finger grip, to make it easier to grasp the cup securely. Preferably, the ring is approximately two inches (2″) wide. In a preferred embodiment, the soft ring 102 has shapes or designs 106 cut out of it, such as stars, ovals, or so forth. The hard cup, in turn, has raised areas or protuberances corresponding to those shapes or designs. The soft ring fits snugly over these raised areas of the cup, each of the protruding hard shapes fitting into the cutouts of the soft ring, with the surface of the raised areas and the soft ring being flush when the ring is inserted onto the cup.
  • In one embodiment of the invention, the cup is constructed from polycarbonate. In an alternate embodiment, the cup is constructed from polypropylene. If desired, clear polypropylene can be utilized. Alternatively, any other suitable materials can be used for the components of the no-spill cup. The components of the cup are all made of durable materials, resistant to breakage, dishwasher safe, and preferably color fast. [0030]
  • In accordance with the invention, cup [0031] 7 includes a no-spill cap or cover 11, a valve holder or assembly 31 and tumbler cup 22. No-spill cap 11 includes a spout 14 for drinking liquid from the cup. The spout is sized to allow an individual to place his or her mouth over the spout to drink therefrom. In the preferred embodiment, the spout is sized for the mouth of a child, particularly for a child of a young age.
  • No-spill cap [0032] 11 forms a cover for placement over tumbler cup 22. When attached to the cup 22, a secure seal is formed such that no liquid can emerge through the connection between the cap 11 and cup 22. In use, cap 11 is sufficiently secured to cup 22 such that shaking the cup assembly, dropping the cup on the floor, or other vigorous movement of the cup assembly, or application of sharp force thereto, is insufficient to separate the cap from the cup.
  • In one embodiment, no-spill cap [0033] 11 and tumbler cup 22 include mating male and female screw threads, such that the cap 11 is a screw-on cap which can be easily rotated onto the tumbler cup 22, as shown in FIG. 2. In an alternative embodiment, a snap-on cap is used, as shown in FIG. 1. In this embodiment, a resilient ring portion of cap 11 securely fits over lip 10 of tumbler cup 22, as is well known in the art. Although a screw-on cap or a snap-on cap are shown as two preferred embodiments, alternatively, any other suitable mechanism to secure the cap to the tumbler cup can be utilized.
  • Either the screw-on cap and/or the snap-on cap can be further provided with a [0034] gasket 110 between the tumbler cup and the cap, to further seal the connection between the cup and the cap. This gasket can be part of the tumbler cup 22 or the cap 11, or can be a separate element inserted between the cap and the cup. In a preferred embodiment, the gasket 110 is part of cap 11, as shown in FIGS. 11(a)-(c).
  • Alternatively, the cap can be provided with a small annular inner lip, on the inside of the cap, which acts as a gasket. This lip, as shown in FIGS. [0035] 12(a)-(c), wedges inside the cup when the cap is screwed or placed upon it. The lip acts to further prevent the possibility of liquid flow through the contact between the cup and the cap.
  • In a preferred embodiment, finger grips are provided on the outside of the cap, such as grooves or the like. These grips facilitate removal and application of the cap, particularly in embodiments requiring the screwing of the cap on and off of the cup. [0036]
  • The cap is also preferably interchangeable with numerous tumbler cups of different sizes. In this embodiment, the rim of the tumbler cups are all of the same diameter, although the tumbler cups themselves are of different volumes. For example, the same sized cap could be used on a 6½ oz. cup and/or a 7 oz. cup and/or a 9 oz. cup, and so forth. [0037]
  • In a further embodiment of the cap, the cap has a [0038] soft spout 130 as shown in FIG. 13. Preferably, the spout is made of a thermo-elastimer. Spout 130 can be insert molded to a polypropylene cap, providing a combination cap having a hard section for attachment to the cup, and a soft spout portion. Preferably, the spout has a small channel extending therethrough to reduce the liquid volume which can be trapped within the spout portion.
  • In a further embodiment of the cap, the cap has a reduced volume spout as shown in FIG. 14. Reduced [0039] volume spout 140 is designed to reduce the volume of liquid which can be trapped within the spout. Reduced volume spout 140 has a volume reduction member 144 inserted therein to reduce the internal volume of the spout, and to provide a channel 148 for liquid flow. Preferably, valve assembly subunit 142 extends up into spout 140 to further reduce the amount of liquid which can be trapped in spout 140. Valve assembly subunit 142 can, for example, extend into volume reduction member 144. Accordingly, this embodiment reduces the space between the valve and the opening of the drinking spout, to reduce the amount of liquid potentially trapped in this area.
  • As shown in FIG. 1([0040] b), no-spill cap 11 includes valve assembly carriers 16 and 18. In the preferred embodiment, valve assembly carriers 16 and 18 are tapered holes provided on the underside of the cap. Valve assembly carrier or tapered hole 18 leads to an open spout 14, providing a path for liquid flow. Thus, valve assembly carrier or hole 18 is fully open on both sides, both on its top surface, which leads to spout 14, and on its bottom surface opposite tumbler cup 32, for the flow of liquid out of tumbler cup 22 through hole 18 and through spout 14 into the user's mouth.
  • Valve assembly carrier or tapered [0041] hole 16, in contrast, provides a passage for the flow of air into the cup during use, allowing liquid to exit through opposing hole 18 and spout 14. Hole 16 is open on one side, i.e. on its lower surface opposite tumbler cup 22. On the opposing side, hole 16 merges into the inner surface of cap 11. The inner surface of cap 11 is further provided with one or more, preferably small, vents or holes for air flow, allowing air to flow through the vents of cap 11 and through hole 16 into the cup assembly during use.
  • As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, no-spill cup [0042] 7 further includes valve holder or assembly 31. Valve holder 31 is preferably constructed from a high temperature ABS material, and is dimensioned to fit snugly into cap 11. In the preferred embodiment, valve holder is a separate assembly which fits into cap 11. Alternatively, the valve holder can be provided as an integral part of cap 11 and/or cup 7. For example, valve holder 31 can be molded as a part of cap 11, such that the valve holder is inseparable from the cap.
  • In the preferred embodiment, [0043] valve holder 31 is a two-subunit assembly connected by bridge 34. Each subunit of the two-subunit assembly is sized to frictionally fit into and be held by either one of tapered holes 16 and 18. The spacing between tapered holes 16 and 18 is the same as between the subunits of valve holder 31, such that the valve holder can be easily secured within cap 11. The sizing and tapering of holes 16 and 18 and the sizing of valve holder 31 are dimensioned so as to provide a secure, snug mating between the valve assembly and the tapered holes. In a preferred embodiment, the top of the valve holder (i.e. the side facing the spout) and the bottom of the valve holder (i.e. the side facing the cup) has two different diameters. The top is proportioned to fit snugly into the tapered hole, and the bottom is proportioned such that it cannot be inserted into hole 16 or 18. In this way, a mechanism is provided to prevent the valve holder from being inserted into the holes in the wrong orientation, i.e. upside down.
  • FIG. 3 is an enlarged, exploded, perspective view of the valve holder of the present invention. [0044] Valve holder 31 consists of two valve holder subunits 37 and 39, connected by a bridge 34. Each valve holder subunit is intended to hold a single valve therein. As shown in the figure, valve or valve member 42 is intended for placement in subunit 37, and valve or valve member 45 is intended for placement in subunit 39. Valves 42 and 45 each include a slit for the passage of liquid. The slit is preferably through the center portion of the valve, and is dimensioned to allow a predetermined flow level or rate of liquid therethrough, as desired.
  • [0045] Valve holder subunits 37 and 39 open into sealing units 37 a and 39(a) and valve retainers or endcaps 37 b and 39(b), respectively. Taking subunit 37 as an example of the function of each subunit, as shown in FIG. 3, subunit 37 is initially in an open position in which the sealing unit and the valve retainer have been pulled or hinged apart. In one embodiment, the sealing unit and the valve retainer have a tab 60 connecting them, to prevent the components from being permanently separated accidentally. Alternatively, the valve retainer can be welded into place (e.g. by sonic welding), as shown in FIGS. 4 and 7. The sealing units each have at least one open section 58, such that, in the valve assembly's disassembled state, fluid can pass, unobstructed, through the sealing unit since no valve is in place. Likewise, the valve retainers are open on both sides for unobstructed passage of fluid through the valve retainer in the disassembled state when no valve is in place.
  • To assemble the valve assembly, [0046] valve 42 is inserted into the valve holder by placement of the valve between sealing unit 37 a and valve retainer 37 b. After a valve has been placed into one or both of the subunits, the valve retainers can each be folded or hinged back about tab 60, over the sealing unit 37 (or under sealing unit 39, in the orientation shown in the figure) and snapped into place to close the subunits, as shown in FIG. 5. The resilience of the sealing unit allows for a tight seal to be established between the valve retainer and the sealing unit. When closed, each subunit secures or encapsulates a valve tightly therein, maintaining the valve in place in the valve holder. For clarity, reference is primarily made to subunit 37, although subunits 37 and 39 are preferably the same in all features other than the size of the valve opening. For the purposes of the present discussion, it is assumed that subunit 37 is the subunit intended for initial placement into hole 18.
  • As shown in FIGS. 5, 6, [0047] 8 and 9, upon closing a subunit (e.g. subunit 37 in FIG. 3), valve 42 sits securely against center seal-off stop or center stop 52 in sealing unit 37 a, with the opening 70 in valve 42 being flush against center seal-off stop 52. Valve 42 includes a top, proximal side which will face the spout of the cap, and a distal side which rests against the center seal-off stop when the valve is placed in valve holder 31.
  • [0048] Center stop 52 functions as a sealing portion or blocking element of the valve assembly which seals off and blocks the flow of fluid through the valve. In a preferred embodiment, center stop 52 consists of a solid central area or portion 56 which is impenetrable to the flow of liquid therethrough. Surrounding the central area or portion 56 is preferably a peripheral area or region 58, having open areas such as slots or so forth, for allowing the passage of liquid therethrough, as shown, for example in FIG. 8(a). Central area 56 or center stop 52 further includes stems 74. As shown in FIG. 9, stems 74 can further be reinforced with braces 72, which are reinforcing elements, which provide additional material strength to the connection between the stems and the valve holder.
  • When in the normal resting position, [0049] valve 42 relaxes to sit securely against the center stop 52, as shown in FIG. 8(d). In this resting position, opening or orifice 70 of valve 42 presses firmly against the central area 56 of center stop 52, preventing any fluid flow through the valve, and maintaining the valve in a closed configuration.
  • To drink from the cup, a user raises the cup to his or her mouth and begins to suck liquid through [0050] spout 14. In the process, the user creates negative pressure or a partial vacuum against the top of valve 42 in subunit 37. Valve 42 is constructed of a flexible material which is designed to fully invert and turn inside out, or to begin to invert and turn inside out, upon creation of a partial vacuum against the top of the valve 42, as shown in FIG. 8(e). For example, valve 42 can be a membrane, either in whole or in part. Preferably, the valve is constructed of Kraton or silicone. If silicone is used, a 45 durometer silicone such as Lims 6045 is preferred, which is available from General Electric or from Wacker (a subsidiary of Bayer) of Germany. The materials used for the valve assembly and its components are sufficiently durable and heat resistant that the entire valve assembly can be placed in a dishwasher or boiled.
  • In a preferred embodiment, the valve material is constructed of a single material with a greater thickness of material on the center area which seals off on the center stop, and with a thinner portion of material on the sidewalls. Providing a thinner sidewall portion contributes to the flexibility of the valve at its edges, which further assists and encourages inversion of the valve, by causing the valve to flex at the sidewalls first upon application of negative pressure thereto. Preferred dimensions for the valve thickness are approximately 0.4 mm of thickness on the sidewalls and approximately 0.9 mm of thickness on the center area. [0051]
  • Upon inversion of [0052] valve 42, opening or orifice 70 is displaced away from central area 56 of center stop 52. The inversion of the valve therefore unblocks opening 70 allowing fluid flow through the subunit. As negative pressure is being applied to the top of the valve 42 located next to the spout, negative pressure is likewise being applied to the bottom of the adjacent valve in the other subunit, located in the other tapered hole of the cup cover. Thus, this negative pressure, opens the second valve as well, by displacing the opening in the other valve away from its center stop. Inversion of valves 42 allows fluid flow to proceed through both subunits of the assembly. Liquid will flow through one subunit of the valve assembly, the subunit connected to the spout, concurrently accompanied by air flow through the other subunit of the assembly, the subunit connected to the air vents. In this manner, liquid smoothly and easily flows though the valve assembly, the spout, and out of the cup.
  • In a preferred embodiment, the valve assembly is further provided with a [0053] flow bridge 84. Flow bridge 84 blocks movement or expansion of the valve 42 beyond a certain maximum distance to prevent the valve from overextending itself, or from being subjected to excessive strain or distension, as shown in FIG. 8(e). Thus, the flow bridge prevents the valve from inverting beyond the point where it can no longer easily revert to its original position. In addition, the flow bridge provides a shield or a barrier preventing the valve from damage. Thus, it blocks objects such as a spoon or so forth, whether in a dishwasher or otherwise, from easily damaging the valve.
  • When negative pressure is released or removed from the spout, the valve reverts back to its resting position, and fluid cannot flow through the closed slit in the valve. In the resting position, no liquid will spill from or emerge out of the cup. [0054]
  • Further embodiments of the valve holder and assembly are shown in FIGS. 4 and 7-[0055] 9. As shown in FIG. 4, instead of the valve retainer shown in FIG. 3, a detachable snap fit valve retainer 81 can alternatively be provided. Or, as shown in FIG. 7, valve retainer 94 can be provided as well. Valve retainers 81 and 94 serve the same function as valve retainers 37 b and 39(b), holding and securing the valve within the valve assembly. It is preferred that the valve retainer, whichever embodiment is utilized, be sonic welded on, to ensure that the valve cannot be dislodged or removed from the holder.
  • Thus, in accordance with the invention, a system is provided for maintaining a tight seal against fluid flow when the cup is not in use. An extremely secure seal is provided, such that excessive or vigorous shaking is ineffective to force fluid out of the cup. Significantly, the valve construction disclosed results in a much tighter seal than that observed in the no-spill cup assemblies of the prior art. In accordance with the invention, unless the user sucks through the spout, no liquid will flow through the valve. [0056]
  • In the preferred embodiment, [0057] subunits 37 and 39 are preferably identical in all respects excepts for the size of the orifice or slit in valve 42 and the slit in valve 45. It is preferred that one valve be provided with a larger opening than the other valve, such as a longer slit in one valve than the other. In one embodiment, one valve is provided with an opening in the form of a slit of approximately two hundred thousandths ({fraction (200/1000)}) of an inch in length, while the second valve is provided with a slit of approximately fifty thousandths ({fraction (50/1000)}) of an inch. Alternatively, other lengths may, of course, be used as well in accordance with the invention.
  • By varying the size and/or shape of the opening in the valve, the present inventor has further provided a novel dual acting flow system for regulating fluid flow. In this system, the level of flow of liquid out of the cup during use can be easily regulated. Regulation is accomplished by a simple rotation of the valve assembly which converts the cup between a faster or higher liquid flow, and a slower or lower flow system. [0058]
  • As shown in FIG. 5, [0059] valve holder 31 can be inserted into cap 11 in either of two configurations. In a first configuration, valve 45, having a larger opening or slit, is placed into hole 18, the hole in communication with spout 14. In this configuration, a first, higher, flow level of liquid through the valve is established when the user sucks liquid through the spout, due to the use of the valve having the larger opening therein. By removing the valve holder 31 from holes 16 and 18, and flipping the valve holder 31 one hundred eighty degrees (180°), the other valve 42, having the smaller opening, can be inserted into hole 18. This valve 42 provides a second, lower flow state, in which liquid can still flow out of the spout, but at a lower flow rate than flow through the first valve. In this way, the rate of flow of liquid out of the cup can be regulated by a parent. Although a two level flow system is disclosed, greater or fewer flow levels can be provided by varying the number of attached subunits having valves therein, or by providing replacement valve holders having different sized openings 70 therein. In all configurations, however, liquid only flows through the valve when the user sucks through the spout, as disclosed above.
  • Any form of desired opening suitable for passage of a desired level of liquid can be utilized in the valve. The [0060] opening 70 can be, for example, a slit, a slot, an orifice, a hole, or so forth. Likewise, by the term opening, it is contemplated that multiple openings of these or any other types can be provided as well.
  • In one embodiment, the [0061] opening 70 is an “X” shaped slot 78, as shown in FIG. 7. In another preferred embodiment, the opening is a “T” shaped slot 76, as also shown in FIG. 7. Use of the X-shaped slot 78 shown in FIG. 7, will provide a higher flow rate than the T-shaped slot 76 shown therein. The flow rate, of course, depends on the total length of the slots, or in general, on the size of the opening. Accordingly, both the X-shaped slot and the T-shaped slot can be used in a single valve assembly, each placed in its respective subunit. In this preferred embodiment, a two level flow system is provided, as previously discussed.
  • In a further embodiment, both openings are X-shaped, with one opening larger than the other. A 7 mm opening (the length from end to end of each crossbar of the “X”) can be used for the fast side, and a 6 mm opening for the slow side. [0062]
  • It is further preferred that the valve holder be marked to indicate which subunit is suitable for higher flow, and which for lower flow of liquid therethrough. Accordingly, the valve holders can be explicitly marked “Fast” and “Slow” as shown in FIGS. 7 and 9, respectively. Alternatively, or additionally, the subunits or the valve holders can be marked with a hare or rabbit, signifying fast flow, and a tortoise or turtle, signifying slow flow, as respectively also shown in FIGS. 7 and 9. The subunit connected to the spout is, of course, the subunit which controls the liquid flow rate. The valve holder can be marked, for example, on the subunit itself, or on the bridge in an area directly adjacent to the subunit, as shown in the figures. In one embodiment, the valve holder is marked on the top and bottom (i.e. the sides facing the spout and the cup, respectively), such that the symbols and/or words can be seen from the top when the valve holder is being inserted, and from the bottom, once it has already been inserted, to determine which speed valve is in place in the spout. In an alternate embodiment, the words and/or symbols are only on the bottom of the valve, so that the user can see them from the bottom when inserting the valve holder, and can also view the valve holder from the bottom, once inserted. [0063]
  • Having described this invention with regard to specific embodiments, it is to be understood that the description is not meant as a limitation since further modifications may suggest themselves, or may be apparent to those in the art. It is intended that the present application cover all such modifications and improvements thereon. [0064]

Claims (30)

We claim:
1. An apparatus for use in a no-spill drinking cup, said apparatus comprising:
a valve holder, such valve holder comprising at least one valve, said valve having a resting position and being closed to block the passage of liquid therethrough while in said resting position, said valve being movable into an open position for the passage of liquid therethrough upon the application of negative pressure to the top of said valve.
2. An apparatus for use in a no-spill drinking cup, comprising:
a flexible valve member, said valve member having a closed position and an open position, wherein said valve member sits against a sealing portion when in said closed position such that said sealing portion blocks the passage of fluid through said valve member, and wherein said valve member moves away from said sealing portion to allow passage of liquid though said valve member upon application of negative pressure to said valve member.
3. An apparatus for use in a no-spill cup, comprising:
a flexible valve member comprising an opening in said valve member, said flexible member having a proximal side and a distal side; and
a sealing portion, said sealing portion comprising a first area which is impenetrable to the flow of liquid therethrough, and a second area through which liquid can flow, said distal side of said flexible valve member resting against said sealing portion when said flexible valve member is in the resting, closed position such that said opening of said flexible valve member rests against said first area when said flexible valve member is in said resting, closed position, said flexible valve member backing off said sealing portion upon the application of negative pressure to said proximal side of said flexible valve member to allow fluid to flow through said second area of said sealing portion and through said opening of said flexible valve member.
4. An apparatus as claimed in claim 3, wherein said first area is the central area of said sealing portion, and wherein said second area is the peripheral area of said sealing portion.
5. A no-spill drinking cup assembly, comprising:
a flexible valve member, said flexible valve member having an opening therein; and,
a sealing portion, said flexible valve member resting against said sealing portion when said valve member is in its closed position such that said opening sits against said sealing portion to block the passage of liquid through said opening.
6. An assembly as claimed in claim 5, said flexible valve member further comprising an open position, said flexible valve member being displaced away from said sealing portion in said open position to provide liquid access to said opening, said flexible member assuming said open position upon application of negative pressure to the top of said valve member.
7. An assembly as claimed in claim 6, wherein said flexible valve member inverts upon application of negative pressure to said valve member to move said opening away from said sealing portion.
8. An assembly as claimed in claim 5, wherein said flexible valve member is located in a valve assembly.
9. An assembly as claimed in claim 8, wherein said valve assembly comprises at least one subunit for containing said valve member.
10. An assembly as claimed in claim 9, wherein said valve assembly comprises at least two subunits, each of said subunits comprising a valve member therein.
11. An assembly as claimed in claim 9, wherein said valve assembly comprises at least two subunits, a first subunit comprising a first valve member comprising a first opening, and a second subunit comprising a second valve member comprising a second opening, said first opening being larger than said second opening.
12. An assembly as claimed in claim 11, wherein said first opening is an “X” shaped slot.
13. An assembly as claimed in claim 11, wherein said second opening is a “T” shaped slot.
14. An assembly as claimed in claim 11, wherein said first opening is an “X” shaped slot and said second opening is a “T” shaped slot.
15. An assembly as claimed in claim 5, wherein said assembly further comprises a removable cap.
16. An assembly as claimed in claim 5, wherein said cap comprises a valve assembly carrier for securing said valve assembly to said cap.
17. An assembly as claimed in claim 15, further comprising a cup for attachment to said removable cap.
18. An assembly as claimed in claim 17, wherein said cap is provided with screw threads for screwing onto said cup.
19. An assembly as claimed in claim 17, wherein said cap is a snap-on cap, for attachment to said cup.
20. An assembly as claimed in claim 9, wherein said sealing portion is located in said subunit.
21. An assembly as claimed in claim 20, wherein said sealing portion comprises a center seal-off stop, said center seal-off stop comprising a solid central area impenetrable to liquid flow therethrough, and a peripheral region surrounding said central area, said peripheral region having at least one area open to the passage of liquid therethrough.
22. An assembly as claimed in claim 21, wherein said opening rests against said central region when said valve member is in its closed position.
23. An assembly as claimed in claim 20, wherein said subunit comprises a valve retainer for securing said flexible valve member in said subunit.
24. An apparatus for use with a no-spill drinking cup, comprising:
a cap for attachment to a cup, said cap comprising a spout;
a valve assembly, at least a portion of said valve assembly being in communication with said spout, said valve assembly comprising at least one flexible valve member having an opening therein, said flexible valve member resting in a closed position in which no liquid can pass through said opening of said valve, said valve moving to an open position to allow the passage of liquid through said valve when negative pressure is applied to said valve through said spout.
25. An apparatus as claimed in claim 24, wherein said valve assembly further comprises a sealing portion, said sealing portion comprising a first area and a second area, wherein said first area is impenetrable to liquid flow therethrough, and said second area allows the passage of liquid through said second area.
26. An apparatus as claimed in claim 25, wherein said first area is the central area of said sealing portion and said second area is the peripheral area of said sealing portion.
27. An apparatus as claimed in claim 24, wherein said cap further comprises at least one vent in the surface of said cap to allow the passage of air through said vent.
28. An apparatus as claimed in claim 24, wherein said valve assembly comprises at least two subunits, said two subunits comprising a first subunit and a second subunit, said first subunit being in communication with said spout, said second subunit being in communication with said vent in said cap.
29. An apparatus as claimed in claim 23, further comprising a cup.
30. An apparatus as claimed in claim 24, wherein said cup is attached to said cap.
US10/001,257 1997-08-21 2001-11-27 No-spill drinking cup apparatus Expired - Fee Related US7204386B2 (en)

Priority Applications (8)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US10/001,257 US7204386B2 (en) 1997-08-21 2001-11-27 No-spill drinking cup apparatus
US10/083,656 US7243814B2 (en) 1997-08-21 2002-02-25 No-spill drinking cup apparatus
US11/787,672 US7789263B2 (en) 1997-08-21 2007-04-17 No-spill drinking cup apparatus
US11/825,793 US7789264B2 (en) 1997-08-21 2007-07-09 No-spill drinking cup apparatus
US12/797,061 US8695841B2 (en) 1997-08-21 2010-06-09 No-spill drinking cup apparatus
US12/877,021 US9010568B2 (en) 1997-08-21 2010-09-07 No-spill drinking cup apparatus
US13/346,777 US8827107B2 (en) 1997-08-21 2012-01-10 No-spill drinking cup apparatus
US14/249,203 US9510700B2 (en) 1997-08-21 2014-04-09 No-spill drinking cup apparatus

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US5621897P 1997-08-21 1997-08-21
US09/138,588 US6321931B1 (en) 1997-08-21 1998-08-21 No-spill drinking cup apparatus
US10/001,257 US7204386B2 (en) 1997-08-21 2001-11-27 No-spill drinking cup apparatus

Related Parent Applications (3)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/138,588 Continuation US6321931B1 (en) 1997-08-21 1998-08-21 No-spill drinking cup apparatus
US12/877,021 Continuation US9010568B2 (en) 1997-08-21 2010-09-07 No-spill drinking cup apparatus
US14/249,203 Continuation US9510700B2 (en) 1997-08-21 2014-04-09 No-spill drinking cup apparatus

Related Child Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US10/083,656 Continuation-In-Part US7243814B2 (en) 1997-08-21 2002-02-25 No-spill drinking cup apparatus
US11/787,672 Continuation US7789263B2 (en) 1997-08-21 2007-04-17 No-spill drinking cup apparatus

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20030098312A1 US20030098312A1 (en) 2003-05-29
US20040211787A9 true US20040211787A9 (en) 2004-10-28
US7204386B2 US7204386B2 (en) 2007-04-17

Family

ID=22002975

Family Applications (6)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/138,588 Expired - Lifetime US6321931B1 (en) 1997-08-21 1998-08-21 No-spill drinking cup apparatus
US10/001,257 Expired - Fee Related US7204386B2 (en) 1997-08-21 2001-11-27 No-spill drinking cup apparatus
US11/787,672 Expired - Fee Related US7789263B2 (en) 1997-08-21 2007-04-17 No-spill drinking cup apparatus
US11/981,851 Expired - Lifetime USRE43077E1 (en) 1997-08-21 2007-10-31 No-spill drinking cup apparatus
US12/877,021 Expired - Fee Related US9010568B2 (en) 1997-08-21 2010-09-07 No-spill drinking cup apparatus
US13/346,777 Expired - Fee Related US8827107B2 (en) 1997-08-21 2012-01-10 No-spill drinking cup apparatus

Family Applications Before (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/138,588 Expired - Lifetime US6321931B1 (en) 1997-08-21 1998-08-21 No-spill drinking cup apparatus

Family Applications After (4)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US11/787,672 Expired - Fee Related US7789263B2 (en) 1997-08-21 2007-04-17 No-spill drinking cup apparatus
US11/981,851 Expired - Lifetime USRE43077E1 (en) 1997-08-21 2007-10-31 No-spill drinking cup apparatus
US12/877,021 Expired - Fee Related US9010568B2 (en) 1997-08-21 2010-09-07 No-spill drinking cup apparatus
US13/346,777 Expired - Fee Related US8827107B2 (en) 1997-08-21 2012-01-10 No-spill drinking cup apparatus

Country Status (12)

Country Link
US (6) US6321931B1 (en)
EP (1) EP1014839B1 (en)
JP (1) JP3995033B2 (en)
CN (2) CN1107476C (en)
AT (1) ATE369774T1 (en)
AU (1) AU9113098A (en)
BR (1) BR9811973A (en)
CA (1) CA2301542C (en)
DE (1) DE69838255T2 (en)
ES (1) ES2292205T3 (en)
IL (1) IL134641A0 (en)
WO (1) WO1999008578A1 (en)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20080237247A1 (en) * 2007-03-29 2008-10-02 C2 Cups Llc Single-use leak/spill prevention container lid and disposable container

Families Citing this family (75)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
ES2292205T3 (en) * 1997-08-21 2008-03-01 Nouri E. Hakim CONTAINER ANTIDERRAME.
US6357620B1 (en) * 1997-08-21 2002-03-19 Nouri E. Hakim No-spill drinking cup apparatus
US20050098567A1 (en) * 1998-02-06 2005-05-12 Playtex Products, Inc. Cup assembly
US7562789B2 (en) * 1998-02-06 2009-07-21 Playtex Products, Inc. Cup assembly
CA2341418C (en) * 1998-08-21 2008-05-20 Nouri E. Hakim No-spill drinking cup apparatus
US6609630B1 (en) 1999-04-22 2003-08-26 Mark A. Freeman Leak-proof closure apparatus
GB9919133D0 (en) * 1999-08-14 1999-10-13 Royal Ind Thailand Plc Spill-proof cup
KR20010062798A (en) * 1999-12-30 2001-07-07 차알스 제이. 메츠 Improved elastomeric valve for spill-proof feeding devices
USD463216S1 (en) 1999-12-30 2002-09-24 Johnson & Johnson Consumer Companies, Inc. Trainer cup
USD448242S1 (en) 1999-12-30 2001-09-25 Johnson & Johnson Consumer Companies, Inc. Trainer cup
USD448976S1 (en) 1999-12-30 2001-10-09 Johnson & Johnson Consumer Companies, Inc. Pinched trainer cup
EP1330397B1 (en) * 2000-09-25 2007-06-06 Nouri E. Hakim Feeding dishes for children
US6976604B2 (en) * 2001-10-05 2005-12-20 The First Years Inc. Restricting flow in drinking containers
DE20119917U1 (en) * 2001-11-21 2002-06-06 Mapa GmbH Gummi- und Plastikwerke, 27404 Zeven Leak-proof bottle for children's food
JP2003231545A (en) * 2002-02-06 2003-08-19 Kiyota Engineering:Kk Replacement cap of vessel
US7059796B2 (en) * 2002-04-17 2006-06-13 Avery Dennison Corporation Self-sealing retractable writing instrument
PA8578901A1 (en) * 2002-08-05 2004-04-23 Nouri E Hakim "DRINK FREE PRODUCTS" "NO-SPILL DRINKING PRODUCTS"
AT413979B (en) * 2003-01-20 2006-07-15 Bamed Ag DRINKING-NOSE
AT413978B (en) * 2003-01-20 2006-07-15 Bamed Ag AIR VALVE FOR A LID OF A DRINKING CONTAINER
USD617465S1 (en) 2003-08-05 2010-06-08 Luv N' Care, Ltd. Drinking cup
US7198167B2 (en) * 2003-10-31 2007-04-03 Cosco Management, Inc. Sipper cup with medicine dispenser
DE20319637U1 (en) * 2003-12-17 2004-03-04 Novatex Gmbh drinking Help
US20050145593A1 (en) * 2003-12-30 2005-07-07 Unilever Home & Personal Care Usa Closure with soft feel grip
US7070065B2 (en) * 2004-03-10 2006-07-04 Fu Hong Industries Limited Closure assembly for drinking vessel
US20050205589A1 (en) * 2004-03-19 2005-09-22 Davis Dennis L Sippy cup valve
WO2005097612A1 (en) 2004-04-06 2005-10-20 Lamba Rt Drinking cup
USD518335S1 (en) * 2004-06-08 2006-04-04 Igloo Products Corporation Insulated jug
KR101207889B1 (en) 2004-06-29 2012-12-04 재켈 인터내셔널 리미티드 Teat
US20060037963A1 (en) * 2004-08-19 2006-02-23 Ramiro Pillado Cup with a valve for drinking juice
US20060108373A1 (en) * 2004-11-19 2006-05-25 Link Treasure Limited Spill-proof training cup
US7575126B2 (en) * 2005-01-28 2009-08-18 Handi-Craft Company Leak resistant drinking cup
US20060196881A1 (en) * 2005-03-02 2006-09-07 Steele Julie D Beverage container
US20060201902A1 (en) * 2005-03-03 2006-09-14 Brown Craig E Fully continuously vented drinking cup for infants and children
US20070068893A1 (en) * 2005-04-29 2007-03-29 Eidson Christopher A Spill proof drinking cap for bottles
US7874452B2 (en) * 2005-07-22 2011-01-25 Berkeley Law & Technology Group, Llp Cup cover
US20080073363A1 (en) * 2006-05-19 2008-03-27 Daniel Higgins Drinking cup and cover with flow directing assembly
FR2904610B1 (en) * 2006-08-01 2009-11-27 Nicolas Marie CAP WITH AUTOMATIC VALVE SYSTEM WITH SINGLE SENSE
US7874466B2 (en) 2006-11-07 2011-01-25 The Procter & Gamble Company Package comprising push-pull closure and slit valve
GB2448296A (en) * 2007-04-13 2008-10-15 Ilan Zadik Samson Cap for a Spill-Proof Beverage Container
WO2008131281A1 (en) * 2007-04-20 2008-10-30 Learning Curve Brands, Inc. Drinking container lid with soft spout
US8863969B2 (en) 2007-09-04 2014-10-21 Chantal Lau Feeding bottle system
US8430259B2 (en) * 2008-04-04 2013-04-30 Stokely-Van Camp, Inc. Closure with flexible diaphragm
NO328413B1 (en) * 2008-04-07 2010-02-15 Gunnar Berg Device for drinking cup
US8091730B2 (en) * 2008-12-15 2012-01-10 Granola BeBe LLC Readily cleanable spill-resistant drinking vessel and valve
GB0908652D0 (en) * 2009-05-19 2009-07-01 Great Fortune Hk Ltd Spill-proof lid
US8333299B2 (en) * 2009-05-22 2012-12-18 Handi-Craft Company Leak resistant drinking cup
US9138088B2 (en) * 2009-05-22 2015-09-22 Handi-Craft Company Leak resistant drinking cup
US8256642B2 (en) * 2009-09-10 2012-09-04 Helen Of Troy Limited Sippy cup assembly
US20110272300A1 (en) * 2010-05-04 2011-11-10 Tiara Henderson Combination spill-proof drink cup and spill-proof food cup
USD671793S1 (en) 2010-09-13 2012-12-04 Luv N' Care, Ltd. Drinking product
US8709518B2 (en) * 2011-09-07 2014-04-29 Diane Young Jones Fluid intake and content management system
GB2496602B (en) * 2011-11-15 2015-06-24 Bunzl Uk Ltd Beverage container lid
FR2992047B1 (en) 2012-06-18 2016-06-10 Dorel France Sa DOUBLE VALVE FOR ANTI-LEAK CUP, AND CORRESPONDING CUP
US20140069946A1 (en) * 2012-09-10 2014-03-13 Mattel, Inc. Cup With Repositionable Insert
US9151398B2 (en) 2013-03-11 2015-10-06 Tervis Tumbler Company Valve for a sippy cup
US9247756B2 (en) 2013-07-11 2016-02-02 Liqr Pop, Llc Device for simultaneous consumption of a fluid and a frozen substance
USD721914S1 (en) 2013-07-23 2015-02-03 Nouri E. Hakim Drinking cup cap
US9307852B2 (en) 2013-10-15 2016-04-12 Zak Designs, Inc. Fluid dispensing valve
GB201401497D0 (en) 2014-01-29 2014-03-12 Jackel Int Ltd Valve assembly
US9907731B2 (en) 2014-11-20 2018-03-06 Chantal Lau Self-paced ergonomic infant feeding bottle
PT3103733T (en) * 2015-06-11 2018-04-17 Artsana Spa Closure device for containers
US9749470B1 (en) * 2016-01-27 2017-08-29 State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company Systems and methods for handling communications during user operation of a motor vehicle
CN105996659B (en) * 2016-06-20 2017-12-15 深圳市伟春货贸易有限公司 A kind of leakproof drinking cup for baby
US10631676B2 (en) 2017-03-28 2020-04-28 Jack Allen Hakim Two-piece spill proof open cup
CN107042941A (en) * 2017-05-11 2017-08-15 上海连隽商务咨询有限公司 A kind of cup plug and leakage-proof component, preparation method
GB201708239D0 (en) 2017-05-23 2017-07-05 Jackel Int Ltd A Valve Assembly
CN109253290A (en) * 2017-07-14 2019-01-22 福特环球技术公司 The cap assembly of pressure retaining valve and integrated pressure retaining valve
USD928446S1 (en) * 2017-12-15 2021-08-24 Bluh2O Llc Apparatus for consuming a freezable substance
USD929071S1 (en) * 2017-12-15 2021-08-31 Bluh2O Llc Apparatus for consuming a freezable substance
PL3843595T3 (en) * 2018-08-27 2024-10-07 Cirkul, Inc. Adjustable additive delivery systems and dispensing closure valves for the same
CN111942305A (en) * 2019-05-14 2020-11-17 奥迪股份公司 Overfill prevention device in a vehicle, vehicle comprising the same, and corresponding method and medium
US20200367676A1 (en) 2019-05-22 2020-11-26 Joseph Daniel Hakim Spill Proof Bottle
USD1003109S1 (en) * 2020-12-17 2023-10-31 B.Box For Kids Developments Pty Ltd Food container
CN113017379B (en) * 2021-03-24 2022-08-30 泉州市默然信息技术有限公司 Auxiliary drinking device for disabled or sick and wounded people who cannot drink water manually
DE102021124043A1 (en) 2021-09-16 2023-03-16 Helmut Schwarz Drinking aid, drinking cup and combination

Citations (67)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1560689A (en) * 1924-04-04 1925-11-10 Holt William Combined outlet nozzle and measuring valve
US1954748A (en) * 1933-01-03 1934-04-10 Continental Can Co Metal container
US2107442A (en) * 1935-07-23 1938-02-08 Sure Feed Ltd Feeding bottle and device therefor
US2174361A (en) * 1936-05-16 1939-09-26 Bridget D Condon Nursing nipple
US2223179A (en) * 1937-08-14 1940-11-26 Lougheed Victor Nursing nipple
US2250266A (en) * 1939-12-13 1941-07-22 Benjamin I Kaye Method and device for registering forms for multicolored printing
US3206079A (en) * 1963-08-22 1965-09-14 Altair Inc Sealing and dispensing device
US3321114A (en) * 1966-03-04 1967-05-23 Rexall Drug Chemical Pop-up diaphragm closure
US3360169A (en) * 1966-01-19 1967-12-26 Lion Fat Oil Co Ltd Container with an improved dispensing closure
US3618825A (en) * 1969-12-15 1971-11-09 Robert E Clarke Closure for dispensing spout
US3718140A (en) * 1971-10-13 1973-02-27 A Yamauchi Nursing bottle nipple
US3840153A (en) * 1972-12-26 1974-10-08 Glacier Inc Drinking utensil
US3860162A (en) * 1972-10-10 1975-01-14 Nospil Limited Non-spill drinking cup top
US3915331A (en) * 1972-12-08 1975-10-28 Bert Russel Chenault Non-spill cover
US4102476A (en) * 1977-02-22 1978-07-25 Ciba-Geigy Corporation Squeeze bottle dispenser with air check valve on cover
US4186842A (en) * 1977-10-27 1980-02-05 Inventor's Inc. Disposable drinking cup with valved lid
US4324097A (en) * 1978-01-28 1982-04-13 Firma Carl Freudenberg Non-return valve
US4506809A (en) * 1982-06-25 1985-03-26 Calmar, Inc. Dispensing fitment for squeeze bottles
US4533062A (en) * 1983-08-11 1985-08-06 Jacob Berg Kg Container closure for supplying air to or removing air from a container
US4600111A (en) * 1985-05-13 1986-07-15 Brown Mary F Toddler cup
US4623069A (en) * 1984-04-12 1986-11-18 Baxter Travenol Laboratories, Inc. Nipple and nursing container
US4624286A (en) * 1984-04-11 1986-11-25 Walter Frohn Degasifying valve for containers
US4646781A (en) * 1985-05-07 1987-03-03 Pacesetter Infusion, Ltd. Diaphragm valve for medication infusion pump
US4801027A (en) * 1986-03-11 1989-01-31 Jackel International Pty. Ltd. Drinking cup with teat attachment
US4836404A (en) * 1988-02-05 1989-06-06 Peter Coy Valved container closure
US4941598A (en) * 1988-11-08 1990-07-17 Ortho Pharmaceutical Corporation Dosing cap
US4946062A (en) * 1988-02-05 1990-08-07 Peter Coy Valved container closure
US4993568A (en) * 1988-12-15 1991-02-19 Jex Co., Ltd. Nipple for nursing bottles
US5033647A (en) * 1990-03-09 1991-07-23 Allergan, Inc. Value controlled squeezable fluid dispenser
US5079013A (en) * 1990-08-30 1992-01-07 Belanger Richard A Dripless liquid feeding/training containers
US5101992A (en) * 1990-01-12 1992-04-07 Johnson & Johnson Consumer Products, Inc. Adjustable air inflow for feeding-bottle device
US5186347A (en) * 1991-10-15 1993-02-16 Freeman Mark A Spill-proof closure
US5213236A (en) * 1991-12-06 1993-05-25 Liquid Molding Systems, Inc. Dispensing valve for packaging
USD339197S (en) * 1991-12-23 1993-09-07 Feeding nipple for infant
US5244105A (en) * 1990-01-12 1993-09-14 Johnson & Johnson Consumer Products, Inc. Adjustable air inflow for feeding-bottle device
US5250266A (en) * 1990-11-30 1993-10-05 Ciba Vision Corporation Contact lens case venting system
USRE34725E (en) * 1989-11-21 1994-09-13 Braden Industries Calf feeder bottle for dry feed .Iadd.and nipple used therewith .Iaddend.
US5363983A (en) * 1994-04-07 1994-11-15 Proshan Mary Elizabeth Detachable cap for disposable containers of liquid
US5388615A (en) * 1992-12-11 1995-02-14 Busak & Luyken Gmbh & Co. Sealing means and sealing valve for container openings
US5409144A (en) * 1991-12-06 1995-04-25 Liquid Molding Systems Inc. Dispensing valve for packaging
US5542670A (en) * 1995-07-17 1996-08-06 Playtex Products, Inc. Flow control element and covered drinking cup
US5582315A (en) * 1994-08-30 1996-12-10 Innovative Molding, Inc. Pour spout closure with handle
US5607073A (en) * 1996-02-20 1997-03-04 Forrer; Scott M. Valve
US5609582A (en) * 1995-04-14 1997-03-11 Kruetten; Victor Drinking aid device for elderly people, patients and the like
US5651471A (en) * 1995-11-03 1997-07-29 Green; Dennis E. Removable top for drinking bottles
US5702025A (en) * 1996-05-06 1997-12-30 Di Gregorio; Vito Leak free lid with closure and spout
US5706973A (en) * 1997-01-30 1998-01-13 E. S. Robbins Corporation Drinking cup and cover with flow control elements
US5769285A (en) * 1996-02-20 1998-06-23 Veterinarian's Outlet Inc. Calf nipple
US5784999A (en) * 1994-01-25 1998-07-28 Merrick's, Inc. Animal feeding nipple
US5788097A (en) * 1994-02-14 1998-08-04 Mcinnes; Ross G. Teat
US5791510A (en) * 1996-03-13 1998-08-11 Paczonay; Joseph R. Self sealing bite valve
US5797505A (en) * 1996-05-31 1998-08-25 Kaura; Kam Debris immune animal feeding nipple
US5839614A (en) * 1991-12-06 1998-11-24 Aptar Group, Inc. Dispensing package
US5890620A (en) * 1997-08-14 1999-04-06 Belcastro; Domenic Automatically sealing cup
US5890619A (en) * 1997-05-16 1999-04-06 Belanger; Richard A. Spill-proof drinking container
US5890621A (en) * 1996-10-21 1999-04-06 Gerber Products Company Cup for young children with cap valved for fluid control
US6112919A (en) * 1998-07-13 2000-09-05 Ho; Shu-E Leakage preventive device for milk bottles or the like
US6161710A (en) * 1997-11-03 2000-12-19 Dieringer; Mary F. Natural nipple baby feeding apparatus
US6230923B1 (en) * 2000-09-01 2001-05-15 Lineo Baby Merchandise Work's Co., Ltd. Drinking bottle provided with a flexible liquid-sucking member adapted to serve as a drinking straw
US6269968B1 (en) * 1999-11-18 2001-08-07 Niko Products, Inc. Valve arrangement for an automatically sealing cup
US6305570B1 (en) * 1998-01-30 2001-10-23 Cannon Rubber Limited, A British Company Closure assembly for a drinking vessel
US6321931B1 (en) * 1997-08-21 2001-11-27 Nouri E. Hakim No-spill drinking cup apparatus
US20020011583A1 (en) * 2000-06-08 2002-01-31 Cascade Designs, Inc. Bite valve for personal hydration devices and a method for making the same
US6343704B1 (en) * 1999-10-02 2002-02-05 John Gilbert Prentiss Infant feeding nipple
US20020063103A1 (en) * 1999-12-13 2002-05-30 Kathleen Kiernan Nipple for nursing bottle
US6897013B2 (en) * 2002-03-13 2005-05-24 Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd. Silver halide photographic light-sensitive material
US6994225B2 (en) * 2002-08-05 2006-02-07 Hakim Nouri E No-spill drinking products

Family Cites Families (68)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE450685C (en) 1927-10-10 Friedrich Emil Krauss Safety valve for hot water bottles
FR695291A (en) 1931-03-14 1930-12-13 Self-closing warning container
GB379428A (en) 1931-06-16 1932-09-01 Harry Ingram Improvements in closure caps for tumblers, jars and other receptacles
FR780094A (en) 1934-10-22 1935-04-18 Automatic closing device for tubes intended to contain materials in plastic or liquid state
DE678888C (en) 1936-03-14 1939-07-25 Clement Sylvain Chausse Device for the production of Roetgenograms
DE678886C (en) 1938-03-16 1939-07-24 Benno Kisslinger Canning jar valve cap
US2584359A (en) 1947-10-03 1952-02-05 Lawrence D Miles Nipple and dispensing device
DE1018740B (en) 1952-10-28 1957-10-31 Jacques Nicolas Wiser Tin can
GB752796A (en) 1954-01-21 1956-07-18 Carl Olov Rosen Improvements in or relating to caps or lids for bottles and like containers
FR1191181A (en) 1957-04-17 1959-10-16 Self-regulating valve particularly applicable to artificial and mixed breastfeeding
US3263850A (en) * 1963-10-09 1966-08-02 Scott Plastics Corp Bottle cap and liner
US3292808A (en) * 1965-03-19 1966-12-20 Edward J Greene Valve means for bottle
US3346133A (en) * 1965-11-30 1967-10-10 Charles W Herdman Dispensing device for use with nursing bottle assembly
US3409160A (en) * 1966-10-03 1968-11-05 Scott Plastics Corp Venting closure
DE6946466U (en) 1969-11-28 1970-02-26 Bellaplast Gmbh DEVICE FOR DRINKING CONTAINERS, FOR EXAMPLE IN THE TYPE OF SNAP CUP
FR2070926A5 (en) 1969-12-11 1971-09-17 Ferodo Sa
DE2024427A1 (en) 1970-05-20 1971-12-02 Neuhaus G Self-locking valve
FR2279000A1 (en) 1974-01-15 1976-02-13 Dba LIQUID SUPPLY TANK CAP
FR2305361A1 (en) 1975-03-24 1976-10-22 Astra Plastique Plastic closure for bottles or flagons - has hole in flexible end cover blocked by internally mounted hard plastic stud
NO137258C (en) 1975-09-26 1978-02-01 Alto As DRINKING SPOT FOR BOTTLES AND SIMILAR CONTAINERS
DE2634226A1 (en) 1976-07-30 1978-02-02 Bosch Gmbh Robert Packing pressure relief valve - has rubber disc with hole fitting over boss with head pressing against seat
FR2373740A1 (en) 1976-12-10 1978-07-07 Tuboplast France Squeeze tube non-return valve - is made from flexible ring to prevent air entry into tube
DE2704164A1 (en) 1977-02-02 1978-08-03 Bachmann Pressure operated tube sealing cap - has elastic membrane with hole lifted off sealing body by pressing tube
GB1593084A (en) 1977-06-24 1981-07-15 Metal Box Co Ltd Dispensing closures
US4226342A (en) * 1978-12-15 1980-10-07 Laauwe Robert H Dispensing valve particularly for viscous products
US4414973A (en) * 1981-03-10 1983-11-15 U.S.D. Corp. Respirator face mask
DK148192C (en) 1981-10-21 1986-02-10 Jens Claus Jensen BABY BOTTLE
US4474314A (en) * 1982-06-29 1984-10-02 Essex Chemical Corporation Squeeze bottle self-closing viscous liquid dispensing valve having manually operated positive shut-off
GB2169210B (en) 1984-12-17 1989-01-05 Mandy Nicola Haberman Baby's feeding apparatus
US4685577A (en) * 1986-04-24 1987-08-11 Wen Chung Chen Nursing bottle
FR2602593B1 (en) 1986-08-11 1988-11-10 Universal Technic CURRENT MEASURING DEVICE
FR2605293B1 (en) 1986-10-15 1990-01-26 Astra Plastique PLUG EQUIPPED WITH A DEGASSING VALVE
US4850496A (en) * 1987-02-02 1989-07-25 Elliott Rudell Infant and child's drinking system
US4871077A (en) 1987-04-27 1989-10-03 Doxtech, Inc. Tamper resistant, tamper evident leak proof container
FR2627694B1 (en) 1988-02-25 1995-06-16 Oreal VARIABLE AND ADJUSTABLE FLOW TETINE, ADAPTED TO A BOTTLE FOR THE FEEDING OF INFANTS
IT1234039B (en) 1989-03-23 1992-04-24 Ica Spa Bologna Taplas Di Evan UNIDIRECTIONAL VALVE FOR FLUIDS WITH SIMULTANEOUS SEALING GUARANTEE AGAINST PENETRATION OF FLUIDS OUTSIDE, EVEN WITHOUT THE USE OF A VISCOUS LAYER FOR THE ELASTIC MEMBRANE AND THE RELATIVE SEALING SEAT
DE4027539A1 (en) 1990-08-31 1992-03-05 Kautex Werke Gmbh Squeeze bottle with inner bag
US5050758A (en) 1990-11-16 1991-09-24 Freeman Mark A Spill-proof closure for a beverage container
GB2258860A (en) 1991-08-07 1993-02-24 Polytop Plastics Valved closure
DE4136985C1 (en) * 1991-11-11 1993-05-13 Marsteller & Killmann Gmbh & Co Kg, 4300 Essen, De
GB2266045B (en) 1992-04-07 1996-09-18 Mandy Nicola Haberman Drinking vessel suitable for use as a trainer cup or the like
CA2069585C (en) * 1992-05-26 1997-03-04 Michel Painchaud Bottle assembly with improved seal
CN2163761Y (en) * 1993-01-10 1994-05-04 刘建初 Multi-purpose combined tea set for drivers
GB2279130A (en) 1993-06-03 1994-12-21 Duckhouse Geoffrey Charles Valve for delivering fluids
SE501740C2 (en) 1993-06-04 1995-05-02 Billy Nilson Self-closing closure device for dispensing liquid substance, including a flexible membrane provided with deformation zones
GB9321670D0 (en) 1993-10-20 1993-12-08 Manthorpe Limited Container closure
US5392949A (en) * 1993-11-29 1995-02-28 Mckenna; Paul A. Universal beverage container lid
CN2202110Y (en) * 1994-03-12 1995-06-28 李红燕 Drink bottle against overflow
FR2717778B1 (en) 1994-03-22 1996-05-24 Astra Plastique Cap fitted with a degassing device.
DE19580254B4 (en) 1994-03-25 2004-12-02 Alpla-Werke Alwin Lehner Gmbh & Co. Kg Fastener with cap, e.g. for liquid soap in showers - has sealing element including permanently open central dispensing aperture, sealed against support element in closed position
US5433328A (en) 1994-05-17 1995-07-18 Baron; Moises S. Baby bottle extension assembly having storage chamber and release mechanism
US5472122A (en) * 1994-10-11 1995-12-05 Appleby; Paul Dispensing valve with venting
DE29500819U1 (en) 1995-01-20 1995-03-02 Krüger, Burkhard, 29581 Gerdau Leak-proof drinking vessel
CN2229195Y (en) * 1995-02-17 1996-06-19 盛宏达 Sealing cup
US5626262A (en) * 1995-06-07 1997-05-06 Redmond Products, Inc. Dispensing container with drainage passages
GB2304545B (en) * 1995-09-01 1999-10-06 Mandy Nicola Haberman Articles adapted for a drinking liquid to be taken therefrom
US5676289A (en) * 1996-04-04 1997-10-14 Aptargroup, Inc. Valve-controlled dispensing closure with dispersion baffle
DE29608342U1 (en) 1996-05-08 1996-07-04 Protechna S.A., Freiburg/Fribourg Safety valve made of plastic for containers
NL1005120C2 (en) 1997-01-29 1998-07-30 Ippc International Product Pro Drinking-cup with detachable cover
US5897013A (en) 1997-04-14 1999-04-27 Playtex Products, Inc. Straw for drinking cup
DE29706653U1 (en) 1997-04-14 1997-07-10 S + R Kunststofftechnik GmbH, 35394 Gießen Drinking vessel
US6089418A (en) * 1997-06-23 2000-07-18 Crown Cork & Seal Technologies Corporation Dispensing closure with pressure actuated valve
US5950878A (en) * 1997-08-04 1999-09-14 Steris Corporation Dispensing tube valve assembly
US6357620B1 (en) 1997-08-21 2002-03-19 Nouri E. Hakim No-spill drinking cup apparatus
US5893472A (en) * 1998-01-14 1999-04-13 Forrer; Scott M. Spout for valve assembly
US6050445A (en) 1998-02-06 2000-04-18 Playtex Products, Inc. Leak-proof cup assembly with flow control element
US6045004A (en) * 1998-03-20 2000-04-04 Aptargroup, Inc. Dispensing structure with dispensing valve and barrier penetrator
US20020083103A1 (en) 2000-10-02 2002-06-27 Ballance Chanin M. Machine editing system incorporating dynamic rules database

Patent Citations (72)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1560689A (en) * 1924-04-04 1925-11-10 Holt William Combined outlet nozzle and measuring valve
US1954748A (en) * 1933-01-03 1934-04-10 Continental Can Co Metal container
US2107442A (en) * 1935-07-23 1938-02-08 Sure Feed Ltd Feeding bottle and device therefor
US2174361A (en) * 1936-05-16 1939-09-26 Bridget D Condon Nursing nipple
US2223179A (en) * 1937-08-14 1940-11-26 Lougheed Victor Nursing nipple
US2250266A (en) * 1939-12-13 1941-07-22 Benjamin I Kaye Method and device for registering forms for multicolored printing
US3206079A (en) * 1963-08-22 1965-09-14 Altair Inc Sealing and dispensing device
US3360169A (en) * 1966-01-19 1967-12-26 Lion Fat Oil Co Ltd Container with an improved dispensing closure
US3321114A (en) * 1966-03-04 1967-05-23 Rexall Drug Chemical Pop-up diaphragm closure
US3618825A (en) * 1969-12-15 1971-11-09 Robert E Clarke Closure for dispensing spout
US3718140A (en) * 1971-10-13 1973-02-27 A Yamauchi Nursing bottle nipple
US3860162A (en) * 1972-10-10 1975-01-14 Nospil Limited Non-spill drinking cup top
US3915331A (en) * 1972-12-08 1975-10-28 Bert Russel Chenault Non-spill cover
US3840153A (en) * 1972-12-26 1974-10-08 Glacier Inc Drinking utensil
US4102476A (en) * 1977-02-22 1978-07-25 Ciba-Geigy Corporation Squeeze bottle dispenser with air check valve on cover
US4186842A (en) * 1977-10-27 1980-02-05 Inventor's Inc. Disposable drinking cup with valved lid
US4324097A (en) * 1978-01-28 1982-04-13 Firma Carl Freudenberg Non-return valve
US4506809A (en) * 1982-06-25 1985-03-26 Calmar, Inc. Dispensing fitment for squeeze bottles
US4533062A (en) * 1983-08-11 1985-08-06 Jacob Berg Kg Container closure for supplying air to or removing air from a container
US4624286A (en) * 1984-04-11 1986-11-25 Walter Frohn Degasifying valve for containers
US4623069A (en) * 1984-04-12 1986-11-18 Baxter Travenol Laboratories, Inc. Nipple and nursing container
US4646781A (en) * 1985-05-07 1987-03-03 Pacesetter Infusion, Ltd. Diaphragm valve for medication infusion pump
US4600111A (en) * 1985-05-13 1986-07-15 Brown Mary F Toddler cup
US4801027A (en) * 1986-03-11 1989-01-31 Jackel International Pty. Ltd. Drinking cup with teat attachment
US4946062A (en) * 1988-02-05 1990-08-07 Peter Coy Valved container closure
US4836404A (en) * 1988-02-05 1989-06-06 Peter Coy Valved container closure
US4941598A (en) * 1988-11-08 1990-07-17 Ortho Pharmaceutical Corporation Dosing cap
US4993568A (en) * 1988-12-15 1991-02-19 Jex Co., Ltd. Nipple for nursing bottles
US5101991A (en) * 1988-12-15 1992-04-07 Jex Company, Limited Nipple for nursing bottle
USRE34725E (en) * 1989-11-21 1994-09-13 Braden Industries Calf feeder bottle for dry feed .Iadd.and nipple used therewith .Iaddend.
US5101992A (en) * 1990-01-12 1992-04-07 Johnson & Johnson Consumer Products, Inc. Adjustable air inflow for feeding-bottle device
US5244105A (en) * 1990-01-12 1993-09-14 Johnson & Johnson Consumer Products, Inc. Adjustable air inflow for feeding-bottle device
US5033647A (en) * 1990-03-09 1991-07-23 Allergan, Inc. Value controlled squeezable fluid dispenser
US5079013A (en) * 1990-08-30 1992-01-07 Belanger Richard A Dripless liquid feeding/training containers
US5250266A (en) * 1990-11-30 1993-10-05 Ciba Vision Corporation Contact lens case venting system
US5186347A (en) * 1991-10-15 1993-02-16 Freeman Mark A Spill-proof closure
US5409144A (en) * 1991-12-06 1995-04-25 Liquid Molding Systems Inc. Dispensing valve for packaging
US5213236A (en) * 1991-12-06 1993-05-25 Liquid Molding Systems, Inc. Dispensing valve for packaging
US5339995A (en) * 1991-12-06 1994-08-23 Liquid Molding Systems, Inc. Dispensing valve for packaging
US5839614A (en) * 1991-12-06 1998-11-24 Aptar Group, Inc. Dispensing package
US5377877A (en) * 1991-12-06 1995-01-03 Liquid Molding Systems, Inc. Dispensing valve for packaging
US5439143A (en) * 1991-12-06 1995-08-08 Liquid Molding Systems, Inc. Dispensing valve for packaging
USD339197S (en) * 1991-12-23 1993-09-07 Feeding nipple for infant
US5388615A (en) * 1992-12-11 1995-02-14 Busak & Luyken Gmbh & Co. Sealing means and sealing valve for container openings
US5784999A (en) * 1994-01-25 1998-07-28 Merrick's, Inc. Animal feeding nipple
US5788097A (en) * 1994-02-14 1998-08-04 Mcinnes; Ross G. Teat
US5363983A (en) * 1994-04-07 1994-11-15 Proshan Mary Elizabeth Detachable cap for disposable containers of liquid
US5582315A (en) * 1994-08-30 1996-12-10 Innovative Molding, Inc. Pour spout closure with handle
US5609582A (en) * 1995-04-14 1997-03-11 Kruetten; Victor Drinking aid device for elderly people, patients and the like
US5542670A (en) * 1995-07-17 1996-08-06 Playtex Products, Inc. Flow control element and covered drinking cup
USRE37016E1 (en) * 1995-07-17 2001-01-16 Playtex Products, Inc. Flow control element and covered drinking cup
US5651471A (en) * 1995-11-03 1997-07-29 Green; Dennis E. Removable top for drinking bottles
US5607073A (en) * 1996-02-20 1997-03-04 Forrer; Scott M. Valve
US5769285A (en) * 1996-02-20 1998-06-23 Veterinarian's Outlet Inc. Calf nipple
US5791510A (en) * 1996-03-13 1998-08-11 Paczonay; Joseph R. Self sealing bite valve
US5702025A (en) * 1996-05-06 1997-12-30 Di Gregorio; Vito Leak free lid with closure and spout
US5797505A (en) * 1996-05-31 1998-08-25 Kaura; Kam Debris immune animal feeding nipple
US5890621A (en) * 1996-10-21 1999-04-06 Gerber Products Company Cup for young children with cap valved for fluid control
US5706973A (en) * 1997-01-30 1998-01-13 E. S. Robbins Corporation Drinking cup and cover with flow control elements
US5890619A (en) * 1997-05-16 1999-04-06 Belanger; Richard A. Spill-proof drinking container
US5890620A (en) * 1997-08-14 1999-04-06 Belcastro; Domenic Automatically sealing cup
US6321931B1 (en) * 1997-08-21 2001-11-27 Nouri E. Hakim No-spill drinking cup apparatus
US6161710A (en) * 1997-11-03 2000-12-19 Dieringer; Mary F. Natural nipple baby feeding apparatus
US6305570B1 (en) * 1998-01-30 2001-10-23 Cannon Rubber Limited, A British Company Closure assembly for a drinking vessel
US6112919A (en) * 1998-07-13 2000-09-05 Ho; Shu-E Leakage preventive device for milk bottles or the like
US6343704B1 (en) * 1999-10-02 2002-02-05 John Gilbert Prentiss Infant feeding nipple
US6269968B1 (en) * 1999-11-18 2001-08-07 Niko Products, Inc. Valve arrangement for an automatically sealing cup
US20020063103A1 (en) * 1999-12-13 2002-05-30 Kathleen Kiernan Nipple for nursing bottle
US20020011583A1 (en) * 2000-06-08 2002-01-31 Cascade Designs, Inc. Bite valve for personal hydration devices and a method for making the same
US6230923B1 (en) * 2000-09-01 2001-05-15 Lineo Baby Merchandise Work's Co., Ltd. Drinking bottle provided with a flexible liquid-sucking member adapted to serve as a drinking straw
US6897013B2 (en) * 2002-03-13 2005-05-24 Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd. Silver halide photographic light-sensitive material
US6994225B2 (en) * 2002-08-05 2006-02-07 Hakim Nouri E No-spill drinking products

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20080237247A1 (en) * 2007-03-29 2008-10-02 C2 Cups Llc Single-use leak/spill prevention container lid and disposable container
US20100163568A1 (en) * 2007-03-29 2010-07-01 C2 Cups Llc Single-use leak/spill prevention container lid and disposable container

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CN1475187A (en) 2004-02-18
IL134641A0 (en) 2001-04-30
BR9811973A (en) 2000-08-15
AU9113098A (en) 1999-03-08
US8827107B2 (en) 2014-09-09
EP1014839B1 (en) 2007-08-15
JP2001514914A (en) 2001-09-18
US7789263B2 (en) 2010-09-07
ES2292205T3 (en) 2008-03-01
US20070187419A1 (en) 2007-08-16
JP3995033B2 (en) 2007-10-24
CA2301542A1 (en) 1999-02-25
US20110000910A1 (en) 2011-01-06
CN1297221C (en) 2007-01-31
US6321931B1 (en) 2001-11-27
DE69838255D1 (en) 2007-09-27
ATE369774T1 (en) 2007-09-15
CN1107476C (en) 2003-05-07
WO1999008578A1 (en) 1999-02-25
USRE43077E1 (en) 2012-01-10
US9010568B2 (en) 2015-04-21
DE69838255T2 (en) 2008-05-08
CA2301542C (en) 2008-04-22
EP1014839A1 (en) 2000-07-05
US7204386B2 (en) 2007-04-17
US20030098312A1 (en) 2003-05-29
CN1271257A (en) 2000-10-25
EP1014839A4 (en) 2001-01-17
US20120175378A1 (en) 2012-07-12

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
USRE43077E1 (en) No-spill drinking cup apparatus
US6357620B1 (en) No-spill drinking cup apparatus
US5454482A (en) Safety drinking container
EP1104252B1 (en) No-spill drinking cup apparatus
WO2019169404A1 (en) Spill-proof lid for container
EP1880645A2 (en) No-spill drinking cup apparatus
JP2003530271A6 (en) Leak-free drinking cup device
AU2004200721B2 (en) No-spill Drinking Cup Apparatus
AU2009201922A1 (en) No-spill drinking cup apparatus
MXPA01001819A (en) No-spill drinking cup apparatus
JP3223969U (en) Cup cap
MXPA00001795A (en) No-spill drinking cup apparatus

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
STCF Information on status: patent grant

Free format text: PATENTED CASE

AS Assignment

Owner name: LUV N' CARE, LTD., LOUISIANA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:HAKIM, NOURI E.;REEL/FRAME:020056/0122

Effective date: 20071030

FPAY Fee payment

Year of fee payment: 4

FPAY Fee payment

Year of fee payment: 8

AS Assignment

Owner name: ADMAR INTERNATIONAL, INC., LOUISIANA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:HAKIM, NOURI E.;REEL/FRAME:034803/0767

Effective date: 20150122

Owner name: ADMAR INTERNATIONAL, INC., LOUISIANA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:LUV N' CARE, LTD.;REEL/FRAME:034803/0669

Effective date: 20150122

FEPP Fee payment procedure

Free format text: MAINTENANCE FEE REMINDER MAILED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: REM.); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: SMALL ENTITY

LAPS Lapse for failure to pay maintenance fees

Free format text: PATENT EXPIRED FOR FAILURE TO PAY MAINTENANCE FEES (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: EXP.); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: SMALL ENTITY

STCH Information on status: patent discontinuation

Free format text: PATENT EXPIRED DUE TO NONPAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEES UNDER 37 CFR 1.362

FP Lapsed due to failure to pay maintenance fee

Effective date: 20190417