US20090188929A1

US20090188929A1 - Drinking Cup Having Multiple Compartments and Straw Holder

Info

Publication number: US20090188929A1
Application number: US12/020,153
Authority: US
Inventors: Inez Sims; Katherine Harris
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2008-01-25
Filing date: 2008-01-25
Publication date: 2009-07-30

Abstract

A drinking cup having a vessel, a partition positioned within the vessel and a clip coupled with the vessel. The vessel has a side wall and bottom defining an interior configured to retain liquid. The partition divides the interior of the vessel into at least two compartments. The clip is configured to receive at least one drinking straw.

Description

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to drinking cups. More specifically, the invention relates to a drinking cup having multiple compartments for simultaneously containing multiple liquids, and a storage device for retaining multiple drinking straws to the cup.
2. Description of Related Art
Drinking cups with the ability to retain liquid are well known in the art. Cups are typically manufactured for the particular utilitarian purpose of holding a liquid, they do not typically provide any interest or entertainment value to a user. Instead, cups are simply intended to hold a liquid for a user to drink.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a whimsical drinking cup, intended to be used primarily by children. The cup included multiple compartments within the interior portion, thus allowing the cup to hold multiple liquids simultaneously in the separate compartments. Preferably, the exterior of the cup body is manufactured from a transparent or translucent material so that the contained liquids can be viewed through the body of the cup. A hollow handle attached to the side of the cup allows the cup to be easily held, and further allows liquid from one of the compartments within the cup to flow through the handle so that the liquid is viewable in the handle. A lid, having multiple apertures corresponding to each of the multiple compartments within the cup, allows a straw to be inserted into the corresponding compartment for drinking the liquid from that compartment. A retaining clip on the exterior surface of the cup allows multiple straws to be removably attached to the cup for convenient storage.
In a preferred embodiment, the drinking cup also comprises a stop attached to the exterior of the vessel beneath and in substantially vertical alignment with the clip such that an end of a straw retained by the clip rests against the stop. Preferably, the cup also comprises a lid with apertures sized to receive a drinking straw. The lid may also have flaps movable to cover and uncover the apertures.
Additional aspects of the invention, together with the advantages and novel features appurtenant thereto, will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the following, or may be learned from the practice of the invention. The advantages of the invention may be realized and attained by means of the instrumentalities and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cup having multiple compartments in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a top view of the cup of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a side, cut-away view of the cup of FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT

FIGS. 1-3 depict a drinking cup 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Drinking cup 10 includes a main vessel 12 having an open top end and a closed bottom end, defining an interior container portion 13. A partition 14 positioned within the vessel divides the interior container portion into first and second compartments 32, 34. A lid 16 removably attached to the open end of the vessel provides apertures 44, 46 for inserting a straw into the first and second compartments, with flaps 48, 50 operable to seal closed the apertures when not in use. A retaining clip 18 attached to the exterior wall of vessel 12 retains multiple straws 60, 62 against the side of the vessel, with stop 20 providing a shelf to prevent the retained straws from sliding out of clip 18. A frame 64 affixed to the outer surface of vessel 12 supports a name tag 66 to identify a user of the cup.
Vessel 12 is generally cylindrical in shape, with side wall 22 defining an outer perimeter of the vessel, and bottom 24 attached to side wall 22 around the perimeter at the lower end of vessel 12 to enclose the lower end of the vessel. Partition 14 is affixed to the interior wall of vessel 12 and to bottom 24 to form fluid- tight compartments 32, 34. A hollow handle 26 attached to side wall 22 includes a passageway 31 extending therethough, with upper and lower openings 28, 30 through side wall 22 placing passageway 31 in fluid communication with compartment 34 so that fluid within the compartment will flow into passageway 31 and thus be viewable in the handle. Preferably, vessel 12 and handle 26 are formed integrally, and are made of a transparent or translucent material such as plastic. Similarly, partition 14 is preferably formed integrally with vessel 12, and is preferably made from a transparent or translucent material. Most preferably, partition 14 is made from the same material as vessel 12.
As seen best in FIG. 3, with the vessel, partition, and handle configured as just described, liquids are contained within their respective compartment 32, 34. As shown in FIG. 3, a first liquid 38 in compartment 34 is at a particular level within the vessel, and a second liquid 36 in compartment 34 is at a different level, since the compartments are isolated from each other. As also seen in FIG. 3, liquid 38 in first compartment 34 flows into passageway 31 of handle 26, as described previously. As is thus apparent, with vessel 12 being made of a translucent or transparent material, the liquids within each compartment can be viewed by a user. Likewise, with handle 26 being made of a translucent or transparent material, the liquid in first compartment 32 may be viewed in the handle.
Of course, other variations of the specific embodiment described are contemplated by the present invention. For example, partition 14 may be configured to divided the interior container portion 13 into more than two compartments. If partition 14 is configured in a “Y” shape, the interior portion would be divided into three compartments, if partition 14 is configured in an “X” shape, the interior portion would be divided into four compartments, and so forth. Or, more than one handle could be included on the cup, so that each compartment has an associated handle through which the liquid within that compartment could be viewed. And, the vessel portion could be made from an opaque material so that the liquid within a compartment is only visible through the transparent handled associated with that compartment. Similarly, the handles could be made from an opaque material, or not include a passage, such that the liquids are only viewable through the transparent vessel 12. These and other variations and configurations are contemplated by, and within the scope of, the present invention.
While partition 14 is preferably formed integrally with vessel 12 and bottom 24, other configurations and variations are contemplated by the present invention. For example, shallow grooves could be formed in side wall 22 and bottom 24 in the interior container portion 13 of vessel 12. Partition 14 could then press-fit within the grooves, or the grooves could include a resilient seal to isolate the adjacent compartments from each other. Thus, partition 14 could be removed from vessel 12 to allow easy and thorough cleaning of the cup.
Referring again to FIGS. 1-3, lid 16 is removably attached to the open top of vessel 12 to enclose the vessel and contain the liquids within the compartments of the vessel. Lid 16 includes an outer rim 40 which rests against sidewall 22, with a disc-shaped central portion 42 covering the open end of the vessel. Central portion 42 rests against the top of partition 14 to further enclose the compartments formed by the partition. Lid 16 can removably engage with the top end of vessel 12 by any means known in the art. For instance, the lid may have screw threads configured to receive or be received by corresponding screw threads at the top of the vessel. Alternatively, the lid may have an annular protrusion which snaps into a groove at the top of the vessel. In another alternative, the lid and vessel may engage such that there is an interference fit between the lid and vessel for preventing liquid leakage if the vessel is tipped. These and other configurations are contemplated by the present invention.
As shown best in FIGS. 2 and 3, first and second apertures 44 and 46 in lid 16 allow straws to be inserted into the corresponding compartments of vessel 12. Aperture 44 is aligned with first compartment 32 and aperture 46 is aligned with second compartment 34. First and second flaps 48 and 50 are hingedly joined 52, 54 to lid 16 such that each flap is moveable to cover and uncover an associated aperture. FIGS. 1-3 depict first aperture 44 uncovered by first flap 48, with second flap 50 covering second aperture 46. As shown in FIG. 3, a first stopper 56 extends down from first flap 48 and a second stopper 58 extends down from second flap 50. Stoppers 56 and 58 are sized to be receivable by first and second apertures 44 and 46, respectively. Each stopper is preferably identically or slightly larger sized than corresponding apertures 44 and 46 so that the stoppers engage with the perimeter of the aperture to seal the aperture shut when closed. The stoppers may also be made from a resilient material to positively seal the aperture to prevent unwanted leakage. Most preferably, lid 16 includes an aperture corresponding to each compartment within vessel 12.
Looking to FIGS. 1-3, clip 18 extends outwardly from sidewall 22 and is configured to receive two drinking straws 60 and 62, as shown best FIG. 2. Clip 18 has a center prong 18 a and two outside prongs 18 b, 18 c which are configured to partially encircle and retain drinking straws 60 and 62. Preferably, the distance between the center prong and each outside prong is slightly less than the diameter of the drinking straws so that the straws may be snapped into place between the prongs by slightly displacing the prongs. Most preferably, the clip is constructed from a resilient material with the ability to slightly deform and return to its original shape. Preferably, the prongs are configured so that they extend around at least one half the perimeter of a drinking straw to ensure that the prongs have the capability to effectively retain a straw.
As shown best FIG. 3, stop 20 extends outwardly from the bottom of sidewall 22 in the area beneath clip 18. Stop 20 is in vertical alignment with clip 18 such that an end of each straw 60 and 62 rests against stop 20 when the respective straw is retained within clip 18. Stop 20 is sized to support the entire bottom of each of straws 60 and 62. Clip 20 is preferably formed integrally with vessel 12.
Looking to FIGS. 1 and 2, a frame 64 is affixed to the outer surface of vessel 12 to support a name tag 66, the name tag identifying the user, or contents of, the cup. Frame 64 comprises a lower, generally horizontal member, with two generally vertical members extending upwardly from each end of the horizontal member, generally perpendicular to the horizontal member. The open top portion of the frame provides an opening to insert a name tag 66 into the frame so that the nametag is secured behind the horizontal and vertical members. The name tag 66 may be used to identify the owner or user of the cup, or to identify the contents of the cup. It will be apparent that variations of the frame and name tag are within the scope of the present invention, for example the frame could include a transparent cover, or could be oriented or placed in different locations on the cup.
Of course, other variations and configurations of the lid, clip, and stop are within the scope of the present invention. For example, clip 20 may be removably attached to vessel 12. And, while two straws are shown, with corresponding compartments and apertures, any number of compartments may be configured within vessel 12. In the case of multiple compartments, lid 16 may be configured with corresponding apertures for each compartment, and clip 18 and stop 20 may be configured to hold multiple straws corresponding to each of the compartments.
Looking to FIGS. 1 and 3, in use, partition 14 is in place within the interior container portion of vessel 12. First liquid 36 is poured into first compartment 32 and second liquid 38 is poured into second compartment 34. Next, the user places lid 16 on top of the vessel for enclosing the first and second liquids within the vessel. To drink either of liquids 36 or 38, the respective flap 48 or 50 is moved such that it uncovers the respective aperture 44 or 46. Either straw 60 or 62 is inserted through the uncovered aperture 44 or 46 into the interior of the respective compartment 32 or 34 such that a portion of the straw is immersed in the liquid. The straw may then be utilized for drinking the liquid within the compartment. Alternatively, in lieu of using a straw, a user may drink directly from the uncovered aperture. When a compartment is empty, or when the user is otherwise done drinking, the straw is removed from the compartment and the stopper 56 or 58 is inserted into the uncovered aperture 44 or 46. The straw is pushed into clip 18 such that the straw is retained within the clip and the end of the straw rests against stop 20. Lid 16 may also be removed to clean any liquid remaining in the compartments.
Thus, the cup of the present invention provides a whimsical, practical cup for use by children. The multiple compartments allow multiple liquids to be contained, the transparency of the vessel and handle allow the multiple liquids to be viewed, and the retaining clip and shelf provide integral storage of drinking straws for each of the liquids in the multiple compartments.
From the foregoing it will be seen that this invention is one well adapted to attain all ends and objectives herein above set forth, together with the other advantages which are obvious and which are inherent to the invention.
Since many possible embodiments may be made of the invention without departing from the scope thereof, it is to be understood that all matters herein set forth or shown in the accompanying drawings are to be interpreted as illustrative, and not in a limiting sense. For example, even though handle 26 is shown in FIG. 2 aligned with the vertical plane passing through both apertures 44 and 46, the handle may be positioned at any angle with respect to the vertical plane passing through the apertures. For ease of drinking directly from the apertures, handle 26 may be positioned at or near a ninety-degree angle to the vertical plane passing through the apertures. In such an embodiment, the handle preferably does not have openings in fluid communication with the vessel compartments to prevent mixing between the liquids within each compartment.
The term “substantially”, “approximately” or “generally” as used herein may be applied to modify any quantitative representation which could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related.
While specific embodiments have been shown and discussed, various modifications may of course be made, and the invention is not limited to the specific forms or arrangement of parts and steps described herein, except insofar as such limitations are included in the following claims. Further, it will be understood that certain features and subcombinations are of utility and may be employed without reference to other features and subcombinations. This is contemplated by and is within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A drinking cup, comprising:

a vessel having an interior and exterior, said vessel having a top, open end and a bottom, closed end;

a partition positioned within said vessel, said partition dividing said interior of said vessel into at least two compartments;

a clip attached to said exterior of said vessel, said clip configured to receive at least one drinking straw; and

a stop attached to said exterior of said vessel beneath and in substantially vertical alignment with said clip such that an end of a straw received by said clip rests against said stop.

2. The drinking cup of claim 1, wherein said clip is configured to receive two drinking straws.

3. The drinking cup of claim 1, wherein said stop is integral with said vessel.

4. The drinking cup of claim 1, further comprising a lid configured to engage with said top of said vessel and cover said open end.

5. The drinking cup of claim 4, wherein said lid comprises at least one aperture configured to receive a drinking straw, said aperture positioned on said lid to align with one of said compartments when said lid is engaged with said vessel.

6. The drinking cup of claim 5, further comprising a flap hingedly attached to said lid such that said flap is movable to cover and uncover said aperture.

7. The drinking cup of claim 6, further comprising a stopper extending from said flap, said aperture configured to receive said stopper when said flap covers said aperture.

8. The drinking cup of claim 6, further comprising another aperture configured to receive a drinking straw, said other aperture positioned on said lid to align with the other of said compartments when said lid is engaged with said vessel.

9. The drinking cup of claim 8, further comprising another flap hingedly attached to said lid such that said other flap is movable to cover and uncover said other aperture.

10. The drinking cup of claim 1, wherein said vessel further comprises an integral handle, said handle having upper and lower openings in fluid communication with one of said compartments, and said handle having a passageway with a fluid retaining capacity extending between said upper and lower openings.

11. The cup of claim 1, further comprising a frame affixed to said vessel, said frame configured to receive an identifying tag.

12. A cup, comprising:

a vessel having a side wall and a bottom coupled with said side wall, said side wall and bottom defining an interior configured to retain liquid;

a partition positioned within said interior of said vessel, said partition dividing said interior into at least two compartments; and

a clip coupled with said vessel, said clip configured to receive at least one straw.

13. The cup of claim 12, further comprising a stop extending from said vessel beneath said clip such that an end of a straw received by said clip rests against said stop.

14. The cup of claim 12, further comprising a lid configured to engage said side wall opposite said bottom for substantially enclosing said interior.

15. The cup of claim 14, wherein said lid comprises at least one aperture configured to receive a straw, said aperture positioned on said lid to align with one of said compartments when said lid is engaged with said vessel.

16. The cup of claim 15, further comprising a flap hingedly coupled with said lid and movable to cover and uncover said aperture.

17. The cup of claim 1, further comprising a frame affixed to said vessel, said frame configured to receive an identifying tag.

18. A drinking cup, comprising:

means for dividing said interior of said vessel into a plurality of compartments;

means for receiving a drinking straw, said receiving means coupled with said exterior of said vessel; and

a stop attached to said exterior of said vessel beneath said receiving means such that an end of a straw received by said receiving means rests against said stop.

19. The drinking cup of claim 18, wherein said dividing means is a partition positioned within said vessel.

20. The drinking cup of claim 18, wherein said receiving means is a clip coupled with said exterior of said vessel and configured to receive a drinking straw.