JP2003530271A - Leak-free drinking cup device - Google Patents

Abstract

SUMMARY A leak-free cup (22) and a valve assembly (31) that provide a seal against accidental liquid flow is disclosed. The suction action at the cup spout creates a negative pressure on the valve member (37, 39) near the spout (14) having the opening to separate the valve member (37, 39) and the opening from the protruding member. This leaves the opening in the valve unsealed. When the opening is unblocked, the liquid is free to flow through the valve and the spout. When not in use, the valve is seated in the closed position and the opening in the valve is seated on the protruding member and pressed against the bottom of the protruding member to seal the opening in the valve assembly (31). The closed position provides a seal against fluid leakage in the event of inadvertent leakage. The cup assembly allows for variable liquid flow by rotating the position of the valve assembly on the cover (11) of the cup.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

(Related Application) This application is related to US patent application Ser. No. 09 / 138,5 filed on Aug. 8, 1998.
No. 88 / 271,77 filed on Mar. 18, 1999
Claims No. 9 (the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety). US Provisional Patent Application No. 60, filed 21st December 1997,
The disclosure of 056,218 is also hereby fully incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a leaktight cup assembly with an improved valve mechanism that prevents liquid from escaping from the cup when not desired.

Background Art Leak-free cup assemblies are well known in the art. In the past, various assemblies of this type have been developed and are commercially available. In general, the purpose of a leak-free cup is to provide a structure that minimizes or prevents liquid from escaping the cup when liquid flow is not desired (ie, when the user is not drinking).
However, while prior art assemblies are intended to avoid accidents of this kind, their construction is such that they generally do not provide reliable and sufficient protection against unwanted splashes or leaks. That is to say, when the cups of this kind are displaced or shaken violently, the liquid often flows out more significantly. This can be particularly problematic for infants, for whom these cups are generally intended. Therefore,
There is a need in the art for improved cup assemblies to prevent unwanted leakage of liquid.

[0004]     (Disclosure of the invention)   It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved leak tight cup assembly.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a cup assembly which prevents liquid from escaping the cup when the user is not drinking.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a cup assembly that minimizes or eliminates accidental or unwanted liquid flow or leakage from the cup.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a cup assembly that provides the ability to regulate the flow rate of liquid from the cup.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a cup assembly that can be used by an infant to avoid accidental leakage of liquid.

[0009]   Other objects of the invention will be apparent from the disclosure below.

In accordance with the present invention, there is provided an improved cup structure and valve assembly that provides a very secure seal against accidental liquid flow from the cup spout. Further in accordance with the present invention, the user abuts its mouth against the spout of the cup assembly to draw liquid from the cup when desired. The suction action at the spout of the cup creates a negative or partial pressure reduction on the valve at the spout to initiate dislocation of the valve (ie, inside to outside), such as an orifice or slit in the valve. Unblock the opening. In the preferred embodiment, application of negative pressure to the top of the valve causes an opening in a portion of the valve to move upwardly from the bottom of a protruding member that extends through the opening. When the opening is unblocked, liquid is free to flow through the valve and spout.

In contrast, when not in use, the valve sits in a stationary closed position and the opening is pressed against the central seal, thereby sealing the opening, slit or orifice in the valve assembly. For example, in the relaxed state with no negative pressure applied, the valve sits in the closed position and the fluid opening is sealed over the central seal. In a preferred embodiment, the projecting member penetrates the opening in a male-female relationship such that the orifice seats on the projecting member in a fluid-tight manner with respect to the bottom of the projecting member and the central or sealing member bottom.

In one embodiment, a dual valve device is provided which has an adjacent valve that also seals when negative pressure is not applied, thereby blocking the air outlet in the cover of the cup and further increasing the possibility of fluid flow. To prevent.

In each of the embodiments of the present invention, the closure valve position provides a very reliable seal against fluid leaks and thus does not push liquid out of the cup, for example by tipping the cup or shaking the cup. Ensure that even a careful leak or a deliberate attempt is invalid.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the cup assembly regulates liquid flow by rotating the position of the valve assembly on the cap or cover of the cup between normal or maximum flow and minimum flow level or flow rate. can do. The valve holder is configured as a two-subunit assembly, one subassembly being the second
Holds the valve with a slit or orifice for greater fluid flow than the valve in the subunit. Therefore, during rotation of the valve holder, either the low flow valve or the high flow valve can be positioned in the hole leading to the spout. In this way, a dual position valve assembly is provided to enable either normal flow or minimum liquid flow conditions.

Embodiments and Best Modes of the Invention As shown in combination with the accompanying drawings, a novel cup assembly is disclosed which provides protection against accidental liquid leaks. 1 (a) and 1 (b) are respectively a front view and a perspective view of an embodiment of a cup assembly according to 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 ounce drinking cup as shown in FIG. 1 is provided. Alternatively, a 9 ounce drinking cup, a 6.5 ounce cup as shown in Figure 2, or a cup of any other desired size may be provided.

There may be no handles on the sides of the cup, or one handle, two handles or other number of handles may be provided for the user's application to grip the cup. The handle is preferably sized for a child's hand. Further, the appearance of the cup and / or cap can be solid color or can be printed with any desired design.

In another embodiment of the invention, a leaktight cup having a soft gripping area is shown in FIG.
It can also be provided as shown in FIG. According to this embodiment, the soft ring 102
Around the outside of the cup. The ring can be of any desired width and acts as a finger grip to more easily and securely grip the cup. Preferably, the ring is about 2 inches (2 ") wide. In the preferred embodiment, the soft ring 102 has a notched shape or design 106, such as a star, ellipse, etc. The rigid cup accommodates these shapes or designs. The soft rings fit snugly into these rising areas of the cup, the protruding hard features each fit into the notches in the soft ring, and the rising areas and the surfaces of the soft ring are Align when inserted into cup.

In one embodiment of the invention, the cup is made of polycarbonate. In an alternative embodiment, the cup is made from polypropylene. Clear polypropylene can also be used if desired. Alternatively, any other suitable material may be used for each component of the leak tight cup. All components of the cup are made of durable material, puncture resistant, dishwasher safe, preferably color resistant.

According to the invention, the cup 7 comprises a leak-proof cap or cover 11, a valve holder or assembly 31 and a tumbler cup 22. The leakproof cap 11 comprises a spout 14 for drinking liquid from the cup. The spout is sized to allow an individual to drink it from the spout.
In the preferred embodiment, the spout is sized for a child's mouth, especially for young children.

The leak-proof cap 11 forms a cover for installation on the tumbler cup 22. When attached to the cup 22, a positive seal is formed to prevent liquid from escaping through the connection between the cap 11 and the cup 22. In use, the cap 11 is well secured to the cup 22 and shakes the cup assembly to separate the cap from the cup when the cup is dropped on the floor or the cup assembly is vigorously moved or subjected to sharp force. Do not do enough.

In one embodiment, the leak-proof cap 11 and the tumbler cup 22 have mating male and female threads so that the cap 11 can be easily rotated onto the tumbler cup 22 as shown in FIG. Make it a screw cap. In an alternative embodiment, a snap-on cap is used as shown in FIG. In this embodiment, the elastic ring portion of the cap 11 fits securely on the lip 10 of the tumbler cup 22 as is known in the art. Although a threaded cap or snap-on cap is shown as two preferred embodiments, any other suitable mechanism for securing the cap to the tumbler cup could alternatively be used.

The screw cap and / or snap-on cap may also be 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 it can be a separate member inserted between the cap and the cup. In the preferred embodiment, the gasket 110 is part of the cap 11 as shown in Figures 11 (a)-(c).

Alternatively, the cap may be provided with a small annular inner lip inside the cap,
It can also act as a gasket. This lip shown in Figures 12 (a)-(c) projects into the interior of the cup when the cap is screwed or placed.
This lip prevents the possibility of liquid flow through the contact between the cup and the cap.

In the preferred embodiment, finger grips are provided on the outside of the cap, such as grooves. These grips facilitate the removal and application of the cap and are particularly advantageous in embodiments requiring screwing to remove the cap from the cup.

The cap is preferably interchangeable with many tumbler cups of different sizes. In this example, the tumbler cup rims are all the same diameter, but the tumbler cup itself is a different volume. For example, a cab of the same size may have a 6.5 ounce cup and / or a 7 ounce cup and / or 9 ounces.
It can be used in ounce cups and the like.

In another embodiment of the cap, the cap has a soft spout 130 as shown in FIG. Preferably, the spout is made of thermoelastomer. Spout 1
30 can be an insert molded into a polypropylene cap to provide a combined cap having a rigid section for attachment to the cup and a soft spout portion. Preferably the spout has a small channel therethrough to reduce the volume of liquid that can be trapped within the spout portion.

In another embodiment of the cap, the cap has a reduced volume spout as shown in FIG. The reduced volume spout 140 is designed to reduce the volume of liquid that can be trapped within the spout. The reduced volume spout 140 has a volume reduction member 144 inserted therein to reduce the interior volume of the spout and to provide a channel 148 for liquid flow. Preferably, the valve assembly subunit 142
Extends into spout 140 to further reduce the amount of liquid that can be trapped in spout 140. The valve assembly subunit 142 includes, for example, a volume reducing member 144.
Can be extended to. Thus, this embodiment reduces the space between the valve and the opening of the drinking spout to reduce the amount of liquid trapped in this area.

As shown in FIG. 1 (b), the leak-proof cap 11 is attached to the valve assembly carrier 1.
6 and 18. In the preferred embodiment, the valve assembly carriers 16 and 18 are tapered holes on the underside of the cap. A valve assembly carrier or tapered hole 18 leads to the open spout 14 and provides a passage for liquid flow.
Therefore, the valve assembly carrier or hole 18 is provided on both sides to the spout 14 (
I.e., at both its top surface) and at its bottom surface opposite the tumbler cup 32, liquid flow from the tumbler cup 22 through the hole 18 and the spout 14 to the user. Into the mouth of.

In contrast, the valve assembly carrier or tapered hole 16 allows the flow of air into the cup in use and allows liquid to flow out of the counter hole 18 and spout 14. The hole 16 opens on one side, i.e. on its lower surface facing the tumbler cup 22. On the opposite side, the hole 16 merges with the inner surface of the cap 11. The inner surface of the cap 11 is further provided with one or more vents or holes for a preferably small air flow so that in use the air is directed to the cup assembly via the vents of the cap 11 and the holes 16. Inflow.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the leakproof cup 7 further comprises a valve holder or assembly 31. The valve holder 31 is preferably made of high temperature ABS material and is sized to fit snugly in the cap 11. In the preferred embodiment, the valve holder is a separate assembly that fits into the cap 11. Alternatively, the valve holder can be provided as an integral part of the cap 11 and / or the cup 7. For example, the valve holder 31 can be molded as part of the cap 11 and the valve holder cannot be separated from the cap.

In the preferred embodiment, the valve holder 31 is a two-subunit assembly connected by a bridge 34. Each subunit of the 2-subunit assembly is dimensioned to frictionally fit into and be retained in either one of the tapered bores 16 and 18. The space between the tapered holes 16 and 18 is the same as between the subunits of the valve holder 31, so the valve holder can be easily fixed in the cap 11. The dimensions and inclination of the holes 16 and 18 and the dimensions of the valve holder 31 are
It is dimensioned to provide a secure and snug engagement between the valve assembly and the tapered bore. In the preferred embodiment, the top of the valve holder (ie the side facing the spout) and the bottom of the valve holder (ie the side facing the cup) have two different diameters. The top is such that it fits snugly into the tapered hole and the bottom is such that it cannot be inserted into the hole 16 or 18. In this way, a mechanism is formed that prevents the valve holder from being inserted into the hole in the wrong orientation (ie up and down).

FIG. 3 is an enlarged exploded perspective view of the valve holder according to the present invention. The valve holder 31 comprises two valve holder subunits 37 and 39 connected by a bridge 34.
Composed of. Each valve holder subunit is intended to hold a single valve inside. As shown in the drawings, the valve or valve member 42 is intended to be installed in the subunit 37, and the valve or valve member 45 is intended to be installed in the subunit 39. Valves 42 and 45 each include a slit or orifice for passing liquid. The slit or orifice is preferably located in the central portion of the valve and is sized to allow a predetermined flow level or flow rate of liquid if desired.

The valve holder subunits 37 and 39 include sealing units 37a and 39 (a
) And valve retainers or end caps 37b and 39 (b), respectively. As shown in FIG. 3, as an example of the function of each subunit, the subunit 3
Looking at 7, subunit 37 is initially in the open position with the sealing unit and valve retainer pulled or pulled apart. In one embodiment, the sealing unit and valve retainer have tabs 60 connecting them to prevent inadvertent permanent separation of the components. Alternatively, the valve retainer can be welded in place as shown in FIGS. 4 and 7 (eg sonic welding). The sealing units each have at least one opening section 58 so that in the disassembled state of the valve assembly fluid can pass unimpeded through the sealing units. This is because the valve is not in place. Similarly, the valve retainer opens on both sides for unimpeded passage of fluid through the valve retainer in a disassembled condition where the valve is not in place.

To assemble the valve assembly, the valve 42 includes a sealing unit 37a and a valve retainer 3
It is inserted into the valve holder by placing the valve between it and 7b. After the valve is installed in one or both of the sub-units, the valve retainers are each bent or attached over sealing unit 30 about tab 60 (or sealing unit 3).
9 (in the orientation shown in the drawing under 9), snap into place to close the subunit as shown in FIG. The elasticity of the sealing unit can establish a tight seal between the valve retainer and the sealing unit. When closed, each subunit tightly locks or encloses the valve therein, maintaining the valve in place in the valve holder. Reference is made primarily to subunit 37 for clarity, but subunits 37 and 39 preferably all have the same characteristics except for the dimensions of the valve opening. For the purposes of the present invention, it is assumed that subunit 37 is the subunit intended to be initially installed in hole 18.

As shown in FIGS. 5, 6, 8 and 9, when the subunit (eg, subunit 37 in FIG. 3) is closed, valve 42 causes central seal stop or central stop in sealing unit 37 a. While firmly seated against 52, the opening 70 in the valve 42 is aligned with the central seal stop 52. The valve 42 comprises a top proximal side facing the spout of the cap and a distal side that abuts the central sealing stop when the valve is installed in the valve holder 31.

The central stop 52 functions as a sealing or sealing member for the valve assembly, sealing and sealing the flow of fluid to the valve. In one embodiment, the central stop 52
Is a solid, substantially flat central region or portion 5 that is impermeable to liquid flow-through
It is composed of 6. In another preferred embodiment, the central stop or seal 101 is provided with a protruding member 108 extending from the bottom of the central seal as shown in FIG.

Surrounding the central region or portion 56 is a peripheral region or section 58 having an open region, eg a slot, to allow the passage of liquid, eg as shown in FIG. 8 (a). The central region 56 or the central stop 52 may also include a stem 74. As shown in FIG. 9, the stem 74 has a brace 72.
Can also be reinforced by the braces, which are reinforcing members to provide additional material strength to the connection between the stem and the valve holder.

In the normal rest position, the valve 42 relaxes and seats securely against the central stop 52 as shown in FIG. 8 (d). In this rest position, the opening or orifice 70 of the valve 42 presses firmly against the central region 56 of the central stop 52, preventing fluid from passing through the valve and maintaining the valve in a closed configuration. In an alternative embodiment, the orifice can also be firmly seated against the protruding member 108 as shown in FIG.

To drink from the cup, the user lifts the cap to its mouth and begins drawing liquid through the spout 14. In the process, the user creates a negative or partial vacuum on the top of valve 42 in subunit 37. In one embodiment, the valve 42 is constructed of a flexible material designed to be fully displaced and out on the inside, or generate a partial reduced pressure on the top of the valve 42 as shown in FIG. 8 (e). When you do, start to put the inside out. For example, valve 42 may be wholly or partially a membrane. Preferably the valve is composed of kraton or silicone. If silicone is used, a 45 durometer silicone such as Limus 6045 is suitable and is available from General Electric or Wacker (Bayer's branch) (Germany). The materials used for the valve assembly and its components are durable and heat resistant enough to place or boil the entire valve assembly in a dishwasher.

In one embodiment, the valve material is composed of a single material having a large material thickness in the central region to seal the central stop and also has a thin material portion at the sidewalls. The provision of thinner sidewalls contributes to the flexibility of the valve at its edges, which assists valve dislocation by first bending the valve on the sidewall when additional negative pressure is applied. And promote. The preferred valve thickness dimension is about 0.4 mm thick at the sidewalls and about 0.9 mm thick in the central region.

In the first embodiment, upon displacement of valve 42, opening or orifice 70 is displaced from central region 56 of central stop 52. Thus, the valve dislocation unblocks opening 70 and allows fluid to flow through the subunit. When negative pressure is being applied to the top of valve 42 adjacent the spout, negative pressure is also applied to the bottom of the adjacent valve in the other subunit located in the other tapered hole of the cup cover. That is, this negative pressure also causes the second valve to open by displacing the opening in the other valve from its central stop. Dislocation of valve 42 advances fluid flow through both subunits of the assembly. The liquid flows through one subunit of the valve assembly (ie the subunit connected to the spout) and at the same time with air flow through the other subunit of the assembly (ie the subunit connected to the air exhaust). . In this way, liquid smoothly and easily flows through the valve assembly, spout and cup.

In another embodiment, the valve assembly is provided with a flow bridge 84. The flow bridge 84 prevents movement or expansion of the valve 42 beyond a predetermined maximum distance to prevent the valve from overextending or from being excessively strained or expanded as shown in FIG. 8 (e). That is, the flow bridge prevents the valve from translocating beyond a point where it can no longer easily translocate to its initial position. In addition, the flow bridge also forms a shield or barrier that prevents damage to the valve. That is, it prevents objects such as spoons (in any dishwasher or the like) from easily damaging the valve.

Upon release of the negative pressure or removal from the spout, the valve displaces back to its rest position and fluid cannot pass through the closing slit or orifice in the valve. In the rest position, liquid does not leak or flow out of the cup.

Another embodiment of the valve holder and assembly is shown in FIGS. 4, 7-9 and 15-17. As shown in FIG. 4, a removable snap-fit valve retainer 81 may be provided as an alternative to the valve retainer shown in FIG. Alternatively, a valve retainer 94 may be provided, as shown in FIG. Valve retainers 81 and 9
4 serves the same function as valve retainers 37b and 39 (b) to hold and secure the valve within the valve assembly. Whichever embodiment is used, it is preferable to ultrasonically weld the valve retainer to ensure that the valve cannot be removed from the holder.

Thus, according to the present invention, a system is provided that maintains a tight seal against fluid flow when the cup is not in use. A very secure seal is formed, for example, to avoid excessive or vigorous shaking pushing fluid out of the cup. Significantly, the disclosed valve structure provides a much tighter seal than observed with prior art leak tight cup assemblies. According to the invention, no liquid will flow through the valve unless the user aspirates through the spout.

In the preferred embodiment, subunits 37 and 39 are preferably identical in all respects except for the size of the orifice or slit in valve 42 and the orifice or slit in valve 45. One valve is preferably provided with a larger opening than the other, for example a slit or larger orifice in one valve that is longer than the other. In one embodiment, one valve has a length of about 200/1.
An opening in the form of a 000 inch slit is provided while the second valve is approximately 50/1.
Provide a 000 inch slit. Alternatively, of course, other lengths or dimensions may be used in accordance with the present invention.

By varying the size and / or shape of the openings in the valve, we have also created a novel dual action flow system for regulating fluid flow.
In this system, the flow level of liquid from the cup can be easily adjusted during use. The adjustment is to make the cup flow faster or higher,
Achieved by a simple rotation of the valve assembly that translates to a slower or lower flow.

As shown in FIG. 5, the valve holder 31 may be placed in the cap 11 in either of two configurations.
Can be inserted inside. In the first arrangement, the valve 45 with the larger opening or orifice or slit is located in the hole 18 (ie the hole communicating with the spout 14). In this arrangement, a first higher liquid flow level through the valve is achieved due to the use of a valve with a larger opening when the user aspirates liquid through the spout. By removing the valve holder 31 from the holes 16 and 18 and displacing the valve holder 31 by 180 °, another valve 42 with a smaller opening can be inserted into the hole 18. This valve 42 provides a second low flow condition where liquid may still exit the spout but at a lower flow rate than the flow through the first valve. In this way, the flow rate of the liquid flowing out of the cup can be adjusted by the parent. Although disclosed for a two-level flow system, larger or smaller flow levels may be provided, which may vary the number of mounting subunits with valves or valve holders with differently sized openings 70. Replace. However, in all configurations, liquid will flow through the valve only when the user aspirates through the spout as described above.

Any form of desired opening suitable for passage of a desired level of liquid can be used in the valve. The openings 70 can be, for example, slits, slots, orifices (including holes of any form), and the like. Similarly, it is contemplated that the term opening may also form multiple openings of these or other types.

In one embodiment, the opening 70 has an “X” shaped slot 7 as shown in FIG.
8 In another preferred embodiment, the opening is a "T" shaped slot 76 as shown in FIG. The use of the X-shaped slot 78 shown in FIG. 7 provides greater flow rate than the T-shaped slot 76 shown here. Of course, the flow rate depends on the total length of the slot, or generally on the size of the opening. Thus, both the X-shaped slot and the T-shaped slot can be used in a single valve assembly installed in each subunit. In this preferred embodiment, a two-level flow system is provided as described above.

In another embodiment, both openings are X-shaped with one opening larger than the other. A 7 mm opening (the end-to-end length of each "X" crossbar) can be used on the rapid side, and a 6 mm opening can be used on the low speed side.

In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the valve comprises a valve member 126 and a central stop or seal including a protruding member. The preferred arrangement and dimensions of the valve are shown in Figures 15-17.

As shown in FIG. 17 (a), the valve member 126 comprises an opening, such as an orifice or hole 118, and is preferably a flexible portion of a membrane or material. The valve member and likewise the protruding member can each be made of a suitable flexible or plastic material such as silicone, kraton, latex or ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene).

The valve member 126 is preferably encapsulated within the valve assembly subunit 114, 116 or 130, the valve assembly subunit is shown in FIGS. 15 (a) and 16. The valve assembly subunit 130 allows liquid to pass to one side of the subunit and then through the valve when the valve is in the open state, and then to the other side of the subunit to allow the user to apply negative pressure. Alternatively, an opening is provided to allow drinking when suction is applied to the valve. A valve subunit or other suitable anti-displacement member or flow bridge located near the valve member can act to prevent excessive dislocation of the valve member. According to this embodiment, the side of the valve subunit or dislocation prevention member is adapted to collide with the side of the subunit prior to complete displacement of the valve member upon application of negative pressure or suction to the valve member. Install it at a distance sufficiently close to.

In the preferred embodiment, the central stop or sealing member 101 is shown in FIG.
And the protruding member 10 extending from the bottom portion 106 as shown in FIGS.
8 is provided. The protruding member 108 is a male sealing member or a protruding member, and penetrates the orifice 118 in a closed valve state. Although circular or near circular orifices are preferably used, orifices of any shape can be used consistent with the present invention.

More preferably, the male sealing or projecting member 108 is a post or pin or finger shaped member, such as a frustoconical or conical post. A male seal or protrusion 108 extends from the bottom 104 as a protrusion or protrusion in the direction of the orifice 118. Preferably the sealing or projecting member 108 is beveled. In particular, in the preferred embodiment, the protruding member 108 has a diameter at the bottom (near the bottom 104 of the central seal) that is greater than the diameter at the top. In the preferred embodiment, the bottom 104 is substantially flat.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the protruding member 108 is provided with the protruding member 108 and the orifice 118 in the central sealing portion opposite the female orifice 118 to form a male-female engagement relationship. In the relaxed state, if no negative pressure is applied, the central seal 100 presses against the orifice 118, and the protruding member 108 tightly penetrates the orifice and forms a seal against the flow of fluid through the valve. Due to the engagement between the sealing member and the orifice and due to the inclination of the large diameter sealing member provided at the bottom of the protruding member, the orifice sits snugly on the wide diameter bottom of the protruding member 108, Creates a very tight seal for fluid flow. In a more preferred embodiment, the protruding member 108 penetrates the orifice 118 in the closed valve condition, and the top of the protruding or sealing member 108 penetrates and crosses the orifice 118 to further ensure a tight barrier of fluid flow to the valve. At the same time, it prevents the orifice from being excessively moved and removed from the protruding member. According to the present invention, the fluid does not flow even when the cup having the valve is vigorously shaken. In fact, shaking the cup
Is further driven into the orifice 118 to further seal the seal between the protruding member and the edge of the orifice.

In this preferred embodiment, when a child or user tilts the cup to drink from it and aspirates the top of the valve, the negative pressure that is being applied to the top of the valve pulls the valve member with the opening to pull the valve. The valve is opened by closing and separating it from the protruding member. Therefore, if the opening or orifice is separated from the protruding member, the opening or orifice can be unblocked and liquid can flow through the opening and into the mouth of the user.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a variable flow valve is provided so that the stronger the user suctions against the spout, the greater the liquid flow out of the valve. Since the valve member preferably rests on an inclined projecting member, such as a conical or frustoconical member,
The higher the negative pressure on the top of the valve member (i.e., the greater the user's suction on the spout), the greater the extent to which the valve member will be pulled away from the cone. When the valve member is pulled away from the bottom of the protruding member 108 to its height (eg, to the height of a cone), the openings or orifices in the valve member in turn become less blocked by the inclined protruding member 108 and the cross-sectional area through which the fluid flows Also grows in sequence.

Further in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIGS. 15-17, the negative pressure applied to the top of the valve causes the valve to partially displace and lift the valve from the protruding member, but preferably not completely. When the valve begins to dislocate, the orifice rises from the protruding member (partially unblocking the orifice), resulting in fluid flow through as described above.

In the preferred embodiment, the orifices of the valve member 124 are circular and have a diameter on the low speed valve side of about 3/32 inch (+/- 1/16 inch) and about 1 / diameter per rapid valve side.
It is 8 inches (± 1/16 inch). Preferably, the protruding member has a diameter at its bottom of slightly greater than 1/8 minutes, a diameter of about 1/16 inch at the top of the rapid flow valve, and a diameter of more than 3/32 inch at its bottom. And about 1/32 inch diameter at the top of the slow flow valve. The openings or holes in the valve member 124 are preferably rounded on the surface as shown in FIG. 17 (b), and FIG.
The valve member 154 allows the protruding member to move up and down more easily as shown in the detailed enlarged view of the orifice in FIG. 1 and also prevents sticking to the protruding member during operation. In the preferred embodiment, the radius is 0.0100 inches.

In one embodiment, the valve is part of one or more subunits 114 and / or 116 of valve assembly 120 for attachment to a leak-free drinking cup or its cap. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the valve is an integral part of the drinking cup cap or cover. In the preferred embodiment of this embodiment, the valve holder is molded attached to the cup cap or cover, or the cover is molded with the valve inserted therein. In another preferred embodiment of this embodiment, 1
Only one valve is used, which valve has a protruding member with a taper of about 7 °.

In one embodiment of the invention, two valves are provided, one on each side of the cup lid or cap. In this example, the protruding member on the rapid flow side is about 7
In addition to having a taper of 9 °, the protruding member on the slow flow side has a taper of about 9 °. In another preferred embodiment of the invention, a single valve is used, the valve being approximately 7
A protruding member having a taper of ° is provided.

In each embodiment of the invention, the valve holders are labeled to indicate which subunits are suitable for fast flow and which are suitable for slow flow of liquid. Thus, the valve holder can be clearly labeled as "rapid" and "slow" as shown in Figures 7 and 9, respectively. Alternatively or additionally, the subunits or valve holders can be labeled hare or rabbit to show rapid flow, and even sea turtles or turtles to show slow flow, which are shown in Figures 7 and 9, respectively. Of course, the subunit connected to the spout is the subunit that controls the liquid flow rate. It is also possible to label the valve holder, for example on the subunit itself or on the bridge in the area immediately adjacent to this subunit, these being shown in the respective figures. In one embodiment, the valve holder is marked on the top and bottom (ie, the side facing the spout and cup, respectively) and the symbols and / or terms are inserted from the top while the valve holder is being inserted and already inserted. After reading, it can be read from the bottom to determine which speed valve is in place in the spout. In an alternative embodiment, terms and / or symbols may be provided only on the bottom of the valve to allow the user to read them from the bottom when inserting the valve holder, and the valve holder may be seen from the bottom after further insertion. To do so.

Although the present invention has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that this description is not meant to be limiting and various modifications can be made.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 (a) is an exploded front view of a leak tight cup assembly according to the present invention.
Figure 1 (b) is an exploded perspective view of the leak tight cup assembly of Figure 1 (a).

FIG. 2 (a) is an exploded front view of a second embodiment of a leak tight cup assembly according to the present invention. FIG. 1 (b) is an exploded perspective view of the leakproof 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 a valve assembly in a leak-free cup according to the present invention.

FIG. 5 (a) is an exploded front view of a cup assembly of the present invention showing rotation of the valve holder or assembly into two alternating positions for installation on the cup cap or cover. FIG. 5 (b) is an exploded perspective view showing the installation of the valve holder in the cap at either of the two positions shown in FIG. 5 (a).

6 (a)-(e) are a series of additional drawings relating to the valve holder or assembly of FIG. 6 (a) is a plan view of the valve holder, FIG. 6 (b) is a front view of the valve holder, and FIG. 6 (c) is a side view of the valve holder. Figure 6 (d)
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a valve holder that seals liquid flow when the valve is in a relaxed state. Figure 6
(E) is a cross-sectional view of a valve holder in a dislocated state that allows liquid to flow through the valve.

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a valve assembly in a leak-free cup according to the present invention.

8 (a)-(e) are a series of additional drawings according to another embodiment of the valve assembly shown in FIG. 8 (a) is a plan view of the valve holder or assembly, FIG. 8 (b) is a front view of the valve holder, and FIG. 8 (c) is a side view of the valve holder. Figure 8 (d) is a cross-sectional view of the valve holder sealing the liquid flow with the valve in a relaxed state. FIG. 8 (e) is a cross-sectional view of the valve holder showing the valve in the transposed state to allow liquid to flow through the valve.

9 (a)-(e) are a series of additional drawings according to another embodiment of the valve assembly shown in FIG. 9 (a) is a plan view of the valve holder or assembly, FIG. 9 (b) is a front view of the valve holder, and FIG. 9 (c) is a side view of the valve holder. Figure 9 (d) is a cross-sectional view of the valve holder sealing the fluid flow with the valve in a relaxed state. FIG. 9 (e) is a cross-sectional view of the valve holder showing the valve in the transposed state to allow liquid flow through the valve.

FIG. 10 is a side view of a leaktight cup having a soft gripping area according to the present invention.

11 (a)-(c) are a series of additional drawings of another embodiment of a cap according to the present invention. FIG. 11 (a) is a partial cross-sectional view of a cap having an insert molded or adhered to the gasket according to the present invention. FIG. 11 (b) is similar to FIG.
) Is a side sectional view of the cap of FIG. 11C, and FIG. 11C is a plan sectional view of the cap of FIG. 11B.

12 (a)-(c) are a series of additional drawings of another embodiment of the cap according to the present invention. FIG. 12 (a) is a partial cross-sectional view of a cap with a molded lip that is driven into the inner surface of the cap according to the present invention. 12 (b) is shown in FIG.
It is a side sectional view of a cap of a). FIG. 12C is a plan sectional view of the cap of FIG. 12B.

FIG. 13 is a side sectional view of a cap having a soft spout according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a side sectional view of a cap having a reduced volume spout according to a further embodiment of the present invention.

15 (a)-(f) are a series of additional drawings of a preferred embodiment according to the present invention in which the central stop is modified and the opening in the valve is a generally circular orifice or hole. (A) is a top view of a valve holder holding a modified valve according to the present invention. FIG. 15 (b) is a cross-sectional view of the valve holder of FIG. 15 (a), showing a modified valve with a modified central stop having a protruding member. The valve includes a generally circular opening in the valve that is closed by a protruding member that extends through it. (C) is a side view of the valve holder of FIG. 15 (a). FIG. 15D is an end view of the valve holder of FIG. Figure 15e is a cross-sectional view of the valve in the valve holder of Figure 15a, showing a rapid flow valve according to an embodiment of the invention in which the central stop has been modified to include a protruding member therethrough. FIG. 15 (f) is a cross-sectional view of the valve in the valve holder of FIG. 15 (a) showing a slow flow valve according to an embodiment of the invention in which the central stop is modified to include a protruding member therethrough.

16 (a)-(d) are a series of drawings showing one of the valve holder subunits of the valve holder shown in FIGS. 15 (a)-(f). FIG. 16 (a) is a plan view of a valve holder subunit for mounting on the cap of a leakproof cup. 16 (b) is a sectional view of the valve holder subunit of FIG. 16 (a).
6 (c) is a side view of the valve holder subunit shown in FIG. 16 (a).
6 (d) is a perspective view of the valve holder subunit.

FIGS. 17 (a)-(d) are FIGS. 15 (a)-(f) and 16 (a)-(.
3 is a drawing of a series of valves according to a preferred embodiment of the invention shown in d). Figure 17 (a) is for installation within the valve holder subunit shown in Figures 16 (a)-(d) and / or for installation in the valve holder shown in Figures 15 (a)-(f). It is a top view of a valve. 17 (b) is a sectional view of the valve of FIG. 17 (a), FIG. 17 (c) is a side view of the valve shown in FIG. 17 (a), and FIG. 17 (d) is of FIG. 17 (b). 3 is an exploded view of a part of the valve shown in FIG.

[Procedure for Amendment] Submission for translation of Article 34 Amendment of Patent Cooperation Treaty

[Submission date] November 17, 2000 (2000.11.17)

[Procedure Amendment 1]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Name of item to be amended] Claims

[Correction method] Change

[Contents of correction]

[Claims]

─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continued front page    (81) Designated countries EP (AT, BE, CH, CY, DE, DK, ES, FI, FR, GB, GR, IE, I T, LU, MC, NL, PT, SE), OA (BF, BJ , CF, CG, CI, CM, GA, GN, GW, ML, MR, NE, SN, TD, TG), AP (GH, GM, K E, LS, MW, SD, SL, SZ, UG, ZW), E A (AM, AZ, BY, KG, KZ, MD, RU, TJ , TM), AL, AM, AT, AU, AZ, BA, BB , BG, BR, BY, CA, CH, CN, CU, CZ, DE, DK, EE, ES, FI, GB, GD, GE, G H, GM, HR, HU, ID, IL, IN, IS, JP , KE, KG, KP, KR, KZ, LC, LK, LR, LS, LT, LU, LV, MD, MG, MK, MN, M W, MX, NO, NZ, PL, PT, RO, RU, SD , SE, SG, SI, SK, SL, TJ, TM, TR, TT, UA, UG, US, UZ, VN, YU, ZW F term (reference) 3E014 PA01 PB03 PC03 PD23 PF10                 3E084 AA02 AA12 AA24 AB01 BA02                       CA01 CB02 CC03 DA01 DB12                       DB18 DC03 FA09 FB01 GA04                       GB04 GB30 HA03 HB02 HB04                       HC03 HD01 KA05 LB02 LC01                       LD12

Claims (27)

[Claims] 1. A valve, the valve having a protruding member and an opening, the valve having a closed position and an opening position, wherein the closed position allows the protruding member to pass liquid through the opening. A blocking arrangement wherein the protruding member and the opening are separated more than in the closed position to allow liquid to pass through the opening to prevent leakage during drinking. apparatus. 2. The projecting member is at least partially tilted, the opening is located inside a flexible valve member, and the valve member begins to displace upon application of negative pressure to the valve member to displace the tilted projecting member. The device according to claim 1, wherein the device is lifted and removed. 3. The device of claim 1, wherein the device comprises a cap for a cup. 4. The device of claim 1, wherein the device comprises a drinking cup. 5. The device of claim 1, wherein the device comprises a valve assembly. 6. A valve, the valve comprising a protruding member and a valve member, the valve member including an opening, the valve having a closed position and an open position, the closed position being the protruding member. Penetrates the opening of the valve member to prevent liquid from passing through the opening, and the valve is movable to an opening position where the valve member is separated from the projecting member for passage of liquid through the opening. A device for preventing leakage during drinking, wherein the valve moves from the closed position to the open position when negative pressure is applied to the valve member. 7. The device of claim 6, wherein the device comprises a cap for a cup. 8. The device of claim 6, wherein the device comprises a drinking cup. 9. The device of claim 6, wherein the device comprises a valve assembly. 10. The apparatus comprises a valve assembly and a cap, the valve being part of the valve assembly, the valve assembly and cap being arranged to mount the valve assembly to the cap. 6. The device according to 6. 11. The apparatus of claim 6, further comprising a sealing member, the sealing member comprising the protruding member and a bottom portion, the protruding member being attached to the bottom portion. 12. The device of claim 11, wherein the bottom is substantially flat. 13. The device of claim 11, wherein the protruding member is a post. 14. The device of claim 11, wherein the protruding member is conical. 15. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein at least a portion of the post is sloped. 16. A valve, comprising a sealing member and a flexible valve member,
The sealing member includes a protruding member and a bottom, and the valve member includes an opening; the valve has a closed position and an open position, and the closed position is such that the valve member is close to the bottom. An arrangement in which the projecting member penetrates the opening to prevent liquid from passing through the opening; the valve is further movable to an opening position, and the opening position is such that the valve member is far from the bottom. A leak-free drinking device, characterized in that the opening is at least partially unsealed to allow passage of liquids to the valve. 17. The apparatus of claim 16 wherein the valve is in the closed position and begins to displace upon application of negative pressure to the valve member to move from the closed position to the open position. 18. A valve comprising a sealing member and a valve member, the sealing member having a protruding member and a bottom, the valve member having a substantially circular opening.
The protruding member has an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper portion having a smaller diameter than the lower portion; the valve has a closed position and an open position, and the closed position has the valve member positioned proximate to the bottom. And the projecting member penetrates the opening to prevent passage of liquid to the opening; the valve extends to the opening position when negative pressure is applied to the opening by the user's mouth for the purpose of drinking up the device. The valve member is moved distally with respect to the bottom to move away from the opening so that the opening is at least partially unblocked and liquid passes through the opening and the valve. A leak-free drinking device, characterized in that it is in a position allowing 19. The device of claim 18, wherein the device comprises a cap for a cup. 20. The device of claim 18, wherein the device comprises a drinking cup. 21. The device of claim 18, wherein the device comprises a valve assembly. 22. The device of claim 18, wherein the protruding member is canted. 23. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein at least a portion of the protruding member is angled at an angle of (7) °. 24. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein at least a portion of the protruding member is angled at an angle of (9) °. 25. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the protruding member extends past the opening in the closed position. 26. The device further comprises a displacement prevention member, the displacement prevention member being installed at a distance sufficiently close to a valve member of this kind that the valve member abuts against the displacement prevention member. 19. The device of claim 18, wherein is prevented from further dislocations before complete dislocations. 27. The device of claim 18, wherein the valve member comprises a flexible material.