STRAW GRIPPER AND LIP GUARD FOR A CONTAINER AND METHODS OF USE

Abstract

A mouth or lip guard for placement over the lid or rim of a can or container prior to consumption to establish a sanitary barrier between a drinker's contact points of mouth, and more specifically lips, and the lid, rim, and/or sidewalls of the beverage can or other container and with a straw capture and alignment port having a slit dividing the planar tab into a first tab section and second tab section, the first tab section having a first straw contact finger configured therein and the second tab section having a second straw contact finger configured therein, each straw contact finger separated by said slit, the straw contact fingers are hingeably configured to removably secure the straw against a straw contact rim formed in the planar tab by a cutout of said first straw contact finger and said second straw contact finger.

Claims

1. An apparatus to cover a rim of a container, having a sidewall and a fluid opening, to provide a sanitary barrier between a drinker's upper lip and a lower lip, said apparatus comprising: a rim guard configured as downwardly open and having a substantially vertical outer sidewall and a substantially vertical inner sidewall, and wherein an upper portion of said vertical outer sidewall is joined thereto an upper portion of said vertical inner sidewall to form a rim.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said inner sidewall transitions to a horizontal surface.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein said horizontal surface further comprising a fluid aperture configured to enable access to the fluid opening of the container.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said rim guard is configured as a ring.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said rim guard is configured as a curved section.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said rim guard is configured as a straight section.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said rim guard is configured as u-shaped.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said rim guard is configured as v-shaped.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said rim guard is removeably affixed to the rim of the container.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said vertical outer sidewall transitions to an angled surface.

11. An apparatus to cover a rim of a container having a fluid opening and a sidewall, and to secure a straw, said apparatus comprising: a rim guard configured as downwardly open and having a substantially vertical outer sidewall and a substantially vertical inner sidewall, wherein an upper portion of said vertical outer sidewall is joined thereto an upper portion of said vertical inner sidewall to form a rim; a substantially horizontal planar tab extends outwardly from said substantially vertical outer sidewall, said planar tab having an exterior edge with a straw capture and alignment port; said straw capture and alignment port having a slit to divide said planar tab into a first tab section and second tab section, said slit having a first slit end and a second slit end; said first tab section having a first substantially horizontal straw contact finger configured therein and said second tab section having a second substantially horizontal straw contact finger configured therein, each said first substantially horizontal straw contact finger and said second substantially horizontal straw contact finger separated by said slit, endpoints of cutouts of said first substantially horizontal straw contact finger and said second substantially horizontal straw contact finger converge on said second slit end; and said first substantially horizontal straw contact finger and said second substantially horizontal straw contact finger are hingeably configured to removably secure the straw against a straw contact rim formed in said planar tab by a cutout of said first substantially horizontal straw contact finger and said second substantially horizontal straw contact finger.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein said alignment port is semi-circular.

13. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein said straw capture and alignment port points outward from said rim guard.

14. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein said cutout having starting points of said first substantially horizontal straw contact finger and said second substantially horizontal straw contact finger are evenly spaced about said slit and perpendicular to a first slit end of said straw capture and alignment port.

15. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein said straw capture and alignment port, said first substantially horizontal straw contact finger, said slit, and said second substantially horizontal straw contact finger are configured perpendicular to said vertical outer sidewall.

16. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein said straw capture and alignment port, said first substantially horizontal straw contact finger, said slit, and said second substantially horizontal straw contact finger are configured parallel to said vertical outer sidewall.

17. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein said first substantially horizontal straw contact finger and said second substantially horizontal straw contact finger are hingeably configured about said slit to fold therein to form straw capture cavity.

18. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein said straw contact rim, said first substantially horizontal straw contact finger and said second substantially horizontal straw contact finger are hingeably configured about said slit to fold therein to form straw capture cavity.

19. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein at least two of said straw contact rim, said first substantially horizontal straw contact finger and said second substantially horizontal straw contact finger are hingeably configured about said slit to fold therein to form straw capture cavity.

20. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein said first substantially horizontal straw contact finger and said second substantially horizontal straw contact finger are sized and shaped to match a straw configuration.

21. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein said straw contact rim is sized and shaped to match a straw configuration.

22. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein said first substantially horizontal straw contact finger and said second substantially horizontal straw contact finger having an upper surface to grip the straw.

23. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein at least two of said straw contact rim, said first substantially horizontal straw contact finger, said second substantially horizontal straw contact finger are hingeably configured about said slit to fold therein to grip the straw therein.

24. The apparatus of claim 23, further comprising a second straw end in contact with the sidewall of the container.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0044] The present disclosure for a straw gripper and tab separator for disposable cup lid/lip guard and methods of use will be better understood by reading the Detailed Description of the Preferred and Selected Alternate Embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawing Figures, in which like reference numerals denote similar structure and refer to like elements throughout, and in which:

[0045] FIG. 1 is a perspective side view of a prior art beverage container or drink cup, lid, and straw;

[0046] FIG. 2.1 is a perspective top view of an exemplary embodiment of a drink lid with a straw gripper and tab separator shown as a front entry according to select embodiments of the disclosure;

[0047] FIG. 2.2 is a perspective top view of an exemplary embodiment of a drink lid with a straw gripper and tab separator showing the preferred position of cutout endpoints according to select embodiments of the disclosure;

[0048] FIG. 3 is an exploded top view of an exemplary embodiment of the straw gripper and tab separator showing straw gripping finger(s) according to select embodiments of the disclosure in FIG. 2;

[0049] FIG. 3.1 is an exploded top view of an alternate exemplary embodiment of the straw gripper and tab separator according to select embodiments of the disclosure;

[0050] FIG. 3.2 is an exploded top view of an alternate exemplary embodiment of the straw gripper and tab separator according to select embodiments of the disclosure;

[0051] FIG. 3.3 is an exploded top view of an alternate exemplary embodiment of the straw gripper and tab separator according to select embodiments of the disclosure;

[0052] FIG. 3.4 is an exploded top view of an alternate exemplary embodiment of the straw gripper and tab separator according to select embodiments of the disclosure;

[0053] FIG. 3.5 is an exploded top view of an alternate exemplary embodiment of the straw gripper and tab separator, shown as a side entry, according to select embodiments of the disclosure;

[0054] FIG. 4 is an exploded top view of an exemplary embodiment of the straw gripper and tab separator showing straw capture cavity according to select embodiments of the disclosure in FIG. 2;

[0055] FIG. 5 is a perspective top view of an exemplary embodiment of the straw gripper and tab separator showing straw held by straw gripping finger(s) in straw capture cavity according to select embodiments of the disclosure in FIG. 2;

[0056] FIG. 6 is a perspective side view of an exemplary embodiment of the straw gripper and tab separator showing straw held by straw gripping finger(s) in straw capture cavity according to select embodiments of the disclosure in FIG. 2;

[0057] FIG. 7 is an exploded top view of an alternate exemplary embodiment of a drink lid with a straw gripper and tab separator shown as a side entry according to select embodiments of the disclosure;

[0058] FIG. 8 is a perspective side view of an alternate exemplary embodiment of a drink lid with a straw gripper and tab separator, straw, and cup in use according to select embodiments of the disclosure;

[0059] FIG. 9 is a perspective side view of an alternate exemplary embodiment of the straw gripper and tab separator showing straw held by straw gripping finger(s) in straw capture cavity affixed to the rim of the cup, according to select embodiments of the disclosure;

[0060] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of mouth or lip guard for placement over the lid or rim of a container and straw gripper and tab separator shown as a front entry according to select embodiments of the disclosure;

[0061] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a mouth or lip guard for placement over the lid or rim of a container according to select embodiments of the disclosure;

[0062] FIG. 12A is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an alternate mouth or lip guard for placement over the lid or rim of a container according to select embodiments of the disclosure;

[0063] FIG. 12B is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an alternate mouth or lip guard shown placed over lid or rim of a container according to select embodiments of the disclosure;

[0064] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an alternate mouth or lip guard for placement over the lid or rim of a container according to select embodiments of the disclosure;

[0065] FIG. 14A is a perspective side view of a prior art beverage can;

[0066] FIG. 14B is a perspective side view of an exemplary embodiment of the mouth or lip guard for placement over the lid or rim of a container and straw gripper and tab separator according to select embodiments of the disclosure;

[0067] FIG. 15 is a upper perspective side view of an exemplary embodiment of a mouth or lip guard for placement over the lid or rim of a container and straw gripper and tab separator, straw, and can, showing straw held by straw gripping finger(s) in straw capture cavity, in use according to select embodiments of the disclosure; and

[0068] FIG. 16 is a perspective side view of an exemplary embodiment of a mouth or lip guard for placement over the lid or rim of a container, can or other container, and user/drinker's mouth and lips protected from contact with the lid and/or sidewall in use according to select embodiments of the disclosure.

[0069] It is to be noted that the drawings presented are intended solely for the purpose of illustration and that they are, therefore, neither desired nor intended to limit the disclosure to any or all of the exact details of construction shown, except insofar as they may be deemed essential to the claimed disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0070] In describing the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, as illustrated in the figures, specific terminology is employed for clarity. The present disclosure, however, is not intended to be limited to the specific terminology selected; it is to be understood that each specific element includes all technical equivalents that operate in a similar manner to accomplish similar functions. Embodiments of the claims may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. The examples set forth herein are non-limiting examples, and are merely examples among other possible examples. It is recognized herein that the optimum dimensional relationships, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, position, connection, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0071] Referring now to FIG. 1, by way of example, and not limitation, there is illustrated an example embodiment of a prior art disposable drink cup C used as a container to hold a drink or beverage B therein, such as a soda, juice, smoothie, sports drinks other frozen or iced drinks, coffee, tea, and other hot drinks, or the like. When beverages B are purchased to take out of food and beverage establishments, beverage B is typically served in a disposable drink cup C with a disposable lid L to keep beverage B inside cup C during transport to strengthen the cup C and to prevent beverage B from spilling, sloshing, or splashing out of cup C. Disposable drink lid L may include a port or knockout or other provision therein, such as straw hole SH to provide access to beverage B as well as for insertion of straw S therethrough lid L and to submerge one end of straw S in the beverage B liquid contained therein cup C. Lid L is preferably designed to receive straw S since removing the lid L to insert straw S can be difficult and messy and contributes to a weakened cup C and possible spillage of beverage B. Straw S provides a convenient way to access beverage B with lid L in place on cup C allowing for safe consumption of beverage B while enabling the consumer to maintain unobstructed forward vision while driving or walking. It is contemplated herein that straw S may include wrapper W and that straw S herein refers to straw with or without wrapper (straw configuration).

[0072] It is contemplated herein that cup C and lid L may be constructed of plastic, paper, treated, wax or polymer covered paper, polystyrene, PET, polypropylene, modern bioplastics, aluminum, carbon fiber, thermoplastic material such as cellulose acetate and other suitable plastics and any other applicable materials or like material capable of manufacturing cup C and lid L to hold beverage B therein. These parts may be joined in accordance with the construction material via, welding, spot welding, epoxy, or 3D printing.

[0073] With respect to the disclosure herein, it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships, including variations in size, materials, shape, form, configuration, position, connection features, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0074] Accordingly, the disclosure herein is a cup, container, or container lid, including but not limited to a container or lid or container-lid combination of the kind commonly used to distribute bulk-dispensed beverages that features an integrated component used for releasably attaching and holding a straw vertically to the outside or adjacent to the outside of the container. The integrated component may be made a part of the container or a part of the lid, and may take any of a variety of shapes, some of which are described in more detail below.

[0075] Additional features and advantages of the disclosure will be set forth in the following description, which will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the disclosure. The foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to further explain the disclosure.

[0076] Referring now to FIGS. 2.1, 2.2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, by way of example, and not limitation, there is illustrated an example embodiment of an apparatus to seal cup C having a rim R, such as drink lid of FIG. 1 with a straw support structure or apparatus integrated thereto (straw capture and alignment port), such as straw gripper and tab separator 10 and its parts, according to select embodiments. In this first embodiment, lid L may include a main body preferably circular and planar, such as beverage lid 12 having perimeter flange 14 configured to conformingly couple to a top periphery or rim R of a container, such as cup C for covering the container's opening to prevent the beverage B from spilling, sloshing, or splashing out of the cup C. Moreover, lid L may include protruding planar tab 16 which extends from perimeter flange 14. Protruding planar tab 16 may include exterior edge 23 and having straw gripper and tab separator 10 integrated therein planar tab 16. Furthermore, straw gripper and tab separator 10 may be integrated therein planar tab 16 and positioned anywhere around perimeter flange 14 of lid 12. Furthermore, exterior edge 23 may include an indent, such as straw capture and alignment port 20 to align straw S with planar tab 16.

[0077] If possible, straw gripper and tab separator 10 may preferably utilize an area of material in the manufacturing form that is otherwise cut away in the production process.

[0078] Furthermore, planar tab 16 may include a cutout, separation, gap, or divide therein, such as slit 25 dividing planar tab 16 into left or first tab section 21 and right or second tab section 22, each extending as flat planar tab therefrom perimeter flange 14 of lid 12. Slit 25 may include front or first slit end 26 and back or second slit end 27. First tab section 21 and second tab section 22 may each include a portion of straw capture and alignment port 20 configured as the front end or exterior edge 23 of first tab section 21 and second tab section 22. In this embodiment, straw capture and alignment port 20 may be pointed (points), direction, or faces outward from center CE of lid 12 or configured perpendicular to the tangential of perimeter flange 14.

[0079] It is contemplated herein that straw capture and alignment port 20 may be configured as a reverse partial circular arc, such as semi-circular, in an opposite curvilinear arc as flange 14; may be configured as angled rather than arcing as well as other shapes and sizes to provide a guide and catch for straw S, 18 alignment and insertion into straw gripper and tab separator 10.

[0080] It is further contemplated herein that slit 25 may be configured as a gap or other cutout contemplated by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0081] Still furthermore, one or both of first tab section 21 and second tab section 22 may include a series of cuts or cutouts centered relative to straw capture and alignment port 20 or slit 25 to form one or more foldable or hingeable straw contact members or flaps, such as straw contact finger(s) 30 extending in a direction toward center C of lid 12 and hinged thereto first tab section 21 proximate straw capture port 20. In a preferred embodiment, first tab section 21 may include first straw contact finger 31 (or upper surface of straw contact finger 31) and second tab section 22 may include second straw contact finger 32 (or upper surface of straw contact finger 32) centered about slit 25 and meeting together at second slit end 27 to create an opening or access therebetween first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32. Slit 25 is preferably formed with first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32 touching or virtually touching one another or close thereto. Moreover, first end 31.1 of first straw contact finger 31 may be connected and hinged to first tab section 21, and first end 32.1 of second straw contact finger 32 may be connected and hinged to second tab section 22. Furthermore, first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32 may extend therein straw capture port 20 and hingedly or flexibly fold therein to form straw capture cavity 50 formed between hinged first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32, and back rim wall of straw contact rim 40 to grip straw S and wrapper W therein. Straw contact rim 40 may be sized and shaped to match the outer surface configuration of straw S, 18. Moreover, straw contact rim 40 is preferably proximate or touching perimeter flange 14 of lid 12. In this embodiment, first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32 may be pointed or face inward toward center CE of lid 12 or configured perpendicular to perimeter flange 14 or the tangent thereof.

[0082] It is contemplated herein that first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32 may be a cutout therein first tab section 21 and second tab section 22 planar tab 16, as first straw contact finger cutout 31 and second straw contact finger cutout 32.

[0083] It is further contemplated herein that each of first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32 is separated by slit 25, and first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32 cutout endpoints converge on second slit end 27.

[0084] It is further contemplated herein in a preferred embodiment that first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32 cutout starting points are evenly spaced about slit 25 and perpendicular to first slit end of straw capture and alignment port 20.

[0085] It is further contemplated herein that one of first tab section 21 and second tab section 22 may include straw contact finger 30 to removably secure straw S, 18 against straw contact rim 40.

[0086] It is further contemplated herein that first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32 may include upper and lower surfaces 60, such as first straw contact finger 31 may include first finger upper surface 61, second straw contact finger 32 may include second finger upper surface 62 hingedly or flexibly utilized to grip, contact and secure straw S, 18 therein straw capture cavity 50 by forcing or thrusting straw S, 18 therein straw capture cavity 50.

[0087] It is further contemplated herein that first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32 may be configured to removably secure straw S, 18 therein straw capture cavity 50 without the need to contact straw contact rim 40.

[0088] Moreover, lid L material selection may include properties of flexibility to provide hingeability (hingeable), flexibility, and bendability, such as hinge 70 movement to enable biasing of components therein to enable repeated gripping and release forces of straw S, 18 therein, such as hinge 70 between first tab section 21 and first straw contact finger 31 and between second tab section 22 and second straw contact finger 32. Furthermore, preferably the end point of cutouts therein first tab section 21 and second tab section 22 forming first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32 are preferably configured centered on a centerline CL of, for example, each arch section of straw capture and alignment port 20, respectively and proximate tangent line TL from arc or bullnose of straw capture and alignment port 20 or perpendicular to, as shown in FIG. 2.2.

[0089] It is further contemplated herein that first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32 may be configured in any size or shape to provide surface area contact and/or edge contact with straw S, 18 to removably hold or secure straw S, 18 therein straw capture cavity 50.

[0090] It is still further contemplated herein that straw contact rim 40 may be configured in any size or shape to provide surface area contact and or edge contact with straw S, 18 to removably hold or secure straw S, 18 therein straw capture cavity 50 of straw gripper and tab separator 10.

[0091] Moreover, straw capture cavity 50 is not an opening in its non-use state but closed and ready to receive straw S, 18. Straw capture cavity 50 is preferably sized to be approximately similar to the shape of straw S, 18 such that the straw S may be placed inside straw gripper and tab separator 10 by sliding from above or below or by being pressed from outside in straw capture cavity 50 to be removably held in place.

[0092] It is still further contemplated herein that first tab section 21 and first straw contact finger 31 and second tab section 22 and second straw contact finger 32 may include ridges and/or concave or convex shapes formed therein to strengthen straw gripper and tab separator 10.

[0093] It is still further contemplated herein that straw S may include a straw wrapper (the straw S) together identified as straw S which may be removably secured therein straw gripper and tab separator 10.

[0094] It is still further contemplated herein that straw gripper and tab separator 10 may be utilized to grip a spoon, fork, chopsticks, or other utensils, for example, if beverage B includes a frozen, thick, hot, meal, or other beverage-like contents requiring such utensils (collectively represented as the straw S). This and other straw S configurations (side surface or cross-section) are contemplated herein to be gripped by therein straw gripper and tab separator 10.

[0095] FIGS. 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, and 3.5, by way of example, and not limitation, there is illustrated an alternate embodiment of straw gripper and tab separator 10.n and its parts, according to select embodiments.

[0096] FIG. 3.1 illustrates a necktie configuration, such as straw gripper and tab separator 10.3 may include angled straw capture and alignment port 20, one or more foldable or hingeable straw contact members or flaps, such as straw contact finger(s) 30, such as first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32 formed from angled cuts, separated by angled slits 25, and angled or tent configuration of back rim wall, such as straw contact rim 40.

[0097] FIG. 3.2 illustrates a slit-eyed smile configuration, such as straw gripper and tab separator 10.4 may include straw capture and alignment port 20, one or more foldable or hingeable straw contact members or flaps, such as straw contact finger(s) 30, such as first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32 formed from angled cuts, separated by slit 25, and angled or tent with gaps to form additional hinge 70 configuration of back rim wall, such as straw contact rim 40.

[0098] FIG. 3.3 illustrates a cross with barrel or cupped outer ends configuration, such as straw gripper and tab separator 10.5 may include semi-circular straw capture and alignment port 20, one or more foldable or hingeable straw contact members or flaps, such as straw contact finger(s) 30, such as first straw contact finger 31, second straw contact finger 32, third straw contact finger 33, and fourth straw contact finger 34 formed from arc cuts, separated by cross slits 25, and back rim wall, such as straw contact rim 40.

[0099] FIG. 3.4 illustrates an oval-eyed frown configuration, such as straw gripper and tab separator 10.6 may include angled straw capture and alignment port 20, one or more foldable or hingeable straw contact members or flaps, such as straw contact finger(s) 30, such as first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32 separated by slit 25, and back rim wall, such as straw contact rim 40. Moreover, straw gripper and tab separator 10.6 may include holes, such as aperture 80, or more specifically, first aperture 81 and second aperture 82, therein first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32, respectively.

[0100] FIG. 3.5 illustrates a side entry dual arc configuration, such as straw gripper and tab separator 10.7 may include semi-circular straw capture and alignment port 20, one or more foldable or hingable straw contact members or flaps positioned approximately in parallel or side-by-side, such as straw contact finger(s) 30, such as first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32, separated by gap slit 25, and back rim wall, such as straw contact rim 40.

[0101] Moreover, other configurations of straw gripper and tab separator 10 having one or more straw contact finger(s) 30, separated by slit(s) 25 and the like, known to one of ordinary skill in the art are contemplated herein.

[0102] Referring now to FIG. 7, by way of example, and not limitation, there is illustrated a second example embodiment of an apparatus to seal cup C having a rim R, such as drink lid of FIG. 1 with a straw support structure or apparatus integrated thereto, such as straw gripper and tab separator 10.1 and its parts, according to select embodiments. In this second embodiment, lid L may include a protruding planar tab 16 having straw gripper and tab separator 10 protruding from one or more locations along perimeter flange 14 of lid 12. Furthermore, planar tab 16 may include a cutout therein, such as slit 25 dividing planar tab 16 into left or first tab section 21 and right or second tab section 22, each extending as flat planar tab therefrom perimeter flange 14 of lid 12. Slit 25 may include front or first slit end 26 and back or second slit end 27. First tab section 21 and second tab section 22 may each include a portion of straw capture and alignment port 20 configured as the front end or exterior edge 23 of first tab section 21 and second tab section 22. In this embodiment, straw capture and alignment port 20 may be pointed or face circumferentially adjacent, parallel to, or tangential and proximate perimeter flange 14 of lid 12.

[0103] In this embodiment, first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32 may be pointed or face toward or in the direction of parallel to perimeter flange 14 of lid 12 or the tangent thereof.

[0104] Still furthermore, one or both of first tab section 21 and second tab section 22 may include a series of cuts or cutouts centered relative to straw capture and alignment port 20 to form one or more foldable or hingeable straw contact members, such as straw contact finger(s) 30 extending in a direction be pointed or face circumferentially adjacent or tangential and proximate perimeter flange 14 of lid 12 and hinged thereto first tab section 21 proximate straw capture port 20. In a preferred embodiment, first tab section 21 may include first straw contact finger 31 and second tab section 22 may include second straw contact finger 32 centered about slit 25 and meeting together at second slit end 27 to create an opening or access therebetween first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32. Slit 25 is preferably formed with first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32 touching or virtually touching one another or close thereto and pointed or face circumferentially adjacent or tangential and proximate perimeter flange 14 of lid 12. Moreover, first end 31.1 of first straw contact finger 31 may be connected and hinged to first tab section 21 and first end 32.1 of second straw contact finger 32 may be connected and hinged to second tab section 22. Furthermore, first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32 may extend therein straw capture port 20 and hingedly or flexibly fold therein to form straw capture cavity 50 formed between hinged first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32, and back rim wall of straw contact rim 40. Straw contact rim 40 may be sized and shaped to match the outer surface configuration of straw S, 18. Moreover, straw contact rim 40 is preferably pointed or face circumferentially adjacent or tangential and proximate perimeter flange 14 of lid 12.

[0105] Referring now to FIG. 8, by way of example, and not limitation, there is illustrated an example embodiment of an apparatus to seal cup C, such as drink lid L with a straw support structure or apparatus integrated thereto, such as straw gripper and tab separator 10, 10.1, 10.3, 10.4, 10.5, 10.6. In use lid L may be affixed to rim R of cup C, 18. Preferably, straw gripper and tab separator 10, 10.1, 10.3, 10.4, 10.5, 10.6 removably grips, secures or holds straw 18, S proximate first straw end 18.1 with at least two points of contact, such as any two of first straw contact finger 31, second straw contact finger 32, and/or back rim wall of straw contact rim 40, as well as second straw end 18.2 may be in contact with lower end of sidewall SW of cup C, 19 to provide an additional contact point, such as third point of contact 33 for straw 18, S, such point of contact assists with preventing second straw end 18.1 from being contacted and, thus, bumping straw 18, S out of straw gripper and tab separator 10, 10.1, 10.3, 10.4, 10.5, 10.6.

[0106] Referring now to FIG. 9, by way of example, and not limitation, there is illustrated a third example embodiment of an apparatus cup C having a rim R, with a straw support structure or apparatus integrated thereto, such as straw gripper and tab separator 10.3. In this third embodiment, cup C, 19 may include rim R, 17 where beverage lid 12 having perimeter flange 14 configured to conformingly couple to a top periphery or rim R of a container, such as cup C for covering the container's opening to prevent the beverage B from spilling, sloshing, or splashing out of the cup C. Moreover, rim R, 17 may include a protruding planar tab 16 having straw gripper and tab separator 10.3 protruding from one or more locations along perimeter rim R, 17. If possible, straw gripper and tab separator 10.3 may preferably utilize an area of material in the manufacturing form that is otherwise cut away in the production process. Furthermore, planar tab 16 may include left or first tab section 21 and right or second tab section 22, each extending as a flat planar tab 16 therefrom perimeter flange 14 of lid 12. First tab section 21 and second tab section 22 may include an indent or straw alignment notch therebetween, such as straw capture and alignment port 20 configured as the circumferential facing edge of first tab section 21 and second tab section 22, which is pointed or faces circumferentially adjacent or proximate perimeter flange 14 of lid 12.

[0107] Still furthermore, one or both of first tab section 21 and second tab section 22 may include a series of cuts or narrow slots proximate as well as may be centered relative to straw capture and alignment port 20 to form one or more foldable or hingeable straw contact members, such as straw contact finger(s) 30 extending in a direction pointed or faces circumferentially adjacent or proximate perimeter flange 14 of lid 12 and hinged thereto first tab section 21 proximate straw capture port 20. In a preferred embodiment, first tab section 21 may include first straw contact finger 31, and second tab section 22 may include second straw contact finger 32, with an opening between fingers, such as slit 33 therebetween first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32. Moreover, first end 31.1 of first straw contact finger 31 may be connected and hinged to first tab section 21 and first end 32.1 of second straw contact finger 32 may be connected and hinged to second tab section 22. Furthermore, first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32 may extend therein straw capture port 20 and hingedly or flexibly fold or bend therein to form straw capture cavity 50 formed between hinged first straw contact finger 31 and second straw contact finger 32, and back rim wall of straw contact rim 40. Straw contact rim 40 may be sized and shaped to match the outer surface configuration of straw S, 18.

[0108] It is still further contemplated herein that straw gripper and tab separator 10 may be an integrated feature of cup Ceither along a sidewall SW or rim Rto hold or releasably attach straw S, 18 vertically to the outside of cup C.

[0109] Referring now to FIGS. 10, 14A, 14B, 15, and 16, by way of example, and not limitation, there is illustrated an example embodiment of an apparatus to guard or sanitize a user's mouth or lip from contact with the lid LD or rim R or sidewall SW of a bottle, can or other container CN when drinking a fluid through a fluid opening FO. The apparatus to guard or sanitize a user's mouth or lip having a mouth or lip guard for placement over the lid LD or rim R of a bottle, can or other container CN. Moreover, the apparatus to guard or sanitize a user's mouth or lip may include straw gripper and tab separator integral thereto. The apparatus to guard or sanitize a user's mouth or lip may include rim lip guard 100 with a straw support structure integrated thereto, such as straw gripper and tab separator 10 and its parts, according to select embodiments. In this alternate embodiment, rim lip guard 100 may include a main body preferably a ring or partial ring or other section, such as rim guard 110. Rim guard 110 may be downwardly u-shaped, v-shaped, or other shape configured to removeably grip rim R of container CN. Moreover, rim guard 110 may include horizontally protruding planar tab 16 which extends from rim guard 110 configured for drinker/user U to grip rim lip guard 100 and place rim guard 110 thereon rim R of container CN. Moreover, horizontal planar tab 16 may include exterior edge 23 and having straw gripper and tab separator 10 integrated therein planar tab 16. Furthermore, straw gripper and tab separator 10 may be integrated therein planar tab 16 and positioned anywhere around rim guard 110 of rim lip guard 100. Furthermore, exterior edge 23 may include an indent, such as straw capture and alignment port 20 to align straw S with planar tab 16 as shown above.

[0110] It is contemplated herein that rim lip guard 100 may be curved, rounded, angled, straight, or substantially straight to be configured to match and removeably affix thereto rim R of container CN.

[0111] It is contemplated herein that rim guard 110 may be configured as a full ring or a partial ring which may grip all or only a section of rim R of container CN.

[0112] It is contemplated herein that rim R may include any rim whether on a bottle, can, bowl, cup, glass, jar, or the like (the container CN) a user/drinker may press their lips L against and act as a guard or sanitary barrier between rim R and user/drinker's U lips L.

[0113] Rim guard 110 may include substantially vertical outer sidewall 112 and/or substantially vertical inner sidewall 114 extending therearound rim guard 110 to guard or sanitize a user's mouth or lip L from contact with the lid LD or rim R of container CN. It is contemplated herein that outer sidewall 112 and/or inner sidewall 114 may be configured as a full ring or a partial ring, or other section which may grip and cover all or a section of rim R of container CN. Moreover, inner sidewall 114 may transition(s) to substantially horizontal surface or flat planar surface 120A having a hole, such as fluid aperture 122 configured therein to enable a user or drinker to actuate pop top PT of container CN and drink fluid form fluid aperture 122 of container CN. Moreover, flat planar surface 120A and/or inner sidewall 114 may be configured as a guard or sanitary barrier between user/drinker's U upper lip UL and can top CT of container CN. It is contemplated herein that flat planar surface 120A may be configured to surround or outline all or part of fluid aperture 122 and/or pop top PT of container CN. Furthermore, planar surface 120A may include ribs 124, raised sections, to create an additional separation between drinker's upper lip UL and can top CT of container CN.

[0114] Moreover, outer sidewall 112 may transition(s) to substantially horizontal surface, flat, curved, or angled planar surface 120B configured as a guard or sanitary barrier between drinker's lower lip LL and sidewall SW of container CN and may be utilized to aid in application of rim guard 110 thereto container CN. It is contemplated herein that outer sidewall 112 may be configured to surround all, part, or a section of can sidewall SW of container CN.

[0115] It is contemplated herein that planar tab 16 may extend or protrude (transitions) therefrom outer sidewall 112 or angled planar surface 120B to be used as a handle to place rim lip guard 100 thereon rim R of container CN as shown in FIG. 12 but without straw gripper and tab separator 10.

[0116] It is further contemplated herein on their own substantially vertical outer sidewall 112 and/or inner sidewall 114 may be configured as a guard or sanitary barrier between drinker's lower lip LL and sidewall SW, and sanitary barrier between drinker's upper lip UL and can top CT of container CN.

[0117] Still furthermore, one or both of first tab section 21 and second tab section 22 may include ribs or motes 124, raised or lowered sections, ridges and/or concave or convex shapes formed therein to create additional strength thereto planar tab 16.

[0118] Moreover, rim lip guard 100 material selection may include properties of flexibility to provide hingeability (hingeable), flexibility, and bendability, such as vertical outer sidewall 112 and/or substantially vertical inner sidewall 114 movement to enable biasing of components therein to enable repeated gripping and release forces.

[0119] It is still further contemplated herein that rim lip guard 100 may be configured in any size or shape to accommodate any size or shape of container CN and to provide a surface area for user/drinker's lips to contact creating a guard or sanitary barrier between user/drinker's lips and container CN.

[0120] Referring now to FIGS. 11, 12A, 12B, 13 and 16, by way of example, and not limitation, there is illustrated an example embodiment of an apparatus to guard or sanitize contact with a bottle or container CN having a mouth or lip guard for placement over the open lid LD end of a bottle or container CN, according to select embodiments. In this alternate embodiment, rim lip guard 100A may include a main body preferably a ring or partial ring, such as rim guard 110. Rim or rim guard 110 may be downwardly open u-shaped, v-shaped, or other shape configured to removeably grip rim R of bottle, can, or container CN.

[0121] It is contemplated herein that rim lip guard 100A may be curved or a curved section as shown in FIG. 12A, rounded, angled, straight, or substantially straight section as shown in FIG. 13 to be configured to match rim R.

[0122] It is contemplated herein that rim guard 110 may be configured as a full ring or a partial ring which may grip all or only a section of rim R of bottle, can, or container CN.

[0123] It is contemplated herein that rim R may include any rim whether on a bottle, can, bowl, cup, glass, jar, or the like (the container CN) a user/drinker may press their lips L against and act as a guard or sanitary barrier between the rim R and/or sidewall SW and user/drinker's lips L.

[0124] Rim guard 110 may include substantially vertical outer sidewall 112 and/or substantially vertical inner sidewall 114 extending therearound rim guard 110. It is contemplated herein that both outer sidewall 112 and/or inner sidewall 114 may include an upper portion 120A/120B that is affixed or joined together to form rim guard 110. It is contemplated herein that outer sidewall 112 and/or inner sidewall 114 may be configured as a full ring or a partial ring which may grip and cover all or only a section of rim R of container CN. Moreover, inner sidewall 114 may transition to substantially horizontal or flat planar surface 120A having a hole, such as fluid aperture 122 configured therein to enable a user or drinker to actuate pop top PT of container CN and drink fluid form fluid aperture 122 of container CN. Moreover, flat or horizontal planar surface 120A and/or inner sidewall 114 may be configured as a guard or sanitary barrier between drinker's upper lip UL and can top CT of container CN. It is contemplated herein that flat planar surface 120A may be configured to surround or outline all or part of fluid aperture 122 and/or pop top PT of container CN. Furthermore, planar surface 120A may include ribs 124, raised sections, to create an additional separation between drinker's upper lip UL and can top CT of container CN.

[0125] Moreover, outer sidewall 112 may transition(s) to substantially horizontal, vertical, flat, curved, or angled planar surface 120B (as shown in FIGS. 12A, 12B, and 13) configured as a guard or sanitary barrier between drinker's lower lip LL and sidewall SW of container CN as shown in FIG. 16.

[0126] Referring again to FIGS. 12A, 12B, by way of example, and not limitation, there is illustrated an example embodiment of an apparatus to guard or sanitize contact with a bottle or container CN having a mouth or lip guard for placement over lid LD end of a bottle or container CN, according to select embodiments. In this alternate embodiment, rim lip guard 100B may include a main body preferably a ring or partial ring, such as rim guard 110. Rim guard 110 may be downwardly open and u-shaped, v-shaped, or other shape configured to removeably grip rim R of bottle, can, or container CN.

[0127] It is contemplated herein that rim lip guard 100B may be curved, rounded, angled, straight, or substantially straight to be configured to match rim R.

[0128] It is contemplated herein that rim guard 110 may include substantially horizontally protruding planar tab 16 which extends from rim guard 110 to enable ease of gripping or placement of rim guard 110.

[0129] It is contemplated herein that planar tab 16 may extend or protrude therefrom outer sidewall 112 or angled planar surface 120B to enable ease of gripping or placement of rim guard 110 thereon rim R of container CN.

[0130] It is further contemplated herein that substantially vertical outer sidewall 112 and/or inner sidewall 114 may be configured as a guard or sanitary barrier between drinker's lower lip LL and sidewall SW, and sanitary barrier between drinker's upper lip UL and can top CT of container CN.

[0131] Still furthermore, one or both of first tab section 21 and second tab section 22 may include ribs or motes 124, raised or lowered sections, ridges and/or concave or convex shapes formed therein to create additional strength thereto planar tab 16 as well as provide additional guard or sanitary barrier between drinker's lower lip LL and sidewall SW, and sanitary barrier between drinker's upper lip UL and can top CT of container CN.

[0132] Referring again to FIG. 13, by way of example, and not limitation, there is illustrated an example embodiment of an apparatus to guard or sanitize contact with a of cup or bowl BL having a mouth or lip guard for placement over the rim R of cup or bowl BL, according to select embodiments. In this alternate embodiment, rim lip guard 100 may include a main body preferably a substantially curved, straight segment, or partial curved or straight segment such as straight rim guard 110C. Straight rim guard 110C may be downwardly u-shaped, v-shaped, or other shape configured to removeably grip rim R of cup or bowl BL as set forth above.

[0133] It is contemplated herein that rim lip guard 100 may be straight or substantially straight to be configured to match rim R of cup or bowl BL (container CN).

[0134] It is contemplated herein that straight rim guard 110C may be configured as a full section or a partial section which may grip all or only a portion or section of rim R of cup or bowl BL.

[0135] It is contemplated herein that rim R may include any rim whether on a bottle, can, bowl, cup, glass, jar, or the like (the container CN) a user/drinker may press their lips L against and act as a guard or sanitary barrier between the rim R and user/drinker's lips L.

[0136] Straight rim guard 110C may include substantially vertical outer sidewall 112 and/or substantially vertical inner sidewall 114 extending therearound straight rim guard 110C to guard or sanitize a user's mouth or lip L from contact with rim R of cup or bowl BL. It is contemplated herein that outer sidewall 112 and/or inner sidewall 114 may be configured as a full straight section or a partial straight section, which may grip and cover all or only a section of rim R of cup or bowl BL. Moreover, inner sidewall 114 may transition to substantially vertical or flat planar surface 120A configured to enable a user/drinker to drink fluid from cup or bowl BL. Moreover, flat planar surface 120A and/or inner sidewall 114 may be configured as a guard or sanitary barrier between drinker's upper lip UL and of cup or bowl BL. Furthermore, planar surface 120A may include ribs 124, raised sections, to create an additional separation between drinker's upper lip UL and of cup or bowl BL.

[0137] Moreover, outer sidewall 112 may transition to substantially horizontal, vertical, curved, flat or angled planar surface 120B configured as a guard or sanitary barrier between drinker's lower lip LL and of surface of cup or bowl BL. It is contemplated herein that outer sidewall 112 may be configured to cover all, part, or a section of cup or bowl BL.

[0138] It is contemplated herein that straight rim guard 110A may include substantially horizontally protruding planar tab 16 which extends from rim guard 110 configured for user U to grip straight rim lip guard 100A and place straight rim guard 110A thereon rim R of container CN.

[0139] It is contemplated herein that planar tab 16 may extend or protrude therefrom outer sidewall 112 or angled planar surface 120B to enable ease of gripping or placement of straight rim guard 110A.

[0140] It is further contemplated herein on their own substantially vertical outer sidewall 112 and/or inner sidewall 114 may be configured as a guard or sanitary barrier between drinker's lower lip LL and rim R or sidewall SW, and sanitary barrier between drinker's upper lip UL and rim R or sidewall SW of cup or bowl BL

[0141] Still furthermore, one or both of first tab section 21 and second tab section 22 may include ribs or motes 124, raised or lowered sections, ridges and/or concave or convex shapes formed therein to create additional strength thereto planar tab 16.

[0142] Moreover, rim lip guard 100 material selection may include properties of flexibility to provide hingeability (hingeable), flexibility, and bendability, such as vertical outer sidewall 112 and/or substantially vertical inner sidewall 114 movement to enable biasing of components therein to enable repeated gripping and release forces or form fit.

[0143] It is still further contemplated herein that rim lip guard 100 may be configured in any size or shape to accommodate any size or shape of cup or bowl BL and to provide a surface area for user/drinker's lips to contact creating a guard or sanitary barrier between user/drinker's lips and cup or bowl BL.

[0144] It is further understood herein that the parts and elements of this disclosure may be located or positioned elsewhere based on one of ordinary skill in the art without deviating from the present disclosure.

[0145] With respect to the above description, it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships, including variations in size, materials, shape, form, position, movement mechanisms, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0146] The foregoing description and drawings comprise illustrative embodiments. Regarding the described exemplary embodiments, it should be noted by those skilled in the art that the disclosures within are exemplary only, and that various other alternatives, adaptations, and modifications may be made within the scope of the present disclosure. Merely listing or numbering the steps of a method in a particular order does not constitute any limitation on the order of the steps of that method. Many modifications and other embodiments will come to mind for one skilled in the art this disclosure pertains to, having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Although specific terms may be employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. Moreover, the present disclosure has been described in detail; it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims. Accordingly, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments illustrated herein but is limited only by the following claims.