CONTAINER LID ASSEMBLY WITH A SCOOP

Abstract

The present invention discloses a container lid assembly with a scoop designed for enhanced usability and functionality. The container lid assembly comprises a lid body with an exterior and interior surface, where the interior surface hosts a mechanically contoured recess for accommodating a scoop. This design facilitates a plurality of securement mechanisms for the scoop, comprising at least one of snap-fit, slide-in, rotational locking, and perimeter snap engagement. The scoop comprises a handle and a head, both of which are geometrically tailored to fit snugly within the recessed area of the lid, emphasizing ease of access and minimal interference with the container's contents. The present invention exhibits a significant advancement in the field of container lid design, offering a secure, versatile, and user-friendly assembly of integrating a scoop with a container lid, enhancing the overall utility and efficiency of container usage.

Claims

1. A container lid assembly 100 with a scoop 102 comprising: a lid body 104 defined by an exterior upper surface configured for outward orientation relative to a container and an interior lower surface 106 configured for inward orientation, wherein the lower surface 106 integrates a mechanically contoured recessed area 108 for the accommodation and retention of a scoop 102.

2. The container lid assembly of claim 1, wherein the scoop comprises of: a handle 110; and a head 112, geometrically and structurally conformed to nest within the mechanically defined contours of the recessed area 108 on the lid's lower surface 106.

3. The container lid assembly 100 of claim 2, wherein an interlocking engagement between the recessed area 108 and the scoop head 112 is facilitated by a snap-fit mechanism, characterized by: complementary grooved configurations 114 on both the recessed area 108 and the scoop head 112, enabling a force-induced snap engagement and detachment, supported by mechanical latches 116 for a secure fixation.

4. The container lid assembly 100 of claim 2, wherein a slide-in engagement mechanism is characterized by: a linear guideway 118 designed within the recessed area 108, allowing for the directional insertion and withdrawal of the scoop head 112, wherein the scoop head 112 comprises a cut 124 that is insertable onto the linear guideway, thereby providing a secure and easily reversible placement.

5. The mechanical container lid assembly 100 of claim 2, wherein a rotational locking mechanism is characterized by: intermeshing geared grooves 120 on the perimeter of the recessed area 108 and corresponding structures on the scoop head 112, enabling securement through a rotational alignment and engagement process, and disengagement through inverse rotation.

6. The container lid assembly 100 of claim 2, further articulating a snap-fit mechanism wherein: the periphery 122 of the scoop head 112 and the handle 100 are designed for a snap engagement onto the recessed area 108, leveraging a perimeter engagement for robust mechanical attachment and release.

7. A method for securing a scoop 102 within a container lid, comprising the steps of: positioning a scoop 102 with a handle 110 and a head 112 above a recessed area 108 on a interior lower surface 106 of a lid body 104, the lid body 104 outlined by an exterior upper surface configured for outward orientation relative to a container and the interior lower surface 106 configured for inward orientation; and aligning the head 112 of the scoop 102 with the mechanically contoured recessed area 108 on the lid's lower surface 106.

8. The method of claim 7, further comprising: engaging the scoop 102 with the recessed area 108 using a snap-fit engagement mechanism by applying a downward force until a click is felt, indicating mechanical latches 116 have secured the scoop 102 in place.

9. The method of claim 7, further comprising: engaging the scoop 102 with the recessed area 108 using a slide-in engagement mechanism by sliding the scoop head 112 along a linear guideway 118 until the scoop head 112 is fully seated within the recessed area 108.

10. The method of claim 7, further comprising: engaging the scoop 102 with the recessed area 108 using a rotational locking engagement mechanism by rotating the scoop head 112 to align and intermesh geared grooves 120, continuing the rotation until the scoop head 112 is securely locked in place.

11. The method of claim 7, further comprising: engaging the scoop 102 with the recessed area 108 using a perimeter snap engagement mechanism by pressing the perimeter of the scoop head 112 and the handle 110 against the recessed area 108 until the scoop 102 is securely snapped in place.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] FIG. 1 illustrates a front perspective view of a container lid assembly with a scoop according to the embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0022] FIG. 2 is another front perspective view of the container lid assembly without the scoop illustrating a recessed area and a grooved configuration to facilitate snap-fit mechanism according to the embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0023] FIG. 3 illustrates a front perspective view of the scoop illustrating mechanical latches according to the embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0024] FIG. 4 another front perspective view of the container lid assembly with the scoop illustrating another snap-fit mechanism according to the embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0025] FIG. 5 is another front perspective view of the container lid assembly without the scoop illustrating the recessed area and periphery of the scoop head and the handle according to the embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0026] FIG. 6 illustrates another front perspective view of the container lid assembly without the scoop according to the embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0027] FIG. 7 illustrates another front perspective view of the container lid assembly with the scoop according to the embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0028] FIG. 8 illustrates another front perspective view of the container lid assembly without the scoop illustrating a linear guideway within the recessed area to facilitate slide-in engagement mechanism for the scoop according to the embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0029] FIG. 9 illustrates a front perspective view of the scoop with a cut that is insertable onto the linear guideway according to the embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0030] FIG. 10 illustrates another front perspective view of the container lid assembly with the scoop according to the embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0031] FIG. 11 illustrates another front perspective view of the container lid assembly with an intermeshing geared grooves on the perimeter of the recessed area and corresponding structures on the scoop head to facilitate rotational alignment and engagement process according to the embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0032] FIG. 12 illustrates a front prospective view of the scoop with intermeshing geared grooves according to the embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0033] In the following description of the embodiments of the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and which are shown by way of illustration of specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0034] The specification may refer to an, one or some embodiment(s) in several locations. This does not necessarily imply that each such reference is to the same embodiment(s), or that the feature only applies to a single embodiment. Single feature of different embodiments may also be combined to provide other embodiments.

[0035] As used herein, the singular forms a, an and the are intended to include the plural forms as well unless expressly stated otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms includes, comprises, including and/or comprising when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. As used herein, the term and/or includes any and all combinations and arrangements of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0036] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0037] The utility of the devices described herein will be explained further in detail in the following sections of this document referring to the figures. Specific terms used herein do not restrict the scope of the present disclosure.

[0038] Embodiments of the present invention disclose a container lid assembly.

[0039] FIG. 1 illustrates a front perspective view of a container lid assembly 100 with a scoop 102 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. As used herein, the container lid refers to a detachable or hinged cover designed to fit the opening of a container securely. It serves multiple purposes, including but not limited to protecting the container's contents from external elements such as dust, moisture, and contaminants, preserving the freshness and quality of the contents, and providing a way to seal the container for safe storage and transport. Container lids can be made from various materials, including but not limited to plastic, metal, glass, or composite materials, depending on the intended use and the type of container they are designed to seal.

[0040] The container lid assembly 100 features a lid body 104 characterized by two distinct surfaces: an exterior upper surface and an interior lower surface 106. The exterior upper surface is designed to face outward when the lid is secured on a container, serving as the primary interface with the external environment and users. The interior lower surface 106 faces the inside of the container and is engineered with a mechanically contoured recessed area 108 specifically for accommodating the scoop 102. This design ensures that the scoop 102 can be stored securely without interfering with the container's contents or compromising the seal between the lid and container.

[0041] As used herein, the scoop 102 refers to a utensil typically used for measuring, transferring, or serving bulk materials, ranging from dry goods like flour and sugar to ice cream and other semi-solid substances. It usually consists of two main components: a handle 110 and a head 112. The handle 110 allows the user to grip and manipulate the scoop comfortably, while the head is designed to hold a specific amount of material. The head 112 of the scoop 102 can vary in shape and size, tailored to its specific use, such as a deep, hemispherical shape for liquids or a more shallow, wide shape for dry goods.

[0042] Scoops 102 are made from a variety of materials, including but not limited to plastic, metal, silicone, or wood, depending on their intended use. For instance, metal scoops might be used for ice cream or hot ingredients, while plastic scoops are often found in dry food containers. The design of the scoop 102 may also include features such as a flat bottom for stability when set down, a pointed tip for easier digging into dense materials, or holes for draining liquids.

[0043] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the mechanically contoured recessed area 108 refers to a specifically designed indentation or cavity on a surface, shaped through precise mechanical processes to achieve a particular geometry. This area is tailored to closely match the shape of an object intended to fit within it, ensuring a precise and secure placement. In the context of the container lid, such the recessed area 108 is engineered on the lid's interior lower surface 106 to accommodate a complementary object, like the scoop 102, both in terms of shape and functionality. The contours of the recess are not arbitrary but are the result of detailed mechanical design to achieve an optimal fit and function, facilitating easy insertion, secure holding, and straightforward removal of the object.

[0044] FIG. 2 is another front perspective view of the container lid assembly 100 without the scoop 102 illustrating a mechanically contoured recessed area 108 and a grooved configuration 114 to facilitate snap-fit mechanism according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This embodiment utilizes complementary grooved configurations 114 on both the recessed area 108 and the scoop head 112. This arrangement enables a force-induced engagement and detachment, with mechanical latches 116 ensuring a secure fixation. This mechanism provides a quick and intuitive mechanism for users to attach and detach the scoop 102 as needed.

[0045] This precise design ensures that the grooves 114 align perfectly when the scoop 102 is positioned over the recessed area 108, facilitating a seamless engagement process. The engagement is initiated through the application of a downward force, which, when applied, prompts the grooves 114 on the scoop head 112 to interlock with those on the recessed area 108, thereby achieving a secure connection. This force-induced engagement is not only efficient but also requires minimal effort from the user, enhancing the user experience by making the process of attaching the scoop 102 both quick and straightforward.

[0046] Further supporting this connection are mechanical latches 116 integrated within the grooved configurations 114. Once the scoop 102 is pressed down and the grooved configurations 114 are aligned and engaged, these latches 116 click into place, effectively locking the scoop head 102 within the recessed area 108. This additional layer of fixation ensures that once attached, the scoop 102 remains firmly in place, eliminating any risk of accidental detachment during use or when the container is in transit.

[0047] FIG. 3 illustrates a front perspective view of the scoop 102 illustrating mechanical latches 116 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, detachment of the scoop 102 when needed or when cleaning is required is equally straightforward. By applying an upward force to the handle 110, users can disengage the mechanical latches 116 and lift the scoop 102 out of the recessed area 108, allowing for easy removal. This feature of the design ensures that attaching and detaching the scoop 102 from the lid is a hassle-free process, contributing to the overall practicality and convenience of the container lid assembly 100.

[0048] Overall, this snap-fit mechanism, characterized by its complementary grooved configurations 114 and mechanical latches 116, represents a significant advancement in container lid design. It offers a quick and intuitive mechanism for users to attach and detach the scoop 102 as needed.

[0049] FIG. 4 another front perspective view of the container lid assembly 100 with the scoop 102 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is another front perspective view of the container lid assembly 100 without the scoop 102 illustrating the recessed area 108 and periphery of the scoop head 112 and the handle 110 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, a secondary snap-fit mechanism where the periphery 122 of the scoop head 112 and the handle 110 snap onto the recessed area 108. This design leverages the outer edges for a comprehensive and secure attachment, distinguishing it from the initial snap-fit approach by focusing on the periphery 122 for engagement.

[0050] This particular embodiment enhances the versatility of the container lid assembly 100 by introducing an alternative approach to securing the scoop 102, which notably diverges from the conventional snap-fit design previously described. The essence of this secondary mechanism lies in its strategic use of the scoop's 102 periphery 122, including both the head 112 and the handle 110, to achieve a secure fit within the recessed area 108 of the lid.

[0051] This design uses the outer edges of the scoop 102 for attachment, thereby offering a broader engagement surface compared to the more localized contact points of the initial snap-fit mechanism. The mechanism operates on the principle of perimeter engagement, wherein the edges of the scoop head 112 and handle 110 are specifically contoured to match complementary profiles within the recessed area 108 on the lid's lower surface 106. When the user aligns the scoop 102 with the recessed area 108 and applies a gentle pressure, the periphery of the scoop 102 snaps into place, indicating a successful engagement. This snap engagement is facilitated by precision-engineered profiles that ensure a tight and secure fit, effectively preventing any unintentional detachment of the scoop 102 during use or transit. FIG. 6 illustrates another front perspective view of the container lid assembly 100 without the scoop 102 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0052] FIG. 7 illustrates another front perspective view of the container lid assembly 100 with the scoop 102 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 illustrates another front perspective view of the container lid assembly 100 without the scoop 102 illustrating a linear guideway 118 within the recessed area 108 to facilitate slide-in engagement mechanism for the scoop 102 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 illustrates a front perspective view of the scoop with a cut 124 that is insertable onto the linear guideway according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This embodiment features a linear guideway 118 within the recessed area 108, allowing for the directional movement of the scoop head 112 into and out of its storage position. This design offers a simple yet effective method for securing the scoop 102, facilitating ease of use and maintenance. FIG. 9 illustrates a front perspective view of the scoop with a cut 124 that is insertable onto the linear guideway according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. Central to this design is the inclusion of a linear guideway 118 situated within the recessed area 108 of the container lid's lower surface 106. The purpose of this linear guideway 118 is to provide a structured path that guides the scoop head 112 in a directional manner, facilitating its smooth movement into and out of the designated storage position within the lid.

[0053] The linear guideway 118 is particularly configured to match the shape and size of the scoop head 112, ensuring a snug fit that prevents lateral movement or tilting of the scoop 102 during insertion or removal. This precision alignment between the linear guideway 118 and the scoop head 102 is crucial for the smooth operation of the slide-in engagement mechanism. By simply aligning the scoop head 112 with the entrance of the linear guideway 118 and applying a gentle push, users can easily slide the scoop 102 into its storage position, where it remains securely held until needed again. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the scoop 102 is required for use, a straightforward pull on the handle 110 in the opposite direction disengages the scoop 102 from the recessed area 108, readying it for immediate use.

[0054] This slide-in engagement mechanism is designed with user convenience and maintenance in mind. By eliminating complex locking mechanisms or the need for precise alignment beyond the guideway, this design significantly simplifies the process of attaching and detaching the scoop 102.

[0055] FIG. 10 illustrates another front perspective view of the container lid assembly 100 with the scoop 102 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 illustrates another front perspective view of the container lid assembly 100 with an intermeshing geared grooves 120 on the perimeter of the recessed area 108 and corresponding structures on the scoop head 112 to facilitate rotational alignment and engagement process according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This embodiment incorporates intermeshing geared grooves 120 along the perimeter of the recessed area 108 and the scoop head 112. Securement is achieved through rotational alignment, providing a reliable and robust connection that is easily engaged and disengaged by users.

[0056] FIG. 12 illustrates a front prospective view of the scoop 102 with the intermeshing geared grooves 120 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. At the heart of the rotational locking mechanism of this embodiment lies a system of the intermeshing geared grooves 120, arrayed along the perimeter of both the recessed area 108 on the container lid's interior lower surface 106 and the corresponding perimeter of the scoop head 112.

[0057] The intricately designed geared grooves 120 serve a dual purpose: they not only guide the user during the engagement process but also ensure a secure and precise fit between the scoop 102 and the lid. The engagement process is initiated by aligning the scoop head 112 with the recessed area 108 and then rotating it. This rotational movement causes the geared grooves 120 on the scoop head 112 to interlock with those on the recessed area 108, resulting in a secure and robust connection. This interlocking action is made possible by the design of the grooves 120, which are designed to mesh seamlessly only when the scoop 102 is correctly positioned and rotated to the designated alignment.

[0058] One of the standout features of this rotational locking mechanism is its ease of use. Users can effortlessly engage and disengage the scoop 102 from the lid with a simple twisting motion. This user-friendly operation eliminates the need for excessive force or complex manipulation, making it suitable for all users, including those with limited hand strength or dexterity. Furthermore, the rotational mechanism provides a reliable connection that ensures the scoop remains securely in place during storage and transport, preventing accidental detachment or spillage of contents. The disengagement process mirrors the engagement, requiring users to apply a reverse rotational motion to unlock the scoop 102 from the recessed area 108.

[0059] In one embodiment of the present invention, a detailed method is introduced for effectively securing a scoop 102 to a container lid. This process involves initially positioning the scoop 102, which consists of a handle 110 and a head 112, over a specifically designed recessed area 108 located on the interior lower surface 106 of the lid body. This lid body 100 is distinctively designed with an exterior upper surface meant to face outward when mounted on a container, while its interior lower surface 106 faces the container's interior. The next step involves precisely aligning the scoop's head 112 with this recessed area 108, which has been meticulously shaped to match the head's geometry, ensuring a perfect fit within the lid's interior contours.

[0060] In an embodiment of the current invention, the described method also includes the action of securing the scoop 102 into the recessed area 108 through a snap-fit engagement process. This involves exerting a downward pressure on the scoop 102 until a distinctive click sound is perceived, signifying that the mechanical latches 116 have successfully locked the scoop 102 into its designated position.

[0061] In another embodiment of the present invention, the method includes attaching the scoop 102 to the recessed area 108 by utilizing a slide-in engagement approach. This entails guiding the scoop head 112 along the linear guideway 118 until it is completely settled into the recessed section 108, ensuring a secure placement.

[0062] In a specific embodiment of the present invention, the procedure encompasses securing the scoop 102 within the recessed area 108 through a rotational locking mechanism. This process involves turning the scoop head 112 to achieve alignment and meshing of the geared grooves 114, with the rotation persisting until the scoop head 112 is firmly locked into position.

[0063] In an embodiment of the present invention, the method additionally involves attaching the scoop 102 to the recessed area 108 via a perimeter snap engagement mechanism. This is done by applying pressure around the perimeter of both the scoop head 112 and handle 110 against the recessed area 108, continuing until the scoop 102 audibly snaps into position, indicating a secure fit.

[0064] The present invention introduces a container lid assembly 100 with the scoop 102 that improves the storage and accessibility of scoops 102 within containers, addressing common challenges faced by users in both residential and commercial settings. One of the primary advantages of this invention is the integration of a mechanically contoured recessed area 108 on the lid's interior surface 106, specifically designed to accommodate the scoop 102. This design not only ensures that the scoop 102 is always at hand when needed but also eliminates the common problem of scoop 102 misplacement, thereby enhancing user convenience and efficiency.

[0065] The present invention's versatility is further highlighted through the implementation of multiple securement mechanisms, comprising at least one of snap-fit, slide-in, and rotational locking mechanisms, as well as an alternative perimeter snap engagement. These options provide flexibility in how the scoop 102 can be securely stored and easily accessed, catering to different user preferences and operational requirements. The snap-fit mechanism, characterized by complementary grooved configurations 114 and mechanical latches 116, offers a quick and secure method for attaching and detaching the scoop 102, suitable for rapid use scenarios. In contrast, the slide-in mechanism and rotational locking provide more deliberate securement options that ensure the scoop 102 remains firmly in place even when the container is moved or transported, making it ideal for scenarios where container stability is paramount.

[0066] Moreover, the geometric and structural conformity between the scoop head 112 and the recessed area 108 ensures a perfect fit, reducing the likelihood of contamination of the scoop 102 by the container's contents. This feature is particularly advantageous for food storage and handling applications, where hygiene and cleanliness are critical. The mechanical integrity and operational flexibility afforded by the present invention significantly enhance the user experience, offering an innovative solution to the longstanding issue of scoop storage and accessibility. By ensuring that the scoop 102 is always correctly positioned, clean, and ready for use, the present invention significantly reduces preparation time and improves the overall efficiency of tasks involving scooped materials.

[0067] Examples described herein can also be used in various other scenarios and for various purposes. It may be noted that the above-described examples of the present solution are for the purpose of illustration only. Although the solution has been described in conjunction with a specific embodiment thereof, numerous modifications may be possible without materially departing from the instructions and advantages of the subject matter described herein. Other substitutions, modifications, and changes may be made without departing from the spirit of the present solution. All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract, and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any arrangement, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.

[0068] The present description has been shown and described with reference to the foregoing examples. It is understood, however, that other forms, details, and examples can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present subject matter.