Abstract
A cap assembly for a container. The cap assembly include a base, a drink spout, a closure, a tether, and a biasing device. The base is configured to be removably coupled to the container. The drink spout extends from the base. The tether retains the closure and is pivotably connected to the base at a location spaced away from the drink spout. The tether is transitionable between a closed arrangement that positions the closure over the drink spout and an opened arrangement in which the closure is spaced away from the drink spout. The biasing device biases the tether from the closed arrangement toward the opened arrangement. The cap assemblies can incorporate features to enhance handling and use, including as a drink spout format, connection of the closure over the drink spout, connection of the closure to the base via the tether, and/or other a swinging a handle.
Claims
1. A cap assembly for a container, comprising: a base configured to be removably coupled to the container; a drink spout extending away from the base; a closure configured to selectively obstruct a passage through the drink spout; a tether coupling the closure to the base, wherein a first portion of the tether retains the closure and a second portion of the tether is pivotably connected to the base at a location spaced away from the drink spout such that the tether is transitionable between a closed arrangement in which the closure is positioned over the drink spout and an opened arrangement in which the closure is spaced away from the drink spout; and a biasing device configured to bias the tether from the closed arrangement toward the opened arrangement.
2. The cap assembly of claim 1, wherein the biasing device includes a biasing body disposed between the base and the tether.
3. The cap assembly of claim 2, wherein the biasing body is formed of a resilient material.
4. The cap assembly of claim 2, wherein the biasing body is connected to the base and the tether.
5. The cap assembly of claim 2, wherein the base includes a platform and a post projecting from the platform at a location spaced away from the drink spout, wherein the second portion of the tether is pivotably connected to the post, and further wherein the biasing body is connected to the post.
6. The cap assembly of claim 5, wherein the biasing body is a ring.
7. The cap assembly of claim 6, wherein the tether includes: a floor defining an aperture sized to receive the closure; opposing legs projecting from the floor, wherein the legs combine to define a gap sized to receive the post; and a finger projecting from the floor proximate the gap; wherein the ring is captured by, and extends between, the post and the finger, and further wherein the ring exerts a pulling force onto the finger in the closed arrangement.
8. The cap assembly of claim 1, wherein the drink spout is formed apart from, and assembled to, the base.
9. The cap assembly of claim 8, wherein a material of the drink spout differs from a material of the base.
10. The cap assembly of claim 9, wherein the drink spout is formed of a silicone material.
11. The cap assembly of claim 8, wherein the base includes a platform defining an opening and a tubular body projecting from an upper face of the platform in alignment with the opening, and further wherein the drink spout is configured for assembly within an interior of the tubular body.
12. The cap assembly of claim 11, wherein the passage extends between, and is open to, opposing ends of the drink spout, and further wherein an exterior face of the drink spout defines a circumferential channel at a location between the opposing ends, the channel sized to receive a length of the tubular body.
13. The cap assembly of claim 1, wherein the closure is rotatably retained by the first portion of the tether.
14. The cap assembly of claim 13, wherein the closure includes a cap body defining a cover panel and a side wall projecting from the cover panel, and further wherein a portion of the side wall defines interior threads configured to threadably engage threads of the base.
15. The cap assembly of claim 14, wherein the side wall defines an exterior face forming a circumferential channel, wherein the first portion of the tether defines an aperture circumscribed by a rim, and further wherein the circumferential channel is sized to slidably receive the rim.
16. The cap assembly of claim 14, wherein the base includes a platform defining an opening and a tubular body projecting from an upper surface of the platform in alignment with the opening, and further wherein an exterior surface of the tubular body defines a threaded surface configured to threadably engage the interior threads of the cap body.
17. The cap assembly of claim 1, further comprising: a handle rotatably coupled to the base.
18. The cap assembly of claim 17, wherein the handle is formed of a thermoplastic elastomer material.
19. A cap assembly for a container, comprising: a base configured to be removably coupled to the container; a drink spout extending away from the base, wherein the drink spout is formed of a material differing from a material of the base; a closure configured to selectively obstruct a passage through the drink spout; and a tether coupling the closure to the base; wherein the base includes a platform defining an opening and a tubular body projecting from an upper face of the platform in alignment with the opening, and further wherein the drink spout is configured for assembly within an interior of the tubular body.
20. A cap assembly for a container, comprising: a base configured to be removably coupled to the container; a drink spout extending away from the base; a closure configured to selectively obstruct a passage through the drink spout; and a tether coupling the closure to the base; and a flexible handle rotatably coupled to the base.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] FIG. 1 is an exploded, perspective view of a drink container in accordance with principles of the present disclosure, with portions shown in simplified form;
[0007] FIG. 2 is an exploded, perspective view of cap assembly in accordance with principles of the present disclosure and useful with the drink containers of the present disclosure;
[0008] FIG. 3A is a top perspective view of a base useful with the cap assembly of FIG. 2;
[0009] FIG. 3B is a bottom perspective view of the base of FIG. 3A;
[0010] FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the base of FIG. 3A;
[0011] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the base of FIG. 4, taken along the line 5-5;
[0012] FIG. 6 is a side plan view of a drink spout useful with the cap assembly of FIG. 2;
[0013] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the drink spout of FIG. 6, taken along the line 7-7;
[0014] FIG. 8 is a side plan view of a closure useful with the cap assembly of FIG. 2;
[0015] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the closure of FIG. 8, taken along the line 9-9;
[0016] FIG. 10A is a top perspective view of a tether useful with the cap assembly of FIG. 2;
[0017] FIG. 10B is a bottom perspective view of the tether of FIG. 10A;
[0018] FIG. 11 is a top plan view of the tether of FIG. 10A;
[0019] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the tether of FIG. 11, taken along the line 12-12;
[0020] FIG. 13 is a bottom plan view of the tether of FIG. 10A;
[0021] FIGS. 14A and 14B are cross-sectional views illustrating assembly of the base of FIG. 3A and the drink spout of FIG. 6;
[0022] FIGS. 15A and 15B are cross-sectional views illustrating assembly of the closure of FIG. 8 and the tether of FIG. 10A;
[0023] FIGS. 16A-16C are cross-sectional views illustrating assembly of the base of FIG. 3A and the tether of FIG. 10A;
[0024] FIGS. 17A and 17B are exploded views illustrating assembly of a biasing device useful with the cap assembly of FIG. 2;
[0025] FIG. 18A is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of portions of the cap assembly of FIG. 2 in an opened arrangement and illustrating the biasing device of FIGS. 17A upon final assembly;
[0026] FIG. 18B is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of the cap assembly of FIG. 18A in a closed arrangement;
[0027] FIG. 18C is a top plan view of portions of the cap assembly of FIG. 2;
[0028] FIG. 19 is a simplified, enlarged cross-sectional view of portions of the cap assembly of FIG. 2;
[0029] FIG. 20 is a front perspective view of the cap assembly of FIG. 2 upon final assembly and in an opened arrangement
[0030] FIG. 21 is a front perspective view of the cap assembly of FIG. 2 upon final assembly and in a closed arrangement; and
[0031] FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the cap assembly of FIG. 2 in a closed arrangement.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0032] Some aspects of the present disclosure are directed to cap assemblies for drink containers and drink containers including the same. With this in mind, one example of a drink container 20 is shown in FIG. 1 and includes a liquid container 22 and a cap assembly 24 in accordance with principles of the present disclosure. Details on the various components are provided below. In general terms, the liquid container 22 can assume a wide variety of forms and generally defines an internal compartment 30 for holding a volume of liquid. The liquid container 22 terminates at a neck 32 forming an opening 34 to the internal compartment 30. The cap assembly 24 includes a base 40, a drink spout 42, a closure 44, and a tether 46. The base 40 is configured to be selectively coupled to the neck 32. The drink spout 42 provides a passage for dispensing liquid from the compartment 30 upon connection of the cap assembly 24 to the liquid container 22. The closure 44 is configured to selectively obstruct the passage of the drink spout 42 to restrict or prevent liquid from flowing through the passage. The tether 46 is generally configured to couple the closure 44 relative to the base 40. The cap assemblies of the present disclosure, including the cap assembly 24, incorporate one or more features that enhance handling and/or use of the drink container 20, including a format of the drink spout 42, releasable connection of the closure 44 relative to the drink spout 42, connection of the closure 44 to the base 40 via the tether 46, and/or other optional features such as a handle 48.
[0033] One example of the cap assembly 24 is shown in greater detail in FIG. 2 and includes the base 40, the drink spout 42, the closure 44, the tether 46, and the handle 48 as mentioned above. In addition, the cap assembly 24 can include a biasing device 50 (referenced generally) and an optional gasket 52. The tether 46 is pivotably connected to the base 40 so as to be transitionable between a closed arrangement in which the closure 44 is positioned over the drink spout 42 and an opened arrangement in which the closure 44 is spaced away from the drink spout 42 (e.g., the arrangement of FIG. 1). The biasing device 50 is configured to bias the tether 46 away from the closed arrangement toward the opened arrangement. The gasket 52, where provided, can promote a more fluid tight seal between the base 40 and the liquid container 22 (FIG. 1) upon final assembly.
[0034] The base 40 is shown in greater detail in FIGS. 3A and 3B and generally includes or defines an outer cap body 60, a platform 62, a tubular body 64, a post 66, and optional ears 68a, 68b. The outer cap body 60 is generally configured to be selectively coupled to the liquid container 22 (FIG. 1) and supports the platform 62. The tubular body 64 projects from an opening in the platform 62 and is configured to receive the drink spout 42 (FIG. 1). The post 66 projects from the platform 62 at a location away from the tubular body 64 and is configured for connection with the tether 46 (FIG. 2).
[0035] Finally, the ears 68a, 68b, where provided, are configured to retain the handle 48 (FIG. 1).
[0036] The outer cap body 60 includes or defines an annular side wall 80 and a shoulder 82. The annular side wall 80 forms a continuous ring terminating at a bottom end 84, and defines a cavity 86. The cavity 86 is open at the bottom end 84 that otherwise has a diameter approximating a diameter of the liquid container neck 32 (FIG. 1). For example, in some embodiments, the annular side wall 80 is sized and shaped for assembly over the neck 32; with these and related embodiments, an inner diameter of the annular side wall 80 (at least at a region of the bottom end 84) can corresponding with an outer diameter of the neck 32. In other examples, the annular side wall 80 can be sized and shaped to nest within the neck 32, and thus can define an outer diameter corresponding with an inner diameter of the neck 32. Regardless, the annular side wall 80 can form or carry one or more features configured to releasably engage with corresponding features of the neck 32. In some non-limiting examples, an interior face of the annular side wall 80 can form threads 88 configured to threadably engage with a corresponding threaded surface formed on or provided with the neck 32. Other constructions facilitating releasable connection of the base 40 with the neck 32 are also acceptable, and may or may not include the threads 88.
[0037] The shoulder 82 projects generally radially inwardly and upwardly from a section of the annular side wall 80 opposite the bottom end 84. More particularly, and with additional reference to FIG. 4, the shoulder 82 is formed along, or generally follows, a portion of a circumference defined by the annular side wall 80, terminating at opposing, first and second ends 90a, 90b. The ends 90a, 90b are circumferentially spaced (e.g., equidistantly spaced) from opposite sides of the post 66, respectively, defining a gap 92. A shape of the shoulder 82 includes or defines an exterior face 94 and an interior face 96. The interior face 96 projects from the platform 62 and defines a perimeter of a slot 98 in extension between the first and second ends 90a, 90b. The slot 98 is open at the gap 92, and is sized and shaped in accordance with a size and shape of the tether 46 (FIG. 2) for reasons made clear below. In some embodiments, for example, a shape of the slot 98, as defined by the interior face 96, can be described has having opposing side edges 100a, 100b and a leading edge 102. The side edges 100a, 100b extend from the corresponding end 90a, 90b to the leading edge 102 and can be substantially flat or planar (i.e., within 10% of a truly planar arrangement). The leading edge 102 extends along an arc or curved path between the side edges 100a, 100b opposite the gap 92. The tubular body 64 is located within the slot 98, and is spaced from the interior face 96 (e.g., a distance between the side edges 100a, 100b is greater than an outer dimension or diameter of the tubular body 64, and the leading edge 102 is laterally spaced away from the tubular body 64).
[0038] The shoulder 82 can have various shapes and geometries that promote an aesthetic appeal. For example, a geometry or shape of the exterior face 94 can define an inwardly tapering curvature in upward extension from the annular side wall 80 to an upper side 104. A lip 106 can be formed or defined between the upper side 104 and the interior face 96. The lip 106 can taper slightly downwardly and radially inwardly in extension to the interior face 96. Other shapes or constructions are equally acceptable.
[0039] The platform 62 defines a floor of the slot 98, extending between the side edges 100a, 100b. An upper face 110 of the platform 62 can have various geometries and in some examples forms or defines a leading region 112, a ledge 114, and a trailing region 116. The leading region 112 extends from the leading edge 102 of the interior face 96 to the ledge 114 and can be substantially planar or flat (i.e., within 10% of a truly planar arrangement). The tubular body 64 extends from (or defines) an opening through a thickness of platform 62 along the leading region 112. The ledge 114 defines a generally downward geometry in extension from the leading region 112 to the trailing region 116 (relative to the upright orientation of FIG. 3A). The trailing region 116 extends from the ledge 114 to a trailing edge formed an intersection with the annular side wall 80 and can be substantially planar or flat (i.e., within 10% of a truly planar arrangement). With this one example configuration and with additional reference to FIG. 5, a depth of the slot 98 (referenced generally) along the trailing region 116 is greater than the depth along the leading region 112 (e.g., relative to the orientation of FIG. 5, a vertical distance between the trailing region 116 and an upper edge of the interior face 96 of the shoulder 82 is greater than the vertical distance between the leading region 112 and the upper edge of the interior face 96). As further clarified below, the depth of the slot 98 as defined by a geometry of the platform 62 corresponds, in some embodiments, to variations in geometries or thicknesses of the tether 50 (FIG. 2). In other embodiments, the platform 62 can have other attributes or geometries differing from those implicated by the views.
[0040] With cross-reference between FIGS. 3A-5, the tubular body 64 projects generally upwardly from the upper face 110 of the platform 62 along the leading region 112, terminating at a top end 130. The tubular body 64 defines a passageway 132 that extends between an upper opening 134 at the top end 130 and a lower opening 136. The lower opening 136 is open to the cavity 86 and is formed through a lower surface 138. In some examples, the lower surface 138 can be considered as defining a bottom end of the tubular body 64, with a length of the passageway or interior 132 of the tubular body 64 thus being defined as distance from the top end 130 to the bottom end or lower surface 138. As described in greater detail below, in some embodiments the tubular body 64 is configured to receive and maintain the drink spout 42 (FIG. 2) upon final assembly, with the length of the passageway 132 corresponding with one more features of the drink spout 42.
[0041] In some embodiments, the tubular body 64 forms or carries one or more features that facilitate releasable connection with the closure 44 (FIG. 2). For example, a threaded surface 140 can be formed or defined along an exterior of the tubular body 64 that is configured to threadably engage a corresponding feature provided with the closure 44. Alternatively, other constructions for releasable securing the closure 44 to the base 40 can be employed that may or may not include the threaded surface 140.
[0042] The post 66 projects generally upwardly from the upper face 110 of the platform 62 along the trailing region 116, terminating at a top surface 150. The post 66 further defines a rear surface 152, a front surface 154, and opposing, first and second side surfaces 156a, 156b. The rear surface 152 can be contiguous with, or formed as a continuation of, an exterior surface of the annular side wall 80. As best seen in FIG. 5, the front surface 154 extends generally downwardly from the top surface 150 and optionally defines a notch 158 proximate the upper face 110 of the platform 62. The notch 158 is sized and shaped in accordance with dimensional attributes of a component of the biasing device 50 (FIG. 2) as described in greater detail below. In other embodiments, the notch 158 can be omitted. The first side surface 156a generally faces, and is laterally spaced from, the first side edge 100a of the interior face 96; similarly, the second side surface 156b generally faces, and is laterally spaced from, the second side edge 100b. In some embodiments, a lateral distance between the first side surface 156a and the first side edge 100a is substantially identical (i.e., within 10% of a truly identical relationship) to a lateral distance between the second side surface 156b and the second side edge 100b. With this one example configuration, the post 66 is substantially centered (i.e., within 10% of a truly centered arrangement) between the opposing side edges 100a, 100b. Moreover, and as best seen in FIG. 4, a shape or geometry of the post 66 is aligned with the passage 132 of the tubular body 64 in some embodiments. For example, a shape of the post 66 can define a centerline CL bisecting a width of the post 66 between the side surfaces 156a, 156b. With this definition in mind, the post 66 is arranged such that the centerline CL intersects a center of the passage 132 in some embodiments. Other configurations or arrangements are also acceptable.
[0043] Regardless of an exact shape, the post 66 can define or include one or more features that promote assembly with the tether 46 (FIG. 2). For example, in some embodiments, the post 66 forms a bore 160 that extends between and is open relative to the opposing side surfaces 156a, 156b. With these and related embodiments, the bore 160 is sized and shaped to slidably receive a pin 162 (FIG. 2) that in turn is configured to be secured to the tether 46 as described in greater detail below. Other assembly techniques can alternatively be employed that may or may not include the pin 162, and thus the bore 160.
[0044] Where provided, the ears 68a, 68b can have a wide variety of configurations conducive for retaining the handle 48 (FIG. 2). In some examples, the ears 68a, 68b can be substantially identical (i.e., within 10% of a truly identical construction), each forming or defining an arm 170 and a head 172 (labeled for the first ear 68a in FIGS. 3B and 4). The arm 170 projects radially outwardly from the annular side wall 80. The head 172 extends from the arm 170 opposite the annular side wall 80, and defines a maximum outer dimension or diameter that is greater than a maximum outer dimension of the arm 170. With this construction, a segment of the handle 48 can be arranged over the arm 170 and captured relative to the base 40 between the head 172 and the annular side wall 80. In some embodiments, the ears 68a, 68b can incorporate one or more features that promote a more robust rotational connection with the handle 48. For example, a shape of the arm 170 can form one or more protrusions 174 (best seen in FIG. 3B) that mate with a corresponding feature provided with the handle 48. Other configurations for the ears 68a, 68b are also acceptable. Regardless, in some embodiments, the ears 68a, 68b are aligned with one another relative to a diameter of the annular side wall 80.
[0045] As best seen in FIGS. 3B and 5, the base 40 can optionally include one or more additional features that facilitate assembly to the liquid container neck 32 (FIG. 1). For example, with embodiments in which the annular side wall 80 forms the interior threads 88 that threadably engage a corresponding threaded surface provided on an exterior of the neck 32, the base 40 can further include or define an inner ring 180. The inner ring 180 is coaxially disposed within the annular side wall 80, projecting downwardly from the platform 62 (relative to the orientation of FIG. 5). An outer diameter of the inner ring 180 approximates or is slightly less than an inner diameter of the neck 32 such that the inner ring 180 will nest within the neck 32 as the base 40 is applied. Further, the annular side wall 80 and the inner ring 180 combine to define an annular groove 182 that is sized and shaped to receive and retain the gasket 52 (FIG. 2). In other embodiments, the inner ring 180 can be omitted.
[0046] For reasons made clear below, additional optional geometries and surface features can be incorporated into the base 40. For example, and with specific reference to FIG. 5, the bottom end 84 of the annular side wall 80 defines a lower plane P1 that will have a defined relationship relative to the liquid container 22 (FIG. 1) upon final assembly. With this in mind, the shoulder 82 defines an upper plane P2 that is non-parallel with the lower plane P1. With this configuration, the base 40 can be viewed as defining a front side 190 opposite a rear side 192, with the upper plane P2 approaching the lower plane P1 in a direction of the front side 200. In other words, a linear distance between the lower and upper planes P1, P2 increases from the front side 190 to the rear side 192. The top end 130 of the tubular body 64 can be substantially parallel with the upper plane P2 (i.e., within 10% of a truly parallel relationship), and a central axis A1 of the passageway 132 can be substantially perpendicular to the upper plane P2 (i.e., within 10% of a truly perpendicular relationship). Thus, the central axis A1 is not substantially perpendicular to the lower plane P1 and exhibits a tilt in a direction of the front side 190. For reasons made clear below, these optional arrangements can promote convenient use of the drink container 20 (FIG. 1) by a consumer.
[0047] The base 40 can be formed from a variety of materials, and in some examples is or includes a thermoplastic. While FIG. 5 generally implicates the base 40 as optionally having an overmolded construction (e.g., formed by a two-shot injection molding process), other configurations are also acceptable, including the base 40 being an integrally formed, homogenous body.
[0048] Returning to FIG. 2, the drink spout 42 can assume a variety forms conducive to delivering a stream of liquid into a user's mouth. One non-limiting example of the drink spout 42 is shown in greater detail in FIGS. 6 and 7. The drink spout 42 has a tubular shape defining a passage 200 that extends between, and is open relative to, opposing inlet and outlet ends 202, 204. A diameter of the passage 200 can optionally expand in a direction of the outlet end 204 (e.g., a diameter of the passage 200 at the outlet end 204 is greater than the diameter at the inlet end 202), although other configurations are also acceptable. Regardless of an exact shape or geometry, in some embodiments the passage 200 defines a central axis A2 that extends linearly between the inlet and outlet ends 202, 204.
[0049] A body or structure of the drink spout 42 can define a curved or arcuate tip 206 at the outlet end 204. With these and related embodiments, the curved tip 206 can be comfortably inserted into a user's mouth and into contact with the user's tongue. An exterior face 208 of the spout 42 can have or define various shapes or geometries in extension between the tip 206 and a flange 210. In some examples, a format of the exterior face 208 defines a spout region 212 and an annular channel 214. The spout region 212 is characterized by an increasing diameter in a direction from the tip 206 toward the flange 210, and can configured to promote comfortable interface with a user's mouth. The annular channel 214 is defined between the spout region 212 and the flange 210, and is generally sized and shaped in accordance with a size and shape of the tubular body 64 (FIG. 5). For example, the annular channel 214 can be viewed as having a height defined between opposing, first and second shoulders 216, 218; the so-defined height of the annular channel 214 corresponds with or approximates a length of the tubular body 64 in some embodiments for reasons made clear below. In other embodiments, the annular channel 214 can be omitted.
[0050] Regardless of an exact construction, in some embodiments the drink spout 42 is formed of a relatively resilient or soft material conducive to repeated, atraumatic contact with a user's mouth and tongue. For example, the drink spout 42 can be integrally formed (e.g., molded) as a silicone material body. Other, similar materials can also be employed. In some embodiments, the drink spout 42 is formed apart from the base 40 (FIG. 2) and can comprise a material differing from a material of the base 40 (e.g., as described above, the base 40 can be formed from a thermoplastic material whereas the drink spout 42 is silicone).
[0051] Returning to FIG. 2, the closure 44 can assume a variety of forms appropriate for selectively obstructing the passage 200 (referenced generally) of the drink spout 42. One non-limiting example of the closure 44 is shown in greater detail in FIGS. 8 and 9. The closure 44 includes a cap body 220 that forms or includes a cover panel 222 and a side wall 224. The side wall 224 extends from the cover panel 222 to an end face 226. The cover panel 222 and the side wall 224 combine to define a cavity 228 that is open at the end face 226 and is sized and shaped to receive or encompass portions of the drink spout 42 (FIG. 2) as made clear below. In some embodiments, and with specific reference to FIG. 9, the cavity 228 can have varying dimensions or geometries as defined by an interior surface 230 of the side wall 224. For example, the cavity 228 can be viewed as defining an entry region 232, an intermediate region 234 and a head region 236. A diameter of the cavity 228 along the entry region 232 is greater than the diameter along the intermediate region 234, and the diameter of the cavity 228 along the intermediate region 234 is greater than the diameter along the head region 236. With this non-limiting construction, the so-selected diameters can correspond with geometries of the drink spout 42 in a manner that facilitates ready placement and removal of the closure 44 relative to the drink spout 42 as described in greater detail below. The closure 44 can optionally include one or more additional features that promote obstruction of the drink spout 42. For example, in some embodiments the closure 44 further includes a plug 240 that projects from the cover panel 222 into the cavity 228, co-axial with the side wall 224. An outer dimension or diameter of the plug 240 is less than an inner diameter of the side wall 224, and combines with the side wall 224 to create an annular slot 242 that is sized and shaped to receive a corresponding feature of the drink spout 42 as made clear below. In some embodiments, the plug 240 can have the ring-like shape reflected by FIG. 9; in other examples, the plug 240 can be a solid body. In yet other embodiments, the plug 240 can be omitted.
[0052] The closure 44 can include one or more features configured to facilitate selective retention of the closure 44 over the drink spout 42 (FIG. 2). For example, threads 250 can be formed or provided along an interior surface of the side wall 224, at or proximate the end face 226. The interior threads 250 are configured to threadably engage the threaded surface 140 (FIG. 3A) provided with the base 40 (FIG. 3A). Alternatively, other connection formats or devices can be employed that may or may not include the threads 250.
[0053] The closure 44 can include or provide one or more features configured to facilitate coupling with the tether 46 (FIG. 2). For example, in some embodiments, a circumferential channel 260 can be formed or defined along an exterior face of the side wall 224. As described in greater detail below, the circumferential channel 260 can be sized (e.g., height and/or depth) and shaped to slidably capture a corresponding component or feature of the tether 46. Alternatively, other connection formats can be employed that may or may not include the circumferential channel 260.
[0054] Returning to FIG. 2, the tether 46 can assume a variety of forms appropriate for coupling the closure 44 relative to the base 40. In some embodiments, a size and shape of the tether 46 corresponds with the size and shape of the slot 98 (FIG. 3A) in the base 40. One non-limiting example of the tether 46 is shown in greater detail in FIGS. 10A and 10B, and includes or defines a first portion 270 (referenced generally) configured to retain the closure 44 (FIG. 2) and a second portion 272 (referenced generally) configured for connection to the base 40 (FIG. 2).
[0055] The first portion 270 can be formed or defined in various manners. In some embodiments, a structure of the tether 46 forms or defines a floor 280. An aperture 282 is defined in the floor 280, with a perimeter of the aperture 282 being circumscribed by a rim 284. The aperture 282 is open to opposing, top and bottom faces 286, 288 of the floor 280, and sized and shaped to receive the closure 44 (FIG. 2). Further, a size and shape of the rim 284 corresponds with a size and shape of the circumferential channel 260 (FIG. 9) of the closure 44. For example, and with additional reference to FIGS. 11 and 12, a diameter of the rim 284 approximates (e.g., is slightly greater than) a diameter of the circumferential channel 260. A thickness T of the rim 284 approximates (e.g., is slightly less than) a height of the circumferential channel 260. Alternatively, the first portion 270 can assume other forms for retaining the closure 44.
[0056] Similarly, the second portion 272 can be formed or defined in various manners. In some embodiments, a structure of the tether 46 forms or defines first and second legs 290a, 290b that project from the floor 280 opposite the aperture 282. The legs 290a, 290b combine to define a gap 292 that corresponds with a size and shape of the post 66 (FIG. 4) such that the post 66 can be received within the gap 292. A spacer body 294 can optionally be provided with each of the legs 290a, 290b that projects into the gap 292 for reasons made clear below. Regardless, an axial bore 296 is defined through each of the legs 290a, 290b and the corresponding spacer body 294 (the axial bore 296 associated with the first leg 290a is visible in FIG. 12). The bores 296 are axially aligned, and are sized and shaped to slidably receive the pin 162 (FIG. 2) that in turn is configured to be secured to the post 66 as described in greater detail below. Other assembly techniques can alternatively be employed that may or may not include the pin 162, and thus the bores 296.
[0057] The tether 46 can include or carry one or more additional features. For example, the tether 46 can include a finger 300. The finger 300 projects from the bottom face 288 of the floor 280 proximate the gap 292 as best seen in FIGS. 10A and 12. In some embodiments, the finger 300 can be centered relative to the legs 290a, 290b and/or the aperture 282. With additional reference to FIG. 13, for example, a shape of the tether 46 can be viewed as defining a centerline CL that spatially intersects a center of the aperture 282. The legs 290a, 290b are equidistantly spaced from the centerline CL. With these definitions in mind, the finger 300 can be configured and positioned such that the centerline CL bisects a shape of the finger 300. Other shapes and locations for the finger 300 can alternatively be employed in other embodiments. Regardless, and with specific reference to FIGS. 10A and 12, the finger 300 can form or define a first segment 302 and a second segment 304. The first segment 302 extends from the floor 280 in a direction generally perpendicular to a major plane defined by the top face 286. The second segment 304 extends from the first segment 302 opposite the floor 280 is a direction generally perpendicular to the first segment 302 (and thus generally parallel with the major plane of the top face 286). With this construction, the finger 300 combines with the floor 280 to generate or define a capture region 306. As described in greater detail below, with these and similar constructions, the finger 300 interfaces with other components of the cap assembly 24 (FIG. 2) during use, and in some embodiments can be viewed as a component of the biasing device 50 (FIG. 2). In other embodiments, the finger 300 can assume other forms and/or can be omitted.
[0058] In some embodiments, the tether 46 has a relatively rigid construction selected to maintain the illustrated shape as shown during use (e.g., the floor 280 and the legs 290a, 290b do not fold or bend when subjected to normal forces during use). In some embodiments, the tether 46 can be formed of a plastic material (e.g., polypropylene copolymer, etc.), although other materials are also acceptable.
[0059] Returning to FIG. 2, where provided, the handle 48 can assume a variety of forms appropriate for convenient grasping by a user. In some examples, the handle 48 is an elongated body defining an intermediate section 320 extending between opposing end sections 322, 324. The intermediate section 320 can be formed to assume or form the curved, U or C type shape shown. The end sections 322, 324 can include or provide features that facilitate mounting with other components of the cap assembly 24. For example, the end sections 322, 324 can each form or define an opening 326 sized and shaped for assembly over a respective one of the ears 68a, 68b (FIG. 3A) of the base 40. Each of the openings 326 can have a primarily circular shape, along with a notch region 328 for reasons made clear below. Alternatively, the cap assembly 24 can incorporate other configurations and/or devices for coupling the handle 48 to the base 40 that may or may not entail the openings 326.
[0060] In some embodiments, the handle 48 is formed of a relatively flexible and/or soft material that robustly maintains the U or C shape, promoting comfortable handling or grasping by a user. For example, the handle 48 can be formed of a rubber-like material, such as a thermoplastic elastomer, although other materials are also acceptable.
[0061] The biasing device 50 can assume various forms conducive to biasing the tether 46 away from the closed arrangement toward the opened arrangement, and in some embodiments can include a biasing body 340. The biasing body 340 is generally configured for assembly between features of the base 40 and the tether 46, and can be formed of a resilient material such as silicone, rubber, or the like. In some embodiments, the biasing body 340 is configured for mounting about the post 66, and thus can have the ring or continuous band shape as shown (e.g., an inner diameter of the biasing body 340 can approximate outer dimensions of the post 66). With these and related embodiments, the biasing body 340 is positioned to selectively interface with the finger 300 (FIG. 10B) of the tether 46 as described in greater detail below. In other embodiments, the biasing body 340 can be configured for mounting or assembly to other features or locations of the base 40 or the tether 46, and thus can be formed to shapes other than a ring. Moreover, the biasing body 340 can incorporate other biasing-type constructions, such as a spring.
[0062] Construction of the cap assembly 24 can include mounting the drink spout 42 to the base 40. With reference to FIGS. 14A and 14B, the drink spout 42 and the tubular body 64 of the base 40 have complementary configurations that facilitate assembly of the drink spout 42 to an interior of the tubular body 64. In particular, an outer diameter of the drink spout 42 along the annular channel 214 approximates a minimum diameter of the passageway 132 of the tubular body 64. A height of the annular channel 214 approximates a length of the tubular body 64 (i.e., linear distance between the top end 130 and the lower surface 138), with the first shoulder 216 having a diameter greater than a diameter of the upper opening 134 and the second shoulder 218 having a diameter greater than a diameter of the lower opening 136. With this construction, the drink spout 42 can be inserted into the passageway 132, with the tubular body 64 being received within the annular channel 214. Upon final assembly, the first shoulder 216 bears against the top end 130 and the second shoulder 218 bears against the lower surface 138, with the drink spout 42 being secured to the tubular body 64, and thus the base 40, in a press fit-type relationship. With this arrangement, the passage 200 of the drink spout 42 is fluidly open to the cavity 86 of the base 40.
[0063] Upon final assembly the spout region 212 of the drink spout 42 is exteriorly exposed relative to the base 40 and is available for interfacing with a user's mouth. A maximum diameter of the spout region 212 (e.g., the diameter of the first shoulder 216) is less than a diameter of the threaded surface 140 along the exterior of the tubular body 64; with this construction, the spout region 212 does not interfere with, or obstruct access to, the threaded surface 140.
[0064] Upon final assembly, geometries and other features embodied by the base 40 locate and arrange the drink spout 42, and in particular the spout region 212, in a manner that is implicitly convenient for use by a consumer. For example, the spout region 212 is located closer to the front side 190 of the base 40, and is thus more easily accessed by a user's mouth. Further, the central axis A2 of the drink spout 42 is aligned with the central axis A1 of the tubular body passageway 132. With this arrangement, the spout region 212 will mimic spatial features of the tubular body 64 relative to other surfaces of the base 40. For example, the central axis A2 will be substantially perpendicular to the upper plane P2 and non-perpendicular to the lower plane P1, such that the spout region 212 is angled or tilted toward the front side 190. This spatial orientation, in turn, is conducive to conveniently dispensing liquid from the outlet end 204 when the cap assembly 24 is secured to the liquid container 22 (FIG. 1). More particular, the spout region 212 is tilted in a direction of the front side 190 so as to arrange a major plane P3 of the tip 206 (that otherwise defines the outlet end 204) to be substantially parallel with the upper plane P2 and thus non-perpendicular to the lower plane P1. This, in turn, orients the major plane P3 of the tip 206 to non-parallel relative to a center axis of the liquid container 22, tilted in a direction of the front side 190. With this construction, a user handling the liquid container 22 need only manipulate the liquid container 22 slightly (e.g., tilting the liquid container 22 in a direction of the front side 190) to achieve liquid flow to the outlet end 204.
[0065] With reference to FIGS. 15A and 15B, in some embodiments the closure 44 is directly connected or coupled to the tether 46. For example, the closure 44 is inserted within the aperture 282 of the tether 46, with the rim 284 being slidably received within the circumferential channel 260. An interface between the rim 284 and the circumferential channel 260 is such that the closure 44 can rotate relative to the tether 46. Stated otherwise, surfaces of the closure defining the circumferential channel 260 freely slide over or along the rim 284 with rotation of the closure 44 relative to the tether 46. With this construction, the closure 44 can be rotated by a user during use while remaining captured to the tether 46.
[0066] With reference to FIGS. 2 and 16A-16C, in some embodiments the tether 46 is pivotably connected or coupled to the base 40. For example, the tether 46 is arranged such that the post 66 of the base 40 is received within the gap 292 of the tether 46. In other words, the legs 290a, 290b of the tether 46 are located at opposite sides of the post 66, respectively. The axial bore 296 of each of the legs 290a, 290b (one of which is visible in FIG. 16A) are aligned with the bore 160 of the post 66, and the pin 162 is inserted into the bores 160, 296 and is secured to one of the tether 46 or the post 66. In one non-limiting example, at least a majority of the pin 162 defines an outer diameter that is slightly less than a diameter of each of the bores 160, 296, allowing the pin 162 to be readily inserted into the bores 160, 296. In addition, one end of the pin 162 has an outer diameter that is greater than the diameter of the bore 296 of at least one of the legs 290a, 290b. With this configuration, the pin 162 is attached to the tether 46 upon final assembly, for example via a press fit-type connection between the enlarged end of the pin 162 and one of the legs 290a, 290b. Other connection formats or constructions are also acceptable. Regardless, upon final assembly, the tether 46 can pivot or rotate relative to the post 66 about an axis of rotation defined by the pin 162 while remaining connected to the base 40 (e.g., can pivot or rotate between the closed arrangement of FIG. 16B and an opened arrangement of FIG. 16C).
[0067] With reference to FIG. 17A, in some embodiments the biasing device 50 is established between the base 40 and the tether 46. For example, with embodiments in which the biasing body 340 is a resilient material ring or continuous band, the biasing body 340 can be connected to the post 66 of the base 40 and the finger 300 of the tether 46. In particular, and with additional reference to FIG. 17B (that otherwise illustrates an intermediate stage of assembly of the tether 46 to the base 40 and a simplified representation of the biasing body 340), the biasing body 340 is looped about the post 66, with a segment of the biasing body 340 located in and extending along the notch 158. With this segment now engaged by the post 66, a remainder of the biasing body 340 can be directed away from the post 66 (rearwardly relative to the orientations of FIGS. 17A and 17B) to the tether 46, with another segment of the biasing body 340 being located within the capture region 306 of the finger 300, thus connecting the biasing body 340 to the tether 46. As generally reflected by FIG. 17B, extension of the biasing body 340 to/from the post 66 and the tether 46 is such that the biasing body 340 passes along an exterior of the spacer bodies 294 (one of which is visible in FIG. 17B). The tether 46 can then be finally assembled to the base 40 as described above, with the legs 290a, 290b of the tether 46 being located at opposite sides of the post 66, and the pin 162 being inserted through the aligned bores 160, 296 (unnumbered in FIGS. 17A and 17B for ease of understanding, but shown, for example, in FIGS. 5 and 12, respectively).
[0068] FIG. 18A illustrates, in simplified form, extension of the biasing body 340 between the post 66 and the finger 300 upon final assembly, with the tether 46 in an opened arrangement. Dimensions of the biasing body 340 (as a continuous band or ring) are such that when looped about and extending between the post 66 and the finger 300, the biasing body 340 remains engaged within the notch 158 and the capture region 306. Further, the biasing body 340 is in contact with an underside of the spacer body 294 of the tether 46 that is otherwise visible in FIG. 18A (it being understood that a similar relationship is established with respect to the other spacer body 294 that is located on an opposite side of the post 66). With this arrangement, the biasing body 340 does not overtly impede pivoting movement or rotation of the tether 46 (about the axis of rotation defined by the pin 162) from the opened arrangement of FIG. 18A to the closed arrangement of FIG. 18B, with the resilient construction of the biasing body 340 allowing the biasing body 340 to stretch under tension when transitioned to the closed arranged. In the closed arrangement of FIG. 18B, then, the biasing body 340 is under tension, with this tension force being applied at opposite sides of the axis of rotation/pin 162 (i.e., points of contact of the biasing body 340 with the finger 300 at one side of the axis of rotation/pin 162 and with the spacer bodies 294 at an opposite side of the axis of rotation/pin 162) to establish or apply a pulling force onto the tether 46. In other words, in the closed arrangement, the biasing body 340 applies a force onto tether 46 at the interface with the finger 300, with this applied force causing the tether 46 to rotate or pivot about the axis of rotation/pin 162 in a direction away from the closed arrangement (e.g., counterclockwise relative to the orientation of FIG. 18B).
[0069] As a point of reference, and as generally reflected by FIG. 18C, other apart from the biasing attributes described above, the cap assembly 24 is configured such that the biasing device 50 (referenced generally) does not overtly impede free rotational movement of the tether 46 relative to the base 40. For example, and as reflected by FIG. 18C, the legs 290a, 290b of the tether 46 are laterally spaced away from the post 66. This lateral spacing is greater than an outer dimension or diameter of a structure of the biasing body 340. With this construction, the legs 290a, 290b can rotate relative to the post 66 as described above without contacting the biasing body 340.
[0070] Returning to FIG. 2, the handle 48 can be mounted to the base 40 by inserting each of the ears 68a, 68b (one of which is visible in FIG. 2) into the opening 326 of a corresponding one of the handle end sections 322, 324. Upon final assembly, each of the end sections 322, 324 are captured between the annular side wall 80 and the head 172 of the corresponding ear 68a, 68b. In the captured arrangement, the handle 48 can be rotated relative to the base 40, for example as desired by a user. In particular, and as reflected by FIG. 19 that otherwise illustrates, in simplified form, the first handle section 322 coupled to the first ear 68a, a size of the opening 326 is substantively less than an outer dimension or diameter of the head 172 such that the first handle section 322 is not easily displaced or removed from the head 172. Further, except along the notch region 328, the size of the opening 326 is slightly less than the maximum outer dimension of the arm 170. Stated otherwise, a liner distance between opposing edges of two of the protrusions 174 is slightly greater than a diameter of the opening 326 except along the notch region 328. The notch region 328 represents an increased geometry of the opening 326 and is sized to be received over a corresponding one of the protrusions 174. With this construction, the handle section 322 can be rotated relative to the arm 170 (clockwise or counterclockwise relative to the orientation of FIG. 19), with the flexible or resilient properties of the handle 48 allowing the opening 326 to slightly expand and slide over the protrusions 174. When rotation of the handle section 322 brings the notch region 328 into alignment with one of the protrusions 174, the so-aligned protrusion 174 becomes engaged within the notch region 328, creating a resistance to further rotation. While a user-applied force can overcome this resistance (e.g., a user can readily rotate or swing the handle 48 relative to the base 40 (FIG. 2) as desired), interface between the notch region 328 and a selected one of the protrusions 174 serves to temporarily maintain the handle section 322, and thus the handle 48, at a rotational orientation relative to the base 40 as selected by the user.
[0071] Returning to FIG. 1, the liquid containers 22 of the present disclosure can have any suitable shape and can be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials to hold up to a predetermined volume of a drink liquid. Illustrative, non-exclusive examples suitable sizes, or capacities, of the liquid container 22 (i.e., volume of potable drink liquid able to be received into a liquid container at one time) include 4 ounces (oz.), 6 oz., 8 oz., 10 oz., 12 oz., 16 oz., 20, oz., 24 oz., 32 oz., 36 oz., etc. It is within the scope of the present disclosure that liquid containers having different sizes, including sizes that are smaller than, larger than, or within the illustrative sizes resented above, may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
[0072] The liquid containers 22 of the present disclosure may be (but are not required to be) rigid or at least semi-rigid and may include a bottom surface such that the liquid container may be generally self-supporting, or free-standing, when placed on a horizontal surface. The liquid containers 22 of the present disclosure also optionally may have a double-wall or other insulated construction. In some embodiments, the liquid container 22 according to the present disclosure may be constructed of polyethylene or other material that permits the liquid container to have a semi-rigid construction in which the liquid container may be reversibly collapsed during use. Such an example may permit opposing portions of the liquid container to be squeezed and/or otherwise urged toward, or even into contact with, each other to reduce the volume of the liquid container and thereby aid in the dispensing of potable drink liquid therefrom. In such an embodiment, the liquid container 22 may be configured to return automatically to its prior configuration upon reduction of the force and/or pressure that was applied to urge the sides of the liquid container toward each other.
[0073] Regardless of an exact format of the liquid container 22, during use the cap assembly 24 is coupled to the neck 32 to complete the drink container 20. For example, and as mentioned above, the liquid container 22 and the cap assembly 24 can be configured to permit selective and non-destructive removal and replacement (i.e., repeated uncoupling and recoupling) of the cap assembly 24 relative to the liquid container 22. For example, the cap assembly 24 can be uncoupled from the liquid container 22 to permit the liquid container 22 to receive a volume of potable drink liquid, after which the cap assembly 24 can be recoupled to the liquid container 22. In some non-limiting examples, the cap assembly 24 and the liquid container 22 have complementary threaded surfaces that permit the cap assembly 24 to be coupled to the neck 32. Other coupling configurations are also acceptable and include, but are not limited to, snap-fit arrangements, friction-fit arrangements, clasp arrangements, etc.
[0074] Use of the cap assembly 24 can be described with reference to FIGS. 20 and 21 that otherwise illustrate an opened arrangement (FIG. 20) and the closed arrangement (FIG. 21). For ease of illustration, the biasing body 340 (FIG. 2) is omitted from the views of FIGS. 20 and 21. With the cap assembly 24 coupled to the liquid container 22 (FIG. 1), a user can consume liquid stored in the liquid container 22 by manipulating the tether 46 to the opened arrangement of FIG. 20 (e.g., pivoting the tether 46 relative to the base 40) in which the closure 44 is displaced from the spout region 212 of the drink spout 42. With the spout region 212 exposed/not covered, liquid can be readily dispensed. At times when it desired to prevent contained liquid from being dispensed or released from the drink spout 42, the tether 46 is manipulated (e.g., pivoting of the tether relative to the base) from the opened arrangement of FIG. 20 to the closed arrangement reflected by FIG. 21. As the tether 46 is pivoted or rotated toward the closed arrangement, the closure 44 is caused to travel along a predetermined closure path that guides the cavity 228 of the closure 44 over the spout region 212 of the drink spout 42. In this regard, a rigidity of the tether 46 dictates the predetermined closure path. Further, a shape and size of the tether 46 corresponds with a shape and size of the slot 98 of the base 40 in a manner that permits the tether 46 to nest within the slot 98. As a result, structures of the base 40 do not prevent or impede pivoting movement of the tether 46 to the closed arrangement. In the closed arrangement, the interior threads 250 of the closure 44 are aligned with the threaded surface 140 provided with the base 40. The closure 44 is then rotated to threadably secure the closure 44 over the drink spout 42; once secured, the closure 44 obstructs the outlet end 204 of the drink spout passage 200. For example, and as shown in FIG. 22, the plug 240 projects into the passage 200, and the tip 206 is located within the annular slot 242. This arrangement, along with the cover panel 222 in contact with or in highly close proximity to the tip 206, serves to close or obstruct the outlet end 204. Returning to FIGS. 20 and 21, the cap assembly 24 can be returned to an opened arrangement by first rotating the closure 44 in an opposite direction to release the closure 44 from the threaded surface 140 of the base 40. Once the closure 44 is released from the threaded surface 140, preloaded forces generated by the biasing device 50 (FIG. 2) cause the tether 46 to pivot or move toward the opened arrangement as described above.
[0075] Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes can be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.
