US20040211823A1 - Disposable cup with fold-down lid - Google Patents

Disposable cup with fold-down lid Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20040211823A1
US20040211823A1 US10/851,236 US85123604A US2004211823A1 US 20040211823 A1 US20040211823 A1 US 20040211823A1 US 85123604 A US85123604 A US 85123604A US 2004211823 A1 US2004211823 A1 US 2004211823A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
cup
lid portion
lid
body portion
score line
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US10/851,236
Inventor
George Sarson
Daryl Howes-Jones
Gregory Kleynhans
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Priority to US10/851,236 priority Critical patent/US20040211823A1/en
Publication of US20040211823A1 publication Critical patent/US20040211823A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D3/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines
    • B65D3/10—Rigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines characterised by form of integral or permanently secured end closure
    • B65D3/20—Rigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines characterised by form of integral or permanently secured end closure with end portion of body adapted to be closed, by flattening or folding operations, e.g. formed with crease lines or flaps
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D3/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines
    • B65D3/28—Other details of walls
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D3/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers having bodies or peripheral walls of curved or partially-curved cross-section made by winding or bending paper without folding along defined lines
    • B65D3/28—Other details of walls
    • B65D3/30—Local reinforcements, e.g. metallic rims
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10S229/00—Envelopes, wrappers, and paperboard boxes
    • Y10S229/902—Box for prepared or processed food

Definitions

  • This invention relates to disposable cups, and in particular to improvements to disposable cups of the type having a lid portion extending upwardly from one side of a body portion of the cup, configured to flip into a closed position within the body of the cup.
  • Such cups are described generally in the inventors' U.S. Pat. No. 6,176,420, granted on Jan. 23, 2001, and corresponding Canadian patent no. 2,311,058, granted on Jan. 8, 2002.
  • the lid portion of the cup flips down into the body of the cup, along a first score line, going from convex to concave, as described in detail in the inventors' prior patents.
  • elements variously referred to as flaps or wings extend preferably from the lid portion near its lateral intersections with the cup body outwardly from the cup, or alternatively from the cup body in the same area, but inwardly.
  • the flaps overlie what might otherwise be a small gap between the lid and the cup body in that area. This reduces any possibility for liquid to escape via that small gap, for example when the cup is accidentally squeezed or jostled excessively.
  • the flaps In the case of the flaps extending outwardly from the lid, the flaps also tend to act as stops against excessive downward rotation of the lid, and provide an easy way to lift the lid to open the cup, if desired.
  • the cup preferably but not necessarily has two secondary fold lines extending from the first score line to the outer edge of the lid portion, near opposite sides of the lid portion, as in the inventors' prior patents.
  • These secondary score lines encourage a slightly more vertical orientation of the lid portion outside the secondary score lines, which assists in holding the lid down once closed, though the lid portion is shaped such that it snaps over into the closed position and tends to remain closed even without the secondary score lines.
  • FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of a preferred variation of the cup, with the lid open;
  • FIG. 2 is a rear perspective corresponding to FIG. 1, showing the flaps extended
  • FIG. 3 is a view corresponding to FIG. 2, showing folding down of the flaps
  • FIG. 4 is a side elevation view corresponding to FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 5 is a partial cross-section elevation view corresponding to FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 6 is a cross-section elevation view showing a flap folded over
  • FIG. 7 is a side perspective view of a variation on the cup of FIG. 1, with no secondary score lines;
  • FIG. 8 is a rear perspective corresponding to FIG. 7, showing the flaps extended
  • FIG. 9 is a view corresponding to FIG. 8, showing folding down of the flaps
  • FIG. 10 is a side elevation view corresponding to FIG. 7;
  • FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of a variation similar to that of FIG. 1, showing larger flaps, and reduced height of the body of the cup where the lip is formed;
  • FIG. 12 is a rear perspective view corresponding to FIG. 11;
  • FIG. 13 is a rear perspective view similar to FIG. 12, showing the lid folded down;
  • FIG. 14 is a side elevation view of the FIG. 11 embodiment, with the lid portion up;
  • FIG. 15 is a side elevation view corresponding to FIG. 14, but with the lid portion closed;
  • FIG. 16 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 1, but showing flaps with a locking tab extension
  • FIG. 17 is a top view of the FIG. 16 cup
  • FIG. 18 is a side elevation view of the FIG. 16 cup
  • FIG. 19 is a rear perspective view of a cup with the lid portion being a separate piece glued to the body of the cup;
  • FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective corresponding to FIG. 19;
  • FIG. 21 is a side cross-section of the FIG. 19 cup
  • FIG. 22 is a perspective view showing a glued-on lid reinforcement
  • FIG. 23 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 19, but only the upper part of the lid portion is a separate piece, instead of the whole lid portion;
  • FIG. 24 is an exploded perspective corresponding to FIG. 23;
  • FIG. 25 is a side perspective view of a cup where the flaps extend inwardly from the body of the cup, instead of outwardly from the lid portion;
  • FIG. 26 is a front perspective corresponding to FIG. 25;
  • FIG. 27 is a rear perspective of the FIG. 25 cup, showing the lid portion folded down;
  • FIG. 28 is a rear perspective corresponding to FIG. 27, showing the flaps folded down;
  • FIG. 29 is a top view of the FIG. 25 cup with the lid closed and flaps folded.
  • FIG. 30 is a cross-section of the FIG. 25 cup with the lid closed and flaps folded;
  • the cup 1 has a body portion 2 , a lid portion 4 , and a separately-formed bottom 10 (conventional, and therefore not specifically shown).
  • the lid is foldable along a first score line 7 , to close the lid.
  • optional but preferable secondary score lines 8 assist in holding the lid down once closed, by encouraging a slightly more vertical orientation of the lid portion outside the secondary score lines, as can be seen clearly in FIGS. 2 and 3, for example.
  • the lid portion is shaped such that it snaps over into the closed position (concave instead of convex) and tends to remain closed even without the secondary score lines.
  • FIGS. 7-10 illustrate a version which does not have the secondary score lines.
  • the curled paper which forms the lip 3 of the cup preferably has been removed for a short distance and is of similar length to the secondary score line 8 at the point where the secondary score line on the lid of the cup meets the upper edge of the cup body. This location can also be described as being formed by that small area along the top edge of the lid where the primary score line 7 meets the top edge of the body of the cup. Removal of the curled paper at this point allows for an extension of the paper flap formed by the secondary score line past the upper edge of the lip of the cup, i.e. the flaps 30 referred to above. Where the flap meets the top edge of the body of the cup and extends beyond the cup body edge, an additional score line 32 can be provided, running along the edge of the flap parallel to the top edge of the lid. This allows the flaps to be folded downwardly.
  • the flaps serve several functions. Firstly, the fold formed by the secondary flap over the edge of the lid of the cup acts to hold the entire lid of the cup within the cup body. If pressure is applied to the lid in the act of closing the lid, the folded flap catches the edge of the cup body and acts to prevent the lid from moving further into the cup body beyond a certain point.
  • the fold can be placed so that the cup lid goes to the desired position every time it is closed. When the lid is in the desired position inside the body of the cup, the fold prevent the lid from moving further down into the cup if the cup is squeezed with pressure side to side, for example if some users apply too much pressure to the lid of the cup upon insertion of the lid and so distort the lid within the body of the cup.
  • the presence of the folded flap helps to prevent splashing of liquid inside the body of the cup when the cup is vigorously shaken side to side. Otherwise, there can be a small gap where the flap meets the edge of the cup body. If the cup is shaken in a particular direction, there is a tendency for drops of liquid to escape at the gap. The flaps tend to prevent such liquid from escaping.
  • the flaps can be grasped by fingers and by applying pressure in an upward motion, the lid of the cup can be pulled up to the open position. This facilitates adding more liquid, or cream and sugar, for example, and provides the design with reuse potential.
  • the flap can be of any size, the size only being limited by the amount of paper available in the template and how those templates are cut. As such the flap can extend out from the body of the cup and be used for grasping, aesthetic appeal, and play interest. For a children's cup, for example, the flaps can be used as ears, eyes, antenna, etc. or for grasping to hold the cup or to remove the lid. As such the play value of the cup is considered to have additional merit.
  • the flaps are folded from the inside over the top of the lid of the cup to the outside of the cup.
  • the flaps 30 ′ could be formed from the body of the cup and have the flap folded over where the lid of the cup meets the top of the body of the cup at the secondary score line.
  • FIGS. 11-15 show a version in which the height of the cup is reduced, i.e. the lip 3 is lower than in the embodiments of FIGS. 1-10. This can be best appreciated by comparing FIG. 4 with FIG. 14. Since one would not normally fill the cup higher than about the height of the score line 7 in any event, the capacity of the FIGS. 11-15 cup is essentially the same as the cups of FIGS. 1-10, but with potentially less paper being used, depending on the cutting patterns employed in the manufacturing process.
  • FIGS. 16-18 show a variation in which the flaps 30 each include an extension 31 , the extensions acting as locking tabs by fitting under the edge of the lip 3 .
  • lid portion 4 is a separate piece from the body 2 , as shown in FIGS. 19-21, having an overlap area 35 for gluing or otherwise bonding to the cup body, or where a part 36 of the lid portion is a separate piece, as shown in FIGS. 23-24.
  • separate pieces 40 may also be used to create a double layer of paper for reinforcement purposes, especially for example for the distal portion of the lid portion, especially for hot beverages.
  • FIG. 22 shows the reinforcement piece on the inside of the lid portion, but it could be on the outside of the lid portion if desired.
  • Such reinforcement pieces may be applied to any of the embodiments referred to above, and to any of the embodiments referred to in the prior patent no. U.S. Pat. No. 6,176,420.
  • Variations include:

Abstract

The cup has a lid portion extending up from one side of the cup, configured to flip down into the body of the cup, along a first score line, going from convex to concave, so as to close the otherwise open top of the cup. Flaps extend preferably from the lid portion near its lateral intersections with the cup body outwardly from the cup, or alternatively from the cup body in the same area, but inwardly. In either case, the flaps overlie what might otherwise be a small gap between the lid and the cup body in that area. This reduces any possibility for liquid to escape via that small gap. In the case of the flaps extending outwardly from the lid, the flaps also tend to act as stops against excessive downward rotation of the lid, and provide an easy way to lift the lid to open the cup, if desired. The cup preferably but not necessarily has two secondary fold lines extending from the first score line to the outer edge of the lid portion, near opposite sides of the lid portion, which assists in holding the lid down once closed.

Description

    REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
  • This is a continuation of application Ser. No. 10/303,010, filed Nov. 25, 2002, which was a formal application based on and claiming the benefit of provisional application Ser. No. 60/396,123, filed Jul. 17, 2002.[0001]
    • BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  • This invention relates to disposable cups, and in particular to improvements to disposable cups of the type having a lid portion extending upwardly from one side of a body portion of the cup, configured to flip into a closed position within the body of the cup. Such cups are described generally in the inventors' U.S. Pat. No. 6,176,420, granted on Jan. 23, 2001, and corresponding Canadian patent no. 2,311,058, granted on Jan. 8, 2002. [0002]
    • SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
  • Various features of the cups described in the inventors' prior patents, referred to above, have been modified in order to improve the cups generally, and/or to adapt the cups to certain specific uses. [0003]
  • The lid portion of the cup flips down into the body of the cup, along a first score line, going from convex to concave, as described in detail in the inventors' prior patents. In the present invention, elements variously referred to as flaps or wings extend preferably from the lid portion near its lateral intersections with the cup body outwardly from the cup, or alternatively from the cup body in the same area, but inwardly. In either case, the flaps overlie what might otherwise be a small gap between the lid and the cup body in that area. This reduces any possibility for liquid to escape via that small gap, for example when the cup is accidentally squeezed or jostled excessively. In the case of the flaps extending outwardly from the lid, the flaps also tend to act as stops against excessive downward rotation of the lid, and provide an easy way to lift the lid to open the cup, if desired. [0004]
  • The cup preferably but not necessarily has two secondary fold lines extending from the first score line to the outer edge of the lid portion, near opposite sides of the lid portion, as in the inventors' prior patents. These secondary score lines encourage a slightly more vertical orientation of the lid portion outside the secondary score lines, which assists in holding the lid down once closed, though the lid portion is shaped such that it snaps over into the closed position and tends to remain closed even without the secondary score lines.[0005]
    • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • In order that the invention may be more clearly understood, the preferred embodiment thereof will now be described in detail by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [0006]
  • FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of a preferred variation of the cup, with the lid open; [0007]
  • FIG. 2 is a rear perspective corresponding to FIG. 1, showing the flaps extended; [0008]
  • FIG. 3 is a view corresponding to FIG. 2, showing folding down of the flaps; [0009]
  • FIG. 4 is a side elevation view corresponding to FIG. 1; [0010]
  • FIG. 5 is a partial cross-section elevation view corresponding to FIG. 1; [0011]
  • FIG. 6 is a cross-section elevation view showing a flap folded over; [0012]
  • FIG. 7 is a side perspective view of a variation on the cup of FIG. 1, with no secondary score lines; [0013]
  • FIG. 8 is a rear perspective corresponding to FIG. 7, showing the flaps extended; [0014]
  • FIG. 9 is a view corresponding to FIG. 8, showing folding down of the flaps; [0015]
  • FIG. 10 is a side elevation view corresponding to FIG. 7; [0016]
  • FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of a variation similar to that of FIG. 1, showing larger flaps, and reduced height of the body of the cup where the lip is formed; [0017]
  • FIG. 12 is a rear perspective view corresponding to FIG. 11; [0018]
  • FIG. 13 is a rear perspective view similar to FIG. 12, showing the lid folded down; [0019]
  • FIG. 14 is a side elevation view of the FIG. 11 embodiment, with the lid portion up; [0020]
  • FIG. 15 is a side elevation view corresponding to FIG. 14, but with the lid portion closed; [0021]
  • FIG. 16 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 1, but showing flaps with a locking tab extension; [0022]
  • FIG. 17 is a top view of the FIG. 16 cup; [0023]
  • FIG. 18 is a side elevation view of the FIG. 16 cup; [0024]
  • FIG. 19 is a rear perspective view of a cup with the lid portion being a separate piece glued to the body of the cup; [0025]
  • FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective corresponding to FIG. 19; [0026]
  • FIG. 21 is a side cross-section of the FIG. 19 cup; [0027]
  • FIG. 22 is a perspective view showing a glued-on lid reinforcement; [0028]
  • FIG. 23 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 19, but only the upper part of the lid portion is a separate piece, instead of the whole lid portion; [0029]
  • FIG. 24 is an exploded perspective corresponding to FIG. 23; [0030]
  • FIG. 25 is a side perspective view of a cup where the flaps extend inwardly from the body of the cup, instead of outwardly from the lid portion; [0031]
  • FIG. 26 is a front perspective corresponding to FIG. 25; [0032]
  • FIG. 27 is a rear perspective of the FIG. 25 cup, showing the lid portion folded down; [0033]
  • FIG. 28 is a rear perspective corresponding to FIG. 27, showing the flaps folded down; [0034]
  • FIG. 29 is a top view of the FIG. 25 cup with the lid closed and flaps folded; and [0035]
  • FIG. 30 is a cross-section of the FIG. 25 cup with the lid closed and flaps folded; [0036]
    • DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
  • The [0037] cup 1 has a body portion 2, a lid portion 4, and a separately-formed bottom 10 (conventional, and therefore not specifically shown). The lid is foldable along a first score line 7, to close the lid. In the preferred embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-6, optional but preferable secondary score lines 8 assist in holding the lid down once closed, by encouraging a slightly more vertical orientation of the lid portion outside the secondary score lines, as can be seen clearly in FIGS. 2 and 3, for example. However, the lid portion is shaped such that it snaps over into the closed position (concave instead of convex) and tends to remain closed even without the secondary score lines. FIGS. 7-10 illustrate a version which does not have the secondary score lines.
  • In the “winged” embodiments, the curled paper which forms the [0038] lip 3 of the cup preferably has been removed for a short distance and is of similar length to the secondary score line 8 at the point where the secondary score line on the lid of the cup meets the upper edge of the cup body. This location can also be described as being formed by that small area along the top edge of the lid where the primary score line 7 meets the top edge of the body of the cup. Removal of the curled paper at this point allows for an extension of the paper flap formed by the secondary score line past the upper edge of the lip of the cup, i.e. the flaps 30 referred to above. Where the flap meets the top edge of the body of the cup and extends beyond the cup body edge, an additional score line 32 can be provided, running along the edge of the flap parallel to the top edge of the lid. This allows the flaps to be folded downwardly.
  • The flaps serve several functions. Firstly, the fold formed by the secondary flap over the edge of the lid of the cup acts to hold the entire lid of the cup within the cup body. If pressure is applied to the lid in the act of closing the lid, the folded flap catches the edge of the cup body and acts to prevent the lid from moving further into the cup body beyond a certain point. The fold can be placed so that the cup lid goes to the desired position every time it is closed. When the lid is in the desired position inside the body of the cup, the fold prevent the lid from moving further down into the cup if the cup is squeezed with pressure side to side, for example if some users apply too much pressure to the lid of the cup upon insertion of the lid and so distort the lid within the body of the cup. Having the score line and fold at the top edge of the cup will act as a visual aid to prevent the lid from being pushed too far as the fold will catch the edge of the cup at precisely the position where the lid is designed to be within the body of the cup. This keeps the cup more rigid and stable in the hand of the user and helps to prevent spillage. The improved feel of a more rigid cup is also a positive attribute. [0039]
  • Secondly, the presence of the folded flap helps to prevent splashing of liquid inside the body of the cup when the cup is vigorously shaken side to side. Otherwise, there can be a small gap where the flap meets the edge of the cup body. If the cup is shaken in a particular direction, there is a tendency for drops of liquid to escape at the gap. The flaps tend to prevent such liquid from escaping. [0040]
  • Thirdly, the flaps can be grasped by fingers and by applying pressure in an upward motion, the lid of the cup can be pulled up to the open position. This facilitates adding more liquid, or cream and sugar, for example, and provides the design with reuse potential. [0041]
  • The flap can be of any size, the size only being limited by the amount of paper available in the template and how those templates are cut. As such the flap can extend out from the body of the cup and be used for grasping, aesthetic appeal, and play interest. For a children's cup, for example, the flaps can be used as ears, eyes, antenna, etc. or for grasping to hold the cup or to remove the lid. As such the play value of the cup is considered to have additional merit. [0042]
  • Preferably, the flaps are folded from the inside over the top of the lid of the cup to the outside of the cup. However, as shown in FIGS. 25-30, the [0043] flaps 30′ could be formed from the body of the cup and have the flap folded over where the lid of the cup meets the top of the body of the cup at the secondary score line.
  • FIGS. 11-15 show a version in which the height of the cup is reduced, i.e. the [0044] lip 3 is lower than in the embodiments of FIGS. 1-10. This can be best appreciated by comparing FIG. 4 with FIG. 14. Since one would not normally fill the cup higher than about the height of the score line 7 in any event, the capacity of the FIGS. 11-15 cup is essentially the same as the cups of FIGS. 1-10, but with potentially less paper being used, depending on the cutting patterns employed in the manufacturing process.
  • FIGS. 16-18 show a variation in which the [0045] flaps 30 each include an extension 31, the extensions acting as locking tabs by fitting under the edge of the lip 3.
  • Other variations of the invention include a construction where the [0046] lid portion 4 is a separate piece from the body 2, as shown in FIGS. 19-21, having an overlap area 35 for gluing or otherwise bonding to the cup body, or where a part 36 of the lid portion is a separate piece, as shown in FIGS. 23-24.
  • As shown in FIG. 22, [0047] separate pieces 40 may also be used to create a double layer of paper for reinforcement purposes, especially for example for the distal portion of the lid portion, especially for hot beverages. FIG. 22 shows the reinforcement piece on the inside of the lid portion, but it could be on the outside of the lid portion if desired. Such reinforcement pieces may be applied to any of the embodiments referred to above, and to any of the embodiments referred to in the prior patent no. U.S. Pat. No. 6,176,420.
  • Variations include: [0048]
  • a. A semicircle of paper glued to the inside and outside of the lip of the cup near the edge of the mouth piece. In this instance there is two thicknesses of paper at the leading edge of the lid near the mouthpiece. [0049]
  • b. A separate piece of paper with the glued at edge of approximately 1 cm. In this instance two thickness of paper occur only at the glued edge and the leading edge of the cup at the mouthpiece is a single piece. [0050]
  • c. The entire lid of the cup is glued on as a separate piece on the side of the body of the cup. [0051]
  • The functions of these variations are two-fold. Firstly, they will reduce paper usage during the manufacturing process, and secondly, will act to increase the rigidity of the cup when the lid is positioned within the body of the cup, i.e. in the closed position, especially for when the cup is squeezed. [0052]

Claims (12)

1. A disposable cup having a body portion and a lid portion, said lid portion extending upwardly from one side of said body portion of the cup when in an open position, and arranged to flip from convex to concave along an arcuate first score line into a position within the body of the cup and across the otherwise open top of the cup when in a closed position, said lid portion having flaps extending laterally outwardly from opposite sides thereof so as to overlie lateral edges of said body portion adjacent opposing areas where said lid portion meets said body portion.
2. A disposable cup as in claim 1, wherein said flaps have a score line generally aligned with upper edges of said body portion when said lid portion is in said closed position, to facilitate folding said flaps downwardly along the body portion of the cup.
3. A disposable cup as in claim 1, wherein said lid portion has two secondary score lines extending from the first score line to the outer edge of the lid portion, in a generally vertical direction when said lid portion is in the open position, near opposite sides of said lid portion.
4. A disposable cup as in claim 1, wherein said lid portion has reinforcement pieces bonded thereto to provide a double layer and therefore added strength to at least portions thereof.
5. A disposable cup as in claim 1, wherein said body portion has an upper edge angling downwardly from opposite ends of said first score line away from said lid portion, to a horizontal lip portion thereby providing said cup with a reduced height compared to a corresponding cup without said downward angling.
6. A disposable cup having a body portion and a lid portion, said lid portion being integral with or secured to said body portion to extend upwardly from one side of said body portion of the cup when in an open position, and arranged to flip from convex to concave along an arcuate first score line into a position within the body of the cup and across the otherwise open top of the cup when in a closed position, said cup body having flaps extending laterally inwardly from each side thereof so as to overlie lateral edges of said body portion adjacent opposing areas where said lid portion meets said body portion.
7. A disposable cup as in claim 6, wherein said flaps have a score line to facilitate folding said flaps downwardly along the body portion of the cup.
8. A disposable cup as in claim 6, wherein said lid portion has two secondary score lines extending from the first score line to the outer edge of the lid portion, in a generally vertical direction when said lid portion is in the open position, near opposite sides of said lid portion.
9. A disposable cup as in claim 6, wherein said lid portion has reinforcement pieces bonded thereto to provide a double layer and therefore added strength to at least portions thereof.
10. A disposable cup as in claim 6, wherein said body portion has an upper edge angling downwardly from opposite ends of said first score line away from said lid portion, to a horizontal lip portion thereby providing said cup with a reduced height compared to a corresponding cup without said downward angling.
11. A disposable cup having a body portion and a lid portion, said lid portion being integral with or secured to said body portion to extend upwardly from one side of said body portion of the cup when in an open position, and arranged to flip from convex to concave along an arcuate first score line into a position within the body of the cup and across the otherwise open top of the cup when in a closed position, wherein said lid portion has reinforcement pieces bonded thereto to provide a double layer and therefore added strength to at least portions thereof.
12. A disposable cup having a body portion and a lid portion, said lid portion being integral with or secured to said body portion to extend upwardly from one side of said body portion of the cup when in an open position, and to flip into a position within the body of the cup and across the otherwise open top of the cup when in a closed position, and at least one primary feature selected from the list comprising the following primary features:
a flap extending outwardly from said lid portion so as to overlie lateral edges of said body portion adjacent opposing areas where said lid portion meets said body portion;
a flap extending inwardly from said body portion so as to overlie lateral edges of said body portion adjacent opposing areas where said lid portion meets said body portion;
a flap extending outwardly from said lid portion so as to overlie lateral edges of said cup adjacent opposing areas where said lid portion meets said body portion, the flap having an extension to fit under an edge of the cup lip;
a flap extending inwardly from said body portion so as to overlie lateral edges of said cup adjacent opposing areas where said lid portion meets said body portion, the flap having an extension to fit under an edge of the cup lip;
and at least one secondary feature selected from the list comprising the following secondary features:
the lid portion, or a portion thereof, being a separate piece from the cup body;
secondary score lines extending from the first score line to the outer edge of the lid portion, in a generally vertical direction when said lid portion is in the open position, near opposite sides of said lid portion;
reinforcement pieces glued or otherwise bonded to said lid portion; and
said body portion having an upper edge angling downwardly from opposite ends of said first score line away from said lid portion, to a horizontal lip portion thereby having a reduced height.
US10/851,236 2002-07-17 2004-05-24 Disposable cup with fold-down lid Abandoned US20040211823A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US10/851,236 US20040211823A1 (en) 2002-07-17 2004-05-24 Disposable cup with fold-down lid

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US39612302P 2002-07-17 2002-07-17
US10/303,010 US6758390B2 (en) 2002-07-17 2002-11-25 Disposable cup with fold-down lid
US10/851,236 US20040211823A1 (en) 2002-07-17 2004-05-24 Disposable cup with fold-down lid

Related Parent Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US10/303,010 Continuation US6758390B2 (en) 2002-07-17 2002-11-25 Disposable cup with fold-down lid

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20040211823A1 true US20040211823A1 (en) 2004-10-28

Family

ID=31188360

Family Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US10/303,010 Expired - Fee Related US6758390B2 (en) 2002-07-17 2002-11-25 Disposable cup with fold-down lid
US10/851,236 Abandoned US20040211823A1 (en) 2002-07-17 2004-05-24 Disposable cup with fold-down lid

Family Applications Before (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US10/303,010 Expired - Fee Related US6758390B2 (en) 2002-07-17 2002-11-25 Disposable cup with fold-down lid

Country Status (2)

Country Link
US (2) US6758390B2 (en)
CA (1) CA2412365A1 (en)

Cited By (12)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2437514A (en) * 2006-04-26 2007-10-31 Sca Packaging Ltd Display tray for supporting sachets
US20090065518A1 (en) * 2007-09-12 2009-03-12 Carnevali Jeffrey D Dripless lid for beverage container
US20110180552A1 (en) * 2009-03-18 2011-07-28 Sarson George E Container apparatus and method for using the same
US8100289B1 (en) * 2010-03-24 2012-01-24 Earthkare Packaging Innovations Company Container with integral lid retained onto the top of the sidewall of the container by a living hinge, the container used to retain hot liquids
US8245875B2 (en) 2010-06-24 2012-08-21 Sussex Im, Inc. Container having a pre-curved lid
USD666879S1 (en) 2010-06-24 2012-09-11 Sussex Im, Inc. Container having multiple storage compartments
US8381946B2 (en) 2010-06-24 2013-02-26 Sussex Im, Inc. Container having a pre-curved lid
US8955738B2 (en) 2011-05-17 2015-02-17 Pactiv Packaging Inc. Food scoop with top closure
US9751655B2 (en) 2009-06-12 2017-09-05 Compleat Llc Vessel with folded dam
WO2017157436A1 (en) * 2016-03-16 2017-09-21 Hanpak Limited Apparatus and method for attaching a splash guard to a wall of a cup and a cup
US9845173B2 (en) 2009-06-12 2017-12-19 Compleat Llc Vessel and method for making the same
US11008131B2 (en) 2014-03-28 2021-05-18 Compleat Llc Vessel with folded dam

Families Citing this family (21)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CA2412365A1 (en) * 2002-07-17 2004-01-17 George E. Sarson Disposable cup with fold-down lid
US6955289B2 (en) * 2004-02-06 2005-10-18 Lid Lock Cup Co. Ltd. Container having an integral lid
US20060124718A1 (en) * 2004-12-10 2006-06-15 Matty Audrey I Dual-purpose cup
US20060169759A1 (en) * 2005-01-31 2006-08-03 Sarson George E Product container with fold-down lid
US20060266816A1 (en) * 2005-05-20 2006-11-30 Voigt Matthew V Paper food container
US7661580B1 (en) 2007-02-07 2010-02-16 Edward Bazan Hot food container
US20100155411A1 (en) * 2008-12-19 2010-06-24 Ray Solari Pill Dispenser and Pill Container System
US20150210443A1 (en) * 2009-03-18 2015-07-30 George E. Sarson Container apparatus and method for using the same
US8540114B2 (en) * 2009-03-18 2013-09-24 Cup Techniques Ltd. Container apparatus with a body, plate, and lid
DE102011113347A1 (en) * 2011-09-15 2013-03-21 Feldmann+Schultchen Design Studios Gmbh Drinking cup made of foldable flat material
PL2855290T3 (en) * 2012-05-25 2017-01-31 Hanpak Ltd A cup with integral closure flaps restricting spillage
US8746545B2 (en) 2012-08-09 2014-06-10 Russell E. Houck Drink cup for road running races
US9701444B2 (en) * 2014-02-07 2017-07-11 David Fleming Gallagher Container for articles with dispensing flexible sheet
USD745808S1 (en) * 2014-06-26 2015-12-22 Gold Plast S.P.A. Dish
USD774834S1 (en) * 2015-04-30 2016-12-27 O2Cool, Llc Bowl
US10450100B2 (en) * 2015-12-02 2019-10-22 John Stephen Caliri Container with improved stability and pour spout
USD869101S1 (en) * 2017-12-14 2019-12-03 Anatoliy Omelchenko Food guard bowl
US20200087017A1 (en) * 2018-09-17 2020-03-19 Shlomo Harush Paper cup
USD984884S1 (en) * 2020-06-17 2023-05-02 Sofi Paper Products, Llc Cup with integrated folding lid
US11434042B2 (en) * 2020-09-21 2022-09-06 Sofi Paper Products, Llc Cup with integrated folding lid
US20220117420A1 (en) * 2020-10-21 2022-04-21 Joshua Fitch Fashion accessory beverage container holder systems and methods

Citations (45)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US50615A (en) * 1865-10-24 Improved thill-tug
US315081A (en) * 1885-04-07 School-room heater
US415235A (en) * 1889-11-19 Cord-hook
US420665A (en) * 1890-02-04 Boring and turning machine
US485764A (en) * 1892-11-08 Mulder s flask
US570429A (en) * 1896-10-27 Purposes
US667634A (en) * 1900-02-16 1901-02-05 Dayton Folding Box Company Paper pail.
US711389A (en) * 1901-12-07 1902-10-14 Hilliary Eldridge Gas-stove.
US1375778A (en) * 1920-04-20 1921-04-26 Earl C Clearwater Sanitary ice-cream-cone protector
US1543209A (en) * 1920-03-17 1925-06-23 Fulton Claude Victor Medicine container and spoon
US2646200A (en) * 1945-12-06 1953-07-21 Atkins Samuel Lawrence Drinking vessel
US2964227A (en) * 1958-01-23 1960-12-13 Goldsholl Morton Cardboard box
US3090542A (en) * 1962-07-06 1963-05-21 Ruth S Miller Closure cap for waxed paper cup
US3150811A (en) * 1963-07-24 1964-09-29 Lily Tulip Cup Corp Container
US3595446A (en) * 1969-04-01 1971-07-27 Hellstrom Harold R Quick-open container structure
US3630430A (en) * 1970-08-06 1971-12-28 Diamond Int Corp Quickly erected scoop-type carton
US3806023A (en) * 1972-07-12 1974-04-23 W Barnett Lid for hot liquid drinking cup
US3929222A (en) * 1974-10-29 1975-12-30 Graphic Arts Packaging Corp Pillow box blank
US3964606A (en) * 1975-03-31 1976-06-22 Anchor Wire Corporation Of Tennessee Package, display and dispensing device and blank therefor
US3971503A (en) * 1975-01-27 1976-07-27 Container Corporation Of America Sanitary paperboard scoop and container
US4135512A (en) * 1977-04-15 1979-01-23 Godsey David W Medication dispensing cup
US4185764A (en) * 1978-11-06 1980-01-29 Champion International Corporation Snap-up bottom, flat folded scoop-type carton
US4267955A (en) * 1979-07-25 1981-05-19 Diamond International Corporation Quickly erected scoop-type carton and layout for cutting
US4322014A (en) * 1979-07-27 1982-03-30 Morris Philip Splash-proof container and cover
US4368841A (en) * 1980-08-07 1983-01-18 Phillips Petroleum Company Paper container
US4620665A (en) * 1983-08-18 1986-11-04 Nathaniel H. Garfield Container with integral toggle closure
US4711389A (en) * 1985-12-11 1987-12-08 International Paper Company Self-supporting and spill resistant food carton
US4714190A (en) * 1986-09-11 1987-12-22 Morrocco Diane M Fast food take out carton with cover
US4886206A (en) * 1988-07-11 1989-12-12 Martinez Beatrice E Disposable container with foldable spout
US4915235A (en) * 1989-05-12 1990-04-10 International Paper Company Tear panel french fry carton
US5061501A (en) * 1987-10-09 1991-10-29 Lowe David M Display package for meat item
US5137210A (en) * 1990-04-12 1992-08-11 Hibbs Brenda K Beverage cup with attached side pouch for food
US5301870A (en) * 1991-12-23 1994-04-12 Lever Brothers Company, Division Of Conopco, Inc. Scoop
US5400989A (en) * 1993-02-08 1995-03-28 Gaskill; Daniel L. Support for flexible bag
US5423476A (en) * 1993-11-15 1995-06-13 Ferrer; Lilly Cup with integral straw
US5588552A (en) * 1995-06-05 1996-12-31 Johnson; Timothy C. Disposable rolled rim cup and lid closure
US5676306A (en) * 1995-03-03 1997-10-14 Ros-Dan Improved Product Design Ltd. Foldable locking lid for a container
US5720429A (en) * 1997-01-03 1998-02-24 Cordle; Bradley D. Food container with flip-out condiment pocket
US5875957A (en) * 1997-11-17 1999-03-02 Dopaco, Inc. Food scoop with condiment compartment
US5960987A (en) * 1998-04-16 1999-10-05 Flip Cup Company, Llc Self sealing drinking dispenser
US5979745A (en) * 1997-01-30 1999-11-09 Surlina; Zoran Folded sheet packing
US6176420B1 (en) * 1999-06-07 2001-01-23 George E. Sarson Disposable cup with spill resistant lid
US6216946B1 (en) * 1999-12-10 2001-04-17 Dopaco, Inc. Food scoop with condiment holder
US6360944B1 (en) * 2000-08-16 2002-03-26 Charles Gorman Food container with a foldable condiment holder
US6758390B2 (en) * 2002-07-17 2004-07-06 The Cupworks Corporation Disposable cup with fold-down lid

Family Cites Families (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB773138A (en) 1955-10-29 1957-04-24 Field Sons & Co Ltd Improvements in collapsible cartons
GB796271A (en) 1956-11-09 1958-06-11 Hugh Stevenson & Sons Ltd Improvements in or relating to boxes or cartons formed of cardboard or like sheet material
FR2229221A5 (en) 1973-05-07 1974-12-06 Prin Claude Open ended envelope type container - is made from single sheet folded into flat tube with cutout handles
FR2673161A1 (en) 1991-02-22 1992-08-28 Schisler Jacques Disposable cup with fluid-tight lid
GB9217932D0 (en) 1992-08-22 1992-10-07 Weston Terence E Snap action closure

Patent Citations (46)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US50615A (en) * 1865-10-24 Improved thill-tug
US315081A (en) * 1885-04-07 School-room heater
US415235A (en) * 1889-11-19 Cord-hook
US420665A (en) * 1890-02-04 Boring and turning machine
US485764A (en) * 1892-11-08 Mulder s flask
US570429A (en) * 1896-10-27 Purposes
US667634A (en) * 1900-02-16 1901-02-05 Dayton Folding Box Company Paper pail.
US711389A (en) * 1901-12-07 1902-10-14 Hilliary Eldridge Gas-stove.
US1543209A (en) * 1920-03-17 1925-06-23 Fulton Claude Victor Medicine container and spoon
US1375778A (en) * 1920-04-20 1921-04-26 Earl C Clearwater Sanitary ice-cream-cone protector
US2646200A (en) * 1945-12-06 1953-07-21 Atkins Samuel Lawrence Drinking vessel
US2964227A (en) * 1958-01-23 1960-12-13 Goldsholl Morton Cardboard box
US3090542A (en) * 1962-07-06 1963-05-21 Ruth S Miller Closure cap for waxed paper cup
US3150811A (en) * 1963-07-24 1964-09-29 Lily Tulip Cup Corp Container
US3595446A (en) * 1969-04-01 1971-07-27 Hellstrom Harold R Quick-open container structure
US3630430A (en) * 1970-08-06 1971-12-28 Diamond Int Corp Quickly erected scoop-type carton
US3806023A (en) * 1972-07-12 1974-04-23 W Barnett Lid for hot liquid drinking cup
US3929222A (en) * 1974-10-29 1975-12-30 Graphic Arts Packaging Corp Pillow box blank
US3971503A (en) * 1975-01-27 1976-07-27 Container Corporation Of America Sanitary paperboard scoop and container
US3964606A (en) * 1975-03-31 1976-06-22 Anchor Wire Corporation Of Tennessee Package, display and dispensing device and blank therefor
US4135512A (en) * 1977-04-15 1979-01-23 Godsey David W Medication dispensing cup
US4185764A (en) * 1978-11-06 1980-01-29 Champion International Corporation Snap-up bottom, flat folded scoop-type carton
US4267955A (en) * 1979-07-25 1981-05-19 Diamond International Corporation Quickly erected scoop-type carton and layout for cutting
US4322014A (en) * 1979-07-27 1982-03-30 Morris Philip Splash-proof container and cover
US4368841A (en) * 1980-08-07 1983-01-18 Phillips Petroleum Company Paper container
US4620665A (en) * 1983-08-18 1986-11-04 Nathaniel H. Garfield Container with integral toggle closure
US4711389A (en) * 1985-12-11 1987-12-08 International Paper Company Self-supporting and spill resistant food carton
US4714190A (en) * 1986-09-11 1987-12-22 Morrocco Diane M Fast food take out carton with cover
US5061501A (en) * 1987-10-09 1991-10-29 Lowe David M Display package for meat item
US4886206A (en) * 1988-07-11 1989-12-12 Martinez Beatrice E Disposable container with foldable spout
US4915235A (en) * 1989-05-12 1990-04-10 International Paper Company Tear panel french fry carton
US5137210A (en) * 1990-04-12 1992-08-11 Hibbs Brenda K Beverage cup with attached side pouch for food
US5301870A (en) * 1991-12-23 1994-04-12 Lever Brothers Company, Division Of Conopco, Inc. Scoop
US5400989A (en) * 1993-02-08 1995-03-28 Gaskill; Daniel L. Support for flexible bag
US5423476A (en) * 1993-11-15 1995-06-13 Ferrer; Lilly Cup with integral straw
US5676306A (en) * 1995-03-03 1997-10-14 Ros-Dan Improved Product Design Ltd. Foldable locking lid for a container
US5588552A (en) * 1995-06-05 1996-12-31 Johnson; Timothy C. Disposable rolled rim cup and lid closure
US5720429A (en) * 1997-01-03 1998-02-24 Cordle; Bradley D. Food container with flip-out condiment pocket
US5979745A (en) * 1997-01-30 1999-11-09 Surlina; Zoran Folded sheet packing
US5875957A (en) * 1997-11-17 1999-03-02 Dopaco, Inc. Food scoop with condiment compartment
US5960987A (en) * 1998-04-16 1999-10-05 Flip Cup Company, Llc Self sealing drinking dispenser
US6164488A (en) * 1998-04-16 2000-12-26 Flip Cup Company, L.L.C. Self sealing drinking dispenser
US6176420B1 (en) * 1999-06-07 2001-01-23 George E. Sarson Disposable cup with spill resistant lid
US6216946B1 (en) * 1999-12-10 2001-04-17 Dopaco, Inc. Food scoop with condiment holder
US6360944B1 (en) * 2000-08-16 2002-03-26 Charles Gorman Food container with a foldable condiment holder
US6758390B2 (en) * 2002-07-17 2004-07-06 The Cupworks Corporation Disposable cup with fold-down lid

Cited By (16)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2437514A (en) * 2006-04-26 2007-10-31 Sca Packaging Ltd Display tray for supporting sachets
US20090065518A1 (en) * 2007-09-12 2009-03-12 Carnevali Jeffrey D Dripless lid for beverage container
US8056752B2 (en) 2007-09-12 2011-11-15 Carnevali Jeffrey D Dripless lid for beverage container
US20110180552A1 (en) * 2009-03-18 2011-07-28 Sarson George E Container apparatus and method for using the same
US9751655B2 (en) 2009-06-12 2017-09-05 Compleat Llc Vessel with folded dam
US9845173B2 (en) 2009-06-12 2017-12-19 Compleat Llc Vessel and method for making the same
US8100289B1 (en) * 2010-03-24 2012-01-24 Earthkare Packaging Innovations Company Container with integral lid retained onto the top of the sidewall of the container by a living hinge, the container used to retain hot liquids
USD668119S1 (en) 2010-06-24 2012-10-02 Sussex Im, Inc. Container with internal compartment
US8381946B2 (en) 2010-06-24 2013-02-26 Sussex Im, Inc. Container having a pre-curved lid
US8657138B2 (en) 2010-06-24 2014-02-25 Sussex Im, Inc. Container having a pre-curved lid
US8985386B2 (en) 2010-06-24 2015-03-24 Sussex Im, Inc. Container having a pre-curved lid
USD666879S1 (en) 2010-06-24 2012-09-11 Sussex Im, Inc. Container having multiple storage compartments
US8245875B2 (en) 2010-06-24 2012-08-21 Sussex Im, Inc. Container having a pre-curved lid
US8955738B2 (en) 2011-05-17 2015-02-17 Pactiv Packaging Inc. Food scoop with top closure
US11008131B2 (en) 2014-03-28 2021-05-18 Compleat Llc Vessel with folded dam
WO2017157436A1 (en) * 2016-03-16 2017-09-21 Hanpak Limited Apparatus and method for attaching a splash guard to a wall of a cup and a cup

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CA2412365A1 (en) 2004-01-17
US6758390B2 (en) 2004-07-06
US20040011862A1 (en) 2004-01-22

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US6758390B2 (en) Disposable cup with fold-down lid
US6089397A (en) Cup lid having improved drink-through opening
US7424952B2 (en) Interdental brush package
US6176420B1 (en) Disposable cup with spill resistant lid
US4460103A (en) Cover for drink containers
US7533774B2 (en) Combined container, activity tray and mailer
US6592504B2 (en) Disposable cup with spill resistant lid
EP2557045B1 (en) Food and condiment container
EP1656300A1 (en) Disposable cup with fold-down lid
US6913190B2 (en) Reclosable container with automatic closure system
KR200457266Y1 (en) Wet tissue pack
JP2003072733A (en) Paper cup
AU2001261961B2 (en) Disposable cup with spill resistant lid
JP4123592B2 (en) Drawer paper box
AU2001261961A1 (en) Disposable cup with spill resistant lid
JPH0891438A (en) Drink container with straw
CN211000609U (en) Easy-to-open file box
JP3234078U (en) Envelope refill
KR200366347Y1 (en) The cup by paper of an envelope type
JP2004075121A (en) Packaging container
JP3791749B2 (en) Tube container
JP4148726B2 (en) Drawer box
JP3021138U (en) Inverse outlet structure at the top of the container
JPS6240935Y2 (en)
JP3047355U (en) Container such as a paper pack with the adhesive part separated by a piece of paper

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
STCB Information on status: application discontinuation

Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION