The present invention relates to a lid and particularly, but not exclusively, to a multifunctional lid for a container. The present invention also relates to a drinking vessel, for example an infant cup, comprising a multifunctional lid and a container.

Drinking from an open cup is a skill which takes a number of years for a child to acquire. As a child develops, their ability to control a cup gradually improves until they are able to drink from an open cup without spilling the drink. Different cups have been designed to prevent or reduce spillages at different stages in a child’s development. A child may progress through a number of different styles or designs or types of drinking vessel in the first months and years of their life. There is a significant cost associated with purchasing a number of different types of drinking vessel during this time. Furthermore, such drinking vessels are often manufactured from plastic materials. In many countries there is a drive to improve the longevity of products which are manufactured from plastic materials.

It would therefore be advantageous to provide an improved lid which can be configured for use with drinking vessels by children at different stages of their development and/or with different levels of control during drinking.

It would also be advantageous to provide an improved lid which is easy for carers to clean.

According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a lid for a container, the lid comprising or including a first lid closure portion, a second lid closure portion and a tubular member, the second lid closure portion being configured to be releasably connected to the first lid closure portion and to rotate relative to the first lid closure portion, wherein a first fluid passage and a second fluid passage are formed through the lid.

The tubular member may be a hollow tubular member, for example a straw.

The first lid closure portion may comprise or include a first opening and a second opening. Additionally or alternatively, the second lid closure portion may also comprise or include a first opening and a second opening.

The lid may comprise or include a first configuration in which the first opening of the first lid closure portion is aligned with the first opening of the second lid closure portion. In the first configuration, the tubular member may protrude through the first opening of the first lid closure portion and the first opening of the second lid closure portion. The first fluid passage may be formed by the alignment of the first opening of the first lid closure portion and the first opening of the second lid closure portion and/or by the protrusion or extension of the tubular member through the first opening of the first lid closure portion and the first opening of the second lid closure portion.

The lid may also comprise or include a second configuration in which the second opening of the first lid closure portion is aligned with the second opening of the second lid closure portion. The second fluid passage may be formed by the alignment of the second opening of the first lid closure portion with the second opening of the second lid closure portion.

The lid may be a multifunctional lid.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a lid for a container, the lid including a first lid closure portion, wherein the first lid closure portion includes a first opening and a second opening; a second lid closure portion, wherein the second lid closure portion is configured to be releasably connected to the first lid closure portion and includes a first opening and a second opening; and a tubular member; wherein the second lid closure portion is configured to rotate relative to the first lid closure portion; and wherein the lid further includes a first configuration in which the first opening of the first lid closure portion is aligned with the first opening of the second lid closure portion; and the tubular member protrudes through the first opening of the first lid closure portion and the first opening of the second lid closure portion, thereby forming a first fluid passage through the lid; and a second configuration in which the second opening of the first lid closure portion is aligned with the second opening of the second lid closure portion, thereby forming a second fluid passage through the lid.

The lid may be a multifunctional lid.

When the lid is in the first configuration, the tubular member may be in a deployed condition.

When the lid is in the first configuration, the second opening of the first lid closure portion may be offset relative to the second opening of the second lid closure portion. In this way, the second fluid passage may be closed.

When the lid is in the second configuration, the first opening of the first lid closure portion may be offset relative to the first opening of the second lid closure portion. In this way, the first fluid passage may be closed.

When the lid is in the second configuration, the tubular member may be in a stowed condition, for example in which the tubular member is prevented from protruding through the first opening of the first lid closure portion and/or the first opening of the second lid closure portion.

The lid may include a third configuration in which the first opening of the first lid closure portion is offset relative to the first opening of the second lid closure portion and the second opening of the first lid closure portion is offset relative to the second opening of the second lid closure portion. In the third configuration, each of the first fluid passage and the second fluid passage may be closed.

When the lid is in the third configuration, the tubular member may be in a stowed condition, for example in which the tubular member is prevented from protruding through the first opening of the first lid closure portion and/or the first opening of the second lid closure portion.

In embodiments, the releasable connection between the first lid closure portion and the second lid closure portion may be a push fit connection. That is, a push fit connection may be provided between the first lid closure portion and the second lid closure portion. In embodiments, the releasable connection between the first lid closure portion and the second lid closure portion may be a provided by a securing member protruding, preferably protruding inwardly, from the second lid closure portion, wherein the securing member is configured to rotationally engage a projecting member provided around the first lid closure portion.

The first lid closure portion may include a stem to which the second lid closure portion is releasably and rotatably connected. The first lid closure portion may have an upper surface which faces upwardly, in use, and a lower surface which faces downward, in use. The stem may protrude or extend upwardly from the upper surface of the first lid closure portion.

The second lid closure portion may include a handle. The second lid closure portion may have an upper surface which faces upwardly, in use, and a lower surface which faces downward, in use. The handle may protrude or extend upwardly from the upper surface of the second lid closure portion. In embodiments, the handle may include a hollow portion, for example a hollow portion which is configured to receive the stem. The stem and the handle may provide the push fit connection between the first lid closure portion and the second lid closure portion.

The handle may include a locking and/or a release mechanism. The locking and/or the release mechanism may have a first condition in which the stem is fixed to the handle, for example in which the stem is fixed within the hollow portion of the handle. In other words, when the locking and/or the release mechanism is in the first condition, the stem cannot be removed from the handle, for example the stem cannot be removed from the hollow portion of the handle.

The locking and/or the release mechanism may have a second condition in which the stem can be removed from the handle, for example from the hollow portion of the handle.

The release mechanism may include a release feature, for example one or more release features, e.g. one or more buttons on an outer surface of the handle.

In embodiments, the lid may include a fourth configuration in which the second lid closure portion can be removed from the first lid closure portion and, wherein when the lid is not in the fourth configuration then second lid closure portion cannot be removed from the first lid closure portion. That is, in the fourth configuration, the second lid closure portion is axially moveable relative to the first lid closure portion, so as to be detached from the lid.

In embodiments, the second lid closure portion may include a securing member protruding, preferably protruding inwardly, therefrom. The securing member may be configured to rotationally engage a projecting member provided around the first lid closure portion so that when the lid is not in the fourth configuration then the second lid closure portion cannot be removed from the first lid closure portion.

In embodiments, an outer wall of the lid may include a stepped portion adjacent to a second, open, end of the lid. The stepped portion may be provided around the periphery of a first surface of the first lid closure portion. The stepped portion may extend downwards when a base of a container of a drinking vessel to which the lid is attached is placed on a horizontal surface. The stepped portion may include an annular surface that faces upwards.

In embodiments, a projecting member may be provided around the first lid closure portion. The projecting member may be an annular projecting member extending radially outward from the stepped portion. The projecting member may be provided with a series of slots extending in an axial direction. The slots may be configured so that second lid closure portion may be releasably connected to the first lid closure portion, typically by engaging with corresponding features of a securing member of a second lid closure member. The second lid closure portion may include a cylindrical wall depending from the second surface. The cylindrical wall may be provided at the periphery of the second surface. A securing member may protrude inwardly from the cylindrical wall. In the example, the securing member may include a series of fingers spaced around the cylindrical wall and arranged to protrude inwardly.

In embodiments, a second lid closure portion may include a second surface and a securing member spaced apart from the second surface. Typically, the securing member includes a series of fingers spaced apart from the second surface. In this way, with the lid assembled, the securing member may locate in a channel formed around the first lid closure portion. The channel may be formed between the projecting member and the annular surface of the stepped portion of the first lid closure portion. The second lid closure portion is thereby rotatable relative to the first lid closure portion while being connected thereto. Furthermore, by controlling the spacing, particularly the axial spacing, between securing member and the second surface, it is possible to determine the spacing between the second surface of the second lid closure portion and the first surface of the first lid closure portion. In this way the compression of the seal member by the second lid closure portion can be controlled, reducing the risk of leaks.

The tubular member may be flexible. In embodiments, the tubular member may be a first tubular member. The lid may further include a second tubular member. The second tubular member may be fluidly connected to the first tubular member. In use, the first tubular member may extend upward relative to the first lid closure portion, e.g. the first tubular member may extend upwardly relative to the upper surface of the first lid closure portion. In use, the second tubular member may extend downward relative to the first lid closure portion, e.g. the second tubular member may extend downwardly relative to the inner surface of the first lid closure portion.

The first tubular member and/or the second tubular member may include a valve means. The valve means may be configured to regulate the passage of a liquid between the first tubular member and the second tubular member. The valve means may be an on-demand straw valve, e.g. a bubble valve.

The first tubular member and/or the second tubular member may further include an air vent that is configured to permit air to enter the container.

In embodiments, the first lid closure portion may comprise an aperture, for example an aperture which provides an air vent when the lid is in the first configuration. The aperture may, preferably, have a smaller cross-sectional area than each of the openings in the first lid closure portion and the second lid closure portion.

The releasable connection of the first lid closure portion and the second lid closure portion may further include spaced channels which are arranged to permit air to enter the drinking vessel when the lid is in the first configuration.

In some embodiments, the second lid closure portion may comprise an aperture, for example an aperture which provides an air vent when the lid is in the second configuration. The aperture of the second lid closure portion may, preferably, have a smaller cross- sectional area than each of the openings in the first lid closure portion and the second lid closure portion. The aperture in the second lid closure portion may align with an aperture in the first lid closure portion in order to form an air vent when the lid is in the second configuration.

In some embodiments, a sealing member may be disposed around an outer perimeter of the aperture. Additionally, or alternatively, a sealing member may be disposed around an outer perimeter of the second lid closure portion. In such embodiments, the sealing member of the second lid closure portion may be formed integrally with the sealing member of the aperture. The sealing member may comprise an elastomeric material, for example a thermoplastic elastomer.

In embodiments, a lower, or second, surface of a second lid closure portion may include a plurality of projecting members. The plurality of projecting members may be positioned on the second surface so that when the lid is in any one of the first, second, or third configuration then a pair of the projecting members are aligned to seal against each of the first seal member and the second seal member of the first lid closure portion. Certain projecting members may be primary projecting members of the plurality of projecting members. Primary projecting members each surround a hole in the second lid closure portion. Certain other projecting members may be secondary projecting members of the plurality of projecting members. Secondary projecting members each surround a blind bore recess in the second lid closure portion. In this way, the projection members may ensure effective sealing at the interface of the first and second lid closure portions in each of the first, second and third configurations of the lid.

The lid may include a skirt portion. The lid may, for example, include an outer wall. The skirt portion may extend downwardly from the outer wall, in use. The skirt portion may be configured for connection to a container, for example the skirt portion may include a threaded portion. The threaded portion may be provided on an outer surface of the skirt portion.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a drinking vessel including a lid according to the preceding aspects of the invention and a container.

The container may include a threaded portion. The threaded portion may be provided on an inner surface of the container.

For the avoidance of doubt, any of the features described herein apply equally to any aspect of the invention. For example, the drinking vessel may include any one or more of the features of the lid.

Another aspect of the invention provides a computer program element including and/or describing and/or defining a three-dimensional design, e.g. of the lid or the drinking vessel or components thereof as described above or an embodiment thereof. The three- dimensional design may be for use with a simulation means or an additive or subtractive manufacturing means, system or device.

The computer program element may be for causing, or operable or configured to cause, an additive or subtractive manufacturing means, system or device to manufacture the lid described above or an embodiment thereof. The computer program element may include computer readable program code means for causing an additive or subtractive manufacturing means, system or device to execute a procedure to manufacture the lid described above or an embodiment thereof.

A further aspect of the invention provides a computer program element including computer readable program code means for causing a processor to execute a procedure to implement one or more steps of the aforementioned method.

A yet further aspect of the invention provides the computer program element embodied on a computer readable medium.

A yet further aspect of the invention provides a computer readable medium having a program stored thereon, where the program is arranged to make a computer execute a procedure to implement one or more steps of the aforementioned method.

A yet further aspect of the invention provides a control means or control system or controller including the aforementioned computer program element or computer readable medium. For purposes of this disclosure, and notwithstanding the above, it is to be understood that any controller(s), control units and/or control modules described herein may each include a control unit or computational device having one or more electronic processors. The controller may include a single control unit or electronic controller or alternatively different functions of the control of the system or apparatus may be embodied in, or hosted in, different control units or controllers or control modules. As used herein, the terms “control unit” and “controller” will be understood to include both a single control unit or controller and a plurality of control units or controllers collectively operating to provide the required control functionality. A set of instructions could be provided which, when executed, cause said controller(s) or control unit(s) or control module(s) to implement the control techniques described herein (including the method(s) described herein). The set of instructions may be embedded in one or more electronic processors, or alternatively, may be provided as software to be executed by one or more electronic processor(s).

For example, a first controller may be implemented in software run on one or more electronic processors, and one or more other controllers may also be implemented in software run on or more electronic processors, optionally the same one or more processors as the first controller. It will be appreciated, however, that other arrangements are also useful, and therefore, the present invention is not intended to be limited to any particular arrangement. In any event, the set of instructions described herein may be embedded in a computer-readable storage medium (e.g., a non-transitory storage medium) that may include any mechanism for storing information in a form readable by a machine or electronic processors/computational device, including, without limitation: a magnetic storage medium (e.g., floppy diskette); optical storage medium (e.g., CD-ROM); magneto optical storage medium; read only memory (ROM); random access memory (RAM); erasable programmable memory (e.g., EPROM ad EEPROM); flash memory; or electrical or other types of medium for storing such information/instructions.

Within the scope of this application it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and/or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and/or combination, unless such features are incompatible. For the avoidance of doubt, the terms “may”, “and/or”, “e.g.”, “for example” and any similar term as used herein should be interpreted as non-limiting such that any feature so-described need not be present. Indeed, any combination of optional features is expressly envisaged without departing from the scope of the invention, whether or not these are expressly claimed. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and/or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner.

It is also expressly intended that in the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, as well as throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words “comprise” and “contain” and variations of them mean “including but not limited to”, and they are not intended to (and do not) exclude other components, integers or steps. Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context otherwise requires. In particular, where the indefinite article is used, the specification is to be understood as contemplating plurality as well as singularity, unless the context requires otherwise.

An embodiment of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a drinking vessel including a lid according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 2 is an exploded partial perspective view of the lid of the drinking vessel of Figure 1 ;

Figure 3 is an alternative exploded partial perspective view of the lid of the drinking vessel of Figure 1 ;

Figure 4 is a cross section view of the drinking vessel of Figure 1 ;

Figure 5 is a bottom view of the lid of Figure 2;

Figure 6 is a top perspective view of the lid of Figure 2;

Figure 7 is a top perspective view of a handle portion of the lid of Figure 2;

Figure 8 is a bottom perspective view of the handle portion of Figure 7;

Figure 9 is a cross section view of the lid of Figure 2;

Figure 10 is a perspective view of the lid of Figure 2 in a first configuration;

Figure 11 is a cross section view of the lid of Figure 2 in the first configuration;

Figure 12 is a perspective view of the lid of Figure 2 in a second configuration;

Figure 13 is a cross section view of the lid of Figure 2 in the second configuration;

Figure 14 is a perspective view of the lid of Figure 2 in a third configuration;

Figure 15 is a cross section view of the lid of Figure 2 in the third configuration; Figure 16 is a perspective view of a drinking vessel including another lid according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 17 is an exploded partial perspective view of the lid of the drinking vessel of Figure 16;

Figure 18 is a lower perspective view of a lid closure portion of the drinking vessel of Figure 16;

Figure 19 is a perspective view of the drinking vessel of Figure 16 with a lid closure portion removed; and

Figure 20 is a partial cross-sectional view of the drinking vessel of Figure 16.

In the drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts.

Certain terminology is used in the following description for convenience only and is not limiting. The words ‘right’, ‘left’, ‘lower’, ‘upper’, ‘front’, ‘rear’, ‘upward’, ‘down’ and ‘downward’ designate directions in the drawings to which reference is made and are with respect to the described component when assembled and mounted. The words ‘inner’, ‘inwardly ¹ and ‘outer’, ‘outwardly’ refer to directions toward and away from, respectively, a designated centreline or a geometric centre of an element being described (e.g. central axis), the particular meaning being readily apparent from the context of the description.

Further, as used herein, the terms ‘connected ¹ , ‘attached’, ‘coupled’, ‘mounted’ are intended to include direct connections between two members without any other members interposed therebetween, as well as, indirect connections between members in which one or more other members are interposed therebetween. The terminology includes the words specifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import.

Further, unless otherwise specified, the use of ordinal adjectives, such as, ‘first’, ‘second’, ‘third’ etc. merely indicate that different instances of like objects are being referred to and are not intended to imply that the objects so described must be in a given sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking or in any other manner.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that several variations to the aforementioned embodiments are envisaged without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, the described example embodiment relates to a drinking vessel in the form of a cup with a lid, as shown in Figure 1. However, the invention is not necessarily restricted to a lid for a cup. A lid according to the present invention may also be used with any other drinking vessel, for example a canteen, a flask, a canister, a tumbler, or a bottle. A lid according to the present invention may be used with both insulated and non-insulated drinking vessels.

It will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that any number of combinations of the aforementioned figures and/or those shown in the appended drawings provide clear advantages over the prior art and are therefore within the scope of the invention described herein.

The drinking vessel 10 of Figure 1 includes a container 12 in the form of a cup and a multifunctional lid 14 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The container 12 has a first, closed, end or base 16 and a second, open, end 18. The lid 14 has a first, open, end 20 and a second, open, end 22.

The second, open, end 18 of the container 12 and the first, open, end 20 of the lid 14 are configured for removeable or releasable connection as is described in more detail below.

A multifunctional lid for a drinking vessel, such as that of Figure 1 , will now be described with particular reference to Figures 2 to 9. The lid 14 has an outer wall 24 in the form of a hollow cylinder, a first lid closure portion 26, a second lid closure portion in the form of a cap or a lid top 28 and a hollow tubular member or straw 30.

The outer wall 24 has a lip 31 adjacent to the second, open, end 22 of the lid 14. The lip 31 may be an upper lip, i.e. it may face upwards when the base 16 of the container 12 of the drinking vessel 10 is placed on a horizontal surface.

The first lid closure portion 26 is positioned within the outer wall 24 between the first end 20 and the second end 22. The first lid closure portion 26 may be formed integrally with the outer wall 24, or it may, in some embodiments of the invention, be a separate component which is fixed within the outer wall 24.

The first lid closure portion 26 includes a generally circular body 32 having a first surface 34 and a second, opposing, surface 36 (as shown in Figure 5). The first surface 34, which faces upward when the base 16 of the container 12 of the drinking vessel 10 is placed on a horizontal surface, has a generally arcuate groove 38 a stem 42 which extends upward from the first surface 34, a bump or pip feature 43, an opening or through-hole 44 and a vent hole 45 (as shown in Figures 4 and 5).

The generally arcuate groove 38 is positioned adjacent to the periphery of the generally circular body 32 and includes an opening or through hole 46, (as can be seen in Figure 5) through which a portion of the straw 30 may extend, and a wall feature 47. The stem 42 is hollow and includes two upstanding portions, each of which has an upper flange portion 50.

With particular reference to Figure 5, the first lid closure portion 26 also includes a first skirt or inner wall 66 which extends downwardly from the second surface 36 (i.e. towards the container 12 of the drinking vessel 10, in use) and around the periphery of the generally circular body 32. As can be seen in Figure 4, the outer surface 68 of the skirt 66 has a threaded portion 70. The skirt 66 is spaced apart from the outer wall 24 of the lid 14 such that a channel 72 is formed between the skirt 66 and the outer wall 24. A seal 74 including a thermoplastic elastomer material extends around the upper surface of the channel 72 in the region where the skirt 66 and the outer wall 24 are connected. In other words, the seal 74 extends around the second, or lower, surface 36 of the first lid closure portion 26 to seal against a lip of the container 12, in use.

Referring again to Figure 5, the first lid closure portion 26 includes a second skirt or inner wall 82 which also extends downwardly from the second surface 36 (i.e. towards the container 12 of the drinking vessel 10, in use). The second skirt 82 is smaller in diameter than the first skirt 66 and is positioned within the wall of the first skirt 66 such that the through-hole 46 and the vent hole 45 are within the wall of the second skirt 82.

With reference to Figure 2, the first lid closure portion 26 also includes a seal member 84 including a thermoplastic elastomer material on the first surface 34 of the generally circular body 32. The seal member 84 extends around a portion of the first, or upper surface 34, of the periphery of the first lid closure portion 26. The seal member 84 includes a first seal portion 86, a second seal portion 88 and a third seal portion 89. The first seal portion 86 includes an aperture 90 which is sized and shaped to correspond to the vent hole 62. Similarly, the second seal portion 88 includes an aperture 92. The aperture 92 of the second seal portion 88 is sized and shaped to correspond to the through hole 60. The third seal portion 89 is positioned intermediate the first seal portion 86 and the second seal portion 88 and extends downward between the first surface 34 of the body 32 and the second surface 36 of the body 32. The seal member 84 seals against the second, or lower, surface 56 of the second lid closure portion 28, in use. The seal 74 and the seal member 84 can, in embodiments of the invention, be connected via the third seal portion 89. In some advantageous embodiments of the invention, the seal 74 and the seal member 84 may be formed as a unitary component.

The second lid closure portion 28 includes a generally circular body 52 having a first surface 54 and a second, opposing, surface 56 (as shown in Figure 3). The first surface 54, which faces upward when the base 16 of the container 12 of the drinking vessel 10 is placed on a horizontal surface, has a first opening or through-hole 58, a second opening or through-hole 60, a vent hole 62 and a central handle or control lever 64.

The central handle or control lever 64 will now be described with particular reference to Figures 6 to 9. The central handle or control lever 64 protrudes upwardly from the first surface 54 of the second lid closure portion 28. The central handle 64 is hollow and has an outer wall 98. The outer wall 98 is generally ovoid in cross section and includes two apertures 100. An opening 94, which extends into the hollow body of the central handle 64, and through which the stem 42 extends, in use, is provided through the second lid closure portion 28.

With particular reference to Figures 7 and 8, the central handle 64 also includes a cap or lid 102 and a pair of resiliently biased end members 104. Each resiliently biased end member 104 includes a button or lever portion 106 and a resilient wall portion 108, through which at least a portion of the button or lever portion 106 extends, in use.

With particular reference to Figure 3, the second surface 56 of the body 52 of the second lid closure portion 28 includes a generally arcuate groove 40. The generally arcuate groove 40 of the second surface 56 of the second lid closure portion 28 is positioned inward relative to the generally arcuate groove 38 of the first lid closure portion 26 and adjacent to the centre of the generally circular body 56. The generally arcuate portion 40 includes a plurality of detents or bump features 48.

Referring now to Figure 4, the straw 30 includes a first tubular member or straw portion 76, a second tubular member or straw portion 78 and a valve 80, for example an on- demand straw valve, such as a bubble valve, which is configured to prevent spills from the straw, by preventing the passage of liquid through the valve unless sufficient suction is applied to the first tubular member or straw portion 76. In use, the first straw portion 76 and the second straw portion are connected by the valve 80, which is operably connected to the second skirt 82 of the first lid closure portion 26 such that a valve chamber 96 is formed. The first straw portion 76 extends upwardly from the valve chamber 96 (i.e. away from the container 12 of the drinking vessel 10) and through the through hole 46. The second straw portion 78 extends downwardly from the valve chamber 96 (i.e. away from the lid 14 of the drinking vessel 10) and into the container 12 of the drinking vessel 10, when the drinking vessel 10 is assembled.

The lid 14 is assembled by firstly connecting the first and second straw portions 76, 78 to the valve 80. The second lid closure portion 28 is then connected to the lid 14 by aligning the opening 58 of the second lid closure portion 28 with the first straw portion 76, aligning the hollow handle 64 of the second lid closure portion 28 with the stem 42 of the first lid closure portion 26 and pressing the second lid closure portion downward so that the flange portions 50 of the stem 42 each engage a portion of a respective one of the button or lever portions 106 of the handle 64.

The lid 14 can be disassembled, for example for cleaning, by pressing the button or lever portions 106 inwards (i.e. squeezing the button or lever portions 106 towards each other) while lifting the handle or control lever 64 upwards. The connection between the second lid closure portion 28 and the first lid closure portion 26 is thus released. The second lid closure portion 28 can then removed from the lid 14, exposing the upward facing first surface 34 of the first lid closure portion 26. The button or lever portions 106 thus provide a locking and release mechanism for the push fit connection between the first lid closure portion 26 and the second lid closure portion 28. The button or lever portions 106 fit within the apertures 100 in the outer wall 98 such that spaced channels are formed around the apertures 100. In other words, air can flow between the hollow handle 64 and the exterior of the lid 14 via the spaced channels formed between the apertures 100 and the button or lever portions 106.

The lid 14 is fastened onto a container 12 having an internal thread by feeding the second end 18 of the container into the channel 72 between the skirt 66 of the first lid closure portion 26 and the outer wall 24 of the lid 14. Rotation of the lid 14 relative to the container 12 causes engagement of the outer thread 70 of the skirt 66 with the internal thread of the container 12.

Use of the multifunctional lid 14 will now be described with particular reference to Figures 10 to 15.

The multifunctional lid 14 has three configurations: 1) straw drinking, 2) free flow drinking and 3) closed (and sealed).

The lid 14 can be moved between each of the configurations by rotating the second lid closure portion 28 relative to the first lid closure portion 26. In addition to enabling the releasable connection of the second lid closure portion 28 to the lid 14, the handle or control lever 64 of the second lid closure portion 28 also, beneficially, provides a grip for a user to hold when rotating the second lid closure portion 28.

The detents 48 in the groove 40 of the second lid closure portion 28 control the degree of rotation of the second lid closure portion 28 as the lid 14 is placed in each of the first, second and third configurations. Once the lid 14 is in one of the configurations, additional force is required to overcome the detents 48 in order to move the lid 14 into either of the other configurations. The groove 40 does not form a ring around the second lid closure portion 28 and thus it is not possible to rotate the second lid closure portion 28 fully (i.e. 360°) in either the clockwise or the anti-clockwise direction. In other words, the extent by which the second lid closure portion 28 can be rotated is restricted by the length of the groove.

The arrangement of the groove 40 and detents 48 in the second lid closure portion 28 of the lid 14 makes it difficult to move the lid 14 between the configurations by accident, for example by a young, and/or unsupervised child until they have also developed the skills required to drink from an open cup independently.

Figures 10 and 11 show the lid 14 in the first, straw drinking, configuration. In this configuration, the opening, for example the first opening, 46 of the first lid closure portion 26 is aligned with the first opening 58 of the second lid closure portion 28. The first tubular member or straw portion 76 protrudes through the first opening 46 of the first lid closure portion 26 and the first opening 58 of the second lid closure portion 28, thereby forming a first fluid passage through the lid 14. In the first, straw drinking, configuration the first tubular member or straw portion 76 is in a deployed condition or arrangement. The flow of liquid through the straw 30 is controlled by the valve 80. When sufficient suction is applied to the first tubular member or straw portion 76, the pressure in the channel from the first tubular member or straw portion 76 to the valve chamber 96 pushes the valve 80 downward thereby releasing the seal and allowing the passage of liquid from the second tubular member or straw portion 78 toward the first tubular member or straw portion 76. In this arrangement or configuration, the vent hole 45 in the first lid closure portion provides an air vent to equalise internal pressure within the drinking vessel 10. The vent hole 45 provides a passage for air to the hollow portion of the handle control lever 64, which has openings 100 to the outside of the drinking vessel 10.

In the first, straw drinking, configuration, the opening, for example the second opening, 44 of the first lid closure portion 26 is offset relative to the second opening 60 of the second lid closure portion 28. The body 52 of the second lid closure portion 28 thus covers the second opening 44 of the first lid closure portion 26. Similarly, the body 32 of the first lid closure portion 26 covers the second opening 60 of the second lid closure portion 28 and the fluid passage which might be formed by the openings 44, 60 is closed. In the first, straw drinking, configuration, the position of the seal portion 88 of the second lid closure portion 28 corresponds to the position of the second opening 44 of the first lid closure portion 26. This advantageously helps to prevent leaks and spillages of liquid from the container 12 via the second opening 44 of the first lid closure portion 26 when the lid 14 is in the first configuration. When the lid 14 is in the first, straw drinking, configuration, it is possible for the second lid closure portion or cap or lid top 28 to be removed from the lid 14 for cleaning, as described above.

Rotation of the second lid closure portion 28 in a clockwise direction, by for example approximately 220° from the first, straw drinking, configuration position, enables the lid 14 to be moved into the second, free flow, configuration.

Figures 12 and 13 show the lid 14 in the second, free flow, configuration. In this configuration, the opening, for example the second opening, 44 of the first lid closure portion 26 is aligned with the second opening 60 of the second lid closure portion 28, thereby forming a second fluid passage through the lid 14. In this arrangement, the vent hole 62 in the second lid closure portion 28 is aligned with a corresponding vent hole (corresponding in location to the aperture 90 of the seal member 84) in the first lid closure portion 26 to provide an air vent to equalise internal pressure within the drinking vessel 10. In the second, free flow, configuration, the first tubular member or straw portion 76 is pushed downwards into the groove 38 of the first lid closure portion 26 and is covered by the body 52 of the second lid closure portion 28. The wall feature 47 in the groove 38 squashes the first tubular member or straw portion 76 in order to close the straw 30. In this way, the first fluid passage, through the straw 30, is closed. In other words, the first tubular member or straw portion 76 is in a stowed condition or arrangement when the lid 14 is in the second, free flow, configuration. In the stowed condition, the first tubular member or straw portion 76 is prevented from protruding through the first opening 58 of the second lid closure portion 28.

Rotation of the second lid closure portion 28 in a clockwise direction, by for example approximately 50° from the second, free flow, configuration or approximately 270° from the first, straw drinking, configuration, enables the lid 14 to be moved into the third, closed or sealed, configuration.

Figures 14 and 15 show the lid 14 in the third, closed or sealed, configuration. In this configuration, each of the first and second fluid passages in the lid 14 are closed. As when the lid 14 is in the second, free flow, configuration, the first tubular member or straw portion 76 is pushed downwards into the groove 38 of the first lid closure portion 26, is covered by the body 52 of the second lid closure portion 28 and closed by the wall feature 47 of the groove 38. In this way, the first fluid passage, through the straw 30, is closed. As described in relation to the first configuration, the second opening, 44 of the first lid closure portion 26 is offset relative to the second opening 60 of the second lid closure portion 28. The body 52 of the second lid closure portion 28 thus covers the second opening 44 of the first lid closure portion 26. Similarly, the body 32 of the first lid closure portion 26 covers the second opening 60 of the second lid closure portion 28 and the fluid passage which might be formed by the openings 44, 60 is closed. The arrangement of the seal portions 86, 88 helps to prevent leaks and spills when the lid 14 is in the third configuration.

The lid 14 can be returned, firstly, to the second, free flow, configuration by rotating the lid 14 by approximately 50° from the third configuration in an anti-clockwise direction and, secondly, to the first, straw drinking, configuration by rotating the lid by approximately 270° from the third configuration in an anti-clockwise direction.

The multifunctional lid 14 advantageously enables the drinking vessel 10 to be used at different stages of a child’s development without the need to buy numerous cups of different design and, advantageously, extends the longevity of the drinking vessel 10.

In the absence of the lid 14, the container 12 can be used as an open cup. In particular, the provision of a threaded portion on an inner wall of the container 12 to engage the threaded portion 70 of the first lid closure portion 26 advantageously means that it is not uncomfortable for a user to drink from the container when the lid 14 is removed.

Referring now to Figures 16 to 20, there is shown a further container 112 in the form of a cup and a multifunctional lid 114 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Where the features are the same as a previous example, the reference numbers are the same, other than they are preceded by the digit “1”.

The container 112 has a first, closed, end or base 116 and a second, open, end 118. The lid 114 has a first, open, end 120 and a second, open, end 122. The second, open, end 118 of the container 112 and the first, open, end 120 of the lid 114 are configured for removeable or releasable connection as is described in more detail below.

A multifunctional lid 114 for a drinking vessel 110, such as that of Figure 16, will now be described with particular reference to Figures 17 to 20. The lid 114 has an outer wall 124 in the form of a hollow cylinder, a first lid closure portion 126, a second lid closure portion 128 in the form of a cap or a lid top and a hollow tubular member or straw 130. The straw 130 is substantially the same as the straw 30 described with reference to Figure 4.

The first lid closure portion 126 is positioned within the outer wall 124 between the first end 120 and the second end 122. The first lid closure portion 126 may be formed integrally with the outer wall 124, or it may, in some embodiments of the invention, be a separate component which is fixed within the outer wall 124. The first lid closure portion 126 includes a first surface 134 and a second, opposing, surface 136. The first surface 134, which faces upward when the base 116 of the container 112 of the drinking vessel 110 is placed on a horizontal surface, has a first generally arcuate groove 138 substantially the same as the generally arcuate groove 38 of the example described with reference to Figures 2 to 9. In this way, the first arcuate groove 138 accommodates the straw 130 when it is in the stowed condition in the same manner as the example described with respect to Figures 2 to 9.

With particular reference to Figures 17 and 19, the first surface 134 of the first lid closure portion 126 includes a second arcuate groove 140. The second arcuate groove 140 is positioned radially inward relative to the first arcuate groove 138 and adjacent to the centre of the generally circular body 126. The second arcuate portion 140 includes a plurality of detents or bump features 148.

The outer wall 124 of the lid 114 includes a stepped portion 125 adjacent to the second, open, end 122 of the lid 114. In the example, the stepped portion 125 is provided around the periphery of the first surface 134, extending downwards when the base 116 of the container 112 of the drinking vessel 110 is placed on a horizontal surface. The stepped portion 125 includes an annular surface that faces upwards when the base 116 of the container 112 of the drinking vessel 110 is placed on a horizontal surface. In this way, the diameter of the first surface 134 is less than the diameter of the outer wall 124.

A projecting member 127 is provided around the first lid closure portion 126. In the example, the projecting member 127 is an annular projecting member extending radially outward from the first surface 134. The projecting member 127 is provided with a series of slots 129 configured so that second lid closure portion 128 may be releasably connected to the first lid closure portion 126 as is described herein.

A seal member 184, including first seal portion 186, second seal portion 188 and third seal portion 189 are provided on the first surface 134 of the generally circular body 132 in substantially the same manner as for the example described with reference to Figures 2 to 9.

The first lid closure portion 126 includes a first skirt or inner wall 166 and a second skirt or inner wall 182 which each extend downwardly from the second surface 136 (i.e. towards the container 112 of the drinking vessel 110, in use). The first skirt 166 and second skirt 182 are substantially the same as the corresponding features of the example described with reference to Figures 2 to 9.

The second lid closure portion 128 includes a generally circular body 152 having a first surface 154 and a second, opposing, surface 156 (as shown in Figure 18). The first surface 154, which faces upward when the base 116 of the container 112 of the drinking vessel 110 is placed on a horizontal surface, has a first opening or through-hole 158, a second opening or through-hole 160, and a vent hole 162.

Referring particularly to Figure 18, the second lid closure portion 128 includes a cylindrical wall 155 depending from the second surface 156. The cylindrical wall 155 is provided at the periphery of the second surface. A securing member 157 protrudes inwardly from the cylindrical wall 155. In the example, the securing member 157 includes a series of fingers spaced around the cylindrical wall 155 and arranged to protrude inwardly.

The securing member 157, and thus each finger, is spaced apart from the second surface 156. In this way, with the lid assembled, the securing member 157 locates in a channel on the stepped portion 125 formed below the projecting member 127 around the first lid closure portion 126. The second lid closure portion 128 is thereby rotatable relative to the first lid closure portion 126 while being connected thereto. Furthermore, controlling the spacing between securing member 157 and the second surface 156 of the second lid closure portion 128, ensures the spacing between the second surface 156 and the first surface 134 of the first lid closure portion 126 is maintained accurately. In this way the compression of the seal member 184 against the second lid closure portion 128 is controlled, reducing the risk of leaks.

Together, the securing member 157 and the projecting member 127 allow the second lid closure portion 128 to be releasably connected to the first lid closure portion 126. In particular, the fingers are configured to correspond to the series of slots 129 in the projecting member 127. In this way, a certain rotational alignment between the first and second lid closure portions 126, 128 allows the fingers to slide through the slots 129 so that the second lid closure portion 128 moves axially relative to the first lid closure portion 126. The fourth configuration of the lid corresponds to the rotational alignment of the first lid closure portion 126 such that it is allowed to move axially relative to the second lid closure portion 128.

The securing member 157 and projecting member 127 may be configured to provide a lock and key type arrangement for the releasable connection of the lid 114. In the example shown, the number of fingers, along with the differing widths and circumferential positioning on the cylindrical wall provide for a unique rotational alignment in which the first lid closure portion and second lid closure portion may be releasably connected. In this way, with the lid assembled and not in the fourth configuration then the second lid closure portion 128 cannot be removed from the first lid closure portion 126. As will be appreciate any suitable configuration of securing member and projecting member may be provided to provide the lock and key type arrangement, for example by modifying or adapting the size, spacing and number of the fingers and the series of slots. In certain examples, the securing member may include a series of fingers, for example at least three fingers, positioned equidistantly around the cylindrical wall. In this way, the fingers may ensure the second lid closure portion applies compression evenly around the first lid closure portion. The securing member thus ensures the second lid closure portion is not easily distorted from the first lid closure portion. In particular, the second closure portion remains oriented parallel to the first lid closure portion when the straw is in a stowed condition between the first and second lid closure portions.

The second surface 156 of the second lid closure portion 128 includes an engaging tooth 181 oriented to project away from the second surface 156. The tooth 181 is positioned to rotationally engage with the plurality of detents or bump features 148 when the second lid closure portion 128 is connected to the first lid closure portion 122. In this way, the second lid closure portion 128 may be rotationally held in any one of the first, second or third configurations by engagement of the tooth 181 with a respective detent or bump feature.

In the example shown, the second lid closure portion 128 includes a pair of secondary teeth 182 oriented to project away from the second surface 156. The engaging tooth 181 is disposed between the pair of secondary teeth 182. Each of the secondary teeth 181 are shorter that the tooth 181 to ensure they do not engage the detents or bump features 148. Instead the secondary teeth 182 prevent excessive bending being applied to the tooth 181 , either in use or during cleaning, thereby reducing the risk of breakage. However, it will be appreciated that the second lid closure portion 128 may be provided without the secondary teeth if the tooth itself is made sufficiently robust, for example by choosing a suitable shape or material.

Locating means are provided at the centre of the second lid closure portion 128, arranged to be received within a recess at the centre of the first lid closure portion 126 as the second lid closure portion 128 is assembled thereto.

Use of the multifunctional lid 114 corresponds substantially to use of the multifunctional lid 114 described with particular reference to Figures 10 to 15, other than the second lid closure portion 128 is not removable from the lid 114 in the first configuration. The multifunctional lid 114 has an additional, fourth configuration to permit releasable connection of the second lid closure portion 128 to the first lid closure portion 126.

The multifunctional lid 114 has four configurations: 1) straw drinking, 2) free flow drinking, 3) closed (and sealed), and 4) release. The lid 114 can be moved between each of the configurations by rotating the second lid closure portion 128 relative to the first lid closure portion 126. The detents 48 in the second arcuate groove 140 of the first lid closure portion 126 and the tooth 181 of the second lid closure portion together control the degree of rotation of the second lid closure portion 128 as the lid 114 is placed in each of the first, second and third configurations. Once the lid 114 is in one of the configurations, additional force is required for the tooth 181 to overcome the detents 148 in order to move the lid 114 into either of the other configurations. The second arcuate groove 140 does not form a ring around the second lid closure portion 128 and thus it is not possible to rotate the second lid closure portion 128 fully (i.e. 360°) in either the clockwise or the anti-clockwise direction. In other words, the extent by which the second lid closure portion 128 can be rotated is restricted by the length of the second arcuate groove 140.

The arrangement of the tooth 181 and detents 148 of the lid 114 makes it difficult to move the lid 114 between the configurations by accident, for example by a young, and/or unsupervised child until they have also developed the skills required to drink from an open cup independently.

Rotation of the second lid closure portion 128 in a fully anti-clockwise direction, by for example 40° from the first, straw drinking configuration position enables the second lid closure portion 128 to be releasably connected to the first lid closure portion 126.

The second surface 156 of the second lid closure portion 128 includes a plurality of projecting members 185, 187 disposed thereon. The plurality of projecting members 185, 187 are positioned on the lower surface so that when the lid 114 is in any one of the first, second, or third configuration then a pair of the projecting members are aligned to seal against each of the first seal portion 186 and the second seal portion 188 of the first lid closure portion 126.

Certain projecting members 185 are primary projecting members 185a, 185b of the plurality of projecting members. Primary projecting members 185a, 185b each surround a hole through the second lid closure portion 128. In the example shown, one projecting member 185a of a pair of primary projecting members is arranged to surround the vent hole 162 and another projecting member 185b of the pair is arranged to surround the second opening 160. In this way, when the lid 114 is in the second configuration then the pair of primary projecting members 185a, 185b are aligned to engage both the first seal member portion 186 the second seal portion 188. In this way, when the second opening of the first lid closure portion 126 is aligned with the second opening 160 of the second lid closure portion 128 then the second fluid passage and a venting fluid passage are each formed through the lid 114 with effective sealing at the interface of the first and second lid closure portions 126, 128.

Certain other projecting members 187 are secondary projecting members of the plurality of projecting members. Secondary projecting members 187a, 187b, 187c, 187d each surround a blind bore recess in the second lid closure portion 128. In the example shown, there is provided a first pair of secondary projecting members 187a, 187b and a second pair of secondary projecting members 187c, 187d. The first pair of secondary projecting members 187a, 187b are arranged to engage the first seal portion 186 and the second seal portion 188 when the lid 114 is in the first configuration. In this way, when the lid 114 is arranged so that the tubular member 130 protrudes through the first opening of the first lid closure portion 126 and through the first opening 158 of the second lid closure portion 128 then the second opening 144 of the first lid closure portion 126 is sealingly capped and the vent hole 162 is sealingly capped.

Likewise, the second pair of secondary projecting members 187c, 187d are arranged to engage the first seal portion 186 and the second seal portion 188 when the lid 114 is in the third configuration. In this way, when the lid 114 is arranged so that each of the first fluid passage and the second fluid passage are closed, then the second opening 144 of the first lid closure portion 126 is sealingly capped and the vent hole 162 is sealingly capped.

In the example shown in Figures 18, each respective pair of projecting members is positioned so that the projecting members are diametrically opposed. As will be appreciated, this arrangement is provided in order to correspond to the positions of the second opening 144 of the first lid closure portion 126 and the vent hole 162. However, the positioning of each pair of projecting members may be adapted to correspond to any other positioning of the second opening 144 and the vent hole 162, as is provided on the first lid closure portion 126.

The reader's attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.