Travel cup or mug, featuring easy opening, automatic closing, airtight valve means

Abstract

This invention is a Travel Mug, featuring airtight, no leak, easy opening, automatic closing, valve means. The invention provides the benefit of ensuring no beverage emerges from the inside of the container unless the opening mechanism is activated. Even with the additional pressure of very hot coffee, and even when shaken, the sealing mechanism remains leak-proof. This is accomplished by utilizing standard Rubber O-rings (125). Rubber O-rings (125) are positioned in intimate contact with O-Ring Seats (85) while surrounding Counter-bores, Bottom (90). A Spring (150), applies distancing pressure between Crossbeam (140) and Spring Seat (75). Said distancing pressure is transmitted to Qty 2, Stem (120), to Qty 2, Disk, O-ring (105), to Qty 2, O-Ring Groove (110), and ultimately onto Qty 2, Rubber O-Ring (125). Said pressure exerted on Rubber O-Ring (125), between the bottom of O-ring Groove (110) and O-ring Seat (125) causes airtight, leak-proof seals, or “valve means”. The valve means are made to open when manual pressure is exerted onto the Crossbeam (140). Various methods of acting upon Crossbeam (140) are comprehended. Said valve means automatically close upon release of manual pressure. A Cover Disk (225) provides an ideal surface for logo or other advertisement, as said surface is presented to the user's vision each time user drinks from the invention. Cover Disk also serves as support for the mechanisms delineated in the specification, which comprehend activating on Crossbeam (140) through use of a Button, Pusher (215), Lever (235), Trigger (245), etc.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The following patent numbers represent those patents encountered during the Patent search for this invention:

[0002] U.S. Pat. No. 3,964,631 U.S. Pat. No. 5,082,134 U.S. Pat. No. 3,967,748 U.S. Pat. No. 5,249,703 U.S. Pat. No. 3,972,443 U.S. Pat. No. 5,118,014 U.S. Pat. No. 4,094,433 U.S. Pat. No. 5,427,271 U.S. Pat. No. 4,099,642 U.S. Pat. No. 5,456,380 U.S. Pat. No. 4,121,731 U.S. Pat. No. 5,477,980 U.S. Pat. No. 4,171,060 U.S. Pat. No. 6,010,029 U.S. Pat. No. 4,212,408 U.S. Pat. No. 6,098,834 U.S. Pat. No. 4,238,045 U.S. Pat. No. 6,099,642 U.S. Pat. No. 4,276,992 U.S. Pat. No. 4,303,173

BACKGROUND

[0003] 1. Field of Invention

[0004] This invention relates to re-usable Travel Mugs or Cups, specifically to Travel Mugs, which are intended for preventing splashing, spilling or leaking of the beverage from the container.

[0005] 2. Discussion of Prior Art

[0006] There is a plethora of previous art in this field. Originally, Travel Mugs were made with a removable lid, which had a hole for sipping through, and a hole for venting. More recent Travel Mug designs have made various attempts at satisfying the requirement for a non-spill Travel Mug. With the present invention, the inventor endeavored to and actually accomplished three basic purposes or objectives.

[0007] The first objective is accomplishing the airtight and leak-proof characteristic. The prior art describes their accomplishment as, “spill-proof” or “splash-proof”. With this invention this characteristic is taken to the next level, the level of no leaking and in fact airtight sealing means.

[0008] The second objective is an easily operable method of opening and closing the Drinking Orifice.

[0009] The third objective is the incorporation of a vent, which allows free flow of the liquid out of the drinking opening. All of the examples of the previous art do not satisfy, simultaneously, all of the aforementioned three objectives.

[0010] Also, please allow me to state that the method of satisfying the airtight, leak proof requirement is not obvious. In fact, a departure from the existing concepts of Travel Mugs was necessary in order to accomplish this most important aspect of this invention; that being: airtight, leak-proof valve means.

[0011] One of the previous patents referred to is U.S. Pat. No. 6,098,834. This “CAP FOR BEVERAGE CONTAINER” does leak. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,082,134 and 5,186,353 both leak during testing. The continuously close proximity of the two separable components promotes rancidity of fluids trapped between them, during an actual test use. Another, U.S. Pat. No. 5,456,380 is difficult and cumbersome to open and close. Another, U.S. Pat. No. 5,427,271 is not only difficult to open and close, but has a leak incorporated in the design. U.S. Pat. No. 5,118,014 is a very fragile design, prone to falling apart, and does not claim leak proof, and does not claim airtight. While U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,964,631 and 4,094,433 have no vent. All of the aforementioned designs do not claim leak-proof or airtight seal.

[0012] So, the intention of satisfying the aforementioned three main criteria is what brought the current invention into existence. 1. This novel invention provides a durable, positive leak proof valve means. 2. This novel invention provides easy manual opening of the valve means for drinking use, with automatic closing. This easy method of opening is provided via a lever or pushbutton or trigger, acting on the valve sealing means. 3. The vent is provided using two identical valve-sealing mechanisms positioned diametrically opposed to one another in the face of the Cap or Closure. In addition another purpose has become apparent during the development process, and that is the creating of an ideal surface for advertising or Logo placement.

SUMMARY

[0013] This invention accomplishes four main purposes:

[0014] 1. The main focus of this design is the accomplishing of a positively leak-proof and even airtight sealing valve mechanism for Travel Mugs. With the existing prototype in my possession, I can lay the cup in the car seat, while it is full of the very hottest coffee, and it doesn't leak . . . a very comforting circumstance! The seal remains airtight under normal operating conditions. The seal remains airtight even when the additional pressure of the heated fluid inside the cup is exerted on the valve mechanism. Even when shaken the seal mechanism remains airtight.

[0015] 2. Another important focus of this invention is the accomplishing of easy opening and closing of the Drinking Orifice. One concept for accomplishing this aspect of the invention is through the design of a push-button. When one pushes the button with a finger, it opens the Drinking Orifice. When one releases the button, the Drinking Orifice automatically closes. The same purpose can be accomplished through the use of a lever or Trigger as well. The use of a simple lever is the method used in the current prototype.

[0016] 3. Another important focus is on accomplishing a vent that allows free flowing of the beverage through the Drinking Orifice. This is accomplished in our Travel Mug by utilizing two identical valve mechanisms. The valve mechanisms are located in diametrically opposed positions. The valve mechanisms are connected and both open and close simultaneously. One orifice is the Drinking Orifice, and the other orifice is the Venting Orifice. As the design is symmetrical, it is both for left and right hand use.

[0017] 4. A rather felicitous, incidental purpose, which has become apparent during the development process, is the creating of an ideal surface for advertising or Logo placement.

OBJECTS AND ADVANTAGES

[0018] Accordingly, several objects and advantage of my invention are: The invention provides valuable services. It provides the user the comfort of avoiding leaks of fluid onto their clothes, in their car, on their carpet, etc. It also is useful around electronic equipment such as computers. One can place the Travel Mug in a location near a computer and if they knock the container over, it will keep the liquid in the cup, inside the cup. If one happens to knock the Travel Cup over on the carpeted floor, there is no danger! The cup keeps all of the fluid inside the container. One of the other advantages is the ease of operation. With a simple push of the finger, the user can drink the beverage in the cup. Then, just release the activator and the cup automatically closes, airtight!

[0019] In addition, the invention embodies a smooth, flat surface that is well suited for placement of a Logo or other Advertising. The reason that this surface is so well suited is that each time the user drinks from the Invention, they look right at the mentioned surface.

[0020] Further objects and advantages of my invention will become apparent from a consideration of the drawings and ensuing description.

DRAWING FIGURES

[0021] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view with partial cross-section of a Cap Closure Assembly 28 of this invention, attached to a Cup Body 165.

[0022] FIG. 1A shows a plan view of a Cap Closure Assembly.

[0023] FIG. 1B shows a cross section view of a Cap Closure Assembly, with Valves closed.

[0024] FIG. 1C shows a cross section view of a Cap Closure Assembly, with Valves open.

[0025] FIG. 2 shows a plan view of a Cap Main Body of this invention.

[0026] FIG. 2A shows a cross section view of a Cap Main Body of this invention.

[0027] FIG. 3 shows a plan view of O-ring Housing.

[0028] FIG. 3A shows a cross-sectioned elevation view of O-Ring Housing. FIG. 4 shows a plan view of a standard Rubber O-Ring.

[0029] FIG. 4A shows an elevation view of a standard Rubber O-Ring.

[0030] FIG. 5 shows a plan view of a Disc Shaped Lever.

[0031] FIG. 5A shows an elevation view of a Disc Shaped Lever.

[0032] FIG. 6 shows a plan view of a Crossbeam.

[0033] FIG. 6A shows an elevation view of a Crossbeam.

[0034] FIG. 7 shows an elevation view of a Spring.

[0035] FIG. 7A shows a plan view of a Spring.

[0036] FIG. 8 shows an elevation view of a Cup Body.

[0037] FIG. 8A shows a plan view of a Cup Body.

[0038] FIG. 9 shows a plan view of a Sealing Washer.

[0039] FIG. 9A shows a cross-sectioned, elevation view of a Sealing Washer.

[0040] FIG. 10 shows a plan view of a Cap Closure Assembly, Pushbutton and Lever Version

[0041] FIG. 10A shows a cross section view of a Cap Closure Assembly, Pushbutton Version, with Valves Closed.

[0042] FIG. 10B shows a cross section view of a Cap Closure Assembly, Pushbutton Version, with Valves Open.

[0043] FIG. 10C shows a cross section view of a Cap Closure Assembly, Lever Version, with Valves Closed.

[0044] FIG. 10D shows a cross section view of a Cap Closure Assembly, Lever Version, with Valves Open.

[0045] FIG. 11 shows a plan view of a version of a Cap Closure Assembly with a Handle and Thumb Trigger.

[0046] FIG. 11A shows an elevation view with partial view of a Cup Body, and, a version of Cap Closure Assembly with a Handle and Thumb Trigger.

DRAWING REFERENCE NUMBERS

[0047] 28, Cap Closure Assembly

[0048] 29, Cap Main Body

[0049] 30, Disk

[0050] 35, Disk Top

[0051] 40, Disk Bottom

[0052] 45, Rim, Upper

[0053] 50, Rim, Lower

[0054] 55, Through Hole

[0055] 60, Boss

[0056] 65, Radial Slot

[0057] 70, Threaded Holes

[0058] 75, Spring Seat

[0059] 80, Groove

[0060] 85, O-Ring Seat

[0061] 90, Counter-bore, Bottom

[0062] 95, Threads

[0063] 100, O-Ring Housing

[0064] 105, Disk, O-ring

[0065] 110, O-Ring Groove

[0066] 115, Threaded Hole, O-Ring Housing

[0067] 120, Stem

[0068] 125, Rubber O-Ring

[0069] 130, Disc Shaped Lever

[0070] 135, Hole

[0071] 140, Crossbeam

[0072] 145, Countersink

[0073] 150, Spring

[0074] 155, Rim

[0075] 160, Thread

[0076] 165, Cup Cavity

[0077] 170, Cup Body

[0078] 175, Sealing Washer

[0079] 180, Screw

[0080] 185, Flat Head Screw

[0081] 190, Flow Path

[0082] 195, Heel

[0083] 200, Ramp Pusher

[0084] 205, Ramp, Crossbeam

[0085] 210, Pusher

[0086] 215, Button, Pusher

[0087] 220, Plastic Rivet

[0088] 225, Cover Disk

[0089] 230, Sonic Welded End

[0090] 235, Lever

[0091] 240, Handle

[0092] 245, Trigger

[0093] 250, Puller

[0094] Description-FIGS. 1 and 1A

[0095] A preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0096] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view with partial cross section of my new Cap Closure Assembly 28 for Travel Mugs. In this view, a Cup Body 170 is seen attached to the Cap Closure Assembly 28. A Cup Body 170 is only included for additional clarity. A Cap Closure Assembly 28, which embodies an easy opening/automatic closing, airtight sealing valve mechanism, is the main focus of this invention.

[0097] Description-FIGS. 2,2A

[0098] FIG. 2 shows a plan view of a Cap Main Body 29. FIG. 2A shows a cross section view AA of a Cap Main Body 29, of this invention. Cross-section view, AA, is taken from FIG. 2. The Cap Main Body 29 is composed of Injection Molded Thermoplastic and embodies several non-separable features. Reference numbers identify the non-separable features of 29 Cap Main Body.

[0099] Disk 30 is a Disk shaped mass of Thermoplastic material. Disk 30 is an appropriate diameter and thickness for comprehending the intended purpose. Disk 30 possesses a Disk Top 35 and a Disk Bottom 40. Integrally formed around the circumference of the Disk 30, is a Rim, Upper 45 or Lip, or Tube, along the perimeter of Disk 30. Rim, Upper 45 extends uniformly upward from Disk Top 35. Rim, Upper 45 terminates at a height comprehending the function of its design.

[0100] Integrally formed along the circumference of the Disk Bottom 40 is a Rim, Lower 50 or Lip, or Tube. Rim, Lower 50 extends uniformly downward from the face of Disk Bottom 40. Rim, Lower 50 terminates at a distance comprehending the function of its design.

[0101] Integrally formed along the inside of Rim, Lower 50 are Threads 95 for securely affixing the Cap Main Body 29 to a cup.

[0102] A Groove 80 for Sealing Washer 175, depicted in FIG. 9 and FIG. 9A, is integrally formed, annularly at the juncture of Disk, Bottom 40 and Rim, Lower 50. The groove comprehends retaining the Sealing Washer 175.

[0103] An integrally formed Counter-bore, Bottom 90 penetrates Disk Bottom 40 and continues into Disk 30 to a depth that is 60% of the thickness of Disk 30. Counter-bore, Bottom 90 is situated concentric with Through Hole 55. A Counter-bore, Bottom 90 is situated at each Through Hole 55.

[0104] Around each Counter bore, Bottom 90 is a very smooth O-ring Seat 85. O-Ring Seat 85 emanates continuously radially from Counter bore, Bottom 90, and is integral with Disk Bottom 40. O-ring Seat 85 terminates at a diameter, which is no less than 10% larger than the outside diameter of Rubber O-Ring 125, depicted in FIG. 4 and 4A.

[0105] FIG. 2 shows a plan view of a Cap Main Body 29. The material that this invention is composed of is an appropriate type of Thermoplastic. Cap Main Body 29 is formed using injection-molding process. The material used, will be chosen for sanitary use, and strength, which comprehend the correct functioning of the invention. The working prototypes are constructed of Black Delrin. Cap Main Body 29 embodies several non-separable features. FIG. 2 is showing non-separable features in addition to the non-separable features shown in FIG. 2A. We also repeat the mention of some non-separable features for increased clarity.

[0106] FIG. 2 shows Disk Top 35 or, the top surface of a flat, round shaped mass of material. A Rim, Upper 45 or Lip, or Tube, is integrally formed around the perimeter of the disk and extends uniformly upward from the face of Disk Top 35, forming a reservoir. Through Hole 55 (Qty 2) is a diameter that comprehends the free sliding of Stem 120, as shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 3A.

[0107] An integrally formed Boss 60 extends upward from Disk Top 35. Boss 60 is a diameter that is 250 percent the diameter of Stem 120. Boss 60 extends upward a distance that is 50 percent of the thickness of Disk 30.

[0108] A Radial Slot 65 is integrally formed, concentric with Through Hole 55. Radial Slot 65 penetrates into the Disc Top 35. Radial Slot 65 penetrates into Disc 30 to a depth that is 60 percent of the thickness of the Disk 30. One of the side edges of Radial Slot 65 is adjacent to Boss 60. The other side edge is spaced at a distance equal to 30 percent of the diameter of Counter bore, Bottom 90. The Radial Slot 65 extends into and creates a void between Radial Slot 65 and Counter bore, Bottom 90. The two ends of Radial Slot 65 are positioned symmetrically along the vertical centerline of Through Hole 55 as shown in FIG. 2. The open side of Radial Slot 65 is positioned between Boss 60 and Rim, Upper 45. One each of 55, 60 and 65, FIG. 2, and one each 85 and 90, FIG. 2A are, as a set, located at the furthest possible location closest to the Rim 45. One each of 55, 60 and 65, FIG. 2, and one each 85 and 90, FIG. 2A, are, as another set, located radially transformed, diametrically opposed to the first set. The location of 55, 60, 65, 85 and 90 must also comprehend not creating any voids that disagree with the airtight concept. The locations of the above-described sets comprehend including sufficient strength and durability to the Invention.

[0109] Integrally formed at the center of Disc, Top 35 is a Spring Seat 75, FIG. 2. Spring Seat 75 is a cavity having a round shape and flat bottom, see FIG. 2A. Spring Seat 75 is a diameter that comprehends the placement of Spring 150, FIG. 7 into Spring Seat 75. Spring Seat 75 penetrates through Disk Top 35, and into Disk 30 a depth that is 30 percent of the thickness of Disk 30.

[0110] For the working Prototype a method was required to maintain the continued attachment of a Disc Shaped Lever 130, FIG. 5, to Cap Main Body 29. For this purpose we bring to your attention Threaded Hole 70, FIG. 2. There is two of Threaded Hole 70. Each of Threaded Holes 70 is located at a position that is the same relative position as each Hole 135, FIG. 5. Said relative position ensures that Disc Shaped Lever 130 is centrally located with Rim, Upper 45. The other function of the location of each Tapped Hole 70 is that of being the location of the fulcrum of Disc Shaped Lever 130. A standard Screw 180, FIG. 1B is located into each Hole 135. Screw 180 also screws into Threaded Hole 70. The length of Screw 180 is such that when Screw 180 is screwed into Threaded Hole 70, it causes Disk Shaped Lever 130, FIG. 1B to rest on Crossbeam 140, FIG. 1B and be parallel to Disc Top 35. Okay, so much for the Cap Main body 29! Now we will look at several separable components that are included in the assembled novel Travel Mug Invention.

[0111] Description-FIG. 3 and FIG. 3A

[0112] Please bring your attention to FIG. 3. FIG. 3 shows an O-ring Housing 100. FIG. 3A shows a cross-sectioned elevation view of O-ring Housing 100. O-Ring Housing 100 is composed of the same material as Cup Main Body 29 and formed with injection molding process. The non-separable features of O-Ring Housing 100 are as follows: A Disc, O-Ring 105 is a disk shaped mass. Disk, O-Ring 105 is of such size and thickness that it comprehends the strength necessary for it's function. Integrally formed in one face of Disk, O-Ring 105 is an O-Ring Groove 110, O-ring Groove 110 is located concentric to Disk 105. O-Ring Groove 110 is the width that is five percent smaller than the outer diameter of a standard Rubber O-ring 125, FIG. 3. The depth of O-Ring Groove 110 is 57 percent of the thickness of O-Ring 125. O-Ring Groove 110, FIG. 3A comprehends the keeping of O-Ring 125 fixed within O-Ring Groove 110 with a press fit.

[0113] Located on the same side as O-Ring Groove 110 is a Stem 120 or rod shaped portion. The Stem 120 is integrally formed to Disk, O-Ring 105, and is perpendicular and concentric to Disk, O-Ring 105. Stem 120 is a diameter that is 5 percent smaller than the diameter of Through Hole 55, FIG. 2. Stem 120 is a length that comprehends the function of the Stem 120 in relation to the other components of the Invention. In the center of the Stem 120 at the end farthest away from Disk, O-Ring 105 is a Threaded Hole, O-Ring Housing 115. Threaded Hole 115 is a size and depth that comprehends the accepting of a standard Flat Head Screw 185, as shown in FIG. 1C.

[0114] Description-FIG. 4 and FIG. 4A

[0115] FIG. 4 shows a standard Rubber O-Ring 125. A Rubber O-Ring 125 is used as the flexible sealing agent between O-Ring Seat 85, and the bottom of O-Ring Groove 110.

[0116] Description-FIG. 5 and FIG. 5A

[0117] FIG. 5 and FIG. 5A show a Disk Shaped Lever 130. Disk shaped Lever 130 is a flat, disc shaped mass of Thermoplastic made using Injection Molding Process. It is constructed of the same Material as Cap Main Body 29. Integrally formed within Disk Shaped Lever 130 are Qty 2, Hole 135 in the broadest face of Disk Shaped Lever 130. Each Hole 135 is perpendicular to the face of Disk Shaped Lever 130. Each Hole 135 continues entirely through the face of the Disk Shaped Lever 130. Each Hole 135 is sized and placed in the fashion that comprehends its attachment to Cap Main Body 29. When the Disc Shaped Lever 130, is pushed down, it opens the valve mechanism as shown in FIG. 1C. Also notice in FIG. 1C the Flow Path 190. A Flow Path 190 happens at both diametrically opposed locations. One is where the Fluid flows out, the other is a “vent”, where the air flows into the container.

[0118] Description FIG. 6 and FIG. 6A

[0119] Referring to FIG. 6 and FIG. 6A we see a Crossbeam 140. Crossbeam 140 is a plank shaped mass of Thermoplastic. Crossbeam 140 is composed of the same material as Cap Main Body 29. Crossbeam 140 is created using Injection Molding Process. Crossbeam 140 embodies Countersink 145 located four places. Two of Countersink(s) 145 are located into one of the broad faces of the Crossbeam 145. They are located symmetrically about the centerline of the Crossbeam 145. Each Countersink 145 is spaced at a distance equal to that of the distance between the two Through Holes 55 shown in FIG. 2. The other two Countersinks 145 are located on the opposite side of the first two Countersinks 145. At the vertex of where the two opposing Countersinks 145 meet, an opening is created that is ten percent larger than threaded diameter of Flat Head Screw 185, FIG. 1B.

[0120] Description-FIG. 7 and FIG. 7A

[0121] FIG. 7 and 7A show a Spring 150 made of Stainless Steel or Plastic. The spring must exert sufficient pressure between the Crossbeam 140 and the bottom of the Spring Seat 75, FIG. 2A. Sufficient pressure is that which causes the 0-ring Housing 100 to compress the Rubber O-Ring 125 between the O-Ring Seat 85 and the bottom of the O-Ring Groove 110. Sufficient pressure ensures the airtight seal, and for reference, on the functional prototypes, is 7 pounds of pressure.

[0122] Description-FIG. 8 and FIG. 8A

[0123] We will now look at a Cup Body 170, which the invention, the Cap Closure Assembly 28 may be attached to. The Cup itself is of minimal import in this discourse, as any sort of cup will do, that has at least the following characteristics. You see in FIG. 8 and FIG. 8A is shown a Cup Body 170. The Cup Body 170 possesses a Rim 155, which comprehends sealing against Sealing Washer 175. The Cup possesses a Thread 160, which is compatible with Threads 95 of Cap main Body 29. The Cup of course has a Cavity 165, which is for holding the beverage. And finally of course the cup must possess a Cup Body 170.

[0124] Description-FIG. 9 and FIG. 9A

[0125] The final main separable component of this invention is shown in FIG. 9 and FIG. 9A. FIG. 9 shows a Sealing Washer 175. Sealing Washer 175 is made of some softer, but durable rubber or substance that is appropriate for the compression seal between two surfaces. The size of the Sealing Washer 175 is such that it comprehends its placement in Groove 80, FIG. 2A. It is also such thickness as comprehends its purpose of sealing between Groove 80 and Rim 155, FIG. 8.

[0126] Operation of Invention-FIG. 1B and FIG. 1C

[0127] This Invention provides easy and dependable operation to the user. To fill the Travel Mug, unscrew Cap Closure Assembly 28 from Cup Body 170, FIG. 1. Fill the Cup Cavity 165 with Hot Coffee or Cold Soda or any other Beverage. Screw Cap Closure Assembly 28 firmly onto Cup Body 170. The Cap construction is symmetrical, ensuring use by both right handed and left handed people.

[0128] To drink from the cup, press down on disc shaped lever 130 at the approximate location shown in FIG. 1. When a person presses on Disc Shaped Lever 130, it opens the seat between Rubber O-ring 125 and O-Ring Seat 85, see FIG. 1C, note Flow Path 190. When one releases the pressure on Disc Shaped Lever 130, FIG. 1B, this allows Spring 150 to exert distancing pressure between Spring Seat 75 and Crossbeam 140. Crossbeam 140 consequently pulls on each Stem 120, which carries each Rubber O-Ring 125 into forcible contact with each O-Ring Seat 85 and the bottom of each Groove 80, thereby closing the seal, see FIG. 1B. The user experiences great comfort with the knowledge that if the container described herein turns over, it does not leak! It is not only “Splash Proof” but airtight and leak proof Even with the additional pressure exerted when one puts the hottest coffee in the Travel Mug, it still remains having an airtight seal, even when shaken. The seal only opens when the opening mechanism is activated.

[0129] Description of Operation of an Additional Embodiment-FIG. 10, FIG. 10A, and FIG. 10B

[0130] The main focus of this invention is the sealing mechanism. One specific concept that this design incorporates, is having a seal on which the pressure is exerted at the center, uniformly, on a circular shaped, flexible sealing member. This is accomplished as shown in FIG. 1B with the Spring 150 pushing against Crossbeam 140 which pulls up simultaneously on each Stem 120. The pressure exerted along each Stem 120, and consequently on each Rubber O-Ring 125 is annularly symmetrical and uniform, assuring a good sealing action.

[0131] That single principle is what all the other prior art has failed to comprehend and accomplish. And actually is the single most important basis of the Novelty of this invention. It actually keeps the beverage inside the container until the operator activates the opening mechanism. So, the Spring 150, Crossbeam 140, O-Ring Housing 100, Rubber O-Ring 125 and O-Ring Seat 85 are the main items that comprehend satisfying the requirements necessary for accomplishing the airtight sealing of the Travel Mug valve mechanism.

[0132] With that in mind we can envision many methods of acting on the Crossbeam 140 to causing it to open a space between Rubber O-Ring(s) 125 and O-Ring Seat 85. The preferred method of accomplishing this is with the method already delineated in this writing. But, it is also easy to see that another method of acting on the Crossbeam 140 is with a push-button, located on the exterior of the cup, as depicted in FIGS. 10, 10A, and 10B.

[0133] In FIG. 10A is shown a cross section view of a version of Cap Closure Assembly 28 with the O-Ring Housings 100 in the closed position. This Pushbutton version possesses most of the features of the preferred embodiment of the invention, FIG. 1, with some added features.

[0134] A Pusher 210, FIG. 10C, has an integrally formed Ramp, Pusher 200 and a Button, Pusher 215. In this iteration the Disc Shaped Lever 130 is modified and renamed Cover Disk 225. Cover disk 225 is fixed permanently in place with Qty 4 Plastic Rivet 220, FIG. 10. Plastic Rivets 220 are integrally formed onto Disk Top 35. The height of Plastic Rivets 220 locate Cover Disk 225 so that Pusher 210 slides between Cover Disk 225 and Crossbeam 140. Crossbeam 140 has an added feature, a Ramp, Crossbeam 205. Cover Disk 225 is modified to include a Heel 195 for preventing Crossbeam 140 moving to the left. The tops of Plastic Rivets 220 are sonic welded onto Cover Disk 225. The tops of O-Ring Housing 100 are sonic welded, Sonic Welded End 230, to Crossbeam 140.

[0135] Please refer now to FIG. 10b. With FIG. 10b is shown the same cross-section view, but with O-Ring Housings 100 in the open position, note Flow Path 190. This is accomplished by pushing on Button, Pusher 215. As the Pusher 210 moves, Cover Disk 225 prevents Pusher 210 from rising upward. Ramp, Pusher 200 and Ramp, Crossbeam 205 slide upon each other. This pushes Crossbeam 140 downward and carries O-Ring Housings 100 into the open position. When pushing pressure is eliminated, the mechanism returns both O-Ring Housings 100 return to the closed position.

[0136] Description of Operation of an Additional Embodiment-FIG. 10, FIG. 10C, and FIG. 10D

[0137] In FIG. 10C and FIG. 10D is shown another method of acting on the Crossbeam 140. This method is different in only one characteristic from that depicted with FIGS. 10, 10A, and 10B. The difference being that the Button, Pusher 215 now has been appended with a lever 235. With this version the user presses on the lever in order to operate the valve sealing means as described under FIGS. 10, 10A and 10B.

[0138] Description of Operation of an Additional Embodiment-FIG. 11, and FIG. 11A

[0139] In FIG. 11 and FIG. 11A is shown another method of acting on Crossbeam 140. This method is different in that Cap Closure Assembly 28 possesses a non-separable Handle 240. Handle 240 is integrally formed onto Cup Main Body 29. Handle 240 is positioned perpendicular to Crossbeam 140. Handle is constructed to comprehend the attachment of Trigger 245. Puller 250 embodies a ramp similar to that of Pusher 210, while comprehending it's placement at 90 degrees relative to Crossbeam 140. In FIG. 11 we see that Cover Disk 130 is attached to Cup Main Body using a method that comprehends no protuberance on the outer side of Cover Disk 130.

[0140] With this embodiment, the user grips Handle 240 with either hand. While gripping the Handle 240 the user presses on Trigger 245 with their thumb. Trigger 245 carries Puller 250; causing previously comprehended ramps to act on each other. Said acting causes Crossbeam 140 to move downward, opening said valve means. To close the valve means, the user eliminates the pressure on Trigger 245, and the valve means automatically close with airtight seal.

[0141] Conclusion, Ramifications and Scope of Invention

[0142] At this time please allow me to express my thanks to You for Your time, dear reader. Praise God you made it through it! And, please forgive me if I was too tedious or ignorant.

[0143] Hopefully you have found some agreement with the significance of this marvelous invention (even though it is not time travel or perpetual motion!). I know from my personal use of a Prototype of this invention, that it is truly comforting to feel free of the concern of spilling Coffee in the car. In this truly more and more sophisticated World we live in, it is about time that someone finally came up with an actual no-leak Travel Mug. And I am very happy in being the one to provide such a valuable service.

[0144] While other art has claimed “Splash Proof” or “Spill Proof”, we claim leak proof and even airtight valve sealing means. And while furnishing airtight, leak proof valve means, we also include extremely easy opening of the valve means manually, and automatic closing of valves. Also allow me to state that the methods described in this humble petition are not obvious. With the very large history of the previous art, if it was obvious, someone would have done these things all together before now, but they did not. I have purchased many of the Travel Mugs out there, used them, and they have all leaked, even though they may claim “Spill Proof” or “Splash Proof” in their patent. While others purposefully engineer leaks into the design to prevent buildup of pressure caused by heat.

[0145] As we can see, the main point of perfection is the means for valve sealing. Numerous methods of acting on the valve sealing means, for opening and closing can be thought of. Earlier in this disclosure we described an alternative method embodying the use of an exterior Button, Pusher 215, a Lever 235, and a Trigger 245. We can also accomplish this, using many other methods. In fact, the Disk Shaped Lever 130 could be entirely omitted and the airtight valve sealing means would still be maintained. One could press with a finger on the Crossbeam 140 for opening the Valves. The Disk Shaped Lever 130 serves a cosmetic purpose and additionally decreases the force required to act on the Crossbeam.

[0146] A rather felicitous, extra use, for Disk Shaped Lever 130 and or Cover Disk 225, has become apparent during the development of this invention. Either Disk is a very wonderful surface upon which to advertise. A Company could place their Logo or other advertisement on the Disk. It is a good flat surface, large enough for such purposes. So that each time someone drinks from the Travel Mug Invention, said advertisement is close in the user's view.

Claims

1. An airtight valve sealing means for Travel Mugs that is easily opened and automatically closes.

2. A Travel Mug with a surface that is positioned such that a Logo or advertisement is presented directly into the view of a user each time a user drinks from the Travel Mug.