Travel Mug Apparatus

A travel mug apparatus having a mug body, an insert straw component and a lid. The mug body includes a base and an upstanding wall. A body straw component is associated with the mug body. Together with the body straw component, the insert straw component defines a straw with an elongated channel for drawing fluid from the storage volume defined by the mug body. The lid extends over and sealingly engages the upstanding wall. Advantageously, the upstanding wall is configured to facilitate the use of the mug without affecting the field of vision of a user.

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Description
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

1. Field of the Disclosure

The invention relates in general to a drinking vessel, and more particularly, to a travel mug apparatus that is particularly well suited for use in association with a traveler driving a vehicle or being a passenger in a vehicle. Of course, the disclosure is not limited to such a use, and such a use is considered to be exemplary solely.

2. Background Art

The use of drinking vessels is known in the art. It is also known that users tend to use drinking vessels when operating a motor vehicle, or while undertaking various activities which require an outward generally unobstructed view.

Often, it is the case that a drinking vessel is supplied in the form of a cup. In certain instances, the cup is covered with a lid. Generally, access to the flowable material contained within the cup is provided in the form of a straw that extends through a centrally located slit on the lid. Due to the position of the straw on the lid, the flexibility of the straw engagement with the lid, and the special orientation of the cup, inadvertent leaking is often the result. In other instances, the user is incapable of reaching the straw without tipping the cup to such an extent that it enters the field of vision. In still further instances, it is difficult to control the straw which is only loosely (and often pivotally) coupled to the lid.

It is desirable to provide an improved travel mug apparatus which overcomes the deficiencies of the prior art.

This and other objects will become apparent in light of the specification appended hereto.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

The disclosure is directed to a travel mug apparatus. It will be understood that the travel mug apparatus may be utilized in situations other than travelling, however, the apparatus is particularly well suited for such use. The travel mug apparatus of the present disclosure includes a mug body, a body straw component, and an insert straw component. The mug body has a base with a bottom surface and a top surface, as well as an upstanding wall. The upstanding wall extends from the top surface of the base and includes an inner surface and an upper edge. Together, the base and the upstanding wall defining a storage volume.

The body straw component includes an elongated surface that extends along the inner surface of the upstanding wall between the base and the upper edge. The body straw component includes a first side edge and a second side edge with a first side joining member positioned at the first side edge and a second side joining member positioned at the second side edge.

An insert straw component has an elongated body with a first side edge and a second side edge. A first side joining member is positioned at the first side edge and a second side joining member is positioned at the second side edge. The body straw component and the insert straw component are slidably engageable in substantially sealed engagement. In such a configuration, the first side joining member of the body straw component interfaces with the first side joining member of the insert straw component along the length thereof. Similarly, the second side joining member of the body straw component interfaces with the second side joining member of the insert straw component along the length thereof. Together, these structures define an elongated channel extending between the top surface of the base and the upper edge of the upstanding wall. The elongated channel has an opening proximate the top surface of the base and proximate the upper edge of the upstanding wall.

In a preferred embodiment, the upper edge of the upstanding wall is angled relative to the base of the mug body. The body straw component is positioned on the upstanding wall opposite a location of minimum height of the upstanding wall. As a result, interference of the upstanding wall with a field of vision of a user when tilted is precluded.

In another preferred embodiment, the body straw component is integrally formed with the upstanding wall. In one such preferred embodiment, the upstanding wall comprises a frusto-conical configuration with a substantially circular cross section. In another such embodiment, the body straw component may define an outward bulge from the outer surface of the upstanding wall, to define a cross-section which is other than circular.

Preferably, the first side joining member of the body straw component and the second side joining member of the body straw component each comprise a flange that extends along the length thereof. The flange is spaced apart from the elongated surface of the body straw member. The first joining member of the insert straw component and the second joining member of the insert straw component each comprise a slot which is configured for mating engagement with the respective one of the flanges of the first and second joining members of the body straw component.

In a preferred embodiment, the insert straw component further includes a bottom transverse channel extending through the elongated body proximate the bottom thereof. This facilitates the ingress of flowable material from within the storage volume.

In another preferred embodiment, the insert straw component further includes a transverse channel extending through the elongated body at a top end thereof. This selectively allows for the ingress of air simultaneously with the ingress of flowable material from within the storage volume. Such a configuration provides for a slurping sensation.

In another preferred embodiment, the channel defined by the cooperation of the body straw component and the insert straw component is an oblong cross-sectional configuration.

In another preferred embodiment, a head is positioned at the top of the insert straw component. The head has a handle tab with a transverse channel extending therethrough. The head is configured to correspond to an opening of a mouth of a user.

In yet another embodiment, the travel mug further includes a lid which has a base and an upstanding wall extending from an outer perimeter of the base. The upstanding wall of the lid corresponds with the inner surface of the upstanding wall of the mug body to sealingly engage the same. A straw accommodating slot is disposed on the lid so as to correspond to the insert straw component and the body straw component, to accommodate the same.

In another preferred embodiment, the upstanding wall further includes an inner flange spaced apart from the base and spaced apart from the upper edge of the upstanding wall. The base of the lid is configured to engage the inner flange, to, in turn, provide a stop which precludes further movement of the lid toward the base upon operable engagement therebetween.

In a preferred embodiment, the flange is substantially parallel to the base and oblique to the upper edge of the upstanding wall.

In another preferred embodiment, the mug apparatus further includes a mug sleeve.

In another aspect of the disclosure, the disclosure is directed to a travel mug which has a mug body and an upstanding wall. The mug body has a base with a top surface and a bottom surface. The bottom surface is configured to interface with an outside surface. The upstanding wall extends from the base and includes an inner surface terminating at an upper edge. Together with the mug body, the upstanding wall defines a storage volume. The upper edge is disposed obliquely to the bottom surface of the base of the mug body.

A straw component is positioned on the inner surface of the upstanding wall opposite a location of minimum height of the upstanding wall. Such a special relationship precludes interference of the upstanding wall with a field of vision of a user when tilted.

In a preferred embodiment, the straw component further comprises a body straw component associated with the inner surface of the upstanding wall. An insert straw component is releasably attachable to the body straw component, to, in turn, define an elongated channel for the egress of flowable material from within the storage volume.

In a preferred embodiment, the body straw component is integrally formed with the upstanding wall.

In another preferred embodiment, a lid is positionable over the storage volume. The lid is in sealing engagement with the upstanding wall.

In another preferred embodiment, the lid is positionable between the base and the upper edge of the upstanding wall. The lid further includes a straw accommodating slot configured to receive the insert straw component therethrough.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosure will now be described with reference to the drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 of the drawings is a perspective view of the travel mug apparatus of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 of the drawings is a perspective view of the mug body of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 of the drawings is a cross-sectional view of the mug body, taken longitudinally, showing in particular a planar view of the body straw component;

FIG. 4 of the drawings is a cross-sectional view of the mug body, taken longitudinally, showing in particular a cross-sectional view of the body straw component;

FIG. 5 of the drawings is a cross-sectional view of the mug body, taken transversely, showing in particular a cross-sectional view of the body straw component;

FIG. 6 of the drawings is a front perspective view of the insert straw component of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 of the drawings is a back perspective view of the insert straw component of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 of the drawings is a back elevational view of the insert straw component of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 of the drawings is a cross-sectional view of the insert straw component of the present disclosure, showing, in particular, the cross-sectional configuration of the joining members;

FIG. 10 of the drawings is a perspective view of the lid of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 11 of the drawings is a perspective view of the mug sleeve of the present disclosure.

 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

While this invention is susceptible of embodiment in many different forms, there is shown in the drawings and described herein in detail a specific embodiment with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification and is not intended to be limited to the embodiment illustrated.

It will be understood that like or analogous elements and/or components, referred to herein, may be identified throughout the drawings by like reference characters. In addition, it will be understood that the drawings are merely schematic representations of the invention, and some of the components may have been distorted from actual scale for purposes of pictorial clarity.

Referring now to the drawings and in particular to FIG. 1, the travel mug apparatus is shown generally at 10. The travel mug is configured to provide the user ease of use when operating a motor vehicle or other vehicle, or when on a moving surface or body. Amongst other features, the travel mug apparatus provides a clear unobstructed view while in use, as well as providing an easy manner in which to draw fluid from therewithin. In addition, the travel mug apparatus provides for ease of cleaning and reusing with minimal accumulation of dirt, grime and other undesirable material.

In an embodiment of the travel mug apparatus of the present disclosure, and with reference to FIG. 1, the travel mug 10 is shown as comprising mug body 12, insert straw component 14, lid 16 and sleeve 18. With particular reference to FIGS. 2 through 5, the mug body 12 includes base 20, upstanding wall 22 and body straw component 24. Generally, the base 20 comprises a substantially planar member with the upstanding wall extending therefrom in a frusto-conical configuration. Of course, other configurations are contemplated, including, but not limited to cylindrical configurations and the like. The mug body comprises a single integrally formed (typically molded) member of a polymer material. Of course, other materials, such as coated paperboard, metal, wood, among other materials are all contemplated for use. It is also contemplated that the mug body (as well as other components) may comprise a polymer member that is sensitive to temperatures, such that, for example, the polymer changes color based on the outside temperature.

More particularly, the base 20 includes top surface 21, bottom surface 23 and outer perimeter 25. In the embodiment shown, the base 20 comprises a substantially planar member having a substantially uniform thickness and a circular outer perimeter. Of course, a slightly upwardly convex configuration is contemplated, as is a base having a varied thickness, such that the bottom surface and the top surface may be other than substantially parallel to each other.

Extending upwardly from the outer perimeter 25 is the upstanding wall 22, which includes outer surface 26, inner surface 27 and upper edge 28. As set forth above, the upstanding wall 22 comprises an inverted frusto-conical configuration. Generally, the thickness of the upstanding wall can be varied, as can be the cross-sectional configuration (i.e., frusto-conical). The upper edge 28 is generally oblique to the base 20 so that the upper edge has a decided slant of approximately between 5 and 35 degrees, preferably between 15 and 20 degrees. Of course, the range of the angular displacement of the upper edge can be varied, most generally for purposes of conforming with the geometry of the base and the upstanding wall. It will be understood that the slanting of the upper edge 28 is such that the edge is generally parallel to the ground, or at a slight decline when in use, such that the upper edge remains below the general field of vision. In such a configuration, the user can maintain a good view of, for example, the path ahead. It will be understood that while a generally linear configuration for the upper edge is shown, other variations are contemplated, including curved and otherwise uniform and non-uniform configurations. It will also be understood that essentially the height of the upstanding wall is shorter at a region opposite of the body straw component and that the body straw component is positioned across from such a location. As a result, the height of the upstanding wall proximate the straw will be larger than the height opposite the same.

Spaced apart from the upper edge 28, and generally substantially parallel to the base 20, lies an inner flange 30 that encircles the inner perimeter of the upstanding wall spaced apart from the base 20. As will be explained, the inner flange 30 provides a surface, stop and/or edge upon which the lid can be sealingly engaged. It will be understood that the inner flange 30 provides a stop, precluding further inward movement of the lid. In certain embodiments, the flange may provide for sealing engagement of the lid. In other embodiments, the flange in cooperation with portions of the inner surface either below or above the inner flange provides the necessary sealing engagement. The base, the upstanding wall and the inner flange cooperate to define a storage volume 31 within which a flowable material is positioned for consumption.

It will be understood that such flowable material may comprise a fluid, such as iced tea, coffee, juice, among others, as well as flowable materials such as smoothies, a puree, gels, iced drinks, among others. There is no limitation as to the flowable material that can be introduced into and maintained within the storage volume.

The body straw component 24 is shown in FIGS. 2 through 5 as comprising elongated surface 40, first side joining member 42 and second side joining member 44. The elongated surface 40 includes first side 41, second side 43, bottom 45 and top 47. The bottom substantially coincides with the top surface 21 of the base 20, and the top 47 substantially corresponds with the upper edge 28. The body straw component is generally integrally molded with the mug body, and in particular the elongated body is integral with the upstanding wall 22. In certain embodiments, the body straw component may comprise a bulge evident on the outer surface 26 of the upstanding wall. In other embodiments, the body straw component may be configured within the upstanding wall such that the inclusion of such a component is not visible on the outside surface of the upstanding wall.

Additionally, it will be understood that the body straw component is positioned at an area wherein the upstanding wall has its largest vertical dimension, with the lowest portion of the vertical dimension of the upstanding wall being directly opposite of the body straw component. Such a configuration maximizes the amount that the mug body can be tilted without having the upper edge interfere with the field of vision of the drinker.

In the embodiment shown, the first side edge 41 and the second side edge 43 are spaced apart from each other and are generally parallel to each other. In other embodiments, these edges may be slightly inclined relative to each other, such that they are closer at the bottom than at the top. Such a configuration facilitates sealing engagement with the insert straw component 14. The first inside joining member 42 comprises an inward flange 48 which is spaced apart from the elongated surface 40 and generally directed at the opposing side edge. The spaced apart orientation defines first elongated slot 33. The second inside joining member 44 comprises an inward flange 49 which is spaced apart from the elongated surface 40 and generally directed at the first side edge 42 and flange 48. The spaced apart orientation defines second elongated slot 35. In the embodiment shown, the first and second elongated slots 33, 35 are generally mirror images of each other about an axis substantially bisecting the elongated surface between the top and bottom thereof.

The position of the first and second joining members, and the flanges thereof are related to the volume and flow parameters desired for the particular application. These can be dimensionally altered so as to define a desired cross-sectional configuration and cross-sectional area, and in turn, the flow rates therethrough.

The insert straw component 14 is shown in FIGS. 6 through 9 as comprising elongated body 50, head 52, first side joining member 53 and second side joining member 54. The elongated body includes outer surface 67, inner surface 68, which extend between first side edge 60 and second side edge 61 and from bottom 64 to top 66. Of course, the bottom is typically spaced apart from the top surface 21 of the base so as to provide space necessary for the ingress of the flowable material. Bottom openings may be provided to enhance the flow at the bottom.

The head is positioned at the top 66 of the elongated body and further includes top surface 72, bottom surface 73, transverse channel 70 and handle tab 71. As is shown, the head may extend over a portion of the mug body when the insert straw component is coupled to the mug body. It is shown that the head is integrally molded with the elongated body, however, variations and separate components are likewise contemplated. The transverse channel 70 extends from the inside surface to the outside surface across the top surface 72.

The first side joining member 53 is positioned at the first side edge 60 of the elongated body 50 and extends the length thereof. Similarly, the second side joining member 54 is positioned at the second side edge 61 of the elongated body and extends the length thereof The configuration of each of the first side joining member 53 and the second joining member 54 comprise mating shapes that engage the first side joining member 42 and the second side joining member 44, respectively, of the body straw component in operable engagement. Preferably, the configuration is such that a substantially air-tight configuration can be maintained.

The lid 16 is shown in FIG. 10 as comprising base 80, upstanding wall 82 and straw accommodating slot 84. The base 80 is substantially planar and includes a top surface 81, a bottom surface 83 and an outer perimeter. The outer perimeter and the upstanding wall are configured so as to substantially correspond to the cross-sectional configuration of the upstanding wall 22 of the mug body 12 proximate the inner flange 30, so as to matingly (and, preferably, sealingly, engage the same). A drainage opening (as well as a pressure-equalizing opening 88 is disposed on the base 80, and generally centrally located thereon. The opening provides ingress into the storage volume 31.

The upstanding wall 82 includes upper edge 86 which cooperates with the inner surface 27 of the upstanding wall 22 and generally is one of co-extensive with the inner surface, or has a configuration which does not disrupt the configuration of the inner surface above the inner flange. It will be understood that a removal tab 87 may extend from the upstanding wall 82 and extend in such a manner that the user can easily grasp the removal tab 87 to urge the lid away from engagement with the upstanding wall 22 of the mug body 12.

The straw accommodating slot 84 is configured to match the outer contours of the insert straw component 14 and the body straw component 24, so as to provide substantially sealed engagement therebetween. Such a tight fit will preclude the inadvertent leaking of flowable material between the straw component and the lid. It will also be understood that a gasket (i.e., a separate member, or a co-molded member of a flexible material) may be employed to facilitate strong sealed engagement between the components.

Mug sleeve 18 is shown in FIG. 11 as comprising a shape mating cylindrical member 90 (or at least partially cylindrical member) which is positionable to surround a portion of the outer surface 26 of upstanding wall 22. In the embodiment shown, the cylindrical member 90 includes outer surface 92 and inner surface 94. The inner surface 94 is positioned in abutment with the outer surface of the upstanding wall. In the embodiment shown, a plurality of inwardly extending ribs 96 may be disposed on the inner surface 94 so as to provide the points of contact with the outer surface of the upstanding wall. In such a configuration, the ribs provide an insulative effect and minimize the conduction of heat or cold from the flowable material to the outside surface of the cylindrical member. Additionally, the inside ribs provide a separation between the outer surface of the mug body and the inside surface of the mug sleeve. With this spacing, any moisture that would otherwise be trapped between these surfaces is allowed to either drip out from between these structures, or is allowed to evaporate.

Outer ribs 98 are likewise disposed about the outer surface. These ribs aid in the grasping and retaining of the mug sleeve. It is contemplated that the mug sleeve comprise a polymer member, although other materials are contemplated, as are other configurations. In place of a mug sleeve, a handle or the like may be provided.

In operation, the user is first provided with the mug body 12. The user can fill the storage volume of the mug body 12 with a desired amount of flowable material. Preferably, the level of the flowable material is below the inner flange 30 of the upstanding wall 22. Once filled, the straw and lid are coupled to the mug body to complete the mug apparatus.

Next, lid 16 is placed over the storage volume 31 to encase the flowable material. Specifically, the bottom is directed toward and into engagement with the inner flange 30 of the upstanding wall 22 of the mug body 12. In such a configuration, the base of the lid is in contact with the inner flange 30 and is substantially abutting the same. Simultaneously, the upstanding wall 82 of the lid engages the inner surface 27 of the upstanding wall 22 of the mug body 12. Preferably, between the engagement of the inner flange and the inner surface of the upstanding wall, a substantially fluid tight configuration is achieved. Thus, the passage of flowable material between and beyond these components is substantially precluded. The straw accommodating slot 84 provides a space around the body straw component 24 to facilitate the insertion of the insert straw component 14.

To assemble the straw, the user couples the insert straw component 14 with the body straw component 24. In particular, the elongated slot 57 of the first side joining member 53 is configured to receive the flange 48 of the first side joining member 42. Similarly, the elongated slot 58 of the second side joining member 54 is configured to receive the flange 49 of the second side joining member 44. The insert straw component 14 is positioned so that the bottom of the elongated body 50 engages the top 47 of the elongated surface of the body straw component 24 to initiate the engagement of the slots and the flanges.

Once engaged, the insert straw component is slid relative to the body straw component 24 until it reaches the end of travel. At such time, the head 52 contacts the lid and/or the mug body, with the bottom surface 73 thereof. The bottom surface of the head may include features which matingly engage corresponding features on the lid and mug body. The straw is now fully formed, and preferably has an elongated or oblong cross-sectional configuration (although other configurations are contemplated for use). Additionally, the head is configured to correspond to the configuration of the mouth of an average user, although it is configured to accommodate a wide range of different mouth configurations (both smaller and larger than average). The head may extend to the top of the upstanding wall 22, may remain below the upper edge thereof, or may extend above the upper edge thereof Where the head extends above the upper edge, the straw components may likewise extend therebeyond.

At any point, the user may couple the mug sleeve 18 to the outside of the mug body. In particular, the mug sleeve is slid relative to the mug body. In other embodiments, the sleeve may only extend partially around the mug body, and, as such, it may be snapped onto the outside of the mug body. In other embodiments, a sleeve of another material, such as a corrugated paperboard, or fabric sleeve may be utilized. Indeed, the foregoing are supplied for purposes of example, and are not deemed to be limiting.

To drink the flowable material from within the travel mug, the user inclines the mug upon placing the mug up to the user's mouth. Advantageously, as the upper edge of the upstanding wall is sloped, the angled raise of the mug does not interfere with the user's forward vision. Once raised, the user sucks through the opening created by the top of the insert straw component and the body straw component.

The flowable material is directed through the volume defined by the body and insert straw components to the top, and into the user's mouth. It will be understood that air can be drawn through the transverse channel 70 of the head 52 so as to provide the user with a slurping effect.

Once the user is done, the user can disassemble the travel mug apparatus so as to clean the same. To take the mug apart, the user first utilizes the handle tab 71 of the head 52 to slidingly withdraw the insert straw component 14 from its connection with the body straw component 24. Next, the user can grasp the removal tab 87 of the lid 16 to decouple the lid from the mug body 12. If desired, the mug sleeve can be disconnected at this time, such that the area between it and the mug body can be cleaned. At such time, all of the components have been separated, and can be easily cleaned. Advantageously, once separated, the components are generally free of hidden passages and difficult to clean crevices. This is especially significant with respect to the straw components, as the straw component would be a location which can easily harbor bacteria and the like, and which otherwise would be difficult to access.

It will be understood that without departing from the scope of the disclosure, the straw insert component and the body component can be formed of a single member, wherein the body straw component is releasably coupled to the inner surface of the upstanding wall 22 of the mug body 12. In other embodiments, an additional opening may be provided on the mug body to accept a separate straw. In still further embodiments, the body straw component and the insert straw component may be separated from the upstanding wall and extend through (and possibly be coupled to) the lid 16. In still further embodiments, the lid may be hinged to the mug body, and the straw may be telescopically coupled thereto.

The foregoing description merely explains and illustrates the invention and the invention is not limited thereto except insofar as the appended claims are so limited, as those skilled in the art who have the disclosure before them will be able to make modifications without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A travel mug apparatus comprising:

a mug body having a base with a bottom surface and a top surface and an upstanding wall, the upstanding wall extending from the top surface of the base and including an inner surface and an upper edge, the base and the upstanding wall defining a storage volume;
a body straw component having an elongated surface that extends along the inner surface of the upstanding wall between the base and the upper edge, the body straw component including a first side edge and a second side edge with a first side joining member positioned at the first side edge and a second side joining member positioned at the second side edge; and
an insert straw component having an elongated body with a first side edge and a second side edge, a first side joining member positioned at the first side edge and a second side joining member positioned at the second side edge;
wherein the body straw component and the insert straw component are slidably engageable in substantially sealed engagement, with the first side joining member of the body straw component interfacing with the first side joining member of the insert straw component along the length thereof and the second side joining member of the body straw component interfacing with the second side joining member of the insert straw component along the length thereof to define a cavity extending between the top surface of the base and the upper edge of the upstanding wall to define an elongated channel with an opening proximate the top surface of the base and proximate the upper edge of the upstanding wall.

2. The travel mug apparatus of claim 1 wherein the upper edge of the upstanding wall is angled relative to the base of the mug body, with the body straw component positioned on the upstanding wall opposite a location of minimum height of the upstanding wall, to, in turn, preclude interference of the upstanding wall with a field of vision of a user when tilted.

3. The travel mug apparatus of claim 1 wherein the body straw component is integrally formed with the upstanding wall.

4. The travel mug apparatus of claim 3 wherein the upstanding wall comprises a frusto-conical configuration with a substantially circular cross section.

5. The travel mug apparatus of claim 3 wherein the body straw component defines an outward bulge from the outer surface of the upstanding wall, to define a cross-section which is other than circular.

6. The travel mug apparatus of claim 1 wherein the first side joining member of the body straw component and the second side joining member of the body straw component each comprise a flange that extends along the length thereof, the flange being spaced apart from the elongated surface of the body straw member, and, the first joining member of the insert straw component and the second joining member of the insert straw component each comprising a slot which is configured for mating engagement with the respective one of the flanges of the first and second joining members of the body straw component.

7. The travel mug of claim 1 wherein the insert straw component further includes a bottom transverse channel extending through the elongated body proximate the bottom thereof, so as to facilitate the ingress of flowable material from within the storage volume.

8. The travel mug of claim 1 wherein the insert straw component further includes a transverse channel extending through the elongated body at a top end thereof, to selectively allow for the ingress of air simultaneously with the ingress of flowable material from within the storage volume, to define a slurping sensation.

9. The travel mug of claim 1 wherein the channel defined by the cooperation of the body straw component and the insert straw component comprises an oblong cross-sectional configuration.

10. The travel mug of claim 1 wherein a head is positioned at the top of the insert straw component, the head having a handle tab with a transverse channel extending therethrough, the head configured to correspond to an opening of a mouth of a user.

11. The travel mug of claim 1 further comprising a lid which includes a base and an upstanding wall extending from an outer perimeter of the base, the upstanding wall of the lid corresponding with the inner surface of the upstanding wall of the mug body to sealingly engage the same, and having a straw accommodating slot configured to correspond to the insert straw component and the body straw component.

12. The travel mug of claim 11 wherein the upstanding wall further includes an inner flange spaced apart from the base and spaced apart from the upper edge of the upstanding wall, the base of the lid configured to engage the inner flange, to, in turn, provide a stop which precludes further movement of the lid toward the base upon operable engagement therebetween.

13. The travel mug of claim 12 wherein the flange is substantially parallel to the base and oblique to the upper edge of the upstanding wall.

14. The travel mug of claim 1 further including a mug sleeve extending at least partially around at least a portion of the outer surface of the upstanding wall, the mug sleeve further including a body with an inner surface, and a plurality of ribs extending from the inner surface of the body of the mug toward and into contact with the outer surface of the upstanding wall, so as to maintain a spaced apart orientation of the outer surface of the upstanding wall and the inner surface of the mug sleeve.

15. A travel mug comprising:

a mug body having a base with a top surface and a bottom surface, the bottom surface configured to interface with an outside surface;
an upstanding wall extending from the base and including an inner surface terminating at an upper edge, together with the mug body defining a storage volume;
the upper edge disposed obliquely to the bottom surface of the base of the mug body; and
a straw component positioned on the inner surface of the upstanding wall opposite a location of minimum height of the upstanding wall, to, in turn, preclude interference of the upstanding wall with a field of vision of a user when tilted.

16. The travel mug of claim 15 wherein the straw component further comprises a body straw component associated with the inner surface of the upstanding wall, and an insert straw component is releasably attachable to the body straw component, to, in turn, define an elongated channel for the egress of flowable material from within the storage volume.

17. The travel mug of claim 15 wherein the body straw component is integrally formed with the upstanding wall.

18. The travel mug of claim 15 further comprising a lid positionable over the storage volume, positionable in sealing engagement with the upstanding wall.

19. The travel mug of claim 18 wherein the lid is positionable between the base and the upper edge of the upstanding wall, and further includes a straw accommodating slot configured to receive the insert straw component therethrough.

Patent History
Publication number: 20140284343
Type: Application
Filed: Mar 25, 2013
Publication Date: Sep 25, 2014
Applicant: WOW Plastics, LLC (Filnt, MI)
Inventor: David Allen (Howell, MI)
Application Number: 13/849,642
Classifications
Current U.S. Class: Attached To Or Within Sidewall Of Container (220/710)
International Classification: A47G 19/22 (20060101);