CN116075248A - Closure and cap and method of forming the same - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure provides an exemplary cap assembly, which may include a cap and a slider. The cover may include a wall defining a recess. The slider may be configured to slide in the recess and may be configured to move between a closed position in which the slider covers the opening to help prevent spillage of the contents of the container and an open position in which the slider opens the opening so that the contents may be poured from the container. The slider may be configured to be removable from the cover and replaceable on the cover. In addition, the slider may be formed of an upper slider element and a lower slider element magnetically coupled to each other. In some examples, the lower slider of the slider may include a vent hole having a circular inlet portion, and the cap assembly may include an engagement member having an inclined surface.

Description

Closure and cap and method of forming the same

Cross-reference to related patent applications

The present application claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application number 63/125,835, filed on 12/15 in 2020, and from co-pending U.S. patent application number 16/988,301, filed on 8/7 in 2020, which claims priority from international application number PCT/US2019/057420, entitled "closure and cap and method of forming a closure and cap", filed on 22 in 2019, which claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application number 62/749,443, filed on 23 in 2018, 10. For any and all non-limiting purposes, all of these applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Technical Field

The present disclosure herein relates generally to lids for drinking vessels, and more particularly to closable lids for drinking vessels for drinkable beverages or food products.

Background

The beverage container may be filled with a hot or cold potable liquid, such as water, coffee, tea, soft drink, or an alcoholic beverage, such as beer. These beverage containers may be made of various materials, such as stainless steel, glass, plastic, cardboard, or paper materials. A lid may be provided on the beverage container to provide an opening for pouring the contents of the beverage container. In some cases, it is desirable to be able to selectively close and store the container so that the contents of the container do not leak.

Disclosure of Invention

This summary provides an introduction to some general concepts related to the invention in a simplified form that are further described in the detailed description that follows. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the invention.

Aspects of the present disclosure may relate herein to a closable lid assembly for a drinking vessel. In one example, the cap assembly may include a manually movable slider, which may include a tab or handle. In some examples, the slider may be configured to perform one or more of the following: sliding between a closed position, in which the slider covers the opening, thereby helping to prevent spillage of the contents of the container, and an open position, in which the slider opens the opening, thereby allowing access to the contents of the container, remains fixed to the lid during movement between the closed and open positions, and can be removed from the lid so that the lid and slider can be cleaned.

Drawings

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of the invention, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. In the drawings, like reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements throughout the various views where the reference numerals appear.

Fig. 1 depicts an isometric view of a cap assembly removably coupled to a container in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 2A and 2B depict isometric views of a cap assembly in a closed configuration and an open configuration according to one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 3 schematically depicts an exploded isometric view of a cap assembly according to one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 4 schematically depicts a cross-sectional view in the cap assembly 100, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 5A and 5B depict isometric views of a cap assembly without a slider mechanism, according to one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 6A and 6B depict isometric views of a lower slider according to one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 7A and 7B depict isometric views of an upper slider according to one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 8A and 8B depict isometric and partial cross-sectional views of a lower gasket according to one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 9A and 9B schematically depict cross-sectional views of a cap assembly in a closed configuration, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 10A and 10B schematically depict cross-sectional views of a cap assembly in an open configuration, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 11A and 11B schematically depict cross-sectional views of a cap assembly in a partially open configuration, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 12A-12D depict various steps for disassembling a slider mechanism and removing from a cap assembly in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 13 schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of a portion of a cap assembly coupled to a container, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 14A-14E depict alternative embodiments of a slider mechanism with an alternative disassembly mechanism in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 15 depicts another embodiment of a cap assembly configured to be removably coupled to a container in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 16 schematically depicts an exploded view of various elements of the cap assembly of fig. 15, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 17 depicts a bottom view of a portion of the cap assembly of fig. 15, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 18A and 18B depict isometric views of a lower slider element of a slider mechanism according to one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 19 depicts a configuration in accordance with one or more aspects described herein, thereby preventing a lower slider from being erroneously positioned on a cover of a cover assembly.

Fig. 20 depicts a view of a lower portion of an upper slider according to one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 21A and 21B depict isometric and front views of a lower gasket according to one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 22 schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of a cap assembly in an open configuration, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 23 depicts a top front perspective view of another embodiment of a cap assembly configured to be removably coupled to a container in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 24 depicts a top rear perspective view of the cap assembly of fig. 23, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 25 depicts a top view of the cap assembly of fig. 23, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 26 depicts a rear view of the cap assembly of fig. 23, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 27 depicts a front view of the cap assembly of fig. 23, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 28 depicts a rear view of the cap assembly of fig. 23, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 29 depicts a left side view of the cap assembly of fig. 23, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 30 depicts a left side view of the cap assembly of fig. 23, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 31 depicts an exploded top rear perspective view of the cap assembly of fig. 23, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 32 depicts a cross-sectional top rear perspective view of the cap assembly of fig. 23, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 33A-33F depict cross-sectional views of a slider mechanism of the cap assembly of fig. 23 moving from a closed position to an open position in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

FIG. 34 depicts a cross-sectional view of the slider mechanism of the cap assembly of FIG. 23 moving from an open position to a closed position in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 35 depicts a top perspective view of a portion of the cap assembly of fig. 23, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 36 depicts a bottom perspective view of a portion of the cap assembly shown in fig. 35, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 37 depicts a perspective view of a lower portion of an upper slider of the cap assembly of fig. 23, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 38 depicts a top front perspective view of the lower slider of the cap assembly of fig. 23, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 39 depicts a bottom rear perspective view of the lower slider shown in fig. 38 of the cap assembly of fig. 23, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Fig. 40 depicts a partial cross-sectional view of the lower slider shown in fig. 38 of the cap assembly of fig. 23, in accordance with one or more aspects described herein.

Detailed Description

In the following description of various examples and components of the present disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration various exemplary structures and environments in which aspects of the disclosure may be practiced. It is to be understood that other structures and environments may be utilized and structural and functional modifications may be made according to the specifically described structures and methods without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

In addition, while the various example features and elements may be described in this specification as "front," "back," "top," "base," "bottom," "side," "forward" and "backward," etc., these terms are used herein for convenience, e.g., based on the example orientations shown in the figures or the orientations in conventional use. Nothing in this specification should be construed as requiring a particular three-dimensional or spatial orientation of the structure without departing from the scope of the claims.

Fig. 1 depicts an isometric view of a cap assembly 100 removably coupled to a container 105 in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. The container 105 is one exemplary container with which the cap assembly 100 may be configured to be removably coupled. Accordingly, the container 105 may be configured to store a volume of liquid, and the cap assembly 100 may be configured to seal the opening of the container 105.

Fig. 2A and 2B depict isometric views of the cap assembly 100 in a closed configuration and an open configuration, respectively. The cap assembly 100 generally includes a slider mechanism 102 configured to move between a closed position (shown in fig. 2A) and an open position (shown in fig. 2B) to selectively close or open a first opening 104 through which a liquid stored in a container 105 is configured to flow. Details of the slider mechanism 102 are further discussed in conjunction with previous figures. In addition, the cap assembly 100 may include a sidewall 106 that may define a recess 108 for receiving a gasket 110. Thus, the gasket 110 may provide a seal between the cap assembly 100 and the container 105. However, other sealing methods for sealing the cap assembly 100 to the container 105 are also contemplated. The cap assembly 100 may also include a rim 112 for engaging an opening of the container 105. Rim 112 may also include a top wall 114 and a gripping element 116 and/or an optional lid tab (not shown) extending from top wall 114 to assist a user in removing lid assembly 100 from container 105.

Cap assembly 100 may also include an intermediate wall 118 extending below rim 112. The top surface 120 of the intermediate wall 118 may define a recess 122 for receiving the slider mechanism 102. In one example, the recess 122 may define a guide channel when the slider mechanism 102 moves between the closed position shown in fig. 2A and the open position shown in fig. 2B. As shown in fig. 2B, a first opening 104 for drinking or pouring liquid from the container may also be formed in the recess 122. Recess 122 may also include a second opening 124, which will be described in further detail in connection with fig. 5A. The snap-fit portion 126 may extend from the top surface 120 of the intermediate wall 118 into the recess 122. The snap-fit portion 126 may be configured to abut the slider mechanism 102 when in the open position shown in fig. 2B to prevent liquid from being compressed between the slider mechanism 102 and the end wall 128 of the recess 122, which may otherwise collect in the recess 122 as a result of a user drinking or pouring liquid from the first opening 104, possibly resulting in liquid splattering.

Fig. 3 schematically depicts an exploded isometric view of the cap assembly 100 according to one or more aspects described herein. In particular, fig. 3 schematically depicts the various elements that make up the slider mechanism 102, as discussed in connection with fig. 2A and 2B. Accordingly, slider mechanism 102 may include an upper slider 130 configured to be positioned within recess 122 on top surface 120 of intermediate wall 118. The upper slider 130 may include an upper magnet 132 enclosed therein. In one example, the upper magnet 132 may be enclosed within a cavity in the upper slider 130 and may be overmolded with a polymer overmolded plug element 134. Additional or alternative packaging methods may be used to secure the upper magnet 132 within the upper slider 130 without departing from the scope of these disclosures. In addition, the upper slider magnet 132 may be formed of any suitable ferromagnetic or other magnetic material. The upper slider 130 is discussed in further detail in connection with fig. 7A and 7B.

Additionally, slider mechanism 102 may include a lower slider 136 configured to be positioned adjacent to a bottom surface 138 of intermediate wall 118 (shown in FIG. 5B). The lower slider 136 may include a lower magnet 140 enclosed therein. In one example, the lower slider magnet 140 may be enclosed within a cavity in the lower slider 136 and may be overmolded with a polymer overmolded plug element 142. Additionally, the slider mechanism 102 may include a lower washer 144 configured to extend around the perimeter of the lower slider 136. The lower slider 136 is described in further detail in connection with fig. 6A and 6B.

In one example, the magnetic attraction between upper slider magnet 132 and lower slider magnet 140 magnetically couples upper slider 130 to lower slider 136 on intermediate wall 118. Thus, manual actuation of upper slider 130 on top surface 6 of intermediate wall 118 results in sliding movement of both upper slider 130 and lower slider 136.

Fig. 4 schematically depicts a cross-sectional view in a cap assembly 100 according to one or more aspects described herein. As shown, the slider mechanism 102 is in a closed configuration such that the first opening 104 is sealed by the slider mechanism 102. In one example, the lower slider magnet 140 may have a cylindrical geometry with a hollow center. Likewise, the lower slider magnet 140 may be otherwise described as a ring magnet that extends through the overmolded plug element 142 and lower slider 136 around the center tube 146. In another example, the lower slider magnet 140 may have a solid cylindrical geometry.

Fig. 5A and 5B depict isometric views of the cap assembly 100 without the slider mechanism 102. In particular, fig. 5A depicts a view of top surface 120 of intermediate wall 118, and fig. 5B depicts a view of bottom surface 138 of intermediate wall 118. As shown, the cover mechanism 100 includes a first opening 104 and a second opening 124. In one example, when the upper slider 130 is magnetically coupled to the lower slider 136, a portion of the slider mechanism 102 is configured to extend through the second opening 124.

The second opening 124 may include an engagement portion 148 extending from the intermediate wall 118 into the second opening 124. When the slider mechanism 102 is in the closed position shown in fig. 2A, these detents 148 are configured to be received in a channel 150 (see fig. 6A) that extends along a portion of the center tube 146 of the lower slider 136. Thus, the snap-fit portion 148 is configured to provide an interference fit to prevent the slider mechanism 102 from being inadvertently moved to unintentionally unseal the first opening 104. In one example, the slider mechanism 102 may be configured to lock in the open and/or closed configurations shown in fig. 2A and 2B. It is further contemplated that a locking mechanism may be used in addition to the engagement portion 148 to further prevent the slider mechanism 102 from being inadvertently moved.

Fig. 5B depicts bottom surface 138 of intermediate wall 118. Thus, as shown, the bottom surface 138 defines a first sloped feature 152 on a first side of the second opening 124. The first sloped feature 152 has a ridge surface 154 that is spaced between two groove-like recesses 156. Similarly, a second sloped feature 158 is positioned on a second side of the second opening 124. The second sloped feature 158 includes a ridge surface 160 that is spaced between two groove-like recesses 162.

In addition, cap assembly 100 includes a recessed portion 161 that extends into an inner surface 163 of the sidewall that extends below bottom surface 138 of intermediate wall 118. Thus, when the slider mechanism 102 is in the closed position shown in fig. 2A, the recessed portion 161 accommodates a portion of the lower slider 136. The cap assembly 100 also includes a recessed vent feature 165 such that the geometry of the recessed vent feature 165 allows air to flow into the container 105 when liquid is poured out of the first opening 104.

Fig. 6A and 6B depict isometric views of the lower slider 136 according to one or more aspects described herein. Accordingly, lower slider 136 includes an inner surface 164 configured to be positioned adjacent to bottom surface 138 of intermediate wall 118. The inner surface 164 includes a lower slider ramp 166. The lower slider ramp 166 is configured to be received in one of the groove-like recesses of each of the first and second sloped features 152, 158. Likewise, the lower slider ramp 166 is configured to slide over the first and second sloped features 152 and 158 as the slider mechanism 102 slides between the open and closed configurations. The lower slider ramp 166 will abut the ridge surfaces 154 and 160 as the slider mechanism 102 translates between the open and closed configurations. Further, because the ridge surfaces 154 and 160 are elevated relative to the groove-like recesses on either side of the ridge surfaces 154 and 160, this will cause the upper slider 130 and the lower slider 136 to be further spaced apart from each other. Likewise, because the magnetic force between the upper slider magnet 132 and the lower slider magnet 140 is inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them, the magnetic attraction force will decrease when the lower slider ramp 166 abuts the ridge surfaces 154 and 160. In one example, this decrease in magnetic force will cause the slider mechanism 102 to move smoothly between the open and closed positions. Further, when the lower slider ramp 166 is positioned within the channel-like recess of the first and second sloped features 152, 158, the relatively short distance between the upper slider magnet 132 and the lower slider magnet 140 will create a relatively strong magnetic attractive force that is used to secure the slider mechanism 102 in the open or closed configuration.

It should be noted that the lower slider 136 and the upper slider 130 are symmetrical about a vertical axis so as to allow the slider mechanism to be installed in the cap assembly 100 in any of four different ways. In addition, the lower slider 136 includes a center tube 146 extending from the inner surface 164. Further, the center tube 146 includes a tab 168 configured to extend through the second opening 124. The lower slider 136 further includes a channel 170 configured to receive a portion of the lower washer 144. In addition, the lower slider 136 includes lower ventilation channels 171a and 171b. Thus, when the slider mechanism 102 is in the open configuration, a portion of the lower slider 136 extends over a portion of the recessed vent region 165. Further, one of the lower vent channels 171a or 171b is positioned above the recessed vent site 165 and thereby establishes a channel through which air may enter the interior cavity of the container 105 from the slider mechanism 102.

Fig. 6B depicts an isometric view of the outer surface 172 of the lower slider 136. In one example, a knob 174 (otherwise referred to as a finger tab 174) extends from the outer surface 172. The knob 174 is configured to be grasped by a user to mount the slider mechanism 102 in the cap assembly 100. This installation process is described in further detail in connection with fig. 12.

Fig. 7A and 7B depict isometric views of the upper slider 130. The upper slider 130 may include two symmetrical flanges 176a and 176b, both configured to selectively cover and seal the first opening 104 for pouring liquid from the container and the second opening 124 into the recess 122 (otherwise referred to as the guide channel 122). The tab or handle 178 is configured to be grasped by a user to selectively move the upper slider 130, whereby the slider mechanism 102 is moved to an open position to open the first opening 104 on the lid assembly 100 or a closed position to cover the first opening 104 on the lid assembly 100. The tab or handle 178 may include two inwardly tapered portions 180a and 180b for gripping purposes.

Fig. 7B depicts a view of the inner side 182 of the upper slider 130. Accordingly, the upper slider 130 includes upper vent passages 184a and 184b. Thus, when the slider mechanism 102 is in the open configuration, the vent path is formed in part by a portion of the lower slider 136 extending over a portion of the recessed vent region 165. In addition, one of the lower vent channels 171a or 171b is positioned above the recessed vent location 165, thereby establishing a channel through which air may enter the interior cavity of the container 105 from the slider mechanism 102. When the upper vent channels 184a and 184b allow air to enter the slider mechanism 102 from the external environment, a vent path between the external environment and the interior cavity of the container 105 is completed. The upper slider recesses 186a and 186b are configured to receive a portion of the tab lugs 168 of the lower slider 136.

Fig. 8A and 8B depict isometric and partial cross-sectional views of a lower gasket 144 according to one or more aspects described herein. Thus, when the slider mechanism 102 is in the closed configuration shown in fig. 2A, the lower gasket 144 is configured to seal the first opening 104. In addition, the lower gasket 144 is configured to seal the second opening 124. In one example, the inner surface 188 of the lower washer 144 is configured to be positioned over the outer surface 172 of the lower slider 136. An opening 190 in the lower washer 144 is configured to allow the knob 174 of the lower slider 136 to extend therethrough. In one example, the lower gasket 144 may be constructed of silicone. However, additional or alternative polymeric materials may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

The cross-sectional view of fig. 8B shows the spring feature 192 of the lower washer 144. Thus, spring feature 192 allows the seal formed by washer 144 to move and remain in contact with bottom surface 138 of intermediate wall 118. Accordingly, when in the open or closed configuration, the relatively high magnetic force causes the lower slider 136 to compress the spring feature 192 of the lower washer 144 toward the bottom surface 138 of the intermediate wall 118. Further, when the lower slider ramp 166 is positioned on the ridge surfaces 154 and 160 and the magnetic force is relatively low and the lower slider 136 is moved away from the bottom surface 138, the spring features 192 extend outwardly toward the bottom surface 138 and remain in contact with the bottom surface 138 to maintain the seal of the lower gasket 144 on the bottom surface 138.

Fig. 9A and 9B schematically depict cross-sectional views of the cap assembly 100 in a closed configuration. As shown, the slider mechanism 102, including the upper slider 130 and the lower slider 136, seals the first opening 104. Fig. 9B depicts a more detailed view of a portion of the cross-section of fig. 9A. Thus, fig. 9B depicts a portion of the lower slider 136 and lower washer 144 received in the recessed portion 161 of the cap assembly 100.

Fig. 10A and 10B schematically depict cross-sectional views of the cap assembly 100 in an open configuration. As shown, the first opening 104 is fully opened by the slider mechanism 102, which includes an upper slider 130 and an underside 136. Fig. 10B schematically depicts a more detailed view of a portion of the cross-section of fig. 10A. In particular, fig. 10B depicts a portion of the lower gasket 144 that has slid over a portion of the recessed vent region 165. The overlap of a portion of the lower gasket 144 over a portion of the recessed vent region 165 forms a gap 192 through which air may enter the container 105 as liquid is poured out of the first opening 104.

Fig. 11A and 11B schematically depict cross-sectional views of the cap assembly 100 in a partially open configuration. As shown, the first opening 104 is partially opened by a slider mechanism 102 that includes an upper slider 130 and a lower slider 136. Fig. 11B schematically depicts a more detailed view of a portion of the cross-section of fig. 11A. In particular, fig. 11B shows a space 196 or gap 196 between the upper slider 130 and the lower slider 136. As previously described, this space 196 is formed by the lower slider ramp 166 abutting the ridge surfaces 154 and 160.

Fig. 12A-12D depict various steps for disassembling the slider mechanism 102 and removing from the cap assembly 100. As previously described, the slider mechanism 102 includes the upper slider 130 and the lower slider 136. Further, the upper slider includes an upper slider magnet 132 and the lower slider 136 includes a lower slider magnet 140 and a lower washer 144. Fig. 12A depicts the cap assembly 100 with the slider mechanism 102 fully installed and in an open configuration. To remove the slider mechanism, for example, to facilitate cleaning of the lid assembly 100, the upper slider 130 may be manually lifted from the top surface 120. Fig. 12B depicts the upper slider 130 after removal from the top surface 120. Once the upper slider 130 is removed, the lower slider 136 no longer abuts the bottom surface 138 by magnetic attraction between the upper slider magnet 132 and the lower slider magnet 140. However, when the tab lugs 168 extend through the second opening 124 and grip on a portion of the top surface 120, the tab lugs 168 prevent the lower slider 136 from falling into the container 105.

To remove the lower slider 136 from the cap assembly 100, the lower slider 136 is rotated 90 degrees so that the tab lugs 168 can pass through the second openings 124. Fig. 12D depicts the upper slider 130 and the lower slider 136 completely removed from the cap assembly 100.

Fig. 13 schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of a portion of the cap assembly 100 coupled to the container 105. In one example, the cap assembly 100 is resealable coupled to the container 105 by threaded elements on both the sidewall 106 of the cap assembly 100 and the sidewall 202 of the container 105. Elements 204 and 206 are threads on sidewalls 106 and 202, respectively. Further, it is contemplated that any thread geometry may be used to secure the cap assembly 100 to the container 105 without departing from the scope of these disclosures. Alternatively, the various cap assembly 100 structures described in this disclosure may be implemented without a threaded coupling between the cap assembly 100 and the container 105. In one example, the cap assembly 100 may be secured to the container 105 via an interference fit or the like.

Fig. 14A-14E depict an alternative embodiment of a slider mechanism with an alternative disassembly mechanism. Thus, fig. 14A depicts an isometric view of a cap assembly 300 including a slider mechanism 301. The cap assembly 300 may be similar to the cap assembly 100 and the slider mechanism 301 may be similar to the slider mechanism 102. The slider mechanism 301 may include an upper slider 302 similar to the upper slider 130, and a lower slider 306 similar to the lower slider 136. To disassemble the slider mechanism, the upper slider 302 may be manually removed from the cap assembly 300. Similar to the lower slider 136, the lower slider 306 may include a tab ledge 308 to prevent the lower slider 306 from falling into the container when the upper slider 302 is removed. However, to remove the lower slider 306 from the cap assembly 300, the lower slider 306 is slid to the position shown in fig. 14C such that the geometry of the tab lugs 308 are aligned with the geometry of the openings 309 in the intermediate wall 310 of the cap assembly 300. When positioned in the configuration depicted in fig. 14C, the lower slider 306 may pass through the opening 309, as depicted in fig. 14D. Fig. 14E depicts the upper slider 302 and the lower slider 306 completely removed from the cap assembly 300.

FIG. 15 depicts another embodiment of a cap assembly 1500 configured to be removably coupled to a container 1505 in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. Lid assembly 1500 and container 1505 are interchangeable with lid assembly 100 and container 105 such that lid assembly 1500 may be removably coupled to container 105 and lid assembly 100 may be removably coupled to container 1505. The cap assembly 1500 may include a number of elements similar to the cap assembly 100 such that if those features are labeled with the first two digits "15" and the last two digits are the same as those described with respect to the cap assembly 100, the reference numerals used to describe features of the cap assembly 1500 may include elements of similar features described with respect to the cap assembly 100. For example, the slider mechanism 102 described with respect to the cap assembly 100 may be similar to the slider mechanism 1502 in that both elements are denoted with the label ending with "02". Additional, alternative, or distinguishing features of the elements of the cap assembly 1500 relative to the elements of the cap assembly 100 may be noted in the foregoing description.

Fig. 16 schematically depicts an exploded view of various elements of a cap assembly 1500 in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. The cap assembly 1500 generally includes a slider mechanism 1502 that is configured to move between a closed position (shown in fig. 15) and an open position to selectively close or open a first opening 1504 through which liquid stored in a container 1505 is configured to flow. Additionally, the cap assembly 1500 can include a sidewall 1506, which can define a recess 1508 for placement of a gasket 1510. Thus, gasket 1510 may provide a seal between lid assembly 1500 and container 1505. However, other sealing methods for sealing lid assembly 1500 to container 1505 are also contemplated. The cap assembly 1500 may also include a rim 1512 for engaging an opening of the container 1505. The rim 1512 may include a top wall 1514 and a gripping element 1616 extending from the top wall 1514 to assist a user in removing the lid assembly 1500 from the container 1505. As shown, the gripping element 1616 includes a plurality of groove elements extending along the vertical wall 1602 of the edge 1512. It is contemplated that the gripping elements 1616 may have any groove geometry (depth, spacing, etc.) and may be made of the same or different materials as the elements of the edge 1512. Additionally or alternatively, the gripping elements may comprise gripping surface geometries other than the depicted grooves, such as dimples, protrusions or relatively smooth gripping surfaces.

The cover assembly 1500 may include a cover 1501 having an intermediate wall 1518 extending below an edge 1512. The top surface 1520 of the intermediate wall 1518 may define a recess 1522 for receiving the slider mechanism 1502. In one example, the recess 1522 may define a guide channel as the slider mechanism 1502 moves between the closed and open positions shown in fig. 15. A first opening 1504 for drinking or pouring liquid from the container may also be formed in the recess 1522. The recess 1522 may also include a second opening 1524. The snap 1526 may extend from a top surface 1520 of the intermediate wall 1518 into the recess 1522. The catch 1526 may be configured to abut the slider mechanism 1502 when in the open position to prevent liquid from being compressed between the slider mechanism 1502 and the end wall 1528 of the recess 1522, which may otherwise collect in the recess 1522 as a result of a user drinking or pouring liquid from the first opening 1504, which may cause liquid to splash.

The slider mechanism 1502 may include an upper slider 1530 configured to be positioned within a recess 1522 on the top surface 1520 of the intermediate wall 118. The upper sled 1530 may include an upper magnet enclosed therein. In one example, the upper magnet may be enclosed within a cavity within the upper sled 1530 and may be overmolded with a polymer overmolded plug element. Additional or alternative packaging methods may be used to secure the upper magnet within the upper sled 1530 without departing from the scope of these disclosures.

In addition, the slider mechanism 1502 may include a lower slider 1536 configured to be positioned adjacent to a bottom surface 1538 of the intermediate wall 1518 (shown in fig. 17). Thus, fig. 17 depicts the bottom surface 1538 of the intermediate wall 1518. The lower sled 1536 may include a lower sled magnet enclosed therein. In one example, the lower slider magnet may be encapsulated within a cavity in the lower slider and may be overmolded with a polymer overmolded plug element. Additionally, the slider mechanism 1502 may include a lower gasket 1544 configured to extend around the perimeter of the lower slide 1536. The lower slider 1536 is described in more detail in connection with fig. 18A and 18B. In one example, the magnetic attraction between the upper and lower slider magnets magnetically couples the upper slider 1530 to the lower slider 1536 across the intermediate wall 1518. Thus, manual actuation of the upper sled 1530 on the top surface 1520 of the intermediate wall 1518 results in sliding movement of both the upper sled 1530 and the lower sled 1536.

Fig. 17 depicts a bottom view of a cap assembly 1500 in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. Fig. 17 depicts a bottom surface 1538 of intermediate wall 1518. Thus, as shown, the bottom surface 1538 defines a first sloped feature 1552 on a first side of the second opening 1524. The first sloped feature 1552 has a ridge surface or point 1554 spaced between two grooved recesses 1556a and 1556 b. Similarly, a second sloped feature 1558 is positioned on a second side of the second opening 1524. The second sloped feature 1558 includes a ridge surface or point 1560 that is spaced between two groove- like recesses 1562a and 1562 b.

In addition, the cover assembly 1500 includes a recessed portion 1561 that extends into the inner surface 1563 of the sidewall that extends below the bottom surface 1538 of the intermediate wall 1518. Thus, when the slider mechanism 1502 is in the closed position shown in fig. 15, the recessed portion 1561 receives a portion of the lower slide 1536.

The second opening 1524 may include an engagement portion 1548 extending from the intermediate portion 1518 into the second opening 1524. When the slider mechanism 1502 is in the closed position shown in fig. 15, these detents 1548 are configured to be received in a channel 1550 (see fig. 18B) that extends along a portion of the curved walls 1646a and 1646B of the lower slide 1536. Thus, the snap 1548 is configured to provide an interference fit to prevent the slider mechanism 1502 from being inadvertently moved to inadvertently unseal the first opening 1504. In one example, the slider mechanism 1502 may be configured to lock in an open configuration and/or a closed configuration. It is further contemplated that a locking mechanism may be used in addition to the engagement portion 1548 to further prevent the slider mechanism 1502 from being inadvertently moved.

Fig. 18A and 18B depict isometric views of a lower slide 1536 in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. The lower slide 1536 includes an inner surface 1564 configured to be positioned adjacent to the bottom surface 1538 of the intermediate wall 1518. The inner surface 1564 includes a lower slider ramp 1566. The lower slider ramp 1566 is configured to be received in one of the groove-like recesses of each of the first and second sloped features 1552, 1558. As such, the lower slider ramp 1566 is configured to slide over the first and second sloped features 1552, 1558 as the slider mechanism 1502 slides between the open and closed configurations. As the slider mechanism 1502 translates between the open and closed configurations, the lower slider ramp 1566 will abut the ridge surfaces 1554 and 1560. Further, because the ridge surfaces 1554 and 1560 are elevated relative to the groove-like recesses on either side of the ridge surfaces 1554 and 1560, this will cause the upper and lower slides 1530 and 1536 to be further spaced apart from one another. As such, because the magnetic force between the upper slider magnet and the lower slider magnet is inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them, the magnetic attraction force will decrease when the lower slider ramp 1566 abuts the ridge surfaces 1554 and 1560. In one example, this decrease in magnetic force will cause the slider mechanism 1502 to move smoothly between the open and closed positions. Further, when the lower slider ramp 1566 is positioned within the channel-like recess of the first and second sloped features 1552, 1558, the relatively short distance between the upper and lower slider magnets will create a relatively strong magnetic attractive force that is used to secure the slider mechanism 1502 in either the open or closed configuration.

Lower slide 1536 includes curved walls 1646a and 1646b extending from inner surface 1564 to tab/tab lugs 1568a and 1568 b. The tab lugs 1568a and 1568b are configured to extend through the second opening 1524. The lower slide 1536 further includes a channel 1570 configured to receive a portion of the lower gasket 1544. In addition, lower slide 1536 includes lower vent channels 1571a and 1571b. Thus, when the slider mechanism 1502 is in the open configuration, one or more of the lower vent channels 1571a or 1571b may provide a channel for air to pass from the external environment through the slider mechanism 1502 and into the interior cavity of the container 1505. This airflow path may reduce or prevent clogging when liquid is poured from the first opening 1504. Further, the airflow path may be configured to relieve a pressure differential between the interior cavity of container 1505 and the external environment. As such, the increased pressure within the interior cavity of container 1505 may be partially or fully released as gas/air is allowed to escape through slider mechanism 1502 to the external environment surrounding container 1505.

Additionally, lower slide 1536 includes knob vent 1802 extending from sealing surface 1650 to lower surface 1804 of knob 1574. The knob vent may be configured to allow air to pass between the interior cavity of container 1505 and the external environment surrounding container 1505. In one example, air may pass through the knob vent 1802, through the second opening 1524, and out to the external environment. In one example, the lower sled 1536 is spaced from the upper sled 1530 when the lower sled 1536 and the upper sled 1530 are positioned to move from the closed position shown in fig. 15 to the open position schematically shown in fig. 22. This spacing unseals the radial ridge 1664 from the sealing surface 1640 and allows air to flow through the knob vent 1802 between the interior cavity of the container 1505 and the external environment. The knob vent 1802 may reduce or prevent clogging due to a relative pressure differential between the interior cavity of the container and the external environment as liquid is poured from the first opening 1504.

In one example, curved walls 1646a and 1656b may be separated by gaps 1648a and 1648 b. These gaps 1648a and 1648b may allow air to escape when a portion of the upper sled 1530 contacts the sealing surface 1650 of the lower sled 1536. In one example, the sealing surface 1650 may have a smooth surface texture to enhance the seal between the upper and lower slides 1530, 1536. In one example, sealing surface 1650 may include a polished surface finish and may be an SPI-A2 finish.

In one example, the separation distance between the lower surface 1652a or 1652b of the tab ears 1568a and 1568b and the inner surface 1564 may be such that the lower sled 1536 cannot be inserted into the wrong side of the slider mechanism 1502. In particular, the separation distance between the lower surface 1652a or 1652b and the inner surface 1564 of the tab lugs 1568a and 1568b may be less than the wall thickness between the top surface 1520 and the bottom surface 1538. This geometry prevents the lower slide 1536 from being inserted into the second opening 1524 such that the inner surface 1564 contacts the recess 1522. Fig. 19 depicts a configuration whereby the lower slide 1536 is located on the wrong top surface 1520 but cannot be fully inserted into the recess 1522.

Fig. 18B depicts an isometric view of the outer surface 1572 of the lower sled 1536. In one example, knob 1574 extends from outer surface 1572. The knob 1574 is configured to be grasped by a user in order to install the slider mechanism 1502 in the cap assembly 1500. Knob 1574 may include a gripping surface finish. In one example, knob 1574 or a portion thereof may be formed of a first material while the remainder of lower slide 1536 may be formed of a second, different material. In one example, knob 1574 may have a rubberized outer surface. The lower slider 1536 encloses a lower slider magnet, similar to the lower magnet 142. In one example, the lower slider magnet of lower slider 1536 is enclosed within knob 1574.

Fig. 20 depicts a view of the inner side 1582 of the upper sled 1530. The upper sled 1530 includes upper vent passages 1584a and 1584b. When the upper vent passages 1584a and 1584b allow air to enter the slider mechanism 1502 from the external environment, venting between the external environment and the interior cavity of the container 1505 may be accomplished. The upper slider recesses 1586a and 1586b are configured to receive a portion of the tab lugs 1568a and 1568b of the lower slider 1536. A cylindrical shim 1660 extends from the upper sled 1530 and is configured to be received between curved walls 1646a and 1646b of the lower sled 1536. The cylindrical shim 1660 includes a lower surface 1662 having radial ridges 1664. The lower surface 1662 and radial ridge 1664 are configured to abut the sealing surface 1650. In one example, when the slider mechanism 1502 is in the closed configuration and/or the open configuration, the radial ridge 1664 forms a seal with the sealing surface 1640 with the upper slider 1530 magnetically coupled to the lower slider 1536. The radial ridge 1664 may be formed from a rubber material. In one example, the radial ridge 1664 may be formed from a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV) material. The upper sled 1530 encloses the upper sled magnets. In one example, the upper slider magnet may be similar to upper magnet 132. In one example, the upper slider magnet is enclosed within a cylindrical shim 1660.

In one embodiment, the slider mechanism may include an upper slider 1530 and a lower slider 1536 such that movement of the upper slider 1530 causes the lower slider 1536 to move in the same direction. This synchronous movement may be caused by the cylindrical shim 1660 of the upper sled 1530 abutting one or more surfaces of the curved walls 1646a and 1646b of the lower sled 1536. In one example, the synchronous movement of the upper and lower slides 1530, 1536 may not utilize magnets to push the upper slide 1530 toward the lower slide 1536. In this example, the upper and/or lower sliders 1530 and 1536 may be implemented without a magnet element such that there is no magnetic attraction between the upper and lower sliders 1530 and 1536.

Fig. 21A and 21B depict isometric and front views of a lower gasket 1544 in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. Thus, when the slider mechanism 1502 is in the closed configuration shown in fig. 15, the lower gasket 1544 is configured to seal the first opening 1504. In addition, the lower gasket 1544 is configured to seal the second opening 1524. In one example, the inner surface 1588 of the lower gasket 1544 is configured to be positioned over the outer surface 1572 of the lower slider 1536. The opening 1590 in the lower washer 1544 is configured to allow the knob 1574 of the lower slide 1536 to extend therethrough. In one example, the lower gasket 1544 may be constructed of silicone. However, additional or alternative polymeric materials may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In one example, the lower gasket 1544 can be integrally formed with the bottom slider 1536. Thus, the lower gasket 1544 can be molded from the same or different material as the bottom slider 1536 using a single or multiple stage (single shot or multiple shot) molding process.

In one example, and as shown in the front view of fig. 21B, the lower gasket 1544 can have a lip 1692 extending farther from the inner surface 1588 than the spring-like feature 192 of the lower gasket 144. Thus, lip 1692 can provide an enhanced seal when lower gasket 1544 is positioned on bottom surface 1538 of cover 1501.

Fig. 22 schematically depicts the cap assembly 1500 in an open configuration. In one example, the rear wall 1690 of the recess 1522 is configured to abut the upper sled 1530 when positioned in the open configuration of fig. 22. Thus, when in the open configuration shown, the lower slider ramp 1566 may remain on the ridge surface 1554 (and 1560). In this configuration, lower gasket 1544 may be spaced apart from bottom surface 1538 such that air may flow between the interior cavities of container 1505, through lid assembly 1500, and out to the external environment, thereby preventing or limiting clogging during pouring.

Fig. 23-40 depict another embodiment of a cap assembly 2000 configured to be removably coupled to a container 1505 in accordance with one or more aspects described herein. The cap assembly 2000 may be interchangeable with the cap assembly 1500 or the cap assembly 100 such that the cap assembly 2000 can be removably coupled to the container 105, the container 1505, or other similar containers. The cap assembly 2000 may include a number of elements similar to cap assembly 100 and cap assembly 1500 such that if those features are labeled with the first two digits "20" and the last two digits are the same as those described with respect to cap assemblies 100 and 1500, the reference numerals used to describe features of cap assembly 2000 may include elements of similar features described with respect to cap assemblies 100 and 1500. For example, the slider mechanism 1502 described with respect to the cover assembly 1500 may be similar to the slider mechanism 2002 in that both elements are denoted with the label ending with "02". Further, features of the cap assembly 2000 may include features labeled with the first two digits "21" or "22" and the last two digits are the same as features described with respect to the cap assembly 1500 having the first two digits "16" or "18", respectively. Because these features are similar, these features may be described in less detail or not at all with respect to the cap assembly 2000. Additional, alternative, or distinguishing features of the elements of the cap assembly 2000 relative to the elements of the cap assemblies 100 and 1500 may be noted in the foregoing description.

Fig. 23-34 depict a cap assembly 2000. The cap assembly 2000 generally includes a slider mechanism 2002 configured to move between a closed position (shown in fig. 23) and an open position to selectively close or open a first opening 2004 through which a liquid stored in the container is configured to flow. Additionally, the cap assembly 2000 may include a sidewall 2006 that may define a recess 2008 for placement of a gasket 2010. Thus, the gasket 2010 may provide a seal between the cap assembly 2000 and the container. However, other sealing methods for sealing the cap assembly 2000 to the container are also contemplated. The cap assembly 2000 may also include a rim 2012 for engaging an opening of a container. Rim 2012 may include a top wall 2014 and gripping elements 2116 extending from top wall 2014 to assist a user in removing cap assembly 2000 from container.

The cap assembly 2000 may include a cap 2001 having an intermediate wall 2018 extending below a rim 2012. The top surface 2020 of the intermediate wall 2018 may define a recess 2022 for accommodating the slider mechanism 2002. In one example, the recess 2022 may define a guide channel as the slider mechanism 2002 moves between the closed and open positions shown in fig. 23. A first opening 2004 for drinking or pouring liquid from the container may also be formed in the recess 2022. The recess 2022 may also include a second opening 2024.

The slider mechanism 2002 may include an upper slider 2030 configured to be positioned within a recess 2022 on the top surface 2020 of the intermediate wall 2018. The upper slider 2030 may include an upper magnet enclosed therein. In one example, the upper magnet may be enclosed within a cavity within the upper slider 2030 and may be overmolded with a polymer overmolded plug element. Additional or alternative packaging methods may be used to secure the upper magnet within the upper slider 2030 without departing from the scope of these disclosures.

In addition, the slider mechanism 2002 may include a lower slider 2036 configured to be positioned adjacent to a bottom surface 2038 of the intermediate wall 2018 (shown in fig. 32). Thus, fig. 36 depicts the bottom surface 2038 of the intermediate wall 2018. The lower slider 2036 may include a lower slider magnet enclosed therein. In one example, the lower slider magnet may be encapsulated within a cavity in the lower slider 2036 and may be overmolded with a polymer overmolded plug element. In addition, the slider mechanism 2002 may include a lower washer 2044 configured to extend around the perimeter of the lower slider 2036. The lower slider 2036 is described in further detail in connection with fig. 38 to 40. In one example, the magnetic attraction between the upper slider magnet and the lower slider magnet magnetically couples the upper slider 2030 to the lower slider 2036 on the intermediate wall 2018. Thus, manual actuation of the upper slider 2030 on the top surface 2020 of the intermediate wall 2018 results in sliding movement of both the upper slider 2030 and the lower slider 2036.

As shown in fig. 35, the recess 2022 may include a tapered surface 2025 between the first opening 2004 and the second opening 2024. The tapered surface 2025 may provide: the recess 2022 may have a first depth proximate to and/or adjacent to the first opening 2004 that is greater than a second depth adjacent to the second opening 2024. The tapered surface 2025 may extend onto either side or both sides of the first opening 2004. Additionally, the tapered surface 2025 may extend to either side or both sides of a portion of the second opening 2024. The tapered surface 2025 may allow the front portion 2031 of the upper slider 2030 to tilt downward into an area above the tapered surface 2025 to begin actuating the slider mechanism 2002 from the closed position to the open position, as will be discussed in more detail below.

The upper surface 2023 of the recess 2022 may further include a pair of engagement members 2170. Each of the engagement members 2170 may include a first inclined surface 2172 and a second inclined surface 2174 disposed adjacent to each other. The pair of engagement members 2170 may be spaced apart from each other and also arranged substantially parallel to each other. Further, a majority of each engagement member 2170 may be positioned rearward of the second opening 2024. In some examples, the entirety of each engagement member 2170 may be positioned rearward of the second opening 2024. Each engagement member 2170 may be individually received within a respective channel 2180 that may be disposed along a lower surface of the upper slider 2030. Each channel 2180 of the lower slider may include a rear channel engagement member 2182. Each rear channel engagement member 2182 may be forward of the engagement member 2170 in the recess 2022 when the slider mechanism 2002 is in the closed position, and each rear channel engagement member 2182 may be rearward of the engagement member 2170 when the slider mechanism 2002 is in the open position. Interaction between the engagement members 2170 and their respective receiving channels 2180 may help guide the slider mechanism 2002 forward and rearward movement. In addition, the engagement members 2170 and the rear channel engagement members 2182 may contact each other and act as a stop to limit or restrict movement of the slider mechanism 2002 to prevent accidental opening of the cover assembly 2000. Although the illustrated cap assembly 2000 depicts two engagement members 2170, the cap 2001 may include a single engagement member 2170 that is substantially longitudinally centered within the recess 2022 and positioned rearward of the second opening 2024. The single engagement member 2170 may be received in a centrally located channel 2180 extending along the lower surface of the upper slider 2030.

Further, for each engagement member 2170, the first inclined surface 2172 may be arranged such that a first angle between the upper surface 2023 and the first inclined surface 2172 (which may be defined as an angle between the upper surface 2023 and the first inclined surface 2172 in a counterclockwise direction) may be greater than a second angle between the upper surface 2023 and the second inclined surface 2174 (which may be defined as an angle between the upper surface 2023 and the second inclined surface 2174 in a clockwise direction). Similarly, each rear channel-engaging member 2182 may have a first inclined surface 2184 and a second inclined surface 2186 disposed adjacent to each other. The first inclined surface 2184 may be arranged such that a first angle between the bottom channel surface 2185 and the first inclined surface 2184 (which may be defined as an angle between the bottom channel surface 2185 and the first inclined surface 2184 in a counterclockwise direction when the upper slider 2030 has an upwardly facing bottom channel surface 2185) may be smaller than a second angle between the bottom channel surface 2185 and the second inclined surface 2186 (which may be defined as an angle between the bottom channel surface 2185 and the second inclined surface 2186 in a clockwise direction when the upper slider 2030 has an upwardly facing bottom channel surface 2185). Each second inclined surface 2174 of each engagement member 2170 may face the first inclined surface 2184 of each rear channel engagement member 2182 when the slider mechanism 2002 is in the closed position. Each first inclined surface 2172 of each engagement member 2170 may face a second inclined surface 2186 of the rearward channel engagement member 2182 when the slider mechanism 2002 is in the open position.

Each channel 2180 may extend through a front surface 2190 of the upper slider 2030 and may also extend through a rear surface 2192 of the upper slider 2030. Each channel 2180 may be intermittent; so that it does not extend continuously from the front surface 2190 to the rear surface 2192. Each passage 2180 may be disposed on either side of the cylindrical gasket 2160 or may be interrupted by the cylindrical gasket 2160. In alternative examples, each channel 2180 may be continuous from the front surface 2190 to the rear surface 2192. Each of the channels 2180 may be spaced apart from and substantially parallel to each other. Further, each channel 2180 may include a front channel engagement member 2196. Each front channel engagement member 2196 may have the same geometry and shape as each rear channel engagement member 2182. Each front channel engagement member 2196 may be a mirror image of the rear channel engagement member 2182 relative to a plane extending perpendicular to the channel 2180 and through the center of the upper slider 2030. Because the channel engagement members 2182, 2196 are positioned as mirror images, the upper slider 2030 may be assembled in multiple orientations.

The slider mechanism 2002 may also interact with the cover 2001 in a similar manner as the slider mechanism 1502 and the cover 1501, except for the interaction of the channel 2180 and the engagement member 2170. For example, as shown in fig. 36, the cover 2001 may have a bottom surface 2038 of the intermediate wall 2018 that includes a first sloped feature 2052 on a first side of the second opening 2024 and a second sloped feature 2058 disposed on an opposite side of the second opening 2024. The first sloped feature 2052 has a ridge surface or point 2054 that is spaced between two groove- like recesses 2056a and 2056 b. Similarly, the second sloped feature 2058 may include a ridge surface or point 2060 that is spaced between two channel- like recesses 2062a and 2062 b.

Fig. 33A to 33F depict a process in which the user moves the slider mechanism 2002 from the closed position shown in fig. 33A to the fully open position shown in fig. 33F. As shown in fig. 33B, the first step of the process depicts the slider mechanism 2002 moving slightly rearward from the closed position when the user begins to apply a rearward force, but the engagement member 2170 prevents further movement. Next, in fig. 33C, the user can press down on the front portion 2031 of the upper slider 2030, which causes the rear portion 2033 to move upward. As the rear portion 2033 moves upward, any gas or fluid that may be under pressure between the upper slider 2030, the lower slider 2036, and the container is vented outward from the rear portion of the upper slider 2030 away from the location where the user may place his or her mouth for drinking from the lid 2001. For example, when the upper slider 2030 is tilted, the sealing surface 2150 of the lower slider may release from the radial ridge 2164 of the lower surface 2162 of the upper slider 2030, resulting in the release of any pressurized gas or liquid within the container. Next, as shown in fig. 33D and 33E, when a user applies a rearward force to the slider mechanism 2002, the first inclined surface 2184 of the rear channel engagement member 2182 may slide along the second inclined surface 2174 of the engagement member 2170, allowing the rear channel engagement member 2182 to slide past and then beyond the engagement member 2170. At the same time, the lower ramp slider 2066 of the lower slider 2036 begins to move from the first grooved recess 2056a to the second grooved recess 2056 b. The final step in the opening process shown in fig. 33F, the user may continue to apply a rearward force until the lower ramp slider 2066 engages the second grooved recess 2056b and/or the rear surface 2192 of the upper slider 2030 contacts the stop surface of the recess 2022. The cap assembly 2000 is now in the open position and ready to allow fluid to flow through the opening 2004. To move the slider mechanism 2002 back to the closed position, the user can apply a forward force to the upper slider 2030. The second inclined surface 2184 slides up and over the first inclined surface 2172 as shown in fig. 34. The upper slider 2030 is then moved to cover the first opening 2004 to move the slider mechanism 2002 into the closed position, as shown in fig. 33A.

Fig. 37 depicts a view of the upper slider 2030. The upper slider 2030 may include upper vent passages 2084a and 2084b. When the upper vent passageways 2084a and 2084b allow air to enter the slider mechanism 2002 from the external environment, venting between the external environment and the interior cavity of the container may be accomplished. The upper slider recesses 2086a and 2086b are configured to receive a portion of the tab lugs 2068a and 2068b of the lower slider 2036. A cylindrical spacer 2160 extends from the upper slider 2030 and is configured to be received between the curved walls 2046a and 2046b of the lower slider 2036. The cylindrical gasket 2160 includes a lower surface 2162 having radial ridges 2164. The lower surface 2162 and radial ridge 2164 are configured to abut the sealing surface 2150 of the lower slider 2036. In one example, when the slider mechanism 2002 is in the closed configuration and/or the open configuration, the radial ridge 2164 forms a seal with the sealing surface 2150 with the upper slider 2030 magnetically coupled to the lower slider 2036. The radial ridge 2164 may be formed from a compliant material such as a rubber-based material. In one example, the radial ridge 2164 may be formed from a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV) material. The upper slider 2030 may encapsulate an upper slider magnet. In one example, the upper slider magnet may be similar to upper magnet 132. In one example, the upper slider magnet is enclosed within a cylindrical spacer 2160.

Fig. 38 to 40 depict the lower slider 2036. The lower slider 2036 may include an inner surface 2064 configured to be positioned adjacent to the bottom surface 2038 of the intermediate wall 2018. The lower slider 2036 may have similar features to the lower slider 1536, for example, the alternating lower ramp slider 2066 is configured to be received into one of the groove-like recesses of each of the first and second sloped features 2052, 2058. As such, the downslope slider 2066 is configured to slide over the first and second sloped features 2052, 2058 as the slider mechanism 2002 slides between the open and closed configurations. In addition, the lower slider 2036 may also include curved walls 2146a and 2146b that extend from the inner surface 2064 to the tab/tab lugs 2068a and 2068 b. The tab lugs 2068a and 2068b are configured to extend through the second opening 2024. The lower slider 2036 further includes a channel 2070 configured to receive a portion of the lower washer 2044. In addition, the lower slider 2036 may include lower vent channels 2071a and 2071b to provide a channel for air to pass from the external environment through the slider mechanism 2002 and into the interior cavity of the container. This airflow path may reduce or prevent clogging when liquid is poured from the first opening 2004. Further, the airflow path may be configured to relieve a pressure differential between the interior cavity of the container and the external environment. As such, the increased pressure within the interior cavity of the container may be partially or fully relieved as gas/air is allowed to escape through the slider mechanism 2002 to the external environment surrounding the container. Such ventilation may also occur as described above when the slider mechanism 2002 is tilted when moving from the closed position to the open position.

Additionally, the lower slider 2036 includes a knob vent 2202 that extends from the sealing surface 2150 to the lower surface 2204 of the knob 2074. Knob vent 2202 may be configured to allow air to pass between the interior cavity of the container and the external environment surrounding the container. In one example, air may pass through the knob vent 2202, through the second opening 2024, and out to the external environment. In one example, when the lower slider 2036 and the upper slider 2030 are moved from the closed position shown in fig. 33A to the open position schematically depicted in fig. 33F, the lower slider 2036 may unseal from the sealing surface 2150 and the radial ridge 2164 and allow air to flow through the knob vent 2202 between the interior cavity of the container and the external environment. The knob vent 2202 may reduce or prevent clogging due to a relative pressure differential between the interior cavity of the container and the external environment as liquid is poured from the first opening 2004.

As shown in fig. 40, the knob vent 2202 may have a knob vent 2202 extending from a sealing surface 2150 to a lower surface 2204. The knob vent 2202 may include a first vent 2206 at the lower surface 2204, a second vent 2208 at the sealing surface 2150, and a vent inner surface 2210 between the first vent 2206 and the second vent 2208. The knob vent 2202 may have a first rounded entrance portion 2212 (i.e., a fillet radius) that transitions from the lower surface 2204 to the vent inner surface 2210. Similarly, knob vent 2202 may have a second rounded entrance portion 2214 (i.e., a fillet radius) that transitions from sealing surface 2150 to vent inner surface 2210 at second vent 2208. By adding circular inlet portions 2212, 2214, pressure build-up between the upper slider 2030 and the lower slider 2036 can be reduced. In some examples, the first vent 2206 may have a first diameter and the second vent 2208 may have a second diameter, wherein the first diameter may be less than the second diameter. Further, the ratio of the first diameter to the second diameter may be about 0.8:1.0 or in the range of 0.7:1.0 to 0.9:1.0. Further, the vent inner surface 2210 may include a tapered or conical surface that expands when moving from the first circular inlet portion 2212 to the second circular inlet portion 2214, or the vent inner surface 2210 may have a generally cylindrical shape. The third diameter measured at a minimum region along the vent inner surface 2210 (i.e., between the first diameter and the second diameter) may be smaller than the first diameter. The third diameter may be in the range of 1.0 to 1.25 mm. The first diameter may be in the range of 4mm to 5mm, or in the range of 3mm to 6 mm. Another way of indicating the third diameter size may be the ratio of the third diameter to the first diameter. For example, the ratio of the third diameter to the first diameter may be about 0.27:1.0, may be in the range of 0.2:1.0 to 0.3:1.0, or may be in the range of 0.2:1 to 0.5:1.0. In some examples, the first rounded portion may have a radius of about 2.9mm or in the range of 2.5 to 3.5mm, while the second rounded portion may have a radius of about 3.8mm or in the range of 3.5 to 4.5 mm. The radius of the first circular inlet portion 2212 may be smaller than the radius of the second circular inlet portion 2214. As another way of representing the size of the circular inlet portions 2212, 2214 as a ratio of the radius of the first circular inlet portion 2212 to the radius of the second circular inlet portion 2214. For example, the ratio of the radius of the first circular inlet portion 2212 to the radius of the second circular inlet portion 2214 may be about 0.76:1, or may be in the range of 0.7:1 to 0.8:1. The geometry of the vent 2202 may allow air to be released from the container at a rate to prevent any undesirable pressure build-up between the contents of the container and the slider mechanism 2002.

In one embodiment, the cap assembly may include a rim for engaging the container opening, wherein the rim defines a top wall, and further, the cap assembly may include a sidewall defining a recess for receiving the upper gasket. The intermediate wall may extend below the edge, a top surface of the intermediate wall defining a recess. The recess may have a first opening, a second opening, and a vent. The bottom surface of the intermediate wall may define a first sloped feature having a ridge surface spaced between two groove-like recesses. The first angled feature may be positioned on a first side of the second opening and the second angled feature may have a ridge surface spaced between two groove-like recesses, wherein the second angled feature is positioned on a second side of the second opening. Additionally, the lid assembly may include a slider mechanism configured to be manually slid to selectively provide the closed position by covering both the first opening and the second opening and the open position by covering only the second opening. The slider mechanism may include an upper slider configured to be positioned within a recess on the top surface of the intermediate wall. Further, the upper slider may have an encapsulated upper slider magnet. In addition, the slider mechanism may include a lower slider configured to be positioned alongside the bottom surface of the intermediate wall. In addition, the lower slider may include an inner surface having a lower slider ramp protruding therefrom, wherein the lower slider ramp is configured to be selectively received in a first one of the two groove-like recesses on the first side of the second opening and in a first one of the two groove-like recesses on the second side of the second opening when the slider mechanism is in the open position. In addition, the lower slider ramp is configured to be received in the second of the two groove-like recesses on the first side of the second opening and in the second of the two groove-like recesses on the second side of the second opening when the slider mechanism is in the closed position. The lower slider may also include a lower slider magnet enclosed within the lower slider. The lower slider may also have a central tube extending from an inner surface of the lower slider and having a tab at a distal end configured to extend through the second opening. The slider mechanism may further include a lower washer configured to extend around a perimeter of the inner surface of the lower slider and configured to be compressed between the lower slider and the lower surface of the intermediate wall. Further, the magnetic attraction between the upper slider magnet and the lower slider magnet is configured to magnetically couple the upper slider to the lower slider.

In another example, the lower slider ramp of the cap assembly is configured to slide over the ridge surfaces of the first and second sloped features as the slider mechanism slides between the open and closed positions.

In one example, the lower slider moves away from the upper slider as the lower slider ramp slides from the selected pair of grooved recesses to the ridge surface.

In another example, the lower washer further includes a washer spring portion that maintains contact with a bottom surface of the intermediate wall of the lower slider as the lower slider moves away from the upper slider.

The second opening of the cap assembly further includes a snap feature extending from the intermediate wall into the second opening such that when the slider mechanism is in the closed position, the snap feature is configured to be received in a channel extending along a portion of the center tube.

The cap assembly further includes a catch extending into the recess on the top surface of the intermediate wall, the catch being configured to abut the upper slider when in the open position to prevent liquid from being compressed between the upper slider and the end wall of the recess on the top surface of the intermediate wall.

The upper slider of the cap assembly may be manually removed from the cap assembly by applying a manual force that overcomes the magnetic force between the upper slider magnet and the lower slider magnet.

The tab lugs of the cap assembly may be configured to snap onto the sides of the second opening to prevent the lower slider from separating from the cap assembly when the upper slider is removed from the cap assembly.

The lower slider may further include a finger tab extending from the outer surface.

The lower slider of the cap assembly can be manually removed from the cap assembly by rotating the manually actuated finger tab 90 ° relative to the second opening in the intermediate wall.

The cap assembly may also have a recess extending into an inner surface of the sidewall that extends below the intermediate wall. The recessed portion may receive a portion of the lower slider when the slider mechanism is in the closed position.

The lid assembly may further include a vent location on a bottom surface of the intermediate wall such that when the lid assembly is attached to the container and in the open position, the lower gasket slides over the vent location to allow air to circulate between the external atmosphere and the interior cavity of the container.

The lower slider magnet may be a ring magnet extending around the center tube.

In another aspect, a container assembly may include a container having an inner wall with a first end having a container opening extending into an interior reservoir; and an outer wall forming a shell of the container, wherein the outer wall has a second end configured to support the container on a surface. Additionally, the container assembly may include a lid adapted to seal the container opening. The lid may further comprise a rim for engaging the container opening, the rim defining a top wall. The cover may also have a sidewall defining a recess for placement of the upper gasket and an intermediate wall extending below the rim, a top surface of the intermediate wall defining a recess, and the recess having a first opening, a second opening, and a vent. The bottom surface of the intermediate wall may define a first sloped feature having a ridge surface spaced between two groove-like recesses. The first angled feature may be positioned on a first side of the second opening. The second sloped feature may have a ridge surface spaced between two groove-like recesses, with the second sloped feature being positioned on a second side of the second opening. Additionally, the cover may include a slider mechanism configured to be manually slid to selectively provide the closed position by covering both the first opening and the second opening and the open position by covering only the second opening. In addition, the slider mechanism may include an upper slider configured to be positioned within a recess on the top surface of the intermediate wall. The upper slider may encapsulate the upper slider magnet. The slider mechanism may further comprise a lower slider configured to abut against a bottom surface of the intermediate wall. The lower slider may further include an inner surface having a protruding lower slider ramp, wherein the lower slider ramp is configured to be selectively received in a first one of the two groove-like recesses on the first side of the second opening and in a first one of the two groove-like recesses on the second side of the second opening when the slider mechanism is in the open position. The lower slider ramp may be configured to be received in the second of the two groove-like recesses on the first side of the second opening and in the second of the two groove-like recesses on the second side of the second opening when the slider mechanism is in the closed position. The lower slider may encapsulate the lower slider magnet. Additionally, the lower slider may include a central tube extending from an inner surface of the lower slider, wherein the central tube has a tab connected to a distal end configured to extend through the second opening. In addition, the slider mechanism may include a lower washer configured to extend around a perimeter of the inner surface of the lower slider and configured to be compressed between the lower slider and the lower surface of the intermediate wall. The magnetic attraction between the upper slider magnet and the lower slider magnet may magnetically couple the upper slider to the lower slider.

In one example, the inner wall of the container includes a threaded sidewall configured to receive a threaded structure on the sidewall of the cap.

The container may further comprise a sealed vacuum chamber between the inner wall and the outer wall.

In another example, the lower slider ramp may slide over the ridge surfaces of the first and second sloped features as the slider mechanism slides between the open and closed positions.

In one example, the lower slider may move away from the upper slider as the lower slider ramp slides from the selected pair of grooved recesses to the ridge surface.

The lower gasket of the container assembly may further include a gasket spring portion that maintains contact with a bottom surface of the intermediate wall of the lower slider as the lower slider moves away from the upper slider.

The second opening of the container assembly may further include a snap-fit portion extending from the intermediate wall into the second opening such that the snap-fit portion is configured to be received in a channel extending along a portion of the center tube when the slider mechanism is in the closed position.

In addition, the container assembly may include a catch extending into the recess on the top surface of the intermediate wall and configured to abut the upper slider when in the open position to prevent liquid from being compressed between the upper slider and the end wall of the recess on the top surface of the intermediate wall.

The upper slider may be manually removed from the cap assembly by applying a manual force that overcomes the magnetic force between the upper slider magnet and the lower slider magnet.

The upper slider of the cap assembly may be manually removed from the cap assembly by applying a manual force that overcomes the magnetic force between the upper slider magnet and the lower slider magnet.

The tab lugs of the cap assembly may be configured to snap onto the sides of the second opening to prevent the lower slider from separating from the cap assembly when the upper slider is removed from the cap assembly.

The lower slider may further include a finger tab extending from the outer surface.

The lower slider of the cap assembly can be manually removed from the cap assembly by rotating the manually actuated finger tab 90 ° relative to the second opening in the intermediate wall.

The container assembly may also have a recessed portion extending into an inner surface of the sidewall that extends below the intermediate wall. The recessed portion may receive a portion of the lower slider when the slider mechanism is in the closed position.

The container assembly may further include a vent location on the bottom surface of the intermediate wall such that when the lid assembly is attached to the container and in the open position, the lower gasket slides over the vent location to allow air to circulate between the external atmosphere and the interior cavity of the container.

The lower slider magnet may be a ring magnet extending around the center tube.

In another embodiment, the lid assembly may include a rim for engaging the container opening, and an intermediate wall extending below the rim, wherein a top surface of the intermediate wall has a first opening, a second opening, and a vent. The bottom surface of the intermediate wall may define a first sloped feature having a ridge surface spaced between two groove-like recesses. The first angled feature may be positioned on a first side of the second opening. The second sloped feature may have a ridge surface spaced between two groove-like recesses, the second sloped feature being positioned on a second side of the second opening. Additionally, the lid assembly may include a slider mechanism configured to be manually slid to selectively provide the closed position by covering both the first opening and the second opening and the open position by covering only the second opening. The slider mechanism may further include an upper slider configured to be positioned within a recess on the top surface of the intermediate wall, the upper slider may encapsulate the upper slider magnet. In addition, the slider mechanism may include a lower slider configured to be positioned alongside the bottom surface of the intermediate wall. The lower slider may also include an inner surface having a protruding lower slider ramp. The lower slider ramp may be configured to be selectively received in a first one of the two groove-like recesses on the first side of the second opening and in a first one of the two groove-like recesses on the second side of the second opening when the slider mechanism is in the open position. The lower slider ramp may be configured to be selectively received in a second one of the two groove-like recesses on the first side of the second opening and in a second one of the two groove-like recesses on the second side of the second opening when the slider mechanism is in the closed position. The lower slider magnet may be enclosed within the lower slider. In addition, the slider mechanism may include a lower washer configured to extend around a perimeter of the inner surface of the lower slider and configured to be compressed between the lower slider and the lower surface of the intermediate wall. The magnetic attraction between the upper slider magnet and the lower slider magnet may magnetically couple the lower slider to the upper slider.

In another example, a method of forming a cap assembly may include one or more of: the method includes injection molding a first shot of material of the cap body, injection molding a second shot of material of the first plate portion onto the cap body, injection molding a third shot of material of the second plate portion onto the cap body, and injection molding a sealing portion with the third shot of material to seal the first plate portion and the second plate portion to the cap body. The method may further include insert molding the magnet assembly into the second plate portion. A channel may be formed between the first plate portion and the second plate portion, and the second shot of material may be combined with the third shot of material. The method may further include capturing the air pocket between the cover body and both the first plate portion and the second plate portion.

In one embodiment, the lid assembly may include a rim for engaging the container opening, the rim defining a top wall. The cap assembly may additionally include a sidewall defining a recess for placement of the upper or first gasket. The intermediate wall may extend below the edge, a top surface of the intermediate wall defining a recess. The recess may have a first opening and a second opening. The bottom surface of the intermediate wall may define a first sloped feature having a first ridge surface and a first channel-like recess. The first angled feature may be positioned on a first side of the second opening. The second sloped feature may have a second ridge surface and a second groove-like recess, where the second sloped feature is positioned on a second side of the second opening. Additionally, the lid assembly may include a slider mechanism configured to be manually slid to selectively provide the closed position and the open position by covering both the first opening and the second opening. The slider mechanism may include an upper slider configured to be positioned within a recess on the top surface of the intermediate wall. Further, the upper slider may have an encapsulated upper slider magnet. In addition, the slider mechanism may include a lower slider configured to be positioned alongside the bottom surface of the intermediate wall. In addition, the lower slider may include an inner surface having a lower slider ramp protruding therefrom, wherein the lower slider ramp is configured to be selectively received in the first and second channel-like recesses when the slider mechanism is in the closed position. The lower slider ramp is further configured to abut the first ridge surface and the second ridge surface when the slider mechanism is in the open position. The lower slider may also include a lower slider magnet enclosed within the lower slider. The lower slider may also have first and second curved walls extending from an inner surface of the lower slider and having first and second protruding lugs at distal ends of the first and second curved walls configured to extend through the second opening. The slider mechanism may further include a lower washer configured to extend around a perimeter of the inner surface of the lower slider and configured to be compressed between the lower slider and the lower surface of the intermediate wall. Further, the magnetic attraction between the upper slider magnet and the lower slider magnet is configured to magnetically couple the upper slider to the lower slider.

In another example, the separation distance between the inner surface of the lower slider and the first and second protruding lugs prevents the first and second protruding lugs from being inserted into the second opening when the lower slider is improperly positioned on the top surface of the intermediate wall.

In one example, the lower slider moves away from the upper slider as the lower slider ramp slides from the first and second channel-like recesses to the first and second ridge surfaces.

In one example, the second gasket is spaced apart from the bottom surface of the intermediate wall to unseal the lower slider from the bottom surface and allow air to flow through the slider assembly as the lower slider moves away from the upper slider.

In one example, the sealing surface of the lower gasket unseals from the radial ridge of the upper slider as the lower slider moves away from the upper slider to allow air to flow through the knob vent of the lower slider and through the slider assembly.

The second opening of the cap assembly further includes a snap feature extending from the intermediate wall into the second opening such that when the slider mechanism is in the closed position, the snap feature is configured to be received in a channel extending along a portion of the first and second curved walls.

The cap assembly further includes a catch extending into the recess on the top surface of the intermediate wall, the catch being configured to abut the upper slider when in the open position to prevent liquid from being compressed between the upper slider and the end wall of the recess on the top surface of the intermediate wall.

The upper slider of the cap assembly may be manually removed from the cap assembly by applying a manual force that overcomes the magnetic force between the upper slider magnet and the lower slider magnet.

The first and second tab ears of the cap assembly may be configured to catch on sides of the second opening to prevent the lower slider from separating from the cap assembly when the upper slider is removed from the cap assembly.

The lower slider may further include a knob extending from the outer surface.

The lower slider of the cap assembly may be manually removed from the cap assembly by manually actuating the knob to rotate the lower slider relative to the second opening in the intermediate wall. The rotation angle may have any value between 5 degrees and 145 degrees.

The cap assembly may also have a recess extending into an inner surface of the sidewall that extends below the intermediate wall. The recessed portion may receive a portion of the lower slider when the slider mechanism is in the closed position.

In another aspect, a container assembly may include a container having an inner wall with a first end having a container opening extending into an interior reservoir; and an outer wall forming a shell of the container, wherein the outer wall has a second end configured to support the container on a surface. Additionally, the container assembly may include a lid adapted to seal the container opening. The lid may further comprise a rim for engaging the container opening, the rim defining a top wall. The cover may also have a side wall defining a recess for placement of the upper gasket, and an intermediate wall extending below the rim, a top surface of the intermediate wall defining a recess, and the recess having a first opening and a second opening. The bottom surface of the intermediate wall may define a first sloped feature having a first ridge surface and a first channel-like recess. The first angled feature may be positioned on a first side of the second opening. The second sloped feature may have a second ridge surface and a second groove-like recess, where the second sloped feature is positioned on a second side of the second opening. Additionally, the cover may include a slider mechanism configured to be manually slid to selectively provide the closed position by covering both the first opening and the second opening and the open position by covering only the second opening. In addition, the slider mechanism may include an upper slider configured to be positioned within a recess on the top surface of the intermediate wall. The upper slider may encapsulate the upper slider magnet. The slider mechanism may further include a lower slider configured to be positioned against the bottom surface of the intermediate wall. The lower slider may further include an inner surface having a protruding lower slider ramp, wherein the lower slider ramp is configured to be selectively received in the first and second channel-like recesses when the slider mechanism is in the closed position. The lower slider ramp may be configured to abut the first ridge surface and the second ridge surface when the slider mechanism is in the open position. The lower slider may encapsulate the lower slider magnet. Additionally, the lower slider may include first and second curved walls extending from an inner surface of the lower slider, wherein the first and second curved walls have first and second tab lugs connected to distal ends configured to extend through the second opening. In addition, the slider mechanism may include a lower washer configured to extend around a perimeter of the inner surface of the lower slider and configured to be compressed between the lower slider and the lower surface of the intermediate wall. The magnetic attraction between the upper slider magnet and the lower slider magnet may magnetically couple the upper slider to the lower slider.

In one example, the inner wall of the container includes a threaded sidewall configured to receive a threaded structure on the sidewall of the cap.

The container may further comprise a sealed vacuum chamber between the inner wall and the outer wall.

In another example, the separation distance between the inner surface of the lower slider and the first and second protruding lugs prevents the first and second protruding lugs from being inserted into the second opening when the lower slider is improperly positioned on the top surface of the intermediate wall.

In one example, the lower slider is movable away from the upper slider as the lower slider ramp slides from the first and second channel-like recesses to the first and second ridge surfaces.

In one example, the second gasket is spaced apart from the bottom surface of the intermediate wall to unseal the lower slider from the bottom surface and allow air to flow through the slider assembly when the lower slider is moved away from the upper slider

The second opening of the container assembly may further include a catch extending from the intermediate wall into the second opening such that when the slider mechanism is in the closed position, the catch is configured to be received in a channel extending along a portion of the first and second curved walls.

In addition, the container assembly may include a catch extending into the recess on the top surface of the intermediate wall and configured to abut the upper slider when in the open position to prevent liquid from being compressed between the upper slider and the end wall of the recess on the top surface of the intermediate wall.

The upper slider of the cap assembly may be manually removed from the cap assembly by applying a manual force that overcomes the magnetic force between the upper slider magnet and the lower slider magnet.

The first and second tab ears of the cap assembly may be configured to catch on sides of the second opening to prevent the lower slider from separating from the cap assembly when the upper slider is removed from the cap assembly.

The lower slider may further include a knob extending from the outer surface.

The lower slider of the cap assembly may be manually removed from the cap assembly by manually actuating the knob to rotate the lower slider relative to the second opening in the intermediate wall.

The container assembly may also have a recessed portion extending into an inner surface of the sidewall that extends below the intermediate wall. The recessed portion may receive a portion of the lower slider when the slider mechanism is in the closed position.

In another embodiment, the lid assembly may include a rim for engaging the container opening, and an intermediate wall extending below the rim, wherein a top surface of the intermediate wall has a first opening and a second opening. The bottom surface of the intermediate wall may define a first sloped feature having a first ridge surface and a first channel-like recess. The first angled feature may be positioned on a first side of the second opening. The second sloped feature may have a second ridge surface and a second groove-like recess. The second sloped feature may be positioned on a second side of the second opening. Additionally, the lid assembly may include a slider mechanism configured to be manually slid to selectively provide the closed position by covering both the first opening and the second opening and the open position by covering only the second opening. The slider mechanism may further include an upper slider configured to be positioned within a recess on the top surface of the intermediate wall, the upper slider may encapsulate the upper slider magnet. In addition, the slider mechanism may include a lower slider configured to be positioned alongside the bottom surface of the intermediate wall. The lower slider may also include an inner surface having a protruding lower slider ramp. The lower slider ramp may be configured to be selectively received in the first and second channel-like recesses when the slider mechanism is in the closed position. The lower slider ramp may be configured to abut the first and second ridge surfaces when the slider mechanism is in the open position. The lower slider magnet may be enclosed within the lower slider. In addition, the slider mechanism may include a lower washer configured to extend around a perimeter of the inner surface of the lower slider and configured to be compressed between the lower slider and the lower surface of the intermediate wall. The magnetic attraction between the upper slider magnet and the lower slider magnet may magnetically couple the lower slider to the upper slider.

In another example, a method of forming a cap assembly may include one or more of: the method includes injection molding a first shot of material of the cap body, injection molding a second shot of material of the first plate portion onto the cap body, injection molding a third shot of material of the second plate portion onto the cap body, and injection molding a sealing portion with the third shot of material to seal the first plate portion and the second plate portion to the cap body. The method may further include insert molding the magnet assembly into the second plate portion. A channel may be formed between the first plate portion and the second plate portion, and the second shot of material may be combined with the third shot of material. The method may further include capturing the air pocket between the cover body and both the first plate portion and the second plate portion.

In one embodiment, the lid assembly may include a rim for engaging the container opening, the rim defining a top wall. The cap assembly may additionally include a sidewall defining a recess for placement of the upper or first gasket. The intermediate wall may extend below the edge, a top surface of the intermediate wall defining a recess. The recess may have a first opening and a second opening. The bottom surface of the intermediate wall may define a first sloped feature having a first ridge surface and a first channel-like recess. The first angled feature may be positioned on a first side of the second opening. The second sloped feature may have a second ridge surface and a second groove-like recess, where the second sloped feature is positioned on a second side of the second opening. Additionally, the lid assembly may include a slider mechanism configured to be manually slid to selectively provide the closed position and the open position by covering both the first opening and the second opening. The slider mechanism may include an upper slider configured to be positioned within a recess on the top surface of the intermediate wall. In addition, the slider mechanism may include a lower slider configured to be positioned alongside the bottom surface of the intermediate wall. In addition, the lower slider may include an inner surface having a lower slider ramp protruding therefrom, wherein the lower slider ramp is configured to be selectively received in the first and second channel-like recesses when the slider mechanism is in the closed position. Additionally, the lower slider ramp may be configured to abut the first ridge surface and the second ridge surface when the slider mechanism is in the open position. The lower slider may also have first and second curved walls extending from an inner surface of the lower slider and having first and second protruding lugs at distal ends of the first and second curved walls configured to extend through the second opening. The slider mechanism may further include a lower washer configured to extend around a perimeter of the inner surface of the lower slider and configured to be compressed between the lower slider and the lower surface of the intermediate wall.

The invention is disclosed above and in the accompanying drawings with reference to a variety of examples. The purpose served by the disclosure, however, is to provide an example of the various features and concepts related to the invention, not to limit the scope of the disclosure. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that numerous variations and modifications may be made to the examples described above without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims (20)

1. A cap assembly, comprising:

a rim for engaging an opening of a container, the rim defining a top wall;

a sidewall defining a recess for receiving a gasket;

an intermediate wall extending below the edge, a top surface of the intermediate wall defining a recess having a first opening and a second opening, and a bottom surface; and

a slider mechanism configured to be manually slid to selectively provide a closed position and selectively provide an open position by covering both the first opening and the second opening, the slider mechanism comprising:

an upper slider configured to be positioned within the recess on the top surface of the intermediate wall and having an upper slider magnet enclosed therein;

A lower slider configured to be positioned adjacent the bottom surface of the intermediate wall, the lower slider further comprising:

a lower slider magnet encapsulated within the lower slider;

a knob extending from the outer surface, the knob having a lower surface;

a sealing surface opposite the lower surface;

a knob vent extending from the sealing surface to the lower surface, wherein the knob vent includes a first vent opening at the lower surface, a second vent opening at the sealing surface, a vent inner surface between the first vent opening and the second vent opening, a first circular inlet portion extending from the first vent opening to the vent inner surface, and a second circular inlet portion extending from the second vent opening to the vent inner surface;

the first vent has a first diameter;

the second vent has a second diameter;

wherein the first diameter is smaller than the second diameter; and is also provided with

Wherein a magnetic attraction between the upper slider magnet and the lower slider magnet magnetically couples the upper slider to the lower slider.

2. The cap assembly of claim 1, wherein a ratio of the first diameter to the second diameter is in a range of 0.70:1 to 0.90:1.

3. The lid assembly of claim 1, wherein a first radius of the first circular inlet portion is less than a second radius of the second circular inlet portion.

4. The lid assembly of claim 3, wherein a ratio of the first radius of the first circular inlet portion to the second radius of the second circular inlet portion is in a range of 0.7:1 to 0.8:1.

5. The cap assembly of claim 1, wherein the vent inner surface has a portion with a conical shape.

6. The lid assembly of claim 1, wherein the recess includes a tapered surface between the first opening and the second opening, wherein a first depth of the recess adjacent the first opening is greater than a second depth adjacent the second opening.

7. The cap assembly of claim 1, wherein an upper surface of the recess includes a first engagement member having a first inclined surface and a second inclined surface disposed adjacent to each other.

8. The cap assembly of claim 7, wherein the first engagement member is received within a first channel disposed on a lower surface of the upper slider.

9. The lid assembly of claim 8, wherein the first channel includes a first channel engagement member having a first channel angled surface, wherein the first channel angled surface faces the first angled surface of the first engagement member when the slider mechanism is in the open position.

10. A cap assembly, comprising:

a rim for engaging an opening of a container, the rim defining a top wall;

a sidewall defining a recess for receiving a gasket;

an intermediate wall extending below the edge, a top surface of the intermediate wall defining a recess having a first opening and a second opening, and a bottom surface;

wherein an upper surface of the recess includes a first engagement member having a first inclined surface and a second inclined surface disposed adjacent to each other; and

a slider mechanism configured to be manually slid to selectively provide a closed position and selectively provide an open position by covering both the first opening and the second opening, the slider mechanism comprising:

an upper slider configured to be positioned within the recess on the top surface of the intermediate wall, the upper slider comprising:

An upper slider magnet enclosed therein,

a first channel extending along a lower surface of the upper slider,

a second channel extending along the lower surface of the upper slider, wherein the first channel is spaced apart from and substantially parallel to the first channel, and

a lower slider configured to be positioned adjacent the bottom surface of the intermediate wall, the lower slider further comprising:

a lower slider magnet encapsulated within the lower slider;

wherein the first engagement member is received within the first channel of the upper slider; and is also provided with

Wherein a magnetic attraction between the upper slider magnet and the lower slider magnet magnetically couples the upper slider to the lower slider.

11. The cap assembly of claim 10, wherein the first channel and the second channel extend through a rear surface of the upper slider.

12. The cap assembly of claim 10, wherein the first channel comprises a first channel engagement member having a first channel sloped surface; and is also provided with

Wherein the first channel inclined surface faces the first inclined surface of the first engagement member when the slider mechanism is in the open position.

13. The cap assembly of claim 12, wherein the first channel engagement member further comprises a second channel inclined surface; and is also provided with

Wherein the second channel inclined surface faces the second inclined surface of the first engagement member when the slider mechanism is in the closed position.

14. The cap assembly of claim 10, wherein the upper surface of the recess includes a second engagement member spaced apart from the first engagement member, and wherein the second engagement member is received within the second channel of the upper slider.

15. The cap assembly of claim 10, wherein a majority of the first engagement member is positioned behind the second opening.

16. The lid assembly of claim 10, wherein a first angle of the upper surface with the first angled surface is greater than a second angle of the upper surface with the second angled surface.

17. The lid assembly of claim 10, wherein the recess includes a tapered surface between the first opening and the second opening, and wherein a first depth of the recess adjacent the first opening is greater than a second depth adjacent the second opening.

18. The lid assembly of claim 17, wherein when the slider mechanism is moved from the open position to the closed position, a front portion of the upper slider is configured to tilt downward such that a rear portion of the upper slider moves away from the upper surface of the recess.

19. A cap assembly, comprising:

a rim for engaging an opening of a container, the rim defining a top wall;

a sidewall defining a recess for receiving a gasket;

an intermediate wall extending below the edge, a top surface of the intermediate wall defining a recess having a first opening and a second opening, and a bottom surface, wherein the recess includes a tapered surface between the first opening and the second opening, wherein a first depth of the recess adjacent the first opening is greater than a second depth adjacent the second opening; and is also provided with

Wherein an upper surface of the recess includes a first engagement member having a first inclined surface and a second inclined surface disposed adjacent each of the first inclined surfaces, wherein a majority of the first engagement member is positioned rearward of the second opening; and

A slider mechanism configured to be manually slid to selectively provide a closed position and selectively provide an open position by covering both the first opening and the second opening, the slider mechanism comprising:

an upper slider configured to be positioned within the recess on the top surface of the intermediate wall, the upper slider comprising:

an upper slider magnet enclosed therein;

a first channel extending along a lower surface of the upper slider,

wherein the first channel comprises a first channel engagement member having a first channel sloping surface; and

a lower slider configured to be positioned adjacent the bottom surface of the intermediate wall, the lower slider further comprising:

a lower slider magnet encapsulated within the lower slider;

wherein magnetic attraction between the upper slider magnet and the lower slider magnet magnetically couples the upper slider to the lower slider; and is also provided with

Wherein the first channel engagement member is located forward of the first engagement member when the slider mechanism is in the closed position and rearward of the first engagement member when the slider mechanism is in the open position.

20. The lid assembly of claim 19, wherein the lower slider further comprises:

a knob extending from the outer surface, the knob having a lower surface;

a sealing surface opposite the lower surface; and

a knob vent extending from the sealing surface to the lower surface,

wherein the knob vent includes a first vent opening at the lower surface, a second vent opening at the sealing surface, a vent inner surface between the first vent opening and the second vent opening, a first circular inlet portion extending from the first vent opening to the vent inner surface, and a second circular inlet portion extending from the second vent opening to the vent inner surface;

the first vent has a first diameter;

the second vent has a second diameter; and is also provided with

Wherein the first diameter is smaller than the second diameter.

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