Container Lid Assembly with a Scoop

The present invention relates to the field of container lids, particularly those designed for storage and dispensing of contents using an auxiliary utensil, such as a scoop. More particularly, the present invention relates to to a container lid assembly that integrates a scoop for convenient product dispensing and provides a recessed area for retaining the scoop within the container lid.

Historically, container lids have served the primary purpose of sealing the contents from external environments to preserve freshness and prevent contamination. In many applications, particularly those involving the dispensation of powdered or granular materials, the use of a scoop becomes essential for portioning and handling the contents. Traditional container designs have often neglected the integration of a scoop, requiring users to store it separately, which increases the risk of misplacement or the need for additional cleaning if stored outside the container.

Prior art solutions have attempted to address this by providing a scoop that attaches to the container or lid. However, these designs typically result in a protrusion from the lid or container, which complicates storage and can be aesthetically displeasing. Furthermore, these attachments often require additional steps for detachment and reattachment during use, which can be cumbersome and time-consuming. Other designs have incorporated cavities within the lid for storing a scoop, yet these often result in an increased complexity of the lid structure, making it difficult to clean, or they decrease the available volume for storage of the container's contents.

US20180194525A1 discloses a container system comprising a lid, a first rail coupled to the lid, a second rail coupled to the lid and a measuring scoop configured to couple to the lid with the first and second rails. Further the measuring scoop comprises a cup portion with a front rim and a handle portion coupled to the cup portion, wherein the front rim of the cup portion couples to the first rail and the handle portion couples to the second rail.

US20190062013A1 discloses a container for scoopable material including a container body defining a reservoir to hold the scoopable material, a collar attached to the container body, a lid attached to the collar, and a leveler extending from the underside of the lid.

US20020108952A1 discloses a lid that creates a seal around a container to allow proper storage and reduce spoil time of the contents. Integrally formed with the lid is a scoop extending into the can so that the contents may be removed without soiling another utensil. The lid is adapted to securely attach to a container opening. The scoop portion has a finger-receiving cavity to allow for simplified operator use. The finger-receiving scoop extends from the underside of the lid into the container.

U.S. Pat. No. 10,421,589B1 discloses a closure and scoop assembly comprising a scoop comprising a bowl and a handle. Further a closure comprising a frame for mounting to a container body, a cover and a scoop dock hinged relative to the frame by a dock hinge and holding the scoop.

The drawbacks of existing designs manifest as a compromise between convenience and functionality. An improved design is thus required to offer a solution that provides easy access to the scoop without compromising the container's functionality, volume, or ease of use. Such a design should ideally allow the scoop to be stored within the container or lid in a manner that does not interfere with the contents, maintains the aesthetic appeal, and does not complicate the lid's structure to the detriment of functionality or cleanliness.

In light of the requirements mentioned in the previous section, the following summary is provided to facilitate an understanding of some of the innovative features unique to the present invention and is not intended to be a full description. A full appreciation of the various aspects of the invention can be gained by taking the entire specification and drawings as a whole.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a container lid assembly with a scoop is disclosed. The container lid assembly comprises of a lid body defined by an exterior upper surface configured for outward orientation relative to a container and an interior lower surface configured for inward orientation, wherein the lower surface integrates a mechanically contoured recessed area for the accommodation and retention of a scoop.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the scoop comprises of a handle and a head, geometrically and structurally conformed to nest within the mechanically defined contours of the recessed area on the lid's lower surface. An interlocking engagement is provided between the recessed area and the scoop head is facilitated by a snap-fit mechanism, wherein complementary grooved configurations on both the recessed area and the scoop head, enabling a force-induced snap engagement and detachment, supported by mechanical latches for a secure fixation.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a slide-in engagement mechanism is characterized by a linear guideway designed within the recessed area, allowing for the directional insertion and withdrawal of the scoop head, wherein the scoop head comprises a cut that is insertable onto the linear guideway, thereby providing a secure and easily reversible placement.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a rotational locking mechanism is characterized by intermeshing geared grooves on the perimeter of the recessed area and corresponding structures on the scoop head, enabling securement through a rotational alignment and engagement process, and disengagement through inverse rotation.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, further comprises a snap-fit mechanism wherein the periphery of the scoop head and the handle are designed for a snap engagement onto the recessed area, leveraging a perimeter engagement for robust mechanical attachment and release.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a method for securing a scoop within a container lid is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of positioning a scoop with a handle and a head above a recessed area on the interior lower surface of a lid body, the lid body outlined by an exterior upper surface configured for outward orientation relative to a container and the interior lower surface configured for inward orientation. Further, aligning the head of the scoop with the mechanically contoured recessed area on the lid's lower surface.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the method further comprises engaging the scoop with the recessed area using a snap-fit engagement mechanism by applying a downward force until a click is felt, indicating the mechanical latches have secured the scoop in place.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the method further comprises engaging the scoop with the recessed area using a slide-in engagement mechanism by sliding the scoop head along a linear guideway until the scoop head is fully seated within the recessed area.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the method further engaging the scoop with the recessed area using a rotational locking engagement mechanism by rotating the scoop head to align and intermesh geared grooves, continuing the rotation until the scoop head is securely locked in place.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the method further comprises of engaging the scoop with the recessed area using a perimeter snap engagement mechanism by pressing the perimeter of the scoop head and handle against the recessed area until the scoop is securely snapped in place.

The abovementioned embodiments and further variations of the proposed invention are discussed further in the detailed description.

In the following description of the embodiments of the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and which are shown by way of illustration of specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

The specification may refer to “an”, “one” or “some” embodiment(s) in several locations. This does not necessarily imply that each such reference is to the same embodiment(s), or that the feature only applies to a single embodiment. Single feature of different embodiments may also be combined to provide other embodiments.

As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well unless expressly stated otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “includes”, “comprises”, “including” and/or “comprising” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations and arrangements of one or more of the associated listed items.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

The utility of the devices described herein will be explained further in detail in the following sections of this document referring to the figures. Specific terms used herein do not restrict the scope of the present disclosure.

Embodiments of the present invention disclose a container lid assembly.

illustrates a front perspective view of a container lid assemblywith a scoopaccording to the embodiments of the present disclosure. As used herein, the “container lid” refers to a detachable or hinged cover designed to fit the opening of a container securely. It serves multiple purposes, including but not limited to protecting the container's contents from external elements such as dust, moisture, and contaminants, preserving the freshness and quality of the contents, and providing a way to seal the container for safe storage and transport. Container lids can be made from various materials, including but not limited to plastic, metal, glass, or composite materials, depending on the intended use and the type of container they are designed to seal.

The container lid assemblyfeatures a lid bodycharacterized by two distinct surfaces: an exterior upper surface and an interior lower surface. The exterior upper surface is designed to face outward when the lid is secured on a container, serving as the primary interface with the external environment and users. The interior lower surfacefaces the inside of the container and is engineered with a mechanically contoured recessed areaspecifically for accommodating the scoop. This design ensures that the scoopcan be stored securely without interfering with the container's contents or compromising the seal between the lid and container.

As used herein, the “scoop”refers to a utensil typically used for measuring, transferring, or serving bulk materials, ranging from dry goods like flour and sugar to ice cream and other semi-solid substances. It usually consists of two main components: a handleand a head. The handleallows the user to grip and manipulate the scoop comfortably, while the head is designed to hold a specific amount of material. The headof the scoopcan vary in shape and size, tailored to its specific use, such as a deep, hemispherical shape for liquids or a more shallow, wide shape for dry goods.

Scoopsare made from a variety of materials, including but not limited to plastic, metal, silicone, or wood, depending on their intended use. For instance, metal scoops might be used for ice cream or hot ingredients, while plastic scoops are often found in dry food containers. The design of the scoopmay also include features such as a flat bottom for stability when set down, a pointed tip for easier digging into dense materials, or holes for draining liquids.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the “mechanically contoured recessed area”refers to a specifically designed indentation or cavity on a surface, shaped through precise mechanical processes to achieve a particular geometry. This area is tailored to closely match the shape of an object intended to fit within it, ensuring a precise and secure placement. In the context of the container lid, such the recessed areais engineered on the lid's interior lower surfaceto accommodate a complementary object, like the scoop, both in terms of shape and functionality. The contours of the recess are not arbitrary but are the result of detailed mechanical design to achieve an optimal fit and function, facilitating easy insertion, secure holding, and straightforward removal of the object.

is another front perspective view of the container lid assemblywithout the scoopillustrating a mechanically contoured recessed areaand a grooved configurationto facilitate snap-fit mechanism according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This embodiment utilizes complementary grooved configurationson both the recessed areaand the scoop head. This arrangement enables a force-induced engagement and detachment, with mechanical latchesensuring a secure fixation. This mechanism provides a quick and intuitive mechanism for users to attach and detach the scoopas needed.

This precise design ensures that the groovesalign perfectly when the scoopis positioned over the recessed area, facilitating a seamless engagement process. The engagement is initiated through the application of a downward force, which, when applied, prompts the grooveson the scoop headto interlock with those on the recessed area, thereby achieving a secure connection. This force-induced engagement is not only efficient but also requires minimal effort from the user, enhancing the user experience by making the process of attaching the scoopboth quick and straightforward.

Further supporting this connection are mechanical latchesintegrated within the grooved configurations. Once the scoopis pressed down and the grooved configurationsare aligned and engaged, these latchesclick into place, effectively locking the scoop headwithin the recessed area. This additional layer of fixation ensures that once attached, the scoopremains firmly in place, eliminating any risk of accidental detachment during use or when the container is in transit.

illustrates a front perspective view of the scoopillustrating mechanical latchesaccording to the embodiments of the present disclosure. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, detachment of the scoopwhen needed or when cleaning is required is equally straightforward. By applying an upward force to the handle, users can disengage the mechanical latchesand lift the scoopout of the recessed area, allowing for easy removal. This feature of the design ensures that attaching and detaching the scoopfrom the lid is a hassle-free process, contributing to the overall practicality and convenience of the container lid assembly.

Overall, this snap-fit mechanism, characterized by its complementary grooved configurationsand mechanical latches, represents a significant advancement in container lid design. It offers a quick and intuitive mechanism for users to attach and detach the scoopas needed.

another front perspective view of the container lid assemblywith the scoopaccording to the embodiments of the present disclosure.is another front perspective view of the container lid assemblywithout the scoopillustrating the recessed areaand periphery of the scoop headand the handleaccording to the embodiments of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, a secondary snap-fit mechanism where the peripheryof the scoop headand the handlesnap onto the recessed area. This design leverages the outer edges for a comprehensive and secure attachment, distinguishing it from the initial snap-fit approach by focusing on the peripheryfor engagement.

This particular embodiment enhances the versatility of the container lid assemblyby introducing an alternative approach to securing the scoop, which notably diverges from the conventional snap-fit design previously described. The essence of this secondary mechanism lies in its strategic use of the scoop'speriphery, including both the headand the handle, to achieve a secure fit within the recessed areaof the lid.

This design uses the outer edges of the scoopfor attachment, thereby offering a broader engagement surface compared to the more localized contact points of the initial snap-fit mechanism. The mechanism operates on the principle of perimeter engagement, wherein the edges of the scoop headand handleare specifically contoured to match complementary profiles within the recessed areaon the lid's lower surface. When the user aligns the scoopwith the recessed areaand applies a gentle pressure, the periphery of the scoopsnaps into place, indicating a successful engagement. This snap engagement is facilitated by precision-engineered profiles that ensure a tight and secure fit, effectively preventing any unintentional detachment of the scoopduring use or transit.illustrates another front perspective view of the container lid assemblywithout the scoopaccording to the embodiments of the present disclosure.

illustrates another front perspective view of the container lid assemblywith the scoopaccording to the embodiments of the present disclosure.illustrates another front perspective view of the container lid assemblywithout the scoopillustrating a linear guidewaywithin the recessed areato facilitate slide-in engagement mechanism for the scoopaccording to the embodiments of the present disclosure.illustrates a front perspective view of the scoop with a cutthat is insertable onto the linear guideway according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This embodiment features a linear guidewaywithin the recessed area, allowing for the directional movement of the scoop headinto and out of its storage position. This design offers a simple yet effective method for securing the scoop, facilitating ease of use and maintenance.illustrates a front perspective view of the scoop with a cutthat is insertable onto the linear guideway according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. Central to this design is the inclusion of a linear guidewaysituated within the recessed areaof the container lid's lower surface. The purpose of this linear guidewayis to provide a structured path that guides the scoop headin a directional manner, facilitating its smooth movement into and out of the designated storage position within the lid.

The linear guidewayis particularly configured to match the shape and size of the scoop head, ensuring a snug fit that prevents lateral movement or tilting of the scoopduring insertion or removal. This precision alignment between the linear guidewayand the scoop headis crucial for the smooth operation of the slide-in engagement mechanism. By simply aligning the scoop headwith the entrance of the linear guidewayand applying a gentle push, users can easily slide the scoopinto its storage position, where it remains securely held until needed again. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the scoopis required for use, a straightforward pull on the handlein the opposite direction disengages the scoopfrom the recessed area, readying it for immediate use.

This slide-in engagement mechanism is designed with user convenience and maintenance in mind. By eliminating complex locking mechanisms or the need for precise alignment beyond the guideway, this design significantly simplifies the process of attaching and detaching the scoop.

illustrates another front perspective view of the container lid assemblywith the scoopaccording to the embodiments of the present disclosure.illustrates another front perspective view of the container lid assemblywith an intermeshing geared grooveson the perimeter of the recessed areaand corresponding structures on the scoop headto facilitate rotational alignment and engagement process according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. This embodiment incorporates intermeshing geared groovesalong the perimeter of the recessed areaand the scoop head. Securement is achieved through rotational alignment, providing a reliable and robust connection that is easily engaged and disengaged by users.

illustrates a front prospective view of the scoopwith the intermeshing geared groovesaccording to the embodiments of the present disclosure. At the heart of the rotational locking mechanism of this embodiment lies a system of the intermeshing geared grooves, arrayed along the perimeter of both the recessed areaon the container lid's interior lower surfaceand the corresponding perimeter of the scoop head.

The intricately designed geared groovesserve a dual purpose: they not only guide the user during the engagement process but also ensure a secure and precise fit between the scoopand the lid. The engagement process is initiated by aligning the scoop headwith the recessed areaand then rotating it. This rotational movement causes the geared grooveson the scoop headto interlock with those on the recessed area, resulting in a secure and robust connection. This interlocking action is made possible by the design of the grooves, which are designed to mesh seamlessly only when the scoopis correctly positioned and rotated to the designated alignment.

One of the standout features of this rotational locking mechanism is its ease of use. Users can effortlessly engage and disengage the scoopfrom the lid with a simple twisting motion. This user-friendly operation eliminates the need for excessive force or complex manipulation, making it suitable for all users, including those with limited hand strength or dexterity. Furthermore, the rotational mechanism provides a reliable connection that ensures the scoop remains securely in place during storage and transport, preventing accidental detachment or spillage of contents. The disengagement process mirrors the engagement, requiring users to apply a reverse rotational motion to unlock the scoopfrom the recessed area.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a detailed method is introduced for effectively securing a scoopto a container lid. This process involves initially positioning the scoop, which consists of a handleand a head, over a specifically designed recessed arealocated on the interior lower surfaceof the lid body. This lid bodyis distinctively designed with an exterior upper surface meant to face outward when mounted on a container, while its interior lower surfacefaces the container's interior. The next step involves precisely aligning the scoop's headwith this recessed area, which has been meticulously shaped to match the head's geometry, ensuring a perfect fit within the lid's interior contours.

In an embodiment of the current invention, the described method also includes the action of securing the scoopinto the recessed areathrough a snap-fit engagement process. This involves exerting a downward pressure on the scoopuntil a distinctive ‘click’ sound is perceived, signifying that the mechanical latcheshave successfully locked the scoopinto its designated position.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the method includes attaching the scoopto the recessed areaby utilizing a slide-in engagement approach. This entails guiding the scoop headalong the linear guidewayuntil it is completely settled into the recessed section, ensuring a secure placement.

In a specific embodiment of the present invention, the procedure encompasses securing the scoopwithin the recessed areathrough a rotational locking mechanism. This process involves turning the scoop headto achieve alignment and meshing of the geared grooves, with the rotation persisting until the scoop headis firmly locked into position.