Smart Lid and Tumbler Device

The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/634,967, which was filed on Apr. 17, 2024, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The present invention relates generally to the field of smart lid and tumbler devices. More specifically, the present invention relates to a tumbler and/or tumbler lid that holds a smartwatch, regular watch, or other desired timepiece. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices and methods of manufacture.

By way of background, this invention relates to improvements in smart lid and tumbler devices. Generally, people often opt to use a smartwatch in lieu of carrying their smartphone. These watches offer convenient and hands-free applications separate from the phone. However, if a person does not want to wear the watch but have it easily accessible, they may lack safe and secure places to store it. Further, placing the watch in a pocket or inside a handbag reduces the ease of use and puts it at risk for drops, losses, and damages.

Additionally, users may desire the flexibility of their smartwatches but prefer not to have to wear the smartwatches. Thus, users would prefer to have somewhere to mount their smartwatches, which affords the smartwatch protection, but also allows for accessibility.

Accordingly, there is a demand for an improved smart lid and tumbler device that provides users with a tumbler and/or lid that holds a smartwatch, regular watch, or other desired timepiece. More particularly, there is a demand for a smart lid and tumbler device that prevents users from having to store their watch in a pocket, purse, backpack, etc.

Therefore, there exists a long felt need in the art for a smart lid and tumbler device that provides users with a tumbler and/or lid that holds a smartwatch, regular watch, or other desired timepiece. There is also a long felt need in the art for a smart lid and tumbler device that features a magnetic indented space on the tumbler and/or lid or a magnetic backing on the watch face that enables it to be secured to the side or lid of a tumbler. Further, there is a long felt need in the art for a smart lid and tumbler device that includes a recessed area on the lid and/or tumbler to securely hold the watch face and maintain easy accessibility. Moreover, there is a long felt need in the art for a device that prevents a user from having to store the watch face in a pocket, purse, backpack, etc. and risk losing or damaging it. Further, there is a long felt need in the art for a smart lid and tumbler device wherein the lid fits within the circumference of the tumbler opening and can be secured via a screw or pop-in mechanism. Finally, there is a long felt need in the art for a smart lid and tumbler device that is available in different sizes and colors.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a smart lid and tumbler device. The device is a modified lid for tumblers and/or a modified tumbler that features a space/holder for a watch face component of a smartwatch or any other timepiece. The smart lid and tumbler device comprises a lid component that is configured in a circular shape that fits within the circumference of the tumbler opening and can be secured via a screw or pop-in mechanism. The lid component and/or the tumbler component comprises a recessed area that is sized and shaped to retain a watch face component of a smartwatch. The recessed area can comprise a silicone holder embedded into the top, a recessed compartment with or without a lid, a magnetic slide that includes a holder for the watch face component, or any other suitable means of connection to or on the lid component and/or tumbler component. Users may also magnetically attach the watch face component directly to the side or indentation in or of the tumbler component and/or the lid component. Further, users can also utilize a pouch, strap, or bag that holds the watch face component and secures to the tumbler component.

In this manner, the smart lid and tumbler device of the present invention accomplishes all of the forgoing objectives and provides users with a device that provides a place holder for a smartwatch that is protected from the elements. The device can also comprise lights, a speaker, etc., or other suitable functionality. The device can be available in different sizes and colors.

The following presents a simplified summary in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a smart lid and tumbler device. The device is a modified lid for tumblers and/or a modified tumbler that features a space/holder for a watch face component of a smartwatch or any other timepiece. The smart lid and tumbler device comprises a lid component and a tumbler component. The lid component and/or the tumbler component comprise a recessed area that is sized and shaped to retain a watch face component of a smartwatch. The recessed area retains the smartwatch within the area via various securing means.

In one embodiment, the smart lid and tumbler device provides a user with a tumbler and/or a tumbler lid that retains a smartwatch, a conventional watch, etc., or another desired timepiece as is known in the art. The device allows easy access to the smartwatch and prevents a user from having to store the smartwatch in a pocket, purse, backpack, etc., or any other suitable storage component, and risk losing or damaging the smartwatch.

In one embodiment, the smart lid and tumbler device comprises a tumbler component for holding a hot or cold beverage to drink. The tumbler component is preferably of a cylindrical shape having a top end and a bottom end. The top end comprises an upper rim which defines a tumbler opening which allows access to an interior cavity. The interior cavity can be a double-walled, vacuum-sealed cavity capable of accepting hot or cold beverages and keeping the beverages hot or cold, as desired. Preferably the tumbler profile between the top end and the bottom end is substantially planar. In another embodiment, the bottom end of the tumbler component can be narrowed to fit within a conventional cupholder of a vehicle.

In one embodiment, the tumbler component includes a lid component. The lid component is circular in shape and sized and shaped to fit within the circumference of the tumbler component opening, sealing the opening and preventing beverages within the interior cavity to spill. The lid component is typically sealed on the tumbler opening in a secure engagement via a threaded or screwed feature or a pop-in mechanism. Specifically, the screwed feature includes male and female threads respectively carried within the upper rim inner surface and on the body of the lid component. The interlocking threads enable the lid component to be secured to the tumbler component in a manner which prevents the removal of the lid component without physical rotational manipulation of the lid component in an unscrewing type of action.

In one embodiment, the lid component is enabled to be rotated and screwed onto the tumbler component until the lid's upper portion engages the top of the upper rim. In this locking position, the lid component is securely maintained intact with the tumbler component and movement of the lid component is prevented. Additionally, with the threads intertwined, a sealed covering is provided preventing liquid in the interior cavity of the tumbler component from leaving the interior cavity except through a path established by the lid component opening. In one embodiment, a sliding closure carried by the lid component covers the lid component opening and is operable to seal the interior of the tumbler component, or to slide open providing for a channel to dispense the liquid stored within the interior cavity through the lid component opening. In one embodiment, the lid component comprises a straw of variable shapes and sizes, which can be inserted into the lid component opening during use.

In one embodiment, the lid component is made from shatterproof material enabling the tumbler component to remain spill proof even if dropped. In the preferred embodiment, the lid component is made from plastics.

In one embodiment, the tumbler component has a tumbler body which preferably is a double wall stainless steel body. The double wall stainless steel body includes an outer stainless steel wall and an interior stainless steel wall. Preferably a copper boundary layer is disposed between the two stainless steel walls to further insulate the beverages retained within the interior cavity.

In one embodiment, the bottom end of the tumbler component comprises a non-slip bottom pad. The non-slip bottom pad is preferably made from a flexible material such as rubber. The non-slip bottom pad has a planar bottom surface which enables the tumbler component to evenly rest upon a flat surface. Further, the non-slip bottom pad rests within the profile of the tumbler profile enabling the appearance of the tumbler body to remain uninterrupted along its length providing for a unitary appearance.

In one embodiment, the smart lid and tumbler device can be used as a smartwatch holder, and there is a recessed area or other securing means in the lid component and/or the tumbler component, which is used as a holder, so that it is convenient to retain the smartwatch without carrying a separate mobile phone when using the tumbler device. Specifically, the lid component and/or the tumbler body comprise a recessed area that is sized and shaped to retain a watch face component of a conventional smartwatch. The recessed area can be any suitable size and shape, as long as it is sized and shaped to retain a watch face component of a smartwatch or other timepiece. The recessed area can be available in different sizes and shapes depending on the size and shape of the watch face component being used. The recessed area can merely retain the watch face component by setting the watch face component within the area during use.

In one embodiment, the recessed area can be configured as a compartment with a lid mechanism. The compartment and lid mechanism secure the watch face component within and protect the watch face component from the elements. In one embodiment, the lid mechanism is a silicone mold component which is used to mate with and completely cover the lid component and encase and protect the watch face component while in the recessed area. The silicone mold component is sized and shaped to mirror the lid component and comprises a protrusion which is aligned with the recessed area to completely encase the watch face component when in position. The silicone mold component would be transparent, waterproof, and flexible. It would secure around the smartwatch and the lid component via an interference fit. Further, the silicone mold component would protect the smartwatch from the elements, as well as drops and spills. Additionally, the silicone mold component is transparent and allows a user to view and access the smartwatch while still being protected during use.

In another embodiment, the lid mechanism is a magnetic slide component that acts to cover the smartwatch and recessed area during use. Typically, the magnetic slide component is secured to the top of the lid component, adjacent to the recessed area. A user would place the watch face component within the recessed area and then slide the magnetic slide component over the top of the smartwatch, securing the smartwatch within the recessed area. The magnetic slide component would lock in place via magnets, once in position over the smartwatch. The magnetic slide component would be transparent and users can view the watch face component through the magnetic slide component. The magnetic slide is also waterproof and protects the smartwatch from the elements, as well as spills and drops. Generally, any other suitable lid mechanisms can be utilized as is known in the art.

In one embodiment, users may magnetically attach the watch face component directly to the side of the tumbler component or directly on the lid component. Further, users may also magnetically attach the watch face component within the recessed area or indentation on the tumbler component and/or the lid component. Specifically, the recessed area or other suitable portion of the lid component and/or the tumbler component comprises a magnetic area which is then secured to magnetic backing on the back of the watch face component. This allows the watch face component to be magnetically secured to the lid component and/or the tumbler component. In another embodiment, adhesives can be utilized instead of magnets to secure the smartwatch to the tumbler component and/or the lid component.

In one embodiment, users can also utilize a pouch, strap, or bag, etc., or any other suitable securing component that holds the watch face component and secures it to the tumbler component and/or lid component. The pouch, strap, or bag can be any suitable shape and size as is known in the art, as long as it is sized and shape to retain a watch face component from a conventional smartwatch or other suitable timepiece and protect it from the elements. The pouch, strap, or bag is then secured to the tumbler component and/or the lid component via ties, a Velcro loop, adhesives, snaps, etc. Further, the pouch, strap, or bag can be made of any suitable flexible material as is known in the art.

In one embodiment, the smart lid and tumbler device comprises additional functionality. Specifically, the tumbler component can comprise lights and a speaker, as well as any other functionality deemed necessary. The additional functionality can be wirelessly paired with the smartwatch secured to the tumbler device, such that the smartwatch controls the action of the lights and speaker, during use. Further, the speaker and lights can also work independently of the smartwatch and typically comprise a battery or other power source, as well as button controls for controlling their functionality, as needed.

In one embodiment, the smart lid and tumbler device is available in different sizes, shapes, styles, designs, and colors, depending on the needs and/or wants of a user. Specifically, the tumbler component can be a cylindrical configuration that is sized and shaped to fit within a conventional cupholder or only the bottom end of the tumbler component can be tapered or is smaller in circumference than the top and middle sections of the tumbler component to fit within a conventional cupholder. Further, the tumbler component can comprise a handle or other suitable means for allowing the device to be held in a user's hand and carried/transported with ease.

In yet another embodiment, the smart lid and tumbler device comprises a plurality of indicia.

In yet another embodiment, a method of retaining a smartwatch to a tumbler or lid is disclosed. The method includes the steps of providing a smart lid and tumbler device comprising a lid component and a tumbler component for retaining a beverage with a recessed area for the smartwatch. The method also comprises inserting a watch face component into the recessed area to be held in place for use. Further, the method comprises magnetically attaching the watch face component to the lid component or the tumbler component. Finally, the method comprises securing the watch face component within a bag, strap, or pouch and securing it to the tumbler component.

Numerous benefits and advantages of this invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which it pertains, upon reading and understanding the following detailed specification.

To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

As noted above, there is a long felt need in the art for a smart lid and tumbler device that provides users with a tumbler and/or lid that holds a smartwatch, regular watch, or other desired timepiece. There is also a long felt need in the art for a smart lid and tumbler device that features a magnetic indented space on the tumbler and/or lid or a magnetic backing on the watch face that enables it to be secured to the side or lid of a tumbler. Further, there is a long felt need in the art for a smart lid and tumbler device that includes a recessed area on the lid and/or tumbler to securely hold the watch face and maintain easy accessibility. Moreover, there is a long felt need in the art for a device that prevents a user from having to store the watch face in a pocket, purse, backpack, etc. and risk losing or damaging it. Further, there is a long felt need in the art for a smart lid and tumbler device wherein the lid fits within the circumference of the tumbler opening and can be secured via a screw or pop-in mechanism. Finally, there is a long felt need in the art for a smart lid and tumbler device that is available in different sizes and colors.

The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is a novel smart lid and tumbler device. The device is a modified lid for tumblers and/or a modified tumbler that features a space/holder for a watch face component of a smartwatch or any other timepiece. The smart lid and tumbler device comprises a lid component that is configured in a circular shape that fits within the circumference of the tumbler opening and can be secured via a screw or pop-in mechanism. The lid component and/or the tumbler component comprises a recessed area that is sized and shaped to retain a watch face component of a smartwatch. The present invention also includes a novel method of retaining a smartwatch to a tumbler or lid. The method includes the steps of providing a smart lid and tumbler device comprising a lid component and a tumbler component for retaining a beverage with a recessed area for the smartwatch. The method also comprises inserting a watch face component into the recessed area to be held in place for use. Further, the method comprises magnetically attaching the watch face component to the lid component or the tumbler component. Finally, the method comprises securing the watch face component within a bag, strap, or pouch and securing it to the tumbler component.

Referring initially to the drawings,illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of the smart lid and tumbler deviceof the present invention. In the present embodiment, the smart lid and tumbler deviceis an improved smart lid and tumbler devicethat provides a user with a modified lid for tumblers and/or a modified tumbler that features a holder for a watch face componentof a smartwatchor any other timepiece. Specifically, the smart lid and tumbler devicecomprises a lid componentand a tumbler component. The lid componentand/or the tumbler componentcomprise a recessed areathat is sized and shaped to retain a watch face componentof a smartwatch. The recessed arearetains the smartwatchwithin the areavia various securing means.

Generally, the smart lid and tumbler deviceprovides a user with a tumbler and/or a tumbler lid that retains a smartwatch, a fitness watch, a conventional watch, etc., or another desired timepiece as is known in the art. The deviceallows easy access to the smartwatchand prevents a user from having to store the smartwatchin a pocket, purse, backpack, etc., or any other suitable storage component, and risk losing or damaging the smartwatch.

Further, the smart lid and tumbler devicecomprises a tumbler componentfor holding a hot or cold beverage to drink. The tumbler componentis preferably of a cylindrical shape having a top endand a bottom end. The top endcomprises an upper rimwhich defines a tumbler openingwhich allows access to an interior cavity. The interior cavitycan be a double-walled, vacuum-sealed cavity capable of accepting hot or cold beverages and keeping the beverages hot or cold, as desired. Preferably the tumbler profile between the top endand the bottom endis substantially planar. In another embodiment, the bottom endof the tumbler componentcan be narrowed to fit within a conventional cupholder of a vehicle.

Preferably, the tumbler componenthas a tumbler bodywhich preferably is a double wall stainless steel body. The double wall stainless steel body includes an outer stainless steel wall and an interior stainless steel wall. Preferably a copper boundary layer is disposed between the two stainless steel walls to further insulate the beverages retained within the interior cavity.

In one embodiment, the bottom endof the tumbler componentcomprises a non-slip bottom pad. The non-slip bottom padis preferably made from a flexible material such as rubber. The non-slip bottom padhas a planar bottom surface which enables the tumbler componentto evenly rest upon a flat surface. Further, the non-slip bottom padrests within the profile of the tumbler profile enabling the appearance of the tumbler bodyto remain uninterrupted along its length providing for a unitary appearance.

Additionally, the tumbler componentincludes a lid component. The lid componentis circular in shape and sized and shaped to fit within the circumference of the tumbler component opening, sealing the openingand preventing beverages within the interior cavityto spill. The lid componentis typically sealed on the tumbler openingin a secure engagement via a threaded or screwed feature or a pop-in mechanism. Specifically, the screwed feature includes male and female threadsrespectively carried within the upper riminner surface and on the body of the lid component. The interlocking threadsenable the lid componentto be secured to the tumbler componentin a manner which prevents the removal of the lid componentwithout physical rotational manipulation of the lid componentin an unscrewing type of action.

Furthermore, the lid componentis enabled to be rotated and screwed onto the tumbler componentuntil the lid's upper portion engages the top of the upper rim. In this locking position, the lid componentis securely maintained intact with the tumbler componentand movement of the lid componentis prevented. Additionally, with the threadsintertwined, a sealed covering is provided preventing liquid in the interior cavityof the tumbler componentfrom leaving the interior cavityexcept through a path established by a lid component opening. In one embodiment, a sliding closurecarried by the lid componentcovers the lid component openingand is operable to seal the interior of the tumbler component, or to slide open providing for a channel to dispense the liquid stored within the interior cavitythrough the lid component opening. In one embodiment, the lid componentcomprises a strawof variable shapes and sizes, which can be inserted into the lid component openingduring use.

In one embodiment, the lid componentis made from shatterproof material enabling the tumbler componentto remain spill proof even if dropped. In the preferred embodiment, the lid componentis made from plastics or any other suitable material as is known in the art.

As shown in, users may magnetically attach the watch face componentdirectly to the bodyof the tumbler componentor directly on the lid component. Further, users may also magnetically attach the watch face componentwithin the recessed areaor indentation on the tumbler componentand/or the lid component. Specifically, the recessed areaor other suitable portion of the lid componentand/or the tumbler componentcomprises a magnetic areawhich is then secured to magnetic backingon the back of the watch face component. This allows the watch face componentto be magnetically secured to the lid componentand/or the tumbler component. In another embodiment, adhesivescan be utilized instead of magnets,to secure the smartwatchto the tumbler componentand/or the lid component.

As shown in, the smart lid and tumbler devicecan be used as a smartwatch holder, and there is a recessed areaor other securing means in the lid componentand/or the tumbler componentwhich is used as a holder, so that it is convenient to retain the smartwatchwithout carrying a separate mobile phone when using the tumbler device. Specifically, the lid componentand/or the tumbler bodycomprise a recessed areathat is sized and shaped to retain a watch face componentof a conventional smartwatch. The recessed areacan be any suitable size and shape, as long as it is sized and shaped to retain a watch face componentof a smartwatchor other timepiece. The recessed areacan be available in different sizes and shapes depending on the size and shape of the watch face componentbeing used. The recessed areacan merely retain the watch face componentby setting the watch face componentwithin the areaduring use.

In one embodiment, the recessed areacan be configured as a compartmentwith a lid mechanism. The compartmentand lid mechanismsecure the watch face componentwithin and protect the watch face componentfrom the elements. In one embodiment, the lid mechanismis a silicone mold componentwhich is used to mate with and completely cover the lid componentand encase and protect the watch face componentwhile in the recessed area. The silicone mold componentis sized and shaped to mirror the lid componentand comprises a protrusionwhich is aligned with the recessed areato completely encase the watch face componentwhen in position. The silicone mold componentwould be transparent, waterproof, and flexible. It would secure around the smartwatchand the lid componentvia an interference fit. Further, the silicone mold componentwould protect the smartwatchfrom the elements, as well as drops and spills. Additionally, the silicone mold componentis transparent and allows a user to view and access the smartwatchwhile still being protected during use.

In another embodiment, the lid mechanismis a magnetic slide componentthat acts to cover the smartwatchand recessed areaduring use. Typically, the magnetic slide componentis secured to the top of the lid component, adjacent to the recessed area. A user would place the watch face componentwithin the recessed areaand then slide the magnetic slide componentover the top of the smartwatch, securing the smartwatchwithin the recessed area. The magnetic slide componentwould lock in place via magnets, once in position over the smartwatch. The magnetic slide componentwould be transparent and users can view the watch face componentthrough the magnetic slide component. The magnetic slide componentis also waterproof and protects the smartwatchfrom the elements, as well as spills and drops. Generally, any other suitable lid mechanismscan be utilized as is known in the art.

As shown in, users can also utilize a pouch, strap, or bag, etc., or any other suitable securing component that holds the watch face componentand secures it to the tumbler componentand/or lid component. The pouch, strap, or bag can be any suitable shape and size as is known in the art, as long as it is sized and shaped to retain a watch face componentfrom a conventional smartwatch or other suitable timepiece and protect it from the elements. The pouch, strap, or bag is then secured to the tumbler componentand/or the lid componentvia ties, a Velcro loop, adhesives, snaps, etc. Further, the pouch, strap, or bag can be made of any suitable flexible material as is known in the art.

In one embodiment, the smart lid and tumbler devicecomprises additional functionality. Specifically, the tumbler componentcan comprise lightsand a speaker, as well as any other functionality deemed necessary. The additional functionality can be wirelessly paired with the smartwatchsecured to the tumbler device, such that the smartwatchcontrols the action of the lightsand speaker, during use. Further, the speakerand lightscan also work independently of the smartwatchand typically comprise a battery or other power source, as well as button controls for controlling their functionality, as needed.

Furthermore, the smart lid and tumbler deviceis available in different sizes, shapes, styles, designs, and colors, depending on the needs and/or wants of a user. Specifically, the tumbler componentcan be a cylindrical configuration that is sized and shaped to fit within a conventional cupholder or only the bottom endof the tumbler componentcan be tapered or is smaller in circumference than the topand middle sections of the tumbler componentto fit within a conventional cupholder. Further, the tumbler componentcan comprise a handleor other suitable means for allowing the deviceto be held in a user's hand and carried/transported with ease.

In yet another embodiment, the smart lid and tumbler devicecomprises a plurality of indicia. The tumbler componentand/or the lid componentof the devicemay include advertising, a trademark, or other letters, designs, or characters, printed, painted, stamped, or integrated into the tumbler componentand/or the lid component, or any other indiciaas is known in the art. Specifically, any suitable indiciaas is known in the art can be included, such as but not limited to, patterns, logos, emblems, images, symbols, designs, letters, words, characters, animals, advertisements, brands, etc., that may or may not be tumbler, smartwatch, or brand related.

illustrates a flowchart of the method of retaining a smartwatch to a tumbler or lid. The method includes the steps of at, providing a smart lid and tumbler device comprising a lid component and a tumbler component for retaining a beverage with a recessed area for the smartwatch. The method also comprises at, inserting a watch face component into the recessed area to be held in place for use. Further, the method comprises at, magnetically attaching the watch face component to the lid component or the tumbler component. Finally, the method comprises at, securing the watch face component within a bag, strap, or pouch and securing it to the tumbler component.

Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different users may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “smart lid and tumbler device”, “smart lid device”, “tumbler device”, and “device” are interchangeable and refer to the decorative container deviceof the present invention.

Notwithstanding the forgoing, the smart lid and tumbler deviceof the present invention can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that it accomplishes the above stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the smart lid and tumbler deviceas shown inis for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the smart lid and tumbler deviceare well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the smart lid and tumbler deviceare important design parameters for user convenience, the smart lid and tumbler devicemay be of any size that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user's needs and/or preferences.