Cup with Grooves

This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/636,500, filed Apr. 19, 2024, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for a cup with grooves or channels, such as, in certain embodiments, a cup with grooves or channels whose depth and width changes along their length.

Cups can be provided to contain beverages. The sidewalls of the cups can have features that can be provided for a variety of reasons, for user comfort or for reduction of material usage.

The systems, methods and devices of this disclosure each have several innovative aspects, no single one of which is solely responsible for the desirable attributes disclosed herein.

Some aspects of the disclosure relate to a cup that can include a base and a sidewall extending upward from the base to a top of the cup. The sidewall can taper at an angle between 4° and 12° from the base. The sidewall can include an upper sidewall and a lower sidewall. The lower sidewall can include a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion. The lower sidewall can have a plurality of channels or grooves arranged around an outer circumference of the lower sidewall and extending in a direction between the base and the top. The plurality of channels can extend along the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion of the lower sidewall. In the first portion, the plurality of channels or grooves can have a first width between 0.05 inches and 0.065 inches and a first depth between 0.05 inches and 0.065 inches. In the third portion, the plurality of channels or grooves can have a second width between 0.02 inches and 0.035 inches and a second depth between 0.02 inches and 0.035 inches. In the second portion, a depth of the plurality of channels or grooves can transition from the first width to the second width and a width of the plurality of channels or grooves transitions from the first depth to the second depth. A length of the second portion can be less than 0.5 inches.

In some configurations, a ratio of the first width and the second width can be between 2:1 and 2.2:1. A ratio of the first depth and the second depth can be between 2:1 and 2.2:1. The length of the second portion can be between 0.1 inches to 0.5 inches. A ratio of a height of the cup to a diameter of the base of the cup can be between 1.5:1 and 4:1.

Some aspects of the disclosure relate to a cup that can include a base and a sidewall extending upward from the base to a top of the cup. The sidewall can taper at an angle between 4° and 12° from the base. The sidewall can include an upper sidewall and a lower sidewall. The upper sidewall can have an upper diameter between 3.0 inches and 4.5 inches and the lower sidewall can have a lower diameter between 3.0 inches and 4 inches. The sidewall can include a step change from the upper diameter to the lower diameter between the upper sidewall and the lower sidewall. The sidewall can include a perpendicular portion connecting the upper sidewall and the lower sidewall. The lower sidewall can include a plurality of channels or grooves arranged around an outer circumference of the lower sidewall and extending in a direction between the base and the top. First ends of the plurality of the channels or grooves can terminate distal to the perpendicular portion of the sidewall.

In some configurations, the cup can include a gap between a bottom end of the upper sidewall and a top end of the plurality of channels or grooves. The gap can have a length between 0.05 inches and 0.1 inches. The cup can include a vertical overhang extending from a bottom end of the upper sidewall towards the base of the cup and spaced from the lower sidewall. The vertical overhang can have a length between 0.03 inches and 0.05 inches. A space between an inner circumferential surface of the vertical overhang and an outer circumferential surface of the lower sidewall can be between 0.02 inches and 0.04 inches. A difference between the upper diameter and the lower diameter can be between 0.05 inches to 0.1 inches.

Some aspects of the disclosure relate to a cup that can include a base and a sidewall extending upward from the base to a top of the cup. The cup can include a plurality of grooves or channels extending around an outer circumference of at least a portion of the sidewall. A middle portion of the sidewall can have a length between 1 inch and 4 inches, wherein the middle portion of the sidewall extends at least 0.5 inches above and below a center of the cup along a longitudinal axis. In the middle portion, the plurality of channels or grooves can include a first width between 0.05 inches and 0.065 inches and a first depth between 0.05 inches and 0.065 inches. In a lower portion of the sidewall the plurality of grooves or channels can include a second width between 0.02 inches and 0.035 inches and a second depth between 0.02 inches and 0.035 inches. The lower portion of the sidewall can extend to a bottom portion of the cup. A transition portion of the sidewall can be positioned below the middle portion of the sidewall. In the transition portion, a depth of the plurality of channels or grooves can transition from the first width to a second width and a width of the plurality of channels or grooves transitions from the first depth to a second depth. The first width can be larger than the second width. The first depth can be larger than the second depth. In some configurations, the transition portion can have a length between 0.2 inches to 0.4 inches.

Some aspects of the disclosure relate to a cup that can include a base and a sidewall extending upward from the base to a top of the cup. The sidewall can include an upper sidewall and a lower sidewall. The lower sidewall can have a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion. The lower sidewall can include a plurality of channels or grooves arranged around an outer circumference of the lower sidewall and extending in a direction between the base and the top. The plurality of channels extend along the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion of the lower sidewall. In the first portion, the plurality of channels or grooves can have a first width and a first depth. In the third portion, the plurality of channels or grooves can have a second width and a second depth. A ratio of the first width and the second width can be between 2:1 and 2.2:1. A ratio of the first depth and the second depth can be between 2:1 and 2.2:1. In the second portion, a depth of the plurality of channels or grooves can transition from the first width to the second width and a width of the plurality of channels or grooves transitions from the first depth to the second depth. A length of the second portion can be between 3% to 10% of a total length of the cup.

In some configurations, the first width can be between 0.05 inches and 0.065 inches and the first depth between 0.05 inches and 0.065 inches. The second width can be between 0.02 inches and 0.035 inches and the second depth can be between 0.02 inches and 0.035 inches. The length of the second portion can be between 0.1 inches to 0.5 inches.

Various cups are described below to illustrate various examples that may achieve one or more desired improvements. These examples are only illustrative and not intended in any way to restrict the general disclosure presented and the various aspects and features of this disclosure. The general principles described herein may be applied to embodiments and applications other than those discussed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Indeed, this disclosure is not limited to the particular embodiments shown, but is instead to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features that are disclosed or suggested herein.

For example, many of the embodiments are described in the context of lids for cups for beverages. However, certain features and aspects of the disclosure may also have utility in lid for other types of containers for other items, such as foods or other liquids. Many of the embodiments described herein involve a beverage such as coffee, tea, juice, or other edible liquids.

Beverages can be placed in a container or cup. The cup can provide number of functions, such as user comfort or for reduction of material usage. Additionally, for ease of storage, it can be desirable for storage purposes to be able to stack the cups on one another. Disclosed herein are cups that can include an upper sidewall with an uneven length. The cups, despite the uneven length, can be stacked with any rotational orientation relative to each other with stacking features that space the outer bottom portion of an inner stacked cup from the inner bottom portion of a receiving outer stacked cup.

illustrates an embodiment of a cup with grooves.illustrates a front view of the cup with groovesof.illustrates a rear view of the cup with groovesof. The cupcan include a base. The basecan have a top planar surface. The outer shape of the basecan be circular. The cupcan also include a sidewallthat extends upward from the base. The sidewallcan extend upward from the baseto a top of the cup. The width of the cup is the maximum distance between the farthest points of the outer circumferential surface. For example, in a cross-section taken perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the cup, the width would be the maximum outer diameter of the circular cross-section. Put another way, the width is the maximum horizontal measurement.each show a circular cross-section of the cup taken perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cup at two different positions.shows a bottom view of the cup. As shown in, the basedefines the minimum width of the cup.

The sidewallcan taper at an angle between 4° to 12° from the base, and in some examples between 6° to 10°. Said another way, the width of the cup can increase along the longitudinal axis of the cup, in particular in a direction along the longitudinal axis from the baseof the cupto the top of the cup. The diameter of the circular cross-sections perpendicular to the length of the cup can increase along the length of the cup from the baseof the cup to the top of the cup. The sidewallcan define an interior cavity of the cup. The sidewallcan also define an openingat the top of the cup.

The cupcan be provided in a variety of sizes. The dimensions of the cup, such as the diameter of the base, the diameter of the opening, the length of the sidewall, and the taper of the sidewallrelative to the base, can each vary. As the various dimensions change, the volume of the interior of the cup can change. The cup can be made of a variety of materials, such as plastic, metal, or paper. In some examples, the cup can be made of plastic and can be constructed in a process of injection molding. This can advantageously allow features, such as channels or grooves, to be integrated into the cup.

The sidewallcan include an upper sidewallpositioned towards the top of the cupand a lower sidewallpositioned near the baseof the cup. The upper sidewallcan be positioned above the lower sidewall. The lower sidewallcan include a series or plurality of grooves or channels. The plurality of groovescan extend from the outer circumferential surface of the sidewallin a radial direction towards the center of the cup. The plurality of groovescan be arranged around an outer circumference of the lower sidewall. The plurality of groovescan be separated by ribssuch that the groovesand ribsalternate around the circumference of the lower sidewall. Each of the ribscan extend in a radial direction. The outermost ends of the ribscan define the maximum diameter of the circular cross section taken along the longitudinal axis of the cup. For example, as shown in, the diameter can be taken from an outermost end of one ribon a first side of a circular cross-section, through the center of the circular cross-section, to an outermost end of another ribon an opposing side of the circular cross-section. As shown in, each of the ribscan include an outermost surface that is substantially curved. The curvature of each of the ribscan match the curvature of an outer circumference of the cup.

The lengths of the plurality of groovescan extend into the outer surface of the sidewallin a direction from the baseof the cuptowards the top of the cup. Each of the plurality of groovescan have a width that is measured between two ends of each groove. As shown in, the width (“W”) of each groovewould be measured as a tangent line intersecting with the outer circumferential surface of the circular cross-section taken perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Each groove can be a concave curvature that extends between two ribs. The width of the groovecan be the distance between the two adjacent ribson either side of the groove. The width of each groovecan vary along the length of the groove. Each of the plurality of groovescan have a depth (“D”) that is measured in a radial direction. The depth of each groovewould be taken in a radial direction from the outer maximum diameter of the circular cross-section taken perpendicular to the longitudinal axis to the innermost point of the groove.

The lower sidewallcan include a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion. The first portioncan be adjacent to and positioned above the second portion, and the second portioncan be adjacent to and positioned above the third portion. The third portioncan be positioned adjacent to and above the base. The plurality of groovescan extend along the first portion, the second portion, and the third portionof the lower sidewall. In some examples, the upper sidewallcan be considered a top or upper portion. In some examples, the first portioncan be considered a middle portion. In some examples, the second portionand third portioncan be considered a bottom portion.

The height or length of the middle portioncan generally remain the same around the outer circumference of the cup. The middle portion or the first portioncan extend between 0.5 inches to 2 inches above and below the center of the cup along the longitudinal axis. The first portioncan extend a first length above the center of the cup along the longitudinal axis and a second length below the center of the cup along the longitudinal axis, such that the first length and the second length are different lengths. In some examples, the middle portioncan extend between 0.7 inches to 1.5 inches above and below the center of the cup along the longitudinal axis and in some examples between 0.7 inches to 2 inches above and below the center of the cup along the longitudinal axis. The middle portion or the first portioncan have an overall length between 0.5 inches to 4 inches, and in some examples between 0.7 inches to 3.5 inches. The height or length of the middle portioncan generally remain the same except for a portionof the middle portionadjacent to the portionof the upper sidewall. The portionof the middle portionand the portionof the upper sidewallcan be configured to display a logo or a decorative element. During the molding process, the portionof the upper sidewallmay utilize more plastic (e.g., resin) flow compared to other portions (e.g., proximate portions) of the cup. Accordingly, to balance the plastic flow into a mold when creating the cup, a portion of the cupopposite the portionof the upper sidewallcan include an increased thickness. The portionof the middle portioncan extend above the center of the cup along the longitudinal axis between 0.01 inches to 0.8 inches, and in some examples between 0.02 inches to 0.6 inches. The portionof the middle portioncan extend below the center of the cup along the longitudinal axis between 0.5 inches to 1.6 inches, and in some examples between 0.7 inches to 1.4 inches.

The dimensions of the plurality of groovescan change along the length of the grooves. In the first portionof the lower sidewall, the plurality of groovescan have a first width and a first depth. In some examples, the first width can be between 0.04 inches to 0.08 inches or between 0.05 inches to 0.065 inches, and in some examples in between 0.055 inches to 0.060 inches. In some examples, the first depth can be between 0.04 inches to 0.08 inches or between 0.05 inches to 0.065 inches, and in some examples, between 0.055 inches to 0.060 inches. In the first portion, the plurality of groovescan have a substantially constant width and a substantially constant depth. In the third portionof the lower sidewall, the plurality of groovescan have a second width and a second depth. In some examples, the second width can be between 0.015 inches to 0.05 inches or between 0.02 inches to 0.035 inches and in some examples between 0.025 inches to 0.03 inches. In some examples, a second depth can be between 0.015 inches to 0.05 inches or between 0.02 inches to 0.035 inches, and in some examples between 0.025 inches to 0.03 inches. In the third portion, the plurality of groovescan have a substantially constant width and a substantially constant depth. The first width can be greater than the second width. The first depth can be greater than the second depth. In this manner, the plurality of groovesin the first portioncan be considered wide or thick and deep, while the plurality of groovesin the third portioncan be considered narrow or thin and shallow. In some examples, the first portioncan be considered to have wide or thick grooves of the first depth and a first width and the third portioncan be considered to have thin or narrow grooves of the second depth and the second width. The ratio of the first width to the second width can be between 2.0:1 to 2.2:1, and in some examples between 2.0:1 to 2.1:1. The ratio of the first depth to the second depth can be between 2.0:1 to 2.2:1 and in some examples between 2.0:1 to 2.1:1. In this manner, the ratio of the first width to the second width and the ratio of the first depth and the second depth can create an optical effect of a substantial dimension change between the first portionand the third portion.

The second portioncan be positioned between the first portionand the third portion. In the second portionof the lower sidewall, the depth of the plurality of channelscan vary and transition between the first depth and the second depth. In the second portion, the width of the plurality of channelscan vary and transition between the first width and the second width. The length of the second portionis less than 1 inch, and in some examples less than 0.5 inches. In some examples, the length of the second portioncan be between 0.1 inches to 0.4 inches, and in some examples, the length of the second portioncan be between 0.1 inches to 0.5 inches, 0.2 inches to 0.4 inches, 0.2 inches to 0.3 inches, 0.25 inches to 0.38 inches, or 0.27 inches to 0.34 inches. The length of the second portionbetween 3% to 10% of the total length of the cup, and in some examples between 4% to 8%.

In this manner, as the length of the second portioncan be minimized to create an optical effect of an abrupt or sharp transition between dimensions of the groovesin the first portionand in the third portion. The shortened length of the transition portion in the second portionadvantageously allows the transition of the substantial dimension change between the first portionand the third portionto be visually apparent to the user. In contrast, an increased length of the transition in the second portionwould appear as a gradual taper of the groovesfrom a larger first width to a smaller second width.

shows a cross sectional view of the cup taken along the length of the cup.shows a cross sectional view of the cuptaken along the width of the cupor perpendicular to the length of the cup. Specifically,shows a cross-sectional view of the cuptaken perpendicular to the length of the cupin the first portionof the lower sidewall. Thus, the plurality of groovesshown inare of the first depth and first width, which is considered relatively wide or thick and deep.shows a close-up portion of the plurality of groovesof. The plurality of groovesthus have the maximum width and thickness in the cross-section shown in.shows a cross-sectional view of the cup taken along the width of the cup or perpendicular to the length of the cup. Specifically,shows a cross-sectional view of the cuptaken perpendicular to the length of the cupin the third portionof the lower sidewall. Thus, the plurality of groovesshown inare of the second depth and the second width, which is considered relatively narrow or thin and shallow.shows a close-up portion of the plurality of grooves of. The plurality of groovesthus have the minimum width and minimum thickness in the cross-section shown in.

The process of constructing the plurality of channels or groovesin injection molding can be complicated. The plurality of groovescan be undercuts in the injection mold process, which can prevent ejection of the cup from the mold. In particular, the transition or change of dimensions of each of the plurality of groovesin the second portioncan become an undercut in the injection mold. During the injection mold process, when the cup is pulled away from the injection mold, the undercuts can cause portions of the cup in the second portionto be deformed or sheered. This undercut problem can be further complicated by the desire to maintain a ratio of the height of the cup to a diameter of the baseof the cup or to minimize the taper of the sidewalls relative to the base. The ratio of the height of the cup to a diameter of the base of the cup is between 1.5:1 and 4:1 and in some examples, between 1.9:1 to 3.5:1. In some examples, the ratio of the height of the cup to a diameter of the base of the cup is between 1.9:1 to 2.9:1, and in some examples between 3:1 to 3.5:1. The taper of the sidewalls relative to the base is between 4° to 12° and in some examples between 6° to 10°. The taper of the sidewalls relative to the base and the ratio of the height of the cup to a diameter of the base of the cup are minimized to maintain the stability of the cup. Otherwise, if the taper of the sidewalls relative to the base and the ratio of the height of the cup to the diameter of the base of the cup are increased to avoid undercuts in the injection molding tool, the cupcould become substantially conical in shape. This would result the cup in becoming top heavy such that it could be easily tipped over, especially when filled with liquid. To prevent this undercut problem while maintaining the stability of the cup (in minimizing the taper of the sidewalls relative to the base and the ratio of the height of the cup and the diameter of the base of the cup), the dimensions of the grooves can change in two directions, instead of one, as described previously. Both the depth and the width of the plurality of grooves can transition from large to small in a direction from the top of the cup to the base of the cup. Additionally, as the first depth or the second depth of the plurality of groovesincreases, the length of the second portioncan also increase. Similarly, as the first width or the second depth of the plurality of grooves increases, the length of the second portioncan also increase. As the length of the first portionor the third portionincreases, the length of the second portioncan also increase. The length of the second portion increasing will allow the transition to accommodate the increased depth, width, or length of the plurality of groovesto further minimize the undercut problem to avoid creating undercuts in the injection mold.

illustrates a close-up view of a cross-sectional view of a groove of the cup of.illustrates a draft angleof a transition portionof the groove ofused during injection molding. The draft angleof the transition portionof the groove can be between greater than 0° to avoid creating undercuts in the injection mold. In some examples, the draft angleof the transition portioncan be between 0° to 4°, and in some examples between 0° to 2°. In some examples, the draft angleof the transition portioncan be between 0° to 1°.

Furthermore, the depth of the plurality of groovescan be maximized to increase the distance between the user's fingers and the beverage and prevent the user from getting burned or overheating. Similarly, the width of the plurality of groovescan be minimized to ensure the user's fingers do not extend into the depth of the plurality of grooves, which can prevent the user's fingers from getting burned or overheating. The groovescan additionally reduce the amount of material used for the cup, while still maintaining the stability and structure of the cup. The groovescan additionally provide the user comfort in holding the cup and in maintaining the user's grip on the cup.

The upper sidewallof the sidewallcan be smooth. The upper sidewallcan extend from the top of the cup defined by the openingand the lower sidewall. The height of length of the upper sidewallcan generally remain the same around the outer circumference of the cup, except for a portionof the upper sidewall. In this manner, the bottom end of the upper sidewallcan extend along the circumference of the cup at the same height or level of the cup, except for a portionof the upper sidewall. In this manner, the length of the upper sidewallcan be generally the constant except for a portionof the upper sidewall. The portionof the upper sidewallcan be curved or another non-linear shape. For example, as shown in, the portionof the upper sidewallcan form a semi-circle. The portionof the upper sidewallcan be shaped to accommodate a logo or design. For example, if the logo or design has a generally circular or semi-circular shape, the semi-circular portioncan at least frame or surround the logo or design. The shape of the portionof the upper sidewallcan at least partially match at least a portion of an outer shape of a logo or design. The portionof the upper sidewallcan have other shapes to accommodate various shapes of logos, such as square, a triangle, an oval, or any other shape. The shape of the lower sidewallcan be complementary to the shape of the upper sidewallincluding the portionof the upper sidewall. In this manner, the upper ends of a portion of the plurality of groovescan form a perimeter around the portionof the upper sidewalland thus the logo or design.

As discussed above, the width of the cup decreases in a direction from the bottom of the cup to the top of the cup. Through the upper sidewall, the width gradually decreases from the top end of the upper sidewallto the bottom end of the upper sidewall. Similarly, through the lower sidewall, the width gradually decreases from the top end of the lower sidewallto the bottom end of the lower sidewall. However, the sidewallincludes a step change in width from the upper sidewallto the lower sidewall. The minimum width of the upper sidewallis greater than the maximum width of the lower sidewall. In particular, the bottom end of the upper sidewallcan have a first diameter and the top end of the lower sidewallcan have a second diameter. The difference between the first diameter and the second diameter can be at least between 0.05 inches to 0.1 inches, and in some examples between 0.06 inches to 0.09 inches. The step change in diameter can be connected by a portionof the sidewall that is angled relative to the central longitudinal axis of the cup. For example, the portioncan be disposed at an acute angle relative to the central longitudinal axis of the cup. The portioncan extend radially inward and downward at an acute angle relative to the central longitudinal axis of the cup. In this manner, the portionof the sidewallconnecting the upper sidewallto the lower sidewallextends substantially inward and downward at an angle.

The upper sidewallhas an upper diameter between 2.5 inches to 5 inches or between 3.0 inches to 4.5 inches, and in some examples between 3.1 inches to 4.2 inches. In some examples, the upper sidewallhas an upper diameter between 3.0 inches to 4 inches, and in some examples between 3.1 inches to 3.7 inches. In some examples, the upper sidewallhas an upper diameter between 3.5 inches to 4.5 inches, and in some examples between 3.7 inches to 4.2 inches. The lower sidewallhas a lower diameter between 1.5 inches to 4 inches or between 1.7 inches to 3.7 inches. In some examples, the lower sidewallhas a lower diameter between 2 inches to 4 inches and in some examples between 2.1 inches to 3.7 inches.

The portionof the sidewall can define a ledge in the injection mold, which can facilitate the application of an in mold label during the injection molding process. The in mold label, which can be referred to as an IML, can be disposed on a surface of the mold that forms the outer surface of the upper sidewall, which can include a annular vertical overhangdisposed at a bottom portion of the upper side wall. For example, before flowing a resin into the mold to form the cup, an in mold label can be disposed at the surface of the mold that forms the outer surface of the upper sides wall. The ledge can be formed in the mold adjacent to the area for the in mold label. For example, the ledge of the mold can be disposed in an annular recessof the cupthat is radially inward of an annular vertical overhangthat extends from the bottom end of the upper sidewall. The portion of the mold that includes the ledge and forms the portioncan direct the flow of resin during the injection molding process. The ledge can prevent resin from entering a space between the mold and the label. The resin can flow through the portion of the mold that forms the portion, which can direct the resin to approach (e.g., impact) the in mold label from a substantially perpendicular direction. In some variants, the substantially perpendicular approach (e.g., impact) of the resin to the in mold label can avoid the resin flow moving the in mold label out of placed. In some variants, the ledge can also provide a surface that the in mold label can rest on. As shown in, the top ends of the plurality of groovesdo not extend all the way to the top end of the lower sidewall. Rather, the plurality of groovesterminate distal to or below the portionof the sidewalls or the top end of the lower sidewall. Thus, there is a gap or spacebetween the top end of the lower sidewalland the ends of the plurality of grooves. The gap or spaceis positioned between the plurality of grooves and the portionof the sidewall. The gapcan have a length between 0.04 inches to 0.012 inches or between 0.05 inches to 0.1 inches and in some examples between 0.055 inches to 0.07 inches. This gapadvantageously prevents unwanted resin from entering the space between the in mold label and the mold. As the mold is filled with resin, the resin will fill the cavities defining plurality of grooves. There is a risk that injected resin will break through the cavities defining the plurality of groovestowards the ledge defining the portionof the sidewall. Because there is a gapbetween the cavities defining the plurality of groovesand the ledge defining the portionof the sidewall, the injected resin will not enter area of the in mold label. Thus, resin is prevented from entering the space between the in mold label and the mold.

As shown in, the cupcan further include an annular vertical overhangthat extends from the bottom end of the upper sidewall. The vertical overhangis radially spaced from a top portion of the lower sidewall. Said another way, the inner circumferential surface of the vertical overhangis spaced from the outer circumferential surface of the lower sidewall. This spacing of the vertical overhangand the lower sidewall defines an annular channel or recess. The spacing of the inner circumferential surface of the vertical overhangand the outer circumferential surface of the lower sidewall can be between 0.02 inches to 0.04 inches, and in some examples between 0.032 inches and 0.038 inches. The annular recesscan have a closed end defined at least in part by the portionof the sidewall. The annular recesscan have an open end that faces downward. The annular recesscan include sides defined by the inner surface of the vertical overhangand the outer surface of the lower sidewall. The minimum diameter or width of the vertical overhangis larger than the maximum diameter or width of the lower sidewall. The vertical overhangextends around the circumference of the cup. The vertical overhanghas a length between 0.03 inches to 0.05 inches and in some examples between 0.035 inches to 0.045 inches. The vertical overhangcan aesthetically fill the visual gap created by the portionof the sidewall.

The annular recessextends around the bottom end of the upper sidewall. The annular recessextends around the bottom end of the upper sidewall. The annular recesscurves to surround the longitudinal axis, such that the annular recesscurves along the circumference of the cross section taken perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, such as shown in. Additionally, the annular recesscan curve to surround the circumference of the bottom end of the upper sidewall. The inner surface of the annular recesscan curve to define the closed end and the opposing open end that faces downward.

As shown in, the cupcan further include one or more stacking ribspositioned on an inside surface of the cup. The stacking ribscan be positioned on an inner circumferential surface of the lower sidewall. In some examples, the cupcan include at least 2, 3, 4, or more stacking ribs. The stacking ribscan be positioned at the same level or height of the cup. Each stacking ribcan extend towards the center of the cupand can be elongate along the sidewallof the cup. Each stacking ribcan have an overall triangular shape. In other embodiments, the stacking ribcan also have other shapes, such as a diamond, a square, or other shape. The stacking ribcan have a top surface that is substantially parallel to the planar surface of the baseof the cup. The stacking ribscan be spaced evenly around the inner circumference of the cup. The stacking ribsof the cup can act to support a second cup received within the cup. As shown in, a first cupA can at least partially receive a second cupB within the interior of the first cupA. The first cupA can have a number of stacking ribsA. The stacking ribsA of the first cupA can contact and support the baseB of the second cupB. The baseB of the second cupB can be received by the substantially flat, top surfaces of the stacking ribsA. In this manner, the baseA of the first cupA is spaced from the baseB of the second cupB. Advantageously, the spacing between the cupsA,B during stacking allows the cupsA,B to be oriented in any direction relative to one another. As shown in the, the portionB of the second cupB is oriented 180° relative to the portionA of the first cupA. As discussed above, the length of the upper sidewallis uneven, with at least a portionof the upper sidewallextending downward along the length of the cuprelative to the remainder of the upper sidewall. As also discussed above, the portionof the upper sidewallcan be curved. The portioncan be curved, angled, and/or perpendicular. As such, without the stacking ribs, if the two cups were stacked, the portionof the portionof the upper sidewallof the second cupB could come into contact with the portionof an area of the upper sidewallseparate from the curved portionof the upper sidewall. However, since the portionof the portionof the upper sidewallcan be curved, the interface between the portionof the portionof the first cupA and the portionof the upper sidewallseparate from the curved portionof the secondA would be unstable. The stacking ribsallows the vertical spacing between stacked cups to accommodate the portionof the upper sidewalls while also providing a stable surface to support the base of the received cup.

The cupcan include a series of fill lineson the interior surface of the cup. These fill linescan be integrated into the cup, such through injection molding. The fill linescan advantageously provide measurements of liquid as it fills the interior of the cup. Estimating the volume by the level of liquid in the cup can be difficult for a user as the width of the cup changes along the longitudinal axis of the cup. The fill linesadvantageously allows a user to estimate a volume of liquid in the cup based on the level of liquid relative to the fill lines.

illustrates a cross-sectional view of a top portion of the upper side wallof the side wallof the cupwith example non-limiting dimensions. As illustrated, the upper side wallcan include an upward-facing surfacewith a width (e.g., width in a radial direction of the cup) of about 0.050 inches (i.e., about 1.26 mm). In some variants, the width of the upward facing surfacecan at least include any value or range between about 0.030-0.070 inches. The upward-facing surfacecan span between an outer surfaceand an angled surfaceof the upper side wall. The angled surfacecan extend radially inward and down from an inside end of the upward-facing surfaceat an angle of about 52 degrees. In some variants, the angle of the angled surfacerelative to the upward-facing surfacecan at least include any value or range between about 30 and 80 degrees. In some variants, a radius can be disposed between the upward-facing surfaceand the angled surface. The radius disposed between the upward-facing surfaceand the angled surfacecan be about 0.020 inches (i.e., about 0.51 mm). In some variants the radius disposed between the upward-facing surfaceand the angled surfacecan be any value or range between 0.005 and 0.040 inches. In some variants, the distance between the upward-facing surfaceand bottom end of the angled surface(e.g., axial length of the angled surface) can be about 0.042 inches (i.e., 1.07 mm). In some variants, the distance between the upward-facing surfaceand bottom end of the angled surface(e.g., axial length of the angled surface) can at least be about 0.010-0.080 inches or any value or range therebetween.

An inner surfacecan extend down from a bottom end of the angled surface. The inner surfacecan be oriented straight up and down (e.g., parallel with central longitudinal axis of the cup), which can include being disposed at about a 128 degree angle relative to the angled surface. In some variants, the inner surfacecan be oriented at an angle relative to the angled surfaceincluding at least any value or range between about 110 and 150 degrees. In some variants, a radius can be disposed between the angled surfaceand the inner surface. The radius disposed between the angled surfaceand the inner surfacecan be about 0.010 inches (i.e., about 0.25 mm). In some variants, the radius disposed between the angled surfaceand the inner surfacecan be any value or range between 0.005 and 0.040 inches. The distance in a radial direction between the inner surfaceand the outer edge of the upward-facing surfacecan be about 0.082 inches (i.e., 2.09 mm). The radial distance between the inner surfaceand the outer edge of the upward-facing surfacecan at least be any value or range between about 0.050 inches and 0.12 inches. The axial length (e.g., axial relative to axis of cup) of the inner surfacecan be about 0.076 inches (i.e., 1.93 mm). In some variants, the axial length of the inner surfacecan at least be any value between about 0.050 and 0.1 inches.

An angled surfacecan extend radially outward and downward relative to the bottom end of the inner surface. The angled surfacecan be disposed axially below the angled surface. The angled surfacecan be oriented at an angle relative to the upward-facing surface, which can include being oriented at an angle of about 25 degrees. In some variants, the angled surfacecan be oriented at an angle relative to the upward-facing surfacethat can at least include any value or range between 10 and 50 degrees. The angled surfacecan create an overhang to form an annular recess that can receive features of a lid. A radius can be disposed between the inner surfaceand the angled surface, which can include a radius of about 0.010 inches (i.e., 0.25 mm). In some variants, the radius between the inner surfaceand the angled surfacecan at least be any value or range between about 0.005 and 0.040 inches.

An angled surfacecan extend downward and inward relative to the bottom end of the angled surface, which can include extending to a position inward of the inner surface. A radiuscan be disposed between the angled surfaceand the angled surface, which can include a radius of about 0.015 inches (i.e., 0.38 mm). In some variants, the radiuscan be between 0.005 and 0.040 inches. In some variants, the distance between the radius, which can include a radially outermost portion of the radius, and the outer end of the upward-facing surface(e.g., junction of upward-facing surfaceand outer surface) can be about 0.053 inches (i.e., 1.35 mm). In some variants, the radial distance between the radius, which can include a radially outermost portion of the radius, and the outer end of the upward-facing surfacecan include any value or range between 0.030 and 0.080 inches. The angled surfacecan be oriented at an angle of about 70 degrees relative to the upward-facing surface. In some variants, the angled surfacecan be oriented at an angle relative to the upward-facing surfacethat can include any value or range between 40 and 85 degrees. The axial distance between the bottom end of the angled surfaceand the upward-facing surfacecan be about 0.250 inches (i.e., 6.36 mm). In some variants, the axial distance between the bottom end of the angled surfaceand the upward-facing surfacecan at least include any value or range between about 0.1 and 0.5 inches. The distance between the bottom end of the angled surfaceand outer end of the upward-facing surface(e.g., junction of upward-facing surfaceand outer surface) can be about 0.096 inches (i.e., 2.45 mm). In some variants, the distance between the bottom end of the angled surfaceand outer end of the upward-facing surfacecan at least include any value or range between about 0.050 and 0.200 inches

A curved surfacecan curve inward and downward from the angled surface. The curved surfacecan include a radius of about 7.911 inches (200.94 mm). In some variants, the curved surfacecan include a radius at any value or range between 6 and 10 inches. A radiuscan be disposed between the angled surfaceand the curved surface, which can include a radius of about 0.125 inches (i.e., 3.18 mm). In some variants, radiuscan at least include any value or range between about 0.050 and 0.300 inches.

The inner surfaces of the upper portion of the upper wallillustrated incan provide enhanced (e.g., improved) engagement with a lid. For example, the angled surface, inner surface, angled portion, radius, angled surface, curved surface, and/or radii disposed on the inner surfaces of the upper portion of the upper wallcan facilitate improved engagement with a lid. In some variants, the annular recess disposed below the angled surfacecan receive a corresponding portion of a lid. In some variants, the inner surfacecan be positioned within a corresponding annular recess of a lid. In some variants, the reduced radial thickness of the upper wallbetween the radiusand the outer end of the upward-facing surface and/or outer surfacecan facilitate flexing, which can improve engagement with a lid.

Some of the dimensions included inlist “TSC,” which means theoretical sharp corner. Accordingly, at least those dimensions listed with “TSC” can be measured from theoretical sharp corners.

illustrates an enlarged view of a cross-section of a portion of the cupwhere the side walltransitions from the upper side wallto the lower sidewallwith example non-limiting dimensions.shows some alternative configurations and dimensions compared to. As described elsewhere herein, the cupcan include an annular vertical overhang, which can extend from a bottom end of the upper side wall. The annular vertical overhangcan be spaced radially outward relative to the outer surface of the lower side wall. For example, the inner surface of the annular vertical overhangcan be spaced about 0.034 inches away from the outer surface (e.g., radially outermost surface) of the lower side wall. In some variants, the inner surface of the annular vertical overhangcan be spaced a distance that can at least include any value or range between about 0.010 and 0.050 inches. The annular vertical overhangcan include a radial thickness of about 0.030 inches. In some variants, the radial thickness of the annular vertical overhangcan at least be any value or range between 0.010 and 0.050 inches. A lower-inner corner of the annular vertical overhangcan include a radius that can be about 0.010 inches. In some variants, the lower-inner corner of the annular vertical overhangcan at least include a radius that can include any value or range between about 0.005 and 0.040 inches.

A portion, as described elsewhere herein, can connect and/or transition between the upper side walland the lower side wall. The portioncan extend radially inward from an inner surface of the upper side wall. The portioncan extend radially inward from a location of the upper side wallthat is higher than the annual vertical overhang. In an alternative configuration of the portioncompared to, the portioncan extend perpendicularly inward relative to the inner surface of the upper side wall. In some variants, the portioncan be oriented perpendicularly relative to the central longitudinal axis of the cup, which can include extending radially inward at an orientation that is perpendicular relative to the central longitudinal axis of the cup. The cupcan include the portionoriented at an acute angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the cup as illustrated inor the portionoriented at a perpendicular angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the cup as illustrated in. As described herein, the portion of the mold that forms the portionof the cupcan direct a flow of resin during the injection molding process to approach an in mold label disposed on a surface of the mold that forms the outer surface of the upper sidewallfrom a perpendicular direction, which can avoid the resin flow causing the in mold label to move out of place. As the resin cures to form the cup, the in mold label can be coupled to the outer surface of the upper sidewallof the cup. The perpendicular portionillustrated incan provide improved resin flow to avoid in mold label movement compared to the portionillustrated in. The mold that forms the cupcan include a ledge disposed in the annular recessthat impedes resin flowing between the in mold label and the surface of the mold the forms the outer surface of the upper side wall. An upper radius of about 0.010 inches can be disposed between an upper surface of the portionand the inner surface of the upper side wall. In some variants, the upper radius between the upper surface of the portionand the inner surface of the upper side wallcan be about 0.005 and 0.030 inches. A lower radius of about 0.010 inches can be disposed between a lower surface of the portionand the inner surface of the annular vertical overhang. In some variants, the lower radius between the lower surface of the portionand the inner surface of the annular vertical overhangcan at least include any value or range between about 0.005 and 0.030 inches. The portioncan include a curved portionthat curves downward to the lower side wall. The curved portioncan be disposed at a radially inward portion of the portion. The curved portioncan include an inner surface (e.g., on an inside of the cup) with a radius of 0.043 inches. In some variants, the inner surface of the curved portioncan at least include a radius with a value or range between about 0.020 and 0.060 inches. The curved portioncan include an outer surface (e.g., on an outside of the cup) with a radius of about 0.015 inches. In some variants, the outer surface of the curved portioncan at least include a radius with a value or range between 0.005 and 0.040 inches. The portioncan include a segment with flat upper and bottom surfaces that can be parallel relative to each other. The segment of the portioncan be disposed radially outward relative to the curved portion. The segment of the portioncan include a radial length of about 0.007 inches. In some variants, the segment of the portioncan include a radial length of any value or range between about 0.001 and 0.050 inches. In some variants, the segment of the portioncan include an axial thickness (e.g., distance between upper and lower surfaces) of about 0.028 inches. In some variants, the segment of the portioncan include an axial thickness that can at least include any value or range of values between 0.010 and 0.050 inches. The axial distance between a bottom surface of the segment of the portionand the bottom surface of the annular vertical overhangcan be 0.040 inches. In some variants, the axial distance between the bottom surface of the segment of the portionand the bottom surface of the annular vertical overhangcan at least include any value or range between about 0.010 and 0.080 inches. In some variants, the segment of the portionwith flat upper and bottom surfaces can be omitted.

As discussed elsewhere herein, the portioncan define a ledge in the injection mold, which can facilitate the application of an in mold label during the injection molding process. The ledge can prevent resin from entering the space between the mold and the label. The ledge can provide a surface that the in mold label can rest on. The configuration of the portionillustrated incan provide improved application of an in mold label during the injection molding process compared to the portionillustrated in, which can include improving registration and/or smoothness of the applied in mold label. For example, the portionillustrated incan extend more perpendicularly compared to the portionillustrated in, which can create a more substantial annular recess. The portionillustrated incan create a larger gap or space between the upper side walland the grooves. The portionillustrated incan create a more substantial ledge compared to the portionillustrated in, which can better prevent resin from entering the space between the mold and the label and/or provide a ledge with an improved surface that the in mold label can rest on.

An annular recesscan be disposed below the portionand between the inner surface of the annular vertical overhangand outer surface of the lower side wall. The annular recesscan be open in a downward direction. In some variants, the width of the annular recessin a radial direction can be about 0.034 inches. In some variants, the width of the annular recessin a radial direction can at least include any value or range between 0.010 and 0.060 inches.

In some variants, the top portion of the cupcan be flared. In some variants, the top portion of the cupcan be an inverted conical shape without a flare.

As used herein, the term “beverage” has its ordinary and customary meaning, and includes, among other things, any edible liquid or substantially liquid substance or product having a flowing quality (e.g., juices, coffee beverages, teas, milk, beer, wine, cocktails, liqueurs, spirits, cider, soft drinks, flavored water, energy drinks, soups, broths, combinations of the same, or the like).

Conditional language, such as “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements, and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and/or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without user input or prompting, whether these features, elements, and/or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment.