Tool for placing lids on cups
US4068449A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 17, 1976 |
| Grant date | Jan 17, 1978 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 17, 1996 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65B7/2842
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A tool for placing a lid or closure on a cup or container, such as a cardboard or plastic cup containing hot coffee delivered to a customer at a take-out food service establishment. The preferred form of tool has a upright handle with spring-loaded telescopic sections and a bottom member or shoe which fits snugly within an upstanding marginal flange of the lid with which this tool is to be used, so that when the tool is raised, the lid will be carried with it. The tool is manipulated to place the lid on the top of the cup filled with coffee or other liquid. Downward motion of the handle portion of the tool moves the telescopic portions relative to each other, first compressing a spring, and then suddenly releasing the spring with a hammer effect, to drive the lid into mating engagement with the cup, with just the right amount of pressure to produce adequate sealing between the cup and the lid, without damage to either. Alternative forms of tool, not employing the hammer effect, are also disclosed. In all forms, the lid or closure, at the time it is placed on the cup, is engaged only with the tool, not with the human hand. This eliminates possible contamination from the hand and avo…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.