Ergonomic disposable cup having improved structural integrity

US7546932B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• SOLO CUP OPERATING CORPORATION · US

Inventors

• Stephen Alan Smith · Naperville, US
• Kevin Ray Smith · Detroit, US
• Warren Giles Wiedmeyer · Pleasant Prairie, US
• Kimberly Vaile Healy · Chicago, US
• Randy Golden · Ada, US
• Rudy DesChamps · Mahomet, US
• Irshad Khan · Round Lake Beach, US
• Bryce C. Rutter · Chesterfield, US
• Brian C. Bone · Chesterfield, US
• John H. Loudenslager · Phoenix, US
• Jan R. Stillerman · Thousand Oaks, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Oct 1, 2003
• Grant date: Jun 16, 2009
• Expiry date: Oct 12, 2025

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B65D1/46
• WIPO field: Handling
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A container is disclosed, generally having an open top defined by an annular rim, a base, and a sidewall extending between the top and the base. The sidewall has two arcuately formed longitudinal recesses, an annular rib, an annular shoulder located between the longitudinal recesses and the base, and a lower portion extending between the annular shoulder and the base. The annular shoulder is characterized by two arched portions aligned with the longitudinal recesses, and the lower portion has two beveled portions aligned with the longitudinal recesses. This container is more ergonomic, and has greater sidewall strength and rigidity, than existing containers.