Spill-proof disposable cup with integral sealing flap

Abstract

A disposable container according to present invention is embodied in a thin-walled container having an integral sealing flap. Such containers include cups or other vessels for holding beverages, food or other substances. The disposable container preferably has a truncated conical shape. One example of such a shape is a typical beverage cup commonly dispensed at fast food restaurants and convenience stores. However, any shape or size of disposable container may be used, so long as the container is sealed using an integral sealing flap in accordance with the present invention. Once the container has been filled, it is closed by squeezing or folding the top of the container together. The container is then sealed by folding the integral sealing flap over one side of the top of the closed container. The sealing flap is then secured using conventional adhesives, such as, for example, glue, rubber cement, or tape, that are integral to either or both the surface of the container, or the surface of the sealing flap. In addition, in one embodiment, the adhesive is reusable, so that the container may be opened, refilled, and then resealed. Further, because the volume of the container may be lessened by squeezing or folding the top of the container together, as described above, in one embodiment, a fill-line is included on either the interior or exterior surface of the container for alerting the user to a maximum volume for the sealed container. Additional embodiments include integral drinking straws and pouring spouts.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.