US Patent 10472140 Water bottle with self-closing valve

A liquid-dispensing container comprises a housing and a valve member. The housing is adapted to hold a liquid and includes an opening defined by a wall having an inner edge and an outer edge. The valve member has a ledge engaging the outer edge and a cleat engaging the inner edge. The valve member can further include an integral gasket positioned between the ledge and the cleat and deformed in engagement with the wall. The cleat preferably includes a beveled surface. The valve member can be inserted from the outside of the housing and without the need for additional retention members. Specifically, the valve member is secured to the housing by contacting the cleat with the outer edge of the wall, moving the valve member toward the housing such that the cleat passes through the opening, and engaging the cleat with the inner edge of the wall.