Patent attributes
A lid for an insulated container comprises a flexible gasket configured to facilitate a seal between the lid and an inner wall of the insulated container, and further configured to expand into an interior compartment of the insulated container responsive to a vacuum developing in the interior compartment. A diaphragm chamber is situated opposite the flexible gasket from the interior compartment when the lid is fully engaged with the insulated container. One or more air channels couple the diaphragm chamber to an exterior of the lid. The development of a vacuum in the interior compartment of the insulated container draws a force on the flexible gasket, thereby reducing pressure in the diaphragm chamber. The negative pressure in diaphragm chamber is back-filled with external air, which enters the lid via the air channels. The lid may then be removed without excessive vacuum forces.
