• 专利附录
  • 专利说明
  • 权利要求
  • 类似技术
  • 同族专利
  • 引用文献
  • 法律状态
  • 优先权
    • 专利摘要:
    Easy access opening flap for a container end closure. an end closure for food and beverage containers is provided. the end closure comprises a center panel portion having a bulge to facilitate access to and manipulation of a pull tab. before the food or beverage container is pressurized, the protrusion is substantially flat to improve the stackability and transportability of the end closure. after the food and beverage container is filled and pressurized, the bulge selectively deforms and lifts a rear portion of the pull tab for easy access.
    公开号:BR112015021150B1
    申请号:R112015021150-0
    申请日:2014-02-27
    公开日:2021-07-13
    发明作者:Howard C. Chasteen；Mark A. Jacober
    申请人:Ball Corporation；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    Field of Invention
    [001] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to containers and container end closures, and more specifically to metal beverage container end closures with easily accessible opening flaps. Background of the Invention
    [002] Containers, and more specifically metallic beverage containers, generally contain a neck on a top that is adapted for interconnection with a metallic end closure. The container end closure is formed from a flat sheet of metallic material and generally includes a pull tab or other permanent shape ("SOT"). Beverage containers commonly store charred beverages, so both the container body and container end closure must withstand internal pressures of up to 90 psi without catastrophic failure or permanent deformation. Additionally, the container end closure must be manufactured, stacked, transported, and shipped to a supply element before being sealed into a container body filled with a charred beverage. As such, the container and end closure must be designed to resist warping and failure while utilizing thin metallic materials and allow for compact stacking during shipping and manufacturing.
    [003] Food and beverage containers with pull tabs or SOTs are generally known. Various SOTs and related features are described, by way of example, in U.S. Patent 7,926,675 to Rieck et al., the entire description of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Known devices, however, generally position a distal or "rear" end of a pull tab in proximity to the end closure panel to allow stacking of the end closures before and after filling the beverage container. Such an arrangement, particularly where the contents of the can is placed under pressure, poses several complications and challenges with operating the flap and opening a portion of the panel. Such complications include, but are not limited to, difficulty in engaging or gripping the tab and risks of damage or injury to the user's fingers or nails.
    [004] Some consumers, especially children, the elderly and people with long and/or artificial nails, have difficulty opening beverage containers with SOTs as they cannot lift the flap lifting ring in order to break the marked line with the nose of the tab. The problem often arises from the lack of space between the lifting ring (also called the back of the flap) and the center panel of the end closure. In the past, there have been a very limited amount of end closure modifications to allow the consumer adequate space to fit their finger under the lifting ring to facilitate opening. That's because during the manufacturing process finger access modifications are an issue for a variety of reasons including: stacking, shipping, palletizing, metal exposure, rotated flaps, and flap-over-chime issues. "Tip-over-chime" refers to a geometry where the pull tab is located above the height of the peripheral turn of the container end closure, which creates stacking problems, potential damage and increased expense.
    [005] Additionally, the transport of the end closures at high speeds depends on the snug fit of the end closures so that they can flow smoothly along an in-process process path (e.g., wrapping, converting, filling, etc. ). Any modification that raises the tab above the center panel or the center panel at the end to project downwards interferes with stacking. Interference with stacking can allow the end fasteners to snake and compress like a spring. Transporting sponge end fasteners causes clogs in the transport rail and during other processes. Accordingly, there is a significant need for a beverage container end closure with an easily accessible flap that can be efficiently stacked and transported during manufacturing and shipping, yet is manufactured from durable, lightweight metallic materials of reduced gauge. traditional, and that perfects the characteristics of openness to the consumer.
    [006] Previous attempts have been made to manufacture container end closures with adequate space to accommodate the consumer's finger under a lifting ring in an attempt to provide an easier opening for the consumer. Many of these attempts include a container lid with one or more protrusions extending upward so that the user can rotate the tab into a protrusion and break off the marked area or obtain additional space for the consumer's finger under the back of the tab. See, for example, U.S. Patent No. 3,250,425 to Stec et al; U.S. Patent No. 5,131,555 to DeMars et al.; U.S. Patent No. 5,224,618 to Garbiso; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2002/0108954 to Cho; and Japanese Utility Model No. 05075935U, which are each incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. Additionally, U.S. Patent No. 5,335,808 to Lee ("Lee") describes a container cap with a nose end of a flap initially bearing on an upwardly extending bulge and a rear portion of the flap bearing flatly. against the container flap. A user can press the bulge and nose end of the flap into the container and cause the rear end of the flap to lift, making it easier for a user to open the container. Lee's entire description is incorporated by reference here in its entirety.
    [007] Other attempts to provide an end closure that is more easily opened include container lids with concave center panels. Concave center panels can make stacking and transporting more difficult. Therefore, certain end closure designs utilize a center panel that forms a "dome" or concaves after pressurization. For example, U.S. Patent No. 7,909,196 to Turner et al. ("Turner") describes an end closure having a tab with a downwardly facing protrusion (e.g., an edge of the rolled tab) in contact with a center panel that forms a "dome" outwardly when the container is pressurized in a manner that the lifting ring (ie the back of the flap) is raised above the center panel. Additionally, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2010/0326281 to Nishibe et al. ("Nishibe") describes a container lid where the lid and flap are folded down prior to pressurizing. After the container lid is affixed to a container and the container is pressurized, the folded lid and the flap rise upwards so that the center point of the container lid is the maximum concave part, to create a space under the end. back of the flap. All descriptions by Turner and Nishibe are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
    [008] U.S. Patent Nos. Jeon 7,168,586 and 8,113,375 ("Jeon '586 patent" and "Jeon '375 patent", respectively) describe a container lid with an upwardly extending deformable bulge. A user applies manual force to the deformable protrusion downwardly to create a concave section under the rear edge of the flap. All descriptions of the Jeon '586 patent and the Jeon '375 patent are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.
    [009] US Patent No. 7,617,945 to Cherian ("Cherian") describes a container lid having a bent flap such that when a user presses the nose end of the flap downwards, the rear end of the flap becomes lifts upwards. Cherian also describes a container lid where a user can raise the tab up on the upward extension protrusions to lift the rear edge of the tab. Cherian further describes a container lid with a single depression under the rear end of the flap. Cherian's entire description is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
    [0010] Japanese Patent Application No. 2002-362553 to Omura ("Omura") describes a container lid with a "saw" shaped flap. A user can press the nose end of the flap and lift the rear end of the flap, providing space so the user can easily lift the flap and open the container. The entire description of Omura is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
    [0011] US Patent No. 8,177,092 to Mills ("Mills"), issued May 15, 2012, describes a container lid having two sets of lines marked so that opening the container is a two-way process. stages. As soon as a user begins to lift the flap, the first marking line fractures and releases pressure from inside the container. The user then further lifts the flap to fracture the second marked line and open the container. This two-stage process prevents the vessel's internal pressure from turning the vessel lid into a missile. Mills' entire description is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
    [0012] U.S. Patent No. 5,655,678 to Kobayashi ("Kobayashi") issued August 12, 1997, and describes a device for opening a container where a tab interconnects with a rivet through a separate element. This separate element allows a user to raise the flap a set distance before the flap actually engages the container to break a marked area. The entire description of Kobayashi is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
    [0013] Due to the numerous limitations associated with the prior art described above, the above description describes an improved container end closure which is adapted to interconnect a container body and which employs a protrusion to slightly lift a flap. This novelty feature provides an improved access area for the consumer's finger and significantly improves the ease of opening the container. Invention Summary
    [0014] These and other needs are solved by various modalities and configurations of the present invention. This description relates to a novel system, device and methods of providing a beverage and food container end closure with an easily accessible opening flap. The new end closure provided here allows the end closure to remain flat and thus be easily stackable through all manufacturing and supply processes. After filling the container with a product, the CO2 causes internal pressurization and the bulge under the flap rises upward to lift the back of the SOT for improved finger access.
    [0015] Features of the present description can be employed on a wide range of food and beverage containers including pressurized beverage containers with SOTs secured by a rivet, food containers with tear-off lids, and full-panel easy-open end flaps , to name just a few. Although the invention generally relates to metal end closures and containers, the invention and features described herein can be easily implemented on plastic containers and end closures.
    [0016] In an attempt to reduce material costs and improve strength, end closure engineers design the center panel close to the top of the peripheral loop, which can result in performance issues. More specifically, container end closures with a high center panel height can suffer from problems associated with flap-over-chime. flap-over-chime refers to a geometry where the pull tab is located above the height of the end closure peripheral loop, which creates stacking problems and thus potential damage during shipping and increased expense. As such, it is a challenge to design an end closure with an easily accessible lifting flap that can be easily stacked and transported during manufacturing and transport and also maintains the improved bulk and deformation properties.
    [0017] Many users of conventional devices, such as SOTs for pressurized containers, have difficulty performing various opening functions. Opening containers can be frustrated, for example, by difficulty in accessing the underside of a flap, pressure being applied to sensitive areas of the fingertips, and nail breakage. A significant cause of such frustration is found in the fact that many known end closures comprise a flap that rests flush against the end panel, particularly when the contents of the container are under pressure. The present invention provides a collection of improvements to known devices. The end enclosures of the present description provide, for example, the structural features and benefits, stackability, and ease of fabrication of various known devices. Additionally, the end closures of the present description provide a bulge which, upon pressurization, pushes the rear portion of the flap up and away from the center panel allowing easy access to the operating (i.e., bottom) side of the flap, increasing, thus, ease for the user of the device.
    [0018] Thus, it is, therefore, an aspect of the various embodiments of the present invention to provide a metal end closure with improved access to the flap that has a relatively flat profile to allow traditional stacking, nesting and packaging and supply. After filling and double splicing, CO2 in the beverage creates sufficient pressure in the container to cause upward movement of a pre-formed bulge in the center panel to elevate the pull ring portion of the pull tab to provide improved finger access. .
    [0019] It is, therefore, an aspect of various embodiments of the present invention to provide an easily accessible end closure with advantages over the prior art. An advantage of some embodiments is that an interrupted recess allows the flap to remain flat during the manufacturing process. However, when the end enclosure is joined to a container and the container has been pressurized, the interrupted recessed area allows the panel to rise upwardly exposing the rear portion of the flap for easier consumer access.
    It is a further aspect of the embodiments of the present invention to provide a container end closure with a bulge in the center panel that expands upwardly from the center panel to raise the rear end of the flap. That aspect of embodiments of the present invention utilizes an upwardly expanding protrusion, not a downwardly expanding protrusion.
    [0021] It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a container end closure with an end closure utilizing a bulge located on the center panel and below the flap. In some embodiments, before the end closure is attached to a container body, the end closure and flap are oriented in a substantially horizontal plane, which allows for optimized stacking and transport characteristics. Additionally, the access space under the rear of the flap is relatively small. When the end closure is attached to a container body and the charred product is added, the headspace below the end closure is pressurized. In one embodiment, the increased pressure in the container creates a force below the bulge so that the bulge deforms upwardly to lift the back of the pull ring and increase access for the user's finger. In another embodiment, this pressure causes the bulge under the flap to extend upward and drive the back of the flap upward, but is still positioned below the chime. In this pressurized state, the access space under the rear of the flap is increased and allows an entry area for the consumer's finger and an easier opening of the end closure.
    [0022] Another aspect of the present invention is a method of manufacturing an end closure with a protrusion. More specifically, a method of forming a beverage can end closure is provided, where the container end closure is provided with access space under the rear of the pull tab. In some embodiments, the end closure may have a bulge which, when deformed, pushes the back of the flap upward. The end closure may also comprise a finger groove under the back of the tab, such as the finger groove described in US Patent Application No. 13/588,843 and US Provisional Patent Application No. 61/525,574, Full Description of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
    [0023] In another aspect of the present invention, a container-end closure is provided and manufactured with conventional manufacturing equipment. In some embodiments, the bulge is formed using shapes, wedges (eg, thinning), or a combination of shapes and wedges to create a weakened area. The weakened area has a metal slack (the slack bulge area) which under pressurization raises the contact area, which swells upwards lifting the back of the flap.
    [0024] In various embodiments, an end closure is provided with an SOT and a protrusion in the panel. In some embodiments, the bulge may be disposed generally proximal to a rivet, and on the same public side as the rivet. In a preferred embodiment, the bulge is positioned about midway between a rear portion of the pull ring and the rivet so that the bulge is positioned below the pull tab and lifts the rear portion of the pull ring. The closer the bulge is to the rivet, the more the back of the pull ring lifts. In one embodiment, the bulge is arranged so that at least a portion of the backside of the flap extends through at least a portion of an inset area on the center panel and facilitates user access to an underside of the flap. for lifting.
    [0025] In one embodiment, an end closure with a protrusion is provided, the protrusion having a generally rounded shape when viewed from a top plan view. In some embodiments, the bulge may be circular. In other embodiments, the bulge can be oval, rectangular, or any other shape. In various embodiments, a deformed bulge after pressurization is provided having a height of between approximately 0.1524 cm and 0.0508 cm (0.060 and 0.020 inches) as measured from the center panel, or more specifically as measured from the area inset of the center panel. In a preferred embodiment, a protrusion is provided having a height of between approximately 0.127 cm and 0.0762 cm (0.050 and 0.030 inches) as measured from the panel. In a more preferred embodiment, a protrusion is provided having a height of approximately 0.1016 cm (0.040 inches) as measured from the panel.
    [0026] In various embodiments, an end closure with an improved bulge and geometry is provided to allow access to a pull tab and provide an increased normal force impression to the pull tab. For example, the present invention contemplates providing a bulge that tilts a rear portion of the pull tab upward allowing a user access to pull the pull tab and allowing greater normal force applied to the pull tab when compared to devices. acquaintances. It is known, for example, that existing pull tabs are not only difficult to access, but additionally result in a significant amount of force being applied to the pull tab in a direction or vector parallel to an opening area. Such force puts tension on a rivet and provides a reduced ability to mark or open an opening area. The protrusions of various embodiments of the present invention allow a user to provide an initial force on the flap with an increased degree of normal force, thus facilitating opening operations.
    [0027] Additionally, the improved end closure allows for the stacking and transport of multiple end closures during production and shipping. Since the flap generally remains below the chime even after pressurizing, the end closure also allows for stacking of filled food or beverage containers.
    [0028] In one embodiment, a container end closure adapted for interconnection to a container body is provided. The end closure comprises: a peripheral turn, a mandrel wall, a recess having an outer panel wall and an inner panel wall, a center panel, a pull tab and a deformable protrusion positioned on the "public side of the closure." far end.
    [0029] In one embodiment, a container end closure with an improved access pull tab is provided. The end closure comprises a peripheral turn adapted for interconnection with a neck of the container; a mandrel wall interconnected to the peripheral loop and extending downwardly therefrom; a recess having an outer panel wall interconnected with a lowermost part of the mandrel wall and an inner panel wall; a central panel interconnected to the inner panel wall and oriented in a substantially horizontal plane and having a substantially vertical central axis; a pull tab interconnected to a public side of the center panel and including a riser ring and a nose at an opposite end of the riser ring, the nose positioned near a frangible score line on the center panel defining a serving opening; and a deformable protrusion in the center panel that is positioned below the pull tab between the nose and the lift ring, the deformable protrusion having a transverse elevation substantially equal to the center panel in a first position and a transverse elevation in a second position that elevates the pull tab lift ring to provide improved access to the user's fingers below the lift ring.
    [0030] In one embodiment, metallic beverage container with a permanent dynamic flap is provided. The metallic beverage container comprises: a container body having a closed lower end and an open upper end with a neck; a metal end closure adapted for interconnection with the neck of the container, the metal end closure having a substantially vertical central axis when viewed in cross section, and oriented in a substantially horizontal plane when in a first position; a pull tab interconnected to a central plane of the metal end closure and comprising a lifting ring at one end and a nose at an opposite end, the nose positioned near a frangible score line on the center panel, the frangible score line defining at least a portion of an opening to serve; and a deformable protrusion formed in the center panel and positioned below the pull tab between the lift ring and the nose, the deformable protrusion extending upwardly to elevate the pull tab lift ring after at least one of a food and a beverage is placed in the container and the metal end wax is interconnected to the neck of the container
    [0031] Various methods of forming an end closure with a bulge are provided. In one embodiment, a method is provided comprising the steps of: providing a blank end panel, forming a rivet at a substantially central location in the end panel, coining the panel, providing one or more marks for an area opening, providing an intaglio panel, providing a protrusion portion, and securing a pull tab.
    [0032] The devices and methods of the present description contemplate forming a bulge portion in an end panel (i.e., center panel of an end closure) at various stages of panel formation. For example, a bulge may be formed on the end panel before, during or after the formation of features such as embossed fixtures, rivets, frangible score lines defining opening areas, etc. In one embodiment, a forming tool is provided to form a weakened area with a protrusion, while the recessed parts of the tool accommodate various preformed features of the panel.
    [0033] An opening operation of an end closure is additionally provided here. A pull tab is initially provided in a closed state on an end closure. The end closure initially has a bulge in a first flat position. After the end closure is doubly attached to a filled and pressurized container, the bulge expands to a second elevated position. The raised bulge lifts the rear portion of the pull tab to allow access to at least a portion of the tab so that greater elevation or normal force can be applied to the lifting ring of the tab. Accordingly, opening operations are facilitated by creating a correspondingly greater downward normal force on the nose of the flap to cut a score line and/or force an opening area to open. Thus, the embodiments of the present description provide distinct advantages over known devices that require or result in a substantial amount of an initial force applied to a pull tab to be directed parallel to the panel. While known devices do not maximize or achieve a normal force on the pull tab and/or opening until a portion of the opening operations are completed, the present invention provides for greater application of force perpendicular to a pull tab when a opening area is in a completely closed state, in addition to through opening operations.
    [0034] In one embodiment, a method of forming and supplying the improved access pull tab and container is provided. The method comprises providing a container comprising a body having a closed lower end and an open upper end with a neck; providing an end closure comprising a pull tab interconnected to a center panel, a deformable protrusion formed in the center panel and positioned below the pull tab, and a frangible score line defining a perimeter of an opening, the pull tab comprising a lifting portion at one end and a nose at an opposite end, the nose oriented proximately to a frangible score line on the center panel; filling the container with a charred beverage; securing the end closure to the neck of the container; increasing a pressure in the container to create a force below the deformable protrusion and expanding the deformable protrusion upwardly to lift the lifting portion of the pull tab.
    [0035] For purposes of further description, the following references generally relating to end panels and SOTs are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety: Japanese Patent Publication No. JP2002145263 to Yoshihiko and Japanese Patent Publication No. JP2000159229 to Yoshihiko.
    [0036] The Summary of the Invention is not intended and should not be construed as being representative of the full extent and scope of the present invention. Furthermore, references made herein to the "present invention" or aspects thereof are to be understood to mean certain embodiments of the present invention and are not necessarily to be construed as limiting all embodiments to a particular description. The present invention is presented in various levels of detail in the Summary of the Invention in addition to the attached drawings and the Detailed Description of the Invention and no limitation on the scope of the present invention shall occur by including or not including the elements, components, etc. in this Summary of the Invention. Additional aspects of the present invention will become more readily apparent from the Detailed Description, particularly when taken into consideration in conjunction with the drawings.
    [0037] These and other advantages will become apparent from the description of the invention contained herein. The above described modalities, objectives and settings are not complete or exhaustive. As will be appreciated, other embodiments of the invention are possible using, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set out above or described in detail below. Additionally, the Summary of the Invention is not to be considered as representative of the full extent and scope of the present invention. The present invention is presented in various levels of detail in the Summary of the Invention, in addition to the attached drawings, the Detailed Description of the Invention and Claims. No limitation on the scope of the present invention is intended to include or not include the elements, components, etc. in this Summary of the Invention. Additional aspects of the present invention will become more readily apparent from the Detailed Description, particularly when taken into consideration in conjunction with the drawings. Brief Description of Drawings
    [0038] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the description below is merely illustrative of the principles of the description, which can be applied in various ways to provide many different alternative embodiments. This description is intended to illustrate the general principles of the teachings of that description and is not intended to limit the inventive concepts described herein.
    [0039] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate the embodiments of the description and together with the general description of the description given above and the detailed description of the drawings given below, serve to explain the principles of the descriptions.
    [0040] Figure 1A is a front transverse elevation view of an end closure with a bulge and a flap before double joining to a container;
    [0041] Figure 1B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of Figure 1A;
    [0042] Figure 2A is a front cross-sectional elevation view of an end closure with a bulge and a double flap attached to a pressurized container body;
    [0043] Figure 2B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of Figure 2A;
    [0044] Figure 3 is a front transverse elevation view of four loose-end fasteners with a bulge and one flap stacked on top of the other;
    [0045] Figure 4 is a top plan view of an end closure with a bulge and a permanent pull tab;
    [0046] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view (section A-A of Figure 4) of an embodiment of a non-pressurized, loose end closure with a bulge and a flap;
    [0047] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view (section A-A of Figure 4) of an embodiment of an end closure with a protrusion and a flap attached to a pressurized beverage container body;
    [0048] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view (section A-A of Figure 4) of an embodiment of an end closure attached to a pressurized container body;
    [0049] Figure 8 is a top plan view (public side) of an end closure embodiment with a protrusion (shown without a tab);
    [0050] Figure 9 is a top plan view (public side) of an end closure embodiment (shown without a flap);
    [0051] Figure 10 is a top plan view (public side) of an end closure embodiment (shown without a flap);
    [0052] Figure 11 is a top plan view (public side) of an end closure embodiment (shown without a flap);
    [0053] Figure 12 is a top plan view (public side) of an end closure embodiment (shown without a flap); and
    [0054] Figure 13 is a top plan view (public side) of an end closure embodiment (shown without a flap).
    [0055] To aid in understanding the modalities of the present invention, the following list of components and associated numbering found in the drawings is provided here: 1 loose end closure (non-pressurized) 2 bulge 3 flap 4 container body 5 peripheral loop 6 junction 7 bonded end closure (pressurized) 8 rear part of lift ring9 pressurized product 10 front space11 bulge clearance area12 lift ring access area (before pressurization)13 lift ring access area (after pressurization)14 flap contact area15 flap nose16 chime17 shadow frieze18 recessed area19 center panel20 riser ring21 marking line22 opening to serve (after opening)23 recessed angled wall24 recessed wall cutout25 neck26 lower end closed27 weakened area30 mandrel wall31 recess32 wall of recessed outer panel 33 inner recessed panel wall35 rivet (po of being a centerline rivet)36 form37 end closure contact area38 center crimp39 combination crimp and form40 beverage container (sealed & pressurized)
    [0056] It should be understood that drawings are not necessarily to scale and various dimensions can be changed. In certain cases, details that are not necessary for an understanding of the invention or that make other details difficult to understand may have been omitted. It should, of course, be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited to the particular embodiments illustrated herein. Detailed Description
    [0057] The present invention has significant benefits across a broad spectrum of endeavors. It is Applicant's intention that this specification and the appended claims be comprehensive to maintain the scope and spirit of the invention being described despite what may appear to be limiting language imposed by the requirements for reference to the specific examples described. To make those skilled in the art more pertinent to the present invention, a preferred embodiment of the method illustrating the now contemplated best mode of putting the invention into practice is described herein, with reference to the accompanying drawings which form a part of the specification. The illustrative method is described in detail without attempting to describe all the various forms and modifications in which the invention may be embodied. As such, the embodiments described herein are illustrative, and as will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and may be modified in various ways within the scope and spirit of the invention.
    [0058] Although the following text presents a detailed description of the numerous different modalities, it should be understood that the legal scope of the description is defined by the terms in the claims presented at the end of this description. The detailed description is to be considered illustrative only and does not describe every possible modality as the description of every possible modality would be impractical, if not impossible. Numerous alternative modalities can be implemented, using current technology or technology developed after the filing date of this patent, which would still be within the scope of the claims.
    [0059] To the extent that any term mentioned in the claims at the end of this patent is referred to in this patent in a manner consistent with a single meaning, this is done for clarity purposes only so as not to confuse the reader, and it is not intended that such term of claim is limited, by implication or otherwise, to that single meaning. Finally, unless a claim element is defined as mentioning the term "device" and a function without mention of any structure, the scope of any claim element is not intended to be interpreted based on the application of 35 USC § 112 , sixth paragraph.
    [0060] As used herein, the following terms and their meanings are provided:
    [0061] "Protrusion" refers to the expansion of the lifting accessory of the present description. The bulge can protrude, swell, extend, appear, etc. from any area of the center panel. The terms "bore", "nozzle", "deformable protrusion", "flap rear lifting attachment", "flap lifting attachment", and "lifting attachment" may be used interchangeably herein with "protrusion".
    [0062] "Weakened Area" refers to the area of the center panel that includes the protrusion and surrounding clearance area and that has certain physical characteristics that allow movement of a predetermined portion of the center panel and/or a protrusion section. The term "lowered interruption" may be used interchangeably herein with "weakened area".
    [0063] "Tap back" refers to the distal end of the pull tab, that is, the end opposite the nose of the pull tab. The terms "rear", "pull tab back" and "distal end" may be used interchangeably here with "tab back". "Pull ring" refers to a circular or ring-shaped portion located on a pull tab near the tab rear and/or opposite the tab nose. The pull ring generally comprises an annular portion located at a distal end of the pull tab. Thus, the back of the pull ring, if there is one, is the most distal point of the pull tab and is located at the farthest edge of the nose. The term "lift ring" may also be used interchangeably here with "pull ring".
    [0064] "Height" has its normal meaning and can also refer to transverse elevation or distance from one point to another point, that is, a vertical distance between a lower part and an upper part.
    [0065] "Wedge" and "coin" refer to the metalworking process known in the art. Coining can involve shaping the metal by squeezing the metal between two dies. Sheet metal can have different shapes or designs on each side, thus creating differences in metal thickness. Embossing can be used to harden and/or shape metal.
    [0066] As used herein, the term "an" entity refers to one or more of that entity. As such, the terms "a" (or "an"), "one or more" and "at least one" may be used interchangeably herein. It should also be noted that the terms "comprising", "including" and "possessing" may be used interchangeably.
    [0067] As used herein, "at least one of", "one or more" and "and/or" are expressions of open meaning that are conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. For example, each of the expressions "at least one of A, B and C", "at least one of A, B or C", "one or more of A, B and C", "one or more of A, B or C", and "A, B and/or C" mean A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together or A, B and C together.
    [0068] Referring now to Figures 1A to 13, a beverage container end closure of the present invention is illustrated. It should be understood that drawings are not necessarily to scale. In certain cases, details that are not necessary for an understanding of the invention or that make other details difficult to perceive may have been omitted from these drawings. It should, of course, be understood that the invention is not limited to the particular embodiments illustrated in the drawings.
    [0069] Figure 1A shows an embodiment of a non-pressurized and loose-end closure 1 for a food or beverage container in a cross-sectional side view. The end closure 1 may have a protrusion 2 positioned under a tab 3. Figure 1B is an enlarged view of the area labeled Detail Y in Figure 1A. With reference to Figures 1A and 1B, the illustrated end closure 1 has not yet been interconnected with a pressurized container. Tab 3 is provided to selectively open an opening area that is defined by a marking line (not shown). Tab 3 can be secured to end closure 1 by a variety of known devices and means including, for example, a rivet. The flap 3 may comprise a lift ring and a nose 15. The lift ring may comprise a rear portion 8, also referred to herein as "rear portion of the lift ring", "rear portion of the flap" and "rear portion". The end closure 1 may also comprise a peripheral turn 5, mandrel wall 30, recess 31, recessed outer panel wall 32, recessed inner panel wall 33, and central panel 19 (also called "central part" herein). Center panel 19 may extend into recess 31, corresponding mandrel wall 30, and peripheral turn 5 to secure the end closure to a container (not shown). The central panel 19 may further comprise an embossed area 18 (also called "central embossed portion" herein), protrusion 2, and protrusion clearance area 11. In one embodiment, the height of protrusion 2 above the area inset 18 before pressurization is approximately 0.0127 cm (0.005 inches). In some embodiments, the protrusion has a transverse elevation substantially equal to the sunken area prior to pressurization (ie, in the first position of the protrusion). In various embodiments, the end closure 1 comprises the central recessed portion 18 containing the flap 3 and opening area of the end closure 1. The flap 3 can contact the protrusion 2 at a flap contact area 14 Additionally, there may be a space between the lift ring and the sunken area, such space being referred to here as the lift ring access area (before pressurization) 12.
    [0070] Figure 2A illustrates a cross-section of an embodiment of a pressurized end closure 7 with a bulge 2 after being joined to a pressurized container body 4. Figure 2B is an enlarged view of the area labeled Detail Z in Figure 2A . With reference to Figures 2A and 2B, the end closure 7 is illustrated in the end closure of Figures 1A and 1B after it has been attached to a pressurized container. The container body 4 may comprise a pressurized product 9 and a head space 10. The pressurized product 9 may be a carbonized beverage, pressurized food, or other pressurized beverage. After pressurization, the bulge 2 appears, protrudes, swells, or extends upwardly so as to push one end of a flap 3 into a contact area 14. The flap 3 may comprise a nose 15 and a lifting ring with a rear part of the lift ring 8. The space under the lift ring is increased after the rear part of the flap 8 is raised so that a lift ring access area after pressurization 13 is larger than the area of lifting ring access before pressurizing (12 of figure 1B). In certain embodiments, the lifting ring access area after pressurization 13 has a geometry adapted to receive a specific type of tool such as a church wrench, bottle opener, wedge, etc. The end closure 7 may also comprise a joint 6, a chime 16, and a center panel 19. The center panel 19 may further comprise an embossed area 18, a deformable protrusion 2, and a protrusion clearance area 11. In various embodiments of the end closure 7 after pressurization, the protrusion 2 (i.e., the second position of the protrusion) has a height, H11, above a corresponding recessed area 18. More preferably, H11 comprises a height in between. approximately 0.040 inches and 0.020 inches. In a preferred embodiment, H11 comprises a height of approximately 0.0762 cm (0.030 inches). Additionally, the clearance area 11 is reduced after pressurization and the protrusion 2 is deformed. The arrows in Figure 2A illustrate how tab 3 rotates after protrusion 2 is deformed. Protrusion 2 in figures 1A and 2B is located approximately midway from the rivet to the rear of the lift ring 8.
    [0071] In the unpressurized and unbonded state, the end closure 1 remains flat allowing it to transport, stack and be handled like a conventional end closure. After the end closure 7 is attached to the container body 4, the pressurized product 9 releases CO2 and pressurizes the head space 10. The pressure in the head space swells the protrusion 2 upwards, which lowers the nose of the flap 15, maintaining it below the chime 16 and lifts the rear of the lift ring 8 to create a lift ring 13 access area for the consumer's finger. The lifting ring access area 13 aids in facilitating the opening of the end closure opening. In various embodiments, the deformable protrusion 2 moves between a first position (before pressurization) and a second position (after pressurization, the protrusion is deformed) when the pressure in the container is greater than about 35 psi. In a preferred embodiment, the deformed protrusion 2 moves between a first position and a second position when pressure in the container is greater than about 15 psi.
    [0072] In a preferred embodiment, the protrusion 2 is sized and positioned so that a portion of the tab 3 extends over a portion of the area defined by a weakened area comprising the protrusion 2. In various embodiments, a protrusion 2 of the present invention comprises generally rounded or contoured accessories, such as rounded edges or contours on the upper or public side of the end closure to reduce the risk of laceration to a user or other items, and to facilitate access to an underside of a flap 3 .
    [0073] It will be expressly recognized, however, that the protuberances of the present invention may comprise any number of shapes. In one embodiment, the protrusion 2 can be circular. In another embodiment, the protrusion 2 can be ovoid and comprise more than one radius of curvature.
    [0074] In some embodiments, the tab 3 may not comprise a lifting ring. In this way, the end of the flap opposite the flap nose 15 (e.g. the back of the flap) can be a continuous piece without a hole. In other embodiments, the lifting or cut-out ring hole may be larger or smaller than that illustrated in figures 1A to 7.
    [0075] Figure 3 shows a cross-section of an arrangement of four unpressurized, loose end fasteners, 1 (each with a bulge 2 and a peripheral turn 5) nested together without stacking interference. Figure 3 illustrates that the embodiments of the present invention have advantages over the prior art during the manufacturing process. For example, end closures of various embodiments described herein stack, transport and palletize in addition to traditional end closures without a bulge. Additionally, the end closures of various embodiments described herein do not increase the likelihood of metal exposure problems, rotated flaps, and flap over chime.
    [0076] Figure 4 illustrates the public side of an embodiment of an end closure 1 with a bulge 2 and a flap 3. In various embodiments, a first diameter D1 comprises a diameter of the weakened area. Preferably, D1 comprises a diameter of between approximately 0.2286 cm and 0.1524 cm (0.09 inches and 0.60 inches). More preferably, D1 comprises a diameter of between approximately 0.254 cm and 0.381 cm (0.10 inches and 0.50 inches). In a preferred embodiment, D1 comprises a diameter of approximately 0.762 cm (0.30 inches). In some embodiments, the flap 3 may comprise a nose 15 and a lifter 20. The lifter 20 may comprise a rear portion of a lifter 8. In some embodiments, the flap 3 is interconnected with the inset area. 18 of a center panel 19 using a rivet 35. Center panel 19 may further comprise an embossed area 18, a shadow bead 17, and a score line defining a perimeter of a serving opening 22. In various embodiments, embossed area 18 may comprise multiple radii of curvature (not labeled). In some embodiments, the shadow bead 17 is positioned within the recessed area 18. The shadow bead 17 may have an internal orientation (towards the inside of the container) and is designed to reduce slack metal, removing excess metal or tear panel clearance, increase tear panel strength, and improve end closure opening characteristics.
    [0077] Figure 5 illustrates a cross section (in section AA of Figure 4) of a loose, unpressurized end closure 1. End closure 1 may comprise a protrusion 2 positioned below a pull tab 3. The tab 3 may comprise a nose 15 and a lift ring with a lift ring rear 8. The space under the lift ring is labeled 12 and may be referred to as a lift ring access area before pressurizing 12. end closure 1 may also comprise a peripheral turn 5, a mandrel wall 30, a recess 31, a recessed outer panel wall 32, recessed inner panel wall 18, a shade bead 17, the deformable protrusion 2, and a weakened area 27.
    [0078] In Figure 5, the angle of the upper surface of the flap 3 with respect to the upper surface of the peripheral turn 5 before pressurization is labeled A1. In various embodiments, A1 comprises an angle between approximately -0.5 degrees and 1 degree. More preferably, A1 comprises an angle between approximately 0 degrees and 0.5 degrees. In a preferred embodiment, A1 comprises an angle of approximately 0.25 degrees. The distance between the upper surface of the nose 15 of the pull tab 3 and the upper surface of the rivet, prior to pressurizing, is labeled H1. In various embodiments, H1 comprises a distance between approximately 0.0508 cm (0.02 inches) and 0.01524 cm (0.06 inches). More preferably, H1 comprises a distance between approximately 0.0762 cm and 0.1143 cm (0.030 inches and 0.045 inches). In a preferred embodiment, H1 comprises a distance approximately equal to 0.0965 cm (0.038 inches). The distance between the top of the peripheral turn 5 and the top surface of the rivet, prior to pressurizing, is labeled H2. In various embodiments, H2 comprises a distance between approximately 0.254 cm (0.100 inch) and 0.508 cm (0.200 inch). More preferably, H2 comprises a distance between approximately 0.381 cm (0.150 inch) and 0.4445 cm (0.175 inch). In a preferred embodiment, H2 is equal to approximately 0.4165 cm (0.164 inch). The distance between the top of the peripheral turn 5 and the upper surface of the nose 15 of the pull tab 3, prior to pressurizing, is labeled H3. In various embodiments, H3 comprises a distance between approximately 0.1016 cm (0.040 inch) and 0.4572 cm (0.180 inch). More preferably, H3 comprises a distance between approximately 0.2794 cm (0.110 inches) and 0.3556 cm (0.140 inches). In a preferred embodiment, H3 is approximately equal to 0.3175 cm (0.125 inch). The distance between the upper surface of the recessed area 18 of the center panel 19 and the upper surface of the flap 3, prior to pressurizing, is labeled H4. In various embodiments, H4 comprises a distance between approximately 0.0762 cm (0.030 inches) and 0.254 cm (0.100 inches). More preferably, H4 comprises a distance between approximately 0.127 cm (0.050 inches) and 0.2159 cm (0.085 inches). In a preferred embodiment, H4 is approximately equal to 0.1778 cm (0.070 inches). The distance between the top of the peripheral turn 5 and the upper surface of the upper surface of the rear part of the riser ring 8, before pressurizing, is labeled H9. In various embodiments, H9 comprises a distance between approximately 0.1016 cm (0.040 inches) and 0.4572 cm (0.180 inches). More preferably, H9 comprises a distance between approximately 0.2794 cm (0.110 inches) and 0.3556 cm (0.140 inches). In a preferred embodiment H9 is approximately equal to 0.3175 cm (0.125 inch).
    [0079] Figure 6 is a side view of a cross section (section AA of Figure 4) of a pressurized end closure 7 attached to a container body 4. In various embodiments, the container body 4 may comprise a pressurized product 9 and front space 10. Pressurized product 9 may be a carbonized beverage, pressurized food, or other pressurized beverage. The end closure 7 may comprise a protrusion 2 positioned below a pull tab 3. In the embodiment shown, the protrusion 2 is engaging the tab 3. The tab 3 may contact the protrusion 2 at a tab contact area. 14. In some embodiments, tab 3 may comprise a nose 15 and a lift ring with a lift ring rear portion 8. The space under the lift ring is labeled 13 and may be referred to as a ring access area. of lifting after pressurizing 13. End closure 7 may also comprise a chime 16, junction 6, mandrel wall 30, recess 31, recessed outer panel wall 32, recessed inner panel wall 33, and center panel 19. central panel 19 may further comprise a recessed area 18, a shadow bead 17, and deformable protrusion 2.
    [0080] In Figure 6, the angle of the upper surface of flap 3 with respect to chime 16 after pressurization is labeled A2. In various embodiments, A2 comprises an angle between approximately 0 degrees and 5 degrees. More preferably, A2 comprises an angle between approximately 0.5 degrees and 4 degrees. In a preferred embodiment, A2 comprises an angle of approximately 3 degrees. The distance between the upper surface of the nose 15 of the pull tab 3 and the upper surface of the rivet, after pressurizing, is labeled H5. In various embodiments, H5 comprises a distance between approximately 0.0254 cm (0.01 inch) and 0.127 cm (0.05 inch). More preferably, H5 comprises a distance between approximately 0.0635 cm (0.025 inches) and 0.1016 cm (0.040 inches). In a preferred embodiment, H5 comprises a distance of approximately 0.0889 cm (0.035 inches). The distance between chime 16 and the top surface of the rivet after pressurizing is labeled H6. H6 is less than H2 (the corresponding distance before pressurizing) as the pressure pushes the end closure up or lifts the end closure. In various embodiments, H6 comprises a distance between approximately 0.0635 cm (0.025 inches) and 0.4572 cm (0.180 inches). More preferably, H6 comprises a distance between approximately 0.254 cm (0.100 inches) and 0.3175 cm (0.125 inches). In a preferred embodiment, H6 is approximately 0.113 inches. The distance between the chime 16 and the upper surface of the nose 15 of the pull-tab 3, after pressurizing, is labeled H7. In various embodiments, H7 comprises a distance between approximately 0.1524 cm and 0.254 cm (0.06 inches and 0.10 *inches). More preferably, H7 comprises a distance between approximately 0.1778 cm and 0.2286 cm (0.07 inches and 0.09 *inches). In a preferred embodiment, H7 is approximately equal to 0.2032 cm (0.080 inch). The distance between the recessed area 18 of the center panel 19 and the upper surface of the rear lifting ring 8, after pressurization, is labeled H8. In various embodiments, H8 comprises a distance between approximately 0.1778 cm and 0.381 cm (0.07 inches and 0.15 inches). More preferably, H8 comprises a distance between approximately 0.2286 cm and 0.3302 cm (0.09 inches and 0.13 inches). In a preferred embodiment, H8 is approximately 0.2794 cm (0.11 inches). The distance between chime 16 and the upper surface of the rear part of riser ring 8, after pressurizing, is labeled H10. In various embodiments, H10 comprises a distance between approximately 0.254 cm (0.01 inches) and 0.1016 cm (0.04 inches). More preferably, H10 comprises a distance between approximately 0.508 cm and 0.0762 cm (0.02 inches and 0.03 inches). In a preferred embodiment, H10 is approximately 0.0635 cm (0.025 inches). The horizontal distance between the centerline of the rivet and the center of the bulge, after pressurizing, is labeled L1. In various embodiments, L1 comprises a distance between approximately 0.0381 cm and 0.127 cm (0.15 inches and 0.50 inches). More preferably, L1 comprises a distance between approximately 0.0762 cm and 0.0863 cm (0.30 inches and 0.34 inches). In a preferred embodiment, L1 is approximately 0.8128 cm (0.32 inches). The additional curved arrows in Figure 6 show how tab 3 rotates after protrusion 2 is deformed.
    [0081] Figure 7 is a side view of a cross-section of one embodiment of a sealed and pressurized beverage container 40. The beverage container may comprise a pressurized end closure 7 attached to a neck 25 of a container body 4. In various embodiments, container body 4 can comprise a pressurized product 9, head space 10, and a closed lower end 26. End closure 7 can comprise a protrusion 2 positioned below a pull tab 3. In some embodiments, the flap 3 may comprise a nose 15 and a lift ring with a rear part of the lift ring 8. In the embodiment shown, the protrusion 2 is engaging the flap 3 so that the rear part 8 of the lift ring is raised. The end closure 7 may also comprise a chime 16 and a joint 6. The curved arrows in Figure 7 show how the flap 3 rotates after the protrusion 2 is deformed.
    [0082] With reference to figures 8 to 13, the public sides of the end closures are shown and are illustrated without a flap for clarity. Additionally, a contour fitting commonly used in end fasteners to reduce metal clearance is a raised curvilinear protrusion commonly referred to as a "crimp". It is known to use embossed friezes having a variety of geometric configurations, including an unclosed curve resembling the letter "C" (sometimes called "C frieze"), a closed curve having a straight side resembling the letter "D" (sometimes called a "D frieze") means a closed curve of a circular or oval shape, or a closed irregular or unclosed shape. It should be noted that while beadings are among the most common embossed contour fittings found in end fasteners, other embossed contour fittings are also known, including bosses, panels, engraving and various combinations of these fittings. It has until now been believed to be necessary to incorporate high relief contour fittings in the end closures of permanent flap containers for one or more of the following reasons: (1) to serve as side reinforcement or reinforcement structures in the end closure of so that the panel does not excessively arch or bulge during the opening operation, which can cause "nose fault" and "tuck under faults"; (2) to selectively distribute the tear flap forces across the tear panel to propagate the score line fracture completely around the tear panel so that the panel does not experience a "partial open" type failure; and (3) to collect the "slack metal" in the end closure which results from widening the panel during the formation of the marking lines, thus maintaining tension in the tear panel, the lack of which can also cause failure nose, tuck-under failure, or partial opening failure. Note that "tear panel" can be used interchangeably here with "opening" or "opening to serve". A "nose fault" occurs when there is excessive sag or swelling of the tear panel due to insufficient rigidity or insufficient tension that allows the flap end to slide along the tear panel surface without breaking the tear panel line. any way. A "tuck-under" fault, also known as a "non-tuck-under" fault, occurs when the same factors cause the tab to only partially break the score line and not dislodge the tear panel enough into the container to provide a usable opening. A "partial open" fault, also known as an "insufficient angle" fault occurs when the score line completely breaks, but the rip panel arching or inadequate distribution of flap forces prevents the flap from shifting the tear panel through a sufficient angle into the container to prevent obstruction of the opening.
    [0083] Other contour features known in the art can be used in the modalities described here, including crimps having various configurations when viewed from above, crimps having various other profiles (e.g., semicircular) when viewed in cross section, and others Contour features such as bosses and panels.
    [0084] The embodiments illustrated in Figures 8 to 13 comprise one or more shapes, one or more cent ribs, and/or a combination of a shape and a cent rib. The cent crimp is provided to remove slack metal in the center panel near and around the rivet area (also known as "puckering"), which decreases the efficiency of the pull tab during opening. Centrifuges similar to those described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0056032, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, may be used in some embodiments. Additionally, the shape can also remove excess metal in the center panel.
    [0085] In one embodiment, the shape on the end closure is provided to slightly lift a rear portion of the pull tab and may function similarly to the bulge described above. The form can be located below a pull tab and pushes the rear of the tab up and away from the center panel allowing for ease of access to the operating side (ie bottom) of the tab, thus increasing ease of use. the end closure user. In one embodiment, the form can be fabricated in an extended position so that the form extends before the end closure is attached to a container. The shape can further extend upwards with the end closure after the end closure is attached to a pressurized container and pushes the rear part of the pull tab upward. In an alternative embodiment, the shape may be flat, i.e. substantially the same height as the center panel, during fabrication and may extend upwardly upward after the end closure is attached to a pressurized container.
    [0086] Figure 8 is a top plan view of an embodiment of an end closure with a protrusion 2 and a cent crimp 38. Figure 8 shows a preferred embodiment of the arrangement of the protrusion with respect to other end closure accessories (by example, a cent frieze, marking lines, sunken area, recess, etc.). The outer circle of protrusion 2 marks the outer edge of the weakened area. The inner circles of the bulge have different contour levels. It will be expressly acknowledged that variations of the modality illustrated in Figure 8, particularly with respect to the location and shape of the bulge, are expressly contemplated as being within the scope and spirit of the present description.
    [0087] Figure 9 is a top plan view of one embodiment of an end closure of the present invention. In some embodiments, the end closure comprises a central panel for interconnecting with a tab (not shown). If a tab were illustrated in Figure 9, the nose of the tab would be positioned near the scribe lines at the bottom of the end closure and the lifting ring would be on an opposite side of a rivet. The center panel may comprise an embossed area 17. The embossed area 17 may transition from an outer portion of the center panel to the embossed area 17 through an angled embossed wall 23. In some embodiments, the wall angled inset 23 can be angled or angled at one or more angles and can interconnect the lowermost portion (eg, the inset area) with the center panel. In the embodiment shown, the angled recessed wall 23 comprises one or more recessed wall interruptions 24 having different slopes or angles joining the recessed area 17 to the center panel. Embossed area 17 may also comprise one or more shapes 36, one or more 38 cent crimps, score lines, and a rivet. When the end closure is attached to a pressurized container, the center panel of the end closure is pressurized. In one embodiment, the center panel extends at most to a point close to a center point of the center panel (meaning that the difference in the height of the center point with respect to the chime before pressurization and the height after pressurization is greater at the center point) . In some embodiments, the tab is positioned so that a portion of the lift ring is above a portion of each shape 36. When the center panel is over, the shapes 36 also rise, which push the lift ring or the rear of the shape. tab into a contact area or a contact point and lift the lifting ring or back of the tab in a similar manner to the protrusion described above. In this way, the area under the lift ring is increased after pressurizing, making it easier for the user to access the lift ring and open the container.
    [0088] Figure 10 is a top plan view of the public side of an end closure embodiment. In some embodiments, the end closure comprises a central panel for interconnecting with a tab (not shown). If a tab were illustrated in Figure 10, the nose of the tab would be positioned near the dotted lines on the underside of the end closure and the tab lifting ring would be on the opposite side of a rivet with respect to the nose. The center panel could also comprise a sunken area. The sunken area can transition from an outer portion of the center panel to the sunken area through an angled sunken wall. In some embodiments, the angled recessed wall may be angled or angled at one or more angles and may interconnect the lowermost portion (eg, the recessed area) to the center panel. The embossed area may also comprise a shape 36, a 38 cent crimp, score lines and a rivet. When the end closure is attached to a pressurized container, the center panel of the end closure rises upwardly under pressure. In one embodiment, the center panel rises at most to a point close to a center point of the center panel (meaning that the difference in the height of the center point with respect to the chime before pressurization and the height after pressurization is greater at the center point ). In some embodiments, the tab is positioned so that a portion of the lifting ring is above a portion of the form 36. When the center panel rises, the form 36 also rises, which pushes the elevation ring or rear of the tab into a contact area or a contact point and lifts the tab lifting ring in a manner similar to the protrusion described above. In this way, the area under the lifting ring is increased after pressurizing, making it easier for the user to access the lifting ring and opening the container.
    [0089] Figure 11 is a top plan view of the public side of an end closure embodiment. In some embodiments, the end closure comprises a central panel for interconnecting with a tab (not shown). If the tab were illustrated in Figure 11, the nose of the tab would be positioned near the dotted lines on the underside of the end closure and the tab lift ring would be on an opposite side of a rivet with respect to the nose. The center panel may also comprise an embossed area. The sunken area can transition from an outer portion of the center panel to the sunken area through an angled sunken wall. In some embodiments, the angled recessed wall may be angled or angled at one or more angles and may interconnect with the lowermost portion (eg, the recessed area) to the center panel. The recessed area may also comprise a fixture that is a combination of a cent crimp and a 39 shape, score lines and a rivet. When the end closure is attached to a pressurized container, the center panel of the end closure rises upwardly under pressure. In some embodiments, the tab is positioned so that a portion of the lifting ring is above a portion of the combination of cent and shape 39. When the center panel is over, the combination of cent and shape 39 also rises, which pushes the lift ring or back of the tab into a contact area and lift the lift ring in a similar way to the bulge described above. In this way, the area under the lifting ring is increased after pressurizing, making it easier for the user to access the lifting ring and opening the container.
    [0090] Figure 12 is a top plan view of the public side of an end closure embodiment. In some embodiments, the end closure comprises a central panel for interconnecting with a tab (not shown). If a tab were illustrated in Figure 12, the nose of the tab would be positioned near the score lines on the bottom of the end closure and the tab lift ring would be on an opposite side of a rivet with respect to the nose. The center panel may also comprise an embossed area. The recessed area may comprise one or more shapes 36, a cent crimp 38, score lines, and a rivet. When the end closure is attached to a pressurized container, the center panel of the end closure rises upwardly under pressure. In some embodiments, the tab is positioned so that a portion of the lifting ring is above a portion of the shapes 36 and the 38 cent bead. lifting ring at contact areas or points of contact and lifting a lifting ring similar to the protrusion described above. In this way, the area under the lifting ring is increased after pressurizing, making it easier for the user to access the lifting ring and opening the container.
    [0091] Figure 13 is a top plan view of one embodiment of an end closure. In some embodiments, the end closure comprises a central panel for interconnecting with a tab (not shown). If a tab were illustrated in Figure 13, the nose of the tab would be positioned near the dotted lines on the underside of the end closure and the tab lifting ring would be on an opposite side of a rivet 35 with respect to the nose. The center panel could also comprise a sunken area. The embossed area may comprise a shape 36, a centrifuge 38, score lines, and a rivet 35. When the end closure is attached to a pressurized container, the center panel of the end closure rises upwardly under pressure. In some embodiments, the tab is positioned so that a portion of the lifting ring is above a portion of the form 36 and the cent crimp 38. When the center panel rises due to pressure in the container, also the form 36 over, pushing the riser ring into an end closure contact area 37 and lifting the riser ring in a manner similar to the protrusion described above. In this way, the area under the lifting ring is increased after pressurizing, making it easier for the user to access the lifting ring and opening the container.
    [0092] While various embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it is apparent that modifications and changes to these embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. However, it is expressly understood that such modifications and alterations are within the scope and spirit of the present invention as set out in the following claims. Additionally, the invention described herein is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Additionally, it should be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be considered limiting. The use of "including", "comprising", or "possessing" and its variations must encompass the items listed later and their equivalences in addition to additional items.
    权利要求:
    Claims (20)
    [0001]
    1. End closure (1) for a beverage container (40) with an improved access pull-tab (3), comprising: a peripheral turn (5) adapted to interconnect a neck (25) of the container (40) a mandrel wall (30) interconnected to said peripheral turn (5) and extending downwardly therefrom; a recess (31) having an outer panel wall (32) interconnected to a lowermost portion of said mandrel wall (30) and an inner panel wall (33); a central panel (19) interconnected to said inner panel wall (33) and oriented in a horizontal plane and having a vertical central geometric axis; a pull tab (3) interconnected to an outer surface of said center panel (19) at an interconnecting point (35), said pull tab (3) including a lifting ring (20) and a nose (15) at an opposite end of the lifting ring (20), said nose (15) positioned near a frangible score line (21) on said panel central el (19) defining an opening (22) for serving; and characterized by the fact that the end closure (1) further comprises a deformable protrusion (2) on said central panel (19) which is positioned below said pull tab (3) between said point of interconnection (35) and the end. (8) distally from said lifting ring (20), said deformable protuberance (2) having a transverse elevation equal to said central panel (19) in a first position before deformation and a transverse elevated elevation relative to said central panel ( 19) in a second position after deformation lifting said lifting ring (20) from said pull tab (3) to provide improved access for the user's fingers below said lifting ring (20).
    [0002]
    2. End closure according to claim 1, characterized in that said deformable protuberance (2) is raised by at least 0.0508 cm (0.020 inches) in said second position when compared to said first position.
    [0003]
    3. End closure according to claim 1, characterized in that said deformable protuberance (2) is defined by a perimeter of circular shape.
    [0004]
    4. End closure according to claim 1, characterized in that the deformable protrusion (2) moves between said first position and said second position when a pressure below said deformable protrusion (2) is at least 103421 Pa (15 psi).
    [0005]
    5. End closure according to claim 1, characterized in that said pull tab (3) is positioned at an angle of between zero and four degrees from a horizontal plane when said protrusion is deformable (2 ) is in said second position.
    [0006]
    6. End closure according to claim 1, characterized in that said pull tab (3) is interconnected with said central panel (19) with a rivet (35).
    [0007]
    7. End closure according to claim 1, characterized in that said mandrel wall (30) is inclined between said peripheral turn (5) and said outer panel wall (32) of said recess ( 31) at an angle between 10 and 50 degrees.
    [0008]
    8. End closure according to claim 1, characterized in that said deformable protrusion (2) contacts said pull tab (3) in a contact area.
    [0009]
    9. End closure according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises a metal (11) with clearance surrounding said deformable protrusion (2) when said deformable protrusion (2) is in said first position.
    [0010]
    10. Metal beverage container (40) with a dynamic permanent flap (3), comprising: a container body (4) having a closed lower end (26) and an open upper end with a neck (25); metal end closure (1) adapted to interconnect the neck (25) of the container (40), said metal end closure (1) having a vertical central geometric axis when viewed in cross section, and oriented in a horizontal plane when in a first position; a pull tab (3) interconnected at an interconnecting point (35) to a central panel (19) of said metal end closure (1) and comprising a lifting ring (20) at one end and a nose (15) at an opposite end, said nose (15) positioned near a frangible score line (21) on said center panel (19), said frangible score line (21) defining at least a portion of an opening (22) to serve; and characterized in that a deformable bulge (2) is formed on said central panel (19) and positioned below said pull tab (3) between said distal end (8) of said lifting ring (20) and said point interconnecting (35) of the pull tab, said deformable protrusion (2) extending upwardly to lift said lifting ring (20) of said pull tab (3) after at least one of a food and a beverage ( 9) is placed in said container (40) and said metallic end closure (1) is interconnected to said neck (25) of said container (40), wherein the entire area of said deformable protrusion (2) is positioned within of the outer perimeter of said pull tab (3).
    [0011]
    11. Metallic beverage container according to claim 10, characterized in that said deformable protuberance (2) extends upwardly by at least 0.0508 cm (0.020 inches).
    [0012]
    12. Metal beverage container according to claim 10, characterized in that said pull tab (3) is interconnected to an outer surface of said central panel (19) with a rivet (35).
    [0013]
    13. Metal beverage container according to claim 10, characterized in that said deformable protuberances (2) are positioned midway between a rivet (35) and the lifting ring (20) of said pull tab (3).
    [0014]
    14. Metal beverage container according to claim 10, characterized in that said deformable protrusion (2) is positioned 0.8128 cm (0.320 inches) from a center point of a rivet (35).
    [0015]
    15. Metal beverage container according to claim 10, characterized in that said deformable protuberance (2) extends upwardly when a pressure in said container (40) is at least 103.42 kPa (15 psi) .
    [0016]
    A method of forming and supplying an improved access pull-tab (3) and container (40), comprising: providing a container (40) as defined in claim 10 comprising a body (4) having a lower end. closed (26) and an open upper end with a neck (25); supplying said container (40) with carbonated drink (9); characterized in that providing an end closure (1) comprising a pull tab (3) interconnected to a central panel (19), a deformable protrusion (2) formed in said central panel (19) and positioned below said pull tab (3), the slack area of the protrusion (11) positioned at least around a portion of said deformable protrusion (2) and positioned below said central panel (19) and below an apex of said deformable protrusion (2) and a frangible score line (21) defining a perimeter of an opening (22), said pull tab (3) comprising a lifting part (20) at one end and a nose (15) at one end opposite, said nose (15) oriented close to said frangible score line (21) on said central panel (19), wherein the upper surface of said pull tab (3) is parallel to a chime (16) of said end closure (1); fastening said end closure (1) to said neck (25) of said the container (40); increasing a pressure in said container (40) to create a force below said deformable protrusion (2); and expanding said deformable protrusion (2) upwardly to raise said lifting portion (20) of said pull tab (3) so that said upper surface of the pull tab (3) is positioned at a relative acute angle to said chime (16) of said end closure (7) and said lifting part (20) is further positioned below said chime (16).
    [0017]
    17. Method according to claim 16, characterized in that said end closure (1) further comprises an interconnecting point (35) where said pull tab (3) is interconnected to said central panel (19 ), and said deformable protrusion (2) is positioned between said interconnection point (35) and said lifting part.
    [0018]
    18. The method of claim 16, further comprising expanding said deformable protrusion (2) upwardly by at least 0.0508 cm (0.020 inches).
    [0019]
    19. Method according to claim 16, characterized in that it further comprises providing metal (11) with clearance around said deformable protrusion (2), said metal (11) with clearance expanding upwardly when said deformable bulge (2) expands upwardly.
    [0020]
    20. Method according to claim 16, characterized in that it further comprises positioning said pull tab (3) at an angle of between 0.5 and four degrees from a horizontal plane after lifting said part of lifting (20) of said pull tab (3).
    类似技术:
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    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    CN105073589B|2017-09-12|
    GT201500271A|2017-01-04|
    EP2969818A1|2016-01-20|
    CL2015002629A1|2016-04-15|
    AU2014238112B2|2016-09-29|
    WO2014149484A1|2014-09-25|
    CA2900636C|2017-09-26|
    CN105073589A|2015-11-18|
    CA2900636A1|2014-09-25|
    MX367776B|2019-09-05|
    AU2014238112A1|2015-09-17|
    EP2969818A4|2016-11-30|
    MX2015013266A|2015-12-11|
    US9033174B2|2015-05-19|
    RU2630572C2|2017-09-11|
    BR112015021150A2|2017-07-18|
    RU2015144277A|2017-04-24|
    US20140263329A1|2014-09-18|
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    法律状态:
    2018-11-13| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]|
    2019-11-19| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: procedure suspended [chapter 6.21 patent gazette]|
    2020-12-08| B06A| Notification to applicant to reply to the report for non-patentability or inadequacy of the application [chapter 6.1 patent gazette]|
    2021-05-04| B09A| Decision: intention to grant [chapter 9.1 patent gazette]|
    2021-07-13| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 27/02/2014, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    US13/838,478|2013-03-15|
    US13/838,478|US9033174B2|2013-03-15|2013-03-15|Easy access opening tab for a container end closure|
    PCT/US2014/018860|WO2014149484A1|2013-03-15|2014-02-27|Easy access opening tab for a container end closure|
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