BR112018000997B1 - CONTAINER END CLOSURE WITH A PERIPHERAL CORRUGATION AND METHOD OF OPENING A CONTAINER WITH AN END CLOSURE - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to an opening device for a drink container. More specifically, the invention relates to a metallic end closure having a primary opening area and at least one optional secondary ventilation opening, which can be opened with the same pull tab. The primary vent area and the secondary vent area are defined by a score line, which is interrupted by a check groove, to inhibit the propagation of a fracture along the score line.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

[0001] This United States of America non-provisional patent application is a partial continuation and claims priority of the U.S. patent application. No. 14/066,457, filed October 29, 2013, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Serial No. 12/851,979, filed August 6, 2010, now U.S. patent. 8,567,158, and this United States of America non-provisional patent application claims priority of the U.S. patent application. No. 62/039.020, filed on August 19, 2014, whose full descriptions are incorporated by reference in this descriptive report.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to an end closure for a beverage container. More specifically, the present invention relates to an end closure for a container, comprising a first opening part and at least one secondary opening part to improve ventilation and improve product discharge during pouring.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Containers, and more specifically metal beverage containers, are typically produced by interconnecting a beverage container end closure to the neck of a beverage container body. In some applications, an end closure may be interconnected to both a top side and a bottom side of a container body. More often, however, a beverage container end closure is interconnected to a top end of a beverage container body, which has been drawn and flattened from a flat sheet of raw material, such as aluminum. It is generally known to provide end closures for beverage containers and to use an opening device to selectively open a portion of the end closure. For example, pull tabs or support on tabs ("SOT") generally include a nose and a back, and a rivet that interconnects the pull tab to the top surface of the end closure. The back usually has a loop or tail which can be pulled upwards by a user actuating the nose portion of the pull down tab to initiate opening of the container by shearing a score line which sets the primary opening to the end closing.

[0004] The end closures of conventional beverage containers with SOTs generally suffer from low, inconsistent and/or irregular flows as the contents are poured, due to the fact that these end closures provide a single opening area of a predetermined size. Conventional container end closures are generally designed to pour the contents of the container, with little or no consideration given to the incoming air flow required for volume exchange, which facilitates uniform and consistent pouring.

[0005] Several patents have attempted to improve the pourability of end closures by creating one or more openings. These patents include the U.S. 7,513,383, to Hwang, and U.S. patent 4,289,251, to Maliszewski, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Hwang describes an opening device for a can, having a first and second distinct opening parts, so that the fluid can flow more consistently from the can. Hwang, however, fails to teach the several new features of the present invention, including a secondary opening portion, which can be selectively opened to supplement or facilitate flow through a primary opening portion, and by rotating the pull tab at a preferred orientation. Maliszewski describes a container end closure with a first score line defining a first movable panel part and a second score line defining a second movable panel part. Maliszewski, however, fails to teach the various new features of the present invention, including a secondary opening portion, which can be selectively opened to supplement or facilitate flows through a primary opening portion.

[0006] The description presented below describes an improved container end closure, which is adapted for interconnection to a container body and which has a first opening part, a rotatable flap, and at least one additional ventilation opening to selectively facilitate the flow of contents from the container.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Based on the limitations of the end closures discussed above, there is an unmet need for an end closure with a pull tab, a primary opening area, and at least one additional opening area, to facilitate emptying of contents from a container. There is still a longstanding and unmet need to provide a device in which an additional opening area is selectively activated or opened, based on user preference, and utilizing the same pull tab mechanics as the end closure. The following description generally describes a metal end closure with a pull tab and multiple opening areas, which employs a new combination of features that address these age-old needs.

[0008] In one aspect of the present invention, a container end closure is provided with a primary opening portion and at least one additional opening portion selectively openable by a user to create improved flow characteristics , due to a larger open area and/or an area that allows air to be admitted into a container body through one or more vent openings while the contents drain through another opening.

[0009] In various embodiments, the container end closures of the present invention are adapted for interconnection with a neck of a container body. More specifically, the end closure generally comprises a peripheral corrugation for double stitching to a neck of a container, a mandrel wall extending downwardly from the peripheral corrugation, a countersink comprised of an outer panel wall and a panel wall. inner panel, and a central panel extending into the reamer's inner panel wall. For purposes of further supporting and enabling the present invention, the U.S. patents of numbers 7,506,779 by Jentzsch et al., entitled "Method and Apparatus for Forming a Reinforcing Bead in a Container End Closure", and 7,100,789 by Nguyen et al., entitled "Metallic Beverage Can End With Improved Chuck Wall and Countersink ", are incorporated by reference, in their entirety, in this descriptive report.

[0010] It is another aspect of the present invention to provide an end closure with a primary opening, in which a tab is interconnected to a center panel unit, a rivet, for rotatably securing the end closure tab, a score line secondary, which defines a secondary aperture area, and a transition zone between the primary and secondary apertures. The transition zone can be an unmarked part of the center panel, or the transition zone can be a marking, for example a check groove. In one embodiment, the first and second opening areas are positioned adjacent to each other, and the transition zone prevents the opening of a secondary opening area when the tab is used to open the first opening area. For example, in one embodiment, the transition zone inhibits propagation from a primary scoreline to a secondary scoreline or aperture area. Alternatively, the first and second opening areas are not positioned adjacent to each other, but are instead spaced apart in different locations.

[0011] It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a rotatable flap, which is capable of opening a door defined within a first opening area, by a first opening movement or lift of the flap, and which is subsequently capable of being rotated and used to open a secondary opening area for a second opening movement. In this way, a user can selectively determine whether to utilize the secondary opening for ventilation, or drink from the vessel in a conventional manner from the primary opening, without the increased flow resulting from ventilation.

[0012] It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a flap with one or more features that limit or otherwise define the necessary or desirable amount of rotation required to reposition the flap to open one or more areas of secondary openings of a control panel. For example, features of the present invention may include recesses or cutouts within a flap and corresponding protrusions or detents in the center panel that prevent the flap from rotating about a rivet beyond a predetermined orientation. In an alternative embodiment, a portion of a center panel of the present invention is adapted to receive a flap, and thereby limit the degree of rotation of a flap from an initial position. In one embodiment, a tab is rotatable on a center panel of the end closure, between an angle of zero degrees (i.e., with respect to an initial position) and ± 90 degrees. In an alternative embodiment, a tab is rotatable about an axis substantially parallel to a horizontal plane of a center panel, between an angle of zero degrees (i.e., with respect to an initial position) and ± 45 degrees.

[0013] In another embodiment, an end closure is provided, which has at least a first part and a second opening part, wherein the first and second parts can be opened with very minimal rotation of the flap. Alternatively, there may be no rotation of the flap, or only slight twisting of the flap, after forming the first opening. For example, in one embodiment, the present invention comprises a first opening area, defined by a score line, and a door contained therein, the score line adapted to be cut and the door opened by tilting the flap. The second opening area is defined by a secondary boundary line and a transition zone, the transition zone inhibiting the propagation of the primary boundary line and requiring a user to exert a distinct or additional force (i.e., compared to the force applied to the primary opening part), to open the secondary opening part. Thus, in one embodiment, a first and a second opening part can be opened in series by applying one or more forces, whereby the opening of the second opening part is distinct from the first one, due, for example, to a zone of transition. Thus, in one embodiment, a flap need not be rotated about a longitudinal axis of a container body and end closure combination to cut or open a secondary opening area. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the tab can be slightly twisted or rotated in a clockwise direction to assist in propagating a fracture along the secondary marking.

[0014] In one embodiment, an end closure, adapted for interconnection to a container body, is provided. The metal end closure comprises a substantially planar center panel and a force applicator means for applying inwardly directed forces to the center panel. The force-applying means may include, by way of example only, a flap having a loop or tail portion and a nose portion, wherein the flap is interconnected to an end closure with a rivet.

[0015] In alternative embodiments, an end closure does not comprise a flap as found in SOTs. Instead, in certain embodiments, an end closure is provided with a primary opening area/part and at least one selectively secondary opening area/part, wherein said first and second opening areas are marked or cut away from each other. a panel with an additional tool. Additional tools include, but are not limited to, can openers and similar known devices adapted to open or tear open a center panel. In one embodiment, the force-applying means comprises a tool or an object, which is not joined or secured in the end closure. For example, various known bottle openers, "bottle and can openers", and similar devices, adapted to apply a force to an end closure, may be provided.

[0016] In one embodiment, pivotal means are permanently mounted on said center panel, for pivotally mounting the force applicator means on the center panel. The pivotal means may include, for example, a rivet, secured in a part of a center panel, and a rivet station or similar rivet-receiving part disposed in a flap. Thus, in various embodiments, pivotal means are provided which allow a flap to pivot about an axis generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of an end closure/container combination, even more generally, preventing inadvertent displacement of a flap. from a central panel. Rotation limiting means may be provided in the end closure and adapted to limit the degree of rotation of the force applying means. The rotation restricting means of the present invention include, but are not limited to, detents, protrusions, recesses, and various other items formed or placed in a center panel and adapted to contact a tab and/or provide a visual indication of a desirable orientation of a tab.

[0017] A first opening part having a cutaway score line is provided in one embodiment, the cuttable score line defining the first opening part and a first hinge part integral with the center panel. In one embodiment, a second opening part is provided, which comprises a cuttable marking line defining the second opening part and a second hinge part integral with the central panel, and a transition part, which substantially prevents a fracture propagation of said cutable score line of said first opening part on said cutable score line of said second opening part.

[0018] It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a method of opening a container, i.e., for improving the pourability of a container. This includes, but is not limited to, a method comprising the step of opening a primary aperture area, wherein force applicator means are tilted to apply a first downward force on a first aperture portion, to cut a first score line cuttable. Subsequently, the force-applying means (e.g., a pull tab) is at least partially restored to a first initial position, and the force-applying means is rotated so that a nose portion of the force-applying means is positioned over a portion of a second aperture portion and the force applicator means is biased to apply a second downward force on a second aperture portion to cut a second score line. Alternatively, a third opening can be formed in alternative embodiments by further rotating the pull tab and cutting a third opening. In embodiments, similar steps can be repeated in order to open one or more additional ventilation parts, arranged in an end closure.

[0019] A particular embodiment of the invention is a container end closure with a peripheral corrugation for interconnection to a container neck, comprising: a center panel; a pull tab comprising a nose and a tail, the pull tab adapted to apply a downward force to a predetermined part of the center panel; a rivet operatively interconnecting the pull tab to an upper surface of the center panel and allowing the pull tab to rotate; a first opening portion defined at least partially by a first tearable marking line; a second vent defined at least partially by a second cuttable score line, and wherein the second cuttable score line and the first cuttable score line are substantially oriented along a common line; and a transitional portion, positioned between the first cuttable scoreline and the second cuttable scoreline, which is adapted to inhibit the propagation of a fracture from the first cuttable scoreline to the second cuttable scoreline, and wherein the nose of the pull tab can selectively move between a first position on the first opening part and a second position on the second ventilation opening part to facilitate the opening of the first and second parts as the nose part of the pull tab is pushed down.

[0020] Another embodiment of the invention is a method of opening an end closure of a container, having a first opening part and a second venting part, comprising: (a) positioning a pull tab, which is interconnected - attached to a central end closure panel with a rivet, in a first open position; (b) lifting a rear end of the pull tab to apply a first downward force on the first opening portion of the center panel to shear a first score line to a transition portion and create a first opening in the center panel where the first marker line and transition part have distinct marker residues; (c) repositioning the pull tab to a second open position; and (d) lifting the rear end of the pull tab to apply a second downward force on the second vent portion to shear the transition portion positioned between the first score line and a second score line and to shear the second score line to form a second ventilation opening in the center panel, wherein the second cuttable score line is oriented on the same line as the first cuttable score, wherein the transition portion and the second score line have distinct marking waste, and wherein the first opening portion and the second vent portion are integrally interconnected with each other to form an aperture larger than either the first aperture or the second vent portion.

[0021] Yet another embodiment of the invention is a container end closure with a peripheral corrugation adapted for interconnection to a neck of a container, comprising: a center panel; a pull tab comprising a nose and a tail, the pull tab adapted to apply a downward force on the center panel; a rivet operatively interconnecting the pull tab to an upper surface of the center panel, and allowing the pull tab to be repositioned between a primary position for opening a primary opening portion and a second position for opening a second opening portion of ventilation; the primary aperture portion defined at least partially by a primary tear-off line; the second vent portion defined at least partially by a second cuttable score line; and a check groove, positioned between the primary cuttable score line and the second cuttable score line, which is adapted to inhibit the propagation of a fracture of the primary cuttable score line into the second cuttable score line, the check groove is a score line having a score residue, which is distinct from a score residue of the primary cuttable score line and a score residue of the second cutable score line.

[0022] These and other advantages will become evident from the description of the invention(s) contained in this descriptive report. The embodiments, objects and settings described above are neither complete nor exhaustive. As will be appreciated, other embodiments of the invention are possible using, alone or in combination, one or more of the aspects set out above or described in detail below. Furthermore, the summary of the invention is not intended and should not be considered to be representative of the entire scope and scope of the present invention. The present invention is presented in various levels of detail in the summary of the invention, as well as in the accompanying drawings and in the detailed description of the invention, and no limitation as to the scope of the present invention is intended to include or not include the elements, components, etc. in this summary of the invention. Other aspects of the present invention will become more readily apparent from the detailed description, particularly when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The attached drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of the specification, illustrate various embodiments of the present invention and, together with the generic description of the invention presented above, serve to explain the principle of these inventions.

[0024] Figure 1 is a top plan view of a metallic end closure, according to an embodiment, in which a flap and a first opening part are in a first closed position.

[0025] Figure 2 is a top plan view of a metallic end closure, according to an embodiment, in which a flap has been rotated to a second position.

[0026] Figure 3a is a top plan view of a metallic end closure, according to an embodiment, in which a flap and a first opening part are in a first closed position.

[0027] Figure 3b is a top plan view of a metallic end closure, according to an embodiment, in which a door of the first opening part has been opened.

[0028] Figure 3c is a top plan view of a metallic end closure, according to an embodiment, in which a door of the first opening part has been opened and a flap rotated to a second position.

[0029] Figure 3d is a top plan view of a metallic end closure, according to an embodiment, in which a door of the first opening part has been opened and a flap rotated to a second position, and a second opening part open.

[0030] Figure 4a is a top plan view of a metallic end closure and a termination zone, according to one embodiment.

[0031] Figure 4b is a detailed top plan view of a metallic end closure and a termination zone, according to an alternative embodiment.

[0032] Figure 5 is a top plan view of a metal end closure and termination zone, comprising an asymmetrical flap, according to an alternative embodiment.

[0033] Figure 6 is a top plan view of a metallic end closure, according to an alternative embodiment, comprising two optional opening areas.

[0034] Figure 7 is a top perspective view of a metallic end closure according to an alternative embodiment, comprising a rotation limiter guide and a rivet station in a first position.

[0035] Figure 8 is a top perspective view of a metallic end closure, according to one embodiment, comprising a rotation limiter guide and a rivet station in a second position.

[0036] Figure 9 is a top perspective view of a metal end closure, in accordance with one embodiment, comprising an alternatively shaped stamped area and secondary marking.

[0037] Figure 10 is a top perspective view of a metallic end closure, according to one embodiment, comprising an alternatively shaped embossed area and alternative primary and secondary marking.

[0038] Figure 11 is a top plan view of a marking tool, according to an embodiment with areas "X" and "Y".

[0039] Figure 12A is a top plan view of a marking tool, according to an embodiment, wherein the area "X" of the embodiment in Figure 11 is shown in detail.

[0040] Figure 12B is a cross-sectional view of a marking tool, according to one embodiment, taken along line B - B of the embodiment of Figure 12A.

[0041] Figure 12C is a cross-sectional view of a marking tool, according to one embodiment, taken along line C - C of the embodiment of Figure 12A.

[0042] Figure 12D is a cross-sectional view of a marking tool, according to one embodiment, taken along line D - D of the embodiment of Figure 12A.

[0043] Figure 12E is a cross-sectional view of a verification notch portion of a marking tool, according to one embodiment, taken along line E - E of the embodiment of Figure 12A.

[0044] Figure 13A is a top plan view of a marking tool, according to an embodiment, wherein the "Y" area of the embodiment in Figure 11 is shown in detail.

[0045] Figure 13B is a cross-sectional view of a marking tool, according to one embodiment, taken along line B - B of the embodiment of Figure 13A.

[0046] Figure 13C is a cross-sectional view of a marking tool, according to one embodiment, taken along line C - C of the embodiment of Figure 13A.

[0047] Figure 14A is a top plan view of a marking tool, according to one embodiment.

[0048] Figure 14B is a profile view of the marking tool in Figure 14A, according to one embodiment.

[0049] Figure 14C is a cross-sectional view of a marking tool, according to one embodiment, taken along line C - C of the embodiment of Figure 14A.

[0050] Figure 14D is a cross-sectional view of a marking tool, according to one embodiment, taken along line C - C of the embodiment of Figure 14A, in which the area "Z" of the embodiment in Figure 14C is shown in detail.

[0051] Figure 14E is a perspective view of a marking tool, according to one embodiment.

[0052] To further assist in understanding the invention, a table of components found in the drawings and their associated numbering is presented below.

[0053] It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale. In certain cases, details, unnecessary for an understanding of the invention or that make it difficult to perceive other details, may have been omitted from these drawings. It is further to be understood that the invention is not limited to the particular embodiments illustrated in the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] Various embodiments of the present invention are described in the present specification and illustrated in the drawings. It should be explicitly understood that although Figures 1 - 8 illustrate a metal end closure with a pull tab and at least one secondary vent, the present invention is not limited to those embodiments.

[0055] With reference then to Figure 1, a top plan view of a metallic end closure, according to an embodiment, is shown, and in which a first opening part is in a first closed position. An end closure, adapted for interconnection to a container body, is shown, wherein the end closure comprises a panel 14, with a primary opening area 28 and a secondary opening area 32. In one embodiment, an end closure area primary opening 28 comprises a first door 26 which is defined by a primary marker line 30 when the primary opening area 28 is in a first closed position. A primary opening area 28 of the present invention may comprise, for example, pieces of material capable of being at least partially detached from and retained by a remainder of the central panel. The primary opening area 28 is at least initially separated from a secondary opening area 32 and a secondary door 27 by a primary opening hinge 46. The primary opening hinge 46 facilitates the selective opening of a primary opening area 28 by a nose of a pull tab or other firm force-applying means without simultaneously opening a secondary opening area 32. The force-applying means of the present invention can include, but is not limited to, a tab 34, comprising a nose portion 35 and a rivet 42 in communication with a rivet station 40 and a tail 36. As the tail is pulled upwards, the nose 35 is driven downwards to shear the line of dial 30 and start opening.

[0056] In one embodiment, a secondary marking 58 starts at the end of a first transition zone (54, in Figure 4B) and allows a fracture propagation to the secondary marking termination feature 62, thereby creating a feature of ventilation when adequate force is applied. In various embodiments, the secondary indicia 58 of the present invention can be straight or curved at various angles. The secondary marking termination features 62 of the present invention are provided to generally define or limit the spread of a secondary marking 58. In one embodiment, a secondary marking terminating feature 62 comprises a curved profile to facilitate preventing the spread of a marking line and creating a form of desirable ventilation.

[0057] Furthermore, the present invention contemplates a secondary marking hinge 74. The secondary marking hinge 74 of the present invention is generally defined as a portion of the panel 14 which resides between an end of a secondary marking line and a point on panel 14, near rivet 42. In one embodiment, the hinges of the present invention are disposed in a location relative to tab 34, such that the hinge serves as a pivot point for a piece of material, such as a secondary port 27.

[0058] In one embodiment, the first 46 and second 74 joints are arranged in a central panel, in a region defined between approximately 0 and 240 degrees (that is, with zero degrees corresponding to a centerline of a flap , as shown in Figure 1). A person skilled in the art will recognize that a secondary aperture portion 32 may be disposed in a variety of locations, whether or not adjacent to the primary aperture area 28, provided adequate space is provided for a primary aperture area 28.

[0059] In general, a tab 34 is provided on the end closure 10, which is rotatably secured to the end closure 10 by "pivoting means". The pivotal means can include, but is not limited to, a rivet 42, secured to the center panel 14 and which engages a portion of the flap 34, such as a rivet station 40. In one embodiment, the pivotal means allows the flap 34 rotates on center panel 10. In various embodiments, a flap 34 is oriented generally perpendicular to a longitudinal length of the container, with the longitudinal length of the container defining a center of rotation for flap 34. As a person will recognize one skilled in the art, when a flap portion 34 of the present invention is lifted and leveraged at a point generally defined by the location of a rivet 42, a downward opening force is applied to a door 26 of a first opening portion 28 of the present invention. invention. The downward force will shear a door 26 away from the panel 14, at the primary marking 30, propagating around the marking 30 until an opening is formed, thereby allowing the contents of the container to be discharged.

[0060] The present invention also considers a secondary opening area 32, generally defined by a secondary marking line 58, a primary marking opening hinge 46 and a transition zone 54. In one embodiment, the opening hinge The primary marking feature 46 of the present invention is created by the initial fracture, near the rivet 42, which propagates around the primary marking 30 to the primary marking terminating feature 50. When the fracture reaches the primary marking terminating feature 50, tab 34 will be disposed approximately perpendicular to panel 14, thereby resulting in a force applied by tab 34 to door 26 in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of a container. As one skilled in the art will recognize, the flap 34, in this position, will generally bend the port 26, rather than further tearing, shearing, fracturing, etc. gate 26. Furthermore, as will be described in more detail, a primary marking termination feature 50 is provided which dictates the general area in which primary marking fracture propagation will terminate.

[0061] In one embodiment, a transition zone 54 is provided in the center panel 14. The transition zones 54 of the present invention generally comprise an area that inhibits fracture propagation from a primary marking 30 to the secondary marking 58, and thereby helps to prevent the inadvertent opening of a secondary opening area 32. For example, a transition zone 54 of the present invention can terminate the propagation of a primary marking fracture 30, due to a residual depth of marking, marking path interference (eg, a check groove), a predetermined gap distance between the primary 30 and secondary markings 58, and/or various combinations thereof, including, but not limited to, increased material thickness. In one embodiment, a secondary opening area 32 of the present invention is preferably positioned so that the opening area 32 generally spans a mid-lateral line of center panel 14 (i.e., a line extending laterally through a rivet 42 , arranged in the center of a central panel 14, as shown in Figure 1). A person skilled in the art will appreciate, however, that the location of the secondary opening area 32 can be changed and/or repositioned in various locations.

[0062] As a person skilled in the art will understand, a secondary opening area 32 can be positioned on either side of a flap 34 of the present invention. In one embodiment, the present invention 10 provides for several optional opening areas 32, in addition to a primary opening area 28. For example, in one embodiment, auxiliary opening areas 32 are provided on either side of a flap 34 of the present invention. , as will be described in more detail.

[0063] In alternative embodiments, a first opening area and a secondary opening area are opened or cut by use of an external or additional tool, such as known can openers and "bottle openers". Thus, in various embodiments, permanent features such as rivets and tabs need not be provided in center panels in accordance with the present invention. Instead, areas of a central panel can be opened using additional tools.

[0064] Referring now to Figure 2, a top plan view of a metallic end closure, according to one embodiment, is shown, in which a flap has been rotated to a second position. As discussed above, a pull tab 34 can be interconnected to a panel by a rivet 42, in a manner that allows rotation of the pull tab. In one embodiment, a tab 34 of the present invention comprises an apparatus, which limits the degree of rotation of the pull tab to a predetermined position. Rotation limiting means include, but are not limited to, stationary protrusions and/or depressions disposed in a panel 14, adapted to contact additional parts of a center panel, such as a tab 34 or a rivet station, as well as various others. similar characteristics, as those skilled in the art will recognize. For example, in certain embodiments, a rotation guide 38 is provided which is adapted to help guide, define and/or limit the path and/or degree of rotation of a tab 34. In other embodiments, a positioning limiter tab 66 is provided on a center panel so as to limit the degree of rotation obtained by a tab 34. The tab positioning restrictors 66 of the present invention may be comprised of protrusions stamped from a center panel 14 to form a stamping. , or may comprise additional features, elements, or material incorporated into a center panel 14. In other embodiments, rotation may be defined and/or limited by features that have been added or attached to a panel 14, in addition to, or in lieu of, bulges, notches or profiles formed from a panel 14.

[0065] It is therefore an aspect of the present invention to provide a rotary positioning limiter 66, which inhibits rotation of a flap 34 beyond a predetermined point, corresponding to a preferred position of a flap 34, for opening a secondary opening area 32. For example, in one embodiment, at least a peripheral wall portion of a rotation guide 38 contacts a rotary positioning limiter when the tab 34 is rotated to a position in which subsequent lifting of the tab 34 will open a secondary opening area 32 with the slightest amount of force and/or damage center panel 14. In some embodiments, rotation guide 38 may be horseshoe shaped, with the left leg of the horseshoe longer than the left leg. right leg or right leg longer than left leg. In various embodiments, the legs of the horseshoe shape are the same length.

[0066] In another embodiment, a flap rotation guide 70 or a stamped profile can be provided on a panel 14, to guide and/or limit the rotation of a flap 34, in addition to or in place of an arrangement of a flap limiter. positioning of tab 66 and a rotation guide 38. For example, a stamped profile 70 can be provided to physically prevent rotation of a tab 34 beyond a certain point by contact with a perimeter edge portion of the guide. rotation 70, and/or providing visual information to a user regarding a maximum preferred rotation limit of a flap 34.

[0067] Referring then to Figures 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D, top plan views illustrating an opening sequence of an embodiment of the present invention 10 are provided. Figure 3A is a top plan view of a metallic end closure, according to an embodiment, in which a flap and a first opening portion are in a first closed position. A panel 14 is illustrated, the panel 14 having a first opening area 28 with a door 26 in a first closed position, a secondary opening area 32 with a secondary door 27 in a first closed position, and a flap 34 attached on a rivet 42 in a starting position.

[0068] Figure 3B is a top plan view of a metallic end closure, according to another embodiment of the invention, in which a door of the first opening part has been opened. A center panel 14 is shown where a flap 34 has been raised or angled so that a door has been sheared away from a portion of the panel 14 around a primary score line 30. Thus, a first opening area 28 has been opened to allow the contents to be poured or extracted from the container. As shown in Figure 3B, a secondary port 27 remains intact subsequent to opening a primary port. As discussed above, the secondary door 27 and secondary opening area 32 are left closed when a flap 34 is activated to open a primary opening area 28 and a primary door, due in part to a transition zone 54 , a primary dial aperture termination feature 50, and a primary dial aperture hinge 46. Accordingly, a center panel of the present invention provides a user with the option to selectively open only a first aperture portion 28 where, for example, a ventilated feature is not desired.

[0069] With reference then to Figure 3C, a top plan view of a metal end closure, according to an embodiment, is provided, in which a door of the first opening part has been opened and a flap rotated to a second position. A metallic end closure is provided in which a first opening area 28 has been opened and a flap 34 rotated to a second position, for subsequent opening of a secondary door 27 and a secondary opening area 32. As discussed above, a tab 34 of the present invention can be affixed to a panel 14 by a rivet 42. In this way, the tab 34 is capable of being rotated to a position in which a second lifting or tilting action applies a downward force on a door. secondary 27. As further shown in Figure 3C, the rotation restricting means includes, but is not limited to, a stamped profile 70, adapted for edging, outlining, receiving, etc. the geometry of one end of a flap 34 of the present invention. The rotation restrictor means may also include, for example, a positioning limiter 66 disposed in the panel 14, which projects at a predetermined height of a panel 14 and is adapted to receive and/or limit the rotation of a tab 34 by communication. with a rotation guide 38 forming within the tab 34. In one embodiment, the rotation restrictor means of the present invention 10 visually identifies a preferred position in which a tab 34 should be rotated before tilting or activating a tab 34, and/or limit rotation to a desired predetermined range, to fracture a secondary score line 62 and open a secondary opening area 32.

[0070] With reference then to Figure 3D, a top plan view of a metallic end closure, according to an embodiment, is provided, in which a door of the first opening part has been opened, a flap rotated to a second position, and a second open opening part. As shown, a rotary tab 34 of the present invention has been rotated to a second position, in which the tab 34 has been raised or tilted, to apply a downward force on a second port, thereby shearing the port from a secondary scoreline and deflecting the door about a secondary marking opening hinge 74. Once the flap 34 is rotated to a suitable point and/or degree to open the optional vented area 32, the flap 34 can be returned to a substantial position. -mainly parallel to the panel 14. The content housed inside the container 10 can then be emptied and/or consumed by the first opening part 28, wherein the second opening part 32 facilitates the outflow of contents from the container 10 by increasing the airflow into the container 10 and reducing the vacuum pressure within the container, and facilitating the flow of liquid from the container 10. Furthermore, as discussed above and as shown in Figure 3B, it is not necessary for a user to open the secondary aperture portion 32 of the present invention, when a more conventional end closure aperture is desired. A person skilled in the art will recognize that various sized ventilation openings 32 can be provided in the present invention. In one embodiment, the surface area of the optional vent 32 can comprise an area between approximately 2 and 40 percent of an area of the original marking aperture.

[0071] In an alternative embodiment, the features of the present invention 10 can be incorporated into an end closure 14, which allows the complete opening of a ventilated opening area 32 in a single flap opening or tilting movement. Thus, in one embodiment, the present invention 10 does not comprise a transition zone 54, as shown and described in the present specification. Instead, a secondary marking opening area 32, with a single secondary marking opening hinge 74, may be provided, wherein fracture of a primary marking line 30 is not prevented from propagating to a secondary opening area 32 by a first move and/or opening force.

[0072] In one embodiment, a center panel is provided in which at least one transition zone is provided between a first and a second opening area, which does not require rotation of a flap to cut a first and a second score line. For example, a transition can be provided which requires two distinct forces to cut the first and second score lines, where the two distinct forces are not necessarily segregated or defined by rotation of a tab.

[0073] In one embodiment, a center panel is provided in which the center panel has a primary marking aperture area between 3.22 and 4.84 square centimeters (0.50 and 0.75 square inches). In another embodiment, the primary aperture area has an area between 3.71 and 4.03 square centimeters (0.575 and 0.625 square inches). In a particularly preferred embodiment, the primary aperture area has an area of approximately 3.94 square centimeters (0.6111 square inches).

[0074] In one embodiment, a secondary opening area is provided having an area between 0.13 and 1.29 square centimeters (0.02 and 0.20 square inches). In another embodiment, a secondary aperture area is provided having an area between 0.52 and 0.64 square centimeters (0.08 and 0.10 square inches). In a particularly preferred embodiment, a primary aperture area is provided having an area of approximately 0.59 square centimeters (0.0916 square inches).

[0075] In one embodiment, the opening or openable area, i.e., the combined area of all openings provided in a central panel, is between 1.61 and 9.68 square centimeters (0.25 and 1 .5 inch square). In another embodiment, the total aperture area of a center panel is between 3.87 and 5.16 square centimeters (0.60 and 0.80 square inches). In a particularly preferred embodiment, the total opening area of an end closure is approximately 4.53 square centimeters (0.7027 square inches). Thus, in one embodiment, a secondary aperture area comprises approximately 13.03% of the total aperture area provided in a center panel. However, as those skilled in the art will appreciate, the primary and/or secondary aperture areas may vary in size. Thus, in various embodiments, a secondary aperture area comprises between 5.0% and 25.0% of the total aperture area.

[0076] In various embodiments, the end closures provide a focal point for air to enter a container body, thereby improving pourability and flow rates of a container. In various embodiments, the secondary vents shown and described in the present specification increase the flow of contents from within a container and provide up to a 30% greater flow of container contents when compared to conventional end closures having only a single opening area. In a particular embodiment, the time required to pour 354.88 milliliters (12 US fluid ounces) of contents from an end closure of the present invention was approximately 4.35 seconds, compared to approximately 5.5 to 6.0 seconds needed to pour the same or similar amounts of fluid from conventional end closures.

[0077] As those skilled in the art will recognize, area as used in the present specification refers to the surface area of various aperture portions, defined by their respective score lines, as shown and described in the present specification.

[0078] With reference then to Figures 4A and 4B, top plan views of one embodiment of the present invention 10 are shown with a detailed view of a transition zone 54 provided. As shown in the detailed view, a primary dial line 30 comprises a primary dial termination feature 50 on a terminal. The primary marking termination features 50 of the present invention dictate at least a general area in which fracture propagation of a primary marking 30 will terminate. In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 4, the primary marking termination feature comprises a bend in the primary marking line 30 that represents a departure from the generic path of the marking line 30. In one embodiment, the terminating feature 30 of the The present invention is disposed within a transition zone 54, which further comprises a gap or void 55, which further includes the propagation of a fracture from a first score line 30 into a second score line 58. In one embodiment, a void 55 of the present invention comprises a width between approximately 0.0025 and 0.0889 centimeters (0.001 and 0.035 inches). In a preferred embodiment, a void 55 of the present invention comprises a width between approximately 0.0127 and 0.0635 centimeters (0.005 and 0.025 inches). In a particularly preferred embodiment, a void 55 of the present invention comprises a width between approximately 0.0305 and 0.0381 centimeters (0.012 and 0.015 inches).

[0079] With reference then to Figure 5, a top plan view of a metal end closure, comprising an asymmetric flap 34, is shown. The flap 34 is provided having an asymmetrical geometry, which is adapted to open a first marking feature 30 and a secondary one 62, with a single or double opening operation (e.g. lifting of the flap 34). More specifically, the flap 34 includes an asymmetrical protuberance or extrusion extending through a secondary opening portion 32 that is adapted to contact a secondary port 27 of a secondary opening area 32.

[0080] In one embodiment, the central panel 10 comprises a secondary opening portion 32 with a reinforcement fillet 78. A person skilled in the art will recognize that the reinforcement fillet 78, disposed in the secondary opening area 32, can be understood any of a variety of shapes (for example, square, round, oval, polygonal, etc.). Embossed and/or stamped reinforcing strips may be disposed on secondary door 27 of the present invention to reinforce scoreboard 27 and facilitate proper disruption of secondary score line 58 during opening. Those skilled in the art will recognize that marking panel design requires a careful balance of dimensions and design parameters to ensure that opening areas and other parts of a center panel will remain closed at appropriate times (e.g. , during packing and shipping operations), still capable of opening under a reasonable amount of force applied per user. Accordingly, a secondary aperture area 32 of the present invention is considered to comprise one or more embossed and/or stamped fillets.

[0081] In one embodiment, an area of reinforcement fillet comprises a width of approximately between 0.25 and 1.27 centimeters (0.10 and 0.50 inches). In a preferred embodiment, an area of reinforcing fillet comprises a width of approximately between 0.51 and 1.02 centimeters (0.20 and 0.40 inches). In a particularly preferred embodiment, an area of reinforcement fillet comprises a width of approximately between 0.571 and 0.098 centimeters (0.225 and 0.275 inches). In one embodiment, an area of reinforcing fillet comprises a width of approximately between 0.51 and 1.52 centimeters (0.20 and 0.60 inches). In one embodiment, an area of reinforcing fillet comprises a width of approximately between 0.76 and 1.27 centimeters (0.30 and 0.50 inches). In a particularly preferred embodiment, an area of reinforcement fillet comprises a length of approximately between 0.952 and 1.079 centimeters (0.375 and 0.425 inches).

[0082] Figure 6 is a top view of a metal end closure, according to one embodiment, in which optional vent features 32, 33 are provided. As shown, a first vent area 28 is provided. disposed in a central panel, with secondary 32 and third 33 opening areas disposed adjacent thereto. In embodiments, a third aperture area comprises the same features and functions as the secondary aperture area 32 as described in the present specification. Thus, in certain embodiments, a first opening area 28 can be opened by applying a downward force through a nose portion 35 of a flap 34. The flap 34 can then be repositioned in a manner that allows for rotation of the flap. flap 34. Flap 34 can then be rotated so that a nose portion of flap 34 is disposed at least partially over a secondary opening area 32 and flap 34 is tilted or raised to apply downward pressure to the opening area second area 32 and separating a secondary port 27. Subsequently, the flap 34 can again be tilted or restored to a position which allows rotation of the flap and the flap 34 rotated so that it is at least partially disposed over the third area opening port 33. The flap 34 can then be tilted or lifted, so that a nose portion of the flap 34 applies downward pressure on the third opening portion 33 and separates a third or a tertiary port from the panel. Flap 34 can then remain in a final position or be repositioned, based on user preference, and the contents of the container gently emptied, facilitated by the various optional vents.

[0083] In certain embodiments, the secondary and third doors can be opened without the need to rotate a flap 34. For example, in one embodiment, both a secondary door 27 and a third door 80 can be cut from a panel 14, by along their respective boundary lines, due to the application of a force exerted by tilting or lifting a flap 34, which is distinct from the tilting or lifting of the flap 34, used in opening or cutting a first door 26. invention allow the flap 34 to be lifted under a distinct force or movement capable of severing a primary port 26. Subsequent to the application of that force, an additional distinct force can be applied in series so as to open the secondary and third ports.

[0084] With reference then to Figures 7 and 8, top perspective views of a metallic end closure 10, according to one embodiment, are provided. As shown, rotation restricting means may be provided to prevent rotation of a tab 34 beyond a certain position. The rotation restricting means of the present invention include, but are not limited to, protrusions and notches on the panel 14 capable of communicating with portions of a flap 34. For example, as shown in Figure 7, a protrusion can act as a rotation limiter 82, adapted to interact or communicate with a portion of a rivet station 84. In certain embodiments, a peripheral portion of a segment of the rivet station 84 contacts a peripheral portion of the rotation guide 82, in a first position . The contact between the guide 82 and the rivet station part 84, in a first position, corresponds to the tab 34, which is disposed in a position adapted for opening a primary opening area 28. The contact of a rotation guide 82 and a rivet station 84 facilitates prevention of rotation beyond a certain point without constricting or limiting an ability of the flap 34 to tilt and apply downward pressure in one or more opening areas.

[0085] As shown in Figure 8, a tab 34 has been rotated to a maximum permissible extent, defined by a second point of contact between a rivet station part 84 and a rotation guide 82. As will be recognized, the maximum degree of rotation allowed by the rivet station part 84 and the rotation guide 82 corresponds to a position of rotation of the flap 34, which is adapted for easy opening of one or more optional ventilation openings, as described in the present specification.

[0086] With reference then to Figure 9, a top plan view of a metal end closure 10 is provided. Such an end closure 10 generally comprises a flap 34 with a tail 36 and a nose 35, the flap 34 being interconnected to a panel 14 of the end closure 10 with a rivet 42. The panel 14 further comprises a stamping, or a recessed area of the center panel 14, in which various components are located, including the rivet 42 and the flap 34. A primary opening area 28, a secondary ventilation opening area 32 and a transition zone 54 are also disposed within from the stamping area of the central panel 14.

[0087] However, as shown in Figure 9, the stamping area is larger around the secondary vent area 32. This larger stamping area increases the surface area of both the primary vent area 28 and the area of secondary vent opening 32 for improved flow rates as the contents in the pressure are discharged. In some embodiments, the combined area of the primary vent area 28 and the secondary vent area 32 can be approximately between 3.87 and 4.84 square centimeters (0.600 and 0.750 square inches). In a preferred embodiment, the combined area of the primary vent area 28 and the secondary vent area 32 is approximately 4.44 square centimeters (0.689 square inches).

[0088] A flap rotation guide 70 can optionally be provided on the central panel 14, to guide and/or limit the rotation of a flap 34. The flap rotation guide 70 is an embossing area, which in this embodiment , is at a different depth than the panel 14 and the panel area 14 in which the rivet 42 and opening areas 28, 32 are arranged. The tab rotation guide 70, as shown in Figure 9, extends into the top portion of a finger recess adjacent the tail 36 of the tab 34, which provides a larger tab rotation guide 70.

[0089] With reference then to Figure 10, a top plan view of an alternative embodiment of a metal end closure 10 is provided, wherein a primary marking 30 and a secondary vent marking 58 are oriented substantially along the same line or bending radius. In other words, the secondary vent marking 58 is an extension of the primary marking 30. Like other embodiments described in the present specification, the end closure 10 of Figure 10 comprises a primary marking 30, which at least partially defines an area primary opening 28, and the primary marking 30 is fractured to open the primary ventilation area 28. Similarly, the end closure 10 comprises a secondary marking 58, which at least partially defines the secondary ventilation opening area 32, and the secondary marking 58 is fractured to open the secondary ventilation opening area 32. The sequence of opening these areas 28, 32 generally comprises the steps of: (a) lifting the rear end of the flap to generate a first downward force to shear the primary marking 30; (b) lower the rear end of the flap, at least partially, to its original position; (c) rotating the flap so that one nose of the flap is generally positioned over the secondary vent area; and (d) lifting the rear end of the tab to generate a second downward force to shear the secondary marking 58.

[0090] Another method comprises the steps of: (a) positioning a pull tab to a first open position; (b) lifting the rear end of a pull tab, which is interconnected to an end closure center panel with a rivet, to apply a first downward force on the first opening portion of the center panel, to shear a first score line to a transitional part and create a first opening in the central panel, in which the first marking line and the transitional part have distinct residues; (c) repositioning the pull tab to a second open position by rotating the pull tab in a plane that is substantially parallel to a plane of the center panel; and (d) lifting the rear end of the pull tab to apply a second downward force on the second vent portion to shear the transition portion positioned between the first score line and a second score line and shear the second score line, to form a second vent part in the center panel, wherein the transition portion and the second score line have distinct residues, and wherein the first vent portion and the second vent portion are interconnected integrally therebetween to form an opening larger than the first opening or the second ventilation opening. Some methods may further comprise the steps of: (a) repositioning the pull tab to a third open position by rotating the pull tab in a plane that is substantially parallel to a plane of the center panel; and (b) lifting the pull tab to apply a third downward force on a third opening part to shear a third score line and shear a transition part positioned between the first score line and the third score line, to form a third opening in the center panel.

[0091] An anti-fracture marking 86 is generally offset from the markings 30, 58 by a substantially constant distance. Anti-fracture markings 86 may optionally be included in some embodiments of the invention, to alleviate tension areas around the primary marking 30 and secondary marking 58 and prevent accidental opening of those markings 30, 58. The anti-fracture marking 86 is, in that embodiment , to be continued. However, it will be appreciated that the anti-fracture marking 86 may also comprise two sub-markings, similar in arrangement between the primary marking 30 and the secondary marking 58. Furthermore, the anti-fracture marking 86 may comprise a transition zone or a groove. transition zone verification, as described elsewhere in the present specification. In various embodiments, the primary marking residue 30, or the thickness between the public side of the container and the contents side of the container, can be approximately 0.0096 centimeters (0.0038 inches). In some embodiments, the secondary label residue 58 can be between approximately 0.0076 and 0.0127 centimeters (0.0030 and 0.0050 inches).

[0092] In the embodiment shown in Figure 10, a transition zone 54 between the primary ventilation marking 30 and the secondary ventilation marking 58 does not comprise a termination feature, and the primary marking 30 and the secondary marking 58 are positioned substantially along the same radius of curvature, meaning that the primary marking 30 and the secondary marking 58 are substantially in line with each other. In other words, the two markings 30, 58 can be oriented around the same line, which can be a curve with a constant radius of curvature, a curve described by a polynomial of order n, or any other line described elsewhere. in this descriptive report. In embodiments with and without termination features, the transition zone 54 may only be a partial break in markings and not necessarily a complete break in markings. In some embodiments, the transition zone 54 can be a marking, which joins the primary marking 30 to the secondary marking 58. Thus, the transition zone 54 can be a check groove with a depth, width and/or section shape different cross-sectional area than one or both of the primary marking 30 and the secondary marking 54. Further, the length of the transition zone 54, which, in some embodiments, is the distance between the ends of the primary and secondary markings 30, 58 can be varied to prevent or promote opening of secondary vent area 32. In some embodiments, the length of transition zone 54, or void, can be between approximately 0.0127 and 0.0760 centimeters (0. .0050 to 0.0300 inch). In various embodiments, the length of transition zone 54 can be approximately 0.0356 centimeters (0.0140 inches). In some embodiments in which transition zone 54 may be a check groove, the depth of the check groove may be between approximately 0.000 and 0.0114 centimeters (0.0000 and 0.0045 inches). In various embodiments, the verification groove can be between approximately 0.0254 and 0.0635 centimeters (0.010 and 0.025 inches).

[0093] In some embodiments, the combined area of the primary vent area 28 and the secondary vent area 32 may be between approximately 3.87 and 4.84 square centimeters (0.600 and 0.750 square inches). In various embodiments, the combined area of the primary vent area 28 and the secondary vent area 32 can be between approximately 4.464 square centimeters (0.692 square inches).

[0094] With reference then to Figure 11, a top plan view of a marking tool 88, used to create the various features of the end closure 10, described in the present specification, is provided. For the benefit of the reader, the terminology and reference characters used when describing the features of the end closure 10 are used again to describe the marking tool 88 which produces the same features. Although, for example, a "marking" may refer to a depression in the context of the end closure 10 and a bulge in the context of the marking tool 88. The dimensions and other aspects of the features described in reference to the end closure 10 , may apply to the tag tool 88 and vice versa.

[0095] The marking tool 88 of Figure 11 comprises several reference lines. A horizontal insert line 90 is a horizontal reference line at the geometric center of the tool 88. A horizontal rivet line 92 is a horizontal reference line centered on the rivet 42. The offset between the two horizontal lines 90, 92, in this embodiment, it may be approximately 0.381 centimeters (0.150 inches). A vertical insert line 94 is a vertical reference line centered on both the geometric centers of the tool 88 and the rivet 42. Also shown in Figure 11 are two areas "X" and "Y", which will be described in more detail below. .

[0096] Referring then to Figure 12A, a detailed top plan view of the "X" area of the marking tool 88 in Figure 11 is provided. Various reference lines can be used to locate various data points or reference points on the marking tool 88. From these data points, the geometric aspects of the tool features which produce the primary marking 30 and the anti-fracture marking 86, can be described. Reference lines 90, 92 and 94 are provided in Figure 12A. A horizontal score line 96 is also provided wherein the offset between the horizontal score line 96 and the horizontal rivet line 92 can be between approximately 0.0203 and 0.0508 centimeters (0.008 and 0.020 inches), and , in some embodiments, the offset between the horizontal score line 96 and the horizontal rivet line 92 is approximately 0.0305 centimeters (0.012 inches).

[0097] A first data point 98 may be provided on the vertical insert line 94, and, in some embodiments, the first data point 98 may be located on either side of the vertical insert line 94 by approximately ± 0.0254 inch (0.01 inch legacy). The first data point 98 may be offset above the horizontal boundary line 96 by between approximately 0.076 and 0.102 centimeters (0.030 and 0.040 inches), and, in some embodiments, the first data point 98 is offset above the horizontal boundary line 96 by approximately 0.0864 centimeter (0.034 inch). The marking feature, which produces the primary marking 30, has a radius of curvature from the first data point 98, as shown in Figure 12A, which can be between approximately 0.190 and 0.216 centimeters (0.750 and 0.850 inches), and, in some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the tool feature, from the first data point 98, is approximately 2.032 centimeters (0.800 inches). The tool feature, which produces the anti-fracture marking 86, has a radius of curvature from the first data point 98, as shown in Figure 12A, which can be between approximately 1.778 and 2.032 centimeters (0.700 and 0.800 inches), and, in some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the tool feature from the first data point 98 is 0.190 centimeters (0.75 inches).

[0098] A second data point 100 may be offset from the vertical insert line 94 by between approximately 0.203 and 0.510 centimeters (0.080 and 0.200 inches), and, in some embodiments, the second data point 100 is offset from the vertical insert 94 by approximately 0.305 centimeters (0.120 inches). The second data point 100 may be offset from the horizontal boundary line 96 by between approximately 0.760 and 1.067 centimeters (0.3000 and 0.4200 inches), and, in some embodiments, the second data point 100 is offset from the horizontal marking 96 by approximately (0.3685 inch). The tool feature, which produces the primary marking 30, has a radius of curvature from the second data point 100, as shown in Figure 12A, which can be between approximately 0.760 and 1.143 centimeters (0.300 and 0.450 inches), and, in some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the tool feature, from the second data point 100, is approximately 0.965 centimeters (0.380 inches). The tool feature, which produces the anti-fracture marking 86, at a radius of curvature from the second data point 100, as shown in Figure 12A, which can be between approximately 0.760 and 1.020 centimeters (0.300 and 0.400 inches), and , in some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the tool feature, from the second data point 100, is approximately 0.838 centimeters (0.330 inches).

[0099] A third data point 102 may be offset from the vertical insert line 94 by between approximately 0.305 and 0.510 centimeters (0.1200 and 0.2000 inches), and, in some embodiments, the third data point 102 is offset the vertical insert line 94 can approximately 0.415 centimeters (0.1634 inches). Third data point 102 may be offset from horizontal boundary line 96 by between approximately 0.864 and 1.067 centimeters (0.3400 and 0.4200 inches), and, in some embodiments, third data point 102 may be offset from line horizontal marker 96 by approximately 0.966 centimeter (0.3804 inch). The tool feature, which produces the anti-fracture marking 86, has a radius of curvature from the third data point 102, as shown in Figure 12A, which can be between approximately 0.635 and 0.760 centimeters (0.250 and 0.300 inches), and, in some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the tool feature from the third data point 102 is approximately 0.724 centimeters (0.285 inches).

[00100] A fourth data point 104 can be offset from the vertical insert line 94 by between approximately 0.305 and 0.510 centimeters (0.120 and 0.200 inches), and, in some embodiments, the fourth data point 104 is offset from the insert line vertical 94 by approximately 0.411 centimeter (0.162 inch). The fourth data point 104 may be offset from the horizontal boundary line 96 by between approximately 0.864 and 1.067 centimeters (0.3400 and 0.4200 inches), and, in some embodiments, the fourth data point 104 is offset from the horizontal marking 96 by approximately 0.990 centimeter (0.3897 inch). The tool feature, which produces the primary marking 30, has a radius of curvature from the fourth data point 104, as shown in Figure 12A, which can be between approximately 0.760 and 0.914 centimeters (0.300 and 0.360 inches), and, in some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the tool feature, from the fourth data point 104, is approximately 0.838 centimeters (0.333 inches).

[00101] A fifth data point 106 can be offset from the vertical insert line 94 by between approximately 0.076 and 0.254 centimeters (0.030 and 0.100 inches), and, in some embodiments, the fifth data point 106 is offset from the insert line vertical 94 by approximately 0.168 centimeters (0.066 inches). The fifth data point 106 may be offset from the horizontal boundary line 96 by between approximately 0.559 and 0.760 centimeters (0.2200 and 0.3000 inches), and, in some embodiments, the fifth data point is offset from the boundary line. horizontal 96 by approximately 0.683 centimeters (0.2689 inches). The tool feature, which produces the primary marking 30, has a radius of curvature, starting from the fifth data point 106, as shown in Figure 12A, which can be between approximately 1.020 and 1.520 centimeters (0.400 and 0.600 inches), and , in some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the tool feature, from the fifth data point 106, is approximately 1.245 centimeters (0.490 inches). The tool feature, which produces the anti-fracture marking 86, has a radius of curvature, starting from the fifth data point 106, as shown in Figure 12A, which can be between approximately 1.020 and 1.270 centimeters (0.400 and 0.500 inches), and , in some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the tool feature, from the fifth data point 106, is approximately 1.118 centimeters (0.440 inches).

[00102] A sixth data point 108 may be offset from the vertical insert line 94 by between approximately 0.0510 and 0.0914 centimeters (0.0200 and 0.0360 inches), and, in some embodiments, the sixth data point data 108 is offset from vertical insert line 94 by approximately 0.073 centimeters (0.0287 inches). Sixth data point 108 may be offset from horizontal boundary line 96 by between approximately 0.381 and 0.686 centimeters (0.150 and 0.270 inches), and, in some embodiments, sixth data point 108 is offset from horizontal boundary line 96 by approximately 0.541 centimeters (0.213 inches). The tool feature, which produces the secondary marking 58, has a radius of curvature, starting from the sixth data point 108, as shown in Figure 12A, which can be between approximately 1.270 and 1.778 centimeters (0.500 and 0.700 inches). , and, in some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the tool feature, from the sixth data point 108, is approximately 1.520 centimeters (0.600 inches). The tool feature, which produces the anti-fracture marking 86, has a radius of curvature, starting from the sixth data point 108, as shown in Figure 12A, which can be between approximately 1.270 and 1.520 centimeters (0.500 and 0.600 inches) , and, in some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the tool feature, from the sixth data point 108, is approximately 1.397 centimeters (0.550 inches).

[00103] A transition check groove 110 is a type of transition zone provided in the primary marking 30. The feature of the tool, which produces the transition check groove 110, is shown in Figure 12A. The transition check groove 110 is located at the primary marking 30, at a transition check groove angle 112 measured from the horizontal score line 96. In some embodiments, the transition check groove angle 112 may be approximately 40°. degrees. In various embodiments, the transition check slot angle 112 can be between approximately 90 degrees and -40 degrees. In most other embodiments, the transition check groove angle 112 can be between approximately 60 degrees and 20 degrees.

[00104] As described elsewhere in the present specification, the transition check groove 110 can slow the propagation of a fracture along the primary marking 30. This inhibiting effect, provided by the transition check groove 110 can simply slowing the rate of fracture propagation along the primary marking 30. In some embodiments, the transition check groove 110 stops or completely inhibits fracture propagation along the primary marking 30. In some embodiments, the user operates the fracture closure end in an open - rotate - open mode. This means that in one action the user fractures the primary marking 30 to the transition check groove 110, at which point the transition check groove 110 completely stops fracture propagation. Then, the user returns the back of the pull tab toward its original position, and the user rotates the pull tab past transition check slot 110 and over secondary marking 58. The user can then lift the back of the pull tab again, to fracture the secondary marking 58, or the portion of the primary marking 30 beyond the transitional check groove 110, which has not yet been fractured.

[00105] It will be considered that more than one verification groove 110 can be located in a transition zone, between the primary marking 30 and the secondary marking 58, or even in the primary marking 30 and secondary marking 58 themselves. For example, a first check groove 110 may be located in the primary marking 30, prior to the transition zone, to help slow the propagation of a fracture along the primary marking 30. Then, another check groove 110, located between the primary marking 30 and the secondary marking 58, can completely stop fracture propagation along the primary marking 30, before the secondary marking 58. This interruption can provide time for a user to optionally reposition a pull tab through the secondary opening and, optionally, fracture secondary marking 58.

[00106] The anti-fracture marking 86 may have a termination, which is governed by an anti-fracture marking angle 114, which originates from the sixth data point 108 and which is oriented relative to the horizontal marking line 96. In some embodiments, the angle of anti-fracture marking 114 can be between approximately 20 degrees and 60 degrees. In various embodiments, the anti-fracture marking angle 114 can be approximately 36.5 degrees.

[00107] A ninth data point 116 can be offset from the vertical insert line 94 by between approximately 0.889 and 1.219 centimeters (0.3500 and 0.4800 inches), and, in some embodiments, the ninth data point 116 is offset from vertical insert line 94 by approximately 1.052 centimeters (0.4143 inches). The ninth data point 116 may be offset from the horizontal boundary line 96 by between approximately 0.254 and 0.508 centimeters (0.1000 and 0.2000 inches), and, in some embodiments, the ninth data point 116 is offset from the horizontal insert 96 by approximately 0.370 centimeter (0.1457 inch). The feature, which produces a secondary marking termination feature 62, has a radius of curvature, starting from the ninth data point 120, as shown in Figure 12A, which can be between approximately 0.0508 and 0.0254 centimeters (0.020 and 0.010 inches), and, in some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the tool feature, from the ninth data point, is approximately 0.0760 centimeters (0.030 inches). The termination of the secondary marking termination feature 62 may be governed by a termination feature angle 118, oriented relative to a plane or vertical line, which is parallel to the vertical insert line 94. In some embodiments, the angle of the termination feature termination 118 can be between approximately 40 degrees and 70 degrees. In various embodiments, the angle of termination feature 118 is approximately 54 degrees.

[00108] Also shown in Figure 12A are four cross-section lines, B-B, C-C, D-D and E-E, taken at various points of the marking tool 88. The cross-section line B-B refers to the transition verification groove 110 and is described in more detail in Figure 12B. Cross-sectional line C-C refers to primary marking 30 and anti-fracture marking 86, and is described in more detail in Figure 12C. Cross-sectional line D-D refers to secondary marking 58 and anti-fracture marking 86, and is described in more detail in Figure 12D. Cross-sectional line E-E refers to a check groove, positioned near the end closure rivet, and is described in more detail in Figure 12E.

[00109] With reference then to Figure 12B, a cross-sectional view of the tool feature, which produces the transition check groove 110 in Figure 12A, is provided. A transitional checkslot width 120 represents the extent of the transitional checkslot 110 along the primary marking. In some embodiments, the width of transition check slot 120 can be between approximately 0.0254 and 0.0760 centimeters (0.01 and 0.03 inches). In various embodiments, the width of the verification groove is approximately 0.0635 centimeters (0.025 inches). The depth of the transition check groove 122 represents an additional residue of the transition check groove 110 with respect to the primary marking. The residual is the amount of material between the public side of the end closure and the content side of the end closure. The transition check groove 110 typically has a larger residue to delay or prevent the propagation of a fracture along a marking, such as the primary marking. In some embodiments, the depth of transition check groove 122 can be between approximately 0.00254 and 0.02540 centimeters (0.0010 and 0.0100 inches). In various embodiments, the depth of transition check groove 122 is approximately 0.0112 centimeters (0.0044 inches).

[00110] As discussed elsewhere in the present specification, the transition check groove 110 may have various cross-sectional profiles. For example, the profile of transition check groove 110 can be curved and continuous with the primary marking, rather than the distinct variation in residual depth, as shown in Figure 12B. The profile of the transition check groove 110 may be substantially defined by a radius of curvature, an nth-order polynomial, and the like. The transitional check groove 110 can also have various cross-sectional profiles when viewed along the length of the primary marking and the check groove.

[00111] With reference then to Figure 12C, a cross-sectional view of the tool features, which produce the markings 30, 86, taken along the line C-C in Figure 12A, is provided. The resulting primary marking 30, created by the marking tool 88 in Figure 12C, is deeper than the anti-fracture marking 86. Therefore, the primary marking part 30 of the marking tool 88 is greater than the part of the marking anti-fracture marking 86. The marking pitch 124 between the primary marking 30 and the anti-fracture marking 86 may be approximately 0.127 centimeters (0.050 inches). The width of the primary marking 126 can be between approximately 0.00254 and 0.00381 centimeters (0.0010 and 0.0015 inches), and the width of the anti-fracture marking 128 can be between approximately 0.00381 and 0.00508 centimeters (0. .0015 and 0.0020 inches).

[00112] The depth of the primary marking 130 and, consequently, the height of the tool feature, which creates the primary marking, can be between approximately 0.0254 and 0.0279 centimeters (0.0100 and 0.0110 inches). The offset of the marking 132 represents the difference in marking depth between the primary marking 30 and the anti-fracture marking 86, since the anti-fracture marking 86 is typically shallower than the primary marking 30. The offset of the marking 132 can be between approximately 0.0508 and 0.0559 centimeter (0.0020 and 0.0022 inch). The radius of the marking 134 is the radiused edge between the tool feature, which produces the anti-fracture marking 86, and the surface of the tool, which, in this embodiment, has a radius of curvature of approximately 0.0127 centimeters (0.005 inches). The angle that a tool feature wall producing the primary marking 30 makes with the rest of the tool is the lateral angle of the marking 136, which in this embodiment can be approximately 25°. The angle that two tool feature walls, which produce the primary marking 30, form with the tool is the integral marking angle 138, and, since the tool feature walls are bilaterally asymmetrical in that embodiment, the integral marking angle 138 can be approximately 50°.

[00113] With reference then to Figure 12D, a cross-sectional view of the tool features, which produce the markings 58, 86, taken along line D-D of Figure 12A, is provided. The tool feature, which produces the anti-fracture marking 86, is shown ending and descending back into the tool (or end closure surface on the resulting end closure). Additionally, the tool feature producing the secondary marking 58 is shown passing to the secondary marking termination feature 62 before descending back to the tool (or the end closure surface in the resulting end closure). In the embodiment in Figure 12D, the tool feature, which produces the secondary marking 58, terminates at a feature radius 140, which has a radius of curvature between approximately 0.0254 and 0.0381 centimeters (0.010 and 0.015 inches).

[00114] With reference then to Figure 12E, a cross-sectional view of the tool feature, which produces an optional verification groove part of the primary marking, taken along the line E - E of Figure 12A, is provided. The cross section line is offset from the vertical insert line by a check groove angle 142, which, in this embodiment, can be approximately 10°. Using this check groove angle 142, the center of the tool feature which produces the rivet check groove 42 by an intermediate check groove point is offset from the rivet by an intermediate check groove point 144, which may be approximately 0.5283 centimeters (0.208 inches) in that embodiment. The length of check groove 146, which is the length of the tool feature in Figure 12E, may be approximately 0.4064 centimeters (0.160 inches). The check groove is generally of a shallower depth than the primary marking to inhibit fracture propagation along the primary marking. The relative depth of verification groove 148 is the difference in depth between the primary marking and the verification groove. In that embodiment, the relative depth of check groove 148 can be between approximately 0.0041 and 0.0046 centimeters (0.0016 and 0.0018 inches).

[00115] Referring then to Figure 13A, a detailed top plan view of the "Y" area of the marking tool 88 in Figure 11 is provided. Horizontal rivet line 92, vertical insert line 94 and horizontal score line 96 are provided as references for various data points on the tool. A tenth data point 150 is located at the intersection of the vertical insert line 94 and the horizontal marker line 96. The tool feature, which produces the primary marker 30, has a radius of curvature, starting from the tenth point of data 150, which can be approximately 0.2261 centimeter (0.089 inch). In some embodiments, this radius of curvature can be between approximately 0.0508 and 0.381 centimeters (0.020 and 0.150 inches). The tool feature that produces the anti-fracture marking 86 has a radius of curvature, starting from the tenth data point 150, which may be approximately 0.3277 centimeters (0.129 inches). In some embodiments, this radius of curvature may be 0.2032 and 0.4572 centimeters (0.080 and 0.180 inches).

[00116] An eleventh data point 152 can be offset from the vertical insert line 94 by approximately 0.2306 centimeters (0.0908 inches), and can be offset from the horizontal marker line 96 by approximately 0.3000 centimeters (0. .1181 inch). The tool feature that produces the anti-fracture marking 86 has a radius of curvature, starting from the eleventh data point 152, which may be approximately 0.0508 centimeters (0.020 inches). In some embodiments, this radius of curvature can be between approximately 0.0254 and 0.1270 centimeters (0.010 and 0.050 inches).

[00117] A twelfth data point 154 can be offset from the vertical insert line 94 by approximately 0.3830 centimeters (0.1508 inches), and can be offset from the horizontal marker line 96 by approximately 0.3675 centimeters (0. .1447 inch). The tool feature, which produces the primary marking 30, at a radius of curvature from the twelfth data point 154, which may be approximately 0.305 centimeters (0.120 inches). In some embodiments, this radius of curvature can be between approximately 0.127 and 0.510 centimeters (0.050 and 0.200 inches).

[00118] A thirteenth data point 156 can be offset from the vertical insert line 94 by approximately 0.4036 centimeters (0.1589 inches), and can be offset from the horizontal marker line 96 by approximately 0.2088 centimeters (0. .0822 inch). The tool feature, which produces the primary marking 30, has a radius of curvature, starting from the thirteenth data point 156, which may be approximately 0.1448 centimeters (0.057 inches). In some embodiments, this radius of curvature can be between approximately 0.0508 and 0.2540 centimeters (0.020 and 0.100 inches).

[00119] Two lines of cross sections B-B and C-C are oriented around the thirteenth data point 156, and these lines of cross sections show the transition between the primary marking and the anti-fracture marking. Cross-section line B-B corresponds to the tool feature that produces the primary marking, and cross-section line C-C corresponds to the tool feature that produces the anti-fracture mark. The first angle 158 is the angle between the two lines of cross sections, and, in this embodiment, the first angle may be approximately 107.21°. A second angle 160 orients the first angle relative to the horizontal boundary line 96, and, in that embodiment, the second angle may be approximately 45°.

[00120] With reference then to Figure 13B, a cross-sectional view of the feature of the tool that produces the primary marking, taken along the line B-B, is provided. As described above, the depth of primary marking 128, and hence the height of the tool feature, which creates the primary marking, can be between approximately 0.0254 and 0.0279 centimeters (0.0100 and 0.0110).

[00121] With reference then to Figure 13C, a cross-sectional view of the feature of the tool that produces the anti-fracture marking, taken along the C-C line, is provided. The depth of the anti-fracture marking 162 can be between approximately 0.0224 and 0.0254 centimeters (0.0088 and 0.0100 inches). The transition between the anti-fracture marking of Figure 13C and the primary marking of Figure 13B can take many forms. The transition can simply be a linear transition between the two marking depths. However, it will be considered that the transition can be curved, curved around a radius, a polynomial of order n, a distinct jump between the two marking depths without a transition, etc.

[00122] With reference then to Figure 14A, a top plan view of a tool, with the physical characteristics to form a primary marking, a secondary marking and a notch 164, is provided. The notch 164 allows the tool to be oriented when being used during production. The horizontal insert row 90 and the horizontal rivet row 92 are provided on the top surface of the tool. The notch 164 is positioned on the vertical insert row, and is offset from the horizontal insert row 90 by approximately 2.2225 centimeters (0.875 inches). The radius of the notch 164 can be between approximately 0.4788 and 0.4801 centimeters (0.1885 and 0.1890 inches). Also provided in Figure 14A is a cross-sectional line C-C which is positioned on the vertical insert line. This C-C cross-sectional line is described in more detail below with respect to Figure 14C.

[00123] An indexing feature is also shown in Figure 14A, which is, in this embodiment, a flattened edge of the tool. The width of the index feature 166 can be approximately 1.9050 centimeters (0.75 inches), and the offset of the index feature 168 can be approximately 1.8288 centimeters (0.72 inches).

[00124] With reference then to Figure 14B, a profile view of the marking tool, in Figure 14A, is provided. The bottom part of the tool on a flared, flanged base. In the embodiment in Figure 14B, the width of the tool flange 170 can be between approximately 4.1224 and 4.1275 centimeters (1.623 and 1.625 inches).

[00125] With reference then to Figure 14C, a cross-sectional view of the marking tool, taken along line C-C of Figure 14A, is provided. The tool flange described above, with reference to Figure 14B, has a tool flange height 172 which may be approximately 0.6350 centimeters (0.25 inches). Moving to the left in Figure 14C, the next part of the tool is the shoulder. The width of the tool shoulder 174 is approximately 3.5052 centimeters (1.380 inches), and the height of the tool shoulder 176 may be approximately 0.2030 centimeters (0.08 inches) above the tool flange. The next part of the tool is the span. The width of tool gap 178 can be approximately 3.4036 centimeters (1.34 inches), and the height of tool gap 180 can be approximately 0.9398 centimeters (0.37 inches), and a tool gap radius 182 can have a radius of curvature of approximately 0.0508 centimeter (0.02 inch).

[00126] In the following, the full height of tool 184, excluding the markings, can be approximately 2.2690 centimeters (0.8933 inches). The full width of the 186 tool is approximately between 3.4900 and 3.4925 centimeters (1.374 and 1.375 inches). The total height of the 188 tool, including the primary marking, is approximately 2.2969 centimeters (0.9043 inches). Also included in Figure 14C is a detailed "Z" area, which corresponds to the rivet portion of the tool.

[00127] With reference then to Figure 14D, a detailed cross-sectional view of the "Z" area, of the marking tool in Figure 14C, is provided. A diameter of the rivet 190 is provided, which, in this embodiment, can be between approximately 0.3480 and 0.3531 centimeters (0.137 and 0.139 inches). The offset of rivet 192 is the distance between the center of the rivet and the primary marking, and, in this embodiment, the offset of rivet 192 may be approximately 0.1956 centimeters (0.077 inches). Finally, the edge of the rivet recess is chamfered. In this embodiment, the chamfer of the rivet 194 can be approximately 25°.

[00128] With reference then to Figure 14E, a perspective view of the marking tool 88 is provided, which comprises the features described in Figures 11 to 14D.

[00129] The above discussion of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. What has been presented is not intended to limit the invention to the form or forms described in this specification. In the Detailed Description presented above, for example, various features of the invention are grouped together in one or more embodiments, for the purpose of optimizing the description. This method of description should not be interpreted as reflecting an intent that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly indicated in each claim. Rather, as reflected by the claims set forth below, the inventive features are based on less than having all the characteristics of the single embodiment described above. Accordingly, the claims set forth below are hereby incorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim representing, in its own right, a separate preferred embodiment of the invention.

[00130] Furthermore, although the present description has included the description of one or more embodiments and some variations and modifications, other variations and modifications are within the scope of the invention, for example, the use of disposable components, comprising some or all of the apparatus described in the present descriptive report, as may be within the experience and knowledge of those versed in the art, after understanding the present invention. It is intended to obtain rights, which include alternative embodiments to the extent permitted, including structures, functions, tracks or alternative steps, interchangeable and/or equivalent to those claimed, whether or not such structures, functions, tracks or alternative steps, interchangeable and/or equivalent are described in this descriptive report, and without the intention of dedicating to publish any patentable object.

Claims (14)

1. Container end closure (10) with a peripheral corrugation (18) adapted for interconnection to a container neck, characterized in that it comprises: a central panel (14); a pull tab (34) comprising a nose (35) and a tail (36), said pull tab (34) adapted to apply a downward force on a predetermined portion of said center panel (14); a rivet (42) operatively interconnecting said pull tab (34) to an upper surface of said center panel (14) and allowing said pull tab (34) to rotate; a first opening portion (28) defined at least partially by a first tearable marking line (30); a second vent opening (32) defined at least partially by a second cuttable score line (58), and wherein said second cuttable scoreline (58) and said first cuttable scoreline (30) are oriented along a common line, and are positioned along the same radius of curvature, wherein said first opening portion and said second ventilation opening are integrally interconnected to form a larger combined opening; and a transition portion (54) positioned between said first cuttable scoreline (30) and said second cuttable scoreline (58), which inhibits the propagation of a fracture of said first cuttable scoreline (30) in the said second tear-off line (58), and wherein said nose (35) of said pull tab (34) is selectively movable between a first position on said first opening part and a second position on said second ventilation opening part, to facilitate the opening of said first and second parts, as said nose part (35) of said pull tab (34) is pushed downwards. 2. Container end closure (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that said transition part (54) is devoid of any marking line, and said transition part is oriented along a so-called common thread. 3. Container end closure (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that said transition part (54) is a check groove (110) having a length between one end of said first line of cuttable marking line (30) and one end of said second cuttable marking line (58) with a predetermined marking residue, which is distinct from a marking residue of the first cuttable marking line (30), wherein the said transitional part is oriented along said common line. 4. The container end closure (10) of claim 3, characterized in that said length of said verification groove (110) is 0.0356 centimeters (0.0140 inches). 5. A container end closure (10) according to claim 3, characterized in that a width of said verification groove (110) is between 0.0254 and 0.0635 centimeters (0.010 and 0.025 inches). 6. Container end closure (10), according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises: an anti-fracture marking (86) positioned parallel to said first cuttable marking line, on said first opening part, and positioned parallel to said second cuttable score line, on said second vent portion. 7. Container end closure (10), according to claim 1, characterized in that said central panel (14) comprises a rotation guide stamping area (38), adapted to limit a rotation of said pull tab (34), in a direction that is parallel to said central panel (14). 8. Method of opening a container with an end closure (10) as defined in claim 1, characterized in that it comprises: positioning the pull tab (34), which is interconnected to a central panel (14) of said end closure (10) with a rivet (42), in a first open position; lifting a rear end of said pull tab (34) to apply a first downward force on said first opening portion of said center panel (14) to shear a first score line (30) to a transition portion and create a first opening in said central panel (14), wherein said first marking line and said transition portion have distinct marking residues; repositioning said pull tab (34) to a second open position; and lifting said rear end of said pull tab (34) to apply a second downward force on said second vent portion to shear said transition portion positioned between said first score line (30) and a second score line (58), and for shearing said second score line (58) to form a second ventilation opening in said central panel (14), wherein said second cuttable score line is oriented on the same line than that of said first tear-off marking, wherein said transition portion and said second marking line have distinct marking residues, and wherein said first opening portion and said second vent opening portion are interconnected integrally to form an opening larger than said first opening or said second ventilation opening. 9. Method according to claim 8, characterized in that said transitional part is devoid of any marking line, wherein said transitional part is oriented on the same line as said first cuttable marking and said second cuttable marking. 10. Method according to claim 8, characterized in that said transitional part is a verification groove (110), which extends between an end of said first marking line (30) and an end of said second marker line (58). 11. Method according to claim 10, characterized in that a marking residue of said verification groove (110) is greater than a marking residue of said first cuttable marking line (30). 12. Method according to claim 8, characterized in that said pull tab (34) is repositioned by rotating said pull tab (34) in a plane, which is parallel to said central panel (14) . 13. Method according to claim 8, characterized in that said central panel (14) comprises a rotation guide stamping area (38), adapted to limit a rotation of said pull tab (34), in a direction which is parallel to said central panel (14). 14. Method according to claim 8, characterized in that it further comprises: repositioning said pull tab (34) over a third part of the ventilation opening by at least rotation or twisting of said pull tab (34) , in a plane that is parallel to said central panel (14), wherein a user can apply a downward force on said third ventilation opening, to form a third ventilation opening in said central panel (14).

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