CN107949525B

CN107949525B - Container end closure with optional secondary vent

Info

Publication number: CN107949525B
Application number: CN201680051255.8A
Authority: CN
Inventors: H.C.查斯蒂恩; M.A.雅各布
Original assignee: Ball Corp
Current assignee: Ball Corp
Priority date: 2015-07-29
Filing date: 2016-07-07
Publication date: 2020-06-30
Anticipated expiration: 2036-07-07
Also published as: MX2018001224A; ES2828350T3; CA2992441A1; BR112018000997A2; AU2016298537B2; AU2016298537A1; CL2018000209A1; CA2992441C; CO2018002042A2; BR112018000997B1; CN107949525A; EP3328747A1; RU2686724C1; WO2017019269A1; EP3328747A4; EP3328747B1; PL3328747T3

Abstract

The present invention relates to a beverage container opening device. More particularly, the present invention relates to a metallic end closure having a primary opening area and at least one optional secondary vent that can be opened by the same pull tab. The main opening area and the auxiliary vent area are defined by a score line interrupted by a check groove to inhibit crack propagation along the score line.

Description

Container end closure with optional secondary vent

Reference to related applications

This U.S. non-provisional patent application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application 14/066,457 filed on 29.10.2013 and claiming priority, U.S. patent application 14/066,457 is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application 12/851,979 (now U.S. patent 8,567,158) filed on 6.8.2010, and this U.S. non-provisional patent application claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application 62/039,020 filed on 19.8.2014, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to an end closure for a beverage container. More particularly, the present invention relates to an end closure for a container that includes a first open portion and at least one second open portion for enhancing venting and improving product flow during pouring.

Background

Typically, containers, and more particularly metal beverage containers, are manufactured by attaching a beverage container end closure to a neck of a beverage container body. In some applications, end caps may be attached to the top and bottom surfaces of the container body. More commonly, however, beverage container end closures are attached to the top end of a beverage container body that is drawn and ironed from a sheet blank (e.g., aluminum). It is generally known to provide beverage containers with end closures and to selectively open a portion of the end closure using an opening device. For example, pull tabs or stay on tabs ("SOTs") typically include a nose and tail portion, and a rivet that connects the tab to the upper surface of the end closure. The tail portion typically has a loop or tail end that can be pulled upwardly by a user, which acts to shear the score line defining the main opening of the end closure, thereby moving the nose portion of the pull tab downwardly to initiate opening of the container.

Because conventional beverage container end closures with SOTs provide a single open area of predetermined size, such end closures are typically subject to inconsistent and/or uneven low flow rates as the contents of the container are poured. Conventional container end closures are typically designed for pouring the contents of the container with little or no consideration given to the need for inward flow of air to achieve volume displacement that facilitates smooth and consistent pouring.

There are many patents that attempt to improve the pouring performance of the end closure by creating one or more openings. These patents include us 7,513,383 to Hwang and us 4,289,251 to Maliszewski, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Hwang discloses a can body opening device having different first and second opening portions so that fluid can more uniformly flow out of the can body. However, Hwang does not teach the various novel features of the present invention, including a secondary opening that can be selectively opened to supplement or increase the flow rate through the primary opening, and another feature that turns the pull tab to a preferred orientation. Maliszewski discloses a container end closure having a first score line defining a first displaceable panel portion and a second score line defining a second displaceable panel portion. Maliszewski, however, does not teach various novel features of the present invention, including an auxiliary opening that can be selectively opened to supplement or increase the flow rate through the main opening.

The following disclosure describes an improved container end closure adapted for attachment to a container body and having a first opening portion, a rotatable pull tab, and at least one additional vent for selectively increasing the flow rate of the contents of the container.

Disclosure of Invention

In light of the limitations of the end closures described above, there is a need for an end closure having a pull tab, a main opening area, and at least one optional additional opening area that facilitates pouring of the contents from the container. There is a long-felt unmet need to provide a device in which additional opening regions are selectively activated or opened according to the user's preference, and which utilizes the same mechanism as existing pull tabs mounted on end closures. The following disclosure generally describes metal end closures having a pull tab and a plurality of open areas that employ a novel combination of features that satisfy these long felt needs.

In one aspect of the invention, a container end closure is provided with a main opening portion and at least one additional opening portion that is selectively openable by a user to improve flow characteristics due to the enlarged opening area and/or the presence of an area that allows air to flow into the container body through one or more vents as the contents flow through another opening.

In various embodiments, the container end closure of the present invention is adapted to be connected to a neck portion of a container body. More specifically, the end closure typically includes a bead for double seaming to the neck of the container, a chuck wall extending downwardly from the bead, a recess comprised of an outer panel wall and an inner panel wall, and a central panel extending inwardly from the inner panel wall of the recess. For further support and to the accomplishment of the disclosure, U.S. Pat. No. 7,506,779 to Jentzsch et al, entitled "method and apparatus for Forming reinforcing bands in Container end closures", and U.S. Pat. No. 7,100,789 to Nguyen et al, entitled "Metal beverage Can end with improved chuck wall and recess", are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

In another aspect of the invention, an end closure is provided having a primary opening at which is a pull tab connected to a central panel unit, a rivet for rotatably securing the pull tab to the end closure, an auxiliary score line defining an auxiliary opening area, and a transition area between the primary opening and the auxiliary opening. The transition region may be an un-scored portion of the central panel, or the transition region may be a score line, such as a check groove. In one embodiment, the first and second open areas are arranged adjacent to each other and the transition area prevents the second open area from opening when the tab is used to open the first open area. For example, in one embodiment, the transition region inhibits the extension of the primary score line to the secondary score line or open area. Alternatively, the first opening region and the second opening region are not arranged adjacent to each other, but are arranged at different positions spaced apart from each other.

In another aspect of the present invention, a rotatable pull tab is provided which can open a door defined within a first open area by a first opening motion or an upward pull of the pull tab, and can subsequently be rotated by a second opening motion and used to open a second open area. Thus, the user can selectively determine whether they want to vent using the secondary opening or drink the contents of the container through the primary opening in a conventional manner without the need for increased flow caused by venting.

In another aspect of the invention, a pull tab is provided having one or more features that limit or define the amount of rotation required or necessary to change the position of the pull tab to open one or more secondary opening areas of a control panel. For example, features of the invention may include a recess or cutout in the tab and a corresponding protrusion or detent on the central panel that limits rotation of the tab about the rivet beyond a predetermined orientation. In an alternative embodiment, a portion of the center panel of the present invention is adapted to receive the pull tab and thereby limit the amount the pull tab is rotated from the initial position. In one embodiment, the pull tab is rotatable between zero degrees (i.e., relative to an initial position) and +/-90 degrees on the center panel of the end closure. In an alternative embodiment, the pull tab may be rotated between zero degrees (i.e., relative to the initial position) and +/-45 degrees about an axis substantially parallel to the horizontal plane of the central panel.

In another embodiment, an end closure is provided having at least first and second opening portions, wherein the first and second opening portions can be opened with minimal rotation of the pull tab. Alternatively, the pull tab may not be rotated after the first opening is formed, or the pull tab may be twisted only slightly. For example, in one embodiment, the invention comprises a first open area defined by a score line and a door contained therein, the score line adapted to be severed and the door opened by tilting of the pull tab. The second opening region is defined by the secondary score line and a transition region that inhibits expansion of the primary score line and requires additional or different force (i.e., as compared to the force applied to open the primary opening portion) by the user to open the secondary opening portion. Thus, in an embodiment, the first opening portion and the second opening portion may be opened sequentially by applying one or more forces, wherein the second opening portion is opened differently from the first opening portion, e.g. due to the presence of the transition zone. Thus, in one embodiment, the tab need not be rotated about the longitudinal axis of the combined structure of the container body and end closure to sever or open the auxiliary opening area. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the tab may be twisted or turned slightly in a clockwise direction so that the crack propagates along the secondary score line.

In one embodiment, an end closure adapted to be attached to a container body is provided. The metallic end closure includes a substantially planar central panel and a force applying means for applying an inwardly directed force to the central panel. For example, the force applying means may comprise a pull tab having a loop or tail portion and a nose portion, wherein the pull tab is connected to the end closure by a rivet.

In an alternative embodiment, the end closure does not include a pull tab that is visible on various SOTs. In contrast, in some embodiments, the end closure is provided with a main opening area/portion and at least one optional auxiliary opening area/portion, wherein additional tools are used to create or separate score lines in the first opening area and the auxiliary opening area from the panel. Such additional tools include, but are not limited to, known can openers and similar devices adapted to open or tear the center panel. In one embodiment, the force applying means comprises a tool or object that does not engage or attach to the end cap. For example, various known bottle openers, "can openers," and similar devices suitable for applying force to an end closure may be provided.

In one embodiment, pivot means is permanently mounted on said central panel for pivotally mounting said force applying means on the central panel. The pivot means may comprise, for example, a rivet attached to a portion of the central panel and a rivet post or similar rivet receiving portion disposed on the pull tab. Thus, in various embodiments, a pivot arrangement is provided that allows the pull tab to rotate about an axis that is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the end closure/container combination, but also generally prevents inadvertent displacement of the pull tab from the central panel. A rotation limiting means may be arranged on the end cap and adapted to limit the amount of rotation of the force applying means. The rotation limiting means of the present invention includes, but is not limited to, detents, protrusions, depressions, and various other features formed or disposed on the central panel and adapted to contact the pull tab and/or provide a visual indication of the desired orientation of the pull tab.

In one embodiment, a first opening portion is provided having a severable score line defining a first opening portion and a first hinge portion integrally formed with a center panel. In one embodiment, a second opening portion is provided that includes a severable score line defining a second opening portion and a second hinge portion integrally formed with the central panel, and a transition portion that substantially prevents a crack of the severable score line of the first opening portion from propagating into the severable score line of the second opening portion.

In another aspect of the invention, a method of opening a container (i.e., improving the pourability of the container) is provided. The method includes, but is not limited to, the step of opening the main opening area, wherein the force applying means is tilted to apply a first downward force on the first opening portion to sever the first severable score line. Then, the force applying means (e.g., a pull tab) is at least partially returned to the first initial position, rotated so that the nose of the force applying means is positioned over a portion of the second opening, and tilted so as to apply a second downward force on the second opening to sever the second score line. Alternatively, in an alternative embodiment, the third opening may be formed by further rotating the pull tab and severing the third opening. In various embodiments, similar steps may be repeated to open one or more additional vents disposed on the end cap.

A particular embodiment of the invention is a container end closure having a bead adapted for attachment to a neck of a container and comprising: a central panel; a pull tab comprising a nose and a tail, the pull tab adapted to apply a downward force to a predetermined portion of the central panel; a rivet operatively connecting the pull tab to the upper surface of the central panel and allowing the pull tab to rotate; a first opening defined at least in part by a first severable score line; a second vent portion at least partially defined by a second severable score line, and wherein the second severable score line and the first severable score line are oriented substantially along a common line; and a transition between the first severable score line and the second severable score line, the transition adapted to inhibit propagation of a crack from the first severable score line into the second severable score line, and wherein the nose of the tab is selectively movable between a first position over the first opening portion and a second position over the second vent portion to facilitate opening of the first portion and the second portion as the nose of the tab is pushed downwardly.

Another embodiment of the present invention is a method of opening a container end closure having a first open portion and a second vent portion, the method comprising: (a) positioning a pull tab connected to a center panel of the end closure by a rivet to a first open position; (b) lifting a tail end of the tab to exert a first downward force on the first opening portion of the center panel to shear the first score to the transition portion and form a first opening in the center panel, wherein the first score and the transition portion have different score residuals; (c) repositioning the pull tab to a second opening position; and (d) lifting a trailing end of the tab to exert a second downward force on the second vent portion to shear a transition between the first score line and the second score line and to shear the second score line to form a second vent in the central panel, wherein the second severable score line is oriented along the same line as the first severable score line, wherein the transition and the second score line have different score line remnants, and wherein the first opening portion and the second vent portion are integrally interconnected to form a larger opening than the first opening or the second vent.

Another embodiment of the present invention is a container end closure having a bead adapted for attachment to a neck of a container and comprising: a central panel; a pull tab comprising a nose and a tail, the pull tab adapted to exert a downward force on the central panel; a rivet operatively connecting the pull tab to the upper surface of the center panel and allowing the pull tab to be repositioned between a primary position for opening the primary opening portion and a secondary position for opening the secondary vent portion; a main opening defined at least in part by a main severable score line; a second vent portion at least partially defined by a second severable score line; and a check groove located between the main severable scribe line and the second severable scribe line, the check groove being adapted to suppress propagation of a crack from the main severable scribe line into the second severable scribe line, the check groove being a scribe line having a scribe line residual amount different from a scribe line residual amount of the main severable scribe line and a scribe line residual amount of the second severable scribe line.

These and other advantages will become more apparent upon reading the disclosure of the invention contained herein. The above-described embodiments, objects, and configurations are neither complete nor exhaustive. It is to be understood that other embodiments of the present invention can be realized by using one or more of the features described above or described in detail below, either individually or in combination. Moreover, this summary is not intended to, and should not be construed as, representative of the full scope and breadth of the present invention. The invention is described in varying degrees of detail in this summary of the invention and in the accompanying drawings and detailed description of the invention, and the inclusion or non-inclusion of particular elements or components, etc. in this summary of the invention is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Additional features of the invention will become apparent upon reading the detailed description, particularly when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Drawings

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate various embodiments of the invention and together with the general description of the invention given above, serve to explain the principles of these inventions.

FIG. 1 is a top plan view of an embodiment of a metallic end closure with a pull tab and a first opening in a first closed position;

FIG. 2 is a top plan view of one embodiment of a metallic end closure wherein the pull tab has been rotated to a second position;

FIG. 3A is a top plan view of an embodiment of a metallic end closure with a pull tab and a first opening in a first closed position;

FIG. 3B is a top plan view of one embodiment of a metallic end closure with a first open door open;

FIG. 3C is a top plan view of an embodiment of a metallic end closure wherein the door of the first opening portion has been opened and the pull tab has been rotated to a second position;

FIG. 3D is a top plan view of an embodiment of a metallic end closure wherein the door of the first opening has been opened, the pull tab has been rotated to a second position, and the second opening has been opened;

FIG. 4A is a top plan view of one embodiment of a metallic end closure and termination region;

FIG. 4B is a detailed top plan view of another embodiment metallic end cap and termination region;

FIG. 5 is a top plan view of another embodiment of a metal end closure including an asymmetric pull tab;

FIG. 6 is a top plan view of an alternative embodiment metallic end closure including two alternative open areas;

FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of an alternative embodiment metallic end closure including a rotation stop guide and rivet post in a first position;

FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of an embodiment of a metallic end closure including a rotation stop guide and rivet post in a second position;

FIG. 9 is a top plan view of an embodiment of a metallic end closure including alternating recessed areas and secondary score lines;

FIG. 10 is a top plan view of an embodiment metallic end closure including alternating recessed areas and alternating primary and secondary score lines;

FIG. 11 is a top plan view of one embodiment of a scribing tool having "X" and "Y" regions;

FIG. 12A is a top plan view of one embodiment of a scribing tool, wherein the "X" region of the embodiment of FIG. 11 is shown in detail;

FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a scribing tool taken along line B-B of the embodiment in FIG. 12A;

FIG. 12C is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a scribing tool taken along line C-C of the embodiment in FIG. 12A;

FIG. 12D is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a scribing tool taken along line D-D of the embodiment in FIG. 12A;

FIG. 12E is a cross-sectional view of a check groove portion of an embodiment of a scoring tool taken along line E-E of the embodiment in FIG. 12A;

FIG. 13A is a top plan view of one embodiment of a scribing tool, wherein the "Y" region of the embodiment of FIG. 11 is shown in detail;

FIG. 13B is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a scribing tool taken along line B-B of the embodiment in FIG. 13A;

FIG. 13C is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a scribing tool taken along line C-C of the embodiment in FIG. 13A;

FIG. 14A is a top plan view of one embodiment of a scribing tool;

FIG. 14B is a side elevational view of one embodiment of the scribing tool of FIG. 14A;

FIG. 14C is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a scribing tool taken along line C-C of the embodiment in FIG. 14A;

FIG. 14D is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a scribing tool taken along line C-C of the embodiment in FIG. 14A, wherein the "Z" zone of the embodiment in FIG. 14C is shown in detail; and

FIG. 14E is a perspective view of one embodiment of a scribing tool.

To further aid in understanding the invention, the following is a table of components and associated reference numerals shown in the drawings.

It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. In certain instances, details that are not necessary for an understanding of the present invention or that render other details difficult to perceive may have been omitted from the figures. It should also be understood that the invention is not limited to the particular embodiments shown in the drawings.

Detailed Description

Various embodiments of the present invention are described herein and shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be expressly understood that although fig. 1-8 illustrate a metal end closure having a pull tab and at least one secondary vent, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments.

Referring now to FIG. 1, there is shown a top plan view of one embodiment of a metallic end closure with a first open portion in a first closed position. Also shown is an end closure adapted for attachment to a container body, wherein the end closure comprises a panel 14 having a primary open area 28 and a secondary open area 32. In one embodiment, the main open area 28 includes a first door 26, the first door 26 being defined by a main score line 30 when the main open area 28 is in the first closed position. The primary open area 28 of the present invention may, for example, comprise a portion of material that is at least partially separable from and retained by the remainder of the central panel. The main open area 28 is separated from the auxiliary open area 32 and the auxiliary door 27 at least initially by a main open hinge 46. The primary opening hinge 46 facilitates selective opening of the primary opening area 28 by a nose portion of a pull tab or other robust force applying means without simultaneous opening of the secondary opening area 32. Force applying means of the present invention may include, but are not limited to, a pull tab 34, the pull tab 34 including a nose 35, a rivet 42 in communication with a rivet post 40, and a tail 36. As the tail 36 is pulled upwardly, the nose 35 is driven downwardly to shear the score line 30 and begin to open.

In one embodiment, the secondary score 58 begins at the end of the first transition region (54 in fig. 4B) and allows the crack to propagate to the secondary score termination feature 62, thus forming a vent feature when the appropriate force is applied. In various embodiments, the secondary score lines 58 of the present invention may be straight or curved at various angles. The secondary score termination feature 62 of the present invention is arranged to generally define or limit the extent of the secondary score 58. In one embodiment, the supplemental score stop feature 62 includes a curved profile that helps prevent score propagation and creates the desired vent shape.

In addition, the present invention contemplates a secondary score hinge 74. The secondary score hinge 74 of the present invention is generally defined as the portion of the panel 14 located between the terminus of the secondary score and a point on the panel 14 immediately adjacent the rivet 42. In one embodiment, the hinge of the present invention is positioned in a location relative to the tab 34 such that the hinge serves as a pivot point for a portion of material (e.g., the secondary door 27).

In one embodiment, the first hinge 46 and the second hinge 74 are disposed in an area defined between approximately 0 and 240 degrees on the central panel (i.e., zero degrees corresponds to the centerline of the tab as shown in FIG. 1). Those skilled in the art will recognize that the auxiliary opening portion 32 may be disposed at various positions adjacent or not adjacent to the main opening region 28, as long as sufficient space is provided for the main opening region 28.

Typically, the pull tab 34 is disposed on the end closure 10 and is rotatably secured to the end closure 10 by a "pivot means". The pivot means may include, but is not limited to, a rivet 42 secured to the center panel 14 and engaging a portion of the tab 34, such as the rivet post 40. In one embodiment, the pivot means allows the tab 34 to pivot on the center panel 10. In various embodiments, the tab 34 is positioned in a direction that is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal length of the container, wherein the longitudinal length of the container defines a center of rotation for the tab 34. Those skilled in the art will recognize that when a portion of the pull tab 34 of the present invention is lifted and leveraged about a point generally defined by the location of the rivet 42, a downward opening force is applied to the door 26 of the first opening portion 28 of the present invention. This downward force will cut the door 26 away from the panel 14 at the primary score line 30, causing it to expand around the score line 30 until an opening is formed and thus allowing the container contents to be poured.

The present invention also contemplates a secondary open area 58, the secondary open area 32 being generally defined by the secondary score line 58, the primary score line opening hinge 46 and the transition area 54. In one embodiment, the main score opening hinge 46 of the present invention is formed by an initial split near the rivet 42 that propagates around the main score 30 to a main score termination feature 50. When the crack reaches the primary score line termination feature 50, the tab 34 will be in a position generally perpendicular to the panel 14, thereby causing the tab 34 to exert a force on the door 26 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the container. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the tab 34 in this position will generally cause the door 26 to bend, rather than cause the door 26 to be further torn, cut, broken, etc. Furthermore, as explained in more detail below, a primary score termination feature 50 is provided that determines the approximate termination area of the primary score crack propagation.

In one embodiment, a transition zone 54 is disposed on the central panel 14. The transition zone 54 of the present invention generally includes an area that inhibits the propagation of the crack of the primary score line 30 into the secondary score line 58 and thus helps prevent the secondary open area 32 from being inadvertently opened. For example, the transition zone 54 of the present invention can terminate the propagation of the primary score line 30 due to the remaining depth of the score line, interference of the score line path (e.g., the check groove), a predetermined clearance distance between the primary score line 30 and the secondary score line 58, and/or various combinations thereof, including but not limited to increased material thickness. In one embodiment, the auxiliary open area 32 of the present invention is preferably arranged such that the open area 32 generally spans the lateral centerline of the central panel 14 (i.e., a line that passes transversely through the rivet 42 disposed at the center of the central panel 14, as shown in FIG. 1). However, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the location of the auxiliary open area 32 may be changed and/or rearranged in a variety of locations.

It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the auxiliary opening area 32 may be disposed on either side of the tab 34 of the present invention. In one embodiment, the present invention 10 contemplates a plurality of optional open areas 32 in addition to the main open area 28. For example, in one embodiment, auxiliary opening areas 32 are disposed on both sides of the tab 34 of the present invention, as described in more detail below.

In an alternative embodiment, the first opening region and the auxiliary opening region are opened or cut off with additional or external tools (for example known can openers and "can openers"). Thus, in various embodiments, there is no need to place permanent structures, such as rivets and tabs, on the center panel of the present invention. Instead, additional tools may be utilized to open the central panel region.

Referring now to FIG. 2, there is shown a top plan view of one embodiment of a metallic end closure in which the pull tab has been rotated to a second position. As previously described, the tab 34 may be connected to the panel by a rivet 42 in a manner that allows the tab to rotate. In one embodiment, the pull tab 34 of the present invention includes means for limiting the amount of rotation of the pull tab to a predetermined position. Including, but not limited to, a securing protrusion and/or depression disposed on panel 14 and adapted to contact an additional portion of the center panel, such as a pull tab 34 or rivet post, and various other similar configurations known to those skilled in the art. For example, in certain embodiments, a rotational guide 38 is provided that is adapted to help guide, define, and/or limit the rotational path and/or amount of rotation of the tab 34. In other embodiments, a tab positioning stop 66 is disposed on the central panel to limit the amount of rotation achieved by the tab 34. The pull tab positioning stops 66 of the present invention may comprise protrusions stamped out of the central panel 14 to form depressions, or may comprise additional structure, elements, or materials added to the central panel 14. In other embodiments, the rotation may be defined and/or limited by a configuration added to or incorporated into the panel 14, in addition to, or as an alternative to, the protrusion, depression, or contour formed by the panel 14.

Accordingly, in one aspect of the present invention, a rotational position stop 66 is provided that prevents the tab 34 from rotating beyond a predetermined point corresponding to a preferred position of the tab 34 for opening the auxiliary opening area 32. For example, in one embodiment, at least one peripheral wall portion of the rotating guide 38 abuts the rotational position stop when the tab 34 is rotated to a position where the tab 34 can then be lifted to open the auxiliary opening area 32 with minimal force and/or damage to the central panel 14. In some embodiments, the rotating guide 38 may have a horseshoe shape, wherein the left section of the horseshoe is longer than the right section, or the right section is longer than the left section. In various embodiments, the two segments of the horseshoe shape are equal in length.

In another embodiment, in addition to, or as an alternative to, the arrangement of tab positioning stops 66 and rotation guides 38, tab rotation guides 70 or recessed profiles may be provided on panel 14 to guide and/or limit the rotation of tab 34. For example, a recessed profile 70 may be provided to physically prevent the tab 34 from rotating beyond a given point by contact with a portion of the circumference of the rotating guide 70 and/or to provide visual information to the user regarding the maximum preferred rotation limit of the tab 34.

Reference is now made to fig. 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D, wherein top plan views illustrate the opening sequence of one embodiment 10 of the present invention. FIG. 3A is a top plan view of an embodiment of a metallic end closure with a pull tab and a first opening in a first closed position. There is shown a panel 14 having a first open area 28 with a door 26 in a first closed position, a secondary open area 32 with a secondary door 27 in a first closed position, and a tab 34 attached to a rivet 42 in an initial position.

Fig. 3B is a top plan view of a metallic end closure according to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the door of the first opening portion has been opened. The figure shows the central panel 14 with the tab 34 having been lifted or tilted so that the door has been cut away from a portion of the panel 14 about the main score line 30. Thus, the first open area 28 has been opened to allow pouring or extraction of the contents from the container. As shown in fig. 3B, the auxiliary door 27 remains intact after the main door is opened. As previously described, when the tab 34 is activated to open the primary open area 28 and the primary door, the secondary door 27 and the secondary open area 32 are allowed to remain closed, due in part to the transition region 54, the primary score line termination feature 50, and the presence of the primary score line opening hinge 46. Thus, the center panel of the present invention provides the user with the option of selectively opening only the first opening 28, for example, in situations where the venting feature is not required.

Referring now to fig. 3C, fig. 3C is a top plan view of an embodiment metallic end closure wherein the door of the first opening portion has been opened and the pull tab has been rotated to the second position. A metal end closure is provided in which the first open area 28 has been opened and the tab 34 has been rotated to a second position for subsequent opening of the auxiliary door 27 and the auxiliary open area 32. As previously described, the tab 34 of the present invention may be rotatably attached to the panel 14 by a rivet 42. Thus, the tab 34 can be rotated to a position where the second raising or tilting action exerts a downward force on the secondary door 27. As further shown in FIG. 3C, the rotation limiting means includes, but is not limited to, a concave contour 70 adapted to surround, encircle, receive the geometry of one end of the pull tab 34 of the present invention. The rotation limiting means may also include, for example, a positioning stop 66 disposed on the panel 14, the positioning stop 66 protruding a predetermined height from the panel 14 and being adapted to receive and/or limit rotation of the tab 34 by communicating with the rotation guide 38 formed within the tab 34. In one embodiment, the rotation limiting device 10 of the present invention visually identifies the preferred position to which the tab 34 should be rotated prior to tilting or activating the tab 34 and/or limits the rotation to a desired predetermined range in order to rupture the secondary score line 62 and open the secondary open area 32.

Reference is now made to fig. 3D. FIG. 3D provides a top plan view of an embodiment metallic end closure wherein the door of the first opening has been opened, the pull tab has been rotated to a second position, and the second opening has been opened. As shown, the rotatable tab 34 of the present invention has been rotated to a second position in which the tab 34 has been lifted or tilted to apply a downward force to the second door to shear the door from the secondary score line and deflect the door about the secondary score line opening hinge 74. Once the tab 34 is rotated to the appropriate extent and/or degree to open the optional vent region 32, the tab 34 may return to a position substantially parallel to the panel 14. The contents contained within the container 10 may then be poured and/or consumed through the first open section 28, wherein the second open area 32 facilitates the flow of contents from the container 10 by increasing the airflow into the container 10 and decreasing the vacuum pressure within the container and facilitating the flow of liquid out of the container 10. Further, as previously described and as shown in FIG. 3B, the user need not open the auxiliary opening 32 of the present invention when a more conventional manner of opening the end closure is desired. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various sizes of vents 32 may be arranged on the present invention. In one embodiment, the surface area of the optional vent 32 may comprise an area between about 2% and 40% of the area of the original score line orifice.

In an alternative embodiment, the features of the present invention 10 may be incorporated into the end closure 14 that allow for full opening of the vent region 32 with a single opening or tab tilting motion. Thus, in one embodiment, the present invention 10 does not include the transition zone 54 as shown and described herein. Instead, a secondary open area 32 having a single secondary score opening hinge 74 may be provided, wherein upon application of the first opening motion and/or force, the crack of the primary score 30 is not prevented from propagating into the secondary open area 32.

In one embodiment, a central panel is provided wherein at least one transition zone is disposed between the first and second open areas, the transition zone not requiring rotation of the tab to sever the first and second score lines. For example, a transitional form may be provided that requires two different forces to sever the first score and the second score, wherein the two different forces are not necessarily separated or defined by rotation of the pull tab.

In one embodiment, a center panel is provided, wherein the center panel has a main score opening area between 0.50 and 0.75 square inches in area. In another embodiment, the main open area has an area between 0.575 and 0.625 square inches. In a more preferred embodiment, the main open area has an area of about 0.6111 square inches.

In one embodiment, a secondary open area is provided having an area between 0.020 and 0.20 square inches. In another embodiment, a secondary open area is provided having an area between 0.080 and 0.10 square inches. In a more preferred embodiment, a secondary open area having an area of about 0.0916 square inches is provided.

In one embodiment, the total open or openable area (i.e., the combined area of all open areas disposed on the central panel) is between 0.25 and 1.5 square inches. In another embodiment, the total open area of the center panel is between 0.60 and 0.80 square inches. In a more preferred embodiment, the total open area of the end cap is about 0.7027 square inches. Thus, in one embodiment, the auxiliary opening area accounts for approximately 13.03% of the total opening area disposed on the central panel. However, as will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art, the size of the primary open area and/or the secondary open area may vary. Thus, in various embodiments, the auxiliary open area comprises 5.0% to 25.0% of the total open area.

In various embodiments, the end cap provides a focal point for air to enter the container body, thereby improving the pourability and flow rate of the container. In various embodiments, a secondary vent as shown and described herein increases the flow rate of the contents from within the container and provides a 30% increase in the flow rate of the container contents as compared to conventional end caps having only a single open area. In one particular embodiment, the time required to pour a 12 fluid ounce content from the end closure of the present invention is about 4.35 seconds, as compared to about 5.5 to 6.0 seconds for the same or similar amount of fluid to be poured from a conventional end closure.

As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, the area as used herein refers to the surface area of each of the open portions as defined by the respective score lines as shown and described herein.

Referring now to fig. 4A and 4B, a top plan view of one embodiment 10 of the present invention is shown and provides a detailed view of the transition zone 54. As shown in this detail, the primary score line 30 includes a primary score line termination feature 50 at one termination point. The main scribe line termination structure 50 of the present invention determines at least the total area of the main scribe line 30 at which the crack propagation terminates. In one embodiment, as shown in fig. 4, the main score line termination feature comprises a bend in the main score line 30 that represents a deviation from the general path of the score line 30. In one embodiment, the termination feature 30 of the present invention is disposed within a transition region 54, the transition region 54 further including a gap or void 55 that further prevents the crack of the first score line 30 from propagating into the second score line 58. In one embodiment, the voids 55 of the present invention comprise a width of between about 0.001 inches and 0.035 inches. In a preferred embodiment, the voids 55 of the present invention comprise a width of between about 0.005 inches and 0.025 inches. In a more preferred embodiment, the voids 55 of the present invention comprise a width of between about 0.012 inches and 0.015 inches.

Referring now to FIG. 5, there is shown a top plan view of a metallic end closure including an asymmetric tab 34. A tab 34 having an asymmetric geometry is provided that is adapted to open the first 30 and second 62 scoring configurations with a single or double opening operation (e.g., lifting the tab 34). More specifically, the tab 34 includes an asymmetrical protrusion or extension that extends over the auxiliary opening 32, the auxiliary opening 32 being adapted to contact the auxiliary door 27 of the auxiliary opening area 32.

In one embodiment, the center panel 10 includes an auxiliary opening 32 having a stiffener 78. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the stiffeners 78 disposed on the secondary open area 32 may comprise any number of shapes (e.g., square, circular, oval, polygonal, etc.). Raised and/or recessed ribs 78 may be provided on the auxiliary door 27 of the present invention to strengthen the score panel 27 and to promote proper breaking of the auxiliary score 58 during opening. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the design of the score panel requires careful balancing of dimensions and design parameters to ensure that the open area and other portions of the central panel will remain closed at the appropriate time (e.g., during packaging and shipping operations), but will be able to open with a reasonable amount of force applied by the user. Accordingly, it is contemplated that the auxiliary opening area 32 of the present invention includes one or more ribs and/or ribs.

In one embodiment, the bead region includes a width of approximately between 0.10 inches and 0.50 inches. In a preferred embodiment, the bead region comprises a width of between about 0.20 inches and 0.40 inches. In a more preferred embodiment, the bead region comprises a width of between about 0.225 inches and 0.275 inches. In one embodiment, the bead region comprises a length of between about 0.20 inches and 0.60 inches. In a preferred embodiment, the bead region comprises a length of between about 0.30 inches and 0.50 inches. In a more preferred embodiment, the bead region comprises a length of between about 0.375 inch and 0.425 inch.

FIG. 6 is a top view of one embodiment of a metallic end closure in which two

alternative vent configurations

32, 33 are provided. As shown, the first open area 28 is disposed on the central panel, and the second open area 32 and the third open area 33 are disposed adjacent to each other. In various embodiments, the third open area 33 includes the same features and functionality as the second open area 32 as described herein. Thus, in certain embodiments, the first open area 28 may be opened by applying a downward force through the nose 35 of the tab 34. The tab 34 may then be repositioned in some manner to allow rotation of the tab 34. Then, the tab 34 may be rotated so that the nose portion of the tab 34 is at least partially disposed above the auxiliary opening area 32, and the tab 34 is tilted or lifted to exert downward pressure on the auxiliary opening area 32 and separate the auxiliary door 27. The tab 34 may then be tilted or returned to a position again allowing the tab to rotate and the tab 34 rotated so that it is at least partially over the third opening area 33. The tab 34 may then be tilted or lifted so that the nose of the tab 34 exerts downward pressure on the third opening 33 and separates the third door from the panel. The tab 34 may be held in a final position or repositioned according to the user's preference and the contents of the container may be poured smoothly, facilitated by a number of optional vents.

In some embodiments, the secondary door and the tertiary door may be opened without rotating the tab 34. For example, in one embodiment, the secondary door 27 and the third door 80 may be severed from the panel 14 along the respective score lines because the force applied by tilting or lifting the tab 34 is different than the force of tilting or lifting the tab 34 when opening or severing the first door 26. The features of the present invention allow the tab 34 to be lifted under a different force or motion capable of cutting the main door 26. After applying this force, another different force may be applied in sequence to open the auxiliary door and the third door.

Referring now to fig. 7 and 8, a top perspective view of one embodiment of the metallic end closure 10 is provided. As shown, a rotation limiting device may be provided to prevent rotation of the tab 34 beyond a particular position. The rotation limiting means of the present invention includes, but is not limited to, protrusions and depressions of the panel 14 that can communicate with portions of the tab 34. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the protrusion may serve as a rotational stop guide 82 adapted to interact or communicate with a portion of a rivet stem 84. In some embodiments, a peripheral portion of a segment of the rivet stem 84 contacts a peripheral portion of the rotating guide 82 in the first position. The contact between the guide 82 and the rivet stem portion 84 in the first position corresponds to the tab 34 being in a position suitable for opening the main opening area 28. The contact of the rotation guide 82 with the rivet stem 84 helps prevent rotation beyond a certain point without restricting or limiting the ability of the tab 34 to tilt and exert downward pressure on one or more open areas.

As shown in fig. 8, the pull tab 34 has been rotated to the maximum allowable extent defined by the second point of contact between the rivet stem portion 84 and the rotation guide 82. It should be appreciated that the maximum amount of rotation permitted by the rivet stem portion 84 and the rotation guide 82 corresponds to a particular rotational position of the pull tab 34 suitable for easily opening one or more alternative vents as described herein.

Referring now to fig. 9, a top plan view of the metallic end closure 10 is provided. The end closure 10 generally includes a tab 34 having a tail portion 36 and a nose portion 35, wherein the tab 34 is connected to the panel 14 of the end closure 10 by a rivet 42. The panel 14 also includes a depression or recessed area of the central panel 14 in which are located a number of components, including the rivet 42 and the tab 34. The main open area 28, the auxiliary vent area 32 and the transition area 54 are also disposed within the recessed area of the central panel 14.

However, as shown in fig. 9, the recessed area around the auxiliary vent area 32 is large. This enlarged depression increases the surface area of the main open area 28 and the auxiliary vent area 32 to increase the flow rate of the contents of the container as they are poured. In some embodiments, the combined area of the main open area 28 and the auxiliary vent area 32 may be approximately between 0.600 square inches and 0.750 square inches. In a preferred embodiment, the combined area of the primary open area 28 and the auxiliary vent area 32 is about 0.689 square inches.

A tab rotation guide 70 is optionally disposed on the central panel 14 to guide and/or limit the rotation of the tab 34. In this embodiment, the tab rotation guide 70 is a recessed area having a depth different from the panel 14 and the area of the panel 14 where the rivet 42 and the

open areas

28, 32 are disposed. The tab rotation guide 70 as shown in fig. 9 extends to the top of the finger-like depression adjacent the tail 36 of the tab 34, which provides a larger tab rotation guide 70.

Reference is now made to fig. 10. Fig. 10 provides a top plan view of an alternative embodiment of the metallic end closure 10 in which the primary score line 30 and the secondary vent score line 58 are oriented substantially along the same line or radius of curvature. In other words, the secondary vent score 58 is an extension of the primary score 30. Like other embodiments described herein, the end closure 10 of fig. 10 includes a primary score line 30, the primary score line 30 at least partially defines the primary open area 28, and the primary score line 30 opens the primary open area 28 upon rupture. Similarly, the end cap 10 of fig. 10 includes a secondary score line 58 that at least partially defines the secondary vent area 32, and the secondary vent area 32 is opened when the secondary score line 58 is broken. The opening sequence of these

areas

28, 32 generally comprises the following steps: (a) lifting the trailing end of the tab to create a first downward force to shear the primary score line 30, (b) at least partially lowering the trailing end of the tab to its original position, (c) rotating the tab so that the nose of the tab is generally above the secondary vent area, and (d) lifting the trailing end of the tab to create a second downward force to shear the secondary score line 58.

Another method comprises the steps of: (a) positioning a pull tab to a first open position; (b) lifting a tab tail end of a center panel connected to the end closure by a rivet to exert a first downward force on a 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, wherein the first score line and the transition portion have different amounts of residue; (c) repositioning the pull tab to a second open position by rotating the pull tab in a plane substantially parallel to the plane of the central panel; and (d) lifting a trailing end of the tab to exert a second downward force on the second vent portion to shear a transition portion between the first score line and the second score line and to shear the second score line to form a second vent in the central panel, wherein the transition portion and the second score line have different amounts of residue, and wherein the first opening portion and the second vent portion are integrally interconnected to form a larger opening than the first opening or the second vent. Certain 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 substantially parallel to the plane of the central panel; and (b) lifting a trailing end of the tab to exert a third downward force on the third opening to shear the third score line and to shear a transition between the first score line and the third score line to form a third opening in the central panel.

The crack control score line 86 is typically offset from the score lines 30, 58 by a substantially constant distance. An anti-rip score 86 may optionally be included in some embodiments of the invention to reduce the stress zone around the primary 30 and secondary 58 scores and to prevent accidental opening of these

scores

30, 58. The crack prevention scribe line 86 in the present embodiment is continuous. However, it should be understood that the crack control score 86 may also include two sub-scores similar to the arrangement between the primary score 30 and the secondary score 58. Further, the crack control score 86 may include a transition zone or transition zone check groove as described elsewhere herein. In various embodiments, the remaining amount of the main score line 30 (or the thickness between the common side of the container and the content side of the container) may be about 0.0038 inches. In some embodiments, the remaining amount of the secondary score 58 may be approximately between 0.0030 inches and 0.0050 inches.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 10, the transition region 54 between the primary vent score line 30 and the secondary vent score line 58 does not include a termination feature, and the primary and

secondary score lines

30, 58 are arranged along substantially the same radius of curvature, which means that the primary and

secondary score lines

30, 58 are substantially collinear. In other words, the two

score lines

30, 58 may be oriented about the same line, which may be a curve with a constant radius of curvature, a curve described by a polynomial of order n, a straight line, or any other line described elsewhere herein. In embodiments with and without termination configurations, the transition region 54 may be only a partial discontinuity in the score line, and not necessarily a complete discontinuity in the score line. In some embodiments, the transition region 54 may be a score line joining the primary score line 30 and the secondary score line 58. Thus, the transition region 54 may be a check groove having a different depth, width, and/or cross-sectional shape than one or both of the primary score line 30 and the secondary score line 58. Further, the length of the transition region 54 is, in some embodiments, the distance between the ends of the primary score line 30 and the secondary score line 58, and may vary to impede or facilitate opening of the secondary vent region 32. In some embodiments, the length or spacing of the transition region 54 may be between about 0.0050 inch and 0.0300 inch. In various embodiments, the length of the transition region 54 may be about 0.0140 inches. In some embodiments where the transition region 54 may be a check groove, the depth of the check groove may be between approximately 0.0000 inches and 0.0045 inches. In various embodiments, the width of the check slot can be between about 0.010 inches and 0.025 inches.

In some embodiments, the combined area of the main open area 28 and the auxiliary vent area 32 may be between about 0.600 square inches and 0.750 square inches. In various embodiments, the combined area of the main opening area 28 and the auxiliary vent area 32 may be about 0.692 square inches.

Referring now to FIG. 11, there is provided a top plan view of a scribing tool 88 for producing the various features of the end cap 10 disclosed herein. For the convenience of the reader, the nomenclature and reference characters used in describing features of the end cap 10 are again used to describe the scribing tool 88 that produces the same features. Of course, "scoring" may refer to depressions for the end cap 10 and protrusions for the scoring tool 88. Dimensions and other aspects of features described with reference to the end cap 10 may be applied to the scribing tool 88, and vice versa.

The scribing tool 88 of fig. 11 includes a plurality of fiducial lines. The horizontal insertion line 90 is a horizontal reference line centered on the geometric center of the tool 88. The horizontal rivet line 92 is a horizontal reference line centered on the rivet 42. In this embodiment, the offset between the two

horizontal lines

90, 92 may be about 0.150 inches. The vertical insertion line 94 is a vertical reference line centered on the geometric center of the tool 88 and the rivet 42. Also shown in FIG. 11 are two regions "X" and "Y", which will be described in further detail below.

Referring now to fig. 12A, there is provided a detailed top plan view of the "X" region of the scribing tool 88 of fig. 11. Each datum line may be used to locate each datum point or reference point on the scribing tool 88. The geometric aspects of the tool features that produce the primary score line 30 and the crack control score line 86 may be described in terms of these reference points.

Reference lines

90, 92, and 94 are provided in fig. 12A. Horizontal score lines 96 are also provided, wherein the offset between the horizontal score lines 96 and the horizontal rivet lines 92 may be between about 0.008 inches and 0.020 inches, and in some embodiments, the offset between the horizontal score lines 96 and the horizontal rivet lines 92 is about 0.012 inches.

The first datum 98 may be disposed on the vertical insertion line 94, and in some embodiments, the first datum 98 may be located on either side of the vertical insertion line 94, within a range of approximately +/-0.01 inches. The first fiducials 98 may be offset above the horizontal score lines 96 by about 0.030 inches to 0.040 inches, and in some embodiments, the first fiducials 98 are offset above the horizontal score lines 96 by about 0.034 inches. The tool configuration that creates the primary score line 30 has a radius of curvature of about 0.750 inches to 0.850 inches from the first reference point 98, as shown in fig. 12A, and in some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the tool configuration is about 0.800 inches from the first reference point 98. The tool configuration that creates the crack initiation score 86 has a radius of curvature of about 0.700 inches to 0.800 inches from the first reference point 98, as shown in fig. 12A, and in some embodiments, about 0.750 inches from the first reference point 98.

The second fiducial point 100 may be offset from the vertical insertion line 94 by about 0.080 to 0.200 inches, and in some embodiments, the second fiducial point 100 is offset from the vertical insertion line 94 by about 0.120 inches. The second fiducial point 100 may be offset from the horizontal score line 96 by about 0.3000 inches to 0.4200 inches, and in some embodiments, the second fiducial point 100 is offset from the horizontal score line 96 by about 0.3685 inches. The tool configuration that creates the primary score line 30 has a radius of curvature of about 0.300 inches to 0.450 inches from the second reference point 100, as shown in fig. 12A, and in some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the tool configuration is about 0.380 inches from the second reference point 100. The tool configuration that creates the rip fence 86 has a radius of curvature of about 0.300 inches to 0.400 inches from the second reference point 100, as shown in fig. 12A, and in some embodiments, about 0.330 inches from the second reference point 100.

The third fiducial 102 may be offset from the vertical insertion line 94 by about 0.1200 inches to 0.2000 inches, and in some embodiments, the third fiducial 102 is offset from the vertical insertion line 94 by about 0.1634 inches. The third reference points 102 may be offset from the horizontal score line 96 by about 0.3400 inches to 0.4200 inches, and in some embodiments, the third reference points 102 are offset from the horizontal score line 96 by about 0.3804 inches. The tool configuration that creates the rip fence 86 has a radius of curvature of about 0.250 inches to 0.300 inches from the third reference point 102, as shown in fig. 12A, and in some embodiments, about 0.285 inches from the third reference point 102.

The fourth fiducial 104 may be offset from the vertical insertion line 94 by about 0.120 inches to 0.200 inches, and in some embodiments, the fourth fiducial 104 is offset from the vertical insertion line 94 by about 0.162 inches. The fourth fiducial 104 may be offset from the horizontal score line 96 by about 0.3400 inches to 0.4200 inches, and in some embodiments, the fourth fiducial 104 is offset from the horizontal score line 96 by about 0.3897 inches. The tool configuration that creates the primary score line 30 has a radius of curvature of about 0.300 inches to 0.360 inches from the fourth reference point 104, as shown in fig. 12A, and in some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the tool configuration is about 0.333 inches from the fourth reference point 104.

The fifth datum 106 may be offset from the vertical insert line 94 by about 0.030 inches to 0.100 inches, and in some embodiments, the fifth datum 106 is offset from the vertical insert line 94 by about 0.066 inches. The fifth fiducial 106 may be offset from the horizontal score line 96 by about 0.2200 inches to 0.3000 inches, and in some embodiments, the fifth fiducial 106 is offset from the horizontal score line 96 by about 0.2689 inches. The tool configuration that creates the primary score line 30 has a radius of curvature of about 0.400 inches to 0.600 inches from the fifth reference point 106, as shown in fig. 12A, and in some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the tool configuration is about 0.490 inches from the fifth reference point 106. The tool configuration that creates the crack initiation score 86 has a radius of curvature of about 0.400 inches to 0.500 inches from the fifth reference point 106, as shown in fig. 12A, and in some embodiments, about 0.440 inches from the fifth reference point 106.

The sixth fiducial 108 may be offset from the vertical insertion line 94 by about 0.0200 inches to 0.0360 inches, and in some embodiments, the sixth fiducial 108 is offset from the vertical insertion line 94 by about 0.0287 inches. The sixth datum 108 may be offset from the horizontal score line 96 by about 0.150 inches to 0.270 inches, and in some embodiments, the sixth datum 108 is offset from the horizontal score line 96 by about 0.213 inches. The tool configuration that creates the secondary score line 58 has a radius of curvature of about 0.500 inches to about 0.700 inches from the sixth reference point 108, as shown in fig. 12A, and in some embodiments, about 0.600 inches from the sixth reference point 108. The tool configuration that creates the crack initiation score 86 has a radius of curvature of about 0.500 to 0.600 inches from the sixth reference point 108, as shown in fig. 12A, and in some embodiments, about 0.550 inches from the sixth reference point 108.

The transition check groove 110 is a transition zone disposed on the main score line 30. The tool configuration that creates the transitional check groove 110 is shown in FIG. 12A. The transition check groove 110 is disposed at an angle (transition check groove angle 112) to the horizontal score line 96 on the main score line 30. In some embodiments, the transition check slot angle 112 may be about 40 degrees. In various embodiments, the transition check slot angle 112 may be between approximately 90 degrees and-40 degrees. In further embodiments, the transition check slot angle 112 may be between approximately 60 degrees and 20 degrees.

As described elsewhere herein, the transition check slot 110 can slow crack propagation along the primary score 30. This restraining action provided by the transitional check groove 110 can simply slow the rate or speed at which the crack propagates along the primary score line 30. In some embodiments, the transition check groove 110 completely prevents or inhibits propagation of cracks along the primary score line 30. In some embodiments, the user operates the end cap in an open-rotate-open manner. This means that in one action, the user breaks the primary score 30 into the transition check groove 110, at which time the transition check groove 110 substantially prevents propagation of the crack. The user then returns the tail of the tab to its original position and the user rotates the tab past the transition check slot 110 and over the secondary score line 58. The user may then lift the tail of the tab again to break the secondary score 58 or portion of the primary score 30 beyond the as yet unbroken transition check slot 110.

It should be understood that more than one check groove 110 may be disposed in the transition between the primary score line 30 and the secondary score line 58, even on the primary score line 30 and the secondary score line 58 themselves. For example, the first check groove 110 may be located on the primary score 30 before the transition zone to help slow the propagation of the crack along the primary score 30. Another check groove 110 located between the primary score line 30 and the secondary score line 58 may then completely prevent propagation of the crack along the primary score line 30 prior to the secondary score line 58. This interruption can provide the user with time to optionally reposition the tab over the secondary opening and optionally break the secondary score 58.

The crack control score 86 may have an endpoint controlled by a crack control score angle 114 that begins at the sixth reference point 108 and is oriented relative to the horizontal score 96. In some embodiments, the crack initiation score angle 114 may be between approximately 20 and 60 degrees. In various embodiments, the crack initiation score angle 114 may be approximately 36.5 degrees.

The ninth fiducial 116 may be offset from the vertical insertion line 94 by about 0.3500 inches to 0.4800 inches, and in some embodiments, the ninth fiducial 116 is offset from the vertical insertion line 94 by about 0.4143 inches. The ninth fiducial 116 may be offset from the horizontal score line 96 by about 0.1000 inches to 0.2000 inches, and in some embodiments, the ninth fiducial 116 is offset from the horizontal score line 96 by about 0.1457 inches. The configuration that produces the secondary scribe stop formation 62 has a radius of curvature of about 0.020 inches to 0.010 inches from the ninth datum 120, as shown in fig. 12A, and in some embodiments the radius of curvature of the tool configuration is about 0.030 inches from the ninth datum 120. The termination point of the secondary score line termination feature 62 may be controlled by a termination feature angle 118 that is oriented relative to a vertical plane or line parallel to the vertical insertion line 94. In some embodiments, the terminating formation angle 118 may be between approximately 40 degrees and 70 degrees. In various embodiments, the terminal formation angle 118 is about 54 degrees.

Also shown in FIG. 12A are four section lines B-B, C-C, D-D and E-E taken at various points of the scribing tool 88. Section line B-B relates to transition check slot 110 and is shown in further detail in FIG. 12B. Section line C-C relates to the main score line 30 and the crack control score line 86 and is shown in further detail in fig. 12C. Section line D-D relates to secondary score line 58 and crack control score line 86 and is shown in further detail in fig. 12D. Cross-section line E-E relates to the check groove located near the rivet of the end cap and is shown in further detail in FIG. 12E.

Referring now to FIG. 12B, a cross-sectional view of a tool configuration that produces the transition check slot 110 of FIG. 12A is provided. Transition check groove width 120 represents the extent of transition check groove 110 along the main score line. In some embodiments, the transition check groove width 120 can be between about 0.01 inches and 0.030 inches. In various embodiments, the check slot width is about 0.025 inches. Transition check groove depth 122 represents the additional remaining amount of transition check groove 110 above the main score line. The remaining amount is the amount of material between the public side of the end cap and the content side of the end cap. The transition check slot 110 typically has a large residual amount to slow or stop propagation of the crack along the score line (e.g., the main score line). In some embodiments, the transition check groove depth 122 may be between about 0.0010 inches and 0.0100 inches. In various embodiments, the transition check groove depth 122 is approximately 0.0044 inches.

As discussed elsewhere herein, the transition check slot 110 can have various cross-sectional profiles. For example, the contour of the transition check groove 110 may be a curved contour and connected to the main score line rather than a discrete change in remaining depth, as shown in FIG. 12B. The profile of the transition check slot 110 may be substantially defined by a radius of curvature, an nth order polynomial, and the like. The transition check slot 110 can also have various cross-sectional profiles when viewed along the length of the main score line and the check slot.

Referring now to fig. 12C, a cross-sectional view of the tool configuration producing the scribe lines 30, 86 taken along line C-C in fig. 12A is provided. The main score line 30 produced by the scoring tool 88 in fig. 12C is deeper than the crack control score line 86. Thus, the main score line 30 portion of the scoring tool 88 is larger than the crack resistant score line 86 portion. The score separation 124 between the primary score 30 and the crack control score 86 may be about 0.050 inches. The main score width 126 may be between about 0.0010 inches and 0.0015 inches and the rip score width 128 may be between about 0.0015 inches and 0.0020 inches.

The master scribe depth 130 and corresponding height of the tool configuration creating the master scribe may be between about 0.0100 inches and 0.0110 inches. Since the crack resistant score line 86 is generally shallower than the primary score line 30, the score offset 132 represents a score depth difference between the primary score line 30 and the crack resistant score line 86. The score offset 132 may be between about 0.0020 inches and 0.0022 inches. The score line radius 134 is the radius of the fillet between the tool configuration and the tool surface that creates the crack resistant score line 86, which in this embodiment has a radius of curvature of about 0.005 inches. One wall of the tool configuration that creates the primary score 30 forms an angle with the rest of the tool that is the score side angle 136, which in this embodiment may be about 25 °. The two walls of the tool configuration that create the primary score 30 form an angle with the tool that is the total score angle 138, and since the walls of the tool configuration are left-right symmetric in this embodiment, the total score angle 138 may be about 50 °.

Referring now to fig. 12D, a cross-sectional view of the tool configuration producing the scribe lines 58, 86 taken along line D-D in fig. 12A is provided. The tool configuration shown in the figures that created the crack resistant score line 86 terminates and is lowered back into the tool (or end cap surface of the end cap that is ultimately formed). In addition, the illustrated tool configuration that produces the second score line 58 transitions to a secondary score line termination configuration 62 before being lowered back into the tool (or capping surface of the end cap that is ultimately formed). In the embodiment of fig. 12D, the tool configuration that creates the secondary score lines 58 terminates in a build radius 140, the build radius 140 having a radius of curvature between about 0.010 inches and 0.015 inches.

Referring now to fig. 12E, a cross-sectional view of a tool configuration to create an alternative undercut portion of the main score line is provided, taken along line E-E of fig. 12A. The cross-sectional line is offset from the vertical insertion line by a check slot angle 142, which in this embodiment may be about 10 °. With this check slot angle 142, the center of the tool configuration creating the check slot is offset from the rivet 42 by an amount equal to the distance to the check slot midpoint 144, which in this embodiment may be about 0.208 inches. The check slot length 146 (which is the length of the tool configuration in fig. 12E) may be about 0.160 inches. The check grooves typically have a shallower depth than the main score line to inhibit propagation of cracks along the main score line. The check groove relative depth 148 is the difference in depth between the main score line and the check groove. In this embodiment, the check groove relative depth 148 may be between about 0.0016 inches and 0.0018 inches.

Referring now to fig. 13A, there is provided a detailed top plan view of the "Y" region of the scribing tool 88 of fig. 11. Horizontal rivet lines 92, vertical insert lines 94, and horizontal score lines 96 are provided as references for various reference points on the tool. A tenth datum 150 is located at the intersection of the vertical insert line 94 and the horizontal score line 96. The tool configuration that creates the primary score line 30 has a radius of curvature of about 0.089 inches from the tenth datum point 150. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature may be between about 0.020 inches and 0.150 inches. The tool configuration that creates the crack stop score 86 has a radius of curvature of about 0.129 inches from the tenth datum point 150. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature may be between about 0.080 inches and 0.180 inches.

The eleventh reference point 152 may be offset from the vertical insertion line 94 by about 0.0908 inches and may be offset from the horizontal score line 96 by about 0.1181 inches. The tool configuration that creates the rip fence 86 has a radius of curvature of about 0.020 inches from the eleventh reference point 152. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature may be between about 0.010 inches and 0.050 inches.

The twelfth datum point 154 may be offset from the vertical insertion line 94 by about 0.1508 inches and may be offset from the horizontal score line 96 by about 0.1447 inches. The tool configuration that produces the primary score line 30 has a radius of curvature of about 0.120 inches from the twelfth reference point 154. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature may be between about 0.050 inches and 0.200 inches.

The thirteenth reference point 156 may be offset from the vertical insertion line 94 by about 0.1589 inches and may be offset from the horizontal score line 96 by about 0.0822 inches. The tool configuration that creates the primary score line 30 has a radius of curvature of about 0.057 inches from the thirteenth reference point 156. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature may be between about 0.020 inches and 0.100 inches.

Two section lines B-B and C-C are oriented around the thirteenth datum point 156 and these show the transition between the main score line and the crack control score line. Section line B-B corresponds to the tool configuration that produces the main score line and section line C-C corresponds to the tool configuration that produces the crack resistant score line. The first angle 158 is the angle between two cross-sectional lines, and in this embodiment, the first angle may be about 107.21 °. The second angle 160 is oriented at the first angle relative to the horizontal score line 96, and in this embodiment, the second angle may be about 45 °.

Referring now to fig. 13B, a cross-sectional view of the tool configuration creating the main scribe line, taken along line B-B, is provided. As previously described, the main scribe depth 128, and correspondingly the height of the tool configuration that created the main scribe, may be between about 0.0100 inches and 0.0110 inches.

Referring now to fig. 13C, a cross-sectional view of a tool configuration along line C-C that creates a crack resistant scribe is provided. The crack initiation score depth 162 may be between about 0.0088 inches and 0.0100 inches. The transition between the crack prevention score line of fig. 13C and the main score line of fig. 13B may take various shapes. The transition may be only a linear transition between two scribe depths. However, it should be understood that the transition may be in the form of a curve, a curve about a radius, a polynomial in the form of an nth order, or a discrete transition between two scribe depths without any transition, and so forth.

Referring now to fig. 14A, there is provided a top plan view of a tool having the physical characteristics of forming primary score lines, secondary score lines and notches 164. The notch 164 allows for orientation of the tool when the tool is used in a production process. Horizontal insert lines 90 and horizontal rivet lines 92 are provided on the top surface of the tool. The notch 164 is located on the vertical insertion line and may be offset from the horizontal insertion line 90 by approximately 0.875 inches. The radius of notch 164 may be between about 0.1885 inches and 0.1890 inches. Section line C-C on the vertical insertion line is also provided in fig. 14A. This section line C-C is explained in more detail below with reference to fig. 14C.

Also shown in fig. 14A is an indexing configuration, which in this embodiment is a flat edge of the tool. The indexing feature width 166 may be about 0.75 inches and the indexing feature offset 168 may be about 0.72 inches.

Referring now to fig. 14B, a side elevational view of the scribing tool of fig. 14A is provided. The bottom of the tool has a widened flanged base. In the embodiment of fig. 14B, the flange width 170 of the tool may be between about 1.623 inches and 1.625 inches.

Referring now to fig. 14C, a cross-sectional view of the scribing tool taken along the line C-C of fig. 14A is provided. The flange of the tool described above with reference to fig. 14B may have a tool flange height 172 of about 0.25 inches. On the left in fig. 14C, the next part of the tool is a lip. The tool lip width 174 is about 1.380 inches and the tool lip height 176 may be about 0.08 inches higher than the tool flange. The next part of the tool is the slot. The tool gap width 178 may be about 1.34 inches, the tool gap height 180 may be about 0.37 inches, and the tool gap radius 182 may have a radius of curvature of about 0.02 inches.

The overall height of the tool 184 (not including the score lines) may be about 0.8933 inches. The overall width of the tool 186 is between about 1.374 inches and 1.375 inches. When a primary score line is included, the overall height of the tool 188 is approximately 0.9043 inches. Also included in fig. 14C is a detail region "Z" corresponding to the rivet portion of the tool.

Referring now to fig. 14D, a detailed cross-sectional view of the "Z" region of the scribing tool of fig. 14C is provided. Where a rivet diameter 190 is provided, in this embodiment, the rivet diameter 190 may be between about 0.137 inches and 0.139 inches. The rivet offset 192 is the distance between the rivet center and the main score line, and in this embodiment, the rivet offset 192 may be approximately 0.077 inches. Finally, the edges of the rivet grooves are chamfered. In this embodiment, the rivet chamfer 194 may be approximately 25 °.

Referring now to fig. 14E, there is provided a perspective view of a scribing tool 88 comprising the configuration described in fig. 11 to 14D.

The foregoing disclosure is illustrative and descriptive only. The foregoing is not intended to limit the disclosure to the forms specifically disclosed herein. For example, in the foregoing detailed description, various features of the disclosure are grouped together in one or more embodiments for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed disclosure requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus the following claims are hereby incorporated into the detailed description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate preferred embodiment of the disclosure.

In addition, while the present disclosure includes a description of one or more embodiments and certain variations and modifications, other variations and modifications are within the scope of the disclosure, e.g., using disposable components comprising some or all of the devices described herein, as would be within the skill and knowledge of one skilled in the art after understanding the present disclosure. The invention is intended to obtain rights which include alternative embodiments to the extent permitted, including alternate, interchangeable and/or equivalent structures, functions, ranges or steps to those claimed, whether or not such alternate, interchangeable and/or equivalent structures, functions, ranges or steps are disclosed herein, and without intending to publicly dedicate any patentable subject matter.

Claims

1. A container end closure having a bead adapted for attachment to a neck of a container, comprising:

a central panel;

a pull tab comprising a nose and a tail, the pull tab adapted to apply a downward force to a predetermined portion of the central panel;

a rivet operatively connecting the pull tab to the upper surface of the central panel and allowing the pull tab to rotate;

a first opening defined at least in part by a first severable score line;

a second vent portion at least partially defined by a second severable score line and wherein the second severable score line is disposed on a common line, the first severable score line is disposed on the common line, and the common line has a radius of curvature, wherein the first opening portion and the second vent portion are disposed adjacent to form a larger combined opening; and

a transition between the first severable score line and the second severable score line adapted to inhibit propagation of a crack from the first severable score line into the second severable score line, and wherein the nose portion of the pull tab is selectively movable between a first position over the first opening portion and a second position over the second vent portion so as to open the first opening portion and second vent portion as the nose portion of the pull tab is pushed downwardly.

2. The container end closure of claim 1, wherein said transition is free of any score lines, said transition being disposed on said common line.

3. The container end closure of claim 1, wherein said transition is a check groove having a length between an end of said first severable score line and an end of said second severable score line, the check groove having a predetermined score line residual amount different from the score line residual amount of the first severable score line, wherein said transition is disposed on said common line.

4. The container end closure of claim 3, wherein said score residual of said check groove is greater than said score residual of said first severable score line.

5. The container end closure of claim 3, wherein said length of said check slot is approximately 0.0140 inches.

6. The container end closure of claim 3, wherein said check slot has a width of between 0.010 inches and 0.025 inches.

7. The container end closure of claim 1, further comprising:

an anti-cracking score line disposed substantially parallel to the first severable score line on the first opening portion and disposed substantially parallel to the second severable score line on the second vent portion.

8. The container end closure of claim 1, wherein said central panel comprises a rotation guide recessed area adapted to limit rotation of said pull tab in a direction substantially parallel to said central panel.

9. A method of opening a container end closure having a first open portion and a second vent portion, comprising:

positioning a pull tab connected to a center panel of the end closure by a rivet to a first open position;

lifting a trailing end of the pull tab to exert a first downward force on the first opening portion of the center panel to shear a first score line to a transition portion and form a first opening in the center panel, wherein the first score line and the transition portion have different score line remnants;

repositioning the pull tab to a second opening position; and

lifting the trailing end of the tab to exert a second downward force on the second vent portion to shear the transition between the first score and second score and to shear the second score to form a second vent in the central panel, wherein the first score is disposed on a line and the second score is disposed on the line, wherein the transition and the second score have different score residuals, and wherein the first opening portion and the second vent portion are integrally interconnected to form a larger opening than the first opening or the second vent.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the transition is devoid of any score lines, wherein the transition is disposed on the same line as the first score line and the second score line.

11. The method of claim 9, wherein the transition is a check slot extending between an end of the first score line and an end of the second score line.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the score residual of the check groove is greater than the score residual of the first score.

13. The method of claim 9, wherein the first score line and the second score line are disposed on the same line having a radius of curvature.

14. The method of claim 9, wherein the pull tab is repositioned by rotating the pull tab in a plane substantially parallel to the central panel.

15. The method of claim 9, wherein the central panel includes a rotation guide recessed area adapted to limit rotation of the pull tab in a direction substantially parallel to the central panel.

16. The method of claim 9, further comprising:

repositioning the pull tab on an additional second vent portion by rotating or twisting the pull tab in at least a plane substantially parallel to the central panel, wherein a user may exert a downward force on the additional second vent portion to form an additional second vent in the central panel.

17. A container end closure having a bead adapted for attachment to a neck of a container, comprising:

a central panel;

a pull tab comprising a nose and a tail, the pull tab adapted to exert a downward force on the central panel;

a rivet operatively connecting the pull tab to the upper surface of the central panel and allowing the pull tab to be repositioned between a primary position for opening the primary opening and a secondary position for opening the secondary vent portion;

the main opening defined at least in part by a main severable score line;

the second vent portion defined at least in part by a second severable score line; and

a check groove located between the main cuttable scribe line and the second cuttable scribe line, the check groove being adapted to suppress propagation of a crack from the main cuttable scribe line into the second cuttable scribe line, the check groove being a scribe line having a scribe line residual amount different from a scribe line residual amount of the main cuttable scribe line and a scribe line residual amount of the second cuttable scribe line, and the main cuttable scribe line, the second cuttable scribe line, and the check groove being arranged on a common line.

18. The container end closure of claim 17, wherein said second severable score line is an extension of said primary severable score line.

19. The container end closure of claim 17, wherein said common lines have a radius of curvature.

20. The container end closure of claim 17, wherein said score residual of said check groove is greater than said score residual of said primary severable score line.