CN118284568A - Pressure relief assembly and method - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure relates generally to an exhaust system including a cover or base having a central wall defining a central longitudinal axis and a total radius measured from the longitudinal axis to an outermost surface of the cover or base. The exhaust system further includes a pressure relief feature disposed along the cover or base. The pressure relief feature includes at least a first vent feature defining a thinned region of the cover or base, a vent radius measured from the longitudinal axis to an outermost extent of the first vent feature, and the vent radius being between about 5% and about 25% of a total radius of the cover or base.

Description

Pressure relief assembly and method

Cross Reference to Related Applications

The present application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional application No. 62/282,067 entitled "PRESSURE RELIEF ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS [ pressure relief assembly and method ]" filed on day 22 of 11 of 2021 and U.S. patent application No. 17/991,115 entitled "PRESSURE RELIEF ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS [ pressure relief assembly and method ]" filed on day 21 of 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to a lid or base for a container having one or more pressure relief features to allow venting and depressurization of the container.

Background

Various types of containers or cans are used to hold or contain contents that may be initially pressurized or may become pressurized over time. For example, an aerosol canister may be pressurized with aerosol and this initial pressurization may be maintained until the user releases the aerosol, thereby reducing the pressure within the aerosol canister. In some examples, the container may be pressurized and the initial level of pressurization may be maintained throughout the life of the contents of the container. In other examples, the container may become pressurized over time due to one or more factors that cause the container to become pressurized (such as a chemical reaction occurring within the container).

In any of the above pressurized situations, one or more features may be built into or along one or more portions of the container, which may allow venting of the container if venting is desired. In the event that the pressure within the container increases after the container has been initially sealed, a venting feature may be included to prevent over pressurization of the container, which could result in uncontrolled release of the contents from within the container.

While the various venting features present provide venting or depressurizing of containers including contents that become pressurized over time, there is a need for improved apparatus and methods that can allow for more controlled depressurization based on predetermined factors associated with the contents of a particular container.

Disclosure of Invention

Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to an exhaust system including a cover or base including a central wall defining a central longitudinal axis and a total radius measured from the longitudinal axis to an outermost surface of the cover or base, and a pressure relief feature disposed along the cover or base. The pressure relief feature includes at least a first vent feature defining a thinned region of the cover or base, a vent radius measured from the longitudinal axis to an outermost extent of the first vent feature, and the vent radius is between about 5% and about 25% of a total radius of the cover or base, expressed as a percentage.

In some embodiments, the pressure relief feature further includes a second venting feature that also defines a thinned region of the lid or base. In some embodiments, the first and second venting features are concavely shaped relative to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the first and second vent features are convexly shaped relative to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the first exhaust characteristic is a mirror image of the second exhaust characteristic. In some embodiments, the first and second exhaust characteristics define a v-shape.

In some embodiments, the exhaust system further includes a third exhaust feature that also defines a thinned region of the lid or base. In some embodiments, the first, second, and third exhaust characteristics define a v-shape. In some embodiments, the first venting feature is comprised of a circular recess disposed only on the underside of the lid or base. In some embodiments, the exhaust radius is between about 10% and about 22% of the total radius of the cover or base.

In some embodiments, the exhaust system includes a cover or base including a central wall defining a central longitudinal axis and a total radius measured from the longitudinal axis to an outermost periphery of the cover or base, and a pressure relief feature disposed along the cover or base. In some embodiments, the pressure relief feature comprises at least a first vent feature defining a thinned region of the cover or base, a vent radius measured from the longitudinal axis to an outermost extent of the first vent feature, the vent radius being less than about 40% of a total radius of the cover or base, expressed as a percentage, and the thinned region defining a region thickness of less than about 40% of a maximum thickness of the center wall, expressed as a percentage.

In some embodiments, the pressure relief feature further includes a second venting feature spaced apart from the first venting feature. In some embodiments, the first exhaust characteristic and the second exhaust characteristic are mirror images of each other. In some embodiments, the first and second exhaust features define a curved section. In some embodiments, the first and second exhaust characteristics define a v-shape. In some embodiments, the pressure relief feature further comprises a third venting feature. In some embodiments, the thinned region extends through the central longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the first exhaust characteristic defines an s-shape. In some embodiments, the minimum venting distance of the pressure relief feature is less than about 20% of the total radius of the cover or base. In some embodiments, the minimum venting distance of the pressure relief feature is less than about 50% of the total radius of the cover or base.

Drawings

FIG. 1 is a bottom isometric view of a lid or base for a container having a first embodiment of a pressure relief feature;

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional side view of the cover or base taken through line 2-2 of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a bottom isometric view of a lid or base for a container having a second embodiment of a pressure relief feature;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional side view of the cover or base taken through line 4-4 of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a bottom isometric view of a lid or base for a container having a third embodiment of a pressure relief feature;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional side view of the cover or base taken through line 6-6 of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a bottom isometric view of a lid or base for a container having a fourth embodiment of a pressure relief feature;

FIG. 8 is a bottom view of a lid or base for a container similar to the lid or base for a container of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional side view of the cover or base taken through line 9-9 of FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a bottom isometric view of a lid or base for a container having a fifth embodiment of a pressure relief feature;

FIG. 11 is a bottom view of a lid or base for a container similar to the lid or base for a container of FIG. 9;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional side view of the cover or base taken through line 12-12 of FIG. 10;

FIG. 13 is a bottom isometric view of a lid or base for a container having a sixth embodiment of a pressure relief feature;

FIG. 14 is a bottom view of the lid or base for the container of FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a bottom isometric view of a lid or base for a container having a seventh embodiment of a pressure relief feature;

FIG. 16 is a bottom view of the cover or base of FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is a bottom view of a lid or base for a container similar to the lid or base for a container of FIGS. 15 and 16;

FIG. 18 is a bottom isometric view of a lid or base for a container having an eighth embodiment of a pressure relief feature;

FIG. 19 is a bottom view of the cover or base of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is a bottom view of a lid or base for a container similar to the lid or base for a container of FIGS. 18 and 19;

FIG. 21 is a bottom isometric view of a lid or base for a container having a ninth embodiment of a pressure relief feature;

FIG. 22 is a bottom view of the cover or base of FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 is a bottom view of a lid or base for a container similar to the lid or base for a container of FIGS. 20 and 21;

FIG. 24A is an isometric cross-sectional view of a first profile of a pressure relief feature that may be applied to any of the covers or bases of FIGS. 1-23;

FIG. 24B is an enlarged side view of a first profile of the pressure relief feature of FIG. 24A;

FIG. 25A is an isometric cross-sectional view of a second profile of a pressure relief feature that may be applied to any of the covers or bases of FIGS. 1-23;

FIG. 25B is an enlarged side view of a second profile of the pressure relief feature of FIG. 25A;

FIG. 26A is an isometric cross-sectional view of a third profile of a pressure relief feature that may be applied to any of the covers or bases of FIGS. 1-23;

FIG. 26B is an enlarged side view of a third profile of the pressure relief feature of FIG. 26A;

FIG. 27A is an isometric cross-sectional view of a fourth profile of a pressure relief feature that may be applied to any of the covers or bases of FIGS. 1-23; and

Fig. 27B is an enlarged side view of a fourth profile of the pressure relief feature of fig. 27A.

Detailed Description

Before the embodiments of the disclosure are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of "including" and "comprising" and variations thereof is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items and equivalents thereof. Throughout this disclosure, the terms "about" and "approximately" refer to a value of plus or minus 5% of the value preceding each term.

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a lid or base that is coupled to or forms a container. The lid or base may include a lid, plate, or other type of closure for closing the contents of the container, with one or more pressure relief or venting features to allow for controlled and targeted pressure relief when a maximum pressure threshold has been reached within the container. Upon reaching a maximum pressure, the cover or base ruptures at one or more locations along the corresponding pressure relief feature to allow for reduced pressure. The venting or pressure relief features described herein may be implemented in a variety of technologies, including applications related to aerosol containers, cell containers, capacitors, fuel reservoirs, and pressure containers. In each of the above applications, pressure relief may be required due to pressure build-up within the container, and once the maximum pressure threshold has been reached, the venting features disclosed herein may allow for depressurization or venting.

Through Finite Element Analysis (FEA) of various pressure relief feature configurations, it has been discovered that certain configurations and orientations of the pressure relief vent provide highly localized and targeted pressure relief once a maximum pressure threshold has been reached within the container. The present disclosure includes various configurations of pressure relief features on a circular cap or base configured to rupture once a maximum pressure threshold has been reached. The maximum pressure threshold for the various configurations described herein may vary based on the location, spacing, and number of pressure relief features provided along the cover or base. However, all of the pressure relief features disclosed herein are disposed entirely within an exhaust radius that is greater than 10% and less than 25% of the total radius of the lid or base, as measured from the central longitudinal axis of the lid or base. By providing the venting features discussed below, a controlled and targeted pressure release may be achieved at a location spaced from the peripheral rim of the lid or base, and thus the container to which the lid or base is coupled.

Referring particularly to fig. 1 and 2, a first embodiment of a cap or base 40 having a pressure relief feature 42 is shown. The lid or base 40 includes a first or outer wall 44 configured for engagement with a container (not shown), a second or intermediate wall 46 extending radially upward and inward from the outer wall 44, and a third or central wall 48 extending radially inward from the intermediate wall 46. The pressure relief feature 42 is disposed within the central wall 48 or along the central wall 48, and a central longitudinal axis 50 extends centrally through the central wall 48. Referring to fig. 2, the outer wall 44 includes a first or outermost portion 54, a second or intermediate portion 56, and a third or innermost portion 58, the portions 54, 56, 58 of the outer wall 44 in combination defining a U-shaped cross-section. The portions 54, 56, 58 are configured to be crimped or otherwise coupled with a container (not shown). The portions 54, 56, 58 are separated by corners or fillets 60, the corners or fillets 60 defining respective portions 54, 56, 58 of the outer wall 44. The intermediate wall 46 also intersects the outer wall 44 at one of the corners 60 and extends inwardly at a constant angle until the intermediate wall 46 intersects the central wall 48. The outermost portion 54 of the outer wall 44 also defines an outermost surface or rim that defines the perimeter of the lid or base 40.

With particular reference to FIG. 2, the outer wall 44 defines an outer wall thickness 64, the intermediate wall 46 defines an intermediate wall thickness 66, and the center wall 48 defines a center wall thickness 68. In some embodiments, the center wall thickness 68, the intermediate wall thickness 66, and the outer wall thickness 64 may be the same or may be different. Still further, the portions 54, 56, 58 of the outer wall 44 may define the same thickness, or the thicknesses may be different. Since all of the pressure relief features are disposed within the central wall 48, as discussed below, the maximum thickness of the central wall thickness 68 is discussed below with respect to the various proportions of the pressure relief features 42. Further, a first or inner surface 70 and a second or outer surface 72 of the cover or base 40 are further shown in fig. 2 and each extend along the entirety of the outer wall 44, the intermediate wall 46 and the center wall 48. Also shown is an outermost portion 54 of the outer wall 44 that defines the outermost surface of the cover or base 40. Still further, the cover or base 40 of fig. 1 and 2 is identical to the cover or base 40 of fig. 3-23, unless otherwise indicated.

Referring again to fig. 1, the pressure relief feature 42 is shown in perspective view and includes a first venting feature or recess 76 and a second venting feature or recess 78 that is a mirror image of the first venting feature 76. Both the first and second vent features 76, 78 are concavely curved relative to the longitudinal axis 50. The first and second exhaust features 76, 78 each extend radially about 90 ° about the central longitudinal axis 50. In some embodiments, the first and second exhaust features 76, 78 may each extend about the central longitudinal axis 50, between about 30 ° and about 150 °, or between about 60 ° and about 120 °, or between about 75 ° and about 105 °, about the central longitudinal axis 50. In some embodiments, the first and second exhaust features 76, 78 may each extend less than about 150 °, or less than about 140 °, or less than about 130 °, or less than about 120 °, or less than about 110 °, or less than about 100 °, or less than about 90 °, or less than about 80 °, or less than about 70 °, or less than about 60 °, or less than about 50 °, or less than about 40 °, or less than about 30 °, or less than about 20 °, or less than about 10 °, about the longitudinal axis 50.

Referring to fig. 2, the pressure relief feature 42 is shown in cross-section and is generally located in the central wall 48 of the lid or base 40 or along the central wall 48. As described above, the pressure relief feature 42 includes the first and second venting features 76, 78 and defines a thinned region 80 between the inner and outer surfaces 70, 72 that is configured to rupture to release pressure from the lid or base 40 when necessary. As discussed below and shown in detail in fig. 24A-27B, the thinned regions 80 each have a region thickness 82 that is less than about 20% of the maximum thickness of the center wall thickness 68 and include one or more notch contours discussed below. In some embodiments, the zone thickness 82 may vary along one or both of the first exhaust feature 76 and the second exhaust feature 78. In some embodiments, the area thickness 82 of the first exhaust feature 76 is greater than the area thickness 82 of the second exhaust feature 78. In some embodiments, the zone thickness 82 may increase between the first end and the second end of the first exhaust feature 76 or the second exhaust feature 78. By varying the zone thickness, the pressure relief feature 42 can be adjusted or controlled for programmable rupture. The characteristics of the region thickness 82 of fig. 1 and 2 apply to all of the region thickness 82 of the pressure relief feature 42 discussed below.

Still referring to fig. 2, the central longitudinal axis 50 extends centrally through the central wall 48, and in this embodiment, the cover or base 40 is symmetrical about the central longitudinal axis 50 in at least two directions. In some embodiments, the cover or base 40 is symmetrical about the longitudinal axis 50 in at least three, or four, or five, or more directions. The central longitudinal axis 50 is shown extending centrally through the cover or base 40 and shows a straight section or total radius 86 of the cover or base 40 measured perpendicularly from the longitudinal axis 50 to an outermost surface 88 of the cover or base 40. Further, a discharge radius 90 is shown, measured perpendicularly from the longitudinal axis 50 to the outermost position of the pressure relief feature 42. Although the exhaust radius 90 is shown as being less than about 18% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, the exhaust radius 90 may be less than about 25% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 20% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 15% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 10% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50. The exhaust radius 90 may vary about the longitudinal axis 50, or the exhaust radius 90 may be a constant radius.

Referring now to fig. 3 and 4, a second embodiment cap or base 40 having a pressure relief feature 42 is shown. In a manner similar to that described above with respect to fig. 1 and 2, the pressure relief feature 42 includes a first vent feature 76 and a second vent feature 78, which is a mirror image of the first vent feature 76. Both the first and second vent features 76, 78 are convexly curved relative to the central longitudinal axis 50. The first and second vent features 76, 78 each define an outwardly shaped curved arc, and each extend radially about 90 ° about the longitudinal axis 50. In some embodiments, the first and second exhaust features 76, 78 may each extend about the central longitudinal axis 50, between about 30 ° and about 150 °, or between about 60 ° and about 120 °, or between about 75 ° and about 105 °, about the longitudinal axis 50. In some embodiments, the first and second exhaust features 76, 78 may each extend less than about 150 °, or less than about 140 °, or less than about 130 °, or less than about 120 °, or less than about 110 °, or less than about 100 °, or less than about 90 °, or less than about 80 °, or less than about 70 °, or less than about 60 °, or less than about 50 °, or less than about 40 °, or less than about 30 °, or less than about 20 °, or less than about 10 °, around the central longitudinal axis 50.

Referring to fig. 4, the pressure relief feature 42 is shown in cross-section and is generally located in the central wall 48 of the lid or base 40 or along the central wall 48. The first and second venting features 76, 78 define a thinned region 80 between the inner surface 70 and the outer surface 72 that is configured to rupture if necessary to release pressure from the lid or base 40. As shown in detail in fig. 24A-27B, thinned regions 80 each have a region thickness 82 that is less than about 20% of the maximum thickness of center wall thickness 68. As described above, the zone thickness 82 may be adjusted based on the desired properties of the pressure relief feature 42.

Still referring to fig. 4, in this embodiment, because the pressure relief features 42 are mirror images of each other, the cover or base 40 is symmetrical about the central longitudinal axis 50 in at least two directions. The longitudinal axis 50 is shown extending centrally through the cover or base 40 and shows a straight section or radius 86 of the cover or base 40 measured perpendicularly from the longitudinal axis 50 to an outermost surface 88 of the cover or base 40. Further, a discharge radius 90 is shown, which in this embodiment is measured perpendicularly from the longitudinal axis 50 to the innermost position of the pressure relief feature 42. In this sense, the exhaust radius 90 of the present embodiment is the minimum exhaust radius or the inner exhaust radius, while the exhaust radius 90 of fig. 1 and 2 is measured as the maximum exhaust radius or the outer exhaust radius. In some embodiments, such as the embodiments of fig. 5-12 discussed below, the exhaust radius 90 defines a constant radius about the longitudinal axis 50.

Although the exhaust radius 90 of fig. 4 is shown as being less than about 16% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, the exhaust radius 90 may be less than about 25% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 20% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 15% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 10% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50. The distance is taken along a straight line segment or radius 86 relative to the outermost surface 88 of the outer wall 44 taken along that particular straight line segment. In the present embodiment, the inner exhaust radius 90 varies about the longitudinal axis 50 due to the convex arrangement of the first and second exhaust features 76, 78 relative to the central longitudinal axis 50.

The concavely and convexly shaped first and second venting features 76, 78 of fig. 1-4 are configured to allow directional venting within a compact profile extending in the direction of the central longitudinal axis 50. Once rupture has occurred, the contents of the container may create a vent cone (not shown) and the concavely/convexly shaped vent features 76, 78 provide a vent cone with a lower cone angle. For example, the venting features 76, 78 may provide a taper angle of less than about 30 °, or less than about 25 °, or less than about 20 °, or less than about 15 °, or less than about 10 °, or less than about 5 °, i.e., an angle between the longitudinal axis and a side (leg) of the taper. The vent cone may be defined as a cone comprising at least 95% of the particles dispersed from the container by one or both of the vent features 76, 78.

Still further, the concavely and convexly shaped first and second vent features 76, 78 may be modified to allow programmable directional venting and may be configured for controlled venting in a direction that is angled relative to the central longitudinal axis 50. In particular, the concavely shaped venting features 76, 78 of fig. 1 and 2 allow venting in a direction toward the longitudinal axis 50 (i.e., inward direction) via one or both of the venting features 76, 78. The convexly shaped venting features 76, 78 of fig. 3 and 4 allow venting in a direction that moves away from the central longitudinal axis 50 (i.e., an outward direction). However, the location and arrangement of all of the venting features 76, 78 of fig. 1-4 allows for a cone angle with a compact profile that allows venting along the central longitudinal axis 50, and the concavity or convexity of the venting features allows for more targeted venting. Still further, the time of evacuation of the contents from within the container may be controlled based on the arrangement, size, and curvature of the venting features 76, 78.

Referring now to fig. 5-12, an embodiment of a pressure relief feature 42 applied to a cover or base 40 is shown. The pressure relief feature 42 of fig. 5-12 includes only a circular first venting feature 76. The first venting feature 76 of fig. 5-12 has a center that is collinear with the longitudinal axis 50. The first venting feature 76 includes a thinned region 80 between the inner surface 70 and the outer surface 72, the thinned region 80 configured to rupture if necessary to release pressure from the lid or base 40. The center wall thickness 68 and the region thickness 82 are similar or identical to the center wall thickness and the region thickness described above with respect to fig. 1 and 2. With particular reference to fig. 5-7, 9, 10 and 12, the pressure relief feature 42 is continuously formed about the central wall 48 of the cover or base 40, i.e., 360 ° about the longitudinal axis 50. In contrast, and with reference to fig. 8 and 11, the pressure relief feature 42 is disposed about 275 ° about the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the pressure relief feature 42 may be disposed about the central longitudinal axis 50 between about 150 ° and about 350 °, or between about 200 ° and about 325 °, or between about 250 ° and about 300 °, or between about 260 ° and about 290 °. In this embodiment and referring to fig. 24A-27B, thinned regions 80 each have a region thickness 82 that is less than about 20% of the maximum thickness of center wall thickness 68. The zone thickness 82 may be adjusted based on the desired properties of the pressure relief feature 42.

With particular reference to fig. 5 and 6, since the compression release feature 42 extends entirely about the longitudinal axis 50, the cover or base 40 and the compression release feature 42 are radially symmetric about the longitudinal axis 50. The longitudinal axis 50 is shown extending centrally through the cover or base 40 and shows a straight section or total radius 86 of the cover or base 40 measured perpendicularly from the longitudinal axis 50 to an outermost surface 88 of the cover or base 40. Further, a vent radius 90 is shown, measured perpendicularly from the longitudinal axis 50 to the location of the pressure relief feature 42. Because the pressure relief feature 42 defines a circle, the exhaust radius 90 is constant about the entire longitudinal axis 50. Although the exhaust radius 90 is shown as being less than about 11% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, the exhaust radius 90 may be less than about 25% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 20% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 15% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 10% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50. In the present embodiment, the exhaust radius 90 is constant about the longitudinal axis 50 because the first exhaust feature 76 defines a circular shape.

Referring now to fig. 7 and 9, since the compression release feature 42 extends entirely around the longitudinal axis 50, the cover or base 40 and the compression release feature 42 are also radially symmetric about the longitudinal axis 50. The longitudinal axis 50 is shown extending centrally through the cover or base 40 and shows a straight section or total radius 86 of the cover or base 40 measured perpendicularly from the longitudinal axis 50 to an outermost surface 88 of the cover or base 40. Further, a vent radius 90 is shown, measured perpendicularly from the longitudinal axis 50 to the location of the pressure relief feature 42. Because the pressure relief feature 42 defines a circle, the exhaust radius 90 is constant about the entire longitudinal axis 50. Although the exhaust radius 90 is shown as being less than about 18% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, the exhaust radius 90 may be less than about 25% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 20% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 15% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 10% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50. In the present embodiment, the exhaust radius 90 is constant about the longitudinal axis 50 because the first exhaust feature 76 defines a circular shape.

Referring to fig. 8, the cover or base 40 and the pressure relief feature 42 are similar to the cover or base 40 and the pressure relief feature 42 of fig. 7 and 9, but differ in that the pressure relief feature 42 does not extend entirely about the central longitudinal axis 50. As described above, the pressure relief feature 42 of fig. 8 is disposed about 275 ° about the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the pressure relief feature 42 may be disposed about the central longitudinal axis 50 between about 150 ° and about 350 °, or between about 200 ° and about 325 °, or between about 250 ° and about 300 °, or between about 260 ° and about 290 °. Still referring to fig. 8, vent ramps 92 are provided at the beginning and end of the pressure relief feature 42, these vent ramps being shown in the form of gradually narrowing portions at the distal end of the pressure relief feature 42. The shape of the vent chamfer 92 is generally trapezoidal when viewed from below, but the vent chamfer 92 may define other shapes, such as triangular, square, rectangular, or another polygonal shape. Vent chamfer 92 may be formed by a manufacturing process and may define a variety of different taper angles depending on the recess depth and configuration of pressure relief feature 42.

Referring now to fig. 10 and 12, since the compression release feature 42 extends entirely about the longitudinal axis 50, the cover or base 40 and the compression release feature 42 are radially symmetric about the central longitudinal axis 50. The longitudinal axis 50 is shown extending centrally through the cover or base 40 and shows a straight section or total radius 86 of the cover or base 40 measured perpendicularly from the longitudinal axis 50 to an outermost surface 88 of the cover or base 40. Further, a discharge radius 90 is shown, measured perpendicularly from the longitudinal axis 50 to the outermost position of the pressure relief feature 42. Because the pressure relief feature 42 defines a circle, the exhaust radius 90 is constant about the entire central longitudinal axis 50. Although the exhaust radius 90 is shown as being less than about 22% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, the exhaust radius 90 may be less than about 25% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 20% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 15% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 10% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50. In the present embodiment, because the first venting feature 76 defines a circular shape, the venting radius 90 is constant about the central longitudinal axis 50.

Referring to fig. 11, the cover or base 40 and the pressure relief feature 42 are similar to the cover or base 40 and the pressure relief feature 42 of fig. 10 and 12, but differ in that the pressure relief feature 42 does not extend entirely about the central longitudinal axis 50. As described above, the pressure relief feature 42 of fig. 11 is disposed about 275 ° about the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the pressure relief feature 42 may be disposed about the central longitudinal axis 50 between about 150 ° and about 350 °, or between about 200 ° and about 325 °, or between about 250 ° and about 300 °, or between about 260 ° and about 290 °. Still referring to fig. 11, vent ramps 92 are provided at the beginning and end of the pressure relief feature 42, these vent ramps being shown in the form of gradually narrowing portions at the distal end of the pressure relief feature 42. The shape of the vent chamfer 92 is generally trapezoidal when viewed from below, but the vent chamfer 92 may define other shapes, such as triangular, square, rectangular, or another polygonal shape. Vent chamfer 92 may be formed by a manufacturing process and may define a variety of different taper angles depending on the recess depth and configuration of pressure relief feature 42.

Referring to fig. 13 and 14, another embodiment of a pressure relief feature 42 is shown. The pressure relief feature 42 includes a first venting feature 76. The first venting feature 76 of the present embodiment is an s-shaped venting feature and includes a first or lower portion 94 and a second or upper portion 96 that intersect at a inflection point. The first and second portions 94, 96 define lower and upper lobes of an s-shape (i.e., a spline-shaped and continuous section). In this embodiment, the central longitudinal axis 50 extends through the inflection point between the first portion 94 and the second portion 96. However, in other embodiments, the inflection point of the first venting feature 76 may be offset from the central longitudinal axis 50. In some embodiments, the first portion 94 and the second portion 96 may have different dimensions, may define different radii of curvature, or may extend a varying distance about the longitudinal axis 50. Referring to fig. 14, the exhaust radius 90 may be less than about 25% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 20% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 15% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 10% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50. In the present embodiment, the exhaust radius 90 extends through points along the first exhaust feature 76 furthest from the central longitudinal axis 50 that are spaced apart from the distal end of the first exhaust feature 76.

Referring now to fig. 15 and 16, another embodiment of the pressure relief feature 42 is shown. The pressure relief feature 42 includes a first venting feature 76. The first exhaust feature 76 of the present embodiment is a v-shaped exhaust feature and includes a first or left portion 94, a second or middle portion 96, and a third or right portion 98. The left portion 94 is a mirror image of the right portion 98 of the v-shaped exhaust feature, and the left portion 94 is connected to the right portion 98 via the middle portion 96. A first plane or line 100 extends through the left portion 94 and the longitudinal axis 50, and a second plane or line 102 extends through the right portion 98 and the longitudinal axis 50. The first plane 100 and the second plane 102 intersect at the longitudinal axis 50. In this embodiment, the first plane 100 extends along the entire length of the first portion 94 and the second plane 102 extends along the entire length of the third portion 98. In some embodiments, a third exhaust feature 104 (see fig. 21) may also be provided on either side of the first and second exhaust features 76, 78.

Still referring to fig. 15 and 16, the longitudinal axis 50 is shown extending centrally through the cover or base 40, and shows a straight section or total radius 86 of the cover or base 40 measured perpendicularly from the longitudinal axis 50 to an outermost surface 88 of the cover or base 40. Further, a vent radius 90 is shown, measured perpendicularly from the longitudinal axis 50 to the outermost position of the pressure relief feature 42 taken along the first line 100 or the second line 102. In the present embodiment, the exhaust radius 90 extends to a radially outermost position of the first exhaust feature 76. Thus, the exhaust radius 90 in this embodiment extends to the furthest extent of the first portion 94 or the third portion 98. Although the exhaust radius 90 is shown as being less than about 22% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, the exhaust radius 90 may be less than about 25% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 20% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 15% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 10% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50.

Still further, a minimum vent distance 106 is shown in fig. 16, which defines the closest distance between the longitudinal axis 50 and the pressure relief feature 42. The minimum exhaust distance 106 may be less than about 50% of the exhaust radius 90, less than about 40% of the exhaust radius 90, less than about 30% of the exhaust radius 90, less than about 20% of the exhaust radius 90, or less than about 15% of the exhaust radius 90, or less than about 10% of the exhaust radius 90, or less than about 7% of the exhaust radius 90, or less than about 5% of the exhaust radius 90. Still further, the minimum exhaust distance 106 may be less than about 10% of the total radius 86, or less than about 8% of the total radius 86, or less than about 6% of the total radius 86, or less than about 4% of the total radius 86, or less than about 2% of the total radius 86. The minimum exhaust distance 106 may also be greater than about 1% of the exhaust radius 90, or greater than about 1% of the total radius 86.

Referring to fig. 17, a pressure relief feature 42 is depicted that is similar to the pressure relief feature 42 of fig. 15 and 16, but defines a greater minimum vent distance 106 and a greater angle θ between the first and second lines 100, 102. The angle θ of fig. 17 is about 122 °, and the angle θ of fig. 16 is about 46 °. In some embodiments, the angle θ may be between about 20 ° and about 160 °, or between about 30 ° and 150 °, or between about 40 ° and about 140 °, or between about 50 ° and 130 °, or between about 60 ° and 120 °. Further, the minimum exhaust distance 106 of fig. 17 is about 70% of the exhaust radius 90, while the minimum exhaust distance 106 of fig. 16 is about 20% of the exhaust radius 90. In some embodiments, the minimum exhaust distance is greater than about 10%, or about 20%, or about 30%, or about 40%, or about 50%, or about 60%, or about 70%, as a percentage, of the exhaust radius 90. A first plane or line 100 extends through the first portion 94 and a second plane or line 102 extends through the right portion 98, but neither line 100, 102 extends through the longitudinal axis 50.

Referring now to fig. 18 and 19, another embodiment of the pressure relief feature 42 is shown. The pressure relief feature 42 includes a first vent feature 76 and a second vent feature 78 that is a mirror image of the first vent feature 76. The first and second exhaust features 76, 78 each include a first or left portion 94, a second or middle portion, and a third or right portion 98. The left portion 94 is a mirror image of the right portion 98 of the first and second exhaust features 76, 78, and the left portion 94 is connected to the right portion 98 via the middle portion 96. A first plane or line 100 extends through both the left portion 94 and the longitudinal axis 50, and a second plane or line 102 extends through both the right portion 98 and the longitudinal axis 50. The first plane 100 and the second plane 102 intersect at the longitudinal axis 50. In this embodiment, the first plane 100 extends along the entire length of the first portion 94 and the second plane 102 extends along the entire length of the third portion 98. The first plane 100 also extends through the first and second exhaust features 76, 78, and the second plane 102 extends through the first and second exhaust features 76, 78.

Still referring to fig. 18 and 19, the longitudinal axis 50 is shown extending centrally through the cover or base 40, and shows a straight section or total radius 86 of the cover or base 40 measured perpendicularly from the longitudinal axis 50 to an outermost surface 88 of the cover or base 40. Further, a discharge radius 90 is shown, measured perpendicularly from the longitudinal axis 50 to the outermost position of the pressure relief feature 42. In the present embodiment, the exhaust radius 90 extends to a radially outermost position of the first exhaust feature 76. Thus, the exhaust radius 90 in this embodiment extends to the furthest extent of the first portion 94 or the third portion 98 of the exhaust feature 76, 78. Although the exhaust radius 90 is shown as being less than about 22% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, the exhaust radius 90 may be less than about 25% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 20% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 15% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 10% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50.

Still further, a minimum vent distance 106 is shown in fig. 19, which defines the closest distance between the longitudinal axis 50 and the pressure relief feature 42. The minimum exhaust distance 106 may be less than about 20% of the exhaust radius 90, or less than about 15% of the exhaust radius 90, or less than about 10% of the exhaust radius 90, or less than about 7% of the exhaust radius 90, or less than about 5% of the exhaust radius 90. Still further, the minimum exhaust distance 106 may be less than about 10% of the total radius 86, or less than about 8% of the total radius 86, or less than about 6% of the total radius 86, or less than about 4% of the total radius 86, or less than about 2% of the total radius 86. The minimum exhaust distance 106 may also be greater than about 1% of the exhaust radius 90, or greater than about 1% of the total radius 86.

Referring to fig. 20, a pressure relief feature 42 is depicted that is similar to the pressure relief feature 42 of fig. 18 and 19, but defines a greater minimum vent distance 106 and a greater angle θ between the first and second lines 100, 102. The angle θ of fig. 20 is about 122 °, and the angle θ of fig. 19 is about 46 °. In some embodiments, the angle θ may be between about 20 ° and about 160 °, or between about 30 ° and 150 °, or between about 40 ° and about 140 °, or between about 50 ° and 130 °, or between about 60 ° and 120 °. Further, the minimum exhaust distance 106 of fig. 17 is about 70% of the exhaust radius 90, while the minimum exhaust distance 106 of fig. 16 is about 20% of the exhaust radius 90. In some embodiments, the minimum exhaust distance is greater than about 10%, or about 20%, or about 30%, or about 40%, or about 50%, or about 60%, or about 70%, as a percentage, of the exhaust radius 90. A first plane or line 100 extends through the first portion 94 and a second plane or line 102 extends through the right portion 98, but neither line 100, 102 extends through the longitudinal axis 50. Further, neither line 100, 102 extends through both the first exhaust feature 76 and the second exhaust feature 78.

Referring now to fig. 21 and 22, another embodiment of the pressure relief feature 42 is shown. The pressure relief feature 42 includes a first exhaust feature 76, a second exhaust feature 78, and a third exhaust feature 104. The exhaust features 76, 78, 104 include a first or left portion 94, a second or middle portion 96, and a third or right portion 98. The left portions 94 are each mirror images of the right portions 98 of the exhaust features 76, 78, 104, and the left portions 94 are connected to the right portions 98 via the intermediate portions 96. A first plane or line 100 extends through the left portion 94 of the first exhaust feature 76 and the longitudinal axis 50, and a second plane or line 102 extends through the right portion 98 of the first exhaust feature 76 and the longitudinal axis 50. The first plane 100 and the second plane 102 intersect at the longitudinal axis 50. In this embodiment, the first plane 100 extends along the entire length of the first portion 94 and the second plane 102 extends along the entire length of the third portion 98. Further, the first and second planes 100, 102 extend only through the left and right portions 94, 98 of the first exhaust feature 76, but do not extend through the respective portions of the second or third exhaust features 78, 104.

Still referring to fig. 21 and 22, the longitudinal axis 50 is shown extending centrally through the cover or base 40, and shows a straight section or total radius 86 of the cover or base 40 measured perpendicularly from the longitudinal axis 50 to an outermost surface 88 of the cover or base 40. Further, a vent radius 90 is shown, measured perpendicularly from the longitudinal axis 50 to the location of the pressure relief feature 42. In the present embodiment, the exhaust radius 90 extends to a radially outermost position of the first exhaust feature 76. Thus, the exhaust radius 90 in this embodiment extends to the furthest extent of the first portion 94 or the third portion 98. Although the exhaust radius 90 is shown as being less than about 22% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, the exhaust radius 90 may be less than about 25% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 20% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 15% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or less than about 10% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50. The embodiments of fig. 21 and 22 may also include a minimum exhaust distance 106 as described above, which may have similar parameters as those described above with respect to fig. 15 and 16 and fig. 18 and 19.

Referring to fig. 23, a pressure relief feature 42 is depicted that is similar to the pressure relief feature 42 of fig. 21 and 22, but defines a greater minimum vent distance 106 and a greater angle θ between the first and second lines 100, 102. The angle θ of fig. 20 is about 122 °, and the angle θ of fig. 19 is about 46 °. In some embodiments, the angle θ may be between about 20 ° and about 160 °, or between about 30 ° and 150 °, or between about 40 ° and about 140 °, or between about 50 ° and 130 °, or between about 60 ° and 120 °. Further, the minimum exhaust distance 106 of fig. 17 is about 70% of the exhaust radius 90, while the minimum exhaust distance 106 of fig. 16 is about 20% of the exhaust radius 90. In some embodiments, the minimum exhaust distance is greater than about 10%, or about 20%, or about 30%, or about 40%, or about 50%, or about 60%, or about 70%, as a percentage, of the exhaust radius 90. A first plane or line 100 extends through the first portion 94 and a second plane or line 102 extends through the right portion 98, but neither line 100, 102 extends through the longitudinal axis 50. Further, the first straight line 100 extends only through the first and second exhaust features 76, 78, and the second straight line 102 extends only through the first and third exhaust features 76, 104.

While the foregoing embodiments of fig. 1-23 depict the pressure relief feature 42 disposed along the central wall 48 of the cover or base 40, it is contemplated that the pressure relief feature 42 may be disposed along the intermediate wall 46 or the outer wall 44 in alternative embodiments. While the cover or base 40 is described and illustrated in the various figures as having a bottom surface or bottom side 70 and a top surface or top side 72, it should be understood that the cover or base 40 may be provided with its top side 72 and bottom side 70 in an upward or downward facing configuration and need not be limited to the orientation depicted in the figures. The lid or base 40 disclosed herein may be adapted for attachment to the upper end of a sidewall of a can or container as described above. Further, the minimum or inner exhaust radius 90 of any of the pressure relief features 42 of fig. 1-16 may be greater than about 5% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or greater than about 10% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or greater than about 15% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50, or greater than about 20% of the total radius 86 from the longitudinal axis 50.

24A-27B, any of the thinned regions 80 discussed above may have a region thickness 82 of less than about 10% of the center wall thickness 68, or a region thickness 82 of less than about 15% of the center wall thickness 68, or a region thickness 82 of less than about 25% of the center wall thickness 68, or a region thickness 82 of less than about 30% of the center wall thickness 68, or a region thickness 82 of less than about 35% of the center wall thickness 68, or a region thickness 82 of less than about 40% of the center wall thickness 68. The zone thickness 82 may be adjusted based on the desired properties of the pressure relief feature 42.

24A-27B, various profiles of pressure relief features 42 are shown that are configured to provide a varying, controlled and targeted pressure relief when a maximum pressure threshold has been reached within a container or canister to which the lid or base 40 has been applied. More specifically, the various contours of the pressure relief feature 42 define a recess that has been cut or otherwise removed from the center wall 48. A first or trapezoidal profile 110 is shown in fig. 17A and 17B, a second or triangular profile 112 is shown in fig. 18A and 18B, a third or rectangular profile 114 is shown in fig. 19A and 19B, and a fourth or rounded profile 116 is shown in fig. 20A and 20B. Referring to fig. 17A and 17B, a trapezoidal profile 110 is shown that includes a first side or section 120, a second side or section 122, and a third side or section 124 that in combination define the trapezoidal profile 110. The thinned region 80 is also shown in greater detail and is disposed between the inner surface 70 and the outer surface 72 of the center wall 48. The thinned region 80 forms a membrane or rupture wall configured to rupture at a particular pressure threshold.

Referring now to fig. 18A and 18B, a second or triangular profile 112 is shown that includes a first side or section 120 and a second side or section 122 that intersect at a vertex 128. The thinned region 80 of the second profile 112 is defined between the outer surface 72 of the central wall 48 and the apex 128. Referring to fig. 19A and 19B, a third or rectangular profile 114 is shown that includes a first side or section 120, a second side or section 122, and a third side or section 124. The first section 120 and the third section 124 intersect to define a right angle, and the second section 122 and the third section 124 intersect to define a right angle. The thinned region 80 of the third profile 114 is defined between the outer surface 72 of the center wall 48 and the third section 124. Referring to fig. 20A and 20B, a fourth or rounded profile 116 is shown that includes a first section 120, a second section 122, and a third section 124. The first section 120 and the second section 122 are generally straight, while the third section 124 is generally rounded or semi-circular. Thinned region 80 further includes width 130. The thinned region 80 defines a constant thickness along the width 130 of the third profile 114, but the thickness of the thinned region 80 of the first, second and fourth profiles 110, 112, 116 varies along the width 130 thereof due to the geometry of the various profiles.

While the lid or base 40 of the present disclosure is configured for attachment to a cylindrical container, it is contemplated that the lid or base 40 may take various forms and may have a prismatic, rectangular, or cubical cross-section. To this end, the straight section 86 as disclosed herein may reference a distance from the longitudinal axis 50 of the lid or base 40 to the outermost surface 88 of the outer wall 44 of the lid or base 40. In embodiments including prismatic, rectangular, or cube-shaped cross-sections, the length of the straight sections 86 may vary about the longitudinal axis 50, while in this embodiment, the radius 86 is the same about the longitudinal axis 50 as the cover or base 40 defines a circular cross-section. Although the lid or base 40 of the present embodiment is radially symmetrical, a prismatic, rectangular or cube-shaped container may be symmetrical about one, two, three, four or more planes intersecting the longitudinal axis 50.

While various spatial and directional terms, such as top, bottom, lower, middle, side, horizontal, vertical, front, etc., may be used to describe embodiments of the present disclosure, it should be understood that these terms are used only with respect to the orientations shown in the drawings. These orientations may be inverted, rotated, or otherwise changed such that the upper portion is a lower portion, and vice versa, horizontal to vertical, etc. Variations and modifications of the foregoing are within the scope of the present disclosure. It should be understood that the embodiments disclosed and defined herein extend to all alternative combinations of two or more of the individual features mentioned in the text and/or drawings, or evident from the text and/or drawings. All of these different combinations constitute various alternative aspects of the present disclosure. The claims should be construed to include alternative embodiments to the extent permitted by the prior art.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, although embodiments of the disclosure have been described in connection with particular embodiments and examples, the disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto, and that many other embodiments, examples, uses, modifications and departures from the embodiments, examples and uses are intended to be encompassed by the appended claims. Various features and advantages of the invention are set forth in the following claims.

Claims (20)

1. An exhaust system, comprising:

A cover or base comprising a central wall defining a central longitudinal axis and a total radius measured from the longitudinal axis to an outermost surface of the cover or base; and

A pressure relief feature disposed along the cover or base,

Wherein the pressure relief feature comprises at least a first venting feature defining a thinned region of the cover or base,

Wherein an exhaust radius is measured from the longitudinal axis to an outermost extent of the first exhaust characteristic, and

Wherein the exhaust radius is between about 5% and about 25% of the total radius of the cover or base, expressed as a percentage.

2. The exhaust system of claim 1, wherein the pressure relief feature further comprises a second exhaust feature that also defines a thinned region of the cover or base.

3. The exhaust system of claim 2, wherein the first and second exhaust features are concavely shaped relative to the longitudinal axis.

4. The exhaust system of claim 2, wherein the first and second exhaust features are convexly shaped relative to the longitudinal axis.

5. The exhaust system of claim 2, wherein the first exhaust characteristic is a mirror image of the second exhaust characteristic.

6. The exhaust system of claim 5, wherein the first and second exhaust characteristics define a v-shape.

7. The exhaust system of claim 2, further comprising a third exhaust feature that also defines a thinned region of the cover or base.

8. The exhaust system of claim 7, wherein the first exhaust feature, the second exhaust feature, and the third exhaust feature define a v-shape.

9. The exhaust system of claim 1, wherein the first exhaust feature is comprised of a circular recess disposed only on an inner side of the cover or base.

10. The exhaust system of claim 1, wherein the exhaust radius is between about 10% and about 22% of the total radius of the cover or base.

11. An exhaust system, comprising:

A cover or base comprising a central wall defining a central longitudinal axis and a total radius measured from the longitudinal axis to an outermost periphery of the cover or base; and

A pressure relief feature disposed along the cover or base,

Wherein the pressure relief feature comprises at least a first venting feature defining a thinned region of the cover or base,

Wherein an exhaust radius is measured from the longitudinal axis to an outermost extent of the first exhaust characteristic,

Wherein the exhaust radius is less than about 40% of the total radius of the cover or base, expressed as a percentage, and

Wherein the thinned region defines a region thickness, expressed as a percentage, of less than about 40% of the maximum thickness of the central wall.

12. The exhaust system of claim 11, wherein the pressure relief feature further comprises a second exhaust feature spaced apart from the first exhaust feature.

13. The exhaust system of claim 12, wherein the first exhaust characteristic and the second exhaust characteristic are mirror images of each other.

14. The exhaust system of claim 12, wherein the first exhaust feature and the second exhaust feature define a curved section.

15. The exhaust system of claim 12, wherein the first and second exhaust characteristics define a v-shape.

16. The exhaust system of claim 12, wherein the pressure relief feature further comprises a third exhaust feature.

17. The exhaust system of claim 11, wherein the thinned region extends through the central longitudinal axis.

18. The exhaust system of claim 17, wherein the first exhaust characteristic defines an s-shape.

19. The exhaust system of claim 11, wherein a minimum exhaust distance of the pressure relief feature is less than about 20% of the total radius of the cover or base.

20. The exhaust system of claim 11, wherein a minimum exhaust distance of the pressure relief feature is less than about 50% of the total radius of the cover or base.