EA002228B1 - Decorative and symbolically shaped pull tab container opening devices and methods of making the same - Google Patents

Abstract

1. A method of making a container opening device comprising the steps of: providing a portion of tab stock having a substantially permanent coating layer disposed on at least a top side thereof; decorating said tab stock with tab decorations by localized laser removal of said coating layer; forming said tab stock into at least one pull tab; whereby said pull tab is capable of being attached to a container end. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein said decorating step is performed prior to said forming step. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein said decorating step is performed after said forming step. 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of attaching said pull tab to said container end, wherein said attaching step is performed prior to said decorating step. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein said tab stock comprises a material selected from the group consisting of metal, plastic, composite material, natural material, and synthetic material. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein said material has a plurality of layers of substantially permanent coatings on at least the top side. 7. The method of claim 1 or 6, wherein said coating material is an organic materials. 8. The method of claim 6, wherein the decorating step comprises contacting said coated, tab stock with a laser to remove at least a portion of a top coating layer to reveal a bottom coating layer and also a portion of the bottom coating layer to reveal the uncoated surface of said pull tab. 9, The method of claim 1, wherein the forming step comprises contacting said tab stock with a conversion press. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the forming step comprises forming said tab stock into a pull tab with a symbolic shape. 11. The method of claim 1, wherein said pull tab is in the shape of a closed-end tab. 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the decorating step further comprises embossing, debossing, inscribing or etching tab decorations on said tab stock. 13. A container opening device comprising; a pull tab exhibiting a substantially planar member having an attachment point for attachment to a container with a closed grab portion oriented to one side of said attachment point and a nose portion oriented on an opposite side of said attachment point; a substantially permanent coating layer disposed on said pull tab; an image located on said pull tab, wherein said image is created by localized laser removal of said coating layer to expose an uncoated surface of said pull tab. 14. A container opening device according to claim 13, further comprising two or more laser etched coating layers disposed on said pull tab. 15. A container opening device according to claim 13, said pull tab further comprising a weakened portion between the grab portion and the nose portion so that the grab portion is separable from the nose portion. l6. A container opening device comprising: a pull tab comprising a substantially planar member defining a symbolic shape and having an attachment point for attachment to said container, a substantially permanent coating layer disposed on said pull tab; an image located on said pull tab, wherein said image is created by localized laser removal of said coating layer to expose an uncoated surface of said pull tab. 17. A container opening device according to claim 16, further comprising a weakened portion on the pull tab between the grab portion and the nose portion so that the grab portion is separable from the nose portion. 18. A container comprising: a container top; a tear strip in the container top for opening the container top; a pull tab comprising a substantially planar member having an attachment point attached to the container top, said pull tab articulated against the tear strip so that the pull tab is actuatable to pen the tear strip; a substantially permanent coating layer disposed on said pull tab; an image located on said pull tab, wherein said image is created by localized laser removal of said coating layer to expose an uncoated surface of said pull tab. 19. A container according to claim 18, wherein said pull tab further comprises a symbolic shape. 20. A container according to claim 19, further comprising a weakened portion on the pull tab between the grab portion and the nose portion so that the grab portion is separable from the nose portion. 21. A container according to claim 20, wherein said tear strip encompasses nearly the entire container top and is defined by a continuous, uninterrupted tear line in the container top forming a closed geometric shape so that the entire tear strip is removable from the container top after the pull tab separates the tear strip from the container top to open the container.

Description

This application is a partially ongoing application being considered simultaneously with the same patent application filed by the same applicant with US registration number 08 / 917,516 dated August 26, 1997, entitled Device with a pull-out eyelet made as a symbol for opening containers.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. The technical field to which the invention relates.

The present invention relates to decorated substrates, and more specifically to devices for opening containers, decorated with these containers and methods for their manufacture.

2. Description of related fields of technology.

US Pat. Nos. 4,465,204 and 4,530,631 disclose traditional pull-out devices for opening containers, typically located on the upper plane of the container, and a method for manufacturing such ears. U.S. Pat. No. 8,8289,017 discloses an industrial design of a pull eye.

US Pat. No. 3,958,354 discloses the placement of an advertising label in a finger hole in a traditional pull-out ear. US Pat. No. 5,191,695 discloses a method for placing an advertising label in a finger hole made in a retractable eye.

US Patent No. 4322016 discloses the placement of a pressure sensitive label on the underside of an eyelet for promotional purposes.

US Pat. No. 4,363,179 discloses the placement of promotional materials on the end of a can under a pull-out ear.

US Pat. No. 5,416,951 discloses a pull-out eye intended for attaching a decorative element to a sliding type fastener, namely, a zipper.

Brief Description of the Invention

In the field of food and non-alcoholic beverages, it was not envisaged to use devices with a pulling eye to open containers in order to improve packaging, designation of a trademark, as well as for advertising or informational purposes. Most of the existing designs of the drawn eye serve only to fulfill their functional purpose, namely, to enable the consumer to open the can. See, for example, US patents for the invention under No. 4465204, 4530631 and for the industrial design under No. 289017. Openers with a retractable eye have found application for advertising packaging by placing advertising labels in the hole under the finger made in the retractable eye (see US patents No. 3,958,354 and 5191695), placing labels sensitive to pressure on the drawn eye (see US Pat. No. 4322016) and placing advertising materials on the upper plane of the container under the drawn eye (see US Pat. No. 4,363,179). However, all of these advertising-related design decisions do not involve altering the traditional shape of the pulling eye as disclosed in US Pat. No. 4,465,204 to ensure minimum weight of the eye. None of the known technical solutions provide for the use of the lower part of the eyelet itself as a decorative element or for presenting information to the consumer.

Accordingly, in one of its aspects, the present invention provides for such a device with a retractable eye for opening containers, which contains information, advertising or decorative elements that are integral with it. In another aspect, the present invention provides a drawback device for opening a container in which the tab is in the form of a symbol having an advertising or decorative purpose. In addition, the present invention is also characterized by the fact that methods for manufacturing drawn ears are provided.

Thus, in accordance with the present invention, there is provided a device with a retractable eye for opening a container having a fundamentally new shape and designed to be placed at the end of the container. Extendable ears, known from the current level of technology in this field, are a design made in the form of an open ear, which includes the nose and the gripping part of the ring-shaped shape, designed to be inserted into the finger of the hand, both of which are attached to the container in the corresponding attachment point on the eye. Such an eye is made of a piece of sheet metal and has holes punched in it so that two rings form, and the edges bend under the eye. This design, known from the existing level of technology in this field, is designed in such a way as to ensure the minimum weight of the ear and its maximum strength.

In one of the embodiments of the present invention, the proposed pull eye has a gripping part attached to the nose, and between the nose and the gripping part there is a mounting point. According to the present invention, the requirement to provide minimum abalone weight does not prevail. Therefore, such an eye can be made in the form of a solid, integral plate. In addition, for such an eye does not require bending its edges in order to ensure strength. It is not necessary to bend the edges under the eye and in order to avoid the presence of sharp metal edges, because such an eye can be made of other materials. In other words, the eyelet in accordance with the present invention can have either folded or non-folded edges. Therefore, such an eye can be a substantially flat element, or a flat lobe. In one embodiment of the present invention, the planar surfaces of the eye are substantially parallel to one another over the entire length of the eye.

The ears in accordance with the present invention can be made of any material that is capable of ensuring that the drawn eye meets its functional purpose, which consists in opening a container, including aluminum, steel, plastic or any natural, artificial, composite or other material suitable for use for this purpose. The selection of the appropriate material can be carried out by a person of ordinary skill in the art. An opening may also be made in the eye for inserting at least one finger of the hand into it.

According to the present invention, the eyelet can be riveted or otherwise attached to the top of the container at the point of attachment of the eyelet. In this case, the eye acts as a lever having a fulcrum coinciding with the attachment point, due to which, when lifting the gripping part, the nose part is lowered at the top of the container and opened by extrusion of the tear-off part on the upper plane. The nose can be of a structure known in the art, allowing opening along the intended line of discontinuity.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the use of a decorative eye is contemplated. The term “decorative eye” means a pulling eye that has on it any informational, advertising or decorative elements that make up a single whole with it. It is understood that informational, advertising or decorative elements may include, but are not limited to, any word, number, name, symbol, color, pattern or image, and such elements will hereinafter be referred to as abalone ornaments. A decorative eyelet in accordance with the present invention may have at least one finger hole provided therein, however, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a decorative eyelet is provided, which is a solid plate structure. This design, made in the form of a solid plate, provides the presence of additional space for placement of jewelry items.

Accordingly, one of the objectives of the present invention is the creation of a decorative eyelet, which is a structure made in the form of a continuous plate, and having on itself the decoration of the eyelet. In one of the embodiments of the present invention provides for the implementation of a decorative eye, which has on itself the elements of decoration, embossed, extruded, etched or cut on it. In another embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a decorative eye that has jewelry applied to or fixed thereon. The application or fixing of abalone jewelry can be carried out by performing any technological process using, but not limited to, printing inks, paints, stencils, adhesives and adhesives. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the decorative eye has an anodized surface or is coated with an organic or some other substance. The decorative eyelet can then be used in the form in which it is, or, in its alternative design, it can be provided for the presence of various eyelet ornaments, embossed, extruded, cut, etched, fixed on it or applied to it. In yet a further embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a decorative eyelet having a plurality of layers that are removed in separate sections and at different depths by any mechanical or chemical means so that the corresponding colored or different colored ornaments are provided on the eyelet.

Various coatings are possible. Suitable coatings for this purpose include those commonly used in the production of non-alcoholic beverage containers. Alcoa supplies raw materials with appropriate coatings supplied by Dexter, Walspar, BASF and other firms. Types of coatings are not limited to epoxy, vinyl or anodized coatings. It may be preferable to use a coating that contrasts in color with the materials underneath, which may be aluminum, other materials, or another coating layer. In addition, a plurality of layers of contrasting coatings can be used, whereby a multi-color pattern can be obtained by selectively removing layers.

This goal is also achieved by creating a decorative eye that has a coating, and decoration elements formed on it with a laser or other optical device. In one embodiment, the implementation of the present invention provides for the use of a decorative eye that has an uncoated surface or anodized surface, or a plurality of layers of such surfaces, which are then processed using at least one optical device forming on such a surface essentially permanent abalone jewelry. In another embodiment of the present invention, the decorative eye has a surface coated with an organic material coating that has been treated with at least one optical device that forms, on the surface, substantially permanent eye decorations. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a decorative eyelet has a plurality of layers that have been processed using at least one optical device that forms, on this surface, substantially permanent eyelet jewelry having more than one color or shade.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the decorative eye is made of material or materials on which (or in which) corresponding eye decorations are formed when they have been processed using at least one optical device.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the creation of an eyelet made in the form of a symbol is provided. The term “ear” made in the form of a symbol means that a device with a retractable eye for opening a vessel has a symbolized shape that allows it to function simultaneously as a retractable eye and as an advertising or decorative element. The symbolized form means that the drawn eye is made in such a way that it recognizes a certain image, trademark, figurine, symbol or other symbolic element. As an example of a drawn eye that has the shape of a symbol, we can name the ears made in the form of a company logo, trademark, symbol, Christmas tree, football helmet, some fruit, etc. Thus, the ear can be used to advertise products, resolve disputes when it is returned, and as a reminder to the buyer. In order to obtain such a symbolized shape, the pulling eye should have a different shape compared to that of the known pulling ears.

To further emphasize this or that symbolized shape for decorating the eyelet in an appropriate way, any of the methods discussed here in relation to decorative ears can be used. Thus, in accordance with one aspect of the present invention provides for the use of a decorative eyelet made in the form of a symbol. For example, a picture can be fixed on the eye made as a symbol. Such a pattern can be made on the eye using any technological process, including printing, embossing, extrusion, screen printing, laser etching or using any other appropriate means. On the ear, made in the form of a symbol, a drawing of any type can be fixed, including photographs, trademarks, holograms, bar codes, or any other relevant image. The eyelet can simply be made of a pigmented colored source material so as to obtain a certain image.

In an alternative embodiment, the eyelet may be made of untreated starting material, followed by decoration by printing, dyeing, or using any other appropriate means. In addition, an adhesive label may be attached to the ear.

Decorative ears made in the form of a symbol can, in accordance with the present invention, also be composed of two parts that can be separated from one another. When using this design, the eyelet has a weakened place or perforation in its area between the nose and the gripping part. After the ear opens with a pressure with a break, the container can be broken off from the ear and stored as a souvenir as a souvenir. The weakened place or perforation can be offset so that a relatively large force is applied to the eye in the opening direction without two parts being separated from one another, and a relatively small force would be required in the opposite direction to separate the two parts one from another.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a stamping zone in a suitably refurbished press, the design of which has been modified so that the stamping and finishing operations performed in the manufacture of the pulling eye provide an eye that is made in accordance with the present invention according to the above description. The eye can be molded from a narrower or wider in size source material than that used in the implementation of traditional manufacturing methods. During subsequent molding, extrusion of the gripping part or giving it the appropriate shape using any other methods, as well as cutting holes in it for a finger in the hand, can be made. The nose can be molded in a conventional manner known in the art. The attachment or attachment of the ears to the lids of the containers can be carried out in accordance with any of the methods widely known from the prior art.

The present invention also relates to methods for manufacturing decorative ears made as described above. The ears can be molded in a converted press, and the finishing can be done in the stamping zone of the ears, modified according to the present invention. Eyelet jewelry can be applied to a continuous ribbon of raw material for making ears, to a molding tape with ears, or to ears after leaving the press. To ensure accuracy and uniformity when applying jewelry, mechanical or automated recognition systems can be used. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the use of at least one laser is provided for engraving appropriate jewelry on the ears. The laser can be located at any point or anywhere and provide engraving of the source material before it enters the press, engraving the molding tape with the ears after it leaves the forming and bending press dies, or engraving the ears after processing at the exit of the press.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Figure 1 depicts a perspective view of a container containing a device with a retractable eye for opening, made in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a plan view of the container shown in FIG. one;

FIG. 3A-3G are cross-sectional views of the container along the line ΙΙΙ-ΙΙΙ shown in FIG. 2, showing the individual steps of using a pull eye to open a container;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view similar to that shown in FIG. 3A, but which depicts an embodiment of the present invention, providing for gluing an adhesive label to a pull eye;

FIG. 5 is a top view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention, in which the drawable eye is fixed to the bone, almost the entire top of which is completely removed using the drawable eye;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view similar to that shown in FIG. 3A, but which depicts an alternative embodiment of the present invention, providing for the formation of a drawn eye in two parts so that these parts are able to separate from one another;

Fig. 7 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a device for manufacturing a pulling eye according to the invention, a top view;

FIG. 8 is the same as in FIG. 7, an alternative;

FIG. 9 is the same as in FIG. 7, another alternative;

FIG. 10 is a plan view of a container made in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a cap of a bottle with a laser-made decoration in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a multilayer structure in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description of a Preferred Embodiment

A typical drawback device for opening containers made in accordance with the present invention is generally indicated at 40. In a first preferred embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 1-2 and 3AG pulled eye 40 fixed to the container

10. The retractable eyelet 40 has a nose 41 and a gripping part 43. At the top of the tank 20 there is a tear strip 30, indicated by a tear line 31 with a portion 32 on which there is no tear line.

The retractable eyelet 40 has an attachment point 42 at which it is attached to the top 20 of the container with rivets 50 so that the nose 41 of the retractable eyelet 40 pivots pivotally while pressing against the tear strip 30. As shown in FIG. 3A-3G, the retractable eyelet 40 acts as a lever having a pivot point coinciding with the attachment point 42, thereby opening the tear strip 30. When the consumer lifts the gripping part 43, the nose 41 exerts a downward force on the tear strip 30, causing the separation of the tear strip 30 from the top 20 of the tank along the line 31 of the gap. Section 32, in which there is no rupture line, holds the tear strip 30 of the container 20 and prevents it from falling into the container. After the top 20 of the container is opened using the eyelet 40, the retractable eyelet 40 can then be returned to its original position, as shown in FIG. 3G.

The embodiment of the present invention depicted in FIG. 1-2 and 3A-3G, provides for the execution of the drawn eye 40 so that it has the shape of a corresponding symbol, which serves to decorate the container. These figures show the eye, made in the form of a symbol, in the shape of a pineapple. In order to further emphasize this shape, appropriate decorative elements imitating the texture of pineapple can be knocked out on the eye and / or pineapple colors can be printed on it. However, it is possible to envisage the use of other options for the execution of the eye in the form of a symbol, including, but not limited to, in the form of company logos, trademarks, symbols, figures, etc. In addition, it is also possible to provide for the use of other options for decorative design of the eyelet.

To facilitate obtaining the corresponding symbolized shape of the eye, it can be made in the form of a single plate. No holes are required in the eye. In the embodiment of the present invention depicted in these figures, this plate is an essentially flat element having a flat upper surface 45 and a flat lower surface 46 that are substantially parallel to one another. In other words, the eyelet is made essentially of a flat sheet material having a uniform thickness throughout its length. However, the shape of the symbol can also be obtained in such an embodiment of the present invention, in which the drawn eye is not a solid plate, but has holes, is not flat and is not made essentially of a flat sheet material. Preferably, the eyelet has a shape that is recognizable as a pattern, trademark, figurine, symbol or other symbolic element.

In FIG. 4 shows a second preferred embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment of the present invention, the eyelet decoration element is an adhesive label 60 that is adhered to the eyelet 40 to further emphasize the symbolic shape of the eyelet for advertising purposes. The label can be pasted on any part of the drawn eyelet. Said drawn eyelet 40 has the same symbolized shape as discussed here above with reference to FIG. 1-2 and 3A-3G.

In FIG. 5 shows a third preferred embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment of the present invention, the retractable eyelet 40 'has the same elements and symbolic shape as the retractable eyelet 40 discussed above, and is attached to the top 20' of the container with rivets 50 '. However, in this embodiment of the present invention, the tear strip 30 ′ covers almost the entire top 20 ′ of the container. The rupture line 31 'runs along the entire circumference of the top 20' of the tank without any sections where it would be absent. When using this design, the consumer lifts up the gripping portion 43 'of the retractable eyelet, as a result of which the nose portion 41' of the eyelet begins to break the tear strip 30 'along the tear line 31'. Then, the consumer pulls the drawn eye 40 'towards the opposite side of the container, while completely removing the drawn eye 40' and the tear strip 30 'from the container. In this embodiment of the present invention, the pulling eye 40 'has the same symbolic shape as the pulling eye 40, discussed above with reference to FIG. 1-4.

In FIG. 6 shows a fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment of the present invention, the retractable eye 40 is made up of two parts, so that the gripping part 43 can be detached from the nose 41. The retractable eye 40 is designed so as to have a weakened part 44, for example, with a notch line or perforation. The weakened part is positioned at an angle between the gripping part 43 and the nose 41 so that the consumer can lift up the gripping part 43 so that the nose 41 can act on the tear strip 30 without separating the gripping part 43 from the nose 41. After opening the tear strip 30 part 41 can be separated from the nose 43, for which a force is applied to it in the direction of the weakened part 44. The retractable eyelet 40 has the same symbolized shape as the retractable eyelet 40, which you considered with reference to FIG. 1-4. Such a two-part construction additionally contributes to a more complete use of the drawn eyelet for advertising or decorative purposes, allowing the consumer to save the broken part of the eyelet as a souvenir.

Variants of devices for manufacturing retractable ears made in accordance with the present invention are shown in FIG. 7-9. In a first embodiment, shown in FIG. 7, this device is a refurbished press 70. Typical presses converted for the production of well-known ears can be purchased commercially from companies such as Bourerer or the Minister. The converted press 70 comprises a conveyor 71 for transporting container end caps through the press 70.

The conveyor 71 for the end caps of the containers has an input 72 for receiving end caps without ears and an outlet 73, on which the container caps already equipped with ears can be assembled. The conveyor 71 transports the end caps of the containers from the inlet 72 through the press 70 to the outlet 73, where the caps already provided with ears can be assembled.

As shown in FIG. 7, the press 70 also has an inlet 74 for the raw material used in the manufacture of the ears, and an outlet 76 for the molding tape with ears. In the area between the input 74 for the source material used in the manufacture of the ears and the output 76 for the molding tape with ears transverse to the conveyor 71 there is a stamping zone 75. As is known from the prior art, there are a lot of die-cut and embossing dies in the stamping zone 75 (not shown), during the operation of which a corresponding change in the shape of the materials being stamped is made, as a result of which the desired configuration is obtained. In the stamping zone 75, appropriate processing of the end caps of the containers can be carried out as they pass through the stamping zone 75 on the conveyor 71. In accordance with the present invention, the starting material 90 used for making the ears can enter the press 70 through the input 74 for the starting material, used in the manufacture of ears. As shown in FIG. 7, the strip material used as the starting material 90 in the manufacture of the lugs enters through the inlet 74, and then passes to the stamping zone 75, where the lugs that are processed there are cut and get the corresponding shape. The molding tape 91 with ears can then exit the press 70 through the outlet 76 for the molding tape with ears.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of interchangeable die-cutting and embossing dies are located in the stamping zone 75. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that interchangeable parts provide the ability to manufacture a plurality of decorative ears having the most diverse symbolized shapes in the same press, using a wide variety of materials to make them. For example, a stamp can be equipped in such a way as to receive an ear on it that does not have an opening for a finger of the hand, for which punches cutting a hole are removed or blocked. In addition, the stamping zone can be designed so that an eye shaped like a pineapple shown in FIG. 1-2 and 3A-D. In addition, the stamping zone can also be arranged in such a way that the ears are stamped by extruding a pineapple-like texture on each ear. In addition to this, the stamping zone can also be arranged in such a way that the gripping part, made in the form of a pineapple, has a corresponding notch, due to which it could be separated from the bow. Accordingly, it should be obvious to a person skilled in the art that on the basis of this description of the invention, numerous changes can be made to the layout of the stamping zone, making it possible to produce a wide variety of decorative ears of a symbolized shape.

The molding tape 91 with ears after exiting the press 70 through the outlet 76 for the molding tape with ears can be reintroduced into the press through the inlet 77 for the molding tape with ears. Then, the molding tape 91 with ears is fed into the riveting zone 78 adjacent to the conveyor 71. In the riveting zone 78, the formed ears 91 are separated from the molding tape 91 with the ears and are riveted to the end caps of the containers entering the riveting zone 78 via the conveyor 71. Waste 92, remaining from the molding tape with the ears, then removed from the riveting zone 78 and, ultimately, from the press 70 through the outlet 79 for waste from the production of ears. The end caps of the containers are removed from the riveting zone 78, already having the ears riveted to them, using the conveyor 71. Finally, the conveyor feeds the end caps of the containers equipped with ears to the outside of the press 70 at the outlet 73 of the conveyor, where ready covers can be assembled. Waste 92 remaining from the tape with the ears, after removing them through the outlet 79 for waste from the production of ears can also be collected and used for other purposes, namely, sent for processing into raw materials to obtain a new portion of the source material 90 used for the manufacture of ears.

The earring material 90 in accordance with the present invention may be any suitable for the manufacture of pull-tab devices for opening containers. For example, you can name materials such as aluminum, steel, plastic, or any natural, artificial, composite or other material suitable for use for this purpose. Similarly, these same materials can be applied in various combinations with each other in the form of separate layers or using any other method of combining them with each other. Accordingly, it should be obvious to a person skilled in the art that appropriate changes must be made to the press 70 in order to enable the processing of various materials therein. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the lug starting material 90 is aluminum. As shown in FIG. 7, the aluminum strip material used as the starting material for making the ears can have, accordingly, any width and any desired length. In most cases, the existing presses use raw material for the production of lugs having a width of 1.9 or 2.8 inches (48.26 or 71.12 mm) and a thickness of 0.009-0.010 inches (0.228-0.254 mm). In accordance with the present invention, the thickness of the starting material can be increased, depending on the strength that it is desirable to obtain, and on the type of material used. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, an aluminum strip is provided with a width of about 1-3 inches (25.4-76.2 mm) and a thickness of about 0.0125 inches (0.3175 mm).

It is also possible, in accordance with the present invention, the use of colored source material 90 for the manufacture of ears, if their decorative finish in color is desired. In order to ensure coloring in an appropriate color, pigmentation can be used when molding the source material 90 for the production of ears, or alternatively, the source material 90 for the production of ears can be coated with some colored material. One skilled in the art will appreciate that other colored or suitably coated materials, such as plastics, can be used.

In order to further emphasize the decorativeness or symbolism of the ears used, you can use the zone 100, designed to decorate the ears. As such a lug decorating zone 100, one or another zone located inside the press 70 having a change can be used, for example, a die cutting zone or a screen printing position. Alternatively, the lug decorating zone 100 may be located outside the press 70, but in this case it will still be part of a common production line or combined with the press 70. The embossing and other decorating operations can also be performed within the stamping zone 75.

In the preferred embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 7, the lug decorating zone 100 is located at a place where the lug manufacturing material 90 can be decorated before being fed to the input 74 for the lining material used. The lug decorating zone 100 can be made integrally with the feeding mechanism, which feeds the feed material 90 for the production of lugs to the inlet 74 for the feed material used in the manufacture of the lugs; or alternatively, the lug decorating zone 100 may be located in a space allocated for processing the material 90 for making the ears, which is not even in the same room with the press 70. In other words, the material 90 for the production of ears can be decorated and then delivered into the room in which the press 70 is located.

In FIG. Figure 8 shows an alternative embodiment of a device for manufacturing drawable ears according to the present invention. As can be seen by comparison with FIG. 7, the same elements are denoted by the same positions, however, in this embodiment, the lining area 100 of the ears is located outside the press 70, but is part of the common processing line of the raw material 90 used in the manufacture of the ears, while the molding tape 91 with ears leaves the press 70 at the exit 75, and then passes through the area 100 of the decoration of the ears, and then again enters the press 70.

Despite the fact that it is possible to perform in the ears decoration zone 100 all without exception decoration operations defined by the present invention, regardless of where this zone is located, it would be preferable to place the decoration zone 100 in such a way that it enters a common production line and would be able to process the molding tape 91 with ears. Firstly, in this case, the ears are already formed on the tape, which allows to increase the speed of their further processing, as well as to increase the throughput of the device used to process them by ensuring their proper orientation using mechanical means, or by recognizing them using a computer, or, as a result of using any other possibilities in order to ensure the presence of exactly the same decorative elements on each such ear. Secondly, the lug decoration zone 100 can be used in conjunction with a corresponding actuator (not shown), so that the processing in the stamping zone 75 could be carried out at a faster pace than that which can be provided in the lining decoration zone 100.

In FIG. 9 shows yet another alternative embodiment of a device for the manufacture of retractable ears made in accordance with the present invention. As can be seen from the comparison with FIG. 7 and 8, the same elements are denoted by the same reference numbers, however, the ear decoration zone 100 in FIG. 9 is located on a site intended for receiving end caps of containers provided with ears that come off conveyor 71 at outlet 73. In the particular embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 9, the lug decoration zone 100 has a generally cylindrical shape. The cylindrical track 101 located within the indicated ear lug decoration zone 100 is intended for receiving a plurality of end caps of containers provided with lugs. In addition, the specified zone 100 decoration of the ears also has an inner part 102, around the circumference of which passes a cylindrical track 101.

In this embodiment of the present invention, the container end caps provided with ears go off the conveyor 71 at the outlet 73 of this conveyor and enter the cylindrical track 101 of the ears decoration zone 100. The track 101 can rotate in any direction, as a result of which the end caps of the containers can be supplied to one or more working positions, or pass through one or more of them. When using such a system, corresponding decorative elements can be applied to the ears or to the end caps of the containers at different working positions. Equipment for decorative decoration of the ears can be located within the inner part 102 of the area 100 of the decoration of the ears and / or installed on the outer perimeter of the track 101. Such an embodiment of the present invention may be considered preferable when used individually or in conjunction with the previously discussed embodiments of the present inventions in those cases when it is required to carry out decorative decoration of not only ears, but also end caps of containers.

The ears decorating zone 100 in accordance with the present invention can be arranged in any way, provided that it will be possible to apply various decorative elements to the raw material used in the production of the ears, to the molding tape with the ears or to the ears themselves one or before they are fixed to the container. The exact layout and design for the decoration zone of the ears can vary in accordance with the methods used in the decoration and depending on the types of materials to be decorated. Appropriate devices for embossing, extrusion, cutting or etching of various decorative elements of the ears, which can be used individually or in various combinations with each other, can be installed in the zone of decorating the ears. Similarly, in the decoration zone of the ears, any devices can be installed separately or in combination with the aforementioned devices, making it possible to carry out printing, screen printing, dyeing, adhering, gluing or any other operations that allow you to place or form certain decorative trim elements on the ears or on the materials from which the ears are made. In the area of decorating the ears, mechanical orienting systems or computer-controlled automated recognition systems can be used that provide essentially the same elements for decorative decoration of the ears on finished products. In addition, it is also within the scope of the present invention to use a plurality of ears decorative zones, for example, obtained by combining the circuits shown in FIG. 7-9.

The preferred device for use in the area of the decoration of the ears should be considered any optical device, preferably a laser, capable of forming an essentially constant element of decorative decoration on the eye or on the materials from which they are made. For example, in the manufacture of decorative ears or decorative ears in the form of a symbol, anodized aluminum or aluminum coated with an organic material can be used for aluminum containers. It is preferable to use aluminum having a coating of organic material on at least one side. In the event that it is desired to obtain a multi-color eye, many different coatings can also be applied. Then, anodized aluminum or coated aluminum is processed using a laser that burns or engraves a predefined decorative element on the eye or on the material from which the ears are made, as a result of which aluminum begins to peek out from under the coating or anodized layer. The laser can also be tuned to provide an appropriate texture. If multiple coatings are used, the laser can be adjusted so that, when engraving, partially remove the top layer of the coating to the desired depth (preferably to a depth at which the second layer or bare aluminum begins to peep), after which the engraving continues so that the second layer is also removed to the desired depth, so that the next layer is exposed beneath it, or the aluminum layer itself, etc.

Accordingly, it should be obvious to a person skilled in the art that it is possible to make numerous changes regarding the types of coatings and laser settings that affect the speed of the manufacturing process, the clarity of the decorative elements performed on the eye, the engraving depth and the desired color of the resulting pattern. Preferred at present are high-power lasers or lasers that allow for high marking accuracy, for example, a 200 W non-derivative Yttrium grenade (NDAIG) laser or a carbon dioxide laser. A carbon dioxide laser can have a power of 600 watts.

In connection with the foregoing, it should be apparent to a person skilled in the art how a decorative eyelet designed for an aluminum container can be made in the form of a symbol, which is depicted in FIG. 1-2 and 3A-D. For example, the aluminum used as the raw material 90 for making the ears can be prepared so as to have a first green coating and a brown top coat. These coatings can be applied in the first zone 100 decoration of the ears, located next to the entrance 74 for the source material used in the manufacture of ears, or, alternatively, in a place that is removed from the modified press 70.

The source material 90 for the production of ears can be fed into a modified converted press, in which the source material 90, intended for the manufacture of ears, enters the stamping zone 75, where, using a number of die-cut and embossing dies, the source material 90 is converted into a molding tape 91, from which formed pineapple-shaped ears, and on which, perhaps, a texture imitating the surface of the pineapple is minted. The molding tape 91 with ears can then exit the press 70 and enter the second ears decoration zone 100, which provides for a mechanical orienting device or a computer-controlled automated artificial recognition device that will arrange the shaped ears in such a way as to obtain substantially the same decorative elements on all ears. Then, with a laser or a number of lasers, the upper coating is partially burned out or partially cut out, exposing the green layer in that zone, which is closer to the bow of the ear and corresponds to pineapple leaves. In addition, a laser or lasers simultaneously or immediately thereafter burn out or cut out both coatings within some part of them, exposing the aluminum beneath them, resulting in a pineapple pattern. Before proceeding with this process, the laser or lasers must be adjusted accordingly, or alternatively, the thickness of the coatings, so that during this process a texture that simulates the surface of a pineapple can be obtained. The molding tape 91 with the ears is then returned to the modified press 70 to produce the riveting of the ears to the end caps of the containers, which occurs within the riveting zone 75. The end caps of the containers equipped with the ears then leave the press and are transferred to the ears decoration zone 100 for further processing , or they can be assembled and secured to the containers.

In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the material for the production of ears can be pre-engraved or pre-marked, which are carried out using a laser or other means placed outside the processing line, and are carried out even before the process of forming the ears. Engraving or marking of the ears in any other way can be done outside the common production line and after the ears are fixed on the upper ends of the cans. The present invention also provides the possibility of laser engraving of coated or anodized upper highlanders of cans, other parts of these cans, aluminum or other metal caps for capping bottles, plastic caps for capping bottles, or other parts of beverage containers.

In FIG. 10 shows the top end 120 of the can.

The forming of the end face 120 of the can with a pulling eye can be carried out in a converted press. During the process of forming the end face of the can, various blisters and local deformations, known as embossing, are possible on the top of the can in order to increase the strength of its upper part. At the upper end of the can shown in FIG. 10, embossing 121 is shown to prevent its longitudinal bending. At the end of the can there is also an incision 122, designed to open the top, and a rim 123 of the top. The eye 124 is riveted or fixed to the pin 125, which is located on the upper end of the can, by repeated impact action of the converted press. Additional embossing 126. Also shown is the presence of other local deformations 127, contributing to an increase in the strength of the notched panel 128, providing access to the contents of the container. The retractable eye has a gripping part 129, lifting which can be applied through the nose 130 to apply pressure to the cut-out panel. In order to provide corresponding advantages, a slot 131 is provided in the eye in order to facilitate its action as a lever, with its mounting pin 125 used as a lever support with a support point corresponding to the fixing point. With the corresponding advantages, the grip part of the eye is made without a hole and carries a decorative element 132, indicated in this illustration by the logogram PRICE MARKING SIGN.

In accordance with an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the eye is made from a raw material for producing ears that is greater than 0.01 in. (0.254 mm) thick and preferably 0.0125 in. (0.3175 mm) thick. The raw material for the production of ears has an outer coating made of organic material, and the corresponding decorative element is applied to it using a laser engraving process. The top end of the can may also have a coating made of organic material, and a decorative element 133. may be applied to it. FIG. 10 also shows a decorative element 133, made in the form of a logogram FACTORY. Preferably, the method for providing this decorative element involves the use of a laser to remove part of one or more layers of the coating so that an appropriate pattern is obtained.

In FIG. 11 shows an alternative embodiment of the present invention. The lid of the vessel, namely, the cap of the bottle 140, can also have a decorative element 141 applied to it. Again, in this case, the decorative element can also be performed using a laser, which removes one or more layers of the coating from the base material. The decorative element shown in FIG. 7 is indicated in this illustration by the logotype FACTORY ORNAMENT.

FIG. 12 illustrates a drawing method in accordance with the present invention. A substrate 150 is envisaged. In accordance with an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, such a substrate may be an eyelet made of aluminum or some other material on which to place a decorative element or a corresponding marking. In accordance with an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, such material may be one or another part of the container containing the food product or beverage, for example, the top, lid, body or bottom of the container. However, marking can be applied in this way to any other material. As indicated above, the substrate can be made of any material suitable for use for this purpose and can be a part of the top of a can, a bottle cap, a lid of a vessel, or any other part of a device made in the form of a container.

The substrate may be coated in one or more layers contrasting with each other. In FIG. 12 shows four coating layers, a blue layer 151, a raspberry layer 152, a yellow layer 153, and a black layer 154. When aluminum is used as a substrate, removing all four layers, such as that done in zone 155, reveals the natural color of aluminum. In zone 156, as shown, three layers are removed, which allows you to open the blue color. In zone 157, as shown, two layers are removed, thereby revealing a raspberry color. In zone 158, as shown, only one layer is removed and yellow appears. In the illustrated example, all zones in which not a single layer has been deleted will remain black. In this way, almost any color can be obtained.

It is understood that changes and additions may be made to the present invention that do not go beyond the scope of the invention. The attached formula determines the scope of this invention.

Claims (21)

1. A method of manufacturing a device for opening containers, comprising the steps of providing a source material for the production of lugs having a substantially continuous coating layer located at least on its upper surface, decorating the starting material with lug elements to form decorations on the lug by, at least local removal of the coating layer using a laser, molding from the source material for the production of ears, at least one pulling eye, which is performed to ensure no possibility of fixing it to the end of the tank. 2. The method according to p. 1, characterized in that the stage of decoration precedes the stage of molding. 3. The method according to p. 1, characterized in that the stage of decoration follows the stage of molding. 4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that it additionally carry out the stage of fastening the drawn eye to the end of the tank, while the fastening stage precedes the stage of decoration. 5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the source material for the production of ears is a material selected from the group consisting of metal, plastic, composite material, natural material and artificial material. 6. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the material has many layers of essentially continuous coatings, at least on the upper side. 7. The method according to claim 1 or 6, characterized in that the coating material is an organic material. 8. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that the stage of decoration involves contacting the material for the production of ears with a coating, using a laser that removes at least part of the upper coating layer to expose the lower coating layer, as well as removing part the lower layer of the coating to expose the uncovered surface of the drawn eye. 9. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the molding stage involves contact processing of the material for the production of ears using a converted press. 10. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the molding stage involves forming a drawn eyelet having the shape of a symbol. 11. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the drawn eye is formed having the shape of a closed eye. 12. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the stage of decoration additionally provides for the embossing, extrusion, cutting or etching of the ornaments of the eye on the source material for the production of ears. 13. A device for opening a container containing a pull-out eye, which is essentially a flat element having a point of attachment to the container so that its closed gripping part is directed to one side relative to the aforementioned point of attachment, and the nose is in the opposite direction relative to the attachment point, a coating layer located on the drawn eye, a pattern located on the drawn eye, which is created by locally removing the coating layer using a laser, with exposure the uncoated surface of the tab is pulled. 14. The device for opening the container according to claim 13, characterized in that it further comprises at least one more coating layer, engraved with a laser, located on said retractable eye. 15. The device for opening the container according to item 13, wherein the drawn eye contains a weakened part located between the gripping part and the nose, with the possibility of separating the gripping part from the nose. 16. A device for opening a container containing a pull-out ear, which is a substantially flat element defined by a symbolized shape and having a point of attachment to the container, a layer of substantially continuous coating located on the pull-in ear, a pattern located on the said pull-in eye , which is created by local removal of the coating layer using a laser, with exposure of the surface of said pulling eye. 17. The device for opening the container according to clause 16, characterized in that it further comprises a weakened part located on the pulling ear between the gripping part and the nose, with the possibility of separating the gripping part from the nose. 18. A container having a tear strip located on the upper end of the container and designed to open the container end, a retractable eyelet, which is essentially a flat element having a mounting point, fixed at this point on the container end with the possibility of articulation, clamping to tear strip and pushing it away, a coating layer located on the drawn eye, a pattern located on the drawn eye, which is created by local removal of said essentially continuous coating layer and using a laser to expose the surface of said pulling eye. 19. The container according to p. 18, characterized in that the drawn eye has a symbolized shape. 20. The container according to claim 19, characterized in that it has a weakened part located on the pulling ear between the gripping part and the nose, so that the gripping part has the ability to separate from the nose. 21. The container according to claim 20, characterized in that the discontinuous strip covers almost the entire end of the container and is delineated by a continuous continuous line of a gap running along the contour of the container end and forming a closed geometric shape, with the possibility of removing the entire breaking strip entirely from the container end after using the pulling eye, the breaking strip is disconnected from the top of the container when it is opened.