KR20120082948A - Method of isolating column loading and mitigating deformation of shaped metal vessels - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for column load isolation and strain relief of a metal forming container, comprising forming a cylindrical metal tube into a metal forming container comprising a closed end, an open end, and an integral retaining ring near the open end. The column load is isolated between the open end and the retaining ring by supporting the metal forming container with the retaining ring. The metal forming container is sealed with a lid, and the deformation between the sealing end of the metal forming container and the retaining ring due to the column load during attaching the lid is minimized.

Description

METHODS OF ISOLATING COLUMN LOADING AND MITIGATING DEFORMATION OF SHAPED METAL VESSELS}

The present invention relates to a method for column load isolation and strain relief of a metal forming container comprising forming a cylindrical metal tube into a metal forming container comprising a closed end, an open end, an integral retaining ring near the open end, and a thin sidewall. It is about. The column load is isolated between the open end and the retaining ring by supporting the metal forming container with the retaining ring. The metal forming container is sealed with a lid, and the deformation between the sealing end of the metal forming container and the retaining ring due to the column load during attaching the lid is minimized.

Prior to the present invention, product packaging generally formed of sheet metal or metal slug is sufficient to prevent deformation or crushing when high column load is applied to the top of the product packaging container. It had to be configured to have a wall thickness. Such high column loads can generally occur during the closing of the packaging container by attaching the packaging container lid at the filling line. In this regard, a load force, typically greater than 175 pounds (lb), may be applied to the top of the product packaging container to attach and seal the lid to the packaging container.

The disadvantage is that more material is used in the product packaging container in constructing the packaging container with thin walls to support the column load, thereby increasing the cost of the packaging container.

Another disadvantage is that product packaging containers with thin walls are more difficult to mold, which may limit the types and / or types of options that can make the product packaging containers functional and decorative. will be.

A system and method for preventing high deterioration or crushing of the packaging container during bottling and capping to seal the beverage by isolating high column loads at the top of the product packaging container during bottling and capping. The request was long. There has also long been a need for low cost metal packaging containers suitable for the food and beverage sector, and for other types and types of packaging containers having thinner and / or more fragile sidewall configurations. There was also a need to overcome the shortcomings described above and also to overcome other shortcomings. The present invention has been made in accordance with all these needs.

Prior art by providing a method of column load isolation and strain relief of a metal forming container, the method comprising forming a cylindrical metal tube into a metal forming container comprising a closed end, an open end, an integral retaining ring near the open end, and a thin sidewall. It can overcome the shortcomings and provide additional advantages. The column load is isolated between the open end and the retaining ring by supporting the metal forming container with the retaining ring. The metal forming container is sealed with a lid, and the deformation between the sealing end of the metal forming container and the retaining ring due to the column load during attaching the lid is minimized.

In addition, providing a method of column load isolation and strain relief of a metal forming container, comprising forming a cylindrical metal tube into a metal forming container comprising a closed end and an open end, thereby overcoming the disadvantages of the prior art and providing additional advantages. can do. An insert comprising a retaining ring is attached around the open end of the metal forming container. The column load is isolated between the open end and the retaining ring by supporting the metal forming container with the retaining ring. The metal forming container is sealed with a lid, and the deformation between the sealing end of the metal forming container and the retaining ring due to the column load during attaching the lid is minimized.

In addition, providing a method of column load isolation and strain relief of a metal forming container, comprising forming a cylindrical metal tube into a metal forming container comprising a closed end and an open end, thereby overcoming the disadvantages of the prior art and providing additional advantages. can do. The retaining ring is pinched or attached around the open end of the metal forming container. The column load is isolated between the open end and the retaining ring by supporting the metal forming container with the retaining ring. The metal forming container is sealed with a lid, and the deformation between the sealing end of the metal forming container and the retaining ring due to the column load during attaching the lid is minimized.

The present disclosure also describes and claims a system and a computer program product corresponding to the methods outlined above.

Additional features and advantages are implemented through the techniques of the present invention. Other embodiments and aspects of the invention are described in more detail in the specification of the invention, which are considered as part of the claimed invention. Reading the detailed description and drawings will better understand the advantages and features of the present invention.

The subject matter regarded as the invention is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the claims at the end of the specification. The objects, features and advantages described above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

1 shows an example of a system and method for isolating column loads and mitigating deformation of a molding container during bottling and capping.
2A-2C illustrate an example of a product packaging container that includes a column load bearing insert with a retaining ring.
3A and 3B show an example of a product packaging container including a column load supporting insert.
4A and 4B show an example of a product packaging container including an integral thread and an integral retaining ring.
5A and 5B illustrate an example product packaging container that includes an integral retaining ring extending inwardly.
6A-6D illustrate an example of a product packaging container including a symmetrical or asymmetric retaining ring pinched or attached to the product packaging container.
7A and 7B illustrate an example of a product packaging container that includes an integral retaining ring extending outwardly.
8 is a diagram illustrating an example of an insert for supporting a column load.
FIG. 9 illustrates an example of a product packaging container including an insert and a process of attaching a screw screw lid, in which the product packaging container supports the column load by using a retaining ring support.
10A and 10B illustrate an example of a product packaging container that includes a crown closure lid, wherein the product packaging container supports the column load by using a retaining ring support.
It is a figure which shows an example of a shaping | molding container.
12-14 illustrate an example of a method of isolating column loads and mitigating deformation of a molding vessel during bottling and capping.
FIG. 15 illustrates an example of a method of forming a retaining ring of a product packaging container to isolate column loads and mitigate deformation of the molding container during bottling and capping.
FIG. 16 shows examples of embodiments of methods of isolating column loads and mitigating deformation of a molding container during bottling and cap attachment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION In the following detailed description, preferred embodiments of the present invention are described by way of example with reference to the drawings, together with their advantages and features.

A. Metallic Molded Containers

Metal molded containers are used in the present invention. Details of such metal forming containers are filed simultaneously with the present invention and are pending at the same time. Reference is made to John E. Adams et al. And the application entitled "SHAPED METAL VESSELS", which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Referring now to the drawings in detail, it will be seen in FIG. 1 that an example of a system and method for isolating column loads of metal forming containers and mitigating deformation during bottle feeding and / or cap attachment is shown. In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of forming vessels 102A- 102C, including the inserts 106A-106C, can be formed using a plurality of cylindrical tubes and can be transported on the carrier 304. Carry rings may then be formed and / or added to the forming vessels 102A-102C. Retaining ring supports 302A, 302B may be used to support the forming container during bottling and / or cap 202 attachment. In this regard, the column load may be isolated between the retaining ring and the open end of the forming vessel 102C during feeding-in the forming vessel 102 and / or attaching the lid 202.

For illustration purposes, a column load, also called an axial load, is defined as a load or force applied along or parallel to a line concentric with the main axis. In this regard, the main axis is the axis extending from the open top end of the forming container 102 to the closed bottom end. In an exemplary embodiment, such column load is generally needed and / or preferably in certain embodiments during bottling and / or when attaching the lid to the forming container 102 and pallets of the laminated product. When forming, it is applied when laminating molding containers to one another, such as store displays, storage of finished products, and / or in other situations.

In addition, for the sake of explanation, the cylindrical tube is defined as a space surrounded by the cylindrical surface. In one example, the soda bottle or vessel may be referred to as a cylindrical tube. In addition, the shaping | molding container 102 can also be called metal shaping | molding container.

The isolation of the column in the area between the retaining ring and the open ends of the forming vessels 102A-102C has the advantage that no load of such column is applied to the area under the retaining ring of the forming vessel. As such, isolating the column load in the area between the retaining ring and the open end of the forming container would result in a forming container with a thinner wall thickness of metal or other material that would otherwise deform or crush under high column loads. It becomes possible. Economically, thinner wall containers cost less to use and produce. This is especially true for metal containers. The merits of sales and manufacturing are that containers with thinner wall thicknesses can be easily molded and formed, so that in certain embodiments and / or preferably, blow molding, pressure rams, It is possible to produce highly shaped containers by various forming methods and / or other methods, including embossing, rolling, hydroforming, pneumatic forming, stamped halves. Can be.

Referring to FIGS. 2A-2C, an example of a product packaging container, also referred to as forming container 102 or metal forming container 102, includes a column load supporting insert 106 having a retaining ring 108 is shown. It is. 2A shows a forming container 102 with an insert 106 disposed around the open end of the container. FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of the forming container 102 with the insert 106 positioned below the rolled edge 104. For illustration purposes, shaped edges, polished edges, or other edges may be referred to as roll edges.

2C is a cross-sectional view of the forming container 102 with the insert 106 positioned below the roll edge 104. The roll edge 104 engages with the insert 106 to prevent the insert 106 from slipping around the neck of the container during lid attachment.

Referring to FIG. 2B, in an exemplary embodiment, the insert 106 may be made of polymer, metal, glass, or other material as needed and / or preferably in certain embodiments. In addition, the insert 106 may be crowned, threaded, rolled-on proofed (ROPP), plastic, as desired and / or desired in certain embodiments. It can be used with lids, snap lid closures, and / or lids of other types and types. The crown finish may be metal, plastic and / or other material as desired and / or preferably. The plastic lid may be threaded lid, twist-off lid and / or other types of lid as needed and / or preferably in certain embodiments. In an exemplary embodiment, the length Q of the retaining ring is 1 to 10 mm, preferably less than 5 mm.

Referring to FIG. 2C, in an exemplary embodiment, the insert 106 may be made of polymer, metal, glass, or other material as needed and / or preferably in certain embodiments. Also, the insert may be combined with crown closure, screw closure, ROPP, plastic lid, snap lid closure, and / or other types and types of lids as needed and / or preferably in certain embodiments. Can be used. The crown finish may be metal, plastic and / or other material as desired and / or preferably. The plastic lid may be a screwed lid, a twist off lid and / or other types of lid as needed and / or preferably in certain embodiments. Due to the step at the top of the insert, the container material is rolled over the top edge of the insert, which grips the insert and rotates and secures the insert when the lid is attached to or removed from the container. It helps.

3A and 3B, an example of a product packaging container, also referred to as forming container 102, that includes a column load supporting insert 106 is shown. The insert 106 optionally further includes a thread 122 for engaging and securing the removable lid 202 (the lid 202 is not shown in this figure). In an exemplary embodiment, the optional thread may be a plurality of threads that are helically attached to the outer surface of the insert to engage and secure a separate container lid to the metal molded container body. The container 102 further includes a roll edge 104. 3A shows a forming container 102 with an insert disposed around the open end of the container. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the forming container 102 with the insert 106 positioned below the roll edge 104.

3B also illustrates a method of making the thin walled cross section 110 of the forming vessel 102 into a roll edge 104 or other forming edge 104 at the upper end of the open end 124 of the vessel 102. In this regard, the roll edge 104 not only secures the insert 106 from slipping away from the open end 124 of the forming container 102 but also when the consumer follows or drinks a beverage from the forming container 102. Provides a smooth edge that feels good.

4A and 4B, an example of a product packaging container, also referred to as forming container 102, that includes an integral thread and an integral retaining ring, is shown. Referring to FIG. 4A, in an exemplary embodiment, the thread 122, roll edge 104, and retaining ring 114 may be integrally formed in the container 102. The advantage of this embodiment is that there is no additional insert or separate retaining rings such as retaining rings 114A and 114B shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B. This can speed up the manufacturing line, make assembly less complex, and lower the cost of the container 102. The lid may be crown finish, screw finish, ROPP, plastic lid, snap lid closure, and / or other types and types of lids as needed and / or preferably in certain embodiments. The crown finish may be metal, plastic and / or other material as desired and / or preferably. The plastic lid may be a screwed lid, a twist off lid and / or other types of lid as needed and / or preferably in certain embodiments.

4B also illustrates a method of making the thin wall cross section 110 of the forming vessel 102 into a roll edge 104 or other forming edge 104 at the upper end of the open end 124 of the vessel 102. Thread 122 and retaining ring 114 are integrated into vessel wall 110, so no outs are required in this embodiment.

5A and 5B, an example of a product packaging container, also referred to as forming container 102, that includes an integral retaining ring 120 extending inwardly, is shown. FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view illustrating the open end 124 of the forming container, showing the side wall 110, the formed edge 104 and the formed retaining ring 120. In an exemplary embodiment, retaining ring 120 may be formed on the sidewall of forming container 102. An advantage of the present invention is that the retaining ring is formed on the sidewall of the forming container, so that no separate retaining ring or insert is required.

5A, in an exemplary embodiment, the length B of the insert 106 may be 5-30 mm, preferably less than 20 mm. The length H of the opening may be 13 to 50 mm. The length I of the roll edge may be 0.25 to 5 mm, preferably less than 3 mm. The diameter K of the opening may be between 10 and 47 mm, preferably less than 32 mm. The length J of the retaining ring can be 1 to 8 mm, preferably less than 5 mm.

6A-6D, a product packaging container 102, also referred to as a molding container 102, is a symmetric retaining ring 114B or an asymmetric retaining ring 114A that is pinched or attached to the product packing container. An example of a product packaging container is shown. 6A-6D illustrate a molded container 102 with an insert 106 disposed around the open end of the container. FIG. 6A shows an asymmetric retaining ring 114A having an outer circumferential edge shaped into a shape other than a continuous circular outer circumferential edge such as the retaining ring 114B shown in FIG. 6B. The inner circumference is sized to fit around the open end of the forming vessel 102. In an exemplary embodiment, the molded outer edge may be any shape as desired and / or preferably.

6B shows symmetric retaining ring 114B. The term symmetry means that the shape of the outer peripheral edge of retaining ring 114B is a continuous circle. The inner circumference is sized to fit around the open end of the forming vessel 102.

FIG. 6C shows the forming container 102 with a retaining ring 114 pinched or attached between the formed upper edge 118A and the formed lower edge 118B positioned near the roll edge 104. The upper edge 118A and the lower edge 118B are integral with the tapered body of the metal forming container body.

FIG. 6D shows a molded container 102 in which a retaining ring 114 is pinched or attached between a lower ledge integrally formed with the tapered body portion of the container 102 and an upper edge that is also integrally formed. The ring is supported at the upper end of the integral lower jaw, and the integral upper edge 118B pinches or attaches the retaining ring 114 between the lower jaw and the upper edge 118. The upper edge 118A and the lower jaw are integral with the tapered body of the metal forming container body. For the sake of explanation, the lower jaw portion may also be referred to as the lower edge.

6C and 6D, in an exemplary embodiment, the length B of the open end may be 5-30 mm, preferably less than 20 mm. The length H of the open end may be 13 to 50 mm. The length I of the roll edge may be 0.25 to 5 mm, preferably 3 mm. The diameter K of the opening may be between 10 and 47 mm, preferably less than 32 mm. The retaining ring is pinched or attached between the lower edge and the upper edge, and the length J in which the lower edge, the upper edge and the retaining ring are combined may be 1 to 8 mm, preferably less than 5 mm.

7A and 7B, an example of a product packaging container, also referred to as forming container 102, that includes an integral retaining ring extending outwardly, is shown. FIG. 7A shows a forming container 102 that includes an integral retaining ring 120 extending outwardly. FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view illustrating the open end 124 of the forming vessel 102, showing the side wall 110, the formed edge 104 and the retaining ring 120 formed. In an exemplary embodiment, the retaining ring 120 may be integrally formed on the sidewall of the forming container 102.

Referring to Fig. 8, an example of the column load supporting insert 106 is shown. In an exemplary embodiment, the insert 106 is positioned around the open end of the forming container 102 and is for engaging and securing the removable lid 202 (the lid 202 is not shown in this figure). Optionally includes a thread 122 and is configured to provide a retaining ring or retaining ring edge that supports the column load during attachment of the lid to the open end of the container. The optional thread may be a number of threads that are helically attached to the outer surface of the insert to engage and secure a separate container lid to the molded body. Such an insert may be made of plastic, metal or other material as desired and / or preferably in certain embodiments.

For illustration purposes, a column load, also called an axial load, is defined as a load or force applied along or parallel to a line concentric with the main axis. In this regard, the main axis is the axis extending from the open top end of the forming container 102 to the closed bottom end. In an exemplary embodiment, such column load is generally needed and / or preferably in certain embodiments during bottling and / or when attaching a lid to the forming container 102 and pallets of the laminated product. When forming, it is applied when laminating molding containers to one another, such as store displays, storage of finished products, and / or in other situations.

Referring to FIG. 9, an example of a product packaging container, also referred to as forming container 102, including an insert 106, and a process for attaching the screwed screw lid 202 are shown. The product packaging container 102 uses a retaining ring support 302 to support the column load. In an exemplary embodiment, the retaining ring support 302 may be combined with a system for transferring the forming container 102 to the lid attachment location or station. Capping systems range from 600 to 800 lb for crown lids, 300 to 500 lb for ROPP lids and 30 to 80 lb for plastic screw or twist-off lids, depending on the type and type of lid used. A lid 202 may be attached to generate the column load.

Referring to FIGS. 10A and 10B, an example of a product packaging container, also referred to as forming container 102, that includes a crown closure lid 202 is shown. 10A shows a forming container 102 that includes a roll edge 104 supported by a retaining ring support 302. FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional view illustrating a retaining ring support 302 formed in a shape fitted to a forming container including a retaining ring 120.

Referring to FIG. 11, an example of a forming container 102 is shown. The forming container 102 may be characterized by the dimension ratio of any preferred embodiment. In addition, such shaping vessel 102 may utilize straight walls as desired and / or preferably in certain embodiments. In this regard, the length B of the insert 106 may be between 5 and 30 mm, preferably less than 20 mm. The length H of the opening may be 13 to 50 mm. The length I of the roll edge may be 0.25 to 5 mm, preferably less than 3 mm. The diameter K of the opening may be between 10 and 47 mm, preferably less than 27 mm.

In many exemplary embodiments, the size of the molding container can be varied to accommodate molding containers that are small, medium, and large, as desired and / or preferably, in certain embodiments. By way of example and not limitation, the dimensional aspect for a typical 500 milliliter (ml) container may be as follows. The overall length A of the molding container 120 may be 230 to 280 mm, preferably 251 mm. The minimum diameter L of the tapered body may be 20-30 mm, preferably 25 mm. The maximum diameter M of the central body may be between 50 and 80 mm, preferably 68 mm. The minimum diameter N of the lower body may be 45 to 70 mm, preferably 59 mm. The maximum diameter O of the base may be between 50 and 75 mm, preferably 69 mm. The length C of the tapered body may be 80 to 100 mm, preferably 80 mm. The length D of the central body may be 20 to 50 mm, preferably 30 mm. The length E of the lower body may be 100 to 120 mm, preferably 106 mm. The length F of the base may be 18 to 30 mm, preferably 22 mm. The length G of the forming vessel 102 may be between 50 and 75 mm, preferably 69 mm. In an exemplary embodiment where the forming vessel 102 is made of metal, the thickness of the metal may be between 0.0030 and 0.0250 inches.

B. Method for Manufacturing Metal Molded Containers

Referring to FIG. 12, an example of a method of isolating the column load of the forming container 102 and mitigating deformation during attachment of the lid 102 is shown. In an exemplary embodiment, a cylindrical tube made of metal or other material may be molded or formed into the forming vessel 102. A retaining ring may then be formed in the forming container 102 near the open end of the forming container 102. The made container 102 is then supported by the retaining ring, thereby isolating the column load associated with the attachment of the lid 202 to the region between the open end and the retaining ring. In this regard, isolation of the column load at the open end of the forming container 102 can minimize deformation of the forming container 102 caused by the column load applied during attachment of the lid 202. The forming container 102 can then be closed by attaching the lid 202. The method of the present invention begins at block 1002.

In block 1002, the cylindrical tube is formed of or otherwise molded into the forming vessel 102. In an exemplary embodiment, the cylindrical tube may be drawn and redrawn of sheet metal, as needed and / or preferably in certain embodiments, injection molding, cupping, drawing and ironing (D & I). (DRD: draw or re-draw), impact extrusion of metal slugs and / or other methods. The cylindrical tube may be blow molded, pressure ram, embossed or engraved, die forming, trimmed, as desired and / or preferably in certain embodiments. Forming container 102 by molding, hydroforming, pneumatic forming, rolling, necking, contouring, stamped halves, and / or other methods. It can be formed as.

In contrast to the formation of a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) container, which retaining ring can be part of an injection molded preform and can therefore be present before the forming step, in the process of the present invention the retaining ring is a separate step after the container is formed or It forms in the middle of forming a container. This is considered to be an advantage of the present invention, in that there is no preform and generally the starting material is sheet metal or metal slug and thus it is necessary to mold or form the container before the retaining ring can be added and / or formed. In part.

For the sake of explanation, the embossed portion is defined as a decorative portion such as a display portion having a raised pattern on its surface. In the present invention, such a surface may be the surface of the molding container 102, the surface of the lid 202, and / or other surfaces as needed and / or preferably in certain embodiments.

The container 102 is advantageously made of an iconic shaped vessel, but in such a case the container may be an ultra-thin wall container that can no longer support the column load generated when attaching the lid to the container. In other embodiments, the cost of forming container 102 may be directly proportional to the amount of material such as aluminum or other material used to form the container. By way of example and not limitation, if more metal is needed to make the container, the cost of the container is higher. As such, it is highly desirable to minimize the cost of the container by making a molded container with the wall thickness as thin as possible to reduce the material cost. In an exemplary embodiment, such shaped containers made of metal or metal alloys may be molded to wall thicknesses from 0.0030 to 0.0250 inches.

In an exemplary embodiment, the forming container 102 may have a closed end and an open end. In this regard, the product may be introduced into the molding container 102, and the lid 202 may be used to seal the product in the molding container 102. The method of the present invention continues at block 1004.

At block 1004, a retaining ring is formed near the open end of the forming container 102. In this regard, the retaining ring can be used to support the forming container during bottling and / or attachment of the lid 202. By attachment of such a lid 202, a column load of approximately 30 to 800 lb can be generated, depending on the type, type and method of attachment of the lid. In this regard, in the case of not supporting the forming container 102 with the retaining ring, such column load will be sufficient to deform or crush the thin wall forming container 102.

In an exemplary embodiment, the retaining ring is formed in the wall of the forming vessel and / or by other methods, as required in certain embodiments and / or preferably, as shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B. Can be. The method of the present invention continues at block 1006.

At block 1006, the column load is isolated between the retaining ring and the open end of the container by supporting the forming vessel with the retaining ring support 302. As such, the shaping vessel 102 is supported by the retaining ring support 302 such that the shaping vessel will deform and / or crush the thin-walled body portion of the shaping vessel 102 during the attachment process of the lid 202 under the retaining ring. You will not receive enough column load. The method of the present invention continues at block 1008.

In block 1008, the forming container 102 is sealed with a lid 202. In an exemplary embodiment, by way of example and not limitation, the forming container is filled with a product, such as a refreshing Coca-Cola product, before the forming container is closed. While closing the forming container 102 as such, the type of lid may be, for example, a screw cap, crown finish, metal or plastic lid, and / or other types and types of lids. The column load can generally range from 30 to 800 lb depending on the type, type and method of attachment of the lid.

An advantage of the present invention is that by using a retaining ring, very high column loading forces can be used to attach the lid to the forming vessel 102. In this connection, according to the present invention, in part due to the fact that the column load is isolated between the retaining ring and the open end of the shaping vessel, using the retaining ring support 302, a high column load that breaks the vessel is achieved. This makes it possible to use other types and types of lids 202 that cannot be used to seal the container. The method of the present invention then ends.

Referring to FIG. 13, an example of a method of isolating column loads of the forming container 102 and mitigating deformation during attachment of the lid 102 is shown. In an exemplary embodiment, a cylindrical tube made of metal or other material may be molded or formed into the forming vessel 102. An outlet may be attached around the open end of the forming container 102. The insert includes a retaining ring. The container 102 thus made is supported by the retaining ring, thereby isolating the column load associated with the attachment of the lid 202 to the region between the open end and the retaining ring. In this regard, isolation of the column load at the open end of the forming container 102 can minimize deformation of the forming container 102 caused by the column load applied during attachment of the lid 202. The forming container 102 can then be closed by attaching the lid 202. The method of the present invention begins at block 2002.

At block 2002, the forming vessel is formed as needed and / or preferably, in certain embodiments, in the manner described in detail at block 1002 or by other methods. The method of the present invention continues at block 2004.

In block 2004, an insert is attached near the open end of the forming container 102. The insert includes a retaining ring. Such a retaining ring may be formed in the insert as needed or preferably in a particular embodiment as a protruding jaw or other jaw, such as jaw 108 shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. In other exemplary embodiments, retaining ring edges may be exposed as desired or preferably, in certain embodiments, such as retaining ring 114 or other retaining ring edges shown in FIG. 3. The method of the present invention continues at block 2006.

In block 2006, the column load is isolated between the retaining ring and the open end of the container, as needed or preferably in a particular embodiment, using the methods detailed in block 1006 or by other methods. do. The method of the present invention continues at block 2008.

In block 2008, the forming container 102 is sealed with the lid 202 as needed or preferably in a particular embodiment, using the methods described in detail at block 1008 or by other methods. . The method of the present invention then ends.

Referring to FIG. 14, an example of a method of isolating column loads of the forming container 102 and mitigating deformation during attachment of the lid 102 is shown. In an exemplary embodiment, a cylindrical tube made of metal or other material may be molded or formed into the forming vessel 102. As the retaining ring is added to the forming container 102 and pinched or attached to the forming container 102, the retaining ring can be secured in place near the open end of the forming container 102. The container 102 thus made is supported by the retaining ring, thereby isolating the column load associated with the attachment of the lid 202 to the region between the open end and the retaining ring. In this regard, isolation of the column load at the open end of the forming container 102 can minimize deformation of the forming container 102 caused by the column load applied during attachment of the lid 202. The forming container 102 can then be closed by attaching the lid 202. The method of the present invention begins at block 3002.

In block 3002, the forming vessel is formed as needed and / or preferably in a particular embodiment, in the manner described in detail in block 1002 or by other methods. The method of the present invention continues at block 3004.

At block 3004, the retaining ring may be pinched or attached to the forming vessel 102 such that a retaining ring may be created and retained around the neck region near the open end of the vessel. Such retaining rings are, as needed and / or preferably, in certain embodiments, formed in part on the material of the forming container 102 and / or by assembling additional materials such as separate retaining rings and / or other materials. Can be added to the container assembly. The method of the present invention continues at block 3006.

At block 3006, the column load is isolated between the retaining ring and the open end of the container, as needed or preferably in a particular embodiment, using the methods described in detail at block 1006 or by other methods. do. The method of the present invention continues at block 3008.

In block 3008, the forming container 102 is sealed with the lid 202 as needed or preferably in a particular embodiment, using the methods described in detail in block 1008 or by other methods. . The method of the present invention then ends.

Referring to FIG. 15, an example of a method of isolating column loads of a forming vessel and mitigating deformation during attachment of a lid is shown. In an exemplary embodiment, a cylindrical tube made of metal or other material may be molded or formed into the forming vessel 102. The lower edge 118B may be formed on the sidewall of the forming container 102 near the open end of the forming container. Retaining rings may be added to the forming vessel 102. Retaining rings 114, 114A, 114B may be asymmetrical 114A or symmetrical 114A as shown in FIGS. 6A-6C. An upper edge 118A is then formed in the lower edge and the vessel wall above the retaining ring to secure the added retaining ring in place by pinching or attaching. The made container 102 is supported by the retaining ring, thereby isolating the column load associated with the attachment of the lid 202 to the region between the open end and the retaining ring. In this regard, isolation of the column load at the open end of the forming container 102 can minimize deformation of the forming container 102 caused by the column load applied during attachment of the lid 202. The forming container 102 can then be closed by attaching the lid 202. The method of the present invention begins at block 4002.

At block 4002, the forming vessel is formed as needed and / or preferably, in certain embodiments, in the manner described in detail at block 1002 or by other methods. The method of the present invention continues at block 4004.

At block 4004, the lower edge may be formed on the sidewall of the forming container 102. This lower edge may be formed in some embodiments as needed or preferably by necking, blow molding, pressurized ram, rolling, hydraulic forming, pneumatic molding, split press, and / or other methods. The method of the present invention continues at block 4006.

At block 4006, retaining ring 114 is disposed around the open end of forming vessel 102. The retaining ring is supported above the lower edge which prevents the retaining ring from slipping down the neck of the container in which it is made. The method of the present invention continues at block 4008.

In block 4008 the upper edge is formed on the sidewall of the forming container 102 at the lower edge and over the retaining ring. The method of the present invention continues at block 4010.

In block 4010 the retaining ring is pinched or attached between the lower and upper edges near the open end of the forming container 102. In an exemplary embodiment, the column load is isolated between the retaining ring and the open end of the container by the methods described in detail in block 1006 or by other methods as needed or preferably in a particular embodiment. do. 6A-6D show pinching or attachment positions between retaining rings 114, 114A, 114B and upper edge 118A and lower edge 118B. The method of the present invention then ends.

Referring to FIG. 16, examples of a method of isolating column loads of a forming vessel and mitigating deformation during attachment of a lid are shown. Such exemplary embodiments may optionally be utilized for the methods of the present invention.

At block 5002, the insert may be attached around the open end of the forming container 102. Such attachment may be made as needed and / or preferably in certain embodiments by press fitting, attachment, roll forming and / or other methods.

At block 5004, the forming container may be filled with product. In an exemplary embodiment, such product may be filled through the open end of the forming container 102. Such products may include food, beverages and / or other products as needed and / or preferably in certain embodiments.

At block 5006, the cylindrical tube can be heated to increase the workability of the container material before or during the forming step. In an exemplary embodiment, the cylindrical metal tube may be heated to soften the metal before or during the forming. In addition, such forming methods include, as necessary and / or preferably, blow molding, press ram, embossing, rolling, hydraulic forming, pneumatic forming, split stamping, and / or other types and types of molding in certain embodiments. can do.

At block 5008, the forming container can be decorated. Such a decoration may be a brand display, a product display, a nutritional ingredient display, and / or other display and / or decoration as needed and / or preferably in a particular embodiment. In an exemplary embodiment, such indicators and / or embellishments may, as needed and / or preferably, be printed, screened, ink jet, affixed to pre-printed labels and / or in certain embodiments. Or by other methods.

In block 5010 the cylindrical tube may be formed of sheet metal or metal slug. In an exemplary embodiment, the sheet metal may be formed into a cylindrical tube as needed and / or preferably in certain embodiments by cupping, D & I, impact extrusion and / or other types and types of metal slugs formed. Can be.

In block 5012, the formed forming container 102 may be heat treated to reinforce the container wall or to improve the metal for later forming operations. In an exemplary embodiment, such heating methods may include annealing, tempering, re-crystallizing and / or other methods as needed and / or preferably in certain embodiments. Can be.

At block 5014, the forming container may be trimmed. In an exemplary embodiment, the open end of the forming container can be trimmed to form a uniformly flat open end edge. By way of example and not limitation, the trimming of the open end edge is shown in FIGS. 2A-2C, 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, 5A, 5B, 6C, 6D, shown as rolling edge 104. Before rolling the edge as shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B.

In block 5016, the molded container may be coated within the container to prevent the container contents, such as food, beverage or other packaging container contents, from contacting the metal sidewalls as needed and / or preferably in certain embodiments. Can be. In this regard, such metal containers may leach into the packaging container contents and / or the packaging container contents may negatively interact with the metal forming the container. In an exemplary embodiment, coatings such as epoxy, acrylic, polyester, polymer laminates and other materials may be used to ensure separation of the metal container surface and container contents such as food or beverage. Such coatings may be applied to the sheet metal prior to forming the cylindrical tube, to the cylindrical tube before forming the forming container and / or to the forming container after forming, as desired and / or preferably in certain embodiments.

In block 5018, the forming vessel is cleaned as needed in certain embodiments and / or preferably for the removal, sterilization and / or other purposes of any process film, oil, dust, debris and / or contaminants. Can be.

At block 5020, final molding may be performed after the initial molding process has been performed. In this regard, after the container is first molded, other non-molding steps, such as decorating, trimming, washing and / or other non-molding steps, may be performed as needed and / or preferably in certain embodiments. Additional molding steps may be performed after these non-molding steps.

The capabilities of the present invention may be implemented in software, firmware, hardware or any combination thereof.

In one example, one or more aspects of the present invention may be included in an article of manufacture (eg, one or more computer program products) having, for example, media available on a computer. The medium includes, for example, computer readable program code means therein for providing and implementing the capabilities of the present invention. The article of manufacture may be included as part of a computer system or sold separately.

Further, at least one machine readable program storage device may be provided which reliably contains at least one program of instructions executable by a machine to carry out the capabilities of the present invention.

The flowchart shown herein is merely an example. There may be many variations on these flowcharts or steps (or tasks) described herein without departing from the scope of the spirit of the invention. For example, the steps of the present invention may be performed in a different order or the steps may be added, deleted or modified. All of these variants are considered part of the present invention.

Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains can now make various improvements and improvements within the scope of the following claims. Could be. The claims should first be construed to maintain adequate protection for the invention described.

Claims (20)

As a method of isolating the column load and strain relief of a metal forming container,
Forming a cylindrical metal tube into a metal forming container comprising a closed end, an open end, an integral retaining ring near the open end, and a thin sidewall;
Isolating the column load between the open end and the retaining ring by supporting the metal forming container with the retaining ring; And
Sealing the metal forming container with the lid, wherein the deformation between the closed end of the metal forming container and the retaining ring due to the column load during attachment of the lid is minimized. Isolation and strain mitigation methods. The method of claim 1,
The method of claim 1 further comprising the step of filling the molded container with the product. The method of claim 1,
Further comprising heating a cylindrical metal tube to increase workability during the forming process. The method of claim 1,
The method of claim 1, further comprising decorating the metal forming container. The method of claim 1,
Further comprising forming a cylindrical metal tube from sheet metal or metal slug. The method of claim 1,
The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of forming a flute on the surface of the metal forming container. The method of claim 1,
And embossing or engraving the indicator on the surface of the metal forming container. The method of claim 1,
Forming a cylindrical metal tube may be performed by blow molding, pressurized ram, stamped halves, die necking, hydraulic molding or pneumatic molding to reduce column load isolation and deformation of the metal forming vessel. Way. The method of claim 1,
The method of claim 1 wherein the lid is selected from the group consisting of crown finishes, threaded finishes, snap lid finishes or rolled-on pilfer proof finishes. As a method of isolating the column load and strain relief of a metal forming container,
Forming a cylindrical metal tube into a metal forming container comprising a sealed end and an open end;
Attaching an insert including a retaining ring around an open end of the metal forming container;
Isolating the column load between the open end and the retaining ring by supporting the metal forming container with the retaining ring; And
Sealing the metal forming container with the lid, wherein the deformation between the closed end of the metal forming container and the retaining ring due to the column load during attachment of the lid is minimized. Isolation and strain mitigation methods. The method of claim 10,
Further comprising forming a cylindrical metal tube from sheet metal or metal slug. The method of claim 10,
Further comprising heating a cylindrical metal tube to increase workability during the forming process. The method of claim 10,
The method of claim 1, further comprising decorating the metal forming container. The method of claim 1,
The method of claim 1 wherein the lid is selected from the group consisting of crown finishes, threaded finishes, snap lid finishes or ROPP finishes. As a method of isolating the column load and strain relief of a metal forming container,
Forming a cylindrical metal tube into a metal forming container comprising a sealed end and an open end;
Pinching or attaching a retaining ring around the open end of the metal forming container;
Isolating the column load between the open end and the retaining ring by supporting the metal forming container with the retaining ring; And
Sealing the metal forming container with the lid, wherein the deformation between the closed end of the metal forming container and the retaining ring due to the column load during attachment of the lid is minimized. Isolation and strain mitigation methods. 16. The method of claim 15,
The pinching or attaching step
Integrally forming the lower edge near an open end of the metal forming container;
Placing the retaining ring around the open end and supporting the lower edge; And
And forming an upper edge integrally on the lower edge and the retaining ring in the metal forming container so that the retaining ring is pinched or attached between the lower edge and the upper edge. Load isolation and strain mitigation methods. The method of claim 16,
A retaining ring is asymmetrical in shape, characterized in that the column load isolation and strain relief method of the metal forming container. The method of claim 16,
The lower edge or upper edge is less than or equal to the entire circumference of the open end A method for column load isolation and strain relief of a metal forming container, characterized in that it is formed integrally. 16. The method of claim 15,
Further comprising forming a cylindrical metal tube from sheet metal or metal slug. 16. The method of claim 15,
Forming a cylindrical metal tube may be performed by blow molding, pressurized ram, stamped halves, die necking, hydraulic molding or pneumatic molding to reduce column load isolation and deformation of the metal forming vessel. Way.

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