US20020014489A1 - Easy-open misting container - Google Patents
Easy-open misting container Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20020014489A1 US20020014489A1 US09/294,982 US29498299A US2002014489A1 US 20020014489 A1 US20020014489 A1 US 20020014489A1 US 29498299 A US29498299 A US 29498299A US 2002014489 A1 US2002014489 A1 US 2002014489A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- tab
- raised
- opening
- rivet
- raised portion
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D17/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers specially constructed to be opened by cutting or piercing, or by tearing of frangible members or portions
- B65D17/28—Rigid or semi-rigid containers specially constructed to be opened by cutting or piercing, or by tearing of frangible members or portions at lines or points of weakness
- B65D17/401—Rigid or semi-rigid containers specially constructed to be opened by cutting or piercing, or by tearing of frangible members or portions at lines or points of weakness characterised by having the line of weakness provided in an end wall
- B65D17/4012—Rigid or semi-rigid containers specially constructed to be opened by cutting or piercing, or by tearing of frangible members or portions at lines or points of weakness characterised by having the line of weakness provided in an end wall for opening partially by means of a tearing tab
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2517/00—Containers specially constructed to be opened by cutting, piercing or tearing of wall portions, e.g. preserving cans or tins
- B65D2517/0001—Details
- B65D2517/001—Action for opening container
- B65D2517/0014—Action for opening container pivot tab and push-down tear panel
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2517/00—Containers specially constructed to be opened by cutting, piercing or tearing of wall portions, e.g. preserving cans or tins
- B65D2517/0001—Details
- B65D2517/0058—Other details of container end panel
- B65D2517/0059—General cross-sectional shape of container end panel
- B65D2517/0061—U-shaped
- B65D2517/0062—U-shaped and provided with an additional U-shaped peripheral channel
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2517/00—Containers specially constructed to be opened by cutting, piercing or tearing of wall portions, e.g. preserving cans or tins
- B65D2517/0001—Details
- B65D2517/0058—Other details of container end panel
- B65D2517/0068—Ribs or projections in container end panel
- B65D2517/0071—Ribs or projections in container end panel located externally of tear-out/push-in panel or preformed opening
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2517/00—Containers specially constructed to be opened by cutting, piercing or tearing of wall portions, e.g. preserving cans or tins
- B65D2517/0001—Details
- B65D2517/0091—Means for venting upon initial opening
- B65D2517/0092—Means for venting upon initial opening formed as a partial score line located close to the tab connection
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10S220/00—Receptacles
- Y10S220/906—Beverage can, i.e. beer, soda
Definitions
- the present invention relates to beverage cans having easy-open ends, and particularly to pressurized beverage containers for products such as beer and soft drinks.
- the invention particularly includes an improved can end that provides a visible, directed vent discharge.
- beverage cans are quite common and used throughout the world every day, the manufacturing technology involved is far from simple, and the capital investment in manufacturing machinery and tooling to manufacture the cans and can ends is substantial. It is not uncommon, for example, to use a 13 station die set to produce merely the tab. Exemplary methods of tab construction are taught in U.S. Pat. No. 4,465,204, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Once in operation at the large volumes and high speeds of the can making industry, the can makers prefer to avoid major changes to the manufacturing systems, equipment and tooling.
- This invention provides a can having an improved easy-open can end, and method of manufacturing the end, which discharges a visible mist on opening of a pressurized can. It provides this feature through structure which does not require excessive modifications of the can end or the can end manufacturing processes, equipment and tooling.
- a typical tab includes a rearward finger portion and a forward nose portion.
- the tab is mounted to the can end by a rivet and positioned such that the nose extends over the tear strip which is defined by the score.
- the score includes a vent region which is positioned adjacent the rivet.
- a typical tab includes a face portion extending between the rivet and the nose. Accordingly, the face portion extends over the vent region of the score.
- the face portion is provided with a raised section having an opening such as a circular hole.
- the raised section extends over the vent region such that upon lifting of the tab, most of the gas discharged from the vent region is directed generally upwardly into the volume defined by the raised section, and then through the opening in the raised section.
- the raised section and opening are sized and shaped to cause the gas to discharge through the opening as a visible mist.
- a preferred raised section is a semi-circular or crescent shaped structure having an opening which is elongated, circular or oval.
- FIG. 1 is a plan view of a prior art easy-open can end
- FIG. 2 is a plan view of a portion the prior art can end of FIG. 1 showing additional detail of the tab and showing score and contour lines in phantom;
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a can body with an attached can end
- FIG. 4 is a plan view of a tab in accordance with the invention.
- FIG. 5 is an elevational cross section view taken at V-V of FIG. 4;
- FIG. 6 is another plan view of a tab in accordance with the invention.
- FIG. 7 is an elevational cross section view taken at VII-VII of FIG. 6;
- FIG. 8 is another plan view of a tab in accordance with the invention.
- FIG. 9 is an elevational cross section view taken at IX-IX of FIG. 8;
- FIG. 10 is another plan view of a tab in accordance with the invention.
- FIG. 11 is an elevational cross section view taken at XI-XI of FIG. 10;
- FIG. 12 is yet another plan view of a tab in accordance with the invention.
- FIG. 13 is an elevational cross section view taken at XIII-XIII of FIG. 12;
- FIG. 14A is an elevational cross section view of the central region of a can end in accordance with the invention.
- FIG. 14B is a view similar to FIG. 14 showing a seal on the can end
- FIG. 15 is a schematic cross section view illustrating a vent mist in accordance with the invention.
- FIG. 16 is a layout of a prior art pull-tab manufacturing sequence
- FIG. 17 is a layout of a pull-tab manufacturing sequence in accordance with the invention.
- Can end 10 has an end panel 12 of generally circular shape which includes a circumferentially extending raised edge 14 for attaching the can end 10 to a suitable cylindrical beverage can or the like.
- the can end 10 is preferably manufactured of a relatively ductile metal such as aluminum, but may be made from other materials.
- Can ends 10 of the prior art or of the inventive type herein described are attachable to a can body 8 as shown schematically in FIG. 3. Within the can is a beverage 6 and a head space 4 above the beverage 6 .
- a retained tear strip 16 extends across can end 10 from a position spaced inwardly of raised edge 14 to approximately the center of can end 10 .
- Tear strip 16 is defined by a generally U-shaped or V-shaped score 18 with open end 20 of the V or U shape positioned toward the center of the can end 10 .
- the score 18 is interrupted so that the tear strip 16 will be captively retained on the underside of the can end 10 when opened.
- An integral rivet 22 is positioned adjacent open end 20 of score 18 , and a graspable ring-like pull tab 24 is secured to can end 10 by rivet 22 .
- Pull tab 24 includes a forward nose portion 26 and a rearward finger portion 28 .
- Pull tab 24 also includes a face portion 30 between the rivet 22 and the nose 26 .
- the periphery of the tab 24 is typically formed by rolling the edges, and thus the periphery, such as the nose portion 26 , is more rigid than the face portion 30 .
- the face portion typically includes a profile 31 for added strength in this region.
- an anti-fracture score 32 and an anti-missile score 34 there is included an anti-fracture score 32 and an anti-missile score 34 .
- a vent region 38 of the main score 18 adjacent rivet 22 is also shown. It is evident that the vent region 38 is covered by the face 30 .
- the vent region 38 of the score 18 opens as the rivet 22 is initially lifted. A gaseous vapor is released from within the can and disperses laterally under the tab 24 and then into the surrounding environment.
- the face portion 30 of the tab 24 is thinner and not as rigid as the periphery of the tab 24 , and bends in this face portion 30 as the tab 24 is lifted.
- FIG. 4 there is shown a tab 24 in accordance with the invention, having a nose portion 26 , finger portion 28 , and face portion 30 .
- the tab 24 includes a rivet hole 40 , a forming cavity or tongue 42 , a finger cavity 44 and a gripper rise 46 . All of these features are well known in the art, as is the fabrication process by which the tab 24 is attached to the can end 10 .
- the inventive embodiments include a raised section 48 rising from the face portion 30 .
- the raised section or store 48 includes an opening 50 therethrough as shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5.
- the raised region 48 defines a volume for receiving and then discharging a vented vapor, as described further below.
- FIGS. 6 through 13 show a raised section 48 generally round in cross section, being generally hemispherical, and having a round or circular opening 50 . This appears as a portion of a round bubble rising from the face 30 and having a circular opening.
- FIGS. 8 and 9 show an elongated raised section 48 being generally rectangular in cross section and having a round opening 50 .
- FIGS. 10 and 11 show a raised section 48 being in the shape of a half-moon bubble and having an elongated opening 50 .
- the raised section 48 extends to the rolled edge of the nose 26 , which has been found to be desirable as it aids in maintaining the strength of the face portion 30 of the tab 24 and sufficiently contains the vapor discharged into the raised portion 48 .
- the raised portion if not overly large, may provide to the face 30 a strengthening similar to that of the profile 31 (FIG. 2).
- FIGS. 12 and 13 show a raised section 48 generally round in cross section, as a hemisphere, and having an opening 50 which is a plurality of round opening holes 52 . It has been found that an elongated raised section 48 , as compared to a round raised section 48 , tends to better retain vapor within the raised section with less lateral discharge that bypasses passing through the opening 50 .
- the raised portion 48 is preferably vertically aligned above at least a portion of the vent region 38 , as shown in FIG. 2.
- FIG. 14A there is shown a schematic of the central portion the inventive can end 10 .
- the tab 24 has been lifted sufficiently to fracture the score 18 at the vent region 38 .
- Pressurized gas or vapor 54 is discharged from the head space 4 in the interior of the can body 8 through the open vent region 38 , communicates into the raised portion 48 and through the opening 50 into the surrounding environment.
- the discharge of the vapor along this path forms an ejection mist 58 of the type shown in FIG. 15.
- the appearance of the mist 58 will vary depending on a number of variables, including the type of vapor and its temperature and pressure within the interior 56 of the can, the conditions of the ambient environment, the volume and configuration of the raised portion 48 , and the configuration and area of the opening 50 . It has been found, however, that by use of the raised section 48 and opening 50 to control the discharge as compared to prior art systems, the discharge can be sufficiently focused under anticipated conditions to create a visible mist. From an aesthetic standpoint, it is deemed to be desirable that the mist 58 be visible and form a cloud or a fan or wedge shape. Where the product contained within the can is a carbonated soft drink or beer, the mist is anticipated to contain carbon dioxide, with or without some vaporous form of the product.
- mist 58 is initially visible, and then dissipates into the surrounding environment. A residue may remain on the can end 10 .
- an inner bead 59 which functions for the nose 26 to react against on initial opening, which is typical of many prior art can end designs.
- the area of the discharge opening 50 is one of the most important factors in controlling the appearance and formulation of the mist 58 . If the opening 50 is too small and restrictive, either the mist 58 is discharged as too narrow and harsh a stream, or the venting is overly constrained and no mist is formed. If the opening is too large, the vapor vents quickly and a visible mist is not formed. It has also been found that if the raised section 48 is too large compared to the face portion 30 , it may excessively weaken the tab which could fail upon lifting. It is also desirable that the face portion 30 of the tab 24 fit snugly against the end panel 12 , to create a loosely sealed area from which the raised portion 48 rises. As shown in FIG.
- a seal 88 such as a polymer, can be included to enhance the containment of the vapor within the raised portion 48 and alleviate discharge other than through the opening 50 .
- the seal 88 preferably extends approximately 180° about the nose 26 of the tab 24 and is affixed to the bottom of the pull tab 24 prior to attachment of the tab 24 onto the can end 10 .
- the process of fixing the tab 24 onto the can end 10 is well known to those skilled in the art, and includes actual formation of the rivet 22 from a rivet button on the end panel 12 such that the tab 24 is captured through the rivet hole 40 .
- a visible mist on opening can function as one feature to differentiate the product within the can from the product of others, and provides a pleasing alternative to the consumer.
- FIG. 16 there is shown a typical three out prior art manufacturing sequence for formation of a pull tab 24 in accordance with manufacturing machinery and tooling of Stolle Machinery, Inc. of Sidney, Ohio. As shown, it involves 13 sequential tooling die stations. Tab sheet stock 60 of aluminum, for example standard alloy 5182 of 0.010 to 0.011 inches thick, is passed through the sequence. In the first station tab stock pilot holes 62 and carry strip holes 64 are pierced. In the second station additional carry strip holes 64 and the finger cavities 44 are pierced. In the third station the forming cavity or tongue 42 is pierced. In the fourth station the outside contour 70 of the tab is lanced. In the fifth station the tongue 42 is reformed as indicated at reference numeral 72 .
- the tab contour is precurled 74 and the finger hole is precurled as indicated at numeral 76 .
- the area around the rivet location is formed downward, into a panel form indicated at reference numeral 78 .
- the outside contour 70 and precurled finger hole 76 get a 90 degree wipedown and a panel form 78 restrike.
- the ninth station is idle.
- the outside contour 70 and finger hole 44 get curled.
- a rivet hole 80 is pierced.
- the tab reform and tip up operation is performed, indicated respectively by reference numerals 82 and 84 .
- the rivet hole 80 is reformed, indicated at reference numeral 86 .
- this manufacturing sequence is improved to include formation of the raised portion 48 and opening 50 .
- One contemplated implementation of this improvement as shown in FIG. 17 is piercing of the face portion at the third station to form the opening 50 , and forming the raised portion 48 in the sixth station.
- Other sequences can be utilized, including modification of the existing stations or providing one or more additional stations. If a seal 88 is utilized, it can be added after formation of the tab 24 and prior to connection of the tab 24 to the can end 10 .
- “Large bubble raised portion” is a bubble or hemispherical style raised portion 48 (as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7) ⁇ fraction (3/16) ⁇ inch diameter at its widest cross section and 1 ⁇ 8 inch deep; “Half moon raised portion” is a raised portion 48 of the type shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, ⁇ fraction (5/16) ⁇ inch long, ⁇ fraction (5/32) ⁇ inch wide and 1 ⁇ 8 inch deep.
- “Double slit” refers to a hemispherical bubble style having two parallel slits; “Single slit” refers to a hemispherical bubble style having a slit across the raised bubble; and, “Radius slit” refers to semi-circular opening.
- “Small hole” refers to a ⁇ fraction (1/32) ⁇ inch diameter opening; “Large hole” refers to a ⁇ fraction (1/16) ⁇ inch diameter opening; “Elongated hole” refers to an opening ⁇ fraction (1/32) ⁇ inch by ⁇ fraction (5/32) ⁇ inch.
- the test tabs were made by taking standard commercial machine-made tabs and through a hand process, forming into these tabs the raised portion 48 and opening 50 .
- can ends can be manufactured including inventive structure which provides a visible mist or cloud upon initial opening.
- This feature can be utilized to differentiate among producers and products, and to provide consumers with a desirable vision upon opening of a pressurized container.
- the size, configuration and position of the raised region or receiving reservoir and of the opening can be of numerous variations, provided that the raised reservoir receives the initial vent discharge through the vent region of the score.
- the manufacturing sequence to provide the raised region and opening can be adjusted consistent with minimizing the impact on existing systems and tooling.
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Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates to beverage cans having easy-open ends, and particularly to pressurized beverage containers for products such as beer and soft drinks. The invention particularly includes an improved can end that provides a visible, directed vent discharge.
- Most consumers are familiar with metallic beverage containers having easy-open ends and containing soft drinks or beer. And, most consumers are equally familiar with the associated marketing efforts, including the use of various decorations, trademarks, markings, colors, shapes and other indicia on the cans used to differentiate among the contained products and the producers. Producers are constantly searching for ways to differentiate their product from those of others. In addition to the product, the package often serves as a significant feature of this differentiation.
- Many of the metallic cans for holding beverages or other products are provided with easy-open can ends having attached pull tabs. The pull tab is attached to the can end by an integral rivet. The can end has a tear strip defined by a score. The pull tab is lifted and then pulled or torn to provide an opening defined by the tear strip through which the contents can then be poured. Consistent with ecological and safety considerations, the tear strip and tab, under normal conditions, remain connected to the can end.
- When opening a carbonated or pressurized can, the consumer typically hears a venting from the can on lifting of the tab, and is aware that continued movement forces the tear strip, defined by the score, downwardly into the can. The score used in most cans today includes the formation of a vent region adjacent the rivet. Although it may appear to the consumer to be a single action of lifting and pulling the tab, basically this can end construction provides an initial opening of the score at the vent region in response to the lifting of the rivet by the tab. This action is followed by further fracture of the score line as a nose of the tab presses downwardly on the tear strip. In the can industry, this is often referred to as an initial “pop” followed by a “push.” During the initial pop, pressure contained within the can is vented. This involves the venting of gas, typically carbon dioxide or nitrogen, which disperses broadly from the vent region generally laterally along the surface of the can end beneath the tab and into the surrounding environment. A purpose of the initial venting is to relieve pressure and avoid what is referred to as “missiling” of the tear panel. Accordingly, it has been desired to broadly dissipate the vented gas. A typical easy-open can end construction, including an anti-missile feature, is taught in U.S. Pat. No. 5,738,237, incorporated herein by reference. Further, the industry has viewed the discharge from a container as an undesirable feature, as discussed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,928,845 which teaches a throttle device as a safety feature against spraying from the can. U.S. Pat. No. 4,741,451 discloses another structure wherein a closure block on the interior of a can holds a lever portion of a pull tab which is pulled away from an aperture to allow venting from the can.
- Although beverage cans are quite common and used throughout the world every day, the manufacturing technology involved is far from simple, and the capital investment in manufacturing machinery and tooling to manufacture the cans and can ends is substantial. It is not uncommon, for example, to use a 13 station die set to produce merely the tab. Exemplary methods of tab construction are taught in U.S. Pat. No. 4,465,204, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Once in operation at the large volumes and high speeds of the can making industry, the can makers prefer to avoid major changes to the manufacturing systems, equipment and tooling.
- While use of easy-open cans is widely and well received, it is desirable to provide a can including an improved can end which not only functions in the easy-open manner described above, but which also provides an additional method of product differentiation. It is further desirable to provide such improved cans without excessive modification of existing can manufacturing processes, equipment and tooling.
- This invention provides a can having an improved easy-open can end, and method of manufacturing the end, which discharges a visible mist on opening of a pressurized can. It provides this feature through structure which does not require excessive modifications of the can end or the can end manufacturing processes, equipment and tooling.
- In preferred form merely the tab is modified. A typical tab includes a rearward finger portion and a forward nose portion. As is typical in the art, the tab is mounted to the can end by a rivet and positioned such that the nose extends over the tear strip which is defined by the score. The score includes a vent region which is positioned adjacent the rivet. A typical tab includes a face portion extending between the rivet and the nose. Accordingly, the face portion extends over the vent region of the score. In accordance with the invention, the face portion is provided with a raised section having an opening such as a circular hole. The raised section extends over the vent region such that upon lifting of the tab, most of the gas discharged from the vent region is directed generally upwardly into the volume defined by the raised section, and then through the opening in the raised section. The raised section and opening are sized and shaped to cause the gas to discharge through the opening as a visible mist.
- While many configurations are possible, such as a hemispherical bubble having a circular hole, a preferred raised section is a semi-circular or crescent shaped structure having an opening which is elongated, circular or oval.
- The modification of a typical prior art tab forming process can readily involve the addition of steps during or at the end of the tab forming manufacturing process whereby the raised section and opening are formed. As desired, new tabs can be specifically configured and positioned to provide a raised section which receives the vented gas and an opening through which it will be dispersed.
- The advantages, nature and additional features of the invention will become more apparent from the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:
- FIG. 1 is a plan view of a prior art easy-open can end;
- FIG. 2 is a plan view of a portion the prior art can end of FIG. 1 showing additional detail of the tab and showing score and contour lines in phantom;
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a can body with an attached can end;
- FIG. 4 is a plan view of a tab in accordance with the invention;
- FIG. 5 is an elevational cross section view taken at V-V of FIG. 4;
- FIG. 6 is another plan view of a tab in accordance with the invention;
- FIG. 7 is an elevational cross section view taken at VII-VII of FIG. 6;
- FIG. 8 is another plan view of a tab in accordance with the invention;
- FIG. 9 is an elevational cross section view taken at IX-IX of FIG. 8;
- FIG. 10 is another plan view of a tab in accordance with the invention;
- FIG. 11 is an elevational cross section view taken at XI-XI of FIG. 10;
- FIG. 12 is yet another plan view of a tab in accordance with the invention;
- FIG. 13 is an elevational cross section view taken at XIII-XIII of FIG. 12;
- FIG. 14A is an elevational cross section view of the central region of a can end in accordance with the invention;
- FIG. 14B is a view similar to FIG. 14 showing a seal on the can end;
- FIG. 15 is a schematic cross section view illustrating a vent mist in accordance with the invention;
- FIG. 16 is a layout of a prior art pull-tab manufacturing sequence; and
- FIG. 17 is a layout of a pull-tab manufacturing sequence in accordance with the invention.
- Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2 there is shown an exemplary prior art can end10. Can end 10 has an
end panel 12 of generally circular shape which includes a circumferentially extending raisededge 14 for attaching the can end 10 to a suitable cylindrical beverage can or the like. The can end 10 is preferably manufactured of a relatively ductile metal such as aluminum, but may be made from other materials. Can ends 10 of the prior art or of the inventive type herein described are attachable to acan body 8 as shown schematically in FIG. 3. Within the can is a beverage 6 and ahead space 4 above the beverage 6. - A retained
tear strip 16 extends across can end 10 from a position spaced inwardly of raisededge 14 to approximately the center of can end 10. Tearstrip 16 is defined by a generally U-shaped or V-shapedscore 18 withopen end 20 of the V or U shape positioned toward the center of the can end 10. Thescore 18 is interrupted so that thetear strip 16 will be captively retained on the underside of the can end 10 when opened. - An
integral rivet 22 is positioned adjacentopen end 20 ofscore 18, and a graspable ring-like pull tab 24 is secured to can end 10 byrivet 22.Pull tab 24 includes aforward nose portion 26 and arearward finger portion 28.Pull tab 24 also includes aface portion 30 between therivet 22 and thenose 26. As is well known in the art, the periphery of thetab 24 is typically formed by rolling the edges, and thus the periphery, such as thenose portion 26, is more rigid than theface portion 30. The face portion typically includes aprofile 31 for added strength in this region. - As shown best in FIG. 2, in addition to the
main score 18 forming the boundary of thetear strip 16, there is included ananti-fracture score 32 and ananti-missile score 34. Avent region 38 of themain score 18adjacent rivet 22 is also shown. It is evident that thevent region 38 is covered by theface 30. Upon lifting of thefinger portion 28 of thetab 24, thevent region 38 of thescore 18 opens as therivet 22 is initially lifted. A gaseous vapor is released from within the can and disperses laterally under thetab 24 and then into the surrounding environment. Theface portion 30 of thetab 24 is thinner and not as rigid as the periphery of thetab 24, and bends in thisface portion 30 as thetab 24 is lifted. - Referring now to FIG. 4 there is shown a
tab 24 in accordance with the invention, having anose portion 26,finger portion 28, andface portion 30. As formed, thetab 24 includes arivet hole 40, a forming cavity ortongue 42, afinger cavity 44 and agripper rise 46. All of these features are well known in the art, as is the fabrication process by which thetab 24 is attached to the can end 10. The inventive embodiments include a raisedsection 48 rising from theface portion 30. The raised section orstore 48 includes anopening 50 therethrough as shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5. The raisedregion 48 defines a volume for receiving and then discharging a vented vapor, as described further below. - Alternative configurations of the raised
section 48 andopening 50 are shown in FIGS. 6 through 13. FIGS. 6 and 7 show a raisedsection 48 generally round in cross section, being generally hemispherical, and having a round orcircular opening 50. This appears as a portion of a round bubble rising from theface 30 and having a circular opening. FIGS. 8 and 9 show an elongated raisedsection 48 being generally rectangular in cross section and having around opening 50. FIGS. 10 and 11 show a raisedsection 48 being in the shape of a half-moon bubble and having anelongated opening 50. Here the raisedsection 48 extends to the rolled edge of thenose 26, which has been found to be desirable as it aids in maintaining the strength of theface portion 30 of thetab 24 and sufficiently contains the vapor discharged into the raisedportion 48. Generally, the raised portion, if not overly large, may provide to the face 30 a strengthening similar to that of the profile 31 (FIG. 2). FIGS. 12 and 13 show a raisedsection 48 generally round in cross section, as a hemisphere, and having anopening 50 which is a plurality of round opening holes 52. It has been found that an elongated raisedsection 48, as compared to a round raisedsection 48, tends to better retain vapor within the raised section with less lateral discharge that bypasses passing through theopening 50. The raisedportion 48 is preferably vertically aligned above at least a portion of thevent region 38, as shown in FIG. 2. - Referring now to FIG. 14A, there is shown a schematic of the central portion the inventive can end10. At this stage of operation, the
tab 24 has been lifted sufficiently to fracture thescore 18 at thevent region 38. Pressurized gas orvapor 54 is discharged from thehead space 4 in the interior of thecan body 8 through theopen vent region 38, communicates into the raisedportion 48 and through theopening 50 into the surrounding environment. The discharge of the vapor along this path forms anejection mist 58 of the type shown in FIG. 15. The appearance of themist 58 will vary depending on a number of variables, including the type of vapor and its temperature and pressure within the interior 56 of the can, the conditions of the ambient environment, the volume and configuration of the raisedportion 48, and the configuration and area of theopening 50. It has been found, however, that by use of the raisedsection 48 andopening 50 to control the discharge as compared to prior art systems, the discharge can be sufficiently focused under anticipated conditions to create a visible mist. From an aesthetic standpoint, it is deemed to be desirable that themist 58 be visible and form a cloud or a fan or wedge shape. Where the product contained within the can is a carbonated soft drink or beer, the mist is anticipated to contain carbon dioxide, with or without some vaporous form of the product. Typically themist 58 is initially visible, and then dissipates into the surrounding environment. A residue may remain on the can end 10. Also illustrated in FIG. 14A is aninner bead 59 which functions for thenose 26 to react against on initial opening, which is typical of many prior art can end designs. - It has been found that the area of the
discharge opening 50 is one of the most important factors in controlling the appearance and formulation of themist 58. If theopening 50 is too small and restrictive, either themist 58 is discharged as too narrow and harsh a stream, or the venting is overly constrained and no mist is formed. If the opening is too large, the vapor vents quickly and a visible mist is not formed. It has also been found that if the raisedsection 48 is too large compared to theface portion 30, it may excessively weaken the tab which could fail upon lifting. It is also desirable that theface portion 30 of thetab 24 fit snugly against theend panel 12, to create a loosely sealed area from which the raisedportion 48 rises. As shown in FIG. 14B, aseal 88, such as a polymer, can be included to enhance the containment of the vapor within the raisedportion 48 and alleviate discharge other than through theopening 50. Theseal 88 preferably extends approximately 180° about thenose 26 of thetab 24 and is affixed to the bottom of thepull tab 24 prior to attachment of thetab 24 onto the can end 10. The process of fixing thetab 24 onto the can end 10 is well known to those skilled in the art, and includes actual formation of therivet 22 from a rivet button on theend panel 12 such that thetab 24 is captured through therivet hole 40. - A visible mist on opening can function as one feature to differentiate the product within the can from the product of others, and provides a pleasing alternative to the consumer.
- Referring now to FIG. 16 there is shown a typical three out prior art manufacturing sequence for formation of a
pull tab 24 in accordance with manufacturing machinery and tooling of Stolle Machinery, Inc. of Sidney, Ohio. As shown, it involves 13 sequential tooling die stations. Tab sheet stock 60 of aluminum, for example standard alloy 5182 of 0.010 to 0.011 inches thick, is passed through the sequence. In the first station tabstock pilot holes 62 and carrystrip holes 64 are pierced. In the second station additionalcarry strip holes 64 and thefinger cavities 44 are pierced. In the third station the forming cavity ortongue 42 is pierced. In the fourth station theoutside contour 70 of the tab is lanced. In the fifth station thetongue 42 is reformed as indicated atreference numeral 72. In the sixth station the tab contour is precurled 74 and the finger hole is precurled as indicated atnumeral 76. In the seventh station the area around the rivet location is formed downward, into a panel form indicated atreference numeral 78. In the eighth station theoutside contour 70 andprecurled finger hole 76 get a 90 degree wipedown and apanel form 78 restrike. The ninth station is idle. In the tenth station theoutside contour 70 andfinger hole 44 get curled. In the eleventh station arivet hole 80 is pierced. In the twelveth station the tab reform and tip up operation is performed, indicated respectively byreference numerals rivet hole 80 is reformed, indicated atreference numeral 86. - In accordance with the inventive method, this manufacturing sequence is improved to include formation of the raised
portion 48 andopening 50. One contemplated implementation of this improvement as shown in FIG. 17 is piercing of the face portion at the third station to form theopening 50, and forming the raisedportion 48 in the sixth station. Other sequences can be utilized, including modification of the existing stations or providing one or more additional stations. If aseal 88 is utilized, it can be added after formation of thetab 24 and prior to connection of thetab 24 to the can end 10. - A series of tests was performed to compare various sizes and configurations for the raised
portion 48 andopening 50. Beverage canbodies 8 of the 12 ounce size were filled and various embodiments of the inventive can end 10 were sealed onto thebodies 8. Some of the cans were filled with beer, and some with carbonated beverage. Several tab designs presently in use on the commercial market were utilized, and the results did not vary among these types. The results are presented in Table I. In Table I, “Small bubble raised portion” is a bubble or hemispherical style raised portion 48 (as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7) ⅛ inch diameter at its widest cross section, and ⅛ inch deep (rising ⅛ inch from the face 30); “Large bubble raised portion” is a bubble or hemispherical style raised portion 48 (as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7) {fraction (3/16)} inch diameter at its widest cross section and ⅛ inch deep; “Half moon raised portion” is a raisedportion 48 of the type shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, {fraction (5/16)} inch long, {fraction (5/32)} inch wide and ⅛ inch deep. “Double slit” refers to a hemispherical bubble style having two parallel slits; “Single slit” refers to a hemispherical bubble style having a slit across the raised bubble; and, “Radius slit” refers to semi-circular opening. “Small hole” refers to a {fraction (1/32)} inch diameter opening; “Large hole” refers to a {fraction (1/16)} inch diameter opening; “Elongated hole” refers to an opening {fraction (1/32)} inch by {fraction (5/32)} inch. The test tabs were made by taking standard commercial machine-made tabs and through a hand process, forming into these tabs the raisedportion 48 andopening 50. The results column of Table I is a subjective determination of the degree to which the mist was aesthetically acceptable.TABLE I ITEM DESCRIPTION RESULTS A Large bubble raised portion/multi holes VERY POOR B Small bubble raised portion/multi holes VERY POOR C Small bubble raised portion/large hole POOR D Small bubble raised portion/small hole VERY POOR E Large bubble raised portion/elongated hole GOOD F Large bubble raised portion/small hole FAIR G Large bubble raised portion/large hole GOOD H Half-moon raised portion/large hole VERY GOOD I Half-moon raised portion/elongated hole VERY GOOD J No raised portion/elongated hole NO MIST/SOLID STREAM K No raised portion/large hole NO MIST/SOLID STREAM L Large bubble raised portion/double slit POOR M Large bubble raised portion/double small hole POOR N Small bubble raised portion/single slit VERY POOR O Small bubble raised portion/radius slit POOR P Large bubble raised portion/single slit FAIR Q Large bubble raised portion/radius slit FAIR - Items J and K were tabs that included merely an opening, with no raised portion. Other opening shapes on tabs without a raised portion were tried and the results did not generate an aesthetically acceptable mist or were very inconsistent and less controlled. Test samples with tabs of the various sizes and shapes represented in Table I were also prepared with still water and pressurized liquid nitrogen in the cans. The results were similar to those presented in Table I, but were somewhat less intense than the response from cans filled with beer or carbonated beverages. In other terms, there was a somewhat less visible, but still acceptable, mist formation.
- It is thus evident that can ends can be manufactured including inventive structure which provides a visible mist or cloud upon initial opening. This feature can be utilized to differentiate among producers and products, and to provide consumers with a desirable vision upon opening of a pressurized container. Many alternative are possible. For example, the size, configuration and position of the raised region or receiving reservoir and of the opening can be of numerous variations, provided that the raised reservoir receives the initial vent discharge through the vent region of the score. And, the manufacturing sequence to provide the raised region and opening can be adjusted consistent with minimizing the impact on existing systems and tooling.
Claims (20)
Priority Applications (1)
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US09/294,982 US6375029B2 (en) | 1999-04-19 | 1999-04-19 | Easy-open misting container |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
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US09/294,982 US6375029B2 (en) | 1999-04-19 | 1999-04-19 | Easy-open misting container |
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US20020014489A1 true US20020014489A1 (en) | 2002-02-07 |
US6375029B2 US6375029B2 (en) | 2002-04-23 |
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US09/294,982 Expired - Lifetime US6375029B2 (en) | 1999-04-19 | 1999-04-19 | Easy-open misting container |
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US20050284869A1 (en) * | 2004-06-06 | 2005-12-29 | Mills Gary H | Can end |
EP1616802A1 (en) * | 2004-06-26 | 2006-01-18 | CROWN Packaging Technology, Inc. | Can end |
US20080011786A1 (en) * | 2006-07-12 | 2008-01-17 | Mathabel Richard R | Vent tube for liquid container |
US20080314906A1 (en) * | 2007-06-22 | 2008-12-25 | Butcher Gregory H | Can end and method of making same |
US20170253371A1 (en) * | 2016-02-29 | 2017-09-07 | Crown Packaging Technology, Inc. | Concave Can End |
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US7617945B2 (en) * | 2003-09-19 | 2009-11-17 | Gabe Cherian | Pull tab |
US8109406B2 (en) * | 2006-10-26 | 2012-02-07 | Charles Chang | Beverage container construction |
US20100018976A1 (en) * | 2008-07-25 | 2010-01-28 | Christian Allen B | Liquid dispenser with relief valve opening to provide uniform drainage |
US8567158B2 (en) | 2010-08-06 | 2013-10-29 | Ball Corporation | Container end closure with optional secondary vent opening |
US10017295B2 (en) | 2010-08-06 | 2018-07-10 | Ball Corporation | Container end closure with optional secondary vent opening |
USD691039S1 (en) | 2011-10-27 | 2013-10-08 | Ball Corporation | Vented container end closure |
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US8646643B2 (en) * | 2012-06-13 | 2014-02-11 | Rexam Beverage Can Company | Reliable opening beverage can end |
USD715144S1 (en) | 2012-11-13 | 2014-10-14 | Ball Corporation | Vented container end closure |
USD715647S1 (en) | 2012-11-28 | 2014-10-21 | Ball Corporation | Vented end closure |
US9181007B2 (en) | 2013-03-12 | 2015-11-10 | Rexam Beverage Can Company | Beverage can end with vent port |
US9694935B2 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2017-07-04 | Ball Corporation | End closure with a ring pull actuated secondary vent |
US9714115B2 (en) | 2014-07-30 | 2017-07-25 | Ball Corporation | Vented container end closure |
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US20050284869A1 (en) * | 2004-06-06 | 2005-12-29 | Mills Gary H | Can end |
EP1616802A1 (en) * | 2004-06-26 | 2006-01-18 | CROWN Packaging Technology, Inc. | Can end |
US8177092B2 (en) * | 2004-06-26 | 2012-05-15 | Crown Packaging Technology, Inc. | Can end |
US20080011786A1 (en) * | 2006-07-12 | 2008-01-17 | Mathabel Richard R | Vent tube for liquid container |
US7975884B2 (en) | 2006-07-12 | 2011-07-12 | Alcoa Inc. | Vent tube for liquid container |
US20080314906A1 (en) * | 2007-06-22 | 2008-12-25 | Butcher Gregory H | Can end and method of making same |
US8109405B2 (en) * | 2007-06-22 | 2012-02-07 | Stolle Machinery Company, Llc | Can end and rivet base scoreline therefor |
US20170253371A1 (en) * | 2016-02-29 | 2017-09-07 | Crown Packaging Technology, Inc. | Concave Can End |
US10850888B2 (en) * | 2016-02-29 | 2020-12-01 | Crown Packaging Technology, Inc. | Concave can end |
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