US20100126992A1

US20100126992A1 - Container

Info

Publication number: US20100126992A1
Application number: US12/324,386
Authority: US
Inventors: Evan Ira Phillips
Original assignee: B E INVENTIVE LLC
Current assignee: B E INVENTIVE LLC
Priority date: 2008-11-26
Filing date: 2008-11-26
Publication date: 2010-05-27
Also published as: WO2010062977A1; WO2010062977A8; BRPI0921395A2; EP2356037B1; JP2012509823A; EP2356037A1; MX2011005562A; EP2356037A4; JP5452610B2

Abstract

Containers comprises a closure system comprising a fixed element and a movable closure element are disclosed. The containers may be constructed to be resealable and improve sanitary conditions of the dispensing portion and allow for easier opening with the ability to be reclosed, over a conventional container.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Technology
At least one example of the present invention relates generally to a container. More particularly, certain examples relate to a container or a closure system for a resealable container having a sanitary, enclosed dispensing portion, such that the dispensing portion remains protected from the environment during, for example, shipping and storage of the container, and may be protected from the environment during use by the consumer.
2. Discussion of Related Art
Beverages, foods, and other consumer goods come in a variety of containers for distribution and sale to consumers. In particular, conventional beverage cans having a stay-on-tab type closure are widely used because of their ease of manufacture, low manufacturing costs, and reliability. However, sanitary concerns exist with regard to the unprotected outside portion of the can that comes into contact with the contents while pouring from the beverage can, or comes directly into contact with the consumers while drinking from the beverage can. Additionally, some consumers have difficulty opening beverage cans, and once this beverage can has been opened, it cannot be reclosed, so that protection of the unprotected outside portion and storage after opening are not feasible.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Certain aspects and examples disclosed herein provide sanitary containers, and methods of making them.
In accordance with a first aspect, a container is provided comprising a container body and a closure system. The closure system comprises a fixed element and a movable closure element. The fixed element comprises a can end comprising a dispensing portion and a channel guide having a first end and a second end. The fixed element is secured to an end of the container body. The movable closure element comprises a top cover comprising a grip, a sealing portion residing within the container body and comprising a channel constructed and arranged to accept the channel guide, and a stem positioned within the channel and having a top end constructed and arranged to be mated with the top cover and a bottom end constructed and arranged to be mated with the sealing portion.
In accordance with this first aspect, at a first position the top cover covers the dispensing portion, the sealing portion is in contact with a bottom surface of the can end, and the stem is positioned at the first end of the channel guide.
In accordance with this first aspect, at a second position the top cover covers the dispensing portion and is rotated relative to the first position, the sealing portion is spaced a predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the can end, and the stem is positioned at the first end of the channel guide.
In accordance with this first aspect, at a third position the top cover exposes the dispensing portion, the sealing portion is spaced a predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the can end, and the stem is positioned at the second end of the channel guide.
In accordance with an additional aspect, a closure system for sealing a container constructed and arranged to be mated with a container body is provided comprising a fixed element and a movable closure element. The fixed element comprises a can end comprising a dispensing portion and a channel guide having a first end and a second end, the fixed element constructed and arranged to be secured to an end of the container body. The movable closure element comprises a top cover comprising a grip, a sealing portion comprising a channel constructed and arranged to accept the channel guide, and a stem residing within the channel and having a top end constructed and arranged to be mated with the top cover and a bottom end constructed and arranged to be mated with the sealing portion. In accordance with this additional aspect, as the top cover and stem are rotated, the sealing portion moves vertically along the stem, and as the top cover and stem are moved in a horizontal direction, the sealing portion moves in the horizontal direction.
In accordance with an additional aspect, a closure system for sealing a container constructed and arranged to be mated with a container body is disclosed. The closure system comprises a fixed element comprising a can end comprising a dispensing portion and a channel guide having a first end and a second end, the fixed element constructed and arranged to be secured to an end of the container body. The closure element also comprises a movable closure element comprising a top cover comprising a grip comprising a lever. The movable closure element also comprises a sealing portion comprising a channel constructed and arranged to accept the channel guide and a lever receiving portion constructed and arranged to accept the lever. In accordance with this aspect, as the lever of the top cover is lifted, the lever moves to allow the sealing portion to move vertically, and as the lever is moved in a horizontal direction the sealing portion moves in the horizontal direction.
Other advantages, novel features and objects of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the invention when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Certain illustrative examples are described below with reference to the accompanying figures in which:

FIG. 1A illustrates an example of a perspective view of a beverage container, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 1B illustrates a perspective view of a beverage container, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 1C illustrates a perspective view of a beverage container, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective exploded view of the closure system shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 2B illustrates a perspective exploded view of the closure system shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of a can cover of a closure system, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 3B illustrates a perspective view of can end of a closure system, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 3C illustrates a perspective view of a fixed element of a closure system, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 3D illustrates a perspective view of a fixed element of a closure system, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 4A illustrates a perspective view of a can cover of a closure system, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 4B illustrates a perspective view of a can end of a closure system, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 4C illustrates a perspective view of a fixed element, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 4D illustrates a perspective view of a fixed element, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective view of a can cover, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 5B illustrates a perspective view showing detail 5B of the can cover shown in FIG. 5A, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 5C illustrates a perspective view of a can end, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 5D illustrates a perspective view showing detail 5D of the can end shown in FIG. 5C, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 5E illustrates a perspective view of a fixed element comprising the can cover and can end of FIGS. 5A-5D, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 6A illustrates a perspective view of a fixed element, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 6B illustrates a perspective view of a fixed element, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 7A illustrates an exploded perspective view of a portion of the closure system, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 7B illustrates an exploded perspective view of a portion of the closure system, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 8A illustrates a perspective assembled view of the portion of the closure system of FIG. 7A, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 8B illustrates a perspective assembled view of the portion of the closure system shown in FIG. 7B, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 9A illustrates an exploded perspective view of a portion of a closure system, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 9B illustrates an exploded perspective view of a portion of a closure system, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 9C illustrates an exploded perspective view of a portion of a closure system, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 9D illustrates an exploded perspective view of a portion of a closure system, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 9E illustrates an exploded perspective view of a portion of a closure system, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 9F illustrates an exploded perspective view of a portion of a closure system, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 10A illustrates an exploded perspective view of a portion of a closure system, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 10B illustrates an exploded perspective view of a portion of a closure system, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 11A illustrates an aerial view of a closure system, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 11B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the closure system shown in FIG. 11A along section line 11B-11B, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 12A illustrates an aerial view of a closure system, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 12B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the closure system shown in FIG. 12A along section line 12B-12B, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 13A illustrates an aerial view of a closure system, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 13B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the closure system shown in FIG. 13A along section line 13B-13B, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 14A illustrates an aerial view of a closure system, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 14B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the closure system shown in FIG. 14A along section line 14B-14B, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 15A illustrates an example of a perspective view of a beverage container, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 15B illustrates an example of a perspective view of a beverage container, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 16A illustrates a perspective exploded view of the closure system shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 16B illustrates a perspective exploded view of the closure system shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 17A illustrates a perspective view of a closure system, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 17B illustrates another perspective view of the closure system shown in FIG. 17A, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 18A illustrates an exploded perspective view of the closure system shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 18B illustrates another exploded perspective view of the closure system shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 19A illustrates an aerial view of the closure system shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 19B illustrates a cross-sectional view along section line 19B-19B of the closure system shown in FIG. 19A, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 20A illustrates an aerial view of a closure system, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 20B illustrates a cross-sectional view along section line 20B-20B of the closure system shown in FIG. 20A, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 21A illustrates an aerial view of a closure system, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 21B illustrates a cross-sectional view along section line 21B-21B of the closure system shown in FIG. 21A, in accordance with certain examples;

FIG. 22A illustrates an aerial view of a closure system, in accordance with certain examples; and

FIG. 22B illustrates a cross-sectional view along section line 22B-22B of the closure system shown in FIG. 22A, in accordance with certain examples.

Certain features or components of the illustrative containers and devices shown in the figures may have been enlarged, distorted or otherwise shown in a non-conventional manner relative to other features or components to facilitate a better understanding of the novel containers and devices disclosed herein. It will be recognized by the person of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of this disclosure, that the containers and devices disclosed herein can be used in any orientation relative to gravity and suitable orientations will be readily selected by the person of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of this disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Certain examples of the devices and methods disclosed herein will be recognized by the person of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of this disclosure to provide sanitary, cost-effective containers. In particular, beverage containers are provided that have a sanitary cover, are easier to open than conventional cans, and can be repeatedly resealed. The beverage container of certain examples disclosed herein will prevent the dispensing portion of the beverage container from exposure to the environment and ensure a safe and contaminant-free product. The current manufacturing process for beverage cans may be adapted to include the present invention, with reduced, minimal or no additional cost.
Conventional beverage containers, such as aluminum cans, are manufactured by well-known processes. In one process, aluminum cans are made from an aluminum coiled sheet which is fed through a cupping press that cuts discs and forms them into cup-like containers. These cups drop from the press onto a conveyor, and are fed into an ironing press where successive rings redraw and iron the cup, reducing the sidewall thickness, and achieving a full length can. The tops of the can bodies are then trimmed to eliminate rough edges and ensure height uniformity. The can bodies are then cleaned and dried. Subsequently, the can bodies are labeled and coated with a clear protective layer of varnish. The cans are then baked, treated with a coating, and re-baked. The top portion of each can body is narrowed to form a neck with an outward flange at the top edge. The bottom portions are domed to obtain the strength required to withstand internal pressure if a carbonated liquid will be added to the can. After testing for pin-holes and defects, the can bodies are placed on pallets and shipped to a beverage supplier.
The lids of conventional aluminum cans, typically referred to as “can ends,” are made by stamping shells from an aluminum coiled sheet. The shells are coated with a sealant, and subsequently a rivet is placed in each can end. On those cans using a stay-on-tab type closure, the process further includes inserting a separate piece of metal as the tab under the rivet to secure it in place. The edges of the can ends generally have a curved flange. The can ends are also scored to define the opening of the can end in the finished product. The can ends are then shipped to the beverage supplier, along with the can bodies.
At the beverage supplier, a filling machine is used to pour the beverage into the can body. The process is completed after filling when the can end is added, and secured to the can body by forming a double seam with the can body. A double seam is formed by interlocking edges of the two components, the outward top edge of the can body and the curved flange at the edge of the can end, curling the can end flange around the can body edge so that the can end flange is partially rolled up and under the can body edge to form a partial seam, and crimping and flattening the partial seam against the can body to form a hermetic seal.
Most beverage cans have a stay-on-tab type closure such as those disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,967,752 and 3,967,753 to Cudzik, and described above. However, there are many aspects of the conventional stay-on-tab closure that make it undesirable. The stay-on-tab closure does not provide for a sanitary drinking environment because the outer surface of the can and the top of the can, which comprises the stay-on-tab closure, comes into contact with the environment during storage, shipping, distribution, display, handling, and ultimately, use by the consumer. When the beverage is poured directly from the can through the opening formed from the stay-on-tab closure, the beverage comes in contact with the top and surface of the can, making for a potentially unsanitary drinking environment. Additionally, if a consumer drinks the beverage from the can directly, both the beverage and the mouth of the consumer come into contact with the surface and top of the can, also making for an unsanitary drinking environment. Additionally, the stay-on-tab type closure does not allow for reclosing the beverage container.
The present invention provides a beverage container that may be manufactured by commercially available processes and machinery with minimal retrofitting, low material and manufacturing costs, ease of stacking during shipping and storage, increased sanitary conditions of the dispensing portion, reliability and ease of opening, closing, and resealing by consumers, pourability, drinkability, recyclability, and decreased likelihood of spilling the contents of the container. These advantages of the present invention overcome the noted deficiencies of the conventional stay-on-tab type closure beverage containers.
The present invention also provides a resealable closure system to use with a beverage container that allows for locking of the system in a secure, closed, sealed position, as well as locking the device in various secure open positions. Additionally, after the beverage container is initially opened, the user may recover and protect the dispensing portion of the container to prevent contaminants from residing in the dispensing portion area.
As used herein, the term “mate” or “mating” may describe any manner of connecting or joining two or more components together. The term “mate” or “mating” may describe any mechanical, thermal, or chemical process that connect or join two or more components together. In the examples disclosed herein, the term “mate” or “mating” may mean welding, soldering, molding, adhering, crimping, folding, double seaming, clamping, snapping, interlocking, fastening or otherwise connecting two components. For example, two or more components of the container may be welded, soldered, molded, adhered, crimped, folded, double seamed, clamped, snapped, or interlocked together. In certain examples, two or more components may be mated by being fastened together with the assistance of another component, thereby forming a rigid or flexible, hinge connection. “Mating” may also mean connecting or joining at least two components having compatible threaded surfaces. The mating may be permanent or temporary.
In accordance with certain examples, a container is disclosed. The container may be used to hold various contents including, but not limited to consumable goods, and may have the ability to seal and reseal the goods within the container. The goods may be in the form of at least one of a solid, liquid or gas. In certain examples, the contents may be a food, beverage, or other consumable. In other examples, the contents may be other than a food or beverage, but may still require sanitary conditions and protection from contamination while dispensing and/or storing.
In accordance with certain examples, a container may comprise a container body and a closure system. The closure system may comprise a fixed element and a movable closure element. In certain examples, the fixed element may comprise a can end comprising a dispensing portion, and a channel guide having a first end and a second end. The fixed element may be secured to an end of the container body. The beverage container may additionally comprise a movable closure element comprising a top cover, a sealing portion and a stem. The top cover may comprise a grip. The sealing portion may reside within the container body and comprise a channel constructed and arranged to accept the channel guide of the fixed element. The stem may be positioned within the channel and have a top end constructed and arranged to be mated with the top cover and a bottom end constructed and arranged to be mated with the sealing portion. In certain examples, the stem may be formed as a portion of the top cover and/or the sealing portion, and thus may not be a separate component of the closure system.
In accordance with certain examples, at a first position, the top cover covers the dispensing portion, the sealing portion is in contact with a bottom surface of the can end, and the stem is positioned at the first end of the channel guide. At a second position, the top cover covers the dispensing portion and is rotated relative to the first position, the sealing portion is spaced a predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the can end, and the stem is positioned at the first end of the channel guide. At a third position the top cover exposes the dispensing portion, the sealing portion is spaced a predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the can end, and the stem is positioned at the second end of the channel guide.
In accordance with certain examples, a closure system for sealing a container may be constructed and arranged to be mated with a container body. The closure system may comprise a fixed element comprising a can end comprising a dispensing portion and a channel guide having a first end and a second end. The fixed element may be constructed and arranged to be secured to an end of the container body. The closure system may also comprise a movable closure element. The movable closure element may comprise a top cover comprising a grip and a sealing portion comprising a channel constructed and arranged to accept the channel guide. The movable closure element may also comprise a stem residing within the channel and having a top end constructed and arranged to be mated with the top cover and a bottom end constructed and arranged to be mated with the sealing portion. The closure system may be constructed and arranged such that as the top cover and stem are rotated the sealing portion moves vertically along the stem, and as the top cover and stem are moved in a horizontal direction the sealing portion moves in a horizontal direction.
In accordance with certain examples, a closure system for sealing a container may be constructed and arranged to be mated with a container body. The closure system may comprise a fixed element comprising a can end comprising a dispensing portion and a channel guide having a first end and a second end. The fixed element may be constructed and arranged to be secured to an end of the container body. The closure element may also comprise a movable closure element comprising a top cover comprising a grip comprising a lever. The lever may comprise a ring. The movable closure element may also comprise a sealing portion comprising a channel constructed and arranged to accept the channel guide and a lever receiving portion constructed and arranged to accept the lever. In accordance with certain examples, as the lever of the top cover is lifted, the lever may move to allow the sealing portion to move vertically, and as the lever is moved in a horizontal direction the sealing portion may move in the horizontal direction.
In accordance with certain examples, the beverage container may be configured to have a container body defining at least a portion of the container that holds the contents of the container. The container body may have an opening for filling and/or dispensing, for example, that may be positioned at a first end portion thereof. The container body may include a plurality of such openings, each with similar or different functions. For example, the container body may include a second opening positioned at a second end portion thereof that may be opposite an opening positioned at a first end portion. The container body may be made from any suitable material for holding, storing, dispensing and/or cooling or heating its contents in a cost-effective manner, ensuring the integrity of the contents, without the risk of contamination. The material may include, but not be limited to, metals and plastics. For example, the container body may be made of glass, steel, tin, aluminum, or plastic materials such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), high-density polyethylene, low-density polyethylene, polysulfone, polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, polystyrene, polycarbonate, and the like. The container body may be manufactured as a single component or from multiple components. Container bodies manufactured from a single component may include a seam or joint to provide a structural seal; alternatively, such bodies may be seamless. Container bodies manufactured from multiple components may be assembled by mating or otherwise joining sub-components in various ways. The container body may be formed of a variety of functional and/or ornamental shapes. It will be within the ability of the person of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of the disclosure, to select or to design suitable shapes, sizes and materials for construction of the container body disclosed herein. The container body may also be configured to be filled or refilled.
The container may comprise a component to enclose and/or seal the contents of the beverage container. The component may be used to close a container body and to ensure the integrity of the contents of the container, without risk of contamination. In certain examples, the component may be constructed and arranged to attach to the container body. The component may be a base plate. The base plate may be attached opposite an end of the container body that may be used for dispensing the contents of the container. The base plate may be constructed of materials compatible with the container body, such that the base plate may be mated with the container body. In some examples, the base plate may be flat. In certain other examples, the base plate may be domed to protrude into the container to alleviate pressure within the container if the contents are sealed under pressure or, for example, are carbonated. Attachment of the base plate to the container body may occur by temporarily or permanently mating the base plate and the container body.
The container may comprise a closure system. The closure system may be constructed and arranged, in conjunction with the container body, to enclose the various contents inside the container. The closure system may be constructed and arranged to seal the contents inside the container to ensure the integrity of the contents, without the risk of contamination prior to, during, and after a consumer has used the container. In certain examples, the closer system may be constructed and arranged to hermetically seal the contents inside the container. The closure system may be configured to provide an opening so that the contents of the container may be dispensed, and to provide a sanitary surface for dispensing and/or consuming the contents. The closure system may be configured to be reclosable to allow a user to open and close the container as desired, to control the size of the opening as desired, and to lock and unlock the closure system in a specific position to assist the user in dispensing a desired flow of contents out of the container, or to allow the user to contain the contents within the container.
The closure system may be formed of various functional and/or ornamental shapes and sizes to be compatible with and to mate with the container body. The closure system may be made, for example, of any material to provide for sealing of the beverage container, to ensure the integrity of the contents, without the risk of contamination, and for holding, storing, and/or cooling or heating the contents of the beverage container. The closure system may be made of the same material as the container body or a different material. It will be within the ability of the person of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of the disclosure, to select or to design suitable shapes, sizes and materials for construction of the closure system disclosed herein.
The closure system may comprise one or more components that enclose and seal the contents inside the container. The closure system may also comprise one or more components that allow the contents within the container to be dispensed. Closure systems that comprise more than one component may comprise a first component constructed of one material and a second component constructed of a different, compatible material so that the first component and the second component may be mated. Either of the first component or the second component and any other additional components of the closure system may be the same or different material from the container body, so long as there exists a seal between at least one component of the closure system and the container body. The seal may be formed in various manners, including, but not limited to, a mechanical seal, a thermal seal, a chemical seal, or the like. The components of the closure system may be pre-assembled prior to securing the closure system to the container body, or may be attached consecutively, either to the container body, to the components of the closure system, or both. For example, components of the closure system may be attached to each other and one or more of the components of the closure system may be attached to the container body. Each component of the closure system may be permanently or temporarily attached to one or more other components of the closure system, the container body, or both. The closure system may be secured to the container body by various methods. The securing may be accomplished by mating.
The closure system may comprise a component that provides the seal between the closure system and the container body to ensure the integrity of the contents of the container, without risk of contamination, in conjunction with the other components of the closure system. The component may be configured to provide a sanitary opening for allowing contents to exit or enter the container. The component may provide a sanitary opening for direct consumption, for example, drinking, from the container. The component may provide for stabilization of other components of the closure system, for example to prevent movement of one component relative to another. The component may be secured permanently to the container body and may be constructed and arranged to accept overflow or spillage from the container. The component may be a fixed element that may comprise one or more sub-components. A fixed element that comprises more than one sub-component may be preassembled and attached to the container body as a collective fixed element, or may be attached to the container body in consecutive order. The fixed element may be secured to the container body by mating. Each component of the fixed element may be made of the same or different material from each other and from the container body. The fixed element may provide a surface for indicia for labeling the contents of the container, marketing, to facilitate opening of the container, or the like. The fixed element may provide a surface that is easily printed on using conventional printing methods.
As noted above, the fixed element may comprise one or more sub-components. For example, the fixed element may comprise a can end that may be one or more components. The can end may comprise a sub-component that provides an opening for allowing contents to exit or enter the container. The opening may be constructed and arranged to provide a sanitary area for direct consumption from the container. The sub-component may be a dispensing portion constructed and arranged to be compatible with and to be mated with one or more components or sub-components of the closure system or to the container body. The dispensing portion may be of various functional and/or ornamental shapes and sizes suitable for dispensing various fluids and solids. The dispensing portion may be constructed and arranged to deliver contents directly to a consumer (i.e., by mouth) or to deliver contents to another container, for example, a cup or a bowl in the case of beverages or foods. In the case of non-consumable goods, the dispensing portion may be constructed and arranged to deliver contents to another container, for example, a tray in the case of dispensing paint from a paint can. The dispensing portion may be constructed and arranged to be suitable for dispensing the contents in a reliable, accurate, and easy manner. In certain examples, the dispensing portion may be constructed and arranged to provide ease in drinking and/or pouring directly from the container, and the dimensions of the dispensing portion may be selected and adjusted by the consumer. The dispensing portion may also allow passage of implements easily through this portion, with clear access and in a non-tortuous path. For example the dispensing portion may allow passage a funnel, straw, or the like to assist with addition or dispensing the contents of the container. It will be within the ability of the person of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of the disclosure, to select or to design suitable shapes, sizes and materials for construction of the dispensing portion disclosed herein.
The can end may be constructed and arranged to cooperate with other components of the closure system. The can end may provide a sub-component that allows cooperation with other components of the closure system. The sub-component may allow other components of the closure system to interact with it to accomplish adequate sealing of the container. The sub-component may be constructed and arranged to mate with other components of the closure system to ensure that each component does or does not move relative to a third component. In one embodiment, the sub-component may be an aligner, guide, or connector to control the rate of adjustment of this sub-component to another components. The sub-component may be a channel guide. The channel guide may be constructed and arranged to mate with other portions of the closure system, such as portions of the movable closure element. The channel guide may have a first end that participates in a sealing or opening process of the container, and a second end that participates in another sealing or opening process of the container.
The can end comprising more than one sub-component may be preassembled and attached to the container body as a collective can end. Alternatively, it may be attached to the container body in consecutive order, along with other components of the closure system. The sub-components of the can end may be both secured to the container body, or one sub-component of the can end may be attached to another sub-component of the can end, which then may be secured to the container body. The securing may be accomplished by mating. Each component of the can may be made of the same or different material from each other and from the other components of the closure system, and the container body.
In a two-component can end, the first component may have a dispensing portion and the second component may have a dispensing portion. The dispensing portion of the first component may be aligned with the dispensing portion of the second component. The first component and the second component may be made of the same or different, compatible materials. For example, the first and second component may be made entirely of aluminum or a polymeric material. In the alternative, the first component may be made of aluminum, while the second component may be made of a polymeric material. The dispensing portions of the first and second component may be the same or different size and shape, so long as they provide a clear path to the contents of the beverage container.
The first component of the can end may comprise the channel guide. The channel guide may be positioned in the first component so that it resides in a portion of the dispensing portion of the second component of the can end. The first and second component may both comprise a portion of the channel guide, so that mating of the first and second components of the can end create the channel guide. In certain examples the first component may be referred to as a can cover, and the second component may be referred to as a can end.
The sub-components of the can may be secured to each other in various ways. For example, the first component may be attached to the second component by way of an adhesive. For example, if the container will be used for foodstuffs or liquids, a Food and Drug Administration approved adhesive may be used. These components may also be secured to one another by mating complementary parts to one another. For example, mating may occur by matching up openings within the first component with raised protions, such as pins or pegs in the second component which are then flattened to secure the components to each other. The first component and second component may have edges that may be crimped to one another, for example, in the case of aluminum components. Snap hooks may alternatively be used to snap the first component into the second component. One or more tabs may be used to engage and hold the first and second components of the can end in place. The one or more tabs that are engaged to hold the first and second components in place may be held by being forced up against the inside one of the first and second component. Of course, those skilled in the art may recognize other means for securing the first and second components which may be used to assemble this portion of the closure system.
The closure system may comprise a component to secure the fixed element to the container body, and to retain the contents within the container to ensure the integrity of the contents. The component may be constructed and arranged to secure the fixed element to the container body. In certain examples, the component may be made as one piece as a part of the can end. As noted above, beverage containers of the present invention may be manufactured by commercially available processes with minimal retrofitting. The fixed element may comprise a component that may be mated and secured to the container body by conventional beverage can manufacturing processes. For example, the component may be mated with the container body to form a seam. The seam may be a double seam that provides a hermetic seal. In other examples, the component may be mated with the container body by snapping latches in one component or sub-component into the grooves of another component or sub-component. In certain examples, the component may be a rim. The rim may be constructed and arranged to secure the fixed element to the container body. The rim may be made of the same or different material as any one of the components of the container and/or closure system. The rim may have a perimeter that is the same or different shape as the perimeter of the top portion of the container body. For example, the rim may have a circular outer circumference, and may have a diameter the same as or larger than the diameter of the top portion of the container body. As noted above, the rim may be made as part of the can end. In certain other examples, the rim may be made as a separate component. The rim may comprise at least one opening. The opening may be constructed and arranged of a shape, size and material to ultimately allow the contents of the container to be dispensed smoothly and efficiently from the container. The opening may allow for a can end fit within the opening. The opening may be a pre-determined shape, for example, the opening may be in the shape of a circle that is centered with respect to the outer perimeter of the rim. In other examples, the opening may be off-set with respect to the outer perimeter of the rim. The shape of the opening may be the same or different shape as the outer perimeter of the rim. The shape of the opening of the rim may be the same or different shape as the outer perimeter of the spout.
The closure system may comprise a component that provides a closure to the beverage container. The component may ensure the integrity of the contents and enclose the contents of the container, without risk of contamination, during holding, storing, shipping, dispensing, and/or cooling or heating the contents by, for example, the manufacturer, the distributor and/or the consumer. Additionally, the component may protect the dispensing portion of the container from the environment, thereby ensuring sanitary conditions until a user opens the container. The component may also protect the portion of the container from the environment after opening, as desired by the user. The component may work together with the fixed element to provide for a secure closure that ensures the integrity of the contents of the container, without the risk of contamination. The component may be a movable closure element that may seal off the contents of the container from the environment. The movable closure element may seal off the contents of the container initially, and, subsequent to opening, may be used again to seal off contents and further protect the dispensing portion from the environment. The movable closure element may be constructed and arranged to mate with one or more components of the fixed element, the container body or both. In certain examples, the movable closure element may be constructed and arranged to be mated with the dispensing portion and/or the bottom surface of the can end. The movable closure element may be constructed and arranged to be used in a locked or unlocked position. The movable closure element may be of various functional and/or ornamental shapes and sizes to be mated with the other components of the closure system and/or container body, and may be constructed of a material suitable for such purposes. The movable closure element may be sized and shaped to facilitate opening and closing of the container. The movable closure element may provide a surface for indicia for labeling the contents of the container, for marketing purposes, to facilitate opening of the container, or the like. At least a portion of the movable closure element may provide a surface that is easily printed on using conventional printing methods.
The movable closure element may comprise one or more components that may be permanently or temporarily attached to each other. The movable closure element may comprise a component to cover the dispensing portion or an area of the fixed element larger than the dispensing portion, and retain the contents inside the container. In certain examples, the component may reveal the entire dispensing portion, or a section thereof. The component may be in contact with the fixed element at one or more points. The component may have the ability to move from a first position to one or more other positions to, for example, cover or reveal the dispensing portion. Moving may involve, for example, one or more of sliding, twisting, shifting, turning, pulling, pushing, transferring, removing, or otherwise modifying the position of one or more components of the closure system, for example, the top cover. The component may reside outside the container and may serve as a top cover for the container. The top cover may be of various functional and/or ornamental shapes and sizes to provide protection to the dispensing portion from the environment and to retain contents within the container.
The top cover may comprise one or more sub-components to assist a consumer in moving the top cover. For example, this sub-component may assist the consumer in turning or twisting the top cover to a position, or assist the consumer in shifting or sliding the top cover to another position. The sub-component may be a grip which may include, for example, one or more of any of an edge, ridge, rim, notch, groove, cavity, depression, indentation, pitted or rough surface, ring or lever that is on, in or attached to the top cover suitable for assisting a consumer in moving the top cover as desired. The grip may be manufactured as part of the top cover, for example, in a molding process, or may be manufactured separately, to be mated with the top cover during manufacturing of the closure system. In certain examples, the grip may be a portion of the top cover, that may be manipulated by the user into a position that may then allow for moving the top cover, for example, turning or shifting the top cover. The manipulation may be performed by flipping a portion of the top cover that is engaged with a hinge, which allows the portion of the top over to move from a horizontal position to a vertical position, thereby forming a sort of handle, lever, or the like. The top cover may comprise a portion that may be mated with other portions of the movable closure element, which may, together, assist in the opening and closing of the container, and covering and revealing the dispensing portion using the closure system. The top cover may also comprise a portion that provides a seal between the top cover and the top surface of the fixed element. In certain examples, this portion may be a seal, such as a gasket or o-ring.
The movable closure element may also comprise a component to provide a seal and retain the contents in the container in conjunction with other components of the movable closure element. This component may provide a secure, leak-proof closure for the container. The component may also allow for dispensing of the contents from the container. The component may be a sealing portion comprising one or more components. The sealing portion may be of various functional and/or ornamental shapes and sizes to provide a seal for retaining contents inside the container. The sealing portion may reside within the container and have contact with the bottom surface of the can end. In certain examples, the sealing portion may reside within the container but not necessarily be in contact with the bottom surface of the can end. The sealing portion may be constructed of materials that are compatible with the other components of the beverage container, and may also be constructed of materials that are compatible with the contents of the container. For example, the sealing portion may be constructed of a material that is inert or non-reactive with the contents of the container. In certain examples, the sealing portion may be made of polypropylene. Suitable shapes, sizes and materials for the sealing portion will be readily selected by a person of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of the disclosure. Other means may be used alternatively or in conjunction with the above described mechanical elements to secure the fixed element to the container body.
The sealing portion may comprise a sub-component that may assist with obtaining and maintaining the integrity of the seal of the container, initially, and after opening and during use by the consumer. The sub-component may enhance the sealing capability of the sealing portion. The sub-component may be manufactured separately from the sealing portion, or may be manufactured as part of the sealing portion. In the former circumstance, the sub-component may be mated with the sealing portion by various mating techniques discussed above, including the use of an adhesive, or through construction and arrangement of the sub-component and the sealing portion. The sealing portion may be constructed and arranged to accept the sub-component to ensure that the two components mate properly. For example, the sealing portion may contain a groove or other structure to accept the sub-component into the sealing portion. In the latter circumstance, the sub-component may be molded directly to the sealing portion through conventional molding processes. The sub-component may be an o-ring or gasket used to ensure a proper seal between the sealing portion and the bottom surface of the can end. The o-ring or gasket may be constructed of any suitable material to create such a seal, and that may be compatible with the other components of the closure system, such as the sealing portion and can end, as well as the contents of the container. For example, the o-ring may be made of a polymeric material that has a suitable flexibility to create the desired seal. The sealing portion and the sub-component may be made of the same material, as one piece, for example, an o-ring or gasket like material that may function as the sealing portion and as a seal.
The sealing portion may comprise a sub-component that may allow for movement of the sealing portion in a given direction. The sub-component may also interact with other components of the closure system, such as the fixed element to prevent movement of the sealing portion in a different given direction. The sub-component may interact with other components of the closure system, such as the fixed element, can end, or channel guide to cover the dispensing portion, or to expose the dispensing portion. The sub-component may further be constructed and arranged to mate with or accept a component or sub-component of the fixed element. In one embodiment, the sub-component may be an aligner, guide, or connector to control the rate of adjustment of this sub-component to another component. For example, the sub-component may be a channel that may mate with a component of the fixed element, for example, the can end. The channel may mate with at least a portion of the channel guide of the can end. Alternatively, at least a portion of the channel may mate with the channel guide. The channel and channel guide may mate by various mechanisms. For example, the channel and channel guide may mate such that it allows for movement of the sealing portion relative to the channel guide. The movement of the sealing portion relative to the channel guide may be in the vertical direction, i.e., upwards or downwards.
The channel or channel guide may contain a section that allows the sealing portion to move relative to each other, but that permits movement of the channel up to a certain predetermined distance. For example, the section of the channel or channel guide may be constructed and arranged to prevent the sealing portion from moving any further in a given direction. The section of the channel or channel guide may prevent the sealing portion from becoming separated from the other components of the closure system. The section may also prevent the sealing portion from falling into the container. The section may comprise a device that may secure the sealing portion to the channel guide or the stem at a predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the can end. The section may comprise one or more snap-hooks to maintain the connection between the sealing portion and the other components of the closure system, such as the channel guide or the stem.
The movable closure element may also comprise a component that secures other portions of the movable closure element to each other. The component may allow for movement of the sealing portion together with the top cover. The component may allow for the movement of the sealing portion in a direction that is the same as the direction in which the top cover is moved. Alternatively, the component may allow for the movement of the sealing portion in a direction that is not the same as the direction in which the top cover is moved. The component may mate with the top cover and the sealing portion by the same or different mating methods. The component may be a stem, for example, that may be mated with the top cover and the sealing portion. The stem may be constructed and arranged to mate with the top cover by one mating method, and with the sealing portion by a different mating method. The stem may have a top end constructed and arranged to be mated with the top cover and a bottom end constructed and arranged to be mated with the sealing portion. The top end of the stem may mate with the top cover by extending through the dispensing portion and/or the channel guide of the can end. The mating of the top cover to the top end of the stem may ensure that movement of the stem occurs with movement of the top cover.
The stem may be mated with the top cover by way of various methods. In certain examples, the stem and top cover may be mated through the use of an adhesive. In other examples, snap hooks on either the top cover or the top portion of the stem may provide the mechanism for mating these two components. Yet in other examples, well-known techniques such as spin welding may be used to mate these two components, for example, if these components are constructed from polymeric materials. Mating these two components may include the use of a cross pin which would slide through holes in the top cover and top portion of the stem, to keep these two components in place. Other ways of mating involve crimping the two components to each other, using a rivet or otherwise.
The stem may be positioned within the channel of the sealing portion and may be constructed and arranged to mate with the sealing portion. The bottom end of the stem may be constructed and arranged to mate with a portion of the sealing portion in communication with the channel. The portion of the sealing portion may be constructed and arranged to accept and mate with the bottom end of the stem. The mating may be such that movement of the stem may cause movement of the sealing portion. In certain examples, a movement of the stem (for example in a horizontal direction) may cause movement of the sealing portion in a vertical direction, for example upward or downward. In one embodiment, rotation of the stem in one direction may cause movement of the sealing portion in a downward direction. Because the channel guide of the fixed element may be mated with the channel of the sealing portion, the sealing portion will not rotate with the stem, but instead will only move in a vertical direction. The bottom end of the stem may comprise a threaded surface that mates with a compatible threaded surface of the sealing portion. The bottom end of the stem may comprise a threaded surface having a female thread which is compatible with the threaded surface of the sealing portion having a male thread. Alternatively, the bottom end of the stem may comprise a threaded surface having a male thread which is compatible with the threaded surface of the sealing portion having a female thread. The stem may be of various functional and/or ornamental shapes and sizes to secure the desired components of the closure system together. It will be within the ability of the person of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of the disclosure, to select or to design suitable shapes, sizes and materials of the stem disclosed herein.
To facilitate stacking of the containers for more convenient and cost-effective shipping and storing, the top of the container comprising a closure system may be constructed and arranged to accept the bottom of another container body, or the base plate attached to another container body. For example, the top cover of the closure system may reside below the top edge of the fixed element which mates with the container body such that the top cover does not interfere in the stacking of multiple containers on top of one another. In other examples, a side of the container body may be constructed and arranged to accept a side of another container body to facilitate stacking of the containers.
A container body may be provided of various functional and/or ornamental shapes and sizes suitable for holding, storing, handling, and/or cooling or heating the contents of the beverage container. Conventional manufacturing processes as described above are used for producing beverage can bodies may be used for providing a container body. The closure system may be disposed on the container body by placing, dropping, depositing, or the like. This may be accomplished through automated processes or manually. Securing may occur to ensure the integrity of the contents of the container through mating of the container body to the closure system. Mating may occur between the container body and the fixed element. Mating may also occur between various components and sub-components of the closure system and container body. The securing may also occur using conventional methods of manufacturing beverage cans, for example, by forming a double seam. A flange of the fixed element may curl around a first edge of the container body to form a partial seam. The partial seam may be crimped and flattened for form a hermetic seal.
To assemble the beverage container, by automatic processes or manually, all or part of the closure element may be pre-assembled to be mated with the container body or inserted through the container body and may be compatible with conventional manufacturing processes of an aluminum can. Alternatively, portions of the fixed element may be mated to each other and the container body without being pre-assembled.
The operation of the assembled closure system of a container is described below. At a first position, the top cover covers the dispensing portion and may also cover a portion of the can end. At this first position, the sealing portion is in contact with a bottom surface of the can end in a locked position, and the stem is positioned at the first end of the channel guide. The stem may be mated to the top cover by any various means, including those described above such that as the top cover is moved, the stem moves in the same direction.
The user may use one or more of the grips of the top cover to move the top cover in a desired direction, for example, to a second position. As the top cover is moved in a desired direction, due to the mating of the top cover and the top end of the stem, the stem is moved in the same desired direction. Because the bottom end of the stem is mated with the sealing portion, this causes the sealing portion to move. For example, the bottom end of the stem may have a threaded surface that is compatible with the threaded surface of a portion of the sealing portion, which, upon movement of the top cover would thereby move the sealing portion along the threaded surface. For example, movement of the top cover would move the sealing portion along the threaded surface in a vertical downward direction away from the bottom surface of the can end. The closure system may be constructed and arranged to prevent the sealing portion from moving further away than a pre-determined distance from the bottom surface of the can end to an unlocked position at the first end of the channel guide.
The channel may contain a section that allows the sealing portion to move relative to the channel guide, but that permits movement of the channel up to a certain predetermined distance. For example, the section of the channel may be constructed and arranged to prevent the sealing portion from moving any further in a given direction. The section of the channel may prevent the sealing portion from becoming separated from the other components of the closure system. The section may also prevent the sealing portion from falling into the container. The section may comprise a device that may secure the sealing portion to the channel guide or the stem at a predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the can end. The section may comprise one or more snap-hooks to maintain the connection between the sealing portion and the other components of the closure system, such as the channel guide or the stem.
The user may again use one or more of the grips of the top cover to move the top cover in a desired direction, for example, to a third position. As the top cover is moved in a desired direction, due to the mating of the top cover and the top end of the stem, the stem is moved in the same desired direction. Because the bottom end of the stem is mated with the sealing portion, this in turn causes the sealing portion to move. At the third position the top cover exposes the dispensing portion, the sealing portion is spaced a predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the can end, and the stem is positioned at the second end of the channel guide.
The user may use one or more of the grips of the top cover to move the top cover in a desired direction, for example, to a fourth position. As the top cover is moved in a desired direction, due to the mating of the top cover and the top end of the stem, the stem is moved in the same desired direction. This desired direction may be opposite the direction that the top cover and top end of the screw are moved when transitioning from the first position to the second position. In moving to this fourth position, the sealing portion comes into contact with the bottom surface of the can end in a locked position, and the stem is positioned at the second end of the channel guide. In certain examples, a sub-component of the sealing portion comes into contact with the bottom surface of the can end. The sub-component may be an o-ring or gasket.
From the second position, the user may use one or more of the grips of the top cover to move the top cover in a desired direction, for example, to a fifth position. As the top cover is moved in a desired direction, due to the mating of the top cover and the top end of the stem, the stem is moved in the same desired direction. Because the bottom end of the stem is mated with the sealing portion, this in turn causes the sealing portion to move. At a fifth position the top cover exposes at least a portion of the dispensing portion, the sealing portion is spaced a predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the can end, and the stem is positioned at a predetermined distance from the first end of the channel guide.
From the fifth position, the user may use one or more of the grips of the top cover to move the top cover in a desired direction, for example, to a sixth position. As the top cover is moved in a desired direction, due to the mating of the top cover and the top end of the stem, the stem is moved in the same desired direction. This desired direction may be opposite the direction that the top cover and top end of the screw are moved in when transitioning from the first position to the second position. In moving to this sixth position, the sealing portion comes into contact with the bottom surface of the can end in a locked position, and the stem is positioned at a predetermined distance from the first end of the channel guide. In certain examples, a sub-component of the sealing portion comes into contact with the bottom surface of the can end. The sub-component may be an o-ring or gasket.
Referring now to the figures, in one embodiment, FIGS. 1A-1C illustrate a beverage container 10 in which a container body 100 made from a conventional manufacturing process is used. Container body 100 is attached to closure system 102. Closure system 102 comprises a fixed element 104 and a movable closure element 106 (shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B). FIG. 1A is a perspective view of the beverage container and illustrates a beverage container 10 in the closed position. FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the beverage container, and illustrates a beverage container 10 in a partially opened position with top cover 118 partially exposing dispensing portion 114. FIG. 1C is a perspective view of the beverage container, and illustrates a beverage container 10 in a fully opened position with top cover 118 fully exposing dispensing portion 114.
As illustrated in the exploded views of FIGS. 2A and 2B, closure system 102 of beverage container 10 of FIGS. 1A-1C comprises multiple components. As shown, fixed element 104 comprises can end 108 having dispensing portion 110. In this embodiment, fixed element 104 also comprises can cover 112 comprising dispensing portion 114 and channel guide 116. Fixed element 104 may be assembled by placing can cover 112 on can end 108, aligning dispensing portion 114 with dispensing portion 110, and aligning channel guide 116 with dispensing portion 110.
Closure system 102 of FIGS. 2A and 2B also comprises a movable closure element 106. As shown, movable closure element 106 comprises top cover 118 having grip 119 to assist a user in opening and closing the container. Movable closure element 106 also comprises stem 122 and sealing portion 120 having channel 150. Movable closure element 106 may be assembled by inserting top end 124 of stem 122 through dispensing portion 110 and channel guide 116 so that top end 124 of stem 122 can mate with opening 126 in top cover 118. Sealing portion 120 can be mated with gasket 128 to ensure a tight seal between the sealing portion and the bottom surface 130 of can end 108. This may be accomplished by aligning members 132 with openings 134 of sealing portion 120. Other various means of attaching gasket 128 to sealing portion 120 may be used as discussed above. Sealing portion 120 may be mated with stem 122, by mating bottom end 136 of stem 122 having threaded surface 138 with threaded section 140 of sealing portion 120. The mating of threaded surface 138 with threaded section 140 allows sealing portion 120 to move vertically, i.e., upwards or downwards relative to fixed element 104.
In one embodiment, FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate one way that a two-component fixed element may be assembled. FIG. 3A illustrates can cover 112 comprising dispensing portion 114 and channel guide 116. FIG. 3B illustrates can end 108 comprising dispensing portion 110. To assemble the fixed element as shown in FIGS. 3C and 3D, an adhesive, for example a Food and Drug Administration approved adhesive, may be applied to a bottom surface of can cover 112 and/or top surface of can end 108. Can cover 112 and can end 108 may then be mated by aligning dispensing portion 114 and channel guide 116 of can cover 112 with dispensing portion 110 of can end 108. This allows channel guide 116 to reside below the surface of can end 108 through dispensing portion 110 of can end 108, as shown in FIG. 3D.
In another embodiment, FIGS. 4A-4D illustrate another way that a two-component fixed element may be assembled. FIG. 4A illustrates can cover 112 comprising dispensing portion 114, channel guide 116 and openings 142. FIG. 4B illustrate can cover 108 comprising dispensing portion 108 and pegs 144. To assemble the fixed element as shown in FIGS. 4C and 4D, openings 142 of can cover 112 are aligned with pegs 144 of can end 108, as can cover 112 is placed on top of can end 108. Once can cover 112 is in place on top of can end 108, pegs 144 are flattened against can cover 112 and can end 108 to form flattened pegs 146 which secure these two pieces in place to form the fixed element, as shown in FIGS. 4C and 4D.
In another embodiment, FIGS. 5A-5E illustrate another way that a two-piece fixed element may be assembled. FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate can cover 112 comprising dispensing portion 114, channel guide 116, and lip 148 having crimping groove 151. FIGS. 5C and 5D illustrate can end 108 comprising dispensing portion 110 and overhang 152 having crimp line 154. To assemble fixed element 104 as shown in FIG. 5E, lip 148 and overhang 152 are joined in and crimped together to form a crimped portion 156 of fixed element 104.
In another embodiment, snap hooks may be used to mate the components of the two-component fixed element. It will be within the ability of the person of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of the disclosure, to select or to design suitable shapes, sizes and materials for mating the components of the fixed element together.
In yet another embodiment as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the fixed element may be constructed as one piece. In this embodiment, fixed element 204 may be made of aluminum. Can end 208 comprises dispensing portion 214 and channel guide 216. In this embodiment, the starting material for can end 208 may be produced from conventional manufacturing processes from which dispensing portion 214 and channel guide 216 may be formed. This embodiment requires no can cover and streamlines the process of producing fixed element 204 for the closure system.
FIGS. 7A-8B illustrate perspective views of a portion of the closure system in accordance with certain embodiments. FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate top cover 118 having grip 119, fixed element 104 having channel guide 116 and dispensing portion 110, and stem 122 having top end 124 and bottom end 136 prior to assembly. As shown, stem 122 is inserted into channel guide 116 of fixed element 104. Top end 124 of stem 122 is mated with opening 126 of top cover 118. Mating of these two components can be achieved by snap hooks 170 of top end 124 of stem 122 being inserted into grooves 172 of opening 126 of top cover 118, or by other various mating means as discussed above. FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate this assembled portion of the closure element, from the top and bottom perspective views.
FIGS. 9A-9F illustrate various other methods for assembling the top cover, stem, and fixed element (not shown in FIGS. 9A-9F) together. For example, FIG. 9A again illustrates the use of snap hooks 370 of top end 324 of stem 322 which can mate with grooves 372 of opening 326 of top cover 318. FIG. 9B illustrates the use of an adhesive which may be applied to top end 424 of stem 422, to opening 474 of top cover 418, or to both top end 424 and opening 474 to achieve the mating of these components. Spin welding may also be used to mate these components as shown in FIG. 9C. In another embodiment, fastener 676 may be inserted through openings 678 of top cover 618 and openings 680 of top end 624 of stem 622. FIG. 9E illustrates pre-crimped rivet 782 which is inserted into opening 726 of top cover 718. Fixed element (not shown) is placed below top cover 718, followed by stem 722 which is inserted into opening 774 along with washer 786. Once each of these components is in place, pre-crimped rivet 782 is crimped, as shown in 784 to mate the components together. In another example, FIG. 9F illustrates stem 822 which may be inserted into opening 884 so that these components may be crimped together at crimping area 888 of top cover 818 and crimping groove 890 of stem 822. It will be within the ability of the person of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of the disclosure, to select or to design suitable mating configurations for the components of the closure element as disclosed herein.
Once stem 136, top cover 118 and fixed element 104 are assembled, sealing portion 120 may be attached as shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B. Gasket 128 can be secured to sealing portion 120 by aligning members 122 with opening 134 of sealing portion 120. Once gasket 128 is in place, sealing portion 120 is screwed into place by mating bottom end 136 of stem 122 with threaded section 140 of sealing portion 120. This completes assembly of the closure element, which is now ready to be mated with a container body in one of the various ways described above, or by any other suitable means
Upon first use of a container comprising closure system 102, closure element 102 is located at a first position as shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B. At this first, closed, locked position, top cover 118 is resting on fixed element 104, covering dispensing portion 114, and is mated with top end 124 of stem 122. Sealing portion 120 is in contact with the bottom surface of fixed element 104 and forms a tight seal with use of gasket 128.
FIGS. 12A and 12B illustrate a second position in which closure system 102 is in a closed, unlocked position. Top cover 118, with use of grips 119 is rotated in a clockwise direction. As shown in FIG. 12A, stem 122 is also rotated with top cover 118. FIG. 12B illustrates the effect that rotation of top cover 118 has on sealing portion 120. As shown in FIG. 12B, sealing portion 120 is no longer in contact with the bottom surface of fixed element 304, and has moved a predetermined distance in a downward direction as evidenced by the appearance of a section 141 of threaded portion 140 of sealing portion 120.
By releasing sealing portion 120 from the bottom surface of fixed element 104, the user may now slide top cover 118 from first end 107 of channel guide 116 to second end 109 of channel guide 116 or anywhere in between such as a predetermined distance from first end 107 of channel guide 116. By moving top cover 118 to a predetermined distance from first end 107 of channel guide 116 or to second end 109 of channel guide 116, dispensing portion 114 of fixed element 104 is revealed partially as shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B (at a fifth position) or fully, as shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B (at a third position). These positions represent partially open, unlocked or fully open, unlocked positions
In another embodiment, FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate perspective views of a reclosable beverage container 90 that may be completely constructed of aluminum. Beverage container 90 comprises container body 900 and closure system 902. Closure system 902 comprises fixed element 904. As shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B movable closure element comprises top cover 918 having grip 919, and rivet 960. FIG. 15B also shows movable closure element comprising sealing portion 920 in addition to top cover 618 having grip 619, and secured with rivet 960.
The exploded view of FIGS. 16A and 16B of closure system 902 illustrated in FIGS. 15A and 15B shows each of the components of closure element 902. As shown, FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrate components made of aluminum, with the exception of gasket 928, which may be made of a polymeric material. Rivet 960 assists in mating top end 924 of stem 922 with top cover 918. To accomplish this, stem 922 is inserted through channel guide 916, allowing fixed element 904 to be positioned against bottom surface 917 of top cover 918. Gasket 928 can now be put in place on sealing portion 920 having a male threaded surface 939 which mates with bottom end 936 of stem 922. Bottom end 936 has female threaded surface 938. In alternative embodiments, threaded surface 939 may have a male thread, while threaded surface 938 may have a female thread. FIGS. 16A and 16B also washer 962 which assists in mating sealing portion 920 and stem 922.
In another embodiment, closure system 102′ is illustrated in FIGS. 17A and 17B and comprises fixed element 104′ and movable closure element comprising top cover 118′ and sealing portion 120′. Top cover 118′ comprises grip 119′. In this embodiment, grip 119′ comprises ring 192′ and lever 194′ and assists the user in moving top cover 118′ in a desired direction, for example, horizontally, and also allows sealing portion 120′ to move in a desired direction, for example, vertically. In other embodiments, the ring may be optional. Top cover 118′ also comprises openings 126′ that allow for securing of grip 119′ to top cover 118′ using a fastener.
FIGS. 18A and 18B illustrate removable closure element 102′ in exploded views. As shown, grip 119′ comprises ring 192′ and lever 194′ which may be fastened to top cover 118′ by placing fastener 196′ through opening 126′ of top cover 118′ and opening 193′ of grip 119′. Fastener 196′ may be any device or material suitable for joining or affixing top cover 118′ and grip 119′. For example, fastener 196′ may be a wire, a wire coated in plastic, a hinge, spring, bolt, screw, nail, clasp, peg, or pin, for example, a cotter pin. The fixed element 104′, which may be made of one or more components, as discussed above, comprises a dispensing portion 114′ and a channel guide 116′. Sealing portion 120′ comprises lever receiving portion 198′ which resides in channel 150′. Sealing portion 120′ may also comprise gasket 128′ which is attached to sealing portion 120′ by mating member 132′ with openings 134′. Top cover 118′ and grip 119′ may be mated with fixed element 104′ and sealing portion 120′ by inserting lever 194′ through top cover 118′ and channel guide 116′, and mating lever 194′ with lever receiving portion 198′. These components are connected by inserting fastener 101′ through opening 103′ of lever receiving portion 198′ and opening 105′ of lever 194′.
FIGS. 19A-22B illustrate various positions of closure system 102′ during operation. FIGS. 19A and 19B illustrate the closure system in a closed, locked position, wherein top cover 118′ is covering dispensing portion 114′ of fixed element 104′. Ring 192′ and lever 194′ are resting horizontally on top cover 118′ with fastener 101′ at first end 111′ of opening 105′. Sealing portion 120′ resides up against the bottom surface of fixed element 104′, with lever receiving portion 198′ residing at a first end 107′ of channel guide 116′. In this closed position, closure system 102′ provides for a tight seal that prevents liquids from escaping a container that utilizes this closure system.
FIGS. 20A and 20B illustrate closure system 102′ in closed, unlocked position, wherein dispensing portion 114′ is still covered by top cover 118′ but sealing portion 120′ no longer resides up against the bottom surface of fixed element 104′. As shown, ring 192′ has been moved such that lever 194′ is no longer resting on top cover 118′ and is instead lever 194′ is in a position perpendicular to lever 194′ in the closed position. Fastener 101′ follows opening 105′ to reside at second end 113′ of opening 105′ which causes lever receiving portion 198′, and thus sealing portion 120′, to move vertically downwards by a predetermined distance away from the bottom surface of fixed element 104′.
FIGS. 21A and 21B illustrate closure system 102′ in an open, unlocked position, wherein top cover 118′ is no longer covering dispensing portion 114′. As shown, ring 192′ and lever 194′ are still in a position wherein they are not resting on top cover 118′. Lever 194′ has moved in a horizontal direction, which also moves top cover 118′ and sealing portion 120′ in a horizontal direction. Lever receiving portion 198′ now resides at second end 109′ of channel guide 116′. Sealing portion 120′ remains at a predetermined distance away from the bottom surface of fixed element 104′.
FIGS. 22A and 22B illustrate closure system 102′ in an open, locked position with sealing portion 120′ up against the bottom surface of fixed element 104′. Closure system 102′ is in an open position, wherein top cover 118′ is no longer covering dispensing portion 114′. As shown, ring 192′ and lever 194′ have been moved and are now resting on top cover 118′. Fastener 101′ follows opening 105′ to reside at first end 113′ of opening 105′ which causes lever receiving portion 198′, and thus sealing portion 120′, to move vertically upwards by a predetermined distance so that sealing portion 120′ resides up against the bottom surface of fixed element 104′.
Any of the arrangements described above may be used for beverages, foods, other consumable goods, or nonconsumable goods. Additionally, as described above, containers may be made from any material known to those skilled in the art, depending on the use and function of the part or component. For example, container bodies and base plates may be made from aluminum materials used in the conventional manufacturing of can bodies. The fixed element, top cover, and sealing portion, may be formed from common molding and extrusion processes to create reproducible tolerances. The movable closure elements may be formed from polypropylene, while the can cover and stem may be manufactured from polyethylene terephthalate. Alternatively, the can end may be manufactured from aluminum materials used in the conventional manufacturing of can bodies. The gasket may be made of silicon, rubber, plastic, or the like.
Although the containers and methods of making them have been described above in terms of certain examples and embodiments, various alterations, modifications, substitutions, additions and improvements will be readily apparent to the person of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of the disclosure. Such alterations, modifications, substitutions, additions and improvements are intended to be within the scope and spirit of the containers disclosed here. It is also intended that the indefinite articles “a” and “an,” as used above and in the appended claims, mean one or more of the articles which they modify, and that the terms “include,” “including” and “having” are interchangeable with the open ended term “comprising.” Only the transitional phrases “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of,” are closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively, with respect to the claims.
Use of ordinal terms such as “first,” “second,” “third,” and the like in the claims to modify a claim element does not by itself connote any priority, precedence, or order of one claim element over another or the temporal order in which acts of a method are performed, but are used merely as labels to distinguish one claim element having a certain name from another element having a same name (but for the use of the ordinal term) to distinguish the claim elements.
Those skilled in the art should appreciate that the parameters and configurations described herein are exemplary and that actual parameters and/or configurations will depend on the specific application in which the systems and techniques of the invention are used. Those skilled in the art should also recognize, or be able to ascertain, using no more than routine experimentation, equivalents to the specific examples of the invention. It is therefore to be understood that the examples described herein are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described.

Claims

1. A container comprising:

a container body; and

a closure system comprising:

a fixed element comprising a can end comprising a dispensing portion and a channel guide having a first end and a second end, the fixed element secured to an end of the container body; and

a movable closure element comprising:

a top cover comprising a grip;

a sealing portion residing within the container body and comprising a channel constructed and arranged to accept the channel guide; and

a stem positioned within the channel and having a top end constructed and arranged to be mated with the top cover and a bottom end constructed and arranged to be mated with the sealing portion;

wherein at a first position the top cover covers the dispensing portion, the sealing portion is in contact with a bottom surface of the can end, and the stem is positioned at the first end of the channel guide;

at a second position the top cover covers the dispensing portion and is rotated relative to the first position, the sealing portion is spaced a predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the can end, and the stem is positioned at the first end of the channel guide; and

at a third position the top cover exposes the dispensing portion, the sealing portion is spaced a predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the can end, and the stem is positioned at the second end of the channel guide.

2. The container of claim 1, wherein at the second position the stem is rotated relative to the first position.

3. The container of claim 1, wherein at a fourth position the top cover exposes the dispensing portion and is rotated relative to the second position, the sealing portion is in contact with the bottom surface of the can end, and the stem is positioned at the second end of the channel guide.

4. The container of claim 3, wherein at a fifth position the top cover exposes at least a portion of the dispensing portion and is rotated relative to the second position, the sealing portion is spaced a predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the can end, and the stem is positioned at a predetermined distance from the first end of the channel guide.

5. The container of claim 4, wherein at a sixth position the top cover exposes at least a portion of the dispensing portion and is rotated relative to the second position, the sealing portion is in contact with the bottom surface of the can end, and the stem is positioned at a predetermined distance from the first end of the channel guide.

6. The container of claim 1, wherein the can end comprises a first component and a second component.

7. The container of claim 6, wherein the first component comprises the channel guide and a first section of the dispensing portion.

8. The container of claim 7, wherein the second component comprises a second section of the dispensing portion.

9. The container of claim 1, wherein the channel is constructed and arranged to move around an outer surface of the channel guide.

10. The container of claim 9, wherein the channel is constructed and arranged to secure itself to the channel guide at the predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the can end.

11. The container of claim 9, wherein the channel is constructed and arranged to secure itself to the stem at a predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the can end.

12. The container of claim 1, wherein the bottom end of the stem has a threaded surface constructed and arranged to be mated within the channel.

13. The container of claim 1, wherein the fixed element comprises a rim constructed and arranged to be mated with the container body.

14. The container of claim 13, wherein the rim is double rolled and crimped to a flange of the container body.

15. The container of claim 1, wherein the fixed element is made of a material that is the same as the movable closure element.

16. The container of claim 15, wherein the material is aluminum.

17. The container of claim 15, wherein the material is polymeric.

18. A closure system for sealing a container constructed and arranged to be mated with a container body comprising:

a fixed element comprising a can end comprising a dispensing portion and a channel guide having a first end and a second end, the fixed element constructed and arranged to be secured to an end of the container body; and

a movable closure element comprising:

a top cover comprising a grip;

a sealing portion comprising a channel constructed and arranged to accept the channel guide; and

a stem residing within the channel and having a top end constructed and arranged to be mated with the top cover and a bottom end constructed and arranged to be mated with the sealing portion;

wherein as the top cover and stem are rotated the sealing portion moves vertically along the stem, and as the top cover and stem are moved in a horizontal direction the sealing portion moves in the horizontal direction.

19. The device of claim 18, wherein as the top cover is rotated in a first direction the sealing portion moves vertically downward relative to the channel guide.

20. The device of claim 19, wherein as the top cover is rotated in a second direction the sealing portion moves vertically upward relative to the channel guide.

21. The device of claim 19, wherein as the top cover is moved in a horizontal direction from the first end of the channel guide to the second end of the channel guide the dispensing portion is exposed.

22. A closure system for sealing a container constructed and arranged to be mated with a container body comprising:

a movable closure element comprising:

a top cover comprising a grip comprising a lever; and

a sealing portion comprising a channel constructed and arranged to accept the channel guide and a lever receiving portion constructed and arranged to accept the lever;

wherein as the lever of the top cover is lifted, the sealing portion moves in a vertical direction, and as the lever is moved in a horizontal direction the sealing portion moves in the horizontal direction.

23. The device of claim 22, wherein as the lever is lifted, the sealing portion moves vertically downward relative to the can end.

24. The device of claim 23, wherein as the top cover is moved in a horizontal direction from the first end of the channel guide to the second end of the channel guide the dispensing portion is exposed.

25. A closure system for sealing a container constructed and arranged to be mated with a container body comprising:

a movable closure element comprising:

a top cover comprising a lever; and

a sealing portion comprising a lever receiving portion, the top cover and the sealing portion being operatively connected such that as the lever of the top cover is lifted, the sealing portion moves in a vertical direction, and as the top cover is moved in a horizontal direction the sealing portion moves in the horizontal direction.

26. The device of claim 25, wherein the sealing portion moves vertically downward relative to the channel guide.

27. The device of claim 25, wherein as the top cover is moved in a horizontal direction from the first end of the channel guide to the second end of the channel guide the dispensing portion is exposed.

28. The device of claim 25, wherein at a first position the top cover covers the dispensing portion, the lever of the top cover is resting on the top cover, and the sealing portion is in contact with a bottom surface of the can end;

at a second position the top cover covers the dispensing portion, the lever is lifted relative to the first position, and the sealing portion is spaced a predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the can end; and

at a third position the top cover and the sealing portion expose the dispensing portion, and the sealing portion is spaced a predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the can end.

29. The container of claim 28, wherein at a fourth position the top cover and the sealing portion expose the dispensing portion, the lever is lowered to rest on the top cover, and the sealing portion is in contact with the bottom surface of the can end.

30. The container of claim 29, wherein at a fifth position the top cover and the sealing portion expose at least a portion of the dispensing portion, the lever of the top cover is lifted relative to the fourth position, and the sealing portion is spaced a predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the can end.

31. The container of claim 30, wherein at a sixth position the top cover and the sealing portion expose at least a portion of the dispensing portion, the lever is lowered to rest on the top cover, and the sealing portion is in contact with the bottom surface of the can end.