US20120118889A1 - Metal end panel with hole - Google Patents
Metal end panel with hole Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20120118889A1 US20120118889A1 US13/202,224 US201013202224A US2012118889A1 US 20120118889 A1 US20120118889 A1 US 20120118889A1 US 201013202224 A US201013202224 A US 201013202224A US 2012118889 A1 US2012118889 A1 US 2012118889A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- aperture
- curl
- sheet metal
- closure
- metal lid
- 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.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 37
- 238000004826 seaming Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 6
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 claims description 10
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 claims description 6
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000005520 cutting process Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000003993 interaction Effects 0.000 claims 1
- 238000003825 pressing Methods 0.000 claims 1
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 abstract description 2
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 12
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 description 5
- 230000035622 drinking Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000004806 packaging method and process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000010902 straw Substances 0.000 description 2
- 235000013361 beverage Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 238000000576 coating method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000994 depressogenic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005304 joining Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004321 preservation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000750 progressive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002787 reinforcement Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000037303 wrinkles Effects 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B21—MECHANICAL METAL-WORKING WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
- B21D—WORKING OR PROCESSING OF SHEET METAL OR METAL TUBES, RODS OR PROFILES WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
- B21D51/00—Making hollow objects
- B21D51/16—Making hollow objects characterised by the use of the objects
- B21D51/38—Making inlet or outlet arrangements of cans, tins, baths, bottles, or other vessels; Making can ends; Making closures
- B21D51/44—Making closures, e.g. caps
-
- 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
- B65D17/50—Non-integral frangible members applied to, or inserted in, preformed openings, e.g. tearable strips or plastic plugs
- B65D17/506—Rigid or semi-rigid members, e.g. plugs
- B65D17/507—Rigid or semi-rigid members, e.g. plugs moulded in situ, e.g. during production of container
- B65D17/508—Rigid or semi-rigid members, e.g. plugs moulded in situ, e.g. during production of container and combined with a rigid or semi-rigid, e.g. metallic sheet and a moulded plastic body
-
- 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
- B65D2517/50—Non-integral frangible members applied to, or inserted in, a preformed opening
- B65D2517/504—Details of preformed openings
- B65D2517/5043—Details of preformed openings provided with a flange
- B65D2517/5045—Down-turned flange, i.e. extending into container
- B65D2517/5048—Down-turned flange, i.e. extending into container rolled or folded back, e.g. to avoid sharp edges
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a sheet metal end panel for a container, such as a beverage can, having a hole defined therein, which is adapted to receive a separate closure.
- the closure is designed to close and seal the hole and may be opened and resealed after each use.
- EP 1607341 A (TOYO SEIKAN) 21 Dec. 2005 discloses an end comprising a closure member having an opening, that has been formed in advance and an unsealing tab, which is fitted to the outer surface of the closure member so as to cover the opening.
- the unsealing tab is hermetically adhered to the periphery of the opening and includes a flexible tab member and a plug member integrally adhered thereto, which is adapted to be fitted to the opening provided in the closure member.
- the flexible tab member is hermetically fixed to the periphery of the opening in the closure member so as to be torn off upon opening.
- the edge of the opening in the closure member does not have to be flat, since the tab member is flexible and may accommodate any unevenness in the sealing surface.
- the opening has to be positioned sufficiently distant from the edge of the closure member in order to provide a sealing surface of sufficient width to provide a hermetic seal. This distance makes drinking from, and to an extent pouring from, the container difficult.
- the flexible tab member is required because the accuracy of the fit between the plug member and the opening or the smoothness of the surfaces may be insufficient to provide a fluid seal on their own. Once opened, the container may not re-seal, particularly if the contents of the container are pressurised, and leakage of liquid or gas may occur.
- EP 1640282 B (BALL PACKAGING) 27 Dec. 2006 describes a lid for a container, particularly for contents that are held under pressure.
- the sheet metal lid has a lid panel surrounded by a folded edge.
- the panel has a large dimensioned opening, into which a separate reclosing device is fitted.
- the large dimensioned opening affects the stability of the sheet metal lid and thus a stiffening strip and a reinforcement plateau is provided on the lid.
- WO 2007/128810 15 Nov. 2007 filed by the present applicants describes a metal can end into which a plastic opening device is fitted and the plastic opening device is arranged to slide relative to an aperture in the metal end panel to open and reclose the aperture.
- the opening device described in WO 2007/128810 15 Nov. 2007 cannot be applied to the end panel previously described in the prior art, because the sliding path taken by the opening device relative to the metal end panel needs to be unimpeded.
- the aperture in the metal end panel needs to be designed to provide a smooth sealing surface, against which the separate opening device forms a fluid-tight seal.
- the present invention provides a sheet metal lid for closing a container body, the lid comprising a centre panel surrounded by a seaming portion adapted to be joined to the periphery of a container body, the centre panel defining an aperture through which the contents of the container may be dispensed, the peripheral edge of the aperture finished by a curl and the aperture adapted to receive a separate closure, characterised in that the closure moves relative to the centre panel between a closed position, in which the aperture and the closure together form a fluid-tight seal, and an open position, in which the seal is broken and the closure slides across the surface of the centre panel to open at least part of the aperture.
- the invention provides a metal end panel with a hole that can be made rounder, flatter and closer to the panel edge.
- the edge of the aperture is curled to protect a user from the cut edge of the aperture and the curl provides a stiffened aperture with accurate, smooth sealing surfaces.
- the end panel is adapted to receive a separate closure, which moves between a closed and an open position. In its closed position, the closure occludes the aperture and forms a fluid-tight seal with the edge of the aperture.
- the closure Upon opening, the closure slides across the surface of the end panel to expose a major part of the aperture, through which the contents of a filled container onto which the end panel and a separate closure is applied, may be poured or drunk or through which a straw may be inserted.
- the end panel of the invention is particularly suited to a moveable closure device such as that described in WO 2007/128810 15 Nov. 2007.
- the aperture curl is recessed into the plane of the end panel allowing the closure device to be moved across the end panel, away from the aperture, without impedance from the aperture curl into the path of the closure device as it moves to its open position.
- the end panel is suitable for fixing to a can end or a can body. Sealing is achievable against the bottom of the aperture curl, inside the curl or on the outside portion of the underside of the curl.
- the curl may depend upwards or downwards from the end panel.
- FIG. 1 is a plan view of an end shell according to the invention
- FIG. 1A is a cross section view of the end shell shown in FIG. 1 taken along the line A-A;
- FIG. 1B is a detailed portion of the cross section view of FIG. 1A , indicated by circle B, showing a curl around the perimeter of the aperture in the end shell;
- FIG. 1C is portion of the cross section view of FIG. 1A , indicated by circle C, indicating the distances between various features of the end shell.
- a step wise progression, method and tooling used to form the final can end is also described, by way of example only, with reference to the attached drawings, in which:
- FIG. 2 is an perspective view of a plain end shell blank, which is pressed from metal sheet;
- FIG. 2A is a plan view of the end shell blank illustrated in FIG. 2 ;
- FIG. 2B is a side cross section view of the end shell blank illustrated in FIG. 2A taken along the line A-A;
- FIG. 3 is an perspective view of the end shell blank having a hole punched through the planar centre panel thereof;
- FIG. 3A is a plan view of the end shell blank illustrated in FIG. 3 ;
- FIG. 3B is a side cross section view of the end shell blank illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 3A , with an inset detailed view of the portion indicated by the letter B;
- FIG. 4A illustrates tooling suitable for forming a depression around the periphery of the hole in the end shell blank, in a start position, in which the end shell blank is clamped in position and no depression has been formed yet, with an inset detailed view of the portion indicated by the letter D;
- FIG. 4B illustrates the same tooling as illustrated in FIG. 4A , in a finish position, in which an annular punch has formed a depression around the periphery of the hole in the end shell blank;
- FIG. 5 is an perspective view of the end shell blank having a hole punched through the planar centre panel thereof and a depression formed around the periphery of the hole;
- FIG. 5A is a plan view of the end shell blank illustrated in FIG. 5 ;
- FIG. 5B is a side cross section view of the end shell blank illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 5A , with an inset detailed view of the portion indicated by the letter B;
- FIG. 6A illustrates tooling suitable for drawing the raw edge of the hole into the start of a curl, in a start position, in which the end shell blank is clamped in position and no drawing has yet taken place, with an inset detailed view of the portion indicated by the letter E;
- FIG. 6B illustrates the same tooling as illustrated in FIG. 6A , in a finish position, in which a draw punch has been moved through the hole thereby forming the start of a curl, with an inset detailed view of the portion indicated by the letter E;
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the end shell blank having a hole punched through the planar centre panel thereof and the start of a curl formed around the periphery of the hole;
- FIG. 7A is a plan view of the end shell blank illustrated in FIG. 7 ;
- FIG. 7B is a side cross section view of the end shell blank illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 7A , with an inset detailed view of the portion indicated by the letter B;
- FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the finished end shell having a hole punched through the planar centre panel thereof and a curl formed around the periphery of the hole;
- FIG. 8A is a plan view of the finished end shell illustrated in FIG. 8 ;
- FIG. 8B is a side cross section view of the finished end shell illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 8A , with an inset detailed view of the portion indicated by the letter B;
- FIG. 9 illustrates a first example of tooling suitable for converting the “start of a curl” shown in FIGS. 7 to 7B , to create a curl, in which the end shell blank is interposed between a coin punch and a coin die which are suitably shaped to coin the final shape and dimensions of the curl;
- FIG. 10 illustrates a second example of tooling suitable for converting the “start of a curl” shown in FIGS. 7 to 7B , to create a curl, in which the “start of a curl” is supported in a coin die, which is suitably shaped to control the dimensions of the curl formed around the periphery of the hole, when the coin punch is brought into contact with the coin die;
- FIG. 11A illustrates a third example of tooling suitable for converting the “start of a curl” shown in FIGS. 7 to 7B , to create a curl, in a start position, in which the coin punch and coin die are spaced apart.
- This tooling is an enhancement of the tooling illustrated in FIG. 10 , in which the end shell blank is placed in the coin die and a clamp is applied around the edge of the hole;
- FIG. 11B illustrates the tooling shown in FIG. 11A in a finish position, in which the coin punch has been brought into contact with the coin die, forming a curl of controlled dimensions around the periphery of the hole.
- a can end 1 has a hole 7 through which the contents of the can (not shown in the figures), to which the can end 1 is affixed, may be dispensed from the can by a user and then the can may be closed and re-sealed.
- the hole is adapted to receive a separate closure (not shown) which may be moved relative to the can end 1 between a closed position, in which the hole 7 is closed and sealed, and an open position, in which the hole or a major portion thereof is exposed allowing the contents of the can to be dispensed.
- the can end 1 is fixed to a can body (not shown) using conventional joining techniques, such as double seaming etc.
- W of the can end 1 according to the invention is less than 4 mm, preferably less than 3 mm.
- W is approx. 4 mm.
- X is preferably less than 3 mm.
- a method and apparatus for producing such an end panel is also described by way of example. This has fewer steps than described and shown in any of FIGS. 33 , 34 , 35 and 36 in EP 1607341 A (TOYO SEIKAN) 21 Dec. 2005 .
- FIGS. 2 through 8 show a stepwise progression of the formation of the end shell 1 ′ culminating in a finished can end 1 and the tooling required to complete each step in the fabrication.
- the first step of the method is to pierce a hole 7 through the end shell blank 1 ′ as shown in FIGS. 3 , 3 A and 3 B.
- This step may be carried out using a conventional punch and die arrangement, and the end panel may be clamped against the face of the die during piercing.
- the metal disc created in the piercing step may be discarded or may be saved for another purpose.
- the second step of the method is to depress an annular region 8 ′ around the periphery of the hole 7 as shown in FIGS. 4A , 4 B, 5 , 5 A and 5 B
- the hole 7 is positioned on a location tool 35 before being clamped between the opposing faces of the clamp 40 and die 30 .
- the annular region 8 ′ is then depressed into the annular profile of the die 30 by the movement of the annular punch 45 .
- the periphery of the hole 7 is formed into a lip 9 by drawing it between the inner diameter of the annular punch 40 and the inner wall of the annular profile of the die 30 .
- the lip 9 assists smooth forming of the curl in the final step.
- the radius between the outer diameter and the end face of the annular punch 45 , the radius between the outer wall of the annular profile and the adjacent face of the die 30 , and the depth of the annular region 8 ′ approximate to the desired final dimensions of the curl. This avoids excessive working or re-working of the metal, and helps to preserve the surfaces to provide sealing in subsequent use.
- Formation of the annular region 8 ′ helps to remove any slackness of the metal in the end panel, and helps to stiffen the periphery of the hole 7 .
- the first step of piercing and the second step of forming the depression separately as described above, it is possible to combine these two steps into one, to reduce the overall number of steps required. For example this can be done by removing the location tool 35 from the tooling of FIGS. 4A and 4B , providing a cutting edge in a modified version of the die 30 and providing a piercing punch. With such tools it is possible to sequentially clamp the end panel, then pierce a hole and then form an annular depression.
- the third step of the method is to draw the inner portion of the annular region 8 ′ upwards using the tooling of FIGS. 6A and 6B to form the “start of a curl” 8 ′′ shown in FIGS. 7 to 7B .
- the end panel is firstly clamped between the faces of the die 60 and clamp 70 , and the outer portion of the annular region 8 ′ is supported by the profile of the die 60 .
- the inner portion of the annular region 8 ′ is then formed into the “start of a curl” 8 ′′ by movement of the punch 50 .
- the profile of the die 60 approximates to the desired final internal dimensions of the curl. This avoids excessive working or re-working of the metal, and helps to preserve the surfaces to provide sealing in subsequent use.
- this third step of forming the “start of a curl” 8 ′′ between forming the annular depression 8 ′ and the final step of creating the final curl it is possible to omit this third step. Omission of this third step is possible if the inside diameter of the lip 9 approximates to the final inside diameter of the curl, and the height of the lip 9 is tall enough to form into the final curl.
- the height of the lip 9 may be made tall by providing the die 30 with an inner face positioned above the outer face.
- the final step of the method is to form the final shape of the curl using tooling arranged to accurately control the dimensions and condition of those surfaces against which the closure is to subsequently fit and seal.
- FIG. 9 shows a punch 80 and a die 90 in a closed position.
- the curl 8 has been formed to a final shape and dimensions by the profiles of the punch 80 and die 90 .
- FIG. 10 shows an alternative punch 80 ′ and an alternative die 90 ′, in a closed position.
- the curl 8 has been formed to a final shape and dimensions by the alternative profiles of the punch 80 ′ and die 90 ′
- Either the tooling of FIG. 9 or the tooling of FIG. 10 may be preferred depending upon which surfaces of the curl 8 are to be used to fit and seal against the closure (not shown), and so are important to be supported by the tooling profiles.
- FIGS. 11A and 11B shows an improved version of the tooling of FIG. 10 .
- FIG. 11A shows the end panel clamped between a die 90 ′′ and an annular clamping ring 85
- FIG. 11B shows the same tooling after a punch 80 ′′ has been moved to form the final curl 8 . Clamping the end panel in this way prevents the metal of the curl being pushed outwards from the profile of the die during forming, and so produces a better curl and prevents slackness being created in the metal of the panel surrounding the aperture.
- the punch 80 ′′ of FIGS. 11A and 11B has a downward projection at the periphery of its profile, which directs the cut-edge of the curl downwards to reduce exposure of the cut-edge.
- the invention has been described as it relates to the formation of a curled aperture in a sheet metal end panel, which is adapted to be joined to a container body.
- the metal of the end panel may be coated with polymer or other material and an advantage of the method of the invention is the preservation of such coatings.
- the aperture of the invention it is also possible for the aperture of the invention to be formed in the opposite end panel of a sheet metal container body.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
- Rigid Containers With Two Or More Constituent Elements (AREA)
- Closures For Containers (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates to a sheet metal end panel for a container, such as a beverage can, having a hole defined therein, which is adapted to receive a separate closure. The closure is designed to close and seal the hole and may be opened and resealed after each use.
- EP 1607341 A (TOYO SEIKAN) 21 Dec. 2005 discloses an end comprising a closure member having an opening, that has been formed in advance and an unsealing tab, which is fitted to the outer surface of the closure member so as to cover the opening. The unsealing tab is hermetically adhered to the periphery of the opening and includes a flexible tab member and a plug member integrally adhered thereto, which is adapted to be fitted to the opening provided in the closure member. The flexible tab member is hermetically fixed to the periphery of the opening in the closure member so as to be torn off upon opening.
- In EP 1607341 A (TOYO SEIKAN) 21 Dec. 2005, the edge of the opening in the closure member does not have to be flat, since the tab member is flexible and may accommodate any unevenness in the sealing surface. However, the opening has to be positioned sufficiently distant from the edge of the closure member in order to provide a sealing surface of sufficient width to provide a hermetic seal. This distance makes drinking from, and to an extent pouring from, the container difficult.
- The flexible tab member is required because the accuracy of the fit between the plug member and the opening or the smoothness of the surfaces may be insufficient to provide a fluid seal on their own. Once opened, the container may not re-seal, particularly if the contents of the container are pressurised, and leakage of liquid or gas may occur.
- EP 1640282 B (BALL PACKAGING) 27 Dec. 2006 describes a lid for a container, particularly for contents that are held under pressure. The sheet metal lid has a lid panel surrounded by a folded edge. The panel has a large dimensioned opening, into which a separate reclosing device is fitted. The large dimensioned opening affects the stability of the sheet metal lid and thus a stiffening strip and a reinforcement plateau is provided on the lid.
- The provision of such stiffening structures is only possible in the arrangement described in EP 1640282 B (BALL PACKAGING) 27 Dec. 2006 because the separate reclosing device is fixed in the sheet metal lid and is not required to move relative thereto. The lid is opened and reclosed by internal relative movement between parts of the reclosing device, not because of relative movement between the reclosing device and the sheet metal lid panel. Also, the reclosing device obstructs the majority of the opening, preventing for example the use of a drinking straw.
- WO 2007/128810 15 Nov. 2007 filed by the present applicants, describes a metal can end into which a plastic opening device is fitted and the plastic opening device is arranged to slide relative to an aperture in the metal end panel to open and reclose the aperture. The opening device described in WO 2007/128810 15 Nov. 2007 cannot be applied to the end panel previously described in the prior art, because the sliding path taken by the opening device relative to the metal end panel needs to be unimpeded. Also, the aperture in the metal end panel needs to be designed to provide a smooth sealing surface, against which the separate opening device forms a fluid-tight seal.
- The present invention provides a sheet metal lid for closing a container body, the lid comprising a centre panel surrounded by a seaming portion adapted to be joined to the periphery of a container body, the centre panel defining an aperture through which the contents of the container may be dispensed, the peripheral edge of the aperture finished by a curl and the aperture adapted to receive a separate closure, characterised in that the closure moves relative to the centre panel between a closed position, in which the aperture and the closure together form a fluid-tight seal, and an open position, in which the seal is broken and the closure slides across the surface of the centre panel to open at least part of the aperture.
- The invention provides a metal end panel with a hole that can be made rounder, flatter and closer to the panel edge. The edge of the aperture is curled to protect a user from the cut edge of the aperture and the curl provides a stiffened aperture with accurate, smooth sealing surfaces. The end panel is adapted to receive a separate closure, which moves between a closed and an open position. In its closed position, the closure occludes the aperture and forms a fluid-tight seal with the edge of the aperture.
- Upon opening, the closure slides across the surface of the end panel to expose a major part of the aperture, through which the contents of a filled container onto which the end panel and a separate closure is applied, may be poured or drunk or through which a straw may be inserted. The end panel of the invention is particularly suited to a moveable closure device such as that described in WO 2007/128810 15 Nov. 2007. Preferably, the aperture curl is recessed into the plane of the end panel allowing the closure device to be moved across the end panel, away from the aperture, without impedance from the aperture curl into the path of the closure device as it moves to its open position.
- The end panel is suitable for fixing to a can end or a can body. Sealing is achievable against the bottom of the aperture curl, inside the curl or on the outside portion of the underside of the curl. The curl may depend upwards or downwards from the end panel.
- The present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the attached drawings, in which:
-
FIG. 1 is a plan view of an end shell according to the invention; -
FIG. 1A is a cross section view of the end shell shown inFIG. 1 taken along the line A-A; -
FIG. 1B is a detailed portion of the cross section view ofFIG. 1A , indicated by circle B, showing a curl around the perimeter of the aperture in the end shell; -
FIG. 1C is portion of the cross section view ofFIG. 1A , indicated by circle C, indicating the distances between various features of the end shell. A step wise progression, method and tooling used to form the final can end is also described, by way of example only, with reference to the attached drawings, in which: -
FIG. 2 is an perspective view of a plain end shell blank, which is pressed from metal sheet; -
FIG. 2A is a plan view of the end shell blank illustrated inFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 2B is a side cross section view of the end shell blank illustrated inFIG. 2A taken along the line A-A; -
FIG. 3 is an perspective view of the end shell blank having a hole punched through the planar centre panel thereof; -
FIG. 3A is a plan view of the end shell blank illustrated inFIG. 3 ; -
FIG. 3B is a side cross section view of the end shell blank illustrated inFIGS. 3 and 3A , with an inset detailed view of the portion indicated by the letter B; -
FIG. 4A illustrates tooling suitable for forming a depression around the periphery of the hole in the end shell blank, in a start position, in which the end shell blank is clamped in position and no depression has been formed yet, with an inset detailed view of the portion indicated by the letter D; -
FIG. 4B illustrates the same tooling as illustrated inFIG. 4A , in a finish position, in which an annular punch has formed a depression around the periphery of the hole in the end shell blank; -
FIG. 5 is an perspective view of the end shell blank having a hole punched through the planar centre panel thereof and a depression formed around the periphery of the hole; -
FIG. 5A is a plan view of the end shell blank illustrated inFIG. 5 ; -
FIG. 5B is a side cross section view of the end shell blank illustrated inFIGS. 5 and 5A , with an inset detailed view of the portion indicated by the letter B; -
FIG. 6A illustrates tooling suitable for drawing the raw edge of the hole into the start of a curl, in a start position, in which the end shell blank is clamped in position and no drawing has yet taken place, with an inset detailed view of the portion indicated by the letter E; -
FIG. 6B illustrates the same tooling as illustrated inFIG. 6A , in a finish position, in which a draw punch has been moved through the hole thereby forming the start of a curl, with an inset detailed view of the portion indicated by the letter E; -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the end shell blank having a hole punched through the planar centre panel thereof and the start of a curl formed around the periphery of the hole; -
FIG. 7A is a plan view of the end shell blank illustrated inFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 7B is a side cross section view of the end shell blank illustrated inFIGS. 7 and 7A , with an inset detailed view of the portion indicated by the letter B; -
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the finished end shell having a hole punched through the planar centre panel thereof and a curl formed around the periphery of the hole; -
FIG. 8A is a plan view of the finished end shell illustrated inFIG. 8 ; -
FIG. 8B is a side cross section view of the finished end shell illustrated inFIGS. 8 and 8A , with an inset detailed view of the portion indicated by the letter B; -
FIG. 9 illustrates a first example of tooling suitable for converting the “start of a curl” shown inFIGS. 7 to 7B , to create a curl, in which the end shell blank is interposed between a coin punch and a coin die which are suitably shaped to coin the final shape and dimensions of the curl; -
FIG. 10 illustrates a second example of tooling suitable for converting the “start of a curl” shown inFIGS. 7 to 7B , to create a curl, in which the “start of a curl” is supported in a coin die, which is suitably shaped to control the dimensions of the curl formed around the periphery of the hole, when the coin punch is brought into contact with the coin die; -
FIG. 11A illustrates a third example of tooling suitable for converting the “start of a curl” shown inFIGS. 7 to 7B , to create a curl, in a start position, in which the coin punch and coin die are spaced apart. This tooling is an enhancement of the tooling illustrated inFIG. 10 , in which the end shell blank is placed in the coin die and a clamp is applied around the edge of the hole; -
FIG. 11B illustrates the tooling shown inFIG. 11A in a finish position, in which the coin punch has been brought into contact with the coin die, forming a curl of controlled dimensions around the periphery of the hole. - Referring to
FIGS. 1 , 1A, 1B and 1C, a can end 1 according to the invention has ahole 7 through which the contents of the can (not shown in the figures), to which the can end 1 is affixed, may be dispensed from the can by a user and then the can may be closed and re-sealed. The hole is adapted to receive a separate closure (not shown) which may be moved relative to the can end 1 between a closed position, in which thehole 7 is closed and sealed, and an open position, in which the hole or a major portion thereof is exposed allowing the contents of the can to be dispensed. The can end 1 is fixed to a can body (not shown) using conventional joining techniques, such as double seaming etc. - Referring to
FIG. 1C in particular, W of the can end 1 according to the invention is less than 4 mm, preferably less than 3 mm. (In the end described in EP 1607341 A (TOYO SEIKAN) 21 Dec. 2005 currently on sale, W is approx. 4 mm.) X is preferably less than 3 mm. - A method and apparatus for producing such an end panel is also described by way of example. This has fewer steps than described and shown in any of
FIGS. 33 , 34, 35 and 36 in EP 1607341 A (TOYO SEIKAN) 21 Dec. 2005 . -
FIGS. 2 through 8 show a stepwise progression of the formation of theend shell 1′ culminating in a finished can end 1 and the tooling required to complete each step in the fabrication. - The first step of the method is to pierce a
hole 7 through the end shell blank 1′ as shown inFIGS. 3 , 3A and 3B. This step may be carried out using a conventional punch and die arrangement, and the end panel may be clamped against the face of the die during piercing. The metal disc created in the piercing step may be discarded or may be saved for another purpose. - The second step of the method is to depress an
annular region 8′ around the periphery of thehole 7 as shown inFIGS. 4A , 4B, 5, 5A and 5B In the tooling ofFIG. 4A , thehole 7 is positioned on alocation tool 35 before being clamped between the opposing faces of theclamp 40 and die 30. Theannular region 8′ is then depressed into the annular profile of the die 30 by the movement of theannular punch 45. - Preferably, the periphery of the
hole 7 is formed into alip 9 by drawing it between the inner diameter of theannular punch 40 and the inner wall of the annular profile of thedie 30. Thelip 9 assists smooth forming of the curl in the final step. - The radius between the outer diameter and the end face of the
annular punch 45, the radius between the outer wall of the annular profile and the adjacent face of the die 30, and the depth of theannular region 8′ approximate to the desired final dimensions of the curl. This avoids excessive working or re-working of the metal, and helps to preserve the surfaces to provide sealing in subsequent use. - Formation of the
annular region 8′ helps to remove any slackness of the metal in the end panel, and helps to stiffen the periphery of thehole 7. - Whilst it is preferred to carry out the first step of piercing and the second step of forming the depression separately as described above, it is possible to combine these two steps into one, to reduce the overall number of steps required. For example this can be done by removing the
location tool 35 from the tooling ofFIGS. 4A and 4B , providing a cutting edge in a modified version of thedie 30 and providing a piercing punch. With such tools it is possible to sequentially clamp the end panel, then pierce a hole and then form an annular depression. - The third step of the method is to draw the inner portion of the
annular region 8′ upwards using the tooling ofFIGS. 6A and 6B to form the “start of a curl” 8″ shown inFIGS. 7 to 7B . - In the tooling of
FIG. 6A , the end panel is firstly clamped between the faces of thedie 60 andclamp 70, and the outer portion of theannular region 8′ is supported by the profile of thedie 60. The inner portion of theannular region 8′ is then formed into the “start of a curl” 8″ by movement of thepunch 50. - The profile of the die 60 approximates to the desired final internal dimensions of the curl. This avoids excessive working or re-working of the metal, and helps to preserve the surfaces to provide sealing in subsequent use.
- Whilst it is preferred to carry out this third step of forming the “start of a curl” 8″ between forming the
annular depression 8′ and the final step of creating the final curl, it is possible to omit this third step. Omission of this third step is possible if the inside diameter of thelip 9 approximates to the final inside diameter of the curl, and the height of thelip 9 is tall enough to form into the final curl. The height of thelip 9 may be made tall by providing the die 30 with an inner face positioned above the outer face. - The final step of the method is to form the final shape of the curl using tooling arranged to accurately control the dimensions and condition of those surfaces against which the closure is to subsequently fit and seal.
- The tooling of
FIG. 9 shows apunch 80 and a die 90 in a closed position. Thecurl 8 has been formed to a final shape and dimensions by the profiles of thepunch 80 and die 90. - The tooling of
FIG. 10 shows analternative punch 80′ and analternative die 90′, in a closed position. Thecurl 8 has been formed to a final shape and dimensions by the alternative profiles of thepunch 80′ and die 90′ - Either the tooling of
FIG. 9 or the tooling ofFIG. 10 may be preferred depending upon which surfaces of thecurl 8 are to be used to fit and seal against the closure (not shown), and so are important to be supported by the tooling profiles. - The tooling of
FIGS. 11A and 11B shows an improved version of the tooling ofFIG. 10 .FIG. 11A shows the end panel clamped between a die 90″ and anannular clamping ring 85, andFIG. 11B shows the same tooling after apunch 80″ has been moved to form thefinal curl 8. Clamping the end panel in this way prevents the metal of the curl being pushed outwards from the profile of the die during forming, and so produces a better curl and prevents slackness being created in the metal of the panel surrounding the aperture. - The
punch 80″ ofFIGS. 11A and 11B has a downward projection at the periphery of its profile, which directs the cut-edge of the curl downwards to reduce exposure of the cut-edge. - The method described above avoids excessive working of surfaces that are required for sealing, and the progressive formation of annular features prevents the formation of radial wrinkles and the risk of radial splits in the metal. Although the method is described in detail for producing accurate, round apertures for sealing with separate round closures, it will be apparent to the person skilled in the art how this method may be adapted to produce accurate, non-round apertures if desired.
- The invention has been described as it relates to the formation of a curled aperture in a sheet metal end panel, which is adapted to be joined to a container body. Of course, the metal of the end panel may be coated with polymer or other material and an advantage of the method of the invention is the preservation of such coatings. Of course it is also possible for the aperture of the invention to be formed in the opposite end panel of a sheet metal container body.
Claims (11)
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP09153374 | 2009-02-20 | ||
PCT/EP2010/052159 WO2010094780A1 (en) | 2009-02-20 | 2010-02-19 | Metal end panel with hole |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20120118889A1 true US20120118889A1 (en) | 2012-05-17 |
Family
ID=40666828
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/202,224 Abandoned US20120118889A1 (en) | 2009-02-20 | 2010-02-19 | Metal end panel with hole |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20120118889A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2398713A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2010094780A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20220396393A1 (en) * | 2019-11-08 | 2022-12-15 | Ball Corporation | Resealable can end with stay on tab |
Citations (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3380622A (en) * | 1966-12-15 | 1968-04-30 | Procter & Gamble | Method and material for hermetically sealing containers |
US6571972B1 (en) * | 1998-10-05 | 2003-06-03 | Hoover Materials Handling Group, Inc. | Bulk drum lid with two bung openings |
US7051896B2 (en) * | 2001-02-12 | 2006-05-30 | William David Steadman | Opening assembly |
US7090090B2 (en) * | 2003-03-24 | 2006-08-15 | News, Inc. | Container for microwave oven cooking |
US7387220B2 (en) * | 2004-08-30 | 2008-06-17 | Scholle Corporation | Cap assembly and container used therewith |
US7607551B2 (en) * | 2006-12-01 | 2009-10-27 | Letica Corporation | Tint plug for paint container |
US7918359B2 (en) * | 2006-05-10 | 2011-04-05 | Crown, Packaging Technology, Inc. | Opening device |
Family Cites Families (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4036397A (en) * | 1976-09-07 | 1977-07-19 | Christiana Metals Corporation | Container with easy open top |
CH629983A5 (en) * | 1978-06-06 | 1982-05-28 | Alusuisse | METHOD FOR PRODUCING LID RINGS FOR CAN CAN. |
GB2237259B (en) * | 1989-07-10 | 1993-12-08 | Metal Box Plc | Container closure |
US5287718A (en) * | 1991-01-16 | 1994-02-22 | Toyo Saikan Kaisha, Ltd. | Curl forming method for a can end |
DE19625174B4 (en) * | 1996-06-24 | 2008-05-15 | IMPRESS Metal Packaging S.A., Crosmières | Cover ring production without blanks |
US20060201944A1 (en) | 2003-01-24 | 2006-09-14 | Toyo Seikan Kaisha, Ltd. | Easily openable container lid with resealability and method of producing the same |
PL1640282T3 (en) * | 2004-09-28 | 2007-08-31 | Ball Packaging Europe Gmbh | Drink can top with a large opening |
-
2010
- 2010-02-19 US US13/202,224 patent/US20120118889A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2010-02-19 WO PCT/EP2010/052159 patent/WO2010094780A1/en active Application Filing
- 2010-02-19 EP EP10705154A patent/EP2398713A1/en not_active Withdrawn
Patent Citations (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3380622A (en) * | 1966-12-15 | 1968-04-30 | Procter & Gamble | Method and material for hermetically sealing containers |
US6571972B1 (en) * | 1998-10-05 | 2003-06-03 | Hoover Materials Handling Group, Inc. | Bulk drum lid with two bung openings |
US7051896B2 (en) * | 2001-02-12 | 2006-05-30 | William David Steadman | Opening assembly |
US7090090B2 (en) * | 2003-03-24 | 2006-08-15 | News, Inc. | Container for microwave oven cooking |
US7387220B2 (en) * | 2004-08-30 | 2008-06-17 | Scholle Corporation | Cap assembly and container used therewith |
US7918359B2 (en) * | 2006-05-10 | 2011-04-05 | Crown, Packaging Technology, Inc. | Opening device |
US7607551B2 (en) * | 2006-12-01 | 2009-10-27 | Letica Corporation | Tint plug for paint container |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20220396393A1 (en) * | 2019-11-08 | 2022-12-15 | Ball Corporation | Resealable can end with stay on tab |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2010094780A1 (en) | 2010-08-26 |
EP2398713A1 (en) | 2011-12-28 |
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