US20150274355A1 - Lightweight, hinged self-closing container covers and elastomer springs for use with such covers - Google Patents
Lightweight, hinged self-closing container covers and elastomer springs for use with such covers Download PDFInfo
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- US20150274355A1 US20150274355A1 US14/306,272 US201414306272A US2015274355A1 US 20150274355 A1 US20150274355 A1 US 20150274355A1 US 201414306272 A US201414306272 A US 201414306272A US 2015274355 A1 US2015274355 A1 US 2015274355A1
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- gate
- cover
- container
- elastomer
- self
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- Abandoned
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Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D17/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers specially constructed to be opened by cutting or piercing, or by tearing of frangible members or portions
- B65D17/28—Rigid or semi-rigid containers specially constructed to be opened by cutting or piercing, or by tearing of frangible members or portions at lines or points of weakness
- B65D17/404—Details of the lines of weakness
-
- B65D17/166—
-
- B65D17/24—
-
- 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
- B65D43/00—Lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D43/14—Non-removable lids or covers
- B65D43/16—Non-removable lids or covers hinged for upward or downward movement
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2517/00—Containers specially constructed to be opened by cutting, piercing or tearing of wall portions, e.g. preserving cans or tins
- B65D2517/0001—Details
- B65D2517/001—Action for opening container
- B65D2517/0011—Action for opening container push-down tear panel
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2517/00—Containers specially constructed to be opened by cutting, piercing or tearing of wall portions, e.g. preserving cans or tins
- B65D2517/0001—Details
- B65D2517/0026—Means for preventing loss of removable element
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2517/00—Containers specially constructed to be opened by cutting, piercing or tearing of wall portions, e.g. preserving cans or tins
- B65D2517/0001—Details
- B65D2517/0031—Reclosable openings
- B65D2517/0046—Unusual reclosable openings
Definitions
- the invention pertains to container covers and, more particularly, to lightweight, self-closing covers having frangible seams surrounding reclosable gates that occupy a large percentage of the area of the container cover and are supported by elastomer springs.
- pull tab opening mechanisms are universally used throughout the world but have two primary deficiencies. First, with some pull tab designs, the tab may fall into the beverage container and potentially become a swallowing hazard. Second, once opened, pull tab opening mechanisms are not easily resealed. Beverages, particularly carbonated beverages like beer and soft drinks, rapidly lose their effervescence as the entrained carbon dioxide is released from the beverage and passes into the air surrounding the beverage container.
- pull tab opening mechanisms typically require at least some finger/hand strength to open the container. The opening process may present difficulties to potential users who do not possess sufficient finger/hand strength.
- pull tab tops of the prior art require a quantity of metal, generally aluminum, that might be reduced in a better design, and are process intensive in their manufacture.
- covers having relatively large reclosable gate openings i.e., gate openings occupying 90% or more of the cover including chuck walls
- These covers rely on metallic combination flex-torsion springs to effect opening and reclosing thereof.
- These combination flex-torsion springs provide resistive and restoring forces through a combination of flexing and torsional movements.
- the disadvantages include cost of manufacturing and the complexity of assembly of covers that include them.
- lightweight, covers for containers having self-closing gates or dome areas that are operatively connected to outer portions of the cover by an elastomer spring.
- elastomer springs may be formed from resilient materials having the necessary properties including percentage of elongation, cure methods, cure times, etc.
- a unique tri-fold seam including a frangible seam portion forms a flange that works cooperatively with the elastomer spring to implement three modes of operation of the openable gates.
- a first mode after the gate is initially opened by downward directed pressure, for example a tap on the dome or gate by the heal of the palm of a user's hand, the gate returns to a reclosed orientation. Further downward pressure on the gate pushes it further into the container to which the novel cover is attached whereat a toggle operation locks the gate in the open position. An action such as swirling the container contents against the gate, overcome the toggle and the gate again returns to a reclosed orientation.
- novel covers in accordance with the invention may be fabricated to be compatible with current production equipment and practices.
- the novel covers eliminate the pull tab construction of the prior art and allow a comparable container to be produced using less material than prior art containers.
- Multiple designs for elastomer springs are also provided, including extremely narrow designs that allow the gate to occupy nearly 100% of the cover area inside or outside the chuck walls.
- an object of the invention to provide a lightweight, reclosable cover for a container that utilizes a spring formed from an elastomer material.
- FIG. 1A is a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of a cover using an elastomer spring in accordance with the invention
- FIG. 1B is an enlarged view of a portion of the cover of FIG. 1A ;
- FIG. 1C is an enlarged view of another portion of the cover of FIG. 1A ;
- FIG. 1D is a top plan, schematic view of the cover of FIG. 1A ;
- FIG. 1E is a partial side perspective, cross-sectional, schematic view of the cover of FIG. 1A ;
- FIGS. 2A-2H are partial side elevational views of the top of FIG. 1A in various stages of initial opening and subsequent self-closing;
- FIG. 3A is a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of a cover using an elastomer spring disposed on an external chuck wall in accordance with the invention
- FIG. 3B is an enlarged view of a portion of the cover of FIG. 3A ;
- FIG. 3C is an enlarged view of another portion of the cover of FIG. 3A ;
- FIG. 3D is a top plan, schematic view of the cover of FIG. 3A ;
- FIG. 3E is a partial side perspective, cross-sectional, schematic view of the cover of FIG. 3A ;
- FIGS. 4A-4D are partial side elevational views of the top of FIG. 3A in various stages of initial opening and subsequent self-closing;
- FIG. 5A is a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of a cover using an internal elastomer spring disposed on an inner surface of the cover;
- FIG. 5B is an enlarged view of a portion of the cover of FIG. 5A ;
- FIG. 5C is an enlarged view of another portion of the cover of FIG. 5A ;
- FIG. 5D is a bottom plan, schematic view of the cover of FIG. 5A ;
- FIG. 5E is a partial side perspective, cross-sectional, schematic view of the cover of FIG. 5A ;
- FIGS. 6A-6E are partial side elevational views of the top of FIG. 5A in various stages of initial opening and subsequent self-closing;
- FIG. 7A is a side-elevational, schematic view of an external flush elastomer spring that may be pre-formed and cured;
- FIG. 7B is a side-elevational, schematic view of the elastomer spring of FIG. 7A with adhesive applied to respective left and right adhesive-receiving walls;
- FIGS. 7C-7L show a series of partial side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic views of a portion of a container cover having the elastomer spring of FIG. 7A installed with the gate at various stages of opening and re-closing;
- FIG. 8A is a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of another internal elastomer spring
- FIG. 8B is a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of a self-closing container using elastomer spring of FIG. 8A to provide the restorative force for the reclosing;
- FIGS. 8C and 8D show detailed partial views of flange portions of the cover of FIG. 8B ;
- FIG. 8E is a bottom plan, schematic view of the container cover of FIG. 8B ;
- FIG. 8F is a bottom, perspective, schematic view of the cover of FIG. 8E ;
- FIG. 8G is an enlarged detail of a portion of the cover of FIG. 8F .
- FIG. 8H is a partial side perspective, cross-sectional, schematic view of the cover of FIG. 8A ;
- FIGS. 8I-8M show a series of side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic views illustrating five sequential steps involved in opening and subsequently re-closing the container cover of FIGS. 8B-8G ;
- FIGS. 9A-9F show detailed side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic views of the flange region of the container cover of FIGS. 8B-8G in various stages of opening and closing, including a toggle mode;
- FIG. 10A is a top plan, schematic view of a cover having a center domed external elastomer hinge
- FIG. 10B is a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of the cover of FIG. 10A ;
- FIG. 100 is a partial side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view a portion of the cover of FIG. 10B ;
- FIG. 10D is a side perspective, view of the cover of FIG. 10A ;
- FIG. 10E is a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of the cover of FIG. 10B but with the cover crimped to side walls of a container;
- FIG. 10F is a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of the cover of FIG. 10A in an unopened state
- FIG. 10G is a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of the cover of FIG. 10F in a partially open state;
- FIG. 10H is a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of the cover of FIG. 10F further open than shown in FIG. 10G ;
- FIG. 10I is a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of the cover of FIG. 10F even further open than shown in FIG. 10H ;
- FIG. 10J is a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of the cover of FIG. 10F with the cover automatically re-closed;
- FIG. 10K is a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of the container tilted to a drinking position with the upper lip of a drinker applying inward pressure against the center domed elastomer cushion hinge.
- the present invention provides for lightweight, reclosable container tops that utilize elastomer springs to allow the cover of the container to self reclose once it has been initially opened.
- Elastomer springs function in manners similar to the combination flex-torsion springs that are described in detail in my previous U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,898 included herein by reference.
- elastomer springs are lighter in weight than metal combination flex-torsion springs while providing the same functionality.
- elastomer springs are significantly less expensive than their metallic counterparts.
- assembly time is typically shorter compared to assembly time for covers with metallic combination flex-torsion springs. There may be a slight safety advantage if a metallic combination flex-torsion spring should fail and become disconnected from the container top.
- elastomers are polymers with viscoelasticity (i.e., “elasticity”). These materials typically exhibit low values of Young's modulus as well as high failure strain compared with other materials.
- the term elastomer, derived from elastic polymer, is often used interchangeably with the term “rubber”.
- Each of the monomers which link to form the elastomers is usually made of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and/or silicon.
- Elastomers are amorphous polymers existing above their glass transition temperature, so that considerable segmental motion is possible.
- Elastomers or elastomer materials have several physical properties that must be evaluated to determine their suitability for use as material from which to form elastomer springs.
- Cure shrinkage % for these materials may range from a fraction of one percent to what the industry calls “unmeasurable.” It is absolutely essential that an elastomeric material from which springs are formed exhibits a sufficient shrinkage percentage such that an elastomer spring is able to pull a gate portion of a container cover back to the self-closed position with enough force to create a complete seal between mating flanges (i.e., fully self-closed). If the elastomer does not shrink when cured then the weight of the gate will prevent complete self-closing.
- Container covers especially those designed for the food and beverage industry typically are formed from aluminum having a protective coating.
- a good bond between the elastomer spring and the coated aluminum surface is necessary.
- the bond must be strong, generally far stronger than the elastomer material itself.
- Such a bond is similar to a welded joint in steel.
- a weld applied to steel is typically far stronger than the steel itself. This may be illustrated by the facts that a single edge razor blade will easily cut through an elastomer spring but will not typically be able to scrape the adhesive bond away from the surface of the coated aluminum.
- An etchant may be mixed with the elastomer to increase the strength of the bond.
- Percent elongation is a measurement that represents how much an elastomer can be elongated or stretched before it comes to a rather abrupt stop. For example, an elastomer with a 1000% elongation specification means that particular elastomer can elongate (i.e., stretched) ten times its original cured length before the elongation process abruptly stops.
- Tear strength becomes important after the elongation limit has been reached and defines the typically far greater force required to physically tear the cured elastomer than the force required to stretch the elastomer to its elongation limit.
- Cure time is also important, especially if elastomer springs are to be applied to container covers in a high speed production environment.
- US-SRB-201-HE fast cure silicone rubber parts binder provided by Silicone Technologies of Ogdensburg, N.Y. USA.
- the US-SRB-201-HE material is intended for applications demanding very high elongation (over 1000%). When cured, the elastomer resists weathering, ozone, moisture, UV and high temperatures. Further, US-SRB-201-HE works well in manual and automatic dispensing equipment.
- RTV-6445 is a heat cured silicone elastomer having approximately a 625% elongation limit.
- an elastomer spring may be placed on an external surface of a cover or, alternately, the elastomer spring may be placed on or adjacent to an inner surface of the cover.
- FIG. 1A there is shown a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of a cover having an external elastomer spring in a “button top” configuration in accordance with the invention, generally at reference number C 1 .
- Cover C 1 is shown before attachment to a container represented by partial container side structure 118 a , 118 b .
- Cover C 1 is shown with its gate in a sealed (i.e., unopened) state.
- cover C 1 is a simplified design used to illustrate the operation of the elastomer spring. More complex covers using other elastomer springs are described and discussed in more detail hereinbelow.
- Cover C 1 consists of a seaming panel 102 (best seen in FIG. 1D ) surrounding a central gate or dome 108 .
- Seaming panel portions 102 a , 102 b have respective distal ends 104 a , 104 b that are adapted for attachment to upstanding walls 118 a , 118 b of a container and adapted to form a peripheral seal, not shown.
- any container or portion thereof shown or discussed herein forms no part of the present invention and is shown and/or discussed only to better describe cover C 1 .
- distal ends 104 a , 104 b , seaming panel portions 102 a , 102 b , panel portions 120 a , 120 b , countersinks 116 a , 116 b , and flanges 106 a , 106 b are labeled for purposes of discussion.
- cover C 1 is typically a circular structure best seen in FIG. 1D and distal end 104 , seaming panel 102 , panel 120 , countersink 116 , and flange 106 represented respectively thereby are continuous, circular structures, at least until the initial opening of gate 108 .
- Proximal ends, not specifically identified, of seaming panel portions 102 a , 102 b are each contiguously connected to respective panel portions 120 a , 120 b .
- Panel portions 120 a , 120 b terminate in respective countersinks 116 a , 116 b .
- Another panel portion 126 a , 126 b join respective countersinks 116 a , 116 b to respective tri-fold separable seams forming flanges 106 a , 106 b , respectively.
- Flanges 106 a , 106 b are shown in detailed portions 122 a 122 b in FIGS. 1B and 1C , respectively, and are discussed in more detail hereinbelow.
- a gate or dome 108 occupies the central region of cover C 1 surrounded by seaming panel 102 ( FIG. 1D ). Gate 108 in the simplified cover C 1 occupies approximately 80% or more of the top surface of cover C 1 . It will be recognized that the novel construction may be implemented in gate or dome 108 ranging in size from substantially 100% of the cover surface down to very small sizes creating small apertures.
- Chuck walls 114 a , 114 b define respective countersunk regions 116 a , 116 b.
- Panel sections 126 a , 126 b are surrounded by countersinks 116 a , 116 b and fill the space between countersinks 116 a , 116 b and respective tri-fold flanges 106 a , 106 b.
- An external button top elastomer spring 112 is disposed substantially atop tri-fold flange 106 a and connecting panel portion 126 a and gate 108 .
- Spring 112 provides support and closure force for gate 108 after the gate has been initially opened.
- FIGS. 1B and 1C there are shown enlarged drawings of portions 122 a , 122 b of flanges 106 a , 106 b respectively.
- frangible seam 110 a , 110 b formed in flanges 106 a , 106 b .
- Frangible seam 110 a , 110 b defines a tear line completely around gate 108 that allows separation of gate 108 from panel 126 as gate 108 of cover C 1 is “opened”.
- Frangible seams 110 a , 110 b are typically formed using a coining process. However, it will be recognized by those of skill in the art that alternate formation processes may be utilized.
- FIGS. 1D and 1E there are shown top plan schematic and partial side perspective schematic views, respectively of cover C 1 of FIGS. 1A , 1 B, and 1 C.
- FIGS. 1D and 1E the relationship of each of the components and features described hereinabove with respect to FIGS. 1A , 1 B, and 1 C may readily be seen.
- the width of gate 108 is represented by arrow 128 .
- FIG. 1E the relationship of external button top elastomer spring 112 to the remainder to the structure of cover C 1 may readily be seen.
- FIGS. 2A-2H there are shown a series of side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic views of a cover having an external elastomer spring in an external “button top” configuration of FIG. 1A in various stages of opening and self-closing.
- Table I provides, a percentage of elongation of elastomer spring 112 and an angle of rotation of gate 108 relative to a horizontal reference line 130 connecting an upper point of frangible seam points 110 a , 110 b .
- Angle of rotation is indicated by reference number 138 .
- FIG. 2A 0.1% ⁇ 5° FIG. 2B 0.5% ⁇ 10° FIG. 2C 200% ⁇ 20° FIG. 2D 300% ⁇ 30° FIG. 2E 200% 10° FIG. 2F 0.3% 20° FIG. 2G 0.2% 8° FIG. 2H 0.0% 0°
- FIG. 2A a downward directed pressure has been exerted on gate 108 as shown by arrow 132 .
- frangible seam 110 a has ruptured and the remainder of flange 106 a has moved downward carrying gate 108 downward into what would be an interior region of a container, not shown, to which cover C 1 would be attached.
- Reference number 134 denotes the gap between the edges of frangible seam 110 a .
- gate 108 has rotated approximately ⁇ 0.5°. This motion has caused elastomer spring 112 to be slightly elongated (approximately 0.1%).
- Frangible seam portion 110 b has not yet ruptured.
- FIG. 2C continued downward directed force on gate 108 has caused even further downward travel of the remainder of flange 106 and gate 108 .
- Gap 134 has now widened even further.
- Gate 108 has now rotated approximately ⁇ 20° and elastomer spring 112 has been elongated approximately 200%.
- Frangible seam portion 110 b has still not begun to rupture.
- frangible seam 110 b has ruptured and the remaining portion of flange 106 b has started to travel downward as indicated by gap 136 .
- Gate 108 is now rotated to a 30° angle relative to reference horizontal line 130 .
- Gap 134 has stopped widening.
- Elastomer spring 112 has now been elongated to its maximum extent (i.e., approximately 300%).
- frangible seam portion 110 a has returned to its original, unopened position and gap 134 has shrunk to substantially zero.
- Gap 136 has opened as the right edge of gate 108 continues downward to create an angle of rotation of approximately 20°.
- the elongation of elastomer spring 112 has dropped to approximately 0.3%.
- an upward directed restoring force 140 is exerted on gate 108 by elastomer spring 112 .
- the right edge of gate 108 has started to move upward.
- the elongation of elastomer spring 112 has shrunk to approximately 0.2% and the rotation angle of gate 108 has been reduced to approximately 8°.
- cover C 1 has completely reclosed and substantially resealed as both portions of the frangible seam 110 a , 110 b have reclosed.
- the elongation of elastomer spring 112 has become zero (i.e., no elongation) and the angle of rotation of gate 108 has also become zero.
- Line 138 has become coincident with horizontal reference line 130 .
- elastomer shrinkage during the curing process creates an important gate closing bias in the spring.
- This bias is sufficient to support the weight of a severed gate and hold that gate firmly in a tightly closed position.
- a typical shrinkage during curing is approximately 0.05%, a seemingly small amount but sufficient to provide the necessary force to hold a severed gate in a tightly closed condition.
- elastomer raw materials having different curing shrink rates may be chosen for different spring designs and placements. Consequently, the invention is not considered limited to a particular cure shrinkage rate. Rather, the invention is intended to include any suitable cure shrinkage rate in addition to the approximately 0.05% chosen for purposes of disclosure.
- gate 108 operation of the opening and self-reclosing of gate 108 as shown in FIGS. 2A-2H and described in the attending descriptions is controlled by the design of cover C 1 .
- the primary control over the function of gate 108 is the material choice for elastomer spring 112 .
- an elastomer having a maximum percentage of elongation of 300% has been chosen.
- FIG. 2D the maximum elongation is reached. Consequently, no further downward travel of the left edge of gate 108 is possible and the downward directed force 132 is transferred to the right edge of gate 108 thereby causing frangible seam portion 110 b to rupture.
- elastomer spring 112 immediately begins contracting and begins pulling the left edge of gate 108 upward until the right edge of gate 108 is finally returned to approximately its unopened position and frangible seam portion 110 a is closed.
- This performance is achieved by the choice of elastomer, specifically the percentage of elongation.
- FIG. 3A there is shown a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of a cover having an external elastomer spring disposed in a chuck wall in accordance with the invention, generally at reference number C 2 .
- Cover C 2 is shown before attachment to a container, not shown, and in a sealed (i.e., unopened) state represented by partial sides 318 a , 318 b . Further, cover C 2 is a simplified design used to illustrate the operation of the elastomer spring disposed in a chuck wall. Additional covers using other elastomer springs and spring configurations are described and discussed in more detail hereinbelow.
- Cover C 2 consists of a seaming panel 302 (best seen in FIG. 3D ) connected to a sloping panel 320 surrounding a central gate or dome 308 .
- Seaming panel portions 302 a , 302 b have respective distal ends 304 a , 304 b that are adapted for attachment to upstanding walls 318 a , 318 b of a container and adapted to form a peripheral seal, not shown.
- any container or portion thereof shown or discussed herein forms no part of the present invention and are shown and/or discussed only to better describe cover C 2 . While in the cross-sectional view of FIG.
- cover C 2 is typically a circular structure best seen in FIG. 3 D and seaming panel 302 , distal end 304 and panel 320 represented respectively thereby are continuous, circular structures, at least until initial opening of gate 308 .
- Distal ends 304 a , 304 b of seaming panel portions 302 a , 302 b respectively form what is commonly known in the industry as a curl.
- Proximal ends, not specifically identified, of seaming panel portions 302 a , 302 b each connect to respective sloping panel portions 320 a , 320 b that terminate in respective tri-fold separable seams forming flanges 307 a , 307 b , respectively located in chuck walls or countersinks 306 a , 306 b .
- Flanges 306 a , 306 b are shown in detailed portions 322 a 322 b in FIGS. 3B and 3C , respectively, and are discussed in more detail hereinbelow.
- a gate or dome 308 occupies the central region of cover C 2 surrounded by tri-fold seam 316 ( FIG. 3D ). Dome 308 in the simplified cover C 2 occupies approximately 80% or more of the top surface of cover C 2 . It will be recognized that the novel construction may be implemented in gate or dome 308 ranging in size from substantially 100% of the cover surface down to very small sized apertures.
- An external elastomer spring 312 is disposed substantially in a chuck wall forming a portion of tri-fold flange 306 a connecting panel portion 320 a and gate 308 .
- Elastomer spring 312 provides support and closure force for gate 308 after the gate has been opened.
- FIGS. 3B and 3C there are shown enlarged drawings of portions 322 a , 322 b of flanges 306 a , 306 b respectively.
- frangible seam 310 a , 310 b formed in flanges 306 a , 306 b .
- Frangible seam 310 a , 310 b defines a tear line completely around gate 308 that allows separation of gate 308 from panel 320 as gate 308 of cover C 2 is “opened”.
- Frangible seams 310 a , 310 b are typically formed using a coining process. However, it will be recognized by those of skill in the art that alternate formation processes may be utilized.
- FIGS. 3D and 3E there are shown top plan schematic and partial side perspective schematic views, respectively of cover C 2 of FIGS. 3A , 3 B, and 3 C.
- FIGS. 3D and 3E the relationship of each of the components and features described hereinabove with respect to FIGS. 3A , 3 B, and 3 C may readily be seen.
- the width of gate 308 is represented by headed line 328 .
- FIG. 3E the relationship of external chuck wall elastomer spring 312 to the remainder to the structure of cover C 2 may readily be seen.
- FIGS. 4A-4D there are shown a series of side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic views of a cover C 2 having an external elastomer spring in the external chuck wall configuration of FIG. 3A in various stages of opening and self-closing.
- Table II provides, a percentage of elongation of elastomer spring 312 and an angle of rotation of gate 308 relative to a horizontal reference line 330 connecting an upper point of frangible seam points 310 a , 310 b .
- Angle of rotation is indicated by reference number 338 .
- FIG. 4A 0.0% 0°
- FIG. 4B 150% 6°
- FIG. 4C 10% 6°
- FIG. 4D 0.05%
- FIG. 4A shows gate prior to rupturing of frangible seam 310 a , 310 b and before any significant elongation of elastomer spring 312 .
- Horizontal reference line 330 is still level.
- FIG. 4B a downward directed pressure has been exerted on gate 308 shown by arrow 332 .
- frangible seam 310 a has ruptured and the remainder of flange 306 a has moved downward carrying gate 308 downward into what would be an interior region of a container, not shown, to which cover C 2 would be attached.
- Reference number 334 denotes the gap between the edges of frangible seam 310 a .
- gate 308 has rotated approximately 6°. This motion has caused elastomer spring 312 to be slightly elongated (approximately 150.%) Frangible seam portion 310 b has not yet ruptured.
- FIG. 4C continued downward directed force on gate 308 has caused even further downward travel of the remainder of flange 306 and gate 308 .
- Gap 334 has now widened even further.
- Gate 308 has now rotated approximately 6° and elastomer spring 312 has been elongated approximately 10%.
- Frangible seam portion 310 a has still not begun to rupture.
- cover C 2 has completely reclosed and substantially resealed as both portions of the frangible seam 310 a , 310 b have reclosed.
- the elongation of elastomer spring 312 has become zero (i.e., no elongation) and the angle of rotation of gate 108 has also become zero.
- Line 338 has become coincident with horizontal reference line 330 .
- elastomer shrinkage during the curing process creates an important gate closing bias in the spring.
- This bias is sufficient to support the weight of a severed gate and hold that gate firmly in a tightly closed position.
- a typical shrinkage during curing is approximately 0.05%, a seemingly small amount but sufficient to provide the necessary force to hold a severed gate in a tightly closed condition.
- elastomer raw materials having different curing shrink rates may be chosen for different spring designs and placements. Consequently, the invention is not considered limited to a particular cure shrinkage rate. Rather, the invention is intended to include any suitable cure shrinkage rate in addition to the approximately 0.005% chosen for purposes of disclosure.
- gate 308 operation of the opening and self-reclosing of gate 308 as shown in FIGS. 4A-4D and described in the attending descriptions is controlled by the design of cover C 1 .
- the primary control over the function of gate 308 is the material chosen for elastomer spring 312 .
- an elastomer having a maximum percentage of elongation of 150% has been chosen.
- FIG. 4B the maximum elongation is reached. Consequently, no further downward travel of the left edge of gate 308 is possible and the downward directed force 332 is transferred to the right edge of gate 308 thereby causing frangible seam portion 310 b to rupture.
- elastomer spring 312 immediately begins contracting and begins pulling the left edge of gate 308 upward until the right edge of gate 308 finally returns to approximately its unopened position and frangible seam portions 310 a , 310 b are closed.
- This performance is achieved by the choice of elastomer, specifically the percentage of elongation.
- FIG. 5A there is shown a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of a cover having an internal elastomer spring in in accordance with the invention; generally at reference C 3 .
- Cover C 3 is shown before attachment to a container, not shown, and in a sealed (i.e., unopened) state. Further, cover C 3 is a simplified design used to illustrate the operation of the elastomer spring. More complex covers using other elastomer springs are described and discussed in more detail hereinbelow.
- Cover C 3 consists of a panel 526 (best seen in FIG. 5D ) surrounding a central gate or dome 508 .
- Panel portions 502 a , 502 b have respective distal ends 504 a , 504 b that are adapted for attachment to upstanding walls 518 a , 518 b of a container and adapted to form a peripheral seal, not shown between upstanding walls 518 a , 518 b and respective distal ends 504 a , 540 b of seaming panel 502 a , 502 b , respectively.
- any container or portion thereof shown or discussed herein forms no part of the present invention and are shown and/or discussed only to better describe cover C 3 . While in the cross-sectional view of FIG.
- cover C 3 is typically a circular structure best seen in FIG. 5D and seaming panel 502 , distal end 504 and panel 520 represented respectively thereby are continuous, circular structures, at least until initial opening of gate 508 .
- Distal ends 504 a , 504 b of seaming panel portions 502 a , 502 b respectively form what is commonly known in the industry as a curl.
- Proximal ends, not specifically identified, of seaming panel portions 502 a , 502 b each terminate in respective countersinks 516 a , 516 b .
- sloped panels 520 a , 520 b are connected to respective tri-fold separable seams forming flanges 506 a , 506 b .
- Flanges 506 a , 506 b are shown in detailed portions 522 a , 522 b in FIGS. 5B and 5C , respectively, and are discussed in more detail hereinbelow.
- a gate or dome 508 occupies the central region of cover C 3 surrounded by panel 526 ( FIG. 5D ). Dome 508 in the simplified cover C 3 occupies approximately 80% or more of the top surface of cover C 3 . It will be recognized that the novel construction may be implemented in gate or dome 508 ranging in size from substantially 100% of the cover surface down to very small size apertures.
- Panel sections 526 a , 526 b surrounded by countersinks 516 a , 516 b and fill the space between countersinks 516 a , 516 b and gate 508 .
- An elastomer spring 512 is disposed on a lower (i.e., internal) surface of panel 526 a and attached both to the lower surface of panel 526 a and to a lower portion of flange (i.e., the portion beyond frangible seam 510 a ). Spring 512 provides support and closure force for gate 508 after the gate has been opened.
- FIGS. 5B and 5C there are shown enlarged drawings of portions 522 a , 522 b of flanges 506 a , 506 b respectively.
- frangible seam 510 a , 510 b formed in flanges 506 a , 506 b .
- Frangible seam 510 a , 510 b defines a tear line completely around gate 508 that allows separation of gate 508 from panel 526 as gate 508 of cover C 3 is “opened”.
- Frangible seams 510 a , 510 b are typically formed using a coining process. However, it will be recognized by those of skill in the art that alternate formation processes may be utilized.
- FIGS. 5D and 5E there are shown top plan schematic and partial side perspective schematic views, respectively of cover C 3 of FIGS. 5A , 5 B, and 5 C.
- FIGS. 5D and 5E the relationship of each of the components and features described hereinabove with respect to FIGS. 5A , 5 B, and 5 C may readily be seen.
- the width of gate 508 is represented by arrow 528 .
- FIG. 5E the relationship of internal elastomer spring 512 to the remainder of the structure of cover C 3 may readily be seen.
- FIGS. 6A-6E there are shown a series of side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic views of the cover having an internal elastomer spring 512 of FIG. 5A in various stages of opening and self-closing.
- Table III provides, a percentage of elongation of internal elastomer spring 512 and an angle of rotation of gate 508 relative to a horizontal reference line 530 connecting an upper point of frangible seam points 510 a , 510 b .
- Angle of rotation is indicated by reference number 538 .
- FIG. 6A 0.0% 0° FIG. 6B 50% ⁇ 10° FIG. 6C 20 0° FIG. 6D 0.0% 9° FIG. 6E 0.0% 0°
- a downward directed force pressure exerted on gate 508 as shown by arrow 532 has not yet been sufficient to rupture frangible seam 510 a , 510 b .
- Horizontal reference line 530 a downward directed force pressure exerted on gate 508 as shown by arrow 532 .
- FIG. 6B a sufficient downward directed force 532 has been exerted on gate 508 and, in response, frangible seam 510 a has ruptured and the remainder of flange 506 a has moved downward carrying a left edge of gate 508 downward into what would be an interior region of a container, not shown, to which cover C 3 would be attached.
- Reference number 534 denotes the gap between the edges of frangible seam 510 a .
- Gate 508 has rotated approximately ⁇ 10°. This motion has caused internal elastomer spring 512 to be slightly elongated (approximately 50%). Frangible seam portion 510 b has not yet ruptured.
- frangible seam 510 b has ruptured and the remaining portion of flange 506 b has traveled downward as indicated by gap 538 .
- internal elastomer spring 512 contracts, the left end of gate 508 has risen and gap 534 has been reduced. Internal elastomer spring 512 has started to contract in FIG. 6C and is now completely contracted (i.e., at 0.0% elongation).
- cover C 3 has completely reclosed and substantially resealed as both portions of the frangible seam 510 a , 510 b have reclosed.
- the elongation of internal elastomer spring 512 has become zero (i.e., no elongation) and the angle of rotation of gate 508 has also become zero.
- Line 538 has become coincident with horizontal reference line 530 .
- An upward directed source provided by internal elastomer spring 512 now holds gate 508 in a tightly sealed position.
- elastomer springs 112 , 312 , 512 it is assumed that the springs may be formed and/or cured in situ. In a high speed can filling and sealing operation, such in situ placement and curing of any elastomer spring may be impractical.
- FIG. 7A there is shown a side-elevational, schematic view of an external flush elastomer spring 700 for that may be pre-extruded and cured and then machine-applied to a container cover.
- Spring 700 has a roughly triangular shape with a left adhesive-receiving surface 702 a and a right adhesive-receiving surface 702 b.
- a slit 704 is disposed in the left side of spring 700 below a lower edge of left adhesive-receiving wall 702 a . Slit 704 leads to an open central area 706 from an outside surface, not specifically identified, of spring 700 .
- a flange receiving region 708 is disposed adjacent a hook tip 724 .
- spring 700 of FIG. 7A with adhesive shown schematically at reference numbers 710 a , 710 b applied to respective left and right adhesive-receiving walls 702 a , 702 b .
- Adhesive 710 a , 710 b may be applied to spring 700 at the time the spring is manufactured. If adhesive 710 a , 710 b is applied when spring 700 is manufactured, an optional protective coating, not shown, may be placed over adhesive 710 a , 710 b to prevent drying of the adhesive or prevent contaminating debris from clinging to the tacky surface of adhesive 710 a , 710 b . In alternate embodiments, adhesive, not shown, may be applied to specific areas of a container cover prior to placing spring 700 into place. This may be accomplished using a variety of materials and techniques believed to be well known to those of skill in the art.
- FIGS. 7C-7L there are shown a series of partial side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic views of a portion of a container cover having elastomer spring 700 installed.
- the depicted cover portions each show a portion of a gate 712 and a portion of a surrounding panel 714 .
- a tri-fold seam or flange represented by reference number 718 .
- a frangible seam 716 is placed in gate portion 712 .
- elastomer spring 700 is sized and configured to fit between outer portions of gate 712 and panel 714 so that the elastomer spring's top surface, not specifically identified, is substantially flush with the gate 712 and surrounding panel 714 to which elastomer spring 700 is attached.
- left and right adhesive receiving surfaces 702 a , 702 b of a non-elongated elastomer spring 700 conform to respective surfaces, not specifically identified, of gate 712 and surrounding panel 714 , respectively.
- a downward directed force 720 applied to gate 712 causes gate 712 to move downward, thereby stretching elastomer spring 700 .
- central open area 706 and flange engaging region 708 are both compressed.
- elastomer spring 700 continues to exert an upward force on the flange, represented by bottom of flange 718 . Because elastomer spring 700 is not compressible, the force caused by its contraction separates frangible seam 716 and forms a gap 728 . Once gap 728 is formed, the contents of the container (e.g., soda, beer, etc.) may be oscillated or swirled in the container so as to put pressure 726 on the inside of gate 712 .
- the contents of the container e.g., soda, beer, etc.
- gate 712 continues its upward movement and gap 728 opens further as elastomer spring 700 continues to contract to its original position as seen in FIG. 7C as the oscillated container contents continue to push against gate 112 (i.e., generates upward directed force 726 ).
- elastomer spring 700 again supplies the upward directed force 722 that continues to move gate 712 upward.
- elastomer spring 700 snaps back into its extruded shape and gap 728 closes.
- gate 712 is returned to a closed position thereby effectively re-sealing the contents of the container.
- Elastomer spring 800 is intended as an internal spring for a cover C 4 having a toggle mode.
- Elastomer spring 800 has a body 802 divided generally into an upper body portion 804 and a lower body portion 806 .
- Body 802 has a hole 808 disposed therein.
- An elongated tail 810 proceeded from lower body portion 806 .
- a slot 812 separates tail 810 from upper body portion 804 .
- Upper body portion 804 has a flange-receiving area 814 on a right side thereof.
- Elastomer spring 800 is formed such that tail 810 provides a counter clockwise (CCW) bias attempting to always exert an upward, CCW force on a lower surface of gate 826 .
- CCW counter clockwise
- FIG. 8B there is shown a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of a self-closing container using elastomer spring 800 to provide the restorative force for the reclosing.
- a gate or dome 826 is surrounded by a panel 838 , shown as panel portions 838 a , 838 b in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 8B .
- panel 838 is a continuous circular structure.
- Intermediate gate 826 and panel 838 is a trifold seam or flange 824 , also shown as seam or flange portions 824 a , 824 b .
- Flanges 824 a , 824 b include frangible seam 828 a , 828 b that separates gate 826 from panel 838 .
- Panel 838 is connected to countersinks 830 that are, in turn, connected to panel 832 , again shown as panel portions 832 a , 832 b .
- Panel 832 is, in turn, connected to seaming panel 820 , shown as seaming panel portions 820 a , 820 b having respective distal ends 822 a , 822 b.
- Elastomer spring 800 is fitted against a lower surface of panel portion 838 a and fastened thereto with adhesive 846 best seen in FIG. 9A .
- Spring tail 810 is fastened to a lower surface of gate 826 with adhesive 848 , also best seen in FIG. 9A .
- FIGS. 8C and 8D there are shown detailed partial views of flange portions 824 a , 824 b respectively at reference numbers 834 a , 834 b.
- FIG. 8E there is shown a top plan, schematic view of the container cover of FIG. 8B .
- the relative positions of all the structures discussed in conjunction with FIGS. 8A-8B may readily be seen.
- the width of gate 826 is shown by arrow 840 .
- FIG. 8F there is shown a partial side perspective view of the cover of FIGS. 8B-8E .
- FIG. 8F there is shown a bottom, perspective, schematic view of the cover of FIG. 8E .
- FIG. 8G there is shown an enlarged detail of a portion of the cover of FIG. 8F .
- FIG. 8H there is shown a partial side perspective, cross-sectional, schematic view of the cover of FIG. 8A .
- FIGS. 8I-8M there are shown a series of side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic views illustrating five sequential steps involved in opening and subsequently re-closing gate 826 of the container cover.
- FIG. 8I the cover is unopened.
- a horizontal reference line 842 shows that both sides of frangible seam 828 (i.e., frangible seam portions 828 a , 828 b ) as well as both edges of gate 826 are at the same elevation or level.
- a downward directed force represented by arrow 844 has not yet been sufficient to rupture frangible seam 828 a.
- downward directed force 844 has caused the rupture of frangible seam, at least frangible seam potion 828 a .
- the left edge of gate 826 has dropped causing primarily the spring tail portion 810 of spring 800 to be elongated and reference line 842 has an upward slope relative to flange portion 824 a.
- FIG. 8L it may be seen that once frangible seam portion 828 b ruptures, spring tail 810 contracts pulling the left edge of gate 826 upward until frangible seam portion 828 a is reclosed. Note that the right edge of gate 826 is still downwardly depressed and reference line 842 now has a downward slope relative to frangible seam portion 828 a.
- FIGS. 8G-8K have illustrated a five step “see-saw” sequence for the initial opening of the container using elastomer spring 800 .
- the container Once initially opened and re-closed, the container may repeatedly be opened and reclosed.
- the container cover With the design of elastomeric spring 800 , the container cover may be operated in a so-called toggle mode.
- FIGS. 9A-9F there are shown detailed side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic views of the flange region of a container top in various stages of opening and closing, including a toggle mode ( FIG. 9D ) wherein gate 826 is retained in a fully open state until deliberately oscillating (e.g., swirling) the container contents to force gate 826 out of the toggle mode lock.
- a toggle mode FIG. 9D
- gate 826 is retained in a fully open state until deliberately oscillating (e.g., swirling) the container contents to force gate 826 out of the toggle mode lock.
- FIG. 9A adhesive regions 846 and 848 may be seen adhering elastomer spring 800 to panel region 838 a and gate 826 .
- frangible seam 820 a has been previously ruptured (i.e., the container opened) and gate 826 has returned to a self-closed position as shown.
- the CCW bias discussed above is applied to gate 826 by spring tail 810 as indicated by arrow 850 .
- the constant upward force provided by the CCW bias holds gate 826 in a closed position as shown.
- FIG. 9C continued downward pressure 844 causes additional downward movement of gate 826 and deflection of spring tail 810 .
- Pivot point 852 around which gate 826 rotates has shifted to a point near the bottom of flange portion 828 a .
- Flange 824 a has rotated almost into flange receiving portion 814 of elastomer spring 800 .
- Rotation of gate 826 is now around a new pivot point 854 best seen in FIG. 9E ). At this point of rotation of gate 826 , flange 824 a is almost captured by flange receiving region 814 of elastomer spring 800 .
- an internal force 860 applied against the inside surface of gate 826 forces flange portion 824 a out of flange receiving region 814 .
- Such an internal force is typically generated by oscillating (e.g., swirling, etc.) the contents of the container so as to splash or slosh the contents against the inside surface of gate 826 .
- FIG. 9F once flange 824 a is released from flange receiving portion 814 of elastomer spring 800 , the restoring force provided by contraction of elastomer spring 800 , particularly spring tail 810 , in cooperation with any continued oscillation of the container contents, brings gate 826 upward toward its initial position as shown is FIG. 9A .
- FIG. 10A there is shown a top plan view of a cover designated C 5 having a center domed external elastomer hinge 1000 that is so-called “manufacturing center registration compliant.”
- the design shown in FIG. 10A allows an offset gate 1014 larger than the openings possible with center rivet designs of the prior art.
- the size and placement of center domed external elastomer hinge 1000 interacts well with the upper lip 1042 ( FIG. 10K ) of a consumer 1040 ( FIG. 10L ) drinking from the container, not specifically identified, to which cover C 5 is attached. This process is best illustrated in FIG. 10K .
- FIG. 10B there is shown a side elevational, schematic view of the cover of FIG. 10A .
- the center domed external elastomer hinge 1000 is attached to both gate 1014 and surrounding panel 1010 by adhesive 1022 , readily seen in FIG. 10B .
- Also visible in FIG. 10B are flanges 1012 a , 1012 b and frangible seam 1016 a , 1016 b .
- Reference number 1024 identifies a section of cover C 5 shown in FIG. 10B .
- FIG. 100 the area identified by reference number 1024 in FIG. 10B is shown in more detail.
- FIG. 10D there is shown a perspective view of cover C 5 .
- FIG. 10E there is shown the side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of cover C 5 but attached to container sides 1026 a , 1026 b with a respective crimp 1028 a , 1028 b .
- container sides 1026 a , 1026 b nor crimps 1028 a , 1028 b form any part of the present invention but are shown merely to show cover C 5 in its intended operating environment.
- FIGS. 10F-10J there are shown a series of side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic views of cover C 5 in various stages of being opened and subsequently self-closing after opening.
- cover C 5 is shown prior to initial opening.
- frangible seam 1016 a has ruptured and the left edge of gate 1014 has moved downward. In the process of moving downward, a gap 1034 is formed. Note that frangible seam 1016 b has not yet ruptured.
- a horizontal reference line 1032 is provided to indicate the angle of gate 1014 relative to its original, closed position.
- gap 1034 has possibly widened slightly and frangible seam 1016 b has now ruptured creating a right gap 1036 .
- Gate 1014 is lower than its original position (i.e., the position in FIG. 10F ) and appears to be approximately parallel to horizontal reference line 1032 .
- frangible seam 1016 represented by frangible seam 1016 a , 1016 b
- the center domed external elastomer hinge 1000 begins to return to its original shape.
- the restorative force provided by the return of hinge 1000 to its original shape exerts an upward force shown as arrow 1038 and the left side of gate 1014 is pulled upward closing gap 1034 .
- FIG. 10K a partial schematic view of a face 1040 representing a consumer of the contents of the container is shown.
- Another useful feature of center domed external elastomer hinge 1000 is that it is placed on the cover in a location that the upper lip 1042 of consumer 1040 contacts while drinking from the container. Because frangible seam 1016 has previously been completely ruptured as described hereinabove, a gentle pressure by upper lip 1042 of consumer 1040 succeeds in pressing gate 1014 of cover C 5 inward, thereby allowing liquid or other content, neither shown, through the opening 1044 in cover C 5 .
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Abstract
Lightweight, hinged self-closing container covers using elastomer springs to self-close the cover are provided. Several cover designs having gates that may be circular or non-circular and may occupy up to almost 100% of the surface of the cover are implemented using elastomeric springs placed either on a lower surface of the cover (i.e., inside the container) or on an external surface of the cover. By choosing the material properties of the elastomer, dynamics of the gate behavior may be controlled. The elastomeric springs may be formed and cured in situ or, alternately, may be precast and cured and applied to the covers with adhesive or the like when the cover is attached to the container. The gates may be implemented with a toggle action when required.
Description
- This application is a Continuation-in-Part application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,898 for LIGHT WEIGHT, HINGED SELF-CLOSING CONTAINER COVERS AND COMBINATION FLEX-TORSION SPRINGS FOR USE WITH SUCH COVERS filed Mar. 27, 2014 and included herein in its entirety by reference.
- The invention pertains to container covers and, more particularly, to lightweight, self-closing covers having frangible seams surrounding reclosable gates that occupy a large percentage of the area of the container cover and are supported by elastomer springs.
- For many years, manufacturers of cans, particularly aluminum beverage containers have searched for a way to replace pull tab opening mechanisms ubiquitous in the beverage industry. Variations of pull tab opening mechanisms are universally used throughout the world but have two primary deficiencies. First, with some pull tab designs, the tab may fall into the beverage container and potentially become a swallowing hazard. Second, once opened, pull tab opening mechanisms are not easily resealed. Beverages, particularly carbonated beverages like beer and soft drinks, rapidly lose their effervescence as the entrained carbon dioxide is released from the beverage and passes into the air surrounding the beverage container.
- Additionally, pull tab opening mechanisms typically require at least some finger/hand strength to open the container. The opening process may present difficulties to potential users who do not possess sufficient finger/hand strength.
- Also, pull tab tops of the prior art require a quantity of metal, generally aluminum, that might be reduced in a better design, and are process intensive in their manufacture.
- In the previously filed application included by reference, covers having relatively large reclosable gate openings (i.e., gate openings occupying 90% or more of the cover including chuck walls) have been disclosed. These covers rely on metallic combination flex-torsion springs to effect opening and reclosing thereof. These combination flex-torsion springs provide resistive and restoring forces through a combination of flexing and torsional movements. The disadvantages include cost of manufacturing and the complexity of assembly of covers that include them.
- It would, therefore, be desirable to create an easily openable container cover having a large gate, and that also eliminates the possibility of any portion of the pull tab opening mechanism from detaching from the can and falling into the contents. It would further be desirable to create a reclosable cover so as to trap carbon dioxide from escaping from the beverage into the surrounding air. It would be still further desirable to make the container top lightweight to minimize the amount of metal needed to form the top and any associated spring. It would be further desirable to provide self-closing covers using elastomer springs placed either internally (i.e., within the container), or externally on the outside cover surface.
- In accordance with the present invention there are provided lightweight, covers for containers having self-closing gates or dome areas that are operatively connected to outer portions of the cover by an elastomer spring. Such elastomer springs may be formed from resilient materials having the necessary properties including percentage of elongation, cure methods, cure times, etc.
- A unique tri-fold seam including a frangible seam portion forms a flange that works cooperatively with the elastomer spring to implement three modes of operation of the openable gates. In a first mode, after the gate is initially opened by downward directed pressure, for example a tap on the dome or gate by the heal of the palm of a user's hand, the gate returns to a reclosed orientation. Further downward pressure on the gate pushes it further into the container to which the novel cover is attached whereat a toggle operation locks the gate in the open position. An action such as swirling the container contents against the gate, overcome the toggle and the gate again returns to a reclosed orientation. Finally, if the gate is pushed even further downward, the toggle mechanism is defeated and the elastomer spring is forced past its elastic limit and the gate remains in a permanently open orientation. The novel covers in accordance with the invention may be fabricated to be compatible with current production equipment and practices. The novel covers eliminate the pull tab construction of the prior art and allow a comparable container to be produced using less material than prior art containers. Multiple designs for elastomer springs are also provided, including extremely narrow designs that allow the gate to occupy nearly 100% of the cover area inside or outside the chuck walls.
- It is, therefore, an object of the invention to provide a lightweight, reclosable cover for a container that utilizes a spring formed from an elastomer material.
- It is another object of the invention to provide a lightweight, reclosable cover for a container that utilizes an elastomer spring to effect reclosing.
- It is a further object of the invention to provide a lightweight, reclosable cover for a container wherein the elastomer spring may be either disposed on an outer surface or disposed adjacent an inner surface of the cover.
- It is an additional object of the invention to provide a lightweight, reclosable cover for a container that utilizes an elastomer spring to provide three modes of operation of the gate: a first mode allowing the gate to close upon release of the downward pressure upon it; a second mode wherein the gate remains open when the downward pressure is released but recloses when tapped or otherwise stimulated; and a third mode where the gate remains permanently open.
- It is a further object of the invention to provide a lightweight, reclosable top for a container wherein the gate occupies 90% or more of the cover area inside or outside the chuck walls.
- It is a still further object of the invention to provide a lightweight, reclosable top for a container that may be formed using smaller amounts of aluminum or other material than container covers of the prior art.
- It is yet another object of the invention to provide a lightweight, reclosable top for a container that may be attached to containers using existing machinery without modification.
- Various objects, features, and attendant advantages of the present invention will become more fully appreciated as the same becomes better understood when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters designate the same or similar parts throughout the several views, and wherein:
-
FIG. 1A is a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of a cover using an elastomer spring in accordance with the invention; -
FIG. 1B is an enlarged view of a portion of the cover ofFIG. 1A ; -
FIG. 1C is an enlarged view of another portion of the cover ofFIG. 1A ; -
FIG. 1D is a top plan, schematic view of the cover ofFIG. 1A ; -
FIG. 1E is a partial side perspective, cross-sectional, schematic view of the cover ofFIG. 1A ; -
FIGS. 2A-2H are partial side elevational views of the top ofFIG. 1A in various stages of initial opening and subsequent self-closing; -
FIG. 3A is a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of a cover using an elastomer spring disposed on an external chuck wall in accordance with the invention; -
FIG. 3B is an enlarged view of a portion of the cover ofFIG. 3A ; -
FIG. 3C is an enlarged view of another portion of the cover ofFIG. 3A ; -
FIG. 3D is a top plan, schematic view of the cover ofFIG. 3A ; -
FIG. 3E is a partial side perspective, cross-sectional, schematic view of the cover ofFIG. 3A ; -
FIGS. 4A-4D are partial side elevational views of the top ofFIG. 3A in various stages of initial opening and subsequent self-closing; -
FIG. 5A is a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of a cover using an internal elastomer spring disposed on an inner surface of the cover; -
FIG. 5B is an enlarged view of a portion of the cover ofFIG. 5A ; -
FIG. 5C is an enlarged view of another portion of the cover ofFIG. 5A ; -
FIG. 5D is a bottom plan, schematic view of the cover ofFIG. 5A ; -
FIG. 5E is a partial side perspective, cross-sectional, schematic view of the cover ofFIG. 5A ; -
FIGS. 6A-6E are partial side elevational views of the top ofFIG. 5A in various stages of initial opening and subsequent self-closing; -
FIG. 7A is a side-elevational, schematic view of an external flush elastomer spring that may be pre-formed and cured; -
FIG. 7B is a side-elevational, schematic view of the elastomer spring ofFIG. 7A with adhesive applied to respective left and right adhesive-receiving walls; -
FIGS. 7C-7L show a series of partial side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic views of a portion of a container cover having the elastomer spring ofFIG. 7A installed with the gate at various stages of opening and re-closing; -
FIG. 8A is a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of another internal elastomer spring; -
FIG. 8B is a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of a self-closing container using elastomer spring ofFIG. 8A to provide the restorative force for the reclosing; -
FIGS. 8C and 8D , show detailed partial views of flange portions of the cover ofFIG. 8B ; -
FIG. 8E is a bottom plan, schematic view of the container cover ofFIG. 8B ; -
FIG. 8F is a bottom, perspective, schematic view of the cover ofFIG. 8E ; -
FIG. 8G is an enlarged detail of a portion of the cover ofFIG. 8F . -
FIG. 8H is a partial side perspective, cross-sectional, schematic view of the cover ofFIG. 8A ; -
FIGS. 8I-8M show a series of side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic views illustrating five sequential steps involved in opening and subsequently re-closing the container cover ofFIGS. 8B-8G ; -
FIGS. 9A-9F show detailed side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic views of the flange region of the container cover ofFIGS. 8B-8G in various stages of opening and closing, including a toggle mode; -
FIG. 10A is a top plan, schematic view of a cover having a center domed external elastomer hinge; -
FIG. 10B is a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of the cover ofFIG. 10A ; -
FIG. 100 is a partial side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view a portion of the cover ofFIG. 10B ; -
FIG. 10D is a side perspective, view of the cover ofFIG. 10A ; -
FIG. 10E is a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of the cover ofFIG. 10B but with the cover crimped to side walls of a container; -
FIG. 10F is a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of the cover ofFIG. 10A in an unopened state; -
FIG. 10G is a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of the cover ofFIG. 10F in a partially open state; -
FIG. 10H is a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of the cover ofFIG. 10F further open than shown inFIG. 10G ; -
FIG. 10I is a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of the cover ofFIG. 10F even further open than shown inFIG. 10H ; -
FIG. 10J is a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of the cover ofFIG. 10F with the cover automatically re-closed; and -
FIG. 10K is a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of the container tilted to a drinking position with the upper lip of a drinker applying inward pressure against the center domed elastomer cushion hinge. - The present invention provides for lightweight, reclosable container tops that utilize elastomer springs to allow the cover of the container to self reclose once it has been initially opened. Elastomer springs function in manners similar to the combination flex-torsion springs that are described in detail in my previous U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,898 included herein by reference.
- There are many advantages in forming the necessary springs from an elastomer material and not from metal as in the prior art flex-torsion springs described and claimed in my previous work. First, elastomer springs are lighter in weight than metal combination flex-torsion springs while providing the same functionality. In addition, elastomer springs are significantly less expensive than their metallic counterparts. Also, assembly time is typically shorter compared to assembly time for covers with metallic combination flex-torsion springs. There may be a slight safety advantage if a metallic combination flex-torsion spring should fail and become disconnected from the container top.
- Technically, elastomers are polymers with viscoelasticity (i.e., “elasticity”). These materials typically exhibit low values of Young's modulus as well as high failure strain compared with other materials. The term elastomer, derived from elastic polymer, is often used interchangeably with the term “rubber”. Each of the monomers which link to form the elastomers is usually made of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and/or silicon. Elastomers are amorphous polymers existing above their glass transition temperature, so that considerable segmental motion is possible.
- Elastomers or elastomer materials have several physical properties that must be evaluated to determine their suitability for use as material from which to form elastomer springs.
- First is cure shrinkage percentage (%). Cure shrinkage % for these materials may range from a fraction of one percent to what the industry calls “unmeasurable.” It is absolutely essential that an elastomeric material from which springs are formed exhibits a sufficient shrinkage percentage such that an elastomer spring is able to pull a gate portion of a container cover back to the self-closed position with enough force to create a complete seal between mating flanges (i.e., fully self-closed). If the elastomer does not shrink when cured then the weight of the gate will prevent complete self-closing.
- Another physical property that must be considered is adhesion strength. Container covers, especially those designed for the food and beverage industry typically are formed from aluminum having a protective coating. A good bond between the elastomer spring and the coated aluminum surface is necessary. The bond must be strong, generally far stronger than the elastomer material itself. Such a bond is similar to a welded joint in steel. A weld applied to steel is typically far stronger than the steel itself. This may be illustrated by the facts that a single edge razor blade will easily cut through an elastomer spring but will not typically be able to scrape the adhesive bond away from the surface of the coated aluminum. An etchant may be mixed with the elastomer to increase the strength of the bond.
- Another mechanical property of the elastomer that must be considered in choosing an elastomer from which to form elastomer springs is percent elongation. Percent elongation is a measurement that represents how much an elastomer can be elongated or stretched before it comes to a rather abrupt stop. For example, an elastomer with a 1000% elongation specification means that particular elastomer can elongate (i.e., stretched) ten times its original cured length before the elongation process abruptly stops.
- Finally, the tear strength for the elastomer must be considered. Tear strength becomes important after the elongation limit has been reached and defines the typically far greater force required to physically tear the cured elastomer than the force required to stretch the elastomer to its elongation limit.
- Cure time is also important, especially if elastomer springs are to be applied to container covers in a high speed production environment.
- It will be recognized that properties other than these four properties discussed above may also be important for a specific elastomer material or for a specific geometry of a particular elastomer spring.
- One material found suitable for forming elastomer springs for use with self-closing container covers is Catalog Number US-SRB-201-HE fast cure silicone rubber parts binder provided by Silicone Technologies of Ogdensburg, N.Y. USA. The US-SRB-201-HE material is intended for applications demanding very high elongation (over 1000%). When cured, the elastomer resists weathering, ozone, moisture, UV and high temperatures. Further, US-SRB-201-HE works well in manual and automatic dispensing equipment.
- Another material found suitable for constructing elastic polymer springs or hinges suitable for use with self-closing covers is a heat cured silicone adhesive, Catalog Number RTV-6445 provided by GE Bayer Silicones (now part of Momentive Performance Materials headquartered in Columbus, Ohio USA). RTV-6445 is a heat cured silicone elastomer having approximately a 625% elongation limit.
- It will be recognized by those of skill in the polymer arts that numerous other materials exist and any suitable material may be substituted for the materials cited for purposes of disclosure. Consequently, the patent is not considered limited to the materials chosen for purposes of disclosure. Rather, the patent is intended to include any suitable elastomers from which the elastomer springs, in accordance with the invention, may be formed.
- As described hereinbelow, an elastomer spring may be placed on an external surface of a cover or, alternately, the elastomer spring may be placed on or adjacent to an inner surface of the cover.
- Referring first to
FIG. 1A , there is shown a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of a cover having an external elastomer spring in a “button top” configuration in accordance with the invention, generally at reference number C1. - Cover C1 is shown before attachment to a container represented by partial
container side structure - Cover C1 consists of a seaming panel 102 (best seen in
FIG. 1D ) surrounding a central gate ordome 108.Seaming panel portions distal ends upstanding walls - In the cross-sectional view of
FIG. 1A , distal ends 104 a, 104 b, seamingpanel portions panel portions flanges FIG. 1D anddistal end 104, seamingpanel 102,panel 120, countersink 116, andflange 106 represented respectively thereby are continuous, circular structures, at least until the initial opening ofgate 108. - Distal ends 104 a, 104 b of seaming
panel portions panel portions respective panel portions Panel portions respective countersinks panel portion respective countersinks seams forming flanges Flanges detailed portions 122 a 122 b inFIGS. 1B and 1C , respectively, and are discussed in more detail hereinbelow. - A gate or
dome 108 occupies the central region of cover C1 surrounded by seaming panel 102 (FIG. 1D ).Gate 108 in the simplified cover C1 occupies approximately 80% or more of the top surface of cover C1. It will be recognized that the novel construction may be implemented in gate ordome 108 ranging in size from substantially 100% of the cover surface down to very small sizes creating small apertures. - Chuck
walls countersunk regions -
Panel sections countersinks tri-fold flanges - An external button
top elastomer spring 112 is disposed substantially atoptri-fold flange 106 a and connectingpanel portion 126 a andgate 108.Spring 112 provides support and closure force forgate 108 after the gate has been initially opened. - Referring now also to
FIGS. 1B and 1C , there are shown enlarged drawings ofportions flanges frangible seam flanges Frangible seam gate 108 that allows separation ofgate 108 frompanel 126 asgate 108 of cover C1 is “opened”. Frangible seams 110 a, 110 b are typically formed using a coining process. However, it will be recognized by those of skill in the art that alternate formation processes may be utilized. - Referring now also to
FIGS. 1D and 1E , there are shown top plan schematic and partial side perspective schematic views, respectively of cover C1 ofFIGS. 1A , 1B, and 1C. InFIGS. 1D and 1E , the relationship of each of the components and features described hereinabove with respect toFIGS. 1A , 1B, and 1C may readily be seen. The width ofgate 108 is represented byarrow 128. InFIG. 1E , the relationship of external buttontop elastomer spring 112 to the remainder to the structure of cover C1 may readily be seen. - Referring now also to
FIGS. 2A-2H , there are shown a series of side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic views of a cover having an external elastomer spring in an external “button top” configuration ofFIG. 1A in various stages of opening and self-closing. Table I provides, a percentage of elongation ofelastomer spring 112 and an angle of rotation ofgate 108 relative to ahorizontal reference line 130 connecting an upper point of frangible seam points 110 a, 110 b. Angle of rotation is indicated byreference number 138. -
TABLE I Figure % Elongation Angle of Gate Rotation FIG. 2A 0.1% −5° FIG. 2B 0.5% −10° FIG. 2C 200% −20° FIG. 2D 300% −30° FIG. 2E 200% 10° FIG. 2F 0.3% 20° FIG. 2G 0.2% 8° FIG. 2H 0.0% 0° - In
FIG. 2A , a downward directed pressure has been exerted ongate 108 as shown byarrow 132. In response to this downward pressure,frangible seam 110 a has ruptured and the remainder offlange 106 a has moved downward carryinggate 108 downward into what would be an interior region of a container, not shown, to which cover C1 would be attached.Reference number 134 denotes the gap between the edges offrangible seam 110 a. As may be seen by the relationship oflines 138 and referencehorizontal line 130,gate 108 has rotated approximately −0.5°. This motion has causedelastomer spring 112 to be slightly elongated (approximately 0.1%).Frangible seam portion 110 b has not yet ruptured. - In
FIG. 2B , continued downward directed force ongate 108 has caused further downward travel of the remainder offlange 106 andgate 108. Consequently,gap 134 has widened.Gate 108 has now rotated approximately −10°. The continued downward movement has further elongatedelastomer spring 112 by approximately 0.5%.Frangible seam portion 110 b has still not begun to rupture. - In
FIG. 2C continued downward directed force ongate 108 has caused even further downward travel of the remainder offlange 106 andgate 108.Gap 134 has now widened even further.Gate 108 has now rotated approximately −20° andelastomer spring 112 has been elongated approximately 200%.Frangible seam portion 110 b has still not begun to rupture. - In
FIG. 2D ,frangible seam 110 b has ruptured and the remaining portion offlange 106 b has started to travel downward as indicated bygap 136.Gate 108 is now rotated to a 30° angle relative to referencehorizontal line 130.Gap 134 has stopped widening.Elastomer spring 112 has now been elongated to its maximum extent (i.e., approximately 300%). - In
FIG. 2E , the dynamics of the movement ofgate 108 changes. Oncefrangible seam portion 110 b has ruptured,elastomer spring 112 contracts and begins to pull the remaining portion offlange 106 a upward thereby closinggap 134. The elongation ofspring 112 shrinks to approximately 200° and the angular orientation ofgate 108 shifts, moving from −30° inFIG. 2B to a 10° orientation inFIG. 2E . However, as the left edge ofgate 108 rises, the right edge ofgate 108 continues downward. - In
FIG. 2F ,frangible seam portion 110 a has returned to its original, unopened position andgap 134 has shrunk to substantially zero.Gap 136 has opened as the right edge ofgate 108 continues downward to create an angle of rotation of approximately 20°. The elongation ofelastomer spring 112 has dropped to approximately 0.3%. - In
FIG. 2G , an upward directed restoringforce 140 is exerted ongate 108 byelastomer spring 112. In response to this upward directedforce 140, the right edge ofgate 108 has started to move upward. InFIG. 2G , the elongation ofelastomer spring 112 has shrunk to approximately 0.2% and the rotation angle ofgate 108 has been reduced to approximately 8°. - In
FIG. 2H , cover C1 has completely reclosed and substantially resealed as both portions of thefrangible seam elastomer spring 112 has become zero (i.e., no elongation) and the angle of rotation ofgate 108 has also become zero.Line 138 has become coincident withhorizontal reference line 130. - In the formation process of elastomer springs (e.g., elastomer spring 112), elastomer shrinkage during the curing process creates an important gate closing bias in the spring. This bias is sufficient to support the weight of a severed gate and hold that gate firmly in a tightly closed position. A typical shrinkage during curing is approximately 0.05%, a seemingly small amount but sufficient to provide the necessary force to hold a severed gate in a tightly closed condition. It will be recognized that elastomer raw materials having different curing shrink rates may be chosen for different spring designs and placements. Consequently, the invention is not considered limited to a particular cure shrinkage rate. Rather, the invention is intended to include any suitable cure shrinkage rate in addition to the approximately 0.05% chosen for purposes of disclosure.
- It will be recognized that operation of the opening and self-reclosing of
gate 108 as shown inFIGS. 2A-2H and described in the attending descriptions is controlled by the design of cover C1. The primary control over the function ofgate 108 is the material choice forelastomer spring 112. In this example, an elastomer having a maximum percentage of elongation of 300% has been chosen. InFIG. 2D , the maximum elongation is reached. Consequently, no further downward travel of the left edge ofgate 108 is possible and the downward directedforce 132 is transferred to the right edge ofgate 108 thereby causingfrangible seam portion 110 b to rupture. As the right edge ofgate 108 is freed,elastomer spring 112 immediately begins contracting and begins pulling the left edge ofgate 108 upward until the right edge ofgate 108 is finally returned to approximately its unopened position andfrangible seam portion 110 a is closed. - If a material with a higher percentage of elongation (i.e., >300) had been chosen, the downward travel of the left edge of
gate 108 could have been deeper into an interior region of the container to which cover C1 was attached. The greater downward travel could allow splashing of the container contents. - This performance is achieved by the choice of elastomer, specifically the percentage of elongation.
- Referring now also to
FIG. 3A , there is shown a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of a cover having an external elastomer spring disposed in a chuck wall in accordance with the invention, generally at reference number C2. - Cover C2 is shown before attachment to a container, not shown, and in a sealed (i.e., unopened) state represented by
partial sides - Cover C2 consists of a seaming panel 302 (best seen in
FIG. 3D ) connected to asloping panel 320 surrounding a central gate ordome 308.Seaming panel portions distal ends upstanding walls FIG. 3A , seamingpanel portions panel portions panel 302,distal end 304 andpanel 320 represented respectively thereby are continuous, circular structures, at least until initial opening ofgate 308. - Distal ends 304 a, 304 b of seaming
panel portions panel portions sloping panel portions seams forming flanges Flanges detailed portions 322 a 322 b inFIGS. 3B and 3C , respectively, and are discussed in more detail hereinbelow. - A gate or
dome 308 occupies the central region of cover C2 surrounded by tri-fold seam 316 (FIG. 3D ).Dome 308 in the simplified cover C2 occupies approximately 80% or more of the top surface of cover C2. It will be recognized that the novel construction may be implemented in gate ordome 308 ranging in size from substantially 100% of the cover surface down to very small sized apertures. - An
external elastomer spring 312 is disposed substantially in a chuck wall forming a portion oftri-fold flange 306 a connectingpanel portion 320 a andgate 308.Elastomer spring 312 provides support and closure force forgate 308 after the gate has been opened. - Referring now also to
FIGS. 3B and 3C , there are shown enlarged drawings ofportions flanges frangible seam flanges Frangible seam gate 308 that allows separation ofgate 308 frompanel 320 asgate 308 of cover C2 is “opened”. Frangible seams 310 a, 310 b are typically formed using a coining process. However, it will be recognized by those of skill in the art that alternate formation processes may be utilized. - Referring now also to
FIGS. 3D and 3E , there are shown top plan schematic and partial side perspective schematic views, respectively of cover C2 ofFIGS. 3A , 3B, and 3C. InFIGS. 3D and 3E , the relationship of each of the components and features described hereinabove with respect toFIGS. 3A , 3B, and 3C may readily be seen. The width ofgate 308 is represented by headedline 328. InFIG. 3E , the relationship of external chuckwall elastomer spring 312 to the remainder to the structure of cover C2 may readily be seen. - Referring now also to
FIGS. 4A-4D , there are shown a series of side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic views of a cover C2 having an external elastomer spring in the external chuck wall configuration ofFIG. 3A in various stages of opening and self-closing. Table II provides, a percentage of elongation ofelastomer spring 312 and an angle of rotation ofgate 308 relative to ahorizontal reference line 330 connecting an upper point of frangible seam points 310 a, 310 b. Angle of rotation is indicated byreference number 338. -
TABLE II Figure % Elongation Angle of Gate Rotation FIG. 4A 0.0% 0° FIG. 4B 150% 6° FIG. 4C 10% 6° FIG. 4D 0.05% 0° -
FIG. 4A shows gate prior to rupturing offrangible seam elastomer spring 312.Horizontal reference line 330 is still level. - In
FIG. 4B , a downward directed pressure has been exerted ongate 308 shown byarrow 332. In response to thisdownward pressure 332,frangible seam 310 a has ruptured and the remainder offlange 306 a has moved downward carryinggate 308 downward into what would be an interior region of a container, not shown, to which cover C2 would be attached.Reference number 334 denotes the gap between the edges offrangible seam 310 a. As may be seen by the relationship oflines 338 and referencehorizontal line 330,gate 308 has rotated approximately 6°. This motion has causedelastomer spring 312 to be slightly elongated (approximately 150.%)Frangible seam portion 310 b has not yet ruptured. - In
FIG. 4C continued downward directed force ongate 308 has caused even further downward travel of the remainder offlange 306 andgate 308.Gap 334 has now widened even further.Gate 308 has now rotated approximately 6° andelastomer spring 312 has been elongated approximately 10%.Frangible seam portion 310 a has still not begun to rupture. - In
FIG. 4D , the dynamics of the movement ofgate 308 changes. Oncefrangible seam portion 310 b has ruptured,elastomer spring 312 contracts and begins to pull the remaining portion offlange 306 a upward thereby closinggap 334. The elongation ofspring 312 shrinks to approximately 0.05° elongation and the angular orientation ofgate 308 shifts, moving from 6° inFIG. 4C to a level (i.e. 0°) orientation inFIG. 4C . However, as the left edge ofgate 308 rises, the right edge ofgate 308 continues downward. - In
FIG. 4D , cover C2 has completely reclosed and substantially resealed as both portions of thefrangible seam elastomer spring 312 has become zero (i.e., no elongation) and the angle of rotation ofgate 108 has also become zero.Line 338 has become coincident withhorizontal reference line 330. - As stated hereinabove, in the formation process of elastomer springs (e.g., elastomer spring 112), elastomer shrinkage during the curing process creates an important gate closing bias in the spring. This bias is sufficient to support the weight of a severed gate and hold that gate firmly in a tightly closed position. A typical shrinkage during curing is approximately 0.05%, a seemingly small amount but sufficient to provide the necessary force to hold a severed gate in a tightly closed condition. It will be recognized that elastomer raw materials having different curing shrink rates may be chosen for different spring designs and placements. Consequently, the invention is not considered limited to a particular cure shrinkage rate. Rather, the invention is intended to include any suitable cure shrinkage rate in addition to the approximately 0.005% chosen for purposes of disclosure.
- It be recognized that operation of the opening and self-reclosing of
gate 308 as shown inFIGS. 4A-4D and described in the attending descriptions is controlled by the design of cover C1. The primary control over the function ofgate 308 is the material chosen forelastomer spring 312. In this example, an elastomer having a maximum percentage of elongation of 150% has been chosen. InFIG. 4B , the maximum elongation is reached. Consequently, no further downward travel of the left edge ofgate 308 is possible and the downward directedforce 332 is transferred to the right edge ofgate 308 thereby causingfrangible seam portion 310 b to rupture. As the right edge ofgate 308 is freed,elastomer spring 312 immediately begins contracting and begins pulling the left edge ofgate 308 upward until the right edge ofgate 308 finally returns to approximately its unopened position andfrangible seam portions - If a material with a higher percentage of elongation (i.e., >200%) had been chosen, the downward travel of the left edge of
gate 308 could have been deeper into an interior region of the container to which cover C2 was attached. The greater downward travel could have allowed splashing of the container contents. - This performance is achieved by the choice of elastomer, specifically the percentage of elongation.
- Referring now also to
FIG. 5A , there is shown a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of a cover having an internal elastomer spring in in accordance with the invention; generally at reference C3. - Cover C3 is shown before attachment to a container, not shown, and in a sealed (i.e., unopened) state. Further, cover C3 is a simplified design used to illustrate the operation of the elastomer spring. More complex covers using other elastomer springs are described and discussed in more detail hereinbelow.
- Cover C3 consists of a panel 526 (best seen in
FIG. 5D ) surrounding a central gate ordome 508.Panel portions distal ends upstanding walls upstanding walls panel FIG. 5A , seamingpanel portions panel portions FIG. 5D and seamingpanel 502,distal end 504 andpanel 520 represented respectively thereby are continuous, circular structures, at least until initial opening ofgate 508. - Distal ends 504 a, 504 b of seaming
panel portions panel portions respective countersinks panels seams forming flanges Flanges detailed portions FIGS. 5B and 5C , respectively, and are discussed in more detail hereinbelow. - A gate or
dome 508 occupies the central region of cover C3 surrounded by panel 526 (FIG. 5D ).Dome 508 in the simplified cover C3 occupies approximately 80% or more of the top surface of cover C3. It will be recognized that the novel construction may be implemented in gate ordome 508 ranging in size from substantially 100% of the cover surface down to very small size apertures. -
Panel sections countersinks gate 508. - An
elastomer spring 512 is disposed on a lower (i.e., internal) surface ofpanel 526 a and attached both to the lower surface ofpanel 526 a and to a lower portion of flange (i.e., the portion beyondfrangible seam 510 a).Spring 512 provides support and closure force forgate 508 after the gate has been opened. - Referring now also to
FIGS. 5B and 5C , there are shown enlarged drawings ofportions flanges frangible seam flanges Frangible seam gate 508 that allows separation ofgate 508 frompanel 526 asgate 508 of cover C3 is “opened”. Frangible seams 510 a, 510 b are typically formed using a coining process. However, it will be recognized by those of skill in the art that alternate formation processes may be utilized. - Referring now also to
FIGS. 5D and 5E , there are shown top plan schematic and partial side perspective schematic views, respectively of cover C3 ofFIGS. 5A , 5B, and 5C. InFIGS. 5D and 5E , the relationship of each of the components and features described hereinabove with respect toFIGS. 5A , 5B, and 5C may readily be seen. The width ofgate 508 is represented byarrow 528. InFIG. 5E , the relationship ofinternal elastomer spring 512 to the remainder of the structure of cover C3 may readily be seen. - Referring now also to
FIGS. 6A-6E , there are shown a series of side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic views of the cover having aninternal elastomer spring 512 ofFIG. 5A in various stages of opening and self-closing. Table III provides, a percentage of elongation ofinternal elastomer spring 512 and an angle of rotation ofgate 508 relative to ahorizontal reference line 530 connecting an upper point of frangible seam points 510 a, 510 b. Angle of rotation is indicated byreference number 538. -
TABLE III Figure % Elongation Angle of Gate Rotation FIG. 6A 0.0% 0° FIG. 6B 50% −10° FIG. 6C 20 0° FIG. 6D 0.0% 9° FIG. 6E 0.0% 0° - In
FIG. 6A , a downward directed force pressure exerted ongate 508 as shown byarrow 532 has not yet been sufficient to rupturefrangible seam Horizontal reference line 530. - In
FIG. 6B , a sufficient downward directedforce 532 has been exerted ongate 508 and, in response,frangible seam 510 a has ruptured and the remainder offlange 506 a has moved downward carrying a left edge ofgate 508 downward into what would be an interior region of a container, not shown, to which cover C3 would be attached.Reference number 534 denotes the gap between the edges offrangible seam 510 a. As may be seen by the relationship oflines 538 and referencehorizontal line 530,Gate 508 has rotated approximately −10°. This motion has causedinternal elastomer spring 512 to be slightly elongated (approximately 50%).Frangible seam portion 510 b has not yet ruptured. - In
FIG. 6C , continued downward directedforce 532 ongate 508 has caused further downward travel of the remainder offlange 506 a andgate 508. Consequently,gap 534 has widened.Frangible seam 510 b has now ruptured andgate 508 is floating freely constrained only byelastomer spring 512.Gate 508 is now substantially horizontal (i.e., 0° rotation) but is now moved downward into what would be an interior of a container to which cover C3 would be attached. The continued downward movement has further elongatedinternal elastomer spring 512 by approximately 20%. - In
FIG. 6D ,frangible seam 510 b has ruptured and the remaining portion offlange 506 b has traveled downward as indicated bygap 538. Asinternal elastomer spring 512 contracts, the left end ofgate 508 has risen andgap 534 has been reduced.Internal elastomer spring 512 has started to contract inFIG. 6C and is now completely contracted (i.e., at 0.0% elongation). - In
FIG. 6E , cover C3 has completely reclosed and substantially resealed as both portions of thefrangible seam internal elastomer spring 512 has become zero (i.e., no elongation) and the angle of rotation ofgate 508 has also become zero.Line 538 has become coincident withhorizontal reference line 530. An upward directed source provided byinternal elastomer spring 512 now holdsgate 508 in a tightly sealed position. - In the examples of elastomer springs 112, 312, 512, it is assumed that the springs may be formed and/or cured in situ. In a high speed can filling and sealing operation, such in situ placement and curing of any elastomer spring may be impractical.
- Referring now also to
FIG. 7A , there is shown a side-elevational, schematic view of an externalflush elastomer spring 700 for that may be pre-extruded and cured and then machine-applied to a container cover.Spring 700 has a roughly triangular shape with a left adhesive-receivingsurface 702 a and a right adhesive-receivingsurface 702 b. - A
slit 704 is disposed in the left side ofspring 700 below a lower edge of left adhesive-receivingwall 702 a.Slit 704 leads to an opencentral area 706 from an outside surface, not specifically identified, ofspring 700. - A
flange receiving region 708 is disposed adjacent ahook tip 724. - Referring now also to
FIG. 7B , there is shownspring 700 ofFIG. 7A with adhesive, shown schematically atreference numbers walls spring 700 at the time the spring is manufactured. If adhesive 710 a, 710 b is applied whenspring 700 is manufactured, an optional protective coating, not shown, may be placed over adhesive 710 a, 710 b to prevent drying of the adhesive or prevent contaminating debris from clinging to the tacky surface of adhesive 710 a, 710 b. In alternate embodiments, adhesive, not shown, may be applied to specific areas of a container cover prior to placingspring 700 into place. This may be accomplished using a variety of materials and techniques believed to be well known to those of skill in the art. - Referring now also to
FIGS. 7C-7L , there are shown a series of partial side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic views of a portion of a container cover havingelastomer spring 700 installed. The depicted cover portions each show a portion of agate 712 and a portion of asurrounding panel 714. Also shown is a tri-fold seam or flange represented byreference number 718. Afrangible seam 716 is placed ingate portion 712. - As seen in
FIG. 7C ,elastomer spring 700 is sized and configured to fit between outer portions ofgate 712 andpanel 714 so that the elastomer spring's top surface, not specifically identified, is substantially flush with thegate 712 and surroundingpanel 714 to whichelastomer spring 700 is attached. As may readily be seen, left and rightadhesive receiving surfaces non-elongated elastomer spring 700 conform to respective surfaces, not specifically identified, ofgate 712 and surroundingpanel 714, respectively. - In
FIG. 7D , a downward directedforce 720 applied togate 712 causesgate 712 to move downward, thereby stretchingelastomer spring 700. As may be seen, centralopen area 706 andflange engaging region 708 are both compressed. - As seen in
FIG. 7E , continueddownward force 720 causes further downward travel ofgate 712 with consequent further elongation ofelastomer spring 700. As seen inFIG. 7E , centralopen area 706 and flange engaging region are both now almost completely compressed. - As seen in
FIG. 7F , continueddownward force 720 causes further downward travel ofgate 712 with consequent further elongation ofelastomer spring 700. The elongation ofelastomer spring 700 allowsflange engaging region 708 to slidepast bottom 718 of the tri-fold flange andflange engaging region 708 is positioned for toggle mode. - As seen in
FIG. 7G , aselastomer spring 700 relaxes,flange engaging region 708 is pulled upward to encircle and retainbottom 718 of the tri-fold flange. Onceregion 708 ofelastomer spring 700 is in this position, the so-called toggle mode for the container top is set. - As seen in
FIG. 7H , onceregion 708 ofelastomer spring 700 is in the position seen inFIG. 7G ,elastomer spring 700 continues to exert an upward force on the flange, represented by bottom offlange 718. Becauseelastomer spring 700 is not compressible, the force caused by its contraction separatesfrangible seam 716 and forms agap 728. Oncegap 728 is formed, the contents of the container (e.g., soda, beer, etc.) may be oscillated or swirled in the container so as to putpressure 726 on the inside ofgate 712. - In
FIG. 7I ,gate 712 continues its upward movement andgap 728 opens further aselastomer spring 700 continues to contract to its original position as seen inFIG. 7C as the oscillated container contents continue to push against gate 112 (i.e., generates upward directed force 726). - In
FIG. 7J , onceflange engaging region 708 is clear of bottom offlange 718 of the tri-fold seam,elastomer spring 700 again supplies the upward directedforce 722 that continues to movegate 712 upward. - And in
FIG. 7K ,elastomer spring 700 snaps back into its extruded shape andgap 728 closes. - Finally, in
FIG. 7L ,gate 712 is returned to a closed position thereby effectively re-sealing the contents of the container. - Referring now also to
FIG. 8A , there is shown a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of another elastomer spring, generally atreference number 800.Elastomer spring 800 is intended as an internal spring for a cover C4 having a toggle mode. -
Elastomer spring 800 has abody 802 divided generally into anupper body portion 804 and alower body portion 806.Body 802 has ahole 808 disposed therein. - An
elongated tail 810 proceeded fromlower body portion 806. Aslot 812 separatestail 810 fromupper body portion 804. -
Upper body portion 804 has a flange-receivingarea 814 on a right side thereof. -
Elastomer spring 800 is formed such thattail 810 provides a counter clockwise (CCW) bias attempting to always exert an upward, CCW force on a lower surface ofgate 826. - Referring now also to
FIG. 8B , there is shown a side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of a self-closing container usingelastomer spring 800 to provide the restorative force for the reclosing. - A gate or
dome 826 is surrounded by apanel 838, shown aspanel portions FIG. 8B . As seen inFIG. 8E ,panel 838 is a continuous circular structure.Intermediate gate 826 andpanel 838 is a trifold seam orflange 824, also shown as seam orflange portions Flanges frangible seam gate 826 frompanel 838. -
Panel 838 is connected to countersinks 830 that are, in turn, connected topanel 832, again shown aspanel portions Panel 832 is, in turn, connected to seamingpanel 820, shown as seamingpanel portions distal ends -
Elastomer spring 800 is fitted against a lower surface ofpanel portion 838 a and fastened thereto with adhesive 846 best seen inFIG. 9A .Spring tail 810 is fastened to a lower surface ofgate 826 with adhesive 848, also best seen inFIG. 9A . - Referring now also to
FIGS. 8C and 8D , there are shown detailed partial views offlange portions reference numbers - Referring now also to
FIG. 8E , there is shown a top plan, schematic view of the container cover ofFIG. 8B . The relative positions of all the structures discussed in conjunction withFIGS. 8A-8B may readily be seen. In addition, the width ofgate 826 is shown byarrow 840. - Referring now also to
FIG. 8F , there is shown a partial side perspective view of the cover ofFIGS. 8B-8E . - Referring now also to
FIG. 8F , there is shown a bottom, perspective, schematic view of the cover ofFIG. 8E . - Referring now also to
FIG. 8G , there is shown an enlarged detail of a portion of the cover ofFIG. 8F . - Referring now also to
FIG. 8H there is shown a partial side perspective, cross-sectional, schematic view of the cover ofFIG. 8A . - Referring now also to
FIGS. 8I-8M , there are shown a series of side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic views illustrating five sequential steps involved in opening and subsequentlyre-closing gate 826 of the container cover. - In
FIG. 8I , the cover is unopened. Ahorizontal reference line 842 shows that both sides of frangible seam 828 (i.e.,frangible seam portions gate 826 are at the same elevation or level. A downward directed force represented byarrow 844 has not yet been sufficient to rupturefrangible seam 828 a. - In
FIG. 8J , downward directedforce 844 has caused the rupture of frangible seam, at leastfrangible seam potion 828 a. The left edge ofgate 826 has dropped causing primarily thespring tail portion 810 ofspring 800 to be elongated andreference line 842 has an upward slope relative toflange portion 824 a. - In
FIG. 8K , continueddownward pressure 844 has now causedfrangible seam portion 828 b to rupture andgate 826, while substantially horizontal, has now been pressed downward into the container, not shown, to which the cover is attached. It should be noted thatspring tail 810 is still significantly elongated. - In
FIG. 8L it may be seen that oncefrangible seam portion 828 b ruptures,spring tail 810 contracts pulling the left edge ofgate 826 upward untilfrangible seam portion 828 a is reclosed. Note that the right edge ofgate 826 is still downwardly depressed andreference line 842 now has a downward slope relative tofrangible seam portion 828 a. - Finally, as seen in
FIG. 8M , the restoring force provided by a relaxingelastomer spring 800 has caused the right edge ofgate 826 to be raised to substantially its original, unopened position andfrangible seam portion 828 b is reclosed. -
FIGS. 8G-8K have illustrated a five step “see-saw” sequence for the initial opening of the container usingelastomer spring 800. Once initially opened and re-closed, the container may repeatedly be opened and reclosed. With the design ofelastomeric spring 800, the container cover may be operated in a so-called toggle mode. - Referring now also to
FIGS. 9A-9F , there are shown detailed side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic views of the flange region of a container top in various stages of opening and closing, including a toggle mode (FIG. 9D ) whereingate 826 is retained in a fully open state until deliberately oscillating (e.g., swirling) the container contents to forcegate 826 out of the toggle mode lock. - In
FIG. 9A ,adhesive regions elastomer spring 800 topanel region 838 a andgate 826. Although not clearly shown inFIG. 9A ,frangible seam 820 a has been previously ruptured (i.e., the container opened) andgate 826 has returned to a self-closed position as shown. The CCW bias discussed above is applied togate 826 byspring tail 810 as indicated byarrow 850. The constant upward force provided by the CCW bias holdsgate 826 in a closed position as shown. - In
FIG. 9B , adownward force 844 againstgate 826 causing downward movement ofgate 826 with the subsequent deflection ofspring tail 810.Downward pressure 844 overcomes the CCW bias built intoelastomer spring 800. Bottom offlange 824 a rotates towardflange receiving portion 814 ofelastomer spring 800 for eventual capture and retention thereby.Additional CCW arrow 844 shows a second region of CCW rotation and/or CCW bias force development. - In
FIG. 9C , continueddownward pressure 844 causes additional downward movement ofgate 826 and deflection ofspring tail 810.Pivot point 852 around whichgate 826 rotates has shifted to a point near the bottom offlange portion 828 a.Flange 824 a has rotated almost intoflange receiving portion 814 ofelastomer spring 800. Rotation ofgate 826 is now around anew pivot point 854 best seen inFIG. 9E ). At this point of rotation ofgate 826,flange 824 a is almost captured byflange receiving region 814 ofelastomer spring 800. - In
FIG. 9D , the rotation ofgate 826 in response to continueddownward pressure 844,seam receiving region 814 ofelastomer spring 800 has completely captured and retainedflange 824 a.Spring tail 810 is maximally deflected and because of the angle ofgate 826, the force ongate 826 retainsflange 824 a inflange receiving portion 814 ofelastomer spring 800. As long as no external force is applied,gate 826 is held open. - In
FIG. 9E , aninternal force 860 applied against the inside surface ofgate 826forces flange portion 824 a out offlange receiving region 814. Such an internal force is typically generated by oscillating (e.g., swirling, etc.) the contents of the container so as to splash or slosh the contents against the inside surface ofgate 826. - In
FIG. 9F , onceflange 824 a is released fromflange receiving portion 814 ofelastomer spring 800, the restoring force provided by contraction ofelastomer spring 800, particularlyspring tail 810, in cooperation with any continued oscillation of the container contents, bringsgate 826 upward toward its initial position as shown isFIG. 9A . - Referring now also to
FIG. 10A , there is shown a top plan view of a cover designated C5 having a center domedexternal elastomer hinge 1000 that is so-called “manufacturing center registration compliant.” The design shown inFIG. 10A allows an offsetgate 1014 larger than the openings possible with center rivet designs of the prior art. In addition, the size and placement of center domedexternal elastomer hinge 1000 interacts well with the upper lip 1042 (FIG. 10K ) of a consumer 1040 (FIG. 10L ) drinking from the container, not specifically identified, to which cover C5 is attached. This process is best illustrated inFIG. 10K . - Referring now also to
FIG. 10B , there is shown a side elevational, schematic view of the cover ofFIG. 10A . The center domedexternal elastomer hinge 1000 is attached to bothgate 1014 and surroundingpanel 1010 by adhesive 1022, readily seen inFIG. 10B . Also visible inFIG. 10B areflanges frangible seam Reference number 1024 identifies a section of cover C5 shown inFIG. 10B . - Referring now also to
FIG. 100 , the area identified byreference number 1024 inFIG. 10B is shown in more detail. - Referring now also to
FIG. 10D , there is shown a perspective view of cover C5. - Referring now also to
FIG. 10E , there is shown the side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic view of cover C5 but attached tocontainer sides respective crimp container sides - Referring now also to
FIGS. 10F-10J , there are shown a series of side elevational, cross-sectional, schematic views of cover C5 in various stages of being opened and subsequently self-closing after opening. - In
FIG. 10F , cover C5 is shown prior to initial opening. - In
FIG. 10G , in response to downwardly directed forces shown asarrow 1030,frangible seam 1016 a has ruptured and the left edge ofgate 1014 has moved downward. In the process of moving downward, agap 1034 is formed. Note thatfrangible seam 1016 b has not yet ruptured. Ahorizontal reference line 1032 is provided to indicate the angle ofgate 1014 relative to its original, closed position. - In
FIG. 10H , in response to continued downwardly directed force represented byarrow 1030,gap 1034 has possibly widened slightly andfrangible seam 1016 b has now ruptured creating aright gap 1036.Gate 1014 is lower than its original position (i.e., the position inFIG. 10F ) and appears to be approximately parallel tohorizontal reference line 1032. - With the frangible seam 1016 represented by
frangible seam external elastomer hinge 1000, previously elongated and otherwise stretched from its original shape as seen inFIGS. 10G and 10H , begins to return to its original shape. As shown inFIG. 10I , the restorative force provided by the return ofhinge 1000 to its original shape exerts an upward force shown asarrow 1038 and the left side ofgate 1014 is pulledupward closing gap 1034. - Finally, as seen in
FIG. 10J , the right side of gate 1016 is also pulled upward to closegap 1036. Thegate 1014 has now self-closed and the container is effectively resealed. - Referring now also to
FIG. 10K , a partial schematic view of aface 1040 representing a consumer of the contents of the container is shown. Another useful feature of center domedexternal elastomer hinge 1000 is that it is placed on the cover in a location that theupper lip 1042 ofconsumer 1040 contacts while drinking from the container. Because frangible seam 1016 has previously been completely ruptured as described hereinabove, a gentle pressure byupper lip 1042 ofconsumer 1040 succeeds in pressinggate 1014 of cover C5 inward, thereby allowing liquid or other content, neither shown, through theopening 1044 in cover C5. - Since other modifications and changes varied to fit particular operating requirements and environments will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the invention is not considered limited to the example chosen for purposes of disclosure, and covers all changes and modifications which do not constitute departures from the true spirit and scope of this invention.
- Having thus described the invention, what is desired to be protected by Letters Patent is presented in the subsequently appended claims.
Claims (8)
1. A self-closing cover for a container, comprising:
a) an openable gate disposed in said container cover, said gate being surrounded by a frangible seam;
b) a panel surrounding said frangible seam;
c) an elastomer spring having a first portion affixed to said gate and a second portion affixed to said surrounding panel;
whereby, in response to an externally applied downward force on an outer surface of said gate, said frangible seam is ruptured thereby freeing said gate from said surrounding panel and moving at least a portion of said gate downward, and upon removal of said externally applied downward force, said elastomer spring returns said gate to its original closed position effectively resealing said container cover.
2. The self-closing cover for a container as recited in claim 1 , wherein said gate has a geometric center, said geometric center being disposed in one of the locations selected from the group: coincident with a center of said container cover, and non-coincident with a center of said container cover.
3. The self-closing cover for a container as recited in claim 2 , wherein said elastomer spring is disposed on one of the locations selected from the group: on said external surface of said container cover, and on said internal surface of said container cover.
4. The self-closing cover for a container as recited in claim 1 , wherein said container cover is configured to receive said externally applied, downward force proximate a central portion of said gate.
5. The self-closing cover for a container as recited in claim 4 , wherein said container cover is configured to receive said externally applied, downward force delivered by a heal of a palm of a person's hand.
6. The self-closing cover for a container as recited in claim 2 , wherein said container cover comprises an external surface disposed outside a container when said container cover is attached to that container, and an internal surface disposed inside that container when said container cover is attached to that container.
7. The self-closing cover for a container as recited in claim 5 , wherein said elastomer spring is disposed in one of the configurations selected from the group: an external top button configuration, an external chuck wall configuration, an internal configuration, and an external flush configuration.
8. The self-closing cover for a container as recited in claim 1 , wherein said elastomer spring is formed and cured in one of the locations selected from the group: in situ, and external to said cover.
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US14/306,272 US20150274355A1 (en) | 2014-03-27 | 2014-06-17 | Lightweight, hinged self-closing container covers and elastomer springs for use with such covers |
PCT/US2015/021370 WO2015148242A1 (en) | 2014-03-27 | 2015-03-19 | Lightweight, hinged self-closing container covers and elastomer springs for use with such covers |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US14/226,898 US20150274354A1 (en) | 2014-03-27 | 2014-03-27 | Light weight, hinged self-closing container covers and combination flex-torsion springs for use with such covers |
US14/306,272 US20150274355A1 (en) | 2014-03-27 | 2014-06-17 | Lightweight, hinged self-closing container covers and elastomer springs for use with such covers |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US14/226,898 Continuation-In-Part US20150274354A1 (en) | 2014-03-27 | 2014-03-27 | Light weight, hinged self-closing container covers and combination flex-torsion springs for use with such covers |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20150274355A1 true US20150274355A1 (en) | 2015-10-01 |
Family
ID=54189288
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US14/306,272 Abandoned US20150274355A1 (en) | 2014-03-27 | 2014-06-17 | Lightweight, hinged self-closing container covers and elastomer springs for use with such covers |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US20150274355A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2015148242A1 (en) |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2021149005A1 (en) * | 2020-01-23 | 2021-07-29 | Soucy International Inc. | Suspended undercarriage assembly for a track system |
US20220396393A1 (en) * | 2019-11-08 | 2022-12-15 | Ball Corporation | Resealable can end with stay on tab |
US11814118B2 (en) | 2020-01-23 | 2023-11-14 | Soucy International Inc. | Suspended undercarriage assembly for a track system |
Families Citing this family (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE102019004542A1 (en) | 2019-06-24 | 2020-12-24 | Gert Löwe | Can lid with a tightly resealable drinking opening |
Citations (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4928845A (en) * | 1987-10-19 | 1990-05-29 | Doyle Michael J M | End face with tear-off lip closure for pressurized container |
US8215513B1 (en) * | 2007-08-20 | 2012-07-10 | Popseal LLC. | Self-closing resealable can end |
Family Cites Families (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4673099A (en) * | 1982-08-23 | 1987-06-16 | Wells Robert A | Reclosable self-opening can end |
US8622230B2 (en) * | 2008-08-20 | 2014-01-07 | Michael D Grissom | Resealable container having frangible portion and hinged top |
US8833585B2 (en) * | 2009-05-22 | 2014-09-16 | Crown Packaging Technology, Inc. | Resealable beverage can ends |
-
2014
- 2014-06-17 US US14/306,272 patent/US20150274355A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2015
- 2015-03-19 WO PCT/US2015/021370 patent/WO2015148242A1/en active Application Filing
Patent Citations (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4928845A (en) * | 1987-10-19 | 1990-05-29 | Doyle Michael J M | End face with tear-off lip closure for pressurized container |
US8215513B1 (en) * | 2007-08-20 | 2012-07-10 | Popseal LLC. | Self-closing resealable can end |
Cited By (3)
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 |
WO2021149005A1 (en) * | 2020-01-23 | 2021-07-29 | Soucy International Inc. | Suspended undercarriage assembly for a track system |
US11814118B2 (en) | 2020-01-23 | 2023-11-14 | Soucy International Inc. | Suspended undercarriage assembly for a track system |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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WO2015148242A1 (en) | 2015-10-01 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
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AS | Assignment |
Owner name: POPSEAL, LLC, NORTH CAROLINA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:GRISSOM, MICHAEL D.;REEL/FRAME:033495/0548 Effective date: 20140722 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |