WO2019140170A1 - Fermeture de boîte peu profonde - Google Patents

Fermeture de boîte peu profonde Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2019140170A1
WO2019140170A1 PCT/US2019/013167 US2019013167W WO2019140170A1 WO 2019140170 A1 WO2019140170 A1 WO 2019140170A1 US 2019013167 W US2019013167 W US 2019013167W WO 2019140170 A1 WO2019140170 A1 WO 2019140170A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
closure
panel
seam line
center panel
trough
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2019/013167
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Gregory H. Butcher
Original Assignee
Butcher Design, Llc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Butcher Design, Llc filed Critical Butcher Design, Llc
Publication of WO2019140170A1 publication Critical patent/WO2019140170A1/fr

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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
    • B65D17/06—Integral, or permanently secured, end or side closures

Definitions

  • the disclosed and claimed concept relates to metal shells and/or can ends, and, particularly, to shells and/or can ends that are a shallow can closure body.
  • Metallic containers are structured to hold products such as, but not limited to, food and beverages.
  • a metallic container includes a can body and a can end.
  • the can body in an exemplary embodiment, includes a base and an upwardly depending sidewall.
  • the can body defines a generally enclosed space that is open at one end.
  • the can body is filled with product and the can end is then coupled to the can body at the open end.
  • the container is, in some instances, heated to cook and/or sterilize the contents thereof. This process increases the internal pressure of the container.
  • the container contains, in some instances, a pressurized product such as, but not limited to a carbonated beverage. Thus, for various reasons, the container must have a minimum strength.
  • beverage can bodies and can closures were typically made from steel and steel alloys.
  • beverage can bodies and can closures have been made from aluminum and ahiminum alloys.
  • the properties of steel and aluminum are very different; thus, aluminum can bodies and can closures are constructed differently than steel can bodies and can closures.
  • aluminum can closures generally include an "easy open” aperture.
  • an "easy open” can end includes a tear panel and a tab.
  • the tear panel is defined by a score profile, or score line, on the exterior surface (identified herein as the "public side") of the can end.
  • the tab is attached (e.g., without liimtation, riveted) adjacent the tear panel
  • the pull tab is structured to be lifted and/or pulled to sever the score line and deflect and/ox remove the severable panel, thereby creating an opening for dispensing the contents of the container.
  • "tear panel” means a tear panel wherein, following severance of the tear panel, the tear panel remains coupled to the can end by a hinge. That is, a "tear panel” means the type of tear panel on a typical twelve ounce beer or beverage can and does not mean a removable tear panel as on a sardine can, pet food can, or, a beer/beverage can wherein substantially all of the end panel is also the tear panel.
  • standard container For aluminum beverage cans, there is a common, or as used herein, "standard” container.
  • the "standard” twelve ounce aluminum container utilizes a "211" can body, meaning that the can body has a diameter of substantially about two and eleven-sixteenths inches (2 11/16 inches).
  • Such a can body is coupled to either a "202 B64" can closure, or, a "202 CDL” can closure.
  • a "202 CDL” can closure has a diameter of substantially about two and two-sixteenths inches (22/16 inches, or, 2 1/8 inches).
  • the top end of a can body is tapered, or "necked-down,” to match the diameter of the can closure.
  • a 202 B64 can closure and a 202 CDL can closure are shown in Figures 1 A and IB, respectively. Further, as is known, a 202 CDL can closure is made from a blank having a volume of substantially about 0.05174 in 3 . A 202 B64 can closure is made from a blank having a volume of substantially about 0.0558 in 3 . Further, the 202 CDL can closure and the 202 B64 can closure are made from aluminium having an initial gauge (thickness) of about 0.088 inch. It is again noted that beverage cans such as the 202 CDL and 202 B64 are being used as an example and that the disclosed and claimed concept is applicable to any size and/or type of can.
  • the strength of the contaroer is related to roe thickness and/or volume of the metal from which the can body and the can end is formed, as well as, the shape of these elements.
  • This application primarily addresses the can ends rather than the can bodies.
  • the can end When the can end is made, it originates as a blank, which is cut from a sheet metal product (e.g., without limitation, sheet alumirrum, sheet steel).
  • a ''blank is a portion of material that is formed into a product; the term “blank” is applicable to the portion of materia] until all forming operations are complete.
  • aluminum and “steel” include aluminum alloys and steel alloys, respectively.
  • the blank is formed into a "shell” in a shell press.
  • a "shell,” or a “preliminary can end,” is a construct that started as a generally planar blank and which has been subjected to forming operations other than scoring, paneling, rivet forming, and tab staking, as is known.
  • Figure 2A shows and identifies tennis, as used herein, for selected portions of an un-seamed shell 1, i.e., a shell 1 that has not been coupled to a can body.
  • the elements of a shell 1 (which ate shown in ghost lines) include a center panel 2, countersink 3, chuck wall 4, a can fit radius 5, a seaming panel 6, and a curl 7. These elements are discussed in detail below.
  • the blank/shell 1 is further formed in a conversion press into a can end 8 that is structured to be coupled to a can body 14 (discussed below), as is known.
  • the can end 8 includes the elements of the shell 1 as well as a tab 9 that is coupled to the center panel 2 by a rivet R.
  • the "seardng panel” 6 and a "can fit radius” 5 are included as part of the "curl" 7.
  • the top surface of the curl 7 defines a plane which is, as used herein, a "chime line.”
  • a chime line To protect the tab 9 as well as the rivet R during forming and storage, the tab 9 and rivet R are disposed below the chime line when viewed in vertical cross-section, as shown. That is, in this configuration, the tab 9 and rivet R are sornewhat protected
  • a reduction in the amount of metal is accomplished by reducing the thickness or gauge of the stock material which is also referred to as "down-gauging," or, the volume of metal used to create the can end or can body is reduced.
  • material is required to form (at a proper thickness) the elements of the shell 1/can end 8, such as, but not limited to, the countersink 3, and/or chuck wall 4.
  • Containers of a standard size and made from a standard material are well known in the art
  • a "standard” container as discussed above, is cctnmonly used for "pop" or “soda.”
  • characteristics such as buckle strength and the pressure that such can end and container must resist are well known.
  • can ends for such containers are made from blanks and/or shells that have, as used herein, a "standard volume.” That is, a "standard volume” means the volume of material associated with a shell or can end for a container of a standard size.
  • the twelve ounce aluminum container is one well known example in the beer and beverage industry. It is, however, understood that there are many standard size containers.
  • a ''standard volume* means the volume of material associated with a shell or can end for a container of any standard size that is known in the art
  • a ''standard volume* means the volume of material associated with a shell or can end for a container of any standard size that is known in the art
  • a can end includes various formations such as, but not limited to, a wide countersink.
  • a larger tear panel on a beverage can that is, the larger the tear panel, the greater the flow rate of the beverage out of the can.
  • the size of the tear panel is limited by the size of the center panel. That is, generally, a smaller center panel limits the area of the tear panel
  • many can ends 8 include a central, or concentric, rivet.
  • a can end with a concentric rivet reduces the chance of an orientation problem during forming processes. That is, a can end 8 with a concentric rivet that rotates in a conversion press will maintain the rivet in a substantially central position whereas rotation of a can end with a non- ⁇ iicentric rivet will result in the rivet being in an undesirable position.
  • the tear panel when the rivet is disposed at the center of roe can end 8, the tear panel must be disposed between the rivet and the countersink of the can end.
  • the can end includes a wide countersink, the area between the rivet and the countersink is reduced and, as such, the tear panel must be smaller.
  • a 202 CDL can end has a tear panel measuring 0.5020 in 2 and a 202 B64 can end has a tear panel with an area of about 0.5963 in. 2 It is noted that the distance between the tear panel and the panel break is generally similar on most can ends including most beverage can ends.
  • a thinner metal is desirable.
  • Use of a thinner metal requires the use of constructs such as, but not limited to, a wide countersink that improves the buckle resistance of the can end.
  • the wider countersink means that the center panel is smaller and therefore the tear panel is smaller.
  • a shell l/can end 8 While selected characteristics of a shell l/can end 8 are problematic and can be improved, other characteristics are preferably maintained in their current form so as to be compatible with the existing infrastructure of the can making industry.
  • existing forming machines such as, but not limited to, seamer (which couples a can end to a can body)
  • a standard 12 ounce beverage can has an end diameter that is about 2.125 inches in diameter.
  • such a beverage can has a seam line diameter, defined below, of about 2.1020 inches. It is desirable for any new beverage can to maintain these characteristics.
  • the "center panel” 2 is generally planar and disposed within the countersink 3. Stated alternately, the “center panel” 2 is the generally planar portion about which the countersink 3 extends. As used herein, the center panel” 2 ends at a "panel break" 2A which is a radius, or curvilinear portion when viewed in cross-section as shown in Figure 2A. As used herein, the "countersink” 3 includes the downwardly offset portion of the shell 1 below the plane of the center panel 2 (shown as the area below the line "CS").
  • the "countersink” 3 includes the "panel wall” 3A, a "bight” 3B, and lower portion 3C of the chuck wall 4. That is, when viewed in cross-section as hi Figure 2 A, the "panel wall” 3A is generally planar and is disposed immediately adjacent (or contiguous with) the panel break 2A, the "bight” 3B is generally curvilinear (and in an exemplary embodiment has a single radius), and the chuck wail lower portion 3C is also generally planar. As used herein, the "chuck wall” 4 is generally planar when viewed in cross-section, as shown in Figure 2A, but, in an exemplary embodiment, includes a slight curvilinear portion adjacent the can fit radius 5.
  • the slight curvilinear portion of the "chuck wall” 4 adjacent the can fit radius 5 does not prevent the "chuck wall” 4 from being “generally planar” in cross-section as defined herein.
  • a portion of the chuck wall lower portion 3G is also identified as part of the "countersink” 3.
  • the "curl” 7 includes the “can fit radius” 5 and the “seaming panel” 6. That is, as used herein, the "can fit radius” 5 is the portion of the “curl” 7 that, after the shell 1 is coupled to a can body, includes a generally inverted U-shape portion defining the "seam line" 5A, as defined below.
  • the "seaming panel” 6 is the portion of the curl 7 that, after the shell 1 it coupled to a can body 14 (discussed below), is in direct contact with the distal end of the can body. That is, the “seaming panel” 6 is rolled with the distal end of the can body and is that portion of the curl 7 extending beyond (when viewed in cross-section) the "can fit radius" 5.
  • the distal end of the curl 7 is disposed well above the plane of the center panel 2. Further, because the shell becomes (it., is converted into) the can end 8, herehmfter any discussion or description of a "shell” 1 is also applicable to a "can end" 8. That is, generally, the names used above in connection with a shell 1 are also applicable to a "can end” 8 shown in Figure 3; It is noted, however, that once the shell 1/can end 8 is seamed to a can body 14, certain elements thereof axe identified by the following additional names. As shown in Figure 2B, the curl 7 is coupled, by rolling and compressing, i.e., seaming, to a can body distal end 19.
  • the can fit radius 5 is the generally inverted U-shaped portion disposed above the end of the seaming panel 6 (above the line CFR in Figure 2B).
  • the can fit radius 5 includes a vertex winch is, as used herein, the "seam line" 5A.
  • the center panel 2 includes two score lines; a primary score 2B and an anti-iracture score 2C.
  • the r/rimary score 2B extetids substantially about the anti-fracture score 2C and defines a tear panel 2D.
  • the shell 1/can end 8 With the portions of the shell 1/can end 8 as identified above, the following teems, as used herein, apply to the identified constructs. Further, the identified constructs are shown in Figure 2B by the indicated letter. It is understood that, in an exemplary embodiment, the shell 1/can end 8 is generally circular. Further, it is understood dust the center panel 2 is assumed to be planar and that all distances are measured either perpendicular or parallel to the plane of the center panel 2.
  • the "end diameter” is the diameter measured at the radially outermost surface of the can fit radius 5 following seaming as well as across the center of the shell 1/can end 8, i.e., the radially outermost surface of the can end 8 following seaming. It is understood that the “end diameter” is the diameter of the can end following seaming or coupling to a can body, ti is noted that for beverage cans, the “end diameter” is generally consistent. That is, regardless of the other characteristics of the can end 8, following seaming, the "end diameter” is substantially similar to other beverage cans.
  • “B” is the "seam line diameter.”
  • the “seam line diameter'' is the diameter measured at the seam line 5Aas w5ll as across the center of the shell 1/can end 8. It is noted that for beverage cans, the “seam fine diameter” is generally consistent. That is, regardless of the other characteristics of the can end 8, following seaming, the “seam line diameter” is substantially similar to other beverage cans.
  • X is the "center panel diameter”
  • the “center panel diameter” is the diameter rneasured at the panel break 2A as well as across the center of the shell 1/can end 8.
  • D is the "seam line gap.”
  • E is the “countersink gap” (or “trough gap,” as discussed below).
  • the countersink gap (or “trough gap”) is measured between the chuck wait 4 and the panel break 2 A at an elevation corresponding to the top of the center panel 2.
  • F is the “countersink depth” (or ''trough depth,” as discussed below).
  • the “countersink depth” (or “trough depth”) is measured between the top of the center panel 2 and the outer, bottom surface of the countersink 3.
  • G is the “panel depth.”
  • the “panel depth” is measured between the top surface of the curl 7 (or from the seam tine 5A) and the top surface of the center panel 2.
  • H is the unit depth.
  • I is the "countersink radius” (or the “trough radius,” see below).
  • K is the "chuck wail angle.”
  • the "chuck wait angle” is the angle of the chuck wall 4 measured relative to a vertical axis, i.e., an axis normal to the plane of the center panel 2. The angle is “positive” when the chuck wall 4 is angled away from the center panel 2 and is “negative” when angled toward the center panel 2.
  • L is the "panel wall angle.”
  • the “panel wall angle” is the angle of the panel wall 3 A measured relative to a vertical axis, i.e., an axis normal to the plane of the center panel 2. The angle is “positive'* when the panel wall 3A is angled toward the center panel 2 and is “negative” when angled away from the center panel 2.
  • the "center panel diameter to end diameter ratio” is the ratio of the center panel diameter relative to the end diameter. That is, C/A* 100.
  • N is the “tear panel ratio.”
  • the “tear panel ratio” is the ratio of the tear panel area to the seam line diameter expressed as a percentage. It is understood that this ratio compares an area to a length and, as such, as used herein, the “tear panel ratio” is expressed without units and, as noted above, as a percentage. That is, the “tear panel ratio” is (tear panel area)/B*100.
  • the tear panel area of a 202 B64 can end is substantially 0.5940 in 2 .
  • the tear panel area of a 202 CDL can end is substantially 0.5020 in 2 .
  • a 202 B64 can end and a 202 CDL can end have the following characteristics. Unless otherwise indicated, measurements are in inches and the material thickness is substantially 0.0085 inch.
  • the "unit depth" of a can end 8 is notable because the "unit depth” limits the number of can closures mat can be conveniently stacked prior to being seamed to a can body.
  • can closures are typically stacked for storage, transport, and prior to being fed into forming machines such as, but not limited to, a seamer that couples the can closures to a can body.
  • forming machines such as, but not limited to, a seamer that couples the can closures to a can body.
  • Panel depth effects the unit depth. As noted above, panel depth is generally sufficient to prevent "tab-over-chime.” That is, panel depth is presently maintained at above 0.155 inch. This panel depth is maintained for reasons set forth above. Improvements in the rivet and/or tab, however, make the rivet and/or tab less susceptible to damage. Despite this, can ends maintain the panel depth of above 0.155 inch. This is a problem.
  • the characteristics of the countersink 3, ixicluding, but not limited to, the width of tbe countersink 3, the angle of the chock wall 4, the angle of the panel wall 3A and the radius of the bight 3B affect the panel diameter to end diameter ratio which, in turn, affects the tear panel fatso. That is, given that the area, and/or the seam line diameter, of cat) end area is, essentially, predeterrnined, the size and characteristics of the countersink 3 determine the panel diameter to end diameter ratio and the tear panel ratio.
  • the 202 B64 can end has a maximum chuck wall angle of about 12.5o (or 12°, 30') or a typical angle of 14.5°.
  • the 202 B64 has a center panel diameter to end diameter ratio of 87.06%.
  • a larger panel diameter to end diameter ratio is desirable and, as such, the angle of the chuck wall 4 is a problem.
  • the angle of the panel wall 3A affects the seamed area ratio in a similar manner and is also a problem.
  • the width of the counteraink i.e., the radius of the bight 3B, affects the seamed area ratio. Generally, the greater the radius, the smaller the center panel. As such, a countersink (or trough) with a large radius is also problem.
  • a chuck wall 4 is typically positively angled, i.e., a chuck wall 4 is tilted away from the center panel 2 when viewed in cross- section, as shown in Figure 2B.
  • a substantial portion of the chuck wall 4, or the can closure body 22 in general does not "abut” the can body 14 once the can closure 20 is coupled to a can body 14. See, e.g., Figure 6 of U.S. Patent No.7,819,275.
  • "abut” means that two surfaces are in direct contact with each other.
  • the can closure defines multiple direction pressure surfaces. That is, as indicated by the arrows on Figure 2A, pressure produces a force that acts generally normal to a surface.
  • This configuration is known to equalize the pressure in the area of the countersink 3.
  • the pressure equalization chamber is a problem in that the pressure acting on a chuck wall 4 creates a force that acts to separate the can end 8 from the can body 14. Further, the existence of the pressure equalization chamber reduces the usable area of the can closure 20.
  • the center panel 2 occupies about 81% of the seamed area.
  • the "seamed area” means the area of the can closure 20 defined by the seam line 5A. That is, the chuck wall 4 and countersink 3 occupy about 19% of the seamed area.
  • the center panel 2 occupies about 86% of the seamed area and the chuck wall 4 and coiintersink 3 occupy about 14% of the seamed area. This is a problem because, as noted above, a limited center panel 2 limits the size of the tear panel 2D and opening through which the beverage is dispensed. Thus, a larger tear panel 2D and opening is desired.
  • a beverage can end typically has a tear panel 2D ratio of about 1:6 with a tear pane! 2D area of between about 0.402 in. 2 and about 0.50 in. 2 , or about 0.46 in. 2 and a center panel area of about 2.687 in. 2
  • the existence of the chuck wall 4 and the countersink 3 limit the area of the center panel thus reducing the maximum area the tear panel 2D can occupy. This is a problem and there is room for improvement with respect to the chuck wall 4, the countersink 3, the can end 8 area including the center panel 2, the tear panel 2D and the opening ratio among other features.
  • a larger tear panel 2D is also desirable in the food can industry.
  • substantially all of the can end 8 defines the tear panel 2D. That is, for example, on a generally rectangular sardine can, the tab 9 is disposed adjacent a comer and, when used, substantially the entire can end 8 is removed.
  • the disclosed and claimed concept is also useful for food cans because an increase in the tear panel 2D size creates a larger area for vacuum systems to hold the can end 8 during processing of the can ends and the cans. That is, during the forming process, vacuum systems are often used to maintain a can end 8 in a desired position.
  • the generally planar tear panel 2D is a desirable location for a vacuum system to apply a vacuum.
  • the larger the tear panel 2D the larger the area for a vacuum system to apply vacuum and the better the vacuum system is at maintaining the food can end in a desired orientation or at a desired location.
  • the 202 B64 can end has a seam line gap D of about 0.264 inches. This is a problem and there is room for improvement.
  • the can closure 20 is coupled to the top of a can body 14 as noted above.
  • the can body 14, however, must have a sufficient height to accommodate the product as well as depth of the can closure 20. That is, the greater the unit depth of the can closure, the greater the height of the can body 14. Consequently, the volume of materiai must be sufficient to create the can body 14 with a sufficient height.
  • an aluminum can body for a twelve ounce beverage can has a height of between about 4.6 inches and 4.8 inches.
  • the volume of the blank 1 when using sheet metal that is about 0.088 inches thick, required to create such a can body is about 0.1075 in 3 . This is a problem and there is room for improvement with respect to the volume of material sufficient to create the can body 14.
  • cans typically have a center panel diameter to end diameter ratio that is lower man 0.86 (or 86%).
  • man 0.86 or 86%.
  • a "complex" countersink 3 means that the countersink included more than one curved portion.
  • a countersink 3, or trough as discussed below, in this configuration is a problem.
  • the can closure body is a shallow can closure body.
  • the shallow can closure body includes a narrow trough that increases the buckle strength and solves the problem(s) noted above.
  • a can closure wi m a narrow trough has a greater center panel area wherein the ratio and the panel diameter to end diameter ratio are increased solving the problem(s) noted above.
  • Figure 1A is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a portion of a prior art can closure including exemplary dimensions.
  • Figure 1B is a schematic cioss-eectional side view of a portion of another prior can closure including exemplary olirflensians.
  • Figure 2 A is a side cross-sectional view coniparing a can closure of the present disclosure to a prior art can closure.
  • Figure 2B is a cross-sectional view of a can end coupled to a can body and showing various letters associated with various characteristics.
  • Figure 3 is a top view of a prior art can closure.
  • Figure 4 is a top isometric view of a can closure.
  • Figure 5 is a bottom isometric view of a can closure.
  • Figure 6 is a top view of a can closure.
  • Figure 7 is a bottom view of a can closure.
  • Figure 8 is a cross-sectional side view of a can closure.
  • Figure 9 is a schematic exoss-eectional side view of a can closure.
  • Figure 10 is a schematic side view of a can body and a can closure.
  • Figure 11 is another side cross-sectional view ccinparing a can closure of the present disclosure to a prior art can closure.
  • Figure 12 is a cross-sectional side view of stacked and nested can closures.
  • Figure 13 shows a ctoss-seciional side view of a container with a shallow can closure and a riser.
  • Figure 14 is a cross-sectional side view of a can closure with a tab coupled thereto.
  • figure 15 is a top isometric view of another embodiment of the can closure.
  • Figure 16 is a bottom isometric view of the can closure shown in Figure 12.
  • Figure 17 is a top view of a can closure shown in Figure 12.
  • Figure 18 is a bottom view of a can closure shown in Figure 12.
  • Figure 19 is a cross-sectional side view of a can closure shown in Figure 12.
  • Figure 20A is a schematic cross-sectionai side view of a can closure shown in Figure 12.
  • Figure 20B is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a can closure with a horizontally crimped trough.
  • Figure 21 is a top view of a can closure with a tear panel.
  • Figure 22 shows a cross-sectional side view of a container with a shallow can closure and a riser.
  • structured to [verb] means that the identified element or assembly has a structure that is shaped, sized, disposed, coupled and/or configured to perform the identified verb.
  • a member that is "structured to move” is movably coupled to another element and includes elements that cause the member to move or the member is otherwise configured to move, in response to other elements or assemblies.
  • structured to [verb] recites structure and not function.
  • structured to [verb] means mat the identified element or assembly is intended to, and is designed to * perform the identified verb.
  • an element that is merely capable of performing the identified verb but which is not intended to, and is not designed to, perform the identified verb is not "structured to [verb].”
  • association means that the elements are part of the same assembly and/or operate together, or, act upon/with each other in some manner.
  • an automobile has four tires and four hub caps. While all the elements are coupled as part of the automobile, it is understood that each hubcap is “associated” with a specific tire.
  • a "coupling assembly” includes two or more couplings or coupling components.
  • the components of a coupling or coupling assembly are generally not part of me same eleinem or other component As such, the components of a “coupling assembly” may not be described at the same dme in the following description.
  • a "coupling” or “coupling components)” is one or more components) of a coupling assembly. That is, a coupling assembly includes at least two components that are structured to be coupled together. It is understood that the components of a coupling assembly are compatible with each other. For example, in a coupling assembly, if one coupling cxHnponent is a snap socket, the other coupling component is a snap plug, or, if one coupling ⁇ x»nponent is a bolt, then the other coupling component is a nut
  • a "fastener” is a separate component structured to couple two or more elements.
  • a boh is a “fastener” but a tongue-and-groove coupling is not a “fastener.” That is, the tongue-and-groove elements are part of the elements being coupled and are not a separate component.
  • fixedly coupled or “fixed” means that two components are coupled so as to move as one while mamtaining a constant orientation relative to each other.
  • an object resting on another object held in place only by gravity is not “coupled” to the lower object unless the upper object is otherwise maintained substantially in place. That is, for example, a book on a table is not coupled thereto, but a book glued to a table is coupled thereto.
  • the phrase "removably coupled” or “temporarily coupled” means that one component is coupled with another component in an essentially temporary manner. That is, the two components are coupled in such a way that the joining or separation of the components is easy arid would not damage the components.
  • fasteners that are not difficult to access
  • fasteners that are not difficult to access are "removably coupled”
  • two components that are welded together or joined by difficult to access fasteners are not “removably coupled.”
  • a "difficult to access fastener” is one that requires the removal of one or more other components prior to accessing the fastener wherein the "other component” is not an access device such as, but not limited to, a door.
  • temporary disposed means that a first element(s) or assembly (ies) is resting on a second element(s) or assembly(ies) in a manner that allows the first element/assembly to be moved without having to decouple or otherwise manipulate the first element.
  • a book simply resting on a table i,e., the book is not glued or fastened to the table, is “temporarily disposed” on the table.
  • operatively coupled means that a number of elements or assemblies, each of which is movable between a first position and a second position, or a first configuration and a second configuration, are coupled so that as the first element moves from one posinWconfiguration to the other, the second dement moves between positions/configurattons as well. It is noted that a first element may be "operatively coupled" to another without the opposite being true.
  • “correspond” indicates that two structural components are sized and shaped to be similar to each other and may be coupled with a minimum amount of friction.
  • an opening which "corresponds" to a member is sized slightly larger than the member so that the member may pass through the opening with a minimum amount of friction.
  • This definition is modified if the two components are to fit "snugly" together. In that situation, the difference between the size of the components is even smaller whereby the amount of friction increases.
  • the element defining the opening and/or the component inserted into the opening are made from a deformable or compressible material, the opening may even be slightly smaller than the component being inserted into the opening.
  • surfaces, shapes, and lines two, or more, "corresponding" surfaces, shapes, or lines have generally the same size, shape, and contours.
  • a "path of traver or "path,” when used in association with an element that moves, includes the space an element moves through when in motion. As such, any element that moves inherently has a “path of travel” or “path.”
  • a “path of travel” or “path” relates to a motion of one identifiable construct as a whole relative to another object For example, assuming a perfectly smooth road, a rotating wheel (an identifiable construct) on an automobile generally does not move relative to the body (another object) of the automobile. That is, the wheel, as a whole, does not change its position relative to, for example, the adjacent fender. Thus, a rotating wheel does not have a "path of travel” or “path” relative to the body of the automobile.
  • the air inlet valve on that wheel does have a "path of traver or ''path" relative to the body of the automobile. That is, while the wheel rotates and is in motion, the air inlet valve, as a whole, moves relative to the body of the automobile.
  • the statement that two or more parts or components "engage” one another means that the elements exert a force or bias against one another either directly or through one or more mtenne ⁇ liate dements or components. Further, as used herein with regard to moving parts, a moving part may "engage” another element during the motion from one position to another and/or may “engage” another element once in the described position. Thus, h is understood that the statements, "when element A moves to element A first position, element A engages element B," and "when element A is in element A first position, element A engages element B" are equivalent statements and mean that element A either engages element B while moving to element A first position and/or element A engages element B while in element A first position.
  • operatively engage when used in relation to a first component that is structured to move a movable or rotatable second component means that the first component applies a force sufficient to cause the second component to move.
  • a screwdriver may be placed into contact with a screw. When no force is applied to the screwdriver, the screwdriver is merely “temporarily coupled” to the screw. If an axial force is applied to the screwdriver, the screwdriver is pressed against the screw and “engages” the screw. However, when a rotational force is applied to the screwdriver, the screwdriver "operatively engages” the screw and causes the screw to rotate.
  • "operatively engage” means that one component controls another component by a control signal or current
  • unitary means a component that is created as a single piece or unit Tbatis;acofmtonem
  • the term "number” shall mean one or an integer greater than one (i.e., a plurality). That is, for example, the phrase “a number of elements” means one element or a plurality of elements.
  • a ''radial side/surface" for a circular or cylindrical body is a side/surface that extends about, or encircles, the center thereof or a height line passing through the center thereof.
  • an "axial side/surface” for a circular or cylindrical body is a side that extends in a plane extending generally perpendicular to a height line passing through the center. That is, generally, for a cylindrical soup can, the "radial side/surface” is the generally circular sidewall and the "axial side/surface (s)" are the top and bottom of the soup can.
  • a “product side” means the side of a construct used in a container that contacts, or could contact, a product such as, but not limited to, a food or beverage. That is, the "product side” of the construct is the side of the construct that, eventually, defines the interior of a container.
  • a "customer aide” means the side of a construct used in a container that does not contact, or could not contact, a product such as, but not limited to, a food or beverage. That Is, the "customer side” of the construct is the side of the construct that, eventually, defines the exterior of a container.
  • generally eurvihnear includes elements having multiple curved portions; combinations of curved portions and planar portions, and a plurality of planar portions or segments disposed at angles relative to each other thereby forming a curve.
  • a "can closure” means a shell or a can end.
  • a “can closure” includes a “center paner and a “curl.” Unless otherwise noted, the "can closure” is discussed in the configuration prior to seaming to a can body. That is, any characteristics discussed below relate to an unseamed can closure.
  • a "center panel” is generally planar when viewed in cross-section in a plane that is generally normal to the plane of the center panel This definition applies even if the center panel is domed or otherwise deformed due to pressure after the can closure is in use, or, due to other forming procedures.
  • a "curl” is generally curvilinear when viewed in cross-section.
  • portions of a can closure typically identified as a "seaming panel” and a “can fit radius” are included as part of the “curl.” Further, the top surface of the cur) defines a plane which is, as used herein, a “chime line " That is, as used herein, a curl inherently defines a "chime line” Traditionally, between the "center panel” and the “curl” is a “countersink” and a “chuck wall.” As will be described herein, a can closure in accordance with the disclosed concept, unlike the prior art, does not include a countersink.
  • a "shallow" can closure body i.e., a shell or can end
  • a "shallow" can closure body means that, when viewed in cross-section in a plane that is generally normal to the plane of the center panel and prior to seaming, the distal tip of the cud is generally in, or immediately adjacent, the plane defined by the center panel. Further, for a “shallow” can end following seaming and pressurization of the container, a portion of the rivet and/or the tab are disposed above the chime line.
  • a "shallow" can closure body in accordance with the embodiments of the disclosed concept are substantially smaller in the vertical dimension, i,e., more shallow, compared to prior art shells and can ends.
  • a "countereink” is & downwardly formed radial channel extending around, and below the plane of, a center panel on a can closure.
  • a "cotmtersink” is generally U-shaped with a generally planar center side and a generally planar peripheral side and a curvilinear bottom, or "bight,” therebetween.
  • the "countersink” begins at the periphery of the center panel and extends to a location on the peripheral side that is generally in the plane of the center panel, the structure above this location is the “chuck wall” ta soine emtodiments, there is a “panel up,” as defined below, disposed about the countersink. That is, some countersinks include a small step about the timer periphery when viewed in cross-section.
  • Figure IB the unit depth is substantially about 0.25 inch and the radius of the countersink is about 0.024 inch.
  • Figure 1A the unit depth is substantially about 0.27 inch and the radius: of the couirtersink is about 0.020 inch.
  • a "coumersmk” includes a peripheral side (as well as the contiguous chuck wall) that is at an angle of, or more than, 12:3°.
  • the "angle" of a Chuck wall is measured relative to a vertical axis, i,e., an axis that is generally normal to the plane of the center panel, with a positive angle being tilted away from the center panel
  • Some countersinks ate tilted relative to the center panel. That is, a fine normal to the center of the bight extends at an angle other man substantially ninety degrees to the plane of the center panel.
  • the "angle" of the countersink rxaripheral side is measured relative to an axis that is generally normal to the plane of the censer panel regardless of any tilt in the countersink.
  • a "chuck wall” means the construct between the countersink and the curl.
  • the "chuck wall” is generally planar when viewed in cross-section.
  • Other mbodiments of a “chuck wall” include tapered portions, changes in the angle (sometimes identifield as “step") or curvilinear portions.
  • the angle of a "chuck wall” is measured relative to an axis that is generally normal to the plane of the center panel.
  • the proximal end of the "chuck wall” is immediately adjacent the "countersink” end the distal end of the "chuck wall” is immediately adjacent the curi (or can fit radius).
  • a "steep chuck wall* is a chuck wall of a can closure which has an angle of less than 12.0° including any "negative” angles.
  • a "very sleep chuck wail” is a chuck wait of a can closure which has an angle of less than 10.0° including any ''negative” angles.
  • an "extremely steep chuck wall” is a chuck wall of a can closure which has an angle of less than 5.0° including any "negative” angles.
  • an “exceedingly steep chuck wall” is a chuck wall of a can closure which has an angle of less than 4.0° including any "negative*' angles.
  • a “trough” is a gutter extenoHng about a center panel on a can closure created by a “panel up” as discussed below.
  • a “trough” When viewed in cross-section in a plane that is generally normal to the plane of the center panel, a “trough” is generally U-shaped with a generally planar center side and a generally planar peripheral side and a curvilinear bottom, or "bight," therebetween.
  • the 'trough" has a radius of about 0.010 inch and a can closure including a "trough* has a unit depth of about 0.1282 inch.
  • the peripheral side is contiguous with a "chuck wall” and the combined height of the peripheral side and the chuck wail is not sufficient to position a tab and the associated rivet below the chime line.
  • the physical characteristics described in this definition define a "trough.* Stated alternately, the panel up process, described above and below, that creates a "trough,” is just one process by which a "trough” is created As such, and as used heitin, a "trough” is not a product-by-process.
  • a countersink which is created using a downward forming motion at the area of the couritersink is not a "trough.”
  • a '"beverage can means an aluminum container structured to contain a beverage.
  • a "high pressure” beverage means a carbonated beverage or beer.
  • a “high pressure beverage can” means an aluminum container structured to contain a carbonated beverage or beer.
  • any construct is modified by the adjective "high pressure beverage,” it means that the construct is structured to be part of a "high pressure beverage can.”
  • a “beverage can” has a diameter of between about 2.60 and about 2.67 inches which is, as used herein, a "standard diameter.”
  • standard diameter is commonly associated with a container for substantially twelve ounces of liquid and is also used with containers structured to contain between eight and sixteen ounces of liquid.
  • standard as used in a "standard container” or “standard shell,” means a construct used in association with a specific product and which is used by more than one product manufacturer. As noted above, for a product such as soda, pop, and/or beer, many manufacturers use an aluminum twelve fluid bonce container.
  • such a container as well as the components therefore (e.g., the shell, can end, and can body), is a "standard” container, a “standard” shell, a “standard” can end, and a “standard” can body.
  • "Standard" containers, as well as the components therefore, are well known in the art. It is, however, understood that the disclosed and claimed concept can be employed with can closures of any size or shape including non-standard sizes and shapes.
  • a “reduced volume” means a volume that is about 5% less than the volume of a prior art can closure for a container of a similar size.
  • a “very reduced volume” means a volume that is about 6% less than the volume of a prior art can closure for a container of a similar size.
  • an “extremely reduced volume” means a volume that is about 8% less than the volume of a prior art can closure for a container of a similar size.
  • an “exceptionally reduced volume” means a volume that is about 12% less than the volume of a prior art can closure for a container of a similar size-
  • a “limited direction pressure surface” means a surface of a can closure wherein the surface is other man planar and which does not include any adjacent surfaces wherein lines normal (peipendicular) to the surfaces define an angle (excluding reflex angles) between about 45°- 135°.
  • adjacent surfaces of a "limited direction pressure surface” means surfaces that are defined by a chuck wall and a center panel (optionally, a trough) when viewed in cross-section in a plane that is generally normal to the plane of the center panel and which are disposed on the same lateral side of the can closure.
  • the surfaces disposed 180° apart on a generally circular can closure are not “adjacent surfaces.''
  • the can closure 20, when coupled to a can body 14 is in a "pressure equalization chamber free" configuration. That is, a "pressure equalization chamber free” configuration means that when the can closure is seamed to a can body, the can closure and can body do not define a "pressure equalization chamber,” as defined above.
  • the can closure 20 is initially a blank cut from sheet materia.
  • the sheet material is aluminum or an aluminum alloy with a gauge (thickness) of about 0.0092 inch.
  • the sheet material, and therefore the blank have a base thickness. Unless altered by forming operations, as described below, portions of the blank and the can closure 20, maintain the base thickness.
  • the following discussion and the Figures use a generally cylindrical can closure 20 as an example. It is understood that the disclosed and claimed concept is operable with can closures 20 of any shape and the cylindrical shape discussed and shown is exemplary only.
  • a can closure 20 is structured to be, and is, coupled, directly coupled, or fixed to a can body 14 having a corresponding cross-sectional shape thereby forming a container 70.
  • a can body 14 includes a base 16 and an upwardly depending sidewall 18.
  • the can closure 20 is coupled to the upper, distal end of the can body sidewall 18.
  • a can body 14 has a height and, the can closure 20 is coupled to the can body 14; the container 70 has a height generally equal to the can body 14 height and the unit depth of the can closure 20.
  • the can closure 20 includes a body 22 that, when forming operations are complete, or substantially complete, include a center panel 30, a chuck wall 32, and a peripheral curl 34.
  • the chuck wall 32 is, in alternate embodiments, a "steep chuck wall,” a “very steep chuck wall,” an “extremely steep chuck wall,” or an “exceedingly steep chuck wall”
  • the peripheral curl 34 includes a seaming panel 36 and a can fit radius 38 that areincluded as part of the peripheral curl 34.
  • the volume of material required for the can closure body 22 is less than the amount of material required for & prior art can cloture body.
  • the can closure body 22 has a "reduced volume," as defined above.
  • a can closure with reduced volume solves the problem(s) noted above.
  • the can closure 20, or can closure body 22 includes a panel break 50, a panel wall 52, and a bight 54.
  • the trough 42 includes the panel wall 52, the bight 54 as well as a lower portion of the chuck wall 32. Similar to the prior art described above, the trough 42, i.e., the panel wall 52, is the generally planar portion (when viewed in cross-section as shown in Figure 2B) adjacent the panel break 50.
  • the panel break 50 has a radius.
  • the panel break 50 is between about 0.005 inch and 0.025 inch, or about 0.015 inch.
  • the exemplary can closure body 22 has a "unit depth" that is less than a prior art can closure body. That is, in the disclosed embodiment, the can closure body 22 is a "shallow” can closure body 22. In an exemplary embodiment, and as used herein, a “shallow” can closure body 22 has unit depth of less than 0.25 inch. As used herein, a “very shallow” can closure body 22 has unit depth of less than 0.20 inch. As used herein, an "extremely shallow” can closure body 22 has unit depth of less man 0.15 inch.
  • a "shallow beverage can closure” has a unit depth of about 0.120 inch.
  • a shallow can closure body 22 (or a very shallow can closure body, an extremely shallow, or a shallow beverage can closure) solves the problem(s) noted above.
  • the shallow can closure body 22 is shown in comparison to prior art shells 1 in Figures 2A and 11.
  • Figure 12 shows an exemplary embodiment of shallow can closure bodies 22 in a stacked and nested configuration.
  • a can closure body has a "panel depths As used herein, the "panel depth” is the distance between the chime line and the top surface of the center panel 30.
  • the shallow can donne body 22 has cw
  • an extremely reduced panel depth or a beverage can reduced panel depth means a distance of less than 0.150 inch.
  • a "very reduced panel depth” means a distance of less than 0.110 inch.
  • an "extremely reduced panel depth” means a distance of less man 0.070 inch.
  • a "beverage can reduced panel depth” means a distance of about 0:0532 inch.
  • the chuck wall 32 is disposed between the center panel 30 and the curl 34.
  • a chuck wall 32 is a peripheral wall of a can closure which has an angle of less than 12.6° and which includes any "negative" angles.
  • a chuck wall 32 in an exemplary embodiment, is structured to, and does, abut a can body 14.
  • the chuck wall 32 has an angle selected from the group consisting of less than 10° and between about 2° and about 3°.
  • the chuck wall 32 defines a limited direction pressure surface. For example, as shown in Figure 13, and as indicated by the arrows, the force generated by pressure in a container 70 does not act in generally opposite directions. Farther, no force created by pressure on the can body 14 acts in an opposing direction relative to the force generated on the can closure body 22.
  • the can closure body 22 is in an "intentional tab-over-chime'' configuration.
  • an 'intentional tab-over-chime is a configuration wherein the rivet 62 and/or the tab 60 is intentionally disposed above the chime line.
  • the final position of the rivet 62 and/or the tab 60 is determined by the initial configuration of the center panel 30, a chuck wall 32, and the peripheral curl 34.
  • a center panel 30, a chuck wall 32, and peripheral curl 34 structured to intentionally be formed so that the rivet 62 and/or the tab 60 is disposed above the chime line create an intentional tab-over-chime configuration.
  • an intentional tab-overtime configuration relates to the characteristics of the center panel 30, a chuck wall 32, and peripheral curl 34 and not the forming process, as used herein, an intentional tab-over-chime" is not a product by process.
  • the can closure body 22, and more specifically, the center panel 30, includes a "panel up” 40.
  • a "panel up” 40 is a portion of a center panel 30, iricluding substantially all of the center panel 30, that has been shifted upwardly relative to the other portions of the can closure body 22.
  • a trough 42 is created at the periphery of the center panel 30. That is, as used herein, the "trough" 42 is adjacent the center panel 30 and is disposed between the panel up 40 and the chuck wall 32.
  • trough relates to the physical characteristics as defined above and does not mean a construct defined as a product-by ⁇ process.
  • a "countersink'' 3 is a construct formed by a downward forming operation and results in a substantial unit depth as compared to a panel up 40 and trough 42 of the disclosed and claimed concept, as shown in Figures 2 A and 11.
  • a trough 42 has a smaller radial width than a countersink 3.
  • a can closure body 22 without a countersink and/or a chuck wall has a center panel
  • the can closure body 22 has a selected diameter (or radius) that is eased to correspond to the standard/beverage can body diameter.
  • the countersink 3 and/or a chuck wall 4 have a radial width, the size of the center pane! 2 of a prior ait can closure body 22 is limited.
  • the can closure body 22 without a countersink and/or a chuck wall (and without a panel up 40 and the chuck wall 32) has a center panel 30 with a diameter of between about 1.77 inches and about 2.2 inches or about 2.0 incites.
  • ne can closure 20 is structured to, and does, accommodate a larger tear panel 56 or opening.
  • the center panel 30 on the shallow can closure body 22 has a diameter of about 1.96 inches.
  • the center panel 30 occupies about 92% of the seamed area. That is, the chuck wall 32 (and trough 42 is piracy) occupy about 8% of the seamed area.
  • the can closure body 22 is structured to, and does, acexmunodate a larger tear panel 56, as shown in Figure 21.
  • the tear panel 56 has an area of between about 0.5963 in. 2 and about 0.7 in. 2 , or about 0.6267 in. 2
  • the larger tear panel 56 is, in an exemplary embodiment, formed with a centered rivet 62. That is, one solution for creating a larger prior art tear panel 56 was to offset the rivet 62 and tab 60 associated with the tear panel 56 so as to provide more area on the center panel 30 for the tear panel 56. Formation of an offset, or nonK»ncentric, rivet creates problems during formation of the rivet 62 and conversion (i.e. , the coupling of the tab 60 to the shell 1). That is, there are loads and other forming forces that are non- concentric relative to the blank which must be accommodated. As such, it is desirable to have a concentric rivet 62 so as to simplify the conversion process.
  • the can closure 20 is structured to be, and is, coupled, directly coupled, or fixed to a can body 14 by seaming the curl 34 to the upper distal end of the can body 14.
  • the shallow can closure 20 is structured to be, and is, coupled to a standard can body 14. In mis configuration, and because the shallow can closure 20 has a reduced unit depth and/or reduced panel depth, there is a greater "head space" between the shallow can closure body 22 and the product in the container 70. If this head space is not needed or desired, the shallow can closure 20 is structured to be, and is, coupled, directly coupled, or fixed to a "reduced height* can body 14.
  • a "reduced height*' can body 14 means the height of the can body 14 is shorter than a standard can body for a similar volume of liquid and the can body is structured to be coupled to a shallow can closure 20.
  • a standard twelve ounce aluminum beverage can has a can body with a height of about 4.82 inches.
  • a twelve ounce aluminum container 70 (which is commonly identified as a beverage can), including a shallow can closure 20 has a height of between about 4.65 inches to about 4.75 inches, or about 4.70 inches.
  • the container 70 has a "reduced height" ft is understood that a can body 14 with a reduced height is formed from a blank that has a lower volume relative to a blank that forms a can body 14 with a standard height.
  • a can body 14 with a reduced height solves the problem(s) noted above.
  • the container 70 may be incompatible with existing constructs that interact with containers, such as, but not limited to, beverage cans. That is, for example, vending machines are structured to interact with standard sized beverage cans. Accordingly, as shown in Figures 13 and 22 and in an exemplary embodiment, the container 70 includes a riser assembly 100.
  • the riser assembly 100 is structured to, and does, increase the height of a container 70 including a shallow can closure 20 to be the height of a similar standard size container.
  • an aluminum can body for a twelve ounce beverage can has a height of about 4.82 inches.
  • a container 70 including a shallow can closure 20 has a height of about 4.70 inches.
  • a riser assembly 100 for a twelve ounce beverage can is structured to, and does, increase the height of the container 70 including a shallow can closure 20 to be about 0.12 inch.
  • the riser assembly 100 is structured to be, and is, coupled, directly coupled, or fixed to the can closure 20. That is, in one embodiment, the riser assembly 100 includes a generally toroid body 102 that is generally sized and shaped to correspond to the can closure 20. Thus, the riser assembly body 102 includes a coupling component 104 structured to be coupled to the can closure 20. In one emboa1»nent, the riser assembly body 102 is generally solid. In another embodiment, the riser assembly body 102 includes a generally smooth, or solid, upper surface 106 and a plurality of ribs or gussets 108 on the lower surface.
  • the riser assembly body 102 includes a thin toroid body (not shown) with a number of platforms disposed about the riser assembly body 102.
  • the platforms have a height sufficient to increase the height of a container 70 including a shallow can closure 20 to be the height of a similar standard size container.
  • the riser assembly body 102 includes a filler assembly, not shown.
  • the filler assembly is disposed on the lower side of the riser assembly body 102 and is structured to correspond, or snuggly correspond, to the trough 42.
  • the filler assembly is disposed in the trough 42.
  • the filler assembly is structured to, and does, reinforce or support the can closure 20.
  • the can closure 20 is, in an exemplary embodiment, made from a thinner material man would otherwise be possible.
  • a can closure 20 made from a thinner material would collapse or buckle under the loads generated by the product, such as, but not limited to, beer or a carbonated beverage within the container 70.
  • the filler assembly supports the can closure 20 and prevents any substantial deformation of the can closure 20 and/or the can body 14.
  • the riser assembly body 102 is made from a plastic or polymer material that is less expensive to create and mold man a metal. Thus, use of a riser assembly body 102 allows for the can closure 20 and/or the can body 14 to be made from a reduced volume of metal.
  • the riser assembly body 102 is made from a "clean burning” material.
  • a "clean burning” material means a material that, when burned, does not generally contaminate melting, or molten, aluminium.
  • a riser assembly body 102 is structured to be, and is, fixed to the can closure 20. During recycling of the aluminum container 70, the clean burning riser assembly body 102 burns away (and the heat therefrom assists in melting the container 70). In another embodiment, the riser assembly body 102 is reusable and is only temporarily coupled to the can closure 20.
  • the can closure 20 includes a trough 42 that is one of a narrow trough, a very narrow trough, an extremely narrow trough, a closed trough or a closed/gap trough.
  • a can closure 20 with a trough 42 that is one of a narrow trough, a very narrow trough, an extremely narrow trough, a closed trough or a closed/gap trough has an increased buckle strength, an increased panel diameter to end diameter ratio, and an increased tear panel ratio and accommodates a larger tear panel 56.
  • a can closure 20 with a trough 42 solves the problem(s) noted above.
  • a “narrow trough” means a trough 42 with a trough gap less than 0.070 inch.
  • a “very narrow trough” means a trough 42 with a trough gap less than 0.060 inch.
  • an "extremely narrow trough” means a trough 42 with a trough gap less than 0.045 inch.
  • a “closed trough” means a trough 42 wherein the sides of the trough 42 substantially contact, abut, each other.
  • a "closed/gap trough" trough 42 includes a configuration wherein the sides of the trough 42 at the bottom of the trough 42 do not contact each other.
  • the "closed/gap trough” is also crimped so that the sides of the trough 42 at the bottom of the trough 42 contact each other.
  • This configuration is identified herein as a "horizontally crimped" trough 42. That is, the sides of the trough 42 at the bottom of the trough 42 are crimped fa a direction generally parallel to the plane of the center panel 30.
  • a "horizontally crimped" trough 42 is not the same as vertically crimpled countersinks that are known in the art. That is, countersinks that have been crimped, or partially crimped, in a direction generally normal to the plane of the center panel 30 are known. Such a crimped countersink is not, as used herein, the same as a "horizontally crimped'' trough 42.
  • Can closures 20 that include one of a narrow trough, a very narrow trough, an extreinery narrow trough, a closed trough or a closed/gap trough solve the problem(s) stated above. That is, such can closures 20 have an increased buckle strength relative to known can closures, in an exemplary embodiment, the buckle strength of a can closure 20 with a "hcdzontally crimped" trough 42 is about 85 psi.
  • the center panel 30 is one of a wide center panel, a very wide center panel, an extremely wide center panel or a full center panel.
  • the center panel 30 is a "wide" center panel 30 which, as used herein, has a diameter of about 1.85 inch.
  • the center panel 30 is a '"very wide” center panel 30 which, as used herein, has a diameter of about 1.90 inch.
  • the center panel 30 is an "extremely wide” center panel 30 which, as used herein, has a diameter of about 1.94 inch. In another embodiment, the center panel 30 is a "full” center panel 30 which, as used herein, has a diameter of about 1.96 inch. The center panel 30, as described herein, solves the problem(s) stated above.
  • the can closure 20 when coupled to a can body 14, has a "seam line" 39 ( Figure 13).
  • the rolled coupling construct that joins the can closure 20 to the can body 14 has a width of about 0.046 inch and the seam line 39 is disposed substantially at the middle of the tolled coupling.
  • the seam line 39 diameter is about 2.079 in.
  • a "wide" center panel 30 has a center panel diameter to end diameter ratio of about 0.8899 (of 88.99%). Further, a “very wide” center panel 30 has a center panel diameter to end diameter ratio of about 0.9139 (or 91.39%). Further, an "extremely wide” center panel 30 has a center panel diameter to end diameter ratio of about 0.9331 (or 93.31%). Further, a “full” center panel 30 has a center panel diameter to end diameter ratio of about 0.9620 (or 96.20%).
  • a can closure 20 in these configurations has a center panel diameter to end diameter ratio greater than in the prior art and therefore solves the pnoblera(s) noted above.
  • the tear panel ratio is smaller, which solves the probtem(s) noted above.
  • a 202 B64 tear panel has an area of 03940 in. 2 while s 202 CDL tear panel has an area of 0.5020 in. 2
  • the larger center panel(s) of the disclosed concept allow for a larger tear panel 56.
  • a "wide" center panel 30 and/or a "very wide” center panel 30 are stmctured to accommodate a tear panel 56 with an area of more than 0.5960 in.
  • a "wide" center panel 30 and/or a “very wide” center panel 30 has a tear panel ratio of more than 0.2867 (or 28.67%). This tear panel ratio is larger than the prior art and, therefore, solves the problem(s) stated above.
  • an "extremely wide” center panel 30 and/or a “full” center panel 30 are structured to accommodate a fear panel 56 with an area of about 0.627 in. 2
  • an "extremely wide" center panel 30 and/or a “full” center panel 30 has a tear panel 56 ratio of about 0.3198 (or 31.98%)
  • a can closure 20 in these configurations solves the problem(s) noted above.
  • the can closure 20 has a seam line gap that is smaller than the prior art. That is, after a can closure 20 with a trough 42 is coupled to a can body 14, the can closure 20 has a seam line 39.
  • the trough 42 is defined in part by a panel break 50.
  • the distance between the seam line 39 and the panel break 50 is smaller than the prior art.
  • the seam Hne gap is one of a "small" seam line gap, a "very small” seam line gap, an "extremely smalt” seam line gap, or an “exceedingly small” seam line gap.
  • a "small” seam line gap is a distance less than 0.23 inch.
  • a "very small” seam line gap is a distance less than 0.180 inch.
  • an “extremely small” seam hne gap is a distance less man 0.160 inch.
  • an “exceedingly smalt” seam line gap is a distance less man 0.150 inch.
  • the radius of the trough 42 i.e., the bight 54 of the trough 42
  • a "simple radius'' means that the trough 42 has a single curvilinear, or arcuate, portion and two generally planar sides when viewed in cross-section, as shown in Figure 2B.
  • the trough 42 is not "complex,'' as defined above. This solves the problem(s) noted above.
  • the trough 42 has one of a small radius, a very small radius, or an extremely small radius.
  • a 0.15 inch trough radius is a "small radius.”
  • a 0.10 inch trough radius is a “very small radius.”
  • a 0.03 inch trough radius is an "extremely small radius.”
  • the following table includes the characteristics of exemplary embodiments of a can closure 20 for a beverage can incorporating the disclosed and claimed concept.
  • the variable is the size of the trough 42 and the size center panel 30. That is, the center panel 30 is one of a wide center panel, a very wide center panel, an extremely wide center panel or a full center panel.
  • the trough 42 therefore, is one of a narrow trough, a very narrow trough, an extremely narrow trough, or a closed trough, respectively.
  • the letters on the left correspond to the characteristics identified above. Unless otherwise indicated, the units are in inches.
  • a can closure 20 in any of these conflgurations solve the probiem(s) noted above,

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Rigid Containers With Two Or More Constituent Elements (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne une fermeture de boîte (20) comprenant un corps (22) comportant un panneau central (30) et un ourlet périphérique (34). Le corps (22) de fermeture de boîte a une profondeur parmi une profondeur de panneau réduite, une profondeur de panneau très réduite, une profondeur de panneau extrêmement réduite, ou une profondeur de panneau réduite de canette.
PCT/US2019/013167 2018-01-12 2019-01-11 Fermeture de boîte peu profonde WO2019140170A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US201862616735P 2018-01-12 2018-01-12
US62/616,735 2018-01-12
US201862737982P 2018-09-28 2018-09-28
US62/737,982 2018-09-28

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2019140170A1 true WO2019140170A1 (fr) 2019-07-18

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PCT/US2019/013167 WO2019140170A1 (fr) 2018-01-12 2019-01-11 Fermeture de boîte peu profonde

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Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20030010785A1 (en) * 2001-07-03 2003-01-16 Container Development, Ltd. Can shell and double-seamed can end
US20030034346A1 (en) * 2001-08-16 2003-02-20 Timothy Turner Can end
US20130309043A1 (en) * 2012-05-18 2013-11-21 Stolle Machinery Company, Llc Container, and selectively formed shell, and tooling and associated method for providing same
US20140263329A1 (en) * 2013-03-15 2014-09-18 Ball Corporation Easy access opening tab for a container end closure

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20030010785A1 (en) * 2001-07-03 2003-01-16 Container Development, Ltd. Can shell and double-seamed can end
US20030034346A1 (en) * 2001-08-16 2003-02-20 Timothy Turner Can end
US20130309043A1 (en) * 2012-05-18 2013-11-21 Stolle Machinery Company, Llc Container, and selectively formed shell, and tooling and associated method for providing same
US20140263329A1 (en) * 2013-03-15 2014-09-18 Ball Corporation Easy access opening tab for a container end closure

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