Abstract
A metallic container end closure is provided that generally comprises a dispensing opening and a vent opening. The vent opening improves pourability through the dispensing opening and provides an alternative option for consuming the contents of the container. The end closure may include features to ease opening of the vent opening, such as stiffeners and/or vent form features.
Claims
1. A vented metallic end closure adapted for interconnection to a neck of a container body, comprising: a peripheral curl; a chuck wall extending downwardly from the peripheral curl; a central panel positioned within the chuck wall; a deboss provided on the central panel; a tab interconnected to the central panel and rotatable about a rivet; a primary score defining a dispensing opening; a vent opening comprising a secondary score; the tab comprising a nose end and a pull end; wherein the pull end of the tab is adapted to contact the vent opening, and wherein the tab is adapted to transmit a force to the vent opening and sever the secondary score; the secondary score comprising first and second linear portions, the first and second linear portions being substantially parallel, and first and second opposed arcuate portions; the vent opening comprising a raised feature and a vent hinge; wherein the tab comprises an aperture that is larger than the raised feature of the vent opening, and smaller than the vent opening; and wherein the vent hinge is positioned proximal to the first or second linear portion of the vent opening.
2. The vented metallic end closure of claim 1, wherein the raised feature comprises a convex feature positioned within the secondary score which extends toward a public side of the end closure.
3. The vented metallic end closure of claim 1, wherein the vent opening is positioned within a secondary recess and the secondary recess is provided within the deboss.
4. The vented metallic end closure of claim 1, wherein the pull end of the tab comprises a downwardly projecting portion for contacting the vent opening.
5. The vented metallic end closure of claim 1, wherein a center point of the vent opening is radially offset from a center line of the end closure by at least approximately 15 degrees.
6. The vented metallic end closure of claim 1, wherein a center point of the vent opening is provided at a lateral midpoint of the end closure.
7. The vented metallic end closure of claim 1, wherein the secondary score and the vent hinge collectively comprise a flat oval shape.
8. A vented metallic end closure adapted for interconnection to a container body, the end closure comprising: a peripheral curl; a chuck wall extending downwardly from the peripheral curl; a central panel positioned inwardly from the chuck wall; a dispensing opening and a vent opening; the dispensing opening comprising a primary score line and the vent opening comprising a secondary score line and a vent hinge; the secondary score comprising an oval score line at least partially surrounding a vent panel, wherein the oval score line comprises first and second linear portions and first and second opposed arcuate portions; and an upstanding dome portion provided on the vent panel, the upstanding dome portion comprising a center that is spaced apart from the vent hinge.
9. The vented metallic end closure of claim 8, wherein the secondary score line is provided beneath the tab at least when the container is in a first closed position.
10. The vented metallic end closure of claim 8, wherein the upstanding dome portion comprises a convex feature positioned within the secondary score which extends outwardly from a public side of the end closure.
11. The vented metallic end closure of claim 8, wherein a minimum distance between the upstanding dome portion and the secondary score line is at least approximately 0.010 inches and not more than approximately 0.180 inches.
12. The vented metallic end closure of claim 8, further comprising a pull tab and wherein a pull end of the tab comprises a downwardly projecting portion for contacting the vent opening.
13. The vented metallic end closure of claim 8, wherein a center point of the vent opening is radially offset from a center line of the end closure.
14. The vented metallic end closure of claim 8, wherein a center point of the vent opening is provided at a lateral midpoint of the end closure.
15. The vented metallic end closure of claim 8, wherein the secondary score line and vent hinge collectively comprise a flat oval shape.
16. A vented metallic end closure adapted for interconnection to a neck of a container body, comprising: a peripheral curl; a chuck wall extending downwardly from the peripheral curl; a central panel positioned within the chuck wall; a deboss provided on the central panel; a tab interconnected to the deboss and rotatable about a rivet; a primary score defining a dispensing opening and a vent opening comprising a secondary score provided within the deboss; wherein the dispensing opening and the vent opening are provided in opposing relationship on opposite sides of the rivet; the tab comprising a nose end and a pull end, said pull end comprising an aperture, the aperture adapted to provide visual feedback of the vent opening; wherein the pull end of the tab is adapted to contact the vent opening, and wherein the tab is adapted to transmit a force to the vent opening and sever the secondary score; the secondary score comprising at least one arcuate portion; the vent opening comprising a raised feature and a vent hinge; and wherein the vent hinge is positioned such that the vent opening hinges in an opposite direction as the dispensing opening.
17. The vented metallic end closure of claim 16, wherein the vent opening is radially offset from a center line of the end closure.
18. The vented metallic end closure of claim 16, wherein the secondary score line and vent hinge collectively comprise a flat oval shape.
19. The vented metallic end closure of claim 16, further comprising an anti-fracture score at least partially surrounding the secondary score line.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
(1) FIG. 1 is a top plan view of an end closure according to one embodiment of the present invention.
(2) FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the end closure shown in FIG. 1 with the pull tab rotated in a clockwise direction.
(3) FIG. 3 is a top plan view of an end closure according to one embodiment of the present invention.
(4) FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional elevation view of an end closure taken at line A-A of FIG. 1.
(5) FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional elevation view of an end closure taken at line B-B of FIG. 2.
(6) FIG. 6 is a top plan view of an end closure according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.
(7) FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional elevation view of the end closure of FIG. 6 taken at line C-C.
(8) FIG. 8 is a top plan view of the end closure shown in FIG. 6 with the pull tab removed.
(9) FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional elevation view of the end closure of FIG. 8 taken at line D-D.
(10) FIG. 10 is a top plan view of an end closure according to one embodiment of the present invention, and showing the tab, the primary opening and the vent opening in a closed position.
(11) FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional elevation view of an end closure according to the embodiment of FIG. 10 and taken about line E-E.
(12) FIG. 12 is a top plan view of an end closure according to one embodiment of the present invention, and showing the tab, the primary opening and the vent opening in a closed position.
(13) FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional elevation view of an end closure according to the embodiment of FIG. 12 and taken about line F-F.
(14) FIG. 14A is a top plan view of an end closure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
(15) FIG. 14B is a top plan view of the end closure of the embodiment of FIG. 14A.
(16) FIG. 14C is a top perspective view of the end closure of the embodiment of FIG. 14A.
(17) FIG. 15A is a top plan view of the end closure of the embodiment of FIG. 14A.
(18) FIG. 15B is a top perspective view of the end closure of the embodiment of FIG. 14A.
(19) FIG. 16A is a top plan view of an end closure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
(20) FIG. 16B is a top plan view of the end closure of the embodiment of FIG. 16A.
(21) FIG. 16C is a top perspective view of the end closure of the embodiment of FIG. 16A.
(22) FIG. 17A is a top plan view of the end closure of the embodiment of FIG. 16A.
(23) FIG. 17B is a top perspective view of the end closure of the embodiment of FIG. 16A.
(24) FIG. 18A is a top plan view of an end closure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
(25) FIG. 18B is a top plan view of the end closure of the embodiment of FIG. 18A.
(26) FIG. 18C is a top perspective view of the end closure of the embodiment of FIG. 18A.
(27) FIG. 19A is a top plan view of the end closure of the embodiment of FIG. 18A.
(28) FIG. 19B is a top perspective view of the end closure of the embodiment of FIG. 18A.
(29) FIG. 20 is a top plan view of an end closure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure with a tab provided thereon.
(30) FIG. 21 is a top plan view of an end closure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
(31) FIG. 22 is a top plan view of an end closure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
(32) FIG. 23 is a top plan view of an end closure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
(33) FIG. 24 is a top plan view of a vent feature according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
(34) FIG. 25 is a top plan view of a vent feature according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
(35) FIG. 26 is a top plan view of a vent feature according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
(36) FIG. 27 is a top plan view of an end closure with a vent feature according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
(37) FIG. 28 is a top plan view of an end closure with a vent feature according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
(38) FIG. 29 is a top plan view of an end closure with a vent feature according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
(39) FIG. 30 is a top plan view of an end closure with a vent feature according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
(40) FIG. 31 is a top plan view of an end closure with a vent feature according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
(41) FIG. 32 is a top plan view of an end closure with a vent feature according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
(42) FIG. 33 is a top plan view of an end closure with a vent feature according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
(43) FIG. 34 is a top plan view of an end closure with a vent feature according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
(44) FIG. 35 is a top plan view of an end closure with a vent feature according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
(45) FIG. 36 is a top plan view of an end closure with a vent feature according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
(46) To assist in the understanding of the drawings, the following is a list of components and associated numbering found in the drawings:
(47) TABLE-US-00001 # Components 2 End closure 4 Central panel 5 Deboss 6 Peripheral curl 8 Primary opening 10 Primary score 12 Tab 14 Rivet 16 Vent protuberance 18 Tab orienting feature 20 Vent opening 22 Vent cover portion 24 Dome feature 26 Vent orienting feature 28 Tail portion 30 Nose portion 32 Hinge 34 Vent score 36 First tier 38 Second tier 40 First tier 42 Second tier 50 End closure 52 Peripheral curl 54 Countersink 56 Central Panel 58 Primary opening 60 Primary score 62 Rivet 64 Secondary vent 66 Vent panel 68 Upstanding domed feature 70 Vent score 72 Anti-fracture score 74 Stiffening bead 76 Primary recess 78 Vent hinge 80 End closure 82 Peripheral curl 84 Countersink 86 Central panel 88 Primary opening 90 Primary score 92 Rivet 94 Secondary vent 96 Vent panel 98 Upstanding dome portion 100 Vent score 102 Anti-fracture score 104 Stiffening bead 106 Main recess 108 Vent hinge 120 End closure 122 Peripheral curl 124 Countersink 126 Central panel 128 Main recess 130 Primary opening 132 Primary score 134 Rivet 136 Secondary recess 138 Vent feature 140 Anti-fracture feature 142 Vent score 144 Upstanding dome portion 146 Vent hinge 200 Aperture 220 Vent feature 222 Vent score 224 Raised feature 226 Vent hinge 230 Vent feature 232 Vent score 234 Raised feature 236 Vent score 240 Vent feature 242 Vent score 244 Raised feature 246 Vent score 249 End closure 250 Secondary recess 251 End closure 252 Secondary recess 253 End closure 254 Secondary recess 255 End closure 256 Secondary recess 257 End closure 258 Vent feature 260 Vent feature 261 End closure 262 Secondary recess 263 End closure 264 Secondary recess 265 End closure 266 Secondary recess 267 End closure 268 Secondary recess 270 End closure 272 Panel 274 Peripheral curl 276 Deboss 278 Primary opening 280 Primary score 282 Vent feature 284 Vent score 286 Vent hinge 288 Dome portion 290 Secondary recess 292 Rivet 294 Tab access feature 300 Vent feature 302 Vent feature 304 Vent feature 306 Vent feature 308 Vent feature 310 Vent feature 312 Vent feature 314 Vent feature
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
(48) FIG. 1 is a top plan view of one embodiment of an end closure 2 according to the present invention. FIG. 1 depicts the end closure 2 in a first position, wherein the first position comprises a closed position prior to opening of the primary opening 8 or vent feature 20. The end closure 2 comprises a central panel 4, a peripheral curl 6 for securing the end closure to the neck of a container, and a tab 12 interconnected to the deboss 5 by a rivet 14. The deboss 5 comprises a primary opening 8 which is severable at a primary score line 10 to open the primary opening 8 and allow for container contents to be dispensed. A vent feature 20 is provided on an opposing side of the rivet 14 from the primary opening portion 8. The vent feature 20 is visible through and exposed by a tab orienting feature 18 in the arrangement and position depicted in FIG. 1. The tab orienting feature 18 of the depicted embodiment comprises an aperture or through hole in the tab 12. The tab orienting feature 18 is depicted as comprising a generally circular opening in FIG. 1, but it will be expressly recognized that various shapes and sizes for the tab orienting feature 18 are contemplated. In various embodiments, it is contemplated that the tab orienting feature 18 comprises the same or similar shape as the vent feature 20 and wherein the tab orienting feature 18 comprises a slightly larger dimension of similar shape as the vent 20. However, the present invention is not so limited and various sized and shapes are contemplated for use with the tab orienting feature 18.
(49) In FIG. 1, the vent feature 20 is visible through the tab orienting feature 18. Thus, a user or consumer can readily see that the vent 20 is closed and available for opening. In addition to providing visual information on the vent 20, the tab orienting feature 18 also provides a recess that prevents force transmission to the vent 20 in the event that the tab 12 is depressed during shipping, stacking, etc. of filled containers. The tab 12 is rotatable by grasping a tail portion 28 of the tab and forcing a nose portion 30 of the tab into the primary opening 8, as will be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art. Before or after the primary opening 8 is activated, the tab 12 may be rotated about a longitudinal axis of the container extending through the rivet 14 to align a vent protuberance 16 provided on the tab 12 with the vent 20. In certain embodiments, the vent protuberance 16 comprises a détente or downwardly projecting feature of the tab for positioning over the vent feature 20 and transmitting a force to open the feature, as shown and described herein. Although FIGS. 1-3 depict the primary opening 8 as being closed during vent opening operations, it will be expressly recognized that the present invention contemplates first opening the primary opening 8 prior to opening the vent feature 20.
(50) The tab 12 of the depicted embodiment comprises a vent cover portion 22. Various known tabs comprise a pull-ring style device, with a void provided in the region depicted as the vent cover portion 22 of FIGS. 1-3. In contrast with such prior art devices, the embodiment of FIGS. 1-3 provide a vent cover portion that comprises a solid portion of the tab 12 with a vent protuberance 16 and tab orienting feature 18 are provided thereon. In an alternative embodiment, however, a large aperture is provided in lieu of the vent covering portion, and a vent protuberance 16 is provided on a remainder of the tab 12.
(51) FIG. 2 is a top plan view of an end closure 2 according to the embodiment of FIG. 1 wherein the tab 12 has been rotated to a position suitable for opening the vent 20. As shown, the tab 12 has been rotated about an axis extending through the rivet 14 such that the tab orienting feature has been moved radially away from the vent 20 and the vent protuberance 16 of the tab is positioned over the vent 20. Thus, in the position depicted in FIG. 2, a downward force applied to the tab 12 will be transmitted through the tab 12 and the vent protuberance 16 to the vent portion 20. The vent portion may thus be opened by said force, which severs a score line defining the vent, and wherein the vent 20 is openable about a hinge 32.
(52) As further shown in FIG. 2, an offset angle α is provided. The offset angle α is the angle of rotation required to translate the tab 12 from a first closed position to a second position wherein the second position is adapted for opening the vent protuberance 16. In various embodiments, the offset angle α is contemplated as being between approximately 5 degrees and approximately 30 degrees. In preferred embodiments, the offset angle α is contemplated as being between approximately 10 degrees and approximately 25 degrees. In one preferred embodiment, the offset angle α is contemplated as being at least approximately 15 degrees and preferably no greater than approximately 20 degrees. Although FIG. 2 depicts an end closure with a tab 12 rotated in a clockwise direction, certain embodiments provide that the tab 12 should preferably rotated in a counterclockwise direction. Where a vent feature is opened prior to opening the primary opening 8, subsequent attempts at opening the primary opening 8 with the tab 12 still provided in the position of FIG. 2 may cause complications with the opening of the primary opening 8 including tongue tear and hinge fracture. Therefore, in certain embodiments the present disclosure provides methods and devices wherein opening of the vent requires counter-clockwise rotation of the tab, including embodiments wherein a vent feature is provided in a position that requires such rotation in order for a tail portion of the tab to contact the vent feature.
(53) FIG. 3 is a top plan view of an end closure 2 according to the embodiment of FIGS. 1-2 and wherein the vent opening 20 has been opened. When rotated back to the position of FIG. 1, the tab orienting feature 18 provides visual information to a user that the vent feature 20 has been opened and is ready for venting and facilitating pouring of contents through the primary opening 8 by enhancing air flow characteristics.
(54) FIGS. 4-5 are cross-sectional elevation views of an end closure 2 according to one embodiment of the present invention in first and second positions, respectively. FIG. 4 is a cross-section taken about line A-A of FIG. 1 depicting the end closure 2 with a vent feature 20 provided on the deboss 5. The vent feature 20 comprises a generally convex protrusion 24 with a concave portion 26. The concave portion 26 is provided to receive and communicate with vent protuberance 16 as shown and described herein. In the position depicted in FIG. 4, the tab orienting feature 18 is disposed directly over the vent opening 20. As shown, the vent cover portion 22 is provided radially outwardly from the tab orienting feature and the vent opening 20. The tab orienting feature comprises an opening or void in the tab 12. Thus, if the tab 12 and/or vent cover portion 22 is depressed or deflected downwardly, the vent 20 is not accidentally depressed or broken open.
(55) FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the end closure 2 taken about line B-B of FIG. 2, wherein the tab 12 has been rotated such that the vent protuberance 16 is provided in contact with the concave portion 26 of the vent opening 20. The relative position of the tab 12 and vent feature 20 shown in FIG. 5 are provided for opening the vent feature 20. Specifically, a downward force applied to the tab 12 as provided in FIG. 5 will force open the vent 20.
(56) FIGS. 6-9 depict one embodiment of an end closure 2 with a vent feature 20. FIGS. 6-7 depict the end closure with a tab 12 operable to open the vent feature 20, and FIGS. 8-9 depict an end closure of the same embodiment with the tab 12 removed. FIG. 6 is a top plan view of an end closure 2 according to one embodiment of the present invention wherein a tab 12 is provided, the tab 12 operable to open a dispensing opening 8 and a vent feature 20. In the position of FIG. 6, the vent feature 20 is disposed beneath a tab orienting feature 18. The tab 12 further comprises a vent interface portion 16 provided on a vent cover portion 22. The tab 12 is rotatable about a rivet 14 such that the vent protuberance 16 may be disposed over or in contact with the vent feature 20. The tab 12 and vent protuberance 16 may be forced downwardly to apply a force to and break open the vent feature 20. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional elevation view of the end closure 2 taken about line C-C of FIG. 6. As shown in FIG. 7, the tab orienting feature 18 comprises an aperture or void in the vent cover portion 22 of the tab 12. In the closed position of FIG. 7, wherein the tab orienting feature 20 is provided over and substantially concentric with the vent 20, it will be recognized that a downward force applied to the tab 12 will generally not impact or break open the vent 20.
(57) FIG. 8 is a top plan view of the end closure of the embodiment of FIG. 6. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional elevation view taken at line D-D of FIG. 8. FIGS. 8-9 depict the end closure without the tab, and thus reveal various score lines. The vent feature 20 comprises a vent score line 34 adapted to be broken open when a tab 12 is used to apply a force to the vent feature 20. The score 34 is generally circular in the depicted embodiment, but is not a closed circle as a hinge portion 32 is provided to connect the vent 20 to the central panel 4 and allow the vent 20 to hinge open. Although the vent hinge 32 is provided at a location generally between the vent 20 and the rivet 14, it will be expressly recognized that the hinge 32 may be provided at any number of radial positions with respect to the vent 20.
(58) FIGS. 10-11 depict an end closure 2 according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a top plan view of the end closure 2. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional elevation view of the end closure 2 taken at line E-E of FIG. 10. The embodiment of FIGS. 10-11 comprises a vent cover portion 22 having a tab orienting feature 18 and a vent interface portion 16. The vent cover portion 22 of the depicted embodiment comprises a stepped or tiered structure with a first tier 36 and second tier 38 as shown in FIG. 11. The vent interface portion 16 is provided in an alternative position wherein the tab must be rotated counter-clockwise from the position shown in FIG. 10 to utilize the vent interface portion 16. It will be recognized that the vent interface portion 16 may be provided in a number of different positions.
(59) FIGS. 12-13 depict an end closure 2 according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a top plan view of the end closure 2. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional elevation view of the end closure 2 taken at line F-F of FIG. 12. The embodiment of FIGS. 12-13 comprises a vent cover portion 22 having a tab orienting feature 18 and a vent interface portion 16. The vent interface portion 16 of the depicted embodiment comprises a stepped or tiered structure with a first tier 40 and second tier 42 as shown in FIG. 13.
(60) FIG. 14A is a top plan view of an end closure according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown, the end closure 50 comprises a peripheral curl 52 for securing the end closure to a container body, and a countersink 54. The end closure 50 comprises a central panel 56 located interior to the countersink 54. The central panel 56 comprises a main deboss or recess 76 within which a primary opening area 58 is provided. The primary opening area 58 comprises a tear panel for opening the end closure and allowing the container contents to be dispensed. The primary opening area 58 comprises a main score 60, which is severable by applying a force to the opening area 58 with the nose of a tab (not shown) secured to the end closure 50 at a rivet 62. The end closure 50 further comprises a secondary opening or vent feature 64. In the depicted embodiment, the vent feature 64 comprises a substantially flat oval shape. The vent feature 64 further comprises a vent score 70 and an anti-fracture feature 72. The vent feature 64 further comprises a vent hinge 78 about which the vent feature rotates during an opening operation. The vent feature 64 further comprises an upstanding dome portion 68 adapted for contact with a tail end of the tab (not shown) to force open the vent feature. In certain embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 14A, the end closure 50 further comprises a stiffening bead 74. The bead 74 may be provided to stiffen the panel 56, or to account for slack metal created during the formation of the vent score 70 and/or the anti-fracture score 72. The bead 74 of FIG. 14A comprises a geometry wherein the bead 74 extends only partially around the vent feature 64. In alternative embodiments, the end closure is devoid of the bead 74, and the end closure 50 comprises a vent feature 64 provided within a main recess 76 and the end closure 50 is devoid of additional beads or similar features (i.e. apart from main recess 76).
(61) FIGS. 14B-14C are top plan and top perspective views of the end closure 50 according to the embodiment of FIG. 14A. FIG. 14B, as shown, depicts an end closure with a primary opening area 58 comprising an aperture area of between approximately 0.25 square inches and approximately 1.0 square inch, and preferably approximately 0.56 square inches.
(62) FIG. 15A is a top plan view of the end closure 50 according to the embodiment of FIG. 14A and comprising exemplary dimensions. More specifically, as appreciated by one of skill in the art, the dimensions may be varies based on the size of the end closure, size of the primary opening, and other factors. As shown, an end closure 50 is provided with a vent feature 64 provided within a main deboss 76. The vent score 64 comprises a width B of between approximately 0.125 inches and approximately 0.50 inches, and preferably between approximately 0.300 inches and 0.350 inches. The vent score 70 comprises a height G (provided substantially perpendicular to the width) that is between approximately 0.10 and 0.20 inches, and preferably approximately 0.165 inches from the hinge 78 to the score line 70. In various embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 15A, a portion of the vent score 70 is provided proximal to an edge of the upstanding dome portion 68. As shown, a portion of the vent score 70 is offset from an edge of the upstanding dome portion by a gap D, wherein the gap D is less than approximately 0.025 inches from an edge of the upstanding dome portion 68. Preferably, the gap D comprises a distance of between approximately 0.012 inches and 0.014 inches. As shown, the vent feature 64 generally comprises a flat oval shape with a vent hinge 78 provided between the rivet and the upstanding dome portion 68. In the depicted embodiment, the vent feature 64 is adapted to hinge inwardly toward a product side of the end closure 50 and wherein score propagation begins at a point on the vent score 70 opposite the dome portion 68 with respect to the rivet.
(63) As further shown in FIG. 15A, the vent score 70 is offset from a secondary recess 74 in the form of a stiffening bead by a dimension E. In various embodiments, the dimension E comprises a distance of between approximately 0.075 and 0.10 inches, and preferably of approximately 0.083 inches. A distance F between a center point of the dome portion 68 and a portion of the vent score 70 preferably comprises a distance of between approximately 0.070 inches and 0.090 inches, and more preferably comprises a distance of approximately 0.078 inches. A distance between the vent hinge 78 and a center point of the dome portion 68 is shown as dimension H, wherein dimension H preferably comprises a distance of between approximately 0.070 and 0.10 inches, and preferably of between approximately 0.077 and 0.087 inches. A first width G of the vent feature 64 comprises a width of between approximately 0.140 and 0.180 inches, and preferably of between approximately 0.155 and 0.165 inches. A lateral distance C is provided between a center point of the dome portion 68 and a portion of the vent score 70, wherein the lateral distance C comprises a distance of between approximately 0.140 inches and 0.180 inches, and preferably of between approximately 0.150 and 0.175 inches. The dome portion 68 comprises a width I of between approximately 0.10 and 0.20 inches, and preferably of between approximately 0.128 and 0.132 inches. The width I generally comprises a dimension across the dome portion 68 between opposing intersections of the dome portion and the vent panel. In certain embodiments, the dome portion 68 comprises a hemisphere. In such embodiments, the width I comprises a diameter of the dome portion 68. In alternative embodiments, however, it is contemplated that dome portion 68 is not a complete hemisphere and/or is provided on the vent panel such that a distance across the base of the dome portion 68 does not comprise a diameter.
(64) The embodiment of FIGS. 14A-15B comprises a secondary recess 74 in the form of a stiffening bead extending at least partially around the vent feature 64. The secondary recess 74 is provided to account for slack metal created during formation of the vent score 70 and anti-fracture feature 72 and/or is provided as an access point for an underside of a tail portion of a tab (not shown). Although various embodiments of an end closure are provided herewith that comprise a secondary recess, additional embodiments of the present disclosure contemplate an end closure that is devoid of a secondary recess. For example, the vent feature of any one or more of the various embodiments shown and described herein may be provided wherein no secondary recess is provided, at least in connection with the vent feature.
(65) FIGS. 16A-17B depict an end closure 80 comprising numerous features as shown and described herein with respect to FIGS. 14A-15B, including a peripheral curl 82, countersink 84, central panel 86, main opening area 88, opening area score line 90, a rivet 92, a main deboss 106, and a vent feature 94 comprising a vent panel 96, an upstanding domed portion 98, vent score 100, anti-fracture score 102, and a vent hinge 108. A stiffening bead 104 is provided generally adjacent to the vent feature 94. The stiffening bead is provided to account for slack metals, provide strength to the end closure, and/or allow for access to an underside of the tab.
(66) As further shown in FIG. 17A, the vent score 100 is offset from a secondary recess 104 in the form of a stiffening bead by a dimension E′. In various embodiments, the dimension E′ comprises a distance of between approximately 0.075 and 0.10 inches, and preferably of approximately 0.083 inches. A distance F between a center point of the dome portion 98 and a portion of the vent score 100 preferably comprises a distance of between approximately 0.070 inches and 0.090 inches, and more preferably comprises a distance of approximately 0.078 inches. A distance between the vent hinge 108 and a center point of the dome portion 98 is shown as dimension H, wherein dimension H preferably comprises a distance of between approximately 0.070 and 0.10 inches, and preferably of between approximately 0.077 and 0.087 inches. A first width G of the vent feature 94 comprises a width of between approximately 0.140 and 0.180 inches, and preferably of between approximately 0.155 and 0.165 inches. A lateral distance C is provided between a center point of the dome portion 98 and a portion of the vent score 100, wherein the lateral distance C comprises a distance of between approximately 0.140 inches and 0.180 inches, and preferably of between approximately 0.150 and 0.175 inches. The dome portion 98 comprises a width I of between approximately 0.10 and 0.20 inches, and preferably of between approximately 0.128 and 0.132 inches. The width I generally comprises a dimension across the dome portion 98 between opposing intersections of the dome portion and the vent panel. In certain embodiments, the dome portion 98 comprises a hemisphere. In such embodiments, the width I comprises a diameter of the dome portion 98. In alternative embodiments, however, it is contemplated that dome portion 98 is not a complete hemisphere and/or is provided on the vent panel such that a distance across the base of the dome portion 98 does not comprise a diameter.
(67) FIGS. 18A-19B depict an end closure 120 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the end closure 120 comprises a peripheral curl 122 for securing the end closure to a container body, and a countersink 124. The end closure 120 comprises a central panel 126 located interior to the countersink 124. The central panel 126 comprises a main deboss or recess 128 within which a primary opening area 130 is provided. The primary opening area 130 comprises a tear panel for opening the end closure and allowing container contents to be dispensed. The primary opening area 130 comprises a main score 132, which is severable by applying a force to the opening area 130 with the nose of a tab (not shown) secured to the end closure 120 at a rivet 134.
(68) The end closure 120 further comprises a secondary opening or vent feature 138. In the depicted embodiment, the vent feature 138 comprises a substantially flat oval shape. The vent feature 138 comprises a vent score 142 and an anti-fracture feature 140. The vent feature 138 further comprises a vent hinge 146 about which the vent feature rotates during an opening operation. The vent feature 138 further comprises an upstanding dome portion 144 adapted for contact with a tail end of the tab (not shown) to force open the vent feature. In certain embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 18A, the end closure 120 further comprises a vent recess 136. The vent recess 136 may be provided to stiffen the panel 56, or to account for slack metal created during the formation of the vent score 142 and/or the anti-fracture score 140. The vent recess 136 of FIG. 18A comprises a recess that substantially surrounds and contains the vent feature 138. The vent feature 138 of the depicted embodiment is provided completely within the main recess 128. Alternative embodiments contemplate the vent recess 136 being provided external to the main recess 128 or as an extension of the main recess 128.
(69) FIGS. 18B-18C are top plan and top perspective views of the end closure 120 according to the embodiment of FIG. 18A. FIG. 18B, as shown, depicts an end closure with a primary opening area 130 comprising an aperture area of between approximately 0.25 square inches and approximately 1.0 square inches, and preferably approximately 0.56 square inches.
(70) FIG. 19A is a top plan view of the end closure 120 according to the embodiment of FIG. 18A. The dimensions provided in FIG. 18A are provided for illustrative purposes of one particular embodiment of the present disclosure. Exemplary dimensions as shown herein with respect to FIG. 19A and other figures are provided to illustrate specific embodiments of the disclosure. The inventions discussed herein are not limited to the depicted dimensions. As shown, an end closure 120 is provided with a vent feature 138 provided within a main deboss 128. The vent score 142 comprises a width of between approximately 0.125 inches and approximately 0.50 inches, and preferably approximately 0.350 inches. The vent score 142 comprises a height (provided substantially perpendicular to the width) that is between approximately 0.10 and 0.20 inches, and preferably approximately 0.165 inches from the hinge 146 to the score line 142. In various embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 19A, a portion of the vent score 142 is provided proximal an edge of the upstanding dome portion 144. As shown, a portion of the vent score 142 is positioned less than approximately 0.025 inches from an edge of the upstanding dome portion 144. Preferably, an edge of the upstanding dome portion 144 is provided approximately 0.014 inches from a portion of the vent score 142. As shown, the vent feature 138 generally comprises a flat oval shape with a vent hinge 146 provided between the rivet and the upstanding dome portion 144. In the depicted embodiment, the vent feature 138 is adapted to hinge inwardly toward a product side of the end closure 120 and wherein score propagation begins at a point on the vent score 142 opposite the dome portion 144 with respect to the rivet.
(71) As further shown in FIG. 19A, the vent score 142 is provided within a secondary recess 136. In various embodiments, a distance E″ is provided between an edge of the secondary recess 136 and the vent score 142. Preferably, the dimension E″ comprises a distance of between approximately 0.050 and 0.10 inches, and preferably of approximately 0.073 inches. A distance F between a center point of the dome portion 144 and a portion of the vent score 142 preferably comprises a distance of between approximately 0.070 inches and 0.090 inches, and more preferably comprises a distance of approximately 0.078 inches. A distance between the vent hinge and a center point of the dome portion 144 is shown as dimension H, wherein dimension H preferably comprises a distance of between approximately 0.070 and 0.10 inches, and preferably of between approximately 0.077 and 0.087 inches. A first width G of the vent feature 138 comprises a width of between approximately 0.140 and 0.180 inches, and preferably of between approximately 0.155 and 0.165 inches. A lateral distance C is provided between a center point of the dome portion 144 and a portion of the vent score 142, wherein the lateral distance C comprises a distance of between approximately 0.140 inches and 0.180 inches, and preferably of between approximately 0.150 and 0.175 inches. The dome portion 144 comprises a width I of between approximately 0.10 and 0.20 inches, and preferably of between approximately 0.128 and 0.132 inches. The width I generally comprises a dimension across the dome portion 144 between opposing intersections of the dome portion and the vent panel. In certain embodiments, the dome portion 144 comprises a hemisphere. In such embodiments, the width I comprises a diameter of the dome portion 144. In alternative embodiments, however, it is contemplated that dome portion 144 is not a complete hemisphere and/or is provided on the vent panel such that a distance across the base of the dome portion 144 does not comprise a diameter.
(72) FIGS. 14A-19B depict a vent feature provided within a main recess or deboss and provided in a specific location with respect to the rivet and other elements of the end closure. It will be expressly recognized that the vent feature(s) shown herein may be provided at various alternative locations on the central panel of the end closure(s). Indeed, alternative embodiments contemplate providing the vent feature and/or stiffening bead at different locations including outside of the main deboss, or wherein the bead or recess comprises an extension of the main recess. Furthermore, the present disclosure is not limited to end closures that comprise a single vent. End closures are contemplated as comprising a plurality of the vent features shown and described herein.
(73) FIG. 20 is a top plan view of an end closure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure with a tab 12 provided therein. The tab 12 is secured to a rivet on the end closure, and comprises an aperture 200 revealing an upstanding dome portion of a vent feature. In the closed and sealed position of FIG. 20, unwanted opening of the vent feature is avoided at least by the provision of the aperture 200. The aperture 200 also provides a visual indicia to indicate to a user that a vent feature exists beneath the tab. Opening of the vent is possible by rotating the tab 12 about the rivet and applying a downward force on the upstanding vent feature with an underside of the tail portion of the tab 12.
(74) FIGS. 21-23 are top plan views of the end closures shown in FIGS. 18A, 14A, and 16A, respectively and without a tab provided thereon. The tab 12 of FIG. 20 may be provided on any one of the end closures shown in FIGS. 21-23.
(75) FIG. 24 is a top view of a vent feature 220 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the vent feature 220 comprises a vent score 222 about which the vent may be separated or opened with respect to a remainder of the end closure at or about a vent hinge 226. A raised feature 224 is provided within the vent score 222 and the vent hinge 226. The raised feature 224 of the embodiment of FIG. 24 comprises a domed or partially-spherical feature extending at least partially above the vent feature 220. A perimeter line is shown in FIG. 24 to generally indicate the limits or boundary of the raised feature 224. Relative dimensions of the embodiment of FIG. 24 are provided, wherein a distance X is shown as comprising a lateral distance between a center of the raised feature and the score line 222 of the vent feature 220. A distance Y is shown and comprises a distance from the center of the raised feature 224 and the vent hinge 226. A distance Z is provided, distance Z comprising the distance between the center of the raised feature 224 and a portion of the score line 222 provided opposite the vent hinge. The embodiment of FIG. 24 comprises a vent feature 220 with a raised portion 224 and a vent hinge 226 and wherein the vent score 222 and the vent hinge 226 are provided substantially concentric with the raised feature 224. Specifically, illustrated dimensions are provided wherein X is substantially equivalent to Y and to Z.
(76) FIG. 25 is a top view of a vent feature 230 according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. The vent feature 230 comprises a vent score 232, a raised feature 234 and a vent hinge 236. The vent feature 230 of FIG. 25 comprises an elongated vent with a distance X between a center of the raised feature 234 and a lateral portion of the vent score 232, a distance Y between a center of the raised feature 234 and the vent hinge 236, and a distance Z between a center of the raised feature 234 and a portion of the vent score 232 opposite the vent hinge. In the embodiment of FIG. 25, distance X is approximately equal to distance Z. Distance Y comprises a distance that is approximately 1.5Z. It will be recognized that distance Y may be varied based on various parameters, but preferably comprises a distance between approximately 1.2Z and 3.0Z.
(77) FIG. 26 is a top view of a vent feature 240 according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the vent feature 240 comprises a vent score 242, a raised feature 244 and a vent hinge 246. The vent score 242 and a perimeter of the raised feature 244 comprise a substantially flat oval shape. A distance A is provided, the distance A comprises a distance or spacing between the vent score 242 and a perimeter of the raised feature 244. In the embodiment of FIG. 26, the distance A is substantially constant around the perimeter of the raised feature 244.
(78) FIGS. 24-26 depict vent features of various embodiments of the present disclosure. The vent features of FIGS. 24-26 may be provided in various locations on an end closure, including within a main deboss, external to a main deboss, and within a local recess feature (which may further be provided in various locations on the end closure).
(79) FIGS. 27-35 depict end closures in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure. The various embodiments contemplate different vent features and/or stiffening beads. The features and functions of vent features and stiffening beads as described herein apply to the embodiments of FIGS. 27-35, which are provided to illustrate that various modifications to such features are contemplated. Such modifications may be desirable based on can or end closure size, aesthetic purposes, or various other reasons. FIGS. 27-35 provide various end closures 249, 251, 253, 255, 257, 261, 263, 265, 267 with various combinations of vent openings 300, 302, 304, 306, 258, 260, 308, 310, 312, 314 and secondary recesses 250, 252, 254, 256, 262, 264, 266, 268. It will be recognized that various vent openings as shown and described in this disclosure may be combined with various stiffening structures and secondary recesses shown and described herein, and that the present disclosure is not limited to the particular combinations and embodiments provided in the figures.
(80) FIG. 36 is a top plan view of an end closure 270 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the end closure 270 comprises a central panel 272 with a peripheral curl 274 extending therefrom and wherein the end closure 270 is adapted to be secured to a container body (not shown). The central panel 272 comprises a deboss 276 within which is provided a primary opening 278 that is openable via a primary score line 280. A tab (not shown) may be attached to the central panel 272 by a rivet 292. Opposite the rivet 292 from the primary opening 278 is a vent opening 282. The vent opening 282 comprises a vent score 284 and a vent hinge 286. The vent score 284 comprises an oval or ovoid shape with various radii of curvature. The vent score 284 defines a severable score line about which the vent opening 282 can be forced open. The vent opening 282 comprises a button or domed portion 288 comprising a semi-circular member extending upwardly toward a public side of the closure. A curvilinear secondary recess 290 is provided external to and at least partially surrounding the vent feature 282 and vent panel 292. The secondary recess 290 is provided to account for slack metal, increase panel stiffness, and/or assist with opening of the vent feature 282. As shown in FIG. 36, the closure further comprises a tab access feature 294 to enhance access to an underside of a tab and assist a user in opening operations. The tab access feature 294 also provides enhanced stiffness to the panel, and in certain embodiments comprises a means for accounting for slack metal created in the manufacturing process.
(81) The description of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting of the invention to the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. The embodiments described and shown in the figures were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention, the practical application, and to enable those of ordinary skill in the art to understand the invention.
(82) While various embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it is apparent that modifications and alterations of those embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. Moreover, references made herein to “the present invention” or aspects thereof should be understood to mean certain embodiments of the present invention and should not necessarily be construed as limiting all embodiments to a particular description. It is to be expressly understood that such modifications and alterations are within the scope and spirit of the present invention.
