EP2081709B1 - Easy open can end with high pressure venting - Google Patents
Easy open can end with high pressure venting Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP2081709B1 EP2081709B1 EP07820261A EP07820261A EP2081709B1 EP 2081709 B1 EP2081709 B1 EP 2081709B1 EP 07820261 A EP07820261 A EP 07820261A EP 07820261 A EP07820261 A EP 07820261A EP 2081709 B1 EP2081709 B1 EP 2081709B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- score
- end panel
- forming
- moustache
- flex
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Not-in-force
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B21—MECHANICAL METAL-WORKING WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
- B21D—WORKING OR PROCESSING OF SHEET METAL OR METAL TUBES, RODS OR PROFILES WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
- B21D51/00—Making hollow objects
- B21D51/16—Making hollow objects characterised by the use of the objects
- B21D51/38—Making inlet or outlet arrangements of cans, tins, baths, bottles, or other vessels; Making can ends; Making closures
- B21D51/383—Making inlet or outlet arrangements of cans, tins, baths, bottles, or other vessels; Making can ends; Making closures scoring lines, tear strips or pulling tabs
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D17/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers specially constructed to be opened by cutting or piercing, or by tearing of frangible members or portions
- B65D17/28—Rigid or semi-rigid containers specially constructed to be opened by cutting or piercing, or by tearing of frangible members or portions at lines or points of weakness
- B65D17/401—Rigid or semi-rigid containers specially constructed to be opened by cutting or piercing, or by tearing of frangible members or portions at lines or points of weakness characterised by having the line of weakness provided in an end wall
- B65D17/4011—Rigid or semi-rigid containers specially constructed to be opened by cutting or piercing, or by tearing of frangible members or portions at lines or points of weakness characterised by having the line of weakness provided in an end wall for opening completely by means of a tearing tab
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D17/00—Rigid or semi-rigid containers specially constructed to be opened by cutting or piercing, or by tearing of frangible members or portions
- B65D17/28—Rigid or semi-rigid containers specially constructed to be opened by cutting or piercing, or by tearing of frangible members or portions at lines or points of weakness
- B65D17/404—Details of the lines of weakness
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2517/00—Containers specially constructed to be opened by cutting, piercing or tearing of wall portions, e.g. preserving cans or tins
- B65D2517/0001—Details
- B65D2517/001—Action for opening container
- B65D2517/0016—Action for opening container pivot tab, push-down and pull-out tear panel
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2517/00—Containers specially constructed to be opened by cutting, piercing or tearing of wall portions, e.g. preserving cans or tins
- B65D2517/0001—Details
- B65D2517/0091—Means for venting upon initial opening
- B65D2517/0092—Means for venting upon initial opening formed as a partial score line located close to the tab connection
Definitions
- This invention relates broadly to the field of convenience closures for full-open type can ends. More specifically, this invention relates to convenience closures for full-open type can ends which are suitable for use in pressurised food can applications. Further aspects of the invention relate to a method and tooling assembly for making such a convenience closure.
- One form of self-opening can which is in wide use is the so called full-open can, in which a peripheral score, generally circular in configuration, is formed in the end panel at or adjacent to the periphery thereof to permit its complete removal.
- Full-open type cans are to be distinguished from those self-opening cans which have a comparatively small removable section which, when opened, provide a comparatively small hole for dispensing the product.
- the latter type of can end is only appropriate for packaging soda, beer, or other liquids.
- Full-open type cans are suitable for packaging solid products such as candy, nuts, meats, or ground coffee.
- FIGURE 1 A conventional full-open type can end of the type disclosed in U.S. Patent 5,232,114 to Zysset is depicted in FIGURE 1 .
- Can end 10 conventionally includes an end panel 12 and an edge-curled peripheral flange 14 that is adapted to be interfolded with an end flange of a can body.
- a peripheral score 16 At or adjacent to the periphery of the end panel 12 is a peripheral score 16 which is indented into the end panel 12 and defines a fixed can end portion 18 and a removable portion or panel 20.
- a gripping tab 22 is mounted to the end panel 12 by means of a rivet formation 24.
- the gripping tab 22 is positioned close enough to the peripheral score 16 so that when its inner end is rocked upwardly to cause its outer end to move downwardly and exert a downward force on the end panel 12 at or near the peripheral score 16, a portion of the end panel 12 is bent downwardly to initiate rupture of the peripheral score 16. Thereafter, an upward and backward pull on the gripping tab 22 by the user induces tearing of the metal in the peripheral score 16 on both sides of the area of initial rupture to complete detachment from the can of the removable portion or panel 20 of the end panel 12.
- vent score behind the rivet formation 24 toward the centre of the end panel 12 in order to relieve internal pressure or vacuum that exists within the container, and thereby avoid implosion or explosion as the container is opened by pivoting of the gripping tab 22 about the rivet formation 24.
- the most frequently used shape for the vent score is curved like a man's moustache and therefore these scores are generally known as "moustache scores.”
- a moustache score 34 may be formed in the end panel 12, as is illustrated in FIG. 1 .
- Moustache score 34 typically has an inner portion 36 that is defined on a raised area 26 of rivet formation 24 having an outer edge 27, and at least one outer portion 38 that is defined on the outer surface of end panel 12.
- Raised area 26 includes an oval shaped first operation bubble 40, which is elongated along an axis which is a chord perpendicular to a radius of end panel 12.
- Raised area 26 further includes a second operation bubble 30, which is defined centrally with respect to the first operation bubble 40.
- the inner portion 36 of moustache score 34 may be curved about the radial inner periphery of the second operation bubble 30.
- the outer portions 38 of the moustache score 34 would typically be shaped so as to flare outwardly from the respective inner portions 36, and would typically end up at their extreme outer ends to be substantially parallel or slightly curved away from the peripheral score 16.
- a highly pressurised container for the purposes of this document is a container that is pressurised to at least 25 pounds per square inch over ambient pressure conditions.
- CH 513 748 A (American Can Co) discloses a convenience closure having the features of the pre-characterising portion of claim 1.
- a method of making the above convenience closure comprising: providing an end panel; forming a moustache score in the end panel; forming a flex line score in the end panel adjacent to the moustache score; characterised in that the method further comprises:
- a tooling assembly for forming an end panel of the above full-open convenience closure comprising:
- FIGURE 1 is a diagrammatical view of a previously known easy open can end configuration
- FIGURE 2 is a perspective view of an easy open can end that is constructed according to a preferred embodiment of the invention
- FIGURE 3 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view of the easy open can end that is depicted in FIGURE 2 ;
- FIGURE 4 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view of a press assembly that is preferably used in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention.
- FIGURE 5 is a diagrammatical depiction of an opening score pattern and a forming tool according to a preferred embodiment of the invention
- FIGURE 6 is a diagrammatical depiction of an opening score pattern and a forming tool according to a modified embodiment
- FIGURE 7 is a diagrammatical depiction of the opening score pattern that is shown in FIGURE 5 ;
- FIGURE 8 indicates that the seven forming operations in a preferred method of forming an easy open can end according to a preferred embodiment of the invention
- FIGURE 9 is a diagrammatical depiction of an improved opening score pattern and a forming tool according to the preferred embodiment of the invention.
- FIGURE 10 is a diagrammatical depiction of the opening score pattern that is shown in FIGURE 9 .
- a full-open convenience closure or easy open can end 50 that is constructed according to a preferred embodiment of the invention includes an end panel 52 that has pictorial opening instructions 54 embossed thereon.
- a peripheral score 72 has been formed in the end panel 52 and defines a fixed portion 74 of the end panel 52 and a removable portion 76 of the end panel 52.
- a finger well 56 is defined in an upper surface of the end panel 52.
- the full-open convenience closure 50 further includes a circumferentially extending end curl or seaming panel 58 that is constructed and arranged to be secured to a container using a double seaming process. It also includes a tab 60 that has a main body portion 62 including a nose portion 63 that is constructed and arranged to exert a downward force on the end panel 52 in an area that is proximate to the peripheral score 72 when a lifting ring 64 of the tab 60 is lifted by a consumer. A rivet formation 66 secures the tab 60 to the end panel 52.
- Convenience closure 50 further preferably includes a double fold 68 that is defined in the end panel 52 adjacent to the peripheral score 72 in order to provide cut protection for a consumer.
- a plurality of opening scores 70 are preferably defined in the end panel 52 in an area that is generally proximate to the location of the rivet formation 66.
- the opening scores 70 include a moustache score 78, a flex line score 80 and a pair of break line scores 98, 100, which are best shown in FIGURE 7 .
- the end panel 52 has all of these scores defined therein, it should be understood that in alternative embodiments not covered by the claims the moustache score 78 could be provided with a flex line score, with or without a break line score.
- FIGURE 7 provides a more detailed view of the opening scores 70 in the preferred embodiment.
- the moustache score 78 preferably includes a central portion 84 that is positioned radially inwardly on the end panel 52 relative to the rivet formation 66 and is curved about the rivet formation 66 in such a manner that a concave side of the central portion 84 faces the rivet formation 66.
- the curvature of the central portion 84 is preferably a constant radius of curvature.
- Moustache score 78 further preferably includes first and second end portions 86, 88 that are preferably symmetric with respect to each other about a diametric axis of symmetry 82 that extends through the centre 90 of the rivet formation 66.
- Each of the first and second end portions 86, 88 preferably include a convex side of curvature that faces the nearest portions of the peripheral score 72.
- Each of the first and second end portions 86, 88 preferably have a constant radius of curvature R1 that preferably extends along an arc section that is at least about 150°.
- the constant radius of curvature R1 is preferably substantially within a range of about 1,78 mm (0.07 inches) to about 5,1 mm (0.2 inches).
- the distal ends of the first and second end portions 86, 88 in the preferred embodiment point away from the nearest portion of the peripheral score 72, and a tangent line extending through the distal ends (i.e. tangential to the distal ends) would preferably be substantially perpendicular to a tangent line of the peripheral score 72 at a location where the first tangent line would intersect the peripheral score 72.
- a transition location 92 between the central portion 84 and the first end portion 86 is located at a transitional angle ⁇ from the diametric axis of symmetry 82 that is preferably substantially within a range of about 45° to about 60°. More preferably, this angle is substantially within a range of about 50° to about 55°.
- the flex line score 80 preferably has a first portion 94 that is located on a first side of the rivet formation 66 and a second portion 96 that is located on a second, opposite side of the rivet formation 66.
- the first and second portions 94, 96 of the flex line score 80 are preferably aligned and symmetric with respect to each other and are both linear.
- the flex line score 80 and its components 94, 96 are preferably substantially perpendicular with respect to the diametric axis of symmetry 82.
- the flex line score 80 preferably has a residual thickness (i.e. a thickness that remains in the end panel 52 at the location of the score line 80) that is substantially the same as a residual thickness of the moustache score 78.
- the flex line score 80 further preferably has a residual thickness that is within a range of about 25% to about 40% of a thickness of the end panel 52. More preferably, the flex line score 80 has a residual thickness that is substantially within a range of about 30% to about 35% of the thickness of the end panel 52.
- the moustache score 78 has a residual thickness that is preferably substantially within a range of about 25% to about 40% of the thickness of the end panel 52. More preferably, the moustache score 78 has a residual thickness that is substantially within a range of about 30% to about 35% of the thickness of the end panel 52.
- the moustache score 78 preferably has a residual thickness that is no greater than about 0,1143 mm (0.0045 inches) and more preferably no greater than about 0,0889 mm (0.0035 inches).
- FIGURE 7 shows, the portions of the moustache score 78 that most closely approach the flex line score 80 present a convex side of curvature that faces the flex line score 80.
- a pair of break line scores 98, 100 are defined in the end panel 52 in order to provide a pre-weakened tearing path between the moustache score 78 and the flex line score 80 that is utilised by the convenience closure 50 during the preliminary stages of opening.
- the break line scores 98, 100 are positioned between the moustache score 78 and the flex line score 80.
- Each of the break line scores 98, 100 are preferably substantially perpendicular to the flex line score 80 and are aligned with locations on the respective first and second end portions 86, 88 of the moustache score 78 that most closely approach the flex line score 80.
- the break line scores 98, 100 are preferably substantially perpendicular with respect to tangent lines that would pass through the locations on the respective first and second end portions 86, 88 of the moustache score 78 that most closely approach the flex line score 80.
- the break line scores 98, 100 preferably have a residual thickness that is greater than a residual thickness of the flex score line 80 and that is greater than a residual thickness of the moustache score 78.
- the residual thickness of the break line scores 98, 100 is preferably substantially within a range of about 30% to about 95% of the thickness of the end panel 52, with a more preferred range of about 50% to about 80% of the thickness of the end panel 52.
- the convenience closure 50 When the convenience closure 50 is used in conjunction with a can body to package contents under high pressure (i.e. over 20 psi), it may be opened by a consumer by gripping the lifting tab 60 and pulling the lift ring 64 upwardly.
- the nose portion 63 will move downwardly and exert a downward force on the end panel 52 at or near the peripheral score 72.
- sufficient tension is formed in the end panel 52 in the area near the central portion 84 of the moustache score 78 to cause a rupture of the end panel at the central portion 84.
- Pressurised gas within the container will be permitted to harmlessly vent through the rupture in the central portion 84 of the moustache score 78 without affecting the integrity of the peripheral score 72 or accelerating the opening process.
- the flow of pressurised gas will tend to be directed harmlessly at an oblique angle beneath the fingers of the consumer across the top of the end panel 52 so as not to present a hazard to the consumer.
- the presence of the flex score line 80 reduces the amount of force that will need to be exerted by the consumer to cause the initial rupture of the central portion 84 of the moustache score 78.
- the consumer will continue to pull the lifting ring 64 upwardly, which causes the tear or rupture in the central portion 84 of the moustache score 78 to enlarge.
- the tearing will progressively advance into the first and second end portions 86, 88 of the moustache score 78.
- the tear line will leave the moustache score 78 and advance directly to the respective first and second portions 94, 96 of the flex line score 80 along the path of the break line scores 98, 100. This will occur even in embodiments where the break line scores 98, 100 are not present.
- the tooling assembly for forming the convenience closure 50 includes a third operation press assembly 101 including an upper portion 102 and a lower portion 104 that are mounted for movement with respect to each other.
- the tooling assembly further preferably includes a first forming tool 106 for forming a top surface of the end panel 52 of the convenience closure 50.
- the first forming tool 106 preferably includes a first tool surface 108 that is constructed and arranged to form the moustache score 78 and a second tool surface 110 that is constructed and arranged to form the flex line score 80.
- the second tool surface 110 includes a first portion 112 for forming the first portion 94 of the flex line score 80 and a second portion 114 for forming the second portion 96 of the flex line score 80.
- First forming tool 106 also preferably includes a third tool surface 116 for forming the first break line score 98 and a fourth tool surface 118 for forming the second break line score 100. Both the first tool surface 108 and the second tool surface 110 are formed as projections that extend outwardly from the substantially flat, horizontal base surface of the first forming tool 106.
- FIGURE 6 depicts a first forming tool 120 according to a modified embodiment.
- First forming tool 120 is identical in all respects to the first forming tool 106 described above, except that it lacks the third and fourth tool surfaces 116, 118 for forming the first and second break line scores 98, 100.
- First forming tool 120 would be used to manufacture a convenience closure according to a modified embodiment in which the break line scores 98, 100 are not present.
- a method of making such a convenience closure 50 according to the preferred embodiment of the invention would include a step of providing an end panel blank and providing the tooling discussed above in relation to FIGURES 4-5 .
- the tooling would be used in otherwise conventional fashion to form the convenience closure that is discussed in detail above.
- the preferred method of making the convenience closure 50 utilises a seven operation manufacturing process, as indicated in FIGURE 8 .
- the first forming operation is used to form the rivet bubble formation on the end panel blank.
- the second forming operation completes the formation of the rivet button and begins the formation of a lower safety fold.
- the third forming operation forms the score lines that have been described in detail above and pre-folds an upper safety fold.
- the fourth operation completes the folding of the lower safety fold.
- the fifth operation involves the staking of the tab to the end panel and a final rivet operation.
- the sixth operation includes a tab detect function as well as a step of forming an upper fold pre-bulge.
- the seventh and final operation involves a step of completing the folding of the upper fold into a position where it will afford cut protection.
- an easy open can end that is constructed according to a second, preferred embodiment of the invention is identical to that described above with regard to the first embodiment of the invention except as otherwise described herein.
- a plurality of opening scores 270 are preferably defined in the end panel of the can end in an area that is generally proximate to the location of the rivet formation 224, shown in FIGURE 9 .
- the opening scores 270 preferably include a moustache score 278, a flex line score 280 and a pair of break line scores 298, 300, which are best shown in FIGURE 10 .
- the end panel has all of these scores defined therein, it should be understood that in alternative embodiments not covered by the claims the moustache score 278 could be provided with a flex line score 280, with or without a break line score.
- the moustache score 278 preferably includes a central portion 284 that is positioned radially inwardly on the end panel relative to the rivet formation 224 and is curved about the rivet formation 224 in such a manner that a concave side of the central portion 284 faces the rivet formation 224.
- the curvature of the central portion 284 is preferably a constant radius of curvature.
- the moustache score 278 further preferably includes first and second end portions 286, 288 that are preferably symmetric with respect to each other about a diametric axis of symmetry 282 that extends through the centre of the rivet formation 224.
- Each of the first and second end portions 286, 288 preferably includes a convex side of curvature that faces the nearest portions of the peripheral score 272.
- Each of the first and second end portions 286, 288 preferably have a constant radius of curvature R1 that preferably extends along an arc section that is at least about 150°.
- the constant radius of curvature R1 is preferably substantially within a range of about 1,78 mm (0.07 inches) to about 5,1 mm (0.2 inches).
- the distal ends of the first and second end portions 286, 288 in the preferred embodiment point away from the nearest portion of the peripheral score 272, and a tangent line extending through the distal ends (i.e. tangential to the distal ends) would preferably be substantially perpendicular to a tangent line of the peripheral score 272 at a location where the first tangent line would intersect the peripheral score 272.
- a transition location 292 between the central portion 284 and the first end portion 286 is located at a transitional angle ⁇ from the diametric axis of symmetry 282 that is preferably substantially within a range of about 45° to about 60°. More preferably, this angle is substantially within a range of about 50° to about 55°.
- the flex line score 280 preferably has a first portion 294 that is located on a first side of the rivet formation 224 and a second portion 296 that is located on a second, opposite side of the rivet formation 224.
- the first portion 294 in this embodiment of the invention preferably includes a substantially linear portion 304 that is proximate to the rivet formation 224 and a second, curved portion 306 at an end of the first portion 294 that is distal from the rivet formation 224.
- the second portion 294 in this embodiment of the invention preferably includes a substantially linear portion 308 that is proximate to the rivet formation 224 and a second, curved portion 310 at an end of the second portion 296 that is distal from the rivet formation 224.
- One purpose of the curved portions 306, 310 is to deter possible tearing from occurring near the outer distal ends of the first and second flex line score portions 294, 296 during and after opening of the easy open end by a consumer.
- the first and second portions 294, 296 of the flex line score 280 are preferably aligned and symmetric with respect to each other.
- the linear portions 304, 308 of the flex line score 280 and its components 294, 296 are preferably substantially perpendicular with respect to the diametric axis of symmetry 282.
- the flex line score 280 preferably has a residual thickness (i.e. a thickness that remains in the end panel at the location of the score line 280) that is substantially the same as a residual thickness of the moustache score 278.
- the flex line score 280 further preferably has a residual thickness that is within a range of about 25% to about 40% of a thickness of the end panel. More preferably, the flex line score 280 has a residual thickness that is substantially within a range of about 30% to about 35% of the thickness of the end panel.
- the moustache score 278 has a residual thickness that is preferably substantially within a range of about 25% to about 40% of the thickness of the end panel. More preferably, the moustache score 278 has a residual thickness that is substantially within a range of about 30% to about 35% of the thickness of the end panel.
- the moustache score 278 preferably has a residual thickness that is no greater than about 0,1143 mm (0.0045 inches), and more preferably no greater than about 0,0889 mm (0.0035 inches).
- FIGURE 10 shows, the portions of the moustache score 278 that most closely approach the flex line score 280 present a convex side of curvature that faces the flex line score 280.
- a pair of break line scores 298, 300 are defined in the end panel in order to provide a pre-weakened tearing path between the moustache score 278 and the flex line score 280 that is utilised by the convenience closure during the preliminary stages of opening.
- the break line scores 298, 300 are positioned between the moustache score 278 and the flex line score 280.
- Each of the break line scores 298, 300 are preferably substantially perpendicular to the flex line score 280 and are aligned with the locations on the respective first and second end portions 286, 288 of the moustache score 278 that most closely approach the flex line score 280.
- the break line scores 298,300 are preferably substantially perpendicular with respect to tangent lines that would pass through the locations on the respective first and second end portions 286, 288 of the moustache score 278 that most closely approach the flex line score 280.
- the break line scores 298, 300 preferably have a residual thickness that is greater than a residual thickness of the flex score line 280 and that is greater than a residual thickness of the moustache score 278.
- the residual thickness of the break line scores 298, 300 is preferably substantially within a range of about 30% to about 95% of the thickness of the end panel, with a more preferred range of about 50% to about 80% of the thickness of the end panel.
- the presence of the flex score line 280 reduces the amount of force that will need to be exerted by the consumer to cause the initial rupture of the central portion 284 of the moustache score 278.
- the first forming tool 206 preferably includes a first tool surface 208 that is constructed and arranged to form the moustache score 278 and a second tool surface 210 that is constructed and arranged to form the flex line score 280.
- the second tool surface 210 includes a first portion 212 for forming the first linear portion 304 of the first portion 294 of the flex line score 280 and a second portion 220 for forming the curved portion 306 of the first portion 294 of the flex line score 280. It further includes a third portion 214 for forming the linear portion 308 of the second portion 296 of the flex line score 280 and a fourth portion 222 for forming the curved portion 310 of the second portion 296 of the flex line score 280.
- the first forming tool 206 also preferably includes a third tool surface 216 for forming the first break line score 298 and a fourth tool surface 218 for forming the second break line score 300. Both the first tool surface 208 and the second tool surface 210 are formed as projections that extend outwardly from the substantially flat, horizontal base surface of the first forming tool 206.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Containers Opened By Tearing Frangible Portions (AREA)
Description
- This invention relates broadly to the field of convenience closures for full-open type can ends. More specifically, this invention relates to convenience closures for full-open type can ends which are suitable for use in pressurised food can applications. Further aspects of the invention relate to a method and tooling assembly for making such a convenience closure.
- One form of self-opening can which is in wide use is the so called full-open can, in which a peripheral score, generally circular in configuration, is formed in the end panel at or adjacent to the periphery thereof to permit its complete removal.
- Full-open type cans are to be distinguished from those self-opening cans which have a comparatively small removable section which, when opened, provide a comparatively small hole for dispensing the product. The latter type of can end is only appropriate for packaging soda, beer, or other liquids. Full-open type cans, on the other hand, are suitable for packaging solid products such as candy, nuts, meats, or ground coffee.
- A conventional full-open type can end of the type disclosed in
U.S. Patent 5,232,114 to Zysset is depicted inFIGURE 1 . Can end 10 conventionally includes anend panel 12 and an edge-curledperipheral flange 14 that is adapted to be interfolded with an end flange of a can body. At or adjacent to the periphery of theend panel 12 is aperipheral score 16 which is indented into theend panel 12 and defines a fixedcan end portion 18 and a removable portion orpanel 20. Agripping tab 22 is mounted to theend panel 12 by means of arivet formation 24. - The
gripping tab 22 is positioned close enough to theperipheral score 16 so that when its inner end is rocked upwardly to cause its outer end to move downwardly and exert a downward force on theend panel 12 at or near theperipheral score 16, a portion of theend panel 12 is bent downwardly to initiate rupture of theperipheral score 16. Thereafter, an upward and backward pull on thegripping tab 22 by the user induces tearing of the metal in theperipheral score 16 on both sides of the area of initial rupture to complete detachment from the can of the removable portion orpanel 20 of theend panel 12. - It is also known within the prior art to employ a vent score behind the
rivet formation 24 toward the centre of theend panel 12 in order to relieve internal pressure or vacuum that exists within the container, and thereby avoid implosion or explosion as the container is opened by pivoting of the grippingtab 22 about therivet formation 24. The most frequently used shape for the vent score is curved like a man's moustache and therefore these scores are generally known as "moustache scores." - For the aforesaid purposes and to promote flexibility and to provide a hinge point for the
tab 22 when it is lifted, amoustache score 34 may be formed in theend panel 12, as is illustrated inFIG. 1 . Moustachescore 34 typically has aninner portion 36 that is defined on a raisedarea 26 ofrivet formation 24 having anouter edge 27, and at least oneouter portion 38 that is defined on the outer surface ofend panel 12.Raised area 26 includes an oval shapedfirst operation bubble 40, which is elongated along an axis which is a chord perpendicular to a radius ofend panel 12. Raisedarea 26 further includes asecond operation bubble 30, which is defined centrally with respect to thefirst operation bubble 40. - The
inner portion 36 ofmoustache score 34 may be curved about the radial inner periphery of thesecond operation bubble 30. Theouter portions 38 of themoustache score 34 would typically be shaped so as to flare outwardly from the respectiveinner portions 36, and would typically end up at their extreme outer ends to be substantially parallel or slightly curved away from theperipheral score 16. - Although conventional moustache scores, such as the one that is described above, are generally effective in preventing violent explosions or implosions during the opening of containers that are moderately pressurised or underpressurised, they tend to be ineffective in preventing explosions during the opening of highly pressurised containers. A highly pressurised container for the purposes of this document is a container that is pressurised to at least 25 pounds per square inch over ambient pressure conditions.
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CH 513 748 A - A need exists for an improved easy open can end that can be used with highly pressurised containers and that is capable of effectively reducing the likelihood of a violent explosion or implosion occurring when such a highly pressurised container is opened.
- Accordingly, it is an object of the invention to provide an improved easy open can end that can be used with highly pressurised containers and that is capable of effectively reducing the likelihood of a violent explosion or implosion occurring when such a highly pressurised container is opened.
- In order to achieve the above and other objects of the invention, a full-open convenience closure which is adapted for sealing an end of a can according to a first aspect of the invention comprises an end panel, a peripheral score in the end panel, the peripheral score defining fixed and removable portions of the end panel, a tab having a nose portion for exerting a downwards force on the end panel in an area proximate to the peripheral score, a rivet formation for securing the tab to the end panel, the closure further comprising a flex line score defined in the end panel and located adjacent to the rivet formation, which has a first portion that is located on a first side of the rivet formation and a second portion that is located on a second, opposite side of the rivet formation, and a moustache score defined in the end panel which includes a central portion that is positioned radially inwardly on the end panel relative to the rivet formation and is curved about the rivet formation in such a manner that a concave side of the central portion faces the rivet formation and includes first and second end portions that are preferably symmetric with respect to each other about a diametric axis of symmetry that extends through the centre of the rivet formation; which includes a central portion that is positioned radially inwardly on the end panel relative to the rivet formation and is curved about the rivet formation in such a manner that a concave side of the central portion faces the rivet formation and includes first and second end portions that are preferably symmetric with respect to each other about a diametric axis of symmetry that extends through the centre of the rivet formation; characterised in that at least two break line scores are defined in the end panel to provide a pre-weakened tearing path between the moustache score and the flex line score.
- In a second aspect of the invention there is provided a method of making the above convenience closure, comprising: providing an end panel;
forming a moustache score in the end panel;
forming a flex line score in the end panel adjacent to the moustache score;
characterised in that the method further comprises: - forming at least two break line scores between the moustache score and the flex line score.
- In a third aspect of the invention there is provided a tooling assembly for forming an end panel of the above full-open convenience closure, comprising:
- a first forming tool for forming a top surface of an end panel for an easy open can end, said first forming tool comprising:
- a first tool surface that is constructed and arranged to form a moustache score in the end panel;
- a second tool surface that is constructed and arranged to form a flex line score in the end panel that is in a predetermined relationship to the moustache score;
- the tooling assembly further comprising:
- a second forming tool that is constructed and arranged to work together with the first forming tool; and
- a press assembly for driving at least one of the first and second forming tools;
- characterised in that the first forming tool further comprises third and fourth tool surfaces for forming first and second break line scores.
- These and various other advantages and features of novelty that characterise the invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed hereto and forming a part hereof. However, for a better understanding of the invention, its advantages, and the objects obtained by its use, reference should be made to the drawings which form a further part hereof, and to the accompanying descriptive matter, in which there is illustrated and described a preferred embodiment of the invention.
-
FIGURE 1 is a diagrammatical view of a previously known easy open can end configuration; -
FIGURE 2 is a perspective view of an easy open can end that is constructed according to a preferred embodiment of the invention; -
FIGURE 3 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view of the easy open can end that is depicted inFIGURE 2 ; -
FIGURE 4 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view of a press assembly that is preferably used in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention; -
FIGURE 5 is a diagrammatical depiction of an opening score pattern and a forming tool according to a preferred embodiment of the invention; -
FIGURE 6 is a diagrammatical depiction of an opening score pattern and a forming tool according to a modified embodiment; -
FIGURE 7 is a diagrammatical depiction of the opening score pattern that is shown inFIGURE 5 ; -
FIGURE 8 indicates that the seven forming operations in a preferred method of forming an easy open can end according to a preferred embodiment of the invention; -
FIGURE 9 is a diagrammatical depiction of an improved opening score pattern and a forming tool according to the preferred embodiment of the invention; and -
FIGURE 10 is a diagrammatical depiction of the opening score pattern that is shown inFIGURE 9 . - Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding structure throughout the views, and referring in particular to
FIGURES 2 and3 , a full-open convenience closure or easy open can end 50 that is constructed according to a preferred embodiment of the invention includes anend panel 52 that haspictorial opening instructions 54 embossed thereon. As is conventional, aperipheral score 72 has been formed in theend panel 52 and defines afixed portion 74 of theend panel 52 and aremovable portion 76 of theend panel 52. Afinger well 56 is defined in an upper surface of theend panel 52. - The full-
open convenience closure 50 further includes a circumferentially extending end curl orseaming panel 58 that is constructed and arranged to be secured to a container using a double seaming process. It also includes atab 60 that has amain body portion 62 including anose portion 63 that is constructed and arranged to exert a downward force on theend panel 52 in an area that is proximate to theperipheral score 72 when alifting ring 64 of thetab 60 is lifted by a consumer. Arivet formation 66 secures thetab 60 to theend panel 52.Convenience closure 50 further preferably includes adouble fold 68 that is defined in theend panel 52 adjacent to theperipheral score 72 in order to provide cut protection for a consumer. - According to one particularly advantageous feature of the invention, a plurality of
opening scores 70 are preferably defined in theend panel 52 in an area that is generally proximate to the location of therivet formation 66. The opening scores 70 include amoustache score 78, aflex line score 80 and a pair of break line scores 98, 100, which are best shown inFIGURE 7 . Although in the preferred embodiment theend panel 52 has all of these scores defined therein, it should be understood that in alternative embodiments not covered by the claims themoustache score 78 could be provided with a flex line score, with or without a break line score. -
FIGURE 7 provides a more detailed view of the openingscores 70 in the preferred embodiment. AsFIGURE 7 shows, themoustache score 78 preferably includes acentral portion 84 that is positioned radially inwardly on theend panel 52 relative to therivet formation 66 and is curved about therivet formation 66 in such a manner that a concave side of thecentral portion 84 faces therivet formation 66. The curvature of thecentral portion 84 is preferably a constant radius of curvature. -
Moustache score 78 further preferably includes first andsecond end portions symmetry 82 that extends through thecentre 90 of therivet formation 66. Each of the first andsecond end portions peripheral score 72. - Each of the first and
second end portions second end portions peripheral score 72, and a tangent line extending through the distal ends (i.e. tangential to the distal ends) would preferably be substantially perpendicular to a tangent line of theperipheral score 72 at a location where the first tangent line would intersect theperipheral score 72. - Preferably, a
transition location 92 between thecentral portion 84 and thefirst end portion 86 is located at a transitional angle α from the diametric axis ofsymmetry 82 that is preferably substantially within a range of about 45° to about 60°. More preferably, this angle is substantially within a range of about 50° to about 55°. - The
flex line score 80 preferably has afirst portion 94 that is located on a first side of therivet formation 66 and asecond portion 96 that is located on a second, opposite side of therivet formation 66. The first andsecond portions flex line score 80 are preferably aligned and symmetric with respect to each other and are both linear. Theflex line score 80 and itscomponents symmetry 82. - The
flex line score 80 preferably has a residual thickness (i.e. a thickness that remains in theend panel 52 at the location of the score line 80) that is substantially the same as a residual thickness of themoustache score 78. Theflex line score 80 further preferably has a residual thickness that is within a range of about 25% to about 40% of a thickness of theend panel 52. More preferably, theflex line score 80 has a residual thickness that is substantially within a range of about 30% to about 35% of the thickness of theend panel 52. - The
moustache score 78 has a residual thickness that is preferably substantially within a range of about 25% to about 40% of the thickness of theend panel 52. More preferably, themoustache score 78 has a residual thickness that is substantially within a range of about 30% to about 35% of the thickness of theend panel 52. Themoustache score 78 preferably has a residual thickness that is no greater than about 0,1143 mm (0.0045 inches) and more preferably no greater than about 0,0889 mm (0.0035 inches). - As
FIGURE 7 shows, the portions of themoustache score 78 that most closely approach theflex line score 80 present a convex side of curvature that faces theflex line score 80. - As seen in
FIGURE 7 , in the preferred embodiment of the invention a pair of break line scores 98, 100 are defined in theend panel 52 in order to provide a pre-weakened tearing path between themoustache score 78 and theflex line score 80 that is utilised by theconvenience closure 50 during the preliminary stages of opening. The break line scores 98, 100 are positioned between themoustache score 78 and theflex line score 80. Each of the break line scores 98, 100 are preferably substantially perpendicular to theflex line score 80 and are aligned with locations on the respective first andsecond end portions moustache score 78 that most closely approach theflex line score 80. - The break line scores 98, 100 are preferably substantially perpendicular with respect to tangent lines that would pass through the locations on the respective first and
second end portions moustache score 78 that most closely approach theflex line score 80. The break line scores 98, 100 preferably have a residual thickness that is greater than a residual thickness of theflex score line 80 and that is greater than a residual thickness of themoustache score 78. The residual thickness of the break line scores 98, 100 is preferably substantially within a range of about 30% to about 95% of the thickness of theend panel 52, with a more preferred range of about 50% to about 80% of the thickness of theend panel 52. - When the
convenience closure 50 is used in conjunction with a can body to package contents under high pressure (i.e. over 20 psi), it may be opened by a consumer by gripping thelifting tab 60 and pulling thelift ring 64 upwardly. - As the gripping
tab 60 pivots about therivet formation 66, thenose portion 63 will move downwardly and exert a downward force on theend panel 52 at or near theperipheral score 72. Before theend panel 52 is bent downwardly enough to initiate rupture of theperipheral score 74 however, sufficient tension is formed in theend panel 52 in the area near thecentral portion 84 of themoustache score 78 to cause a rupture of the end panel at thecentral portion 84. - Pressurised gas within the container will be permitted to harmlessly vent through the rupture in the
central portion 84 of themoustache score 78 without affecting the integrity of theperipheral score 72 or accelerating the opening process. The flow of pressurised gas will tend to be directed harmlessly at an oblique angle beneath the fingers of the consumer across the top of theend panel 52 so as not to present a hazard to the consumer. - The presence of the
flex score line 80 reduces the amount of force that will need to be exerted by the consumer to cause the initial rupture of thecentral portion 84 of themoustache score 78. - After the
convenience closure 50 has vented, the consumer will continue to pull the liftingring 64 upwardly, which causes the tear or rupture in thecentral portion 84 of themoustache score 78 to enlarge. The tearing will progressively advance into the first andsecond end portions moustache score 78. At the location on the first andsecond end portions flex line score 80, the tear line will leave themoustache score 78 and advance directly to the respective first andsecond portions flex line score 80 along the path of the break line scores 98, 100. This will occur even in embodiments where the break line scores 98, 100 are not present. - The tearing will then move laterally outwardly along the respective first and
second portions flex line score 80. As this occurs, sufficient downward force will be exerted by thenose portion 63 of the gripping tab to rupture theperipheral score 74. The consumer at this time may pull thelift ring 64 back to cause theperipheral score 74 to tear, thus removing theremovable portion 76 of theend panel 52 from the fixedportion 74. - Referring now to
FIGURE 4 , the tooling assembly for forming theconvenience closure 50 according to the preferred embodiment includes a thirdoperation press assembly 101 including anupper portion 102 and alower portion 104 that are mounted for movement with respect to each other. The tooling assembly further preferably includes a first formingtool 106 for forming a top surface of theend panel 52 of theconvenience closure 50. - Looking now to
FIGURE 5 , it will be seen that the first formingtool 106 preferably includes afirst tool surface 108 that is constructed and arranged to form themoustache score 78 and asecond tool surface 110 that is constructed and arranged to form theflex line score 80. Thesecond tool surface 110 includes afirst portion 112 for forming thefirst portion 94 of theflex line score 80 and asecond portion 114 for forming thesecond portion 96 of theflex line score 80. First formingtool 106 also preferably includes athird tool surface 116 for forming the firstbreak line score 98 and afourth tool surface 118 for forming the secondbreak line score 100. Both thefirst tool surface 108 and thesecond tool surface 110 are formed as projections that extend outwardly from the substantially flat, horizontal base surface of the first formingtool 106. -
FIGURE 6 depicts a first formingtool 120 according to a modified embodiment. First formingtool 120 is identical in all respects to the first formingtool 106 described above, except that it lacks the third and fourth tool surfaces 116, 118 for forming the first and second break line scores 98, 100. First formingtool 120 would be used to manufacture a convenience closure according to a modified embodiment in which the break line scores 98, 100 are not present. - A method of making such a
convenience closure 50 according to the preferred embodiment of the invention would include a step of providing an end panel blank and providing the tooling discussed above in relation toFIGURES 4-5 . The tooling would be used in otherwise conventional fashion to form the convenience closure that is discussed in detail above. - The preferred method of making the
convenience closure 50 utilises a seven operation manufacturing process, as indicated inFIGURE 8 . - The first forming operation is used to form the rivet bubble formation on the end panel blank.
- The second forming operation completes the formation of the rivet button and begins the formation of a lower safety fold.
- The third forming operation forms the score lines that have been described in detail above and pre-folds an upper safety fold.
- The fourth operation completes the folding of the lower safety fold.
- The fifth operation involves the staking of the tab to the end panel and a final rivet operation.
- The sixth operation includes a tab detect function as well as a step of forming an upper fold pre-bulge.
- The seventh and final operation involves a step of completing the folding of the upper fold into a position where it will afford cut protection.
- Referring now to
FIGURES 9 & 10 , an easy open can end that is constructed according to a second, preferred embodiment of the invention is identical to that described above with regard to the first embodiment of the invention except as otherwise described herein. - As
FIGURE 10 shows, a plurality of openingscores 270 are preferably defined in the end panel of the can end in an area that is generally proximate to the location of therivet formation 224, shown inFIGURE 9 . The opening scores 270 preferably include amoustache score 278, aflex line score 280 and a pair of break line scores 298, 300, which are best shown inFIGURE 10 . Although in the preferred embodiment the end panel has all of these scores defined therein, it should be understood that in alternative embodiments not covered by the claims themoustache score 278 could be provided with aflex line score 280, with or without a break line score. - As
FIGURE 10 shows, themoustache score 278 preferably includes acentral portion 284 that is positioned radially inwardly on the end panel relative to therivet formation 224 and is curved about therivet formation 224 in such a manner that a concave side of thecentral portion 284 faces therivet formation 224. The curvature of thecentral portion 284 is preferably a constant radius of curvature. - The
moustache score 278 further preferably includes first andsecond end portions symmetry 282 that extends through the centre of therivet formation 224. Each of the first andsecond end portions second end portions - The distal ends of the first and
second end portions - Preferably, a
transition location 292 between thecentral portion 284 and thefirst end portion 286 is located at a transitional angle α from the diametric axis ofsymmetry 282 that is preferably substantially within a range of about 45° to about 60°. More preferably, this angle is substantially within a range of about 50° to about 55°. - The
flex line score 280 preferably has afirst portion 294 that is located on a first side of therivet formation 224 and asecond portion 296 that is located on a second, opposite side of therivet formation 224. Thefirst portion 294 in this embodiment of the invention preferably includes a substantiallylinear portion 304 that is proximate to therivet formation 224 and a second,curved portion 306 at an end of thefirst portion 294 that is distal from therivet formation 224. - Similarly, the
second portion 294 in this embodiment of the invention preferably includes a substantiallylinear portion 308 that is proximate to therivet formation 224 and a second,curved portion 310 at an end of thesecond portion 296 that is distal from therivet formation 224. - One purpose of the
curved portions line score portions - The first and
second portions flex line score 280 are preferably aligned and symmetric with respect to each other. - The
linear portions flex line score 280 and itscomponents symmetry 282. - The
flex line score 280 preferably has a residual thickness (i.e. a thickness that remains in the end panel at the location of the score line 280) that is substantially the same as a residual thickness of themoustache score 278. Theflex line score 280 further preferably has a residual thickness that is within a range of about 25% to about 40% of a thickness of the end panel. More preferably, theflex line score 280 has a residual thickness that is substantially within a range of about 30% to about 35% of the thickness of the end panel. - The
moustache score 278 has a residual thickness that is preferably substantially within a range of about 25% to about 40% of the thickness of the end panel. More preferably, themoustache score 278 has a residual thickness that is substantially within a range of about 30% to about 35% of the thickness of the end panel. Themoustache score 278 preferably has a residual thickness that is no greater than about 0,1143 mm (0.0045 inches), and more preferably no greater than about 0,0889 mm (0.0035 inches). - As
FIGURE 10 shows, the portions of themoustache score 278 that most closely approach theflex line score 280 present a convex side of curvature that faces theflex line score 280. - In this preferred embodiment of the invention, a pair of break line scores 298, 300 are defined in the end panel in order to provide a pre-weakened tearing path between the
moustache score 278 and theflex line score 280 that is utilised by the convenience closure during the preliminary stages of opening. The break line scores 298, 300 are positioned between themoustache score 278 and theflex line score 280. Each of the break line scores 298, 300 are preferably substantially perpendicular to theflex line score 280 and are aligned with the locations on the respective first andsecond end portions moustache score 278 that most closely approach theflex line score 280. - The break line scores 298,300 are preferably substantially perpendicular with respect to tangent lines that would pass through the locations on the respective first and
second end portions moustache score 278 that most closely approach theflex line score 280. - The break line scores 298, 300 preferably have a residual thickness that is greater than a residual thickness of the
flex score line 280 and that is greater than a residual thickness of themoustache score 278. The residual thickness of the break line scores 298, 300 is preferably substantially within a range of about 30% to about 95% of the thickness of the end panel, with a more preferred range of about 50% to about 80% of the thickness of the end panel. - The presence of the
flex score line 280 reduces the amount of force that will need to be exerted by the consumer to cause the initial rupture of thecentral portion 284 of themoustache score 278. - Looking now to
FIGURE 9 , it will be seen that the first formingtool 206 preferably includes afirst tool surface 208 that is constructed and arranged to form themoustache score 278 and asecond tool surface 210 that is constructed and arranged to form theflex line score 280. Thesecond tool surface 210 includes afirst portion 212 for forming the firstlinear portion 304 of thefirst portion 294 of theflex line score 280 and asecond portion 220 for forming thecurved portion 306 of thefirst portion 294 of theflex line score 280. It further includes athird portion 214 for forming thelinear portion 308 of thesecond portion 296 of theflex line score 280 and afourth portion 222 for forming thecurved portion 310 of thesecond portion 296 of theflex line score 280. - The first forming
tool 206 also preferably includes athird tool surface 216 for forming the firstbreak line score 298 and afourth tool surface 218 for forming the secondbreak line score 300. Both thefirst tool surface 208 and thesecond tool surface 210 are formed as projections that extend outwardly from the substantially flat, horizontal base surface of the first formingtool 206. - It is to be understood, however, that even though numerous characteristics and advantages of the present invention have been set forth in the foregoing description, together with details of the structure and function of the invention, the disclosure is illustrative only, and changes may be made in detail, especially in matters of shape, size and arrangement of parts within the principles of the invention to the full extent indicated by the broad general meaning of the terms in which the appended claims are expressed.
Claims (13)
- A full-open convenience closure (50) which is adapted for sealing an end of a can, comprising an end panel (52), a peripheral score (72) in the end panel (52), the peripheral score (72) defining fixed (74) and removable (76) portions of the end panel (52), a tab (60) having a nose portion (63) for exerting a downwards force on the end panel (52) in an area proximate to the peripheral score (72), a rivet formation (66) for securing the tab (60) to the end panel (52), the closure (50) further comprising a flex line score (80, 280) defined in the end panel (52) and located adjacent to the rivet formation (66), which flex score line (80, 280) has a first portion (94) that is located on a first side of the rivet formation (66) and a second portion (96) that is located on a second, opposite side of the rivet formation (66), and a moustache score (78, 278) defined in the end panel (52) which includes a central portion (84) that is positioned radially inwardly on the end panel (52) relative to the rivet formation (66) and is curved about the rivet formation (66) in such a manner that a concave side of the central portion (84) faces the rivet formation (66) and includes first and second end portions (86, 88) that are preferably symmetric with respect to each other about a diametric axis of symmetry (82) that extends through the centre (90) of the rivet formation (66); characterised in that at least two break line scores (98, 100; 298, 300) are defined in the end panel (52) to provide a pre-weakened tearing path between the moustache score (78, 278) and the flex line score (80, 280).
- A convenience closure (50) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the break line scores (298, 300) have a residual thickness within a range of 30-95% of the thickness of the end panel (52).
- A convenience closure (50) as claimed in either of claim 1 or 2, wherein the break line scores (298, 300) have a residual thickness greater than both a residual thickness of the flex line score (280) and a residual thickness of the moustache score (278).
- A convenience closure (50) as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the flex line score (280) comprises a linear portion (304, 308) and a curved portion (306, 310).
- A convenience closure (50) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the curved portion (306, 310) of the flex line score (280) is curved towards the moustache score (278).
- A convenience closure (50) as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the end panel (52) has a diametric axis of symmetry (282) extending through the rivet formation (66), and wherein the flex line score (280) is symmetric about the diametric axis of symmetry (282).
- A convenience closure (50) as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the flex line score (280) has a residual thickness within a range of 25-40% of the thickness of the end panel (52).
- A method of making the convenience closure according to claim 1 the method comprising:providing an end panel (52);forming a moustache score (278) in the end panel (52);forming a flex line score (280) in the end panel (52) adjacent to the moustache score (278);characterised in that the method further comprises:forming at least two break line scores (298, 300) between the moustache score (278) and the flex line score (280).
- A method as claimed in claim 8, wherein the flex line score (280) is formed with a linear portion (304, 308) and a curved portion (306, 310).
- A method as claimed in either of claim 8 or 9, further comprising forming a rivet formation (66) in the end panel (52), the flex line score (280) being formed adjacent to the rivet formation (66).
- A tooling assembly (101) for forming the end panel of a full-open convenience closure (50) according to claim 1, the tooling assembly comprising:a first forming tool (106, 206) for forming a top surface of an end panel (52) for an easy open can end, said first forming tool (206) comprising:a first tool surface (208) that is constructed and arranged to form a moustache score (278) in the end panel (52);a second tool surface (210) that is constructed and arranged to form a flex line score (280) in the end panel (52) that is in a predetermined relationship to the moustache score (278);the tooling assembly further comprising:a second forming tool (104) that is constructed and arranged to work together with the first forming tool (106, 206); anda press assembly for driving at least one of the first and second forming tools;characterised in that the first forming tool further comprises third and fourth tool surfaces (216, 218) for forming first and second break line scores (298, 300).
- A tooling assembly as claimed in claim 11, wherein the second tool surface (210) is constructed and arranged to form the flex line score (280) with a linear portion (304, 308) and a curved portion (306, 310).
- A tooling assembly according to claim 12, wherein the first forming tool (206) is constructed and arranged to ensure that the end panel (52) has a diametric axis of symmetry (282) that intersects a centre point of the moustache score (278), and wherein the flex line score (280) is symmetric about the diametric axis of symmetry (282).
Applications Claiming Priority (7)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/533,136 US7673490B2 (en) | 2006-09-19 | 2006-09-19 | Method of making an easy open can end with high pressure venting |
US11/533,130 US8047754B2 (en) | 2006-09-19 | 2006-09-19 | Tooling for making easy open can end |
US11/533,114 US7922025B2 (en) | 2006-09-19 | 2006-09-19 | Easy open can end with high pressure venting |
US11/678,165 US7784322B2 (en) | 2006-09-19 | 2007-02-23 | Method of making an open can end with high pressure venting |
US11/678,164 US7909555B2 (en) | 2006-09-19 | 2007-02-23 | Tool for making easy open can end with high pressure venting |
US11/678,161 US7721906B2 (en) | 2006-09-19 | 2007-02-23 | Easy open can end with high pressure venting |
PCT/EP2007/059794 WO2008034801A1 (en) | 2006-09-19 | 2007-09-17 | Easy open can end with high pressure venting |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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EP2081709A1 EP2081709A1 (en) | 2009-07-29 |
EP2081709B1 true EP2081709B1 (en) | 2013-03-06 |
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Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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EP07820261A Not-in-force EP2081709B1 (en) | 2006-09-19 | 2007-09-17 | Easy open can end with high pressure venting |
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EP (1) | EP2081709B1 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2662199C (en) |
ES (1) | ES2405267T3 (en) |
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WO (1) | WO2008034801A1 (en) |
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CN110218869A (en) | 2011-09-16 | 2019-09-10 | 鲍尔公司 | Impact extruded container is manufactured with recycling aluminium scrap |
EP2612823A1 (en) * | 2012-01-03 | 2013-07-10 | Anheuser-Busch InBev S.A. | Can comprising a maxi-dispense opening and a vent opening |
EP2612822A1 (en) * | 2012-01-03 | 2013-07-10 | Anheuser-Busch InBev S.A. | Can comprising a first, dispense opening and second, vent opening and a single pull tab |
WO2014151503A1 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2014-09-25 | Ball Corporation | End closure with double anti-missle score |
MX2015013932A (en) | 2013-04-09 | 2016-06-06 | Ball Corp | Aluminum impact extruded bottle with threaded neck made from recycled aluminum and enhanced alloys. |
US10632520B2 (en) | 2014-03-07 | 2020-04-28 | Ball Corporation | End closure with large opening ring pull tab |
US9901972B2 (en) | 2014-03-07 | 2018-02-27 | Ball Corporation | End closure with large opening ring pull tab |
US20180044155A1 (en) | 2016-08-12 | 2018-02-15 | Ball Corporation | Apparatus and Methods of Capping Metallic Bottles |
AU2016433840B2 (en) | 2016-12-30 | 2020-10-15 | Ball Corporation | Aluminum alloy for impact extruded containers and method of making the same |
CA3053478C (en) | 2017-02-16 | 2021-11-09 | Ball Corporation | Apparatus and methods of forming and applying roll-on pilfer proof closures on the threaded neck of metal containers |
RU2761630C2 (en) | 2017-09-15 | 2021-12-13 | Бол Корпорейшн | System and method for forming metal lid for threaded container |
GB2620952A (en) * | 2022-07-27 | 2024-01-31 | Crown Packaging Technology Inc | Full aperture can end |
Family Cites Families (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US3576272A (en) * | 1969-06-30 | 1971-04-27 | Procter & Gamble | Score-line structure |
CA937516A (en) | 1970-03-13 | 1973-11-27 | W. Heinle Carl | Easy-open container component |
US3871314A (en) * | 1972-10-20 | 1975-03-18 | Dorn Co V | Method of making folded can ends and folded can end product |
EP0261776B1 (en) * | 1986-09-16 | 1991-04-24 | Nippon Steel Corporation | Easy open end |
US4804106A (en) * | 1987-09-29 | 1989-02-14 | Weirton Steel Corporation | Measures to control opening of full-panel safety-edge, convenience-feature end closures |
US5052573A (en) * | 1990-02-21 | 1991-10-01 | Automated Container Corporation | Easy open end for containers employing enlarged moustache score |
US5232114A (en) | 1992-08-10 | 1993-08-03 | Crown Cork & Seal Company, Inc. | Full-open convenience closure |
US6234337B1 (en) * | 1998-08-14 | 2001-05-22 | H.J. Heinz Company | Safe container end closure and method for fabricating a safe container end closure |
-
2007
- 2007-09-17 EP EP07820261A patent/EP2081709B1/en not_active Not-in-force
- 2007-09-17 CA CA2662199A patent/CA2662199C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2007-09-17 MX MX2009002894A patent/MX2009002894A/en active IP Right Grant
- 2007-09-17 ES ES07820261T patent/ES2405267T3/en active Active
- 2007-09-17 WO PCT/EP2007/059794 patent/WO2008034801A1/en active Application Filing
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CA2662199C (en) | 2016-05-03 |
CA2662199A1 (en) | 2008-03-27 |
WO2008034801A1 (en) | 2008-03-27 |
EP2081709A1 (en) | 2009-07-29 |
ES2405267T3 (en) | 2013-05-30 |
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