Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
CA 02780798 2012-05-11
WO 2011/059852 - 1 -
PCT/US2010/055052
METHOD OF ISOLATING COLUMN LOADING AND MITIGATING
DEFORMATION OF SHAPED METAL VESSELS
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates to a method of isolating column loading
and mitigating
deformation of shaped metal vessels, the method comprising forming a
cylindrical metal
tube into a shaped metal vessel, the shaped metal vessel comprising a sealed
end, an open
end, and an integral carry ring proximate the open end. Column load is
isolated between
the open end and the carry ring by supporting the shaped metal vessel by the
carry ring.
The shaped metal vessel is sealed with a closure, wherein deformation of the
shaped metal
vessel between the sealed end and the carry ring due to column load is
minimized during
application of the closure.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Before our invention product packaging, often formed from sheet
metal or
metal slugs had to be designed with wall thicknesses sufficient to avoid
deformation or
crushing when high column loads were applied to the top of the product
packaging. Such
high column loads can typically occur while the packaging closure is being
applied thus
sealing the product packaging on a filling line. In this regard, often loading
forces in
excess of 175 pounds (lbs) can be applied to the top of the product packaging
to apply and
seal the packaging with a closure.
CA 02780798 2012-05-11
WO 2011/059852 - 2 ¨
PCT/US2010/055052
[0003] A shortcoming is that in designing packaging with thinner walls
to support
column loads more material is used in the product packaging, which raises the
cost of the
packaging.
[0004] Another shortcoming is that product packaging with thicker walls
can be more
difficult to shape and as such can limit the types and or kinds of possible
functional and
ornamental product packaging design options.
[0005] There is a long felt need for a system and method to enable the
high column
load during filling and closure application to be isolated to the top portion
of the product
packaging and to avoid packaging deformation or crushing during the fill and
or
application of the closure to seal the beverage. In addition, there is a long
felt need for a
low cost metal package well suited for food and beverage applications, as well
as a need
for other types and kinds of packages that have thin and or weaker side wall
constructions.
In addition, there is a need to overcome the shortcomings mentioned above as
well as to
overcome other shortcomings. All of which gives rise to the present invention.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The shortcomings of the prior art are overcome and additional
advantages are
provided through the provision of a method of isolating column loading and
mitigating
deformation of shaped metal vessels, the method comprising forming a
cylindrical metal
tube into a shaped metal vessel, the shaped metal vessel comprising a sealed
end, an open
end, and an integral carry ring proximate the open end. Column load is
isolated between
the open end and the carry ring by supporting the shaped metal vessel by the
carry ring.
The shaped metal vessel is sealed with a closure, wherein deformation of the
shaped metal
CA 02780798 2017-01-13
- 3 ¨
vessel between the sealed end and the carry ring due to column load is
minimized during
application of the closure.
10007] Additional shortcomings of the prior art are overcome and
additional
advantages are provided through the provision of a method of isolating column
loading
and mitigating deformation of shaped metal vessels, the method comprising
forming a
cylindrical metal tube into a shaped metal vessel, the shaped metal vessel
comprising a
sealed end, and an open end. An outsert is applied around the open end of the
shaped
metal vessel, the outsert comprising a carry ring. Column load is isolated
between the
open end and the carry ring by supporting the shaped metal vessel by the carry
ring. The
shaped metal vessel is sealed with a closure, wherein deformation of the
shaped metal
vessel between the sealed end and the carry ring due to column load is
minimized during
application of the closure.
10008] Additional shortcomings of the prior art are overcome and
additional
advantages are provided through the provision of a method of isolating column
loading
and mitigating deformation of shaped metal vessels, the method comprising
forming a
cylindrical metal tube into a shaped metal vessel, the shaped metal vessel
comprising a
sealed end, an and open end. A carry ring is pinched or adhered around the
open end of the
shaped metal vessel. The column load is isolated between the open end and the
carry ring
by supporting the shaped metal vessel by the carry ring. The shaped metal
vessel is sealed
with a closure, wherein deformation of the shaped metal vessel between the
sealed end and
the carry ring due to column load is minimized during fill and application of
the closure.
CA 02780798 2017-01-13
- 3a -
[0008.1] Also provided is a method of isolating column loading and mitigating
deformation of shaped metal vessels, the method comprising:
forming a cylindrical metal tube into a shaped metal vessel, the shaped metal
vessel comprising a sealed end, an open end, and thin side walls;
forming integral threads proximate the open end of the shaped metal vessel;
forming an integral carry ring proximate the integral threads, the integral
carry
ring being formed in the thin side walls of the shaped metal vessel after the
shaped
metal vessel is formed;
isolating column load between the open end and the carry ring by supporting
the shaped metal vessel by the carry ring; and
sealing the shaped metal vessel with a closure, wherein deformation of the
shaped metal vessel between the sealed end and the carry ring due to column
load is
minimized during application of the closure.
[0008.2] Also provided is a method of isolating column loading and mitigating
deformation of shaped metal vessels, the method comprising:
forming a cylindrical metal tube into a shaped metal vessel, the shaped metal
vessel comprising a sealed end, and an open end;
pinching or adhering a carry ring around the open end of the shaped metal
vessel;
isolating column load between the open end and the carry ring by supporting
the shaped metal vessel by the carry ring;
sealing the shaped metal vessel with a closure, wherein deformation of the
shaped metal vessel between the sealed end and the carry ring due to column
load is
minimized during application of the closure; and
pinching or adhering further comprises:
forming a lower edge integral to the shaped metal vessel proximate the
open end; placing a carry ring around the open end and resting on the
lower edge; and
forming an upper edge integral to the shaped metal vessel above the
lower edge and the carry ring, the carry ring is pinched or adhered between
the
lower edge and the upper edge.
CA 02780798 2017-01-13
- 3b -
[0008.3] Also provided is a method of isolating column loading and mitigating
deformation of shaped metal vessels, the method comprising:
forming a cylindrical metal tube into a shaped metal vessel, the shaped metal
vessel comprising a sealed end, an and open end;
pinching or adhering a carry ring around the open end of the shaped metal
vessel;
isolating column load to an area between the open end and the carry ring by
supporting the shaped metal vessel by the carry ring; and
deformation sealing the shaped metal vessel ith a closure, wherein defoation
of the
shaped metal vessel between thesealed end and the carry ring due to column
load is minimized during sealin with the closure; and
pinching or adhering further comprises:
forming a lower edge integral to the shaped metal vessel proximate the
open end;
placing the carry ring around the open end and resting on the lower
edge; and
forming an upper edge integral to the shaped metal vessel above the
carry ring such that the carry ring is pinched or adhered between
the lower edge and the upper edge.
100091 System and computer program products corresponding to the above-
summarized methods are also described herein.
CA 02780798 2012-05-11
WO 2011/059852 - 4 ¨ PCT/US2010/055052
[0010] Additional features and advantages are realized through the
techniques of the
present invention. Other embodiments and aspects of the invention are
described in detail
herein and are considered a part of the claimed invention. For a better
understanding of the
invention with advantages and features, refer to the description and to the
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0011] The subject matter which is regarded as the invention is
particularly pointed
out and distinctly claimed in the claims at the conclusion of the
specification. The
foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the invention are
apparent from
the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings in
which:
[0012] FIG. 1 illustrates one example of a system and method of isolating
column loading
and mitigating deformation of shaped vessels during fill and or closure
application;
[0013] FIG. 2A-2C illustrates one example of product packaging comprising a
column
load-bearing outsert with a carry ring;
[0014] FIG. 3A-3B illustrates one example of product packaging comprising a
column
load-bearing outsert;
[0015] FIG. 4A-4B illustrates one example of product packaging comprising an
integral
thread and integral carry ring;
[0016] FIG. 5A-5B illustrates one example of product packaging comprising an
inward
extending integral carry ring;
CA 02780798 2012-05-11
WO 2011/059852 - 5 - PCT/US2010/055052
[0017] FIG. 6A-6D illustrates one example of product packaging comprising
symmetrical
and asymmetrical carry rings pinched or adhered into product packaging;
[0018] FIG. 7A-7B illustrates one example of product packaging comprising a
integral
outwardly extending carry ring;
[0019] FIG. 8 illustrates one example of column load-bearing outsert;
[0020] FIG. 9 illustrates one example of product packaging comprising an
outsert and
application of a threaded screw cap closure. The product package supporting
column load
through use of carry ring support;
[0021] FIG. 10A-10B illustrates one example of product packaging comprising a
crown
finish closure. The product package supporting column load through use of
carry ring
support;
[0022] FIG. 11 illustrates one example of a shaped vessel;
[0023] FIG. 12-14 illustrates one example of a method of isolating column
loading and
mitigating deformation of shaped vessels during fill and or closure
application;
[0024] FIG. 15 illustrates one example of a method of forming a carry ring in
product
packaging isolating column loading and mitigating deformation of shaped
vessels during
fill and or closure application; and
[0025] FIG. 16 illustrates examples of exemplary embodiments of methods of
isolating
column loading and mitigating deformation of shaped vessels during fill and or
closure
application.
CA 02780798 2017-01-13
- 6 -
[0026] The detailed description explains the preferred embodiments of
the
invention, together with advantages and features, by way of example with
reference to the
drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0027] A. Shaped Metal Vessel
[0028] A shaped metal vessel is used in the present invention.
[0029] Turning now to the drawings in greater detail, it will be seen
that in Figure
1 there is illustrated one example of a system and method of isolating column
loading and
mitigating deformation of shaped vessels during fill and or closure
application. In an
exemplary embodiment, a plurality of shaped vessels 102A-C comprising outsert
106A-C
can be formed by way of a plurality of cylindrical tubes and conveyed on a
carrier 304. A
carry ring can then be formed and or added to shaped vessel 102A-C. A carry
ring support
302A-B can be used to support the shaped vessel during fill and or application
of a closure
202. In this regard, a column load can be isolated between the carry ring and
the open end
of the shaped vessel 102C during shaped vessel 102 filling and or when the
closure 202 is
being applied.
[0030] For purposes of disclosure, column load also referred to as
axially loading
is defined as a load or force along or parallel to a concentric with a primary
axis. In this
regard, the primary axis is from the top open end to the bottom sealed end of
the shaped
vessel 102. In an exemplary embodiment, such a column load is typically
present during
fill and or when the closure is being applied to the shaped vessel 102 and
when the shaped
CA 02780798 2012-05-11
WO 2011/059852 - 7 ¨ PCT/US2010/055052
vessels are stacked on top of each other, such as when forming pallets of
stacked product,
store displays, storage of finished product, and or is present in other
situations, as may be
required and or desired in a particular embodiment.
100311 In addition, for purposes of disclosure, a cylindrical tube is
defined as the space
enclosed by a cylindrical surface. As example, a soda or vessel can be
referred to as a
cylindrical tube. Furthermore, shaped vessel 102 can be referred to as a
shaped metal
vessel.
[0032] An advantage of isolating the column to the area between the
carry ring and the
open end of the shaped vessel 102A-C is that such column loading does not get
applied to
the area of the shaped vessel below the carry ring. As such, isolating the
column load to
the area between the carry ring and the open end of the shaped vessel
effectuates the
ability to manufacture a thinner walled shaped vessel, from metal or other
materials, that
might otherwise deform and or crush under high column loading. An economic
advantage
is that thinner walled vessels have less material and are less costly to
manufacture. This is
particularly true regarding metal vessels. A marketing and fabrication
advantage is that the
thinner walled vessels can be easier to shape and form, which effectuates the
ability to
create highly shaped vessels by numerous molding methods including blow
molding,
pressure ram, embossed, rolled, hydro formed, pneumatic formed, stamped
halves, and or
other methods, as may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment.
[0033] Referring to Figure 2A-2C there is illustrated one example of
product
packaging also referred to as shaped vessel 102 or shaped metal vessel 102
comprising a
column load-bearing outsert 106 having a carry ring 108. Figure 2A illustrates
a shaped
vessel 102 with outsert 106 placed around the open end 124 of the vessel.
Figure 2B
CA 02780798 2012-05-11
WO 2011/059852 - 8 ¨ PCT/US2010/055052
illustrates a thin wall cross section 110 view of the shaped vessel 102 with
the outsert 106
being positioned under a rolled edge 104. For purposes of disclosure a shaped,
polished, or
other edge description can be referred to as a rolled edge.
[0034] Figure 2C illustrates a cross section view of the shaped vessel
102 with the
outsert 106 being positioned under a rolled edge 104. The rolled edge 104
interlocking
with the outsert 106 to prevent outsert 106 slippage around the vessel neck
during
threaded closure application and removal.
[0035] Referring to Figure 2B, in an exemplary embodiment, outsert 106
can be
manufactured from polymers, metal, or glass and or other materials, as may be
required
and or desired ion a particular embodiment. Furthermore, the outsert 106 can
be used with
a closure such as a crown finish type, a threaded finish type, a rolled-on
pilfer proof
(ROPP) type, a plastic closure, snap-on closure finish, and or other types and
kinds of
closures, as may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment. Crown
finishes
can be metal, plastic, and or other materials, as may be required and or
desired. Plastic
closures can be threaded, twist-off, and or other types of closure, as may be
required and
or desired in a particular embodiment. In an exemplary embodiment, a carry
ring length
can be in the range of lmm to lOmm, with a preferred length of less than 5mm.
[0036] Referring to Figure 2C, in an exemplary embodiment, outsert 106
can be
manufactured from polymers, metal, or glass and or other materials, as may be
required
and or desired ion a particular embodiment. Furthermore, the outsert can be
used with a
closure such as a crown finish type, a threaded finish type, a rolled-on
pilfer proof (ROPP)
type, a plastic closure, snap-on closure finish, and or other types and kinds
of closures, as
may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment. Crown finishes can
be metal,
CA 02780798 2012-05-11
WO 2011/059852 - 9 ¨
PCT/US2010/055052
plastic, and or other materials, as may be required and or desired. Plastic
closures can be
threaded, twist-off, and or other types of closure, as may be required and or
desired in a
particular embodiment. The step at the top of the outsert allows the vessel
material to be
rolled over the outsert upper edge which grips the outsert and aids in
securing the outsert
from rotation and slippage when the closure is applied and or removed from the
vessel.
[0037] Referring to Figure 3A-3B there is illustrated one example of
product
packaging also referred to as shaped vessel 102 comprising a column load-
bearing outsert
106. The outsert 106 further comprising optional threads 122 for engaging and
securing a
removable closure 202 (closure 202 not shown in this Figure). In an exemplary
embodiment, the optional threads can be a plurality of threads spirally
affixed to the outer
surface of the outsert to engage and secure a separate vessel closure to the
shaped metal
vessel body. The vessel 102 further comprising a rolled edge 104. Figure 3A
illustrates a
shaped vessel 102 with outsert 106 placed around the open end of the vessel.
Figure 3B
illustrates a cross section view of the shaped vessel 102 with the outsert 106
being
positioned under a rolled edge 104.
[0038] Figure 3B also illustrates how a shaped vessel 102 thin wall
cross section 110
can be a rolled edge 104 or otherwise shape edge 104 at the top of the open
end 124 of the
vessel 102. In this regard, the rolled edge 104 secures the outsert 106 from
slipping off the
shaped vessel 102, open end 124, as well as provides a smooth edge to
effectuate good
consumer experience when pouring and drinking from the shaped vessel 102.
[0039] Referring to Figures 4A-4B there is illustrated one example of
product
packaging also referred to as shaped vessel 102 comprising an integral thread
and integral
carry ring. Referring to Figure 4A, in an exemplary embodiment, threads 122,
rolled edge
CA 02780798 2012-05-11
WO 2011/059852 - 10 - PCT/US2010/055052
104, and carry ring 114 can be formed integral to the vessel 102. An advantage
of this
embodiment is that no additional outsert or separate carry ring such as carry
ring 114A-B
shown in Figure s 6A-6B. This can lead to faster manufacturing line speeds,
less
complicated assembly, and lower cost vessels 102. Closures such as a crown
finish type, a
threaded finish type, a rolled-on pilfer proof (ROPP) type, a plastic closure,
snap-on
closure finish, and or other types and kinds of closures, as may be required
and or desired
in a particular embodiment. Crown finishes can be metal, plastic, and or other
materials, as
may be required and or desired. Plastic closures can be threaded, twist-off,
and or other
types of closure, as may be required and or desired in a particular
embodiment.
[0040] Figure 4B also illustrates how a shaped vessel 102 thin wall cross
section 110
can be a rolled edge 104 or otherwise shape edge 104 at the top of the open
end 124 of the
vessel 102. Threads 122 and a carry ring 114 are integral to the vessel wall
110
eliminating in this embodiment the need for an outsert.
100411 Referring to Figure 5A-5B there is illustrated one example of
product
packaging also referred to as shaped vessel 102 comprising an inward extending
integral
carry ring 120. Figure 5B illustrates a cross sectional view of the open end
124 of the
shaped vessel 102, illustrating the side wall 110, formed edge 104, and the
formed carry
ring 120. In an exemplary embodiment, a carry ring 120 can be formed in the
side wall of
the shaped vessel 102. An advantage of the present invention is that by
forming the carry
ring in the side wall of the shaped vessel no separate carry ring or outsert
is required.
[0042] Referring to Figure 5A, in an exemplary embodiment, a length of
outsert 106
'B' can be in the range of 5mm to 30mm, with a preferred length of less than
20mm. An
opening 'H' length can be in the range of 13mm to 50mm. A rolled edge 'I'
length can be
CA 02780798 2012-05-11
WO 2011/059852 - 11 -
PCT/US2010/055052
in the range of 0.25mm to 5mm, with a preferred length of less than 3mm. An
opening
diameter 'I(' can be in the range of lOmm to 47mm, with a preferred diameter
of less than
32mm. A carry ring of length `J' can be in the range of lmm to 8mm, with a
preferred
length of less than 5mm.
[0043] Referring to Figures 6A-6D there is illustrated one example of
product
packaging also referred to as shaped vessel 102 comprising symmetrical 114B or
asymmetrical 114A carry ring pinched or adhered to the product packaging 102.
Figure
6A-6B illustrates a shaped vessel 102 with outsert 106 placed around the open
end of the
vessel. Figure 6A illustrates an asymmetrical carry ring 114A having a shaped
outer
circumference edge other than the continuous circular circumference outer edge
such as
shown in Figure 6B carry ring 114B. The inner circumference is sized to fit
around the
open end of the shaped vessel 102. In an exemplary embodiment, the shaped
outer edge
can be any shape, as may be required and or desired in a particular
embodiment.
[0044] Figure 6B illustrates a symmetrical carry ring 114B. Symmetrical
refers to the
outer circumference edge of carry ring 114B being continuous circular in
shape. The inner
circumference is sized to fit around the open end of the shaped vessel 102.
100451 Figure 6C illustrates a shaped vessel 102 with a carry ring 114
pinched or
adhered between a formed upper edge 118A and a formed lower edge 118B being
positioned proximate the rolled edge 104. The upper edge 118A and lower edge
188B are
integral to the tapered body of the shaped metal vessel body.
[0046] Figure 6D illustrates a shaped vessel 102 with a carry ring 114
pinched or
adhered between a lower ledge integrally formed in the tapered body portion of
the vessel
102 a carry ring 114 resting on top of the integral lower ledge and formed
integral upper
CA 02780798 2012-05-11
WO 2011/059852 - 12 ¨ PCT/US2010/055052
edge 118B pinches and or adheres the carry ring 114 in place between the
formed lower
ledge and the upper edge 118. The upper edge 118A and lower ledge are integral
to the
tapered body of the shaped metal vessel body. For purposes of disclosure the
lower ledge
can be referred to as the lower edge.
[0047] Referring to Figures 6C-6D, in an exemplary embodiment, a length of
the open
end 'B' can be in the range of 5mm to 30mm, with a preferred length of less
than 20mm.
An opening 'H' length can be in the range of 13mm to 50mm. A rolled edge 'I'
length can
be in the range of 0.25mm to 5mm, with a preferred length of less than 3mm. An
opening
diameter 'K' can be in the range of lOmm to 47mm, with a preferred diameter of
less than
32mm. A carry ring being pinched or adhered between the lower edge and the
upper edge,
the lower edge, the upper edger, and the carry ring combination of length T
can be in the
range of lmm to 8mm, with a preferred length of less than 5mm.
[0048] Referring to Figure 7A-7B there is illustrated one example of
product
packaging also referred to as shaped vessel 102 comprising an integral
outwardly
extending carry ring. Figure 7A illustrated the shaped vessel 102 comprising
the integral
outwardly extending carry ring 120. Figure 7B illustrates a cross sectional
view of the
open end 124 of the shaped vessel 102, illustrating the side wall 110, formed
edge 104,
and the formed carry ring 120. In an exemplary embodiment, a carry ring 120
can be
integrally formed in the side wall of the shaped vessel 102.
[0049] Referring to Figure 8 there is illustrated one example of a column
load-bearing
outsert 106. In an exemplary embodiment, the outsert 106 is positioned around
the open
end of a shaped vessel 102, optional threads 122 for engaging and securing a
removable
closure 202 (closure 202 not shown in this Figure), and designed to provide a
carry ring or
CA 02780798 2012-05-11
WO 2011/059852 - 13 ¨ PCT/US2010/055052
carry ring edge to support column load during the application of a closure
onto the open
end of the shaped vessel. The optional threads can be a plurality of threads
spirally affixed
to the outer surface of the outsert to engage and secure a separate vessel
closure to the
shaped body. Such an outsert can be manufactured from plastic, metal, or other
material,
as may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment.
[0050] For purposes of disclosure column load also referred to as
axially loading is
defined as a load or force along or parallel to a concentric with a primary
axis. In this
regard, the primary axis is from the top open end to the bottom sealed end of
the shaped
vessel 102. In an exemplary embodiment, such a column load is typically
present during
fill and or when the closure is being applied to the shaped vessel 102 and
when the shaped
vessels are stacked on top of each other, such as when forming pallets of
stacked product,
store displays, storage of finished product, and or in present in other
situations, as may be
required and or desired in a particular embodiment.
[0051] Referring to Figure 9 there is illustrated one example of product
packaging also
referred to as a shaped vessel 102 comprising an outsert 106 and application
of a threaded
screw cap closure 202. The product package 102 supporting column loads through
use of
carry ring support 302. In an exemplary embodiment, a carry ring support 302
can be
associated with a system for conveying the shaped vessel 102 to the closure
application
location or station. A capping system can apply the closure 202 creating a
column load in
the range of 600 pounds (lbs) to 800 lbs for crown type closures, 300 lbs to
500 lbs for
ROPP type closures, 30 lbs to 80 lbs for plastic threaded or twist off
closures in general
varying in accordance with the type and or kind of closure utilized.
CA 02780798 2012-05-11
WO 2011/059852 - 14 ¨ PCT/US2010/055052
[0052] Referring to Figure 10A-10B there is illustrated one example of
product
packaging also referred to as a shaped vessel 102 comprising a crown finish
closure 202.
Figure 10A illustrates a shaped vessel 102 comprising a rolled edge 104 being
supported
by a carry ring support 302. Figure 10B illustrates a cross section of the
carry support 302
shaped to fit the shaped vessel 102 comprising carry ring 120.
[0053] Referring to Figure 11 there is illustrated one example of a
shaped vessel 102.
Shaped vessel 102 can be characterized with certain preferred embodiment
dimensional
ratios. Such shaped vessel 102 can also utilize straight walls, as may be
required and or
desired in a particular embodiment. In this regard, a length of the outsert
106 'B' can be in
the range of 5mm to 30mm, with a preferred length of less than 20mm. An
opening 'H'
length can be in the range of 13mm to 50mm. A rolled edge 'I' length can be in
the range
of 0.25mm to 5mm, with a preferred length of less than 3mm. An opening
diameter 'K'
can be in the range of lOmm to 47mm, with a preferred diameter of less than
27mm.
[0054] In a plurality of exemplary embodiments the size of the shaped
vessel can vary
to accommodate shaped vessels that are small, medium, and large, as may be
required and
or desired in a particular embodiment. As example and not a limitation such
dimensional
aspect for a typical 500 milliliter (m1) vessel can be as follows. The total
length of the
shaped vessel 120 'A' can be in the range of 230mm to 280mm, with a preferred
length in
the range of 251mm. A tapered body minimum diameter 1' can be in the range of
20mm
to 30mm, with a preferred diameter in the range of 25mm. A mid body maximum
diameter
'M' can be in the range of 50mm to 80mm with a preferred diameter in the range
of
68mm. A low body minimum diameter 'N' can be in the range of 45mm to 70mm,
with a
preferred diameter in the range of 59mm. A base maximum diameter '0' can be in
the
range of 50mm to 75mm, with a preferred diameter of in the range of 69mm. A
tapered
CA 02780798 2012-05-11
WO 2011/059852 - 15 ¨ PCT/US2010/055052
body 'C' length can be in the range of 80mm to 100, with a preferred length in
the range
of 80mm. A mid body 'D' length can be in the range of 20mm to 50mm, with a
preferred
length in the range of 30mm. A low body `E' length can be in the range of
100mm to
120mm, with a preferred length in the range of 106mm. A base 'F' length can be
in the
range of 18mm to 30mm, with a preferred length in the range of 22mm. A shaped
vessel
102 length `G' can be in the range of 50mm to 75mm, with a preferred length of
less than
69mm. In an exemplary embodiment where the shaped vessel 102 is fabricated
from metal
the thickness of the metal can be in the range of 0.0030 inch to 0.0250 inch.
[0055] B. Method of Making the Shaped Metal Vessel
[0056] Referring to Figure 12 there is illustrated one example of a method
of isolating
column loading and mitigating deformation of shaped vessels 102 during closure
202
applications. In an exemplary embodiment, a cylindrical tube fabricated from
metal, or
other material can be molded and or formed into a shaped vessel 102. A carry
ring can
then be formed in the shaped vessel 102 proximate the open end of the shaped
vessel 102.
The contour vessel 102 can then supported by the carry ring to isolate the
column load
associated with the application of a closure 202 to the region between the
open end and the
carry ring. In this regard, isolating the column load to the open end of the
shaped vessel
102 minimizes deformation of the shaped vessel 102 resultant from column
loading during
application of the closure 202. The shaped vessel 102 can then be sealed with
the
application of a closure 202. The method begins in block 1002.
[0057] In block 1002 a cylindrical tube is formed or otherwise shaped
into a shaped
vessel 102. In an exemplary embodiment, a cylindrical tube can be formed by
injection
molding, cupping, drawn and ironing (D&I), draw or re-draw (DRD) of sheet
metal,
CA 02780798 2012-05-11
WO 2011/059852 - 16 ¨
PCT/US2010/055052
impact extrusion of metal slugs, and or by other methods, as may be required
and or
desired in a particular embodiment. The cylindrical tube can be formed into a
shaped
vessel 102 by way of one or more or the following methods blow molding,
pressure ram,
embossing or de-embossing, die forming, trimming, shaping, hydro forming,
pneumatic
forming, rolled, necking or contouring, stamped halves, and or by other
methods, as may
be required and or desired in a particular embodiment.
[0058] In contrast to polyethylene terephthalate (PET) vessel forming,
wherein the
carry ring can be part of the injection molded preform and thus present prior
to the step of
molding, the method of the present invention forms the carry ring either as a
separate step
after the vessel is formed or during the forming of the vessel. This is
considered an
advantage in the present invention and is due in part to the fact that no
preform exists and
often the starting material is sheet metal or metal slug and as such molding
or forming of
the vessel is required prior to being able to add and or form a carry ring.
[0059] For purposes of disclosure embossed is defined as an
embellishment such as
indicia having a raised pattern on a surface. De-embossed is defined as an
embellishment
such as indicia having a sunken pattern on a surface. In the present invention
such a
surface can be the surface of the shaped vessel 102, the closure 202, and or
other surfaces,
as may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment.
[0060] Though advantageously the vessel 102 can create an iconic shaped
vessel, the
trade off can be a very thin walled vessel that can no longer support a column
load that is
generated while applying the closure to the vessel. In other embodiments, the
cost of the
shaped vessel 102 may be directly proportional to the amount of material such
as
aluminum or other material used to form the vessel. As an example and not a
limitation,
CA 02780798 2012-05-11
WO 2011/059852 - 17 ¨ PCT/US2010/055052
the more metal needed to make the vessel the higher the cost of the vessel. As
such, it may
be highly desirable to minimize vessel cost by making the shaped vessel with
wall
thicknesses as thin as possible to save material costs. In an exemplary
embodiment, such
shaped vessels 102 fabricated form metal or metal alloy can be shaped with
wall
thicknesses in the range of 0.0030 inch to 0.0250 inch.
[0061] In an exemplary embodiment, the shaped vessel 102 has a sealed
end and an
open end. In this regard, product can be put into the shaped vessel 102 and
with a closure
202 seal the product into the shaped vessel 102. The method continues in block
1004.
[0062] In block 1004 a carry ring is formed proximate the open end of
the shaped
vessel 102. In this regard, a carry ring can be used to support the shaped
vessel during fill
and or application of the closure 202. Such application of a closure 202 can
introduce a
column load in the range of generally 30 lbs to 800 lbs depending on the type,
kind, and
manner that the closure is applied. In this regard, without supporting the
shaped vessel 102
by the carry ring, such a column load could be sufficient to deform and or
crush the thin
walled shaped vessel 102.
[0063] In an exemplary embodiment, a carry ring can be formed into the
wall of the
shaped vessel and illustrated in Figures 7A-7B and or formed by other methods,
as may be
required and or desired in a particular embodiment. The method then continues
in block
1006.
[0064] In block 1006 the column load is isolated between the carry ring and
the open
end of the vessel by supporting the shaped vessel with a carry ring support
302. As such,
resultant from the shaped vessel 102 being supported by the carry ring support
302, the
shaped vessel below the carry ring does not receive sufficient column load
during
CA 02780798 2012-05-11
WO 2011/059852 - 18 ¨ PCT/US2010/055052
application of the closure 202 to cause deformation and or crushing of the
thin walled
body portion of the shaped vessel 102. The method continues in block 1008.
[0065] In block 1008 the shaped vessel 102 is sealed with a closure 202.
In an
exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, the shaped vessel can
be filled
with a product such as a refreshing COCA-COLA product prior to the shaped
vessel being
sealed. During such shaped vessel 102 sealing, depending on the closure type,
for example
a threaded closure, a crown type finish, metal or plastic closure, and or
other types and
kinds of closures, as may be required and or desired in a particular
embodiment. Column
load can range generally from 30 lbs to 800 lbs depending on the type, kind,
and manner
that the closure is applied.
[0066] An advantage with the present invention is that with the use of a
carry ring,
significantly higher column load forces can be used in the application of
putting the
closure onto the shaped vessel 102. In this regard, other types and kinds of
closure 202
that currently cannot be used to seal vessels due to high column load damaging
the vessel,
can be used with the present invention due in part to the fact that the column
load can be
isolated between the carry ring, by way of the carry ring support 302 and the
open end of
the shaped vessel 102. The method is then exited.
[0067] Referring to Figure 13 there is illustrated one example of a
method of isolating
column loading and mitigating deformation of shaped vessels 102 during closure
202
applications. In an exemplary embodiment, a cylindrical tube fabricated from
metal, or
other material can be molding into a shaped vessel 102. An outsert can be
applied around
the open end of the shaped vessel 102. The outsert comprising a carry ring.
The contour
vessel 102 is then supported by the carry ring to isolate the column load
associated with
CA 02780798 2012-05-11
WO 2011/059852 - 19 ¨ PCT/US2010/055052
the application of a closure 202 to the region between the open end and the
carry ring. In
this regard, isolating the column load to the open end of the shaped vessel
102 minimizes
deformation of the shaped vessel 102 resultant from column loading during
application of
the closure 202. The shaped vessel 102 can then be sealed with the application
of a closure
202. The method begins in block 2002.
[0068] In block 2002 the shaped vessel is formed with the methods
detailed in block
1002 or by other methods, as may be required and or desired in a particular
embodiment.
The method continues in block 2004.
[0069] In block 2004 an outsert is applied around the open end of the
shaped vessel
102. The outsert comprising a carry ring. Such a carry ring can be formed into
the outsert
as a pronounced ledge such as ledge 108 illustrated in Figure 2A-2B or other
ledge, as
may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment. In another
exemplary
embodiment, a carry ring edge can be exposed such as carry ring 114
illustrated in Figure
3B or other carry ring edge, as may be required and or desired in a particular
embodiment.
The method continues in block 2006.
[0070] In block 2006 the column load is isolated between the carry ring
and the open
end of the shaped vessel 102 with the methods detailed in block 1006 or by
other methods,
as may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment. The method
continues in
block 2008.
[0071] In block 2008 the shaped vessel 102 can be sealed with a closure 202
with the
methods detailed in block 1008 or by other methods, as may be required and or
desired in
a particular embodiment. The method is then exited.
CA 02780798 2012-05-11
WO 2011/059852 - 20 ¨ PCT/US2010/055052
[0072] Referring to Figure 14 there is illustrated one example of a
method of isolating
column loading and mitigating deformation of shaped vessels 102 during closure
202
applications. In an exemplary embodiment, a cylindrical tube fabricated from
metal, or
other material can be molding into a shaped vessel 102. A carry ring can added
to the
shaped vessel 102 and pinched or adhered to the shaped vessel 102 to secure
the carry ring
in place proximate the open end of the shaped vessel 102. The contour vessel
102 is then
supported by the carry ring to isolate the column load associated with the
application of a
closure 202 to the region between the open end and the carry ring. In this
regard, isolating
the column load to the open end of the shaped vessel 102 minimizes deformation
of the
shaped vessel 102 resultant from column loading during application of the
closure 202.
The shaped vessel 102 can then be sealed with the application of a closure
202. The
method begins in block 3002.
[0073] In block 3002 the shaped vessel is formed with the methods
detailed in block
1002 or by other methods, as may be required and or desired in a particular
embodiment.
The method continues in block 3004.
[0074] In block 3004 a carry ring can be pinched or adhered to the
shaped vessel 102
to create and or retain the carry ring around the neck area proximate the open
end of the
shaped vessel 102. Such a carry ring can be partially formed in the material
of the shaped
vessel 102 and or have added to the vessel assemble additional material such
as a separate
carry ring and or other materials, as may be required and or desired in a
particular
embodiment. The method continues in block 3006.
[0075] In block 3006 the column load is isolated between the carry ring
and the open
end of the shaped vessel 102 with the methods detailed in block 1006 or by
other methods,
CA 02780798 2012-05-11
WO 2011/059852 - 21 ¨ PCT/US2010/055052
as may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment. The method
continues in
block 3008.
[0076] In block 3008 the shaped vessel 102 can be sealed with a closure
202 with the
methods detailed in block 1008 or by other methods, as may be required and or
desired in
a particular embodiment. The method is then exited.
[0077] Referring to Figure 15 there is illustrated one example of a
method of forming
a carry ring in product packaging isolating column loading and mitigating
deformation of
shaped vessels during closure application. In an exemplary embodiment, a
cylindrical tube
fabricated from metal, or other material can be formed into a shaped vessel
102. A lower
edge 118B can be formed in the side wall of the shaped vessel 102 proximate
the open end
of the vessel. A carry ring can added to the shaped vessel 102. The carry ring
114, 114A-B
can be asymmetrical 114A or symmetrical 114B as illustrated in Figure 6A-6C.
An upper
edge 118A is then formed in the vessel wall above the lower edge and carry
ring to secure
by pinching or adhesion the added carry ring in place. The contour vessel 102
is then
supported by the carry ring to isolate the column load associated with the
application of a
closure 202 to the region between the open end and the carry ring. In this
regard, isolating
the column load to the open end of the shaped vessel 102 minimizes deformation
of the
shaped vessel 102 resultant from column loading during application of the
closure 202.
The shaped vessel 102 can then be sealed with the application of a closure
202. The
method begins in block 4002.
[0078] In block 4002 the shaped vessel is formed with the methods
detailed in block
1002 or by other methods, as may be required and or desired in a particular
embodiment.
The method continues in block 4004.
CA 02780798 2012-05-11
WO 2011/059852 - 22 ¨ PCT/US2010/055052
[0079] In block 4004 a lower edge can be formed on the shaped vessel 102
side walls.
Such a lower edge can be formed by way of necking, blow molding, pressure ram,
embossed, rolled, hydro formed, pneumatic formed, stamped halves, or other
shaping type
operations, as may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment. The
method
continues in block 4006.
[0080] In block 4006 a carry ring 114 is placed around the open end of
the shaped
vessel 102. The carry ring rests on the lower edge which keeps the ring from
sliding down
the neck of the contour vessel. The method continues in block 4008.
[0081] In block 4008 an upper edge is formed on the shaped vessel 102
side walls
above the lower edge and the carry ring. The method continues in block 4010.
[0082] In block 4010 the carry ring is pinched or adhered between the
lower and upper
edge proximate the open end of the shaped vessel 102. In an exemplary
embodiment, the
column load is isolated between the carry ring and the open end of the shaped
vessel 102
with the methods detailed in block 1006 or by other methods, as may be
required and or
desired in a particular embodiment. Figures 6A-6D illustrates the carry ring
114, 114A-B
and the pinched or adhered position between the upper edge 118A and the lower
edge
118B. The method is then exited.
[0083] Referring to Figure 16 there is illustrated examples of exemplary
embodiments
of methods of isolating column loading and mitigating deformation of shaped
vessels
during closure application. Such exemplary embodiments can be selectively
utilized with
the methods of the present invention.
CA 02780798 2012-05-11
WO 2011/059852 - 23 ¨ PCT/US2010/055052
[0084] In block 5002 an outsert can be applied around the open end of
the shaped
vessel 102. Such application can be by press fitting, adhering, roll formed,
and or by other
methods, as may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment.
[0085] In block 5004 the shaped vessel can be filled with a product. In
an exemplary
embodiment, such a product can be filled through the open end of the shaped
vessel 102.
Such products can include food, beverage, and or other products, as may be
required and
or desired in a particular embodiment.
[0086] In block 5006 the cylindrical tube can be heated to increase the
workability of
the vessel material prior to and or during the step of molding. In an
exemplary
embodiment, a metal cylindrical tube can be heated to soften the metal prior
to and or
during molding. Furthermore, such molding methods can include blow molding,
pressure
ram, embossed, rolled, hydro formed, pneumatic formed, stamped halves, and or
other
types and kinds of molding, as may be required and or desired in a particular
embodiment.
[0087] In block 5008 the shaped vessel can be decorated. Such decoration
can be
brand name indicia, product indicia, nutrition content indicia, and or other
indicia and or
decoration, as may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment. In
an exemplary
embodiment, such indicia and or decoration can be applied to the shaped vessel
by way of
printing, screening, ink jet, application on a pre printed label, and or by
other methods, as
may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment.
[0088] In block 5010 the cylindrical tube is formed from a sheet metal or
metal slug.
In an exemplary embodiment, sheet metal can be formed into a cylindrical tube
by way of
cupping, drawn and ironing (D&I), impact extrusion of metal slugs formed, and
or by way
CA 02780798 2012-05-11
WO 2011/059852 - 24 ¨ PCT/US2010/055052
of other types and kinds of methods, as may be required and or desired in a
particular
embodiment.
[0089] In block 5012 the formed shaped vessel 102 can be heat treated to
strengthen
the vessel walls or improve the metal for future forming operations. In an
exemplary
embodiment, such heating methods can include annealing, tempering, re-
crystallizing, and
or other methods, as may be required and or desired in a particular
embodiment.
[0090] In block 5014 the shaped vessel can be trimmed. In an exemplary
the open end
of the shaped vessel can be trimmed to create a uniform even open end edge. As
an
example and not a limitation, trimming of the open end edge can be effectuated
prior to
rolling the edge such as illustrated in Figures 2A-2C and 3A-B, 4A-4B, 5A-5B,
6C-6D,
and 7A-7B shown as rolled edge 104.
[0091] In block 5016 the shaped vessel can have the interior of the
vessel coated to
prevent the contents of the vessel such as a food, beverage, or other
packaging contents, as
may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment from coming in
contact with
the metal side walls of the vessel. In this regard, such metal vessel can
leach into the
packaging contents and or the packaging contents can adversely interact with
the metal
that forms the vessel. In an exemplary embodiment a coating such as epoxies,
acrylics,
polyesters, polymer laminates, and others can be used to insure separation of
the metal
vessel surface from the vessel contents such as a food or a beverage. Such a
coating can be
applied to the sheet metal prior to forming the cylindrical tube, to the
cylindrical tube prior
to shaping into a shaped vessel, and or to the shape vessel after shaping, as
may be
required and of desired in a particular embodiment..
CA 02780798 2012-05-11
WO 2011/059852 - 25 ¨
PCT/US2010/055052
[0092] In block 5018 the shaped vessel can be cleaned to remove any
process films,
oils, dirt and or debris, contamination, sterilization, and or cleaned for
other purposes, as
may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment.
[0093] In block 5020 final shaping can be provided after initial shaping
processes are
performed. In this regard, after the vessel has been initially shaped, other
non-shaping
steps can be performed such as decoration, trimming, cleaning, and other non-
shaping
steps, as may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment. After
such non-
shaping steps additional shaping steps can be performed.
[0094] The capabilities of the present invention can be implemented in
software,
firmware, hardware or some combination thereof.
[0095] As one example, one or more aspects of the present invention can
be included
in an article of manufacture (e.g., one or more computer program products)
having, for
instance, computer usable media. The media has embodied therein, for instance,
computer
readable program code means for providing and facilitating the capabilities of
the present
invention. The article of manufacture can be included as a part of a computer
system or
sold separately.
[0096] Additionally, at least one program storage device readable by a
machine,
tangibly embodying at least one program of instructions executable by the
machine to
perform the capabilities of the present invention can be provided.
[0097] The flow diagrams depicted herein are just examples. There may be
many
variations to these diagrams or the steps (or operations) described therein
without
departing from the spirit of the invention. For instance, the steps may be
performed in a
CA 02780798 2012-05-11
WO 2011/059852 - 26 ¨
PCT/US2010/055052
differing order, or steps may be added, deleted or modified. All of these
variations are
considered a part of the claimed invention.
[0098] While the preferred embodiment to the invention has been
described, it will be
understood that those skilled in the art, both now and in the future, may make
various
improvements and enhancements which fall within the scope of the claims which
follow.
These claims should be construed to maintain the proper protection for the
invention first
described.
