Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
CA 02942302 2016-09-09
WO 2015/138413 PCT/US2015/019642
VENTED BEVERAGE CAN AND CAN END
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application Serial No.
61/950,397 filed
March 10, 2014, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference as
if set forth in its
entirety herein.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The present invention relates to containers, and more particularly to
beverage
containers having a vent for releasing internal pressure and/or for enhancing
pouring.
[0003] Modern beverage can ends include a rivet formed on a center panel, a
tab
coupled to the end by a rivet, and a score that is ruptured to form a pour
opening. The ends are
required to have very low failure rates even while being produced in vast
quantities and rated to
contain 85 psi or greater. Several vented beverage ends have been disclosed. A
vented beverage
end may be used on a container that is not required to be pressurized, such as
container for non-
carbonated beverages.
[0004] United States Patent Numbers 6,079,583 and 6,354,453 disclose an end
having
venting capabilities that does not require a second opening. United States
Patent Publication
Number 2001/0266281 discloses an end having a vent score that is spaced apart
from the main
score. The vent score defines a vent tear panel that is raised. The vent score
is ruptured by first
positioning a concave region of the tab on the raised vent tear panel and
pushing downward on
the tab to rupture the vent score.
[0005] There is a need for improved reliability and functionality of vent
openings in
commercial quantities.
SUMMARY
[0006] A can end has vent features that provide improved function. This
summary
provides an overview of the features of the end, and it is understood that
several features can
work together to enhance performance of the end and its vent. Accordingly, the
present
invention is not limited to the particular features in the combinations
provided below. Further,
no particular feature or dimension is required unless expressly set out in the
claims.
- 1 -
CA 02942302 2016-09-09
WO 2015/138413 PCT/US2015/019642
[0007] According to a first combination of features, a beverage can end has a
particular
structure and dimensional relationship between a vent score and a button on
the vent panel
defined or encompassed by the vent score. The end includes a peripheral curl
capable of being
joined to a can body by seaming; a wall structure radially inward from the
curl; a center panel; a
main score defining a main hinge and a main tear panel that is capable of
opening upon rupture
of the score to form a pour opening; a tab coupled to the center panel by a
rivet, the tab having a
nose capable of contacting a portion of the main tear panel for rupturing the
main score, a body,
and a heel formed opposite the nose, the heel being configured for grasping by
a user; a vent
score defining: a vent tear panel; an upwardly protruding button located on
the vent tear panel,
the button including a sidewall that yields to a radius that merges with a
portion of the center
panel; and a vent hinge located approximately between opposing ends of the
vent score; the vent
score having a distance D3 or D13 from the button sidewall, measured at a
point at which the
vent score is closest to the button sidewall, of no more than 0.020 inches,
and preferably between
-.010 inches and 0.020 inches such that downward force transmitted from the
tab heel to the
button ruptures the score. Actuation of the tab by lifting the heel is capable
of rupturing the main
score and actuation of the tab by pressing down on the tab is capable of
rupturing the vent score.
The vent hinge preferably is oriented such that the score rupture propagates
about the vent tear
panel in two directions to the vent hinge.
[0008] In the preferred embodiment, the distance D3 is between -0.010 inches
(that is,
negative 0.010 inches) and 0.020 inches. More preferably, dimension D3 is
between -0.006
inches and 0.015 inches, more preferably -0.003 inches and 0.013 inches, and
most preferably
between -0.001 or 0.000 inches and 0.006 inches. Measured through the same
line as D3, the
distance from the centerline of the button to the inboard edge of score 42
preferably is between
-.005 and .040 inches (that is, the ranges of R2 plus D3) plus one-half Dl.
For a button diameter
of 0.130 inches, the dimension from the centerline of the button to the
inboard edge of score 42
is thus between 0.060 and 0.105 inches.
[0009] Preferably, the radius R2 between the button and the center panel or a
vent score
panel is between approximately 0.005 inches and approximately 0.020 inches,
preferably
between approximately 0.0075 inches and 0.0115 inches, and more preferably is
approximately
0.0095 inches.
[0010] The button preferably has a diameter of between approximately 0.10
inches and
approximately 0.18 inches, more preferably between of approximately 0.115
inches and
approximately 0.15, and preferably approximately 0.130 inches. Preferably, the
vent score is not
spaced apart from the button sidewall by a uniform distance. The vent in this
regard can be
- 2 -
CA 02942302 2016-09-09
WO 2015/138413 PCT/US2015/019642
configured such that the vent score is closest to the button sidewall at a
point that is opposite the
hinge. Alternatively the closest location of the vent score to the button
sidewall is not opposite
the hinge. The vent hinge can be opposite the rivet. Alternatively, the vent
hinge is on a side of
the button proximate the rivet.
[0011] The tab has a contact element that is configured to contact the button.
The tab
contact element may be a downwardly protruding bead that is elongate and sized
to enable the
tab bead to enter into the vent aperture formed by depressing the vent tear
panel. The tab bead
may be curved at a radius that is approximately equal to the distance between
a center of the rivet
and the vent button to promote contact between the tab bead and the button and
enable good
contact at a wide range of angular positions of the tab.
[0012] The structure of the tab bead and the vent button and the relative
locations and
dimensions of the parts of the end may be configured such that during the
process of opening the
vent, in response to downward pressure applied on the tab by a user, the vent
score ruptures
initially at a point at which the vent score is closest to the button
sidewall. In this regard, the tab
is configured such that initial contact by a tab bead against the button is at
a location on the
button that is proximate where the vent score is closest to the button
sidewall. Further, the tab
and button may be configured such that after initial contact, subsequent
contact by the tab bead
against the button moves from the initial contact point rearward on the button
as the vent tear
panel pivots about the hinge.
[0013] A vent button and score preferably has a layout that promotes reliable
opening. The
vent preferably defines: a dimension X from a button center to lateral ends of
the vent score
along a vent centerline CL, a dimension Y from the button center to the vent
hinge, and a
dimension Z from the button center to a proximal point of the vent score,
which is the point on
the score that is closest to the button. Dimension X is greater than Z and
less than 5Z and
dimension Y is greater than 0.5Z and less than 3Z. Preferably, dimension X is
greater than 1.2 Z
and less than 3Z, and dimension Y is greater than 0.75Z and less than 2Z, and
more preferably
dimension Y is greater than 0.9Z and less than 1.5Z. For conventional beverage
can ends, the Z
dimension preferably is between 0.0625 and 0.090 inches, and more preferably
between 0.065
and 0.085 inches, and more preferably between 0.068 and 0.078 inches. In one
embodiment (for
example as shown in Figure 2), dimension Z is 0.083 inches. The X and Y
dimensions and
ranges can be calculated from the preferred Z dimensions.
[0014] In another embodiment, dimensions for score 142 preferably are X of
approximately 0.143 inches, Y of approximately 0.101 inches, and Z of
approximately 0.083
inches. Dimension Z preferably is between 0.2X and lx, and most preferably
between 0.33X
- 3 -
CA 02942302 2016-09-09
WO 2015/138413 PCT/US2015/019642
and 0.83X. Dimension Z preferably is between 0.5Y and 1.33Y, and most
preferably between
0.67Y and 1.1Y.
[0015] Dimension Z may also be defined as a ratio of button diameter Dl. In
this regard,
dimension Z may be approximately between 0.5D1 and 0.81D1, preferably
approximately
between 0.55D1 and 0.7D1, and in the preferred embodiment approximately 0.6D1.
As Y
encompasses a dimension less than D1, the hinge may intersect with the button
structure such
that upon actuation of the vent panel, the hinge forms not in a straight line
but forms around the
button. The vent score may be formed in a local recess for any of the above
structure.
[0016] According to a second combination of end features, the vent score,
which at least
partially defines the vent tear panel, may be located in a local recess or
deboss portion. In this
regard, the beverage can end may include: a peripheral curl capable of being
joined to a can body
by seaming; a wall structure radially inward from the curl; a center panel; a
main score defining
a main hinge and a main tear panel that is capable of opening upon rupture of
the score to form a
pour opening; a tab coupled to the center panel by a rivet, the tab having a
nose capable of
contacting a portion of the main tear panel for rupturing the main score, a
body, and a heel
formed opposite the nose, the heel being configured for grasping by a user,
and a vent. The vent
score defines a vent tear panel and there is an upwardly protruding button
located on the vent
tear panel. A vent hinge is located approximately between opposing ends of the
vent score; and a
vent recess is formed in the center panel, and the vent tear panel is located
in the vent panel
recess. Actuation of the tab by lifting the heel is capable of rupturing the
main score and
actuation of the tab by pressing down on the tab is capable of rupturing the
vent score after the
tab is pivoted over the vent panel button. The inventors believe that the
local vent recess can
counter the effects of slack metal formed by the vent score and anti-fracture
score. The depth
and diameter of the vent recess may be chosen according to industry practice
according to
variables of aluminum thickness, vent size and score configuration, and other
parameters.
[0017] Preferably, the center panel further includes a main recess of the
general type that
are known in the art and associated with a "Stolle-style" center panel, but
such recess is not
required. If present, each one of main score, rivet, and vent panel recess may
be formed in the
main recess. In order to locate the vent button at a location at which is it
not inadvertently
opened by unintentional downward force on the bead, the vent button may be
located on the
center panel at a place that is not underneath the tab or its vertical
projection while the tab is in
its as-manufactured state. Preferably, the as-manufactured state places the
tab in a position for
opening the main pour opening by rupture of the main score. Further, the
location of the vent
preferably is high on the center panel (that is, when the can is oriented for
pouring or drinking or
- 4 -
CA 02942302 2016-09-09
WO 2015/138413 PCT/US2015/019642
when the center panel is nearly vertical), as the vent panel recess preferably
is tangential to a
periphery of the main recess and near the tab. In this regard, choosing the
location of the vent so
that it is at a point relatively high on the center panel enhances the venting
function during
pouring, and choosing the location of the vent outside of the projection of
the tab and even
spaced apart from the tab makes inadvertent tab rupture unlikely. Also, the
vent is configured
such that the main recess is not symmetrical about its centerline.
[0018] Another combination of features of the vent promotes a large venting
area formed
between the periphery of the vent tear panel and the stationary remainder of
the end, especially
when viewed as a function of vent tear panel angular deflection. In this
regard, the beverage can
end includes: a peripheral curl capable of being joined to a can body by
seaming; a wall structure
radially inward from the curl; a center panel; a main score defining a main
hinge and a main tear
panel that is capable of opening upon rupture of the score to form a pour
opening; a tab coupled
to the center panel by a rivet, the tab having a nose capable of contacting a
portion of the main
tear panel for rupturing the main score, a body, and a heel formed opposite
the nose, the heel
being configured for grasping by a user; and an elongated vent score.
[0019] The elongated vent score defines or encompasses a vent tear panel. An
upwardly
protruding button is located on the vent tear panel, the button including a
sidewall that yields to a
radius that merges with a portion of the center panel. A vent hinge is located
approximately
between opposing ends of the vent score. The elongated vent score provides
enhanced venting
capacity upon deflection of the vent tear panel after rupture.
[0020] Preferably, the tab includes an elongated bead on an underside of the
tab proximate
the heel. The tab and vent score are configured such that after actuation of
the tab bead against
the vent button, the tab bead is configured to enter into opening created upon
rupture of the vent
score to enhance deflection of the vent tear panel. The vent hinge may be
oriented such that it is
parallel to the long axis of the elongated vent score or perpendicular to the
long axis of the
elongated vent score.
[0021] According to a fourth combination of end features, a configuration of
the vent
button, vent score, and vent hinge are chosen to provide reliable opening and
adequate strength
in commercial quantities. Thus, the beverage can end includes a peripheral
curl capable of
being joined to a can body by seaming; a wall structure radially inward from
the curl; a center
panel; a main score defining a main hinge and a main tear panel that is
capable of opening upon
rupture of the score to form a pour opening; a tab coupled to the center panel
by a rivet, the tab
having a nose capable of contacting a portion of the main tear panel for
rupturing the main score,
- 5 -
CA 02942302 2016-09-09
WO 2015/138413 PCT/US2015/019642
a body, and a heel formed opposite the nose, the heel being configured for
grasping by a user;
and a vent.
[0022] The vent has a vent score that defines or encompasses a vent tear
panel. An upwardly
protruding button is located on the vent tear panel, the button including a
sidewall that yields to a
radius that merges with a portion of the center panel. A vent hinge is located
approximately
between opposing ends of the vent score. The vent tear panel defines a
dimension X from a
button center to lateral ends of the vent score along a vent centerline CL, a
dimension Y from the
button center to the vent hinge, and a dimension Z from the button center to a
proximal point of
the vent score , which is the point on the score that is closest to the
button.
[0023] Regarding preferred relationships, dimension X is greater than Z and
less than 5Z
and dimension Y is greater than 0.5Z and less than 3Z. Preferably, dimension X
is greater than
1.2 Z and less than 3Z, and dimension Y is greater than 0.75Z and less than
2Z, and more
preferably dimension Y is greater than 0.9Z and less than 1.5Z. For
conventional beverage can
ends, the Z dimension preferably is between 0.0625 and 0.090 inches, and more
preferably
between 0.065 and 0.085 inches, and more preferably between 0.068 and 0.078
inches. The X
and Y dimensions and ranges can be calculated from the preferred Z dimensions.
[0024] In another embodiment, dimensions for score 142 preferably are X of
approximately 0.143 inches, Y of approximately 0Ø101 inches, and Z of
approximately 0.083
inches. Dimension Z preferably is between 0.2X and lx, and most preferably
between 0.33X
and 0.83X. Dimension Z preferably is between 0.5Y and 1.33Y, and most
preferably between
0.67Y and 1.1Y.
[0025] Dimension Z may also be defined as a ratio of button diameter Dl. In
this regard,
dimension Z may be approximately between 0.5D1 and 0.81D1, preferably
approximately
between 0.55D1 and 0.7D1, and in the preferred embodiment approximately 0.6D1.
As Y
encompasses a dimension less than D1, the hinge may intersect with the button
structure such
that the upon actuation of the vent panel, the hinge forms not in a straight
line but forms around
the button. The vent score may be formed in a local recess for any of the
above structure.
[0026] The vent score preferably has a distance D3 or D13 from the button
sidewall,
measured at a point at which the vent score is closest to the button sidewall,
between -0.010
inches (that is, negative 0.010 inches) and 0.020 inches such that downward
force transmitted
from the tab heel to the button ruptures the score. Preferably the distance D3
or D13 is between
-0.006 inches and 0.015 inches, more preferably -0.003 inches and 0.013
inches, and most
preferably between -0.001 or 0.000 inches and 0.006 inches.
- 6 -
CA 02942302 2016-09-09
WO 2015/138413 PCT/US2015/019642
[0027] The tab has a contact element that is configured to contact the button,
which
preferably is a downwardly protruding bead that is elongate and sized to
enable the tab bead to
enter into the vent aperture formed by depressing the vent tear panel. In
response to downward
pressure applied on the tab, the vent score ruptures initially at a point at
which the vent score is
closest to the button sidewall.
[0028] Preferably, the tab is configured such that initial contact by a tab
bead against the
button is at a location on the button that is proximate where the vent score
is closest to the button
sidewall. Further, the tab and button can be configured such that after
initial contact, subsequent
contact by the tab bead against the button moves from the initial contact
point rearward on the
button as the vent tear panel pivots about the hinge. Preferably, the center
panel includes a vent
recess formed in a main recess and the vent tear panel is located in the vent
panel recess.
[0029] According to a fifth combination of end features, a beverage tab may be
configured
to enhance venting. In this regard, the contact between the tab and the vent
structures occurs at
a point or a line that moves rearward toward the hinge as the vent opens to
promote deflection of
the vent panel. The beverage can end configured in this way may include a
peripheral curl
capable of being joined to a can body by seaming; a wall structure radially
inward from the curl;
a center panel; a main score defining a main hinge and a main tear panel that
is capable of
opening upon rupture of the score to form a pour opening; and a tab coupled to
the center panel
by a rivet. The tab has a nose capable of contacting a portion of the main
tear panel for rupturing
the score, a body, a heel formed opposite the nose, the heel being configured
for grasping by a
user, and a downwardly extending bead on an underside of the tab proximate the
heel.
[0030] The fifth end also includes a vent. A vent score defines or encompasses
a vent tear
panel. An upwardly protruding button is located on the vent tear panel, the
button including a
sidewall that yields to a radius that merges with a portion of the center
panel.A vent hinge is
located approximately between opposing ends of the vent score. The tab is
configured such that
a first contact by a tab bead against the button is at a location on the
button that is referred to as
an initial contact point. After the initial contact, subsequent contact by the
tab bead against the
button moves from the initial contact point rearward on the button as the vent
tear panel pivots
about the hinge (that is, the point of contact moves relative to the rivet and
on the button).
Preferably, the vent hinge is opposite the rivet.
[0031] Preferably the button and tab are configured such that the vent score
has a distance
D3 or D13 from the button sidewall, measured at a point at which the vent
score is closest to the
button sidewall, of between -0.010 inches (that is, negative 0.010 inches) and
0.020 inches such
that downward force transmitted from the tab heel to the button ruptures the
score. Preferably
- 7 -
CA 02942302 2016-09-09
WO 2015/138413 PCT/US2015/019642
the distance D3 or D13 is between -0.006 inches and 0.015 inches, more
preferably -0.003 inches
and 0.013 inches, and most preferably between -0.001 or 0.000 inches and 0.006
inches. And the
button preferably the button has a diameter of approximately 0.130 inches. The
tab bead may be
curved at a radius that is approximately equal to the distance between a
center of the rivet and the
vent button.
[0032] Preferably, the closest location of the vent score to the button
sidewall is opposite
the vent hinge. Alternatively, the closest location of the vent score to the
button sidewall is not
opposite the vent hinge. The tab may configured such that initial contact by a
tab bead against
the button is at a location on the button that is proximate where the vent
score is closest to the
button sidewall.
[0033] The tab has a contact element that is configured to contact the button
, which
preferably is a downwardly protruding bead that is elongate and sized to
enable the tab bead to
enter into the vent aperture formed by depressing the vent tear panel. In
response to downward
pressure applied on the tab, the vent score preferably ruptures initially at a
point at which the
vent score is closest to the button sidewall. The tab bead may curved at a
radius that is
approximately equal to the distance between a center of the rivet and the vent
button.
[0034] Further, the vent configuration may define X,Y, and Z dimensions and
relationships
as described above. And the vent may be formed in a vent recess formed in the
center panel and
in the main recess.
[0035] Other embodiments may employ raised and/or recessed beads. In this
regard, a
beverage can end may include a peripheral curl capable of being joined to a
can body by
seaming; a wall structure radially inward from the curl; a center panel; a
main score defining a
main hinge and a main tear panel that is capable of opening upon rupture of
the score to form a
pour opening; a tab coupled to the center panel by a rivet, the tab having a
nose capable of
contacting a portion of the main tear panel for rupturing the main score, a
body, and a heel
formed opposite the nose, the heel being configured for grasping by a user; a
raised main bead
having a first end located on the heel side of the tab and extending around
the main tear panel to
a second end; and a vent. The vent includes: a vent score defining a vent tear
panel and a vent
hinge located approximately between opposing ends of the vent score; and an
upwardly
protruding button located on the vent tear panel. A raised or recessed vent
bead is located about
the vent score; whereby actuation of the tab by lifting the heel is capable of
rupturing the main
score and actuation of the tab by pressing down on the tab is capable of
rupturing the vent score.
[0036] The main bead and the vent bead may continuous or the vent bead may be
spaced
apart from the main bead. The vent bead may be a raised bead, or the vent bead
may be a
- 8 -
CA 02942302 2016-09-09
WO 2015/138413 PCT/US2015/019642
recessed bead, such that the raised main bead and the recessed vent bead are
joined at a transition
at which the raised bead yields to the recessed bead. Preferably the vent bead
is tangential to a
periphery of the center panel. The main bead has a longitudinal axis and the
main bead is
asymmetrical about the main bead longitudinal axis. The vent score and button
for the beaded
ends encompasses all embodiments of the vent score and button orientation and
configuration as
described for the recessed panel embodiments.
[0037] A method of opening and venting a beverage can begins with the end
structure
described in any of the above paragraphs. The method includes (i) actuating
the tab to press
against the main tear panel and to rupture the main score, thereby forming a
pour opening; (ii)
pivoting the tab such that the tab is capable of contacting the vent button;
and (iii) after the
pivoting step, applying a downward force on the tab to provide a force on the
button via an
underside of the tab at an initial contact point and then applying a downward
force to rupture the
vent score and open the vent such that the contact by the tab on the button
moves rearward on the
button from the initial contact as the vent tear panel pivots about the vent
hinge. The vent may
be opened before or after the pour opening is formed in step (i).
[0038] A beverage can and end combination holding a carbonated beverage,
otherwise
pressurized can, or an unpressurized can is also provided. The inventive
vented can end may use
any can end described herein. The present invention encompasses the
corresponding method of
actuating the beverage can end for each of the embodiments and for any
combination of the
features provided.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0039] Figure 1 is a top view of a can end according to a first embodiment of
the
present invention;
[0040] Figure 2 is an underside view of the can end of Figure 1;
[0041] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the can end of Figure 1;
[0042] Figure 4 is a top perspective view of the can end of Figure 1 showing
the tab
actuated to open the pour opening;
[0043] Figure 5 is an underside perspective view of the can end of Figure 1
shown the
vent opening actuated to its open position and having the main tear panel
removed for clarity;
[0044] Figure 6 is a can body and can end combination showing the tab over the
vent
opening with the vent in its unactuated, unvented state;
[0045] Figure 7 is an enlarged schematic view of a portion of the button on
the vent;
- 9 -
CA 02942302 2016-09-09
WO 2015/138413 PCT/US2015/019642
[0046] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a tooling insert used to form the
vent score
portion of the end shown in Figure 2;
[0047] Figure 9 is an enlarged plan view of a portion of a vent portion of the
end shown
in Figure 2;
[0048] Figure 10 is an enlarged plan view of a second embodiment of a portion
of a
vent portion of an end;
[0049] Figure 11 is an enlarged plan view of a third embodiment of a portion
of a vent
portion of an end;
[0050] Figure 12 is an enlarged plan view of a fourth embodiment of a portion
of a vent
portion of an end;
[0051] Figure 13A is an enlarged, cross sectional view of a portion of the tab
and vent
according to a first embodiment can end with the tab rotated over the vent
before downward
actuation of the tab;
[0052] Figure 13B is a cross sectional view of the embodiment of Figure 13A
showing
the tab deflected downwardly and vent score ruptured;
[0053] Figure 13C is a cross sectional view of the embodiment of Figure 13A
showing
the tab in its fully actuated position and the vent tear panel fully open;
[0054] Figure 14A is a top view of an embodiment of a can end having a center
panel
that includes a bead; and
[0055] Figure 14B is a top view of another embodiment of a can end having a
center
panel that includes a bead.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS
[0056] Referring to Figures 1 through 6 to illustrate a first embodiment, a
beverage can
end 10 formed of an aluminum alloy (preferably a 5000 series alloy) has a
shell that includes a
peripheral curl 12, a wall structure 14, an annular bead 16, and a center
panel 18. Can end 10
also includes a vent 40 formed on the center panel and a tab 70 affixed to the
shell by a rivet.
Figures 1 through 5 show can end 10 in its unseamed state. Figure 6 shows a
can end and can
body combination holding a carbonated beverage.
[0057] Curl 12 is configured to be seamed to a flange of an aluminum can body
8,
preferably by a conventional double seam. The can body and can end
combination, joined by a
double seam, is shown in Figure 6. Wall structure 14 extends from curl 12 and
preferably is of a
type found on conventional, lightweight ends. In this regard, wall structure
14 is inclined as
shown in the figures, and also may encompass curved portions, kicks, kinks,
double angles, and
- 10 -
CA 02942302 2016-09-09
WO 2015/138413 PCT/US2015/019642
like structure known in the field. Countersink bead 16 is located at the base
of wall structure 14.
Center panel 18 extends from countersink bead 16. The present invention also
encompasses a
panel wall or chamfer (not shown in the figures) that merges with inner wall
of bead 16 and
center panel 18.
[0058] Center panel 18 is flat, which encompasses variations from a
theoretical plane
because of manufacturing tolerances and some inherent deviations from a
perfect plane, and also
structural features, such as deboss panels and beads described herein and the
like. The term flat
is used to encompass both the unseamed end and the curvature under normal
pressurized
conditions from holding a carbonated beverage. A rivet 22 is formed in center
panel 18
preferably in the center of center panel 18. A main score 26 is formed in
center panel 18 in an
oblong shape and preferably defines a main tear panel 28, which forms a pour
opening upon
rupture of the score. Opposing ends of score 26 form a main hinge 30 about
which the tear panel
pivots during actuation of tab 70. Main score 26 and tear panel 28 preferably
are conventional.
For example, the tear panel may have an aspect ratio of between 1.3 and 1.7.
As shown in the
figures, center panel 18 includes a main deboss panel 34 -- that is, a recess
in panel 18. The
present invention is not limited to ends having a main deboss panel unless
specifically required
by the claims. Rather, the present invention encompasses ends that do not have
a main deboss
panel, which ends may have beads formed on the center panel, as is known in
the field.
[0059] In a first embodiment, vent 40 includes a vent score 42, a vent hinge
46, a vent
anti-fracture score 48, and an upwardly protruding button 50. Preferably, vent
40 is located
within a vent recess or deboss panel 62, which is formed in main deboss panel
34. Deboss panel
62 has a diameter that preferably is at least 0.5 inches, preferably less than
0.7 inches, and in the
embodiment shown approximately 0.63 inches. Deboss panel 62 may stiffen the
region around
vent 40 to enhance openability. The depth of vent deboss panel 62 may be
chosen with the end
goal of panel stiffness and minimum slack metal without putting undue stress
on vent score 42.
In this regard, the size of the vent panel may be chosen according to
parameters that will be
understood by persons familiar with end forming technology upon consideration
of the present
disclosure, taking into account the parameters of vent score dimensions and
configuration, button
size and configuration, relationship to other recesses or beads, depth of
recesses, and the like.
[0060] Vent deboss panel 62 preferably is located such that button 50 is not
beneath
tab 70 or is not beneath a downwardly protruding bead, described below, while
the tab is in its
as-manufactured or shipping configuration or in the position in which is
configured to actuate
main score 26. In this regard, button 50, especially the center or a contact
portion of button 50,
may be outboard of the side of tab 70 such that a downward force on tab 70
does not apply a
-11-
CA 02942302 2016-09-09
WO 2015/138413 PCT/US2015/019642
force on button 50 until a user pivots or rotates tab 70 for the purpose of
aligning the tab contact
surface with button 50. Further, deboss panel 62 preferably is located
distally from main score
26 while still being formed in main recess panel 34 (although it is not
required that the deboss
panel be located in the main recess panel) such that vent 40 can be located at
or near the highest
feasible point on the end when the can is tilted into a pouring position or
when the can is
horizontal and the end is vertical. Accordingly and as shown in figure 1, an
edge or sidewall of
vent deboss 62 may be tangential to or in part coextensive with an edge or
sidewall of main
deboss panel 34. In this configuration, main recess panel 34 is asymmetrical
about its
longitudinal centerline, which is unlike conventional Stolle-style recess
panels. The longitudinal
axis of main recess panel 34 is defined as a line through the rivet,
approximately through the
center of the tear panel, and through the bottom center of the edge of main
recess panel.
[0061] Figure 8 is a tooling insert used to form vent score 42 of vent 40.
Figure 9 is an
enlarged view of the structure that partly is formed by the tooling insert of
Figure 8. For
convenience of illustration and dimensional precision and accuracy, the
description of the tooling
insert and the corresponding structure are provided together, and it is
understood that description
of the tool applies to description of the vent structure formed from the tool.
A prime designation
(') is used to refer to structure on the tool, as distinguished from
corresponding structure in an
end, as needed.
[0062] As best shown in Figure 9, vent score 42 includes a longitudinal
centerline CL
that is parallel to hinge 46. Vent score 42 includes a pair of opposing ends
45a. On each side,
score 42 merges from end 45a via a transition 45b to first and second curved
portions 45c and
45d, which meet at a side 45e, which preferably is straight. Preferably, the
radii of curved
transition portions 45c and 45d are approximately 0.083 inches. R1 in Figure 9
identifies radii
45d.
[0063] Button 50 is formed within score 42. For convenience and according to
industry
custom, dimensions are provided here for the tooling and it is understood that
dimensions in the
finished end will follow from the tooling dimensions, with some variation for
manufacturing
deviations, such as spring back or tool wear. For precision in claiming, the
dimensions are
applied to the end structure and may be measured on the end.
[0064] Button 50, as shown schematically in Figure 7, rises from deboss panel
62 of
center panel 18 via a radiused or curved transition 52. If the vent score is
formed in the main
recess of the center panel or in the unrecessed portion of the center panel,
curved transition 52
merges from the main recess or unrecessed portion. Curved transition 52 merges
into a button
sidewall 54 which extends to yield to a button top 56. Curved transition 52
extends between
- 12 -
CA 02942302 2016-09-09
WO 2015/138413 PCT/US2015/019642
inboard point 53a that merges into sidewall 54 and outboard point 53b that
merges with center
panel 18 or, more specifically, deboss panel 62. Preferably, curved transition
52 has a radius R2
(Figure 7) that is between 0.005 inches and 0.020 inches, more preferably
between 0.0075 inches
and 0.0115 inches, and most preferably approximately 0.0095 inches.
[0065] The inventors have found that choosing the distance between the score
and the
button sidewall 54 is helpful in some embodiments in enabling the vent opening
to controllably
and repeatably open. The distance can be measured from the outboard point 53b
of radius R2 to
the inside wall of score 42, as best shown in Figure 7 by distance D3. The
distance D3 is
measured at the point at which the vent score is closest to the button
sidewall, referred to as
proximal point 57, as explained below. Figure 9 shows button 50 and
illustrates dimension D3
that is measured from point 53b at the circumferential position identified by
proximal point 57.
[0066] Preferably, dimension D3 is between -0.010 inches (that is, negative
0.010
inches) and 0.020 inches. The negative range means that the inner wall of vent
score 42 can be
located on or in button curved transition 52 or button sidewall ¨ that is, on
the inboard side (that
is, to the right as oriented in Figure 7) of outboard point 53b. Because the
range of D3
encompasses zero, the inner wall of vent score 42 may be on the point 53b at
which curved
transition 52 ends or merges on to center panel 18. And the dimension
encompasses a vent
score that is located up to 0.020 inches away from the point 53b (that is,
outwardly from the
button). More preferably, dimension D3 is between -0.006 inches and 0.015
inches, more
preferably between -0.003 inches and 0.013 inches, and most preferably between
-0.001 or 0.000
inches and 0.006 inches. Measured through the same line as D3, the distance
from the
centerline of the button to inboard edge of score 42 is between -.005 and .040
inches plus one-
half D1, which represents radius R2 plus dimension D3 plus the button radius.
For a button
diameter of 0.130 inches, the dimension from the centerline of the button to
the inboard edge of
score 42 is thus between 0.060 and 0.105 inches.
[0067] Button 50 preferably has a diameter of between 0.100 inches and 0.180
inches,
more preferably, between approximately 0.115 inches and 0.15 inches, and most
preferably
approximately 0.130 inches. The diameter of button 50 is represented as D1 on
Figures 7 and 9.
For ease of measurement, D1 (and D13 below) is measured on the button 50 at
point 53a and the
point opposite 53a. Conceptually, curved transition 52 can be considered to be
part of button 50
even though curved transition 52 is excluded from the measurement of D1 in the
embodiments
shown. Button 50 as shown in the figures is circular in top view, but the
present invention is not
limited to circular buttons. Button 50 is illustrated in the figures having a
straight sidewall 54,
and the present invention encompasses curved sidewalls and tops and a
combination of curves
- 13 -
CA 02942302 2016-09-09
WO 2015/138413 PCT/US2015/019642
and straight portions forming the button sidewall 54 and button top 56. Thus,
the present
invention encompasses forming the vent score anywhere on the button sidewall.
Use of the term
"button sidewall" is intended to cover the entire surface of the button.
[0068] A proximal point 57 is defined as the point on score 42 that is closest
to button
sidewall 54 ¨ specifically, closest to outboard radius point 53b of the
button. To enhance the
effectiveness of the transfer of force through button 50 to score 42, in the
embodiment shown in
Figure 9, proximal point 57 is located on the side of the button opposite the
vent hinge 46.
Further, vent hinge 46 preferably is opposite the rivet 22 relative to the
button 50, as shown in
Figure 2. The present invention also encompasses the vent hinge proximate the
rivet 22 rather
than opposite it, as well as other locations.
[0069] Dimension X is the distance from the button center to the lateral ends
of score
42' along longitudinal centerline CL. Dimension Y is the distance from the
button center to the
vent hinge 46. Dimension Z is the distance from the button center to the
proximal point of score
42 opposite hinge 46 (that is, to proximal point 57). Alternatively, dimension
Z can be defined
as parallel and opposite to dimension Y (as for example in the embodiment
shown in Figure 9).
For the particular dimensions below, the diameter D1 of button 50 is 0.130
inches, even though
D1 and the dimensions for X, Y, and Z dimensions may vary according to
particular design
parameters. The inventors surmise that various configurations of vent scores
would achieve
reliable opening characteristics. In this regard, preferably, dimension X is
greater than Z and less
than 5Z. Preferably dimension Y is greater than 0.5Z and less than 3Z. More
preferably,
dimension X is greater than 1.2Z and less than 3Z, and dimension Y is greater
than 0.75Z and
less than 2Z, and more preferably dimension Y is greater than 0.9Z and less
than 1.5Z. The Z
dimension preferably is between 0.0625 and 0.090 inches, and more preferably
between 0.065
and 0.085 inches, and more preferably between 0.068 and 0.078 inches. In the
embodiment
shown in Figure 2, X is approximately 0.150 inches and Z is approximately 0.83
inches and Y is
approximately 0.117 inches, each with button 50 described herein. It is clear
that the present
invention encompasses vent configuration that are symmetrical and ones that
are asymmetrical.
[0070] The present invention encompasses a vent score having other dimensions.
For
example, the vent score and button 50 may be configured such that X dimension
is
approximately 0.150 inches, Y dimension is approximately 0.082 inches, Z
dimension is
approximately 0.067 inches, and button diameter D1 is approximately 0.130
inches, which
configuration is illustrated in Figure 10. For another example, the vent score
and button 50 may
be configured such that X dimension is approximately 0.183 inches, Y dimension
is
approximately 0.108 inches, Z dimension is approximately 0.083 inches, and
button diameter D1
- 14 -
CA 02942302 2016-09-09
WO 2015/138413 PCT/US2015/019642
is approximately 0.130 inches, which configuration is illustrated in Figure
11. In the
embodiment of Figure 11, the width of vent score 42 is large relative to the
width of deboss
panel 62 such that a portion of antifracture score 48 is omitted. A circular
vent score (not shown
in the figures) with a button as describe herein is also contemplated, which
circular vent score
has an X dimension of approximately 0.083 inches, a Y dimension of
approximately 0.133
inches, a Z dimension of approximately 0.083 inches, and a button dimension of
approximately
0.130 inches.
[0071] Tab 70 is an elongate, stay-on-tab that includes a nose 72, an elongate
body 74,
and a heel 76. A rivet island 78 extends below the main portion of body 74 and
is flat against
center panel. Preferably, opposing sides of body 74 are parallel or
approximately parallel.
Rivet 22 extends through a hole in rivet island 78 to affix the tab and shell
together. As is
conventional, tab 70 includes a hinge 80 about which the tab pivots during
conventional
actuation to form the main opening.
[0072] A bead 82 is formed in tab body 74 near heel 76, as directly shown in
Figure 4
and shown in the negative in other figures. Bead 82 extends downwardly
relative to the
surrounding portion of body 74 and preferably is elongate. Bead 82 may be
curved or straight in
plan view. Preferably, bead 82 is sized and positioned such that at least a
portion of bead 82 and
preferably the entire extent of bead 82 is capable of entering into the opened
vent 40 when
actuating vent tear panel 44, as best shown in Figure 13C. The present
invention encompasses
configurations of the center panel, tab, and vent in which a tab bead or tab
structure do not enter
into the opened vent.
[0073] Figure 12 illustrates a second embodiment of a vent, designated as vent
140 for
a second embodiment end 110. The shell, tab, and recesses of end 110
preferably have identical
structure for first embodiment end 10 but for the vent. Vent 140 includes a
vent score 142, a
vent tear panel 144, a vent hinge 146, a vent anti-fracture score 148, and a
button 150.
Preferably, vent 140 is located within a recess or deboss panel 62, which is
formed in main
deboss panel 34, which structure is described above.
[0074] Vent score 142 includes a longitudinal centerline CL that is
perpendicular to
hinge 146. Vent score 142 includes an end 145a, which is distal to hinge 146.
On each side,
score 142 extends from end 145a via straight sides 145b toward hinge 146.
Dimensions for
score 142 preferably are X of approximately 0.143 inches, Y of approximately
0.101 inches, and
Z of approximately 0.083 inches. Dimension Z preferably is between 0.2X and
lx, and most
preferably between 0.33X and 0.83X. Dimension Z preferably is between 0.5Y and
1.33Y, and
most preferably between 0.67Y and 1.1Y
- 15 -
CA 02942302 2016-09-09
WO 2015/138413 PCT/US2015/019642
[0075] Button 150 preferably has the same structure as that described for
button 50 of
the first embodiment vent, including a diameter of approximately 0.130 inches.
Preferably
button 150 is located closer to hinge 146 than to score end 145a and in this
regard is off center.
A proximal point 157 is defined as the point on the score 142 that is closest
to button 150 and
defines a distance therebetween as D13. Because of the configuration of score
142, the second
embodiment vent has a pair of proximal points 157 on opposing sides of button
150.
[0076] Preferably, dimension D13 is between -.010 inches (that is, negative
0.010
inches) and 0.020 inches. More preferably, dimension D13 is between -0.006
inches and 0.015
inches, more preferably -0.003 inches and 0.013 inches, and most preferably
between -0.001 or
0.000 inches and 0.006 inches.. As shown in Figure 12, D13 is measured from a
point labeled
153b which corresponds defined like point 53b in Figure 7.
[0077] In its rest, as-manufactured state, button 50 (and 150) lie outside of
the tab 70 ¨
that is, a vertical projection of the sides of tab body 74 does not
significantly encompass any part
of button 50, 150. Accordingly, if tab 70 is depressed while tab 70 is in its
rest state, the tab does
not depress button 50, thereby preventing inadvertent rupture of vent score 42
during handing
and shipping of the unseamed ends and of the filled and seamed can.
[0078] Figures 14A and 14B illustrate beverage can ends that use raised or
recessed
beads. The shell structure, main score, vent score, tab, and rivet in the
embodiments shown in
Figures 14A and 14B are as described above with respect to the embodiments
shown in Figures 1
through 12. First beaded end 210a includes a curl 212, wall structure 214, and
annular bead 216
that are as described with respect to first embodiment end 10. Center panel
218a of end 210a
includes a vent 240. A tab 270 affixed to the shell by a rivet 222.
[0079] A main score 226 is the same as described with respect to first
embodiment main
score 26. A centerline CL is defined through the rivet 222 and through a
centerline of tab 270 or,
if tab 270 is not in a conventional position ready to actuate to open the tear
panel, centerline CL
bisects the pour opening area formed by main score 226. A transverse
centerline TL is normal
to the main centerline CL and through rivet 222.
[0080] A main raised bead 288a includes a first, outwardly flared end 289 that
is located
to the rear of the transverse centerline TL, and preferably on the hinge side
of the main centerline
CL and on opposite side of line CL from vent 240b. From end 289b, bead 288a
curves inwardly
toward main centerline CL and then outwardly relative to line CL, after which
bead 288 follows
the contours of main score 226 (that is, for most of main score 226, bead 288a
is equidistantly
spaced apart from score 226).
- 16 -
CA 02942302 2016-09-09
WO 2015/138413 PCT/US2015/019642
[0081] Bead 288a continues to curve around main score 226 to terminate in
second end
290, which is forward (below in the orientation of Figure 14A) and spaced
apart from vent 240.
Second end 290 includes an outward (that is, relative to centerline CL) flare
above an inward
curve. Bead 288a is asymmetrical relative to main centerline CL, because in
the embodiment
shown in the Figure 14A, second end 290 is forward (that is, below in the
orientation of Figures
14A) first end 289.
[0082] A vent bead 299, which may either be a raised bead or a recessed bead,
and
preferably is circular, encircles a vent score 242. The shape, orientation,
and location of the vent
score and the layout of the corresponding button may be as described in any of
the embodiments
described for the other embodiments disclosed herein.
[0083] A second embodiment beaded end 210b includes a curl 212, wall structure
214,
and annular bead 216 that are as described with respect to first embodiment
end 10. Center panel
218b of end 210b includes a vent 240b. A tab 270 affixed to the shell by a
rivet 222.
[0084] A main score 226 is the same as described with respect to first
embodiment main
score 26. A centerline CL is defined through the rivet and through a
centerline of tab 270 or, if
tab 270 is not in a conventional position ready to actuate to open the tear
panel, centerline CL
bisects the pour opening area formed by main score 226. A transverse
centerline TL is normal
to the main centerline CL and through rivet 222.
[0085] A main raised bead 288b includes a first, outwardly flared end 289 that
is located
to the rear of the transverse centerline TL, and preferably on the hinge side
of the main centerline
CL and on opposite side of line CL from vent 240b. From end 289, bead 288b
curves inwardly
toward main centerline CL and then outwardly relative to line CL, after which
bead 288b follows
the contours of main score 226 (that is, for most of main score 226, bead 288b
is equidistantly
spaced apart from main score 226).
[0086] Bead 288b curves around main score 226 and continues to curve inwardly
to form
a waist 291, which is forward (below in the orientation of Figure 14A) and
spaced apart from
vent 240b. Bead 288b then extends outwardly toward vent score 242 and forms a
hook-like,
curved portion 292 that extends rearward of vent score 242. Preferably, as
shown in the Figure
14B, curved portion 292 extends to the inboard side (that is, between vent
score 242 and main
centerline CL) and forward to terminate in second bead end 293.
[0087] Bead 288b may be a raised bead throughout its extent from first end 289
through
second end 293. Alternatively, bead 288b can transition from a raised bead
that extends around
main score 226 to a recessed bead roughly at a transition, indicated in Figure
14B by reference
- 17 -
CA 02942302 2016-09-09
WO 2015/138413 PCT/US2015/019642
numeral 301 near waist 291. The vent score shape, orientation, and location
and the layout of the
corresponding button may be as described in any of the other embodiments
described herein.
[0088] Beads 288a and 288b preferably are symmetrical or approximately
symmetrical
in transverse cross section and may be formed in a conventional configuration
by conventional
methods, as will be understood by persons familiar with end technology. The
specific
dimensions and layouts of beads 288a and 288b and vent score 242 may be chosen
according to
achieve desired tension across vent score 242 to enhance pressure performance
and opening
performance.
[0089] To open the beverage container, a user grasps and lifts up heel 76 with
a finger.
In response to lifting heel 76, tab 70 deforms about hinge 80 (best shown in
Figure 4) such that
tab nose 72 contacts main tear panel 28. The user continues to lift heel 76
until main score 26
ruptures to form the main pour opening. Preferably, the process for opening
the main pour
opening is conventional.
[0090] A user then pushes heel 76 down such that tab 70 is near its original
position.
Tab 70 may then be pivoted about rivet 22 until tab bead 82 is aligned with
vent button 50, as
shown in Figure 6. Preferably, bead 82 contacts button 50 at a location that
is offset from a
center of the button in a direction toward proximal point 57 (in the first
embodiment), which in
turn preferably is positioned on the opposing side of button 50 from vent
hinge 46.
[0091] As illustrated in Figure 13A, bead 82 contacts button 50 first at a
point A that is
oriented relative to proximal point 57 as described above. As downward force
is applied by the
user by pushing downwardly on tab 70, vent score 42 ruptures initially, as
shown in Figure 13B
near point 57. The orientation of proximal point 57 (for the first embodiment)
and initial contact
point A, and the geometry of button 50 and vent score 42, promote efficient
and reliable opening.
The elongated shape of vent tear panel 44 provides enhanced venting area (that
is, the area of
opening between the lip of vent tear panel 44 relative to deboss panel 62 that
is not deflected
upon rupture of vent score 42) compared with a circular score shape. After
initial rupture, vent
tear panel 44 pivots about hinge 46 such that subsequent downward movement of
bead 82
changes the contact point from initial point A rearward (as oriented along the
tab centerline) to
contact point B and eventually more rearward to contact point C, which is
shown in Figure 13C.
In other, the point of contact between the tab and button moves rearward as
the present
embodiment of the vent is actuated. The rolling or sliding of contact points A
through C toward
the vent hinge during the opening process enhances the angular deflection of
vent tear panel 44,
which is beneficial to the opening area. In embodiments in which bead 82 is
sized to enter into
the vent opening, the magnitude of the vent opening (as manifested by greater
angular deflection
- 18 -
CA 02942302 2016-09-09
WO 2015/138413
PCT/US2015/019642
about the hinge enabled by the bead entering into the opening) is enhanced for
better venting
performance.
[0092] After rupture of vent score 42 near proximal point 57, the rupture
propagates in
two directions about button 50 until reaching the opposing ends of vent score
42 as vent tear
panel 44 is downwardly deflected.
[0093] In second embodiment vent 140, contact point A is not in line
with the
proximal point 157, but rather is at 90 degrees from it about the button
circumference. After
initial rupture, contact points A through C (not shown in the figures) more,
by rolling or sliding,
rearward (away from the rivet) or toward the vent hinge as generally described
above. Vent
score 142 likely first ruptures near one of the proximal points 157. The
rupture propagates in
two directions until reaching the opposing ends of vent score 142 as vent tear
panel 144 is
downwardly deflected. Alternatively, if enough energy builds up in vent tear
panel 144 before
initial rupture, score 142 may rupture initially at points that are 90 degrees
from proximal points
157 or at several places simultaneously or virtually simultaneously.
[0094] The term "between" in the claims includes limits of the range. For
example, if the
claim recites between dimensions A and B, the claim encompasses the dimension
being exactly
A and exactly B, as well as equivalents and approximations.
[0095] Several features of a beverage can end and combination of can end
and can body
have been described. The present invention is not limited to any combination
of the features
described herein. Rather, the claims should be interpreted according to their
full appropriate
scope. The explanation of features relies on a person familiar with aluminum
beverage can
technology for understanding, such as technology for forming and seaming ends,
forming recess,
beads, and scores in ends, and the like.
- 19 -
