CN101346286A - container - Google Patents

Abstract

A substantially cylindrical beverage container, wherein a container end (2) is hermetically sealed to the container (1) and is provided with: a pre-scored line (4) in the surface of the container end (2), the pre-scored line defining an inlet (5); and a projection (6). An opening device (3) is also provided, which is assembled during the manufacturing process or by the consumer.

Description

container

The present invention relates to an improved method of opening the ends of hermetically sealed containers and a means for temporarily sealing said ends when desired by the consumer.

Food and beverage containers are typically formed from a cup-shaped metal or plastic body and a separate metal end (also called a lid). Alternatively, the container comprises an open-ended cylinder and two ends. During filling of the contents, the body and end are permanently joined together so as to form a hermetically sealed container. The consumer accesses the contents by opening the end of the container.

Food and beverage containers are typically opened by actuating a pull ring mounted on the end of the container and positioned close to or within a pre-scored hole. The action of raising the tab directs force onto a portion of the pre-scored hole and creates a breach in the end of the container. Continuing to raise the tab will either force the cap of the pre-scored hole into the interior of the container, or can completely remove the end portion defined by the pre-scored hole.

A known problem with accessing the contents by the above methods is the risk of cuts to themselves by the container user on the newly created opening, or in food containers by the removed portion of the container end. These damages may be dealt during the action of opening the container, or after opening. Specifically, this may include the risk of consumers cutting their lips while drinking the beverage in the beverage container, especially when young children drink it. Another risk of injury is when the consumer frivolously attempts to open the tab container with any suitably sharp object after the tab has been permanently disengaged from the end.

It has also been suggested that, especially in food containers, the consumer may experience the anticipated risk of injury during the opening action, especially in the final stages of separating the end portions. The expectation of injury may make consumers worry unnecessarily. Concern is often manifested by incomplete opening of food containers, where consumers perceive the opening action to be sufficiently complete to access the contents, while complete removal could result in injury or spillage. Partial opening has obvious advantages in accessing the contents of the container, but results in the container having a sharp protrusion at the end of the container which may be of use for a prolonged period when the consumer chooses or requires the container to be recycled separately in a clean state. Danger.

In addition, the tabs are difficult to operate through longer nails, and thus, the act of prompting to open the tab container also creates unnecessary worry and cosmetic harm for those consumers who choose to keep their fingernails or apply synthetic nail extensions.

Another known problem with containers and beverage containers in particular is that they are difficult to reseal. In early types of beverage containers, the tab and orifice plate were disengaged from the end of the container, leaving an unobstructed uniform hole into which a cork, stopper, or cork-like seal could be pressed. A scored orifice can be seen with more recent pull rings, the ring remains mounted on the container end, which prevents the insertion of a cork, stopper or cork into the open hole.

The opening of the beverage container created during the act of opening the beverage container leaves the consumer's container unprotected open to the atmosphere, thereby failing to limit the entry or insertion of foreign objects such as insects, drugs, etc. into the beverage container, which could be detrimental if consumed as a result of.

It is an object of the present invention to overcome or alleviate one or more problems of the prior art.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a container body, a container end and an opening device, wherein the container end is sealed to the container body and is provided with a pre-scored inlet and the opening device rotates relative to the container end , and rotation of the opening device transmits force to the container end to open the pre-scored inlet.

Optionally, a container body, a container end having one or more protrusions and a pre-scored inlet, and an opening device are provided; the opening device is rotatable relative to the container body part between a first position and a second position, The opening device has a notch on its bottom side for receiving a projection in a first position, such that rotation of the opening device relative to the container body to a second position will be limited by the projection, and the rotational force exerted on the opening device is transmitted End the container so that the pre-scored inlet opens.

The one or more protrusions may be of any suitable shape, such as hemispherical, pyramidal, cuboid, and the like. Preferably, the protrusion is hemispherical.

The one or more protrusions may be arranged at any suitable location on the container end surface. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art to determine the ideal location of the one or more protrusions so that the opening device can transmit sufficient force to the container end to open the pre-scored inlet.

Optionally, a third rotational position is provided in the opening device, which can be obtained by rotation of the opening device relative to the container end, in this third rotational position, between the opening device and the container end Creates and maintains a seal used to temporarily isolate container contents from the atmosphere.

Optionally, a pre-formed mouth is provided in the opening device which can be rotated into position over the inlet at the end of the container to assist in dispensing the contents.

Alternatively, the opening of the opening device may contain a perforated screen to restrict foreign objects from entering the interior of the container and to allow fluid to be dispensed from the container.

Alternatively, the opening device may be configured such that it obscures or reveals selected areas of the surface of the container end during rotation of the opening device relative to the container end, wherein the container end contains information, instructions or images, The information, instructions or images may be viewed depending on the relative position of the opening device on the end of the container.

Alternatively, the container end may contain an electronic device designed and constructed to generate an audio message or sound effect upon rotational action of the opening device relative to the container end.

Alternatively, the opening device may comprise an electronic device designed and constructed to generate an audio message or sound effect upon rotational action of the opening device relative to the end of the container.

Alternatively, a pre-scored inlet in the container end does not fully define the inlet so that when the inlet is opened, a portion of the container end within the inlet remains partially mounted on the container end.

Optionally, a pre-scored entry in the container end completely defines the entry such that when the entry is opened, the portion of the container end within the entry is separated from the container end.

Alternatively, the opening device is mounted on the end of the container and is rotatable relative to the end of the container.

Alternatively, the opening device is permanently mounted on the container end at the center of the container end and is rotatable relative to the container end.

Alternatively, the opening device is temporarily mounted on the container end in the center of the container end and is rotatable relative to the container end.

Alternatively, the opening device is permanently mounted on the container at the edge of the container and is rotatable relative to the container end.

Alternatively, the opening device is temporarily mounted on the container at the edge of the container and is rotatable relative to the container end.

Alternatively, the opening device may be placed above the container end and rotated to a temporarily installed state by engaging under the container rim, which may be crimped, bent, curved, and rotatable relative to the container end. The crenulations have alternatively mounted projections which provide a surface for the opening means to engage either the inside or the outside of the outer side of the container rim.

Alternatively, the opening device is not mounted on the container end and can be rotated relative to the container end while held in place by the user.

Optionally, the opening device should be provided with a snap-on for mounting on the container end relative to the container end provided with a pre-scored inlet that allows complete separation from the main area of the container end. A temporary mount to enable removal of the disengaged container end portion after the opening action, wherein the mount includes a suction cap, magnet, clip or other temporary mount.

Optionally, the opening device should have a temporary mounting for mounting on the container end relative to the container end having a pre-scored inlet that allows complete separation from the main area of the container end. part, so as to be able to allow removal of the disengaged container end part after the opening action, wherein the mounting part comprises a suction cap, magnet, clip or other temporary mounting part, and the opening device is provided to disengage the temporary mounting part and release the said Detachable end portion of the device.

Also alternatively, the opening device is arranged to completely cover the container end, and has a seal at its bottom side which abuts against the container end rim, so as to create a gap between the opening device and the container end rim. Temporarily sealed.

Also alternatively, the opening device is constructed to completely cover the container end (except for a very small area containing the hole), and has a seal on its bottom side that abuts against the container end rim, so as to create a gap between the opening device and the container end. and a temporary seal between the container end rim, wherein the opening device, when in place, permits dispensing of the liquid contents of the container, but retains the solid contents within the container.

Optionally, the container end has a protrusion on the upper surface to enable a force to be transmitted by the opening device to the container end when the opening device is rotated relative to the container end. The protrusion can protrude outwards from the inside of the tank, or the opening means can thus be designed towards the inside of the tank.

Optionally, the opening device includes cams that transmit force to the container end when the opening device is rotated relative to the container end. deflects and breaks the pre-score line, or concentrates force on the narrow contact point of the container end to defeat the pre-score line, or transmits force to the container end so that it breaks at the contact point.

Alternatively, the opening device or an element of the opening device is lowered towards the container end during a rotational movement of the opening device relative to the container end in order to transmit a force to the container end. Lowering can be controlled and built into the overall opening device by providing angled guides (thread pattern). The elements of the opening device can be lowered towards the end of the container by using a two-part opener, wherein the action of turning the outer part forces the elements of the inner part to lower down.

Alternatively, the pre-scored lines defining future holes in the container end may be on the inner or outer surface of the container end.

Alternatively, the container end may for example be formed from metal, such as steel or aluminium.

Alternatively, the opening means may be formed from, for example, metal, plastic or a rigid biodegradable material or combination of materials.

Alternatively, the connection between the container end and the pre-scored mouth (when present) may be shaped to cause the pre-scored mouth to deflect downwardly when the pre-scored line breaks.

Alternatively, the pre-scored line in the end of the container may comprise two or more pre-scored lines to allow relative movement between different parts of the pre-scored inlet during the opening action, which lines may Interconnected or independent, when multiple pre-scores are provided, the opening means may be arranged so that the breakage of the pre-scores occurs in a specific sequence, first through a small breach to equalize the tank internal pressure to atmospheric pressure, and finally to Pre-scored holes separate from container ends.

Alternatively, the pre-scored line in the end of the container may comprise two or more pre-scored lines to allow relative movement between different parts of the pre-scored inlet during the opening action, such that the pre-scored The areas of the scored inlet overlap each other after separation from the container end so as to reduce the diameter of the pre-scored inlet portion in one or more directions.

Alternatively, positioners are arranged on the container end and the opening device, which positioners assist in positioning the opening device in a specific position relative to the container end during rotation of the opening device around the container end.

Optionally, a positioner is arranged on the container end and the opening device, during the rotation of the opening device around the container end, the positioner helps to position the opening device in a specific position relative to the container end, and the positioner is directed towards the container end. The user provides feedback on pressure changes in order to determine when a specific position has been reached.

Optionally, a positioner is arranged on the container end and the opening device, during the rotation of the opening device around the container end, the positioner helps to position the opening device in a specific position relative to the container end, and the positioner is directed towards the container end. The user provides audio feedback to determine when a specific location has been reached.

Alternatively, the container and container end are sealed during the act of filling the container, and the container is dispensed to the consumer in its sealed state without a compatible opening device.

Alternatively, the opening device is a reusable device and is dispensed separately from the compatible container.

Alternatively, the opening device is a reusable device configured to engage a plurality of container ends of different diameters.

Alternatively, the protrusion may be arranged on the outer surface of the container wall below a continuous pre-scored line surrounding the body of the container, and the annular opening means can interact with the protrusion during the opening action to open the pre-scored line. line and enable removal of opening devices, container rims and container ends.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a container comprising: a container body having a releasably sealed inlet at one end; and means for opening said releasably sealed inlet , said implement is rotatably mounted on said container body, whereby rotation of the opening means will open the inlet.

The opening device preferably comprises an opening device.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a kit of parts comprising a releasably sealable container as described above and opening means.

Below will introduce the present invention with reference to accompanying drawing by example, in the accompanying drawing:

Figure 1a is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of the invention for use in a beverage container.

Figure 1b is an assembled perspective view of Figure 1a with the container in an unopened state.

Figure 1c is an assembled perspective view of Figure 1a after rotation of the opening device relative to the container end.

Figure 2 is a repetition of Figure 1a showing the orientation and position of the section of the container end shown in Figures 3a-e.

Figure 3a is an enlarged cross-sectional view along the line in Figure 2 centered on the pre-scored inlet with the container in the unopened state shown in Figure 1b.

Figure 3b is an enlarged sectional view along the line in Figure 2, centered on the pre-scored inlet, with the container in a partially open state and the opening means moving from the position shown in Figure 3a towards the position shown in Figure 3d to rotate.

Figure 3c is an enlarged sectional view along the line in Figure 2, centered on the pre-scored inlet, with the container in a partially open state and the opening means moving from the position shown in Figure 3b towards the position shown in Figure 3d to rotate.

Figure 3d is an enlarged cross-sectional view along the line of Figure 2 centered on the pre-scored inlet with the container in an open condition as shown in Figure 1b and the contents of the container being dispensed.

Figure 3e is an enlarged cross-sectional view along the line in Figure 2 centered on the pre-scored inlet with the container in a temporarily resealed state and the contents of the container sealed from the atmosphere.

Figure 4 shows a detailed cross-sectional view through the container end, container end rim and opening device as shown in Figure 2, detailing the relationship between the tang and rim on the opening device.

Figure 5 shows a plan view of the bottom side of an embodiment of the opening device.

Figure 6 shows a plan view of the bottom side of another embodiment of the opening device.

FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional view of FIG. 6 .

Figure 8 shows a plan view of the upper side of an embodiment of the opening device with a tamper seal in place.

Figure 9a is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention used in a food container in which a substantial portion of the end of the container contains a pre-scored inlet.

Figure 9b is an assembled perspective view of Figure 9a with the container in an unopened state.

Figure 9c is an assembled perspective view of Figure 9b, after the opening device has been rotated relative to the container end so as to open the pre-scored inlet.

Figure 9d is an exploded perspective view of Figure 9c showing the disengaged pre-scored inlet, the newly created mouth in the container and the opening means.

Figure 10 is a plan view of the underside of an embodiment of the opening device detailing the section line shown in Figure 11.

Figure 11 is a sectional view through Figure 10 and an additional sectional view through the end of the container when the opening device as shown in Figure 10 is in position on the unopened container.

Figure 12 is a plan view of the bottom side of an embodiment of the opening device, detailing the section line of Figure 13.

Fig. 13 is a sectional view through Fig. 12 and an additional sectional view through the end of the container when the opening device shown in Fig. 12 is arranged on an unopened container.

Figure 14 is a plan view of the underside of an embodiment of the opening device, detailing the section line of Figure 15.

Fig. 15 is a sectional view through Fig. 14 and an additional sectional view through the end of the container when the opening device shown in Fig. 14 is arranged on an unopened container.

Figure 16 is a view of Figure 15 after opening showing the opening device and the release portion of the container end raised away from the container to expose the new mouth.

Figure 17 is a sectional view through an embodiment of the invention showing the opening device installed on the end of the container in the unopened state.

Figure 18 is a view of Figure 17 after opening showing the opening device and the release portion of the container end raised away from the container to expose the new mouth.

Figure 19 is a plan view of the top of an embodiment of the present invention showing the opening device secured to the end of the unopened container and showing the section lines of Figure 20 in detail.

FIG. 20 is a sectional view through FIG. 19 .

Figure 21 is a view of Figure 20 after opening showing the opening device and the release portion of the container end raised away from the container to expose the new mouth.

Figure 22 is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention used in a food container wherein the main portion of the container end contains a pre-scored inlet and the opening device fits over the container end and rotates to lock in place.

Figure 23 is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of the invention for use in a food container in which a portion of the opening device includes an aperture to enable dispensing of the liquid contents and retention of the solid contents of the container.

Figure 24a is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention showing the opening device secured to the end of an unopened container, also detailing the section line of Figure 24b.

Figure 24b is a cross-sectional view through Figure 24a.

Figure 24c is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention showing the opening device secured to the end of an open container, also detailing the section line of Figure 24d.

Figure 24d is a cross-sectional view through Figure 24c.

Figure 25 is a partial sectional view through the opening device and container end of an embodiment of the present invention wherein rotation of the opening device is transmitted to the container end by a cam.

Figure 26a is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of the invention used in a beverage container.

Figure 26b is an assembled perspective view of Figure 26a with the container in an unopened state.

Figure 26c is an assembled perspective view of Figure 26a after the opening device has been rotated relative to the container end.

27-29 are exploded perspective views of an embodiment of the invention for use in a food container.

Figures 30a-c are partial cross-sectional views through an opening device attached to an end of a container in an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 31a is a plan view of the opening device of the present invention.

Figure 31b is a cross-sectional view of the opening device of Figure 31a through line X-X.

Figures 32a-c are views of containers of the present invention.

Figures 1-5 show a substantially cylindrical beverage container in which the container end 2 is hermetically sealed to the container 1 and provided with: a pre-scored line 4 on the surface of the container end 2 on, thereby defining the inlet 5; and the protrusion 6. An opening device 3 is also provided, which can be fitted during manufacture, or by the customer. In the present example, the opening device 3 is held in place on the container end 2 by a tang 7 in the opening device 3 which clips over a raised rim 8 of the container end 2 . The opening device 3 can be rotated in the plane of the container end 2 by rotating about the longitudinal axis of the beverage container 1 , with the movement being guided by the rim 8 . The opening device 3 comprises a mouth 9 and a recess 10 on its underside for receiving the projection 6 . FIG. 3 a shows that the opening device 3 is constructed such that when initially assembled as shown in FIGS. 1 a and 1 b , the opening device 3 does not exert a force directly on the protrusion 6 of the container end 2 . In this case, the protrusion 6 is accommodated by a corresponding recess 10 on the underside of the opening device 3 , as shown in FIGS. 3 a - c and 5 . Recess 10 may be in the form of a closed recess in opening device 3 or may alternatively be a hole passing completely through the plane of opening device 3 . Figure 3b shows that when the consumer gradually turns the opening device 3, the opening device 3 comes into contact with the protrusion 6 and a force is exerted on the protrusion 6 by the opening device 3. In this embodiment, the applied force breaks the pre-score line 4 and generally deflects downwardly that portion of the container end 2 predetermined as the inlet 5 so as to create the mouth 11 . FIG. 3c shows that further rotation of the opening device 3 forces the protrusion 6 to be further lowered inside the container 1 so that the protrusion 6 is not higher than the upper plane of the container end 2 . Figure 3d shows the position in which further rotation of the opening device 3 will bring the pre-formed port 9 in the opening device 3 over the port 11. The direction of rotation of the opening device 3 depends on the position of the mouth 11 in the container end 2 relative to the mouth 9 in the opening device 3 . A tight seal 12 is maintained between the top of the container end 2 and the bottom side of the opening device 3 by using a suitable compressible material such as rubber. In FIG. 3d, the seal 12 is shown as a section through the continuous ring shown in FIG. In FIG. 5 , the seal 12 is shown mounted on the opening device 3 , however, the seal 12 could alternatively be mounted on the container end 2 . Figure 3e shows that further rotation of the opening device 3 will bring the solid area 14 of the opening device 3 (bounded by the seal 13) into a position above the mouth 11 so as to separate the container contents from the atmosphere. The direction of rotation of the opening device 3 depends on the position of the mouth 11 in the container end 2 relative to the solid area 14 in the opening device 3 . A tight seal 13 is maintained between the top of the container end 2 and the bottom side of the opening device 3 by using a suitable compressible material such as rubber. In Figure 3e the seal is shown as a section through the continuous ring shown in Figure 5, however, the seal could equally be a plate. In Figure 5, the seal 13 is shown mounted on the opening device 3, however, when the seal 12 shown in Figure 3d is mounted on the container end 2 (rather than the opening device 3), the seal 13 can The omission was chosen because when the solid area 14 of the opening device is rotated over the mouth 11, the seal 12 will fulfill the purpose of separating the contents of the container from the atmosphere.

The mouth 9 in the opening device 3 can be shaped to facilitate drinking comfortably, create a spout, or receive a connector for engagement with a new object such as a straw module, tap or elongated spout, if desired. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 6 , port 9 may generally include a plurality of holes 15 to limit the entry or insertion of foreign objects such as insects or tablets into container 1 in the open state, but enable dispensing through port 11 and port 9 Contents of Container 1. A screen of the port 9 as shown in Figure 6 may also be provided to inhibit dispensing and ingestion of the detached inlet 5 when the inlet is completely disengaged from the container end 2 during the creation of the port 11.

Optionally, precise positioning of the mouth 9 over the mouth 11 can be assisted by a locator 16 on the can rim 8 or container end 2 and a corresponding locator 17 on the opening device 3 . Locators 16 and 17 may take the shape of dimples or protrusions. Figure 7 shows a sectional view through the container end 2 and the opening means 3, in this case the positioner 17 has means for vertical movement by surrounding raised elongated slots so as to create a simple spring. The retainer 17 may also take the form of a spring loaded ball or nub which is pressed into contact with the container end 2 or rim 8, or the retainer may be in the form of allowing the opening device 3 to rotate and assisting the user in positioning the opening device. Any form in the correct position over the container end 2 (so as to provide the desired state of the container). For the example shown in FIG. 7, the interference seal 18 shown in FIG. As the plane of the opening device rises, this interfering seal will be deformed or torn, because during the rotational action of the opening device 3 the protrusion of the locator 17 leaves the notch of the locator 16 so as to be higher than the height of the container end 2 run on the surface. Thus, an interference seal 18 can indicate whether the opening device 3 has been rotated relative to the container end 2 . The tamper seal 18 may be adhered to the opening device 3 and formed of any material that will indicate a disturbance by tearing, changing color, etc., or alternatively, the tamper seal 18 may be integral with the opening device 3, And formed from the same material as the opening device 3 , but designed to tear when the retainer 17 moves vertically relative to the rest of the opening device 3 .

Figures 9-11 show a particular embodiment of the invention for use in, for example, a food container, wherein the container end 2 has: a pre-scored line 4 defining a future inlet 5; and a plurality of raised The protruding protrusion 6 is completely surrounded by the pre-scored line 4 . Also shown is an opening device 3 which can be fitted by the customer on top of the container end 2 and on the rim 8 . The opening device 3 can be moved in the plane of the container end 2 by rotation about the long axis of the container 1 , the movement being guided by the rim 8 . Figure 10 shows the bottom side of the opening device 3, which has a recess 10 on its bottom surface which accommodates the projection 6 when the opening device 3 is in place, as shown in Figure 11, Instead, no force is transmitted to the container end 2 . Figure 9c shows that the consumer rotates the opening device 3 while bringing the opening device 3 into close contact with the rim 9, during which the opening device 3 comes into contact with the protrusion 6 and a force is exerted on the protrusion by the opening device 3 6 on. In this embodiment, the applied force breaks the pre-scored line 4 and deflects downwardly that portion of the container end 2 predetermined as the inlet 5 so as to create the mouth 11 . Figure 9d shows the relative separation of the parts after opening and the resulting mouth 11 through which the contents of the container 1 are accessible. Figures 10-11 show an optional seal 19 on the underside of the opening device 3, which is designed to be pressed against the upper surface of the rim 8 and made of a suitable material, such as rubber, when this feature is provided This will enable the container end 2 to be re-covered for temporary storage of the contents of the container 1 by simply opening the device 3 completely surrounding the container end 2 as shown in the example of FIG. 10 . Figures 10 and 11 additionally show an alternative embodiment of the invention in which the notch 10 in the opening device 3 has a different size and is offset, a feature that enables the force to vary depending on the rotation of the opening device 3 relative to the container end 2. Steps applied to the different protrusions 6, the pre-score lines 4 may comprise additional pre-score lines different from those shown in FIG. The associated vertical movement of the pre-scored inlet 5 is accommodated on different areas of the container end 2 .

Figures 12 and 13 show a variant of the embodiment shown in Figures 9-11 in which the opening device 3 has a projection 20 on its bottom surface which is directed towards the container by means of the projection 6 when the opening device is rotated. The end 2 applies a force so as to create the mouth 11, as shown in Figures 9-11.

Figures 14-16 illustrate preferred features of embodiments of the invention for use, eg, in food containers, and may be combined with other features previously described in Figures 9-13 or described later in this specification. When the inlet 5 is separated from the container end 2 by opening means 3 to create the mouth 11, it is preferred to provide means for removing the separated inlet 5 from the container 1 . One way of achieving this is by utilizing the connection established between the inlet 5 and the opening device 3 before opening the container 1 . In this embodiment, for steel container ends, magnets 21 are used to establish a temporary connection. The magnet 21 remains on the inlet 5 during the opening process, wherein the opening device 3 is pivoted around the container end 2, and the magnet is removed from the container 1 when the opening device 3 is removed. A variety of other methods of establishing a temporary connection can be envisaged, additional methods of breaking the connection after removal of the opening device 3 and inlet 5 can allow disposal of the inlet 5 and re-use of the opening device 3, these additional methods can include but are not limited to mechanical Connection, magnetic or suction devices.

When the opening device 3 does not need to be reused, the removal of the inlet 5 from the container 1 can be ensured by permanently attaching the opening device to the inlet 5 using a mechanical connection, such as spot welding a pin 22 to the upper surface of the container end 2 Center and on the corresponding clip 23 in the center of the opening device 3 . This is shown in FIGS. 17-18 , where the aforementioned separation of the inlet 5 enables the removal of the inlet 5 and the opening means 3 . The method of permanent attachment and the form of opening device 3 may be any method and form that achieves a suitable result. Figures 19-21 show another type of permanently installed opening device 3 that is detached from the container 1 together with the inlet 5, this type is mounted on the container end 2 by means of rivets, and wraps around the container end. 2 swivels in order to apply a force to the protrusion 6, wherein the applied force opens the inlet 5 and creates the port 11.

FIG. 22 shows an embodiment of the invention in which the opening device 3 is fitted on the container end 2 and the rim 8 . The opening device 3 has a series of tangs around its periphery, and the rim 8 has a series of rim recesses 26 and rim protrusions 27, so that the tangs 7 on the opening device 3 correspond to the recesses of the rim 8. Correspondingly, so that the opening device 3 can be fitted on the container end 2 . A slight turn of the opening device 3 causes the tang 7 to engage under the rim protrusion 27 such that the opening device 3 remains tightly against the top of the rim 8 . The opening device 3 can be removed by further pivoting of the opening device 3 (which in a preferred embodiment will also open the container end 2) or by reversing the assembly steps.

Figure 23 shows an embodiment of the invention wherein the opening means 3 is made with a fluid permeable hole 28 area to enable the contents of the container 1 to be drained after opening of the inlet 5 but before dispensing of any solid contents.

Figure 24 shows an embodiment of the invention in which the opening device 3 is pivoted relative to the container end 2 and is also lowered towards the container end 2 during the pivoting in order to exert a force on the inlet 5 via the protrusion 20, which This gradual lowering can be guided by the rim 8. The example shown is for a beverage type container, but other container types could be used as well. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 25, only a part of the opening device 3 can be lowered towards the inlet 5, which can be achieved by providing a cam 29 in the opening device 3, which is held in place by a bolt 30, wherein , the rotation of the opening device 3 causes the rotation of the cam 29 which, due to its eccentric shape, tries to increase the gap between the opening device 3 and the container end 2 when held between the opening device 3 and the container end 2 When there is a gap, force is transmitted to the inlet 5 due to the rotation of the cam 29, so that the pre-score line 4 is broken and the opening 11 is created. This can be achieved by including a protrusion 6 on the container end 2 (to prevent sliding of the cam 29 over the surface of the container end 2) or by increasing friction between the surface of the cam 29 and the container end 2 (via Provide a coating on the surface or make the cam 29 be made of a material with good friction or sticky characteristics, or by making either or both of the surface of the cam 29 and the container end 2 textured) so that the cam 29 is in the position of the opening device 3 More efficient swivel during swivel relative to container end 2 .

Figures 26a-c illustrate an embodiment of the invention which provides the consumer with information or an image on the container end 2 which is concealed or revealed during rotation of the opening device 3 relative to the container end 2 . In the illustrated embodiment, the opening device 3 is provided with a viewing window 31 and the container end 2 with information 32 . In Figure 26b, the container 1 is in the unopened state, in this case the viewing window 31 represents the initial area of the container end 2, and by turning the opening device 3 so as to open the container 1, the information 32 can be seen, as shown in Figure 26c Show. This example is a "get it now" type of promotional information, however, the information or image can provide any functionality that the manufacturer wishes to include in the container.

Figures 27-29 show an alternative embodiment of the container shown in Figures 9a-d, wherein the container has pre-scored lines 50,52,54 in addition to the circumferential pre-scored line 4. FIG. 27 has pre-scored lines 50 . This pre-score line 50 extends inwardly from a pre-score line 4 extending around a protrusion 6 which is itself arranged halfway between the radius and the center of the container end 2 . FIG. 28 also has a protrusion 6 arranged halfway between the radius and the center of the container end 2 , with the addition of a pre-score line 52 extending substantially around the protrusion 6 . FIG. 29 has a plurality of pre-score lines 54 extending radially inwardly from the pre-score lines 4 .

Figures 30a-c show an alternative embodiment in which the protrusion 6 is arranged on the outer side wall 60 of the container 1 adjacent to the end 2 of the container. The pre-score line 4 extends around the periphery of the side wall 60 . In its sealed configuration ( FIG. 30 a ), the projections 6 fit into recesses 62 distributed around the inner rim 64 of the opening device 3 . The opening device 3 is connected to the container end 2 such that a rotational displacement around the container longitudinal axis will overcome the resistance between the notch 62 and the protrusion 6 sufficient to tear the container end 2 along the pre-score line 4 and The container is thus opened (Fig. 30c).

Figures 31a and b show an alternative embodiment in which the opening device 3 is rotatably mounted on the container end 2 about a pivot 38 in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the container 1 . The opening device 3 has a lip 40 which overlaps the rim 8 of the container 1 . The opening device 3 is connected to the container end 2 by rivets 24 and rotates about a pivot 38 in order to apply a force to the protrusion 6 , wherein sufficient force will open the inlet 5 defined by the pre-scored line 4 . A rubber seal 50 is arranged on the bottom side of the opening device 3 , which rubber seal 50 serves to selectively reseal the inlet opening 5 .

Figures 32a-c show an alternative embodiment in which the opening means 3 is made of plastic and the protrusion 6 is a semicircle extending around a part of the periphery of the container end 2 (in an alternative embodiment the protrusion can be around the periphery of the container end 2). A pre-scored line 4 bisects the container end 2 so as to provide a larger access to enable dispensing eg semi-solid food products. The opening device 3 has a semicircular preformed opening 9 . The opening device 3 may be mounted on the container 1, but is entirely separate. The mouth 9 can be rotated into place over the mouth 11 formed by deforming the container end 2 which itself has a tamper evident seal 18 .

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various changes to the embodiments described herein may be made within the scope of the invention.

Claims (58)

1. A container comprising a container body, a container end and an opening device, wherein the container end is sealed to the container body and provided with a pre-scored inlet, the opening device is rotatable relative to the container end, and the opening device The rotation of the transfers force to the container end in order to open the pre-scored inlet. 2. A container according to claim 1, wherein the container end includes one or more projections, the opening means being rotatable relative to the container body part between a first position and a second position, the opening means having a a recess on the bottom side of the container for receiving a projection in a first position, such that rotation of the opening device relative to the container body to a second position will be constrained by the projection, and the rotational force exerted on the opening device is transmitted to the container end, in order to open the pre-scored entrance. 3. A container according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: the container has a third position whereby the opening device rotates relative to the container body and creates and maintains a seal between the opening device and the container end for making the container Contents are temporarily isolated from the atmosphere. 4. A container as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the opening means has a pre-formed mouth which can be rotated into position over the inlet at the end of the container to facilitate dispensing of the contents. 5. The container of claim 4, wherein the opening of the opening means comprises a perforated screen to restrict foreign objects from entering the interior of the container and to allow fluid to be dispensed from the container. 6. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the opening means has one or more apertures such that the opening means can be rotated to cover or uncover selected areas of the container end surface. 7. A container according to claim 6, wherein a surface decoration is arranged on the end of the container, the surface decoration being visible when the one or more apertures of the opening means overlap the surface decoration. 8. A container according to claim 7, wherein said surface decoration contains information, instructions and/or images. 9. A container as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the container end includes means for emitting an audio message or sound effect when the opening means is rotated. 10. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the container end does not completely define the inlet such that a portion of the container end inside the inlet remains partially mounted on the container end when the inlet is opened . 11. A container according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein a pre-scored inlet in the end of the container completely defines the inlet such that when the inlet is opened, that part of the container end inside the inlet Separated from container end. 12. A container as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the opening means is attached to the container end and is rotatable relative to the container end. 13. A container as claimed in claim 12, wherein the opening means is permanently mounted on the container end and is rotatable relative to the container end. 14. The container according to claim 12, wherein: the opening device is temporarily mounted on the container end in the first position and is rotatable relative to the container end, and the opening device is in the second position with the The container body is separated. 15. A container as claimed in claim 13 or 14, wherein the opening means is mounted on the container at the container rim or at the center of the container end and is rotatable relative to the container. 16. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the container has a rim surrounding the container end, the opening means being able to be arranged over the container end and rotated to a temporarily installed position by engaging under the container rim, And can rotate relative to the container end. 17. A container as claimed in claim 16, wherein the container rim is crimped, curved, crenulated and/or raised which provides a surface for the opening device to engage the container rim. 18. A container comprising a container body, a container end and an opening device, wherein the container end is sealed to the container body and provided with a pre-scored inlet, the opening device is rotatable relative to the container end, and the opening device The rotation of the opening device transmits force to the container end to open the pre-scored inlet, and the opening device can be connected to the container end and can be rotated relative to the container end while held in place by the user. 19. Container according to claim 18, wherein: the pre-scored inlet can be completely separated from the main area of the container end, and the opening device can be connected to the container end by connecting means, so that the detachment can be removed after the opening action container end portion, wherein the attachment means comprises a suction cap, magnet, clip or other temporary mounting. 20. A container as claimed in claim 19, wherein the opening means includes means for disengaging the temporary mounting and releasing the disengaged end portion. 21. A container as claimed in claim 20, wherein the means for disengaging the temporary mounting comprises a suction ball, a rolling or rocking magnet and/or a lever. 22. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the opening device is configured to completely cover the container end and is provided with a seal on its bottom side which abuts against the container end rim so as to produce Temporary seal between opening device and container end rim. 23. A container according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the opening device is configured to completely cover the container end, except for a small area containing the aperture, and is provided with a seal on its bottom side, the seal The opening device abuts against the container end rim to create a temporary seal between the opening device and the container end rim, wherein the opening device, when in place, dispenses the liquid contents of the container but retains the solid contents in the container Inside. 24. A container as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the container end is provided with a protrusion on the upper surface to enable the transmission of force by the opening means to the container end when the opening means is rotated relative to the container end. 25. A container as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the projections project outwardly from or towards the interior of the container. 26. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the opening means comprises at least one cam which transmits a force to the end of the container when the opening means is rotated relative to the end of the container, thereby disabling the pre-scored entry , to open the container. 27. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the opening device or an element of the opening device is lowered towards the end of the container during a rotational action of the opening device. 28. A container as claimed in claim 27, wherein the container body includes angled guides for guiding the lowering of the opening means or elements of the opening means. 29. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pre-scored inlet is arranged on the inner or outer surface of the end of the container. 30. A container according to any one of the preceding claims manufactured from metal, metal alloys, plastics, rigid biodegradable materials or combinations thereof. 31. A container as claimed in claim 31 manufactured from tin, steel and/or aluminium. 32. A container as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the connection between the end of the container and the pre-scored mouth is formed in such a way as to cause the pre-scored mouth to deflect downwardly when the pre-scored line breaks. 33. A container as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the pre-scored opening includes a plurality of score lines to allow relative movement between different parts of the pre-scored opening during the opening action. 34. A container according to claim 33, wherein said lines are interconnected or independent. 35. A container as claimed in claim 33 or 34, wherein the pre-scored lines are oriented on the container end such that breaking of the pre-scored lines occurs sequentially as the opening device is rotated. 36. A container according to any one of claims 33-35, wherein the pre-scored lines are oriented such that, during the opening action, the areas of the pre-scored inlet overlap each other after separation from the container end, In order to reduce the diameter of the pre-scored inlet. 37. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a positioner arranged on the container end and the opening device for positioning the opening device relative to the container end during rotation of the opening device around the container end The container ends are positioned in specific positions. 38. The container of claim 37, wherein the locator provides pressure change feedback to a user for determining when a particular position is reached. 39. The container of claim 38, wherein the feedback includes sound. 40. A container as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the container and container end are sealed during the act of filling the container and the opening means are separate components. 41. The container of any one of claims 1 to 40, further comprising: a protrusion on the outer surface of the container body below the continuous pre-scored line surrounding the container body. 42. A container as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 41 containing a food product. 43. A container as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 41 containing a beverage. 44. A container as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 43 containing cargo. 45. A container as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 44, wherein the one or more protrusions are hemispherical, pyramidal or cuboid in shape. 46. A container as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 45, wherein the opening means includes an aperture for receiving the one or more projections in a first position prior to transmission to the container. 47. A container as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 46, wherein the container includes sealing means for resealing the pre-scored opening once opened. 48. A container as claimed in claim 47, wherein the sealing means is arranged on the end of the container. 49. A container as claimed in claim 47 or 48, wherein the sealing means comprises a compressible material. 50. A container according to any preceding claim, further comprising a spout to facilitate dispensing of the contents of the container. 51. A container as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the inlet comprises a plurality of apertures sized to restrict the entry of foreign objects. 52. A container as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising a tamper seal disposed over the inlet, the tamper seal being deformable when the opening means is rotated to open the container. 53. A container as claimed in claim 52, wherein the opening means comprises a tamper seal. 54. A container as claimed in claim 53, wherein the tamper seal is integrally formed in the opening means. 55. A container as claimed in any one of claims 52 to 54, wherein the tamper seal comprises first and second elements, wherein the first element is arranged on the container end and the second element is arranged on the opening means superior. 56. A container comprising: a container body having a releasably sealed inlet at one end; and means for opening said releasably sealed inlet, said means being rotatably mounted on said on the container body, therefore, rotation of the opening device will open the inlet. 57. The container of claim 44, wherein the opening means comprises opening means. 58. A kit of parts comprising a releasably sealable container as claimed in any preceding claim and opening means.

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