RU2488531C2 - Resealed end of drink can and related methods - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: packing industry.

SUBSTANCE: resealed combined end of a can comprises a resealed sealing facility connected to the end. The end comprises a peripheral wall and a central panel, which comprises an upper surface, a lower surface and an opening. The sealing facility comprises connected lower plate and upper plate. The sealing facility has a sealed position, in which one of the plates contacts with the central panel around the opening to form a seal, an intermediate position, in which the sealing facility is arranged near the opening, but is not sealed, and a fully open position, in which the opening is open for the possibility to drain the liquid. The lower plate may move down relative to the upper plate when moving from the sealed position into the intermediate position. Plates are made as capable of joint displacement relative to the end of the can from the intermediate position into the fully open position and joint displacement from the fully open position into the intermediate position. The lower plate may move upwards to be engaged with the central panel from the intermediate position into the resealed position to form a seal from the radial seal and the end seal.

EFFECT: group of inventions provides for simplified reclosing of a can and prevents its leakage.

31 cl, 50 dwg

Description

This application has priority to UK application 0807762.0, filed April 29, 2008, UK application 0815360.3, filed August 22, 2008, and US provisional application Ser. No. 60/986955, filed November 9, 2007, each of which is fully incorporated into this description by reference.

The present invention relates to beverage packaging and, in particular, to a resealable end of a beverage can, to a resealable closure and methods related thereto.

State of the art

The design and functional characteristics of industrially manufactured beverage cans have been optimized for several years. However, industrially manufactured cans have the disadvantage that they cannot be re-closed after the initial opening. Re-closing the beverage cans is even more difficult due to carbon dioxide or other gases dissolved in the carbonated beverage that exit the solution and tend to increase the pressure in the free space above the product in the can. In the prior art, several designs of re-sealed end elements of cans have been proposed, but none of these structures has been recognized on an industrial scale.

On the other hand, beverage consumers in plastic bottles often reseal the bottle by screwing its threaded closure onto the neck of the bottle. This property is attractive to consumers.

Accordingly, there is a need for a resealable beverage can that is easy or intuitive to use, which is affordable and not overly complicated.

In addition, conventional beverage cans are designed to relieve excess pressure in the can after initial opening. The end elements of such beverage cans may have a notch line defining the boundary of the opening from which the contents of the can can be discharged, and a smaller notch line defining the boundary of the vent. When raising the tongue, the gap is first ruptured along the notch line for the vent, which makes it possible to release gases that have accumulated in the free space of the beverage can above the drink in it, and then rupture occurs along the notch line for the hole to form an opening through which the contents of the can a drink may be dispensed. Thus, the user simply lifts the tongue both for the release of gas, and for the subsequent opening of the cans of the drink.

An opening device is described in WO 2007/128810 (Crown Packaging Technology, Inc.), which describes an embodiment in which the tongue includes a protrusion that interacts with the air outlet in the end panel. The disadvantage of this design is that when you close the device again, the user must manually reinsert the protrusion into the air outlet to re-seal the end of the can to prevent leaks and maintain carbonation (if any) of the product inside the container for which the opening device is used.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Advantages of the re-sealed end of the beverage can include the ability to retain a portion of the beverage for later use, safety, cleanliness, and maintaining the carbonation level of the beverage, even if the beverage is intended to be consumed at a time. This may require user confidence that the beverage can has been properly re-closed to maintain the carbonation level of the beverage and to provide protection against splashing if the re-closed beverage can is, for example, in a bag. However, ease of opening the can of the beverage should be maintained if the beverage is intended to be consumed at a time.

Accordingly, a resealable butt-end and a beverage can are provided that provide one or more of the above advantages. In one embodiment, such a combined can end may include a metal can end and a resealable closure attached to the can end. The can end may include a peripheral wall and a center panel, and the center panel may include an upper surface, an opposite lower surface, and an opening formed therethrough. The closure may include a lower plate and an upper plate attached to the lower plate in a first place. The closure may have (i) a sealed position in which at least one plate of the bottom plate and the upper plate is in contact with the center panel around the opening to form a seal, (ii) an intermediate position in which the closure is located near the opening but not sealed and (iii) a fully open position in which the opening is open for pouring liquid through the opening. The lower plate may be configured to shift downward relative to the upper plate when moving from a sealed position to an intermediate position. The lower plate and the upper plate can move together relative to the end of the can from the intermediate position to the fully open position and can also move together relative to the end of the can from the fully open position to the intermediate position. The bottom plate may move upward into engagement with the center panel from an intermediate position to a re-sealed position to form at least one of a radial seal and an end seal.

In accordance with this technical solution, a resealable end face of a beverage can and corresponding methods for manufacturing and using a resealable end face have been developed. The technical solution will be described below in more detail as an example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

figa is a perspective view of a combination of the end face of the cans and re-sealed closures according to the first embodiment of the invention in a fully closed position;

1B is a perspective view of a first embodiment in an intermediate position;

figs is a perspective view of a first embodiment in a fully open position;

figa is a cross section of the first embodiment in its fully closed position;

FIG. 2B is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 2A showing an end sealing portion; FIG.

figs is a cross section of an alternative embodiment of the can end in its fully closed position, when viewed orthogonally to the tongue;

fig.2D is a cross section of a first embodiment of the can end in its intermediate position;

2E is a cross section of a first embodiment in its fully open position;

figa is a perspective view from above of the upper plate of the closure of the first embodiment in its pre-assembled condition;

3B is a perspective view from below of the upper plate of the first embodiment in its pre-assembled state;

figa is a perspective view from above of the upper plate, showing an alternative configuration of the tongue;

figv is a perspective view from below of the upper plate, showing an alternative configuration of the tongue;

5A is a top perspective view of an alternative configuration of the top plate of the closure of the first embodiment in its pre-assembled state;

figv is a perspective view from below of the upper plate of figa;

6 is a perspective view of the lower plate of the first embodiment in its pre-assembled state;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an alternative configuration of a lower plate corresponding to an upper plate illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B;

figa is a perspective view of the bottom plate having ventilation slots;

FIG. 8B is a perspective view of an alternative design of an upper plate suitable for use with the lower plate of FIG. 8A having ventilation slots that allow air to exist between the upper plate and the lower plate;

figs is an isometric image of the closures shown in figa and 8B, in a state when they are assembled on the end / body of the jar, this image illustrates the ventilation arcuate elements in the assembled closure, designed for air to enter the closure, when the upper plate and the lower plate are located in the gas discharge position;

figa is a cross-section of an alternative closure collected on the end / body of the can in the unopened position;

Fig. 9B is a cross-sectional view of the closure of Fig. 9A, when the can is re-closed using a tongue raised to re-engage the radial seal and the mechanical seal;

figa is a top view of the first alternative configuration of the upper plate in the closed position, which can be used together with the closure in the first embodiment;

figv is a perspective view of the configuration of the upper plate of figa, which shows the closure in an intermediate position;

11A is a top view of a second alternative configuration of the upper plate in the closed position, which can be used together with the closure of the first embodiment;

figv is a perspective view of the configuration of the upper plate of figa, which shows the closure in an intermediate position;

figa is a top view of a third alternative configuration of the upper plate in the closed position, which can be used together with the closure according to the first embodiment;

figv is a perspective view of the configuration of the upper plate of figa, which shows the closure in the intermediate position of the gas outlet;

figa is a perspective view of the configuration of the upper plate of figa having an alternative tamper indicating structure shown in the closed position;

figv is a perspective view of the configuration of the upper plate of figa, on which an alternative IV-structure is activated;

figs is a cross section of the configuration of the upper plate of figa, having an alternative tamper indicating structure shown in the closed position;

fig.13D is a cross-sectional view of the configuration of the upper plate of figa, on which an alternative IV-structure is activated;

figa is a perspective view with a cut of an alternative closure assembled on the end / body of the can, in its fully closed position and with a closing structure for closing the ventilation hole, pressed into its sealed position by means of a spring;

figv is a perspective view with a section of the closure of figa, on which the spring and the closing structure to close the ventilation hole are removed for clarity;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing the closure shown in FIG. 14A attached to the can body;

Fig. 16 is a bottom view of the closure of Fig. 14A, with the bottom plate removed for clarity;

figa is a perspective view with a section of a re-sealed end of the cans with closure of figa, in its intermediate position of the gas outlet;

FIG. 17B is a perspective view, in section, of the re-sealed end face of the can with closure of FIG. 14A, in another intermediate position in which the seals are disengaged from each other;

figs is a perspective view with a slice of a re-sealed end of the can with the closure of figa, in its fully open position and with an open hole;

figa is a perspective view from above of the upper plate of the closure of figa;

Fig. 18B is a perspective view from below of the upper plate of the closure of Fig. 14A;

figa is a perspective view from above of the lower plate of the closure of figa;

figv is a perspective view from below from the bottom plate of the closure of figa;

Fig. 20A is a perspective view in section of another embodiment of a resealable end of a can having a closure shown in its fully closed position and having a closing structure for closing the ventilation opening, drawn into the sealed position by means of a spring;

figv is a perspective view with a cut re-sealed end of the cans of figa, with a closure in its intermediate position of the gas outlet;

figa is a perspective view of the spring plate in its unstressed state "after molding";

figv is a perspective view of the spring plate of figa, in its loaded state of "actuation";

Fig is a perspective view with a cut of the closure according to another variant implementation in its fully closed position;

Fig.23 is a cross section of the closure of Fig.22;

Fig.24 is a perspective view from above of the closure of Fig.22; and

Fig.25 is a perspective view from below of the closure of Fig.22.

The present invention provides a resealable end of a beverage can and related methods for the manufacture and use of a resealable end. The embodiments described below illustrate a number of aspects of the present invention and are not intended to be limiting.

As shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, the re-sealed beverage can 1 includes a conventional hollow body 5 and a re-sealed end 10. The re-sealed end 10 includes a peripheral wall 12, a recessed portion 14 at the base of the wall 12, a central panel 16 and a closure 30 The present invention encompasses both the loose ends of the cans and the ends of the cans rolled up on the body of the beverage can. Accordingly, for example, in FIG. 2A, the can end 10 is shown with a double seam 18, wherein said double seam can be conventional. Preferably, the can end 10 is made of a material commonly used for ends of conventional thickness.

As shown in FIG. 1C, the end face 10 also includes a hole 20 formed in the center panel 16. The edge that forms the hole 20 is preferably made in the form of a curl 22. The hole 20 is shown in the drawings as a round hole and is located in the center panel approximately in the same place as the hole in the regular end of the beverage can. However, the present invention is not limited to such a configuration.

The closure 30 of the first embodiment, similar to that shown, for example, in FIG. 2A, includes a lower plate 32 and an assembly 34 with an upper plate. As explained more fully below, the closure 30 is mounted at the end 10 so that the closure 30 forms an opening seal 36 and an end seal 38 together with a curl 22 around the periphery of the opening.

The top plate assembly 34 includes a mounting plate 40, which is located between the cover plate 42 and the plate tongue 44. A hinge 46 connects the mounting plate 40 to the cover plate 42. Preferably, the top plate assembly 34 is formed from a thermoplastic that is commercially available and commercially available that can be made in one piece by injection molding, as is clear to specialists in the field of packaging technology.

The mounting plate 40 includes a portion or platform 48, which is preferably flat or nearly flat, and a skirt 50 that extends downward (as best shown in FIGS. 3A and 5A) from the periphery of the sides of the main body 48, 48 ′. A vertical hole or rivet hole 52 is formed in the main body 48, 48 '. The main body 48, 48 'also includes a groove or abutment surface 54a extending around the circumferential periphery of the hole 52 from its upper side (see, for example, FIG. 3A), and a ring 54b extending around the circumferential periphery of the hole 52 from its lower side ( see, for example, figv). Two protrusion holes 56a and 56b are formed in the main body 48 and are located on opposite sides of the vertical hole 52. Preferably, the openings 56a and 56b pass through the main part 48. A hole or slot 58 is formed (a) in the main part 48 near its end.

As shown in FIGS. 3A, 3B, 5A and 5B, which show different embodiments of the top plate assembly 34, the cover plate 42 includes a lower structural part or domed plate 62, which is preferably semicircular and includes a skirt 64 around its periphery from its opposite parties. The skirt 64 has a cutout to accommodate a hinge 46 that connects the cover plate 42 to the mounting plate 40. An elongated protrusion 66, which preferably has teeth for insertion into the slot 58 and held in the slot 58, extends from the surface of the lower side of the plate 62 near the edge opposite the hinge 46. If desired, a two-pointed pointer (shown in FIGS. 3B and 5B) can be made on the upper side of the plate 62 to indicate a particular function or operation of actuating the closure about means 30, for example, as required for the release of gas.

The lamella tab 44 includes a lower structural part or dome-shaped plate 72 (see FIG. 3A), which is preferably semicircular and includes a skirt 74 around its periphery. The arched protruding portion 76 protrudes outward from the distal end of the dome plate 72 and the skirt 74, and a tongue 77 is formed on the protruding portion 76. The tongue 77 may be stiff relative to the lamellar tongue 44, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 4B, a tongue 77 'may be formed on the protruding portion 76 and pivotally attached to the dome plate 72 or the skirt 74. The tongue 77' is separated from the fixed portion of the protruding portion 76 by side slots or brittle joints 79.

As shown in FIGS. 3B, 4B, and 5B, the lamella tab 44 includes a weakened portion or groove 80 formed therein, preferably adjacent to the mounting plate 40 and adjacent to the geometrical center line of the closure 30. The protrusion, which in the first embodiment is formed by one of the walls forming the groove 80, is located between the dome-shaped plates 62 and 72 of the lamella tab 44 and the mounting plate 40. In the state of the closure immediately after molding and before installation and in its original state after installation application (i.e., before the first opening of the closure means 30) a weakened portion or groove 80 preferably is not visible when looking at the closure means 30 from above, and a weakened portion or groove 80 serves as a flexible hinge when using the closure 30, as explained in detail below.

As best shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the lower plate 32 includes a flat (or nearly flat) plate element 82, a continuous peripheral flange 84 extending from the periphery of the plate element 82, and a continuous ring 86 protruding upward from the flange 84. The lower plate 32, the flange 84 and the ring 86 are preferably approximately the same shape as the hole 20. Accordingly, in the shown embodiment, the bottom plate 32, the flange 84 and the ring 86 are round to match the shape of the hole 20.

Ring 86, as illustrated in FIG. 2B, includes a collar 88 extending around its outer side and a recess 90 formed below the collar 88. As shown in FIG. 6, the rivet 92 shown in its state after molding before deformation in FIG. .10 extends upward from the plate element 82. A circumferential recess 94 is formed in the plate element 82 around the rivet 92. Two protrusions 96a and 96b extend upward from the plate element 82. Two wings 98a and 98b extend from opposite sides of the flange 84. One or more bulgesWhether rounded projections 81 project upwardly from the surface of the plate member 82 as shown in Figure 6.

As shown in FIGS. 2A-2C, showing the closure 30 in the assembled state, the upper edge of the seam 18 is preferably above the highest portion of the closure 30. Accordingly, processing and rolling of the end face 10 can be performed by conventional equipment and technology. The end face, with the exception of hole 20 and closure 30, may be conventional, such as the standard B-64 end face or SuperEnd ™ supplied by Crown Cork & Seal Company, Inc. US Pat. No. 6,065,634 describes the features of the last end. The present invention also encompasses ends having other configurations; for example, an end face having a deeper central panel, a deeper deepened part and / or increased metal thickness compared to an industrially manufactured end face can be used in accordance with the specified design characteristics, materials and end functions, as will be understood by specialists in the field of technology the manufacture of the ends of the cans, while this example is not intended to limit the invention.

In its assembled state, the lower plate 32 is located on the lower side of the central panel 16 so that the flat surface of the flange 84 is in contact with the lower side of the curl 22 to form an mechanical seal 38, and the outer part of the ring 86 (preferably the recess 90) is in contact with the closest to the center in the radial direction by part of the curl 22 to form a seal 36 holes. In this regard, the outer diameter 84 should preferably be larger than the inner diameter of the curl 22, for interaction between them and to hold the closure 30 on the Central panel 16 even under high pressure in the bank. For example, a beverage can may be exposed to high temperature, rough handling, or a drop, which causes a high constant or rapidly changing pressure and causes a large constant or rapidly changing force to act on the closure 30. The location of the circumferential flange 84 under the center panel 16 prevents sudden rupture or reduces the likelihood of sudden rupture (sometimes called “flying off”) of the closure in this type of condition with a high Pressure morning.

Under normal low pressure conditions, the bore seal 36 is the main sealing means. For example, for the embodiment of FIG. 2A, it is believed that the bore seal 36 is more effective than the mechanical seal 38 at internal pressures that are less than about 20 psi. inch (137.9 kPa). At pressures of approximately 20 psi inch (137.9 kPa) to approximately 50 psi An inch (344.7 kPa) of the seal 36 of the hole gradually loses effectiveness due to the lengthening or increase of the pouring hole as the central panel bends upward to form a domed shape. However, when the hole seal 36 loses its effectiveness, the mechanical seal 38 is pressed against the lower side of the center panel 16 with increasing force due to internal pressure, which improves the efficiency of the mechanical seal.

Accordingly, it is preferable that the closure 30 has both an end seal 38 and an opening seal 36 that function together to seal the opening 20 even when the center panel 16 bends to form a domed shape at the expected pressures. When ventilating, the release of internal pressure causes a decrease or elimination of bending with the formation of a domed shape. After re-sealing, the center panel may again undergo dome-shaped bending due to the increased internal pressure created by the release of dissolved gases from the liquid into the free space above the liquid, and the interaction of the seal opening 36 and the mechanical seal 38 is again useful.

The ring 86 is dimensioned so that it can be inserted into the hole 20 of the center panel and is resilient or flexible so that the outer diameter of the shoulder 88 is larger than the diameter of the hole 20 of the center panel. Accordingly, the ring 86 is preferably subjected to some deformation to displace from its initial state after molding to its installed state. In addition, the diameter of the ring 86 in its installed state is preferably smaller than its initial diameter in the post-molding state (i.e., the ring 86 preferably interacts with the snap curl 22) to increase the efficiency of the opening seal 36.

The rivet 92 is inserted into the vertical hole 52 and in its deformed state is indicated by 92 'in FIG. 2C. The rivet 92 is deformed to form a head 93, which provides fastening of the bottom plate 32 to the mounting plate 40. Deformation of the rivet 92 to form the head 93 can be performed using any mechanism and equipment, as will be understood by specialists in the field of plastic packaging manufacturing technology.

To form the assembly 34 with the upper plate, the cover plate 42 is rotated from its position after molding or before installation, such as shown in FIGS. 3A, 3B, 4A and 4B, relative to the mounting plate 40 around the hinge 46 so that the covering plate 42 is located above the mounting plate 40, as shown in figv. In its installed position, the dome-shaped portion 72 of the lamella 44 and the dome-shaped portion 62 of the cover plate 42 are oriented to align so that the peripheral edge 68 of the cover plate 42 is adjacent to the ledge or in contact with the ledge or adjacent edge of the domed portion 72 of the plate.

The rivet 92 extends through the rivet hole 52, and the head 93 is deformed to come into contact with the abutment surface 54a. A ring 54b with an opening on the lower side of the mounting plate 40 is inserted into the annular recess 94 in the lower plate, which allows for interlocking between the lower plate 32 and the mounting plate 40 and the assembly 34 with the upper plate. The anti-rotation protrusions 96a and 96b of the lower plate 32 are inserted into the corresponding holes 56a and 56b under the protrusions made in the mounting plate 40.

Preferably, the skirt 64 of the cover plate 42 has a contact surface that contacts the upper surface of the center panel 16 to provide support for the cover plate 42. The configuration of the cover plate 42 and its thickness are preferably selected to provide bending resistance, and therefore force or impact they are not transmitted to the bottom plate 32, but are transmitted to the center panel 16. Thus, the cover plate 42 prevents unintentional opening or prevents unintentional opening opening if a downward force or impact will act on the cover plate 42. In this regard, the cover plate 42 is preferably relatively rigid compared to the mounting plate 40, so that the mounting plate 40 allows the lower plate 32 to bend down relative to its periphery during opening process.

FIGS. 5A, 5B and 7 illustrate an alternative configuration of the top plate assembly and the bottom plate assembly, which are denoted by 32 ′ and 34 ′, to distinguish them from the design of FIGS. 3A-4B and 6. Alternative configuration components that are such the same as those shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B and 5A and 5B are denoted by the same reference numerals; to indicate structural elements that in an alternative configuration are different from elements in the first configuration, the same reference numbers are used, but followed by a dash (') to indicate an alternative structure.

The closure 30 ′ includes a lower plate 32 ′ and a node 34 ′ with an upper plate. The top plate assembly 34 ′ includes a mounting plate 40 ′, a cover plate 42 and a plate tongue 44. The cover plate 42 and the plate tongue 44 may be the same as described above in connection with FIGS. 3A and 3B.

The mounting plate 40 'includes a lower structural part or a main part 48', which is preferably flat or almost flat, and a skirt 50 that extends downward (in the orientation of FIG. 5A) from the periphery of the sides of the main part 48 '. A groove or abutment surface 54a extends around the hole from its upper side, and ring 54b extends around the hole from its lower side. Two protrusions 96a 'and 96b' are located on opposite sides of the vertical hole 52 on the lower side of the main part 48 '. A hole or slot 58 is formed (a) in the body 48 'near its end.

The bottom plate 32 'includes a flat plate element 82', a flange 84 extending from the periphery of the plate element 82 ', and a ring 86 protruding upward from the flange 84. The ring 84 includes a flange 88 extending around its outer side and a recess 90 formed below shoulder 88 as described above. The rivet 92, shown in its state before deformation in Fig.6, protrudes upward from the plate element 82 '. A recess 94 is formed in the plate element 82 around the rivet 92. Two wings 98a and 98b extend from opposite sides of the flange 84. Two recesses 95a and 95b are located on opposite sides of the rivet 92 on the upper side of the plate element 82 '. The recesses 95a and 95b may be cup-shaped or may be through holes.

Fig. 2C is a cross-sectional view of closure 30 'extending through rivet 92 and pivoting protrusions 96a' and 96b 'to illustrate the relative position and functional interaction of the assembly 34' with the upper plate and lower plate 32 '. In the structure of FIGS. 3A-7, protrusions 96a and 96b are disposed in openings 56a and 56b with the possibility of their displacement.

1A and 2A illustrate the closure 30 of the first embodiment in its installed state before being actuated. To actuate the closure 30, the user places his finger under the tongue 77 (or tongue 77 ') and lifts the plate tongue 44 up. This rise causes the lamella tab 44 to rotate around the weakened part or groove 80. Accordingly, the weakened part or groove 80 is formed or functions as a flexible hinge. The lamella tab 44 is preferably rotated around the flexible hinge until it becomes vertical, thereby creating the possibility that the lamella tab 44 will function as a handle or gripping element.

The first actuation of the flexible joint preferably causes whitening under load near or around the weakened part or groove 80. The thermoplastic material of the top plate assembly 34 can be selected so as to ensure that the whitening under load is visible, and can be selected to enhance the whitening effect under load. Preferably, the top plate assembly 34 has a color other than white to improve the appearance of whitening under load. Accordingly, the whitening of the flexible joint when it is loaded provides an indication that the closure 30 is not in its state immediately after installation and has previously been opened. In addition, the lamella tab 44, when reinstalled in its original, initial position, is preferably not fully set to this position after it is first turned up, and thus provides an indication of tampering. The broken state of the jumpers 79 of the tongue 77 'may also provide an indication of tampering.

The arrows on the upper side of the cover plate 42 indicate that the vertical tongue plate 44 can be rotated or twisted in either of two directions, similar to the rotation of a dial. The protrusions 96a and 96b (or 96a 'and 96b') transmit torque between the upper plate 34 (or 34 ') and the lower plate 32 (32'). The rotation of the lamella tab 44 causes the entire closure 30 to rotate, which causes one of the pterygoid tabs 98a and 98b to move relative to the lower side 15 of the recessed end portion 14.

When the wing 98a and 98b is moved to the area below the lower side 15 of the recessed part by rotation, the lower plate 32 is bent or tilted to break the hole seal 36 and the mechanical seal 38. In this regard, part of the lower plate 32 is displaced relative to the center panel 16 so that part of the ring 86 comes out of contact with curl 22, when collar 88 is pulled into the area below curl 22 over part of its peripheral periphery. The destruction of the seal thus creates the possibility of depressurization in the free space above the product at the end face 10. The gas discharge position, which is intermediate between the fully closed and fully open positions, is shown in FIGS. 1B and 2D.

The user continues to grab the plate tongue 44, moving it from the gas outlet position, and pulls or displaces the closure 30 to open the opening 20 of the end face for drinking or pouring from the end of the can. Thus, the closure 30 can be actuated by gripping the plate tongue 44, twisting it and applying a pulling force to it, while the user does not release the plate tongue 44.

The fastening of the upper plate 34 to the lower plate 32 by means of a rivet 92 has the inherent ability to bend to the extent necessary to move the lower plate 32 under the central panel 16 and to move the plate tongue 44 over the central panel 16. The protrusions 96a and 96b (or 96a 'and 96b ') are longitudinally displaceable in respective holes 56a and 56b (or recesses 95a and 95b) to enhance the ability of the lower plate 32 to bend or deform relative to the upper plate 34 while second torque transmission from node 34 to the upper plate to the lower plate 32. The fully open and operative position of the closure 30 shown in Figure 1C and 2E.

In the fully open position, the protrusions 81 (not shown in FIGS. 1C and 2E, but shown in FIG. 6) are arranged and dimensioned to provide contact with the underside of the center panel 16 or preferably contact with the curl 22. The protrusions 81 serve to as spacing elements to increase the angle at which the lower plate 32 is oriented, and therefore increase the area over which air can quickly pass into the free space above the product during pouring. This increased air passage area, intended for quick air passage, results in a decrease in gurgling effect and an increase in flow rate during pouring.

Figs. 8A, 8B and 8C illustrate an embodiment of a resealable can end, by which the ventilation of the closure can be further enhanced. The bottom plate 32, as shown in FIG. 6, may be provided with a ventilation groove 33 that directs rapidly passing air into the free space above the product in the beverage can 1 (see FIG. 1C). In addition, the closure 30a (see FIGS. 10A and 10B) is provided with ventilation slots 41 (see FIG. 8B), which together with ventilation arcuate elements 63 form a flow channel for quick passage of air from the environment outside the beverage can 1 into the free space above the product inside the beverage can.

As shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, to re-close the closure 30, the user grabs the tongue 77 and pushes or slides the closure 30 above the opening 20 until the ring 86 is aligned with the opening 20 of the center panel. The user then pulls the tab 77 and the plate tab 44 mainly upward with a force sufficient to bend the ring 86 so that the collar 88 “snapped” over the curl 22.

Thus, the peripheral rim of the curl 22 makes contact with the surface of the ring or recess 90, and the lower part of the curl 22 makes contact with the upper surface of the flange 84 of the lower plate, as a result of which the opening seal 36 and the mechanical seal 38 are again created and the closure is resealed. facilities. When the dissolved gases in the beverage move from the liquid to the free space above the beverage under the can end 10, the pressure in the free space above the beverage increases to values above atmospheric pressure. The resulting force acting on the bottom plate 32 creates an upward force acting on the flange 84, which reinforces the mechanical seal 38.

As shown in FIG. 9B, when the user continues to lift the tab 77 by folding the plate tab 44, the hinge 80 opens to its full extent, and further lifting of the plate tab 44 causes the plate element 82 to close and seal the hole 20, as described earlier.

For embodiments in which the ring has a collar 88, moving the collar 88 over curl 22 may produce an audible click, indicating to the user that the closure has been resealed and re-sealed. The length, thickness, shape and properties of the material can be selected to enhance this audible click. The inventors note that the click was louder than expected, and suggest that the center panel serves as part of the resonating box to enhance the click.

FIGS. 10A-12B illustrate alternate top seal options for closures. The closures 30a, 30b and 30c illustrate the configurations of the center panels and tops of the closure to provide, among other things, visual cues to the user during the re-closing process to set the closure in the proper position.

10A and 10B illustrate a closure 30a having a cover plate 42a and a plate tab 44a that pivots about a hinge 80a. The tongue 44a includes concave recesses 45a. If desired, the center panel may include recesses (not shown in the drawings) into which the bottom side of the recesses 45a is inserted. The central panel 16a includes a recess 97a to facilitate access of the user's finger to the distal end of the tongue 44a and relief elements 99a that can be aligned with the narrowed portion of the closure 30a. In this regard, the embossed elements 99a provide a visual indication to the user that the closure 30a is in the proper position for re-closing when the embossed elements 99a are aligned with the tapered portion or other visual indicator of the closure 30a.

11A and 11B illustrate a closure 30b having a cover plate 42b and a plate tab 44b that pivots about a hinge 80b. The center panel 16b includes a recess 97b to improve finger access. The location of the panel opening (not shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B) and the configuration of the cover plate 42b are selected such that, when the closure is closed, the arcuate periphery of the closure 30b is aligned with the reinforcing bead of the panel, which provides the user with a visual indication that the closure 30b is in the proper position during the re-closing process.

12A and 12B illustrate a closure 30c having a cover plate 42c and a plate tab 44c that pivots about a hinge 80c. The center panel 16c includes a recess 97c for improved finger access. The recess 97c is curved with approximately the same curvature as the distal edge of the lamella tab 44c. Two straight relief elements 99c are formed on opposite sides of the closure 30c in the center panel 16c. The relief elements 99c are angled to match the angle formed by the opposite edges of the closure 30c. In this regard, the corresponding curvature of the recess 97c and the distal edge of the lamella tab 44c and the embossed recesses that “cover” the closure 30c provide a visual indication to the user that the closure 30c is in the proper position during the re-closure process.

The operation of the closures 30a, 30b and 30c is described for simplicity by reference to the closures 30a. It should be understood that the description is also applicable to the operation of closures 30b and 30c. The configuration of the hinge 80a limits the amount of rotation of the plate tongue 44a to 90 degrees, so that the plate tab 44a cannot be rotated substantially beyond the vertical position. To ensure this limit value, the hinge is preferably formed adjacent to the lowest surface of the lamella tab 44a.

As long as the tongue 44a is in its perfectly upright position, its wing-like shape, in which its opposing “ears” protrude above its lower center, provides a hint for rotation. Further, to move the tab 44a from its fully open position to the closed position, the user can simply pull or push the tab 44a towards the closed position. With proper alignment, the torque generated by the force exerted by the user near the upper part of the tongue 44a can cause the lower plate to be pulled upward to engage the radial seal.

13A-13D show a view of an alternative tamper evident structure (IV structure) that may be included in the closure instead of or in addition to the above-described whitening under load. The IV structure comprises at least one IV rivet 100 placed in one or more corresponding openings 47 on the lamella tab 44. The advantage of this IV means in comparison with the prior art is that it is impossible to raise the lamella tab 44 to release gas or to move the closure to the open position without destroying the IV structure 100, 47.

This IV construction is also preferred because the lamella tab 44 is held on to the closure even when the beverage can 1 is under increased pressure, and thus there is a lower risk of unintentional engagement of the tab. Such an IV structure 100, 47 is clearly visible to the user, and its visibility can be enhanced by different colors of the IV rivet 100 and the plate tongue 44. The IV jumpers between the IV rivet 100 and the hole 47 in the plate tongue 44 can be arranged so that they will burst sequentially to reduce the opening force. In addition, the IV-jumpers can be narrowed so that they remain on the IV-rivet 100, and not in the hole 47 in the plate tongue 44.

The IV rivet 100 is recessed in the plate tongue 44 and the hole 47 is small enough to prevent inadvertent finger engagement leading to the opening of the plate tongue 44. The IV rivet 100 is recessed in the plate tongue 44 so that when the closure is moved to the open position, it is not captures the double seam 18. The upper part of the IV-rivet 100 serves to tilt the plate element 82 and the formation of a channel for the passage of air into the free space above the product in the bank during the issuance of the product.

14A-21B illustrate another embodiment of a resealable and resealable end 110, which includes a peripheral wall 112, a recessed portion 114 at the base of the wall 112, a center panel 116, and a closure 130. The end 110 has an opening 120 formed in the center panel 116 around curl 122, which prevents user cuts with a sharp, raw edge. Curl 122 also interacts with closure 130 to form a seal when closure 130 is in its closed position.

The closure 130 includes a bottom plate 132 and a top plate assembly 134 and forms an opening seal 136 and an end seal 138 together with a curl 122. The top plate assembly 134 includes a protruding plate 140 that covers the plate 142 and the plate tab 144. In its assembled state, the protruding the plate 140 is located under the cover plate 142 and above the bottom plate 132. A hinge 146 connects the protruding plate 140 with the cover plate 142.

The protruding plate 140 includes an opening 149, which in the embodiment shown in FIG. 14A is a slot. The protruding plate 140 extends from the hinge 146 and includes a spring 150, from which the closing structure 152 protrudes downward. The closure structure 152 includes a longitudinal slit-like opening that defines two opposing windows 156. The windows 156 open at the upper end of the closure structure 152. A continuous round sealing portion 157 is located under the windows 156. When the closure structure 152 is in its closed position, the closure portion 157 seals the ventilation hole 191. However, when the cover structure 152 is in its gas discharge position, the windows 156 form ventilation ducts or a fluid connection between Bodnya space above the product in the pot 1 to the beverage and the external environment.

The cover plate 142 includes a lower structural part or a dome-shaped plate having a skirt and a cutout for receiving a lever, as explained below. One or more terminations 192 extend downward from the lower side of the cover plate 142 through the opening 149.

Lamellar tab 144 includes a lower structural part or dome-shaped plate, which is preferably arched and includes a skirt around its periphery. The lever 173 extends from the domed plate into a notch formed in the domed plate. The tongue 176 extends outward from the domed plate opposite the lever 173. When the lever 176 is lifted by the user to open the can, the lever 173 pushes the closing structure 152 against the force of the spring 150 and opens the windows 156 that form ventilation channels between the free space above the product in the beverage can 1 and the external environment. As the tongue 176 further rises, the seals 136 and 138 of the closure exit the engagement and the closure can be opened, opening 120 in the center panel 116.

When re-closing, the user again engages the seals 132 and 138 of the closure by manipulating the tongue 176, and the spring 150 returns the closing structure 152 to its sealed position.

Two lateral bearings 181 extend downward from the lower side of the lever 173 to stiffen the lever. The distal end of the protruding plate 140 is located between the side supports 181. The plate tab 144 includes a weakened portion or groove 180 formed therein.

As shown in FIG. 19A, the lower plate 132 includes a flat (or nearly flat) plate element 182, a continuous circumferential peripheral flange 184 extending from the periphery of the plate element 182, and a continuous ring 186 extending upward from the flange 184. The lower plate 132, the flange 184 and the ring 186 are preferably approximately the same shape as the hole 120. Accordingly, in the shown embodiment, the lower plate 132, the flange 184 and the ring 186 are round to match the shape of the hole 120. The lower layer 132 also includes an opening 191 that forms a sealing surface 193, as best shown in Figure 14B, where the greater part of the protruding plate 140 omitted for clarity.

In its assembled state, the lower plate 132 is located on the lower side of the central panel 116 so that the flat surface of the flange 184 is in contact with the lower side of the curl 122 to form an mechanical seal 138, and the outer part of the ring 186 is in contact with the closest to the center part of the curl 122 for the formation of a seal 136 holes.

The closing structure 152 passes through the hole 191 in the bottom plate 132 and is held by the rivet head 154. The closure 152 may be molded into a cylindrical shape and may be deformed during assembly with the bottom plate 132, or may be formed with an olive or shoulder (not shown in the drawings) such that the closure 152 is inserted through the snap hole 191. The hole surface 193 is in contact with the continuous sealing surface 157 of the closing structure 152 to seal the hole 191 when the closure 130 is in its initial position or re-closing position. In the configuration of FIG. 14A, the spring 150 acts on the cover structure 152 with an upward force, which tends to return the cover structure to its no-gas state.

FIGS. 20A and 20B show another embodiment of a closure closure structure 152 ′ that includes a sealing portion 157 ′ and a smaller diameter mounting portion 158 ′ to ensure that the closure remains aligned with the opening 191 but allows for a ventilation duct between the free space above the product inside the can and the external environment. The closure 152 ′ has a bottom plate 195, rivet holes 196 and a spring 197 for biasing the closure 152 ′ into the sealed position. The bottom plate 195 of the closure structure is attached to the bottom side of the bottom plate of the closure by means of seals that extend through the openings 196. The spring 197 presses the closure structure 152 ′ upward so that the continuous sealing surface of the closure structure 152 ′ comes into contact with the surface of the hole 191 and seals the hole 191. When the tongue 176 is lifted by the user, the lever 173 is actuated to push the closing structure 152 ′ downward to release gas and open, as will be understood from the above. rivedennogo consideration plugs.

Considering the closure 130 of the second embodiment, it can be noted that to move the closure 130 from its initial closed position to the intermediate gas discharge position, the tongue 176 is raised up to rotate the plate tongue 144 around the hinge formed by the groove 180. The lower surfaces of the side supports 181 are in contact with the upper surface of the lower plate element 182 when the lever 173 is rotated in a counterclockwise direction. The lever 173 is in contact with the closing structure 152 and causes it to move down until the windows 156 are opened under the central panel 116 (which, for example, corresponds to the rotation of the tongue 176 approximately 30 degrees), which creates the possibility of communication between the free space above the product in the can and the surrounding atmosphere through the window 156. Thus, the internal pressure in the can is reliably relieved before the closure 130 is fully opened. However, the installation part 158 'remains exposed to the opening TIFA 191.

After the gas is discharged, the user can rotate the tab 176 by a larger amount, for example, to about 45 degrees, and, if required, apply a downward force either by direct contact with the closure 130 and pressing on it, or by transferring force through the tongue 176. The action of the tongue 176 and the possible downward force causes the seals 136 and 138 to separate. The rotation of the tongue 176 and the possible downward force can continue until the lower plate 132 is detached extending from the center panel 116 to bias the closure 130 to open the opening 120. The clearance between the top of the ring 186 and the curl 122 is approximately 0.76 mm (0.0299 in).

To re-close, the user can grab the tab 176 and pull or push the closure 130 until it is aligned with the hole 120, and then feed it up to engage the seals 136 and 138.

22-25 illustrate yet another embodiment of a re-closing and re-sealing end face 210 that includes a peripheral wall 212, a recessed portion 214 at the base of the wall 212, a center panel 216, and a closure 230. The end face 210 includes an opening 220 formed in the central panel 216 at curl 222.

The closure 230 includes a bottom plate 232 and a top plate assembly 234 and forms an opening seal 236 and an end seal 238 by a curl 222. The top plate assembly 234 includes a cover plate 242 and a plate tongue 244.

The cover plate 242 includes a pivoting lower structural part or a dome-shaped plate 262 and a fixing plate 263. The dome-shaped plate 262 and the fixing plate 263 are separated by a groove 280, which serves as a flexible hinge and can be whitened under load, which is the tamper indication described above.

The cover plate 242 includes a cylindrical protrusion 255 extending downward from its lower side. The cover plate 242 is separated from the plate tongue 244 by a flexible hinge 277, which can serve as a working hinge and to indicate tampering. The mounting plate 263 includes a rivet hole 252 and an arched through groove 253.

The bottom plate 232 includes a flat (or nearly flat) plate element 282, a continuous peripheral flange 284 extending from the periphery of the plate element 282, and a continuous ring 286 protruding upward from the flange 284. Two wings 298a and 298b extend from opposite sides of the flange 284, as shown in Fig. 25.

The lower plate 232, the flange 284 and the ring 286 are preferably approximately the same shape as the hole 220. The lower plate 232 includes a rivet 292 and two arched protrusions 293 that protrude upward from the plate element 282.

The center panel 216 also includes an aperture 350 that is remote from the pouring aperture 220. The gasket or insert 352 is secured to the aperture 350, preferably by means of a press fit. The insert 352 has a through hole 253 defined by a sealing surface 254. Preferably, the bottom plate 232 and insert 352 are injection molded in one piece so that plate 232 and insert 352 are held together by bridges. When the entire injection molded part is superimposed on the central panel 216, the webs break down, which allows the bottom plate 232 to function as described here.

In its assembled state, the lower plate 232 is located on the lower side of the central panel 216 so that the flat surface of the flange 284 is in contact with the lower side of the curl 222 to form an mechanical seal 238, and the outer part of the ring 286 (preferably the recess 290) is in contact with the closest the center part of the curl 222 to form a seal 236 holes.

The rivet 292 passes through the rivet hole 350 in the mounting plate 263 to fasten the upper and lower plates together. The arched protrusions 293 enter into the arched grooves 253. The protrusion 255 is introduced into the opening 350 so that the protrusion 255 forms a seal with the surface 254 of the opening 350.

To actuate the closure 230, the user can place a finger under the plate tongue 244 to rotate the domed plate 262 of the cover plate 242 upward around the hinge 280 and then move the closure 230 relative to the opening 220. The tongues 298a and 298b are preferably not used for the opening process, but, rather, they are used as guides during assembly and overlay of the closure 230 on the center panel 216.

The user continues to grab the plate tongue 244, moving it from the gas outlet position, and pulls or shifts the closure 230 to open the opening 220 of the end for drinking or pouring from the end of the can. Thus, the closure 230 can be actuated by gripping the plate tongue 244, twisting it and applying a pulling force to it, while the user does not release the plate tongue 244.

The fastening of the upper plate 234 to the lower plate 232 by means of a rivet 292 has the inherent ability to bend to the extent necessary to move the lower plate 232 under the center panel 216 and to move the plate tongue 244 over the center panel 216.

To re-close the closure 230, the user grabs the plate tab 244 and pushes or slides the closure 230 over the opening 220 until the ring 286 is aligned with the opening 220 of the center panel. Then, the user pulls the plate tongue 244 mainly upward with a force sufficient to bend the ring 286 so that the bead 288 “snapped” over the curl 222.

The present invention is illustrated by describing several embodiments. However, the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described herein. On the contrary, the present invention encompasses any combination of features of any of the embodiments and their natural varieties, as will be understood by those skilled in the art of closures.

Claims (31)

1. A resealable combination can end containing a metal can end and a resealable closure attached to the can end,
wherein the end face of the can contains a peripheral wall and a central panel, the central panel including an upper surface, an opposite lower surface and an opening formed through it;
wherein the closure comprises a lower plate and an upper plate attached to the lower plate in a first place, wherein the closure has (i) a sealed position in which at least one of the lower or upper plate contacts the center panel around the opening to form a seal, (ii) an intermediate position in which the closure is located near the opening but not sealed, and (iii) a fully open position in which the opening is open so that liquid can be poured through the opening TIFA;
wherein the lower plate can move downward relative to the upper plate when moving from a sealed position to an intermediate position;
wherein the lower plate and the upper plate are configured to (i) jointly move relative to the end of the can from the intermediate position to the fully open position and (ii) jointly move relative to the end of the can from the fully open position to the intermediate position;
however, the lower plate can move upward in engagement with the Central panel from an intermediate position to a re-sealed position with the formation of at least one seal from the radial seal and the mechanical seal. 2. The combined end face of the can according to claim 1, wherein the lower plate further includes a wing resting on the cam surface to bias the lower plate from the upper plate to release gas. 3. The combined end face of the can according to claim 1, in which the lower plate includes one or more protrusions that increase the inclination of the lower plate when the upper plate is rotated relative to the lower plate to release gas. 4. The combined end face of the can according to claim 1, in which in the closed position the lower plate includes a continuous flange for mechanical seal with the lower side of the Central panel and a continuous vertical ring for radial sealing with the edge of the hole. 5. The combined end face of the can according to claim 1, in which the upper plate comprises a plate tongue attached by a flexible hinge. 6. The combined end face of the can according to claim 5, in which the flexible hinge is formed by a v-shaped groove formed between the plate tongue and the mounting plate, while raising the plate tongue causes the sides formed by the v-groove to contact, and the lifting force applied to lamellar tongue is transmitted to the mounting plate and then transferred to the lower plate. 7. The combined end face of the can according to claim 1, wherein a cover plate is connected to the bottom plate in a first place, the bottom plate includes a shoulder for engaging the rim of the hole to produce an audible click when applying the bottom plate for engagement with the radial seal. 8. The combined end face of the can according to claim 1, wherein the lower plate includes at least one ventilation groove for forming a flow channel between the lower plate and the upper plate during gas discharge. 9. The combined end face of the can according to claim 1, in which the upper plate includes at least one ventilation slot for the formation of a flow channel in the upper plate during gas discharge. 10. The combined end face of the can according to claim 1, in which the lower plate includes a rivet that connects together the upper plate and the lower plate. 11. The combined end face of the can of claim 10, in which the rivet is hidden by the coating. 12. The combined end face of the can according to claim 1, in which one plate from the upper or lower plate includes at least one protrusion inserted into the hole formed in the other plate from the upper or lower plate, to prevent rotation of the upper plate relative to the lower plate. 13. The combined can end of claim 1, wherein (i) the upper plate includes a tongue having at least one protrusion extending downward, (ii) a central panel includes at least one recess, and (iii) the tongue protrusion is configured to inserts in the recess of the central panel. 14. The combined end face of the can according to claim 1, wherein the central panel includes embossed elements to provide the user with an indication that the closure is in the proper position for re-closing. 15. The combined end face of the can according to claim 1, wherein the closure includes a tamper indicating structure. 16. The combined end face of the can according to clause 15, in which the IV structure includes a rivet that enters the hole in the tongue of the upper plate when applied, while the tongue is configured to separate it from the rivet at initial opening. 17. The composite can end of claim 1, wherein (i) the top plate comprises a cover plate and a mounting plate, and (ii) the cover plate is rigid relative to the mounting plate to facilitate folding of the mounting plate during the opening process. 18. The combined end face of the can according to claim 1, in which a downwardly directed opening force is applied directly by the user. 19. The combined end face of the can according to claim 1, in which a downward opening force is created due to the lever principle of action of the tongue of the upper plate. 20. A resealable combination can end, comprising:
an end face of the can having a peripheral wall and a central panel with a through hole, and
a closure having a closed position in which at least a portion of the closure seals the opening, a gas discharge position in which one or more ventilation ducts are open in the center panel, and a fully open position in which the opening is open;
wherein the closure comprises a plug for sealing one or more ventilation ducts when the closure is in its closed position, and a pressing element for returning the plug to the sealed position. 21. The combined end face of the can according to claim 20, in which the closure includes a lever structure for moving the closing structure against the force of the pressing means to open one or more ventilation ducts when opening the closure, and when closing again, to return the closing structure to its sealed position . 22. The combined can end of claim 20, wherein the closure includes a tongue portion through which the user can open a hole in the center panel and the linkage is connected to the tongue portion such that when the user opens the can end, manipulating the tongue causes a cast in the action of the lever structure to move the closing structure against the force of the pressing means to open the ventilation ducts. 23. The combined end face of the can according to claim 20, in which, to move the closure between the closed position and the fully open position, the closure is moved by the user along the end wall. 24. The combined can end of claim 20, wherein at least a portion of the closure structure remains located in the ventilation ducts to ensure proper alignment of the closure structure to seal the ventilation ducts during re-compaction. 25. The combined can end of claim 20, wherein the closing structure includes one or more slots formed therein, and when the closure is moved to the gas discharge position, the closing structure moves against the force of the pressing means in a position in which the slots form ventilation ducts, passing through the center panel. 26. The combined end face of the can according to claim 20, in which the pressing means is a spring. 27. The combined end face of the can according to claim 20, in which the spring is made of plastic. 28. A combined can end, comprising a metal can end and a resealable closure attached to the can metal end,
wherein the metal end of the can contains a peripheral wall and a central panel, the central panel including an upper surface, an opposite lower surface and a through hole;
wherein the resealable closure comprises a lower plate, an upper plate and a plug comprising at least one window,
wherein the closure has (i) a sealed position in which the plug seals the ventilation hole formed by the bottom plate, (ii) an intermediate position in which said windows form ventilation ducts between the space above the beverage in the can and the external environment, and (iii) completely an open position in which the opening is open for pouring liquid through the opening. 29. The combined end face of the can according to claim 28, wherein the loading comprises a spring that presses the plug into a sealed position. 30. The combined can end of claim 28, wherein (i) the upper plate comprises a tongue, and (ii) when the user lifts the tongue, the lever is actuated to push the plug down to open windows and create ventilation ducts. 31. A resealable beverage can, comprising a can body and a combined can end according to any preceding claim, attached to the can body.

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