FIELD OF INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to fluid cans. The present invention relates particularly, though not exclusively, to fluid cans with a cap. The present invention relates more particularly, though not exclusively, to fluid beverage cans with a resealable cap.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Cans are utilized to store chemicals, food, beverages, and various other types of contents. Cans used to store chemicals utilize tops with removable tabs of various sizes that can be pulled off or pushed in. Cans used to store food are generally sealed and require a can opener to remove the contents, or may have tops that are entirely removable. Cans used to store beverages utilize tops with tabs of various sizes that can be pulled off or pushed in. Once the tops of the cans are removed they cannot be used to reseal the can; the entire contents must be used or transferred to another container.
Cans used to store fluid with tops using tabs have gone through various iterations that are still used today. Pull-tabs, tabs that are pulled off of the can top, are completely detached from the can and discarded. However, due to the pull-tabs being completely detached from the can they can become swallowing hazards to young children. Stay-on-tabs, tabs that are pushed in by a lever, remains attached to the can top and do not become hazards. However, the single opening of the can has its inherent drawbacks.
The single opening in the can is a fraction of the size of the can top, which is the size of the removed or punched in tab. The single opening provides a single path for fluids to go out of the can and for air to come into the can to replace the removed fluid, which creates a series of pauses in the flow of the fluid as air enters the can to replace the removed fluid. The pauses in fluid flow reduces the overall fluid flow rate of the can. In addition, the pause in fluid flow and the rush of air entering the can agitates the fluid within the can further affecting the fluid flow rate. In order to alleviate the pauses in fluid flow, the size of the opening have been enlarged in certain cans.
The pause in the fluid flow for the air to replace the removed fluid is referred to as the “glug” factor for beverage cans. The “glug” factor and the size of the opening of the can top influences the enjoyment of drinking from the can. The “glug” factor does not provide a smooth drinking experience from a can. For carbonated beverages, the “glug” factor agitates the fluid within the can affecting the fluid flow rate and creates foam, further affecting the drinking experience from a can. To eliminate the “glug” factor, consumers pour the carbonated beverage from a can into a cup. In certain cans, the opening is the size of the can top, but for these types of cans with full-pull out tops the cans are left with sharp edges.
In light of the above, it would be advantageous to provide a resealable top capable of providing a can that is resealable. It would further be advantageous to provide a resealable top capable of providing a smooth drinking surface. It would further be advantageous to provide a resealable top capable of providing a smooth delivery of fluid. It would further be advantageous to provide a resealable top capable of reducing or eliminating the “glug” factor from a beverage can.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
The present invention is a cup can with a resealable top. The resealable top includes a can lid and a cap. The can lid is attached to a can body with an interior cavity. The can lid provides an opening into the interior cavity of the can body and allows for the contents within the interior cavity to be removed. The cap is removably attached to the can lid. The cap is secured to the can lid and seals the contents of the interior cavity of the can body. The cap may be removed and reattached to the can lid, thereby providing a resealable container.
In a preferred embodiment, the can lid includes a top flange, a first wall, a shoulder, a second wall, and an outer surface. A first thread, a second thread, a third thread, and a fourth thread are located on the second wall. The cap includes a top flange, a first wall, a bottom wall, and a handle located at the midpoint of the cap. The cap further has an outer surface with a curved portion. Located on the outer surface are a first tab, a second tab, a third tab, and a fourth tab. The can lid is configured to be attached to a can body and the cap is configured to seal the opening of the can lid. The tabs of the cap is configured to engaged with the threads of the can lid and lock in place.
In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the can lid includes a top flange, a first wall, a shoulder, a second wall, and an outer surface. A first thread, a second thread, a third thread, and a fourth thread are located on the second wall. The cap includes a top flange, a shoulder, an outer wall, a handle, an inner wall, and a bottom wall. The top flange is attached to the shoulder. Attached to and extending downward from the shoulder are the outer wall and the inner wall. Extending inwards from the inner wall is the bottom wall. Extending across the bottom wall and between the inner wall is the handle. The can lid is configured to be attached to a can body and the cap is configured to seal the opening of the can lid. The tabs of the cap are configured to engage with the threads of the can lid and lock in place.
In yet another alternative embodiment of the present invention, the can lid includes a top flange, a first wall, a shoulder, a second wall, and an outer surface. A first thread, a second thread, a third thread, and a fourth thread are located on the second wall. The cap includes a top flange, top wall, an outer wall, and a handle. The outer wall extends downward from the top flange. The top wall extends inwards from the outer wall. Attached to the top wall is handle, which is attached at the midpoint of the top wall and is configured to pivot. The handle pivots away from the top wall and may be used to rotate the cap. The can lid is configured to be attached to a can body and the cap is configured to seal the opening of the can lid. The tabs of the cap is configured to engaged with the threads of the can lid and lock in place.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
The objects, features, and advantages of the invention will be more clearly perceived from the following detailed description, when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawing, in which:
FIG. 1 is a is a top perspective view of a resealable top of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the resealable top of the present invention;
FIG. 3 a top perspective exploded view of the resealable top and includes the can lid and the cap;
FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of the can lid;
FIG. 5 is a bottom perspective view of the can lid;
FIG. 6 is a top view of the can lid;
FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the can lid;
FIG. 8 is a side view of the can lid;
FIG. 9 is a top perspective cross-section view of the can lid;
FIG. 10 is a cross-section view of the can lid;
FIG. 11 is a top perspective view of the cap;
FIG. 12 is a bottom perspective view of the cap;
FIG. 13 is a top view of the cap;
FIG. 14 is a bottom view of the cap;
FIG. 15 is a side view of the cap;
FIG. 16 is a top perspective cross-section view of the cap;
FIG. 17 is a side cross-section view of the cap;
FIG. 18 is a top perspective cross-section view of the resealable top with the cap lid and the cap;
FIG. 19 is a side cross-section view of the resealable top with the cap lid and the cap;
FIG. 20 is a top perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the resealable top with an alternative embodiment of a cap;
FIG. 21 is a bottom perspective view of the alternative embodiment of resealable top;
FIG. 22 is a top perspective cross-section view of the resealable top;
FIG. 23 is a cross-section view of the resealable top;
FIG. 24 is an exploded view of the alternative embodiment of the resealable top;
FIG. 25 is a top perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the resealable top;
FIG. 26 is a bottom perspective view of the resealable top;
FIG. 27 is a top perspective cross-section view of the resealable top;
FIG. 28 is a cross-section view of the resealable top;
FIG. 29 is an exploded view of the resealable top;
FIG. 30 is a top perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a cup can of the present invention; and
FIG. 31 is a cross-section view of the cup can of FIG. 31.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Referring initially to FIG. 30, a top perspective view of a cup can of the present invention is shown and generally designated 50. The cup can 50 includes a can body 52 with a resealable top 10 attached. The can body 52 is substantially similar to a standard can body used to contain carbonated beverages. A can lid 100 of the resealable top 10 is attached to the can body 52. A cap 150 is secured to the can lid 100 and seals the can body 52. The use of the resealable top 10 is not meant to be limiting. It is contemplated that a resealable top 20 and 30 (shown in FIG. 20 and FIG. 25, respectively), not excluding any embodiment of the present invention not discussed herein, may be attached to the can body 52 without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
Referring now to FIG. 1, a top perspective view of a resealable top of the present invention is shown and generally designated 10. The resealable top 10 includes a can lid 100 and a cap 150. The resealable top 10 is attached to the can body 52 to create the cup can 50, as shown in FIG. 30. The can lid 100 is attached to the can body 52 to provide a full aperture opening for the can body 52. The cap 150 is configured to be removably attached to the can lid 100. The cap lid 100 of the resealable top 10 provides a full aperture opening for the cup can 50 that can be opened and closed by the cap 150.
Referring now to FIG. 2, a bottom perspective view of the resealable top 10 is shown. The cap 150 is removably attached to the can lid 100. The bottom of the cap 150 is level with the bottom of the can lid 100.
Referring now to FIG. 3, an exploded view of the resealable top 10 is shown. The can lid 100 is configured to be attached to the can body 52 (shown in FIG. 30) and further configured to secure the cap 150. The can lid 100 includes a top flange 102, a first wall 108, a shoulder 110, a second wall 116, and an outer surface 118. A first thread 120, a second thread 122, a third thread 124 (shown in FIGS. 5-7), and a fourth thread 126 is located on the second wall 116. The cap 150 includes a top flange 152, a first wall 160, a bottom wall 170, and a handle 180 located at the midpoint of the cap 150. The cap 150 further has an outer surface 168. Located on the outer surface 168 is a first tab 190, a second tab 192 (shown in FIG. 12), a third tab 194 (shown in FIG. 12), and a fourth tab 196 (shown in FIG. 12).
The can lid 100 is configured to be attached to the can body 52 and the cap 150 is configured to seal the opening of the can lid 100. The tabs 190, 192, 194, and 196 of the cap 150 is configured to engaged with the threads 120, 122, 124, and 126 of the can lid 100 and lock in place. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the cap 150 locks onto and seals the can lid 100 with a quarter turn of the cap 150.
Referring now to FIG. 4, a top perspective view of the can lid 100 is shown. The can lid 100 includes the top flange 102 having a circular shape with an inner edge 104 and an outer edge 106. Extending vertically downward from the inner edge 104 of the top flange 102 is the first wall 108. Extending horizontally inward from the first wall 108 is the shoulder 110 having an inner edge 112 and an outer edge 114, wherein the first wall 108 is connected to the outer edge 114 of the shoulder 110. Extending vertically downward from the inner edge 112 of the shoulder 110 is the second wall 116. Extending downward, between the inner edge 104 of the top flange 102 and the bottom of the second wall 116, is outer surface 118. As shown, the outer surface 118 is a substantially straight wall extending between the inner edge 104 of the top flange 102 and the bottom of the second wall 116, however it is contemplated that the outer surface 118 may replicate the contours of the first wall 108, the shoulder 110, and the second wall 116 depending on the need and the manufacturing process used. It is also contemplated that the various walls of the can lid 100 and cap 150 may be straight, angled, or curved without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention depending on the need and the manufacturing process used.
Referring now to FIG. 5, a bottom perspective view of the can lid 100 is shown. The can lid 100 includes the first thread 120, the second thread 122, the third thread 124, and the fourth thread 126 located on the second wall 116. As shown, the top flange 102 is curved on the underside between the inner edge 104 and the outer edge 106. The curvature of the top flange 102 facilitates the outer edge 106 of the top flange 102 to curve and crimp itself to the can body 52 during the assembly of the cup can 50, which is a can body utilizing the resealable top 10. The curvature of the top flange 102 also serves as a sealing surface between the can lid 100 and the can body 52. Referring now to FIG. 6, a top view of the can lid 100 is shown. The shoulder 110 includes the inner edge 112 and outer edge 114. The inner edge 112 has a diameter 113 and the outer edge 114 has a diameter 115. The first wall 108 has a diameter 109 that is substantially similar to the diameter 115 of the shoulder 110 outer edge 114. The second wall 116 has a diameter 117 that is substantially similar to the diameter 113 of the shoulder 110 inner edge 112. The can lid 100 includes the first thread 120, the second thread 122, the third thread 124, and the fourth thread 126.
Referring now to FIG. 7, a bottom view of the can lid 100 is shown. The top flange 102 has a width 103 extending between the inner edge 104 and the outer edge 106. The inner edge 104 has a diameter 105 and the outer edge 106 has a diameter 107. The inner edge diameter 105 of the top flange 102 is approximately the same as the diameter 109 of the first wall 108 and the diameter 115 of the shoulder 110 outer edge 114. The diameters are not meant to be limiting and it is contemplated that the diameters may all be different depending on use and manufacturing methods.
Referring now to FIG. 8, a side view of the can lid 100 is shown. The can lid 100 includes the top flange 102 and the outer surface 118. The outer surface 118 is angled inwards and has a length 119. As shown, the outer surface 118 is a substantially straight wall extending between the inner edge 104 of the top flange 102 and the bottom of the second wall 116, however it is contemplated that the outer surface 118 may replicate the contours of the first wall 108, the shoulder 110, and the second wall 116 depending on the need and the manufacturing process used.
Referring now to FIG. 9, the top perspective cross-section view of the can lid 100 taken along lines 9-9 of FIG. 7 is shown. The flange 102 has a thickness 101. The first wall 108 has a length 128, the shoulder 110 has a length 129, and the second wall 116 has a length 130. The length 128 of the first wall 108, the length 129 of the shoulder 110, and the length 130 of the second wall 116 add up to equal the length 119 of the outer surface 118.
Referring now to FIG. 10, the cross-section view of the can lid 100 taken along lines 9-9 of FIG. 7 is shown. The can lid 100 includes the top flange 102 with the inner edge 104 and the outer edge 106. Extending vertically downward from the inner edge 104 of the top flange 102 is the first wall 108. Extending horizontally inward from the first wall 108 is the shoulder 110 having the inner edge 112 and the outer edge 114, wherein the first wall 108 is connected to the outer edge 114 of the shoulder 110. Extending vertically downward from the inner edge 112 of the shoulder 110 is the second wall 116. Extending downward, between the inner edge 104 of the top flange 102 and the bottom of the second wall 116, is outer surface 118. The length 103 of the can lid 100 equals the total lengths of the length 128 of the first wall 108, the length 129 of the shoulder 110, the length 130 of the second wall 116, and the flange 102 thickness 101.
The second wall 116 includes the first thread 120, the second thread 122, the third thread 124, and the fourth thread 126. The first thread 120, the second thread 122, the third thread 124, and the fourth thread 126 are substantially similar and thus only the first thread 120 is described. The first thread 120 includes a first segment 120A, which is an elongated body having a first angled face and a second straight face. The first segment 120A is joined to second segment 120B, which is an elongated body with a first straight face and a second straight face. The second segment 120B is oriented substantially horizontal, and the first segment 120A and the second segment 120B is adjacent to the inner edge 112 of the shoulder 110. The second segment 120B is joined to third segment 120C, which is an elongated body with a first angled face and a second angled face. The third segment 120C is attached to the second segment 120B at an angle and is directed downward. The third segment 120C is joined to fourth segment 120D, which is an elongated body with a first straight face and a second straight face. The fourth segment 120D is oriented substantially horizontal and at a height lower than the second segment 120B. The fourth segment 120D is joined to the fifth segment 120E, which is an elongated body having a first angled face and a second angled face. The fifth segment 120E is joined to the fourth segment 120D at an angle and is directed downward and extends from the fourth segment 120D to the bottom of the second wall 116.
The first segment 120A, the second segment 120B, the third segment 120C, the fourth segment 120D, and the fifth segment 120D are joined to form the first thread 120. The first thread 120 extends from the inner edge 112 of the shoulder 110 to the bottom of the second wall 116. The second segment 120B and the fourth segment 120D are located at different heights on the second wall 116 to allow for the cap 150 to screw onto the cap lid 100 and seal the opening of the cap lid 100. The description of the first thread 120 is not meant to be limiting and it is contemplated that the first thread 120 may be constructed differently without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The first thread 120, including the second thread 122, the third thread 124, and the fourth thread 126 may be continuous or segmented helical ridges. It is also contemplated that instead of a stepped decrease in height, a steady and gradual decrease in height, such as occurring in continuous ridge threads, may be used.
Referring now to FIG. 11, a top perspective view of the cap 150 is shown. The cap 150 includes a top flange 152 with an inner edge 154 and an outer edge 156. Extending vertically downward from the inner edge 154 of the top flange 152 is a first wall 160. Extending horizontally inward from the first wall 160 is a bottom wall 170. Extending between the first wall 160, and across the bottom wall 170, is handle 180. The handle 180 is located at the midpoint of the cap 150. The cap 150 further has an outer surface 168. Located on the outer surface 168 is the first tab 190, the second tab 192, the third tab 194, and the fourth tab 196.
Referring now to FIG. 12, a bottom perspective view of the cap 150 is shown. The cap 150 includes the top flange 152 with the inner edge 154 and the outer edge 156. Extending vertically downward from the inner edge 154 of the top flange 152 is the first wall 160. Extending horizontally inward from the first wall 160 is the bottom wall 170. The bottom wall 170 includes a cavity 172. Located on the outer surface 168 and protruding from the bottom wall 170 are the first tab 190, the second tab 192, the third tab 194, and the fourth tab 196.
Referring now to FIG. 13, a top view of the cap 150 is shown. The top flange 152 has a width 153, the inner edge 154 has a diameter 155, and the outer edge 156 has a diameter 157. The first wall 160 has a diameter 161, which is approximately the same as the diameter 155 of the inner edge 154 of the top flange 152. The handle 180 has a width 182 and extends a length 184. The length 184 of the handle 180 is approximately the same as the diameter 155 of the inner edge 154 of the top flange 152.
Referring now to FIG. 14, a bottom view of the cap 150 is shown. The bottom wall 170 has a diameter 174. The diameter 174 of the bottom wall 170 is approximately equal to the diameter 155 of the inner edge 154 of the top flange 152 of the cap 150. The cavity 172 in the bottom wall 170 has a length 176 and a width 178. The length 176 of the cavity 172 is approximately equal to the length 184 of the handle 180. The width 178 of the cavity 172 is smaller than the width 182 of the handle 180.
Referring now to FIG. 15, a side view of the cap 150 is shown. The top flange 152 of the cap 150 is attached to the wall 160. The outer surface 168 of the wall 160 includes a curved portion 169 at the junction with the top flange 152. Located on the outer surface 168 of the wall 160 are the first tab 190, the second tab 192, the third tab 194, and the fourth tab 196. The top of the first tab 190, the second tab 192, the third tab 194, and the fourth tab 196 are chamfered to provide a smooth surface for engagement with the first thread 120, the second thread 122, the third thread 124, and the fourth thread 126. The bottom of the first tab 190, the second tab 192, the third tab 194, and the fourth tab 196 are even with the bottom of the bottom wall 170.
Referring now to FIG. 16, a top perspective cross-section view of the cap 150 taken along line 15-15 of FIG. 11 is shown. The cap 150 includes the top flange 152 with the inner edge 154 and the outer edge 156. Extending vertically downward from the top flange 152 is the first wall 160 with outer surface 168. Extending horizontally inward from the first wall 160 is a bottom wall 170. Extending between the first wall 160, across the bottom wall 170, is handle 180. The handle 180 is located at the midpoint of the cap 150. The bottom wall 170 includes the cavity 172, which extends into the handle 180. Located on the outer surface 168 of the wall 160 are the first tab 190, the second tab 192, the third tab 194, and the fourth tab 196.
Referring now to FIG. 17, a cross-section view of the cap 150 taken along line 15-15 of FIG. 11 is shown. The top flange 152 has a height 153. The wall 160 has a height 161. The bottom wall 170 has a height 171. The height 152, height 161, and height 171 in total is the height 151 of the cap 150. The handle 180 has a height 184. The cavity 172 has a height 173. The tabs, 190, 192, 194, and 196, has a height 191.
Referring now to FIG. 18, a top perspective cross-section view of the resealable top 10 taken along line 18-18 of FIG. 1 is shown. The cap 150 is secured to the can lid 100. In the preferred embodiment, the cap 150 is secured to the can lid 100 by placing the cap 150 on the can lid 100 and rotating the cap 150 until the first tab 190, the second tab 192, the third tab 194, and the fourth tab 196 (collectively referred to as “tabs”) contacts the first thread 120, the second thread 122, the third thread 124, and the fourth thread 126 (collectively referred to as “threads”). The pairing of a tab with a thread is inconsequential as the tabs and the threads are equally spaced apart to allow any tab to engage with any thread. Once the tabs are in contact with the threads, the cap 150 is rotated to engage the tabs with the threads of the can lid 100 until the cap 150 is locked onto the can lid 100. Due to the configuration of the threads, the cap 150 is simultaneously pulled downward when the cap 150 is rotated.
As the cap 150 is rotated, the tabs slide along the threads of the can lid 100 and pulls the cap 150 downward. Since each of the tabs and each of the threads are substantially similar, for purposes of illustrating the engagement of the tabs and the threads, tab 190 and thread 120 will be described, in conjunction with FIG. 10. As the cap 150 is rotated, tab 190 slides along thread 120. Tab 190 is chamfered and allows for smooth movement of the tab 190 along the thread 120. Tab 190 is initially in contact with the first segment 120A, which has an angled face. The angled face of the first segment 120A provides for easier engagement with the tab 190. Once passed the first segment 120A, the tab 190 slides along the second segment 120B until the tab 190 contacts the third segment 120C. The third segment 120C is angled downward and connects the second segment 120B with the fourth segment 120D. The tab 190 slides along the third segment 120C and transitions the tab 190 from the second segment 120B to the fourth segment 120D, which is located at a lower height. The change in height of the second segment 120B and the fourth segment 120D of the can lid 100 pulls the cap 150 downwards while sliding along the third segment 120C. The tab 190 further slides along the fourth segment 120D until the tab is stopped by the fifth segment 120E and the cap 150 can no longer rotate. The cap 150 is locked into place on the can lid 100 when the cap 150 can no longer rotate.
To remove the cap 150 from the can lid 100, the cap 150 is rotated in the opposite direction. Once the cap 150 is removed from the can lid 100, a large opening the size of diameter 117 is provided. All of the edges of the can lid 100 are smooth, such as the threads, the top flange 152, the first wall 108, and shoulder 110, ensuring that there are no sharp edges that may cut a user.
Referring now to FIG. 19, a cross-section view of the resealable top 10 taken along line 18-18 of FIG. 1 is shown. The diameter 174 of the bottom wall 170 of the cap 150 is smaller than the diameter 117 of the second wall 116 of the can lid 100. The diameter 157 of the top flange 152 of the cap 150 is larger than the diameter of the shoulder 110 and the diameter 117 of the second wall 116 of the can lid 100. This allows the cap 150 to be inserted into the can lid 100 without going completely through the can lid 100.
As the cap 150 is pulled downwards, the top flange 152 of the cap 150 comes into contact with the first wall 108 of the can lid 100 and the curved portion 169 of the first wall 160 of the cap 150 comes into contact with the shoulder 110 of the can lid 100 sealing the opening of the can lid 100. The diameter 157 of the top flange 152 is approximately equal to the diameter 113 of the first wall 118, which the first wall 118 is slighted tapered inward with a slight decrease in diameter at the junction of the first wall 118 and the shoulder 110 to facilitate a seal between the top flange 152 and the first wall 108. It is contemplated that a gasket may be placed between the can lid 100 and the cap 150 to provide an alternative means of sealing the can lid 100 opening. The gasket may be placed on the can lid 100 on the shoulder 110 or the first wall 108. Alternatively, the gasket may be placed on the cap 150 at the curved portion 169 of the outer surface 168 of the first wall 160 or on the top flange 152.
When secured, the resealable top 10 provides a top surface substantially similar to the top surface of standard beverage cans. The cap 150 is secured onto the can lid 100 below the height of the top flange 102 of the can lid 100. The can lid 100 has a height of 103 and the cap has a height of 151. When the cap 150 is secured onto the can lid 100, the bottom wall 170 of the cap 150 is parallel with the bottom of the second wall 116 of the can lid 100, leaving a height 140 of the can lid 100 exposed. The exposed height 140 of the can lid 100 provides a top surface that is substantially similar to the top surfaces of standard cans. The top surface of the resealable top 10 facilitates the stacking of cans utilizing the resealable top 10 as well as standard beverage cans. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the resealable top 10 is utilized as a top for a carbonated beverage can. Due to the large opening of the resealable top 10, the “glug” factor is eliminated. The can lid 100 provides smooth surfaces eliminating the possibility of a person cutting their lips from drinking directly from the resealable top 10. Further, the cap 150 may be used to close the opening of the can lid 100 preserving the carbonation of the beverage for consumption at a later time.
Referring now to FIG. 20, a top perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the resealable top of the present invention is shown and generally designated 20. The resealable top 20 includes the can lid 100 and a cap 200. The can lid 100 is substantially similar to the can lid 100 described above, and will not be described further herein. The cap 200 includes a top flange 202, a shoulder 210, an outer wall 220 (shown in FIG. 21), a handle 230, an inner wall 240, and a bottom wall 250. The top flange 202 is attached to the shoulder 210. Attached to and extending downward from the shoulder 210 are the outer wall 220 and the inner wall 240. Extending inwards from the inner wall 240 is the bottom wall 250. Extending across the bottom wall 250, between the inner wall 240, is the handle 230.
Referring now to FIG. 21, a bottom perspective view of the resealable top 20 is shown. Located on the outer wall 220 are first tab 260, second tab 262, third tab 264, and fourth tab 266. An annular groove 270 is between the outer wall 220 and the inner wall 240. A straight groove 280 extends through the bottom wall 250 and connects between the annular groove 270.
Referring now to FIG. 22, the top perspective cross-section view of the resealable top 20 taken along line 22-22 of FIG. 20 is shown. The cap 200 includes the top flange 202, the shoulder 210, the outer wall 220, the handle 230, the inner wall 240, the bottom wall 250, the first tab 260, the second tab 262, the third tab 264, the fourth tab 266, the annular groove 270, and the straight groove 280. The top flange 202 includes an inner edge 204 and an outer edge 206. The top flange 202 has a height 208. Extending inward from the inner edge 204 of the top flange 202 is the shoulder 210. The shoulder 210 includes an inner edge 212 and an outer edge 214, wherein the outer edge 214 of the shoulder 210 is adjacent to the inner edge 204 of the top flange 202. The shoulder 210 has a height 216. Extending downward from the outer edge 214 of the shoulder 210 is the outer wall 220 and extending downward from the inner edge 212 of the shoulder 210 is the inner wall 240. The outer wall has a height 222 and the inner wall has a height 242. Between the inner wall 240 and the outer wall 220 is the annular groove 270 having a width 272. Extending inward from the inner wall 240 is the bottom wall 250. The straight groove 280, having a width 282, extends through the bottom wall 250 and connects between the annular groove 270.
Referring now to FIG. 23, the cross-section view of the resealable top 20 taken along line 22-22 of FIG. 20 is shown. The cap 200, described in conjunction with FIG. 22, includes the top flange 202, the shoulder 210, the outer wall 220, the handle 230, the inner wall 240, the bottom wall 250, the first tab 260, the second tab 262, the third tab 264, the fourth tab 266, the annular groove 270, and the straight groove 280. The cap has an overall height 201, which is the total of heights 208, 216, and 242, since height 242 of the outer wall 240 extends farther than inner wall 220. The outer edge 206 of the top flange 202 has a diameter 207, which is larger than the diameter 113 of the shoulder 110 and the diameter 117 of the second wall 116 of the can lid 100. The inner edge 212 of the shoulder 210 has diameter 213 and the outer edge 214 of the shoulder 210 has a diameter 215. Due to the diameter 205 of the inner edge 204 of the top flange 202 being smaller than the diameter 215 of the outer edge 214 of the shoulder, the top flange 202 overlaps the shoulder 210. The outer wall 220 has a diameter 221, which is smaller than the diameter 117 of the second wall 116 of the can lid 100. The inner wall 240 has a diameter 241. The bottom wall 250 has a diameter 251, which is substantially similar to diameter 241. The handle 230 has a width 231.
Referring now to FIG. 24, an exploded view of the resealable top 20 is shown. The cap 200 is secured to the can lid 100. In the embodiment, the cap 200 is secured to the can lid 100 by placing the cap 200 on the can lid 100 and rotating the cap 200 until the first tab 260, the second tab 262, the third tab 264, and the fourth tab 266 (collectively referred to as “tabs”) contacts the first thread 120, the second thread 122, the third thread 124, and the fourth thread 126 (collectively referred to as “threads”). The pairing of a tab with a thread is inconsequential as the tabs and the threads are equally spaced apart to allow any tab to engage with any thread. Once the tabs are in contact with the threads, the cap 200 is rotated to engage the tabs with the threads of the can lid 100 until the cap 200 is locked onto the can lid 100. Due to the configuration of the threads, the cap 200 is simultaneously pulled downward when the cap 200 is rotated. As the cap 200 is rotated, the tabs slide along the threads of the can lid 100 and pulls the cap 200 downward. The diameter 215 of the outer wall 220 of the cap 200 is smaller than the diameter 117 of the second wall 116 of the can lid. The outer edge 206 of the top flange 202 has a diameter 207, which is larger than the diameter 113 of the shoulder 110 and the diameter 117 of the second wall 116 of the can lid 100. This allows the cap 200 to be inserted into the can lid 100 without going completely through the can lid 100.
The tabs of the cap 200 are configured substantially similar to the tabs of the cap 150. The method of securing the cap 200 to the can lid 100 is substantially similar to the method of securing the cap 150 to the can lid 100, and thus will not be further described herein. To remove the cap 200 from the can lid 100, the cap 200 is rotated in the opposite direction. Once the cap 200 is removed from the can lid 100, a large opening is provided. All of the edges of the can lid 100 are smooth, ensuring that there are no sharp edges that may cut a user.
As the cap 200 is pulled downwards, the top flange 202 of the cap 200 comes into contact with the first wall 108 and the shoulder 110 of the can lid 100 sealing the opening of the can lid 100. It is contemplated that a gasket may be placed between the can lid 100 and the cap 200 to provide an alternative means of sealing the can lid 100 opening. The cap 200 is secured onto the can lid 100 below the height of the top flange 102 of the can lid 100. When secured, the resealable top 20 provides a top surface substantially similar to the top surface of standard beverage cans. The top surface of the resealable top 20 facilitates the stacking of cans utilizing the resealable top 20 as well as standard beverage cans.
Referring now to FIG. 25, a top perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the resealable top of the present invention is shown and generally designated 30. The resealable top 30 includes the can lid 100 and a cap 300. The can lid 100 is substantially similar to the can lid 100 described above, and will not be described further herein. The cap 300 includes a top flange 310, a top wall 320, an outer wall 330 (shown in FIG. 26), and a handle 340. The outer wall 330 extends downward from the top flange 310. The top wall 320 extends inwards from the top flange 310. Attached to the top wall 320 is handle 340, which is attached at the midpoint of the top wall 320 and is configured to pivot. The handle 340 pivots away from the top wall 320 and may be used to rotate the cap 300.
Referring now to FIG. 26, the bottom perspective view of the resealable top 30 is shown. Located on the outer wall 330 is a first tab 350, a second tab 352, a third tab 354, and a fourth tab 356.
Referring now to FIG. 27, the top perspective cross-section view of the resealable top 30 taken along line 27-27 of FIG. 25 is shown. The cap 300 includes the top flange 310, top wall 320, outer wall 330, handle 340, first tab 350, second tab 352, third tab 354, and fourth tab 356. The top flange 310 includes an inner edge 312 and an outer edge 314. Extending downward from the top flange 310, adjacent the inner edge 312, is the outer wall 330. Extending inward from the outer wall 330 is the top wall 320.
Referring now to FIG. 28, the cross-section view of the cap can 30 taken along line 27-27 of FIG. 25 is shown. The cap 300, described in conjunction with FIG. 27, includes the top flange 310, top wall 320, outer wall 330, handle 340, first tab 350, second tab 352, third tab 354, and fourth tab 356. The cap 300 has an overall height 301, which is the height 316 of the top flange 316 and the height 332 of the outer wall 330 together. The outer edge 314 of the top flange 310 has a diameter 315, which is larger than the diameter 113 of the shoulder 110 and the diameter 117 of the second wall 116 of the can lid 100. The inner edge 312 of the top flange 310 has diameter 313. The outer wall 330 has a diameter 331, which is smaller than the diameter 117 of the second wall 116 of the can lid 100. The top wall 320 has a diameter 321.
Referring now to FIG. 29, an exploded view of the resealable top 30 is shown. The cap 300 is secured to the can lid 100. In the embodiment, the cap 300 is secured to the can lid 100 by placing the cap 300 on the can lid 100 and rotating the cap 300 until the first tab 350, the second tab 352, the third tab 354, and the fourth tab 356 (collectively referred to as “tabs”) contacts the first thread 120, the second thread 122, the third thread 124, and the fourth thread 126 (collectively referred to as “threads”). Once the tabs are in contact with the threads, the cap 300 is rotated to engage the tabs with the threads of the can lid 100 until the cap 300 is locked onto the can lid 100. Due to the configuration of the threads, the cap 300 is simultaneously pulled downward when the cap 300 is rotated. As the cap 300 is rotated, the tabs slide along the threads of the can lid 100 and pulls the cap 300 downward. As described in FIG. 28, the diameter 331 of the outer wall 330 of the cap 300 is smaller than the diameter 117 of the second wall 116 of the can lid. The outer edge 314 of the top flange 310 has the diameter 315, which is larger than the diameter 113 of the shoulder 110 and the diameter 117 of the second wall 116 of the can lid 100. This allows the cap 300 to be inserted into the can lid 100 without going completely through the can lid 100.
The tabs of the cap 300 are configured substantially similar to the tabs of the cap 150. The method of securing the cap 300 to the can lid 100 is substantially similar to the method of securing the cap 150 to the can lid 100, and thus will not be further described herein. To remove the cap 300 from the can lid 100, the cap 300 is rotated in the opposite direction. Once the cap 300 is removed from the can lid 100, a large opening is provided. All of the edges of the can lid 100 are smooth, ensuring that there are no sharp edges that may cut a user.
As the cap 300 is pulled downwards, the top flange 310 of the cap 300 comes into contact with the first wall 108 and the shoulder 110 of the can lid 100 sealing the opening of the can lid 100. It is contemplated that a gasket may be placed between the can lid 100 and the cap 300 to provide an alternative means of sealing the can lid 100 opening. The cap 300 is secured onto the can lid 100 below the height of the top flange 102 of the can lid 100. When secured, the resealable top 30 provides a top surface substantially similar to the top surface of standard beverage cans. The top surface of the resealable top 30 facilitates the stacking of cans utilizing the resealable top 30 as well as standard beverage cans.
Referring now to FIG. 31, a cross-section view of the cup can 50 taken along line 31-31 of FIG. 30 is shown. The can lid 100 of the resealable top 10 is attached to the can body 52 by cold rolling and crimping the outer edge 106 of the top flange 102 to the open end of the can body 52. The can lid 100 is sealed to the can body 52 and provides a full aperture opening into the can body 52 having diameter 117 of the second wall 116 of the can lid 116. To seal the opening of the can body 52, the cap 150 is screwed onto the can lid 100.
In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the resealable top 10 is utilized as a top for cup can 50 to contain a carbonated beverage. Due to the large opening of the resealable top 10, the “glug” factor is eliminated. The can lid 100 provides smooth surfaces removing the possibility of a person cutting their lips if drinking directly from the resealable top 10. Further, the cap 150 may close the opening of the can lid 100 preserving the carbonation of the beverage for consumption at a later time.
While the cap can 10, 20, and 30 of the present invention as herein shown and disclosed in detail is fully capable of obtaining the objects and providing the advantages herein before stated, it is to be understood that it is merely illustrative of embodiments of the invention and that no limitations are intended to the details of construction or design herein shown other than as described in the appended claims.
Patent Application
20200354114
