Patent Grant
10427832
The present invention relates to a resealable lid and cap combination for a container, including the structure, method of manufacturing, and method of use thereof. In general, the resealable lid is assembled to a container such as an aluminum beverage can. The cap is assembled to the lid and rotated by the consumer to open and reseal the can. The rotational movement of the cap is converted into linear motion by one or more cam mechanisms to effect an opening action, fracturing a score line and bending a tear panel inward into the can. Once the can is opened, the cap can be removed for consumption of content stored therein and replaced to reseal the opened lid.
The beverage and can industries have long sought to create a can that is both economical to produce and convenient for use by consumers. In the past, beverage cans were provided with a “pull tab” which the consumer would grab by a ring, and pull until the tab was removed from the can. This created a problem in that the tab became disposable waste for which the consumer was responsible to ensure proper disposal. Often the consumer failed to properly dispose of the tab, thereby creating not only litter, but also a safety issue, in that the tabs could be swallowed by small children. Moreover, the edges of the pull tab were sharp enough that they could, if mishandled, cut the fingers or hands of the consumer or anyone else who handled a loose pull tab. As a result of these problems, the industry moved in the direction of a tab that stayed on the can after opening, thereby preventing both litter and any sharp edges from coming into contact with consumers.
The present state of the art is to have a “stay on” tab that is attached to the can lid by a rivet formed in the can lid next to the opening. The opening is formed by a score line, or frangible “kiss cut” which breaks when the tab is pulled up by the consumer. The score line, when broken, produces a hinged flap that stays connected to the can lid, but inside the can.
Beverage cans with stay on tabs suffer from at least the following deficiencies. First, they are not resealable, so that once the consumer opens the beverage; the contents are subject to loss of carbonation, and the influx of foreign material due to the contents being open to the surrounding environment. Secondly, in order to form the rivet which is used to secure the stay on tab to the beverage lid, the lid needs to be made of a different material, typically an aluminum alloy that is stronger than the aluminum alloy used to make the sides and bottom of the can. Further, the tab itself is typically made of a different alloy than the sides and lid, reflecting the need for a still stronger, typically stiffer material. As a result, recycling of the aluminum beverage can is problematic because the different materials need to be separated. The use of three different materials also tends to add complexity, and expense, to the finished container.
A need exists for improved beverage containers that are resealable, cost effective to produce, and “green” in terms of avoiding waste and facilitating the recycling of aluminum cans. Concurrently, a need exists for improved methods for manufacturing beverage containers that result in faster production time, lower production costs, and improved products.
A container has a sidewall and integrally formed bottom. The container is preferably a beverage container, but could be adapted to any suitable container. A top lid includes a socket integrally formed therein; the socket including a substantially cylindrical sidewall and a bottom wall. A score line formed in the bottom wall defines a tear panel which forms an opening into the can when the score line is fractured and the tear panel is bent inward or removed. A cap is fitted in the socket and has a sidewall which is formed with cam surfaces. The cam surfaces, formed as grooves or slots, cooperate with bosses or detents formed in the cylindrical sidewall of the socket. The design of the cam surfaces and associated bosses translate the rotational motion of the cap into linear motion, wherein the linear motion fractures the score line and opens the tear panel. As the cap moves downwardly, a protrusion formed on the lower surface of the cap impinges on the periphery of the score line, fracturing the score line and subsequently pushing the tear panel into the can.
Once opened, the cap can be re-fitted into the socket, so that the cam surfaces engage the detents, and are rotated to achieve a sealing position, whereby the contents of the can are protected from the ambient atmosphere. This will result in the prevention of spillage, the loss of carbonation, and the prevention of foreign objects from entering the can. The user can opt to discard the cap and/or container once the entire contents of the can are consumed.
Preferably, the container is a beverage container, commonly referred to as a “can,” but the same principals described above could be used for other types of containers, including bottles made of various materials, including plastic, paper, metal (such as aluminum), cartons, cups, glasses, etc. In one particularly preferred embodiment, the container can be an aluminum can with a body manufactured of an aluminum alloy material, and a container lid being manufactured of the same aluminum alloy material as the container. The cap can be made of a plastic material of sufficient hardness that the cam surfaces do not deform during opening and closing operations, a metal, or any other suitable material.
In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the invention consists of a resealable beverage container lid assembly comprising:
In a second aspect, the container body is substantially cylindrical and the bottom wall is integrally formed with the sidewall.
In another aspect, the bottom wall, the sidewall and the lid are all made of a same material.
In yet another aspect, the bottom wall, the sidewall and the lid are all fabricated from one planar sheet of material.
In yet another aspect, the material is selected from a group of materials, the group of materials comprising:
a. Metal,
b. Aluminum alloy,
c. Steel alloy,
d. Tin,
e. Plastic,
f. Nylon,
g. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC),
h. Polyethylene terephthalate (PETE or PET),
i. Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE),
j. High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE),
k. Polypropylene (PP),
l. Polycarbonate.
In yet another aspect, at least one of the bottom wall, the sidewall and the lid is made of an aluminum alloy.
In yet another aspect, the bottom wall, the sidewall and the lid are all made of the aluminum alloy.
In yet another aspect, the lid includes a socket extending downwardly into an interior space of the container body, the socket having a sidewall and a bottom wall. The cap including a sidewall and a bottom wall, and wherein the cap is adapted to fit into the socket.
In yet another aspect, the socket of the container lid is formed within the planar base panel of the container lid.
In yet another aspect, the socket of the container lid is located proximate a circumferential edge of the container lid.
In yet another aspect, the entire peripheral edge of the socket of the container lid is off-centered respective to a seaming panel or a circumferential edge of the container lid.
In yet another aspect, the entire peripheral edge of the socket of the container lid is concentrically located respective to a seaming panel or a circumferential edge of the container lid.
In yet another aspect, a peripheral edge wall of the socket of the container lid is located between a seaming panel and a peripheral countersink.
In yet another aspect, the peripheral edge wall of the socket of the container lid is arranged being substantially vertically oriented.
In yet another aspect, the peripheral edge wall of the socket of the container lid is arranged being substantially vertically oriented, the peripheral edge wall further comprising at least one earn feature.
In yet another aspect, the socket additionally includes an assembly element for assembling and retaining a secondary component to the container lid.
In yet another aspect, the assembly element formed within the socket is located within the sidewall of the socket.
In yet another aspect, the assembly element formed within the sidewall of the socket is provided in a form of a cam track.
In yet another aspect, the assembly element formed within the sidewall of the socket is provided in a form of a cam engaging projection.
In yet another aspect, the container lid sidewall and the socket sidewall are distinct from one another.
In yet another aspect, the container lid sidewall and the socket sidewall are the same.
In yet another aspect, the container lid further comprising a reinforcement section formed within a bottom wall of the socket of the container lid.
In yet another aspect, the container lid further comprising a reinforcement structure located about a peripheral edge of the container lid planar base bottom.
In yet another aspect, the container lid further comprising a reinforcement structure that is formed as an embossed feature extending upward into a void within the socket cavity.
In yet another aspect, the container lid further comprising a reinforcement structure that is formed as a debossed feature extending downward away from the void within the socket cavity.
In yet another aspect, the container lid further comprises a reinforcement structure that is formed having both the embossed feature extending upward into the void within the socket cavity and the debossed feature extending downward away from the void within the socket cavity.
In yet another aspect, the container lid further comprises a reinforcement structure that is formed on the planar base bottom, outward of the score line.
In yet another aspect, the container lid further comprises a reinforcement structure that is formed on the container lid planar base bottom, outward of the score line.
In yet another aspect, the reinforcement structure includes features that are employed for translation of a radial motion into at least one of an axial motion and an axial force.
In yet another aspect, the reinforcement structure includes features that are employed to induce a torsional force upon the tear panel to rotate or bend the tear panel away from the container lid planar base bottom.
In yet another aspect, the reinforcement structure is adapted to distribute the fracturing force applied by the cap onto the tear panel to propagate the bifurcation fracturing of the score line.
In yet another aspect, the reinforcement structure includes guide features acting as a pathway for an incisor during rotation of the cap respective to the container lid.
In yet another aspect, the reinforcement structure includes guide features acting as an incisor pathway channel providing clearance for the incisor during rotation of the cap respective to the container lid.
In yet another aspect, the incisor pathway channel is formed as an initial step in the formation of the container lid.
In yet another aspect, the incisor pathway channel is formed following the formation of a majority of the features of the container lid.
In yet another aspect, the incisor pathway channel includes at least one indexing formation. The indexing formation can be formed during the process used for forming a length of the incisor pathway channel or formed separately. The indexing formation is integral with at least one end of the incisor pathway channel; preferably having one formed at each end of the incisor pathway channel. The at least one indexing formation can be employed to provide registration between the container lid and tooling during the container lid fabrication process.
In yet another aspect, the indexing formation is formed prior to the formation of the incisor pathway channel.
In yet another aspect, the indexing formation is formed subsequent to the formation of the incisor pathway channel.
In yet another aspect, the reinforcement structure can be employed for nesting of at least one feature provided on the cap.
In yet another aspect, the container lid can include a reinforcement structure formed about the socket sidewall.
In yet another aspect, the container lid can include a reinforcement structure formed about an upper edge of the socket sidewall.
In yet another aspect, the container lid can include a reinforcement structure formed about the seaming panel of the container lid.
In yet another aspect, the container lid can include a reinforcement structure formed about a lower portion of the seaming panel of the container lid.
In yet another aspect, the container lid can include a reinforcement structure formed about the seaming panel of the container lid, wherein the reinforcement feature is employed to retain a cylindrical shape of the container lid sidewall.
In yet another aspect, the container lid can include a reinforcement structure formed about the lower portion of the seaming panel of the container lid, wherein the reinforcement structure is employed as a support for a respective seating feature of a seaming chuck.
In yet another aspect, the container lid can include a reinforcement structure formed about the lower portion of the seaming panel of the container lid, wherein the reinforcement structure is employed to provide planar support for the respective seating feature of the seaming chuck.
In yet another aspect, the container lid can include a reinforcement structure formed about a bottom edge of the socket sidewall.
In yet another aspect, the container lid can include a reinforcement structure formed about a bottom edge of the socket sidewall, wherein the reinforcement feature is a countersink.
In yet another aspect, the container lid seaming panel is assembled to the container body seaming flange.
In yet another aspect, the container lid seaming panel is assembled to the container body seaming flange using a roll forming process.
In yet another aspect, the container lid seaming panel is assembled to the container body seaming flange using a roll forming process in conjunction with a compression process. The roll forming process can be completed using any suitable roll forming process. In one exemplary method, at least one roller is rotated about a stationary assembly. In a second exemplary method, the assembly is rotated about at least one stationary roller. In a third exemplary method, the assembly is rotated about at least one rotating roller.
In yet another aspect, the container lid seaming panel is assembled to the container body seaming flange using a step of applying an axial compression force to the container lid. The axial compression force application process can be completed using any suitable roll forming process.
In yet another aspect, the container lid seaming panel is assembled to the container body seaming flange using a step of applying an axial compression force to the container lid using a frustum shaped mating surface between a seaming chuck and the container lid seaming panel.
In yet another aspect, the container lid seaming panel is assembled to the container body seaming flange using a step of applying an axial compression force to the container lid by applying a compression force from the respective seating feature provided on the seaming chuck and a seaming chuck shoulder formed about an interior surface of the container lid sidewall. The respective seating feature can alternatively be referred to as a planar driving surface.
In yet another aspect, the seaming chuck can further comprise a cavity formed extending inward from a seaming chuck bottom surface, wherein the seaming chuck bottom surface cavity provides clearance for features of the container lid assembly.
In yet another aspect, the seaming chuck can further comprise a cavity formed extending inward from a seaming chuck bottom surface, wherein the seaming chuck bottom surface cavity provides clearance for features of the container lid assembly, which includes the container lid and the container cap.
In yet another aspect, the container lid seaming panel can be assembled to the container body seaming flange using a bonding process.
In yet another aspect, the container lid is adapted for deformation during subjection to and resulting from a retort process.
In yet another aspect, a tamper indicator actuator (or similar feature) ensures and maintains sufficient separation between the resealable container cap substantially horizontally oriented traversing wall (more specifically, the incisor) and the cap receiving socket bottom wall to avoid premature fracturing of the score line during subjection to the retort process.
In yet another aspect, during the retort process, the vertical sidewall of the container lid deforms inward, pinching the cam tracks against the respective cam followers of the resealable container cap. This configuration retains the cap within cap receiving socket of the container lid while subjected to the retort process.
Drive Features
In yet another aspect, the lid further comprising a socket adapted to receive the cap and an earn feature, wherein the earn feature includes elements formed on opposing cylindrical surfaces of the socket and cap.
In yet another aspect, each earn surface is formed on an outer cylindrical surface of the cap, and projections are formed on the inner cylindrical surface of the socket, wherein each earn surface is adapted to engage the projections whereby rotational movement of the cap imparts translational movement to the cap.
In yet another aspect, the first drive system for driving the cap into operable engagement with the tear panel, thereby pushing the tear panel into the can to form an opening in the lid; and
In yet another aspect, the second drive means includes a second linear motion drive mechanism, capable of converting rotational motion of the cap into a separation force applied upon the tear panel.
In yet another aspect, the first linear motion drive mechanism includes first and second cam structures, formed respectively on the cap cylindrical sidewall and socket cylindrical sidewall.
In yet another aspect, the second linear motion drive mechanism includes third and fourth cam structures, formed respectively on the cap bottom wall and the socket bottom wall.
In yet another aspect, the first cam structure includes a groove formed in the cap cylindrical sidewall, and the second cam structure includes at least one projection formed on the socket cylindrical sidewall.
In yet another aspect, the third cam structure includes at least one cap ramp and the fourth cam structure includes at least one socket ramp in sliding engagement with the at least one cap ramp.
In yet another aspect, the at least one cap ramp includes three ramps arranged peripherally around the cap bottom wall, in sliding engagement with the at least one socket ramp.
In yet another aspect, the cap second linear drive mechanism element is a first series of ramps, and the mating socket second linear drive mechanism element is a second series of ramps, wherein each ramp of the first series of ramps and each associated ramp of the second series of ramps are in sliding engagement with one another.
In yet another aspect, at least a portion of the ramp is configured to be an embossed feature, extending downward from the bottom surface of the cap.
In yet another aspect, at least a portion of the ramp is configured to be a debossed feature, extending upward from the bottom surface of the cap.
In yet another aspect, at least a portion of the ramp is configured to be an embossed feature, extending downward from the bottom surface of the cap.
In yet another aspect, at least a portion of the ramp is configured to be an embossed feature, extending downward from the bottom surface of the cap and a second portion of the ramp is configured to be a debossed feature, extending upward from the bottom surface of the cap.
In yet another aspect, the opening process includes a mechanism enabling the cap to distally separate from the container lid upper surface, thus separating the sealing element from the upper surface of the cap receiving socket bottom wall, eliminating any friction between the sealing element and the associated mating surface.
In yet another aspect, separation of the sealing element and the associated mating surface enables depressurization of the pressurized contents within container to eliminate missiling.
In yet another aspect, the score line is adapted to define a pathway for initiating and propagating a fracture defining a tear panel from the container lid planar based bottom or socket bottom wall.
In yet another aspect, the score section is formed upon the container lid planar base bottom.
In yet another aspect, the score section is formed upon an exterior surface of the container lid planar base bottom.
In yet another aspect, the score section is formed upon an interior surface of the container lid planar base bottom.
In yet another aspect, the score section is formed upon at least one of an exterior surface of the container lid planar base bottom and an interior surface of the container lid planar base bottom.
In yet another aspect, the score section is formed upon a socket bottom wall, wherein the socket is formed within the container lid planar base bottom.
In yet another aspect, the score section is concentric with respect to the container lid socket sidewall.
In yet another aspect, the score section is located off-center with respect to the container lid socket sidewall.
In yet another aspect, a portion of the score section is formed within an incisor pathway channel.
In yet another aspect, a portion of the score section is formed on a sidewall of the incisor pathway channel.
In yet another aspect, a portion of the score section is formed on a radial portion of the sidewall of the incisor pathway channel.
In yet another aspect, a portion of the score section is formed on an end portion of the sidewall of the incisor pathway channel.
In yet another aspect, the score line is a first score line and further comprising a central piercing formation located proximate the center of the lower end of the cap, a second score line formed in the middle of the tear panel and juxtaposed the central piercing element, wherein a downward motion of the cap causes the central piercing element to pierce the center of the tear panel to release internal pressure and thereby facilitate breaking of the first score line by the pointed projection.
In yet another aspect, the score section is formed having a pair of score grooves; the pair of score grooves is arranged substantially parallel to one another.
In yet another aspect, the score section is formed having a pair of score grooves; the pair of score grooves is joined to one another at one end.
In yet another aspect, the score section is formed having a pair of score grooves; the pair of score grooves is joined to one another at one end by a loop formation.
In yet another aspect, the score line is shaped initiating at a looped segment and having a pair of line segments extending from each end of the looped segment, the pair of line segments extending in a like direction generally following a peripheral edge of the socket bottom wall.
In yet another aspect, the score line is shaped initiating at a looped segment and having a pair of line segments extending from each end of the looped segment, the pair of line segments extending in a like direction generally following a peripheral edge of the socket bottom wall, wherein the pointed projection is in alignment with a center of the looped segment of the score line.
In yet another aspect, the score line is includes at least two intersecting lines, and wherein the sharp projection is juxtaposed at the intersection between the two lines.
In yet another aspect, the score line is formed in an “S” shape.
In yet another aspect, the score line is formed in an “S” shape, defining a pair of tear panels.
In yet another aspect, the score line is formed in an “S” shape, defining a pair of tear panels, wherein each end of the score line defines a respective hinge for the respective tear panel.
In yet another aspect, the score line is adapted to define a hinge section.
In yet another aspect, the container lid further comprising a hinge section defined by ends of the score line, wherein the hinge section extends between the tear panel and the annular surface maintaining attachment of the tear panel to the planar member when the score line is fractured.
In yet another aspect, the score line is formed using a single score forming step.
In yet another aspect, the score line is formed using multiple score forming steps.
In yet another aspect, the score line is formed using multiple score forming steps, wherein an intersection between ends of the first score segment formed by the first score forming step and the second score segment formed by a subsequent score forming step is facilitated by including an enlarged score area located at the intersection between the first score segment and the second score segment.
In yet another aspect, the enlarged score area adjoining two (2) separately formed score line segments is employed to perform at least one function of initiating and propagating the fracture of the score line.
In yet another aspect, the multiple score line process employs registration features formed within the container lid to maintain registration accuracy between the first score forming step and each subsequent score forming step.
In yet another aspect, the score line can be reinforced by applying a sealant material on at least one side of the material having the score line. The reinforced score line can be formed partially extending through the score receiving substrate or extend completely through the score receiving substrate.
In yet another aspect, the enlarged score area adjoining two (2) separately formed score line segments, includes a thinned material fracture section located upon a same surface as the score line, and a broader compression formed concave surface located on an opposite side of the score receiving substrate, wherein the combination ensures a desired movement of material during the forming process. The process is adapted to form the scoring fracture initiation or propagation section by the traversing displacement of the material.
In yet another aspect, the enlarged score area adjoining two (2) separately formed score line segments can be of any suitable shape, including circular, oval, oblong, square, rectangular, diamond, hexagonal, octagonal, or any other suitable shape.
In yet another aspect, at least one end of the score line includes an outward arched segment, wherein the outward arched segment is adapted to direct any additional fracturing away from the hinge formation.
In yet another aspect, both ends of the score line include outward arched segments, wherein the outward arched segments are adapted to direct any additional fracturing away from the hinge formation.
In yet another aspect, the score line can be arranged providing a counter-clockwise driven opening, having score line fracture initiating location on a left side of the tear panel and a hinge located on a right side.
In yet another aspect, the score line can be arranged providing a clockwise driven opening, having score line fracture initiating location on a right side of the tear panel and a hinge located on a left side.
In yet another aspect, the cap includes an upper end and a lower end, and the tear panel is shaped defining a flap that opens when the pointed projection is driven downwardly by the earn feature to impinge upon the score line.
In yet another aspect, the cap is fabricated from a single sheet of planar material.
In yet another aspect, the cap is fabricated using at least one metal forming process. The at least one metal forming process can include a stamping process, a sheering process, a drawing process, a wall ironing process, a metal pinching process, a rolling process, and the like.
In yet another aspect, the cap is fabricated using a machining process.
In yet another aspect, the cap is fabricated using a molding process.
In yet another aspect, the cap is fabricated using a casting process.
In yet another aspect, a cap planar traversing wall, a sidewall, and a grip feature are all made of a same material.
In yet another aspect, the cap planar traversing wall, the sidewall, and the grip feature are all fabricated from one planar sheet of material.
In yet another aspect, the material is selected from a group of materials, the group of materials comprising:
a. Metal,
b. Aluminum alloy,
c. Steel alloy,
d. Tin,
e. Plastic,
f. Nylon,
g. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC),
h. Polyethylene terephthalate (PETE or PET),
i. Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE),
j. High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE),
k. Polypropylene (PP), and
l. Polycarbonate.
In yet another aspect, at least one of the cap planar traversing wall, the sidewall, and the grip feature is made of an aluminum alloy.
In yet another aspect, the cap planar traversing wall, the sidewall, and the grip feature are all made of the aluminum alloy.
In yet another aspect, the cap includes at least one grip.
In yet another aspect, the cap further comprising a grip element formed in the upper end of the cap.
In yet another aspect, the grip element is formed having a debossed shape, wherein the debossed shape extends downward from the cap planar traversing wall.
In yet another aspect, the grip element is formed having an embossed shape, wherein the embossed shape extends upward from the cap planar traversing wall.
In yet another aspect, the grip element is formed having a pinched shape.
In yet another aspect, the grip element is formed having a pinched dome shaped upward extending projection.
In yet another aspect, the grip element is formed having a cylindrical shape.
In yet another aspect, the grip element is formed having a cylindrical shaped cavity, wherein the cylindrical shaped grip element cavity is a deboss extending downward from the cap planar traversing wall.
In yet another aspect, the grip element is formed having a cylindrical shaped formation, wherein the cylindrical shaped grip element formation is an emboss extending upward from the cap planar traversing wall.
In yet another aspect, the cylindrical shaped grip element formation includes a peripheral edge grip enhancing formation.
In yet another aspect, the grip element is formed having a bar or linear shape.
In yet another aspect, the cap includes at least one feature for receiving an implement.
In yet another aspect, wherein the at least one feature for receiving the implement includes at least one bar shaped element.
In yet another aspect, wherein the at least one feature for receiving the implement includes a pair of bar shaped elements spatially arranged to receive the implement.
In yet another aspect, the cap includes at least one feature for receiving an implement, wherein the implement is a coin.
In yet another aspect, the cap can include at least one cap reinforcement structure.
In yet another aspect, the cap reinforcement structure can be formed as a gripping element.
In yet another aspect, the cap reinforcement structure can be formed as a sidewall.
In yet another aspect, the cap reinforcement structure can be formed as a countersink.
In yet another aspect, the cap reinforcement structure can be formed as an incisor deboss panel.
In yet another aspect, the cap reinforcement structure can be formed as at least one ramp.
In yet another aspect, the cap reinforcement structure can be formed as a tamper indicator.
In yet another aspect, the cap includes a piercing element or incisor extending downward from a bottom surface of the cap.
In yet another aspect, the incisor is formed using a molding process.
In yet another aspect, the incisor is formed using a molding process that is accomplished during the formation of the cap.
In yet another aspect, the incisor is formed using a metal forming process.
In yet another aspect, the incisor is formed as a debossed feature.
In yet another aspect, the incisor includes a leading edge, a trailing edge and a bottom surface.
In yet another aspect, the leading edge of the incisor is adapted to initiate a fracture of the score line.
In yet another aspect, the incisor is formed using a metal forming process that is accomplished during the formation of the cap.
In yet another aspect, the incisor is integral with a secondary feature, wherein the secondary feature extends downward from the cap bottom surface.
In yet another aspect, the incisor is integral and located within with a secondary feature, wherein the secondary feature extends downward from the cap bottom surface.
In yet another aspect, the secondary feature being a platform.
In yet another aspect, the secondary feature being a debossed section.
In yet another aspect, the secondary feature being a grip formation.
In yet another aspect, the incisor extends downward from a bottom surface of the secondary feature.
In yet another aspect, the secondary feature is a ramp or other load generating and/or distributing formation.
In yet another aspect, the incisor is a ramp or other load generating formation.
In yet another aspect, the incisor is located concentrically respective to the peripheral edge of the cap.
In yet another aspect, the incisor is located off-center respective to the peripheral edge of the cap.
In yet another aspect, the incisor is located in rotational registration with at least a portion of the score line.
In yet another aspect, the incisor is located in rotational registration with a thinned or fracture initiation feature of the score line.
In yet another aspect, the incisor is located in a position on the cap, wherein the incisor intersects a portion of the score line during a rotational motion of the cap respective to the container lid.
In yet another aspect, the incisor is located in registration with the score line, wherein the incisor applies a fracturing force to the score line as the cap is axially positioned towards the container lid.
In yet another aspect, the cap can include a plurality of incisors.
In yet another aspect, the cap can include a plurality of incisors, wherein each of the plurality of incisors is located enabling ambiguity of initial assembly of the cap onto the container lid.
In yet another aspect, cap includes tamper evidence feature.
In yet another aspect, the tamper evidence feature of the cap is provided as a frangible skirt circumscribing a peripheral edge of the cap.
In yet another aspect, the cap has an upper end having a peripheral edge, and the cap includes a skirt formed along the peripheral edge, the skirt including an opened indicating feature for visually indicating when beverage container has been opened.
In yet another aspect, the opened indicating feature includes score lines formed radially outwardly at spaced intervals along the skirt, wherein the score lines are broken to allow movement of the skirt when the cap moves downwardly.
In yet another aspect, the tamper indicator can be formed as an embossed dome shaped upward projection.
In yet another aspect, the embossed dome shaped upward projection operates by allowing a flexure in a direction opposite to the domed shape when unsupported. The flexibility enables the tamper indicator to report, similar to a clicking device.
In yet another aspect, the embossed dome shaped upward projection functions employing a mechanically supported configuration.
In yet another aspect, the embossed dome shaped upward projection can further include a downward projecting probe or operating element to provide support to the embossed dome shaped upward projection.
In yet another aspect, the downward projecting probe or operating element is adapted to contact the opposing surface of the container lid bottom wall. The downward projecting probe contacts the opposing surface of the container lid bottom wall. When the interior volume within the container is pressurized, the contained pressure stiffens the container lid bottom wall. Thus, in a sealed configuration, the downward projecting probe contacting the stiffened container lid bottom wall retains the tamper indicator in an upward shape. When the integrity of the container is compromised, the pressure is equalized within the interior volume of the container, thus no longer providing stiffness to the container lid bottom wall. Thus, in a compromised configuration, the downward projecting probe contacting the unsupported container lid bottom wall no longer retains the tamper indicator in an upward shape, enabling the tamper indicator to flex. The flexibility enables the tamper indicator to report, similar to a clicking device.
In yet another aspect, the embossed dome shaped upward projection functions employing a pneumatically supported configuration.
In yet another aspect, the pneumatically supported configuration employs a vacuum formed within the container. In a vacuum support configuration, the safety indicator is normally drawn towards the interior of the container.
In yet another aspect, the pneumatically supported configuration employs a pressure formed within the container. In a pressure support configuration, the safety indicator is normally forced away from the interior of the container.
In yet another aspect, the embossed dome shaped upward projection is concentrically located respective to a peripheral edge of the cap.
In yet another aspect, the embossed dome shaped upward projection is located off centered respective to a peripheral edge of the cap.
In yet another aspect, the tamper indicator would be formed using a fabrication process compatible with the method(s) used for manufacturing the cap.
In yet another aspect, the downward projecting probe or operating element of the tamper indicator can alternatively be an upward projecting probe extending upward from the cap receiving socket bottom wall of the container lid.
In yet another aspect, a seal is formed between the container lid and the cap, more specifically; the seal is formed between an annular seal provided on a bottom surface of the cap and a respective sealing surface located on the upper surface of the container lid bottom wall.
In yet another aspect, the sealing surface located on the upper surface of the container lid bottom wall extends between the vertical socket wall and the fractured score line.
In yet another aspect, the sealing feature provided on the cap is concentrically located respective to a peripheral edge of the cap.
In yet another aspect, the sealing feature provided on the cap is located off centered respective to a peripheral edge of the cap. The sealing feature would be located on the cap to encompass the score line about the tear panel when the cap is rotated into a sealing position in the container lid.
In yet another aspect, the sealing feature provided on the cap is teardrop shaped.
In yet another aspect, the sealing feature provided on the cap is located off centered respective to a peripheral edge of the cap and teardrop shaped.
In yet another aspect, a seal is formed between the container lid and the cap, more specifically; the seal is formed between an annular seal element carried by an annular surface circumscribing a peripheral edge of the planar traversing wall of the cap and a mating surface formed on the container lid. The mating section is formed on an annular surface circumscribing a peripheral edge of the socket bottom wall of the container lid.
In yet another aspect, a seal is formed between the container lid and the cap, more specifically; the seal is formed between an annular seal provided on a frustum shaped surface circumscribing an outer peripheral edge of the cap and a mating section formed on the container lid. The mating section is formed having a frustum shape and is located interposed between the container lid seaming panel and the vertical socket sidewall.
In yet another aspect, the cap and lid form a seal between the seating arrangement of the socket and the lower surface of the cap.
In yet another aspect, the cap and lid form a seal between an upper surface of the substantially planar member and a contacting surface of a flange extending radially outward from a peripheral edge about the cap.
In yet another aspect, the cap fits substantially within the socket, and the cam feature comprises earn surfaces formed in one of the cylindrical sidewalls of the socket and the cap, and at least one projection formed in the other of the cylindrical sidewalls of the socket and the cap.
In yet another aspect, the pliant sealing element can be carried by one of the cap or the container lid.
In yet another aspect, the pliant sealing element can be located between the cap and the container lid.
In yet another aspect, the pliant sealing element can be an independent component of the container lid assembly, wherein the pliant sealing element would be located between the cap and the container lid.
In yet another aspect, the container lid includes a detent feature for securing the cap in a first position associated with pre-opening, and a second position associated with post-opening.
In yet another aspect, the cam track is configured to include a locking detent segment.
In yet another aspect, the locking detent segment is designed to retain the cap from rotating in a reverse direction following an initial assembly of the cap to the cap receiving socket within the container lid.
In yet another aspect, the cap is retained in a container pre-opened position by locating each socket sidewall cam engaging projections within each respective cam track, with each socket sidewall cam engaging projections being located following the respective embossed cam surface lower detent. Further rotation in an opening direction is hindered by an upward sloping cam groove surface segment.
In yet another aspect, the cam track includes features to retain the cap within the cap receiving cavity, while enabling an opening sequence, a dispensing configuration, as a sealing configuration. This can be accomplished by including a downward directed segment at an opposite end of the cam track.
In yet another aspect, the cam track can include at least one of an upper detent and a downward directed segment at an upper distal end thereof, wherein the at least one of an upper detent and a downward directed segment is adapted to curtail any further rotational motion of the cap, thus retaining the cap within the cap receiving cavity of the container lid.
In yet another aspect, the cap is retained in a container pre-opened position by locating the incisor against an end wall of an incisor pathway channel to limit rotation in an opening direction and locating each cam follower past a locking detent segment of each associated cam track to limit rotation in a reverse direction.
In yet another aspect, the detent feature is associated with the cam feature.
In yet another aspect, the pre-opening position is associated with functions of storage and transport, and the post-opening position is associated with resealing.
In yet another aspect, the detent feature includes at least a portion of the earn feature.
In yet another aspect, the cam feature includes earn elements formed on the cap which engage earn followers formed in the cylindrical sidewall of the lid, and the detent feature include detents formed in the cam elements which cooperate with the cam followers to hold the cap in the pre-opening and post opening positions.
In yet another aspect, the sealing element is secondarily employed as a retention element to retain a rotational relationship between the cap and the container lid.
In yet another aspect, at least one of the container lid and the cap include indicia presenting operating instructions for operating the container lid and cap assembly.
In yet another aspect, the operating indicia includes instructions for at least one of opening, dispensing, and closing the cap upon the container lid.
In accordance with another variant of a resealable container lid assembly in accordance with the present invention the resealable container lid assembly includes:
In another aspect, the sealing cap rotational and axial guide feature is one of:
wherein the container lid rotational and axial guide feature is the other of:
In yet another aspect, wherein the container lid seal engaging surface is a frustum shaped surface formed within the container lid vertical sidewall,
In yet another aspect, the resealable container lid assembly is further configured to include:
In yet another aspect, the container lid further comprising an incisor pathway channel formed within the cap receiving socket bottom wall, the incisor pathway having a semi-circular embossed shape with one end located at least one of proximate a fracture initiation region of the score line and overlapping the fracture initiation region of the score line.
In yet another aspect, the container lid sealing cap further comprising an incisor platform formed extending downward from the bottom surface of the resealable container cap generally horizontally oriented traversing wall, the incisor extending downward from the incisor platform,
In yet another aspect, the container lid sealing cap further comprising an incisor platform formed extending downward from the bottom surface of the resealable container cap generally horizontally oriented traversing wall, the incisor extending downward from the incisor platform,
In yet another aspect, the container lid sealing cap further comprising an incisor platform formed extending downward from the bottom surface of the resealable container cap generally horizontally oriented traversing wall, the incisor extending downward from the incisor platform,
In yet another aspect, wherein at least one of:
In yet another aspect, the container lid sealing cap further comprises a tamper indicator, wherein the tamper indicator is adapted to inform a consumer when a resealable container assembly comprising the container lid has been breached.
In yet another aspect, the cap sealing element is one of:
In yet another aspect, the incisor includes a leading edge, a trailing edge, and a bottom edge.
In yet another aspect, the leading edge of the incisor is adapted to initiate a fracture of the score line during rotation of the sealing cap within the cap receiving socket.
The cap may be included with the container or offered as a separate implement, being sold separately from the beverage container, and re-useable after washing.
In yet another aspect, the cap can include a child's sip cup top configuration, enabling the beverage container be converted into a child's sip cup.
In yet another aspect, the cap can include a baby bottle “nipple” formation to convert the beverage container into a baby bottle.
In yet another aspect, the cap can include a baby bottle “nipple” formation to convert the beverage container into a baby bottle. In accordance with this variant, the contents of the container could be infant formula.
In yet another aspect, the cap can include an axially actuated resealable sports bottle dispensing mechanism to convert the beverage container into a sports bottle.
In yet another aspect, the cap can include a rotationally actuated resealable bottle dispensing mechanism. The rotationally actuated resealable bottle dispensing mechanism can be provided in a form factor of a spout.
In yet another aspect, the cap can include a straw gasket for retaining a straw within a sealed cap. The cap can be a two piece configuration (resembling a mason jar styled two piece cap) enabling a straw aperture to remain in a rotational relationship with the dispensing aperture during assembly of the cap to the container lid.
In yet another aspect, the two piece configuration includes an earn feature disposed therebetween, wherein the earn feature translates a rotation of an outer two piece cap configuration ring into an axial motion of the inner, non-rotating center sealing two piece cap component. The axial motion engages and maintains a seal between the cap and the container lid.
In yet another aspect, the cap includes the straw gasket for retaining a straw within a sealed cap includes a pliant straw retention and sealing element. The pliant straw retention and sealing element is preferably designed having an elongated, tubular shape.
In yet another aspect, the cap includes a projection that is adapted to extend into the dispensing aperture of the breached container lid.
In yet another aspect, the cap includes a concentric projection that is adapted to extend into the dispensing aperture of the breached container lid.
In yet another aspect, the cap includes an off-centered projection that is adapted to extend into the dispensing aperture of the breached container lid.
In yet another aspect, the off-centered projection can be employed to maintain a rotational position of the two piece cap center component respective to the container lid during assembly of the two piece cap to the container lid.
These and other aspects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become more readily apparent from the attached drawings and the detailed description of the preferred embodiments, which follow.
The preferred embodiments of the invention will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the appended drawings provided to illustrate and not to limit the invention, in which:
The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used herein, the word “exemplary” or “illustrative” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” or “illustrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. All of the implementations described below are exemplary implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, which is defined by the claims. In other implementations, well-known features and methods have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention. For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper”, “lower”, “left”, “right”, “front”, “back”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in
A container 100, exemplified as a beverage container in
The resealable container lid 110 has an outer perimeter that is connected to the upper open end of the container cylindrical sidewall 102 of the beverage container, using known processes, to form an enclosure which contains a beverage. Beverages contained therein are not limited, but include carbonated or non-carbonated beverages, and could also include foodstuffs, and non-edible products. The cap receiving socket 130 is integrally formed in the resealable container lid upper surface 114 of the resealable container lid 110 and includes a cap receiving socket cylindrical sidewall 132, which extends downwardly into the container 100, and a cap receiving socket bottom wall 134. A cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 136 is formed in the cap receiving socket bottom wall 134 in order to create a cap receiving socket bottom panel tear panel 138 (see
As seen in figures, the resealable container cap 160 is sized to fit substantially within the cap receiving socket 130, and includes a flat annular cap bottom sealing surface 167 which is disposed between the cam shaped cap bottom surface 166 and the cap's resealable container cap cylindrical sidewall 162. In
The resealable container lid 110 has a shallow, resealable container lid upper surface reinforcement formation 118 which serves two purposes. First, the resealable container lid upper surface reinforcement formation 118 acts as a stiffening structure to provide greater strength to the resealable container lid 110. This is particularly advantageous if the resealable container lid 110 is to be made of the same aluminum alloy as the container cylindrical sidewall 102 and container closed container closed bottom wall 204 of the container 100. Secondarily, the resealable container lid upper surface reinforcement formation 118 adds a familiar look to consumers who are accustomed to the prior art beverage containers employing a pull tab that is operated first in an opening direction, and then secondly, in a seated direction, where the hinged pull tab is positioned after opening.
As shown in
Referring to
The resealable container cap 160 is preferably made of a molded plastic material, is sized to fit substantially within the cap receiving socket 130, and includes a cam shaped cap bottom surface 166 formed at the lower or inner end of a resealable container cap cylindrical sidewall 162. The cam shaped cap bottom surface 166 may include an integrally formed sharp or pointed offset projecting incisor 168 disposed offset to the center axis of the resealable container cap 160 and extending downwardly into the cap receiving socket 130 when the resealable container cap 160 is assembled in the cap receiving socket 130. When assembled, the offset projecting incisor 168 is disposed immediately above the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 136, so that when the resealable container cap 160 moves downwardly during opening of the container 100 offset projecting incisor 168 punctures the can at the beginning of the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 136, next to the tear panel hinge 139, then progressively propagates the rupture along the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 136 to its terminus on the opposite end of the tear panel hinge 139.
The cam shaped cap bottom surface 166 may also include a centered projecting incisor 169 disposed on the center axis of the resealable container cap 160 and extending downwardly into the cap receiving socket 130 when the resealable container cap 160 is assembled in the cap receiving socket 130. When assembled, the projection 169 is disposed immediate above a cap receiving socket bottom panel centered “X” shaped score line 142, so that when the resealable container cap 160 moves downwardly during opening of the container, the projection punctures the can at the cap receiving socket bottom panel centered “X” shaped score line 142, thereby relieving internal pressure and assisting in the rupturing of the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 136 by the offset projecting incisor 168.
The opening operation of the container 100 is made possible by forming a cam structure between the cap receiving socket 130 and the resealable container cap 160. In particular, cam groove surfaces 180 are formed in the resealable container cap cylindrical sidewall 162 of the resealable container cap 160. The socket sidewall cam engaging projections 150 are fitted into and engage the cam groove surfaces 180 such that when the resealable container cap 160 is hand-twisted by the consumer, rotational motion of the resealable container cap 160 is converted into linear motion of the resealable container cap 160 thus driving the cap in a downward direction relative to the cap receiving socket 130. As the resealable container cap 160 moves downwardly, the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 136 is ruptured by the offset projecting incisor 168, then progressively propagates the rupture along the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 136 to its terminus. In an alternate embodiment, an optional cap receiving socket bottom panel centered “X” shaped score line 142 may be ruptured by the centered projecting incisor 169 immediately before the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 136 is ruptured by the offset projecting incisor 168, to thereby relieve internal pressure and assist in the rupture of the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 136 by the offset projecting incisor 168.
As shown in
The cap resealable container cap cylindrical sidewall 162 includes three equally spaced cam groove surfaces 181, 182 and 183, as best shown in
Cross sectional views of the cap moving between opening and resealing positions are shown in
The resealable container cap 160 is rotated clockwise approximately ninety degrees (90°), as shown in
After the cap receiving socket bottom panel tear panel 138 is formed, and the resealable container cap 160 is disposed at its innermost position relative to the socket, the consumer would then rotate the resealable container cap 160 counterclockwise, preferably by turning the resealable container cap grip element 174. The resealable container cap 160 is shown in
In the event that the consumer wishes to reseal the container 100, and as shown in
The resealable container cap 160 can be removed again and again to gain access to the contents of the beverage container until all contents are consumed. There is no limit to the type of beverages or other contents that can be housed in the container 100, but most commonly “canned” beverages include sodas, beer, juices, etc. It is also within the scope of the present invention that the contents of the containers could be foodstuff, and non-consumable liquids, gels, powders, and the like.
The cam means disclosed herein can be used for caps that provide other functionality for the container 100. For example, a variation of the resealable container cap 160 would be one that could include a passageway extending through the resealable container cap 160 with drinking implements formed at the upper, outer end, such as a child's sip cup, which would allow a child to drink from the container 100 without spilling. Alternatively, the resealable container cap 160 could be formed with an infant nipple for feeding formula, juice, water or other beverages suitable for infants. When using drinking implements such as sip cup and baby bottle nipples, a resealable container cap 160 would nonetheless have to be employed for opening the container, and then a second “cap” could be used for consuming the contents. In any event, the opening caps and drinking implements could be sold separately from the container 100, as long as the container 100 included the socket sidewall cam engaging projections 150 formed in the cap receiving socket cylindrical sidewall 132 of the cap receiving socket 130.
Although a wide range of plastic materials could be used to form the resealable container cap 160, other materials could be used, including ceramics and metals. However, for harder materials such as these, it may be necessary to position a gasket between the opposing annular surfaces 140, 167 of the socket 130 and the cap 160, respectively to ensure the best possible seal.
While the embodiments described herein place the socket 130 and cap 160 in the top of the container 100, it is possible to have the same opening and resealing structures in the container closed bottom wall 104 of the container 100. Also, while a cylindrical container 100 has been described herein, other shapes of containers, e.g., oval, rectangular, hexagonal, octagonal, and the like, could also be used.
The preferred shape of the frangible cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 136 in the bottom of the cap receiving socket 130 is circular, with a closed end and an open end. The inside score (shallower line) terminates in a curve arcing towards the socket's cylindrical sidewall to prevent loss of tear panel into the container. The outside score line (deeper line) terminates in circular form spaced from the inside score line. There is a hinged portion of the tear panel that keeps the panel in contact with the lid once ruptured, as described above.
The offset projecting incisor 168, described as a piercing element, is intended to be a single point of contact that moves deeper, and radially along the inside of the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 136 while the resealable container cap 160 is rotated. The offset projecting incisor 168 may also include additional areas to further drive the cap receiving socket bottom panel tear panel 138 deeper into the container. A single point will apply more force to breaking the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 136 defining the cap receiving socket bottom panel tear panel 138 but additional areas acting in a secondary fashion could help in the opening process.
The socket sidewall cam engaging projections 150 used in the cap receiving socket 130 allow the use of a very shallow socket 130 (as compared to threaded designs) and still provide positive opening, closing and sealing of the resealable container cap 160. The design of the socket sidewall cam engaging projections 150 also provides for positive stops for open, closed and removable cap positions. As seen in
When turning the resealable container cap 160 in the opening direction, e.g., clockwise, the socket sidewall cam engaging projections 150 on the socket's cylindrical sidewall follow the sloped cam groove surface segments 184 of the cam groove surfaces 180, which form gradual ramps, converting the rotary motion of the resealable container cap 160 to a linear or translational movement, which drives the resealable container cap 160 into the interior of the container 100. This engages the offset projecting incisor 168 against the cap receiving socket bottom panel tear panel 138 and provides the force necessary to rupture the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 136. Further turning of the resealable container cap 160 in the opening direction progressively pushes the cap receiving socket bottom panel tear panel 138 out of the way and into the interior of the container 100, until the socket sidewall cam engaging projections 150 reach the closed position of the cam groove surface upper detents 188. A slightly higher point on the sloped cam groove surface segment 184 of the cam groove surfaces 180 just before the closed position provides the resistance necessary to keep the resealable container cap 160 from backing out.
When turning the resealable container cap 160 opposite the opening direction, the socket sidewall cam engaging projections 150 follow the same route to their starting positions but after opening, the socket sidewall cam engaging projections 150 can pass over the transport retaining or cam groove surface lower detents 186 because the stabilizing radially extending cap skirt 170 and the cap receiving socket bottom panel tear panel 138 are now not providing any interference between the transport retaining or cam groove surface lower detents 186 and the void between the cam groove surfaces 180, allowing the resealable container cap 160 to be freed from the container.
In the embodiments described and illustrated herein, the exemplary cam groove surfaces 180 are shown as grooves having a sloped segment that terminates at opposite lower and upper ends in a lower and an upper detent 186, 188 (respectively), whereby the entire cam groove surfaces or elements 181, 182, 183 were formed in the resealable container cap cylindrical sidewall 162 of the resealable container cap 160. It is equally possible to form the cam groove surfaces or elements 181, 182, 183 as projections or bosses from the surface, integrally formed therewith, or as separate parts connected to the resealable container cap 160. Further, while the socket sidewall cam engaging projections 150, acting as cam followers, project from the cap receiving socket cylindrical sidewall 132 of the cap receiving socket 130, the cap receiving socket 130 could have been formed with cam surfaces 181, 182, 183 and the cam followers or cam engaging projections 150 could have been formed on the resealable container cap 160. The exact size and shapes of the cam surfaces 181, 182, 183 can be selected to correspond to the particular needs of the container 100. The overall goal is to select a structure that results in an operable torque which can be applied by consumers without exerting excessive effort.
The structures described above can be made using unique manufacturing processes, which combine some of the known processing steps with new, modified or avoided steps. In one particularly preferred method of making containers 100, as illustrated in the flow chart of
The process described above achieves several cost and environmental advantages over the prior manufacturing techniques. First of all, the lid does not have to be processed to form a rivet, which has conventionally been used to secure a pull tab to a can lid. There is no need for a rivet because there is no need for the pull tab. The rivet required the lid to be made of stronger, thicker material, usually consisting of a different alloy of aluminum as opposed to the material that made up the sidewall and bottom. Moreover, the conventional process would have required the formation of a pull tab, likely to be made of third, different aluminum alloy. Use of three different aluminum materials presented a problem for recycling, whereas in the present invention, a single material can be used to form the can body and the can lid.
Referring to
An alternative embodiment of a container 200 is shown in
A container closed bottom wall 204 (seen in
A cap receiving socket 230 is formed in the resealable container lid 210 and includes a cylindrical sidewall 110 and a cap receiving socket bottom wall 234. The cap receiving socket 230 is located eccentrically so that it nears a peripheral edge of the resealable container lid 210 to facilitate drinking and pouring after opening. The cap receiving socket 230 further includes a cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 236 slightly inset from the peripheral edge of the cap receiving socket bottom wall 234 and forming a cap receiving socket bottom panel substantially closed loop tear panel 238. An cap receiving socket bottom panel centered score line 242 is provided at the center of the bottom wall cap receiving socket bottom wall 234 and preferably includes two intersecting score lines that form an “X” with the intersection of the two lines being at the center of the cap receiving socket bottom wall 234. The cap receiving socket bottom wall 234 further includes socket bottom panel ramps 290, 291, 292 which are equidistantly spaced around the periphery of the cap receiving socket bottom wall 234 inside the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 236. A different number of ramps could be used, but three is preferable. The socket bottom panel ramps 290, 291, 292 are integrally formed in the cap receiving socket bottom wall 234.
The cap receiving socket 230 further includes equidistantly spaced socket sidewall cam engaging projections 252, 254, 256 formed in the sidewall 110. From an interior view, such as that shown in
A resealable container cap 260 fits into the cap receiving socket 230 and includes a resealable container cap cylindrical sidewall 262 and a bottom wall 136. A series of cam groove surfaces 281, 282, 283 are provided in the resealable container cap cylindrical sidewall 262 of the resealable container cap 260 at equidistantly spaced locations and are designed to receive the cam engaging projections 252, 254, 256, respectively, of the cap receiving socket 230, when the resealable container cap 260 is assembled within the cap receiving socket 230. In this regard, the embodiment of container 200 is similar to that of the embodiment of container 100. When assembled and before opening the container, the resealable container cap 260 seats in the cap receiving socket 230 as shown in
The resealable container cap 260 further includes a resealable container cap handle or grip element 274 at the upper end of the resealable container cap 260 so that the consumer can turn the cap in either clockwise or counterclockwise directions. As in the previous embodiments, the upper perimeter of the resealable container cap 260 is provided with a radially extending cap skirt 270 which provides a tamper resistant feature, whereby the skirt would extend upwardly if the cap had been turned to cause the resealable container cap 260 to descend further into the cap receiving socket 230. The radially extending cap skirt 270 and all other features of the resealable container cap 260 are integrally formed in a one-piece construction preferably of a plastic material. Within the scope of the invention, other materials could be used including ceramic and metallic materials.
A sharp centered incising projection 269 is formed in the center of the bottom surface of the resealable container cap 260, so that when the resealable container cap 260 is fitted in the cap receiving socket 230, prior to opening the beverage can 100, the point of the sharp centered incising projection 269 is positioned next to or juxtaposed at the center of the bottom surface of the cap receiving socket 230, at the point of intersection between the two lines that form the cap receiving socket bottom panel centered score line 242. The sharp centered incising projection 269 punctures the cap receiving socket bottom wall 234 of the cap receiving socket 230 as the resealable container cap 260 moves linearly downwardly and further into the cap receiving socket 230 during opening operation of the beverage can 200.
An offset projecting incisor 268 is formed along an outer region of the bottom surface of the resealable container cap 260, so that when the resealable container cap 260 is fitted in the cap receiving socket 230, prior to opening the beverage can 100, the point of the sharp offset projecting incisor 268 is positioned in alignment with the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 236 formed in the bottom surface of the cap receiving socket 230, as best shown in
To understand how the embodiment of container 200 operates, reference is made to
After the resealable container cap 260 is rotated or turned to the full extent allowed, the resealable container cap 260 pushes the cap receiving socket bottom panel loop tear panel 238 into the can, but the tear panel 238 stays connected to the resealable container lid 210 through a portion of the lid between the ends of the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 236. In order to then drink the contents of the container 200, the consumer turns, twists or rotates the resealable container cap 260 in the opposite direction until returning past the starting point from where the opening rotation started, placing the cam engaging projections 252, 254, 256 in the opened area of the cam groove surfaces 281, 282, 283.
At that point, the resealable container cap 260 is pulled upwardly by the consumer to become separated from the container 200, and the consumer is then free to drink from the opening formed in the resealable container lid 210 as a result of the cap receiving socket bottom panel substantially closed loop tear panel 238 being pushed into the container 100. When the consumer is finished drinking, and if the container 200 is not empty, the consumer can reseal or close the beverage container by pushing the resealable container cap 260 back into the cap receiving socket 230 and then turning, twisting or rotating the resealable container cap 260 in the same direction as the opening direction, until the resealable container cap 260 is fully seated in the cap receiving socket 230, thus sealing the opening in the container 200. In the resealed state, the contents of the container 200 can be kept fresh, carbonated (in the case of carbonated drinks), and spill-proof (when the beverage container 200 is mobile, such as if kept in a back pack, stroller, automobile drink holder, and the like).
As in the other embodiments described herein, the invention includes an assembled container 200, with or without contents, with a unique resealing mechanism. The invention also includes a container subassembly comprising a resealable container lid 210 and a resealable container cap 260, capable of further assembly with a container body 202, 204, such as beverage containers commonly in use as aluminum cans for distribution of a wide variety of beverages. The invention further includes a resealable container cap 260 capable of use with a resealable container lid 210, or with a container 200 that includes a resealable container lid 210, such that the beverage containers could be purchased without resealable container caps 260, and could separately purchase resealable container caps 260 that are then used with the containers 200 that are formed with the aforementioned cap receiving socket 230. This way, resealable container caps 260 could be re-used, repeatedly. Purchase of resealable container caps 260 separately from the containers 200 would have a “green” effect, in that the resealable container caps 260 could be washed and re-used over and over, thereby reducing waste.
Another feature of the invention is to provide a resealable container cap 360, as illustrated in
A central sharp projection 241 is formed in the center of the bottom surface of the resealable container cap 360, wherein the central sharp projection 241 is similar to the sharp centered incising projection 269 described above in design, location and function.
An offset projecting incisor 368 is formed along an outer region of the bottom surface of the resealable container cap 360, wherein the offset projecting incisor 368 is similar to the offset projecting incisor 268 described above in design, location, and function.
Any of a variety of thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) can be used to make the cap sealing ring 365, and selection of the precise one is a matter of design choice, as the requirements are simply that the material be easy to mold, easily adherent to the material that makes up the cap, and to some degree deformable under pressure (in use). Other materials could be used if a sealing ring is pre-made and adhesively bonded to the end face or bottom wall of the cap. However, molding the ring in place is preferred. As for TPEs, they are sometimes referred to as thermoplastic rubbers, and are in a class of copolymers or a mixture of polymers which consist of both thermoplastic and elastomeric properties. They are particularly suitable for injection molding, which is the preferred way to form the cap sealing ring 365 on the face of the resealable container cap 360.
It is noted that in
The resealable container cap 360 operates in the same way as the caps of previous embodiments, in that the consumer turns the cap in one direction to open the container, then turns the resealable container cap 360 in the opposite direction to remove the resealable container cap 360, and then the resealable container cap 360 is re-inserted into the cap receiving socket 230 and turned in the first, container-opening direction until the resealable container cap 360 is fully seated in the cap receiving socket 230. The resealable container cap 260 is shown in this fully seated position in
In the previously described embodiments, the cap is provided with a resealable container cap handle or grip element 174, as seen in
Referring now to
Using the same principals of material flow or deformation during the pressing steps, a score line thinned fracture initiation region 437 is formed at one end of the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 436 where one of the ramps 394, 395, 396 in conjunction with ramps 490, 491, 492 will impinge upon the score line 436. At the beginning of the opening process, the ramps 394, 395, 396 in conjunction with ramps 490, 491, 492 push on the flared, score line thinned fracture initiation region 437, which has been thinned essentially to the thickness of the sidewall 102, 202 of the container 100, 200, in the case of an aluminum can. In other words, the entire area of the puncture area is thinned relative to the surrounding surface of the lid 410 to make it easier to puncture or break the score line 436. Once the score line 436 is broken at the puncture area 437, the break will propagate more readily and predictably around the score line 436 to ease the opening of the container 100, 200. Although the score line thinned fracture initiation region 437 is thinner, and thus potentially more vulnerable to accidental opening, it is no thinner than the sidewall of the beverage container and thus capable of withstanding internal pressures. It is also shielded from accidental external rupture by means of the cap 460 when seated in the socket 430.
Each embodiment described herein has referred to a tear panel, such as cap receiving socket bottom panel tear panel 138, as that part of the bottom wall of the socket that is defined by a circular or loop-shaped score line. This tear panel can also be described as a “frangible area” because it breaks away from the rest of the bottom wall 138, 238, 338, 438 when the cap 160, 260, 360, 460 descends into the socket 130, 230, 330, 430. It is not required, however, for the tear panel 138, 238, 338, 438 or frangible area to be substantially circular or looped in shape, and indeed, a second illustrated embodiment is shown in
During opening and closing operations, the resealable container cap handle or grip element 274, 474 is turned preferably ninety degrees (90°) in one direction, and then to withdraw the resealable container cap 260, 360, 460 from the socket, the grip 274, 474 is turned ninety degrees (90°) in the opposite direction, to the beginning point. In order to remove the resealable container cap 260, 360, 460 altogether from the lid, the grip is turned approximately another ten degrees (10°) until the grooves and protrusions are separated and the resealable container cap 260, 360, 460 is free to be lifted upwardly away from the container. Different combinations of embossed ramps 390, 392 and de-bossed ramps 391, 393, and different numbers of ramps, can be employed to achieve the desired effect. The space between the resealable container cap 260, 360, 460 and the cap receiving socket bottom wall 234, 334 of the cap receiving socket 230, 330, 430 is equal to the length of linear travel when the resealable container cap 260, 360, 460 is operated between the transport and open/resealed positions (in the case of aluminum beverage cans, approximately 0.055 inches). With the use of ramps that are embossed on the tear panel 238, 338, 438 that distance can be doubled, forcing the tear panel 238, 338, 438 to fold on its hinge 239, 339, 439 further away from the opening.
In all cases using ramps, it is preferred that the peak height of the ramps be disposed near or in close proximity to the hinge, as this will help push the tear panel 238, 338, 438 out of the way when the cap's cam body pushes through the opening. The ramps help propagate the ruptured score line along its length. There are corresponding ramps or other structures on the bottom of the cap that will interface with ramps on the tear panel 238, 338, 438 or panels. All ramps are embossed (rise up from the bottom socket surface), but they could equally be de-bossed ramps 391, 393 that start below the bottom socket surface and continue up the embossed ramp 390, 392. If the respective ramp on the cap starts inside the debossed ramp on the lid 210, 310, 410, during operation the effective linear travel of the cap 260, 360460 can be doubled, tripled, and perhaps quadrupled.
A resealable container lid 510, illustrated in
The resealable container lid 510 is preferably formed from a single sheet of metal using any suitable metal forming process or combination of metal forming processes. The resealable container lid 510 is formed having a substantially vertical sidewall 522, 532 and a generally horizontally arranged cap receiving socket bottom wall 534. The substantially vertical sidewall 522, 532 is configured having a cylindrical shape extending between an upper peripheral edge and a lower peripheral edge.
In previous variants, a cap receiving socket 130 was formed extending downward from a portion of the resealable container lid planar base bottom 119. More specifically, the cap receiving socket 130 is defined by a cap receiving socket cylindrical sidewall 132 in combination with the cap receiving socket bottom wall 134. The cap receiving socket 130 is preferably located off-centered respective to a peripheral edge of the resealable container lid 110.
In the exemplary variant, a cap receiving socket is defined by the cap receiving socket cylindrical sidewall 532 in combination with the cap receiving socket bottom wall 534. More specifically, the resealable container lid 510 is formed deeper to include the cap receiving socket cylindrical sidewall 532 as part of the outer peripheral sidewall, making the cap receiving socket bottom wall 534 the same as the container lid planar base bottom 119. The cap receiving socket is concentrically arranged respective to the cap receiving socket cylindrical sidewall 532 of the resealable container lid 510. A peripheral countersink 526 provides a transition between the cap receiving socket cylindrical sidewall 532 and the cap receiving socket bottom wall 534. The peripheral countersink 526 is preferably formed having a generally “U” shape, extending downward from the cap receiving socket cylindrical sidewall 532, then radially inward arching from a downward direction to an upward direction, and extending upward where the peripheral countersink 526 transitions into a peripheral edge of the cap receiving socket bottom wall 534.
The peripheral countersink 526 extends downward below an upper surface of the cap receiving socket bottom wall 534. The peripheral countersink 526 provides a clearance for a lower region of a resealable container cap cylindrical exterior sidewall 562 of the resealable container cap 560 during assembly of the resealable container cap 560 and the resealable container lid 510 to one another.
The resealable container lid 510 includes a number of functional features. A seaming panel 520 is formed about an upper edge of the resealable container lid 510, wherein the seaming panel 520 is provided to assemble the resealable container lid 510 to a container seaming flange 106 (
A cap receiving socket bottom panel tear panel 538 is designed into the resealable container lid 510 enabling the user to access the contents stored within the container. The cap receiving socket bottom panel tear panel 538 is defined by a cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 536 formed within the cap receiving socket bottom wall 534 of the resealable container lid 510. The cap receiving socket bottom panel tear panel 538 can be formed in at least one of a top surface of the cap receiving socket bottom wall 534 and a bottom surface of the cap receiving socket bottom wall 534. The cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 536 can be routed in any suitable shape defining the cap receiving socket bottom panel tear panel 538. In the exemplary embodiment, the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 536 is formed extending between two ends in a generally circular shape. The two ends are spatially arranged creating a tear panel hinge 539. At least one end can be configured extending outward from an interior region or cap receiving socket bottom panel tear panel 538 defined by the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 536. The at least one outward extending end of the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 536 deters against tearing of the material between the two ends of the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 536. It is understood that the preferred cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 536 would include a configuration where both ends include the outward extending formation. The outward extending formation can be linear, arched, or of any other suitable shape. In the exemplary embodiment, the cap receiving socket bottom panel tear panel 538 is designed to open when the resealable container cap 560 is rotated in a counterclockwise direction, wherein the opening is defined as a dispensing aperture. The dispensing aperture can be sized to dispense a beverage and/or a food product, wherein the beverage and/or food product are collectively referred to as comestible. The exemplary embodiment is directed towards a container adapted for retaining, distributing, and consuming a beverage, such as water, carbonated drinks, fruit drinks, milk, beer, wine, and the like. It is understood that the same container lid 510 can be used for smaller food products, such as peanuts and other nuts, candy, mints, gumdrops, confections, jelly beans, condiments, soups, oils, spices, powdered products (baking soda, sugar, flour), and the like.
A seaming chuck shoulder 524 can be formed about a central portion of the vertical wall, segmenting the wall into a seaming chuck wall 522 (upper portion) and a cap receiving socket cylindrical sidewall 532 (lower portion). A plurality of cam tracks 552, 554, 556 is formed within the cap receiving socket cylindrical sidewall 532. The plurality of cam tracks 552, 554, 556 is spatially arranged about the cap receiving socket cylindrical sidewall 532. The plurality of cam tracks 552, 554, 556 run generally horizontally, having slight upward and/or downward deviations to accomplish upward and/or downward motions of the resealable container cap 560. The cam tracks 552, 554, 556, provide several functions, including rotational and axial motions between the resealable container lid 510 and the resealable container cap 560, reinforcement of the vertical wall, a retention mechanism for retaining the resealable container cap 560 within the cap receiving socket of the resealable container lid 510, and other functions. The cam tracks 552, 554, 556 are segmented functionally into a plurality of sections, as shown in
A resealable container lid upper surface reinforcement formation 518 can be included and would be formed as either an embossed feature or a debossed feature within the cap receiving socket bottom wall 534. The resealable container lid upper surface reinforcement formation 518 is defined by a socket bottom wall to surface reinforcement formation transition 541. The cap receiving socket bottom panel tear panel 538 would be located within the resealable container lid upper surface reinforcement formation 518. The resealable container lid upper surface reinforcement formation 518 would be shaped to support the material of the resealable container lid upper surface reinforcement formation 518 adjacent to the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 536 to increase the efficiency of the propagation of the fracture when the opening force is applied by the resealable container cap 560 onto the associated features of the cap receiving socket bottom panel tear panel 538. In addition, the resealable container lid upper surface reinforcement formation 518 provides a clearance for an incisor deboss panel 566 on the resealable container cap 560 and the resealable container lid upper surface reinforcement formation 518 lowers the top surfaces of the lead in supplemental score fracture propagation and tear panel support boss 597, the tear panel reinforcing boss 598, and the finishing score fracture propagation and tear panel fold urging boss 593 of the cap receiving socket bottom panel tear panel 538 resulting in a clearance to the bottom surface of the resealable container cap planar traversing wall 564 of the resealable container cap 560. The incisor deboss panel 566 is described as such as when viewing from an exterior surface of a resealable container cap 560 formed from a single sheet of material, the incisor deboss panel 566 appears as a recession extending downward from the resealable container cap planar traversing wall 564. In an alternative description, the incisor deboss panel 566 can be referred to as an incisor platform 566, as the incisor platform 566 extends downward from a bottom surface of the resealable container cap planar traversing wall 564.
The resealable container lid 510 can include one or more features to reinforce desired areas of the resealable container lid 510.
Reinforcement features can be integrated into the cap receiving socket bottom wall 534 and/or the vertical sidewall. The reinforcement features can provide any of several functions, including retention of a shape of the associated segment of the resealable container lid 510, movement between the resealable container cap 560 and the resealable container lid 510, reinforcement during initiation and/or propagation of a fracture of a cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 536, clearance for features during operation, retention of the resealable container cap 560 within the cap receiving socket of the resealable container lid 510, and the like.
The seaming chuck shoulder 524 provides some rigidity to the vertical sidewall. The cam tracks 552, 554, 556 provide additional rigidity to the vertical sidewall. The peripheral countersink 526 provides support about the lower edge of the vertical sidewall and the peripheral edge of the cap receiving socket bottom wall 534. The peripheral countersink 526 introduces some flexibility between the lower edge of the vertical sidewall and the peripheral edge of the cap receiving socket bottom wall 534, which will be described in more detail when discussing a retort process.
As stated above, the socket bottom wall to surface reinforcement formation transition 541 (defining the resealable container lid upper surface reinforcement formation 518) supports the portion of the resealable container lid upper surface reinforcement formation 518 adjacent to the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 536 to increase the efficiency of the propagation of the fracture when the opening force is applied by the resealable container cap 560 onto the associated features of the cap receiving socket bottom panel tear panel 538.
An incisor pathway channel 517 can be formed within the resealable container lid upper surface reinforcement formation 518. The incisor pathway channel 517 is preferably formed having a semi-circular, debossed shape concentric with an axis of rotation of the resealable container cap 560. One end of the incisor pathway channel 517 terminates at an incisor channel to tear panel surface transition 592, wherein the incisor channel to tear panel surface transition 592 is located proximate and/or abutting a fracture initiating region of a cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 536. The incisor pathway channel 517 provides several functions, including increasing a rigidity of the resealable container lid upper surface reinforcement formation 518 and providing a clearance for an incisor 568 during rotation of the resealable container cap resealable container cap 560, wherein the offset projecting incisor 568 extends downward from a lower surface of the resealable container cap 560.
The exemplary embodiment includes a series of ribs 593, 597, 598 for reinforcing the cap receiving socket bottom panel tear panel 538. These formations reinforce the cap receiving socket bottom panel tear panel 538 in both a radial direction and a tangential direction respective to a rotational motion of the resealable container cap 560. The series of ribs 593, 597, 598 transfers and distributes a force applied by features of the resealable container cap 560 across the cap receiving socket bottom panel tear panel 538, directing the applied force to the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 536, propagating a fracturing of the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 536 along a length of the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 536.
In addition to the above described reinforcing features, the lower edge of the resealable container cap cylindrical exterior sidewall 562 can be rolled to reinforce the circumferential lower edge thereof, as well as eliminating any sharp edges of the resealable container cap 560.
The resealable container cap 560 can be formed in any suitable configuration, with several variations of the container cap being described herein. Each of the variants of the container caps can be fabricated of any suitable metal, aluminum, steel, plastic, composite materials, fiber reinforced plastics, or any other suitable material. The exemplary resealable container cap 560 is formed from a single sheet of material using at least one commonly known metal forming process or other manufacturing process associated with the selected material.
The exemplary resealable container cap 560 includes a vertical sidewall circumscribing a peripheral edge of a resealable container cap planar traversing wall 564. The vertical sidewall includes an upward extending resealable container cap cylindrical interior sidewall 563 and a downward extending resealable container cap cylindrical exterior sidewall 562. The upward extending resealable container cap cylindrical interior sidewall 563 and the downward extending resealable container cap cylindrical exterior sidewall 562 are generally perpendicular to a resealable container cap planar traversing wall 564.
A cylindrical sidewall inverted countersink 570 is formed about an upper end of the vertical sidewall, the cylindrical sidewall inverted countersink 570 being a transition between the resealable container cap cylindrical interior sidewall 563 and the resealable container cap cylindrical exterior sidewall 562. The cylindrical sidewall inverted countersink 570 can be formed having an inverted “U” shape. The resealable container cap cylindrical exterior sidewall 562 is preferably dimensioned so that it fits within a generally vertical clearance between the proximal surfaces of the cam tracks 552, 554, 556 and the peripheral edge of the cap receiving socket bottom wall 534 (essentially, an inner wall of the peripheral countersink 526). Additionally, the resealable container cap cylindrical exterior sidewall 562 is preferably designed so that it curves out towards the cap receiving socket cylindrical sidewall 532, closing the gap created between the cap receiving socket cylindrical sidewall 532 and resealable container cap cylindrical exterior sidewall 562 to provide clearance for the cam tracks 552, 554, 556. It is understood that by closing this gap the container lid assembly can decrease the possibility of contaminants entering the gap between the cap receiving socket cylindrical sidewall 532 and resealable container cap cylindrical exterior sidewall 562.
An offset projecting incisor 568 extends downward from a bottom surface of the resealable container cap planar traversing wall 564. The offset projecting incisor 568 can be located within a incisor deboss panel 566, wherein the incisor deboss panel 566 is a debossed feature providing several functions, including lowering the offset projecting incisor 568, reinforcing an area of the material surrounding the offset projecting incisor 568, a distributed compression force applicator, and other functions.
A ring shaped cap sealing ring 565 is applied to a peripheral edge of a bottom surface of the resealable container cap planar traversing wall 564. The cap sealing ring 565 is fabricated of any suitable pliant material, including an elastomer, an elastomeric polymer, plastisol, a low durometer rubber, or any other suitable pliant sealing material.
A series of cam followers 581, 582, 583 are spatially arranged along a lower edge of the resealable container cap cylindrical exterior sidewall 562. The cam followers 581, 582, 583 are preferably formed using any suitable metal forming process, such as crimping process. The cam followers 581, 582, 583 would be sized and spatially arranged and located to be in alignment with the respective inter-cam relief sections 551, 555, 553. The cam followers 581, 582, 583 are sized and spatially arranged to pass through each respective inter-cam relief section 551, 555, 553 for engagement with a lower surface of the respective cam track 552, 554, 556. The interaction between the cam followers 581, 582, 583 and the respective cam track 552, 554, 556 converts a rotational motion of the resealable container cap 560 within the cap receiving socket of the resealable container lid 510 into at least one of an axial motion and an axial force applicator. The peripheral countersink 526 of the resealable container lid 510 is sized and shaped to receive the bottom edge of resealable container cap cylindrical exterior sidewall 562 and the cam followers 581, 582, 583 formed on the bottom edge of resealable container cap cylindrical exterior sidewall 562.
At least one resealable container cap grip element 574 is formed extending upward from the top surface of the resealable container cap planar traversing wall 564 of the resealable container cap 560. The resealable container cap grip element 574 can be formed having any suitable shape. In a preferred embodiment, the resealable container cap grip element 574 would be of a height that retains a top edge of the resealable container cap grip element 574 at or below a top edge or surface of the seam of the container (container body and lid assembly seam 509 of
The resealable container cap grip element 574 would include at least one cap grip element force application surface 575. The cap grip element force application surface 575 would be sized to ergonomically and adequately support a force applied by the end user.
The user would grip each at least one cap grip element force application surface 575 to apply a force to the resealable container cap 560. The force is translated into a rotational or torsional force for urging the resealable container cap 560 into a counterclockwise (score line fracturing) motion or a clockwise (closing) motion. In more detail, the cam tracks 552, 554, 556 are segmented into a plurality of functional sections, as best shown in
The assembly requires a significant downward force in combination with a counterclockwise rotation, compressing a cap sealing ring 565 sufficiently enough to locate the first formed cam follower 581 along a bottom edge of the cam track assembly/locking detent segment 552A of the first socket cam track 552. The significant downward force compresses the cap sealing ring 565, as shown in
The cam track assembly/locking detent segment 552A retains the resealable container cap 560 within the cap receiving socket of the resealable container lid 510, when subjected to a clockwise motion. The offset projecting incisor 568 butts up against the incisor channel to tear panel surface transition 592 to retain the resealable container cap 560 within the cap receiving socket of the resealable container lid 510, when subjected to a continuing counterclockwise motion. Registration between the offset projecting incisor 568 and the incisor channel to tear panel surface transition 592 is best shown in
The initial assembly step is adapted for completion by a mechanical device, such as an assembly machine. The forces required are designed to deter accomplishment of the initial assembly step by an individual. The subsequent steps are adapted to be accomplished by the end user.
The following describes the container lid opening sequence, which is directed towards completion by the end user. Continuing with a counterclockwise rotation of the resealable container cap 560, from a position where the first formed cam follower 581 is engaged with the cam track initial/resealed segment 552B, the continuing motion causes the offset projecting incisor 568 to impinge upon the incisor channel to tear panel surface transition 592, initializing a fracture of the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 536, as shown in
As the rotation continues, the first formed cam follower 581 transitions from the cam track initial/resealed segment 552B to a cam track height transition segment 552C, as best shown in
As the rotation continues, the offset projecting incisor 568 rides up tear panel surface incisor pathway to tear panel fold boss transition 590, as shown in
Nearing the end of the rotational container lid opening sequence, just prior to the transition of the first formed cam follower 581 between the cam track operating segment 552D to a cam track cam follower leader section 552E, shown in
The shape of the cam tracks 552, 554, 556, more specifically, the cam track cam follower leader section 552E, is designed such to provide a clearance between the bottom of the offset projecting incisor 568 and the top surface of the resealable container lid upper surface reinforcement formation 518 to avoid any binding or other interference of the rotation of the resealable container cap 560. The combination of the cam track assembly/locking detent segment 552A and cam track cam follower leader section 552E ensures the reinstallation of the resealable container cap 560 into the cap receiving socket is only in a clockwise direction. Additionally, the revised, opened configuration of the resealable container lid 510 enables the user to insert the resealable container cap 560 into the cap receiving socket to reseal the resealable container 500 in any of the three potential orientations. The incisor pathway channel 517 provides clearance for the offset projecting incisor 568 in any orientation. The associated cam follower 581, 582, 583 is rotated to engage with the respective sealing section of the cam track 552, 554, 556 (as referenced by cam track initial/resealed segment 552B of the first socket cam track 552), causing the cap sealing ring 565 to compress against the top surface of the cap receiving socket bottom wall 534, providing an air and liquid tight seal therebetween.
In addition to the operational features, the resealable container cap 560 can include a tamper indicator, such as the off-center tamper indicator feature 528, shown in
Another feature of the configuration of the resealable container lid 510 and resealable container cap 560 is an anti-missiling function. Missiling may occur upon an initial fracture of the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 536, releasing stored pressure from within the resealable container 500. In a condition where the resealable container cap 560 retains a seal against the resealable container lid 510 and the resealable container lid 510 is breached, the pressure released from the resealable container 500 could potentially cause the resealable container cap 560 to become a projectile. The anti-missiling feature is created by a separation between the cap sealing ring 565 and the top surface of the cap receiving socket bottom wall 534 while the resealable container cap 560 remains in engagement with the resealable container lid 510 during the initial opening sequence of the resealable container 500, thus providing a pathway for release of pressure.
As previously mentioned, the resealable container cap 560 can be designed in any of a variety of configurations. A resealable container cap 660, illustrated in
The resealable container cap 660 includes features that are similar to those of the resealable container cap 560. Like features of the resealable container cap 660 and the resealable container cap 560 are numbered the same except preceded by the numeral ‘6’. The significant distinction of the resealable container cap 660 is the location of the concentric tamper indicator feature 628. The off-center tamper indicator feature 528 is formed in an off-centered location respective to a centroid of the resealable container cap 560. Conversely, the concentric tamper indicator feature 628 is formed in a concentric about the centroid of the resealable container cap 660. The centered location of the concentric tamper indicator feature 628, and more specifically, the concentric tamper indicator operation element 629 of the concentric tamper indicator feature 628, is located to contact the resealable container lid upper surface reinforcement formation 518 of the resealable container lid 510, as illustrated in
An assembly of the resealable container lid 510 onto the container cylindrical sidewall 102 was previously introduced, but not fully described. The assembly process is described in a series of sequence illustrations shown in
A seaming chuck tool 600 is inserted into an interior of the resealable container lid 510 defined by the interior surface of the seaming chuck wall 522. The resealable container lid 510 is seated upon the container seaming panel 106 and the container seaming wall 108 of the container cylindrical sidewall 102, as shown in
A first operation roller driving channel first operation roller driving channel 606, formed in a contacting surface of the first operation roller 604, rolls the seaming panel 520 and the respective portion of the container seaming panel 106, as shown in
In a preferred process, the second/final operation roller 607 rotates about a second (final) operation roller spin axis 608 and the seaming chuck tool 600 rotates the container cylindrical sidewall 102 and the associated resealable container lid 510 against the second/final operation roller driving channel 609 of the second/final operation roller 607. The contact between the second/final operation roller driving channel 609 and the rolled version of the seaming panel 520 in conjunction with the resulting forces compresses the combination of the seaming panel 520 and the container seaming panel 106 together. The compressed shape creates a sealed seam between the seaming panel 520 and the container seaming panel 106. The completed container assembly is referred to as a resealable container 500 and the completed seam is referred to as a container body and lid assembly seam 509, as shown in
Once sealed, the resealable container 500 is subjected to a process referred to a retort, where the contents of the resealable container 500 are heated. The heat increases an internal pressure within the resealable container 500. The increased pressure deforms the resealable container lid 510 of the resealable container 500. More specifically, because of the shape of the features of the resealable container 500, the increased pressure deforms the cap receiving socket bottom wall 534 of the resealable container lid 510 upward into a domed or bulged shape as indicated by the upward directing arrow in
In an original shape of the container lid assembly, prior to exposure to the retort process, the peripheral countersink 526 is formed having a outer peripheral countersink wall pre-retort geometry 610 on an outer, distal region and a inner peripheral countersink wall pre-retort geometry 612 on an inner, proximal region. Additionally, the cap receiving socket bottom wall 534 is referred to as a cap receiving socket bottom wall post-retort geometry 624. The outer peripheral countersink wall pre-retort geometry 610 is formed along an outer peripheral countersink wall pre-retort geometry angle delineator 611. The inner peripheral countersink wall pre-retort geometry 612 is formed along an inner peripheral countersink wall pre-retort geometry angle delineator 613. The cap receiving socket bottom wall post-retort geometry 624 is formed along a cap receiving socket bottom wall pre-retort geometry angle delineator 615. In a pre-retort condition, the outer peripheral countersink wall pre-retort geometry 610 and the inner peripheral countersink wall pre-retort geometry 612 are generally vertically oriented. Additionally, the cap receiving socket bottom wall pre-retort geometry 614 is generally planar and substantially horizontally oriented.
In a shape of the container lid assembly during the retort process, the outer peripheral countersink wall pre-retort geometry 610 is reshaped into a outer peripheral countersink wall post-retort geometry 620 on the outer, distal region and the inner peripheral countersink wall pre-retort geometry 612 is reshaped into a inner peripheral countersink wall post-retort geometry 622 on the inner, proximal region of the peripheral countersink 526. Additionally, the cap receiving socket bottom wall pre-retort geometry 614 is reshaped into a cap receiving socket bottom wall post-retort geometry 624. The outer peripheral countersink wall post-retort geometry 620 is formed along an outer peripheral countersink wall post-retort geometry angle delineator 621. The inner peripheral countersink wall post-retort geometry 622 is formed along an inner peripheral countersink wall post-retort geometry angle delineator 623. The cap receiving socket bottom wall post-retort geometry 624 is formed along a cap receiving socket bottom wall post-retort geometry angle delineator 625. During this process, the cap receiving socket bottom wall pre-retort geometry 614 transitions from a generally planar shape to a convex or bulged shape, identified as a cap receiving socket bottom wall post-retort geometry 624. This geometric condition reduces the diameter of the peripheral edge of the cap receiving socket bottom wall 534 (cap receiving socket bottom wall pre-retort geometry 614). This reduction in the diameter of the peripheral edge of the cap receiving socket bottom wall 534 draws the upper edge of the inner peripheral countersink wall pre-retort geometry 612 inward, angling the inner peripheral countersink wall pre-retort geometry 612 respectively, which is subsequently referred to as a inner peripheral countersink wall post-retort geometry 622. The reshaping of the inner peripheral countersink wall pre-retort geometry 612 to the inner peripheral countersink wall post-retort geometry 622 pulls the peripheral countersink 526 inward, impacting the lower edge of the cap receiving socket cylindrical sidewall 532. The resulting motion draws the lower edge of the outer peripheral countersink wall pre-retort geometry 610 inward, angling the outer peripheral countersink wall pre-retort geometry 610 respectively, which is subsequently referred to as an outer peripheral countersink wall post-retort geometry 620.
In a post-retort shape of the resealable container lid 510, the reshaped assembly segments 620, 622, 624 permanently retain a portion of the reshaping undergone during the retort process.
The design of the resealable container cap 660, more specifically a cylindrical sidewall inverted countersink 670 provides a flexible transition between the resealable container cap cylindrical exterior sidewall 662 and resealable container cap cylindrical interior sidewall 663, which accommodates a reshaping of the resealable container cap planar traversing surface 664 when the resealable container cap 660 is assembled onto the outer peripheral countersink wall pre-retort geometry 610. This reshaping results from a force applied to the resealable container cap planar traversing surface 664 by the cap receiving socket bottom wall 534 on the resealable container lid 510 during the retort process. A separation between the resealable container cap planar traversing surface 664 and cap receiving socket bottom wall 534 may be maintained by the off-center tamper indicator operation element 529 being in mechanical contact with the upper surface of the resealable container lid upper surface reinforcement formation 518, maintaining the relative separation between the resealable container cap planar traversing surface 664 and the cap receiving socket bottom wall 534 during the retort process in order to prevent the offset projecting incisor 668 from prematurely placing a fracturing forcing upon the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 536. Additionally, the reshaping of the cap receiving socket cylindrical sidewall 532 during the retort process, more specifically, the outer peripheral countersink wall pre-retort geometry 610, impinges cam tracks 552, 554, 556 into the respective cam followers 581, 582, 583, retaining the assembly of the resealable container cap 660 onto the resealable container lid 510 during the maximum deformation during the retort process.
The design of the resealable container cap 660, more specifically, the resealable container cap cylindrical exterior sidewall 662 is adapted to accommodate the changes in shape of the peripheral countersink 526 of the resealable container lid 510 during and subsequent to the retort process. The end result enables rotational motion of the resealable container cap cylindrical exterior sidewall 662 within the peripheral countersink 526 by the consumer after completion of the retort process. This avoids any binding between the cam followers 581, 582, 583 within the peripheral countersink 526, while retaining the cam followers 581, 582, 583 against the mating surface of the respective cam tracks 551, 553, 555. It is recognized that the deformation of the cap receiving socket cylindrical sidewall 532 resulting from the retort process is adapted to enhance the engagement between the cam followers 581, 582, 583 and the mating surface of the respective cam tracks 551, 553, 555, as the deformation decreases the diameter of the lower portion of the 526.
The resulting post-retort shape is shown in a cross sectioned view of the resealable container 500, as presented in
The resealable container 500 can include features enabling nesting between assemblies 500, as shown in
Such as the resealable container cap 560 can include variations, the resealable container lid 510 is also open to variations in the design. For example, a resealable container lid 710, shown in
The cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 536, 736 is commonly created using a standard single step forming process. A resealable container lid 810, shown in
The multi-step process for forming a cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 836 is demonstrated in a series of illustrations presented in
A first score line segment punch tool 960B is similar to the lid alignment feature punch tool 960A, with the introduction of a first score line formation segment punches 933. The first score line formation segment punches 933 is divided into two segments, each segment extends between a respective first score line formation segment punch ends ready for overlap 938 and tear panel hinge formation punch area 939. The resealable container lid 810 would be seated within a subsequent lid alignment feature anvil 910A in the manufacturing process, employing the registration features 993, 997 on the lid alignment feature anvil 910A and respective registration features 894, 896 on the resealable container lid 810 to ensure accurate alignment. The first score line segment punch tool 960B would then be employed to create in at least one first score line formation segments 833 as shown in
A second score line segment punch tool 960C is similar to the lid alignment feature punch tool 960A, with the introduction of a score line fracture thinned initiation region punch 946 extending between two score line segment overlapping region punches 947. Each score line segment overlapping region punches 947 is located to align or overlap with the respective location of the first score line formation segment punch ends ready for overlap 938 of the lid alignment feature with lid bottom score line thinned formation anvil 910B. This creates one continuous score line 836. The resealable container lid 810 would remain seated within the lid bottom score line thinned formation anvil 910B and the second score line segment punch tool 960C would be employed to create a score line fracture thinned initiation region 846 extending between each score line segment overlapping regions 847 as shown in
The score line fracture thinned initiation region punch 946 can include a slight convex dome, as best shown in a magnified view illustrated in
In a more common embodiment, the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 836 and its respective features can be formed using a single strike punch, such as a complete score line punch tool 960D working against the lid alignment feature with lid bottom score line thinned formation anvil 910B, illustrated in
A resealable container lid 1010, shown in
In use, the offset projecting incisor 568 (not shown) would travel along the incisor pathway channel 1017 approaching the score line fracture thinned initiation region 1046 within the first incisor pathway refined chamfer face 1094. The offset projecting incisor 568 then contacts and applies an opening force onto the score line fracture thinned initiation region 1046, causing the score line fracture thinned initiation region 1046 to fracture. The fracturing of the score line fracture thinned initiation region 1046 reduces the strength of the region, enabling a reduced force to fracture the score line segment overlapping region 1047 and subsequently the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 1036. The lid bottom score line hinge crease 1095 directs the material about the score line fracture thinned initiation region 1046 to fold outward, introducing a clearance for free passage of the offset projecting incisor 568 to exit the end of incisor pathway channel 1017 while continuing a downward force on the incisor channel to tear panel surface transition 1092 to further propagate fracturing of the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 1036. The process of separating the cap receiving socket bottom panel tear panel 1038 from the resealable container lid upper surface reinforcement formation 1018 continues as previously described in other variants, with the offset projecting incisor 568 applying a downward force to the incisor channel to tear panel surface transition 1092 in conjunction with various vertical applying force generating features engaging with one another, such as the incisor deboss panel 566 engaging with the lead in supplemental score fracture propagation and tear panel support boss 1097.
A resealable container lid 1110, shown in
All of the above configurations employ a counterclockwise rotation for fracturing the cap receiving socket bottom panel circular score line 536, 736, 836, 1036, 1136 of the respective resealable container lid 510, 710, 810, 1010, 1110. Each of these configurations are adapted to retain the respective resealable container cap 560, 660, 1160 within the cap receiving cavity of the respective resealable container lid 510, 710, 810, 1010, 1110 after the manufacturing process as well as the distribution and sales processes.
It is understood that the container lid can be modified to use a reusable or separately available version of a container cap. A resealable container lid 1210 is adapted to receive a reusable or separately available version of a container cap, such as a container lid socket engaging opening tool 1260, as shown in
The concept no longer requires the features to entrap the offset projecting incisor 568 within the incisor pathway channel 517 and just prior to the incisor channel to tear panel surface transition 592, as the container lid socket engaging opening tool 1260 is no longer pre-assembled to the resealable container lid 1210. One additional benefit of this configuration is that the container lid socket engaging opening tool 1260 can be axially symmetric, enabling assembly of the container lid socket engaging opening tool 1260 to the resealable container lid 1210 in any of three orientations. Although the exemplary embodiment mirrors the features of the container lid socket engaging opening tool 1260 in three 120 degree angular sections, it is understood that the resealable container lid 1210 and the container lid socket engaging opening tool 1260 can be design having any suitable number of like angular sections.
The container lid socket engaging opening tool 1260, detailed in
A plurality of incisors 1268 extend axially downward from a sealing surface of the opening tool planar traversing surface 1264, the incisors 1268 being equidistantly spaced and equidistant from a rotational axis of the container lid socket engaging opening tool 1260. Any of the incisors 1268 can be used for initiating a fracture of the cap receiving socket bottom panel clockwise opening circular score line 1236.
In use, the container lid socket engaging opening tool 1260 would be assembled onto the resealable container lid 1210 by aligning each opening tool formed cam follower 1281 with each inter-cam relief section 1251, 1253, 1255 and slipping each opening tool formed cam follower 1281 beneath each cam track 1252, 1254, 1256, more specifically, engaging with the upward angled end, similar to the cam track cam follower leader section 552E previously described. The upward angled end of the respective cam track 1252, 1254, 1256 guide the respective opening tool formed cam follower 1281 into the generally horizontally arranged segment of the cam track 1252, 1254, 1256, similar to the cam track operating segment 552D. The consumer would continue to rotation the container lid socket engaging opening tool 1260 in a clockwise motion to fracture the cap receiving socket bottom panel clockwise opening circular score line 1236 at the incisor channel to tear panel surface transition 1292 and subsequently propagate the fracture of a cap receiving socket bottom panel clockwise opening circular score line 1236, while folding or bending a clockwise opening tear panel 1238 away from a resealable container lid upper surface reinforcement formation 1218 along a clockwise opening tear panel hinge 1239, as shown in
Previous variants include a seal between the cap sealing ring 565, located on a bottom surface of the resealable container cap planar traversing wall 564 of the resealable container cap 560 and a cap receiving socket bottom wall 534 of the resealable container lid 510. In another variant, the seal can be provided between features of the vertical sidewall of the resealable container cap 560 and the resealable container lid 510. This variant is employed between a resealable container lid 1310 and a resealable container cap 1360, which are described in
The resealable container lid 1310, detailed in
The resealable container lid 1310 includes a frustum shaped interior surface of a frustum shaped cap seal engaging annular surface 1340, as best shown in a section view illustrated in
The resealable container cap 1360 includes a frustum shaped exterior surface of a frustum shaped cap sealing ring surface 1367, as best shown in a section view illustrated in
When the resealable container cap 1360 and the resealable container lid 1310 are assembled to one another, the frustum shaped cap sealing ring 1365 seals against the interior surface of the frustum shaped cap seal engaging annular surface 1340, as best shown in
In the resealable container cap 1360, a concentric tamper indicator operation element 1329 on a concentric tamper indicator feature 1328 is centrally located. The concentric tamper indicator operation element 1329 is supported by an upper surface of the resealable container lid upper surface reinforcement formation 1318. The resealable container lid upper surface reinforcement formation 1318 is supported by the pressure within the sealed interior of the container. Once the seal is compromised, the pressure is released, thus eliminating any support to and from the resealable container lid upper surface reinforcement formation 1318. Without the support, the resealable container lid upper surface reinforcement formation 1318 can flex axially, thus allowing the concentric tamper indicator feature 1328 to flex accordingly and report the breach of the container.
In yet another embodiment, a resealable container lid 1410 and a respective resealable container cap 1460 are adapted to support a solid composition (i.e. food) storage and distribution container, wherein the resealable container lid 1410 is described in
It is understood that the resealable container lid 1410 can be used for smaller and larger food products, such as those mentioned above an additionally including chips, pretzels, potato sticks, larger nuts, larger spices, candies, span, thicker soups, spreadables, peanut butter, jelly, larger condiments (sauerkraut, relish), and the like.
The resealable container lid 1410, detailed in
The resealable container lid 1410 is provided with a removable sealed panel (not shown) spanning across a lower end thereof, or as a ring shaped element having a container lid dispensing aperture 1461. In a configuration where the resealable container lid 1410 includes a removable sealed panel spanning across a lower end thereof, the peripheral edge of the sealing panel can be defined by a score line. The removable seal can be opened and removed using any suitable element, such as a pull tab. The removable panel may also be of a plastic or metal foil material bonded to the lower end of the resealable container lid 1410. In a configuration excluding the removable seal bottom panel, a lower edge of the resealable container cap cylindrical exterior sidewall 1462 can be formed, introducing a peripheral bottom edge fold 1426 as a fold to reinforce the lower edge of the resealable container cap cylindrical exterior sidewall 1462 of the resealable container lid 1410 and to minimize any risk of injury.
The resealable container lid 1410 is assembled to the container cylindrical sidewall 102 using the same methods previously described. The exclusion of the cap receiving socket bottom wall 534 in the resealable container lid 1410 suggests modifications to the pneumatically operated concentric tamper indicator feature 1428. The pneumatically operated concentric tamper indicator feature 1428 excludes a tamper indicator operation element, as the resealable container lid 1410 excludes a cap receiving socket bottom wall, rendering the tamper indicator operation element as being of no use. The pneumatically operated concentric tamper indicator feature 1428 obtains support directly from pressure differential within the sealed contents section of the container.
The container lid cap can include a grip of any suitable configuration. The previous container lid caps 160, 260, 360, 460, 560, 660, 1160, 1360, 1460, each included a grip formation extending upward from a resealable container cap base element or planar traversing wall 564, 664, 1164, 1364, 1464. The container lid socket engaging opening tool 1260 includes a grip element formed on a radially exterior surface of the opening tool container overlapping sidewall 1271. A resealable container cap 1560, detailed in
Since the resealable container cap planar traversing surface 1564 extends across a highest region of the resealable container cap 1560, the resealable container cap grip element cavity 1574 can be formed as a deboss, extending inward from the top surface of the resealable container cap planar traversing surface 1564. The resealable container cap grip element cavity 1574 includes a cap grip element cavity force application surface 1575, functioning the same as the cap grip element force application surface 575 (previously described), while being a tubular interior surface thereof. An upper transition between the cap grip element cavity force application surface 1575 and the resealable container cap planar traversing surface 1564 is chamfered, creating a comfort region for the consumer during the opening and resealing processes. A depth of the resealable container cap grip element cavity 1574 would place a bottom surface of the resealable container cap grip element cavity 1574 at a desired vertical position respective to an assembly reference feature, such as the cam followers 1581, 1582, 1583, a bottom edge of the resealable container cap cylindrical lower exterior sidewall 1562, and the like. This locates a bottom surface of a cap grip bottom wall incisor deboss panel 1566 and a depth of a respective cap grip bottom wall projecting incisor 1568 adequately to properly interact with the opening features of the resealable container lid 1310 or other respective container lid, as best shown in
Continuing with variations in grip designs, a resealable container cap 1660, detailed in
The resealable container cap 560 includes a resealable container cap grip element 574 having a pinched shape to define the cap grip element force application surfaces 575. The resealable container cap grip element 1674 is formed having a more cylindrical shaped cap grip element force application surface 1675 terminating with a cap grip element grip enhancing feature 1676 circumscribing a distal edge of the cap grip element force application surface 1675 or a peripheral edge of a top panel thereof. It is recognized that the cap grip element force application surface 1675 and cap grip element grip enhancing feature 1676 as well as the entire resealable container cap grip element 1674 can be of any suitable shape. The preferred shape of the cap grip element force application surface 1675 is cylindrical for manufacturing and reliability purposes. The off-center tamper indicator feature 1628 can be located off-centered (as shown) or concentric with a resealable container cap cylindrical interior sidewall 1663 of the resealable container cap 1660. The resealable container cap 1660 would be assembled into any suitable container lid, such as the exemplary resealable container lid 510 shown in
The consumer can use their fingers to apply an opening force directly to each cap grip element force application surface 1675 of each resealable container cap grip element 1674. Alternatively, the consumer can employ a resealable container cap opening assistance tool 1760, introduced in
The resealable container cap opening assistance tool 1760 is preferably fabricated of a pliant material using a molding process. The resealable container cap opening assistance tool 1760 includes a opening assistance tool upper cylindrical sidewall 1761 having a plurality of spatially arranged gripping sections (comprising opening assistance tool grip elements 1784, each opening assistance tool grip element 1784 extending outward from a peripheral surface of the opening assistance tool upper cylindrical sidewall 1761 by a pair of opening assistance tool force application surfaces 1785. An opening assistance tool lower cylindrical sidewall 1763 extends downward from a bottom surface of the opening assistance tool upper cylindrical sidewall 1761. The opening assistance tool lower cylindrical sidewall 1763 is sized and shaped to fit within the cap receiving cavity of the resealable container lid 510, more specifically to fit within the cavity defined by the resealable container cap cylindrical interior sidewall 1663, as best shown in
It is understood the resealable container cap opening assistance tool 1760 can be fabricated of a more rigid, molded material. When manufactured using the more rigid material, the opening assistance tool force application surface 1775 would be the same shape and size as the opening assistance tool grip enhancing feature 1776, enabling insertion of each resealable container cap grip element 1674 into the respective opening assistance tool cap grip receiving cavity 1774.
It is understood that the opening assistance tool cap grip receiving cavities 1774 of the resealable container cap opening assistance tool 1760 can be incorporated into any of the other cavity shaped container lid caps 160, 260, 360, 460, 560, 660, 1160, 1360, 1460.
The container lid caps 560, 660, 1160, 1260, 1360, 1460 can be replaced by other container lid caps having more specialized features and related functions, as shown in the various configurations presented in
A first exemplary specialized cap is a drinking straw socket accessory 1800, detailed in
In the exemplary embodiment, the socket accessory off-center tear panel plug 1838 is adapted to receive and retain a drinking straw sealing gasket 1847. The drinking straw sealing gasket 1847 is designed to receive and retain a drinking straw 1820. The drinking straw sealing gasket 1847 is preferably fabricated of a pliant material, such as rubber, nylon, or any other material that would be suitable for insertion, retention, and sealing about the outer surface of the drinking straw 1820.
The drinking straw 1820 can be any known design, including a straight configuration, a formed configuration, include bending feature(s), and the like. The drinking straw 1820 can be referenced by a drinking straw exposed upper area 1822 extending from an exterior of the drinking straw socket accessory 1800 and terminating at a drinking straw upper end 1823, and a drinking straw unexposed lower area 1824 extending from an interior of the drinking straw socket accessory 1800 and terminating at a drinking straw lower end 1825. The drinking straw 1820 would have a tubular body providing a drinking straw dispensing aperture 1828 therethrough. It would be preferred that the drinking straw 1820 is of a length enabling the drinking straw lower end 1825 to be positioned proximate the container closed bottom wall 504 of the resealable container 500.
The socket mating rotary actuator 1860 is designed having socket accessory cylindrical exterior sidewall 1862 formed in a ring or open annular shape. The exemplary embodiment introduces a socket accessory container body and lid assembly seam cavity 1870 formed extending inward from a lower edge of the socket accessory cylindrical exterior sidewall 1862 and a lower edge of a socket accessory container overlapping sidewall 1871. The socket accessory cylindrical exterior sidewall 1862 includes at least one feature (such as cam followers 1881, 1882, 1883 best shown in
The socket mating rotary actuator groove track 1850 and the socket mating rotary actuator helical groove track cam follower 1880 are designed to mate with one another enabling a rotational relationship with one another, while maintaining an axial relationship with one another.
During assembly of the drinking straw socket accessory 1800 onto the container lid resealable container lid 510, the consumer would align a bottom of the socket accessory off-center tear panel plug 1838 with the dispensing aperture of the resealable container lid 510. This will retain the stationary/axially operable component 1810 in a rotationally fixed position, as shown in
A second exemplary specialized cap is a baby bottle nipple socket accessory 1900, detailed in
A third exemplary specialized cap is a sipping cup socket accessory 2000, detailed in
A fourth exemplary specialized cap is a sports bottle socket accessory 2100, detailed in
The process for opening and closing the sports bottle mouth piece feature 2120 is well known by those skilled in the art and is therefore not detailed herein.
A fifth exemplary specialized cap is a rotating resealable fluid dispensing spout socket accessory 2200, detailed in
Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been described, it will be understood by those of skill in the art that there are other embodiments that are equivalent to the described embodiments. Accordingly, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited by the specific illustrated embodiments, but only by the scope of the appended claims.
For example, the cam tracks 552, 554, 556 (and other variants) and the respective cam followers 581, 582, 583 (and other variants) are exemplary and the features can be broadly described as a container lid rotational and axial guide feature integral with the vertical sidewall 532 (and other variants) of the container lid 510 (and other variants). The respective cam followers 581, 582, 583 (and other variants) are exemplary and the features can be broadly described as a sealing cap rotational and axial guide feature integral with the cap vertical sidewall 562 (and other variants) of the sealing cap 560 (and other variants).
In another example, the cam tracks 552, 554, 556 (and other variants) and the respective cam followers 581, 582, 583 (and other variants) can be exchanged. More specifically, the cam tracks 552, 554, 556 can be formed on the resealable container cap cylindrical exterior sidewall 562 and the cam followers 581, 582, 583 can be formed on the cap receiving socket cylindrical sidewall 532.
In yet another example, one sealing configuration can be adapted to another container lid assembly configuration, such as the frustum shaped sealing configuration 1365, 1465, 1565 can be used in place of an annular sealing configuration of a different variant.
In yet another example, the sealing element 365, 565, 665, 1165, 1365, 1465, 1565, can be carried by the container lid 310, 510, 610, 1110, 1310, 1410, 1510 instead of the cap 360, 560, 660, 1160, 1360, 1460, 1560.
This Non-Provisional Patent Application is: A. a Divisional Patent Application claiming the benefit of co-pending United States Non-Provisional Utility patent application Ser. No. 15/056,216, filed on 29 Feb. 2016 (Scheduled to issue as U.S. Pat. No. 9,637,269 on May 2, 2017), wherein U.S. application Ser. No. 15/056,216 is a Continuation In Part claiming the benefit of co-pending United States Non-Provisional Utility patent application Ser. No. 14/665,102, filed on 23 Mar. 2015 (Issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,272,819 on Mar. 1, 2016),wherein U.S. application Ser. No. 14/665,102 is a Divisional Patent Application claiming the benefit of co-pending United States Non-Provisional Utility patent application Ser. No. 13/787,012, filed on 6 Mar. 2013 (Issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,985,371 on 24 Mar. 2015),wherein U.S. application Ser. No. 13/787,012 is a Continuation-In-Part claiming the benefit of co-pending United States Non-Provisional Utility patent application Ser. No. 13/572,404, filed on 10 Aug. 2012 (Issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,844,761 on 30 Sep. 2014), and B. this Non-Provisional Patent Application is also: a Divisional Patent Application claiming the benefit of co-pending United States Non-Provisional Utility Patent application Ser. No. 15/056,216, filed on 29 Feb. 2016 (Scheduled to issue as U.S. Pat. No. 9,637,269 on May 2, 2017),wherein U.S. application Ser. No. 15/056,216 is a Continuation In Part claiming the benefit of co-pending United States Non-Provisional Utility patent application Ser. No. 14/665,102, filed on 23 Mar. 2015 (issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,272,819 on Mar. 1, 2016),wherein U.S. application Ser. No. 14/665,102 is a Continuation In Part claiming the benefit of co-pending United States Non-Provisional Design patent application Serial No. 29/491,268, filed on 19 May 2014 (Issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,844,761 on 30 Sep. 2014),wherein U.S. application Ser. No. 29/491,268 is a Divisional patent Application claiming the benefit of co-pending United States Non-Provisional Utility patent application Ser. No. 13/787,012, filed on 6 Mar. 2013 (Issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,985,371 on 24 Mar. 2015),wherein U.S. application Ser. No. 13/787,012 is a Continuation-In-Part claiming the benefit of co-pending United States Non-Provisional Utility patent application Ser. No. 13/572,404, filed on 10 Aug. 2012 (Issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,844,761 on 30 Sep. 2014); C. this Non-Provisional Patent Application is also: a Continuation In Part claiming the benefit of co-pending United States Non-Provisional Design patent application Serial No. 29/560,269, filed on 5 Apr. 2016,wherein U.S. application Ser. No. 29/560,269 is a Continuation In Part claiming the benefit of co-pending United States Non-Provisional Design patent application Ser. No. 29/491,268, filed on 19 May 2014, (Issued as U.S. Design Pat. D752,978 on Apr. 5, 2016),wherein U.S. application Ser. No. 29/491,268 is a Divisional Patent Application claiming the benefit of co-pending United States Non-Provisional Utility patent application Ser. No. 13/787,012, filed on 6 Mar. 2013 (issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,985,371 on 24 Mar. 2015),wherein U.S. application Ser. No. 13/787,012 is a Continuation-In-Part claiming the benefit of co-pending United States Non-Provisional Utility patent application Ser. No. 13/572,404, filed on 10 Aug. 2012 (Issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,844,761 on 30 Sep. 2014); D. this Non-Provisional Patent Application is also: a Continuation In Part claiming the benefit of co-pending United States Non-Provisional Design patent application Ser. No. 29/560,269, filed on 5 Apr. 2016,wherein U.S. application Ser. No. 29/560,269 is a Continuation In Part claiming the benefit of co-pending United States Non-Provisional Utility patent application Ser. No. 15/056,216, filed on 29 Feb. 2016 (Scheduled to issue as U.S. Pat. No. 9,637,269 on May 2, 2017),wherein U.S. application Ser. No. 15/056,216 is a Continuation In Part claiming the benefit of co-pending United States Non-Provisional Utility patent application Ser. No. 14/665,102, filed on 23 Mar. 2015 (Issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,272,819 on Mar. 1, 2016),wherein U.S. application Ser. No. 14/665,102 is a Divisional Patent Application claiming the benefit of co-pending United States Non-Provisional Utility patent application Ser. No. 13/787,012, filed on 6 Mar. 2013 (Issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,985,371 on 24 Mar. 2015),wherein U.S. application Ser. No. 13/787,012 is a Continuation-In-Part claiming the benefit of co-pending United States Non-Provisional Utility patent application Ser. No. 13/572,404, filed on 10 Aug. 2012 (Issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,844,761 on 30 Sep. 2014).all of which are incorporated by reference herein.
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| 20140238994 | Christopoulos et al. | Aug 2014 | A1 |
| 20150190003 | Kelaher | Jul 2015 | A1 |
| 20160016700 | Stevens | Jan 2016 | A1 |
| Number | Date | Country |
|---|---|---|
| 476789 | Sep 1951 | CA |
| 0414249 | Feb 1991 | EP |
| 2212215 | Feb 2012 | EP |
| 2555988 | Jun 2014 | EP |
| WO 02083516 | Oct 2002 | WO |
| WO2011025327 | Mar 2011 | WO |
| WO2011124552 | Oct 2011 | WO |
| Entry |
|---|
| Customized Logo 401# Stretch Tin Can Lida for Food and Wine Paper Tube, curiousexpeditions.org, 2 pages. Found online, Nov. 11, 2015 at http://papercanspackaging.sell.curiousexpeditions.org/iz6fge2df-customised-logo-401-stretch tin-can-lids-for-food-and-wine-paper-tube-images. |
| Gold Candle Jars Timplate 307# Stretch Metal Can Lids, curiousexpeditions.org, 2 Pages. Found online Nov. 11, 2015 at http://papercanspackaging.sell.curiousexpeditions.org/iz6fge2dc-gold-candle-jars-tinplate-307-images. |
| Number | Date | Country | |
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| Parent | 15056216 | Feb 2016 | US |
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| Parent | 13787012 | Mar 2013 | US |
| Child | 14665102 | US | |
| Parent | 13787012 | Mar 2013 | US |
| Child | 29491268 | US | |
| Parent | 15494498 | Apr 2017 | US |
| Child | 29491268 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 14665102 | Mar 2015 | US |
| Child | 15056216 | US | |
| Parent | 13572404 | Aug 2012 | US |
| Child | 13787012 | US | |
| Parent | 29491268 | May 2014 | US |
| Child | 14665102 | Mar 2015 | US |
| Parent | 29560269 | Apr 2016 | US |
| Child | 15494498 | US | |
| Parent | 29491268 | May 2014 | US |
| Child | 29560269 | US | |
| Parent | 15494498 | Apr 2017 | US |
| Child | 29560269 | US | |
| Parent | 15056216 | Feb 2016 | US |
| Child | 15494498 | US |
