Can end cross section

Abstract

A parameterized representation of a can end (e.g., for an aluminum can) may be provided. The parameterized representation may include a series of arc segments connected end to end, for example. The series of arc segments may span between an end of a center panel and an edge of the can end. Based on the parameterized representation, a set of can end profiles may be generated having differing parameter values (such as with arc segments that differ in a combination of arc segment included angle and radius). The set of can end profiles may be evaluated according to criteria (such as buckle pressure and mass criteria). A can end profile may be selected from the set of can end profiles based on performance relative to the criteria. The selected can end profile may be formed into a can end.

Description

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 622,730, filed on January 19, 2024, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 557,710, filedFebruary 26, 2024, each of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties for all purposes. FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This application relates to metal containers and, more particularly, to systems and methods for producing a metal can end that can be joined with container bodies to form the metal containers. BACKGROUND

[0003] Metal containers, such as those intended to hold food or beverages (e.g., aluminum beverage cans), generally include a container body having an opening defined in one end, and a closure (referred to as a “container end” or a “can end”) designed to close the opening of the container body. The container body and the can end are typically joined at their peripheries (e.g., by being crimped or rolled together, also referred to as seaming) to form a liquid-tight and gastight joint. While some container ends may be formed from a component that may start as a flat circular disc, container ends are more commonly provided with raised and contoured or curled peripheral edges that facilitate the joining process.

[0004] A can end forming process typically includes positioning a sheet metal blank between a pair of dies which are moved to shear an edge of the blank, after which a punch descends to draw the now circular blank into a can end having a peripheral flange, a frustoconical wall, and an end panel. The peripheral flange of the can end may be drawn downward into a peripheral lip suitable for double seaming operations. Subsequent processing may form a countersink with a flat or domed central panel. Such processes may be performed by a single tooling assembly or a plurality of tooling assemblies. SUMMARY

[0005] Embodiments covered by this patent are defined by the claims below, not this summary. This summary is a high-level overview of various embodiments and introduces some of the concepts that are further described in the Detailed Description section below. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used in isolation to determine the scope of the claimed subject matter. The subject matter should be understood by reference to appropriate portions of the entire specification of this patent, any or all drawings, and each claim.

[0006] According to certain embodiments, a method of can end production includes providing a parameterized representation of a can end; generating, according to the parameterized representation of the can end, a set of can end profiles having differing parameter values; evaluating the set of can end profiles according to specified criteria; and selecting a can end profile from the set based on performance relative to the criteria.

[0007] According to certain embodiments, a method of can end production includes providing a parameterized representation of a can end that comprises a series of arc segments connected end to end; generating a set of can end profiles having the series of arc segments that differ in a combination of arc segment included angle and radius; evaluating the set of can end profiles according to buckle pressure and mass criteria; and selecting a can end profile from the set based on performance relative to the buckle pressure and mass criteria.

[0008] According to certain embodiments, a can end includes a center panel, an edge, and a profiled portion comprising a series of arc segments connected end to end and spanning between an end of the center panel and the edge.

[0009] Various implementations described herein can include additional systems, methods, features, and advantages, which cannot necessarily be expressly disclosed herein but will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. It is intended that all such systems, methods, features, and advantages be included within the present disclosure and protected by the accompanying claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] FIG. 1 illustrates a portion of a can end formed by a can end forming system according to some embodiments.

[0011] FIGS. 2 and 3 are each a flowchart illustrating a method of producing a can end according to some embodiments.

[0012] FIG. 4 illustrates an example of a parameterized representation of a can end having a series of arc segments connected end to end according to some embodiments.

[0013] FIG. 5 is a chart illustrating an example output of an evaluation of a set of can end profiles according to buckle pressure and mass criteria according to some embodiments.

[0014] FIG. 6 illustrates a portion of a can end having specified values for a series of arc segments connected end to end according to some embodiments.

[0015] FIG. 7 illustrates an example of a set of specified values for a series of arc segments connected end to end to define a can end according to some embodiments.

[0016] FIG. 8 illustrates a portion of a can end having specified values for a series of arc segments connected end to end according to some embodiments.

[0017] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of a set of specified values for a series of arc segments connected end to end to define a can end according to some embodiments.

[0018] FIG. 10 illustrates another example of a set of specified values for a series of arc segments connected end to end to define a can end according to some embodiments.

[0019] FIG. 11 is a simplified schematic diagram that illustrates examples of control aspects of systems that may be implemented for production of can ends according to various examples.

[0020] FIG. 12 illustrates a portion of a can end having specified values for a series of arc segments connected end to end according to some embodiments.

[0021] FIG. 13 illustrates another example of a set of specified values for a series of arc segments connected end to end to define a can end according to some embodiments.

[0022] FIG. 14 illustrates an example of a set of specified values for a series of arc segments connected end to end to define a can end according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] Described herein are systems and methods for producing can ends for metal containers such as but not limited to beverage cans, food cans, aerosol cans, and / or any other container as desired. In certain embodiments, a parameterized representation of a can end (e.g., for an aluminum can) can be provided. The parameterized representation can include a series of arc segments connected end to end, for example. The series of arc segments may span between an end of a center panel and an edge of the can end. Based on the parameterized representation, a set of can end profiles can be generated having differing parameter values (such as with arc segments that differ in a combination of arc segment length (or arc segment included angle) and radius). The set can be evaluated according to criteria (such as buckle pressure and mass criteria). A can end profile may be selected from the set based on performance relative to the criteria. The selected can end profile may be formed into a can end. Utilizing a parameterized representation in this manner may enable development of new can end profiles, which may be able to satisfy buckle strength, mass, and / or other criteria using materials with a lower strength (or other characteristic) compared to other frequently used materials and / or with a reduction in gauge (and corresponding material usage) compared to traditional can end designs such as the B64 type can end and the CDL type can end. In certain embodiments, the systems and methods described herein may allow for the use of softer materials in can end manufacturing compared to traditional can end designs such as the B64 type can end and the CDL type can end. As one non-limiting example, whereas traditional can end manufacturing for producing the B64 type can end or the CDL type can end utilizes a 5xxx series aluminum alloy such as but not limited to AA5182, the systems and methods described herein may allow for the use of a 3xxx series aluminum alloy, such as but not limited to AA3104, with a higher recycled content. The systems and methods described herein may be applied to can ends of various diameters. As non-limiting example, the systems and methods described herein may be applied to can ends known as 200 can ends, 202 can ends (i.e., diameters of 2” + 2 / 16”), 204 can ends (i.e., 2” + 4 / 16”), can ends with different diameter can openings, and / or can ends of different sizes, among others. Various other benefits and advantages may be realized with the systems and methods described herein, and the aforementioned benefits and advantages should not be considered limiting.

[0024] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a can end 101 formed from a metal sheet by a can end forming system according to embodiments. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the can end 101 generally includes a center panel 103 and a profiled portion 105. While illustrated as a sectional view, it will be appreciated that can ends 101 are generally circular, and thus, the components of the can end 101 may be generally annular or circular.

[0025] In some embodiments, and as illustrated in FIG. 1, the center panel 103 may be substantially planar in shape (e g., having a radius of curvature of 0). In other embodiments, the center panel 103 may include other shapes or profiles, such as but not limited to a mild arc segment or other geometric shape. As a non-limiting example, a center of the center panel 103 may be slightly crowned and include an annular portion extending to an inner wall 111.

[0026] The profiled portion 105 can extend from the center panel 103 to an outer extremity or terminus 107 of the can end 101. The terminus 107 may correspond to an edge 109, for example. The profiled portion 105 can include any number of constituent portions. In certain embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 1, the profiled portion 105 may include an inner wall 111, a countersink 113, a chuckwall 115, and crown 117, although any combination of more, fewer, or different elements may be utilized.

[0027] The inner wall 111 of the profiled portion 105 extends from the center panel 103 toward and / or into the countersink 113, and the countersink 113 may define a lower end of the can end 101. The chuckwall 115 may extend from the countersink 113 to the crown 117. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the crown 117 generally includes an inner wall 121, a top wall 123, and an outer wall 125, of which the outer wall 125 includes the edge 109 of the can end 101. In various embodiments, the crown 117 and / or terminus 107 may be curled. The top wall 123 of the crown 117 may generally define an upper end of the can end 101, and as discussed in detail below with reference to FIG. 12, a distance from the upper end (defined by the top wall 123) to the lower end (defined by the countersink 113) may define a total height of the can end 101.

[0028] The particular can end 101 illustrated in FIG. 1 should not be considered limiting, and in other embodiments, a can end 101 (and sub-portions thereof) may have various shapes, profiles, and / or portions as desired. In certain embodiments, and as discussed in detail below with reference to FIG. 12, improved can ends 101 described herein may include dimensions, profiles, and / or relative dimensions and / or profiles providing improved performance A two-dimensional crosssection of the can end 101 (such as, but not limited to that shown in FIG. 1) may be rotated about a vertical axis 119 to form a symmetric three-dimensional shape for the can end 101 in use. As discussed in greater detail below, in certain embodiments, a particularized shape for the profiled portion 105 may be generated and implemented to meet specified criteria. Improved Can End Profile

[0029] As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 12, the improved can ends described herein may be characterized by various dimensions, profiles, and / or relative dimensions and / or profiles. While reference is made to can ends 401 and 1201, the following description is applicable to can ends consistent with the disclosure.

[0030] In some embodiments, and as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 12, the improved can ends described herein may be characterized as a series of arc segments.

[0031] Referring to FIG. 4, for example, the can end 401 is illustrated with a center panel 403, a profiled portion 405, a terminus 407 and an edge 409, which can be examples of the center panel 103, the profiled portion 105, the terminus 107, and the edge 109.

[0032] A center line 410 can extend through the center panel 403 and the profiled portion 405. The center line 410 can include a series of arc segments Ai-An. The series of arc segments Ai-An are shown fully within the profiled portion 405 in FIG. 4 (e.g., with the center panel 403 ending at or before a location where series of arc segments Ai-An begins). However, in some embodiments, the series of arc segments Ai-An may extend at least partially into the center panel 403 and / or at least a portion of the center panel 403 may be included within the series of arc segments Ai-An (e.g., such that at least a portion of the center panel 403 may be curved). The series of arc segments Ai-An can include an initial (or first) arc segment Ai, zero, one, or more intervening arc segments Ai, and a final arc segment An, for example. The series of arc segments Ai-An may span between an end of the center panel 403 (e.g., Po) and the terminus 407 and / or edge 409 (e.g., Pn) of the can end 401. A number (e g., “n” in the designation of the final arc segment An) and / or shape of arc segments in the profiled portion 405 can be varied to provide different profiles, e.g., resulting in a geometry that can be arbitrarily complex or simple. Representing the profiled portion 405 as a series of arc segments Ai-An may thus allow for evaluating profiles with an arbitrary number of degrees of freedom, e.g., to facilitate geometrical optimization.

[0033] The series of arc segments Ai-An may be connected end to end. For example, the initial or first arc segment Ai can include a starting point Po that abuts the center panel 403 and may extend to an ending point Pi (e.g., where a second arc segment A2 may begin). The second arc segment A2 may extend to a corresponding second ending point P2 (e.g., where a third arc segment A3 may begin and extend to a third ending point P3). More generally, each intervening arc segment Ai may include a starting point Pi-i (e.g., at which there may be an end to the arc segment Ai-i immediately preceding in the series) and may include an ending point Pi (e.g., at which a subsequent arc segment Ai-i may begin). The final arc segment An may similarly include a starting point Pn-i (e.g., at an end to the arc segment An-i immediately preceding in the series). The final arc segment An can include an ending point Pn, which may coincide with the terminus 407 and / or edge 409.

[0034] The arc segments Ai-An can be circular arc segments. Each can have its own radius R and included angle 0. For example, the initial or first arc segment Ai is shown having a radius Ri and an included angle 0i. The series of arc segments Ai-An can also be expressed in terms of terms of effect on normal vector (p relative to the center line 410. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the normal vector (po at the center panel 403 can extend vertically or at an orientation of 0°. This orientation of 0° may thus be present at Po (e.g., ending point of the center panel 403 and starting point of the initial or first arc segment Ai). The radius Ri and included angle 61 of the first arc segment Ai may impart a normal vector change A<pi over the length of the first arc segment Ai, e.g., such that a different orientation of the normal vector (pi relative to the center line 410 may be present at the ending point Pi of the first arc segment Ai. Thus the geometry of the first arc segment Ai may be expressed as a function of the radius Ri and normal vector change A<pi over the length of the first arc segment Ai. Similarly, each intervening arc segment Ai may be expressed as a function of its radius Ri and normal vector change A<pi over the length of the arc segment Ai. Generally, at an ending point Pi of a given arc segment Ai, the orientation of the normal vector (pi may be determined based on the normal vector change A<p, over the length of the arc segment Ai added to the normal vector orientation <pi-i present at the ending point Pi-i of the preceding arc segment Am. In comparison, at an opposite end of the can end 401, the normal vector (pn can be 90° at the ending point Pn of the final arc segment An (e.g., at the terminus 407 or edge 409).

[0035] In some embodiments, the series of arc segments Ai-An can include at least one segment S that approximates a straight line (e.g., given a sufficiently large radius R combined with a sufficiently small included angle 0 or normal vector change A<p). In some embodiments, the series of arc segments Ai-An can be provided without any straight-line approximating segments S and / or may be comprised solely of arc segments or curved segments. For example, in some embodiments, the series of arc segments Ai-An may include only arc segments that exhibit a normal vector change A<p of at least 0.1°.

[0036] The number of arc segments used to characterize a can end (e.g., can end 401) should not be considered limiting. As a non-limiting, and as illustrated in FIG. 12, the can end 1201 may include at least twelve arc segments (identified as arc segments 1-12). In the embodiment of FIG. 12, arc segments 1-4 may form the inner wall 111, arc segments 5-6 may form the countersink 113, arc segments 7-10 may form the chuckwall 115, and arc segments 11-13 may form the crown 117.

[0037] In certain embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, arc segment 1 may have a radius size from about 0.412 mm to about 0.618 mm, such as from about 0.463 mm to about 0.566 mm, and / or such as from about 0.489 mm to about 0.540 mm. In one non-limiting example, arc segment 1 may have a radius of about 0.515 mm. In certain embodiments, arc segment 1 may be at least 0.412 mm, such as at least 0.463 mm, and / or such as at least 0.489 mm. In various embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, arc segment 1 may have a relative angle (or change in normal vector orientation) from about 46.048° to about 30.229°, such as from about 40.689° to about 33.052°, and / or such as from about 38.460° to about 34.675°. In one non-limiting example, arc segment 1 may have a relative angle of about 36.468°. In some embodiments, the relative angle of arc segment 1 may be less than 46.048°, such as less than 40.689°, and / or such as less than 38.460°.

[0038] In various embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, arc segment 2 may have a radius size from about 58.776 mm to about 88.164 mm, such as from about 66.123 mm to about 80.817 mm, and / or such as about 69.797 mm to about 77.144 mm. In one non-limiting example, arc segment 2 may have a radius size of about 73.470 mm. In certain embodiments, arc segment 2 may have a radius size of at least 58.776, such as at least 66.123, and / or such as at least 69.797. In various embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, arc segment 2 may have a relative angle (or change in normal vector orientation) from about 1.804° to about 1.203°, such as from about 1.604° to about 1.312°, and / or such as from about 1.519° to about 1.375°. In one non-limiting example, arc segment 2 may have a relative angle of about 1.443°. In some embodiments, the relative angle of arc segment 2 may be less than 1.804°, such as less than 1.604°, and / or such as less than 1.519°.

[0039] In various embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, arc segment 3 may have a radius size from about 0.502 mm to about 0.753 mm, such as from about 0.564 mm to about 0.690 mm, and / or such as about 0.596 mm to about 0.658 mm. In one non-limiting example, arc segment 3 may have a radius size of about 0.627 mm. In certain embodiments, arc segment 3 may have a radius size of at least 0.502 mm, such as at least 0.564 mm, and / or such as at least 0.596 mm. In some embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, arc segment 3 may have a relative angle (or change in normal vector orientation) from about 39.607° to about 26.108°, such as from about 35.054° to about 28.529°, and / or such as from about 33.154° to about 29.918°. In one non-limiting example, arc segment 3 may have a relative angle of about 31.452°. In some embodiments, the relative angle of arc segment 3 may be less than 39.607°, such as less than 35.054°, and / or such as less than 33.154°.

[0040] In some embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, arc segment 4 may have a radius size from about 22.929 mm to about 34.393 mm, such as from about 25.795 mm to about 31.527 mm, and / or such as about 27.228 mm to about 30.094 mm. In one non-limiting example, arc segment 4 may have a radius size of about 28.661 mm. In certain embodiments, arc segment 4 may have a radius size of at least 22.929 mm, such as at least 25.795 mm, and / or such as at least 27.228 mm. In some embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, arc segment 4 may have a relative angle (or change in normal vector orientation) from about 4.142° to about 2.761°, such as from about 3.682° to about 3.012°, and / or such as from about 3.488° to about 3.156°. In one nonlimiting example, arc segment 4 may have a relative angle of about 3.313°. In some embodiments, the relative angle of arc segment 4 may be less than 4.142°, such as less than 3.682°, and / or such as less than 3.488°.

[0041] In various embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, arc segment 5 may have a radius size from about 0.381 mm to about 0.572 mm, such as from about 0.429 mm to about 0.524 mm, and / or such as about 0.453 mm to about 0.501 mm. In one non-limiting example, arc segment 5 may have a radius size of about 0.477 mm. In certain embodiments, arc segment 5 may have a radius size of at least 0.381 mm, such as at least 0.429 mm, and / or such as at least 0.453 mm. In some embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, arc segment 5 may have a relative angle (or change in normal vector orientation) from about -100.514° to about -61.676°, such as from about -86.233° to about -68.003°, and / or such as from about -80.708° to about -71.725°. In one nonlimiting example, arc segment 5 may have a relative angle of about -75.924°. In some embodiments, the relative angle of arc segment 5 may be less than -100.514°, such as less than -86.233°, and / or such as less than -80.708°.

[0042] In various embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, arc segment 6 may have a radius size from about 0.163 mm to about 0.244 mm, such as from about 0.183 mm to about 0.224 mm, and / or such as from about 0.193 mm to about 0.213 mm. In one non-limiting example, arc segment 6 may have a radius size of about 0.203 mm. In certain embodiments, arc segment 6 may have a radius size of at least 0.163 mm, such as at least 0.183 mm, and / or such as at least 0.193 mm. In some embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, arc segment 6 may have a relative angle (or change in normal vector orientation) from about -107.030° to about -64.825°, such as from about -91.234° to about -71.569°, and / or such as from about -85.229° to about -75.553°. In one non-limiting example, arc segment 6 may have a relative angle of about -80.063°. In some embodiments, the relative angle of arc segment 6 may be less than -107.030°, such as less than -91.234°, and / or such as less than -85.229°.

[0043] In certain embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, arc segment 7 may have a radius size from about 205.641 mm to about 308.461 mm, such as from about 231.346 mm to about 282.756 mm, and / or such as from about 244.198 mm to about 269.903 mm. In one nonlimiting example, arc segment 7 may have a radius size of about 257.051. In some embodiments, arc segment 7 may have a radius size of at least 205.641 mm, such as at least 231.346 mm, and / or such as at least 244.298 mm. In some embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, arc segment 7 may have a relative angle (or change in normal vector orientation) from about -0.301° to about -0.201°, such as from about -0.267° to about -0.219°, and / or such as from about -0.253° to about -0.229°. In one non-limiting example, arc segment 7 may have a relative angle of about -0.241°. In some embodiments, the relative angle of arc segment 7 may be less than -0.301°, such as less than -0.267°, and / or such as less than -0.253°.

[0044] In various embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, arc segment 8 may have a radius size from about 2.210 mm to about 3.315 mm, such as from about 2.486 mm to about 3.039 mm, and / or such as from about 2.624 mm to about 2.900 mm. In one non-limiting example, arc segment 8 may have a radius size of about 2.762 mm. In some embodiments, arc segment 8 may have a radius size of at least 2.210 mm, such as at least 2.486 mm, and / or such as at least 2.624 mm. In some embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, arc segment 8 may have a relative angle (or change in normal vector orientation) from about 63.449° to about 41.043°, such as from about 55.733° to about 44.968°, and / or such as from about 52.567° to about 47.236°. In one nonlimiting example, arc segment 8 may have a relative angle of about 49.754°. In some embodiments, the relative angle of arc segment 8 may be less than 73.449°, such as less than 55.733°, and / or such as less than 52.567°.

[0045] In certain embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, arc segment 9 may have a radius size from about 3.989 mm to about 5.983 mm, such as from about 4.487 mm to about 5.485 mm, and / or such as from about 4.737 mm to about 5.235 mm. In one non-limiting example, arc segment 9 may have a radius size of about 4.986 mm. In some embodiments, arc segment 9 may have a radius size of at least 3.989 mm, such as at least 4.487 mm, and / or such as at least 4.737 mm. In various embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, arc segment 9 may have a relative angle (or change in normal vector orientation) from about -43.954° to about -28.894°, such as from about -38.860° to about -31.587°, and / or such as from about -36.739° to about -33.133°. In one non-limiting example, arc segment 9 may have a relative angle of about -34.841°. In some embodiments, the relative angle of arc segment 9 may be less than -43.954°, such as less than -38.860°, and / or such as less than -36.739°.

[0046] In various embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, arc segment 10 may have a radius size from about 2.201 mm to about 3.302 mm, such as from about 2.477 mm to about 3.027 mm, and / or such as from about 2.614 mm to about 2.889 mm. In one non-limiting example, arc segment 10 may have a radius size of about 2.752 mm. In some embodiments, arc segment 10 may have a radius size of at least 2.201 mm, such as at least 2.477 mm, and / or at least 2.614 mm. In various embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, arc segment 10 may have a relative angle (or change in normal vector orientation) from about 13.300° to about 8.856°, such as from about 11.817° to about 9.662°, and / or such as from about 11.193° to about 10.124°. In one non-limiting example, arc segment 10 may have a relative angle of about 10.631°. In some embodiments, the relative angle of arc segment 10 may be less than 13.300°, such as less than 11.817°, and / or such as less than 11.193°.

[0047] In certain embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, arc segment 11 may have a radius size from about 1.788 mm to about 1.976 mm. In one non-limiting example, arc segment 11 may have a radius size of about 1.882 mm. In some embodiments, arc segment 11 may have a radius size of at least 1.788 mm. In various embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, arc segment 11 may have a relative angle (or change in normal vector orientation) from about 61.465° to about 67.935°. Tn one non-limiting example, arc segment 11 may have a relative angle of about 64.700°. In some embodiments, the relative angle of arc segment 11 may be less than 61.465°.

[0048] In various embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, arc segment 12 may have a radius size from about 5.384 mm to about 5.950 mm. In one non-limiting example, arc segment 12 may have a radius size of about 5.667 mm. In some embodiments, arc segment 12 may have a radius size of at least 5.384 mm. In some embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, arc segment 12 may have a relative angle (or change in normal vector orientation) from about 19.000° to about 21.000°. In one non-limiting example, arc segment 12 may have a relative angle of about 20.000°. In some embodiments, the relative angle of arc segment 12 may be less than 19.000°.

[0049] In various embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, arc segment 13 may have a radius size from about 0.823 mm to about 0.909 mm. In one non-limiting example, arc segment 13 may have a radius size of about 0.866 mm. In some embodiments, arc segment 13 may have a radius size of at least 0.823 mm. In certain embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, arc segment 13 may have a relative angle (or change in normal vector orientation) from about 74.100° to about 81.900°. In one non-limiting example, arc segment 13 may have a relative angle of about 78.000°. In some embodiments, the relative angle of arc segment 13 may be less than 74.100°.

[0050] Optionally, in certain embodiments, the crown 117 of the can end (e.g., defined by arc segments 11-13) may be generally unchanging, and the arc segments defining the inner wall, countersink, and chuckwall (e.g., arc segments 1-10) may be controlled to provide can ends with improved buckle strength and / or performance. In other embodiments, the arc segments defining the crown 117 may be varied as desired.

[0051] In addition to the arc segments, and as discussed below with reference to FIG. 12, the improved can ends described herein may be characterized by various dimensions, profiles, and / or relative dimensions and / or profiles.

[0052] As illustrated in FIG. 12, the countersink 113 of the can end 1201 generally has a countersink center 1239, which is the lowest point of the countersink 113. As illustrated in FIG. 12, the crown 117 of the can end 1201 generally has a crown transition point 1241 (e.g., the point between arc segment 11 and arc segment 12 in FIG. 12, and / or the transition point between the inner wall 121 and the top wall 123) in which the crown 117 transitions from extending more vertically (e.g., the arc segment 11) to extending more horizontally (e.g., arc segment 12). The crown transition point 1241 is not necessarily a topmost portion (or center) of the crown 117, although it may be in some embodiments. In various embodiments, the more vertically extending arc segment defining the crown transition point 1241 (e.g., arc segment 11 and / or the inner wall 121) includes a segment center 1243.

[0053] In certain embodiments, the can end 1201 includes an inner diameter 1231, which is defined as the distance between countersink transition points 1239 on opposing sides of the can end 1201. The inner diameter 1231 may be various diameters as desired, and the inner diameters illustrated and described should not be considered limiting. In certain embodiments, the profiles and / or dimensions of the profiled portion of the can end may provide improved buckle strength and / or performance regardless of a particular inner diameter size.

[0054] In certain embodiments, the can end 1201 includes an inner profile offset 1233, which is defined as the distance between the countersink transition point 1239 and the segment center 1243 of more vertically extending arc segment defining the crown transition point 1241 (e.g., arc segment 11 and / or the inner wall 121) of the crown 117. The inner profile offset 1233 may be various diameters as desired. In some embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, the inner profile offset 1233 may be from about 4.195 mm to about 6.293 mm, such as from about 4.720 mm to about 5.768 mm, and / or such as from about 4.982 mm to about 5.507 mm. In one nonlimiting example, inner profile offset 1233 may be about 5.244 mm. In certain embodiments, inner profile offset 1233 may be at least 4.195 mm, such as at least 4.719 mm, and / or such as at least 4.982 mm.

[0055] As illustrated in FIG. 12, in various embodiments, the can end 1201 includes a panel height 1235, which is defined as the distance from the lower end of the can end 1201 (e.g., as defined by the countersink) to the center panel 103. The panel height 1235 may be various heights as desired. In some embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, the panel height 1235 may be from about 2.935 mm to about 4.402 mm, such as from about 3.301 mm to about 4.035 mm, and / or such as from about 3.485 mm to about 3.852 mm. In one non-limiting example, the panel height 1235 may be about 3.668. In some embodiments, the panel height 1235 may be at least 2.935 mm, such as at least 3.301 mm, and / or such as at least 3.485 mm.

[0056] In some embodiments, the can end 1201 includes a total height 1237, which is defined as the distance from the lower end of the can end 1201 (e.g., as defined by the countersink) to the upper end of the can end 1201 (e.g., as defined by the crown 117). The total height 1237 may be various heights as desired. In some embodiments, within manufacturing tolerances, the total height 1237 may be from about 5.524 mm to about 8.286 mm, such as from about 6.215 mm to about 7.596 mm, and / or such as from about 6.560 mm to about 7.251 mm. In one non-limiting example, the total height 1237 may be about 6.905 mm. In certain embodiments, the total height 1237 may be at least 5.524 mm, such as at least 6.215 mm, and / or such as at least 6.560 mm.

[0057] In one non-limiting example, a can end 1201 having the inner profde offset 1233 from about 4.195 mm to about 6.293 mm, the panel height 1235 from about 2.935 mm to about 4.402 mm, and the total height 1237 from about 5.524 mm to about 8.286 mm may have improved performance compared to traditional can end designs. As a further non-limiting example, a can end 1201 having the inner profile offset 1233 from about 4.720 mm to about 5.769 mm, the panel height 1235 from about 3.301 mm to about 4.035 mm, and the total height 1237 from about 6.215 to about 7.596 mm may have improved performance compared to traditional can end designs. As another non-limiting example, a can end 1201 having the inner profile offset 1233 from about 4.982 mm to about 5.507 mm, the panel height 1235 from about 3.485 mm to about 3.852 mm, and the total height 1237 from about 6.560 mm to about 7.251 mm may have improved performance compared to traditional can end designs. In a further non-limiting example, a can end 120 having the inner profile offset 1233 of about 5.244 mm, the panel height 1235 of about 3.668 mm, and the total height 1237 of 6.905 mm may have improved performance compared to traditional can end designs.

[0058] As discussed in detail below, can ends with the aforementioned arc segments and / or dimensions (e.g., inner profile offset 1233, panel height 1235, and / or total height 1237) may be improved can ends optimizing buckle strength and mass compared to traditional can ends. In certain embodiments, the can ends may have improved buckle strength, thereby allowing for materials with high recycling content and / or lower strength, such as but not limited to a 3xxx series aluminum alloy, to be utilized in place of traditional materials used for can ends (e.g., 5xxx series aluminum alloys). As one non-limiting example, the can ends described herein may utilize AA3104 as the material for the can end. Additionally, or alternatively, the can ends described herein have improved buckle strength, thereby allowing for a thinner gauge material to be utilized for the can end, such as but not limited to a high-strength, low-recycling aluminum alloy such as a 5xxx series aluminum alloy. As one non-limiting example, the can ends described herein may utilize a thinner gauge of AA5182 as the material for the can end compared to traditional can ends such as but not limited to the B64 type can end and the CDL type can end. Various other benefits and advantages may be realized with the systems and methods described herein, and the aforementioned benefits and advantages should not be considered limiting. Specific Examples of Can End Profiles

[0059] FIG. 6 illustrates a portion of a can end 601 having specified values for a series of arc segments A1-A14 (denoted as segments 1 through 14 in FIG. 6) connected end to end according to some embodiments. The can end 601 may correspond to the example selection 512 or other selection in accordance with block 208 of process 200 and / or block 308 of process 300, for example.

[0060] FIG. 7 illustrates a non-limiting example of a set of specified values. The values may correspond to the series of arc segments Ai-Am shown in FIG. 6, for example. The series A1-A14 as represented in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 includes an initial arc segment Ai, various intervening arc segments A2-A13, and a final arc segment Au. The series of arc segments A1-A14 is arranged such that the initial arc segment starting point abuts the center panel, each intervening arc segment starting point and the final arc segment starting point abuts the ending point of the arc segment immediately preceding in the series, and the final arc segment ending point is at the terminus of the edge of the can end. Each arc segment extends from a starting point to an ending point along a path defined by a radius size (e.g., in millimeters (mm), such as shown in the middle column in FIG. 7) and a change in normal vector orientation (e.g., in degrees (°), such as shown in the right column in FIG. 7 labeled relative angle). A positive number in the relative angle column may correspond to a change or rotation in the clockwise direction, while a negative number may correspond to a counterclockwise direction. Values may be given within manufacturing tolerances, which may correspond to within ±0.001 mm and / or within 0.001° and / or other suitable amounts.

[0061] As represented in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, within manufacturing tolerances, the series of arc segments A1-A14 in sequential order can include a first arc segment (corresponding to the initial arc segment and defined by a radius size of 0.463 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 47.800°), a second arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 77.600 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 0.510°), a third arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.476 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 42.730°), a fourth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 38.100 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 0.530°), a fifth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.657 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -93.620°), a sixth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.303 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -85.690°), a seventh arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 195.200 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -0.450°), an eighth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 2.090 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 45.240°), a ninth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 2.670 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -32.980°), a tenth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 2.520 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 24.930°), an eleventh arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 1.620 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 45.000°), a twelfth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 3.040 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 25.000°), a thirteenth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 1.310 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 45.000°), and a fourteenth arc segment (corresponding to the final arc segment and defined by a radius size of 0.726 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 26.000°).The series of arc segments A1-A14 may be implemented relative to a base diameter of 41.478 mm or other value. For example, the base diameter may correspond to a largest dimension of the center panel 103 and / or a dimension between initial arc segment starting points on opposite sides of the center panel.

[0062] FIG. 8 illustrates a portion of a can end 701 having specified values for a series of arc segments A1-A12 (denoted as segments 1 through 12 in FIG. 8) connected end to end according to some embodiments. The can end 701 may correspond to a selection from FIG. 5 or other selection in accordance with block 208 of process 200 and / or block 308 of process 300, for example.

[0063] FIG. 9 illustrates a non-limiting example of a set of specified values. The values may correspond to the series of arc segments A1-A12 shown in FIG. 8, for example. The series A1-A12 as represented in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 includes an initial arc segment Ai, various intervening arc segments A2-A11, and a final arc segment A12. The series of arc segments A1-A12 is arranged such that the initial arc segment starting point abuts the center panel, each intervening arc segment starting point and the final arc segment starting point abuts the ending point of the arc segment immediately preceding in the series, and the final arc segment ending point is at the terminus of the edge of the can end. Each arc segment extends from a starting point to an ending point along a path defined by a radius size (e.g., in millimeters (mm), such as shown in the middle column in FIG. 9) and a change in normal vector orientation (e.g., in degrees (°), such as shown in the right column in FIG. 9 labeled relative angle). A positive number in the relative angle column may correspond to a change or rotation in the clockwise direction, while a negative number may correspond to a counterclockwise direction. Values may be given within manufacturing tolerances, which may correspond to within ±0.001 mm and / or within 0.001° and / or other suitable amounts.

[0064] As represented in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9, within manufacturing tolerances, the series of arc segments A1-A12 in sequential order can include a first arc segment (corresponding to the initial arc segment and defined by a radius size of 0.508 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 32.044°), a second arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 82.150 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 1.677°), a third arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.575 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 34.298°), a fourth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 27.150 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 3.483°), a fifth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.550 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -77.578°), a sixth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.213 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -73.845°), a seventh arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 247.800 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 0.371°), an eighth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 2.604 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 46.497°), a ninth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 5.474 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -38.524°), a tenth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 1.882 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 64.700°), an eleventh arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 5.667 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 20.000°), and a twelfth arc segment (corresponding to the final arc segment and defined by a radius size of 0.866 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 78.000°). The series of arc segments A1-A12 may be implemented relative to a base diameter of 35.860 mm or other value. For example, the base diameter may correspond to a largest dimension of the center panel 103 and / or a dimension between initial arc segment starting points on opposite sides of the center panel.

[0065] FIG. 10 illustrates another non-limiting example of a set of specified values. The values may correspond to the series of arc segments A1-A12 shown in FIG. 8, for example. The series Ai-A12 as represented in FIG. 8 and FIG. 10 includes an initial arc segment Ai, various intervening arc segments A2-A11, and a final arc segment A12. The series of arc segments A1-A12 is arranged such that the initial arc segment starting point abuts the center panel, each intervening arc segment starting point and the final arc segment starting point abuts the ending point of the arc segment immediately preceding in the series, and the final arc segment ending point is at the terminus of the edge of the can end. Each arc segment extends from a starting point to an ending point along a path defined by a radius size (e.g., in millimeters (mm), such as shown in the middle column in FIG. 10) and a change in normal vector orientation (e.g., in degrees (°), such as shown in the right column in FIG. 10 labeled relative angle). A positive number in the relative angle column may correspond to a change or rotation in the clockwise direction, while a negative number may correspond to a counterclockwise direction. Values may be given within manufacturing tolerances, which may correspond to within ±0.001 mm and / or within 0.001° and / or other suitable amounts.

[0066] As represented in FIG. 8 and FIG. 10, within manufacturing tolerances, the series of arc segments A1-A12 in sequential order can include a first arc segment (corresponding to the initial arc segment and defined by a radius size of 0.529 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 35.312°), a second arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 79.680 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -0.206°), a third arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.567 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 36.685°), a fourth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 28.069 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 4.251°), a fifth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.702 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -76.916°), a sixth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.232 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -73.606°), a seventh arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 193.100 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 0.510°), an eighth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 2.363 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 52.548°), a ninth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 4.908 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -50.918°), a tenth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 1.882 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 64.704°), an eleventh arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 5.667 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 20.000°), and a twelfth arc segment (corresponding to the final arc segment and defined by a radius size of 0.866 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 78.000°). The series of arc segments A1-A12 may be implemented relative to a base diameter of 37.920 mm or other value. For example, the base diameter may correspond to a largest dimension of the center panel 103 and / or a dimension between initial arc segment starting points on opposite sides of the center panel.

[0067] FIG. 12 illustrates a portion of a can end 1201 having specified values for a series of arc segments A1-A13 (denoted as segments 1 through 13 in FIG. 12) connected end to end according to some embodiments. The can end 1201 may correspond to a selection from FIG. 5 or other selection in accordance with block 208 of process 200 and / or block 308 of process 300, for example.

[0068] FIG. 13 illustrates a non-limiting example of a set of specified values. The values may correspond to the series of arc segments A1-A13 shown in FIG. 12, for example. The series A1-A13 as represented in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 includes an initial arc segment Ai, various intervening arc segments A2-A12, and a final arc segment A13. The series of arc segments A1-A13 is arranged such that the initial arc segment starting point abuts the center panel, each intervening arc segment starting point and the final arc segment starting point abuts the ending point of the arc segment immediately preceding in the series, and the final arc segment ending point is at the terminus of the edge of the can end. Each arc segment extends from a starting point to an ending point along a path defined by a radius size (e.g., in millimeters (mm), such as shown in the middle column in FIG. 13) and a change in normal vector orientation (e.g., in degrees (°), such as shown in the right column in FIG. 13 labeled relative angle). A positive number in the relative angle column may correspond to a change or rotation in the clockwise direction, while a negative number may correspond to a counterclockwise direction. Values may be given within manufacturing tolerances, which may correspond to within ±0.001 mm and / or within 0.001° and / or other suitable amounts.

[0069] As represented in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13, within manufacturing tolerances, the series of arc segments A1-A13 in sequential order can include a first arc segment (corresponding to the initial arc segment and defined by a radius size of 0.505 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 43.143°), a second arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 75.130 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 1.562°), a third arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.551 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 30.015°), a fourth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 24.510 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 3 .477°), a fifth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.461 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -75.432°), a sixth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.183 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -77.989°), a seventh arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 203.500 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 0.504°), an eighth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 3.007 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 40.843°), a ninth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 5.157 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -35.677°), a tenth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 2.750 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 11.557°), an eleventh arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 1.882 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 49.997°), a twelfth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 5.667 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 20.000°), and a thirteenth arc segment (corresponding to the final arc segment and defined by a radius size of 0.866 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 78.000°). The series of arc segments A1-A13 may be implemented relative to a base diameter of 38.280 mm or other value. For example, the base diameter may correspond to a largest dimension of the center panel 103 and / or a dimension between initial arc segment starting points on opposite sides of the center panel.

[0070] FIG. 14 illustrates another non-limiting example of a set of specified values. The values may correspond to the series of arc segments A1-A13 shown in FIG. 2, for example. The series Ai-Ab as represented in FIG. 12 and FIG. 14 includes an initial arc segment Ai, various intervening arc segments A2-A12, and a final arc segment A13. The series of arc segments A1-A13 is arranged such that the initial arc segment starting point abuts the center panel, each intervening arc segment starting point and the final arc segment starting point abuts the ending point of the arc segment immediately preceding in the series, and the final arc segment ending point is at the terminus of the edge of the can end. Each arc segment extends from a starting point to an ending point along a path defined by a radius size (e.g., in millimeters (mm), such as shown in the middle column in FIG. 14) and a change in normal vector orientation (e.g., in degrees (°), such as shown in the right column in FIG. 14 labeled relative angle). A positive number in the relative angle column may correspond to a change or rotation in the clockwise direction, while a negative number may correspond to a counterclockwise direction. Values may be given within manufacturing tolerances, which may correspond to within ±0.001 mm and / or within 0.001° and / or other suitable amounts.

[0071] As represented in FIG. 12 and FIG. 14, within manufacturing tolerances, the series of arc segments A1-A13 in sequential order can include a first arc segment (corresponding to the initial arc segment and defined by a radius size of 0.515 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 36.468°), a second arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 73.470 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 1.443°), a third arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.627 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 31.452°), a fourth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 28.661 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 3.313°), a fifth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.477 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -75.924°), a sixth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.203 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -80.063°), a seventh arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 257.050 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -0.241°), an eighth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 2.762 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 49.754°), a ninth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 4.986 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -34.841°), a tenth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 2.752 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 10.631°), an eleventh arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 1.882 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 50.007°), a twelfth arc segment (corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 5.667 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 20.000°), and a thirteenth arc segment (corresponding to the final arc segment and defined by a radius size of 0.866 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 78.000°). The series of arc segments A1-A13 may be implemented relative to a base diameter of 39.039 mm or other value. For example, the base diameter may correspond to a largest dimension of the center panel 103 and / or a dimension between initial arc segment starting points on opposite sides of the center panel.

[0072] In certain embodiments, the specific sets of specified values for a series of arc segments connected end to end to define a can end as illustrated in FIGS. 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, and 14 may be improved can ends optimizing buckle strength and mass compared to traditional can ends. In various embodiments, the specific sets of specified values for a series of arc segments connected end to end to define a can end as illustrated in FIGS. 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, and 14 may be profiles on the Pareto front. In certain embodiments, the specific values defining a can end as illustrated in FIGS. 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, and 14 may provide improved buckle strength to the can end, thereby allowing for materials with high recycling content and / or lower strength, such as but not limited to a 3xxx series aluminum alloy, to be utilized in place of traditional materials used for can ends (e.g., 5xxx series aluminum alloys). As one non-limiting example, the specific values defining a can end as illustrated in FIGS. 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, and 14 may allow for the use of AA3104 as the material for the can end. Additionally, or alternatively, the specific values defining a can end as illustrated in FIGS. 7, 9, 10, 13, and 14 may provide improved buckle strength, thereby allowing for a thinner gauge material to be utilized for the can end, such as but not limited to a high-strength, low-recycling aluminum alloy such as a 5xxx series aluminum alloy. As one non-limiting example, the specific values defining a can end as illustrated in FIGS. 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, and 14 may allow for the use of a thinner gauge of AA5182 as the material for the can end compared to traditional can ends such as but not limited to the B64 type can end and the CDL type can end. Processes

[0073] In FIG. 2, a flowchart illustrating a process 200 is shown, according to various embodiments. Various blocks of the process 200 may relate to features shown in other figures herein, however, additional, or alternative components may be used with the process.

[0074] The process 200 at block 202 can include providing a parameterized representation of a can end 101. Any suitable form of parameterized representation may be utilized. Examples may include a series of arc segments connected end to end (e.g., as described with respect to FIG. 3), splines, mathematical functions connecting with 1st order continuity, or any other representation having parameters where values may be modified to obtain different can end profiles. Generally, any number of segments may be utilized, from one upwards.

[0075] The process 200 at block 204 can include generating a set of can end profiles having differing parameter values. The set of can end profiles generated at block 204 may be produced based on the parameterized representation provided at block 202. For example, different values for the parameters may be input and provide an output that includes different can end profiles that can be aggregated or collected into a suitable set. Examples of different parameters that may be modified may include arc segment length, covered angle or included angle, change in normal vector orientation, or other indicators of orientation and / or magnitude, arc segment radius, parameters of a mathematical function, or other parameters. Combinations of different values to be input for the parameters may be supplied by a machine learning algorithm or other suitable generation technique.

[0076] The process 200 at block 206 can include evaluating the set of can end profiles according to specified criteria. The specified criteria can be applied to the set of can end profiles generated at block 204, for example. The specified criteria can relate to factors such as a buckle pressure, mass, a strength or other material property, an alloy type, a gauge or thickness, maximum material stress or strain, bending radius, or other factors related to the evaluated can end profile. Some factors may be evaluated with other factors assumed or given. For example, a buckle pressure and / or a mass may be evaluated or calculated based on a given alloy, gauge, and / or geometry of an evaluated can end profile. As another example, one or more suitable alloy options may be determined based on a given buckle pressure, mass, gauge, and / or geometry of an evaluated can end profile.

[0077] The process 200 at block 208 can include selecting a can end profde from the set based on performance relative to the criteria. The selection may be based at least in part on the evaluation from block 206. For example, a particular can end profile may be selected based on exhibiting a buckle pressure over a specific threshold amount, exhibiting a mass under a certain threshold amount, smallest bending radius over a certain amount, maximum material strain under a certain amount, and / or meeting, exceeding, or falling under other set thresholds for other criteria (e.g., with a particular gauge and / or alloy employed).

[0078] The process 200 at block 210 can include forming a can end with the selected can end profile. For example, a can end may be formed with the profile selected at block 208. The can end may be formed utilizing a can end forming system, for example.

[0079] In FIG. 3, a flowchart illustrating a process 300 is shown, according to various embodiments. Various blocks of the process 300 may relate to features shown in other figures herein, however, additional or alternative components may be used with the process. The process 300 may correspond to a particularized and / or more specific implementation of the process 200.

[0080] The process 300 at block 302 can include providing a parameterized representation of a can end 101. The parameterized representation may correspond to a series of arc segments connected end to end.

[0081] The process 300 at block 304 can include generating a set of can end profiles. The set of can end profiles generated at block 304 may be produced based on the parameterized representation provided at block 302. The set may include profiles that differ from one another. The profiles may have different series of arc segments that differ in a combination of arc segment length (or arc segment included angle) and radius. As one example, two different profiles in the set may include a total of 14 arc segments but may differ from one another in terms of the relative size, length, and / or orientation of at least some of those 14 arc segments. Some profiles in the set generated at block 304 may have different numbers of arc segments from one another. For example, differing profiles may include two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen, or more arc segments. Profiles may include more, fewer, or equal number of arc segments compared to other profiles.

[0082] The process 300 at block 306 can include evaluating the set of can end profiles according to buckle pressure and mass criteria. The specified criteria can be applied to the set of can end profiles generated at block 304, for example. For example, the different can end profiles in the set can be evaluated to determine a buckle pressure and an amount of mass that would be exhibited in a can end profile implemented with a particular alloy and / or a particular gauge.

[0083] The process 300 at block 308 can include selecting a can end profile from the set based on performance relative to buckle pressure and mass criteria. The selection may be based at least in part on the evaluation from block 306. For example, a can end profile may be selected that exhibits a buckle pressure over 90 pounds per square inch (psi) and a mass under 2.2 grams (e.g., which may correspond to industry expectations for can ends 101). A profile may be selected at block 308 based on the evaluation at block 306 indicating that the evaluated profile is suitable for meeting the criteria when implementing with a 3xxx series aluminum alloy, such as but not limited to AA3104, with a higher recycled content than a 5xxx series aluminum alloy such as but not limited to AA5182 that is prevalently used in can ends. Additionally, or alternatively, a profile may be selected at block 308 based on the evaluation at block 306 indicating that the evaluated profile is suitable for meeting the criteria when implementing with a 5xxx series aluminum alloy or other selected aluminum alloy.

[0084] The process 300 at block 310 can include forming a can end with the selected can end profile. For example, a can end can be formed with the profile selected at block 308. The can end may be formed utilizing a can end forming system, for example.

[0085] FIG. 5 is a chart illustrating an example output 500 of an evaluation. The evaluation may correspond to action performed at block 206 of process 200 and / or block 306 of process 300. For example, the parameterized representation of the can end 401 discussed with respect to FIG. 4 may be provided at block 202 of process 200 and / or block 302 of process 300, and varying values may be input to generate a set of can end profiles in accordance with block 204 of process 200 and / or block 304 of process 300. The set of can end profiles may be evaluated in accordance with block 206 of process 200 and / or block 306 of process 300, and the evaluation may provide the output 500. The evaluation may be performed according to buckle pressure and mass criteria according to some embodiments.

[0086] The output 500 represents a chart with simulation results relative to a set of generated can end profiles. The set of generated profiles were subjected to simulations to indicate buckle pressure and mass of each can end profile, and these results were plotted on the chart along an X-axis representing mass values (in grams) and along a Y-axis representing buckle pressure (in pounds per square inch or PSI). As indicated by key 502, points may represent profiles that were generated with randomly assigned values within the parameterized representation of the can end 401 in some instances, or in other instances may represent profiles that were generated with values assigned by a machine learning algorithm. Some methods of generating different sets of parameters may include "latin-hypercube", "Monte-Carlo" (i.e., random), or a suitable machine learning algorithm, such as gradient boosting or Bayesian optimization. A Pareto front represented by a line 504 was established to identify profiles of interest. A reference value 510 was plotted for comparison and represented values for a commercially available can end. An example selection 512 is shown, representing a profile selected based on favorable characteristics with respect to mass and buckle pressure. The example selection 512 may correspond to a selection in accordance with block 208 of process 200 and / or block 308 of process 300, for example, which may be suitable for forming a can end with the selected can end profile in accordance with block 208 of process 200 and / or block 308 of process 300. System for Can End Production

[0087] FIG. 11 is a simplified schematic diagram that illustrates examples of control aspects of systems that may be implemented for production of can ends according to various examples. A controller 802 can communicate information and / or instructions associated with a system 800, such as may be utilized for performance of one or more actions described herein. The controller 802 can be communicatively coupled to a user interface 808, a can end forming system 810, a can end measuring system 814, and / or other associated elements. The controller 802 can communicate via a wired or wireless connection, and the controller 802 can include memory 804 and a processor 806. The memory 804 and the processor 806 can be included in a single structure. However, the memory 804 and processor 806 may be part of a system of multiple interconnected devices.

[0088] The memory 804 can include any type of memory device that retains stored information when powered off. The memory 804 can be or include electrically erasable and programmable read-only memory (“EEPROM”), flash memory, or any other type of non-volatile memory. In some examples, at least part of the memory 804 can include a medium from which the processor 806 can read instructions. A non-transitory computer-readable medium can include electronic, optical, magnetic, or other storage devices capable of providing the processor 806 with computer-readable instructions or other program code. Non-limiting examples of a computer-readable medium include (but are not limited to) magnetic disk(s), memory chip(s), ROM, random-access memory (“RAM”), an ASIC, a configured processor, optical storage, or any other medium from which a computer processor can read instructions. The instructions can include processor-specific instructions generated by a compiler or an interpreter from code written in any suitable computerprogramming language, including, for example, C, C++, C#, etc.

[0089] The processor 806 can execute instructions stored in the memory 804 to perform operations, for example, operations denoted with respect to process 200 and / or 300 and / or receiving input from and / or outputting to the user interface 808, the can end forming system 810, and / or the can end measuring system 814, and / or controlling operation of related components. The processor 806 can include one processing device or multiple processing devices. Non-limiting examples of the processor 806 include a Field-Programmable Gate Array (“FPGA”), an application-specific integrated circuit (“ASIC”), a microprocessor, etc.

[0090] The controller 802 may communicate with, or otherwise control, the various components of the system 800. In one example, the controller 802 may interact with the user interface 808 to receive input parameters to be utilized and / or to present results of evaluations or other analysis. In another example, the controller 802 can control an actuator 812 of the can end forming system 810 to cause the can end forming system 810 to form a can end, such as in accordance with block 210 of process 200 and / or block 310 of process 300. The actuator 812 can be coupled with and / or include suitable punches, ironing devices, forms, or other tools, for example. In a further example, the controller 802 may interface with a sensor 816 of the can end measuring system 814 to receive input suitable to determine if a can end measured by the sensor 816 conforms to a profile implemented in accordance with the process 200 and / or the process 300. Non-limiting examples of suitable sensors 816 may include laser-based sensors, cameras or other optical sensors (e.g., which may provide information that may be subjected to image recognition algorithms), formfollowing probes, or other tools. Illustrative Aspects

[0091] A collection of exemplary aspects of embodiments is provided below, including at least some explicitly enumerated as an “aspect” providing additional description of a variety of example embodiments in accordance with the concepts described herein. These aspects are not meant to be mutually exclusive, exhaustive, or restrictive; and the disclosure not limited to these example aspects but rather encompasses all possible modifications and variations within the scope of the issued claims and their equivalents. In some aspects, a device, a system, or a method is provided according to one or more of the following illustrative aspects or according to some combination of the elements thereof. In some aspects, features of a device or a system described in one or more of these aspects can be utilized within a method described in one of the other aspects, or vice versa.

[0092] Aspect 1. A method of can end production (and which may include any features of any other subsequent aspects individually or in combination), the method comprising: providing a parameterized representation of a can end; generating, according to the parameterized representation of the can end, a set of can end profiles having differing parameter values; evaluating the set of can end profiles according to specified criteria; and selecting a can end profile from the set based on performance relative to the criteria.

[0093] Aspect 2. The method of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, further comprising: forming a can end having the selected can end profile.

[0094] Aspect 3. The method of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein the parameterized representation comprises a series of arc segments connected end to end.

[0095] Aspect 4. The method of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein the differing parameter values differ in a combination of arc segment included angle and radius.

[0096] Aspect 5. The method of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein the specified criteria comprises pressure and mass criteria.

[0097] Aspect 6. A method of can end production (and which may include any features of any other subsequent aspects individually or in combination), the method comprising: providing a parameterized representation of a can end that comprises a series of arc segments connected end to end; generating a set of can end profiles having the series of arc segments that differ in a combination of arc segment included angle and radius; evaluating the set of can end profiles according to buckle pressure and mass criteria; and selecting a can end profile from the set of can end profiles based on performance relative to the buckle pressure and mass criteria.

[0098] Aspect 7. The method of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, further comprising: forming a can end having the selected can end profile.

[0099] Aspect 8. The method of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein at least some of the can end profiles in the set of can end profiles differ from one another in terms of a number of arc segments included.

[0100] Aspect 9. The method of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein the series of arc segments extend between a center panel and an edge of the can end.

[0101] Aspect 10. The method of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein the series of arc segments extends at least partially into the center panel such that at least a portion of the center panel is curved.

[0102] Aspect 11. The method of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein the set of can end profdes excludes straight line segments between a center panel and an edge of the can end.

[0103] Aspect 12. The method of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein the evaluating is based on implementing the set of can end profdes with one or more aluminum alloys.

[0104] Aspect 13. The method of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein the one or more aluminum alloys includes a 3xxx series aluminum alloy or a 5xxx series aluminum alloy.

[0105] Aspect 14. The method of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein the parameterized representation includes a radius and a normal vector change for each arc.

[0106] Aspect 15. A can end (and which may include any features of any other subsequent aspects individually or in combination) comprising: a center panel; an edge; and a profded portion comprising a series of arc segments connected end to end and spanning between an end of the center panel and the edge.

[0107] Aspect 16. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein the series of arc segments extends at least partially into the center panel such that at least a portion of the center panel is curved.

[0108] Aspect 17. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein the series excludes straight line segments between the center panel and the edge of the can end.

[0109] Aspect 18. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein the can end comprises one or more aluminum alloys.

[0110] Aspect 19. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein the one or more aluminum alloys includes a 3xxx series aluminum alloy or a 5xxx series aluminum alloy.

[0111] Aspect 20. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein each arc segment has a starting point and an ending point and extends from the starting point to the ending point along a path defined by a radius size and a change in normal vector orientation; wherein the series of arc segments includes an initial arc, one or more intervening arc segments, and a final arc; and wherein the series of arc segments is arranged such that the initial arc segment starting point abuts the center panel, each intervening arc segment starting point and the final arc segment starting point abuts the ending point of the arc segment immediately preceding in the series, and the final arc segment ending point is at the edge of the can end.

[0112] Aspect 21. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein within manufacturing tolerances, the series of arc segments in sequential order includes: a first arc segment corresponding to the initial arc segment and defined by a radius size of 0.463 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 47.800°; a second arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 77.600 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 0.510°; a third arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.476 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 42.730°; a fourth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 38.100 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 0.530°; a fifth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.657 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -93.620°; a sixth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.303 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -85.690°; a seventh arc segment corresponding to one of the Intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 195.200 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -0.450°; an eighth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 2.090 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 45.240°; a ninth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 2.670 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -32.980°; a tenth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 2.520 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 24.930°; an eleventh arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 1.620 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 45.000°; a twelfth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 3.040 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 25.000°; a thirteenth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 1.310 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 45.000°; and a fourteenth arc segment corresponding to the final arc segment and defined by a radius size of 0.726 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 26.000°.

[0113] Aspect 22. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein, within manufacturing tolerances, the series of arc segments is implemented relative to a base diameter of the center panel of 41.478 mm.

[0114] Aspect 23. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein within manufacturing tolerances, the series of arc segments in sequential order includes: a first arc segment corresponding to the initial arc segment and defined by a radius size of 0.508 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 32.044°; a second arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 82.150 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 1.677°;a third arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.575 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 34.298°; a fourth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 27.150 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 3.483°; a fifth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.550 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -77.578°; a sixth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.213 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -73.845°; a seventh arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 247.800 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 0.371°; an eighth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 2.604 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 46.497°; a ninth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 5.474 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -38.524°; a tenth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 1.882 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 64.700°; an eleventh arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 5.667 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 20.000°; and a twelfth arc segment corresponding to the final arc segment and defined by a radius size of 0.866 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 78.000°.

[0115] Aspect 24. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein, within manufacturing tolerances, the series of arc segments is implemented relative to a base diameter of the center panel of 35.860 mm.

[0116] Aspect 25. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein within manufacturing tolerances, the series of arc segments in sequential order includes: a first arc segment corresponding to the initial arc segment and defined by a radius size of 0.529 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 35.312°; a second arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 79.680 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -0.206°; a third arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.567 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 36.685°; a fourth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 28.069 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 4.251°; a fifth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.702 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -76.916°; a sixth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.232 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -73.606°; a seventh arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 193.100 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 0.510°; an eighth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 2.363 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 52.548°; a ninth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 4.908 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -50.918°; a tenth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 1.882 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 64.704°; an eleventh arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 5.667 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 20.000°; and a twelfth arc segment corresponding to the final arc segment and defined by a radius size of 0.866 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 78.000°.

[0117] Aspect 26. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein, within manufacturing tolerances, the series of arc segments is implemented relative to a base diameter of the center panel of 37.920 mm.

[0118] Aspect 27. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein the profiled portion, the edge, and at least a portion of the center panel are rotated about a vertical axis to form a three-dimensional shape of the can end.

[0119] Aspect 28. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein within manufacturing tolerances, the series of arc segments in sequential order includes: a first arc segment corresponding to the initial arc segment and defined by a radius size of 0.505 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 43.143°; a second arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 75.130 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 1.562°; a third arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.551 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 30.015°; a fourth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 24.510 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 3.477°; a fifth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.461 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -75.432°; a sixth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.183 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -77.989°; a seventh arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 203.500 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 0.504°; an eighth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 3.007 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 40.843°; a ninth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 5.157 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -35.677°; a tenth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 2.750 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 11.557°; an eleventh arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 1.882 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 49.997°; a twelfth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 5.667 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 20.000°; and a thirteenth arc segment corresponding to the final arc segment and defined by a radius size of 0.866 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 78.000°.

[0120] Aspect 29. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein, within manufacturing tolerances, the series of arc segments is implemented relative to a base diameter of the center panel of 38.280 mm.

[0121] Aspect 30. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein within manufacturing tolerances, the series of arc segments in sequential order includes: a first arc segment corresponding to the initial arc segment and defined by a radius size of 0.515 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 36.468°; a second arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 73.470 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 1.443°; a third arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.627 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 31.452°; a fourth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 28.661 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 3.313°; a fifth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.477 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -75.924°; a sixth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 0.203 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -80.063°; a seventh arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 257.050 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -0.241°; an eighth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 2.762 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 49.754°; a ninth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 4.986 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -34.841°; a tenth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 2.752 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 10.631°; an eleventh arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 1.882 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 50.007°; a twelfth arc segment corresponding to one of the intervening arc segments and defined by a radius size of 5.667 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 20.000°; and a thirteenth arc segment corresponding to the final arc segment and defined by a radius size of 0.866 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 78.000°.

[0122] Aspect 31. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein, within manufacturing tolerances, the series of arc segments is implemented relative to a base diameter of the center panel of 39.039 mm.

[0123] Aspect 32. A can end comprising: a center panel; an edge; and a profiled portion comprising a series of arc segments connected end to end and spanning between an end of the center panel and the edge, wherein the series of arc segments in sequential order includes: a first arc segment abutting the center panel and defined by a radius size of 0.515 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 36.468°; a second arc segment defined by a radius size of 73.470 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 1.443°; a third arc segment defined by a radius size of 0.627 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 31.452°; a fourth arc segment defined by a radius size of 28.661 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 3.313°; a fifth arc segment defined by a radius size of 0.477 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -75.924°; a sixth arc segment defined by a radius size of 0.203 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of-80.063°; a seventh arc segment defined by a radius size of 257.050 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -0.241°; an eighth arc segment defined by a radius size of 2.762 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 49.754°; a ninth arc segment defined by a radius size of 4.986 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -34.841°; a tenth arc segment defined by a radius size of 2.752 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 10.631°; an eleventh arc segment defined by a radius size of 1.882 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 50.007°; a twelfth arc segment defined by a radius size of 5.667 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 20.000°; and a thirteenth arc segment defining the edge and defined by a radius size of 0.866 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 78.000°.

[0124] Aspect 33. A can end comprising: a center panel; an edge; and a profiled portion comprising a series of arc segments connected end to end and spanning between an end of the center panel and the edge, wherein the series of arc segments in sequential order includes: a first arc segment abutting the center panel and defined by a radius size of 0.505 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 43.143°; a second arc segment defined by a radius size of 75.130 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 1.562°; a third arc segment defined by a radius size of 0.551 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 30.015°; a fourth arc segment defined by a radius size of 24.510 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 3.477°; a fifth arc segment defined by a radius size of 0.461 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -75.432°; a sixth arc segment defined by a radius size of 0.183 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of-77.989°; a seventh arc segment defined by a radius size of 203.500 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 0.504°; an eighth arc segment defined by a radius size of 3.007 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 40.843°; a ninth arc segment defined by a radius size of 5.157 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of -35.677°; a tenth arc segment defined by a radius size of 2.750 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 11.557°; an eleventh arc segment defined by a radius size of 1.882 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 49.997°; a twelfth arc segment defined by a radius size of 5.667 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 20.000°; and a thirteenth arc segment defining the edge and defined by a radius size of 0.866 mm and a change in normal vector orientation of 78.000°.

[0125] Aspect 34. A can end comprising: a center panel; and an annular profiled portion defining an edge of the can end, wherein the annular profiled portion comprises an inner wall, a countersink, a chuckwall, and a crown, wherein a panel height of the center panel is at least 2.935 mm, wherein a total height of the profiled portion is at least 5.524 mm, and wherein an inner profile offset of the profiled portion is at least 4.195 mm.

[0126] Aspect 35. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein the panel height is from 2.935 mm to 4.402 mm.

[0127] Aspect 36. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein the panel height is from 3.301 mm to 4.035 mm.

[0128] Aspect 37. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein the total height is from 5.524 mm to 8.286 mm.

[0129] Aspect 38. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein the total height is from 6.215 mm to 7.596 mm.

[0130] Aspect 39. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein the inner profile offset is from 4.195 mm to 6.293 mm.

[0131] Aspect 40. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein the inner profile offset is from 4.720 mm to 5.769 mm.

[0132] Aspect 41. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein the panel height is from 3.485 mm to 3.852 mm, wherein the total height is from 6.560 mm to 7.251 mm, and wherein the inner profile offset is from 4.982 mm to 5.507 mm.

[0133] Aspect 42. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein the panel height is a distance from a lower end of the can end to the panel, wherein the total height is a distance from the lower end of the can end to an upper end of the panel, and wherein the inner profile offset is a distance between a countersink transition point of the countersink and a center of an arc segment of an inner wall of the crown.

[0134] Aspect 43. A can end comprising: a center panel; and an annular profiled portion defining an edge of the can end, wherein the annular profiled portion comprises an inner wall, a countersink, a chuckwall, and a crown, wherein an inner profile offset is a distance from a transition point of the countersink to a center of an arc segment of an inner wall of the crown, and wherein the inner profile offset is from 4.195 mm to 6.293 mm.

[0135] Aspect 44. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein a panel height of the can end is a vertical distance from a lower end of the can end to the center panel, and wherein the panel height of the center panel is from 2.935 mm to 4.402 mm.

[0136] Aspect 45. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein a total height of the can end is a vertical distance from a lower end of the can end to an upper end of the can end, and wherein the total height of the can end is from 5.524 mm to 8.286 mm

[0137] Aspect 46. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein the inner profile offset is from 4.982 mm to 5.507 mm.

[0138] Aspect 47. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein the inner profile offset is from 4.720 mm to 5.769 mm.

[0139] Aspect 48. A can end comprising: a center panel; and an annular profiled portion defining an edge of the can end, wherein the annular profiled portion comprises an inner wall extending from the center panel, a countersink extending from the inner wall, a chuckwall extending from the countersink, and a crown extending from the chuckwall, wherein a portion of the inner wall extending from the countersink comprises a radius of at least 22.929 mm and a relative angle of less than 4.142°.

[0140] Aspect 49. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein the portion of the inner wall is a first portion, and wherein a second portion of the inner wall between the first portion and the center panel comprises a radius from 0.502 mm to 0.753 mm and a relative angle from 1.804° to 1.203°.

[0141] Aspect 50. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein the radius is from 22.929 mm to 34.393 mm and the relative angle is from 4.142° to 2.761°.

[0142] Aspect 51. A can end comprising: a center panel; and an annular profiled portion defining an edge of the can end, wherein the annular profiled portion comprises an inner wall, a countersink, a chuckwall, and a crown, wherein the inner wall comprises a first portion extending from the countersink and a second portion between the first portion and the center panel, wherein the first portion extends more vertically than horizontally without extending parallel to a vertical axis, and wherein the second portion extends at an angle relative to the vertical axis such that the second portion extends more horizontally than vertically without extending parallel to a horizontal axis.

[0143] Aspect 52. A can end comprising: a center panel; and an annular profiled portion defining an edge of the can end, wherein the annular profiled portion comprises an inner wall, a countersink, a chuckwall, and a crown, wherein a portion of the inner wall extending from the countersink comprises a radius from 22.929 mm to 34.393 mm and a relative angle from 4.142° to 2.761°, and wherein a portion of the chuckwall extending from the countersink comprises a radius from 205.641 mm to 308.461 mm and a relative angle from -0.301° to -0.201°.

[0144] Aspect 53. The can end of any preceding or subsequent aspect or combination of aspects, wherein a panel height of the center panel is at least 2.935 mm, wherein a total height of the profiled portion is at least 5.524 mm, and wherein an inner profile offset of the profiled portion is at least 4.195 mm.

[0145] As used herein, the terms “invention,” “the invention,” “this invention,” and “the present invention” are intended to refer broadly to all of the subject matter of this patent application and the claims below. Statements containing these terms should be understood not to limit the subject matter described herein or to limit the meaning or scope of the patent claims below.

[0146] In this description, reference is made to alloys identified by AA numbers and other related designations, such as “series” or “5xxx.” For an understanding of the number designation system most commonly used in naming and identifying aluminum and its alloys, see “International Alloy Designations and Chemical Composition Limits for Wrought Aluminum and Wrought Aluminum Alloys” or “Registration Record of Aluminum Association Alloy Designations and Chemical Compositions Limits for Aluminum Alloys in the Form of Castings and Ingot,” both published by The Aluminum Association.

[0147] As used herein, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes singular and plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0148] Moreover, unless expressly stated otherwise, reference in the description to the can end (or portions thereof) being an arc segment and / or having a radius or radius of curvature includes segments that are straight lines. Stated differently, unless expressly stated otherwise, an arc segment of the can ends described herein may have a radius of curvature of zero (0).

[0149] The subject matter of embodiments of the present disclosure is described here with specificity to meet statutory requirements, but this description is not necessarily intended to limit the scope of the claims. The claimed subject matter may be embodied in other ways, may include different elements or steps, and may be used in conjunction with other existing or future technologies. This description should not be interpreted as implying any particular order or arrangement among or between various steps or elements except when the order of individual steps or arrangement of elements is explicitly described. Directional references such as “up,” “down,” “top,” “bottom,” “left,” “right,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “lateral,” “longitudinal,” “front,” and “back,” among others, are intended to refer to the orientation as illustrated and described in the figure (or figures) to which the components and directions are referencing.

[0150] The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate embodiments of the invention, and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.

[0151] The above-described aspects are merely possible examples of implementations, merely set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the present disclosure. Many variations and modifications can be made to the above-described embodiment s) without departing substantially from the spirit and principles of the present disclosure. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of the present disclosure, and all possible claims to individual aspects or combinations of elements or steps are intended to be supported by the present disclosure. Moreover, although specific terms are employed herein, as well as in the claims that follow, they are used only in a generic and descriptive sense, and not for the purposes of limiting the described embodiments, nor the claims that follow.

Claims

That which is claimed:

1. A can end comprising:a center panel; andan annular profiled portion defining an edge of the can end, wherein the annular profiled portion comprises an inner wall, a countersink, a chuckwall, and a crown,wherein a panel height of the center panel is at least 2.935 mm, wherein a total height of the profiled portion is at least 5.524 mm, and wherein an inner profile offset of the profiled portion is at least 4.195 mm.

2. The can end of claim 1, wherein the panel height is from 2.935 mm to 4.402 mm.

3. The can end of any of claims 1-2, wherein the panel height is from 3.301 mm to 4.035 mm.

4. The can end of any of claims 1-3, wherein the total height is from 5.524 mm to 8.286 mm.

5. The can end of any of claims 1-4, wherein the total height is from 6.215 mm to 7.596 mm.

6. The can end of any of claims 1-5, wherein the inner profile offset is from 4.195 mm to 6.293 mm.

7. The can end of any of claims 1-6, wherein the inner profile offset is from 4.720 mm to 5.769 mm.

8. The can end of any of claims 1-7, wherein the panel height is from 3.485 mm to 3.852 mm, wherein the total height is from 6.560 mm to 7.251 mm, and wherein the inner profile offset is from 4.982 mm to 5.507 mm.

9. The can end of any of claims 1-8, wherein the panel height is a distance from a lower end of the can end to the panel, wherein the total height is a distance from the lower end of the can end to anupper end of the panel, and wherein the inner profde offset is a distance between a countersink transition point of the countersink and a center of an arc segment of an inner wall of the crown.

10. A can end comprising:a center panel; andan annular profiled portion defining an edge of the can end, wherein the annular profiled portion comprises an inner wall, a countersink, a chuckwall, and a crown,wherein an inner profile offset is a distance from a transition point of the countersink to a center of an arc segment of an inner wall of the crown, andwherein the inner profile offset is from 4.195 mm to 6.293 mm.

11. The can end of claim 10, wherein a panel height of the can end is a vertical distance from a lower end of the can end to the center panel, and wherein the panel height of the center panel is from 2.935 mm to 4.402 mm.

12. The can end of any of claims 10-11, wherein a total height of the can end is a vertical distance from a lower end of the can end to an upper end of the can end, and wherein the total height of the can end is from 5.524 mm to 8.286 mm.

13. The can end of any of claims 10-12, wherein the inner profile offset is from 4.982 mm to 5.507 mm.

14. The can end of any of claims 10-13, wherein the inner profile offset is from 4.720 mm to 5.769 mm.

15. A can end comprising:a center panel; andan annular profiled portion defining an edge of the can end, wherein the annular profiled portion comprises an inner wall extending from the center panel, a countersink extending from the inner wall, a chuckwall extending from the countersink, and a crown extending from the chuckwall,wherein a portion of the inner wall extending from the countersink comprises a radius of at least 22.929 mm and a relative angle of less than 4.142°.

16. The can end of claim 15, wherein the portion of the inner wall is a first portion, and wherein a second portion of the inner wall between the first portion and the center panel comprises a radius from 0.502 mm to 0.753 mm and a relative angle from 1.804° to 1.203°.

17. The can end of any of claims 15-16, wherein the radius is from 22.929 mm to 34.393 mm and the relative angle is from 4.142° to 2.761°.

18. A can end comprising:a center panel; andan annular profiled portion defining an edge of the can end, wherein the annular profiled portion comprises an inner wall, a countersink, a chuckwall, and a crown,wherein the inner wall comprises a first portion extending from the countersink and a second portion between the first portion and the center panel,wherein the first portion extends more vertically than horizontally without extending parallel to a vertical axis, andwherein the second portion extends at an angle relative to the vertical axis such that the second portion extends more horizontally than vertically without extending parallel to a horizontal axis.

19. A can end comprising:a center panel; andan annular profiled portion defining an edge of the can end, wherein the annular profiled portion comprises an inner wall, a countersink, a chuckwall, and a crown,wherein a portion of the inner wall extending from the countersink comprises a radius from 22.929 mm to 34.393 mm and a relative angle from 4.142° to 2.761°, andwherein a portion of the chuckwall extending from the countersink comprises a radius from 205.641 mm to 308.461 mm and a relative angle from -0.301° to -0.201°.

20. The can end of claim 19, wherein a panel height of the center panel is at least 2.935 mm, wherein a total height of the profiled portion is at least 5.524 mm, and wherein an inner profile offset of the profiled portion is at least 4.195 mm.

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