Container opener

Abstract

A container opener includes: a clamp that holds a container; a piercing device that pierces the lid of the container held in the clamp; a blade that cuts the lid from the container when the blade and the container are rotated relative to each other; and a separation means for separating the piercing means from the cap.

Description

[0001] CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 335,518, filed on April 27, 2022, which is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes as if fully set forth herein. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to the technical field of tableware and barware, and in particular, to an apparatus and method for opening a flat portion of a sealed container. Background Art

[0004] Conventional opening devices remove the flat upper surface of a sealed container. However, these devices are limited in the types of containers they can open and are constrained in the methods of obtaining the contents of the container.

[0005] The latest trend among soda or beverage cans (e.g., beer cans) is to engage a mounting pull ring located at the flat top surface of the can while including a perforation impression opposite the pull ring to improve the flow of soda or beverage from the can after opening. However, this conventional technology requires a separate tool (e.g., a key or other instrument) to pierce the perforation impression. In addition, for applications in bars, restaurants, or franchise environments, the two-step process of this conventional technology is cumbersome or impractical, which hinders bartenders or franchise workers from quickly opening and delivering containers. In addition, based on the limited size of the pull ring mouth hole, engaging the mounting pull ring and piercing the perforation impression may only increase the flow of liquid from the can. For example, the perforation impression constrains the flow of larger density liquids. At the same time, for a limited number of target consumers, the development cost for changing and implementing the perforation impression design is impractical. In addition, conventional mounting pull rings, conventional mounting pull rings and perforation impressions or traditional opening devices only produce a small opening in the container. However, this small opening prevents the user from smelling the full aroma of the container contents (e.g., beer), thereby affecting the user's taste.

[0006] In addition, conventional opening devices, whether manually operated or machine operated, bring various acquisition challenges for flat top containers without engaging pull rings or mouths. For example, manually operated opening devices use a single blade to remove the entire flat upper surface. These conventional devices require multiple rotations of a handle or crank to utilize a single blade to cut around the entire circumferential edge of the container. In another example, the machine-operated opening device is limited by the speed of the motor during the opening process. In addition, both the manually operated device and the machine-operated device require the user to align and engage a single blade along the circumferential edge before starting the opening process, which is both time-consuming and troublesome. In addition, the distance that the shoulder or lip of various containers protrudes outward from the engagement point of the blade may invalidate the opening device due to not allowing the blade to pierce and engage the container surface at an appropriate angle. Shoulder or lip also hinder some manual devices from being assembled on the jar and engaging with the edge, while other machine-operated devices tilt the jar at an angle so as to engage, which will cause the contents to overflow during the top removal process.

[0007] In addition, although conventional manually operated and machine operated devices can remove the flat upper surface of the container, these devices leave sharp edges on the container that are harmful to the user during removal. After the opening process, for user safety, the contents of such containers need to be removed to an intermediate container. Summary of the invention

[0008] To overcome the problems described above, embodiments of the present disclosure include a container opener that includes a handle that, when pulled downward, creates a sequence of events, such as gripping a container, causing a carriage to descend, which causes (i) a barb to pierce a lid of the container, (ii) a blade to pierce the container, and (iii) the blade and container to rotate relative to each other to cut off the lid of the container. When the handle is pushed upward, the sequence is reversed such that the carriage rises, the container is released, and the lid is separated from the barb.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a container opener includes: a clamp that holds a container; a piercing device that pierces a lid of the container held in the clamp; a blade that cuts the lid from the container while the blade and the container rotate relative to each other; and a separation device that separates the piercing device from the lid.

[0010] The container opener may further include a handle, wherein movement of the handle in a first direction causes the blade and the container to rotate relative to each other. In one aspect, movement of the handle in the first direction forces the piercing device to pierce the lid. In one aspect, movement of the handle in a second direction causes the separation device to separate the piercing device from the lid.

[0011] In one aspect, the clamp is configured to hold containers having different diameters.

[0012] The container opener may further include a motor that rotates the blade and the container relative to each other.

[0013] In one aspect, the blade is a plurality of blades. In one aspect, the plurality of blades and the container are rotated at least 120 degrees relative to each other.

[0014] In one aspect, the blade and the container are rotated at least 360 degrees relative to each other.

[0015] In one aspect, the piercing device pierces the cap in a central portion of the cap. In one aspect, the piercing device moves a set distance to pierce the cap regardless of the diameter of the container.

[0016] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for opening a container includes: clamping the container; piercing a lid of the container by a piercing device; capturing the lid by the piercing device; rotating a blade and the container relative to each other to cut the lid from the container; releasing the container; and separating the piercing device from the lid.

[0017] In one aspect, movement of the handle in a first direction causes the clamping, piercing, and rotating. In one aspect, movement of the handle in a second direction causes the loosening and separation.

[0018] In one aspect, the rotating is performed by a motor.

[0019] In one aspect, the blade rotates and the container is stationary.

[0020] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a container opener includes: a handle; a pull ring grabber for grabbing a pull ring on a lid of a container; a cutting blade; and an actuating mechanism operably coupled to the handle, the pull ring grabber and the cutting blade; wherein the actuating mechanism is configured to convert the rotational movement of the handle in a first direction into movement of the pull ring grabber and the cutting blade in a vertical direction of the container opener, so that the pull ring grabber grabs the pull ring of the lid of the container held in the container opener and the cutting blade cuts off the lid.

[0021] In one aspect, the actuation mechanism is configured to translate rotational movement of the handle in a second direction to separate the tab grabber from the lid.

[0022] The above and other features, elements, characteristics, steps and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The following drawings illustrate specific embodiments of the present disclosure and therefore do not limit the scope of the present disclosure. The drawings are not drawn to scale and are intended to be used in conjunction with the explanations in the following detailed description.

[0024] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of a container opener according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Exploded front view of a container opener.

[0026] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the container opener in the home position.

[0027] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a container opener in operation.

[0028] Figure 5 is a front view of the container opener with the handle facing upward.

[0029] Figure 6 is a front view of the container opener with the handle facing downward.

[0030] Figure 7 It is a left side view of the container opener with the handle facing upward.

[0031] Figure 8 is a left side view of the container opener with the handle down.

[0032] Fig. 9A is a front view of the container opener with the handle facing upward.

[0033] Fig. 9B It is along Fig. 9A Right side cross-sectional view of the CC.

[0034] Fig. 10A is a front view of the container opener with the handle facing downward.

[0035] Fig. 10B It is along Fig. 10A Right side cross-sectional view of the DD.

[0036] Fig.11A is a top view of a container opener with the handle facing upward.

[0037] Fig. 11B It is along Fig.11A Frontal cross-sectional view of the EE.

[0038] Fig. 12A is a top view of the container opener with the handle down and the can in place.

[0039] Fig. 12B It is along Fig. 12A Front cross-sectional view of the FF.

[0040] Fig.13 is a perspective view of the main housing.

[0041] Fig.14A It is a top view of the main bracket and blade assembly.

[0042] Fig. 14B It is along Fig.14A Lateral cross-sectional view of the JJ.

[0043] Fig.15A is a top view of the main bracket 104 and the blade assembly.

[0044] Fig. 15B It is along Fig.15A Side cross-sectional view of KK.

[0045] Fig.16A is a top view of the blade assembly including the canister underneath.

[0046] Fig. 16B It is along Fig.16A A lateral cross-sectional view of the UU.

[0047] Fig.17A is a top view of the blade assembly including the canister underneath.

[0048] Fig. 17B It is along Fig.17A Side cross-sectional view of YY.

[0049] Fig.18A is a top view of the blade assembly including the canister underneath.

[0050] Fig.18B It is along Fig.18A Side cross-sectional view of AC-AC.

[0051] Fig.19A is a side view of the clamp assembly with the jaws open.

[0052] Fig.19B is with Fig.19A The same view but without the section markings and showing the location of the tank clamp bearing seat and the clamp cam slot.

[0053] Fig.19C It is along Fig.19A Top cross-sectional view of AD-AD.

[0054] Fig. 20A is a side view of the clamp assembly with the jaws closed.

[0055] FIG. 20B is Fig. 20A The same view, but without section marks.

[0056] Fig. 20C It is along Fig. 20A Top cross-sectional view of AE-AE.

[0057] Fig.21A and Fig. 21B is a top view of the blade assembly including the canister underneath.

[0058] Fig. 21C It is along Fig.21A Side cross-sectional view of AF-AF.

[0059] Fig.21D It is along Fig. 21B Top cross-sectional view of AG-AG.

[0060] Fig.22A and Fig. 22B is a top view of the blade assembly including the canister underneath.

[0061] Fig. 22C It is along Fig.22A AH-AH side cross-sectional view.

[0062] Fig.22D It is along Fig. 22B AJ-AJ top cross-sectional view.

[0063] Fig.23A and Fig. 23B is a top view of the blade assembly including the canister underneath.

[0064] Fig.23C It is along Fig.23A AK-A side cross-sectional view of the AK.

[0065] Fig.23D It is along Fig. 23B Top cross-sectional view of AL-AL.

[0066] Fig.24 is a perspective view of a container opener according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] Fig.25 is in operation Fig.24 Perspective view of a container opener.

[0068] Fig.26 is a front view of the container opener with the handle in an upward position.

[0069] Fig. 27 is a front view of the container opener with the handle in the downward position.

[0070] Fig.28 is a right side view of the container opener with the handle in the upward position.

[0071] Fig.29 It is a right side view of the container opener with the handle 201 in the downward position.

[0072] Fig. 30A is a top view of the container opener with the handle in the upward position.

[0073] Fig. 30B It is along Fig. 30A Front cross-sectional view of section AB-AB.

[0074] Fig.31A is a top view of the container opener with the handle in the downward position.

[0075] Fig.31B It is along Fig.31A Front cross-sectional view of Section FF.

[0076] Fig.32A is a front view of the container opener with the handle in an upward position.

[0077] Fig.32B It is along Fig.32A Side cross-sectional view of section YY.

[0078] Fig.33A is a front view of the container opener with the handle in the downward position.

[0079] Fig.33B It is along Fig.33A Section JJ is a side cross-sectional view.

[0080] Fig.34 It is a perspective view of the gearbox assembly and the blade assembly.

[0081] Fig.35 is an exploded view of the gearbox assembly.

[0082] Fig.36 Showing the larger bevel gear attached to the handle.

[0083] Fig.37A is a view of the gearbox assembly with the handle in the up position.

[0084] Fig.37B It is along Fig.37A A side cross-sectional view of the gearbox assembly taken at section TT.

[0085] Fig.38A is a front view of the gearbox assembly with the handle in the down position.

[0086] Fig.38B It is along Fig.38A Section UU is a side cross-sectional view of the gearbox assembly.

[0087] Fig.39 is a perspective view of the blade assembly with the canister.

[0088] Fig.40 is an exploded view of the blade assembly

[0089] Fig.41A and Fig.41B Bottom view showing the blade in different positions.

[0090] Fig.42A is a side view of the blade assembly with the can underneath.

[0091] Fig.42B It is along Fig.42A A cross-sectional view taken at section FF.

[0092] Fig.42C is a side view of the blade assembly with the can underneath.

[0093] Fig.42D It is along Fig.42C A cross-sectional view taken through section GG.

[0094] Fig.42E is a side view of the blade assembly with the can underneath.

[0095] Fig.42F It is along Fig.42E A cross-sectional view taken from section LL.

[0096] Fig.43 yes Fig.42B An enlarged version of the cross section shown in .

[0097] Fig.44 is a top perspective view of the fixture assembly.

[0098] Fig.45A and Fig.45B is a top view of the fixture assembly with the can.

[0099] Fig.46 is a top view of the fixture assembly with the can.

[0100] Fig.47A and Fig.47B is a top view of the fixture.

[0101] Fig.48A is a side view showing the clamp open for loading a can.

[0102] Fig.48B is a side view showing the clamp closed to secure the can.

[0103] Fig.49A is a front view of the container opener with the handle in the downward position.

[0104] Fig.49B It is along Fig.49A A cross-sectional view taken from section MM.

[0105] Fig.50A is a front view of the container opener with the handle in the downward position.

[0106] Fig.50B It is along Fig.50A A cross-sectional view taken at section RR.

[0107] Fig.50C is a front view of the container opener with the handle in an upward position.

[0108] Fig.50D It is along Fig.50C A cross-sectional view taken at section TT.

[0109] Fig.51A is a front view of the container opener with the handle in an upward position.

[0110] Fig.51B It is along Fig.51A A cross-sectional view of Section UU taken.

[0111] Fig.52 is an exploded view of a container opener according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0112] Fig.53 is a top perspective view of a container opener according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0113] Fig.54 yes Fig.53 A perspective exploded view of a container opener.

[0114] Fig.55 is an exploded front view of the container opener.

[0115] Fig.56 is a perspective view of the container opener without the bracket.

[0116] Fig.57 is a perspective view of a container opener including a wall bracket.

[0117] Fig.58 is a perspective view of a container opener in a floor stand.

[0118] Fig.59 is a perspective view of the container opener with the handle 301 in the downward position.

[0119] Fig.60 is a front view of the container opener with the handle in an upward position.

[0120] Fig.61 is a front view of the container opener with the handle in the downward position.

[0121] Fig.62 is a left side view of the container opener with the handle in the upward position.

[0122] Fig.63 is a left side view of the container opener with the handle in the down position.

[0123] Fig.64A is a top view of the container opener with the handle in the upward position.

[0124] Fig.64B It is along Fig.64A Frontal cross-sectional view taken from CC.

[0125] Fig.65A is a top view of the container opener with the handle in the downward position.

[0126] Fig.65B It is along Fig.65A Frontal cross-sectional view taken from DD.

[0127] Fig.66A is a top view of the container opener with the handle 301 in the upward position.

[0128] Fig.66B It is along Fig.66A The right side cross-sectional view taken from GG.

[0129] Fig.67A is a top view of the container opener with the handle in the downward position.

[0130] Fig.67B It is along Fig.67A The right cross-sectional view taken from HH.

[0131] Fig.68 is a perspective view of the handle and gear assembly.

[0132] Fig.69 is a view of the gear train.

[0133] Fig.70A is a top view of the handle and gear assembly with the handle in the upward position.

[0134] Fig.70B It is along Fig.70A The right cross-sectional view taken by JJ.

[0135] Fig.71A is a top view of the handle and gear assembly with the handle in the downward position.

[0136] Fig.71B It is along Fig.71A The right cross-sectional view taken by KK.

[0137] Fig.72 Shows the handle in the down position.

[0138] Fig.73 Shows the handle in the upward position.

[0139] Fig.74 Shows the handle in an over-vertical position.

[0140] Fig.75A is a top view of the handle and gear assembly with the handle in the downward position.

[0141] Fig.75B It is along Fig.75A The right side cross-sectional view taken from LL.

[0142] Fig.76A is a top view of the handle and gear assembly with the handle in the upward position.

[0143] Fig.76B It is along Fig.76A The right side cross-sectional view of the MM.

[0144] Fig.77 is a top perspective view of the blade assembly.

[0145] Fig.78A is a top view of the blade assembly.

[0146] Fig.78B It is along Fig.78A Frontal cross-sectional view taken from NN.

[0147] Fig.79A is a top view of the blade assembly.

[0148] Fig.79B It is along Fig.79A Frontal cross-sectional view of RR.

[0149] Fig.80A is a top view of the blade assembly.

[0150] Fig.80B It is along Fig.80A Frontal cross-sectional view taken through VV.

[0151] Fig.81A is a top view of the blade assembly.

[0152] Fig.81B It is along Fig.81A A front cross-sectional view taken along line AA-AA.

[0153] Fig.82A is a view of the plunger.

[0154] Fig.82B is a top view of the fixture assembly.

[0155] Fig.83A is a view of the plunger.

[0156] Fig.83B is a top view of the fixture assembly.

[0157] Fig.84 and Fig.85 is a side view of the fixture assembly.

[0158] Fig.86 Shows an alternative configuration that includes a motor.

[0159] Fig.87 is a top perspective view of the container opener with the handle in an upward position and the can in place.

[0160] Fig.88 is a top perspective view of a container opener with the handle in a downward position.

[0161] Fig.89 is a top view showing the can in position before being pushed into the jig.

[0162] Fig.90 is a top view showing the can in position as it is pushed into the fixture.

[0163] Fig.91 yes Fig.90 Front view of .

[0164] Fig.92 is a top view showing the can continuing to be pushed into the fixture.

[0165] Fig.93 Here is a top view of the display can being pushed all the way into the jig.

[0166] Fig.94A It is a top view of the can in position as it goes all the way into the fixture.

[0167] Fig.94B It is along Fig.94A Cross-sectional view of JJ.

[0168] Fig.95A is a top view of the tank in place.

[0169] Fig.95B It is along Fig.95A Cross-sectional view of JJ.

[0170] Fig.96A is a top view of the can 410 clamped in place.

[0171] Fig.96B It is along Fig.96A Cross-sectional view of the MM.

[0172] Fig.97A It is a top view of the can clamped in place with the handle facing upwards.

[0173] Fig.97B It is along Fig.97A Cross-sectional view of the CC.

[0174] Fig.98A It is a top view of the can clamped in place with the handle down.

[0175] Fig.98B It is along Fig.98A Cross-sectional view of the DD.

[0176] Fig.99A is a side view of the canister clamped in place with the handle down.

[0177] Fig.99B It is along Fig.99A Cross-sectional view of GG.

[0178] Fig.100A It is a top view of the can clamped in place with the handle facing upwards.

[0179] Fig.100B It is along Fig.100A Cross-sectional view of an EE.

[0180] Fig.101A It is a top view of the can clamped in place with the handle facing upwards.

[0181] Fig.101B It is along Fig.101A Cross-sectional view of the FF.

[0182] Fig.102 It is a top view of the open clamp.

[0183] Fig.103 is a top view of the closed fixture. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0184] The following discussion omits or only briefly describes conventional features of container opening devices that are obvious to those skilled in the art. It should be noted that various embodiments are described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein similar reference numerals represent similar parts and assemblies throughout several views. Reference to various embodiments does not limit the scope of the appended claims. In addition, any examples set forth in this specification are intended to be non-limiting and only set forth some of the many possible embodiments of the appended claims. In addition, the specific features described herein may be used in combination with other described features in each of various possible combinations and arrangements.

[0185] Unless otherwise specifically defined herein, all terms are to be given their broadest reasonable interpretations, including the meanings implied from the specification and as understood by a person skilled in the art and / or as defined in dictionaries, treatises, etc. It must also be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents unless otherwise specified, and the terms "includes" and / or "including" when used in this specification specify the presence of stated features, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. In addition, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale and for the sake of clarity and conciseness, certain features may be exaggerated in proportion or shown in some schematic form. In the description, relative terms such as "horizontal", "vertical", "upward", "downward", "top", and "bottom" and their derivatives (e.g., "horizontally", "downwardly", "upwardly", etc.) should be interpreted as referring to the orientation as described next or as shown in the drawings under discussion. These relative terms are for ease of description and are not intended to require a particular orientation. Terms including "inwardly" versus "outwardly," "longitudinal" versus "lateral," and the like are to be interpreted relative to each other or to an axis of elongation or an axis or center of rotation, as appropriate. Terms relating to attachment, coupling, and the like (e.g., "connected" and "interconnected") refer to relationships in which structures are fixed or attached to one another, either directly or indirectly through intervening structures, as well as removable or rigid attachments or relationships, unless expressly described otherwise. The term "operably connected" is an attachment, coupling, or connection that permits the associated structures to operate as intended by virtue of that relationship.

[0186] Embodiments described herein relate to opening a sealed container, such as a sealed can, that permits a user to separate a portion or the entire upper planar surface of the container from a pressed outer edge or rim of the container.

[0187] Additionally, for example, the embodiments described herein allow a user to safely open and / or remove the upper planar surface of a sealed container with ease and efficiency. Additionally, for example, the embodiments described herein allow a user to open and / or remove the entire upper planar surface of such a container with minimal sharp edges. Additionally, the embodiments described herein allow a user to smell the full aroma of the container contents (e.g., beer), thereby allowing the user to fully enjoy the taste of the container contents.

[0188] Figures 1 to 2 3 is used to describe the container opening device 100 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view showing the major components of the container opener 100 and Figure 2 This is its exploded front view. From top to bottom, Figure 1 and 2 The handle 101 , rack guide cylinder 102 , plunger cylinder 103 , main cylinder 104 , blade assembly 105 , barb 106 , clamp assembly 107 and base 108 are shown.

[0189] Figure 3 It is a perspective view of the container opener 100 in the home position. In this position, the main bracket 104, the plunger bracket 103, the rack guide bracket 102 and the handle 101 are in their upward positions.

[0190] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the container opener 100 in an operational state. Figure 4 It is shown that when the handle 101 is pulled down, the three brackets (main bracket 104, plunger bracket 103, rack guide bracket 102) are lowered to produce a series of events. The sequence is as follows: the can 110 is clamped, the barb 106 pierces the can 110, the blade pierces the can 110, and the blade assembly 105 rotates at least 360 degrees to cut the lid off the can 110. Then, when the handle 101 is lifted, this sequence is reversed. These sequences are described in more detail below.

[0191] Figure 5 1 is a front view of the container opener 100 with the handle 101 facing upward. Figure 5 The rack guide bracket 102, plunger bracket 103, main bracket 104 and blade assembly 105 are shown.

[0192] The rack guide bracket 102 descends throughout the handle stroke. As the rack guide bracket 102 descends, it rotates the pinion gear (located on the main bracket 104) to rotate the gear train and allow the blade assembly 105 to rotate. More details on this can be found with respect to FIG. 14.

[0193] When the handle 101 is pulled downward, the plunger bracket 103 pushes the main bracket 104 downward to its lower position. The plunger bracket 103 is equipped with a plunger shaft that is used to extend the blade and barb to pierce the can 110. There are two springs between the plunger bracket 103 and the main bracket 104 that arrange the two brackets in sequence so that the main housing first descends (to actuate the can clamp) (see Figure 15). The main housing is a subassembly that holds the gear train and the blade assembly 105. It accommodates the bearing / shaft that allows the blade assembly 105 to rotate. The main housing rises and falls as the handle 101 moves. The movement of the main housing is coupled to the can clamp. When the main housing descends, it closes the clamp and vice versa. Moreover, the main housing is lifted at the end of the handle stroke to pull the lid out of the can 110 (while the can 110 is still clamped), and then releases the can 110.

[0194] Once the main housing bottoms out, the plunger continues to travel, closing the gap between the plunger bracket 103 and the main bracket 104 so the barb and blade can extend.

[0195] The main bracket 104 is used to mount the bearings that allow the blade assembly 105 to rotate, the pinion and gear train to rotate the blade assembly, and the cam followers that extend and retract the can clamps. The upward vertical movement of the main bracket 104 pulls the top of the can 110 out of the body of the can 110 and releases the can 110 after the can 110 is cut.

[0196] Figure 6 is a front view of the container opener 100 with the handle 101 downward, showing that pulling the handle 101 downward forces the main bracket 104, the plunger bracket 103 and the rack guide bracket 102 together.

[0197] Figure 7 It is a left side view of the container opener 100 with the handle 101 facing upward. Figure 8 It is a left side view of the container opener 100 with the handle 101 facing downward.

[0198] Fig. 9A 1 is a front view of the container opener 100 with the handle 101 facing upward. Fig. 9B The cam groove 111 in the handle 101 is shown along Fig. 9A The cam slot 111 in the handle 101 has two sections. The vertical motion section pushes the plunger carriage 103 downward to a set distance. The rotational motion section of the cam slot 111 is concentric with the pivot of the handle 101, which locks the plunger carriage 103 in its lower position and allows the handle 101 to continue to rotate without moving the plunger carriage 103 to continue to drive the rack guide 102 downward to allow the can 110 to rotate.

[0199] Fig. 10A1 is a front view of the container opener 100 with the handle 101 facing downward. Fig. 10B It is along Fig. 10A Right side cross-sectional view of the DD. Fig. 10B Shown are a connecting rod 112, a rack guide bracket 102, and a rack pinion 113. The rack guide bracket 102 is driven downwardly from the handle cam 111 by a connecting rod.

[0200] Fig.11A 1 is a top view of the container opener 100 with the handle 101 facing upward. Fig. 11B It is along Fig.11A Frontal cross-sectional view of the EE. Fig. 11B Showing the springs 1041 between the plunger barrel 103 and the main bracket 104. These springs 1041 are also Figure 2 Displayed in.

[0201] Fig. 12A is a top view of the container opener 100 with the handle 101 downward and the can 110 in place. Fig. 12B It is along Fig. 12A Front cross-sectional view of the FF.

[0202] Fig.13 1 is a perspective view of the main housing. The main housing is the larger component to which everything is attached and contains three main components: the main bracket 104 containing the housing and guides, the gear train 1042, and the blade assembly 105. The guides are bushings inside the main bracket 104 that allow the main housing to slide up and down on the vertical guide shaft. The gear train 1042 allows the blade assembly 105 to rotate. When the rack gear is pushed down by the handle 101, the smaller spur gear and horizontal bevel gear rotate. The bevel gear rotates the vertical bevel gear, which rotates the entire blade assembly 105. The blade assembly 105 is mounted to the main housing by a shaft that passes through a larger bearing in the middle. The blade assembly 105 is attached to a central shaft that passes through the bearing and the vertical bevel gear. The central shaft is hollow with a smaller shaft inside. This shaft is connected to the plunger carrier 103 so when the plunger carrier 103 is pushed downward it pushes on the smaller inner shaft thereby actuating the blade 115 and barb 106 .

[0203] Fig.14A 1 is a top view of the main bracket 104 and the blade assembly 105 . Fig. 14B The plunger shaft 114, the barb 106 and the blade 115 are shown along Fig.14A Lateral cross-sectional view of the JJ. Fig. 14B The blade arm 119 is shown in its initial, unengaged position.

[0204] Fig.15A 1 is a top view of the main bracket 104 and the blade assembly 105 . Fig. 15B It is along Fig.15A Side cross-sectional view of KK. Fig. 15B The blade arm 119 is shown after having been depressed to engage the blade 115 into the can 110 .

[0205] 16 to 19 are used to further describe the operation of the container opener 100 . Fig.16A 1 is a top view of the blade assembly 105 , which includes the can 110 below the blade assembly 105 . Fig. 16B It is along Fig.16A A side cross-sectional view of UU and including detail M as a closer scaled portion. Fig. 16B The plunger shaft 114 is shown, which is bound into the plunger bracket 103, pushing down the leaf spring 116, which pushes down the spring seat 118, which pushes down the blade arm 119. The blade arm 119 is a lever used to rotate the blade 115 counterclockwise to extend the blade 115 into the can 110. The barb 106 is directly connected to the plunger shaft 114 from the leaf spring shaft 117. The leaf spring 116 does not affect the barb 106. When the plunger shaft 114 is lowered, the leaf spring 116 pushes down the spring seat 118, which in turn rotates the blade arm 119 to extend the blade 115 to contact the inner edge of the can 110. At the same time, the barb 106 is forced down into the small circle in the center of the pull ring of the can 110. The widest diameter of the barb 106 pierces the wall of the lid of the can 110.

[0206] Fig.17A is a top view of the blade assembly 105 including the can 110 underneath. Fig. 17B It is along Fig.17A A side cross-sectional view of YY and including detail W as a closer scaled portion. Fig. 17B The plunger shaft 114 is shown lowered to its final position. This sets the barb 106 to the fully extended position. Once the blade 115 contacts the inner edge of the can 110, as shown in FIG. Fig. 16B, the blade arm 119 is now fixed. Forcing the blade 115 outward helps to minimize any exposed sharp edges on the can 110 after cutting off the lid. In order to allow the plunger shaft 114 to continue to advance to its final position, the spring seat 118 needs to slide relative to the leaf spring shaft 117 to define a gap 120 between the spring seat 118 and the step on the leaf spring shaft 117. The spring seat 118 compresses the leaf spring 116, thereby preloading the blade arm 119 to ensure the right amount of blade 115 contact force. The blade 115 hits the edge of the can 100, so the spring seat 118 can no longer move further downward. The leaf spring shaft 117 then keeps sliding over the spring seat 118 to take into account any tolerances on the can 110 and its position. Defining the gap 120 and compressing the leaf spring 116 play a role in the ability of the container opener to cut cans 110 of different diameters. The larger the diameter of the can, the smaller the gap 160, and conversely the smaller the diameter of the can, the larger the gap 160. This is important because it allows the plunger shaft 114 / barb 106 to have a fixed stroke regardless of the actual diameter of the can 110. Detail W shows the larger gap 160 defined due to the smaller diameter of the can 110.

[0207] Fig.18A is a top view of the blade assembly 105 including the can 110 underneath. Fig.18B It is along Fig.18A A side cross-sectional view of AC-AC and including detail AB as a closer scaled portion. Fig.18B and Fig. 17B Similar, but used to show that the container opener 100 can accommodate different diameter cans 110. Detail AB shows the smaller gap 120 defined due to the larger can diameter.

[0208] 19 and 20 are used to illustrate the operation of the clamp assembly 107 as it clamps the can 110. As shown in FIG. Fig.19A is a side view of the clamp assembly 107 with the jaws 121 open, with a gap between the two jaws 121 . Fig.19B is with Fig.19A The same view but without the section markings and showing the location of the tank clamp bearing seat 122 and the clamp cam groove 123. Fig.19C It is along Fig.19A Top cross-sectional view of AD-AD. Fig. 20A FIG. 20B is a side view of the clamp assembly 107 with the jaws 121 closed and no gap between the jaws 121. FIG. Fig. 20A The same view, but without section marks. Fig. 20C It is along Fig. 20A19 and 20 show that when the main bracket 104 is driven downward by the handle 101, the vertical movement of the tank clamp bearing seat 122 drives the clamp cam groove 123 inward, thus moving the jaws 121 inward and firmly clamping the tank 110.

[0209] 21-23 show an alternative blade assembly 1050 according to another aspect of the present disclosure. Fig.21A , 21B , 22A, 22B, 23A and 23B are top views of the blade assembly 1050 including the can 110 below. Fig. 21C It is along Fig.21A Side cross-sectional view of AF-AF. Fig.21D It is along Fig. 21B Top cross-sectional view of AG-AG. Fig. 22C It is along Fig.22A AH-AH side cross-sectional view. Fig.22D It is along Fig. 22B AJ-AJ top cross-sectional view. Fig.23C It is along Fig.23A AK-A side cross-sectional view of the AK. Fig.23D It is along Fig. 23B Top cross-sectional view of AL-AL.

[0210] In this regard, the blade arm 1190 is sprung outwardly by two leaf springs 1160. When the plunger shaft 114 descends, it pushes the cam block 124 downwardly, thereby releasing the blade arm 1190 so that the blade 115 can contact the can 110. With respect to FIG. 23, once the blade 115 contacts the can 110, the blade arm 1190 is now disconnected from the cam block 124, thereby allowing the leaf spring 1160 to apply the necessary contact force to the blade 115. This also allows the plunger bracket 103 to continue to move downwardly so that the barb 106 can reach its final position. When the plunger shaft 114 rises, the cam block 124 pushes the cam slot on the blade arm 1190 to retract the blade 115, thereby compressing the leaf spring 1160 and retracting the barb 106. FIG. 23 shows that because the blade arm 1190 is sprung outwardly and is independent of the final position of the plunger shaft 114, this configuration can also accommodate cans 110 of different diameters.

[0211] Figures 24 to 52 A container opener 200 is used to describe the second embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.24The container opening 200 is shown to include a handle 201, a clamp shaft 202, a plunger bracket 203, a blade assembly 205, a clamp assembly 207, and a base 208. In the operating sequence, when the handle 201 is pulled downward, the plunger bracket 203 descends, driving the clamp shaft 202 downward. The clamp shaft 202 is actuated to clamp and secure the can 210, the barb 203 pierces the can 210, the blade 215 pierces the can 210, and the blade assembly 205 is pinned at least 120 degrees to cut the top off the can 210. Then, when the handle 201 is lifted, this sequence is reversed.

[0212] Fig.25 The final state when the handle 201 is lowered to its downward position is shown. At this stage, the can 210 is fixed in the clamp assembly 207 and the blade 215 and the barb 203 have pierced the can 210, and the blade assembly 205 has rotated at least 120 degrees.

[0213] Fig.26 is a front view of the container opener 200 with the handle 201 in an upward position. Fig. 27 2 is a front view of the container opener 200 with the handle 201 in the downward position. Here, the clamp assembly 207 is closed and holds the can 210 tightly.

[0214] Fig.28 is a right side view of the container opener 200 with the handle 201 in an upward position. Fig.29 is a right side view of the container opener 200 with the handle 201 in the downward position.

[0215] Fig. 30A is a top view of the container opener 200 with the handle 201 in an upward position. Fig. 30B It is along Fig. 30A Front cross-sectional view of section AB-AB. Fig.31A is a top view of the container opener 200 with the handle 201 in the downward position. Fig.31B It is along Fig.31A Front cross-sectional view of Section FF.

[0216] Fig.32A is a front view of the container opener 200 with the handle 201 in an upward position. Fig.32B It is along Fig.32A Side cross-sectional view of section YY. Fig.33A is a front view of the container opener with the handle 201 in the downward position. Fig.33B It is along Fig.33AFIG32 shows that the cam slot 211 in the handle 201 may include two sections: the vertical motion portion pushes the plunger carriage 203 downward to a set distance; and during the rotational motion, the position of the cam slot 211 is concentric with the pivot axis of the handle 201, which locks the plunger carriage 203 in its lower position and allows the handle 201 to continue rotating without moving the plunger carriage 203 to drive the gear train and thereby rotate the blade assembly 205, as described in more detail below.

[0217] Fig.34 is a perspective view of the gearbox assembly 204 and the blade assembly 205 . Fig.35 is an exploded view of the gearbox assembly 204 . Fig.36 A larger bevel gear 2041 is shown attached to the handle 201 so when the handle 201 is pulled down, the larger bevel gear 2041 rotates the smaller bevel gear 2042 which in turn rotates the larger spur gear 2043 which in turn rotates the smaller spur gear 2044. This gear train causes the blade assembly 205 to rotate with the movement of the handle 201. The rotating blade will cut the lid off the jar 210.

[0218] Fig.37A is a view of the gearbox assembly 204 with the handle 201 in the upward position. Fig.37B It is along Fig.37A TT is a side cross-sectional view of the gearbox assembly 204. When the handle 201 is pulled downward, the roller 2045 slides in the cam slot 211. The first part of the movement moves the plunger block 2031 of the plunger bracket 203 downward, and then the cam slot 211 is concentric with the pivot, so the blade assembly 205 keeps rotating and no longer moves downward. Fig.38A is a front view of the gearbox assembly 204 with the handle 201 in the downward position. Fig.38B It is along Fig.38A A side cross-sectional view of the gearbox assembly 204 taken at section UU of FIG. As shown, when the handle 201 is horizontal, the roller 2045 has traveled its full distance in the cam groove 211.

[0219] Fig.39 is a perspective view of the blade assembly 205 with the can 210 . Fig.40 is an exploded view of the blade assembly 205 showing the three blades 215 rotating outward to contact the can 210 and cut off the lid.

[0220] Fig.41A and 41B 2 is a bottom view showing the blade 215 in different positions. When the handle 201 is in the upward position, the blade 215 is retracted and is on the inside, such as Fig.41A As the handle 201 is pulled, the blade 215 moves radially outward (see Fig.41B ) to contact the can 210. The retracted blade 215 provides sufficient space for the can 210 to be inserted into the clamp assembly 207 before the blade 215 moves outward and cuts into the side wall of the can 210.

[0221] Figures 42A to 42F It is used to illustrate the cyclic operation of one representative blade 215. All blades 215 operate in the same manner. Fig.42A , 42C 42E is a side view of the blade assembly 205 with the can 210 underneath. Fig.42A The cross section FF is taken Fig.42B The blade roller 2051 is shown starting in a detent in the cam surface of the blade cam 2052 and as the handle 201 is pulled downward, the blade roller 2051 rolls downward along the cam surface of the blade arm 2052 until the blade 215 contacts the can 210. Fig.42C The cross section GG intercepted Fig.42D The leaf spring 2054 is shown forcing the blade 215 outward so that when the blade 215 contacts the can 210, the blade roller 2051 leaves the surface of the blade arm 2052 and can continue to travel downward. The leaf spring 2054 provides sufficient force to cause the blade 215 to penetrate the can 210 and cut off the lid of the can 210 as the blade assembly 205 rotates. Forcing the blade 215 outward helps to minimize any exposed sharp edges on the can 210 after the lid is cut. Fig.42E The section LL is taken from Fig.42F It is shown that by allowing the blade roller 2051 to leave the surface of the blade cam 2052, the blades 215 can cut different diameter cans 210. The blades 215 will rotate further outward before reaching the inner diameter (ID) of the larger can 210. It should be noted that there are three sets of blades 215 that follow the sequence described above simultaneously. Fig.42D Contains Fig.42F 210 of a can edge with a smaller diameter than that shown in the figure. These figures show that the container opener 200 can cut cans of different diameters. For different can sizes, the blade 215 travels outward to different positions, but the blade roller 2051 travels to the same position.

[0222] Fig.43 yes Fig.42B An enlarged version of the segment shown in . Fig.43The downward movement of the plunger shaft 214 of the plunger carriage 203 is shown to also extend the barb 206 toward the can 210 to pierce the small circle in the middle of the pull ring on the lid of the can 210. Because the blade roller 2051 can be separated from the surface of the blade cam 2052, the plunger shaft 214 and the barb 206 can extend a set distance regardless of the diameter of the can 210.

[0223] Figures 44 to 46 Used to describe the clamp assembly 207. Fig.44 is a top perspective view of the clamp assembly 207 . Fig.44 The clamp assembly 207 is shown to include a clamp 2071, a link 2072, a link attachment block 2073, a polyurethane block 2074, a snap spring 2075, and a lid flap 2076. Two clamps 2071 are shown. In operation, the snap spring 2075 (see Fig.45A ) begins to force the clamp 2071 outward, then, after the can 210 is inserted and when the handle 201 is pulled downward, the vertical movement of the plunger shaft 214 moves the connecting rod attachment block 2073 downward. This drives the connecting rod 2072 downward, which moves the clamp 2071 inward to clamp the can 210 (see Fig.45B ). The clamp 2071 has a V-shape to be able to clamp and center a variety of can diameters. This is important so that the center of the can 210 is always in the same position within the container opener 200, regardless of its diameter. The polyurethane block 2074 on the inside of the clamp 2071 provides additional friction to prevent the can 210 from rotating when the blade assembly 205 cuts the can 210. Fig.46 The clamp assembly 207 is shown clamping a larger diameter can 210 .

[0224] Fig.47A and 47B The lid flap 2076 is shown as part of the clamp assembly 207. The lid flap 2076 is located on the lower portion of the clamp assembly 207 and is angled to guide the cut lid to slide in different directions. During the ejection (upward) stroke of the handle 201, the can 210 (without its lid) has been removed, but the lid is still stuck on the barb 206. When the handle 201 is moved back for ejection, the lid flap 2076 is closed, so when the barb 206 is pulled through the lid, the lid hits the closed lid flap 2076 and slides into the collection bin at the rear of the container opener 200. Prior to ejection, the lid flap 2076 is open (see Fig.47A ) enables the can 210 to be removed. During ejection, the lid flap 2076 is closed (see Fig.47B ), so the cover will slide back into the collection bin. This operation is shown in more detail with respect to Figures 48 to 51.

[0225] Fig.48Ais a side view showing the clamp 2071 opened for loading the can 210. Fig.48B 2071 is a side view showing the clamp 2071 closed to secure the can 210. The vertical shaft 2077 is driven downward by the plunger block to provide the movement to close the clamp 2071.

[0226] Fig.49A is a front view of the container opener 200 with the handle 201 in a downward position. Fig.49B Along Fig.49A With the handle 201 in the upward position, the barb 206 starts above the top of the can 210, and during the downward stroke, the barb 206 pierces the lid of the can 210. After cutting the can 210, the lid rests on the barb 206 and is pulled out of the can 210. After removing the can 210, the lid is knocked out of the barb 206 during the knock-out (upward) stroke of the handle 201.

[0227] Along the container opener 200 with the handle 201 in the downward position Fig.50A The RR section is taken from Fig.50B The barbs 206 on the inside of the display can 210. Along the handle 201 in the upward position Fig.50C The cross section TT is taken Fig.50D The barbs 206 are shown retracted and the lid 2101 falls onto the closed lid flap 2076. Fig.51A The cross section of UU is taken Fig.51B The lid 2101 is shown having encountered the lid flap 2076 and sliding toward the rear of the container opener 200 for collection.

[0228] Fig.52 is an exploded view of a container opener 200 according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure, showing a handle 201 , a clamp shaft 202 , a plunger bracket 203 , a gear assembly 204 , a blade assembly 205 , a clamp assembly 207 , and a base 208 together with a can 210 .

[0229] Figures 53 to 86 A container opener 300 is used to describe the third embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.53 The container opener 300 is shown to include a handle 301, a plunger bracket 303, a clamp shaft 302, a blade assembly 305, a clamp assembly 307, and a bracket 308. A can 310 is also shown. In the operating sequence, when the handle 301 is pulled downward, the plunger bracket 303 descends, thereby driving the clamp shaft 302 downward. The clamp shaft 302 is actuated to clamp and secure the can 310, the barb 306 pierces the lid of the can 310, the blade 315 pierces the can 310, and the blade assembly 305 rotates at least 360 degrees to cut the top off the can 310. Then, when the handle 301 is lifted, this sequence is reversed.

[0230] Fig.54 yes Fig.53 Exploded perspective view of a container opener 300. The container opener 300 can be mounted on a tabletop / bar, on the floor, or on a wall. The illustrated bracket 308 allows the container opener 300 to be located on a bar. The container opener 300 has a universal mounting method for any type of desired base or bracket.

[0231] Fig.55 is a front exploded view of a container opener 300 including a gearbox assembly 304, a blade assembly 305, a sidewall extrusion 309, and a clamp assembly 307. A clamped can 310 is also shown.

[0232] Fig.56 is a perspective view of the container opener 300 without the bracket 308 . Fig.57 31 is a perspective view of a container opener 300 including a wall bracket 313 for mounting the container opener 311 to a wall. As mentioned, the container opener 300 can be mounted in a variety of ways. The same mounting features are used on the container opener 300 so that it can be mounted to different brackets or mounted using different methods to allow the container opener 300 to be easily switched between mounting techniques. Fig.58 is a perspective view of the container opener 300 in the floor stand 312. A bin 3121 may be placed under the container opener 300 to collect the lids as they are removed from the jar 310.

[0233] Fig.59 is a perspective view of a container opener 300 with the handle 301 in a downward position. Fig.60 is a front view of the container opener 300 with the handle 301 in an upward position. Fig.61 is a front view of the container opener 300 with the handle 301 in the downward position. Fig.62 is a left side view of the container opener 300 with the handle 301 in the upward position. Fig.63 is a left side view of the container opener 300 with the handle 301 in the downward position.

[0234] 64 to 85 are used to describe the operation of the container opener 300. Fig.64A is a top view of the container opener 300 with the handle 301 in the upward position. Fig.64B It is along Fig.64AAs the handle 301 is rotated, the plunger bracket 303 moves vertically downward and pushes the clamp 3071 of the clamp assembly 307 inward to tightly clamp the can 310. The plunger bracket 303 pushes the plunger shaft 314, which pushes the barb 306 into the lid of the can 310. This allows the lid to be removed after cutting it off from the can 310. The plunger shaft housing 3141 pushes the slot in the blade arm 319, which rotates the blade into the wall of the can 310.

[0235] Fig.65A is a top view of the container opener 300 with the handle 301 in the downward position. Fig.65B It is along Fig.65A The plunger carriage 303 also provides vertical motion to allow the barbs 306 to pierce the top of the lid before cutting begins. After the cutting is complete and the lid is separated from the can body, the barbs 306 are retracted and the lid is removed from the can 310. The can 310 is then removed and opened. The lid then drops down as the handle 301 moves up through the vertical position during the knockout (upward) stroke.

[0236] Fig.66A is a top view of the container opener 300 with the handle 301 in the upward position. Fig.66B It is along Fig.66A The cam slot 311 of the handle 301 has two sections: a vertical motion portion that pushes the plunger bracket 303 downward to a set distance, and a rotational motion portion of the cam slot 311 that is concentric with the pivot of the handle 301, which locks the plunger bracket 303 in its lower position and allows the handle 301 to continue to rotate without moving the plunger bracket 303, to drive the gear train of the gear assembly 304, thereby rotating the blade assembly 305.

[0237] Fig.67A is a top view of the container opener 300 with the handle 301 in the downward position. Fig.67B It is along Fig.67A The right cross-sectional view taken from HH.

[0238] Fig.68 is a perspective view of the handle 301 and the gear assembly 304 . Fig.693041 (within the dashed circle) and the blade assembly 305. The gear train 3041 provides rotational motion to the blade assembly 305. The first set of spur gears 3042 transmits to a set of bevel gears 3043 to rotate the blade assembly 305. The first set of spur gears 3042 transmits the handle torque to the bevel gears 3043 through a gear ratio. The bevel gears 3043 change the direction of motion. The bevel gears 3043 then transmit torque through the second set of spur gears 3044 (using a gear ratio) to provide rotation of the blade assembly 305.

[0239] Fig.70A is a top view of the handle 301 and the gear assembly 304, wherein the handle 301 is in an upward position. Fig.70B It is along Fig.70A The right cross-sectional view taken by JJ. Fig.71A is a top view of the handle 301 and the gear assembly 304, wherein the handle 301 is in a downward position. Fig.71B It is along Fig.71A The cam slot 311 in the handle 301 generates vertical movement of the plunger carriage 303, which then becomes concentric with the pivot, so the vertical movement stops, but the rotational movement continues to rotate the gears, thereby rotating the blade assembly 305 to complete cutting the lid from the can 310.

[0240] Figure 72 to 7 6 is used to describe how to remove the cut lid. Figures 72 to 74 It is a left side view of the handle 301 and the gear assembly 304 . Fig.72 The handle 301 is shown in a downward position. Fig.73 The handle 301 is shown in an upward position. Fig.74 The handle 301 is shown in an over vertical position. The slot 3042 in the gear assembly 304 may include a pawl 3043 to hold the handle 301 in the upright position. When the user retracts the handle 301, the motion will hit this pawl 3043 to stop the upward motion of the handle 301 before continuing the ejection phase of the motion, which is the over vertical position. There is a spring 3012 (at the inside of the cam handle 3011) that provides an outward force to hold the roller in the pawl 3043. Fig.70B best observed in ). Fig.74 It is shown that the handle 301 must continue to be pushed backward (over vertical) to remove the lid of the can 310.

[0241] Fig.75A is a top view of the handle 301 and the gear assembly 304, wherein the handle 301 is in a downward position. Fig.75B It is along Fig.75A The right side cross-sectional view taken from LL. Fig.76Ais a top view of the handle 301 and the gear assembly 304, wherein the handle 301 is in an upward position. Fig.76B It is along Fig.76A The plunger carriage 303 provides a downward force via a downward handle motion to push the barb 306 into the top of the can 310. The barb 306 is guided on a separate shaft using a light spring to allow the barb 306 to hysteresis. The hysteresis is necessary to be able to remove the can before the lid is cut off and ejected back into the beverage.

[0242] Figures 77 to 8 1 is used to describe the blade assembly 305. Fig.77 is a top perspective view of blade assembly 305 . Fig.78A is a top view of the blade assembly 305 . Fig.78B It is along Fig.78A NN of FIG. 3 shows a front cross-sectional view of a scaled version of detail P. As the plunger shaft 314 descends, it pushes the leaf spring seat 318 downward, thereby pushing the leaf spring (not shown), which pushes the blade bushing block 316. The blade bushing block 316 then pushes the blade arm 319 downward (via the cam in the slot) to rotate the blade arm 319 counterclockwise, thereby extending the blade 315 toward the inner edge of the can 310. The blade bushing block 316 also extends the barb 306 toward the can 310.

[0243] Fig.79A is a top view of the blade assembly 305 . Fig.79B It is along Fig.79A RR of 300 is intercepted with the front cross-sectional view of the scaled version of detail U. Once the blade 315 contacts the jar 310, the blade arm 319 is now locked in place, but the plunger shaft 314 must continue to travel downward to force the barb 306 to pierce the lid of the jar 310. To this end, the leaf spring can be compressed, thereby allowing the additional stroke required by the plunger shaft 314. This compression also provides a set range of contact forces on the blade 315 to accommodate the tolerances within the components of the container opener 300 or the tolerances of the diameter of the jar 310. At the end of the stroke, the barb 306 pierces the center of the jar 310 and continues to press down the lid of the jar 310 to generate downward pressure, which helps to separate the lid from the jar body after the lid has been cut. Once the blade assembly 305 has rotated 360+ degrees, the jar lid is separated from the jar body and the jar lid now rests on the lip of the barb 306.

[0244] Fig.80A is a top view of the blade assembly 305 . Fig.80B It is along Fig.80A3101 from the can body. With the can lid 3101 severed from the can body, the upward sequence now occurs. As the plunger shaft 314 retracts due to the upward movement of the handle 301, the leaf spring decompresses and the leaf spring seat 318 bottoms out to pull the blade bushing block 316 upward. This causes the blade arm 319 to rotate clockwise to retract the blade 315 and barb 306. This motion then pulls the can lid 3101 out of the can body until the can lid 3101 hits the blade bottom cover 317.

[0245] In order for the top sequence to occur, the can clamp must release the can 310 before removing the lid 3101 from the barb 306 to avoid the lid 3101 falling into the open can 310. This means that the handle 301 will need to return to its vertical position, which will return the blade assembly 305 to its original position. Fig.78A and 78B . However, because the jar lid 3101 is located on the barb 306, the thickness of the jar lid 3101 now prevents the barb 306 from reaching its "home" position. To solve this problem, the barb 306 is attached to the shaft 3061 using a light spring. This spring allows the jar lid 3101 to "lag" and create a gap GAP between the barb 306 and the blade bushing block 316. This lag allows the blade bushing block 316 / plunger shaft 314 to return to their home position relative to the vertical position of the handle 310. If there is no such lag, the handle 310 will return to its vertical position and force the barb 306 to pass through the jar lid, thereby releasing the jar lid 3101 into the open jar 310 below the jar lid 3101.

[0246] Fig.81A is a top view of the blade assembly 305 . Fig.81B It is along Fig.81A A front cross-sectional view of a scaled version of detail AC taken AA-AA of FIG. 30 with detail AC. At this stage, the can 310 has been removed and the can lid 3101 is pressed between the step on the barb 306 and the blade bottom cover 317. The handle 301 is then rotated to an over-vertical position and then to the "knock-out" position. As this occurs, the plunger shaft 314 / blade bushing block 316 moves upward. This causes the barb shaft 3061 to continue to extend (compressing the spring) until the head of the barb shaft 3061 bottoms out on the step 3161 in the blade bushing block 316. The hysteresis of the barb 306 is now complete and the remainder of the knock-out stroke of the handle 301 pulls the barb 306 through the can lid 3101, thereby ejecting the can lid 3101 from the barb 306, as shown in FIG. Fig.81B As shown in .

[0247] 82 to 85 are used to describe the clamp assembly 307. FIG. Fig.82A and 83A30 is a view of the plunger 3031 of the plunger holder 303 and the clamp assembly 307 . Fig.82B and 83B 307. The downward movement of the plunger 3031 forced by the handle 301 also pushes the rollers in the clamp cam arms 322 that close the clamp 321. The profile of the clamp cam slots 323 in the clamp cam arms 322 quickly closes the clamp 321 before the barbs 306 or blades 315 pierce the can 310. During the remainder of the downward stroke, the clamp 321 is held closed by the vertical portion of the clamp cam slots 323.

[0248] Fig.84 and 85 307. In the "home position", when the handle 301 is vertical, there is enough space between the clamp 321 and the can 310 to comfortably insert the can 310 into the container opener 300, such as Fig.84 In the downward stroke, the clamp 321 will then close around the can 310 to hold it in place before the barb 306 or blade 315 pierces the can lid, as shown in FIG. Fig.85 . The polyurethane band 3074 provides friction to prevent the can 310 from rotating during cutting. Over time, it is expected that the edge where the lip of the can 310 is located will wear. Therefore, there is an easily replaceable can insert 3075 on the inside of the clamp 321.

[0249] on the other hand, Fig.86 An alternative configuration is shown where instead of a gear that rotates the blade assembly 305, there is a motor 324 operated by a switch 325 which may be a button. The switch 325 may be pressed as the plunger carriage 303 descends during the downward stroke of the handle 301. The motor 324 may be connected to a transmission inside the housing. The cutting and removal of the jar lid is the same as that described above.

[0250] Figure 87 to 1 01 is used to describe a container opener 400 according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the container opener 400 includes a motor.

[0251] Fig.87 is a top perspective view of the container opener 400 with the handle 401 in an upward position and the can 410 in place. Fig.88 is a top perspective view of the container opener 400 with the handle 401 in a downward position. Figure 89 to 1 01 is used to describe the operation of the container opener 400.

[0252] Fig.894 is a top view showing the can 410 in position before being pushed into the clamp 421. At this stage, the clamp 321 and the clamp flaps 4076 spring inward to a hard stop. Fig.90 , the can 410 has engaged the clamps 421. The can 410 pushes the clamps 421 outward and compresses the circlips 4211. As shown, there may be two circlips 4211 per clamp 421. The circlips 4211 provide equal pressure on the left and right clamps 421, keeping the can 410 centered.

[0253] Fig.91 is to show how the tank 410 interacts with each other in the fixture 421 Fig.90 A channel 4212 is cut into each of the can clamps 421 that permits the can rim to rest on the bottom of the channel 4212. The wall at the bottom of the channel 4212 is pushed against the can body just below the can rim. Fig.92 is a top view showing the springs 4077 that continue to push the tank 410 forward, thereby pushing the tank baffles 4076 outward to compress them. Fig.93 The can 410 is shown pushed all the way into the clamp 421 until the can 410 reaches the drive wheel 413. At this stage, the can flap 4076 pops outward to hook around one side of the can 410, temporarily holding the can 410 in place. The can clamp 421 pops inward, keeping the can 410 centered. The can clamp 421 secures the can 410 during cutting to prevent the can 410 from tilting while being cut.

[0254] Fig.94A is a top view of the tank 410 in position and Fig.94B The display tank 410 is against the driving wheel 413 along Fig.94A The drive wheel 413 may include a channel cut into it that allows the edge of the can 410 to rest on the bottom of the channel. There is also a friction surface that rests on the outside edge of the can 410. This will provide the necessary friction to rotate the can when the blade applies force to the inside of the edge.

[0255] Fig.95A is a top view of the tank 410 in position and Fig.95B The display tank 410 is against the driving wheel 413 along Fig.95A As shown in detail N, the drive wheel 413 has a channel 4131 defined into it that allows the rim of the can 410 to rest on the bottom of the channel 4131. There is also a friction surface 4312 that forces against the outside rim of the can 410. This will provide the necessary friction to rotate the can 410 when the blade applies force to the inside of the rim.

[0256] Fig.96Ais a top view of the can 410 clamped in place and Fig.96B The display tank 410 is against the driving wheel 413 along Fig.96A This shows how the can rests in the channel 4212 in the can fixture 421.

[0257] Fig.97A It is a top view with the can 410 clamped in place with the handle 401 facing upward. Fig.97B It is along Fig.97A Cross-sectional view of the CC. Fig.97B It is shown how the blade 415 and the tab grabber 406 are mounted to the handle 401 and move away from the can 410 when the handle 401 is upward. The handle 401 is lifted by a spring 4011 at the rear of the handle 401. The cap remover 404 is also retracted using a spring 4041. There is also an electrical switch 425 below the handle 401 which actuates the motor 424 that rotates the drive wheel 413. At this stage, the switch 425 is not engaged.

[0258] Fig.98A It is a top view of the can 410 clamped in place with the handle 401 facing downward. Fig.98B It is along Fig.98A 410. At this stage, as the handle 401 is pulled downward, the blade 415 engages the inner edge of the can 410. This forces the can 410 against the drive wheel 413. The force applied from the blade 415 creates enough friction between the can edge and the drive wheel friction surface 4312 to rotate the can 410. It also pushes the pull ring grabber 406 against the top of the can 410. When the handle 401 is lowered, this action engages the electrical switch 425. This provides power to the motor 424 to rotate the drive wheel 413 and the can 410.

[0259] Fig.99A It is a side view of the can 410 clamped in place with the handle 401 facing downward. Fig.99B It is along Fig.99A 4062 of the pull ring catcher 406. Once the pull ring of the can 410 reaches the vertical wall 4061 of the pull ring catcher 406, the pull ring is hooked and does not continue to rotate. The can pull ring then remains stationary while the can 410 continues to rotate to complete the cutting of the can lid.

[0260] Fig.100A It is a top view with the can 410 clamped in place with the handle 401 facing upward. Fig.100B It is along Fig.100A410. Once the can lid 4101 is cut, the user can lift the handle 401. This will disengage the electrical switch 425, thereby turning off the motor 424. Because the can pull ring is hooked on the pull ring grabber 406, the can lid 4101 will be removed with the upward movement of the handle 401. This action also retracts the blade 415 away from the can 410.

[0261] Fig.101A It is a top view of the handle 401 facing upward. Fig.101B It is along Fig.101A After lifting the handle 401 upward, the clamp 421 is then pulled out of the can 410 in the reverse order as described above. Thereafter, the user will push the lever of the cap remover 404 to eject the can cap 4101 from the pull ring grabber 406, thereby ending the operation sequence.

[0262] Fig.102 is a top view of another configuration in which the can clamp 500 is shown open. Fig.103 500 is a top view of the clamp 500 being closed. The user can manually close the left clamp 502 by rotating the handle 501 clockwise. The left clamp 502 pulls the right clamp 503 to close by the circlip 504. The left clamp 502 is kept closed by the latch 505 and the right clamp 503 is kept closed by the circlip 504. The circlip 504 ensures that the can is firmly clamped between the left clamp 502 and the right clamp 503 when the clamp 500 is closed. The clamp 500 can be unlocked by a roller on the handle of the container opener, and the clamp 500 has been incorporated into the container opener. The roller on the handle of the container opener can hit a flag that rotates the roller 506 to open the latch 505.

[0263] It should be understood that the foregoing description only illustrates the present invention. Without departing from the present invention, a person skilled in the art may design various substitutions and modifications. Therefore, the present invention is intended to cover all such substitutions, modifications and variations that fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A container opener, comprising: a clamp that holds the container; a piercing device that pierces a lid of the container held in the fixture; a blade that cuts the lid from the container while the blade and the container rotate relative to each other; and A separation device separates the piercing device from the cap.

2. The container opener according to claim 1, further comprising: A handle, wherein movement of the handle in a first direction rotates the blade and the container relative to each other.

3. The container opener of claim 2, wherein movement of the handle in the first direction forces the piercing device to pierce the lid.

4. The container opener of claim 2, wherein movement of the handle in the second direction causes the separation device to separate the piercing device from the lid.

5. The container opener of claim 1, wherein the clamp is configured to hold containers having different diameters.

6. The container opener of claim 1, further comprising a motor that rotates the blade and the container relative to each other.

7. The container opener of claim 1, wherein the blade is a plurality of blades.

8. The container opener of claim 7, wherein the plurality of blades and the container are rotated at least 120 degrees relative to each other.

9. The container opener of claim 1, wherein the blade and the container are rotated at least 360 degrees relative to each other.

10. The container opener of claim 1, wherein the piercing device pierces the lid in a central portion of the lid.

11. The container opener according to claim 5, wherein the piercing device moves a set distance to pierce the cap regardless of the diameter of the container.

12. A method for opening a container, the method comprising: clamping the container; piercing the lid of the container by a piercing device; capturing the cap by the piercing device; rotating a blade and the container relative to each other to cut the lid from the container; releasing the container; and The piercing device is separated from the cap.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein movement of a handle in a first direction causes said clamping, said piercing, and said rotating. The method of claim 13 , wherein movement of the handle in a second direction causes the releasing and the separating.

15. The method of claim 12, wherein the blade and the container are rotated at least 120 degrees relative to each other.

16. The method of claim 12, wherein the blade and the container are rotated at least 360 degrees relative to each other.

17. The method of claim 12, wherein the rotating is performed by a motor.

18. The method of claim 12, wherein the blade rotates and the container is stationary.

19. A container opener comprising: handle; A pull ring grabber, which is used to grab the pull ring on the lid of the container; Cutting blades; and an actuation mechanism operably coupled to the handle, the tab grabber, and the cutting blade; in The actuation mechanism is configured to convert the rotational movement of the handle in a first direction into movement of the pull ring grabber and the cutting blade in a vertical direction of the container opener, so that the pull ring grabber grabs the pull ring of the lid of the container held in the container opener and the cutting blade cuts off the lid.

20. The container opener of claim 19, wherein the actuation mechanism is configured to translate rotational movement of the handle in a second direction to separate the tab grabber from the lid.

21. A container opener comprising: handle; Cutting blades; and an actuation mechanism operably coupled to the handle and the cutting blade; in The actuation mechanism is configured to convert the rotational movement of the handle in a first direction into movement of the cutting blade in a vertical direction of the container opener and rotational movement of the cutting blade, so that the cutting blade cuts off a lid of a container.

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