Automatic beverage can opener

Abstract

An automatic beverage can opener is disclosed herein. As an example, there is provided an automatic beverage can opener comprising: a lever that is automatic and movable about a lever pivot axis; a wedge mechanism rotatably interconnected to the lever, the wedge mechanism including a tab engagement finger; and a can holder for positioning the beverage can in a position in which its tab is engageable by the tab engagement finger when the lever is automatically moved.

Description

[0001] CROSS REFERENCES TO THIS APPLICATION

[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. patent application serial number 63 / 309,487, filed on February 11, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to an automatic beverage can opener, and more particularly to an automatic beverage can opener for use in a vending machine or other dispensing machine. Background Art

[0004] It is common to use cans to store and dispense ready-to-drink beverages, such as juices, energy drinks, beer, cocktails, etc. Likewise, vending machines are useful and practical devices for dispensing and / or selling canned beverages.

[0005] Industry best practices for serving canned beverages in sports venues require that the beverage be opened prior to serving. The intent behind this practice is threefold: (1) to ensure that canned beverages are depressurized to reduce damage if used as projectiles; (2) to ensure that closed beverages purchased off-premises are not smuggled on-premises; and (3) to ensure that beverages purchased on-premises are consumed on-premises and not taken off-premises, a requirement of a license to sell alcohol for on-premises consumption.

[0006] There is a need for an effective automatic beverage can opener that can be used in a vending machine to reliably and repeatedly open the pull tab of a can prior to delivery to an individual. Summary of the invention

[0007] The present disclosure provides an automatic beverage can opener and an automatic method for providing an opened beverage can, and in particular, relates to an automatic beverage can opener for use in a vending machine or other dispensing machine.

[0008] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an automatic beverage can opener comprising: a lever that is automatic and movable about a lever pivot axis; a wedge mechanism that is rotatably interconnected to the lever, the wedge mechanism including a pull ring engaging finger; and a can holder and / or a rotation module that is used to position a beverage can in a position where the pull ring of the beverage can be engaged by the pull ring engaging finger when the lever is automatically moved.

[0009] In one embodiment, the lever pivot axis is located at or near the first end of the lever.

[0010] In one embodiment, in operation, when the second end of the lever away from the lever pivot axis moves downward toward the beverage can, the pull ring engaging finger contacts the top of the beverage can and is positioned between the top of the beverage can and the pull ring through the rotational movement of the wedge mechanism.

[0011] In one embodiment, in operation, when the lever is moved upward at the second end away from the beverage can, the pull-tab engaging finger opens the pull-tab of the beverage can.

[0012] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener of this article also includes a locker, when the pull ring engagement finger-shaped member is positioned between the top and the pull ring of the beverage can, the locker is used to lock the pull ring engagement finger-shaped member in a locked configuration. In one embodiment, the locker is pivotally connected to a lever at a locker pivot axis, wherein the lever pivot axis and the locker pivot axis are adjacent to each other on the lever. In one embodiment, in operation, before contacting the top of the beverage can, the pull ring engagement finger-shaped member is oriented in a downwardly pointing direction, and the anti-lock edge on the opposite end of the wedge-shaped mechanism prevents the locking of the locker. In one embodiment, in operation, the rotational movement of the wedge-shaped mechanism when contacting the top of the beverage can causes the anti-lock edge to move out from below the locker, to allow the locker to pivot around the locker pivot axis, and the pull ring engagement finger-shaped member is placed in a locked configuration. In one embodiment, when the pull ring engagement finger-shaped member is in a locked configuration, the locker prevents the further rotational movement of the pull ring engagement finger-shaped member. In one embodiment, the lock prevents further rotational movement of the tab engaging finger by abutting an end of the lock distal to the lock pivot axis against an underside portion of the wedge mechanism.

[0013] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener of the present invention also includes an unlocker for unlocking the pull ring engagement finger from the locked structure. In one embodiment, the unlocker is pivotally connected to the lever at the unlocking pivot axis and is configured to unlock the locker when pivotally rotating around the unlocker pivot axis. In one embodiment, the first part of the unlocker is positioned below the locker. In one embodiment, in operation, after the pull ring has been opened and the lever moves upward, the second part of the unlocker contacts the stopper, causing the unlocker to rotate around the unlocker pivot axis to push the first part of the unlocker upward, thereby unlocking the locker.

[0014] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener of the present invention further comprises a bracket device, which is operably connected to the lever at the lever pivot axis and at the opposite end of the lever to provide automatic movement of the lever. In one embodiment, the bracket device comprises a threaded rod and a threaded platform, wherein the lever is operably connected to the threaded platform located far from the lever pivot axis. In one embodiment, the can holder and / or the rotation module are operably interconnected to the bracket at a position below the lever.

[0015] In one embodiment of the automatic beverage can opener herein, the can holder and / or the rotating module are configured to hold beverage cans of various sizes. In one embodiment, the can holder includes a flat platform on which the beverage can is located, and the flat platform includes two or more prongs, each of which can be retracted and extended relative to a central position on the flat platform for engaging the beverage can. In one embodiment, in operation, the can holder or a component thereof rotates the beverage can to align the pull ring with the pull ring engagement finger.

[0016] In one embodiment, in operation, the can holder lifts a can to position it within a rotating module of an automatic beverage can opener.

[0017] In one embodiment of the automatic beverage can opener herein, the rotating module comprises a jaw chuck and a chuck gear. In one embodiment, in operation, the rotation of the chuck gear engages the jaws of the jaw chuck against the beverage can in the first stage and rotates the beverage can in the second stage.

[0018] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener of this article also includes one or more sensors for automatic operation.In one embodiment, these one or more sensors are used to position the beverage can at the opening height and / or detect the orientation or alignment of the pull ring and the pull ring engagement finger.

[0019] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener herein includes a limit switch sensor for positioning the beverage can at an opening height. In one embodiment, the limit switch sensor indicates the position of the top edge of the beverage can so that the beverage can is automatically positioned at the opening height.

[0020] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener herein includes a laser sensor or an optical sensor for detecting the orientation or alignment of the pull tab with the pull tab engaging fingers.

[0021] In the embodiment of the automatic beverage can opener and method of this paper, during the automatic movement of the lever to open the pull ring, the beverage can remains stationary. In one embodiment, the movement speed of the lever is adjustable to adjust the time of the opening process.

[0022] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener and method herein automatically opens the beverage can without human interaction.

[0023] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener of the present invention automatically detects the placement of the beverage can on the can holder and / or within the rotating module, the height position of the beverage can, the position of the pull ring on the top of the beverage can, the orientation or alignment of the pull ring with the pull ring engaging finger, the locking of the pull ring engaging finger under the pull ring, the unlocking of the pull ring engaging finger, the upper limit of the lever travel reached, or any combination thereof.

[0024] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener herein is capable of automatically disengaging a beverage can and resetting to a starting position in the same movement as opening the pull ring of the beverage can.

[0025] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener herein is capable of discarding problematic beverage cans.

[0026] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener herein further comprises one or more side wall supports for enclosing at least a portion of the beverage can.

[0027] In one embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a method for automatically opening a beverage can, the method comprising employing an automatic beverage can opener as disclosed herein.

[0028] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a method for automatically opening a beverage can, the method comprising: automatically conveying the beverage can to a can holder and / or a rotating module based on an activation signal; automatically detecting a pull ring on the top of the beverage can and aligning the pull ring with a pull ring engaging finger of an automatic beverage can opener; automatically engaging the pull ring engaging finger with the beverage can through activation and downward movement of a lever of the automatic beverage can opener, whereby, when in contact with the beverage can, the pull ring engaging finger rotates about a wedge-shaped rotation axis on the lever to position the pull ring engaging finger between the top of the beverage can and the pull ring; automatically locking the pull ring engaging finger to prevent further rotational movement; and automatic upward movement of the lever to open the pull ring on the beverage can.

[0029] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a kit for assembling an automatic beverage can opener as disclosed herein, the kit comprising: a lever, a wedge mechanism having a pull ring engaging finger, and a can holder. In one embodiment, the kit further comprises a lock. In one embodiment, the kit further comprises a bracket device. In one embodiment, the kit further comprises an unlocker. In one embodiment, the kit further comprises a rotation module.

[0030] In one embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a vending machine comprising an automatic beverage opener as disclosed herein.

[0031] Other aspects and embodiments of the disclosure will be apparent in view of the detailed description provided herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] These and other features of the present disclosure will become more apparent in the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The drawings illustrate one or more embodiments of the present disclosure by way of example only and are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 1 is an exploded view of an exemplary automatic beverage can opener of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary automatic beverage can opener of the present disclosure, wherein a beverage can has not yet been positioned within a holder.

[0035] Figure 3 is a side view of an exemplary automatic beverage can opener of the present disclosure, wherein a beverage can has not yet been positioned within a holder.

[0036] Figure 4 An exemplary automatic beverage can opener of the present disclosure is shown prior to alignment of a pull tab of a beverage can with the pull tab engaging fingers.

[0037] Figure 5 Shows Figure 4 Magnified view of the features indicated and circled in .

[0038] Figure 6 is a side view of an exemplary automatic beverage can opener of the present disclosure, wherein a pull ring of a beverage can is aligned with a pull ring engaging finger.

[0039] Figure 7 Shows Figure 6 Magnified view of the features indicated and circled in .

[0040] Figure 8 is a top perspective view of an exemplary automatic beverage can opener of the present disclosure, wherein a pull ring of a beverage can is aligned with a pull ring engaging finger.

[0041] Fig. 9 Shows Figure 8 Magnified view of the features indicated and circled in .

[0042] Fig.10 is a side view of an exemplary automatic beverage can opener of the present disclosure, wherein a lever is being moved downwardly toward a beverage can to engage a tab engaging finger of a wedge mechanism with a tab of the beverage can.

[0043] Fig.11 Shows Fig.10 Magnified view of the features indicated and circled in .

[0044] Fig.12is a perspective view of an exemplary automatic beverage can opener of the present disclosure, wherein a tab engaging finger of a wedge mechanism is positioned under a tab of a beverage can through a rotational motion, and a lock has been engaged to lock the tab engaging finger in place.

[0045] Fig.13 Shows Fig.12 Magnified view of the features indicated and circled in .

[0046] Fig.14 is a side view of an exemplary automatic beverage can opener of the present disclosure, wherein a lever is moving upwardly away from the top of a beverage can to lift a pull ring and open the beverage can.

[0047] Fig.15 Shows Fig.14 Magnified view of the features indicated and circled in .

[0048] Fig.16 is a side view of an exemplary automatic beverage can opener of the present disclosure, wherein the lever continues to move upward away from the top of the beverage can until the unlocker contacts a stop.

[0049] Fig.17 Shows Fig.16 Magnified view of the features indicated and circled in .

[0050] Fig.18 is a side view of an exemplary automatic beverage can opener of the present disclosure, wherein upon contacting a stopper, an unlocker disengages from a locker, thereby restoring the wedge mechanism to its initial position, whereby the automatic beverage can opener is equipped for the next beverage can.

[0051] Fig.19 Shows Fig.18 Magnified view of the features indicated and circled in .

[0052] Fig. 20 is a perspective view of another exemplary automatic beverage can opener of the present disclosure, wherein a beverage can has not yet been positioned within a holder.

[0053] Fig.21 yes Fig. 20 A perspective view (below, looking upward) of a rotary module of an automatic beverage can opener and exemplary features within the can opener module.

[0054] Fig. 22 yes Fig. 20 A perspective view (above, looking down) of a rotary module of an automatic beverage can opener and exemplary features within the can opener module.

[0055] Fig.23 yes Fig. 20 An enlarged view of exemplary features within a can opener module of an automatic beverage can opener. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0056] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present disclosure, exemplary suitable methods and materials are described below.

[0057] The present disclosure provides an automatic beverage can opener and an automatic method for opening a beverage can, and in particular, relates to an automatic beverage can opener for use in a vending machine or other dispensing machines.

[0058] The automatic beverage can opener of the present disclosure can achieve multiple objectives, including but not limited to: opening the can without human interaction; minimizing can shaking during opening; minimizing liquid spillage; minimizing beverage contamination; and easy cleaning and maintenance of the operating mechanism.

[0059] The automatic beverage can opener of the present disclosure can provide many advantages, including but not limited to: automatic operation without human interaction; providing consistent and reliable opening of beverage cans; being able to vary the number of openings during the opening process; avoiding the need to move the can during the opening process, which increases the risk of spillage; employing a smooth opening process; and being easy to maintain.

[0060] In some embodiments, the beverage can is secured during the opening process. This can be helpful in minimizing spillage.

[0061] In some embodiments, the opening process employs a constant opening time that is adjustable and controllably repeatable.The automatic beverage can opener of the present disclosure provides a smooth opening process.

[0062] In some embodiments, the automatic beverage can opener employs one or more sensors, for example, for accurately positioning the beverage can at the opening height, to align the pull ring of the beverage can disclosed herein with the pull ring engagement finger of the opener, to limit the upward movement of the lever of the opener disclosed herein, and / or to monitor and control any step in the opening process. Advantageously, this also allows the beverage can to be consistently oriented in the same direction when the beverage can is delivered from the vending machine to the individual.

[0063] The present disclosure provides an advantageous automatic beverage can opener including improved designs and features, and an advantageous method for automatically opening a beverage can.

[0064] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an automatic beverage can opener comprising: a lever that is automatic and movable about a lever pivot axis; a wedge mechanism that is rotatably interconnected to the lever, the wedge mechanism including a pull ring engaging finger; and a can holder and / or rotation module for positioning a beverage can in a position where the pull ring of the beverage can can be engaged by the pull ring engaging finger when the lever is automatically moved.

[0065] As used herein, "automatic beverage can opener" refers to a device, system, or apparatus for automatically opening a beverage can. In some embodiments, the automatic beverage can opener may be a single device with all components interconnected in some manner. In other embodiments, the automatic beverage can opener may be a system of interrelated components, where not all components have physical connections to other components of the system. For example, in some embodiments, the can holder may not be interconnected with other components of the automatic beverage can opener (see, e.g., FIG. 1 ). Figure 2 However, in other embodiments, the can opener is interconnected with other components of the beverage can opener (see, for example, Fig. 20 ).

[0066] The lever of the beverage can opener of this article can adopt many different configurations and shapes. As used in this article, "lever" is intended to cover any structure that can withstand rotation about a pivot axis and can be interconnected to a wedge mechanism in a manner that the wedge mechanism can rotate on the lever. In one embodiment, the lever is constructed in a manner that the rotation axis of the lever (lever pivot axis) and the rotation axis of the wedge mechanism (wedge pivot axis) are parallel. In one embodiment, the lever is constructed in a manner that the lever pivot axis and the wedge pivot axis are away from each other on the lever. In one embodiment, the lever pivot axis is located at one end of the lever, and the wedge pivot axis is on the far side of the end, typically at least beyond the midpoint of the length of the lever away from the lever pivot axis.

[0067] In one embodiment, the lever is shaped like a "T". For example, the lever can be formed from two "T" shaped pieces of material (e.g., metal) oriented front to back with respect to each other. The two "T" shaped members can be separate components held together by any suitable means (e.g., by one or more rods), and / or the "T" shaped member can be a single unit formed from a piece of metal connected together front to back (e.g., see Figure 1 ). A "T" shaped member may be a particularly suitable shape because the lever pivot axis and the lock pivot axis may be located at opposite sides on the top of the "T", and the wedge pivot axis may be located somewhere along the "I" portion of the "T". The front-to-back "T" configuration also provides a suitable space for the wedge mechanism to be suspended from the rod or bar at that point on the wedge pivot axis (see Figure 117). As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, this shape is exemplary only, and many other shapes and configurations for the lever are possible and contemplated herein. In one embodiment, the lever is made of metal or a metal alloy, but other materials having sufficient hardness and strength may also be used.

[0068] The wedge mechanism of the automatic beverage can opener of the present invention can also adopt many different configurations and shapes. As used herein, "wedge mechanism" is intended to cover any structure that can rotate about a pivot axis on a lever (e.g., on a rod or bar) and has a feature or surface (referred to herein as a pull ring engaging finger) that can be assembled between the pull ring and the top of the beverage can. Therefore, at least some portions of the wedge mechanism are generally thin, elongated shapes. In some embodiments, this thin, elongated shape is curved along its length and becomes narrower in width as it approaches the end located distal to the rotation axis. In some embodiments, the thin, elongated shape is also thinnest at the end distal to the rotation axis, and the thickness gradually increases as it moves away from this end (see Figure 1 8). As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, this shape is exemplary only, and many other shapes and configurations for the lever are possible and contemplated herein. In one embodiment, the wedge mechanism is made of metal or metal alloy, but other materials with sufficient hardness and strength may also be used.

[0069] In some embodiments herein, the wedge mechanism includes an anti-lock edge. As used herein, an "anti-lock edge" refers to any feature or structure of a wedge mechanism that is capable of reversibly preventing the lock from moving into its locked configuration. In some embodiments herein, the anti-lock edge is configured to allow the lock to be locked by rotating out of its preventing state when the wedge mechanism is rotated to engage under the pull ring of the beverage can. This is a convenient configuration because rotation of the wedge mechanism simultaneously performs two functions: (1) engaging under the pull ring, and (2) unlocking the lock. In one embodiment, the anti-lock edge is a wider portion of the wedge mechanism (e.g., a rod) that is positioned at the end of the wedge mechanism opposite the pull ring engagement finger (see Figure 1 9). In one embodiment, the anti-lock edge is positioned below the end of the lock distal to the lock pivot axis. Thus, when the wedge mechanism rotates, it rotates the anti-lock edge out from under the end of the lock and allows the lock to pivot downward to lock the wedge mechanism in place (i.e., prevent further rotation of the lock mechanism). In one embodiment, the anti-lock edge has a curved outwardly facing surface to facilitate rotation against the underside of the lock.

[0070] like Figure 1As shown, a kind of configuration for allowing wedge mechanism to rotate on lever is to make lever have pivot rod, and wedge mechanism is suspended on pivot rod and rotates around pivot rod.In one embodiment, wedge mechanism can rotate freely.In other embodiments, wedge mechanism is biased to specific direction or position.In a specific embodiment, wedge mechanism is biased to initial position.As used in this article, "initial position" is intended to represent that the pull ring engagement finger-shaped member is equipped and is ready to engage the position of beverage can.In this initial position, the pull ring engagement finger-shaped member is in the state pointing downward, so the end of the pull ring engagement finger-shaped member is ready to contact the top of beverage can, and then rotates below the pull ring.In one embodiment, wedge mechanism is biased to this initial state by spring (i.e. wedge spring).Spring is connected to another component such as lever, so that pull ring engagement finger-shaped member is suitably biased to initial position.As should be understood, other biasing features can be used, for example counterbalancing method.

[0071] Automatic beverage can opener of the present disclosure can determine the position of pull ring on the top of beverage can, and aligns pull ring with pull ring engagement finger.In one embodiment, the tank holder is configured to rotate the beverage can.For example, in one embodiment, when determining the position of pull ring on the top of beverage can, the flat platform (tank is located on it) of tank holder can be rotated.In some embodiments, in order to ensure that beverage can does not move during operation, the flat platform of tank holder can have the feature of engaging beverage can and being maintained in position.Any suitable feature or structure can be used.In one embodiment, the flat platform has a movable sidewall or has a compressible inner surface that tank is placed therein.In another embodiment, the flat platform comprises claws extending upwards, and this claw can be retracted and extended to engage and disengage beverage can.

[0072] As discussed above, the can holder may be interconnected with other parts of the automatic beverage can opener or may not be interconnected with other parts of the automatic beverage can opener. In one embodiment, the can holder is used to move the beverage can in an upward and downward motion. In this regard, in some embodiments, the term "can holder" is intended to cover a lifter or lifting device, and works in this regard. Therefore, in some embodiments, "can holder" may be used to refer to a lifter or lifting device. In one embodiment, the can opener includes a straight platform for holding a beverage can thereon and a lifting device for moving the can upward and / or downward. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the can opener can be an independent and separated component. Although it does not need to be connected to other parts of the beverage can opener, it must be appropriately configured to transport the beverage can to other parts. For example, as described herein, the beverage can is positioned to be engaged by a pull ring engagement finger and / or the beverage can is transported to the rotary module.

[0073] The automatic beverage can opener of the present disclosure may or may not include a rotating module. In the embodiment in which the can holder is used to rotate the beverage can, the rotating module may be omitted. However, in some embodiments, it may be desired that the can opener does not operate as a rotating mechanism. In such embodiments, in the automatic beverage can opener of the present disclosure, the beverage can may be delivered to the rotating module by the can opener or by other means. For example, in some embodiments, the automatic vending machine may directly drop or supply the beverage can into the rotating module of the present disclosure, and the consumer may obtain the beverage from the opening in the automatic vending machine, which opens to the rotating module. However, it may be preferred that the consumer does not approach the beverage can from the compartment identical with the rotating module, so that the can holder or lifter will still be used to move the beverage can into and out of the funnel module, where the consumer may approach the beverage without being exposed to the functional components of the opening system.

[0074] As used herein, the term "rotation module" refers to a partial collection of components (eg, within a compartment) for rotating a beverage can to properly align the pull tab of the beverage can with the pull tab engagement fingers. Many different configurations of components may be used.

[0075] In one embodiment, the rotary module includes a claw chuck. In this embodiment, the beverage can can be transported through the hole in the claw chuck (for example, by a can holder or other lifting mechanism) to position the beverage can between the claws of the claw chuck. The claws of the claw chuck can be configured to move inward and outward in any suitable manner, many of which are known in the art. In one embodiment, the claws can be evenly moved by the rotation of one or more screw mechanisms, which are used to move each claw inward or outward according to the direction of rotation. In another more advantageous embodiment disclosed herein, a gear (chuck gear) can be positioned on the top of the claw. The pin extending upward from each claw can be positioned in each groove in the chuck gear. The rotation of the chuck gear will move the pin through the groove. The movement of the pin in one direction along the groove will cause the claw to retract simultaneously, and the movement in another direction in the groove will cause the claw to extend simultaneously. The chuck gear can be directly driven by a motor or driven by other interconnected gears.

[0076] In one embodiment, when beverage can is delivered to claw chuck, the activation of motor is used to rotate chuck gear in appropriate direction, so that claw engages can. Advantageously, it has been found that after the initial stage that claw engages against beverage can, chuck gear can further rotate in the same direction, to rotate claw chuck, thereby rotate beverage can in claw chuck. This is very advantageous, because single mechanism can both engage beverage can and can rotate can to align pull ring with pull ring engagement finger-shaped member. Then, when expecting to release beverage can, chuck gear only needs to rotate in opposite direction, so that claw is disengaged from the side of beverage can. Any suitable claw chuck can be used. In one embodiment, claw chuck is 3-claw chuck, 4-claw chuck, 5-claw chuck or 6-claw chuck.

[0077] In the automatic beverage can opener of this article, one or more sensors can be used to achieve accurate automatic operation. The sensor can be of any suitable type. In one embodiment, the sensor is a limit switch sensor, a sensor equipped with a laser (laser sensor), an imaging sensor or an optical sensor.

[0078] In one embodiment, the limit switch sensor is used to accurately position the beverage can at the opening height. For example, when the beverage can moves upward toward the pull ring engagement finger, the arm of the limit switch sensor can be configured to contact the top of the beverage can. In a specific embodiment, the arm of the limit switch sensor indicates the upper edge of the beverage can. It has been found that the edge of the beverage can is an ideal indication feature for accurately identifying the pull ring of the beverage can subsequently.

[0079] In one embodiment, a laser sensor is used to accurately identify the pull ring on the top of the beverage can and align the pull ring with the pull ring engagement finger. In one embodiment, after the beverage can is positioned at the opening height, the can is rotated while the laser sensor is directed to the top of the can. The difference in the travel distance of the laser is used to accurately locate the position of the pull ring and automatically align the pull ring with the pull ring engagement finger properly.

[0080] Once the tab is aligned with the tab engaging finger, the rotation of the can is stopped and the lever automatically lowers to position the tab engaging finger under the tab while locking the wedge mechanism in a locked configuration preventing rotation. Then, a signal is sent to automatically move the lever upward to lift the tab and open the beverage can.

[0081] The locking of the wedge mechanism is described elsewhere herein. It is noteworthy that the lock can be any suitable shape for preventing the wedge mechanism from rotating. There are many different ways and configurations by which this can be achieved. In one embodiment, an effective configuration herein is a lock having a rectangular shape that pivots around the lock pivot axis at the same lever end as the lever pivot axis. When the wedge mechanism rotates to move the anti-lock edge out from under the lock, the rectangular-shaped lock falls onto the "I" portion of the "T" shaped lever to push the end of the lock located far from the lock pivot axis upward against the lower portion of the wedge mechanism. In one embodiment, the lower portion is the lower side of the anti-lock edge. Therefore, at the lowest efficiency, the bar-shaped structure that once prevented the lock from engaging in the locked position is now the surface that the lock abuts against to prevent the wedge mechanism from rotating.

[0082] After opening the beverage can, the pull ring engagement finger returns to its initial position, whereupon it is armed and ready to engage and open the next beverage can. In one embodiment, this can be achieved by an unlocker that unlocks the lock and restores the rotational capability of the wedge-shaped mechanism. The unlocker can be any suitable shape for disengaging the lock. There are many different ways and configurations by which this can be achieved.

[0083] In one embodiment, an effective construction of the present invention is to employ another component that can pivot about a pivot axis on a lever. In one embodiment, the unlocker pivots about the same bar or rod used to suspend the wedge mechanism. Thus, again with minimal efficiency, another component of the automatic beverage can opener of the present invention serves multiple purposes. For the unlocker, an appropriate construction can be selected so that a portion of the unlocker is positioned below the lock and another portion of the unlocker on the other side of the unlocker pivot axis is able to contact a structure that will cause the unlocker to pivot and push the lock upward, thereby allowing the wedge mechanism to rotate back to its initial position (for example, by the bias already described) and place the anti-lock edge under the lock again. In one embodiment, a suitable shape for the unlocker can be a "U" shaped structure (see Figure 1 20) in which the arm of the "U" contacts a stop feature as the lever moves upward, and the contact with the stop forces the unlocker to rotate about the unlocker pivot axis and push the lock upward.

[0084] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener of this invention also includes a bracket device. The bracket device can provide structural support and structure for other components described herein, and / or can provide functions in the automatic operation of the automatic beverage can opener of this invention. For example, in one embodiment, the bracket device accommodates one or more sensors and any computer processing equipment required for automatic operation.

[0085] In one embodiment, the bracket device is configured to hold and operate a lever. For example, in one embodiment, the bracket device is operably connected to the lever at or near the lever pivot axis and also at the opposite end of the lever to provide automatic movement of the lever. The movement of the lever can be achieved by any suitable mechanism and / or structure, such as on a track, a threaded mechanism, a slide rail structure, a piston, etc. In one embodiment, the bracket device includes a threaded rod and a threaded platform, wherein the lever is operably connected to the threaded platform at a surface or structure located distal to the lever pivot axis.

[0086] The support device may also include functional components for the movement of the cup holder or other suitable lifting system. The movement of the cup holder or other suitable lifting system may be achieved by any suitable mechanism and / or structure, such as on a track, a threaded mechanism, a slide structure, a piston, etc. In one embodiment, the tank holder and / or the rotation module are operably interconnected to the support at a position below the lever.

[0087] The support device may also include functional components for the rotation module. For example, in one embodiment, a motor for driving a chuck gear or other suitable rotation mechanism in the rotation module is positioned in the support.

[0088] In one embodiment, the support device may include one or more sidewall supports for at least a portion of the beverage can. The sidewall may provide support for the upright position of the beverage can, and / or one or more sidewalls may be removable (e.g., to perform a rotation function with a joint can, or to open the beverage can and expose it to the consumer to obtain the opened beverage can.

[0089] In one embodiment of the automatic beverage can opener of this article, jar holder and / or rotating module are configured to keep beverage cans of various sizes.In one embodiment, jar holder and / or rotating module are configured to keep the jar of liquid volume size range from 50mL to 1000mL, more specifically from 250mL to 750mL, and more specifically from 355mL to 750mL.In a specific embodiment, jar holder and / or rotating module are configured to keep the beverage can (for example, the beer can of 12oz) of 355mL.In a specific embodiment, jar holder and / or rotating module are configured to keep the beverage can (for example, the beer can of 16oz) of 473mL.In a specific embodiment, jar holder and / or rotating module are configured to keep the beverage can (for example, the beer can of 25oz) of 740mL.

[0090] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener herein automatically detects the placement of the beverage can on the can holder and / or in the rotating module. This can be achieved, for example but not limited to, by laser, optical or weight sensors.

[0091] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener herein automatically detects the height position of the beverage can. This can be achieved, for example but not limited to, by a limit switch, a laser or an optical sensor.

[0092] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener herein automatically detects the position of the pull ring on the top of the beverage can. This can be achieved, for example but not limited to, by laser, imaging or optical sensors.

[0093] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener herein automatically detects the orientation or alignment of the pull ring and the pull ring engagement finger. This can be achieved, for example but not limited to, by laser, imaging or optical sensors.

[0094] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener herein automatically detects the locking of the pull ring engaging finger under the pull ring. This can be achieved, for example but not limited to, by a limit switch, laser, imaging or optical sensor.

[0095] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener herein automatically detects the unlocking of the pull-tab engaging finger-like member. This can be achieved, for example but not limited to, by a limit switch, laser, imaging or optical sensor.

[0096] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener of this article can discard problematic beverage cans. This can be achieved by a sensor. In one embodiment, this can be achieved by a weight sensor, an optical sensor, or an imaging sensor.

[0097] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener herein automatically detects the upper limit of the travel of the lever reached or any combination thereof. This can be achieved, for example but not limited to, by a limit switch, laser, imaging or optical sensor.

[0098] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener of this article can automatically disengage the beverage can and reset to the starting position in the same movement as the pull ring of the beverage can. This can be achieved by moving the lever upward as described herein, thereby disengaging the beverage can and triggering the unlocker to reset the wedge mechanism to the initial position.

[0099] Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein reference numerals refer to like components, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings that further illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, but are not limiting thereof.

[0100] Figure 1 is an exemplary automatic beverage can opener 1 of the present disclosure.

[0101] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener 1 of the present disclosure includes a lever 2, which is automatic and movable about a lever pivot axis 4; a wedge mechanism 6, which is rotatably interconnected to the lever 2, and the wedge mechanism 6 includes a pull ring engaging finger 8; and a can holder 10, which is used to position a beverage can 12 in a position where its pull ring 14 can be engaged by the pull ring engaging finger 8 when the lever 2 is automatically moved.

[0102] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener 1 further comprises a locker 16 for locking the pull ring engaging finger 8 in a locked configuration so as to open the pull ring of the beverage can.

[0103] In one embodiment, in operation, when the lever 2 is moved downwardly toward the beverage can 12, the tab engaging finger 8 contacts the top of the beverage can and is positioned between the top of the beverage can 12 and the tab 14 through rotational movement.

[0104] In an embodiment of the automatic beverage can opener 1 , when the tab engaging finger 8 is positioned between the top of the beverage can 12 and the tab 14 , the lock 16 prevents further rotational movement of the tab engaging finger 8 .

[0105] In one embodiment, in operation, when the lever 2 is moved upwardly away from the beverage can 12 , the pull-tab engaging finger 8 opens the pull-tab 14 of the beverage can 12 .

[0106] In the embodiment of the automatic beverage can opener 1, the can holder 10 is configured to hold cans of various sizes. The can holder 10 can also be used as a lifter to position the beverage can in the support 18 of the beverage can opener, such as positioning the can in the side wall support 22.

[0107] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener 1 further comprises a sensor for detecting the orientation or alignment of the pull ring 14 with the pull ring engaging finger 8. In one embodiment, the sensor is an optical sensor.

[0108] In one embodiment, in operation, the can holder 10 or another component is capable of rotating the beverage can 12 to align the tab 14 with the tab engagement fingers 8 .

[0109] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener 1 further comprises a verification check device for confirming that the pull ring 14 of the beverage can 12 has been opened.

[0110] In one embodiment, in operation, the beverage can 12 remains stationary during the automatic movement of the lever 2 to open the tab 14 .

[0111] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener 1 further comprises a cleaning device to clean the pull ring engaging finger 8 after each operation of opening the pull ring 14 is completed.

[0112] In one embodiment, in operation, the movement speed of the lever 2 is adjustable to adjust the time of the opening process. In one embodiment, the opening process varies according to the size of the beverage can 12 or the type of liquid in the beverage can 12.

[0113] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener 1 automatically opens the beverage can 12 without human interaction.

[0114] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener 1 automatically detects the orientation of the pull ring 14 .

[0115] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener 1 automatically positions the beverage can 12 for the opening process.

[0116] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener 1 locks the beverage can 12 in a vertical position to facilitate opening.

[0117] In one embodiment, in operation, the tab engaging finger 8 moves about two offset bends, the outer bend engaging the tab and the inner bend pulling the tab.

[0118] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener 1 is capable of automatically disengaging the beverage can 12 and resetting to a starting position in the same movement as opening the pull ring 14 of the beverage can 12 .

[0119] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener 1 is capable of discarding defective beverage cans 12 .

[0120] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener 1 further comprises a bracket device 18. The bracket device can support other components and / or be used to position the automatic beverage can opener 1 in a vending machine.

[0121] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener 1 further comprises an unlocker 20 for unlocking the pull-tab engaging finger 8 from the locked configuration.

[0122] In one embodiment, the automatic beverage can opener 1 further comprises one or more side wall supports 22 for enclosing at least a portion of the beverage can.

[0123] In another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for automatically opening a beverage can 12 , the method comprising using the automatic beverage can opener 1 of the present disclosure.

[0124] The exemplary operation of the automatic beverage can opener 1 of the present disclosure is as follows: Figures 2 to 19 As shown. Figure 2 and Figure 3 In FIG. 1 , the beverage can 12 is held by the can holder 10 but has not yet been positioned in the support device 18. In contrast, in Figure 2 and Figure 3 At this stage in the embodiment of the embodiment, the beverage can 12 is located on the flat platform 11 of the can holder 10 and is grasped or engaged by the retractable and extendable claws 13 extending upward from the flat platform 11. The claws 13 can extend or retract inwardly and outwardly relative to a position such as a central position on the flat platform 11 (for example, when the flat platform 11 is a circular structure, inwardly and outwardly along the radius of the flat platform 11). The engagement of the beverage can 12 with the claws 13 positions the beverage can 12 in an appropriate position on the flat platform 11 for subsequent engagement with the pull ring engagement finger 8 of the wedge mechanism 6 (for example, in the center of the flat platform 11).

[0125] The movement of the claws 13 is an automatic operation and may or may not be regulated by a sensor. For example, in one embodiment, when the presence of a beverage can 12 is detected on the flat platform 11, the inward movement begins, and the inward movement continues until the engagement of the claws 13 with the beverage can 12 reaches a pressure threshold. Other automatic mechanisms for controlling and regulating the movement of the claws 13 will be well understood by those skilled in the art of the present disclosure.

[0126] exist Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the embodiment, the beverage can 12 is lifted to the opening height by the can holder 10, but the pull ring 14 has not yet aligned with the pull ring engagement finger 8. In other embodiments, the can holder 10 device may not move in the upward / downward direction, but the bracket device 18 or its components may move downward to position the beverage can 12 at the opening height. In other embodiments, both the can holder 10 and the bracket device 18 or its components may move to position the beverage can 12 at the opening height.

[0127] The movement of the tank holder 10, the bracket device 18 or its parts or both is automatic operation, and may or may not be regulated by a sensor. In the embodiment where the tank holder 10 and the bracket device 18 or its parts are all moved to position the beverage can 12 at the opening height, each movement may be independent, and may alternate at the time of operation and / or the distance traveled, for example depending on the size of the beverage can 12 to be opened. In one embodiment, one or more sensors are used to detect when the beverage can 12 is in its opening height. For example, the sensor may be positioned above the beverage can 12 in or on the bracket device 18. In one embodiment, the sensor may be a laser sensor that detects the position of the beverage can 12 so that the beverage can 12 is accurately placed at the opening height. In another embodiment, the sensor may be operated by a limit switch so that when the movement of the tank triggers the limit switch, the movement of the beverage can 12 stops. In one embodiment, the limit switch sensor is configured to engage and / or indicate with the top edge of the beverage can 12. The technicians of the present disclosure will understand well other automatic mechanisms, sensor types, sensor positions or combinations thereof that are used to control and regulate the beverage can 12 to move to the opening height.

[0128] like Figure 4 As shown, the rotation of beverage can 12 can occur while beverage can 12 is moved to opening height. In one embodiment, this rotational movement is automatic, and is regulated by a sensor that can detect the position of the pull ring 14 on the top of beverage can 12. For example, a laser sensor is oriented to point its laser downward to the top of beverage can 12, and this laser sensor can detect the pull ring 14 by the difference of the stroke of the top of the laser to the pull ring 14 on the beverage can 12 by the laser to the top of the beverage can 12. The difference of these distances can allow the pull ring 14 to be automatically positioned and aligned with the pull ring engagement finger 8 of the wedge mechanism 6. In one embodiment, the laser sensor for positioning the pull ring 14 can be a sensor that is the same or different from the sensor for positioning the beverage can 12 at the opening height. In one embodiment, a limit switch sensor is used to position the beverage can 12 at the opening height, and a laser sensor is used to detect the position of the pull ring 14 on the top of the beverage can 12. Other automated mechanisms, sensor types, sensor locations, or combinations thereof for identifying the tab 14 and appropriately rotating the beverage can 12 to align the tab 14 with the tab engagement fingers 8 will be well understood by those skilled in the art of this disclosure.

[0129] exist Figure 5In the illustrated embodiment, the pull ring 14 has not yet aligned with the pull ring engagement finger 8 of the wedge mechanism 6. As described above, the rotation of the beverage can 12 can occur while the beverage can 12 is moved to the opening height. Therefore, in some embodiments, when the opening height is reached, the pull ring 14 of the beverage can 12 will have been aligned. However, in other embodiments, the alignment of the pull ring 14 with the pull ring engagement finger 8 will not occur until the beverage can 12 is at the opening height. In other embodiments, when the beverage can 12 is being moved to the opening height, some alignment of the pull ring 14 with the pull ring engagement finger 8 does start simultaneously, but once the beverage can 12 is at the opening height, fine positioning adjustments are made.

[0130] exist Figure 6 and Figure 7 In the embodiment shown, the beverage can 12 is in the open position and the pull ring 14 is now aligned with the pull ring engaging finger 8 of the wedge mechanism 6. Figure 5 In contrast, the alignment of the pull ring 14 of the beverage can 12 with the pull ring engaging finger 8 already occurs at the opening height. This alignment is an automatic process, for example involving one or more sensors as described herein. Figure 8 and Fig. 9 and Figure 6 and Figure 7 Similar, but shown from a slightly different perspective to better view the top of the beverage can 12 .

[0131] exist Fig.10 In the embodiment of the present invention, the lever 2 of the automatic beverage can opener 1 moves downward toward the beverage can 12 so that the pull ring engagement finger 8 of the wedge mechanism 6 engages with the pull ring 14 of the beverage can 12. The movement of the lever 2 is an automatic process. In the selected embodiment, the automatic downward movement of the lever 2 begins once one or more sensors of the automatic beverage can opener 1 confirm that the beverage can 12 is at the opening height and the pull ring 14 has been aligned with the pull ring engagement finger 8. In some embodiments, there may be some downward movement of the lever before these criteria are met, but generally not to the extent that any such downward movement will cause contact between the pull ring engagement finger 8 and the top of the beverage can 12, unless such movement or contact of the pull ring engagement finger 8 is related to the positioning of the beverage can 12. For example, in some embodiments, the downward movement of the lever 2 and the contact between the pull ring engagement finger 8 and the top of the beverage can 12 can be a signal that the beverage can 12 is in the open position.

[0132] The downward movement of the lever 2 can occur in a variety of different configurations. Figures 1 to 19In one embodiment, the lever 2 is pivotally connected to a lever pivot axis 4 on a component of the bracket device 18. Rotation of the threaded rod 5 to which the lever 2 is operably connected causes downward movement of the end of the lever 2 located distal to the lever pivot axis 4. This in turn causes the pull ring engagement finger 8 to contact the top of the beverage can 12 and position or slide the pull ring engagement finger 8 under the pull ring 14 as the lever 2 moves further downward. In one embodiment, the lever 2 is operably connected to the threaded rod 5 by the portion of the lever 2 located distal to the lever pivot axis 4 being fixedly attached directly or indirectly to the threaded platform 7. In such an embodiment, the threaded platform 7 will move up and down on the threaded rod to move the lever 2.

[0133] Fig.11 1 shows an embodiment of the configuration of the various components of the automatic beverage can opener 1 of the present disclosure before the pull ring engagement finger 8 is slid under the pull ring 14. As shown, the pull ring engagement finger 8 is in contact with the top of the beverage can 12, but the pull ring engagement finger 8 is still oriented in a downwardly pointing direction. In this orientation, Fig.11 In the embodiment of the invention, the anti-lock edge 9 of the wedge mechanism 6 holds the lock 16 in the unlocked configuration. In the unlocked configuration of the lock 16, the wedge mechanism 6 can rotate freely about the wedge pivot axis 15. The wedge pivot axis 15 can be formed by suspending the wedge mechanism 6 on a pivot rod 17 on the lever 2 via a circular hole or a hole (not shown) in the wedge mechanism.

[0134] exist Fig.12 and Fig.13 , by further downward movement of the lever 2 and corresponding rotational movement of the wedge mechanism 6, the tab engaging finger 8 of the wedge mechanism 6 slides along the top of the beverage can 12 and is positioned under the tab 14 of the beverage can 12. The rotation of the wedge mechanism 6 moves the anti-lock edge 9 to a configuration that allows the lock 16 to engage and lock the tab engaging finger 8 in place. Fig.11 and Fig.13 In the embodiment shown therein, it can be seen that as the wedge mechanism 6 rotates, the anti-lock edge 9 also rotates away from the end of the lock 16 located distally of the lock pivot axis 19. When the anti-lock edge 9 moves away and is no longer below the lock 16, the pivotal rotation about the lock pivot axis 19 allows the lock 16 to drop downward and the end of the lock 16 located distally of the lock pivot axis 19 engages against the lower side portion 21 of the wedge mechanism 6. As can be seen in FIG. Fig.11 As seen in FIG. 1 , some embodiments include a locking spring 27 to bias the lock toward the locked position. The locking spring may be connected to a lever spring bar 26 on the lever 2 at one end and to a lock spring bar 28 on the lock 16 at the other end.

[0135] exist Fig.14and Fig.15 In the embodiment, the lever 2 moves upward away from the top of the beverage can 12 to lift the pull ring 14 and open the beverage can 12. The movement of the lever 2 is an automatic process. In the selected embodiment, once the lock 16 is locked in place to fix the wedge mechanism 6 in place, the lever 2 begins to move upward automatically. In one embodiment, this can be detected by one or more sensors. Since the wedge mechanism 6 is locked in place, the wedge mechanism 6 cannot rotate when the lever 2 moves upward, and when the lever 2 moves upward, the pull ring engagement finger 8 pulls the pull ring 14 upward, thereby opening the beverage can 12.

[0136] exist Fig.16 and Fig.17 In the embodiment, the lever 2 continues to move upward away from the top of the beverage can 12 until the unlocking device 20 contacts the stopper 23 on the bracket device 18 (see Fig.17 A in FIG. 1 ). The upward movement of the lever 2 remains an automatic process. As can be seen, the upward movement of the lever 2 disengages the pull ring engaging finger 8 from the pull ring 14 because it moves above the reach of the pull ring 14.

[0137] exist Fig.18 and Fig.19 In the embodiment, upon contacting the stopper 23, the unlocker 20 disengages the locker 16, thereby restoring the wedge mechanism 6 to its initial position, whereby the automatic beverage can opener 1 is equipped for the next beverage can 12. Figures 1 to 19 In the embodiment of FIG. 1 , it can be seen that the unlocker 20 pivots about the unlocker pivot axis 24. Figures 1 to 19 In this embodiment of the invention, the unlocker pivot axis 24 is formed by attaching the unlocker 20 to the same pivot bar 17 on which the wedge mechanism 6 is suspended.

[0138] In operation, when the unlocker 20 contacts the stopper 23, the stopper 23 forces the unlocker 20 to pivot about the unlocker pivot axis 24. This pivoting of the unlocker 20 causes the opposite end of the unlocker 20 to push upward against the bottom surface of the lock 16 (see FIG. Fig.19 The upward movement of the lock 16 releases the lower portion 21 of the wedge mechanism 6 from its locked position, abutting against the edge of the end of the lock 16 located distal to the lock pivot axis 19 ( Fig.19 This allows the wedge mechanism 6 to rotate back to its initial position. Figures 1 to 19 In the embodiment of the invention, the wedge mechanism 6 is biased to rotate back to its initial position (i.e., in which the pull ring engagement finger 8 is in a downwardly directed state) by a wedge spring 25, which is attached at one end to a lever spring bar 26 on the lever 2 and at the other end to the wedge mechanism 6. Returning to its initial position, the anti-locking edge 9 of the wedge mechanism 6 is again positioned to prevent the lock 16 from engaging in the locked position (see Fig.19 D in ). As a result, the wedge mechanism is free to rotate and the automatic beverage can opener 1 is equipped for the next beverage can 12.

[0139] Fig. 20 1 shows another embodiment of an automatic beverage can opener 100. Compared with the above embodiment, in the automatic beverage can opener 100, the can holder 110 and the flat platform 111 on which the beverage can 12 is located do not include components for rotating the beverage can 12. The automatic beverage can opener 100 includes a separate operating compartment, including an elevator 150, a funnel 160, a rotation module 170 and a can opening module 180.

[0140] The lifting module 150 includes a can holder 110 and a flat platform 111. In an embodiment of the automatic beverage can opener 100, none of these components perform the function of rotating the beverage can 12. In operation, the beverage can 12 is inserted into the funnel module 160 (e.g., from a beverage storage compartment of a vending machine) to rest on the top of the flat platform 111 of the lifting module 150. In one embodiment, within the lifting module 150, the lifting platform 151 can be interconnected to the can holder 110. The upward and downward movement of the lifting platform 151, such as along a track system, a threaded mechanism, etc. 152, can be used to lift the can holder 110 and the flat platform 111, thereby lifting the beverage can 12 located on the flat platform 111 into the rotating module 170.

[0141] Many different configurations of the lifting module 150 and the hopper module 160 can be envisioned with respect to the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate the alternative configurations that can be used to lift the beverage can 12 into the rotating module 170. In some embodiments, the functions of the lifting module 150 and the hopper module 160 can be combined into a single module. In some embodiments, if the beverage is delivered directly to the rotating module 170 at an appropriate operating height, a lifting device may not be required.

[0142] Fig.21 is an extracted view of only the rotating module 170 and the can opening module 180 of the automatic beverage can opener 100, wherein Fig. 20 Some of the side panels are removed. In operation, the beverage can 12 is lifted or placed into the rotating module 170 by a suitable device, such as the device described herein. Figure 20 to Figure 23 In the embodiment of the present invention, the first limit switch sensor 181 capable of indicating relative to the top edge of the beverage can 12 is used to accurately position the beverage can 12 at the opening height. Fig. 22 It can be seen that the first limit switch sensor is in the can opening module 180 and is Fig.23 It can be seen that the arm of the first limit switch sensor 181 contacts the top edge of the beverage can 12 (see Fig.23E). During automatic operation, the beverage can 12 will be lifted into the rotating module 170 until the top edge contacts the first limit switch sensor 181, triggering the lifting platform 151 to stop lifting the beverage can 12. Other types of sensors or mechanisms may be used for the automatic lifting process.

[0143] Once the beverage can 12 is positioned at the opening height, it must be rotated to align the pull ring 14 with the pull ring engaging fingers 8. Detection of the position of the pull ring 14 may be handled as described elsewhere herein.

[0144] In an embodiment of the automatic beverage can opener 100, positioning the beverage can 12 at the opening height within the rotating module 170 triggers the operation of the motor 171. Fig.21 1, motor 171 is operably interconnected to 3-jaw chuck 172 through a gear mechanism, which includes a chuck gear 173. The activation of motor 171 plays a role in rotating the chuck gear 173 directly or indirectly through other gear transmission components 174. The initial rotation of the chuck gear 173 causes each claw of the 3-jaw chuck 172 to move inwardly and engage against the side of the beverage can 12. Advantageously, it has been found that once the claws of the 3-jaw chuck 172 engage the beverage can 12, the continued rotation of the chuck gear 173 can be used to rotate the beverage can 12. Therefore, a separate rotating mechanism for the beverage can 12 is not required.

[0145] Figure 20 to Figure 23 The exemplary embodiment in FIG. 1 employs a 3-jaw chuck 172. However, it will be well understood that an alternative jaw chuck (e.g., a 4-jaw chuck) may be used or a completely different mechanism may be used to rotate the beverage can 12 within the rotation module 170. These alternatives will be apparent to those skilled in the art of the present disclosure.

[0146] In an embodiment of the automatic beverage can opener 100, in order to determine the proper rotation of the beverage can 12 to align the pull ring 14 with the pull ring engagement finger 8, a laser sensor 182 may be used. Fig.21 As shown, a laser sensor 182 can be positioned within the can opening module 180. The laser of the laser sensor 182 points downwardly toward the top of the beverage can 12. As the beverage can 12 rotates in the rotation module 170, the laser sensor 182 detects the height difference of the features at the top of the beverage can 12. The laser sensor 182 is capable of detecting the position of the pull ring 14, and by automatic control, the beverage can 12 is rotated to align the pull ring 14 with the pull ring engagement finger 8.

[0147] Once the pull ring 14 of the beverage can 12 is aligned with the pull ring engagement finger 8, the operation of the automatic beverage can opener 100 for opening the beverage can 12 can be similar to the process described above. Fig.21As shown, a second limit switch sensor 183 can be positioned with the can opener module 180 to serve as a stop indicator for the upward movement of the lever 2.

[0148] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that exemplary embodiments and features of the automatic beverage can opener of the present disclosure have been described. Based on the present disclosure, those skilled in the art will appreciate many obvious variations of the embodiments set forth herein. Such obvious variations are within the full intended scope of the present disclosure.

[0149] From the disclosure herein relating to the operation of an exemplary automatic beverage can opener, it will also be understood that the present disclosure provides a method for automatically opening a beverage can comprising employing an automatic beverage can opener as disclosed herein.

[0150] More specifically, in one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for automatically opening a beverage can, the method comprising: automatically delivering the beverage can to a can holder and / or a rotating module based on an activation signal; automatically detecting a pull ring on the top of the beverage can and aligning the pull ring with a pull ring engaging finger of an automatic beverage can opener; automatically engaging the pull ring engaging finger with the beverage can by activation and downward movement of a lever of the automatic beverage can opener, whereby, upon contact with the beverage can, the pull ring engaging finger rotates about a wedge-shaped rotation axis on the lever to position the pull ring engaging finger between the top of the beverage can and the pull ring; automatically locking the pull ring engaging finger to prevent further rotational movement; and automatically moving the lever upward to open the pull ring on the beverage can. The steps of the method and how it is performed will be well understood from the disclosure herein regarding the automatic beverage can opener and its operation.

[0151] In another embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a kit for assembling an automatic beverage can opener 1 / 100, the kit comprising: a lever 2 , a wedge mechanism 6 having a pull-tab engaging finger 8 , and a can holder 10 .

[0152] In some embodiments, the kit may further include a rotation module 170, a lock 16, a bracket device 18, an unlocker 20, one or more side wall supports 22, or any combination thereof.

[0153] In another embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a vending machine comprising the automatic beverage can opener 1 / 100 of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the vending machine dispenses alcoholic beverages, such as for use at sporting events.

[0154] In the present disclosure, all terms mentioned in the singular are intended to encompass their plural forms. Likewise, all terms mentioned in the plural are intended to encompass their singular forms. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs.

[0155] As used herein, the term "about" refers to a variation of about + / - 10% relative to a given value. It is to be understood that such variation is always included in any given value provided herein, whether or not specifically stated.

[0156] It is to be understood that compositions and methods described in terms of "comprising," "including," or "containing" various components or steps may also "consist essentially of" or "consist of" the various components and steps. Furthermore, the indefinite articles "a" or "an" as used in the claims are defined herein to mean one or more than one of the element they introduce.

[0157] For the sake of brevity, only certain ranges are explicitly disclosed herein. However, the range starting from any lower limit can be combined with any upper limit to narrate the range that is not explicitly stated, and the range starting from any lower limit can be combined with any other lower limit to narrate the range that is not explicitly stated, in the same way, the range starting from any upper limit can be combined with any other upper limit to narrate the range that is not explicitly stated. In addition, whenever a numerical range with a lower limit and an upper limit is disclosed, any numerical value and any included range falling within the range are specifically disclosed. In particular, each numerical range disclosed herein (in the form of "from about a to about b", or equivalently "from about a to b", or equivalently "from about a to b") should be understood to be elaborating each numerical value and range included in a wider numerical range, even if not explicitly stated. Therefore, each point or single value can be used as its own lower limit or upper limit, combined with any other point or single value or any other lower limit or upper limit, to narrate the range that is not explicitly stated.

[0158] Therefore, the present disclosure is well suited to obtain the objects and advantages mentioned and inherent therein. The specific embodiments disclosed above are illustrative only, as the present disclosure can be modified and practiced in different but equivalent ways that are obvious to those skilled in the art who benefit from the teachings of this article. Although various embodiments are discussed, the present disclosure covers all combinations of all those embodiments. In addition, except as described in the appended claims, it is not desired to limit the details of the structure or design shown herein. Moreover, the terms in the claims have their direct, ordinary meanings unless otherwise explicitly and clearly defined by the patentee. It is therefore obvious that the specific illustrative embodiments disclosed above can be changed or modified, and all such changes are considered to be within the scope and spirit of the present invention. If there is any conflict between the use of words or terms in this specification and one or more patents or other documents that may be referenced herein, the definition consistent with this specification should be adopted.

[0159] Many obvious variations of the embodiments described herein will occur to those skilled in the art in light of this disclosure. Such obvious variations are within the full intended scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An automatic beverage can opener, comprising: - a lever, which is automatic and movable about a lever pivot axis; - a wedge mechanism rotatably interconnected to the lever, the wedge mechanism comprising a pull-ring engaging finger; as well as - a can holder and / or a swivel module for positioning a beverage can in a position where a pull tab of the beverage can be engaged by the pull tab engaging finger when the lever is automatically moved.

2. The automatic beverage can opener according to claim 1, wherein: The lever pivot axis is located at or near the first end of the lever.

3. The automatic beverage can opener according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: In operation, when the second end of the lever, which is located distal to the lever pivot axis, moves downward toward the beverage can, the pull ring engaging finger contacts the top of the beverage can and, through the rotational movement of the wedge mechanism, the pull ring engaging finger is positioned between the top of the beverage can and the pull ring.

4. The automatic beverage can opener according to claim 3, wherein: In operation, when the second end of the lever moves upwardly away from the beverage can, the pull-tab engaging finger opens the pull-tab of the beverage can.

5. The automatic beverage can opener according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a lock for locking the pull ring engaging finger in a locked configuration when the pull ring engaging finger is positioned between the top of the beverage can and the pull ring.

6. The automatic beverage can opener according to claim 5, wherein: The lock is pivotally connected to the lever at a lock pivot axis, wherein the lever pivot axis and the lock pivot axis are adjacent to each other on the lever.

7. The automatic beverage can opener according to claim 5 or 6, wherein: In operation, prior to contact with the top of the beverage can, the tab engaging fingers are oriented in a downwardly pointing direction and anti-locking edges on opposite ends of the wedge mechanism prevent locking of the lock.

8. The automatic beverage can opener according to claim 7, wherein: In operation, rotational movement of the wedge mechanism when in contact with the top of the beverage can moves the anti-lock edge out from under the lock to allow the lock to pivot about the lock pivot axis and place the tab-engaging finger in the locked configuration.

9. The automatic beverage can opener according to any one of claims 5 to 8, wherein: The lock prevents further rotational movement of the tab-engaging finger when the tab-engaging finger is in the locked configuration.

10. The automatic beverage can opener according to claim 9, wherein: The lock prevents further rotational movement of the tab-engaging finger by abutting the end of the lock distal to the lock pivot axis against an underside portion of the wedge mechanism.

11. The automatic beverage can opener according to any one of claims 5 to 10, further comprising an unlocker for unlocking the pull-tab engaging finger from the locked configuration.

12. The automatic beverage can opener according to claim 11, wherein: The unlocker is pivotally connected to the lever at an unlocker pivot axis and is configured to unlock the locker when pivotally rotated about the unlocker pivot axis.

13. The automatic beverage can opener according to claim 12, wherein: The first portion of the unlocker is positioned below the locker.

14. The automatic beverage can opener according to claim 13, wherein: In operation, after the pull ring has been opened and the lever has moved upward, the second portion of the unlocker contacts a stop, causing rotation of the unlocker about the unlocker pivot axis to push the first portion of the unlocker upward, thereby unlocking the lock.

15. An automatic beverage can opener according to any one of claims 1 to 14, further comprising a bracket device operatively connected to the lever at the lever pivot axis and at opposite ends of the lever to provide automatic movement of the lever.

16. The automatic beverage can opener according to claim 15, wherein: The stent apparatus includes a threaded rod and a threaded platform, wherein the lever is operably connected to the threaded platform distal to the lever pivot axis.

17. The automatic beverage can opener according to claim 15 or 16, wherein: The can holder and / or the rotation module are operably interconnected to the bracket at a location below the lever.

18. The automatic beverage can opener according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein: The can holder and / or the rotation module are configured to hold beverage cans of various sizes.

19. The automatic beverage can opener according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein: The can holder includes a flat platform on which the beverage can is located, and the flat platform includes two or more claws, each claw being retractable and extendable relative to a central position on the flat platform for engaging the beverage can.

20. The automatic beverage can opener according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein: In operation, the can holder or a component thereof rotates the beverage can to align the pull tab with the pull tab engagement fingers.

21. The automatic beverage can opener according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein: In operation, the can holder lifts the can to position it within the rotary module of the automatic beverage can opener.

22. The automatic beverage can opener according to any one of claims 1 to 18 and 21, wherein: The rotating module includes a claw chuck and a chuck gear.

23. The automatic beverage can opener according to claim 22, wherein: In operation, rotation of the chuck gear engages the jaws of the jaw chuck against the beverage can in a first phase and rotates the beverage can in a second phase.

24. An automatic beverage can opener according to any one of claims 1 to 23, further comprising one or more sensors for automatic operation.

25. The automatic beverage can opener according to claim 24, wherein: The one or more sensors are used to position the beverage can at an opening height and / or detect the orientation or alignment of the pull tab with the pull tab engaging fingers.

26. The automatic beverage can opener of claim 25, comprising a limit switch sensor for positioning the beverage can at an opening height.

27. The automatic beverage can opener according to claim 26, wherein: The limit switch sensor indicates the position of the top edge of the beverage can for automatically positioning the beverage can at the opening height.

28. An automatic beverage opener according to any one of claims 24 to 27, comprising a laser sensor or an optical sensor for detecting the orientation or alignment of the pull tab with the pull tab engaging fingers.

29. The automatic beverage can opener according to any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein: During the automatic movement of the lever to open the tab, the beverage can remains stationary.

30. The automatic beverage can opener according to any one of claims 1 to 29, wherein: The movement speed of the lever is adjustable to adjust the time of the opening process.

31. An automatic beverage can opener according to any one of claims 1 to 30, which automatically opens the beverage can without human interaction.

32. The automatic beverage can opener according to any one of claims 1 to 31 automatically detects the placement of the beverage can on the can holder and / or in the rotating module, the height position of the beverage can, the positioning of the pull ring on the top of the beverage can, the orientation or alignment of the pull ring with the pull ring engaging finger, the locking of the pull ring engaging finger under the pull ring, the unlocking of the pull ring engaging finger, the upper limit of the lever travel reached, or any combination thereof.

33. An automatic beverage can opener according to any one of claims 1 to 32, capable of automatically disengaging from the beverage can and resetting to a starting position in the same movement as opening the pull ring of the beverage can.

34. An automatic beverage can opener according to any one of claims 1 to 33, which is capable of discarding defective beverage cans.

35. An automatic beverage can opener according to any one of claims 1 to 34, further comprising one or more side wall supports for enclosing at least a portion of the beverage can.

36. A method for automatically opening a beverage can, the method comprising using an automatic beverage can opener according to any one of claims 1 to 35.

37. A method for automatically opening a beverage can, the method comprising: - automatic transport of beverage cans to a can holder and / or a rotation module based on an activation signal; - automatically detecting a pull ring on the top of the beverage can and aligning the pull ring with the pull ring engaging fingers of an automatic beverage can opener; - the pull-tab engaging finger automatically engages the beverage can upon activation and downward movement of the lever of the automatic beverage can opener, whereby, upon contact with the beverage can, the pull-tab engaging finger rotates about a wedge-shaped rotation axis on the lever to position the pull-tab engaging finger between the top of the beverage can and the pull tab; - automatically locks the pull-ring engaging finger to prevent further rotational movement; as well as - Automatically moving the lever upwards to open the pull ring on the beverage can.

38. A kit for assembling an automatic beverage can opener according to any one of claims 1 to 36, the kit comprising: A lever, a wedge mechanism with a pull-ring engaging finger, and a can holder.

39. The kit of claim 26, further comprising a lock.

40. A kit according to claim 38 or 39, further comprising a stent device.

41. A kit according to any one of claims 38 to 40, further comprising an unlocker.

42. A vending machine comprising the automatic beverage can opener according to any one of claims 1 to 36.

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