Full-open can end

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an end of a full-opening can. The can end includes a central panel having a rivet, a tab fixed by the rivet, a main score extending around a peripheral region of the central panel and defining a removable panel, and a vent score disposed on the removable panel. The vent score includes a pair of lateral portions that do not extend radially beyond a transverse axis extending through the center of the rivet, the transverse axis being perpendicular to a longitudinal axis extending through the center of the rivet and the center of the central panel.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an end of a full - opening can and a full - opening unsealed can configured for use in pressurized applications such as containing the end of a full - opening can, soda, beer and other carbonated beverages, and some foods.

Background Art

[0002] Known full - opening can ends include a main score that extends around a major portion of the central panel of the can end and defines a removable panel. A tab is attached to the removable panel by a rivet. The tab has a tail end or handle end on one side of the rivet and a nose end on the opposite side of the rivet, and the tab is arranged such that its nose end is adjacent to or in contact with the main score. To open the can end, the user lifts the tail end or handle end of the tab. This causes the tab to pivot about the rivet, and the break in the main score propagates until the nose end adjacent to the score is pushed and the removable panel is separated from the rest of the can end.

[0003] The process of forming the can end includes two main stages. First, a metal blank is pressed in a shell press to form a shell. The stacked shells are then transferred to a conversion press that is ready for the second stage. The shells gradually change into can ends as they pass through a plurality of stations, and usually the tab is fixed to the rivet at the second - last station. The full - opening can end can be attached to the can body by conventional seaming techniques.

[0004] In the context of foods, full - opening can ends are mainly designed to allow complete product discharge of the food contained within the food can. Often, this food is packaged in a slightly negative - pressure state. However, when pressurized food cans with positive internal pressure have been proposed, the internal pressure is determined only by the internal pressure required to maintain the structural rigidity of the food can, which is often relatively low and relatively "thin - walled".

[0005] In contrast, in conventional beverage cans, beverage products such as carbonated soft drinks or beer such as lager are held under pressures far higher than the internal pressure of the above-mentioned food cans. As a result, concerns related to "blowout" at the end arise during the user's first opening or when subjected to harmful handling. For these reasons, conventional beverage cans have ends that define a restricted opening that can be safely opened by the consumer. In order to obtain safe ventilation in a conventional pressurized beverage can (such as a conventional 12-ounce (355 ml) beverage can) with an opening having an area smaller than most of the central panel, beverage can manufacturers have adopted features that temporarily halt the propagation of a single score line that defines the perimeter of the opening. The single score line of a beverage can typically has a check slot for temporarily halting score propagation. The check slot is a score remnant (i.e., the metal at the bottom of the score) that is thicker than other parts of the score. Because the score remnant is thick, the check slot prevents the propagation of score breakage and allows some of the internal pressure to be released before the rest of the score breaks. Thus, in the case of a conventional beverage can end, the check slot slows or halts score propagation to provide appropriate ventilation early in the opening process.

[0006] Conventional beverage cans are often prohibited from being sold at festivals and events because the restricted opening prevents the contents of the opened beverage can from being quickly discharged if the can is thrown. Thus, even if a conventional beverage can is opened during sale at a festival or event, it could potentially be used as a dangerous missile if thrown. In contrast, a full-open can does not become an effective missile if thrown because its contents are quickly discharged as soon as it is opened. Thus, a full-open opening can provides a safer alternative to conventional beverage cans if it can withstand higher pressures such as those of soda, beer, etc.

[0007] Patent Document 1 proposes a full-open beverage can end for use with products pressurized above 30 psi (207 kPa).

[0008] Patent Document 2 proposes a full-opening beverage can end having a venting test rating of at least 90 psi (620 kPa).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0009]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0010] Viewed from a first aspect, a full-opening can end, a central panel having a rivet, a tab fixed by the rivet, a main score extending around a peripheral region of the central panel, the main score defining a removable panel, a venting score disposed on the removable panel, (i) a central portion intersecting a vertical axis extending through the center of the rivet and the center of the central panel, the vertical axis being perpendicular to a horizontal axis extending through the center of the rivet, (ii) a pair of lateral portions each including one or more segments and not extending forward of the horizontal axis and having a venting score, and including, a full-opening can end is provided in which, along the vertical axis, the center of the rivet is positioned between 0.146 inches (3.71 mm) and 0.246 inches (6.25 mm) from the center line of the main score.

[0011] At least one segment of each lateral portion can extend substantially parallel to the horizontal axis. The segments can be arranged along the horizontal axis.

[0012] Optionally, the central panel includes a coining portion proximate the rivet, and the central portion of the vent score intersects the coining portion.

[0013] Along the vertical axis, the center of the rivet can be positioned between 0.025 inches (0.64 mm) and 0.120 inches (3.05 mm) from the centerline of the vent score.

[0014] In one embodiment, along the vertical axis, the center of the rivet is positioned substantially 0.219 inches (5.56 mm) from the centerline of the main score.

[0015] Optionally, along the vertical axis, the center of the rivet is positioned between 0.025 inches (0.64 mm) and 0.100 inches (2.54 mm) from the centerline of the vent score. Along the vertical axis, the center of the rivet can be positioned between 0.025 inches (0.64 mm) and 0.050 inches (1.27 mm) from the centerline of the vent score. In one embodiment, along the vertical axis, the center of the rivet is positioned substantially 0.099 inches (2.51 mm) from the centerline of the vent score.

[0016] The vent score can further include a pair of side portions, each of the side portions extending from its respective lateral portion away from the horizontal axis.

[0017] The full-open end can further include a break prevention score that at least partially extends around the peripheral region inside the radial direction of the main score. Along the vertical axis, the centerline of the break prevention score can be disposed between 0.030 inches (0.762 mm) and 0.070 inches (1.78 mm) from the centerline of the main score. In one embodiment, along the vertical axis, the centerline of the break prevention score is disposed at a position substantially 0.050 inches (1.27 mm) from the centerline of the main score.

[0018] The remaining thickness of the break prevention score is from 0.004 inches (0.102 mm) to 0.008 inches (0.203 mm), and the remaining thickness of the main score is from 0.002 inches (0.051 mm) to 0.005 inches (0.127 mm). The remaining thickness of the break prevention score is substantially 0.006 inches (0.152 mm), and the remaining thickness of the main score is substantially 0.004 inches (0.102 mm).

[0019] The tab can include a nose, the tab can be fixed to the rivet such that the nose is disposed adjacent to the main score, and the tab is elongated along the longitudinal axis. The tab can be configured such that the tab nose contacts the can end at a radially outer side of the main score. The tab can be configured such that the tab nose contacts the can end within 0.015 inches (0.381 mm) from the main score.

[0020] The fully openable can end can include a 3000 series aluminum alloy.

[0021] The fully openable can end can have a venting test rating of at least 30 psi (207 kPa). The fully openable can end can have a venting test rating of at least 70 psi (483 kPa). The fully openable can end can have a venting test rating of at least 85 psi (586 kPa). The fully openable can end can have a venting test rating of at least 90 psi (621 kPa).

[0022] Viewed from a second aspect, there is provided a can assembly including the fully openable can end of the first aspect and a can body, with the can end joined to the can body. The can assembly can be filled with a carbonated beverage.

[0023] Viewed from a third aspect, a fully openable can end, a central panel having a rivet, a tab fixed by the rivet, a main score extending around a peripheral region of the central panel, the main score defining a removable panel, A ventilation score disposed on a removable panel, (i) a central portion that intersects a vertical axis extending through the center of the rivet and the center of the central panel, the vertical axis being perpendicular to a horizontal axis extending through the center of the rivet, (ii) a pair of lateral portions each including one or more segments, and having a ventilation score, including, along the vertical axis, a fully opened can end is provided where the center of the rivet is between 0.146 inches (3.71 mm) and 0.246 inches (6.25 mm) from the center line of the main score and between 0.025 inches (0.64 mm) and 0.120 inches (3.05 mm) from the center line of the ventilation score.

[0024] Optionally, the pair of lateral portions extend forward of the horizontal axis. This may or may not include the horizontal axis.

[0025] At least one segment of each lateral portion can extend substantially parallel to the horizontal axis. The segments can be arranged along the horizontal axis.

[0026] Optionally, the central panel includes a coining portion proximate to the rivet, and the central portion of the ventilation score intersects the coining portion.

[0027] Optionally, along the vertical axis, the center of the rivet is between 0.025 inches (0.64 mm) and 0.100 inches (2.54 mm) from the center line of the ventilation score. Along the vertical axis, the center of the rivet can be between 0.025 inches (0.64 mm) and 0.050 inches (1.27 mm) from the center line of the ventilation score. In one embodiment, along the vertical axis, the center of the rivet is substantially 0.099 inches (2.51 mm) from the center line of the ventilation score. In one embodiment, along the vertical axis, the center of the rivet is substantially 0.219 inches (5.56 mm) from the center line of the main score.

[0028] The ventilation score can further include a pair of side portions, each of the side portions extending from the respective lateral portion away from the horizontal axis.

[0029] The full - opening can end can further include a break - prevention score that at least partially extends around the peripheral region inside the radial direction of the main score. Along the vertical axis, the center line of the break - prevention score can be arranged between 0.030 inches (0.762 mm) and 0.070 inches (1.78 mm) from the center line of the main score. In one embodiment, along the vertical axis, the center line of the break - prevention score is arranged at a position substantially 0.050 inches (1.27 mm) from the center line of the main score.

[0030] The remaining thickness of the break - prevention score is from 0.004 inches (0.102 mm) to 0.008 inches (0.203 mm), and the remaining thickness of the main score can be from 0.002 inches (0.051 mm) to 0.005 inches (0.127 mm). The remaining thickness of the break - prevention score is substantially 0.006 inches (0.152 mm), and the remaining thickness of the main score is substantially 0.004 inches (0.102 mm).

[0031] The tab can include a nose, the tab can be fixed to the rivet such that the nose is arranged close to the main score, and the tab is elongated along the vertical axis. The tab can be configured such that the tab nose contacts the can end outside the radial direction of the main score. The tab can be configured such that the tab nose contacts the can end within 0.015 inches (0.381 mm) from the main score.

[0032] The full - opening can end can include a 3000 - series aluminum alloy.

[0033] The full-open end of the can can have a vent test rating of at least 30 psi (207 kPa). The full-open end of the can can have a vent test rating of at least 70 psi (483 kPa). The full-open end of the can can have a vent test rating of at least 85 psi (586 kPa). The full-open end of the can can have a vent test rating of at least 90 psi (621 kPa).

[0034] Viewed from a fourth aspect, there is provided a can assembly including the full-open end of the third aspect and the can body, with the end of the can joined to the can body. The can assembly can be filled with a carbonated beverage.

[0035] Viewed from a fifth aspect, a full-open end of a can, a central panel having a rivet, a tab fixed by the rivet, a main score extending around a peripheral region of the central panel, the main score defining a removable panel, a vent score disposed on the removable panel, (i) a central portion intersecting a vertical axis extending through the center of the rivet and the center of the central panel, the vertical axis being perpendicular to a horizontal axis extending through the center of the rivet, (ii) a pair of lateral portions each including one or more segments and having a vent score, a break prevention score extending at least partially around the peripheral region radially inside the main score, and including, along the vertical axis, the center line of the break prevention score is disposed between 0.030 inches (0.762 mm) and 0.070 inches (1.78 mm) from the center line of the main score, the remaining thickness of the break prevention score is from 0.004 inches (0.102 mm) to 0.008 inches (0.203 mm), and the remaining thickness of the main score is from 0.003 inches (0.076 mm) to 0.005 inches (0.127 mm), and there is provided a full-open end of a can.

[0036] The remaining thickness of the break prevention score can be substantially 0.006 inches (0.152 mm). The remaining thickness of the main score can be substantially 0.004 inches (0.102 mm). In one embodiment, along the vertical axis, the center line of the break prevention score is disposed at a position substantially 0.050 inches (1.27 mm) from the center line of the main score.

[0037] Optionally, a pair of lateral portions extend forward of the horizontal axis. This may or may not include the horizontal axis.

[0038] At least one segment of each lateral portion can extend substantially parallel to the horizontal axis. The segments can be disposed along the horizontal axis.

[0039] Optionally, the central panel includes a coining portion proximate the rivet, and the central portion of the ventilation score intersects the coining portion.

[0040] Along the vertical axis, the center of the rivet can be positioned between 0.146 inches (3.71 mm) and 0.246 inches (6.25 mm) from the center line of the main score, and between 0.025 inches (0.64 mm) and 0.120 inches (3.05 mm) from the center line of the ventilation score.

[0041] Optionally, along the vertical axis, the center of the rivet is positioned between 0.025 inches (0.64 mm) and 0.100 inches (2.54 mm) from the center line of the ventilation score. Along the vertical axis, the center of the rivet can be positioned between 0.025 inches (0.64 mm) and 0.050 inches (1.27 mm) from the center line of the ventilation score. In one embodiment, along the vertical axis, the center of the rivet is positioned substantially 0.099 inches (2.51 mm) from the center line of the ventilation score. In one embodiment, along the vertical axis, the center of the rivet is positioned substantially 0.219 inches (5.56 mm) from the center line of the main score.

[0042] The vent score can further include a pair of side portions, each of the side portions extending from the respective lateral portion away from the horizontal axis.

[0043] The tab can include a nose, the tab can be fixed to the rivet such that the nose is disposed proximate to the main score, and the tab is elongated along the vertical axis. The tab can be configured such that the tab nose contacts the can end at a radially outer side of the main score. The tab can be configured such that the tab nose contacts the can end within 0.015 inches (0.381 mm) from the main score.

[0044] The fully openable can end can include a 3000 series aluminum alloy.

[0045] The fully openable can end can have a vent test rating of at least 30 psi (207 kPa). The fully openable can end can have a vent test rating of at least 70 psi (483 kPa). The fully openable can end can have a vent test rating of at least 85 psi (586 kPa). The fully openable can end can have a vent test rating of at least 90 psi (621 kPa).

[0046] Viewed from a sixth aspect, there is provided a can assembly including the fully openable can end of the fifth aspect and a can body, with the can end joined to the can body. The can assembly can be filled with a carbonated beverage.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0047]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9A

Figure 9B

Figure 9C

Figure 10

Figure 11

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0048] FIGS. 1 to 6 show a known beverage can taught by International Publication No. WO 2015 / 070051. The can assembly 10 includes a single-piece can body 12 and an end 14. The body 12 and the end 14 are joined to each other by a seam, such as a conventional double seam 16. The body 12 is a conventional drawn and wall-ironed 12-ounce (355 ml) beverage can body formed from a single piece of aluminum. Alternative bodies of different sizes, such as 16-ounce (473 ml) and 20-ounce (590 ml) sizes, and metric equivalent volumes are also known. The can end 14 is generally manufactured by a shell press operating at a stroke rate of 300 strokes per minute or more, generally 450 strokes per minute.

[0049] As shown in Figure 5, in the unjoined state, the end 14 includes a peripheral curl 23, a wall 20, a countersink 22, and a central panel 24. As best shown in Figures 1 through 4, in the joined state, the peripheral curl is processed to form part of the seam 16. The end is size 200, 202, 204, or 206, but the present invention includes ends of all sizes, preferably size 200 or 202. The present invention also includes any configuration of the wall 20 and the countersink 22. The configuration of the wall can include conventional B64 walls, inclined chuck walls, curved chuck walls, multi-piece chuck walls, shelf-like portions, kicks, kinks, and other chuck walls having features such as these. The configuration of the countersink can include countersinks having straight side walls, curved side walls, narrow beads, wide beads, folded or tightened beads, and the like.

[0050] The can ends described herein are generally formed from 5000 series aluminum alloys. Specifically, the 5000 series aluminum alloys used in the manufacture of the can ends have an ultimate tensile strength of 375 to 415 MPa. This range of ultimate tensile strength is suitable for a given internal pressure of the can assuming standard diameter ends used in the art. This range of ultimate tensile strength is also related to a relatively high tendency to fracture at the scored ends for softer metals. An example of a 5000 series aluminum alloy is 5182, and the following table shows the typical chemical composition (%). The temper is H49. It should be noted that the composition of the same grade of aluminum alloy may vary slightly by supplier.

[0051]

Table 1

[0052] The can ends described herein are not limited to this particular alloy and include steels such as tinplate, other grades of aluminum, and the like.

[0053] For example, 3000 series aluminum alloys are sometimes used, but thicker materials may be required. 3000 series aluminum alloys are commonly used in the manufacture of can bodies, but can also be used in the manufacture of can ends. This is especially useful during supply shortages. An example of a 3000 series aluminum alloy is 3104, and the chemical composition (%) from one supplier is listed in the table below. The temper is H19. Usually, 3000 series aluminum alloys used in the manufacture of can bodies have a tensile strength (when rolled) of 290 to 330 MPa.

[0054]

Table 2

[0055] The central panel 24 of the can end 14 is circular and has a peripheral edge 25 adjacent to the bead 22. The can end 14 further includes a main score 26 disposed adjacent to the peripheral edge 25 of the central panel. The main score 26 is continuous to form a removable panel 34. As best shown in FIG. 4, the can end includes a break prevention score 57 that extends at least partially around the central panel, radially inward of the main score 26. The break prevention score 57 provides means for reducing stress and tightening slack metal during manufacture. A tab 32 including a nose 31 is fixed to the removable panel 34 of the central panel 24 by a rivet 30 such that the nose 31 is disposed adjacent to the main score 26. When the tab 32 is fixed to the central panel 24, a button coin 29 is formed in the central panel 24 around the rivet 30. The button coin 29 is defined by the coining portion of the central panel 24 formed during the conversion process before the tab is fixed to the end.

[0056] To assist in the description of the central panel 24, a main reference axis or central reference axis PL is defined as passing through the center of the rivet 30 and through the longitudinal centerline of the tab 32 (FIG. 4). The tab 32 is elongated along the line PL. In the majority of commercially available tabs, as shown in the figure, the main reference line PL extends through the first contact point between the nose of the tab 32 and its first contact point on the central panel. The central panel can include an anti-rotation function such as beads or indentations (not shown in FIG. 4 but visible, for example, in FIGS. 9B and 9C) that at least partially restrict the tab from rotating out of alignment with the longitudinal axis. A transverse reference axis or line TL is defined as extending perpendicularly to the main reference line PL through the center of the rivet 30. The plane defined by the line PL and the line TL is parallel to the plane defined by the upper part of the seam and parallel to the central panel 24 as long as the central panel 24 is either in a stitched or unstitched state. The transverse reference line TL divides the can end 14 into a front portion on the tab nose side and a rear portion on the tab end side.

[0057] The vent score 40 includes a central portion 42 that intersects the line PL, a pair of check slots 45a and 45b (FIG. 6) disposed on both sides of the line PL centered on the central portion 42, and a pair of transverse portions 46a and 46b extending from the check slots 45a and 45b. Each of the transverse portions 46a and 46b includes segments 47a, 47b that are substantially parallel to the transverse axis, and a pair of side portions 50a and 50b that extend away from the line TL from the transverse portions 46a and 46b, respectively.

[0058] Only the area around the tab is shown for ease of explanation and the interior of the tab is transparent. As best shown in FIG. 4, the central portion 42 of the vent score 40 has a rounded segment that extends away from the button coin 29 around the rivet 30 (where PL and TL intersect). The central portion 42 can be at least partially defined by a radius of 0.140 inches (3.56 mm) extending from the center of the rivet 30 or alternatively at least 0.140 inches (3.56 mm). Alternatively, the central portion 42 can be at least partially defined by a radius in the range of 0.132 to 0.150 inches (3.35 to 3.81 mm). For example, the central portion 42 can be at least partially defined by a radius of 0.132, 0.133, 0.134, 0.135, 0.136, 0.137, 0.138, 0.139, 0.140, 0.141, 0.142, 0.143, 0.144, 0.145, 0.146, 0.147, 0.148, 0.149, 0.150 inches (and the corresponding metric values 3.35, 3.37, 3.39, 3.41, 3.43, 3.45, 3.47, 3.49, 3.51, 3.53, 3.55, 3.57, 3.59, 3.61, 3.63, 3.65, 3.67, 3.69, 3.71, 3.73, 3.75, 3.77, 3.79, 3.81 mm), or a range of radii surrounded by at least two of the radii described herein. The central portion 42 extends forward from the intersection with PL and extends around the rivet 30 to approximately the 3 o'clock position and approximately the 9 o'clock position. The radius dimension can be selected according to known parameters such as the thickness of the central panel, the thickness of the score, the thickness of the check slot, the material selection, and similar parameters.

[0059] The check slots 45a, 45b extend from the central portion 42 and have scores that are shallower than the central portion such that the metal in the regions of the check slots 45a, 45b is thicker than the metal of the central portion 42. Each of the check slots 45a, 45b bends through the transition portions 44a and 44b to the inner ends of the corresponding lateral portions 46a and 46b. The lateral portions 46a and 46b extend generally in the lateral direction (i.e., generally parallel to the lateral reference line TL) and outwardly with respect to the rivet 30. The side portions 50a and 50b extend generally rearwardly from the outer ends of the lateral portions 46a and 46b through the transition portions 48a and 48b. The side portions 50a and 50b terminate at the ends 52a and 52b. The ends of the ventilation score may be curved, curled, angled, or simply the ends of straight sidewalls as shown in the figure, with respect to the side portions of the ventilation score.

[0060] In some embodiments, the ventilation score 40 does not have check slots. The ventilation score 40 has the same dimensions as the can end having check slots, but when the check slots are not used, the central portion 42 extends directly to the transition portions 44a and 44b. The lateral portions 46a and 46b extend from the transition portions 44a and 44b through the transition portions 48a and 48b. The side portions 50a and 50b terminate at the ends 52a and 52b.

[0061] As shown in FIG. 6, a hinge 54 is formed in the removable panel 34 between the ends 52a and 52b of the side portions 50a and 50b. The ventilation score 40 and the hinge 54 define a flap 56. The front portion of the flap 56 is defined by the lateral portions 46a and 46b. The side portions of the flap 56 are defined by the side portions 50a and 50b. The rear portion of the flap 56 is formed by the hinge 54 (with low specificity of its position).

[0062] In the can end of International Publication No. WO 2015 / 070051, the dimensional information of the ventilation score 40 is provided with reference to the enlarged view of the tool 80 for forming the ventilation score, as shown in FIG. 8. Specifically, a portion of the ventilation score 40 extends to (or substantially to) the lateral reference line TL or in front of the lateral reference line TL to facilitate the movement or hinge operation of the tab and the rivet. For example, the lateral portions 46a and 46b extend in front of the lateral reference line TL by a dimension D1. D1 is positive and ranges from 0 inches (0 mm) to 0.050 inches (1.27 mm), and more generally from 0.010 inches (0.25 mm) to 0.032 inches (0.81 mm). In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 6, D1 is approximately 0.021 inches (0.53 mm).

[0063] The side portions 50a and 50b are spaced apart from each other and extend rearwardly so that the flap 56 forms a sufficient area for ventilation. The ventilation opening is identified by reference numeral 41 in FIG. 2. In this regard, the side portions 50a and 50b extend rearwardly from the lateral reference line TL by a distance D2, which can range from 0.15 inches (3.81 mm) to 0.4 inches (10.2 mm), and more generally from 0.2 inches (5.08 mm) to 0.3 inches (7.62 mm). In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 6 of International Publication No. WO 2015 / 070051, D2 is 0.217 inches (5.51 mm). The ends of the side portion terminations 52a and 52b are spaced apart by distances of from 0.5 inches (12.7 mm) to 1.0 inches (2.54 mm) and from 0.6 inches (15.2 mm) to 0.8 inches (20.3 mm). In this case, the distance between 52a and 52b is 0.746 inches (19.0 mm).

[0064] The side portion of the vent score may be curved or straight and may be oriented at any angle A measured with respect to the main reference line PL. For example, A may be approximately 0 (i.e., the side portion of the vent score is substantially parallel to the main reference line PL), between + / - 10 degrees, between + / - 20 degrees, or between + / - 30 degrees. In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 - 6, the angle A is 5 degrees. The central portion 42 and the lateral portions 46a and 46b may have shapes other than those shown in the figures.

[0065] The vent score 40 has a substantially uniform score remaining dimension through at least the score central portion 42, the lateral portions 46a and 46b, and the front portions of the score side portions 50a and 50b. In International Publication No. WO 2015 / 070051, the score remaining dimensions of the score central portion 42, the lateral portions 46a and 46b, and the front portions of the score side portions 50a and 50b are from 0.0020 inches (0.051 mm) to 0.0045 inches (0.114 mm). The check slots 45a, 45b have a score remaining portion that is larger as a whole than the score remaining portions of the score central portion 42, the lateral portions 46a and 46b, and the front portions of the score side portions 50a and 50b. Specifically, the score remaining portion of the check slots can be approximately 0.0040 inches (0.102 mm) larger such that the remaining portion of the check slots is from 0.0060 inches (0.152 mm) to 0.0085 inches (0.203 mm). The anvil on which the tool 80 acts is optional and has steps for controlling the remaining dimension.

[0066] To explain the operation of the can assembly 10, reference is made particularly to FIGS. 1 - 3 and 6. Prior to opening, the can assembly 10 has an internal pressure that occurs when filled with a carbonated beverage, beer, etc. The scores 26 and 40 are intact and the tab 32 is in a conventional rest position that is substantially flat or substantially horizontal with respect to the central panel 24.

[0067] To open the can assembly 10, the user lifts the heel end of the tab 32, thereby moving the tab nose towards the central panel 24 while bending the metal around the rivet as shown in FIG. 2 until the central portion 42 of the score breaks.

[0068] Normally, before any part of the main score 26 breaks, a part of the vent score 40 breaks to allow ventilation. The propagation of the vent score 40 is suppressed when the check slots 45a, 45b break. The thick metal in the area of the check slots 45a, 45b (if used) breaks more slowly than the remaining part of the vent score 40. The break of the vent score 40 then propagates along the lateral portions 46a, 46b and towards the rear score side portions 50a, 50b as the flap 56 moves upward about the hinge 54. In this regard, the internal pressure of the can activates the flap 56 to quickly create a relatively large opening area for can ventilation. Thereafter, similar to the opening of a conventional can end, the user continues to operate the tab 32 until the main score 26 breaks and the removable panel 34 is detached to form the full opening 60.

[0069] As described above, FIGS. 1 to 8 are provided for illustrative purposes and show a known can end described in WO 2015 / 070051.

[0070] FIGS. 9A to 9C show the differences between an end according to an embodiment of the present invention and a known full-opening can end of WO 2015 / 070051. Similar features in FIGS. 1 to 8 are denoted by like reference numerals. FIG. 9A corresponds to FIG. 4, FIG. 9B shows a full-opening can end according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 9C shows an enlarged detailed view of the can end of FIG. 9B.

[0071] As can be seen by comparing the distance L1 from line A-A (passing through the center of the can end) to TL and the distance L2 from line A-A to TL' in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the rivet 30 of the can end of the embodiment of the present invention is arranged closer to the main score, further away from the center of the central panel. The shapes of the related coining portion 29 and the vent score 40 around the rivet are also moved to fit the new arrangement of the rivet 30 closer to the main score 26. As seen in FIG. 9C, the distance along the vertical axis PL between the center of the rivet 30 and the center line TL'' of the main score 26 is indicated by the distance L3, and the distance along the vertical axis PL between the center of the rivet 30 and the center line of the vent score 40 is indicated by the distance L4. The term center line of the score refers to a line indicating the center of the bottom of the score, as shown by lines TL'' and TL''' in FIG. 11, for example. It is assumed that L3 is from 0.146 inches (3.71 mm) to 0.246 inches (6.25 mm), preferably 0.219 inches (5.56 mm), and L4 is from 0.025 inches (0.64 mm) to 0.120 inches (3.05 mm), for example 0.099 inches (2.51 mm). It is assumed that the distance L2 is substantially from 0.590 inches (15.0 mm) to 0.629 inches (16.0 mm), for example 0.602 inches (s15.3 mm). Different from WO 2015 / 070051, the vent score 40 intersects the coining portion.

[0072] By moving the position of the rivet 30 closer to the main score 40, the tab can be made smaller, and in particular, the front portion of the tab can be shortened. The ability of the can end to withstand normal internal pressures such as those of soda, beer, lager, etc. (e.g., 30 - 90 psi or 206 - 620 kPa) is at least partially maintained by placing the central portion 42 of the vent score 40 through the coining portion 29. The shorter, more rigid tab uses less metal and thus contributes to weight reduction. Also, the tab length is more modern and compatible with faster conversion presses, allowing for higher production volumes. The movement of the rivet 30 and the use of the accompanying shorter tab do not adversely affect the usage parameters of the container such as the pop value, tear value, and tab strength. For example, it has been found that a container having the can end of the present disclosure achieves a pop value of about 4.5 ± 1.5 lbs (20.0 N), a tear value of about 3.4 ± 1.1 lbs (15.1 N), and a tab strength of at least 7 lbs (31.1 N), all of which are within the recognized industry standard ranges.

[0073] Furthermore, as seen in FIG. 9C, the placement of the rivet 30 close to the main score 26 as described above allows the lateral portions 46a, 46b of the vent score 40 to be disposed generally on or radially inside the line TL', i.e., near the center of the end, without adversely affecting the normal function of the vent score. This is in contrast to FIG. 8 of WO 2015 / 070051 where the lateral portions 46a, 46b extend outside the line TL by a distance D1.

[0074] Also, although not shown in FIGS. 9A to 9C, by arranging the rivets 30 close to the main score 26, the lengths of the lateral portions 50a, 50b of the ventilation score 40 can be shortened or the lateral portions 50a, 50b can be completely removed compared to International Publication No. 2015 / 070051, thereby simplifying the can end without adversely affecting the ability of the ventilation score to break first during opening, and the pressure difference between the outer and inner surfaces of the central panel is controlled so that the main score 26 can tear in a controlled and highly reliable manner. For example, the lateral portions 50a, 50b may be about 0.217 inches (5.51 mm) as in International Publication No. 2015 / 070051, but in a particular embodiment of the present invention, the lateral portions 50a, 50b may be, for example, 0 to 0.1539 inches (0 to 3.909 mm), for example, 0.1377 inches (3.500 mm), 0.0885 inches (2.25 mm), 0.0393 inches (0.988 mm) or less.

[0075] FIG. 10 illustratively shows in plan view the can end of FIGS. 9B to 9C assembled with the can body 12 and also shows the tab 32. Providing the position of the rivet 30 close to the main score 26 as described above, the front portion of the tab 32, i.e., the portion of the tab that is outside the rivet 30 and has the nose 31, is substantially shorter than the tab of FIG. 4, thereby using less metal and contributing to weight reduction.

[0076] FIG. 11 illustratively shows an axial cross-section of a portion near the main score 26 of the can end of FIGS. 9B, 9C and 10. As shown in FIG. 11, the can end includes a break prevention score 57 that extends at least partially around the central panel inside the radial direction of the main score 26. This particular break prevention score is configured to increase the process window of the main score and the vent score remnants, which is advantageous from a manufacturing perspective. The break prevention score 57 is expected to extend around the entire circumference of the central panel, but may extend only partially, for example, only 90%, 80%, 70% or less of the portion around the central panel. Along the vertical axis, the center line TL''' of the break prevention score 57 is preferably disposed at positions 0.030 inches (0.762 mm) and 0.070 inches (1.78 mm) from the center line TL'' of the main score 26. In this embodiment, along the vertical axis, the center line TL''' of the break prevention score 57 is disposed at a position substantially 0.050 inches (1.27 mm) from the center line TL'' of the main score 26. The remaining thickness 58 of the break prevention score 57 (i.e., the thickness of the remaining material after forming the score) is from 0.004 inches (0.102 mm) to 0.008 inches (0.203 mm), and the remaining thickness 59 of the main score 26 is from 0.002 inches (0.051 mm) to 0.005 inches (0.127 mm). Preferably, the remaining thickness 58 of the break prevention score 57 is substantially 0.006 inches (0.152 mm), and the remaining thickness 59 of the main score 26 is substantially 0.004 inches (0.102 mm).

[0077] The width at the bottom of the main score 26 is assumed to be about 0.0012 inches (0.030 mm) or less, while the width at the bottom of the break prevention score 57 is assumed to be about 0.003 inches (0.076 mm) or less. The aforementioned widths of the main score 26 and the break prevention score 57 assume that the bottom of the score is flat and parallel to the central panel 24. However, the bottom of either or both of the scores 26, 57 may descend to a certain point (not shown).

[0078] The metal of the can end is assumed to have a thickness 60 of about 0.008 to 0.013 inches (0.203 to 0.330 mm), preferably 0.008 inches (0.203 mm).

[0079] As shown in the figures, the above-described embodiments illustrate embodiments and aspects of the present invention. The present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments shown in the figures, but includes a broader structure than the disclosure and is limited only by the claims.

[0080] For example, if it is described that a pair of lateral portions do not extend forward of the horizontal axis, this means that the lateral portions intersect in a direction parallel to the vertical axis and do not cross beyond the horizontal axis away from the center of the central panel.

[0081] For example, the present invention includes materials, chuck wall configurations, joint structures, and processes not shown in the figures, unless limited by the claims.

[0082] In a further example, the can end can include beads in the central panel to increase the strength of the central panel, for example, to increase its ability to withstand pressure from inside the can and external forces applied to the can during handling.

[0083] In a further embodiment, the central portion 42 of the ventilation score may be at least partially defined by a radius of 0.160 inches (4.06 mm), or alternatively at least a radius of 0.160 inches (4.06 mm) centered on the line PL. Alternatively, the central portion 42 may be at least partially defined by a radius in the range of 0.132 to 0.180 inches (3.35 to 4.57 mm). For example, the central portion 42 may be a radius of 0.132, 0.133, 0.134, 0.135, 0.136, 0.137, 0.138, 0.139, 0.140, 0.141, 0.142, 0.143, 0.144, 0.145, 0.146, 0.147, 0.148, 0.149, 0.150, 0.151, 0.152, 0.153, 0.154, 0.155, 0.156, 0.157, 0.158, 0.159, 0.160, 0.161, 0.162, 0.163, 0.164, 0.165, 0.166, 0.167, 0.168, 0.169, 0.170, 0.171, 0.172, 0.173, 0.174, 0.175, 0.176, 0.177, 0.178, 0.179, 0.180 inches, or at least partially defined by a range of radii surrounded by at least two of the radii described herein.

[0084] In a further embodiment, the tab structure and operation affect the reliability and predictability of the breakage of the main score 26. In this regard, if the tab nose 31 is too far from the main score 26, the opening force may be excessively high, and the tab may bend or break. Depending on the position of the rivet and the design of the tab, the tab nose can contact the can end at any of three positions: radially inside the main score, at the position of the main score, or above the main score, or radially outside the main score. Optionally, the tab is configured such that the tab nose contacts the can end radially outside the main score and within 0.015 inches (0.381 mm) from the main score (measured from the outer edge of the main score). Ideally, the contact occurs along the centerline of the can end. Alternatively, the tab is configured such that the tab nose contacts the can end radially inside the main score and within 0.015 inches (0.381 mm) from the main score (measured from the inner edge of the main score). Even in this configuration, ideally, the contact occurs along the centerline of the can end.

[0085] The user can also measure the position of the tab nose 31 with the tab in a pre-operational stationary state. In this regard, the tab nose 31 is typically, when measured radially outward, from 0.000 inches to 0.008 inches (0.203 mm) from the outer edge of the main score 26, and more typically from 0.000 inches to 0.005 inches (0.127 mm). The difference in the position of the tab nose 31 relative to the main score 26 between the initial contact state and the stationary state is due to displacement during the tab operation process. The tab shifts forward during the operation and opening process mainly due to the deflection of the central panel near the rivet and the opening of the vent score 40. The amount of displacement of the tab nose 31 also depends on the internal pressure of the can. Generally, the higher the internal pressure, the greater the corresponding amount of displacement. For simplicity, the dimensions provided for the position of the tab nose 31 relative to the main score 26 are measured with a microscope looking directly down at the can end. The exact position of the tab nose 31 of the shorter tab of the embodiments of the present invention relative to the main score 26 can be selected according to specific can end design parameters, such as the configuration of the main score, the design of the tab, the design of the vent score, the internal pressure, and other factors understood by those skilled in the engineering and design of the can end.

Claims

Claim 1 An end portion of a fully open can, comprising: a central panel having a rivet; a tab fixed by the rivet; a main score extending around a peripheral region of the central panel, the main score defining a removable panel; a vent score disposed on the removable panel, the vent score comprising: (i) a central portion intersecting a vertical axis extending through the center of the rivet and the center of the central panel, the vertical axis being perpendicular to a horizontal axis extending through the center of the rivet; (ii) a pair of lateral portions each including one or more segments and not extending forward of the horizontal axis; and wherein, along the vertical axis, the center of the rivet is positioned between 0.146 inches (3.71 mm) and 0.246 inches (6.25 mm) from the center line of the main score. The end portion of the fully open can according to claim 1, Claim 2 The end portion of the fully open can according to claim 1, wherein at least one segment of each lateral portion extends substantially parallel to the horizontal axis. Claim 3 The end portion of the fully open can according to claim 2, wherein the segment is disposed along the horizontal axis. Claim 4 The end portion of the fully open can according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the central panel includes a coining portion proximate to the rivet, and the central portion of the vent score intersects the coining portion. Claim 5 The end portion of the fully open can according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, along the vertical axis, the center of the rivet is positioned between 0.025 inches (0.64 mm) and 0.120 inches (3.05 mm) from the center line of the vent score. Claim 6 The end portion of the fully open can according to claim 5, wherein, along the vertical axis, the center of the rivet is positioned between 0.025 inches (0.64 mm) and 0.100 inches (2.54 mm) from the center line of the vent score. Claim 7 The end portion of the fully open can according to claim 6, wherein, along the vertical axis, the center of the rivet is positioned between 0.025 inches (0.64 mm) and 0.050 inches (1.27 mm) from the center line of the vent score. Claim 8 The end portion of the fully open can according to claim 6 or 7, wherein, along the vertical axis, the center of the rivet is positioned substantially 0.099 inches (2.51 mm) from the center line of the vent score. Claim 9 The end of the fully open can according to claim 8, wherein along the longitudinal axis, the center of the rivet is located substantially 0.219 inches (5.56 mm) from the center line of the main score.

10. The end of the fully open can according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the vent score further includes a pair of side portions, each of the side portions extending from the respective lateral portion away from the transverse axis.

11. The end of the fully open can according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further including a break prevention score that at least partially extends around the peripheral region inside the radial direction of the main score.

12. The end of the fully open can according to claim 11, wherein along the longitudinal axis, the center line of the break prevention score is disposed between 0.030 inches (0.762 mm) and 0.070 inches (1.78 mm) from the center line of the main score.

13. The end of the fully open can according to claim 12, wherein along the longitudinal axis, the center line of the break prevention score is disposed at a position substantially 0.050 inches (1.27 mm) from the center line of the main score.

14. The end of the fully open can according to claim 11, 12 or 13, wherein the remaining thickness of the break prevention score is from 0.004 inches (0.102 mm) to 0.008 inches (0.203 mm), and the remaining thickness of the main score is from 0.003 inches (0.076 mm) to 0.005 inches (0.127 mm).

15. The end of the fully open can according to claim 14, wherein the remaining thickness of the break prevention score is substantially 0.006 inches (0.152 mm), and the remaining thickness of the main score is substantially 0.004 inches (0.102 mm).

16. The end of the fully open can according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the tab includes a nose, the tab is fixed to the rivet such that the nose is disposed close to the main score, and the tab is elongated along the longitudinal axis.

17. The end of the fully open can according to claim 16, wherein the tab is configured such that the tab nose contacts the can end outside the radial direction of the main score.

18. The end of the fully open can according to claim 17, wherein the tab is configured such that the tab nose contacts the can end within 0.015 inches (0.381 mm) from the main score.

19. The end of the fully open can according to any one of claims 1 to 18, including an aluminum alloy of the 3000 series.

20. The full-open can end according to any one of claims 1 to 19, having a venting test rating of at least 30 psi (207 kPa).

21. The full-open can end according to any one of claims 1 to 20, having a venting test rating of at least 70 psi (483 kPa).

22. The full-open can end according to any one of claims 1 to 21, having a venting test rating of at least 85 psi (586 kPa).

23. The full-open can end according to any one of claims 1 to 22, having a venting test rating of at least 90 psi (621 kPa).

24. A can assembly, comprising the full-open can end according to any one of claims 1 to 23 and a can body, wherein the can end is joined to the can body.

25. The can assembly according to claim 24, filled with a carbonated beverage.

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