Resealable can end
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2026044746
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2020-04-20
- Filing Date
- 2026-03-18
- Publication Date
- 2026-10-16
AI Technical Summary
Cans cannot be reclosed after opening, making it difficult to transport beverages while keeping them free from dirt, debris, or insects.
A reclosable can end with a lid base, a tab, a closing flap, and a rivet mechanism that allows the can to be reopened and reclosed, featuring a notched region, a tab that applies pressure to the lid base, and a closing flap that rotates and inserts into the lid base to create a seal.
Enables the can to be reopened and reclosed, reducing waste and protecting consumers and animals from sharp edges, while maintaining a seal and being recyclable.
Smart Images

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Abstract
Description
Related Applications
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 853,237, filed Apr. 20, 2020, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 868,709, filed Jun. 28, 2019. Both related applications are incorporated herein by reference.
Technical Field
[0002] The subject matter of the present disclosure relates to a reclosable can end.
Background Art
[0003] Cans are commonly used for storing and drinking beverages such as, for example, soda, beer, water, ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages and cocktails, energy drinks, juices, carbonated water, and many other beverages and liquids, and / or to meet the requirement of being storable in other cans. Cans - mostly made of aluminum and aluminum alloys - are convenient for storage and drinking for many reasons. For example, aluminum is lightweight, easy to carry, does not take up space in shipping containers, is strong, and 100% recyclable. However, once a can is opened, it is generally not used as a portable container. In particular, cans generally cannot be reclosed, so it is difficult to transport an open can and keep the beverage in an open state free from dirt, debris, or insects.
Summary of the Invention
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0004] Therefore, it is desirable to provide a reclosable can end.
Means for Solving the Problems
[0005] A reclosable can end is provided.
[0006] According to the disclosed embodiments of the subject, a resealable can end is provided. The resealable can end comprises a lid base provided on the upper part of the resealable can end and having a notched region; a tab having a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, wherein the first end is configured to apply pressure to the notched region of the lid base when the second end is lifted, thereby exposing an opening in the lid base by separating the notched region at least partially from the lid base; a closing flap having a first portion having a raised bump that connects to a portion of the tab and having dimensions corresponding to the dimensions of the opening in the lid base, a second portion having an outer end extending beyond the first portion, an opening, and a projection protruding from the outer end of the second portion; and a rivet connecting the tab and the closing flap to the lid base. When the rivet is connected, the tab and the closing flap are configured to rotate around the rivet. The rivet connects the tab and the closing flap to the lid base via the opening in the closing flap. When the tab and the closing flap rotate to a position corresponding to the position of the opening in the lid base, the first portion of the closing flap is configured to be inserted into the opening in the lid base. When the first portion of the closing flap is inserted into the opening in the lid base, the outer end of the second portion of the closing flap is positioned on the upper part of the lid base. The end connecting the first portion of the closing flap to the outer end of the second portion of the closing flap has an angled portion that connects to an indented portion. The indented portion is provided at the base of the end of the opening in the lid base when the first portion of the closing flap is inserted into the opening in the lid base. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0007] The various purposes, features, and advantages of the disclosed subject matter can be better understood by referring to the following detailed description of the disclosed subject matter, when considered in conjunction with the following drawings. In the drawings, similar reference figures identify similar components. [Figure 1A]The image shows the top of a resealable can, comprising a fitted lid base, tabs, rivets, and a closing flap, according to an embodiment of the subject disclosed. [Figure 1B] The image shows the top of a resealable can, comprising a fitted lid base, tabs, rivets, and a closing flap, according to an embodiment of the subject disclosed. [Figure 2A] The image shows the top of a resealable can, comprising a lid base and a closing flap, according to an embodiment of the subject disclosed. [Figure 2B] The image shows the top of a resealable can, comprising a fitted lid base and a fitted tab, rivet, or closing flap, according to an embodiment of the subject disclosed. [Figure 3A] The tabs shown are those of the disclosed embodiments. [Figure 3B] The tabs shown are those of the disclosed embodiments. [Figure 3C] The tabs shown are those of the disclosed embodiments. [Figure 3D] The tabs shown are those of the disclosed embodiments. [Figure 3E] The image shows a tab having a rivet portion according to the disclosed embodiment. [Figure 3F] This shows the underside of the lid base with the attached rivets according to the disclosed embodiment of the subject. [Figure 4A] Examples of independent rivets for attaching tabs, closing flaps, and lid bases according to the disclosed embodiments are shown. [Figure 4B] Examples of independent rivets for attaching tabs, closing flaps, and lid bases according to the disclosed embodiments are shown. [Figure 4C] Examples of independent rivets for attaching tabs, closing flaps, and lid bases according to the disclosed embodiments are shown. [Figure 5A] An example of a notched flap and notch line corresponding to the opening of a can is shown according to the disclosed embodiment of the subject. [Figure 5B]An example of a flap with a cut corresponding to the opening of the can and a cut line according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter is shown. [Figure 5C] An example of a flap with a cut corresponding to the opening of the can and a cut line according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter is shown. [Figure 5D] An example of a flap with a cut corresponding to the opening of the can and a cut line according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter is shown. [Figure 6A] A closed flap according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter is shown. [Figure 6B] A closed flap according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter is shown. [Figure 6C] A closed flap according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter is shown. [Figure 7A] A cross-section of a lid base, a closed flap, and a tab according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter is shown. [Figure 7B] A cross-section of a lid base, a closed flap, and a tab according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter is shown. [Figure 7C] A cross-section of a lid base, a closed flap, and a tab according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter is shown. [Figure 8] An example of a cross-section of the shape of a closed flap according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter is shown. [Figure 9A] An upper surface of a resealable can end with an attached tab, a closed flap, and a rivet according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter is shown. [Figure 9B] An example of a closed flap with a rivet and a tab of the closed flap according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter is shown. [Figure 9C] An example of a closed flap connectable to a tab and / or a lid base rivet according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter is shown. [Figure 9D] An example of a closed flap connectable to a tab and / or a lid base rivet according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter is shown. [Figure 9E]An additional closure flap rivet connecting the pull tab to the closure flap, according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter, is shown. [Figure 9F] An example of a tab, according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter, is shown. [Figure 9G] A cross-section of a flattened rivet, according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter, is shown. [Figure 10A] An example of a lid base having various lid base rivet regions, according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter, is shown. [Figure 10B] An example of a lid base having various lid base rivet regions, according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter, is shown. [Figure 10C] An example of a lid base having various lid base rivet regions, according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter, is shown. [Figure 11] An example of a lid base having a sliding region for a closure flap and a push button, according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter, is shown.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] According to various embodiments, a reclosable can end is provided.
[0009] In some embodiments, a reclosable can end is described herein. In some embodiments, the reclosable can end can be part of any suitable type of can - such as a soda can - for storing any suitable type of liquid or beverage, or part of a can for any other suitable flammable storage needs.
[0010] In some embodiments, cans including reusable, resealable can ends can be opened. For example, in some embodiments, the lid base of a resealable can end (e.g., the flat upper portion of the resealable can end) can be opened so that a notched flap of the lid base is pushed inward, exposing the opening of the lid base. In some embodiments, the notched flap can be pushed inward by any suitable method—for example, by using a tab attached to the lid base that can act as a lever for applying pressure to the notched portion. This breaks the perforation boundary between the notched flap and the lid base.
[0011] In some embodiments, the tab may be coupled to a closing flap having a size and dimensions corresponding to the opening in the lid base. This allows the opening in the lid base to be closed by rotating the closing flap and then pushing it into the opening. This may provide a seal to the opening in the lid base. In some embodiments, the closing flap may be pulled out and / or rotated to detach from the opening in order to open the lid base. Further, in some embodiments, the closing flap may be reinserted into the lid base to reclose the opening in the lid base. In some embodiments, the closing flap may be inserted and rotated out of the opening of the open can any appropriate number of times while still maintaining a seal over the opening.
[0012] In some embodiments, the tab can be coupled to a closing flap and attached to a lid base at the can end that can be resealed in any preferred manner. For example, in some embodiments, the tab can be coupled to the closing flap and attached to the lid base via a rivet made from a raised central region of the lid base, as shown in Figures 10A, 10B, and 10C, and described below in relation to Figure 10C. As another example, in some embodiments, the tab can be coupled to the closing flap and attached to the lid base via a rivet made from a raised central region of the tab, as shown, for example, in Figure 3E, and described below in relation to Figure 3E. As yet another example, in some embodiments, the tab can be coupled to the closing flap and attached to the lid base via an independent rivet, as shown in relation to Figures 4A, 4B, and 4C, and described below. In some embodiments, any suitable mechanism can be used to couple the tab to the closing flap and attach the coupled tab and closing flap to the lid base. This allows the tab and closing flap to lock and rotate together.
[0013] It should be noted that in some embodiments, “resealable can end” may refer to the top of the can. In some embodiments, the resealable can end may include any suitable components such as a lid base (e.g., a flat portion of the resealable can end having a rim shaped to allow the resealable can end to be attached to the can body), a notched flap, a closing flap, a tab, and / or any suitable rivet corresponding to the opening of the lid base when the can is opened. Furthermore, it should be noted that in some embodiments, lid bases, closing flaps, tabs, and rivets as described herein can be manufactured for any suitable size of resealable can end.
[0014] In some embodiments, the closing flaps, tabs, and optional rivets may remain attached to the can. This reduces waste and protects consumers and animals from scratches caused by any sharp and / or metallic edges. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the closing flaps, tabs, rivets, lid bases, and / or any other suitable components of the resealable can end may be made from any suitable material (e.g., aluminum and / or aluminum alloys used for the can body), thereby making the closing flaps, tabs, rivets, and / or lid bases recyclable.
[0015] Moving on to Figures 1A and 1B, top views are shown of examples of resealable can ends according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. Figure 1A shows an example of a lid base 100 that has not yet been opened. Note that in some embodiments, the resealable can end may be made of any suitable material, such as aluminum, aluminum alloy, steel, and / or any other suitable material. Furthermore, note that in some embodiments, the body of the can may be made of a different material from the resealable can end. In some embodiments, the inner portion of the resealable can end may be coated with any suitable material or a combination of several materials. For example, in some embodiments, the inner portion of the resealable can end may be coated with epoxy resin. As another example, in some embodiments, the inner portion of the resealable can end may be coated with a polymer plastic lining made of any suitable material or a combination of several materials (e.g., polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester, styrene, acrylic, vinyl, and / or (some) any other suitable materials).
[0016] As illustrated, Figure 1A includes a tab 102, a closing flap 108, a tab rivet area 110, a lid base 100, and a notched flap 104. Note that, as shown in Figure 1A, the notched flap 104 is fully attached to the lid base 100 because the tab 102 has not yet separated the notched flap 104 from the top of the lid base 100. In some embodiments, the tab 102 may be connected in any suitable way to any suitable part of the lid base 100 (e.g., the central part, and / or any other suitable part). For example, in some embodiments, the tab 102 may be connected to the lid base 100 via rivets in the tab rivet area 110. In some such embodiments, the rivets within the tab rivet region 110 are rivets that are part of the lid base 100 (e.g., as shown in Figures 10A, 10B, and / or 10C and described below in relation to Figures 10A, 10B, and / or 10C), rivets that are part of the tab 102 within the tab rivet region 110 (e.g., as shown in Figure 3E and described below in relation to Figure 3E), and / or independent rivets inserted into the tab rivet region 110 (e.g., as shown in Figures 4A, 4B, and 4C and described below in relation to Figures 4A, 4B, and 4C).
[0017] In some embodiments, the tab 102 can at least partially separate a portion of the notched flap 104 from the lid base 100, as illustrated in Figure 1B, thereby allowing the lid base 100 to be opened. In some embodiments, opening the lid base 100 can expose the opening 106 of the lid base 100. In some embodiments, the tab 102 can separate a portion of the notched flap 104 from the lid base 100 in any suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, the tip of the tab 102 above the notched flap 104 can be pushed into the notched flap 104. Thereafter, a portion of the notched flap 104 can be pushed into the can body attached to the lid base 100. In some embodiments, the tip of the tab 102 can be pushed into the notched flap 104 in any suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, the tab 102 may act as a second type lever and a first type lever around the position corresponding to the tab rivet area 110 by lifting the rear end of the tab 102 opposite to the tip of the tab 102. This causes the tip of the tab 102 to apply pressure to the notched flap 104.
[0018] As shown in Figure 1B, in some embodiments, the tab 102 may be connected to the closing flap 108 by rivets, welds, recyclable sealant, rubber, recyclable adhesive, connecting members, and / or any other suitable method. For example, in some embodiments, the tab 102 may be connected to the closing flap 108 via rivets corresponding to the tab rivet area 110. Note that in some embodiments, the rivets corresponding to the tab rivet area 110 may be part of the lid base 100 (e.g., as shown in Figure 10A and described below in relation to Figure 10A), part of the tab 102 (e.g., as shown in Figure 3E and described below in relation to Figure 3E), and / or independent rivets (e.g., as shown in Figures 4A, 4B, and 4C and described below in relation to Figures 4A, 4B, and 4C).
[0019] As shown in Figure 1B, in some embodiments, the closing flap 108 may have a size and shape corresponding to the opening 106. This allows the lid base 100 to be re-closed and sealed by inserting the closing flap 108 into the opening 106 after the notched flap 104 of the lid base 100 has been opened.
[0020] As shown in Figure 1B, the tab 102 can be joined by a rivet corresponding to the tab rivet area 110. Note that this allows the tab 102 to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise in conjunction with the closing flap 108. For example, in some embodiments, the closing flap 108 can be rotated to a position suitable for insertion into the opening 106 to seal the opening 106.
[0021] Furthermore, it should be noted that in some embodiments, the notched flap 104 may have a recess of any appropriate size and / or any appropriate shape. In some embodiments, the notched flap 104 may be notched or perforated so that a portion of the notched flap 104 can be separated from the lid base 100 when the tip of the tab 102 is pressed on the notched flap 104 to open the lid base 100. It should be noted that in some embodiments, the notched flap 104 may remain attached to the lid base 100 via the connecting member 112. In some embodiments, the notched flap 104, the connecting member 112, and / or any appropriate portion of the lid base 100 may be notched or perforated. This allows any portion of the notched flap 104 to bend away from the lid base 100 when the lid base 100 is opened, and the portion of the notched flap 104 remains attached to the lid base 100, enabling a seal between the closing flap 108 and the opening 106.
[0022] In some embodiments, the notched flap 104 may be notched in multiple ways around the circumference of the opening 106 and on the connecting member 112. In some embodiments, when the notched flap 104 contacts the connecting member 112, it may bend upward and inward toward the center of the lid base 100, as shown in Figure 5C and described below in relation to Figure 5C. As another example, in some embodiments, when the notched flap 104 contacts the connecting member 112, it may be notched to form a non-bending dead end stop, as shown in Figure 5A and described below in relation to Figure 5A. As yet another example, in some embodiments, the notched flap 104 that fits the connecting member 112 may be notched to bend downward and inward toward the center of the notched flap 104, as shown in Figure 5D and described below in relation to Figure 5D.
[0023] In some embodiments, the underside of the connecting member 112 can be perforated in any suitable manner (for example, as shown in Figure 5B and described below in relation to Figure 5B) to generate a more desirable angle and provide sealing of the closing flap 108 over the opening 106 of the lid base 100. For example, in some embodiments, the underside of the connecting member 112 adjacent to the point where the connecting member 112 connects to the lid base 100 when the lid base 100 is open may have a small notch or indentation so that the notched flap 104 bends around the perforation in the connecting member 112 when the lid base 100 is open. In some embodiments, the depth of the perforation on the underside of the link 112 may be deep enough to allow the notched flap 104 to enter the opening 106 and bend straight around the area of the connecting member 112, but shallow enough so that the link 112 remains connected to the lid base 100 when the lid base 100 is open.
[0024] Moving on to Figure 2A, an example of a tabless lid base 100 is shown according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, when the lid base 100 is not yet opened (i.e., the notched flap 104 has not been pressed down). Note that, as shown in Figure 2A, the closing flap 108 may be located in a part of the lid base 100 (e.g., a recess, and / or any other suitable part) when the closing flap 108 is not in use.
[0025] Moving on to Figure 2B, an example of the lid base 100 without the tab and closing flap is shown, according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, when the lid base 100 is not yet opened.
[0026] It should be noted that in some embodiments, the lid base 100 may include a drip catch 208 (for example, one that catches liquid leaking from the opening of the lid base 100 when opened), a lid base pocket 210, a lid base rivet area 204, and an edge 212.
[0027] In some embodiments, the drip catch 208 of the lid base 100 may have any suitable lid base pocket 210 having any kind of recess, angle, end, shape, arch, depth, and width. In some embodiments, the lid base pocket 210 can be used as a retaining area for the closing flap before the lid base 100 is opened or when the lid base 100 is opened again. In some embodiments, the lid base pocket 210 may be located beneath the closing flap and then exposed when the closing flap is rotated.
[0028] In some embodiments, the drip catch 208 may have a width or depth sufficient to accommodate the opening of the lid base 100 or the closing flap. In a more specific example, in cases where the opening of the lid base 100 is wider than the opening of a conventional soda can, the drip catch 208 of the lid base 100 may be relatively wider and more oval-shaped than the drip catch of a conventional resealable can end. In some embodiments, the drip catch 208 may contain a filler of any suitable type of material.
[0029] Referring to Figures 2A and 2B, the shapes of the rivet areas of the closing flap (e.g., closing flap 108 as shown in Figure 2A) and the lid base (e.g., lid base 100 as shown in Figure 2B) are shown according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. Referring to Figure 2A, for example, in some embodiments, any suitable rivet may be inserted into the closing flap rivet area 202 to connect the closing flap 108 to the tab (not shown). Note that in some embodiments, the rivet inserted into the closing flap rivet area 202 may be any suitable rivet—for example, a rivet that is part of the tab (e.g., as shown in Figure 3E and described below in relation to Figure 3E), a rivet that is part of the lid base (e.g., as shown in Figure 10 and described below in relation to Figure 10), and / or a separate rivet (e.g., as shown in Figures 4A, 4B, and 4C and described below in relation to Figures 4A, 4B, and 4C). Furthermore, while the closing flap rivet region 202 is shown as triangular in shape, it should be noted that in some embodiments, the closing flap rivet region 202 may have any suitable shape (e.g., square, round, hexagonal, and / or any other suitable shape).
[0030] As another example, referring to Figure 2B, in some embodiments, any suitable rivet can be used in the lid base rivet area 204 to connect the lid base 100 to the tab and closing flap. Note that in some embodiments, the rivet may be a rivet that is part of the lid base located in the lid base rivet area 204 on the lid base 100 (e.g., as shown in Figures 10A, 10B, and / or 10C and described in relation thereto below), a rivet that is part of the tab (e.g., as shown in Figure 3E and described in relation thereto below), a rivet that is inserted through the closing flap and the lid base rivet area 204, and / or a separate rivet (e.g., as shown in Figures 4A, 4B, and 4C and described in relation thereto below). Furthermore, although the lid base rivet region 204 is shown as circular, it should be noted that in some embodiments, the lid base rivet region 204 may be any suitable shape (e.g., square, triangular, hexagonal, and / or any other suitable shape). In some embodiments, the lid base rivet region 204 may be smaller or larger than the closing flap rivet region 202.
[0031] The tab 102, closing flap 108, and lid base 100 are shown in Figures 1A, 1B, 2A, and 2B and described above in relation to Figures 1A, 1B, 2A, and 2B, but it should be noted that in some embodiments, any suitable alternative design of the tab, closing flap, lid base, and rivet can be used in any suitable combination. For example, in some embodiments, alternative tab designs (e.g., those shown in Figures 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E, 9A, and / or 9F and described below in relation to Figures 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E, 9A, and / or 9F), alternative closing flap designs (e.g., those shown in Figures 6A, 6B, 6C, 7A, 7B, 7C, 8, 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D, and / or 11 and described below in relation to Figures 6A, 6B, 6C, 7A, 7B, 7C, 8, 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D, and / or 11), alternative rivet designs Designs (for example, those shown in Figures 4A, 4B, 4C, 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D, 9E, 9F, 9G, 10A, 10B, and / or 10C, and described below in relation to Figures 4A, 4B, 4C, 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D, 9E, 9F, 9G, 10A, 10B, and / or 10C) and / or alternative lid base designs (for example, those shown in Figures 10A, 10B, 10C, and / or 11, and described below in relation to Figures 10A, 10B, 10C, and / or 11) may be used in any suitable combination.
[0032] Moving on to Figure 3A, a top view of the tab 102 according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject is shown. Note that Figure 3A shows the tab 102 with a tab rivet area 301 that is triangular in shape. In some embodiments, the tab may have a rivet area of any suitable shape (e.g., circular, triangular, square, L-shaped, hexagonal, and / or any other suitable shape). For example, as shown in Figure 3C, the tab may have a round tab rivet area 312.
[0033] Turning to Figure 3B, a perspective side view of the tab 102 according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject is shown. In some embodiments, the force portion 302 of the tab 102 (e.g., the back portion of the tab) may have an arched or concave shape that allows the tab 102 to be pulled upward and rotated by a finger. Furthermore, it should be noted that the tab 102 may have any suitable shape or dimensions that differ from tabs used in other beverage cans. For example, in some embodiments, the tab 102 may have a thicker force portion 302 and / or thicker sides 304 and / or 306 compared to tabs used in other beverage cans. As another example, in some embodiments, the length and / or width of the tab 102 from the force portion 302 to the tab rivet area 301 may differ in shape from tabs used in other beverage cans (e.g., longer, shorter, wider, thinner, and / or different in any other suitable way).
[0034] In some embodiments, the tab, closing flap, and lid base can be joined using independent rivets (e.g., rivets that are not part of the tab, closing flap, and / or lid base). Figures 4A, 4B, and 4C show examples of independent rivets that can be used to join any of the tab, closing flap, and / or lid base.
[0035] Moving on to Figure 4A, an exemplary diagram of an independent rivet having a circular top portion according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter is shown. Figure 400 shows a three-dimensional side view of the rivet. As shown, the rivet includes a circular top portion 402, a triangular middle portion 404, and a circular bottom portion 406. In some embodiments, the circular top portion 402 overlaps the tab and can lock into the tab rivet area and the closing flap rivet area, thereby allowing both the tab and the closing flap to be held in place at the lid base. In some embodiments, the triangular middle portion 404 may act as a lock between the closing flap and the tab, thereby allowing the tab and the closing flap to rotate together. In some embodiments, the circular bottom portion 406 passes through the lid base rivet area 204 of the lid base 100 (as shown in Figure 2B and described above in relation to Figure 2B), thereby allowing the tab and the closing flap to rotate together. In some embodiments, the circular bottom portion 406 may be flattened by machine to secure rivets, as shown in Figure 9G and described below in relation to Figure 9G.
[0036] Figure 4A further shows a plan view 408 and a bottom view 410 of the rivet shown in Figure 400. Note that, as shown in Figure 4A, in some embodiments, the circular top 402 may have the largest area of the three parts of the rivet, and the circular bottom 406 may have the smallest area of the three parts of the rivet. Note that in some embodiments, the height, width, length and circumference of each part of the rivet may vary, and / or each part of the rivet may vary in any other suitable way.
[0037] Moving on to Figure 4B, an example 412 of a rivet having a triangular upper part 414 according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter is shown.
[0038] Moving on to Figure 4C, an example 416 of a rivet having a rounded top and a cylindrical body 418 is shown, according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0039] In some embodiments, the shape of the holes in the closing flap can correspond to the rivet portion. For example, in some embodiments, rivet 416 (as shown in and described above in relation to Figure 4C) can connect a tab having a circular tab rivet region to a closing flap having a circular closing flap rivet region. In some embodiments, this may allow the rivet and closing flap to be rotated either clockwise or counterclockwise.
[0040] It should be noted that the relative dimensions shown may differ from those of actual rivets implemented according to some embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, the heights of parts 402, 404, 406, and 418 may be shorter than the width and / or diameter of the part. In some embodiments, the heights may be exaggerated for clarity in this specification.
[0041] Moving to Figure 5A, an exemplary plan view of a notched flap on the lid base according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter (e.g., a notched flap 104 as shown in and described above in relation to Figure 1B). Figure 5B shows an exemplary bottom view of a notched flap having a perforation on the lid base. Figure 5C shows an exemplary plan view of another upwardly curved notched region 502 that contacts the connecting member 112. Figure 5D shows an exemplary plan view of another downwardly curved notched ring region 504 that contacts the connecting member 112. Note that in some embodiments, any suitable notched flap may be used in conjunction with any lid base.
[0042] In some embodiments, the closing flap may include any suitable components that allow the tab to apply pressure to the closing flap when the closing flap is inserted into the can opening, thereby enabling the formation of a more integrated and / or tighter seal between the closing flap and the can opening. Furthermore, the closing flap may include any suitable components that allow the closing flap connected to the tab to rotate. Figures 6A, 6B, and 6C show examples of closing flaps with various design elements. Note that in some embodiments, any of the components shown in Figures 6A, 6B, and / or 6C may be combined in any preferred manner in the closing flap.
[0043] As shown in Figures 6A, 6B, and 6C, in some embodiments the closing flap may have one or more bumps, molds, ridges, flaps, edges, or other designs of various shapes. In some embodiments, bumps on the closing flap may assist in locking the tab and the closing flap, assist in pushing and pulling the connected tab and the closing flap, allow the tab to exert even pressure on the closing flap when the closing flap is inserted into the opening of the lid base, and / or perform any other suitable function. In some embodiments the closing flap may include any suitable bumps, such as bump 602 and / or bump 604 as shown in Figure 6A, bump 610 and / or bump 614 as shown in Figures 6A and 6C, and / or any other suitable bumps. In some embodiments, one or more bumps may correspond to ridges inside the closing flap. It should be noted that in some embodiments, the closing flap may include any number of bumps (e.g., 0, 1, 2, 3, 5, and / or any other suitable number) each positioned at any suitable location on the closing flap. In some embodiments, one or more bumps on the closing flap may be generated in any suitable way—for example, by any suitable welding or forming technique (e.g., by injection molding and / or any other suitable forming, welding, or forming technique).
[0044] In some embodiments, one or more bumps may contact the bottom of the tab. This allows the tab to apply even pressure to the closing flap when it is inserted into the opening of the can. This may make it possible to form a more integrated and / or tighter seal between the closing flap and the opening of the can. Furthermore, one or more bumps may engage with the tab as a lock to assist in the rotation of the closing flap over the opening of a resealable can end. Note that examples of closing flaps having one or more bumps filling the bottom of the tab are shown in Figures 7A, 7B, and 7C and will be described in more detail below in relation to Figures 7A, 7B, and 7C. Moving on to Figure 3C, in some embodiments, a square bump (e.g., bump 614 in Figures 6A and 6C) may fit into the square tab opening 314 of the tab 310. As another example, in some embodiments, a rounded bump (e.g., bump 610 in Figure 6A) may be fitted into a rounded tab opening 318 of the tab 310. Note that in some embodiments, each bump on the closing flap may have any suitable shape (e.g., circular, square, rectangular, L-shaped, U-shaped, triangular, hexagonal, and / or any other suitable shape). Furthermore, note that in some embodiments, the tab may have (multiple) openings of any suitable shape corresponding to the bumps of the closing flap to which the tab will be connected.
[0045] Returning to Figure 6A, a plan view of another closing flap 114 according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject is shown. In some embodiments, the closing flap 114 may include one or more closing flap edges 612 (as shown in Figures 6A and 6C). In some embodiments, the closing flap lip 612 may function as a lock or hook that engages with an edge on the tab. For example, moving to Figures 3C and 3D, the tab 310 may include a tab edge 316. In some embodiments, as the tab rotates, the closing flap lip 612 may act as a pressure point against the tab lip 316. In some embodiments, as the tab rotates, both the closing flap edge 612 and the tab edge 316 may assist in rotating clockwise or counterclockwise (e.g., pushing or pulling the connected tab and closing flap) and may assist in allowing the tab to rotate while locking the tab to the closing flap 114. Referring to Figure 3D, it should be noted that in some embodiments, the tab may further include a pressure point 320. In some embodiments, when pressure is applied to the pressure point 320, the tab can engage with the connected closing flap to create a secure seal of the closing flap at the opening in the lid base. In some embodiments, the pressure point 320 may be any suitable additional material, bump, and / or puncture hole. In some embodiments, the pressure point 320 may be formed from any part of the mold and / or by any other suitable method. Note that Figure 3D shows the underside of the tab 310.
[0046] Returning to Figure 6A, in some embodiments, the closing flap may have an outer edge 609 that functions as an end, edge, glide, flap, ledge, or seal. In some embodiments, the outer edge 609 may extend beyond the opening 106, enabling a seal when the closing flap is positioned over the opening 106 to seal it. In some embodiments, the outer edge 609 may further assist in the rotation of the closing flap on the lid base.
[0047] Moving on to Figure 6B, an exemplary cross-sectional side view of a closing flap according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject is shown. Note that in some embodiments, the side edges of the closing flap may have any (multiple) suitable shapes (e.g., angles, curves, bends, arches, cuts, bumps, shapes, and / or any other suitable designs) as shown in and described in more detail below in relation to Figures 7A, 7B, 7C, and 8.
[0048] Moving on to Figure 6C, an exemplary side view of a closing flap according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject is shown. Note that in some embodiments, the side edges of the closing flap may have any (multiple) suitable shapes, as shown in Figures 7A, 7B, 7C, 8, 9B, 9C, and / or 9D and described in more detail below in relation to Figures 7A, 7B, 7C, 8, 9B, 9C, and / or 9D.
[0049] Turning to Figures 7A, 7B, and 7C, exemplary side cross-sectional views are shown of closing flaps having tabs and lid bases of various shapes inserted into the opening of the lid base according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject. Note that Figures 7A, 7B, and 7C show three different potential edge shapes 702, 704, and 706 of the closing flap, respectively. Furthermore, note that the shapes of the closing flaps shown in Figures 7A, 7B, and 7C are shown merely as examples, and in some embodiments, any suitable shape may be used. Note that additional possible shapes of the closing flap are shown in Figures 8, 9B, 9C, and / or 9D and will be described below in relation to Figures 8, 9B, 9C, and / or 9D. Furthermore, note that in Figures 7A, 7B, and 7C, the outer end 609 of each closing flap is shown on the lid base 100.
[0050] It should be noted that in some embodiments, the closing flap and / or the bump on the closing flap can each be made of any suitable material. For example, in some embodiments, the closing flap and / or the bump can each be made of the same material as the can—for example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy. In some embodiments, the closing flap and / or the bump on the closing flap can each be made of any suitable material that allows the closing flap and / or the bump to be recycled together with the can.
[0051] Furthermore, it should be noted that in some embodiments, the closing flap may include a central recessed pocket (e.g., a recessed pocket 708 as shown in Figure 7A) having dimensions corresponding to the dimensions of the opening of the open can (e.g., the opening 106 shown in Figure 1B and described above in relation to Figure 1B).
[0052] In some embodiments, the bottom of the closing flap may have a lining sealant of any suitable material, such as the same coating as the inside of the can body or any other suitable material (e.g., lining sealant 710 as shown in Figure 7A). Note that in some embodiments, any suitable type of sealant may be used, such as a sealant used for lining or inside the can (e.g., epoxy resin, any suitable polymer resin, and / or any other suitable sealant). In some embodiments, the sealant may be any suitable sealant that satisfies any suitable criteria—for example, being harmless to consumers (e.g., BPA-free, and / or any other suitable harmless sealant), being recyclable with aluminum, not contaminating the beverage inside the can and / or altering the taste, and / or satisfying any other suitable criteria. In some embodiments, the lining sealant may have any suitable layer and / or any suitable thickness that can help seal the resealable opening of the can end and / or aid in ease of use. In some embodiments, the lining sealant may have any suitable dimensions corresponding to a portion of the bottom of the corresponding closing flap or the entire bottom of the corresponding closing flap. In addition, or alternatively, in some embodiments, the closure flap may be covered with a breakable sealant to prevent contaminants from entering the area beneath the closure flap before its first use.
[0053] Moving on to Figure 8, exemplary cross-sectional side views of various shapes of closing flaps according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter are shown. As illustrated, eight shapes, 802, 804, 806, 808, 810, 812, 814, and 816 are shown with multiple design options and / or combination options. Note that, as illustrated in Figure 8, closing flaps may have any suitable dimensions and any suitable shape, including any suitable angles, cuts, ends, pads, grooves, molds, edges, pressure points, curves, and / or any other suitable designs.
[0054] In some embodiments, the closing flap may have a portion that includes 1) a recessed pocket 708 (shown in Figure 7A and described above in relation to Figure 7A), 2) a closing seal locking area 826, and 3) an outer edge 609 (shown in Figure 6 and described above in relation to Figure 6). For example, in some embodiments, the recessed pocket 708 may have a variety of depths, angles, shapes, and / or widths in relation to the closing seal locking area 826 in order to adapt to the movement of the closing flap (e.g., between rotation or positioning of the closing flap during opening and closing) and / or to assist in the insertion of the closing flap into the lid base opening, for insertion into the interior of the lid base opening and / or into the interior of the retaining area of the lid base pocket (e.g., the lid base pocket 210 in Figure 2B).
[0055] As another example, in some embodiments, as shown in shapes 812, 814, and 816, the closing flap may include a straight end 818 connected to an angle reduction 819 at any suitable angle (e.g., 40 degrees, 45 degrees, 50 degrees, and / or any other suitable angle). As a result, the undercut / indent 820 acts as a hook. In some embodiments, the undercut / indent 820 may be positioned below the end of the opening 106 when the lid base 100 is opened. In some embodiments, this can allow the closing flap to seal over the opening 106 so that the sealing does not interfere with the connecting member 112, but the closing flap cooperates with the connecting member 112 to seal the lid base opening.
[0056] As yet another example, in some embodiments, the outer end 609 of shape 814 may act spring-like to provide resistance or assistance when the closing flap is pushed into the opening of the lid base and / or when the closing flap is rotated by the tab to which it is attached, when the closing flap is pushed inward via the tab to which it is attached. Shape 814 includes an upward arch and a downward bend portion 822 to a curved end 824 which can be sandwiched under the arch 822 and positioned above the drip catch of the lid base. Note that this can be used to provide spring-like action, resistance, pressure, and / or any other suitable function to assist in a tight, leak-proof seal of the closing flap over the opening of the lid base and the connecting member of the opening of the lid base (e.g., the connecting member 112 shown in Figure 1B and described in relation to the above). Furthermore, in some embodiments, the curved end 824 may provide a smooth surface area to the outer end 609 of the closing flap so that the end of the closing flap does not wear down.
[0057] In some embodiments, the lid base may have a sliding region. Within the sliding region, the closing flap can move while rotating to move in and out of the opening in the lid base. In some embodiments, the sliding region can assist the movement and / or rotation of the closing flap. Moving to Figure 11, a top view of the lid base according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject is shown. As shown, the lid base has a sliding region 1102. In some embodiments, the sliding region 1102 may be horizontal with respect to the notched flap of the lid base (e.g., notched flap 104). Alternatively, in some embodiments, the sliding region 1102 may be inclined in any suitable direction (e.g., upward toward the notched flap 104, downward toward the notched flap 104, and / or any suitable direction). Note that in some embodiments, the sliding region 1102 can be any suitable part of the lid base. For example, in some embodiments, as shown in Figure 11, the sliding region 1102 may be a subset of the upper region of the lid base (e.g., the right side of the lid base, the left side of the lid base, and / or any other suitable region of the lid base). As another example, in some embodiments, the sliding region 1102 may be the entire upper portion of the lid base. Note that in some embodiments, the sliding region 1102 may be used in conjunction with any suitable tab, (multiple) rivets, closing flaps, notched regions, (multiple) connecting members, and / or any other suitable components of the resealable can end described herein.
[0058] In some embodiments, the lid base may include a push button 1103, as shown in Figure 11. In some embodiments, the push button 1103 may function as a pressure point. In some embodiments, the push button 1103 may be pressed in such a way as to help the closing flap rotate and move away from the lid base opening, thereby reopening the resealable can end by loosening the connection of the closing flap within the lid base opening. Note that in some embodiments, the push button 1103 may be included in any suitable lid base and may be positioned at any suitable location on the lid base. Furthermore, note that in some embodiments, the push button 1103 may be of any suitable shape and / or size (e.g., circular, square, rectangular, triangular, L-shaped, and / or any other suitable shape). In some embodiments, the push button 1103 may be formed via any (multiple) preferred manufacturing techniques (e.g., any preferred molding technique, any (multiple) manufacturing techniques by tensile or compressive force as part of the lid base, welding on the lid base, extrusion from the lid base, and / or any (multiple) other preferred techniques). In some embodiments, the push button 1103 may be omitted.
[0059] Moving on to Figures 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D, and 9F, further examples of tabs and closing flaps according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter are shown.
[0060] Moving on to Figure 9A, a plan view of the closing flap 906 and the tab 902 connected to the lid base is shown according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. As shown, the tab 902 may include a tab rivet area 910, an edge 916, and / or an intermediate bar 918. Note that Figure 9F shows a plan view of the tab 902.
[0061] In some embodiments, the tab rivet region 910 may correspond to a rivet used to connect the tab 902 to the lid base. Note that, as described above, in some embodiments, the rivet used in association with the tab rivet region 910 may be a separate rivet (e.g., as shown in Figures 4A, 4B, and / or 4C and described above in relation to Figures 4A, 4B, and / or 4C), a rivet that is part of the lid base (e.g., as shown in Figure 10 and described below in relation to Figure 10), and / or a rivet that is part of the tab 902 at the location of the tab rivet region 910 (e.g., as shown in Figure 3E and described below in relation to Figure 3E).
[0062] In some embodiments, the middle bar 918 can engage with the closing flap 906 in any suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, the middle bar 918 can be fixed to the platform area 908 of the closing flap 906 (as shown, for example, in Figures 9B and 9C), or otherwise engage with the platform area 908. As another example, in some embodiments, the tab opening 318 (as shown in Figure 3C) can be fixed to and / or engage with the closing flap bump 904, as shown in Figures 9A and 9B. As yet another example, in some embodiments, the middle bar 918 can engage with any suitable independent rivet, such as the rivet 912 shown in Figure 9E.
[0063] Moving on to Figure 9B, side views of the tab 902 and closing flap 906 according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject are shown.
[0064] Moving on to Figures 9C and 9D, a top view and a side view of the closing flap 906 are shown, respectively, according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject. As shown, the closing flap 906 includes a bump 904 on the platform region 908. In some embodiments, the bump 904 can engage with the tab 902 by being inserted through the circular tab opening of the tab 902 (e.g., a tab opening region 318 as shown in Figure 9F). Returning to Figure 9A, in some embodiments, once the bump 904 is inserted into the circular tab opening 318 of the tab 902, the bump 904 can function as a rivet connecting the tab 902 and the closing flap 906. For example, in some embodiments, the bump 904 can be flattened (e.g., by a machine that applies pressure to the bump 904), thereby allowing the bump 904 to act as a rivet connecting the tab 902 and the closing flap 906. In embodiments where the bump 904 acts as a rivet connecting the tab 902 and the closing flap 906, it should be noted that the bump 904 acts as a locking mechanism connecting the tab 902 and the closing flap 906, thereby assisting the tab 902 in rotating the closing flap 906 by causing the tab 902 and the closing flap 906 to rotate together in conjunction. In some embodiments, when the bump 904 is flattened, the bump 904 may form a rim (for example, as shown in Figure 9G and described below in relation to Figure 9G) to keep the tab 902 connected to the closing flap 906.
[0065] It should be noted that, as shown in portion 920 of Figure 9C, in some embodiments, the platform area 908 may extend from or protrude from the outer end of the closing flap. In some embodiments, portion 920 may increase the distance between the rivet area 616 and the recessed pocket area of the closing flap 906. In some embodiments, the platform 908 may have any suitable dimensions (e.g., length, width, thickness, etc.), and the platform 908 may protrude from the outer end of the closing flap to any suitable extent.
[0066] Moving on to Figures 10A, 10B, and 10C, examples of lid bases 1002 having various lid base rivet area designs according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter are shown. Note that in some embodiments, the lid base 1002 may have any suitable outer rim (e.g., industry standard resealable can end outer rim, and / or any other suitable outer rim), which may be attached to and sealed to the can body by any suitable method (e.g., double seam method, and / or any other suitable method). Note that in some embodiments, any suitable tab and / or closing flap may be used in conjunction with any of the lid bases shown in Figures 10A, 10B, and / or 10C.
[0067] Referring to Figure 10A, the lid base 1002 may include a projection 1004. In some embodiments, the projection 1004 may be formed on the lid base 1002 in any suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, the projection 1004 may be formed by any (multiple) suitable manufacturing techniques (e.g., any suitable molding technique, a manufacturing technique by (multiple) tensile or compressive forces as part of the lid base 1002, welding on the lid base 1002, extrusion from the lid base 1002, and / or any (multiple) other suitable techniques). In some embodiments, the projection 1004 may be closed at the top of the projection 1004. In some embodiments, the projection 1004 may function as a rivet that can connect a closing flap and a tab to the lid base 1002. For example, in some embodiments, the projection 1004 may be inserted through a rounded closing flap rivet area and through a rounded tab rivet area. Continuing this example, in some embodiments, the projection 1004 may then be flattened in any suitable manner to enable the projection 1004 to function as a rivet. In some embodiments, the projection 1004 may be flattened in any suitable manner, such as by a machine that recesses the projection 1004 and / or by a machine that applies pressure to the projection 1004 in any suitable manner.
[0068] Moving to Figure 10B, an example of a lid base 1002 having a hollow projection 1006 according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter is shown. In some embodiments, the hollow projection 1006 can be formed by any suitable method. For example, in some embodiments, the hollow projection 1006 can be formed by any (multiple) suitable manufacturing techniques (e.g., any suitable molding technique, any (multiple) tensile or compressive manufacturing techniques as part of the lid base 1002, welding on the lid base 1002, extrusion from the lid base 1002, and / or any (multiple) other suitable techniques). In some embodiments, the hollow portion of the hollow projection 1006 may be formed by any suitable method. For example, in some embodiments, the fixed projection can be drilled, perforated, extruded, and / or circularly drilled. In some embodiments, the hollow projection 1006 can function as a column from which any suitable rivets used to connect the tab and closing flap to the lid base 1002 can be received. For example, in some embodiments, the hollow projection 1006 may receive a separate rivet, as shown in and described above in relation to Figures 4A, 4B, and / or 4C. As another example, in some embodiments, the hollow projection 1006 may receive a rivet that is part of a tab, as shown in and described below in relation to Figure 3E. In some embodiments, the rivet inserted into the hollow projection 1006 may be sealed or attached from the underside of the lid base 1002 in any suitable manner (for example, as shown in and described below in relation to Figure 3F). For example, in some embodiments, the rivet may be flattened in any suitable manner, such as by a machine that dents rivets and / or a machine that applies pressure to rivets.
[0069] Moving to Figure 10C, an example of a lid base 1002 having a rivet opening 1008 according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter is shown. In some embodiments, the rivet opening 1008 can be formed in any preferred way. For example, in some embodiments, the rivet opening 1008 may be formed from any suitable mold, as a circular hole opened in the lid base 1002, as a hole opened in the lid base 1002, as a hole penetrating the lid base 1002, and / or in any other suitable way. In some embodiments, any suitable rivet can be inserted through the rivet opening 1008 to bond a tab and a closing flap to the lid base 1002. For example, in some embodiments, the rivet opening 1008 can receive an independent rivet as shown in Figures 4A, 4B, and / or 4C and as described above in relation to Figures 4A, 4B, and / or 4C. As another example, in some embodiments, the rivet opening 1008 may receive a rivet which is part of a tab, as shown in Figure 3E and described below in relation to Figure 3E.
[0070] Moving on to Figure 3E, an example of a rivet that is part of a tab according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter is shown. As illustrated, Figure 3E shows various designs for a rivet that is attached to or otherwise part of a tab 350. Note that in some embodiments, the tab 350 may be used in conjunction with any suitable closing flap and / or any suitable lid base that can receive the rivet that is part of the tab 350. Furthermore, note that in some embodiments, the rivet that is part of the tab 350 may be formed in any suitable way. For example, in some embodiments, the rivet may be fixed to the tab 350 (e.g., welded to the tab 350, fixed as part of the tab 350 by tensile or compressive force or other suitable manufacturing technique and / or other suitable way), formed through any suitable mold, extruded, and / or formed in any other suitable way.
[0071] In some embodiments, the rivets that are part of the tab 350 may be of any suitable shape and may include any suitable portion, each having any suitable shape. For example, in some embodiments, the tab 350 may include a rivet 351 having a circular shape. As another example, in some embodiments, the tab 350 may include a rivet 352 which may have a triangular portion that can act as a lock above the circular portion of the rivet 352. As yet another example, in some embodiments, the tab 350 may include a rivet 353 which may have a square portion that can act as a lock above the circular portion of the rivet 353.
[0072] In some embodiments, the circular portion of the rivet, which is part of the tab 350, may be inserted through a circular closing flap rivet region (e.g., a circular closing flap rivet region 616 as shown in Figure 6A and / or any other suitable circular closing flap rivet region) and subsequently through a circular lid base rivet region (e.g., a lid base rivet region 204 as shown in Figure 2B, a hollow projection 1006 as shown in Figure 10B, a rivet opening 1008 as shown in Figure 10C, and / or any other suitable circular lid base rivet region).
[0073] In some embodiments, the rivets may then be attached to the connected lid base, closing flap, and tab in any suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, the rivets may be flattened in any suitable manner, such as by a machine that presses down on the rivets from the underside of the lid base after they have been inserted through the lid base rivet region. Moving to Figure 3F, the underside of the lid base is shown after the rivets have been inserted and flattened, according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject. As illustrated, Figure 3F includes a rivet 354 that has been flattened by any suitable machine that applies pressure to the rivet after it has been inserted through the lid base rivet region.
[0074] Moving on to Figure 9G, an exemplary cross-sectional view of a machine-flattened rivet according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter is shown. As illustrated, Figure 9G includes a flattened rivet 930 and a side portion 932. In some embodiments, the flattened rivet 930 may correspond to any suitable rivet made using any (multiple) suitable techniques as described above. Note that in some embodiments, the flattened rivet 930 may correspond to an independent rivet, a rivet that is part of a tab, a rivet that is part of a lid base, and / or any other suitable rivet. For example, in some embodiments, the flattened rivet 930 may correspond to an independent rivet as shown in and described above in relation to Figures 4A, 4B, and / or 4C. As another example, in some embodiments, the flattened rivet 930 may correspond to a rivet that is part of a tab as shown in and described above in relation to Figure 3E, and / or a rivet that is part of a lid base as shown and described above in relation to Figure 10A or 10B.
[0075] In some embodiments, the side portion 932 may correspond to any suitable surface on which the edge of the flattened rivet 930 is placed. For example, in an example where the flattened rivet 930 corresponds to a rivet that is part of a tab, or to an independent rivet inserted through a tab, a closing flap, and a lid base, the side portion 932 may correspond to the lid base on which the flattened rivet 930 is flattened on the underside of the lid base. In another example, in an example where the flattened rivet 930 corresponds to a rivet that is part of the lid base, the side portion 932 may correspond to a tab, and the flattened rivet 930 is flattened from above the tab.
[0076] Therefore, a resealable can end is provided.
[0077] Although the present invention has been described and illustrated in the above-described exemplary embodiments, it will be understood that this disclosure is illustrative only, and numerous modifications in the details of the implementation of the invention can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, which are limited only by the subsequent claims. The features of the disclosed embodiments can be combined or rearranged in various ways.
Claims
1. A resealable can end, A lid base having a notched area provided at the top of the resealable can end, A tab having a first hole and a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, wherein the first end is configured to apply pressure to the notched region of the lid base when the second end is lifted, and which exposes an opening in the lid base by at least partially separating the notched region from the lid base, A closing flap having a first portion having dimensions corresponding to the dimensions of the opening in the lid base, a connection portion to the tab, and a second portion having an outer end and a second hole extending beyond the first portion, The rivets pass through the first hole and the second hole and connect the tab and the closing flap to the lid base, The rivet allows the tab and the closing flap to rotate relative to the lid base. When the tab and the closing flap rotate to a position corresponding to the position of the opening in the lid base, the first portion of the closing flap is configured to be inserted into the opening in the lid base. When the first portion of the closing flap is inserted into the opening in the lid base, the outer end of the second portion of the closing flap is positioned in the upper part of the lid base. Can end that can be resealed.
2. A resealable can end according to claim 1, wherein the lid end includes a lid base pocket having dimensions corresponding to the dimensions of the first portion of the closing flap.
3. A resealable can end according to claim 2, wherein the lid base includes a recessed sliding region formed from the lid base pocket to the opening within the lid base, the recessed sliding region being inclined between the lid base pocket and the opening within the lid base.
4. A resealable can end according to claim 1, wherein the bottom of the first portion of the closing flap includes a sealant coating.
5. A resealable can end according to claim 4, wherein the sealant coating comprises a plurality of sealant layers.
6. A resealable can end according to claim 4, wherein the sealant coating comprises a material harmless to consumers.
7. A resealable can end according to claim 1, wherein the second end of the tab has a concave shape that curves toward the first end.
8. A resealable can end according to claim 1, wherein the connecting portion of the closing flap is inserted through a hole in the tab.
9. A resealable can end according to claim 1, wherein the outer end of the second portion of the closing flap is flat.
10. A resealable can end according to claim 1, wherein the outer end of the second portion of the closing flap is angled upward away from the first portion of the closing flap.
11. A resealable can end according to claim 1, wherein the outer end of the second portion of the closing flap has an arch shape that curves away from the first portion of the closing flap.
12. A resealable can end according to claim 1, wherein the outer end of the second portion of the closing flap has an arch shape that curves toward the first portion of the closing flap.
13. A resealable can end according to claim 1, wherein the outer end of the second portion of the closing flap has an arch shape that is positioned to be flat along the lid base.
14. A resealable can end according to claim 1, wherein the rivet is formed as part of the upper part of the lid base.
15. A resealable can end according to claim 1, wherein the rivet is formed as part of the tab.
16. A resealable can end according to claim 1, wherein the rivet is formed from any of the lid base, the tab, and the closing flap.
17. A resealable can end according to claim 1, wherein the lid base includes a drip catch.