Device and method for applying machine-readable information to metal part during production and related tracking systems

Abstract

FIELD: metallurgy.SUBSTANCE: systems, methods and devices for marking a metal part for tracking and registering a metal part throughout its production and use by the consumer. Marking can be applied to a sheet of metal material. In some embodiments, a body forming machine forms a cup from a blank cut from a sheet metal part into a workpiece with a marking applied to the end cap of the metal part. The marking is scanned for tracking and recording at various points during the manufacture of the metal part and during the life cycle of the metal part, such as the point of filling, the point of sale, and the waste collection point where the metal part is recycled or destroyed.EFFECT: information collected from scanning markings can be used to improve the manufacturing process and encourage recycling of the metal part.30 cl, 24 dwg, 7 tbl

Description

[0001] Field of technology to which the invention relates

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to systems, methods, and devices for marking a metal part, such as a container, end cap, roll-on pilfer proof (ROPP) lid, or other metal packaging, for tracking and recording throughout its life cycle.

[0003] Technology Level

[0004] Metal packaging, such as metal containers, offers numerous advantages to distributors and consumers and is used to store a variety of products, including beverages and food. The metal container shell offers enhanced protective properties for beverages and other liquids, food, and a variety of other products, including personal care products such as deodorant, sunscreen, hairspray, and more. Metal container surfaces are also ideal for incorporating brand names, logos, images, product information, and / or other preferred branding for identification, marketing, and distinguishing the metal container and its contents from other products and competitors. Thus, metal containers offer filling machine operators, distributors, and retailers the opportunity to stand out at the point of sale.

[0005] Metal containers are often manufactured using a deep drawing process with thinned walls (draw and wall ironing, or DWI). Production lines typically begin with an uncoiler, which unrolls a coil of aluminum sheet. A production line may use two or more coils of aluminum sheet daily. The aluminum sheet is fed into a cup-forming machine, which cuts circular blanks from the aluminum sheet and forms the blanks into cups.

[0006] The cups are then transported by conveyor to the case-forming machine. The case-forming machine forms the cups into container bodies. A production line may have two or more case-forming machines operating in parallel. Some production lines have seven or more case-forming machines.

[0007] The container bodies are then transported to downstream equipment, which performs additional operations on the container bodies. Equipment installed downstream of the body-forming machines may include trimmers, washers, ovens, decorators, interior coating machines, neck forming machines, edging presses, and stackers. Container bodies produced by two or more body-forming machines may be combined on a single conveyor as the container bodies are transported to downstream equipment.

[0008] Monitoring the condition and performance of equipment is critical to the efficient operation of a container production line. When equipment in a production line malfunctions or operates outside specification tolerances, a large number of defective container bodies can be produced in a very short period of time. For example, some production lines produce 2,000 container bodies per minute. Therefore, it is crucial to quickly trace the cause of a container body defect and identify the equipment causing the defect.

[0009] The case-forming machines can apply markings to the dome of the container body. Now, as shown in Fig. 1, an image of marking 6 according to the prior art is provided on the end cover of the container body 2, applied to the dome-shaped cover 4 (dome). Some case-forming machines of the prior art apply two digits on the public side of the dome, for example, "35", as shown in Fig. 1. One marking 6A (the digit "3" in this example) may refer to the production line number of the production means. The other marking 6B (the digit "5" in this example) may refer to the number of the case-forming machine in the production line.The marking(s) 6 applied by the body-forming machine do not change; the same marking 6 is applied by the body-forming machine to each container body it produces until the body-forming machine is dismantled and the marking dies are changed. Accordingly, the body-forming machine does not apply markings that are unique to each container body.

[0010] Mark 6 is used to identify the body-forming machine and the production line that produces the container body. Mark 6 is used for production line diagnostics. However, since a production line typically has more than two body-forming machines operating in parallel, and container bodies produced by multiple body-forming machines are typically transported by a single conveyor to downstream equipment (such as a washing machine), Mark 6 cannot be used to identify other equipment on the production line that performs subsequent operations on the container body. Additionally, the time or date when the container body was produced or when other operations were performed are not recorded and cannot be traced using Mark 6.

[0011] Other problems with the 6-mark applied by the cup-forming machine include that it cannot be used to trace container bodies after they leave the production line, and it cannot be used to promote recycling. The 6-mark also cannot be used to trace the container body back to the specific aluminum sheet roll from which the cup-forming machine cuts the blank used to form a specific container body. Therefore, the 6-mark applied by the cup-forming machine cannot be used to identify the manufacturer of the aluminum sheet roll used to manufacture the container body. Consequently, after the container body leaves the production line, defects in the container body caused by problems with the aluminum sheet cannot be traced back to the manufacturer.

[0012] As those skilled in the art should understand, the tooling inside the case-forming machine that applies the 6-mark wears out over time. The wear and deterioration of the tooling that applies the markings results in the inability to detect the 6-marking applied to the container bodies. The inability to detect the 6-marking applied by worn tooling results in poor readability. Some production line inspection systems use cameras to read the 6-marking on the container bodies. 6-markings applied by a case-forming machine with damaged or worn marking dies may not have sufficient definition and clarity to be read by the inspection system's cameras, resulting in erroneous tracking and misidentification of the case-forming machine responsible for the production of the defective container body.

[0013] Some equipment located downstream of the case-forming machine may also apply additional markings to container bodies. For example, a date code may be applied as part of the design. Other equipment, such as an interior coating machine, may add identification markings to the container body. These markings also have defects, including defects similar to the 6 mark applied by the case-forming machine. Specifically, markings applied as part of the design or by the interior coating machine are not unique to each container body and may not include a time stamp. Accordingly, these markings also cannot be used to track an individual container body or to track a container body after it leaves the production facility.In addition, equipment or tooling used to apply markings downstream of the body forming machine may also require maintenance and be unnecessary if a single piece of equipment at or near the beginning of the production line applies unique markings to each container body.

[0014] Tracking and recording container bodies is also important for recycling programs. Recycling used metal containers is important for a number of reasons. Recycling has been and continues to be one of the primary ways to reduce contamination, pollutants, and the associated negative environmental impacts. Contamination is a particularly pressing issue for food and beverage packaging, as consumers purchase and use food and beverages stored in single-use packaging on a frequent and periodic basis. Recycling metal packaging prevents food and beverage containers, like other consumer products, from ending up in landfills and ocean waste and diverts waste to manufacturing plants, where the packaging is reused to create additional packaging or to manufacture completely different products.As a result, the amount of pollution and pollutants in landfills and oceans is reduced.

[0015] Furthermore, when metal packaging is made from recycled metal material, fewer raw materials are extracted from the Earth, further reducing the negative impact on the environment. Recycling used aluminum containers and using recovered aluminum to form new container bodies reduces the energy required to produce a new container body by 90% compared to container bodies formed from virgin aluminum. Therefore, it is important to increase the recycling rate of metal packaging.

[0016] Tracking and recording container bodies at the end of their life is also important because used metal packaging is extremely valuable. For example, used beverage cans are approximately ten times more valuable than glass and approximately six times more valuable than virgin polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The uniform design of metal containers and the use of materials such as aluminum, which are infinitely recyclable through simple remelting, mean that recycling used metal containers is a profitable activity. Accordingly, accurate record-keeping and tracking of metal containers collected at a recycling center are essential. However, prior art markings (6) applied to container bodies are not unique and cannot be used to track or identify individual container bodies (2).

[0017] It would be preferable to track container bodies from the production line to the end of their life to monitor their disposal and recycling. Recycling rates vary significantly both globally and regionally. Collecting data on the life cycle of container bodies, from their production to collection at the end of their life, is useful for analyzing recycling rates. By analyzing data collected on the container body as it moves from the production line to the filler, to the retail outlet, from the retail outlet to the consumer, and then to the waste collection point at the end of its life, it is possible to identify shortcomings in the distribution or recycling program. This information can also help identify successful recycling programs that could be implemented in other areas.For example, a life-cycle analysis of a container body can be used to identify deficiencies in recycling (or waste collection) infrastructure and deficiencies in waste collection centers. Unfortunately, the markings currently applied to container bodies provide very limited information, offering little insight into the service life of an individual container body.

[0018] One way to increase recycling rates is through effective incentive programs. Recycling is encouraged in many ways. For example, commercial advertising campaigns can be used to provide information and encourage consumers to participate in recycling. Some US states and other countries have programs where containers or other products can be returned for a refund. For example, California has a recycling program in which consumers pay a deposit, such as $0.05, when purchasing a beverage container. Beverage containers purchased in California can be returned to a California recycling center for recycling and receive a refund of the $0.05 deposit per container.

[0019] There are several problems with existing recycling programs, information, and incentives. Because container shells lack unique markings that could be used to identify the location of purchase and trace the container shell's lifecycle, recycling programs like California's are vulnerable to fraud. For example, people in the first area, where consumers don't receive deposit refunds, could transport container shells to a recycling center in a second area (such as California) to fraudulently obtain a deposit refund.

[0020] Additionally, the container body can be picked up (or stolen) from the recycling center after the deposit for the container body has been paid. The container body can then be returned to the recycling center again, and the deposit can be collected a second time.

[0021] Consequently, maintaining records, such as identifying the container bodies returned to the recycling center and for which the deposit was refunded, is critical to preventing fraud. However, the markings currently applied to the container bodies do not provide sufficient information to uniquely identify each container body. Providing unique markings to individually identify each container body would improve recordkeeping for individual container bodies and help reduce fraud associated with current recycling incentive programs.

[0022] A unique label applied to each container body could be used to track the recycling rates of each brand and each product within the container body, as well as recycling rates for (or within) a region or subregion. For example, a unique label for each container body could be stored in a record (such as a database). When the container body is full, the record could be updated with product information. If the container body is returned to a waste collection point (such as a recycling center) at the end of its useful life, the unique label could be scanned and the database record could be updated again. Analysis of this data could identify defects, reflecting them in recycling rates by brand, by product type, or by container body type or style.This information can be used to identify trends and promote recycling through targeted advertising. If container bodies could be tracked after production, brands could target recycling marketing if, for example, tracking information indicates that consumers of drink A in one geographic area do not recycle and do not have a comparable rate to consumers of drink A in a second geographic area. Unfortunately, existing labels 6 applied to container bodies do not provide sufficient information to track container bodies in this way.

[0023] Advertising campaigns are expensive and don't stick in the minds of consumers. Furthermore, with so many different means and platforms for receiving advertising, a consumer who doesn't control all the means and platforms may simply miss a recycling program advertisement. Recycling programs in the US are administered by states, so a consumer moving or traveling between states may not be aware of a specific recycling program. Furthermore, monetary incentives, such as a $0.05 deposit refund per container, may not sufficiently motivate consumers to travel to a recycling center to return the container. Therefore, there is a need to provide incentives for consumers to encourage recycling and allow manufacturers and small retailers to track the life cycle of recyclable items.Unfortunately, the 6 marking applied by the prior art body forming machine cannot be used to track container bodies until the end of their service life.

[0024] Accordingly, there is an unmet need for methods and devices for applying markings to a metal part, such as a container body or other metal packaging, to track and record the metal part during production, distribution, and until its end-of-life, without sacrificing cost-effectiveness in a high-volume manufacturing process. There is also a need for a system for tracking and recording each individual metal part throughout all stages of the manufacturing process to identify some or all areas of the equipment that perform operations on the container body during the processing of the metal part. Furthermore, there is a need for a system and method for tracking the metal part from the end of the manufacturing process to the consumer and until the metal part is returned for recycling at the end of its life.Another necessary piece of information is a time stamp, applied at various locations and stages as an individual metal part moves through the manufacturing process, enters the distribution stream, is purchased, and then is disposed of at the end of its life.

[0025] Disclosure of the essence of the invention

[0026] One approach of the present disclosure provides a system and method for marking a metal part, wherein the marking is unique for each metal part. A metal part with a marking that is unique and consistent with the present disclosure can be tracked and recorded at each stage of the production process, from the coil to the pallet of the production line that manufactures the metal part. Thus, each section of equipment that processes the metal part or performs an operation on the metal part can be identified. Furthermore, after the metal part leaves the production facility, the marking can be scanned as the metal part moves toward the filler.The tag can then be scanned as the metal part moves through the distribution system to the retail outlet, to the consumer, and then to a waste collection point, such as a recycling center, when the metal part reaches the end of its useful life. In this way, a metal part can be tracked through scanning, from manufacturing to collection for recycling.

[0027] Marking(s) can be applied using various marking technologies at different points in the production process. Furthermore, marking technologies support additional technologies, such as orientation and / or stabilization of the metal part for marking. Additionally, the production process can be modified to reduce the metal part's travel speed and provide sufficient time for marking equipment to apply the marking. For example, a single-belt conveyor in a section of the production process can be modified to have two to twenty parallel belts to reduce the metal part's travel speed relative to the marking equipment. As a result, one or more markings are applied to a metal part, such as a container, container body, end cap, label, etc.

[0028] Marking can be applied to any part of the container, can, bottle, end shell or end cap, conical cup, etc. For example, marking can be applied to the end cap of the container, such as the inwardly concave dome of the cap, the base of the cup, the area of ​​the container that is internal to the outer surface of the container, etc. This location may be preferred for marking, since the end cap will generally remain intact even after the container is crushed or damaged.

[0029] Additionally or alternatively, markings may be applied to the container body, such as the label section or neck section. The label section of a container is typically the cylindrical section of the container where the label or artwork is located. The marking section is highly visible, making it convenient for scanning the label during the production process and at subsequent locations. The neck section of a container contains a narrowing area, such as a can or bottle, with a radius and an angled tapering area. This tapering area is also highly visible, making it convenient for scanning markings.

[0030] The end shell, which forms part of the end cap, may also bear a marking or markings. In particular, the marking may be placed on one or both sides: on the product side that contacts the container contents, or on the consumer-facing side that is visible and contacted by the end user. In some embodiments, the marking is applied to the product side of the end shell and then later in the manufacturing process, the marking is copied to the publicly accessible side of the end shell. In this way, the same marking can be viewed and scanned without the need to reorient the end shell. In other embodiments, the end shell has different markings: one on the product side for tracking and recording the end shell during manufacturing, and one on the publicly accessible side for tracking and recording the finished container after manufacturing.

[0031] The marking may also be located on the end cap tab. This location may be preferable for scanning the marking, as it allows the user to easily interact with and manipulate the tab. The marking may even be located on the underside of the tab, as discussed here.

[0032] Finally, markings can also be applied to the closure of a container, such as a bottle. Markings can be applied to any part, such as an aluminum-coated, non-threaded cap with a polymer sealing disc. Markings can also be applied to tamper-evident caps.

[0033] A variety of different marking technologies can apply markings to a metal part. For example, a continuous inkjet printer (CIJ) can apply markings to a metal part using a pressurized stream of ink that is sprayed onto the metal part as the metal part moves during the production process or while the metal part is stationary, such as during a dwell period, as described herein. In some embodiments, the metal parts are separated onto multiple conveyor belts to slow down the production speed. This type of printing can apply markings up to 12 x 12 mm in size, but can also apply markings of 6 x 6 mm in size and smaller. In some embodiments, the ink is a toner, which is suitable for printing various shapes because it dries quickly, has high adhesion, is abrasion resistant, and does not interfere with mobility.

[0034] Drop-on-Demand (DoD) intermittent inkjet printing is a type of inkjet printing that uses a piezoelectric or thermal ink jet to deposit ink on a metal part to form a mark with a resolution of up to 600 dpi (236 dpi). This type of printing can create marks with a height or size of up to 10-12 mm when using a single print head. An array containing two to twenty DoD print heads can apply marks up to 70 mm in height. In some embodiments, the mark size can be between 50-80 mm. Soluble inks can be used in DoD inkjet printing on a non-porous metal part, such as aluminum. In various embodiments, the DoD print head is located at a distance of 1-5 mm from the metal part, and the required drying time is between 0.5 and 20 seconds.

[0035] In some embodiments, a DoD inkjet printing process may spray a solvent, a UV-curable material, and / or a heat-curable material. In embodiments with a UV-curable material, ink is applied to a metal part and then cured. The ink may cure without an external radiation source in approximately one second. However, one or more ink radiation sources may be used to accelerate the curing process. These radiation sources may have the same or different wavelengths.In some embodiments, at least one source emits ultraviolet radiation with a wavelength between approximately 10-400 nm or even with a wavelength between 200-400 nm, and at least one additional radiation source is a mercury lamp emitting radiation in a spectrum of a wavelength range that at least partially comprises radiation within the ultraviolet radiation spectrum. The light initiates photochemical substances contained in the ink, which causes the formation of cross-links in the polymer matrix. In a further embodiment, one or more radiation sources are light-emitting diode (LED) ultraviolet (UV) lamps.

[0036] Electrostatic spray is a type of DoD inkjet printing in which a matrix of spray electrodes is located inside the print head. The voltage applied to the electrodes is varied to control the ink accumulation on top of the electrodes, thus controlling the volume of ink ejected. In various embodiments, this type of printing deposits ink on a metal part placed approximately 1 to 10 mm from the electrodes.

[0037] Markings can also be applied to metal parts using various laser technologies. Laser etching can be used for ablation, selective oxidation, and / or removal of varnish and / or ink applied to, for example, the surface of a decorated container, to expose the underlying material. Selective exposure of the underlying material creates the marking, while removing only the varnish and / or ink does not affect the structural integrity of the container. The exposed base material can be allowed to stain during subsequent washing and / or heat treatments to create a more visible marking.

[0038] In some embodiments, a laser can remove and vaporize a small section of a metal part without substantially affecting the structural integrity of, for example, the finished container. The vaporization changes, for example, the reflectivity of the portion of the container used to perform the marking. In some embodiments, a laser used to mark a metal cup can remove or vaporize more material because the metal cup is not sealed and does not contain product under pressure. Removing more material can create a marking with increased contrast, which is easier to scan.

[0039] In yet another embodiment, a laser is used to slowly heat a metal part to diffuse oxygen into the subsurface of the part, oxidizing the area of ​​the part, imparting a different color and creating a marking. As discussed herein, the laser can also activate heat- and / or light-sensitive ink on a portion of the metal part. The ink-coated areas are activated to create the marking without affecting the structural integrity of, for example, the finished container.

[0040] Digital printing can create unique markings on a metal part. In some embodiments, multiple printheads, all with the same color, can increase productivity by coordinating and combining to print the desired marking faster. In other embodiments, a single printhead applies a single marking at a time, and a production line with multiple printheads can increase overall productivity. In still other embodiments, different printheads with different colors can apply markings of different colors. The printheads can deposit ink directly onto the metal part or onto a printing plate, which then contacts the metal part.

[0041] Watermarking technology can also be used to apply markings to a metal part where the watermark has low visibility and does not interact with other markings or decoration, such as on a finished container. Specifically, in some embodiments, a decorator plate applies ink to the container body to create a marking that is invisible or nearly invisible to humans. The brightness and intensity of the color or colors that form the marking are adjusted to be invisible to humans, yet still easily readable by scanners and other sensors to track and record the marking and container body throughout the manufacturing process and / or its use by the end user. Additionally, in some embodiments, the spaces between two different colors are adjusted to form the marking.As a result, instead of relying on a black and white barcode in one place on the finished container, multiple markings can be applied throughout the finished container without affecting its appearance.

[0042] Finally, fingerprint technology can utilize the metal part itself and / or the finished container itself as a marking. The container has distinct differences in appearance where the design applied to the metal parts and / or containers is absent, either in multiple or sequential forms. These differences can include patterns made in metal, ink, varnish, etc. Thus, a camera or other sensor can detect or capture an image of the metal part and / or the finished container, which is used to recognize the distinct differences and use them as a "fingerprint." A subsequent sensor can detect this fingerprint to add data to the container record. These marking technologies are exemplary in nature, and embodiments of the present disclosure encompass a variety of marking technologies.

[0043] Further, various processing methods can prepare the metal part for these different marking technologies. For example, the metal part can be subjected to plasma or corona treatment, which burns away oil and / or impurities from the surface of the metal part and increases the surface energy of the metal part, for example, before applying a primer or before applying ink. In some embodiments, such treatment is critical for regulating the adhesion of the primer, ink, or other material to the metal part. The primer can be white or colorless in various embodiments, and the primer promotes the adhesion of subsequently applied ink. Furthermore, rinsing and / or oxidizing the metal part can improve the surface tension of the part for ink application and may even eliminate the need for a primer.It should be understood that such processing may be performed before the design or ink application area of ​​the production line, and the metal part is typically the container body, however, such processing may be performed at any point in the production line of the manufacturing process and may be applied to any metal part.

[0044] Furthermore, control systems can be used to synchronize marking technologies with existing components, sections, and equipment in the production line. In particular, synchronization control is critical, as metal parts, such as container bodies, can pass through a section of the production line at a rate of thousands of parts per minute or more. Thus, synchronization control can vary the speed or throughput of different sections or lines using, for example, encoder wheels reading speed from variable frequency drives that drive the equipment on the production line and reading signals from servo drives. Furthermore, the position of the metal part can be stabilized using star wheels, feed screws, variable-speed vacuum conveyors, etc., as described here.Multiple markers can also increase the speed of marking a metal part to match the speed of the production line.

[0045] Marking technologies can apply markings to a metal part at various points in the manufacturing process. In some embodiments, a marker forms a marking on a continuous sheet of metal material before blanks are cut or stamped from the continuous sheet. For example, in some embodiments, a marker forms a marking before the continuous sheet is fed into a cup-forming press or before a blank-making operation. In particular, the marking can be applied while the continuous sheet is stationary during the dwell period of the cup-forming press or blank-making operation, such as the period between indexing movements of the continuous sheet. Preferably, at this point in the manufacturing process, the continuous sheet has little contamination from lubricants and chips, resulting in higher-quality markings.

[0046] The marker is designed to generate a mark that is unique to each container body produced by the production line. The mark is applied at each location on the continuous sheet from which the blank will be cut. As those skilled in the art will understand, the blank is typically circular.

[0047] In some embodiments, the blank is cut using a cup-forming press. The cup-forming press may be part of a production line that produces container bodies.

[0048] Alternatively, the blank is cut from the coil using equipment other than a cup-forming press, such as a die. For example, in some embodiments, the blank is cut from the coil using a die at the same location where the coil was manufactured. The die may be located at an aluminum rolling mill or other similar facility that produces coils of metal material. The blank is then transported to a production line that converts the blank into a container body.

[0049] Alternatively, the marker can apply markings to two or more stamp locations. With this method, each container body can have unique markings in two or more locations.

[0050] In some embodiments, the marking is applied at each blank location only on the first side of a continuous sheet of metallic material. The first side of the continuous sheet may subsequently define the outer surface of the container body, such that the marking is located on a portion of the outer surface (or "public side") of the container body. Alternatively, the first side of the continuous sheet may form the inner surface (or "product side") of the container body.

[0051] In some embodiments, the marker may apply a marking to a portion of the blank that forms the end cap of the container body. The marking may be centered on the end cap or, in some embodiments, offset from the center. Additionally or alternatively, the marker may apply a marking to a portion of the blank location that forms the sidewall or cylindrical portion of the container body. When the blank with the marking on the blank is molded into the container body, the marking may be located on the outer surface or the inner surface of the container body. Markings on a continuous sheet may be synchronized with subsequent operations of the manufacturing process to ensure that the marking appears consistently in the same location and with the same orientation.For example, markings on a continuous sheet are synchronized with the casing press to ensure that the marking appears correctly on the end cap. In some embodiments, a marker, such as a laser, can create multiple markings, or multiple lasers can create a single marking.

[0052] Alternatively, the first marker is positioned to apply a first marking to a first side of a first blank location on the continuous sheet. The second marker is positioned to apply the same first marking to a second side of the first blank location on the continuous sheet. Thus, in some embodiments, the first marking may be applied to both sides of the continuous sheet at the first blank location where the blank will be cut from the continuous sheet. Accordingly, the container body may have a first marking located on its outer surface or on a publicly accessible side. The same first marking may be repeated on the inner surface (or product side) of the container body to allow the markings to be read and scanned at any point in the manufacturing process when either the product side or the publicly accessible side is visually accessible.

[0053] Alternatively, the first marking applied to the first side of the first blank location is located approximately opposite the location of the first marking applied to the second side of the first blank location. Alternatively, the first marking on the first side is offset relative to the first marking on the second side. Thus, the first marking may be located on the end cap on the first surface of the container body, and the first marking may be located on the side wall on the second surface of the container body. In various embodiments, the first marking is applied to the side wall after the container is formed in a sheet material thinning process during drawing.

[0054] In some embodiments, the marking is applied only to the first side of the continuous sheet.

[0055] In other embodiments, the marking is applied only to the second side of the continuous sheet.

[0056] Alternatively, marking can be applied simultaneously to the first side and the second side of a continuous sheet.

[0057] The marking applied by the marker is capable of being read or scanned by a scanner. The marking may comprise any combination of letters, numbers, symbols, and machine-readable codes, arranged in any order or orientation and of any size. In some embodiments, the marking is an alphanumeric code, a barcode (or "1D code"), a 2D code (such as a quick response (QR) code or a data matrix (DM) code), etc. For example, each marking may be a random alphanumeric code that is unique for each location on the workpiece and, accordingly, provides a unique identifier for each container body produced from each location on the workpiece on the sheet.

[0058] The marking applied with the marker shall contain a unique identifier of the container body. In addition, the marking may also include one or more of the following: (a) the date of manufacture; (b) the time of manufacture; (c) the place of manufacture (or the identifier of the manufacturing plant); (d) the identifier of the production line; (e) the lot number; (f) the shift identifier; (g) the specifications for the materials of the continuous sheet (such as the type of aluminum alloy or other material of the continuous sheet); (h) the identifier of the manufacturer of the coil from which the continuous sheet is unwound; (i) the identifier or serial number of the coil; (j) the position of the marking on the continuous sheet (such as the X, Y coordinates of the locations on the blank at which the marking is applied); (k) the weight of the container body; (l) the name or identifier of the customer (such as a filler) who ordered the container body; and (m) a random alphanumeric code.

[0059] In some embodiments, the marker is located on a production line that includes a cup-forming press. For example, the marker may be located on the line leading from the unwinder and on the line leading to the cup-forming press. Specifically, the marking is applied to the continuous sheet as it is fed into the cup-forming press, and / or the marking is applied to the cup on a conveyor exiting the cup-forming press.

[0060] In other embodiments, the marker is not connected to a production line that has a cup-forming press. For example, in some embodiments, the marker may apply a marking to a continuous sheet before a roll of the continuous sheet containing the markings is loaded into an unwinder connected to a production line that has a cup-forming press. In these and other embodiments, the marker or markers apply the marking to the continuous sheet as the sheet moves at a constant speed, and the marking process is separated from any delay period. However, it should be understood that the marker can apply the marking to the sheet while the sheet is stationary during the delay period, the movement period, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, the continuous sheet is flat or nearly flat at this point in the production line, and therefore the marking or markings applied to the sheet are not distorted, compared to the formation of markings on a concave surface.As discussed in this paper, markings applied earlier in the manufacturing process allow for the collection of more data later, which is important for tracking and recording any metal parts and reducing defects, material costs, etc.

[0061] Alternatively, the marker is installed in a production facility equipped with a cup-forming press. In some embodiments, the production facility comprises a marker positioned between a first uncoiler and a reel (or reeling machine). In this embodiment, the first uncoiler unwinds a continuous sheet of metal material from a first roll. The marker applies markings to the continuous sheet at each blank location where the blank will be cut from the continuous sheet. The reeling machine then winds the sheet with the markings onto a second roll. The second roll with the markings is then loaded into a second uncoiler connected to a production line that includes a cup-forming press.

[0062] Additionally or alternatively, the marker is not located in the production means that includes a cup-forming press. In this embodiment, markings are applied to a continuous sheet of metallic material before the reel with the marked continuous sheet is delivered to the production means that includes a cup-forming press. Accordingly, the continuous sheet containing the markings can be wound on a reel after the marker has applied the markings. In at least one embodiment, the marker is located between the unwinder and the reel that winds the continuous sheet containing the markings.

[0063] Alternatively, blanks are cut from the roll using a stamp at the blank locations that contain markings. The blanks are then delivered to the production facility, where they are fabricated into container bodies.

[0064] In some embodiments, the marker is located at a location where a continuous sheet of metal material is produced and wound into a roll. For example, the marker may be located at a metallurgical plant where the continuous sheet is produced. The marker can apply markings to the continuous sheet before the continuous sheet is wound into a roll. Thus, the roll, bearing multiple unique markings, can be fed to a production facility with a cup-forming press.

[0065] As noted above, a marker can mark a cup on a conveyor outgoing from a cup-forming press. In some embodiments, a laser can etch the marking on the end cap of the cup. The marking can be centered or off-center on the end cap, either on the product side or on the public side. The outgoing conveyor can handle cups in various orientations, on which a marker, such as a laser, can apply markings. Multiple lasers can apply a single marking, a single laser can apply multiple markings, etc. The marker can apply markings while the cups are moving, stationary, or both. Applying markings on the outgoing conveyor of a cup-forming press is preferable to marking at the inlet, since no stabilization of the continuous sheet is required, and the marking is independent of the cup-forming press cycle.Additionally, by applying markings on the outgoing conveyor, production data can be collected on all subsequent equipment and operations performed on the cup. Furthermore, since the cup-forming press forms multiple cups across the width (or Y-dimension) of the aluminum sheet, information about variations in the number of cups formed across the sheet width can be identified and tracked.

[0066] Scanners, cameras, and / or sensors configured to read markings on each container body may be associated with each section of the production line equipment. For example, a scanner may be associated with one or more of the following devices: a cup-forming press, a body-forming machine, a trimmer, a washer, a drying oven, a base coater, an inner coating drying oven, a conveyor, a decorator, a deco-oven, an inner coating application machine, an inner coating drying oven, an ejector, a neck forming machine, a press brake, a stacker, and any other equipment on the production line. In some embodiments, a scanner is associated with each conveyor (single-belt conveyor or multi-belt conveyor) that transports the container body from a first section of equipment to a second section of equipment (or from a first process to a second process) on the production line.

[0067] In some embodiments, the first scanner is located on the inlet line (or inlet line) of each piece of equipment. Additionally or alternatively, the second scanner may be located on the outlet line (or outlet line) of each piece of equipment. Alternatively, some pieces of equipment may have a scanner located on both the inlet and outlet lines of the equipment.

[0068] In some embodiments, information from the scanner is transmitted to the control system each time the container body marking is read. The scanner may transmit at least the marking's unique identifier, the date and time the marking was scanned, and the scanner's location (i.e., where the scanner is located within the production line or what piece of equipment the scanner is associated with).

[0069] The management system contains a database with records for each container hull. Each record may contain information about the container hull, including a unique marking identifier. The management system is configured to update the record for each container hull each time the marking is scanned.

[0070] The production line optionally includes an inspection system. A scanner may be associated with the inspection system. The inspection system may retrieve information from a record associated with the container body stored in a database after the scanner reads markings on the container body. The inspection system may remove the container body from the production line based on the identification of the piece of equipment that performed the operation on the container body for ongoing quality control. In this manner, a first container body processed by a first piece of equipment may be distinguished from a second container body processed by a second piece of equipment that performs the same operation or function as the first piece of equipment. Specifically, in some embodiments, the database record may store information about the container body that identifies each piece of equipment that performed an operation (or processing) on ​​the container body.

[0071] For example, a record associated with a first container body may have a field indicating that the first container body was processed by a first body-forming machine. A record associated with a second container body may have a field indicating that the second container body was processed by a second body-forming machine. Accordingly, by scanning the markings on the first and second container bodies, the first container body can be removed from the production line and inspected to determine the performance of the first body-forming machine.

[0072] Additionally, if a container body is detected to be defective during inspection and is removed from the production line, the scanner can read the marking. The inspection system can then provide data (such as the reason for rejection) to the management system, which can then update the database record associated with the rejected container body. Since the marking facilitates the identification of each piece of equipment that processes or performs an operation on the container body, the equipment that caused the defect detected by the inspection system can be identified. Consequently, equipment that is out of calibration or requires maintenance can be quickly identified.

[0073] When a container body or other metal part is rejected during the production process, the defective container body is additionally monitored using additional scanners, cameras, and / or sensors. The defective container body data is transferred to a database, where the rejected container body information is linked to the marking on the container body and thus linked to the production information associated with the marking and the container body in the record. This additional information collection can help trace specific container body defect issues, rather than simply recording the container body generically as "defective" without additional information. As a result, this additional information collection helps reduce defects, material costs, and more.

[0074] Another approach of the present disclosure is a system and method for tracking and recording a metal part (such as a container body, metal cup, end cap, or tab) throughout its service life from manufacturing to disposal at the end of its service life. The system and method comprise applying a unique marking to a continuous sheet of material.

[0075] In some embodiments, the marking is sequentially cut from a continuous sheet by a cup-forming press as part of a blank. The cup-forming press forms the blank into a cup, which is then formed into a metal part. 0076 Scanners or sensors located along a production line that manufactures a metal part scan markings and monitor the metal part's progress through the production line. This information identifies each piece of equipment, belt, cleaner, etc., that processes the metal part or that performs an operation on the metal part. Furthermore, this information is collected in real time. Therefore, any potential defects are quickly detected and can be traced back to the process, location, tool, etc. that created the defect. Even if a defect is detected later, including after the manufacturing process, collecting the data described in this disclosure allows for the rapid identification of the source, or at least potential sources, of the defect.This benefit significantly reduces defects and material waste and can optionally be used to schedule priority maintenance and increase overall productivity.

[0077] Collecting and storing information on the equipment that processes or performs operations on each metal part provides many benefits. For example, the information provides insight into the quality of metal parts produced by the production line, the performance characteristics of equipment on the production line, indications that equipment on the production line requires maintenance, and defect rates for one or more of the following: the production line as a whole, as well as individual pieces of equipment on the production line. Information collected as metal parts are processed by the production line can also provide insight into the defect rate associated with a roll of metal material and / or the defect rate associated with the manufacturer of the metal sheet roll.

[0078] The collected information can also be used to generate a report for each production line, containing information on equipment performance, defect rates, upcoming maintenance, and the like. The report could be based on performance over a specified period of time. For example, a report could be prepared for each production line based on data collected for one shift, one production operation, one day, one week, one month, one year, or any other time period. Additionally, finished containers could optionally be sorted after production to reject individual containers resulting from defective processes, locations, tools, and so on, rather than rejecting an entire batch of containers when a defect is detected in one container. This additional benefit of the present disclosure allows for savings in materials, costs, and reduces environmental impact.

[0079] In some embodiments, the production line ends with a stacker that places a metal part on a pallet. Markings on the metal part allow the metal part to be associated with a pallet, such as a pallet of unfilled metal containers. The location of the metal part can then be tracked to a filler. The filler receives the metal part (such as a container body and / or end cap). When the container body is filled and sealed with an end cap, the filled metal container can be scanned and tracked to a pallet of filled metal containers. The filled metal container can then be tracked by scanners at every location, from the filling machine to the distributor, to the retail outlet, to the consumer, and to a waste collection point (such as a recycling center or deposit return center).

[0080] A database-based management system can update the metal part record every time the tag is scanned. This way, the location of a metal part can be tracked throughout its entire lifecycle, from the first operation on the production line until the tag is scanned at the collection center. Using this information, consumers can be rewarded for recycling the metal part after it has been used. Additionally, the information can be used to monitor recycling rates and the performance of incentive programs designed to encourage recycling.

[0081] The information can also be used to alert fillers, retailers, and consumers about the condition of a product in metal packaging. For example, information about a product sealed in metal packaging can be stored in a record for the metal part. Accordingly, if a product such as a metal container filled with food or medical supplies needs to be recalled, an alert can be sent to the filler, retailer, or consumer identified as currently owning the metal part. Additionally, when a product in a metal part reaches its expiration date, the management system can send an alert to the filler, retailer, or consumer identified as currently owning the metal part.

[0082] In some embodiments, the marking is applied to a metal part at other locations in the manufacturing process. The metal part may be classified as a part in various manufacturing processes for containers, canisters, container bodies, casings, end caps, cone cups, tabs, etc. In one example, after a washing operation in the manufacturing process, the container bodies are dried and transported to another location on the production line. During this transport, the container bodies may be transferred from a single belt to multiple conveyor belts or from a single storage facility to a bulk storage facility to slow down the transport speed of the container bodies. A marker (e.g., using laser or inkjet printing technology, such as pad printing or continuous inkjet spraying) may then apply the marking to the end cap of the container body (such as a concave dome).When marking a concave dome, the distance between the marker (such as a laser) and the metal part varies. Thus, in some embodiments, the laser is capable of articulating with multiple degrees of freedom. In an exemplary embodiment, the laser moves along three axes to maintain laser focus on the concave dome and prevent poor marking. In a further exemplary embodiment, the laser is stationary, and one or more lenses and mirrors associated with the laser head move to maintain laser focus on the concave dome and prevent poor marking.

[0083] The edge coating machine can be located downstream of the oven exit of the washer. After exiting the oven, the container bodies enter a heavy-duty conveyor with the end caps (and their domes) facing upward, allowing a marker to apply markings to these end caps. A varnish-coated roller, the same width as the heavy-duty conveyor, can roll a thin film over the "fixed surface" of the can. The varnish provides a fixed, low-friction surface for the container bodies to facilitate their mobility throughout the production and loading line. As discussed herein, a marker, such as a laser, can selectively move or remove a portion of the varnish to form a unique marking in various embodiments. Additionally or alternatively, an inkjet printer applies a second marking to the end cap of the container body.Some of the ink is then removed, for example by laser, to create markings on the end cap.

[0084] In some embodiments, container bodies are transported to a decorator, where the container bodies are formed into decorative shapes at speeds that allow, for example, the application and curing of ink. With respect to the decorator, it should be understood that ink, laser, or other types of marking technologies can be used to apply markings to any area of ​​the container body, such as a label area or end cap at the inlet, inside, or outlet of the decorator. The container bodies may need to be stationary and / or their orientation controlled to apply the appropriate marking(s). Positioning and orientation technologies are further described herein.

[0085] In some embodiments, within the decorator, while the container body is on the decorator mandrel, an ink- or laser-based marking can be applied to the marking area of ​​the container body or even to the end cap of the container body. A high-speed inkjet printer can apply the marking continuously at the speed at which the container bodies move through the decorator. Furthermore, the ink-containing marking can first be applied to a substrate or other intermediate component, after which the ink is transferred to the container body. It should be understood that the substrate can be cleaned or at least partially cleaned between applications to prevent or reduce the memory effect between multiple container bodies, when residual ink is inadvertently applied to the next container body.

[0086] Then, a drop-on-demand inkjet printer can mark a section of the label or another section of the container body at the inlet or outlet of the decorator. The inkjet printer can operate, for example, based on piezo or thermal control, as discussed herein, and the marking can be of any size up to 70 mm in vertical height or have a size along the entire section of the container body label. Continuous inkjet printers are also considered for marking sizes of 6 x 6 mm or smaller. As noted above, container bodies are already transported at speeds suitable for decoration, namely, 2000 containers per minute in various embodiments, but the container bodies may require some processing for ink adhesion. Furthermore, the ink can be of any type, such as ultraviolet-based inks that are cured using ultraviolet lamps.The laser can also apply markings to any part of the container body, as described herein, using, for example, the removal of material or coating, activation of light- or heat-sensitive inks, etc.

[0087] Furthermore, container bodies can be inspected at any point after the decorator, including immediately after the decorator, to assess the quality of the design. In some embodiments, container bodies can be inspected during transport on a finger chain. Inspecting container bodies during their transport on a finger chain after the decorator and before the container bodies are placed on a heavy-duty conveyor is preferable because the quality of the design can still be linked to the decorator. Additionally, decorator components that contact the container body (such as a special mandrel or a special printing plate) or assist in image formation (including a special printing liner) can be identified and linked to the container body and stored in a database record. Any designs that deviate from the standard constitute grounds for rejection of the container body.At this point, the marker can apply a marking to the container body. In some embodiments, a laser ablates material or coating on a portion of the container body label to form the marking, the laser activates ink on the portion of the label on the body to form the marking, and / or a continuous inkjet printer applies ink to the portion of the label on the body to form the marking.

[0088] The end cap or dome of the container body may be a preferred part of the container for marking placement, as the closed end is largely protected from many types of wear and tear and typically remains intact after crushing. While the container body is placed in a rotating indexer or another part of the decorator, or even after the decorator, a topcoat and / or bottomcoat may be applied to the container body, including the end cap. At the dome spraying location on the production line, a laser can remove all or part of the end cap coating to apply the marking. Specifically, in one embodiment, a dome spraying system can apply material to the dome, then a laser can remove a portion of this material to apply the marking, as untreated aluminum will potentially become stained or oxidized during subsequent processing and become a contrasting color with the coated portion of the dome.In some embodiments, the material is a clear varnish. In other embodiments, the material is ink, colored varnish, or a matte translucent varnish to achieve higher contrast with the laser marking on the end cap. Higher contrast means the sensor needs less time to detect the marking under any lighting conditions or gloss issues. In some embodiments, a matte material is preferred to reduce overspray and linearity issues, where the edges of the marking can blur, resulting in an unclear marking.

[0089] Ovens or curing devices associated with inks or materials, such as UV-activated inks, can be used to assist in completing the marking process. In the case of an oven, the increased temperature from the heat source causes a chemical reaction in the polymer matrix, which strengthens the polymer and can also evaporate the solvent from the ink to accelerate curing. In an exemplary E-Beam curing process, the ink or coating is cured using electrons emitted from multiple sources and at multiple wavelengths to initiate cross-linking in various monomers and / or polymers to cure the ink or coating.

[0090] In various embodiments, a spray nozzle can spray material onto the dome to create a contrast with a subsequent laser-marked portion of the dome. The spray nozzle can spray the material into a discrete spot using, for example, a circular spray pattern to form a circle / dot. In other embodiments, a profiled fan nozzle can spray the material in a fan-shaped pattern into a discrete spot to form a square pattern. In other embodiments, the entire dome is coated with the material. A portion of the material can then be removed with a laser to remove at least some of the ink and / or affect a portion of the container body material, such as aluminum, to apply the marking. The sprayed material can be ink, colored varnish, matte translucent varnish, etc. In some embodiments, to reduce overspray, hydraulic pressure can be used to apply the material.In other embodiments, an air-atomized material is applied to the end cap of the container body. Alternatively, the material may be a solvent-based material or UV-activated ink to avoid the need for a large oven. Such markings can be applied simultaneously to multiple metal parts when the metal parts are formed from an uncontrolled conveyor mass into a repeating sequence. For example, using gates, channels, or other similar components, a disorganized number of metal parts are formed into an ordered sequence that can more easily and easily accept markings from markers.

[0091] In some embodiments, material can be simultaneously applied to multiple container bodies and then selectively removed by one or more lasers to form a marking. Multiple pad printing devices on a common rotating shaft of a transforming platform can simultaneously pad print on multiple container bodies, such as end caps or domes of container bodies. Pad printing uses a pad that presses against a print head to accept ink and then presses against a metal part, such as the dome of the container body, to transfer the ink to the metal part. The ink can be in a variety of colors and form complex graphics, and the container bodies can move at a speed of 2,000 containers per minute.Container bodies can be oriented so that the end cap or dome faces upward during this type of material application, which is advantageous since any droplets will migrate toward the center of the end cap. In embodiments in which the material is ultraviolet-activated ink, the material can be cured in an oven on the production line used to cure the rim coating. In other embodiments, the material applied by pad printing devices is laser- or heat-activated ink applied to the end cap of the container body, such as the dome. One or more lasers can subsequently activate the ink to form a marking that contrasts with the unactivated portion of the ink. Again, this strong contrast means that the sensor requires less time to detect the marking under any lighting conditions or gloss issues.

[0092] The marking may also be applied to the container body during the internal coating spraying portion of the manufacturing process. The marking may be applied, for example, to an end cap, such as a dome, of the container body at the feed section of the internal coating machine, where any transport operation consists of guiding the container bodies into the internal coating machine. In particular, for example, a continuous inkjet printer may apply ink or a laser may etch the marking on the end cap or any portion of the container body located at the feed section of the internal coating machine. In some embodiments, the container bodies are stabilized using a lead screw or belt to control the position, timing, and orientation of the container bodies, as described herein, to ensure proper marking placement.The marker can be located at the cascade from the mezzanine level to the internal coating machine. Specifically, container bodies exit the production line at the elevated mezzanine level and are then transported by gravity to the internal coating machine located below or beneath the mezzanine level. The marker can apply markings to the container body as it moves, for example, in a cell system, from the mezzanine level to the internal coating machine. Additionally, markings can be applied to the container body as it is placed on a star wheel, which moves the container body directly through the internal coating machine.

[0093] Additionally or alternatively, markings can be applied to the metal part in the neck forming machine or after the neck forming machine. Some neck forming machines reduce the diameter of the end of the container body, such as the open end. This can reduce the amount of material used in the container body, reduce costs, and provide a geometry that allows for stacking of multiple containers. The neck forming machine can also add a threaded surface to the end of the container body. The position and / or orientation of the container bodies may need to be controlled to ensure markings are placed in the appropriate location on the container body, such as the neck, the label area of ​​the body, or the end cap. Positioning and orientation technologies are described in detail below.In addition, container bodies can be divided into multiple conveyor belts to reduce the conveyor speed and ensure a complete labeling process in the case of, for example, two-dimensional labeling such as a QR code.

[0094] In some embodiments, the neck forming machine comprises a marker, which is a continuous inkjet printer or a drop-on-demand inkjet printer that sprays ink using a piezoelectric or thermal mode of operation, which marks the neck, label area, and / or end cap of the container body as the container body is placed in an indexing turret or a neck forming device with indexing. In other embodiments, the marker is a laser that removes a portion of the coating on the container body when the container body is placed in the turret or neck forming device. The treated metal can contrast with the coated area, and the treated metal can be oxidized or colored in further processes to further contrast with the coated area.

[0095] The marker is located in a relatively small space within the neck forming machine, without interfering with any operations of the neck forming machine. In some embodiments, the marker may replace the tooling of the neck forming machine's location. Alternatively, the marker may be placed between neck forming machine locations or between two neck forming machines operating in series, so that the marker marks the container body between forming operations and / or during indexing. 0096 Within the production facilities, the container body may also be marked near the end of the production line and before the container bodies are stacked for transportation. Again, the container bodies may be divided into multiple conveyor belts to reduce the speed of movement of the container bodies along the production line. At this point in the production line, if the marking is applied to the end cap of the container body, the conveyor structure or multiple conveyor belts may open the end cap of the container body for marking. Opening for marking in this case may mean transport through a cell system in which the container body is constrained in multiple directions by rails or rods but is otherwise open for marking. In some embodiments, the conveyor structure may include a belt. 0097. Orientation technology can be used to apply markings to a designated location on the container body, as described in more detail herein. The marker can be a drop-on-demand inkjet printer with piezo or thermal control. The marking can be applied to a label area of ​​the container body and extend, for example, up to 70 mm in the vertical direction along the label area. Additionally or alternatively, a continuous inkjet printer's print head can also apply markings to the container body at this location on the production line. In some embodiments, a pre-treatment is applied to the container body to ensure proper ink adhesion. Additionally, a laser can remove a portion of the ink or surface coating, or even the active portion of the ink or surface coating, as described herein.It should be understood that this embodiment, or any other embodiment described herein, may optionally apply a surface varnish to the metal part to protect the marking. Material removal, such as laser treatment of the ink or portion of the metal part, may expose the metal. This may be undesirable, as the exposed metal may oxidize or may be unsuitable for contact with the contents of the finished container due to safety concerns. In this case, a varnish coating may be applied to the marked area of ​​the metal part, such as a wheel, spray head, drop-on-demand head, etc. Alternatively, the varnish coating may be cured thermally and / or with ultraviolet light.

[0098] Marking technologies can also operate at the filler location. Typically, a manufacturer produces a container body, can, bottle, end cap, closure (such as a tamper-evident plastic cap (ROPP)) and so on, then transports these components to a common end-user, such as a filler. The filler may wash one or more of these components, add the contents to the container body, and then seal the contents with an end cap, ROPP lid, or cap to form a finished container. The filler also uses equipment for container testing, container packaging, and stacking cans, bottles, and closures. A marker can add markings to different parts of the container at different locations near the filler. For example, a drop-on-demand inkjet printer can apply markings to a metal part before packaging, and the packaged metal parts are then stacked.

[0099] End shells are converted into end caps and then transported to the filler. End caps may have features such as a tongue, a tear-off notch that defines a pouring hole, etc. The end cap shell forms the majority of the end cap, including the center panel.

[0100] End shell production can begin with a continuous sheet metal roll at the manufacturer, similar to the container body. Markings can therefore be applied to the continuous sheet at the roll feed point for shell stamping, similar to or identical to markings on the continuous sheet from which container bodies are formed. For example, a marker or marking device can be synchronized with the shell production press, which separates a section of metal from the continuous sheet, to ensure that markings are applied to the same area of ​​each end shell and, therefore, to the same area of ​​each end cap.

[0101] In some embodiments, the marker may be applied to the continuous sheet during the shell press forming operation. This is advantageous since the continuous sheet may be substantially stationary during the forming operation.

[0102] Additionally or alternatively, the marker can apply markings between forming operations performed by the casing press. For example, in some embodiments, the marker is positioned and configured to apply markings on the continuous sheet as it is fed to the casing press, so that the continuous sheet is in motion when the marking is applied. As noted herein in various embodiments, the marker applies markings during the marking of the continuous sheet or even before the roll is fed, when the continuous sheet is moving at a constant speed and is separated from the marking movement on the casing press by a section of unstretched sheet material.

[0103] The marking may be applied (in some embodiments) to the continuous sheet at the casing feed point using an inkjet printer, such as a continuous inkjet printer. In particular, in at least one embodiment, the marking is applied to the side of the continuous sheet that forms the product-facing side of the end casing, and the marking may be applied, for example, with food-grade ink that will maintain the safe nature of the interior of the finished container and meet the regulations of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for direct contact with food. In addition or alternatively, the marking may be applied with a marker (laser, inkjet printer, etc.) to the publicly accessible side of the end casing at or near the location that will ultimately serve as the attachment point for the rivet or tab.Marking the end shell at this location in the production line allows for subsequent detection throughout the production process, generating more data and leading to better and more efficient production. Marking on the public side will also preserve the ability to collect end-user data. Applying the marking on the public side at or near the rivet is preferable, since in embodiments in which the rivet is centrally located on the end shell, the timing of marking is not critical. For product-side and public-side markings, linked in the database, information related to the production of the finished container is linked to any subsequent end-user data collection.

[0104] When forming an end shell, the end shell is connected to a tongue, among other steps in the conversion press, to form the end cap. An infeed conveyor transports the end shells into the conversion press. The infeed conveyor may contain one or more rods or rails that form a cell. The cell feeds a continuous stack of end shells vertically downward to a separator or bottom stacker for placement in the conversion press by timing belts and / or transfer belts, where the end shell can be marked. The transfer belt transports individual end shells in belt pockets into the conversion press and through a series of tools that apply various features to the end shell. The transfer belt prevents the end shell from rotating, allowing for successive die functions to correctly form the end shell and the resulting end cap relative to the markings.Thus, a marker or marking device can mark the public side of the end cap along with other tools, ensuring the end cap is properly oriented for applying the marking(s) in the proper location on the finished end cap. Appropriate marking in this context is preferable to prevent the marking from being obscured, damaged, or interrupted by end cap features (such as a notch or tab) or from interacting with end cap features such as a tear-off panel. Alternatively, in some embodiments, it may be preferable to position the marking under the tab to avoid affecting the overall aesthetic appearance of the container. In this case, the tab can be folded back to expose the marking for subsequent scanning and detection.

[0105] After the end shell and tongue are combined to form an end cap, the conversion press discharge conveyor transports the end caps away from the conversion press. Specifically, a transport belt transports the end caps, and in some embodiments, up to four end caps can be arranged across the width of the transport belt. A light tester is positioned above the transport belt to check for microscopic holes, and a marker (such as an inkjet or laser system) can also create a mark on the publicly accessible side of the end cap at this location on the transport belt. The mark can be applied, for example, to the tongue, the center panel, or another part of the end cap. A vacuum belt is then positioned above the end caps to hold them as the transport belt passes through a roll to return to the inlet of the conversion press.When held by a vacuum belt, a marker (such as an inkjet or laser system) can again apply markings to the product side of the end cap. Specifically, with a laser marker, a camera system can identify various end cap features, and the laser can then rotate in its joint to apply markings to the area of ​​the end cap that does not interact with the identified end cap features. This camera and laser system can thus be used in place of orientation systems.

[0106] The cells can also transport end caps (or end shells) between sections of the production line. In various embodiments, four or five rods or rails are arranged to form a tunnel that limits the movement of end caps in more than one direction, but then allows movement in at least one direction to transport a continuous flow of stacked end caps. The rods or rails can be straight, circular, follow an n-th order polynomial form, etc. Gaps between the rods provide access to the end caps, for example, if an end cap needs to be removed from the stack. The gaps also provide an opportunity for a marker to apply markings to the end caps. Auxiliary devices can push a stack of end caps through parts of the cell and / or count the end caps, etc.

[0107] A continuous stacking flow of end shells or end caps is separated into individual shells or end caps by a bottom stacker having multiple wheels arranged around the continuous stack. The wheels are helically shaped so that as the wheels rotate, they engage the edge or fold of the end shell or end cap to separate the end shell or end cap from the continuous stack. In some embodiments, three wheels are synchronized for high-speed operation. Bottom stackers may be located at the inlet of a pasting machine, at the inlet of a converting press, and / or at the inlet of a seaming machine. Additionally, bottom stackers may be located at the manufacturer or filler to identify ends for marking.A marker, such as a laser, can place a mark on the outer edge of a shell or end cap, such as a chuckwall in a continuous stack, or on any portion of the end shell or end cap as it emerges from the continuous stack.

[0108] The compounding machine applies compound to end shells before the converting press. An outlet conveyor, such as a vacuum belt, can transport end shells at high speed because it is separated from the compounding machine by a gap. At this point, the public side of the end shell faces upward and is accessible for compound inspection and labeling. An air rejection system can blow off non-standard end shells from the conveyor and send them to a waste bin. The outlet conveyor can be 15-20 feet (4.57-6.10 meters) long and terminates in a 90-degree elbow transition, which stacks the end shells for subsequent transport.

[0109] The marker can apply markings to the product-facing side of the end shell located on the discharge conveyor of the pasting machine. In one embodiment, the marker comprises an inkjet printer, but can also use other marking technologies discussed herein. Alternatively, the marker on the discharge conveyor of the pasting machine is a continuous inkjet printer. The ink used for marking by the continuous inkjet printer can be food grade to maintain the safety of the finished container. Applying the markings while the end shell is positioned on the discharge conveyor of the pasting machine is advantageous, as the ink can subsequently be cured in the oven of the pasting machine.

[0110] The shell accumulation balancer collects end shells at various points in the production process, including balancer A between the seamer and the pasting machine and balancer B between the pasting machine and the converting press. The accumulation balancer may include manual balancers, where operators can physically remove end shells from the core cell and add end shells to any of multiple discharge conveyors. End shells can also be stored for inspection to reject defective shells. At this point, the end shells are placed in open semi-cylindrical cavities into which they are fed and discharged into core cells. Automatic balancers have lengths of end shells fed on trays that automatically move to the required unloading core cell to meet line control requirements.The end shell trays can also be removed from the balancers using forklifts for temporary storage / buffering.

[0111] These manual and automatic balancers feature end-shell marking capabilities. End shells can be fed into marking circuits, where a marker can apply markings to any part of the shell, whether on the public or product side. For example, end shells can be fed into the balancer, released from the balancer into the marking circuit, re-fed into the balancer, and released from the balancer for subsequent processing, or even into a stockpiling rack for storage in a warehouse or for future use.

[0112] In some embodiments, the marker uses ink to apply the marking, while the end cap is located within the marking contour. The marker may be a continuous inkjet printer or a DoD-type printer. Alternatively, the marker within the marking contour may contain a laser.

[0113] After the balancer, a loading device can be placed in the end cap production line. Specifically, the loading device can be a machine for accumulating and preparing end caps for a consumer, such as an aggregate. Loose end cap "cores" are loaded vertically into a pocket on a carousel conveyor system. Multiple stacks of end caps can be loaded into the pockets without being secured, achieving efficient use of operator time. The pockets are transported around the conveyor carousel to the unloading point, where the end caps are unloaded from the pockets onto a conveyor with core cells.

[0114] The marker can mark a portion of the end cap when the end caps are within the core cell conveyor. A separate system can receive the output of the conversion press at a higher speed and feed it to several different marking belts / devices at a lower speed. The marked end caps can then be loaded back into the balancer / loader at different locations to be fed to the existing stacker system.

[0115] In some embodiments, the marker uses ink to apply markings when the end cap or end shell is positioned within the core cell conveyor. The marker may be a continuous inkjet printer or a DoD-type printer. Alternatively, the marker, which is mounted to apply markings to end caps or end shells within the core cell conveyor, may include a laser.

[0116] In various embodiments, the marking is located on the peripheral bend of the end cap. This portion of the end cap is a relatively thin section extending around the outer circumference of the end cap on the publicly accessible side of the end cap. In some embodiments, the marking is a one-dimensional code, such as a barcode, where the marking appears as alternating lines and spaces located around the outer circumference of the end cap. Furthermore, the marking is optionally repeated in multiple locations around the outer circumference of the end cap, such that a scanner directed at one side of the end cap reads at least one of the markings. By locating the marking in such a location, the marking can be read when the end caps are stacked, for example, in a core cell. 0117. A marker, including any marker described herein, such as a laser or pad printer, applies this marking at any point in the manufacturing process, including at the beginning of the manufacturing process. In various embodiments, the marker applies a marking at the location of the blank on a continuous sheet of metallic material before pressing. This marking may comprise alternating lines and spaces arranged in a circle around the outer edge of the circular location of the blank, and appears as a partial sun pattern with diverging rays. When the blank is cut from the sheet and formed, for example, into an end shell and then into an end cap, the resulting marking is located on the outer side of the peripheral bend of the end cap or shell.Then, when end shells or end caps are placed in a stack, the marking can be read by a scanner to generate a scan event, which is transmitted to the database to update the record associated with the marking, and thus with the end shell or end cap.

[0118] In various embodiments, markings on the peripheral bend allow for tracking and logging of the end shell and / or end cap throughout the manufacturing process and even to the consumer, such as the filler. However, once the filler rolls the end cap onto the container body, the markings on the peripheral bend may be partially or completely obscured. Accordingly, in various embodiments, additional markings are applied elsewhere on the publicly accessible side of the end cap. For example, these additional markings may be applied at or near the center of the end shell; in some embodiments, this is the location of the rivet to which the pull tab is attached. The area of ​​the end cap's central panel around the rivet typically does not have features such as serrations.In this way, markings can be applied to the end cap without requiring a specific orientation of the end cap, as the markings do not interfere with any subsequent features on the end cap, and this additional marking allows for tracking and logging of the end cap and / or finished container if the markings on the peripheral bend are not visible.

[0119] The packing station in the production line near the filler also presents another opportunity for labeling. Containers can be separated by multiple conveyor belts to reduce the speed of container movement along the production line. At this point in the production line, if labeling is to be applied to the container end cap or container bodies, the conveyor structure or multiple conveyor belts can expose the container end cap for labeling. Exposure for labeling in this sense can mean passing through a system of cells where the container body's movement is restricted in multiple directions by rails or rods, and at a point where movement is unrestricted, the container body is subject to labeling. Orientation technology can be used to apply the label to the appropriate location on the container, as described in more detail here.

[0120] The marker associated with the packaging location may contain a laser or use ink to apply markings to the container. In some embodiments, the marker may be a DoD-type inkjet printer with piezo or thermal control. The markings may be applied to a portion of the label and have a vertical dimension of, for example, up to 70 mm.

[0121] Additionally or alternatively, the continuous inkjet printer's print head can also apply markings to the container at this point (at the packaging location) in the production line. In some embodiments, the ink container is pre-treated to ensure proper adhesion of the ink, as described herein.

[0122] Further, in some embodiments, a laser associated with the packaging location may remove a portion of the ink or surface coating (or even activate a portion of the ink or surface coating) to apply markings to the container body or end cap. The packaging location near the filler provides space for mounting orientation cameras and lasers to optionally orient and mark containers. For example, orientation cameras or lasers may be located near existing systems, such as pressure testing platforms, for example, after filling or pasteurization.

[0123] The tabs are produced and then combined with the end cap shell to form a complete end cap in a conversion press. At the inlet of the conversion press for the tab stock, a marker can mark the areas of the tab stock where individual tabs will be formed during the delay or operating period of the conversion press. The tab stock moves within the conversion press at a certain pitch, and the delay period is determined by the period during which the tab stock is essentially stationary. Even before the conversion press, a marker, such as a laser, can remove part of the coating on the tab stock to apply markings. The marking can be, for example, a small two-dimensional code less than 2 mm in size and placed on the top side of the tab, which can face upward toward the end user when the finished container is being produced. It should be understood that the marking can be applied to any side of the tab, including the underside.Additionally, in some embodiments, the portion of the tongue closest to the lifted end includes a flat, ribbed panel instead of a pin hole to provide a larger surface area for applying the marking(s). In various embodiments, the marking is applied between the riveted area and the leading end of the tongue.

[0124] One approach of the present disclosure is a tab of increased size compared to previous tab embodiments. The increased tab size is advantageous because a larger tab provides additional space for markings or for applying larger markings. A larger tab thus provides advantages that outweigh the increased material costs and costs associated with changes to the end cap production line required to mold and process larger tabs.

[0125] As discussed here, the metal part can be stabilized and / or oriented for the marking process to ensure that markings are repeatable and placed in the correct location on the metal part. Controlling stabilization and orientation makes the marking clearer for subsequent scanning and prevents the marking from interfering with other features of the finished container, such as the tab opening or pouring hole.

[0126] Accordingly, in some embodiments, the orientation of the metal part is optionally controlled before or during the marking process. This prevents marking elements, such as score lines, from being damaged, becoming hidden, and / or illegible. The orientation of any metal part can be controlled, including, but not limited to, the end shell, end cap, and container body. In some embodiments, the end shell is formed and marked, then, before entering the conversion press, the end shell is oriented to a predetermined orientation to ensure that the marking is in the proper location on the resulting end cap. In various embodiments, after the conversion press, the end cap is oriented to a predetermined orientation, and the marking is applied to the oriented end cap.

[0127] The orientation systems of the present disclosure are configured to rotate a metal part around at least one axis. One exemplary orientation system comprises at least one conveyor belt. A metal part (such as a container body) is transported in a first direction, and the longitudinal axis of the metal part extends along a second direction perpendicular to it. The first belt is located on one side of the metal part, and the second belt is located on the opposite side of the metal part. A camera or other sensor located at the beginning of the conveyor can detect the initial orientation of the metal part. Based on this information, a control system or other electronic device can determine the amount and direction of rotation required to place the metal part in the final orientation.The control system then directs the belts so as to rotate the metal part around its longitudinal axis at different speeds as the metal part moves along the belts, and the part exits the orientation system belts with a final orientation suitable for marking.

[0128] Another example of an orientation system is a servo system. A metal part, such as a container body, can be loaded onto a plate or a wheel. A camera or other sensor can determine the initial orientation of the part. Based on this information, a control system or other electronic device can determine the amount and direction of rotation required to position the metal part in the final orientation. The control system then directs a servo motor on the plate or wheel to rotate the container body to the final orientation.

[0129] It should be understood that these orientation systems will work with any marking technology described herein. It should also be understood that the orientation systems will work with any metal part described herein, anywhere in the production line of any manufacturing process.

[0130] In some embodiments, the metal part is optionally stabilized during the marking process. Incorrect stabilization due to random movement, such as crowding, can cause erroneous markings due to the laser moving out of focus or the print head being positioned at an incorrect distance from the metal part, leading to rejection of the metal part. Various stabilization systems are possible, and the stabilization system may stabilize the metal part before the marker or may be integrated with the marker so that the stabilization system engages the metal part as the marker marks the metal part.

[0131] In at least one embodiment, the stabilization system comprises a lead screw for stabilizing a metal part, such as a container body. Since the container body is transported in a first direction, the longitudinal axis of the container body is oriented in a direction perpendicular to the second direction. In the stabilization system, the lead screw is located on one side of the container body and its longitudinal axis. The lead screw has a thread that rotates it around an axis of rotation oriented in the first direction. The stabilization system also comprises a wall opposite the lead screw, and the wall extends in the first direction substantially parallel to the axis of rotation. The wall is flat or substantially flat. In some embodiments, the wall may be a moving belt to prevent rotation of the container body.When the container body enters the stabilization system, it is positioned in the cavity (or pocket) formed between the thread ridges and is pressed in a lateral third direction, which is perpendicular to both the first and second directions. This pressing motion forces the container body into contact with the flat wall, which reduces movement so that the marker can apply the marking to the container body. 0132 Another stabilization system of the present disclosure uses a star wheel. Metal parts, such as container bodies, are transported in a first direction, and the longitudinal axes of the container bodies are oriented perpendicular to the second direction. The star wheel is typically a cylindrical device that rotates about an axis of rotation aligned with the second direction. The star wheel has a plurality of recesses along the outer circumference, which substantially have the same shape and dimensions as the container body. The star wheel is at least partially located in the flow of transported container bodies. When a container body approaches the star wheel, the container body occupies a recess in the star wheel. The star wheel slows down and rotates the container body so that a marker can apply a marking to the container body.The star wheel then continues to rotate around the axis of rotation and returns the container body back into the flow of transported container bodies.

[0133] An additional stabilization system is a vacuum conveyor. Metal parts, such as container bodies, are transported in one direction, and the longitudinal axes of the container bodies are oriented perpendicular to the second direction. A vacuum is created on one wall of the stabilization system. As the container bodies move past the vacuum wall, they are attracted to the wall, reducing movement such as jostling. A marker can then apply markings to the container bodies.

[0134] In some embodiments, the vacuum conveyor comprises a mesh belt. The mesh belt is configured to move the container bodies in a first direction. A vacuum is applied such that a predetermined portion of the container bodies are attracted to the mesh belt. In some embodiments, the open end of the container bodies is positioned against the mesh belt and attracted thereto. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the closed end of the container bodies is positioned against the mesh belt and attracted thereto.

[0135] Another stabilization system is a gripper system. Metal parts, such as container bodies, are transported in a first direction, and the longitudinal axes of the container bodies are oriented in a perpendicular, second direction. In some embodiments, projections are located on one wall of the stabilization system to contact the container bodies. In other embodiments, projections are located on opposite walls of the stabilization system to contact the container bodies. Thus, as the container bodies pass through the stabilization system, one or more projections contact the container body to stabilize the container body and reduce movement, allowing the marker to apply markings to the container body.

[0136] In some embodiments, the walls comprise belts located on either side of the longitudinal axis of the container body. The first belt can rotate in a first direction. The second belt can rotate in a second direction, opposite to the first direction.

[0137] Pneumatic systems located downstream of the stabilization system can reject any container bodies with incorrect markings. It should be understood that these stabilization systems will work with any of the marking technologies described here, and the stabilization system will work with any metal part described here, anywhere on the production line during the manufacturing process.

[0138] One approach of the present disclosure is a method for marking a container body for tracking and recording, comprising the steps of: (1) moving a continuous sheet of metallic material past a marker; (2) applying a marking with the marker at a location of a blank on the continuous sheet where the blank will be cut from the continuous sheet, wherein the marking is unique to the location of the blank; (3) moving the continuous sheet into a cup-forming press in a production line; (5) cutting the blank together with the marking from the continuous sheet using the cup-forming press; (6) forming the blank into a cup using the cup-forming press such that the marking is located on the outer surface of the end cap of the cup; and (7) forming the cup into a container body using a cup-forming machine of the production line.

[0139] In some embodiments, the marker applies markings without coming into contact with the continuous sheet.

[0140] As an option, the marker contains a laser for marking.

[0141] In some embodiments, the laser applies the marking by etching or engraving a continuous sheet.

[0142] In at least one embodiment, the marking is applied with ink.

[0143] In some embodiments, the ink is an ultraviolet ink such that the marking becomes visible when exposed to ultraviolet light.

[0144] In some embodiments, the marking is applied by exposing a coating on a continuous sheet to a light source. The coating may be photoreactive ink. Alternatively, the light source is a laser. Accordingly, the marking may be applied by exposing selected areas of the photoreactive ink to a laser.

[0145] Additionally or alternatively, the marker may contain an inkjet print head for applying markings.

[0146] The method may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments, and in some embodiments, the marker contacts the continuous sheet when applying the marking.

[0147] Additionally or alternatively, marking is applied using toner.

[0148] In some embodiments, the marking marker comprises an electrophotographic printing unit.

[0149] Alternatively, in one or more of the preceding embodiments, the marker applies the marking during a delay period when the continuous sheet is not advancing into the cup-forming press, so that the continuous sheet is generally stationary.

[0150] In some embodiments, the marker is configured to apply markings when the continuous sheet is moving.

[0151] Accordingly, in some embodiments, the marker may apply marking when the continuous sheet is stationary, when the continuous sheet is moving, or at a time when the continuous sheet is both stationary and moving.

[0152] The method may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments, and in some embodiments, the marking is a computer readable code.

[0153] In some embodiments, the marking comprises a series of characters and spaces distributed across rows and columns.

[0154] The method, as an option, comprises one or more of the preceding embodiments, and in at least one embodiment, the marking comprises a unique identifier of the container body.

[0155] In some embodiments, such marking further comprises one or more of the following: (i) a random alphanumeric code; (ii) a manufacturing date; (iii) a manufacturing time; (iv) a manufacturing location; (v) a production line identifier; (vi) a lot number; (vii) a shift identifier; (viii) a material specification for the metal continuous sheet; (ix) a roll manufacturer identifier; (x) a roll identifier or serial number; (xi) a marking position on the continuous sheet (such as X, Y coordinates of the location on the continuous sheet where the marking is applied); (xii) the weight of the container body; and (xiii) the name of the filler who ordered the container body.

[0156] The method may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments and, alternatively, the marking is created by a control system communicating with the marker.

[0157] In some embodiments, the method further comprises receiving a marker from a control system. The control system may communicate with the marker over a network, such as the Internet. Alternatively, the control system is located outside the production line containing the marker.

[0158] Alternatively, the method comprises any one or more of the previous embodiments and may further comprise the steps of: (a) scanning the marking using a sensor; (b) transmitting data from the sensor to the control system; and (c) updating a record associated with the container body. The record may be stored in a database.

[0159] In some embodiments, the record may be updated to contain one or more of the following: (i) the scan date; (ii) the scan time; (iii) the sensor location; and (iv) a rejection identification code. The rejection identification code may identify the reason for the rejection or the location at which the container body was rejected. Accordingly, the rejection identification code may identify the reason for the rejection of the container body, such as a rupture in the body-forming machine, smearing of the design in the decorator, failure in the neck forming machine, etc.

[0160] The method may comprise any one or more of the preceding embodiments and further comprise a sensor located in the production line.

[0161] In some embodiments, the sensor is located at one or more feed or outlet locations of a piece of equipment of a production line.

[0162] In some embodiments, the equipment section is a body-forming machine.

[0163] Additionally or alternatively, in the production line, the sensor can be linked to the inlet or outlet of the internal coating machine.

[0164] The method may comprise any one or more of the preceding embodiments, and in some embodiments, the sensor is at the point of sale.

[0165] In some embodiments, the sensor is located at a waste collection point associated with a recycling center.

[0166] Another approach of the present disclosure comprises a container body tracking and recording system comprising: (1) a marker configured to apply a marking to a continuous sheet of metallic material at a blank location where the blank will be cut from the continuous sheet; (2) an uncoiler for unwinding a roll containing the continuous sheet of metallic material; (3) a cup-forming press for cutting a blank from the continuous sheet at the blank location and forming the blank into a metal cup; (4) a conveyor for transporting the metal cup to a cup-forming machine that forms the metal cup into a container body, wherein the cup-forming machine has an identifier; (5) a sensor for scanning the marking, wherein the sensor is located at an inlet or outlet of the cup-forming machine;and (6) a control system in communication with the marker and the sensor, the control system being configured to: (a) generate a marking applied by the marker; and (b) update a database entry for the container body to include an identifier of the body-forming machine after the sensor scans the marking.

[0167] In some embodiments, the marking is a computer readable code.

[0168] For example, the marking can be a data matrix code, a barcode, a quick response (QR) code, etc.

[0169] Additionally or alternatively, the marking comprises a series of markings and spaces arranged in any manner or sequence. For example, the marking may comprise a sequence of characters, such as a dot, square, circle, symbol, line, letter, or any other marking. Alternatively, the marking may include spaces between two or more characters. In some embodiments, the marking comprises characters and spaces arranged in rows and columns.

[0170] The system may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments and, alternatively, the marking comprises a unique identifier of the container body.

[0171] In some embodiments, the marking is performed with ink or toner.

[0172] In some embodiments, the ink is an ultraviolet ink such that the marking becomes visible when exposed to ultraviolet light.

[0173] In some embodiments, the marking is applied by exposing a coating on a continuous sheet to a light source. The coating may be a photoreactive ink. Alternatively, the light source is a laser. Accordingly, the marking may be applied by exposing selected areas of the photoreactive ink to a laser.

[0174] Additionally or alternatively, the marking is etched and / or engraved on a continuous sheet.

[0175] The system may comprise any one or more of the preceding embodiments, and the marking may further comprise one or more of the following: (i) a manufacturing date; (ii) a manufacturing time; (iii) a manufacturing location; (iv) a production line identifier; (v) a lot number; (vi) a shift identifier; (vii) material specifications for the continuous sheet metal; (viii) a roll manufacturer identifier; (ix) a roll identifier or serial number; (x) a marking position on the continuous sheet; (xi) a container body weight; (xii) a filler name that ordered the container body; and (xiii) a random alphanumeric code.

[0176] In some embodiments, the marker comprises a laser for applying markings.

[0177] The system may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments, and optionally the marker comprises an inkjet print head for applying the marking.

[0178] Additionally or alternatively, the marker may comprise an electrophotographic printing unit for applying markings.

[0179] Alternatively, the marker applies markings during the delay period when the continuous sheet is not advancing into the cup-forming press, so that the continuous sheet is usually stationary.

[0180] In some embodiments, the marker is configured to apply markings while the continuous sheet is moving.

[0181] Accordingly, in some embodiments, the marker may apply marking while the continuous sheet is stationary, while the continuous sheet is moving, or while the continuous sheet is both stationary and moving.

[0182] The system may comprise any one or more of the preceding embodiments, and optionally the system further comprises: (a) a decorator located downstream of the body-forming machine, wherein the decorator has a unique name or identifier; and (b) a second sensor for scanning the marking, wherein the second sensor is located at the inlet or outlet of the body-forming machine.

[0183] In some embodiments, the control system is further configured to update the database entry for the container body to include the unique name of the body-forming machine after the second sensor scans the marking.

[0184] Alternatively, the control system contains the date and time of scanning the marking by the second sensor in a record in the database.

[0185] In some embodiments, the control system is further configured to update the database entry for the container body when a sensor associated with the point of sale scans the marking.

[0186] Another approach of the present disclosure is that a metal container having a marking for tracking and registering the metal container comprises: (1) a housing with a closed end cap, wherein a side wall extends upward from the end cap and an opening is located in the top cap of the housing; and (2) a marking located on the end cap, wherein the marking contains a unique identifier of the metal container, which is different from the identifier of any other metal container.

[0187] In some embodiments, the marking is a computer readable code.

[0188] For example, the marking can be a data matrix code, a barcode, a quick response (QR) code, etc.

[0189] Additionally or alternatively, the marking comprises a series of markings and spaces arranged in any manner or sequence. For example, the marking may comprise a sequence of characters, such as a dot, square, circle, symbol, line, letter, or any other marking. Alternatively, the marking may include spaces between two or more characters. In some embodiments, the marking comprises characters and spaces arranged in rows and columns.

[0190] The metal container may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments and, alternatively, the marking (and / or a database entry that is associated with the marking) further comprises one or more of the following: (i) a date of manufacture; (ii) a time of manufacture; (iii) a place of manufacture; (iv) an identifier of a production line; (v) a lot number; (vi) a shift identifier (vii) material specifications of the continuous sheet material from which the metal container is manufactured (such as the chemical composition of the metallic material); (viii) an identifier of the manufacturer of the roll containing the continuous sheet of metallic material; (ix) an identifier or serial number of the roll; (x) a date of manufacture of the roll; (xi) a place of manufacture of the roll; (xii) a position of the marking on the continuous sheet; (xiv) the weight of the metal container; (xv) the name of the filler who ordered the metal container; (xvi) a random alphanumeric code;and (xvi) other production information obtained from existing systems and databases associated with the production line.

[0191] In some embodiments, the marking is applied by laser.

[0192] In some embodiments, the laser applies a marking by etching or engraving a metallic material that is formed into a metallic container.

[0193] Alternatively, the marking is engraved on the end cap.

[0194] The metal container may comprise any one or more of the preceding embodiments, and optionally the marking is applied with ink.

[0195] In some embodiments, the ink is an ultraviolet ink such that the marking becomes visible when exposed to ultraviolet light.

[0196] In some embodiments, the marking is applied by exposing the coating to a light source. The coating may be a photoreactive ink. Alternatively, the light source is a laser. Accordingly, the marking may be applied by exposing the laser to selected areas of the photoreactive ink.

[0197] Additionally or alternatively, marking can be applied using toner.

[0198] In some embodiments, the marking is stored in a record in a database. The record may contain two or more of the following: (i) the identifier of the body-forming machine that formed the metal container; (ii) the identifier of the decorator that applied the design to the side wall; (iii) the identifier of the interior coating machine that sprays the coating into the hollow interior of the body; (iv) the identifier of the neck forming machine that forms the neck on the metal container; and (v) the identifier of the cup-forming press that forms the cup that is subsequently formed into the metal container.

[0199] Alternatively, the record further contains one or more of the following: (a) an identifier for the manufacturer of the roll containing the continuous sheet of metal material; (b) an identifier for the palletizer placing the metal container on the pallet; (c) an identifier for the shipper transporting the metal container to the filler; (d) an identifier for the retail outlet at which the metal container is sold; and (e) an identifier for the waste collection point that accepts the metal container.

[0200] In some embodiments, the record may also contain one or more of the following: (a) the weight of the metal container; (b) the name of the filler who ordered the metal container; (c) a random alphanumeric code; (d) the date the metal container left the production facility; (e) the identification of the filler; (f) the identifier of the product that fills the metal container; and (g) the expiration date of the product.

[0201] Alternatively, the record can be updated manually. For example, a user can enter data into a database record related to a container body. The user can enter the manufacturing date, such as the date and time the production line equipment was adjusted, or information about the material applied to the container bodies by the production line equipment. This allows the user to enter information about the types of coatings, inks, or designs applied to the interior or exterior of the container body.

[0202] Additionally or alternatively, the record may further contain other production data obtained from existing systems and databases associated with the production line on which the metal container is produced.Other production data may include, but is not limited to, production data such as: (a) the temperature of the oven in which the metal container was dried; (b) the temperature of the oven in which the ink or coating on the metal container was cured; (c) a time stamp identifying when the metal container entered each piece of equipment on the production line; (d) a time stamp identifying when the metal container left each piece of equipment on the production line; (e) identification of the coating on the outer surface of the metal container; (f) identification of the coating on the inner surface of the metal container; (g) identification of the ink used in decorating the outer surface; (h) the pH of the liquid used in rinsing the container body; (i) the weight or volume of the coating applied to the inner surface; and (j) the weight or volume of the coating applied to the outer surface.

[0203] The metal container may include one or more of the preceding embodiments, and optionally the metal container is formed from an aluminum material.

[0204] In some embodiments, the metallic material of the continuous sheet is steel or tin-plated steel.

[0205] In some embodiments, the metal container is a recyclable conical cup.

[0206] Alternatively, in another embodiment, the metal container is a bottle.

[0207] In at least one embodiment, the metal container has a flange for receiving an end cap.

[0208] Alternatively, the metal container is a food can.

[0209] In some embodiments, the metal container is a two-piece container with a cylindrical body having one open end sealed by a single end cap. Alternatively, markings may be applied to both the end cap and the cylindrical body. In some embodiments, markings are applied only to the cylindrical body of the two-piece container.

[0210] In other embodiments, the metal container is a three-piece container and has a cylindrical body with two open ends, each open end sealed with an end cap. In this embodiment, the marking may be applied to one or more of the following locations: the first end cap, the second end cap, and the cylindrical body located between the first and second end caps. In some embodiments, the marking is applied only to the cylindrical body of the three-piece container.

[0211] Another approach of the present disclosure is to provide a roll of aluminum material, comprising: (1) a sheet of aluminum material rolled into a roll, the sheet having a length and comprising: (a) a first long edge; and (b) a second long edge spaced from the first long edge by a width of the sheet, the second long edge being approximately parallel to the first long edge; and (2) a plurality of unique markings applied to the sheet, each of the unique markings being a computer readable code and located within a blank location, wherein (i) each blank location is a circle with a center and a predetermined diameter; (ii) a first column of at least five blank locations is oriented with their centers defining a first line approximately perpendicular to the first and second edges;and (iii) a second column of at least five blank locations is oriented with their centers defining a second line approximately parallel to the first line.

[0212] In some embodiment, each of the unique markings comprises ink or toner.

[0213] Additionally or alternatively, the roll may contain unique markings engraved on the continuous sheet.

[0214] In some embodiments, each of the unique markings is laser-applied.

[0215] The roll may comprise any one or more of the preceding embodiments, and, alternatively, each of the unique markings is substantially centered within the location of the blank.

[0216] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of unique markings is applied to a first side of the sheet.

[0217] Alternatively, each of the plurality of unique markings is repeated on the second side of the sheet. Thus, the first blank location contains the first marking of the plurality of unique markings on the first side of the sheet, and the first blank location contains the first marking on the second side of the sheet.

[0218] The roll may comprise any one or more of the preceding embodiments, and, alternatively, the first marking on the first side of the sheet is located substantially opposite the first marking on the second side of the sheet.

[0219] Another approach is to provide a system for applying markings to a continuous sheet of metallic material, comprising: (1) a marker for applying markings to the continuous sheet at blank locations where blanks will be cut from the continuous sheet, each marking being a unique computer-readable code located within the blank location; and (2) a rolling machine for rolling the continuous sheet with markings into a roll.

[0220] Alternatively, the markings contain ink or toner.

[0221] In some embodiments, the marking is engraved on a continuous sheet.

[0222] Alternatively or alternatively, the marker contains a laser for marking.

[0223] In some embodiments, the marker comprises an inkjet print head for applying markings.

[0224] In at least one embodiment, the marker comprises an electrophotographic printing unit for applying markings.

[0225] The system may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments, and, alternatively, the markings are generated by a control system, communication means associated with the marker.

[0226] The system may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments, and, alternatively, the marker applies a marking to the first side of the continuous sheet.

[0227] In some embodiments, the marker applies markings to both the first side and the second side of the continuous sheet, such that the first unique marking is applied to the first side at the location of the first blank and the first unique marking is applied to the second side at the location of the first blank.

[0228] Alternatively, the marker is configured to apply a first unique marking at a first location on the first side that is approximately opposite a second location of the first unique marking on the second side.

[0229] The system may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments, and in some embodiments, each marking is a unique identifier of a workpiece location.

[0230] Alternatively, the location of the blank is subsequently formed into the container body.

[0231] The system may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments, and alternatively, each workpiece location is typically circular and has a center.

[0232] In some embodiments, the marker applies markings such that each marking is approximately centered on the location of the workpiece.

[0233] The system may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments and, optionally, the system further comprises an unwinder located upstream of the marker, wherein the unwinder is configured to unwind a continuous sheet from the initial roll.

[0234] The system may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments, and, alternatively, the metallic material is aluminum, and the marker is configured to apply markings to the aluminum metallic material.

[0235] Yet another approach of the present disclosure is a method for tracking and registering a container body, comprising the steps of: (1) creating a unique identifier; (2) storing the unique identifier in a record in a database; (3) providing the unique identifier to a marker, wherein the marker applies a marking that is located on the container body, and the marking is associated with the unique identifier; (4) scanning the marking with a first sensor of a production facility; (5) updating a record associated with the unique identifier with information received from the first sensor; (6) scanning the marking with a second sensor after the container body is transported from the production facility; and (7) updating a record associated with the unique identifier with information received from the second sensor.

[0236] Optionally, the first sensor is connected with the cup-forming press, body-forming machine, decorator, inner coating machine, neck forming machine, edging press, sorter or stacker of production means.

[0237] In some embodiments, the second sensor is associated with a filler, a distributor, a point of sale, a consumer, or a waste collection point.

[0238] Alternatively, the second sensor is located at the point of sale and the record is updated to contain information about the sale of the container body and the deposit collected at the time of sale.

[0239] In some embodiments, the second sensor is located at the waste collection point and the record is updated to contain information about the return of the deposit collected upon sale of the container body.

[0240] The method may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments, and optionally further comprises modifying the record to include one or more of the following: (i) the date of manufacture of the container body; (ii) the time of manufacture of the container body; (iii) the location of manufacture of the container body; (iv) an identifier of the production line; (v) a lot number; (vi) a shift identifier; (vii) the material specifications of the metal sheet from which the container body was formed; (viii) an identifier of the manufacturer of the roll containing the sheet; (ix) an identifier or serial number of the roll; (x) the position of the marking on the sheet; (xi) the weight of the container body; (xii) the name of the filler who ordered the container body; and (xiii) a random alphanumeric code.

[0241] The method may further comprise changing the record whenever the marking is scanned to include one or more of the following: a date of scanning; a time of scanning; and a location of the sensor performing the scanning.

[0242] In some embodiments, the marking is a computer readable code.

[0243] Additionally or alternatively, the method may further comprise updating the record to include one or more of the following: (a) an identifier of a body-forming machine that forms the container body; (b) an identifier of a decorator that applies a design to the container body; (c) an identifier of an interior coating machine that sprays a coating into the hollow interior of the container body; and (d) an identifier of a neck forming machine that forms a neck on the container body.

[0244] In some embodiments, the method further comprises updating the record to include one or more of the following: (a) an identifier of the manufacturer of the roll from which the container body was formed; (b) an identifier of the palletizer who placed the container body on the pallet; (c) an identifier of the shipper who transported the container body to the filler; (d) an identifier of the retail outlet where the container body was sold; and (e) an identifier of the waste collection point that accepted the container body.

[0245] Another approach of the present disclosure is a method for recycling a container body, comprising the steps of: (1) receiving the container body at a waste collection point; (2) scanning a marking on the container body with a sensor; (3) identifying a record in a database, wherein the record is associated with the marking; (4) checking the record to determine whether a deposit was received for the container body when the container body was purchased; and (5) checking the record to ensure that the deposit was returned.

[0246] Still another approach of the present disclosure is a method of forming an end cap adapted to be connected to an open end of a metal container. The method comprises the steps of: (1) forming an end shell from a sheet of aluminum material, wherein the end shell comprises a first side, a second side and a circular perimeter; (2) feeding the end shell into a conversion press; (3) forming a rivet on the end shell using the conversion press; (4) connecting a tongue and a rivet together using the conversion press to convert the end shell into an end cap, wherein the tongue is located on the second side of the end cap, wherein the first side of the end shell has a first marking formed before the tongue is connected to the rivet.

[0247] Alternatively, the method may further comprise applying a second marking to a second side of the end cap.

[0248] The method may optionally comprise creating a record in a database, wherein the record comprises information about the first marking, the optional second marking, and the end cap.

[0249] Alternatively, the method further comprises the steps of: (a) scanning the first marking with the first sensor after forming the rivet; and (b) updating in the record the time of scanning by the first sensor.

[0250] Additionally or alternatively, the method may comprise one or more of the previous embodiments, and further comprises the steps of: (c) scanning the first marking with a second sensor before fastening the tongue to the rivet; and (d) updating the time of scanning with the second sensor in the record.

[0251] In some embodiments, the method comprises the steps of: (e) scanning the second marking with a third sensor after the end cap is released from the conversion press; and (f) updating the time of scanning with the third sensor in the record.

[0252] The method may comprise any one or more of the preceding embodiments, and, alternatively, the first marking is identical to the second marking. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the first marking is different from the second marking. The method may, alternatively, comprise updating the record associated with the first marking in the database to contain a field with information about the second marking. Thus, the end cap can be tracked by scanning either the first marking or the second marking.

[0253] The method may comprise any one or more of the preceding embodiments, and, alternatively, the marker applies one or more first markings and a second marking with ink. Additionally or alternatively, the marker applies one or more first markings and a second marking with a laser.

[0254] In some embodiments, the marker that applies the first marking to the first side is a printer that uses food-grade ink. The printer is optionally a continuous inkjet printer or a DoD-type inkjet printer.

[0255] In some embodiments, the method comprises one or more of the preceding embodiments and further comprises applying notches to the second side of the end shell, wherein the notches define a tear-off panel.

[0256] Alternatively, the method comprises applying a second marking to the tear-off panel.

[0257] Additionally or alternatively, a second marking may be applied on or near the rivet.

[0258] In one or more embodiments, the second marking is applied before the tongue is secured to the rivet. Alternatively, the second marking is applied after the tongue is secured to the rivet.

[0259] The method may comprise any of the preceding embodiments and, alternatively, after the tongue is connected to the rivet, the tongue covers at least a portion of the second marking.

[0260] In some embodiments, applying the second marking further comprises the steps of: (i) determining the orientation of the tear-off panel; (ii) rotating the end cap about the central axis to a predetermined orientation so that the central axis is perpendicular to the second side; and (iii) applying the second marking at a predetermined location on the second side.

[0261] The method may comprise any one or more of the preceding embodiments and further comprise applying a first marking before the rivet is formed.

[0262] In some embodiments, the first marking is applied before the end shell is fed into the conversion press.

[0263] Additionally or alternatively, the first marking may be applied before the end shell is formed by the shell press.

[0264] The method may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments and, optionally, comprises applying a first marking to a sheet of aluminum material.

[0265] In some embodiments, the first marking or the second marking is applied when the end shell is in a core cell conveyor.

[0266] In another approach of the present disclosure, there is provided an end cap configured to seal an open end of a metal container, comprising: (1) a peripheral bend; (2) a cartridge wall extending downwardly from the peripheral bend; (3) a chamfer secured to a lower end of the cartridge wall; (4) a central panel connected to the chamfer; (5) a tear panel defined by a notch in the central panel; (6) a tab engaged with a publicly accessible side of the central panel; (7) a product side opposite the publicly accessible side; and (8) a first marking on the product side.

[0267] As an option, the end cap additionally contains a second marking, selectively visible from the public side.

[0268] The first marking is, as an option, identical to the second marking.

[0269] Alternatively, the first marking is different from the second marking.

[0270] In some embodiments, one or more of the first marking and the second marking are applied with ink.

[0271] Additionally or alternatively, one or more of the first marking and the second marking is applied by a laser.

[0272] In some embodiments, the first marking is applied with food-grade ink. Additionally or alternatively, the first marking is optionally applied with a continuous inkjet printer or a DoD-type inkjet printer.

[0273] The end cap may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments and further comprise a second marking applied to the tear-off panel.

[0274] In at least one embodiment, the second marking is covered at least partially by the tab.

[0275] In some embodiments, the second marking is applied to the first surface of the tongue facing the public side of the central panel, so that the second marking is visible after the tongue is rotated relative to the central panel.

[0276] The second marking may, as an option, be applied to the second surface of the tongue, facing away from the public side of the center panel.

[0277] The end cap may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments, and the tongue may optionally comprise: (a) a front end for engaging with the tear-off panel; (b) a rear end located opposite the front end, which is configured to be manipulated by a user to apply a force to the front end relative to the tear-off panel; and (c) a middle section between the front end and the rear end, which is attached to the central panel with the possibility of its use.

[0278] In some embodiments, the second marking is applied to the rear portion of the tongue.

[0279] The tongue may optionally have a mesh structure made of aluminum material on the back. In some embodiments, a second marking is applied to the mesh structure.

[0280] Additionally or alternatively, a second marking is applied near the front end of the tongue.

[0281] In one or more of the preceding embodiments, the second marking is located between the front end and the point at which the tongue is attached to the central panel for use.

[0282] One approach of the present disclosure is to provide an end cap configured to be hermetically secured to the open end of a metal container for tracking and recording the end cap, comprising: a product side and an opposite publicly accessible side of the end cap; a holder wall extending downwardly from a peripheral bend, where a chamfer is secured to the lower edge of the holder wall and a central panel is secured to the chamfer; a tear-off panel defined by a notch; a tab secured to the central panel with the ability to use it; and a marking on the publicly accessible side of the end cap on the peripheral bend.

[0283] An end cap according to the present disclosure may comprise the previous embodiment and, optionally, additional markings on the publicly accessible side of the center panel. In some embodiments, the additional markings are partially obscured by a tab.

[0284] Another approach of the present disclosure is to provide a method of marking a continuous sheet of metallic material for tracking and recording an end cap during a manufacturing process and during subsequent distribution of the end cap, comprising moving the sheet near a marker; applying a marking with a marker to an outer edge of a location of a blank on the sheet, wherein the marking comprises a unique identifier; cutting a blank from the sheet such that the marking is on a publicly accessible side of the blank; forming the blank into an end shell having a holder wall extending downwardly from a peripheral bend, wherein a chamfer is attached to a lower edge of the holder wall and a central panel is attached to the chamfer, wherein the marking is located on the peripheral bend; forming the end shell into an end cap; scanning the marking on the end cap with a sensor to generate a scanning event associated with the marking;and transmit the scan event to the database via the network, where the scan event is used to track and register the end cap.;

[0285] One approach of the present disclosure is to provide a method for marking an end cap during a manufacturing process for tracking and recording the end cap, comprising the steps of: cutting blanks from a continuous sheet of metallic material; forming an end shell from the blank, wherein a first marking applied by a first marker is located on a product side of the end shell, and the end shell has a publicly accessible side opposite to the product side; scanning the first marking with a first sensor to form a first scanning event associated with the first marking; transporting the end shell to a conversion press; applying a second marking with a second marker on the publicly accessible side of the end shell; forming at least one feature on the publicly accessible side of the end shell with the conversion press to form the end cap;and scanning the second marking with the second sensor to create a second scanning event associated with the second marking for tracking and registering the end cap.

[0286] In some embodiments, a first marking is applied by a first marker to the product side of the continuous sheet prior to cutting the blank from the continuous sheet.

[0287] The method according to the present disclosure may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments, and, alternatively, the first marker is a printer that applies food-grade ink to the product side of a continuous sheet to form the first marking. In some embodiments, the printer is an inkjet printer, such as a continuous inkjet printer or a DoD-type inkjet printer.

[0288] Alternatively, the second marker is a laser that removes at least a portion of the coating or material of the publicly accessible side of the end cap to create a second marking.

[0289] In some embodiments, the second marker is a printer that uses ink to apply the second marking. Alternatively, the second marker comprises an inkjet printer, such as a continuous inkjet printer or a DoD-type inkjet printer.

[0290] The method according to the present disclosure may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments, and, alternatively, the second marking is applied by a second marker at the inlet of the conversion press.

[0291] Additionally or alternatively, the method according to the present disclosure may comprise the steps of: applying a plurality of first markings at the locations of the workpiece on the product side of the continuous sheet using a first marker; displaying the plurality of first markings at the locations of the workpieces in a database; cutting a plurality of workpieces from the continuous sheet; scanning the plurality of first markings with a first sensor, which will create a plurality of first scanning events; and transmitting the plurality of first scanning events through a network to the database, wherein the plurality of first scanning events are associated with the plurality of first markings and the locations of the workpieces in order to collect data about the production process and determine deficiencies in the production process.

[0292] The method according to the present disclosure may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments, and optionally further comprises the steps of maintaining the end cap in a constant orientation with the help of a transport belt during the application of the second marking and forming at least one element.

[0293] In some embodiments, the second marking is associated with the first marking in a data record about it in a database.

[0294] A method according to the present disclosure may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments and optionally further comprises the steps of: recording in a database record a first marking and an end shell associated therewith; transmitting a first scan event to the database to update the record with the first scan event, wherein subsequent scan events associated with the first marking are used to determine deficiencies in the manufacturing process; recording in a database record a second marking; and transmitting a second scan event to the database to update the record with the second scan event.

[0295] The method according to the present disclosure may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments and optionally further comprises the step of scanning the second marking with a mobile device sensor to create a mobile scanning event for communicating the mobile device with the end cap.

[0296] Another approach consistent with the present disclosure is to provide an end cap configured to seal an open end of a metal container for tracking and registering the end cap, comprising a product side and an opposite public side of the end cap; a holder wall extending downwardly from a peripheral fold in which a chamfer is attached to a lower end of the holder wall and a central panel is secured to the chamfer; a tear panel defined by a notch on the central panel; a tab operably attached to the central panel; and a first marking on the product side of the end cap, wherein the first marking is applied with food grade ink, and the first marking is configured to be scanned for tracking and registering the end cap.

[0297] In some embodiments, the end cap further comprises a second marking on a publicly accessible side of the end cap, wherein the second marking is applied with a removable material on the publicly accessible side of the end cap, and the second marking is configured to be scanned for tracking and recording the end cap.

[0298] In some embodiments, the unique identifier of the first marking is different from the unique identifier of the second marking.

[0299] An end cap according to the present disclosure may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments, and, alternatively, the second marking is applied at least at one of the following: a peripheral fold, a tear-off panel, a rear portion of the tongue, a front portion of the tongue, a central panel at least partially located under the rear portion of the tongue, a surface of the tongue facing the central panel, a surface of the tongue facing away from the central panel, and a wall of the holder.

[0300] An end cap according to the present disclosure may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments, and, alternatively, the second marking is at least one of the following: applied to the tear-off panel and at least partially covered by the tab.

[0301] An end cap according to the present disclosure may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments and, alternatively, the second marking is on the end portion of the tab.

[0302] In some embodiments, the second marking is on the surface of the tongue facing the center panel of the end cap.

[0303] Alternatively or additionally, a second marking is located on the surface of the tongue facing away from the center panel of the end cap.

[0304] One approach of the present disclosure provides a method for marking a continuous sheet of metal material for tracking and recording metal parts during a manufacturing process and during subsequent distribution of metal containers, comprising the steps of: moving the continuous sheet near a marker; applying a plurality of markings by means of the marker at the locations of blanks on the continuous sheet, wherein each marking of the plurality of markings comprises a unique identifier; cutting blanks from the continuous sheet so that each blank has one marking of the plurality of markings; forming the blanks into metal parts; scanning the markings on the metal parts by means of a sensor to form a scanning event associated with each marking; and transmitting the scanning events to a database via a network, wherein the scanning events are used for tracking and recording metal parts.

[0305] In some embodiments, markings are applied at blank locations (i) at the press entrance during the continuous sheet delay period; (ii) at the press entrance between continuous sheet delay periods; or (iii) at a location upstream of the press entrance where the continuous feed of the continuous sheet is separated from the delay period by a section of unstretched continuous sheet.

[0306] In various embodiments, the marker comprises at least a laser or a printer.

[0307] In some embodiments, the metal parts are one of a cup, a tongue, an end shell, and an end cover.

[0308] The method according to the present disclosure may further comprise the step of cutting blanks at blank locations using a cup-forming press, wherein the metal parts are cups and the cup-forming press forms the blanks into cups with one of the markings located on the end cap of each of the cups.

[0309] Alternatively, the method according to the present disclosure may further comprise cutting blanks at blank locations by means of a conversion press, wherein the metal parts are tongues and the conversion press forms the blanks into tongues with one of the markings located on each of the tongues.

[0310] Alternatively, the method according to the present disclosure may further comprise cutting by means of a press the shells of the blanks at the locations of the blanks, wherein the metal parts are end shells and the shell press forms the blanks into end shells with one of the markings located on each of the end shells.

[0311] The method according to the present disclosure may further comprise the steps of: scanning markings on the metal parts using the second sensor to generate a second scanning event associated with each marking; transmitting the second scanning events to a database via a network; determining that one of the metal parts is defective; and identifying the causes of the defect in the manufacturing process based on the scanning events associated with the defective part.

[0312] The method according to the present disclosure may comprise one or more of the previous embodiments, and, alternatively, each marking of the plurality of markings is located near the outer edge of the corresponding location of the workpiece, and the metal parts are end shells, so that each marking of the plurality of markings is located on the peripheral bend of the corresponding end shell.

[0313] In some embodiments, the method further comprises scanning with a marking sensor to generate a scanning event that occurs as the plurality of end shells are arranged in a stack so that the marking on the peripheral bend of each end shell of the plurality of end shells is visible.

[0314] In various embodiments, the annular shape of each marking comprises alternating lines and spaces that form at least one barcode on the peripheral bend of each end shell of the plurality of end shells.

[0315] In some embodiments, the annular shape of each marking is applied to the publicly accessible side of the corresponding end shell.

[0316] Another approach consistent with the present disclosure is to provide a method for marking a metal part for tracking and registering the metal part during a manufacturing process and during subsequent distribution of a metal container, comprising the steps of: detecting, by means of a sensor, a first orientation of a metal part used to manufacture the metal container; reorienting the metal part from the first orientation to a second orientation; stabilizing the metal part as the metal part approaches a marker; applying a marking to the stabilized metal part by means of a marker, wherein the marking comprises a unique identifier; and scanning the marking by means of a sensor to generate a scanning event associated with the marking for tracking and registering the metal part.

[0317] In various embodiments, the metal part is one of a tongue, a container body, an end shell, an end cap, or a conical cup.

[0318] In some embodiments, the marker comprises at least a laser or an inkjet printer.

[0319] The method according to the present disclosure may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments and, optionally, further comprises the steps of: providing a first belt that contacts a first side of the metal part and providing a second belt that contacts a second side of the metal part; and rotating the first belt at a first speed and the second belt at a second speed based on the first orientation to rotate the metal part into a second orientation.

[0320] Additionally or alternatively, the method according to the present disclosure may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments and, optionally, further comprises the steps of: providing a rotating plate with at least one servomotor; positioning a metal part on at least one servomotor of the rotating plate; and rotating the metal part from the first orientation to the second orientation with at least one servomotor.

[0321] The method according to the present disclosure may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments and, optionally, further comprises the steps of: providing a stabilization system having a lead screw, wherein the lead screw rotates around an axis parallel to the direction of movement of the metal part; and contacting via the thread of the lead screw with the metal part to move it in a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement, so that the metal part contacts a surface to stabilize the metal part.

[0322] Additionally or alternatively, the method according to the present disclosure may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments and, optionally, further comprises the steps of: providing a stabilization system having a vacuum section that moves air in a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement of the metal part; and attracting the metal part to the vacuum section to stabilize the metal part.

[0323] In some embodiments, the marker comprises a continuous inkjet printer at the end of the production line, but before the metal part is packaged, stacked, and shipped to a second location.

[0324] In various embodiments, the marker comprises a continuous inkjet printer at the input of the internal coating machine, and the method further comprises spraying the coating onto the internal surface of the metal part.

[0325] Yet another approach consistent with the present disclosure is a metal container comprising a body comprising: an end cap; a side wall extending in an upward direction from the end cap; a neck located at an upper end of the side wall; and a first marking on an outer surface of the body, wherein the first marking is configured to be scanned for tracking and registering the body; and the end cap is connected to the neck of the body by a hermetic seam comprising: a holder wall extending in a downward direction from the seam; a chamfer attached to a lower end of the holder wall; a central panel secured to the chamfer; a tear-off panel defined by a notch on the central panel; a tab operably attached to the central panel; and a second marking on a publicly accessible side of the end cap, wherein the second marking is configured to be scanned for tracking and registering the end cap.

[0326] In some embodiments, the first marking is applied with ink.

[0327] Alternatively, the first marking is applied with material removed from the outer surface of the housing.

[0328] Alternatively, the second marking is applied in ink.

[0329] Alternatively, a second marking is applied with removed material from the publicly accessible side of the end cap.

[0330] The metal container may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments and, alternatively, the unique identifier of the first marking is different from the unique identifier of the second marking.

[0331] In one or more embodiments, the database contains a record associated with a metal container. The first field of the record contains a first identifier associated with a first marking. The second field of the record contains a second identifier associated with a second marking.

[0332] Alternatively, the record contains the first production identifier to identify the first production line that produces the container body.

[0333] Alternatively or alternatively, the record may contain a second production identifier of a second production line that produces the container body. In at least one embodiment, the first production line is located in a first geographic location, and the second production line is located in a second geographic location that is at least 1 km away from the first geographic location.

[0334] In some embodiments, the record includes an identifier of a filler who filled a metal container and sealed the end cap by rolling it onto the container body.

[0335] The metal container may comprise one or more of the preceding embodiments, and the second marking is optionally applied to at least the peripheral fold, the tear-off panel, the rear portion of the tongue, the front portion of the tongue, a portion of the central panel at least partially under the rear portion of the tongue, a surface of the tongue facing the central panel, a surface of the tongue facing away from the central panel, or on the wall of the holder.

[0336] In at least one embodiment, the first marking is applied to the end cap of the housing. Alternatively, the end cap of the housing comprises a dome. The first marking may be located approximately in the center of the dome.

[0337] The "Disclosure" section is in no way intended or construed as representing the entire scope and extent of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is set forth in various levels of detail in this "Disclosure" section, as well as in the accompanying drawings and the "Carrying Out of the Invention" section, and no limitation with respect to the scope of the present disclosure is implied by the inclusion or exclusion of elements, components, etc. in this "Disclosure" section. Additional approaches to the present disclosure will become more apparent from the "Carrying Out of the Invention" section, particularly when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

[0338] The systems, methods, and devices according to this disclosure can be used to apply markings to workpieces and packaging formed from any material. More specifically, the systems, methods, and devices according to this disclosure can be used to mark, track, and record parts, packaging, and container bodies made from paper and other fibrous materials, plastics, glass, metal, and other materials known to those skilled in the art.

[0339] The terms "metal" or "metallic" as used herein refer to any metallic material that may be used to form the container, including, without limitation, aluminum, steel, tin, tin-plated steel, copper, and any combination thereof.

[0340] The terms "sensor", "camera" and "scanner" can be used interchangeably here and generally refer to a device that detects a physical property of an object, in this case a marking, or other characteristic of a metal part.

[0341] Although commonly referred to herein as a "container body" or "metal container," it should be understood that the methods and devices described herein can be used in the production of metal parts and metal packaging of any size, shape, or type used for any purpose. In some embodiments, the metal parts comprise, without limitation, a metal beverage bottle, a metal beverage container, an aluminum bottle, a two-piece container, a two-piece can, a jar, an aerosol container, a three-piece container (e.g., for food), or a metal cup (such as a conical cup). As used herein, the term "container body" can be in the form of any type of container or vessel for food products. The food product can be liquid or solid. In some embodiments, the food product can be a beverage or food.The product may also be a personal care product such as a deodorant, sunscreen, hairspray, etc. In some embodiments, the product may be herbal.

[0342] The container body typically includes a closed end wall, a side wall, and an open end. In some embodiments, the end wall includes a dome. If a dome is present, it is located within a mounting surface or "mounting ring" molded onto the closed end cap. Alternatively, the end wall may typically be flat. The side wall may typically be cylindrical. Alternatively, the side wall is tapered such that the open end has a larger diameter than the closed end cap. In some embodiments, the container body includes a neck between the side wall and the open end.

[0343] References made herein to "end caps" or "container end caps" should not necessarily be construed as limiting the present invention with respect to a particular size, shape, or type of end cap. Those skilled in the art will understand that the systems and methods consistent with the present disclosure can be used to apply markings to an end cap of any kind, size, or type, including an end cap with one or more vents or vents or other areas or features. The end cap may include one or more of the following, but are not limited to: a peripheral bend, a holder wall extending downward from the peripheral bend, a chamfer connected to the lower end of the holder wall, a central panel connected to the chamfer, a tear-off panel in the central panel, and a usable tab connected to the outer surface of the central panel.In some embodiments, the tab is attached to the center panel with a rivet. As used here, the end shell refers to the partial end cap, as it exists at the point of production before the rivet is attached to the center panel. The publicly accessible side of the end cap refers to the side with which people interact. The product side of the end cap refers to the side that will contact the product when the end cap is attached to the container body.

[0344] The terms "sheet" and "continuous sheet" can refer to a piece of material longer than 100 feet (30.5 meters). A sheet can also be referred to as a continuous web of material. The sheet is rolled to form a roll, and the roll is unrolled to form a sheet.

[0345] The systems and methods according to the present disclosure can be used with a container body formed by any method known to those skilled in the art. For example, the container body can be formed by a sheet material drawing and ironing process or an impact molding process. Alternatively, the container body can be formed by an impact molding process or injection molding.

[0346] The expressions "at least one," "one or more," and "and / or," as used herein, are open expressions that are not final expressions that are conjunctive and disjunctive when used. For example, each of the expressions "at least one of A, B, and C," "at least one of A, B, or C," "one or more of A, B, and C," "one or more of A, B, or C," and "A, B, and / or C" means one A, one B, one C, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B, and C together.

[0347] The singular "a," "an," or "an" as used herein refers to one or more such objects. Also, "one," "one or more," and "at least one" may be used interchangeably herein.

[0348] Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities, sizes, conditions, ratios, ranges, etc., used in the description and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about" or "approximately." Accordingly, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities, sizes, conditions, ratios, angles, ranges, etc., used in the description and claims may be increased or decreased by approximately 5% to achieve satisfactory results. Additionally, when the meaning of the terms "about" or "approximately" as used herein cannot otherwise be readily apparent to any person skilled in the art, the terms "about" and "approximately" are to be interpreted as a value within plus or minus 10% of the declared value.

[0349] Unless otherwise stated, the term "substantially" indicates that a difference of 0% to 5% from the stated value is acceptable.

[0350] All ranges specified herein may be reduced to any subrange or portion of the range, or to any value within the range, without departing from the invention. For example, the range "5-55" includes, but is not limited to, the subrange "5-20," as well as the subrange "17-54."

[0351] The use of the words "including," "comprising," or "having," and variations thereof, herein is intended to include the items listed below or their equivalents, as well as additional items. Accordingly, the terms "including," "comprising," or "having," and variations thereof, may be used interchangeably herein.

[0352] It is to be understood that the term "means," as used herein, is to be given its broadest interpretation consistent with §112(f) of Title 35 of the United States Code. Accordingly, claims containing the term "means" shall encompass all structures, materials, or acts set forth herein, and their equivalents. Additionally, structures, materials, or acts, and their equivalents, shall include everything described in the "Disclosure of the Invention," "Brief Description of the Drawings," "Embodiments of the Invention," "Abstract," and "Claims" sections.

[0353] Brief description of drawings

[0354] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a part of the specification, explain embodiments of the disclosed system and, together with the general description of the disclosure given above and the detailed description of the drawings given below, serve to explain the principles of the disclosed system(s) and device(s).

[0355] Fig. 1 - end cap of container body showing prior art marking applied by body forming machine during manufacture of container body;

[0356] Fig. 2A is a production line corresponding to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0357] Fig. 2B - sorting system corresponding to the present disclosure;

[0358] Fig. 3A is a bottom plan view of a section of the production line shown in Fig. 2A;

[0359] Fig. 3B is a top plan view of an orientation system containing a tape according to the present disclosure;

[0360] Fig. 3C is a top plan view of another orientation system containing a rotating plate consistent with the present disclosure;

[0361] Fig. 3D is a top plan view of a stabilization system comprising a lead screw according to the present disclosure;

[0362] Fig. 3E is a side elevation view of the stabilization system shown in Fig. 3D;

[0363] Fig. 3F is a top plan view of another stabilization system comprising a star wheel consistent with the present disclosure;

[0364] Fig. 3G is a side elevation view of a vacuum stabilization system according to the present disclosure;

[0365] Fig. 3H is a top plan view of another stabilization system consistent with the present disclosure;

[0366] Fig. 3I is a side elevation view of the stabilization system shown in Fig. 3H;

[0367] Fig. 3J is a flow chart of the sequence of operations for marking the product side and the public side of the end cap, consistent with the present disclosure;

[0368] Fig. 3K is a bottom plan view of an end cap manufactured by the process shown in Fig. 3J;

[0369] Fig. 3L is a top plan view of the end cover shown in Fig. 3K;

[0370] Fig. 3M is a flow chart of the sequence of operations for marking a metal part before a cup-forming press, corresponding to the present disclosure;

[0371] Fig. 3N is a flow chart of the sequence of operations for marking a container body in front of an internal coating machine, corresponding to the present disclosure;

[0372] Fig. 3O is a flow chart of the sequence of operations for marking the tongue before the conversion press, corresponding to the present disclosure;

[0373] Fig. 3P is a flow chart of the sequence of operations for marking the container body before the stacker, corresponding to the present disclosure;

[0374] Fig. 4A - marking applied to the end cap of the container body, corresponding to the present disclosure;

[0375] Fig. 4B is an enlarged view of the marking shown in Fig. 4A;

[0376] Fig. 5 - a container body tracking and registration system consistent with the present disclosure;

[0377] Fig. 6 is a block diagram of a control system corresponding to the present disclosure; and

[0378] Fig. 7 - block diagram of an embodiment of a data structure for storing data about a container body.

[0379] The drawings are not necessarily (but may be) drawn to scale. In some cases, details that are not necessary for understanding the disclosure or that obscure other details, making them difficult to understand, may be omitted. It should be understood, of course, that the disclosure is not necessarily limited to the embodiments presented herein. It should also be understood that other embodiments are possible, using, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described below. For example, it is contemplated that various features and devices shown and / or described with respect to one embodiment may be combined or replaced with features or devices of other embodiments, regardless of whether such combination or replacement is specifically shown or described herein.

[0380] The following is a list of components corresponding to various embodiments of the present disclosure and shown in the drawings.

[0381] Component Number

[0382] 2 Container body

[0383] 4 End cap or dome of container body

[0384] 6 Marking

[0385] 10 Production Line

[0386] 12 Unwinder

[0387] 14 Sheet

[0388] 16 Arrow showing the direction of movement

[0389] 18 Sheet Section

[0390] 20 The place of the workpiece where the cup will be formed

[0391] 22 Cup-forming press

[0392] 24 Marker

[0393] 26 Marking

[0394] 28 Signs

[0395] 30 Interval

[0396] 32 Conveyor

[0397] 34 Sensor

[0398] 36 Body-forming machine

[0399] 38 Washing machine

[0400] 40 Drying oven

[0401] 42 Substrate Coating Machine

[0402] 44 Substrate Drying Oven

[0403] 46 Decorator

[0404] 48 Oven for drying decoration

[0405] 50 Interior Coating Machine

[0406] 52 Inner Coating Drying Oven

[0407] 54 Die Neck Forming Machine

[0408] 56 Press brake

[0409] 57 Control point

[0410] 58 Sorter

[0411] 59 Stacker

[0412] 60 Warehouse

[0413] 61 Stack Unloader

[0414] 62 Filler

[0415] 64 Trading outlet

[0416] 66 Consumer

[0417] 68 Waste collection point

[0418] 70 X-axis (corresponding to the length of the sheet)

[0419] 72 Y-axis (corresponding to sheet width)

[0420] 100 Control System

[0421] 102 Tire

[0422] 104 Central Processing Unit

[0423] 106 Input Devices

[0424] 108 Output devices

[0425] 110 Storage devices

[0426] 112 Computer-readable media reader

[0427] 114 Communication System

[0428] 116 Working memory

[0429] 118 Processing acceleration block

[0430] 120 Database

[0431] 122 Network

[0432] 124 Remote Storage Device / Database

[0433] 126 Operating System

[0434] 128 Other code

[0435] 130 Data Structure

[0436] 132 First Information Object

[0437] 134 Second Information Object

[0438] 136 Ellipses

[0439] 138 Ellipses

[0440] 140 Recording

[0441] 142 ID

[0442] 144 Manufacturing date

[0443] 146 Production time

[0444] 148 Place of manufacture

[0445] 150 Production Line ID

[0446] 152 Cup-forming press ID

[0447] 154 Other equipment

[0448] 200 Orientation System

[0449] 202 Container body

[0450] 204a, 204b Initial, final orientation

[0451] 205 Counting Line

[0452] 206 Sensor

[0453] 208 Electronic device

[0454] 210a, 210b Tapes

[0455] 212 Orientation System

[0456] 214 Intake

[0457] 216 Sensor

[0458] 218 Electronic device

[0459] 220 Plate

[0460] 221 Direction of rotation

[0461] 222 Servo Motor

[0462] 224 Issue

[0463] 226 Stabilization system

[0464] 228 Cell

[0465] 230 Container

[0466] 232 First direction

[0467] 234 Second Direction

[0468] 236 Lead screw

[0469] 238 Marker

[0470] 240 Test system

[0471] 242 Ejector system

[0472] 244 Gap

[0473] 246 Third Direction

[0474] 248 Stabilization system

[0475] 250 Container

[0476] 252 Star wheel

[0477] 254 Marker

[0478] 256 Scanner

[0479] 258 Pneumatic system

[0480] 260 Stabilization system

[0481] 262 Container

[0482] 264 Vacuum conveying system

[0483] 266 Marker

[0484] 268 Scanner

[0485] 270 Pneumatic system

[0486] 272 Stabilization system

[0487] 274 Cell

[0488] 276 Container

[0489] 278 First direction

[0490] 280 Second direction

[0491] 282a, 282b Side Grip

[0492] 284 Marker

[0493] 286 Scanner

[0494] 288 Pneumatic system

[0495] 290 Process

[0496] 292 Apply the first marking

[0497] 294 Cut out the blank

[0498] 296 Scan the first marking

[0499] 298 Submit transport belt

[0500] 300 Apply the second marking

[0501] 302 Form a sign

[0502] 304 Scan the second marking

[0503] 306 End cap

[0504] 308a, 308b Marking

[0505] 310 Peripheral bend

[0506] 312 Holder wall

[0507] 314 Chamfer

[0508] 316 Central panel

[0509] 318 Notch

[0510] 320 Rivet

[0511] 322 Tongue

[0512] 324a-c Marking

[0513] 326 Process

[0514] 328 Apply marking

[0515] 330 Feed into cup-forming press

[0516] 332 Cut out the blank

[0517] 334 Form a cup

[0518] 336 Process

[0519] 338 Apply marking

[0520] 340 Feeding into the internal spraying machine

[0521] 342 Process

[0522] 344 Apply marking

[0523] 346 Submit to conversion press

[0524] 348 Cut out the blank

[0525] 350 Form the tongue

[0526] 352 Process

[0527] 354 Apply marking

[0528] 356 Stacking.

[0529] Implementation of the invention

[0530] Now turning to Fig. 2A, there is a schematic general view of a production line 10 corresponding to embodiments of the present disclosure. The production line produces container bodies by means of a draw and wall ironing (DWI) process.

[0531] The production line has an uncoiler 12 that unrolls a continuous sheet 14 of metal material. The metal material may be an aluminum alloy or any other metal material (such as steel or tin-plated steel) used for forming container bodies. The continuous sheet has a length extending in the X-axis direction and a width (in the Y-axis direction) between the first long edge and the opposite second long edge. As those skilled in the art will understand, the length of the continuous sheet 14 is significantly greater than its width.

[0532] Uncoiler 12 feeds sheet 14 in the direction indicated by arrow 16 into cup-forming press 22. The cup-forming press cuts round blanks from sheet 14 and forms the blanks into cups. Sheet 14 is fed or drawn into cup-forming press 22 at a certain rate after each cup-forming press cycle. Accordingly, between each cup-forming press cycle, there is a dwell period during which sheet 14 is typically stationary. Some cup-forming presses operate at speeds of up to 250 cycles per minute and can form 12-16 cups per cycle. A typical cup-forming press forms eight cups in one or more rows across the width of the sheet during each cycle.

[0533] Although only one cup-forming press is shown in Fig. 2A, some production lines 10 have two or more cup-forming presses. Accordingly, during a single production cycle, the production line can produce container bodies from sheets 14 of two or more rolls of metal material. Similarly, although only one decoiler 12 is shown, the production line 10 may have any number of decoilers.

[0534] In some embodiments, the production line does not have any unwinders or cup-forming presses. In these embodiments, preforms with markings are fed into the production line and formed into container bodies by a cup-forming machine.

[0535] In some embodiments, the roll loaded into the unwinder 12 contains a plurality of unique markings 26 applied to the sheet 14. The markings are applied at a plurality of blank locations 20 (shown in Fig. 3A) where the cup blanks will be cut by the cup-forming press 22. Specifically, the markings 26 can be applied before the roll is loaded into the unwinder.

[0536] In some embodiments, the markings are applied with a marker from the production facilities that comprise the production line 10. However, in some embodiments, the markings are applied to the sheet 14 before the roll is delivered to the production facilities.

[0537] Alternatively, in some embodiments, the marker 24 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure is placed in the production line 10 between the uncoiler 12 and the cup-forming press 22. In embodiments, the marker 24 is located before the inlet of the cup-forming press 22.

[0538] Marker 24 is configured to apply markings to at least one side of sheet 14 before it is fed into the cup-forming press. In some embodiments, markings 26 are applied to the side of the sheet that forms the outer surface (or "public side") of the container bodies. Alternatively, markings 26 are applied to the side of the sheet that forms the inner surface (or "product side") of the container bodies 2.

[0539] Alternatively, the marker 24 may apply the marking 26 to two or more locations of the workpiece locations 30. Thus, each container body 2 may have a unique marking 26 in two or more locations.

[0540] In some embodiments, marker 24 applies markings only to the first side of the sheet. Alternatively, in other embodiments, marker 24 applies markings only to the second side of the sheet. In still other embodiments, marker 24 applies markings to both the first and second sides of the sheet.

[0541] The marker 24 is configured to apply a marking 26 to each location 20 of the blank where the cup-forming press 22 forms a cup. More specifically, and now referring to Fig. 3A, the marker 24 is configured to apply a marking 26 at each location 20 of the blank on the sheet 14 that will be formed into a cup by the cup-forming press 22. In various embodiments, a plurality of markers 16 apply markings 26 at a plurality of locations 20 of the sheet 14 in order to maintain the production speed of the sheet 14. For example, sixteen markers 16 can be arranged along the width (or Y-dimension 72) of the sheet in order to simultaneously or almost simultaneously mark sixteen locations 20 of the blanks 3a-3p. Thus, with this marking sequence, each marker 26 applies a marking with a unique identifier to one location 20 of the workpiece on the sheet 14. It should be understood that sixteen markers 24 are only an example.In some embodiments in which both sides of the sheet, the product side and the public side, are marked simultaneously, thirty-two markers 24 are used and, in general, embodiments consistent with the present disclosure comprise any number of markers 24 in any configuration to form markings 26 on the sheet.

[0542] In some embodiments, the marker 24 is configured to apply a marking 26 to any portion of the blank location 20 that will subsequently define the lower end cap of the metal container. In some embodiments, the marker 24 will apply the marking to a portion of the blank location that is offset from the center of the lower end cap. Alternatively, the marker may apply the marking 26 approximately at the center of each blank location 20. Positioning the marking approximately at the center of each cup location 20 ensures that the markings will be located approximately at the center of the lower end cap of the metal containers formed by the production line 10.

[0543] Location of the 26 marking on the lower end cap of the container body is preferred for several reasons. First, some container bodies have a recessed dome on the lower end cap. The 26 marking, located on the lower dome, is typically protected from abrasion or wear that could make the marking illegible to the sensor. Furthermore, when metal containers are compressed to a smaller size, they often collapse along the length of the container body, leaving the lower end cap intact and essentially unchanged.

[0544] Applying the marking 26 so that it is located approximately in the center of the location 20 of the blank is also preferable, because during the cup forming by the cup-forming press 22 (and during the process of thinning the sheet material performed by the body-forming machine 36), the end cap 4 of the container body 2 experiences a small deformation. Accordingly, for the marking 26 applied at the location 20 of the blank, which is subsequently formed into the end cap, this means that the marking experiences little (or no) deformation and deterioration due to the operations performed by the cup-forming press 22 or the body-forming machine 36.

[0545] Another advantage of locating marking 26 on the bottom end cap in accordance with the present disclosure is that the bottom end cap is typically unadorned. In contrast, the cylindrical sidewall of the container body is often decorated with ink or covered with a label. Accordingly, by locating the marking on the bottom end cap, the marking is not obscured by decorations and labels and does not detract from the design applied to the cylindrical sidewall.

[0546] Furthermore, markings 26 located on the bottom end cap are easier to detect by sensor 34 as the container body is transported on conveyor 32. For example, as those skilled in the art will understand, some conveyors 32 of a production line transport multiple container bodies, either tightly packed together with their bottom end caps or with their ends open facing the conveyor. Accordingly, a sensor located above or below the conveyor can scan markings on the bottom end cap of the container body.

[0547] In contrast, the cylindrical sidewalls of container bodies may contact the cylindrical sidewalls of several other container bodies. Consequently, markings applied to the cylindrical sidewall of a container body are often obscured by other container bodies and blocked from being viewed by the sensor.

[0548] In some embodiments, the marker 24 may apply the marking 26 to a portion of the blank location 20 that will form the end cap 4 of the container body 2. Alternatively, the marker 24 may apply the marking 26 to a portion of the blank location 20 that will form a side wall or a cylindrical portion of the container body 2. The marking 26 may be applied to the side of the sheet that subsequently defines the outer surface ("public side") or the inner surface ("product side") of the container body.

[0549] Alternatively, the first marker 24 is arranged to apply a first marking 26 to the first side of the first blank location 20 on the continuous sheet 14. The second marker 24 is arranged to apply the same first marking 26 to the second side of the first blank location 20 on the continuous sheet. Thus, in some embodiments, the first marking can be applied to both sides of the continuous sheet of the first blank location 20, where the blank will be cut from the continuous sheet. Accordingly, the container body 2 can have the first marking 26 located on its outer surface. The same first marking 26 can be repeated on the inner surface of the container body 2.

[0550] Alternatively, the first marking applied to the first side of the first blank location 20 is approximately opposite the location of the first marking applied to the second side of the first blank location. Alternatively, the first marking on the first side is offset relative to the first marking on the second side. Thus, the first marking may be located on the end cap on the first surface of the container body, and the first marking may be located on the side wall of the second surface of the container body.

[0551] In some embodiments, the marker 24 applies markings for each cup location 20 during each cycle of the cup-forming press 22. Alternatively, the marker 24 applies markings 26 while the sheet 14 is stationary. For example, the marker 24 can apply markings during a delay period during which the continuous sheet 14 does not advance into the cup-forming press 22. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the continuous sheet is typically stationary when applying markings 26.

[0552] In some embodiments, the marker 24 is configured to apply the marking 26 while the continuous sheet 14 is moving. For example, the marker 24 may be configured to move along with the continuous sheet. In some embodiments, the marker may be aimed or controlled such that the marking is applied as the continuous sheet moves.

[0553] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the marker comprises a laser that can be aimed to apply marking 26 while the sheet is moving. In some embodiments, the marker 24 comprises a mirror or lens to adjust the beam from the laser onto the sheet 14 as the sheet moves.

[0554] Accordingly, in some embodiments, the marker 24 may apply the marking 26 while the continuous sheet 14 is stationary, while the continuous sheet 14 is moving, or while the continuous sheet is stationary or moving.

[0555] Now, as shown in Fig. 3A, in one embodiment, all markings 26A applied on the first section 18A of the sheet are applied by the marker substantially simultaneously. Likewise, markings 26B on the second section 18B are applied substantially simultaneously. The third section 18C of the sheet is typically shown as being aligned with the marker 24 for applying markings 26C.

[0556] The markings 26 are unique for each location 20 of a cup that will be cut from the sheet 14 by the cup-forming press 22. In some embodiments, the control system 100 communicates with the marker 24. The control system 100 can create markings that the marker applies to the sheet.

[0557] In some embodiments, each marking 26 contains a unique code that identifies one container body 2. The marking may be a unique sequence of numbers. In some embodiments, such a marking is an alphanumeric code.

[0558] Alternatively, each marking 26 may contain one or more of the following: (a) a unique container body identifier; (b) a date of manufacture; (c) a time of manufacture; (d) a location of manufacture; (e) a production line identifier; (f) a lot number; (g) a shift identifier; (h) a sheet material specification (such as the type of aluminum alloy or other sheet material); (i) an identifier of the manufacturer of the coil from which the sheet is unrolled; (j) an identifier or serial number of the coil; (k) the position of the marking on the sheet (such as the X, Y coordinates of the position of the marking); (l) the weight of the container body; and (m) the name of the filler or other customer who ordered the container.

[0559] Markings 26 may contain any combination of characters, letters, numbers, symbols, spaces (or empty spaces), and machine-readable codes, arranged in any order or orientation and of any size. In some embodiments, markings 26 are data matrix codes, bar codes, quick response (QR) codes, and the like.

[0560] Now turning to Figs. 3B and 3C, examples of orientation systems are shown. Fig. 3B shows an orientation system 200 containing at least one tape, and Fig. 3C shows an orientation system 212 containing a rotating plate and a servomotor. These orientation systems change the orientation of a metal part before marking to ensure that the marking is applied to the metal part in the desired location so that the marking does not interact with other features on the metal part or features that will be applied to the metal part. Although these drawings of the orientation system show container bodies oriented for marking around the longitudinal axis, it should be understood that the orientation systems can reorient any metal part described herein in any direction.

[0561] Fig. 3B shows a top plan view of an orientation system 200 that changes the orientation of a container body 202 from a first orientation 204a to a second orientation 204b before marking the container body 202, which ensures that the markings are properly applied in the same location on the container bodies. This change in orientation 204a, 204b is shown by a reference line 205. Orientation in this embodiment means the orientation of the container body around a longitudinal or vertical axis. As the container bodies 202 approach the orientation system 200, the container bodies 202 can be transported through a belt system, a cellular system, etc., where the container bodies 202 have a random orientation. In this case, the container bodies 202 need a certain orientation before marking.

[0562] In some embodiments, camera 206 or another sensor detects the first orientation 204a of container body 202 before container body 202 contacts the pair of belts 210a, 210b of orientation system 200. Camera 206 transmits video information to electronic device 208 (such as control system 100), which determines the first orientation 204a of container body 202. Specifically, the image of incoming container body 202 is compared with the reference image to determine the first orientation 204a. For example, if the container body 202 has a marking or design on the outer surface, then the electronic device 208 compares the marking or design with one or more reference images to determine whether the container body 202 is 5 degrees, 43 degrees, 163 degrees, etc. out of alignment with the second orientation 204b for the marking.Alternatively or additionally, markings or design within the container body 202 are used to determine the orientation of the container body 202.

[0563] When the first orientation 204a is determined, the electronic device 208 controls the two belts 210a, 210b to change the orientation of the container body 202 from the first orientation 204a to the second orientation 204b. The belts 210a, 210b are located on both sides of the container body 202, and the surface of each belt 210a, 210b that comes into contact with the outer surface of the container body 202 usually moves in the same direction as the flow of the container bodies 202. However, each of the belts 210a, 210b changes its respective rotation speed to reorient the container body 202. For example, if the first orientation 204a of the container body 202 is to be reoriented 15 degrees in a clockwise direction to occupy the second orientation 204b, then the first belt 210a rotates faster than the second belt 210b on a relative basis to rotate the container body 202 as the container body 202 passes between the belts 210a, 210b.When, by chance, the first orientation 204a of the container body 202 is equal to the second orientation 204a, then the belts 210a, 210b switch to idle motion, allowing the container body 202 to pass by. In other words, the belts 210a, 210b rotate at the same speed to ensure that the container body 202 leaves the belts 210a, 210b with the corresponding second orientation 204b.

[0564] Figure 3C shows another orientation system 212 in which a servomotor changes the orientation of a container body. The orientation system 212 has an inlet 214 to receive container bodies having random or unwanted orientations, and has an outlet 224 to transport container bodies with the same or desired orientation. Like the orientation system 200 in Figure 3B, the orientation system 212 in Figure 3C has a camera 216 and an electronic device 218 (such as a control system 100) that determine a first or initial orientation of the container body as the container body passes through the inlet 214. The container body is then transported, for example, on a plate 220 or on a turntable having at least one servomotor 222. The container body is held in place by a vacuum system on the servomotor 222. The vacuum system draws air through at least one opening to attract the container body toward the servomotor 222.As the plate 220 moves in the direction of rotation 221, the electronic device 218 controls the servomotor 222 to reorient the container body from the first orientation to the second orientation. The servomotor 222 may be any electromagnetic servomechanism that converts electrical energy or electrical signals into physical motion, in this case, rotational motion. After rotation to the proper second orientation, the vacuum system releases the container body, which leaves the plate 220 and the servomotor 222 and is transported from the orientation system 212 to the outlet 224. Although Fig. 3C shows the plate 220 to accommodate servomotors and other devices, other devices, such as a star wheel, may also be used to reorient the container bodies.

[0565] Now turning to Figs. 3D-3I, which show examples of stabilization systems. Figs. 3D and 3E show a stabilization system 226 containing a lead screw, Fig. 3F shows a stabilization system 248 containing a star wheel, Fig. 3G shows a stabilization system 260 containing a vacuum transport system, and Figs. 3H and 3I show a stabilization system 372 with a side gripper system. The stabilization systems hold the metal part to reduce random movement, such as jostling, while the marker applies a marking to the metal part. The reduction of random movements results in a clearer and more distinct marking, which is easier to scan in subsequent operations. Although the stabilization systems in these drawings show container bodies being stabilized for marking, it should be understood that the stabilization systems can stabilize any metal part described herein.

[0566] Figures 3D and 3E show a stabilization system 226 that stabilizes a container body 230 to reduce random movement, such as jostling, when a marker 238 applies a marking to the container body 230. The stabilization system 226 in this embodiment uses a lead screw 236 to receive and stabilize the container bodies 230. Specifically, the container bodies 230 move, for example, in a cell system 228 in a first direction 232. The longitudinal axes of the container bodies are oriented in a second direction 234, perpendicular to the first direction 232. The lead screw 236 in this embodiment has a threaded outer surface, and the lead screw 236 rotates around an axis oriented in the first direction 232.As the container body 230 moves the lead screw 236, the container body 230 is located between adjacent peaks or ribs of the threaded outer surface, the lead screw 236 at least partially moves the container body 230 in a third direction 246, perpendicular to both the first and second directions 232, 234. The movement fastens the container body 230 to the wall or part of the cell system 228 in order to stabilize the container body 230 so that the marker 238 can apply a distinct marking to the container body 230.

[0567] The wall 228 may typically be flat. The wall extends in a first direction 232, substantially parallel to the axis of rotation of the lead screw. Alternatively, the lead screw 236 may fasten the container body 230 to a belt that moves at the same speed as the lead screw 236 to prevent the container body 230 from rotating as the container body 230 stabilizes.

[0568] After the marking is applied and the marked container body moves away from the lead screw 236, the scanner 240 detects or takes a photograph of the marking to determine whether the marking meets the specified standards. If it does not meet the specified standards, the ejector 242 selectively rejects the container body 230 with the non-standard marking through the gap 244 in the cell system 228. In some embodiments, the ejector 242 has a drive that pushes the rejected container bodies through the gap. Alternatively, the ejector 242 may include a pneumatic system that blows the rejected container bodies through the gap.

[0569] Figure 3F shows a stabilization system 248 comprising a star wheel 252. Container bodies 250 move in a flow on a conveyor (e.g., in a cell system) to the star wheel 252, which at least partially enters the cell system to receive the container bodies 250. When the container body 250 enters the recess on the star wheel 252, any accidental movement is eliminated or at least significantly reduced. As the star wheel 252 rotates the container body 250, a marker applies a marking to the container body 250. A scanner 256 then reads the marking to determine whether the marking meets predetermined standards. Similar to the embodiment described in Figure 3D and 3E, the ejector 258 (such as a pneumatic system) selectively rejects the container body 250 with non-standard marking.

[0570] Figure 3G shows a stabilization system 260 comprising a vacuum transport system 264. Air is drawn through at least one opening in the vacuum transport system 264, so that the container bodies 262, passing, for example, through a cell system, are attracted, for example, to the vacuum transport system 264. In some embodiments, the air is drawn through a mesh belt, as described herein. This reduces random movement, such as crushing of the container bodies 262, and allows the marker 266 to apply a clear and distinct marking to the container body 262. In addition, the scanner 268 reads and evaluates the marking, and the pneumatic system 270 selectively rejects the container body 262 with a non-standard marking. Fig. 3G generally represents containers 262 oriented with their cylindrical side walls closest to the vacuum conveying system 264.However, in other embodiments, the stabilization system 260 is configured to handle containers with a closed or open end cap oriented near the vacuum transport system.

[0571] Figures 3H and 3I show a stabilization system 272 that grips container bodies 276 to reduce their movements, such as jostling. The container bodies 276 are transported in a cell system 274 in a first direction 278, and the longitudinal axes of the container bodies 276 are oriented in a second direction 280, perpendicular to the first direction 278. As the container bodies 276 move into the stabilization system 272, the projections 282a, 282b approach and contact the container bodies 276 from opposite sides to reduce movement. In some embodiments, the projections 282a, 282b contact the container body 276 at the bottom near the end cap, since this part of the container body 276 is more rigid. This stabilization system 272 has the additional advantage of stabilizing the container bodies individually, where one pair of projections 282a, 282b comes into contact with one container body 276.Thus, the projections 282a, 282b can contact the container body 276 in different ways depending on the amount of movement of the container body 276. For example, if the container body 276 moves a large amount, the projections 282a, 282b can contact the container body 276 at a slower speed in order to reduce the likelihood of damage to the container body 276. Then, the marker 284 applies a marking to the container body 276. The individual nature of the stabilization also improves synchronization with respect to the marker 284, since the container body 276 is always precisely located between the two projections 282a, 282b. As in other stabilization systems, the scanner 286 evaluates the markings and the ejector 288 selectively rejects the container body 276 with a non-standard marking.

[0572] Now referring to Figs. 3J and 3M-3P, which show flow charts of the operations of various marking systems and processes. Although the drawings show the order of operations performed during the process, it should be understood that these operations can be performed in any order. Furthermore, it should be understood that the marking operation can be performed at any point in the production line of the manufacturing process, from the roll to the finished product, as described herein, or even in subsequent places and / or processes. Fig. 3J shows a flow chart 290 of the operations of marking on the product side and on the publicly accessible side of the end shell, and an example of such an end shell is shown in Figs. 3K and 3L. Marking the end shell on the product side allows for tracking and recording the end shell during the manufacturing process.Markings can be scanned at various points along the production line and the resulting data is then compiled into one or more database records to identify any defects in the sheet material, machines in the production line, etc.

[0573] First, unique first markings are applied to 292 known blank locations on the product side of the sheet metal. Accordingly, a record of the first marking and its location can be created in the database without having to scan the first marking. This record can be created before, during, or after the actual application of the first marking to the sheet metal. Thus, the markings appear in the database at known blank locations on the sheet metal.

[0574] The marker is an inkjet printer that applies food-grade ink to a sheet to perform the initial markings. In some embodiments, the marker is a continuous inkjet printer or a drop-on-demand (DoD) inkjet printer. It is not obvious that the marking must be on the product side of the metal part, as this side of the metal part defines the interior of the resulting container that comes into contact with the contents consumed by humans, and damage to the product side can adversely affect the contents. For example, a marker that destroys a protective liner or coating on the product side can render the liner or coating ineffective. Similarly, a marker that destroys the metal material can cause oxidation or other processes that render the contents unfit for human consumption.However, an inkjet printer can use food-grade ink that will not degrade the liner or coating or render the container's contents unsafe for human consumption. Although an inkjet printer is shown and described, it should be understood that the marker can be any type of marker described herein.

[0575] The blanks are then cut 294 from the sheet and formed into end shells using a shell press. Each end shell has a unique first mark on the product side. The first mark of each end shell, or at least some of the end shells, is then scanned 296 at a subsequent point on the production line to create a scan event. This scan event is transmitted to the database 120, 124 via the network, where the record associated with the first mark is updated to contain this scan event. Subsequent scan events of first marks are also transmitted to the database and stored in records, where the compiled data can be used for subsequent analysis.For example, if blanks positioned on one side across or along the width in the Y direction of a metal sheet result in substandard end caps, there may be a problem with the unwinding process, the winding process, the indexing process, etc. Similarly, if all blanks from a particular metal sheet result in substandard end caps, there may be a problem with the quality of the material used to manufacture the metal sheet. On a cladding press, unacceptably small features such as a panel or chamfer are traced to a defective component of the cladding press, similar to, for example, the pneumatic system for operating components of a cladding press. Similarly, poor trimming along the outer edge of an end cap is traced to a defective component in the production line.

[0576] On balance beams, such as Balance Beam A or Balance Beam B, end shells are arranged in stacks, and an end shell at one end of the stack protrudes such that the marking on this end shell is read by the scanner. All end shells between this protruding end shell and the protruding end shell of the previous and / or subsequent scan are therefore known to the database. For example, end shells can be loaded into the stack in the same sequence in which the end shells were marked. In another example, the scanner detects markings on the end shells as the end shells are loaded into the stack, and therefore the end shells between successive scans are known to the database. An entire stack of end shells can be placed in a warehouse, placed on a pallet, loaded into a subsequent process such as a conversion press, etc., and the database tracks and records each end shell in these locations.For example, each conversion press in a production line may have four belts, and the notching tool may be improperly shimmed or machined, creating defective end caps that won't open. By subsequently scanning and recording the end caps and markings in one or more database records, the defective tool is quickly identified and fixed.

[0577] For the filler, the consumer may associate the marking on the end cap or container body with the specific sealing head used to fill the container. Therefore, data such as carbonation level, product temperature, and so on are known and linked to the marking. Additionally, on the seamer, cameras inspect the shape of the seal on the end cap, which is pressed onto the end of the container body to form the finished container. These cameras also detect one or more markings on the end cap or container body and associate them, for example, with a reduced paste amount on one or more end caps. An example production line might have six paste-applying machines, and each paste-applying machine has six guns that apply paste to the end caps.Based on data collected in one or more database records, low paste weights are tracked and recorded to the paste applicator and specific gun, which is then recorded. Similar relationships are optionally established in the pasteurizer regarding pasteurization and / or sterilization conditions, as well as in the packer's filler. These situations and analyses are exemplary in nature, and embodiments consistent with the present disclosure encompass additional uses and analyses of data based on labels and scanning events.

[0578] After the first marking is applied to the product side of the end shell, a second marking is applied to the public side of the end shell. The first marking is used for tracking and logging during the production process, and the second marking is used for tracking and logging the finished container after the production process, for example, at the filler, distributor, retailer, and / or end user. As described here, the user can scan the second marking with a mobile device camera to link the second marking and the container to the mobile device, for example, to promote and track container recycling. These markings may be used for more than just these purposes. For example, the second marking may also be used for tracking and logging during the production process.Placing the first marking on the product side of the end shell can be beneficial, as markings in this location are less likely to interfere with forming operations performed on the publicly accessible side of the end shell during the manufacturing process. Furthermore, at certain points during the manufacturing process, such as during transport, the product side may be the only clearly visible side, and thus the first marking can be scanned to create a scanning event without the costly and complex operation of flipping or reorienting the end shell.

[0579] In some embodiments, the second marking is performed in the conversion press, including at the inlet of the conversion press. First, the end shell is fed 298 into a recess on the conversion press's transport belt. The transport belt is made of a flexible material, and therefore, the end shell is held in the recess and maintains a constant orientation as it passes through the conversion press. This feature of the transport belt can also advantageously help eliminate the need for orientation and stabilization systems, since the end shell is stably held in a constant orientation. The transport belt moves periodically, since the dwell period is related to the operation of the conversion press, that is, when the various tools of the conversion press interact with the end shell. In some embodiments, the dwell period is from 0.03 to 0.08 seconds.A marker, such as a laser or inkjet printer, can be placed at the inlet of the converting press, where the laser, during a delay period, applies a second mark to a predetermined area of ​​the exposed side of the end shell. The laser partially removes material on the exposed side of the end shell to apply the second mark, which can be a coating, varnish, or even part of the end shell itself. However, it should be understood that the marker can be any type of marker described herein.

[0580] Alternatively, a marker may be placed at a tooling location within a conversion press. In some embodiments, the marker is located between a first tooling location and a second tooling location within the conversion press. Conversion presses have a sequence of tooling operations that convert an end shell into a finished end cap. In one process, a laser removes material from the end shell. Then, a rivet is formed on the end shell, a notch is applied, and the tongue is attached to the rivet of the end shell. This process is exemplary and may include fewer or more operations performed in any order. In particular, the laser may remove material before the forming operations as the end shell is cleaned at the beginning of the conversion press, but it should be understood that the laser or any marker may be installed at any point during the conversion press operations.In some embodiments, the marker is located between the first forming section and the second forming section of the conversion press.

[0581] Features formed by the conversion press on the end shell are positioned within a predetermined area along with a second marking, such that the second marking does not affect the features, and vice versa. Again, the constant orientation of the end shell within the conveyor belt means that tools, including the marker, can apply markings and features without interference. The second marking is then sequentially scanned 304 in the production facility and / or outside the production facility to facilitate tracking and recording systems, in conjunction with the end user, to promote, for example, recycling, as described here.

[0582] The first and second markings may be identical in some embodiments. Thus, the database 120, 124, which immediately stores the scanning events, links the end-user scanning events of the second marking with the production scanning events of the first marking in the record in the database 120, 124. In other embodiments, the first and second markings differ, and the second marking is applied to the metal part later than the first marking. In some embodiments, the first marking is known to the database because the second marking is applied to the metal part. Therefore, the first and second markings are linked in the record in the database 120, 124. In other embodiments, the first marking is detected by the scanner to link the first and second markings in the record in the database 120, 124.For example, a vacuum belt engages and holds the exposed side of an end cap at the outlet of a conversion press to transport the end cap, where a first marking is applied to the product side of the end cap. Thus, in the conversion press, a second marking is applied to the exposed side of the end cap. A camera then detects the first marking on the end cap shell, and the first and second markings are linked to each other in a database entry. Alternatively, the first and second markings may be unrelated.

[0583] The second marking is applied to any portion of the publicly accessible side of the end shell. In some embodiments, the second marking is applied to a portion of the tear-off panel of the end cap's central panel. This second marking may be at least partially covered or obscured by the tab until the tab is actuated to tear off the tear-off panel. In various embodiments, the second marking is applied to a portion of the tab itself. It may be located on the side of the tab facing the central panel or on the side of the tab facing away from the central panel. The second marking may be applied to the rear portion or the front portion of the tab. Additionally, the second marking may be applied to a ribbed portion on the rear portion of the tab that replaces the finger hole in the tab.

[0584] The advantages of applying markings to both the product side and the publicly accessible side are significant and outweigh the additional costs associated with providing and maintaining two separate markers for each side. Specifically, applying the first marking to the product side is preferable because the marking can be applied early during end cap production and then scanned before, during, or after subsequent operations to collect data on the production process, equipment, and tooling used in subsequent operations. Applying the second marking to the publicly accessible side is preferable because it allows for tracking of the end cap and container body seal. This allows the end cap's service life to be tracked from the beginning of the production process to its disposal at the end of its service life.

[0585] Figures 3K and 3L show a bottom plan view and a top plan view, respectively, of an end cap 306 formed from an end shell. In Figure 3K, some exemplary first markings 308a, 308b are located in different locations on the end cap 306. The first marking may be applied in one or more of these locations or in other locations. The first marking is applied to the product side of the end shell on a sheet or on a part that is formed into the end shell, and in some embodiments, the first marking is applied by a continuous inkjet printer with food-grade ink. Other marking methods may interact with a film or coating on the product side of the end cap 306 or otherwise interact with a portion of the end cap that contacts the contents of the finished container.The first marking 308a may be located in the center of the end cap 306 for easier readability, or, for example, the first marking 308b may be positioned off-center to avoid interference with a feature such as a rivet or with a process performed at some point in the production line, such as a conversion press. Although a continuous inkjet printer is mentioned herein, it should be understood that the marker applying the first marking 308a, 308b may be any marker described herein.

[0586] Figure 3L shows the public side of the end cap 306, which has a peripheral bend 310, a holder wall 312, a chamfer 314 and a central panel 316. The scoring line 318 defines a tear panel, which is optionally opened to access the contents of the finished container. The public side of the rivet 320 is shown with a tongue 322 operatively connected thereto. The user lifts the rear part of the tongue 322 to insert the front part of the tongue 322 into the tear panel and make a tear along the scoring line 318. Various second markings 324a, 324b, 324c are shown in several exemplary locations. The second marking may be applied in one or more of these locations or in other locations. In some embodiments, the laser applies the second marking by partially removing material, which is faster and / or more efficient than some other marking technologies.However, it should be understood that the second marking can be applied by any marker described here.

[0587] Although the first and second markings are described as located on the product side and the publicly accessible side of the end cap, respectively, it should be understood that the present disclosure encompasses a variety of embodiments and combinations of markings and metal parts. For example, in some embodiments, the first marking is applied to the first part, and the second marking is applied to the second part, where the first and second parts are configured to be combined with each other to form, at least partially, a finished container. For example, in some embodiments, the first marking is applied to the first metal part, which is molded into the container body.The first marking can be applied to either the product side or the publicly accessible side of the metal part. This marking is used to track and record the metal part during the manufacturing process and even in subsequent processes and other locations. The second marking is applied to the publicly accessible side of the second metal part, which is formed into the end cap. This second marking can be used to track and record the second metal part during the manufacturing process. Since the second marking is on the publicly accessible side of the end cap, this second marking can be used to track and record the finished container through end-user applications.

[0588] For example, in a seaming machine, first and second markings on first and second metal parts can be linked. This can be accomplished by one or more scanners that read the first and second markings and transmit one or more scanning events to a database. These scanning events associated with the first and second markings update one or more existing database records related to the first and second markings. In some embodiments, the first metal part has a marking on the public side, which is used for tracking and logging through end-user applications, and the second metal part has a marking on the product side, which is used for tracking and logging at least at the end of the production process.In various embodiments, a given metal part has multiple markings, some on the publicly accessible side and some on the product side. Further, other metal parts have their own unique markings for tracking and recording at the end of the manufacturing process. Thus, in an exemplary embodiment, the end cap has a first marking on the product side and a second marking on the publicly accessible side, the tab has a marking, and the container body has a marking. These embodiments are exemplary in nature, and the present disclosure encompasses various combinations of markings on different sides of the metal parts that form the finished container.

[0589] Figure 3M shows a process 326 for applying markings to a sheet from which a cup and a container body are formed. As described above with reference to Figure 3J, a marker applies 328 a plurality of markings to a sheet of metallic material, such as aluminum. In this embodiment, the markings are applied to the public side of the sheet at known blank locations. In some embodiments, the marker is a laser that removes a portion of the sheet material, but it should be understood that the marker can be any type of marker described herein. The sheet is fed in steps 330 into a cup-forming press, which cuts 332 blanks from the blank locations on the sheet. Dwell periods, during which the sheet is substantially stationary, are determined between each step of the sheet. During the dwell period, the cup-forming press cuts the blanks, and the laser can mark the sheet during the dwell period.Each finished blank is marked on the publicly accessible side. The blanks are then formed into cups using a cup-forming press, and the cups are formed into container bodies. The marking is located on the closed end of the cup and container body, which serves as the dome of the finished container because, as described here, markings on the dome are less susceptible to damage than other areas of the container.

[0590] Figure 3N shows a process 336 in which a metal part, such as a container body, is marked 338, for example, using a continuous inkjet printer. However, it should be understood that the marker can be any type of marker described herein. The marking is applied to the end cap of the container body, such as a dome, but it should be understood that the marking can be applied to any area of ​​the container body or metal part. The container body is then fed 340 to an internal coating machine, where the coating is applied to the inner surface of the container body.

[0591] Figure 3O shows a process 342 in which markings are again applied 344 to a sheet of metallic material, such as aluminum. The marker is a laser that removes a portion of the sheet material, particularly the sheet coating, but it should be understood that the marker can be any type of marker described herein. In this embodiment, the sheet with markings is fed 346 to a conversion press, where the conversion press cuts 348 blanks from the sheet, and each blank has a marking. The blanks are then formed 350 into tabs. As discussed herein, the markings can be located on any area of ​​the finished tab.

[0592] Figure 3P shows a process 352 in which a metal part, such as a container body, is marked 354, for example, using a continuous inkjet printer. However, it should be understood that the marker can be any type of marker described herein. The marking is applied to a portion of the body label on the container body, but it should be understood that the marking can be applied to any portion of the container body or metal part. The marked container body is then combined with at least one other container body in a stacker 356 for shipping.

[0593] Now turning to Figs. 4A, 4B, examples of markings 26 applied in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure are generally shown. As shown in Fig. 4B, markings 26 may comprise a sequence of characters 28 and spaces 30. In the example of Fig. 4B, characters 28 are typically round "dots" or have shapes that are typically round. In some embodiments, characters and spaces are organized into rows and columns. However, markings 26 in other shapes may be created by marker 24 according to the present disclosure.

[0594] The marker may use any suitable method known to those skilled in the art to apply the marking 26 to the sheet. For example, the marker 24 may use ink to apply the marking 26. In some embodiments, the marker comprises a digital print head, such as an inkjet print head, to apply the marking 26. In some embodiments, the ink is ultraviolet ink, such that the marking becomes visible when exposed to ultraviolet light.

[0595] Additionally or alternatively, the marker can use an electrophotographic printing system to apply markings. Accordingly, marking 26 can be applied using toner.

[0596] In some embodiments, marking 26 is applied by exposing the coating of continuous sheet 14 to a light source. The coating may be a photoreactive ink. Alternatively, the light source is a laser. Accordingly, markings may be applied by exposing selected areas of the photoreactive ink to a laser.

[0597] Alternatively, the marker 24 is configured to apply the marking 26 without contacting the sheet 14. In some embodiments, to apply the marking 26, the marker 24 contacts the sheet 14.

[0598] In some embodiments, the marker applies the marking 26 by etching or engraving the continuous sheet 14.

[0599] In some embodiments, the marker 24 comprises at least one laser to mark at least one side of the sheet 14 before it is fed into the cup-forming press 22. The marker 24 may be any number of lasers to apply the marking 26. Alternatively, the marker 24 has one laser to apply the marking 26 to one side of the sheet.

[0600] Marker 24 may include any known optical elements to direct, control, focus, or move the laser beam. For example, the manufacturer may include one or more mirrors, lenses, refractive elements, reflective elements, and electron beam splitters to apply marking 26.

[0601] Alternatively, the marker may comprise a single laser capable of applying two or more markings approximately simultaneously. For example, the marker may comprise laser and optical elements for splitting the laser beam into two or more beams. Additionally, the marker may comprise optical elements for directing two or more beams to apply two or more distinct, unique markings to the sheet.

[0602] In some embodiments, the marker comprises at least one laser for applying a marking 26 at each location 20 of the blank for each cup that will be formed during the stroke of the cup-forming press. For example, in a production line 10 with a cup-forming press 22 that forms 16 cups in one stroke (as generally shown in Fig. 3A), the marker may have 16 lasers to apply 16 unique markings for each location 20 of the blank where a cup will be formed.

[0603] In some embodiments, marker 24 comprises a mirror and / or other optical elements for directing the laser beam. Alternatively, each laser of marker 24 may have at least one mirror or other optical element for directing its beam. Alternatively, or alternatively, an actuator may be coupled to the laser of marker 24 to direct or focus the laser beam.

[0604] The marker 24 is configured to apply markings 26 on the continuous sheet during each processing cycle of the continuous sheet in the cup-forming press 22. In some embodiments, the marker 24 can apply markings at a rate of up to 400 cycles per minute. In some embodiments, the marker 24 applies markings 26 in a range from about 0.001 seconds to about 0.5 seconds. Additionally or alternatively, the marker 24 can apply each marking in a range from about 0.01 seconds to about 0.4 seconds. Alternatively, the marker 24 can apply a marking approximately every 0.16 seconds. In other embodiments, the marker applies markings in less than about 0.3 seconds.

[0605] Any suitable laser known to those skilled in the art can be used with the marker 24 according to the present disclosure. In embodiments, the marker 24 can be one or more Nd:YAG lasers (also known as neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet lasers). In various embodiments, the laser is a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser with a wavelength of 10.6-9.3 microns or a neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet laser (Nd:Y3Al5O 12 ).

[0606] In further embodiments, the laser is a fiber optic laser in which the active gain medium is a light guide doped with rare earth elements such as erbium, ytterbium, neodymium, dysprosium, praseodymium, thulium and / or holmium.

[0607] In some embodiments, the laser has a wavelength of approximately 1.064 μm. Additionally or alternatively, the laser may have an output power of approximately 40 watts to approximately 140 watts of applied power, with approximately 80% of such power delivered to the target area of ​​sheet 14.

[0608] In some embodiments, the laser produces pulsed or intermittent laser light. For example, the laser may optionally produce pulses with a frequency of approximately 3,000 Hz to approximately 65,000 Hz. Preferably, the output laser pulses are relatively stable in that there is little change in power level from pulse to pulse.

[0609] In some embodiments, the laser has sufficient power to change the metallic material of the continuous sheet 14. More specifically, the marker 24 comprises any laser of sufficient power to noticeably change the continuous sheet 14 to apply the marking 26. In some embodiment, the marker laser oxidizes the material of the continuous sheet. The laser can vaporize or remove the material of the continuous sheet 14 to a sufficient extent to apply a visible mark or indicia 28, such as a "dot," circle, or other marking. For example, the laser can partially melt the material of the sheet 14. Alternatively, the laser can vaporize or change the coating of the sheet 14.

[0610] In some embodiments, the laser has sufficient power to apply a marking 26 recessed into the continuous sheet 14 to a predetermined depth. Specifically, in some embodiments, the laser of the marker 24 can apply the marking 26 to a depth of up to approximately 0.002 inches (0.00508 cm).

[0611] The control system 100 can store information about the marking 26 for each container body in a database. The information can include data about the location of each marking applied to the sheet 14. For example, the coordinates of each marking 26 applied to the sheet 14 can be stored by the control system 100 in a memory, such as a record 140 in the database 120, 124. Any suitable system for describing the location of the markings can be used. In some embodiments, the position of each marking can be described by a position along the length of the sheet (respectively, along the X axis or a distance 70 along the X) and the width of the sheet (respectively, along the Y axis or a distance 72 along the Y). In this way, data can be collected about the uniformity of the sheet 14 along its length and its width as the container bodies are formed on the production line. This data can provide useful information about the sheet supplier, sheet composition variations, and sheet thickness variations 14.The labeling record may also contain a field for storing the chemical composition of the metal material of the roll from which the container body is formed, the date of manufacture of the roll, and the location of the plant that manufactured the roll.

[0612] Furthermore, collecting data on the location of each marking applied to the sheet facilitates identification of which die installed on the cup-forming press produces each cup. In this way, the performance of each set of dies installed on the cup-forming press can be monitored and compared with other sets of dies on the cup-forming press.

[0613] Referring again to Fig. 2A, in some embodiments, after the marker 24 applies the marking 26 to the sheet 14 and the cup-forming press 22 creates cups, the cups are transported by the conveyor 32 to the body-forming machine 36. The production line 10 may have two or more body-forming machines 36. Some production lines have seven or more body-forming machines.

[0614] Alternatively, sensor 34A is located at the inlet of each body-forming machine 36. At the inlet, the container bodies are preferably arranged in a single row, exposing markings 26 for scanning by the sensor. Additionally or alternatively, sensor 34A may be located at the outlet end of body-forming machine 36.

[0615] In some embodiments, the first sensor is located at the beginning (or inlet) of each section of equipment that processes or performs an operation on the container body. Additionally or alternatively, the second sensor may be located at the end (or outlet) of each section of equipment. Alternatively, some sections of equipment may have a sensor at both the inlet and outlet of the equipment.

[0616] Each sensor 34 is configured to read the marking on each cup introduced into the body-forming machine 36. Any suitable sensor known to those skilled in the art can be used in the production line 10 according to the present disclosure.

[0617] Production line 10 may have any number of sensors 34 for scanning markings anywhere on the container body. Furthermore, the production line may have two or more types of sensors or sensors with different capabilities.

[0618] For example, some sensors 34 may be located and configured to read the marking 26 on the outer surface of the container body 2. Accordingly, in some embodiments, sensors 34 installed at the inlet or outlet of the body forming machine 36, the substrate applying machine 42, the decorator 46, the inner coating applying machine 50, the neck forming section 54, the edging press 54, the seaming machine 56 and in other places where the container bodies are transported along a single line, may have a sensor configured to read the marking on the outer surface of the container bodies.

[0619] At least one sensor may be positioned and configured to read markings on the inner surface of a container body. Thus, container bodies transported on a heavy-duty conveyor may have markings read by a corresponding sensor. For example, sensors configured to scan markings on the inner surfaces of container bodies may be positioned to scan markings on container bodies transported to, through, or at the outlet of drying oven 40, base coating oven 44, or inner coating drying oven 52.

[0620] Sensor 34 may be an optical sensor. In some embodiments, sensor 34 is a camera. Alternatively, an electromagnetic wave emitter (such as light) may be coupled to the sensor. In some embodiments, sensor 34 comprises a laser or projects a beam similar to a barcode reader.

[0621] In other embodiments, sensor 34 is an infrared sensor capable of detecting a difference in emissivity between the metal material of the container body and marking 26. Specifically, marking 26 will change the metal material of the sheet and thus change the emissivity compared to the emissivity of the metal material without the marking, so that the infrared (IR) sensor can detect the difference in emissivity. In this way, IR sensor 34 can read marking 26 on the container body.

[0622] The sensor 34 is connected to the control system 100 and can transmit to the control system the marking 26 of each cup entering the body-forming machine 36. The sensor 34 can also transmit a time stamp associated with the scanning of each marking 26 detected by the sensor. In this way, the progress of the cup along the production line 10 is recorded, and the route of the cup along the production line is also monitored (that is, which body-forming machine 36 or which section of the equipment in the production line performed the operation on the cup). The information collected by the sensors 34 is useful for monitoring the performance of each body-forming machine. The time stamp can also be used to compare the performance of one branch of the conveyor 32 (or route of the production line) with another branch or route.

[0623] Alternatively, sensor 34 may be connected to a single-belt conveyor 32 that transports container bodies in a single row or on a single belt. In some embodiments, container bodies are transported on a single-belt conveyor with the end caps facing away from the single-belt conveyor. One example of a single-belt conveyor is a pin chain conveyor located downstream of decorator 46.

[0624] Additionally or alternatively, the sensor 34 may be connected to a heavy-duty conveyor that transports container bodies in multiple rows or on multiple belts. Some heavy-duty conveyors transport container bodies with end caps facing away from the heavy-duty conveyor. Other heavy-duty conveyors transport container bodies with end caps facing toward the heavy-duty conveyor. Examples of heavy-duty conveyors include conveyors 32 that transport container bodies through a washer 32, a drying oven 40, and an oven 52 for drying the inner coating. It may be preferable for the sensor to scan a marking 26 on a section of the sheet that will define the inner surface of the container body when the container body is positioned on the heavy-duty conveyor.

[0625] In some embodiments, the sensor 34 is associated with each conveyor 32 that transports the container body between sections of the equipment and between processes of the production line 10.

[0626] The body-forming machine 36 uses a piston pusher to push the cups formed by the cup-forming press 22 through a series of tool dies that transfer the design and smooth the cups into the container bodies. In some production lines, such as those related to the production of beverage containers and beverage bottles, the body-forming machine 36 forms a dome on the end caps of the container bodies. In some embodiments, the body-forming machine 36 does not form a dome, for example, when the container body is formed into a conical cup. Regardless of this, in some embodiments, the marking 26 will be applied to the outer surface of the end cap 4 and will be substantially located in the center of the end cap, as generally shown in Fig. 4A.

[0627] The open ends of the container bodies are trimmed to a uniform height by trimmers. In some embodiments, a trimmer is associated with each body-forming machine 36.

[0628] The container bodies from the multiple body forming machines are then transported by a single belt conveyor 32 to a washing machine 38. The first oven 40, known as the "drying oven", then dries the container bodies.

[0629] Alternatively, some container bodies are transported to a 42-layer coating machine, which applies an outer liner. A liner is sometimes required to apply the base color before applying subsequent decoration or coating.

[0630] Alternatively, sensor 34B is located at the inlet of the substrate application machine 42. Alternatively, the sensor can be located at the outlet of the substrate application machine. The sensor is configured to read the marking on each cup entering the substrate application machine 42 and record the time stamp of each reading. Sensor 34 is the same as or similar to sensor 34A, which is located closest to the body-forming machine.

[0631] The container bodies are then transported through a second oven 44, or "substrate drying oven," where the substrate is cured. Production line 10 may have two or more substrate drying ovens. If so, sensor 34 may be located in front of each substrate drying oven to read the markings 26 of the container bodies entering each substrate drying oven 44.

[0632] The sensor 34C is also installed to scan the markings 26 of the container bodies transported by the conveyor 32 after the substrate drying oven 42.

[0633] The container bodies are then transported by one or more conveyors 32 to decorators 46. The metal container production line may have two or more decorators 46. The outer side walls of the container bodies are decorated by decorators using up to six color inks.

[0634] The decorators may optionally include a surface varnishing unit. The surface varnishing unit may apply a film of varnish to the entire decoration to protect it. In some embodiments, the lower coating machines associated with the decorators 46 may optionally apply varnish to the rim around the bottom of the container bodies.

[0635] In some embodiments, sensor 34D is located before each decorator 46. Additionally or alternatively, the sensor may be located at the outlet of each decorator. This may collect identification data for each container body (based on its markings 26) entering decorator 46. Sensor 34D is the same as or similar to sensor 34A, which is closest to the body-forming machine.

[0636] The ink and varnish coatings on the container bodies are cured in a third oven, 48, known as a "deco oven." Decopex 48 is also known as a "pin oven" because the container bodies are typically transported through the oven on a chain equipped with pins. The pins are inserted into the open ends of the container bodies to transport them without touching the outer surfaces of the container bodies.

[0637] Some production lines have a single decoking unit. Alternatively, a decoking unit 48 is associated with each decorator 46. The sensor 34E according to the present disclosure may be located at the inlet or outlet of each decoking unit 48.

[0638] After the decoration and other external coatings are cured, the container bodies can return to the single-belt conveyor 32. The container bodies are transported to one or more internal coating machines 50 to receive an internal coating, such as varnish, to protect the integrity of the product.

[0639] Sensor 34F may be associated with each inner coating machine 50. Sensor 34F may be the same or similar to other sensors 34 described herein. Furthermore, sensors 34F may be located before or after the inner coating machines 50.

[0640] The internal coating is substantially cured as the container bodies pass through the fourth oven 52, known as the "internal coater oven" or "internal bake oven" (IBO). The container bodies can be placed on a single-belt conveyor 32 for transport through the internal coating oven 52.

[0641] Alternatively, the sensor 34G is located at the inlet of the oven 52 for drying the inner coating, as generally shown in Fig. 2A. The sensor 34G may be the same or similar to other sensors described herein, and is configured to read the marking 26 of each container body on the conveyor 32.

[0642] In some embodiments, a thin coating of lubricant is applied to the open ends of the container bodies in preparation for neck forming. However, when the production line produces tapered cups, no neck forming operation is performed on the container bodies.

[0643] When a neck is to be formed on container bodies, a series of neck forming die devices 54 (or "neck forming devices") contain a set of tools to sequentially change the shape of the open ends of the container bodies and reduce the initial diameter to a predetermined diameter. Although only one neck forming die device 54 is shown in Fig. 2A, a production line may have six or more neck forming die devices arranged in series, which gradually reduces the neck diameter of the container bodies. Some production lines use fourteen or more neck forming devices to form the necks of beverage containers. Production lines for metal bottles may contain thirty or more neck forming devices 54.

[0644] The production line according to the present disclosure may, alternatively, comprise two or more sets of neck forming devices 54 arranged in parallel. Accordingly, a sensor 34H, such as described herein, may be associated with each of the two or more sets of neck forming devices 54 to read the marking of each container body processed by each set of neck forming devices.

[0645] After forming the neck, in some embodiments, the conveyor 32 transports the container bodies to one or more edging presses 56. The open ends of the container bodies are rolled by the edging press 56 to form a lip or flange. The flange is used to secure the end cap after the container body is filled with product. The sensor 34I can be associated with the edging press. The sensor 34I can be located before or after the edging press. If the production line has more than one edging press 56 arranged in parallel, the sensor can be associated with each edging press.

[0646] Container bodies are tested and inspected at inspection stations 57 at one or more locations on the production line 10. Alternatively, although only two inspection stations 57 are shown in Fig. 2A, the production line 10 may include an inspection station 57 before and after each section of equipment that processes or performs an operation on the container body. In some embodiments, the inspection station 57 is located at a location after the edging press 56.

[0647] Checkpoints 57 inspect container bodies for defects, damage, or contamination. A plurality of sensors known to those skilled in the art may be associated with the checkpoints. The sensors may include optical or visual systems (such as a camera). The camera may be a high-definition camera, such as a camera with a sensor with greater than 5 megapixels of resolution. In some embodiments, the visual system may include a high-speed camera or a high frame rate camera. One or more lights may be associated with the sensor to provide contrast.

[0648] Checkpoints may also include equipment for testing container bodies for damage and holes. In some embodiments, the checkpoint may include a light-based testing device to detect holes in the container body. The checkpoint may also apply vacuum or pressure to the container body.

[0649] In some embodiments, a sensor 34K for detecting marking 26 is associated with each inspection location. Thus, marking 26 for each container body that is deemed defective and removed from production line 10 can be recorded by sensor 34K. The information collected by sensor 34K can be useful for determining the cause of the defect and tracing the defect to a section of equipment on the production line or a defect in the sheet material 14 from which the container body is formed.

[0650] The control post 57 can communicate with the control system 100 and one or more databases 120, 124. The control post 57 can receive information from the record 140 associated with the container body 2 stored in the database 120, 124 after the sensor 34K reads the marking 26 on the container body.

[0651] Checkpoint 57 may identify a container body for inspection based on information obtained from record 140. For example, checkpoint 57 may receive a command to identify a container body that has been processed by a specific body-forming machine (such as body-forming machine 36C) during a predetermined period, such as, for example, one hour (or during some other predetermined period). Accordingly, in this example, checkpoint 57 may identify (and remove from the production line) a container body processed by body-forming machine 36C every hour. Specifically, the control post 57 may scan the markings 26 on the container bodies, obtain records 140 associated with the markings from the database 120, 124, identify the record with a field indicating that the container body was processed by the body-forming machine 36C, and then remove the container body from the production line.The container body can then be tested to evaluate the performance of the 36C body forming machine.

[0652] Similarly, in some embodiments, the control station 57 can identify the container bodies processed by any section of the equipment 22, 32, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, 46, 48, 50, 52, 54 or 56. Accordingly, the control station 57 can receive a command to identify the container body processed by the second internal coating machine 50B. However, as should be understood by those skilled in the art, after the internal coating machines 50A, 50B, 50C, the container bodies are combined on the heavy-duty conveyor 32 and transported through the internal coating drying oven 52. Accordingly, the control post 57 may be located downstream of the inner coating drying oven 52 and identify the container body processed by the inner coating machine 50B after the container body exits the inner coating drying oven 52 based on the markings 26 applied to the container body.The inspection station can then remove a sample container body from the production line to ensure routine quality control of the inner coating machine 50B. Thus, inspection station 57 can identify and select container bodies processed by any section of the equipment for routine or on-demand inspection to determine the performance of that section of the equipment.

[0653] In some embodiments, the production line 10 may include a sorter 58A configured to direct container bodies along different routes or to different locations (such as one of two or more conveyors 32A, 32B). The sorter 58A may be located anywhere on the production line. In some embodiments, the sorter 58A is positioned after the cup-forming press 22 and before any other equipment on the production line. The production line may have two or more sorters. At least one sorter is optionally positioned before the stacker 59.

[0654] The sorter can direct container bodies along different routes 32A, 32B based on the quality parameter. For example, a container body that meets the production parameter can be directed along the first route or onto conveyor 32A. Conversely, a container body that does not meet the production parameter can be directed along the second route 32B. In some embodiments, sorter 58A can be connected to control system 57. In this embodiment, the second route can lead to an ejector.

[0655] The sorter may include a sensor 34K for reading markings on container bodies. Accordingly, each container body processed by the sorter 58A can be identified when its marking 26 is scanned by the sensor 34K. Thus, when its marking 26 is scanned, the route selected by the sorter 58A for each container body can be stored in the database 120, 124 in the record 140 associated with the container body.

[0656] In some embodiments, sorter 58A may sort container bodies based on information obtained from record 140 associated with container body 2. For example, the sorter may route the container body based on the equipment that processed or performed the operation on the container body. Additionally, sorter 58A may select a route for the container body based on the manufacturer of sheet 14, the serial number or other identifier of the sheet roll, or the composition of the sheet metal material.

[0657] The optional sorter 58A can also be used to separate the container bodies decorated by the first decorator 46A of the production line from the container bodies decorated by the second decorator 46B of the production line. Thus, the first decorator can apply a first decoration, and the second decorator can apply a second decoration, different from the first decoration. After this, the container bodies 2 with the first decoration can be separated from the container bodies with the second decoration, based on the information obtained from the records 140 associated with the unique markings 26 applied to each container body 2.

[0658] The 2-container body sorting system, based on decorator 46, which applies designs to the container body, is preferable because it facilitates the production of small batches of container bodies with unique designs. As those skilled in the art will understand, to print different images or designs on multiple container bodies, a new set of printing plates must be installed on the plate cylinder of decorator 46 each time, resulting in downtime and reduced efficiency in the prior art production line. Since only one image can be printed without changing printing plates, this provides an economic incentive for the production of small batches of decorated container bodies with different images.However, when using sorter 58A, which can identify each container body 2 by scanning its marking 26, sorter 58A can retrieve record 140 for container body 2 from the database to determine which decorator 46 processed the container body. The record can also identify the design on the container body and the customer who ordered such design.

[0659] Production line 10 may have a first decorator 46A, which has a first set of printing plates for applying a first design to container bodies. A second decorator 46B may be configured to have a second set of printing plates for applying a second design to additional container bodies. The second decorator may produce a small batch of container bodies for a specific distributor or filler.

[0660] By tracking and recording facilitated by unique markings 26 corresponding to the present disclosure, both decorators 46A, 46B can operate simultaneously without stopping the production line 10. When a predetermined number of container bodies are decorated with a second design by the second decorator 46B, it can be stopped and a new set of printing plates can be installed on the second decorator 46B. The second decorator 46B can then be provided with the first set of printing plates to decorate the container bodies with the first design (or a third set of printing plates can be installed and the second decorator 46B can apply a third design to the container bodies). While the second decorator 46B is stopped, the first decorator 46A can continue decorating the container bodies.

[0661] The container bodies with the first and second designs may (and likely will) be mixed together on a heavy-duty conveyor (e.g., for transportation through the lining drying oven 52 or for transportation to the location of the neck forming machine 54). However, the sorter 58A may separate the container bodies 2 with the first design from the container bodies with the second design after scanning their markings 26 and obtaining information from the records 140 in the database. After separation, the container bodies may be sent to one of two or more conveyors 32A, 32B and to different stackers 59A, 59B.

[0662] Conveyor 32A, 32B transports container bodies to stacker 59A, 59B, where they are placed on pallets. Another sensor 34J can be linked to the stacker. Accordingly, marking 26 on each container body loaded onto a pallet can be read and linked to the pallet. The pallet with empty container bodies can then be placed in warehouse 60. The container bodies can then be shipped to filler 62.

[0663] Sometimes, container bodies on a pallet may require re-sorting or inspection. For example, production equipment may be found to be malfunctioning after processing multiple container bodies. Container bodies processed by the defective equipment may need to be identified, inspected, and / or rejected. In a prior art production line, container bodies already on pallets in warehouse 60 could only be sorted manually. As those skilled in the art will understand, this is a labor-intensive and expensive process.

[0664] A unique marking 26 applied to each container body 2 according to embodiments corresponding to the present disclosure facilitates a more efficient method of re-sorting container bodies. In some embodiments, the production line comprises a stacker unloader 61, as generally shown in Fig. 2A. Pallets with container bodies 2 that contain markings 26 described herein can be transported from a warehouse 60 to the stacker unloader 61. Specifically, a pallet can have a container body 2 with a marking 26, which must be separated from other container bodies on the pallet. For example, a record 140 in a database that is associated with a marking 26 can have a field that indicates that container body 2 was processed by a section of equipment (or received a coating), which was subsequently discovered to be defective. Accordingly, container body 2 must be found and controlled.

[0665] A pallet with 2 container bodies can be located in a warehouse and transported to the unloader 61 of a stacker. After being removed from the pallet, the 2 container bodies can be transported by the conveyor 32 back to the sorter 58A. The sorter 58A can then use the sensor 34K to scan the marking 26 on each 2 container body and obtain a record 140 for each container body from the database 120, 124, using the unique marking 26. The sorter 58A can then separate the container bodies processed by a specific section of the equipment based on the data contained in the record.

[0666] Additionally or alternatively, the production equipment may comprise an autonomous sorter 58B, as generally shown in Fig. 2B. The sorter 58B may be located in the production facilities, but separately from the production line 10. In some embodiments, the sorter 58B is located at the location of the warehouse (or storage), at the filler 62, at the distributor, or in some other place separate from the production line. Despite this, the sorter 58B may have the same or similar properties and capabilities as described in conjunction with the sorter 58A shown in Fig. 2A.

[0667] More specifically, sorter 58B may be positioned downstream of stacker unloader 61. Accordingly, a pallet with container bodies 2 containing markings 26 may be removed from warehouse 60 and transported to the stacker unloader. The container bodies 2 may then be transported to sorter 58B. In some embodiments, conveyor 32 is positioned to transport container bodies from the stacker unloader to sorter 58B.

[0668] The sorter optionally comprises a sensor 34K configured to read markings on container bodies. The sorter 58B can then obtain information from the database record 140 via communication with the control system 100. In this manner, the sorter 58B can identify the container bodies based on their unique markings 26 and separate them based on one or more fields in the record 140. The sorter 58B can then route each container body along one or more routes to send each container body to one of two or more stackers 59. From the stackers, the pallets with sorted container bodies can be returned to the warehouse 60 or some other location.

[0669] Using sorters 58A and / or 58B, individual container bodies processed at specific stations can be located. For example, the lining machine 50C may produce defective linings. Sorter 58A / 58B can receive container bodies from unloader 61 of stacker 61 and identify those to which the lining machine 50C has applied the lining. Sorter 58A / 58B can then route such container bodies to a checkpoint, a holding area, or a stacker for waste disposal or reuse. Container bodies that have not been processed by the lining machine 50C (e.g. container bodies processed by the lining machines 50A, 50B) may also be identified by their markings 26 and directed to the conveyor 32A, 32B for transport back to the stacker 59A, 59B.

[0670] Applying markings 26 for each container body on sheet 14 before cup-forming press 22 offers many advantages. By placing sensors 34 at various points along the production line, individual container bodies can be tracked through the production process. Information such as the manufacturer of the metal sheet roll 14 can then be linked to each manufactured container body. Thus, damage or rejection of a container body due to a defect in the metal material can be traced back to the roll manufacturer.

[0671] Furthermore, marking 26 facilitates the collection of data related to the production of each container body with greater detail, accuracy, and quality compared to the data provided by prior art markings applied by a body-forming machine or other tools of the production line of the prior art. For example, the time required for each container body to pass through each stage and operation of the production line can be tracked and recorded. Specifically, marking 26 makes it possible to identify each section of equipment performing an operation on each container body and the time it takes to complete the operation, which should be collected and stored in the data structure record 140 (such as the database 120, 124 of the control system 100). Thus, information such as the good condition and defectiveness associated with each section of equipment in the production line 10 can be collected for analysis.The performance characteristics of individual pieces of equipment can be analyzed and compared with other similar equipment on the same production line (or on other production lines).

[0672] The markings 26 corresponding to the present disclosure may also be applied to metal parts, such as container bodies produced by impact extrusion (IE). Impact extrusion is a process used to produce container bodies and other articles with unique shapes. Container bodies produced by the IE process are typically made from a soft metal rod consisting of steel, magnesium, copper, aluminum, tin, lead, and other alloys. An extruded tube (which will be formed into a container body) is formed from a rod of metal material. The rod is placed in an extruder having a holding die and a stamp. The rod comes into contact with the stamp, and the force applied by the stamp deforms the metal rod around the outer diameter of the stamp and the inner diameter of the holding die to form an extruded tube.

[0673] After the initial shape is formed, the extruded tube is removed from the die by an ejector, and other tools are used to form the neck and mold to form the extruded tube into a container body of a predetermined shape. The IE production line for producing container bodies includes equipment that performs a variety of operations similar to the operations described in conjunction with Fig. 2A. For example, the IE production line may include sheet material thinning sections, and a domer is placed after the extruder. A washing machine and a drying oven may be installed after the domer. The IE production line may include a substrate application machine and a substrate drying oven. Internal coatings may be applied to the container body by internal coating machines, and the coating is cured in an internal coating drying oven.One or more decorators may apply designs to the outer surfaces of container bodies, which are cured in one or more deco ovens. A neck may be formed onto the container body using a neck forming machine. The IE production line may also include stamping and embossing stations, a sheet material thinning station, trimmers, a seaming machine, and a mouth milling machine. In some embodiments, the IE production line includes a thread cutting station.

[0674] Checkpoints 57 may be located at multiple locations along the IE production line. The IE production line may also include a sorter 58 and a stacker unloader 61, as described herein. Once the container body is completed, it may be placed on a pallet by a stacker 59.

[0675] The marker 24 in embodiments according to the present disclosure may be located downstream of the extruder to apply marking 26 to each container body produced by the IE production line. In some embodiments, the marker is located at or near the outlet of the extruder.

[0676] In other embodiments, marker 24 is positioned between the extruder and the next section of equipment that performs the container body operation in the IE production line. For example, marker 24 may be positioned before an ironing press, dosing machine, or washing machine.

[0677] The IE production line according to the present disclosure also comprises sensors 34, as described herein. Sensors 34 can be placed in multiple locations along the IE production line. In some embodiments, sensor 34 communicates with each section of the IE production line equipment that performs an operation on the container body. Accordingly, as described in conjunction with production line 10, the container body 2 manufactured by the IE production line will comprise markings 26, which can be scanned before or after each operation performed on the container body.

[0678] Discusses marking a metal part across a variety of manufacturing processes and production lines. For example, marking a container body, bottle, shell / lid, tab, and / or conical cup is considered. The tables below summarize the various manufacturing processes. The marker may be placed in various locations with associated systems, such as an orientation system and / or a stabilization system, as described here. Additionally, the marker may be linked to equipment at each workstation, located before each station or located after each station. An exemplary manufacturing process can be found in the document “How Ball Makes Beverage Ends,” https: / / www.scribd.com / document / 516691496 / How-Ball-Makes-Beverage-Ends [as amended August 10, 2022], which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.Another exemplary production process can be found in the document "Inside a Ball Beverage Can Plant", https: / / igora.ch / files / ball-metalbeverageprocess.pdf [with corrections as of August 10, 2022], which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

[0679] Table 1. List of operations and / or work places for the production of the container body at the manufacturer's location

[0680] Potential pre-printing on roll Get a roll Unwind Lubricate Cup-forming press Body forming machine / drawing / smoothing / smoothing / smoothing / dome forming Trimming Washing machine Drying after washing machine Submission to decorator Decorating Surface coating with varnish Bottom coating Rod Oven / Coating Curing Feed for internal spraying Internal spraying Release after internal spraying Curing after internal spraying Forming the neck Flanging Light tester Stacker

[0681] Table 2. List of operations and / or work places for container production at the filler location

[0682] Unloading the stacker Rinsing (ionized air or DI water) Date code Filling Double sealing Load level detection (X-ray or gamma rays) Turning over to check for leak defect Thermal process Heater (dew point), or Cooling tunnel (Hotfill), or Pasteurizer, or Autoclave Reverse flip (vertical installation) Pressure test Load level detection (X-ray or gamma rays) Dryer Secondary packaging: Box, or Hi-cone, or Wrapping with film, or A pallet with film wrapping, or Box Additional packaging: Box, or Pallet Stacking

[0683] Table 3. List of operations and / or workstations for bottle production at the manufacturer's location

[0684] Potential pre-printing on roll Get a roll Unwind Lubricate Cup-forming press Body forming machine / drawing / smoothing / smoothing / smoothing / dome forming Trimming Washing machine Drying after washing machine Submission to decorator Decorating Surface coating with varnish Bottom coating Rod Oven / Coating Curing Feed for internal spraying Internal spraying Release after internal spraying Curing after internal spraying Forming the neck Trimming Thread cutting Throttle Flanging Control / Light Tester Stacker

[0685] Table 4. List of operations and / or workstations for bottle production at the filler location

[0686] Unloading the stacker Date code Rinsing (ionized air or DI water) Filling Installing the lid Checking threads with a camera Load level detection (X-ray or gamma rays) Thermal process Heater (dew point), or Cooling tunnel (Hotfill), or Pasteurizer, or Autoclave (bath process) Pressure test Load level detection (X-ray or gamma rays) Dryer Secondary packaging: Box, or Hi-cone, or Wrapping with film, or A pallet with film wrapping, or Box Additional packaging: Box, or Pallet Stacking

[0687] Table 5. List of operations and / or work stations for the production of end caps at the manufacturer's location

[0688] Potential pre-printing on the roll before roll coating Roll coating with code printing option along with this process Potential roll-to-roll pre-printing after roll coating Get a roll Unwind Shell press Bending machine Application of compound Accumulation (balancer) Conversion press inlet Conversion press Release from the conversion press Control Packaging in bags Stacking

[0689] Table 6. List of operations and / or work places for producing end cap at the filler location

[0690] Manual pallet unloader Remove the paper sleeve In black (usually) Automatically (rarely) Load end rods onto the rod basket conveyor Manually into a wedge-shaped groove curved at an angle Manually into the automatic carousel feeder (feeder) Automatically (rarely) Separation by the bottom stacker in the seaming machine Double sealing and continuation of the container manufacturing process

[0691] Table 7. List of operations and / or work places for tongue production at the manufacturer's location

[0692] Potential roll-to-roll pre-printing before roll-to-roll coating Roll coating with code printing option along with this process Potential roll-to-roll pre-printing after roll coating Get a roll Unwind Entering the conversion press Conversion press

[0693] Now, as shown in Fig. 5, the marking 26 on each container body 2 also facilitates the tracking of each container body to the filler 62, the retail outlet 64, the consumer 66, and to the waste collection point 68 at the end of the container body's service life. For example, when a pallet of container bodies is delivered to the filler 62, the unique marking 26 of each container body 2 located on the pallet can be associated with the filler.

[0694] The labeling record 140 stored in the database 120, 124 can be updated with the filler information. Additionally, when the container body is filled with a product, a timestamp can be added to the labeling record 26 in the database 140. Furthermore, information about the product in the container body (such as product type, expiration date, and other data) can be added to the record.

[0695] When the filled container body is transported to outlet 64, additional data may be added to labeling record 140. For example, the outlet identifier, delivery date, etc. may be added to the record.

[0696] Thereafter, the record 140 about the marking may be supplemented when the filled container body is purchased by the consumer 66. In some embodiments, the sensor 34M at the point of sale will scan the marking 26. The sensor may be a barcode reader associated with the control system at the point of sale.

[0697] Information about the date and time of sale may be added to record 140 in the database. In some embodiments, the consumer identifier 66 (such as name, customer number, bank card number, etc.) may also be added to the record. Record 140 may also be updated to contain the amount of the deposit paid by the consumer for the container body.

[0698] In some embodiments, consumer 66 may update container body record 140 associated with markings 26 by scanning markings 26 using a device such as a smart phone. In this way, consumer 66 may be linked to the marking record in a database entry for the purposes of a deposit return program, under which containers are returned to designated locations for recycling.

[0699] Marking 26 preferably provides a method for tracking the entire service life and movement of container body 2 from unwinder 12 to waste collection point 68 at the end of its service life. The ability to track and record an individual container body throughout its service life provides useful information and insight into the production process, distribution, sale, consumption, and end of life.

[0700] The waste collection point 68 can communicate with the control system 100. For example, the waste collection point 68 can communicate with the control system via a network 122, such as the Internet. In this way, the data collected by the sensor 34O associated with the waste collection point 68 can be added to the record 140 for the marking 26 on the container body, stored in the database 120, 124 described herein in conjunction with the control system. In this way, the database 120, 124 can receive information related to the scanning of the marking 26, such as: which device (or sensor 34) performed the scanning and at what time, information about the container body itself, where the container body is located, etc. The database may also, as necessary, distribute data to perform system functions, such as signaling to a mobile device or other computing system that a particular container body has been received at waste collection point 68.

[0701] Figure 6 generally shows a control system 100 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. More particularly, Figure 6 shows embodiments of a control system 100 according to the present disclosure configured to provide unique markings 26 for a plurality of container bodies according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The control system 100 is generally shown with hardware elements that can be electrically connected via a bus 102. The hardware elements may comprise one or more central processing units (CPUs) 104; one or more input devices 106 (e.g., a mouse, a keyboard, etc.); and one or more output devices 108 (e.g., a display, a printer, etc.). The control system 100 may also comprise one or more memory devices 110.In embodiments, the storage device(s) 110 may be disk drives, optical storage devices, solid state storage devices such as random access memory (RAM) and / or read-only memory (ROM), which may be programmable, instantly updatable, and / or the like.

[0702] The control system 100 may further comprise one or more computer-readable media readers 112; a communication system 114 (e.g., a modem, a network card (wireless or wired), an infrared communication device, etc.); and a working memory 116, which may comprise RAM and ROM devices, as described above. In some embodiments, the control system 100 may also comprise a processing acceleration module 118, which may comprise a DSP, a special processor, and / or the like. Alternatively, the control system 100 may also comprise a database 120.

[0703] The computer-readable media reader 112 may be further connected to a computer-readable medium, together (and, optionally, in combination with the storage device(s) 110) with comprehensively representing remote, local, stationary and / or mobile storage devices plus storage media for temporarily and / or more permanently storing computer-readable information. The communication system 114 may allow data to be exchanged with the network 122 and / or any other data processing devices. Alternatively, via the network 122, the control system 100 may access data stored in a remote storage device, such as the database 124. In some embodiments, the database 124 may be known as cloud storage. In embodiments, the network 122 may be the Internet.

[0704] The control system 100 may also comprise software elements shown as currently located within the RAM 116. The software elements may comprise an operating system 126 and / or other codes 128, such as control programs, implementing one or more methods and approaches of the present invention.

[0705] Those skilled in the art will understand that alternative embodiments of the control system 100 may have numerous variations of the above. For example, specialized hardware may also be used and / or specific elements could be implemented in hardware, software (including mobile software such as applets), or both. Additionally, connections to other computing devices, such as network input / output devices, may be used.

[0706] In embodiments, the control system 100 is a personal computer, such as, but not limited to, a personal computer running the MS Windows operating system. Alternatively, the control system 100 may be a smartphone, a tablet computer, a laptop, and similar computing devices. In embodiments, the control system 100 is a data processing system that comprises one or more of the following, but not limited to: at least one input device (such as a keyboard, mouse, or touch screen); an output device (such as a display, a speaker); a video card; a communication device (such as an Ethernet card or a wireless communication device); persistent memory (such as a hard drive); temporary memory (such as RAM); computer instructions stored in persistent memory and / or temporary memory; and a processor.

[0707] The control system 100 may be any programmable logic controller (PLC). One example of a suitable PLC is the Controllogix PLC manufactured by Rockwell Automation, Inc., although other PLCs may be considered for use with embodiments of the present invention.

[0708] Alternatively, the control system 100 may send commands to the marker 24 to control the operation of its laser, printer, inkjet print head, or other marking means 26. Additionally or alternatively, the control system 100 may regulate the duty cycle of the marker.

[0709] In embodiments, the control system 100 communicates with one or more sensors 34 of the present disclosure. The control system can create a record 140 in the database 120, 124 for each marking 26 of each container body 2. The control system 100 can then update the record 140 with additional data as the marking 26 is scanned as the container body passes through the production line 10, is transported to the filler, is shipped to the point of sale, is purchased by the consumer 66 and is returned to the waste collection point 68.

[0710] Now, as shown generally in Fig. 7, one embodiment of a data structure 130, such as a database, is explained. In at least one embodiment, the data structure 130 is stored in the memory of the control system 100, such as a database 120. Additionally or alternatively, the data structure 130 can be accessed by the control system 100 using a network 122. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the data structure 130 is stored in a remote location, such as a database 124 or cloud storage.

[0711] The data structure may contain one or more data files or information objects 132, 134. Thus, the data structure 130 may represent various types of databases or data warehouses, such as object-oriented databases, simple data file structures, a relational database or other types of data storage organization.

[0712] The embodiments of the data structure 130 disclosed herein may be separate, combined, and / or distributed. As shown in Fig. 7, the data structure 130 may have more or fewer columns or sections, as represented by ellipses 136. Additionally, there may be more or fewer rows (files) or records 140 in the data structure 130, as represented by ellipses 138.

[0713] The first information object 132 contains data associated with a plurality of container bodies 2, organized into individual records 140. In some embodiments, the first information object 132 may contain records of container bodies 2 created by the first production line 10, the impact pressing production line, the first manufacturer, produced for a distributor, produced for a specific customer, or produced during a certain period of time (such as a day, week, month, or year).

[0714] The first information object 132 has several sections or fields 142-154 representing different types of data. Each of these types of data can be associated with an individual container body 2 via its unique marking 26. As the container body 2 (such as “container A” in record 140A) moves along the production line and its marking 26 is scanned by sensors 34, the fields within record 140A can be filled with data from the sensor(s). One or more records 140 can exist, and the data associated with them is stored within the first information object 132.

[0715] In one embodiment, each record 140 contains a field for an identifier 142. The identifier 142 may be a unique marking 26 (such as an alphanumeric code) associated with each container body 2. Other areas contain various data collected by production line sensors 34, fillers 62, retail outlets 64, consumers 66, waste collection points 68, and other sensors 34 scanning markings on container bodies.

[0716] The fields may include, but are not limited to, field 144 for the date of manufacture, field 146 for the time of manufacture, field 148 for the location of manufacture, field area 150 for the production line identifier, field 152 for the identifier of the cup-forming press 22 that cuts the cup formed into the container body, and field 154 for another piece of equipment that processed the container body or that performed an operation on the container body.

[0717] The first data object may contain more or fewer fields. Alternatively, fields 142-154 may be arranged in a different order. Furthermore, fields may be added or removed based on the type of production facility producing the container body. More specifically, the data object with records 140 for container bodies manufactured by the drawing and smoothing production line 10 may have different fields than the data object with records for container bodies 2 manufactured by the impact pressing process.

[0718] Other fields may be added to the first information object 132, as indicated by ellipses 136. For example, each record 140 may contain fields for one or more of the following: a lot number; a shift identifier; material specifications for the continuous metal sheet; an identifier of the manufacturer of the roll of metal material; an identifier of the material of the rod used to produce the impact extruded container body; an identifier or serial number of the roll; a marking position on the continuous sheet; an identifier of the body-forming machine that formed the metal container; an identifier of the washing machine that processed the container body; information about the liquid used to wash the container body; an identifier of the drying oven that processed the container body; information about the operating modes of the drying oven; an identifier of the substrate application machine that applies the substrate to the container body;Information about the substrate material; The identifier of the substrate oven in which the substrate is cured; The identifier of the decorator who applies the decoration to the side wall; Information about the decoration was generated by the decorator; Information about the material used by the decorator to apply the decoration; The identifier of the deco-stove in which the decoration is cured; Information about the operating conditions of the deco-stove (such as the temperature inside the oven); The identifier of the liner coating machine that sprays the coating onto the hollow inside of the container body; Information about the liner material used by the liner coating machine; The identifier of the liner drying oven that cures the liner; Information about the operating conditions of the liner drying oven; The identifier of the neck forming machine (or neck forming workstation) that forms the neck on the container body;The identifier of the flange bending machine that forms the flange on the container body; Information about the sorter 58 that processes the container body; The identifier of the stacker that places the container body on the first pallet; The identifier of the pallet; Information about the location of the warehouse where the pallet is stored (such as the temperature inside the warehouse); The identifier of the shipper that transported the container body to the filler; The identifier of the filler that fills and seals the container body; Information about the product stored in the container body (such as type, brand, quantity, expiration date, etc.); The identifier of the second pallet used to transport the filled container body; The identifier of the distributor that received the second pallet; The identifier of the outlet that received the container body; The identifier of the consumer who purchased the container body;information about the deposit received upon sale of the container body; the identifier of the waste collection point that received the container body; and information about the return of the deposit when the container body was received at the waste collection point. In some embodiments, each field contains a timestamp. Alternatively, the timestamp will indicate at least the date and time when the container body marking was scanned.

[0719] In some embodiments, record 140 for container body 2 may be updated with information received from other databases or control systems without scanning marking 6 by sensor 34. Record 140 for container body 2 may be modified with information about the operation of equipment on production line 10 after the container body has been manufactured. For example, record 140 may contain information about liquids used to wash the container body and / or coatings and designs applied to the container body.

[0720] If a liquid, coating, or decoration material is subsequently identified for recall or due to a medical issue, records 140 for all container bodies 2 that came into contact with the liquid, coating, or decoration material may be modified by a computer system, such as control system 100. Similarly, if, after processing a container body, it is discovered that a section of the equipment on production line 10 is not functioning properly, record 140 for the container body associated with its unique marking 26 may be modified.

[0721] Record 140 for container body 2 can be updated automatically by control system 100 every time marking 26 on the container body is scanned. Alternatively, record 140 can also be manually corrected by the user of the control system. The user can use the input device 106 of the control system to add, change, or delete record 100 in the database that is associated with the container body. Thus, the user (such as a worker on the production line) can enter information such as shift ID, roll serial number, roll manufacturer ID, date and time when the roll was loaded into the unwinder, information about the coating used by the internal coating machine, the weight or quantity of one or more coatings applied to the container body, the design ID applied to the container body, and other production information.

[0722] Alternatively, the data structure 130 may contain a second information object 134. The second information object 134 may contain the same or similar fields 142-154 as the first information object 132. In one embodiment, the control system 100 may store in the information object 134 data about the container bodies 2 manufactured by a second production line (such as an impact pressing production line).

[0723] Tracking and recording, facilitated by labeling 26, are also preferred for encouraging recycling. Tracking and recording are important for improving the performance of deposit return programs, which can be implemented in a variety of ways. For example, a consumer 66 can be incentivized to return the container body to a collection point 68 by returning a deposit to a mobile device, loyalty card or rewards account, or a financial account. The deposit can be a cash deposit, a deposit or message via a social media platform or mobile app, or a deposit into a loyalty account.

[0724] Furthermore, data from one or more databases 120, 124 and records 140 may be collected to determine broader trends, such as the turnover rate of a particular production batch, shift, or production assets, the turnover rate or specific turnover time for container bodies sold at a particular retail outlet 64, the turnover rate of container bodies filled with a particular filler 62, the turnover rate associated with various waste collection points 68, the turnover rates for specific consumers 66, etc.

[0725] In some embodiments, the consumer 66 may be encouraged to scan the marking 26 and allowed to include the record 140 about the container body stored in the database 120, 124 in the consumer information. The consumer 66 may also provide feedback on the performance characteristics of the container body 2, which may be added to the record 140 associated with the marking 26. For example, the consumer may be encouraged to provide feedback about a defect in the container body. Similarly, the consumer could provide an analysis of the product stored in the container body.

[0726] Consumer 66 can benefit from storing consumer data in record 140 for the container body. Thus, management system 100, database 120, 124, and / or an application on a mobile device or other computer system associated with the consumer can provide notifications or messages to the consumer regarding recalls for the container body or the contents inside the container body. Consumer 66 can also receive a reminder or warning about the expiration date or about recalls of the contents inside the container body. In addition, marking 26 can be a security feature for consumer 66, in which the consumer can scan the markings and determine that the container body is not counterfeit and that the container is genuine.

[0727] Similarly, a customer, such as a brand owner, can identify products outside typical distribution channels. For example, if a marked finished container is found in an unexpected location or warehouse, the marking can be scanned to accurately determine the container's original production location and where it was transported to reach the unexpected location. The brand owner can then determine whether the distribution process for a specific container complies with any contractual obligations, etc. Similarly, when a finished container is marked with a unique code, any processed finished container can be easily identified as legitimate or counterfeit.

[0728] The data obtained by the control system 100 when the marking 26 on the container body is scanned by the sensor 34 can trigger any number of actions. The control system 100 can update the record 140 in the database 120, 124 each time the marking is scanned, with the information collected by the sensor 34. For example, the record 140 can be updated to change the data on the status of a specific container (e.g., location, whether recycled or not, date and time of scanning, etc.). The information collected from scanning the markings 26 can be used to maintain tracking of a large number of produced container bodies, their status, and how many container bodies were recycled within a certain period of time, etc.

[0729] Scanning 26 markings on container bodies during the production process and storing information about each scan in a 140-record database provides many benefits to container body manufacturers. For example, data collected during scanning allows the manufacturer to track fine details of the production process. Using this information, the manufacturer can identify defects in the production process, such as equipment failures, equipment inefficiencies, or other defects.

[0730] Information can also help identify successful actions or best practices. For example, data may indicate that one facility (or one production line) performs better than another. Analyzing data from different production lines or facilities can identify differences that can be used to improve the performance of one or more other production lines or facilities.

[0731] Furthermore, scanning the 26 markings on container bodies after they leave the production facility also offers many benefits to the manufacturer. For example, the manufacturer can obtain data from the filler when a container body is full. This information can be used for inventory management and can trigger replacement procedures.

[0732] By tracking and recording the distribution and sales of container bodies, manufacturers, distributors, and processing centers can identify areas or demographics that purchase specific container bodies. By examining the information contained in records 140 associated with markings 26 on container bodies 2, container body sales can be traced back to consumers based on the shape or style of the container, the product contained within the container body, and the artwork and advertising placed on the container bodies.

[0733] The scanning data from the label 26, obtained by the sensor 34O at the waste collection point 68 or by the consumer 66, may be used to provide a credit or other benefits to the consumer 66 to encourage recycling. In some embodiments, the consumer 66 may redeem the credit in currency, at collection points, or through rewards through a loyalty program, product purchase, etc.

[0734] When a specific container body 2, identified by marking 26, is received at waste collection point 68, a signal associated with the collection event can trigger a message or post on a social network indicating that consumer 66 has performed an action related to recycling. Thus, control system 100 can encourage consumer 66 to participate in recycling through financial incentives, social incentives, loyalty rewards, etc. Additionally, sensors and scanners 34 in other locations, such as a recycling plant, can also read markings 26 on container bodies and transmit the information via a network to database 120, 124.

[0735] Database 120, 124, and data structure 130 may take any number of forms, and the present disclosure encompasses a variety of implementation options for the tracking and recording system. For example, the database may be located remotely from any other location and device of the tracking and recording system. Alternatively, the database may be part of a mobile device, part of a data collection device, part of the control system 100, etc. Furthermore, the database and / or actions or functions associated with the database may be shared among multiple electronic devices in one or more locations.

[0736] In addition to individual consumer incentives, data collected throughout the container's lifecycle can be used for other purposes. Data from multiple containers can indicate recycling rates for containers sold in a specific geographic area, as well as recycling rates at waste collection facilities at different times of the day, week, and year. Outlier recycling rates can be identified, and then, for example, an advertising campaign can be targeted specifically to that area.

[0737] Similarly, the success of the deposit return program used in conjunction with the mobile device application can be tracked using the markings 26 consistent with this disclosure. Incentives can be varied or increased within a specific geographic area, for a specific brand, or for a product, based on recycling rates. For example, incentives can be increased in a geographic area if the recycling rate in that area is low. However, when the recycling rate is acceptable, the incentives can be maintained at their current levels or decreased. Similarly, incentives can be adjusted based on the recycling rate for the brand or product. Data provided by consumers 66 and stored in record 140 for the container body can be used to target advertising to promote sales and / or encourage recycling based on consumer demographics.

[0738] It is expected that the 26 markings on container hulls and the tracking and registration of container hulls facilitated by this disclosure will increase recycling rates compared to the current state of the art. Increased recycling rates will allow container hulls to be transferred to recycling plants rather than landfilled or in the ocean, reducing the consumption of raw materials used to manufacture containers.

[0739] Although various embodiments of the system and method have been described in detail, it is obvious that modifications and changes can be made to these embodiments by those skilled in the art. It should be clearly understood that such modifications and changes are within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Additionally, it should be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein are for the purposes of description and should not be considered limiting. The use of the words "including," "comprising," or "having" and variations thereof herein is intended to cover the items listed below and their equivalents, as well as additional items. Additionally, it should be understood that the claims are not necessarily limited to the specific features or steps described herein. Rather, the specific features and steps are disclosed as embodiments for implementing the claimed systems and methods. 0740: The term "automatic" and its variations, as used herein, refers to any process or operation performed without physical human intervention. However, a process or operation may be automatic even if the performance characteristics of the process or operation require physical or non-physical human intervention, if the intervention occurs before the process or operation is performed. Human intervention is considered physical if such intervention affects how the process or operation is performed. Human intervention that corresponds to the performance characteristics of the process or operation should be considered "intangible."

[0741] The term "bus" and its variations, as used herein, may refer to a subsystem that transfers information and / or data between various components. A bus typically refers to a hardware interface of a communications set, interconnections, a bus architecture, a standard, and / or a protocol defining a communications scheme for a communications system and / or communications network. A bus may also refer to a portion of the communications hardware that connects the hardware to other components of the associated communications system through an interface. A bus may be for a wired network, such as a physical bus, or for a wireless network, such as a portion of an antenna or hardware that connects the communications hardware to the antenna. A bus architecture supports a specific format in which information and / or data are organized when transmitted and received over a communications system. A protocol may define the format and communication rules of a bus architecture.

[0742] “Communication modality” may refer to any specific protocol or standard or to a particular communication session or interaction, such as Voice-Over-Internet-Protocol (VoIP), cellular communications (e.g., IS 95, 1G, 2G, 3G, 3.5G, 4G, 4G / IMT-Advanced, 3GPP, WIMAX™, GSM, CDMA, CDMA2000, EDGE, 1xEVDO, iDEN, GPR, HSPDA, TDMA, UMTS, ITU-R, and 5G standards), Bluetooth™, text messaging or instant messaging (e.g., AIM, Blauk, eBuddy, Gadu-Gadu, Lotus IBM Sametime, ICQ, iMessage, IMVU, Lync, MXit, Paltalk, Skype, Tencent QQ, Windows Live Messenger™ or Microsoft Network (MSN) Messenger™, Wireclub, Xfire, and Yahoo! Messenger™) email, Twitter (e.g., tweeting), Digital Service Protocol (DSP), etc.

[0743] The term "communication system" or "communication network" and variations thereof, as used herein, may refer to a set of communication components capable of one or more of the following: transmission, relay, interconnection, control, or otherwise manipulating information or data transmitted from at least one transmitter to at least one receiver. As such, transmission may comprise a range of systems supporting point-to-point or broadcast transmission of information or data. A communication system may refer to a set of individual communication hardware, as well as interconnections associated with the individual communication hardware.Communication hardware may refer to dedicated communications hardware or may refer to a processor coupled to the communications hardware (i.e., an antenna) and executing software capable of using the communications hardware to transmit and / or receive a signal within a communications system. Interconnection refers to the type of wired and wireless communication links that connect various components, such as communications hardware, within a communications system. A communications network may refer to a specific communications system structure with a set of individual communications hardware and interconnections having a certain network-defined topography. A communications network may include a wired and / or wireless network, having both a predetermined and an operationally established network structure.

[0744] The term "computer-readable medium," as used herein, refers to any tangible storage and / or transmission medium that is involved in transmitting instructions to a processor for execution. Such a medium may take many forms, including, but not limited to, non-volatile media, non-volatile media, and transmission media. Non-volatile media include, for example, non-volatile random access memory (NVRAM) or magnetic or optical disks. Non-volatile media include dynamic memory, such as main memory.Common forms of computer-readable storage media include, for example, a floppy disk, a diskette, a hard disk, magnetic tape or any other magnetic material, magneto-optical storage media, read-only memory (ROM), compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), any other optical storage media, punched cards, punched tape, any other physical storage media with a pattern of holes, random access memory (RAM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), and erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), EPROM FLASH, a solid-state storage medium similar to a memory card, any other memory chip or cartridge, a carrier wave as described hereinafter, or any other storage medium that can be read by a computer.A digital file attachment to an email or other self-contained information archive or set of archives is considered a distributable medium equivalent to a physical medium. When a computer-readable medium is configured as a database, it should be understood that the database can be any type of database, such as relational, hierarchical, object-oriented, and / or the like. Accordingly, the disclosure is considered to include a physical medium or distributable medium, and their prior art equivalents and successors, on which software implementations consistent with the present disclosure are stored. It should be noted that any computer-readable medium that is not a signal carrier can be considered durable.

[0745] The term "display" and its variations, as used herein, may be used interchangeably and may be any panel and / or area of ​​an output device that can display information to an operator or user. Displays may include, but are not limited to, one or more control panels, instrument housing(s), indicator(s), control instrument(s), meter(s), lamp(s), computer(s), screen(s), display(s), heads-up display (HUD), and graphical user interface(s).

[0746] The term "module" as used herein refers to any known or later developed hardware, software, firmware, artificial intelligence, fuzzy logic, or combination of hardware and software that is capable of implementing the functionality associated with such an element.

[0747] The terms "determine," "calculate," and "compute" and their variations, as used here, are used interchangeably and include any type of methodology, process, mathematical operation, action, or method.

[0748] Although the exemplary approaches, embodiments, options and / or configurations presented herein show various components of the system as located close together, some components of the system may be located remotely, on remote portions of a distributed network, such as a local area network (LAN) and / or the Internet, or within a dedicated system. Thus, it should be understood that the components of the system may be combined into one or more devices, such as a personal computer (PC), a laptop, a netbook, a smartphone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a tablet, etc., or located together on a specific node of a distributed network, such as an analog and / or digital telecommunications network, a packet-switched network or a circuit-switched network.From the preceding description and for reasons of computational efficiency, it should be clear that system components can be located anywhere within a distributed network of components without affecting system operation. For example, various components may be located in a switch, such as a private branch exchange (PBX), a media server, a gateway, in one or more communication devices, in the premises of one or more users, or some combination thereof. Similarly, one or more functional areas of the system may be distributed between communication devices and their associated computing devices.

[0749] Furthermore, it should be understood that the various lines connecting the elements may be wired or wireless lines, or any combination thereof, or any other known or later developed element(s) capable of delivering and / or transmitting data between the connected elements. These wired or wireless lines may also be secure lines and may be capable of transmitting encrypted information. The transmission medium used as the lines, for example, may be any suitable carrier of electrical signals, including coaxial cables, copper wire, and fiber optics, and may take the form of acoustic or light waves, such as those generated during radio wave and infrared data transmission.

[0750] Alternatively, the systems and methods of the present disclosure may be implemented in combination with a dedicated computer, a programmable microprocessor or microcontroller and peripheral element(s) of an integrated circuit, an ASIC or other integrated circuit, a digital signal processor, a programmed electronic or logical circuit such as a circuit on discrete elements, a programmable logic device or array such as PLD, PLA, FPGA, PAL, a dedicated computer, any comparable means, and the like. In general, any device(s) or means capable of implementing the methodology explained herein may be used to implement the various approaches of the present disclosure.Exemplary hardware that can be used for the disclosed embodiments, configurations, and approaches of aspects include computers, handheld devices, telephones (e.g., cellular, internet-enabled, digital, analog, hybrid, and others), and other hardware known in the art. Some of these devices include processors (e.g., single or multi-microprocessors), memory, non-volatile memory, input devices, and output devices. Additionally, alternative software implementations can also be designed to implement the methods described herein, including, but not limited to, distributed processing or processing distributed across components / objects, parallel processing, or processing on a virtual machine, which can also be created to implement the methods described herein.

[0751] In embodiments, the disclosed methods can be easily implemented in combination with software, using object-based or object-oriented software development environments that provide portable source code that can be used on multiple computer or workstation platforms. Alternatively, the disclosed system can be implemented partially or entirely in hardware, using standard logic circuits or very-large-scale-integration (VLSI) designs. Whether software or hardware is used to implement systems in accordance with the present disclosure depends on the speed and / or efficiency requirements of the system, the specific function, and the proprietary software or hardware systems or microprocessor or microcomputer systems used.

[0752] In another embodiment, the disclosed methods may be partially implemented in software that may be stored on a storage medium, executed on a programmable general-purpose computer together with a controller and memory, a specialized computer, a microprocessor, etc. In these cases, the systems and methods of the present disclosure may be implemented as a program embedded in a personal computer, such as an applet, JAVA®, or a computer-generated imagery (CGI) script, as a resource residing on a server or on a computer workstation, as a program embedded in a specialized measuring system, a system component, etc. The system may also be implemented by physically including the system and / or method in a software and / or hardware system.

[0753] Although this disclosure describes components and functions implemented in approaches, embodiments, and / or configurations with reference to particular standards and protocols, the approaches, embodiments, and / or configurations are not limited to these standards and protocols. There are other similar standards and protocols not mentioned herein that are considered to be contained in this disclosure. Furthermore, the standards and protocols mentioned herein, and other similar standards and protocols not mentioned herein, are periodically replaced by faster or more efficient equivalents having substantially the same functions. Such replacement standards and protocols having the same functions are considered to be equivalents included in this disclosure.

[0754] Examples of processors as described herein may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the Qualcomm® Snapdragon® 800 and 801, Qualcomm® Snapdragon® 610 and 615 with 4G LTE integration and 64-bit computing, Apple® A7 processor with 64-bit architecture, Apple® M7 motion coprocessors, Samsung® Exynos® series, Intel® Core™ processor family, Intel® Xeon® processor family, Intel® Atom™ processor family, Intel Itanium® processor family, Intel® Core® i5-4670K and i7-4770K 22 nm Haswell, Intel® Core® i5-3570K 22 nm Ivy Bridge family, AMD® FX™, AMD® FX-4300, FX-6300, and FX-8350 32 nm Vishera processors, AMD® Kaveri processors, Texas Instruments® Jasinto C6000™ automotive infotainment processors, Texas Instruments® OMAP™ automotive mobile processors, ARM® Cortex™-M processors, ARM® Cortex-A and ARM926EJ-S™ processors, and other industrial equivalent processors,and can perform computing functions using any known or future developed standard, instruction set, library, and / or architecture.

[0755] To provide background, context, and to further satisfy the written description requirements of 35 U.S.C. § 112, the following references are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties: British Patent Publication No. 2154775A, European Patent Application No. 1467306A2, Japanese Patent No. 3,971,064, Japanese Patent No. 4532259, PCT Publication No. WO2005 / 104005, PCT Publication No. WO2013 / 135899A1, PCT Publication No. WO2013 / 138595A2, PCT Publication No. WO2014 / 063837A1, PCT Publication No. WO2014 / 150647A1, PCT Publication No. WO2014 / 152858A1, PCT Publication No. WO2014 / 187474A1, PCT Publication No. WO2016 / 183452A1, PCT Publication No. WO2018 / 033627A1, PCT Publication No. WO2019 / 049454A1, U.S. Patent No. 4,879,457, U.S. Patent No. 5,632,916, U.S. Patent 6,872,913, U.S. Patent 10,073,443, U.S. Patent 10,421,111, U.S. Patent 10,583,668, U.S. Patent 10,726,288, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2015 / 0027327, US Patent Publication No. 2016 / 0306347,U.S. Patent Publication No. 2017 / 0197241, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2019 / 0018396, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2018 / 0046114, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2018 / 0164719, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020 / 0070494A1, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2021 / 0362537A1, and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2022 / 0143754A1.,

Claims

1. A method for marking an end cap during a manufacturing process to track and record the end cap, wherein the end cap is capable of being rolled onto a metal container, comprising the steps of: cut a blank from a continuous sheet of metal material; an end shell is formed from the blank, wherein the end shell is provided with a first marking applied by the first marker, and the end shell has a publicly accessible side opposite to the product side; scanning the first marking by means of the first sensor to form a first scanning event associated with the first marking; transport the end shell to the conversion press; applying at least one element to the publicly accessible side of the end shell using a conversion press and connecting a tongue to the publicly accessible side in a manner that can interact with the end shell to form an end cap, wherein the tongue comprises a second marking applied by a second marker; and scanning the second marking by means of the second sensor to generate a second scanning event associated with the second marking for tracking and registering the end cap.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the first marking is applied by a first marker to the product side of the continuous sheet prior to cutting the blank from the continuous sheet.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the first marker is a printer that deposits food grade ink onto the product side of the continuous sheet to apply the first marking.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the second marking is applied by a second marker at the inlet to the conversion press.

5. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the steps of: applying a plurality of first markings to the locations of the continuous sheet blanks using a first marker; establish a correspondence in the database between the set of first markings and the locations of the blanks; cut out multiple blanks from a continuous sheet; scanning, by means of a first sensor, a plurality of first markings to form a plurality of first scanning events; and transmitting a plurality of first scan events via a network to a database, where the plurality of first scan events are associated with a plurality of first markings and locations of workpieces to collect data about the manufacturing process and determine a defect in the manufacturing process.

6. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the steps of: the first marking and its associated end shell are recorded in the database record; transmitting the first scan event to the database to update the record with the first scan event, wherein subsequent scan events associated with the first marking are used to determine the defect in the manufacturing process; write a second marking into the database record; and send a second scan event to the database to update the record with the second scan event.

7. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of scanning the second marking using a sensor of the mobile device to generate a mobile scanning event to associate the mobile device with the end cap.

8. The method according to any one of paragraphs 1-7, in which the second marking is associated with the first marking in a database record.

9. An end cap, characterized in that it is designed with the possibility of rolling onto the open end of a metal container for tracking and registering the end cap, containing: product side and the opposite publicly accessible side of the end cap; a wall of the holder extending downward from the peripheral bend, with a chamfer connecting to the lower end of the wall of the holder, and the central panel connecting to the chamfer; tear-off panel, identified by a notch on the central panel; a tongue connected to the central panel in a responsive manner; and a first marking on the product side of the end cap, wherein the first marking is applied with food grade ink, and the first marking is capable of being scanned for tracking and recording the end cap.

10. The end cap of claim 9, further comprising a second marking on a publicly accessible side of the end cap, wherein the second marking is applied by removing material on the publicly accessible side of the end cap, and the second marking is capable of being scanned for tracking and recording the end cap.

11. The end cap of claim 10, wherein the unique identifier of the first marking is different from the unique identifier of the second marking.

12. An end cap according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the second marking is applied in at least one of the following locations: a peripheral bend, a tear-off panel, a rear portion of the tongue, a front portion of the tongue, a central panel at least partially below the rear portion of the tongue, a surface of the tongue facing the central panel, a surface of the tongue facing away from the central panel, and a wall of the holder.

13. A method of marking a continuous sheet of metallic material for tracking and recording metallic parts during the manufacturing process and during subsequent distribution of metallic containers, comprising the steps of: move the continuous sheet near the marker; a plurality of markings are applied using a marker at the locations of the continuous sheet blanks, wherein each marking from the plurality of markings contains a unique identifier; metal parts are formed from the locations of the blanks so that each metal part has a marking from a plurality of markings; scan a marking on a metal part using a sensor to generate a scanning event associated with a unique identifier of the marking; and transmitting a scanning event to a database via a network, wherein the scanning event is used to track and record the metal part, and wherein the database record associated with the unique identifier is updated to include information about the continuous sheet.

14. The method according to paragraph 13, wherein a plurality of markings are applied to the locations of the blanks: (i) at the press inlet during the continuous sheet hold-up period; (ii) at the press inlet between continuous sheet holding periods; or (iii) at a location before entering the press where the continuous feed of the continuous sheet is separated from the holding period by a loose section of the continuous sheet.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein the metal parts are one of the following: a cup, a tongue, an end shell, or an end cap.

16. The method according to claim 13, further comprising the steps of: scan the marking on the metal part using the second sensor to generate a second scanning event associated with a unique identifier; transmit the second scan event to the database via the network; determine that the metal part is defective; reject a defective metal part from the production process; check the defective metal part with an additional sensor; and identify the cause of a defect in a manufacturing process based on scanning events associated with the defective part.

17. The method according to claim 13, wherein the metal parts are tongues, and the method further comprises the steps of: connect the tongues to the end shells to form multiple end caps; transporting an end cap from a plurality of end caps to a filler; the end cap is connected to the container body to form a metal container at the filler, and the metal container is filled with the product; scan the marking with a second sensor at the filler to generate a second scanning event; and transmit a second scan event to the database via the network, and the product identification data for the metal container is added to the database record associated with the unique marking identifier.

18. The method according to any one of paragraphs 13-17, wherein the marker comprises at least one of a laser and a printer.

19. A method of marking a metal part for tracking and recording the metal part during the manufacturing process and during subsequent distribution of a metal container, comprising the steps of: detecting by means of a sensor a first orientation of a metal part used for the manufacture of a metal container; reorient the metal part from the first orientation to the second orientation; provide a stabilization system containing a lead screw, wherein the lead screw rotates around an axis parallel to the direction of movement of the metal part; stabilize the metal part when the metal part moves near the marker; apply a marking to the stabilized metal part using a marker, wherein the marking contains a unique identifier; and scan the marking using a sensor to generate a scanning event associated with the marking for tracking and recording the metal part.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the metal part is one of a tongue, a container body, an end shell, an end cap, or a conical cup.

21. The method according to claim 19, further comprising the steps of: providing a first tape in contact with a first side of the metal part and providing a second tape in contact with a second side of the metal part; and rotating the first belt at a first speed and the second belt at a second speed based on the first orientation to rotate the metal part into a second orientation.

22. The method of claim 19, further comprising the step of: contact through the thread of the lead screw with the metal part to move the metal part in a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement so that the metal part contacts the surface to stabilize the metal part.

23. The method of claim 19, wherein the marker comprises a continuous inkjet printer at the end of the production line before the metal part is packaged, stacked, and transported to a second location.

24. The method of claim 19, wherein the marker comprises a continuous inkjet printer at the inlet of the internal spray coating machine, and the method further comprises the step of spraying the coating onto the internal surface of the metal part.

25. The method according to any one of paragraphs 19-24, in which the marker comprises at least one of a laser and an inkjet printer.

26. An end cap, characterized in that it is designed with the possibility of rolling onto the open end of a metal container for tracking and registering the end cap, comprising: a wall of the holder extending downward from the peripheral bend, with a chamfer connecting to the lower end of the wall of the holder, and the central panel connecting to the chamfer; a tear-off panel defined by a notch on the central panel; a tongue connected to the central panel in a responsive manner; and a marking on the tongue, wherein the marking is designed with the possibility of scanning it for tracking and recording the end cap, and the marking contains one or more of an identifier of the manufacturer of the roll of continuous sheet of metal material from which the tongue is formed, a serial number of the roll and technical requirements for the material of the continuous sheet.

27. A system for creating markings on a continuous sheet of metallic material, comprising: a marker for applying markings to a continuous sheet at the locations of blanks, wherein the blanks will be cut from the continuous sheet, wherein each marking is a unique machine-readable code located within the location of the blank; a rolling machine for rolling a continuous sheet with markings into a roll, wherein each marking is capable of being read by a scanner, so that after cutting a blank with a marking from the location of the blank on the continuous sheet, the marking of the blank can subsequently, when forming a metal part from the blank, be scanned for tracking and recording the metal part; and a database with a record of each marking, each record containing information about a continuous sheet of metal material.

28. A roll of aluminum material containing: a sheet of aluminum material rolled to form a roll, the sheet having a length and comprising: first long edge; a second long edge spaced from the first long edge by the width of the sheet, the second long edge being approximately parallel to the first long edge; and a plurality of unique markings applied to the sheet, each of the unique markings being a machine-readable code and located within a workpiece location, where each workpiece location is a circle having a center and a given diameter; wherein a first column of at least five blank locations is oriented such that their centers form a first line approximately perpendicular to the first and second long edges; and a second column of at least five blank locations is oriented such that their centers form a second line approximately parallel to the first line, wherein each unique marking is configured to be read by a scanner, so that after cutting a blank with a unique marking from a blank location on a continuous sheet, the unique marking of the blank can subsequently, when forming a metal part from the blank, be scanned for tracking and recording the metal part, wherein each of the plurality of unique markings contains one or more of a sheet manufacturer identifier, a roll serial number, and sheet material specifications.

29. A method for tracking and registering a metal container, comprising the steps of: create a unique identifier; store a unique identifier in the database record; provide a unique identifier to the marker, whereby the marker applies a marking located on the metal container, whereby the marking is associated with the unique identifier; scan the marking with the first sensor on the production tool during the production of the metal container; updating the record associated with the unique identifier using information received from the first sensor; scan the marking with a second sensor after transporting the metal container from the production facility; update the record associated with the unique identifier using information received from the second sensor.

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