All-metal beverage containers and methods of manufacturing same

Abstract

An all-metal beverage container and methods of manufacturing same according to which the all-metal beverage container includes an all-metal body and an all-metal lid connected thereto.

Description

ALL-METAL BEVERAGE CONTAINERS AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURING SAMECross-Reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application claims the benefit of the filing date of, and priority to, U.S. Application No. 63 / 654,416, filed May 31 , 2024 under Docket No. 58822.401 PV01 , the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] This application also claims the benefit of the filing date of, and priority to, U.S. Application No. 63 / 694,568, filed September 13, 2024 under Docket No. 58822.401 PV02, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.Field of the Disclosure

[0003] The present disclosure relates, in general, to beverage containers, and more particularly, to an all-metal beverage container including a body and a lid each of which is formed of metal, and systems and methods for manufacturing all-metal beverage containers.

[0004] Regarding the all-metal beverage containers, each all-metal beverage container may be formed of, or composed of, one or more types of metals, or combinations of metals, the metals including, for example, aluminum, steel, tin, aluminum alloy(s), steel alloy(s), tin alloy(s), other metal alloy(s), etc. For another example, each all-metal beverage container may include a lid composed of a first type of metal, such as an aluminum alloy, and a container body composed of a second type of metal, such as a steel alloy. For yet another example, each all-metal beverage container may include a metal container lid connected to a metal container body, and the lid and body are composed of the same type of metal or different types of metal. For still yet another example, each all-metal beverage container may include an all-metal lid, an all-metal body, and an all-metal bottom portion or base, with the bottom portion or base being part of, or separate from, the body (or the remainder of the body); in one or more embodiments, the lid, body, and base are composed of different types of metals, or the same type of metal.

[0005] Regarding the systems and methods of manufacturing the all-metal beverage containers, the manufacturing systems may include molding subsystems, forming subsystems, seaming subsystems, or combinations thereof, and the methods may include molding steps, forming steps, seaming steps, or combinations thereof.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0006] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an all-metal beverage container, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0007] Figure 2 is a top plan view of the all-metal beverage container of Figure 1 , according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0008] Figure 3A is a side elevational view of the all-metal beverage container of Figures 1 and 2, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0009] Figure 3B is partial side elevational / quarter-sectional view of the all-metal beverage container of Figures 1 , 2, and 3A, with the section being taken along lines 3B- 3B of Figure 2, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 3C is an enlarged view of a portion of the view shown in Figure 3B, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 3D is an enlarged view of another portion of the view shown in Figure 3B, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 4 is a bottom plan view of the all-metal beverage container of Figures 1 , 2, 3A, 3B, and 3C, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 5 is a diagrammatic illustration of a system for manufacturing the all-metal beverage container of Figures 1 -4, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 6 is a flow chart illustration of a method of manufacturing the all-metal beverage container of Figures 1 -4 using the system of Figure 5, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 7 is an exploded diagrammatic view of components of the all-metal beverage container of Figures 1 -4 during the method of Figure 6 using the system ofFigure 5, the components including a lid, body, and base of the all-metal beverage container, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 8A is a diagrammatic sectional view of a portion of the system of Figure 5, and the lid and body of Figure 7, during a step of the method of Figure 6, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 8B is a view similar to that of Figure 8A but depicting furtherance of the step of Figure 8A of the method of Figure 6, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 8C is a view similar to that of each of Figures 8A and 8B but depicting the lid and body of Figure 7 after the completion of the step of Figures 8A and 8B of the method of Figure 6, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 9A is an exploded view of two of the all-metal beverage containers of Figures 1 -4, indicating stacking of one container on top of the other, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 9B is a side elevational view of one of the two all-metal beverage containers of Figure 9A stacked on top of the other of the two all-metal beverage containers of Figure 9A, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 10 is a perspective view of an all-metal beverage container, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 11 is a side elevational view of the all-metal beverage container of Figure 10, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 12 is a partial side elevational view / quarter-sectional view of the all-metal beverage container of Figures 10 and 1 1 , similar to that of Figure 3B and according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 13 is a diagrammatic illustration of a system for manufacturing the all- metal beverage container of Figures 10-12, the system including a forming subsystem and a seaming subsystem, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 14 is a diagrammatic illustration of forming tools of the forming subsystem of Figure 13, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 15 is another diagrammatic illustration of the forming tools of the forming subsystem of Figure 13, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 16 is a flow chart illustration of a method of manufacturing an all-metal beverage container using the manufacturing system of Figure 13, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 17 is an illustration of the forming tools of Figure 15 of the forming subsystem of Figure 13, including a punch, a blank holder, a drawing die, and a blank, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 18 is an illustration of the blank of Figure 17 being drawn to form a body of the all-metal beverage container of Figures 10-12 using the forming tools of Figure 17, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figures 19 and 20 are illustrations of a dome being formed in the body of Figure 18 using the forming tools of Figure 14 of the forming subsystem of Figure 13, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 21 A is an exploded view of two of the all-metal beverage containers of Figures 10-12, indicating stacking of one container on top of the other, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 21 B is a side elevational view of one of the two all-metal beverage containers of Figure 21 A stacked on top of the other of the two all-metal beverage containers of Figure 21 A, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 22 is a diagrammatic illustration of a computing node for implementing one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.Detailed Description

[0034] The following disclosure provides different embodiments or examples of systems, components, arrangements, devices, methods, steps, etc. Specific examples of systems, components, arrangements, devices, methods, and steps are described below. These specific examples are merely examples and are not intended to be limiting.In addition, the present disclosure may repeat reference numerals and / or letters in various examples. This repetition is for the purpose of clarity and does not in and of itself dictate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or configurations discussed.

[0035] In one or more embodiments, as illustrated in Figure 1 , an all-metal beverage container is generally referred to by reference numeral 10 and includes a body 12, a lid 14 connected to the body 12, and a base 16 connected to the body 12. Each of the body 12, the lid 14, and the base 16 is composed of one or more types of metals, or combinations of metals, the metals including, for example, aluminum, steel, tin, aluminum alloy(s), steel alloy(s), tin alloy(s), other metal alloy(s), any combination(s) of the foregoing, etc. In one or more embodiments, each of the body 12, the lid 14, and the base 16 is composed of either the same type of metal or the same types of metals. In one or more embodiments, each of the body 12, the lid 14, and the base 16 is composed of either a different type of metal or different types of metals. In one or more embodiments, two or more of the body 12, the lid 14, and the base 16 are composed of either a different type of metal or different types of metals.

[0036] Referring to Figures 1 , 2, 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D, in one or more embodiments, the body 12 extends along a central axis 18 and defines an internal cavity 20. The body 12 includes a side wall 22, a circular or cylindrical neck 24 to which the lid 14 is connected, and a lower circular or cylindrical portion 26 (shown in Figure 3D), to which the base 16 is connected; in one or more embodiments, the side wall 22, the neck 24, and the lower cylindrical portion 26 are integrally formed, composed of the same type(s) of metal(s) and extending continuously and uninterruptedly between respective portions of the neck 24 and the lower cylindrical portion 26. The neck 24 extends upward from the side wall 22. The lower cylindrical portion 26 extends downward from the side wall 22.

[0037] In one or more embodiments, the side wall 22 has a shape that is frusto-spherical or frusto-spheroidal, that is, in the shape of a truncated sphere or a truncated spheroid (i.e., a sphere-like but not perfectly spherical body). In addition, or instead, the side wall 22 (or a portion thereof) may be or include another curved shape, a cylindrical shape, a tapered shape (e.g., a frustoconical shape), another shape, or a combination thereof, according to one or more embodiments.

[0038] As shown in Figures 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, and 4, in one or more embodiments, an outer diameter D1 is defined by the side wall 22 and extends within a plane that is perpendicular to the axis 18 and positioned vertically between the lid 14 and the base 16, and also vertically between the neck 24 and the lower cylindrical portion 26 (Figure 3D); in several example embodiments, as shown in Figures 3A and 3B, the outer diameter D1 is positioned vertically along the side wall 22 and within a middle portion 28 thereof positioned about midway between the neck 14 and the lower cylindrical portion 26 (e.g., the middle 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, or 30% of the vertical height of the side wall 22, wherein the middle 0% would be the exact midpoint portion of the vertical height of the side wall 22). In several example embodiments, the outer diameter D1 is the maximum diameter of the body 12 and thus the all-metal beverage container 10. The outer diameter D1 is greater than an outer diameter D2 defined by the neck 24, an outer diameter D3 defined by the lid 14, an inside diameter D4 defined by the lid 14, and an outer diameter D5 defined by the base 16.

[0039] In one or more embodiments, the side wall 22 (or a portion thereof) may include an enlarged diameter portion, such as that defined by the side wall 22, which enlarged diameter portion defines the outer diameter D1 ; for example, in one or more embodiments, the side wall 22 includes a donut-shaped bulge (not shown) along its middle portion 28, with the donut-shaped bulge defining the outer diameter D1 .

[0040] In one or more embodiments, the lid 14 is a lid adapted to be connected to a can for beer and other carbonated beverages. In one or more embodiments, the lid 14 includes a pull-tab 30; in several embodiments, the pull-tab 30 is similar to a “stay-on-tab” described and illustrated in U.S. Patent No. 3,967,752 to Cudzik, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference, and / or U.S. Patent No. 6,234,336 to Neiner, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference. As shown most clearly in Figures 1 and 2, the pull-tab 30 includes an arm 32, which pivots at a point portion 34, causing an end 32a of the arm 32 to deform a scored area 36 of the lid 14, which scored area 36 is defined in a horizontally-extending surface 38 of the lid 14. The point portion 34 is connected to the surface 38. The deformation of the scored area 36, relative to the remainder of the surface 38, provides an opening to access the internalcavity 20, which contains a beverage that can be poured out of the all-metal beverage container 10 via the opening provided by the deformation of the scored area 36.

[0041] As shown in Figure 2, a cylindrical inside surface 42 of the lid 14 defines an inner diameter D6. In several embodiments, the diameter D5 of the base 16 is less than the diameter D6 of the lid 14. In several embodiments, the diameter D5 of the base 16 is less than the diameter of additional diameters defined by the lid 14 and visible in Figure 2. In several embodiments, the diameter D5 of the base 16 is less than the diameter D4 of the lid 14 and thus is less than each of the diameter D6 and the diameter D3 of the lid 14.

[0042] As shown most clearly in Figure 3C, in one or more embodiments, the lid 14 further includes a lip 40 that wraps over the neck 24 of the body 12, forming a hook 41a that nests within a hook 41 b formed by the neck 24 of the body 12, interlocking the lid 14 to the body 12, and forming a double-seamed connection between the lid 14 and the body 12; in one or more embodiments, the double-seamed connection creates a hermetic seal by interlocking the lid 14 with the body 12. The lid 14 further includes the cylindrical inside surface 42 extending downward from the lip 40 and connected to the horizontallyextending surface 38. In several embodiments, the lip 40, the cylindrical inside surface 42, and the horizontally-extending surface of the lid 14 are integrally formed. An external region 44 is at least partially defined by the horizontally-extending surface 38 and the cylindrical inside surface 42, the shape of the external region 44 being generally discshaped.

[0043] As shown most clearly in Figure 3D, in one or more embodiments, the base 16 includes a lip 46 that wraps over the lower cylindrical portion 26 of the body 12, forming a hook 47a that nests within a hook 47b formed by the lower cylindrical portion 26 of the body 12, interlocking the base 16 to the body 12, and forming a double-seamed connection between the base 16 and the body 12; in one or more embodiments, the double-seamed connection creates a hermetic seal by interlocking the base 16 with the body 12.

[0044] As shown in Figure 3D, in one or more embodiments, the base 16 further includes a cylindrical inside surface 48 that extends upward from the lip 46 and to a circular disc portion 50, which extends horizontally and is surrounded by the cylindricalinside surface 48. As shown in Figures 3A, 3B, and 4, the outer diameter D5 is defined by an outside cylindrical surface 46a of the lip 46. In several embodiments, the lip 46, the cylindrical inside surface 48, and the circular disc portion 50 of the base 16 are integrally formed; in several embodiments, the base 16 in its entirety is integrally formed. An external region 52 is defined by the circular disc portion 50 and the cylindrical inside surface 48, the external region 52 being generally disc-shaped.

[0045] In several embodiments, respective internal surfaces of the body 12, the lid 14, and the base 16 at least partially define the internal cavity 20. In several embodiments, the internal cavity is at least partially defined by at least a portion of the internal surface of the side wall 22, at least a portion of the internal surface of the neck 24, at least a portion of the internal surface of the lid 14, and at least a portion of the internal surface of the circular disc portion 50 of the base 16.

[0046] In several embodiments, the all-metal beverage container 10 is “all-metal” because at least the body 12, the lid 14, and the base 16 are each composed of metal or metals; however, in several embodiments, the all-metal beverage container 10 is “all- metal” but also includes non-metal components, non-metal parts, non-metal accessories, non-metal coatings, non-metal liners, partially non-metal components, partially non-metal parts, partially non-metal accessories, partially non-metal coatings, partially non-metal lines, or any combination thereof. For example, in several embodiments, the all-metal beverage container 10 includes non-metal or non-metallic materials such as, for example, polymer(s), binder(s), polymer binder material(s), and / or one or more internal linings that line the inside surface(s) defined by, for example, the all-metal container body 12 of the all-metal beverage container 10; in several embodiments, the all-metal beverage container 10 includes one or more coatings and / or films applied to the inside surface(s) defined by, for example, the all-metal container body 12 of the all-metal beverage container 10; in several embodiments, the all-metal beverage container 10 includes one or more coatings, one or more films, one or more liners, or any combination thereof, which is / are applied to the inside surface(s) of the defined by, for example, the all-metal container body 12 of the all-metal beverage container 10; in several embodiments, the all-metal container body 12 includes a liner that lines the inside surface(s) of the all-metalcontainer body, the liner being composed of bisphenol A (BPA) and / or including a BPA- based epoxy; in several embodiments, the all-metal container body 12 includes a liner that lines the inside surface(s) of the all-metal container body, the liner being composed of a non-BPA material and thus not including BPA and / or a BPA-based epoxy; in several embodiments, the all-metal container body includes a liner that lines the inside surface(s) of the all-metal container body 12, the liner being composed of a non-BPA material and thus not including BPA and / or a BPA-based epoxy, and / or the liner being composed of non-BPA acrylic or polyester epoxies, and / or olefin polymers, and / or any combination thereof; in several embodiments, the all-metal container body 12 includes a liner that lines the inside surface(s) of the all-metal container body 12, the liner being composed of acrylic resin(s), polyesters, whole or partially plant-based oleoresins, or combination(s) thereof. For another example, in several embodiments, the all-metal beverage container 10 includes a non-metal cap or top that engages and connects to the lid 14, covering the lid 14 by contacting at least the lip 40, like a soda pop top or a can cover that snaps onto the lid 14. For another example, in several embodiments, the all-metal beverage container 10 includes a non-metal tether connected to the lid 14 and / or the body 12. For another example, in several embodiments, the all-metal beverage container 10 includes a non-metal jacket, such as a non-metal insulating jacket, surrounding at least the side wall 22 of the body 12.

[0047] In operation, with continuing reference to Figures 1 , 2, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, and 4, the base 16 is connected to the body 12 in accordance with the foregoing, the internal cavity 20 is filled with a liquid beverage, and the lid 14 (with the scored area 36 unbroken or non-deformed) is connected to the body 12 in accordance with the foregoing. The respective connections between the base 16 and the body 12, and between the lid 14 and the body 12, prevent the liquid beverage from leaking out of the all-metal beverage container 10. To access the liquid beverage in the all-metal beverage container 10, a user or device stabilizes or holds in place the body 12 and thus the lid 14 connected thereto, and pivots the arm 32 of the lid 14 at the point portion 34, causing the end 32a of the arm 32 to deform the scored area 36 of the lid 14. The deformation of the scored area 36, relative to the remainder of the surface 38, provides an opening, into the surface38 and through the lid 14, to access the internal cavity 20, which contains the liquid beverage that can be poured out of the all-metal beverage container 10 via the opening provided by the deformation of the scored area 36, for drinking or consumption by the user and / or one or more other purposes. All, or almost all, of the bottommost extant of the base 16 is able to contact, and be supported by, a horizontally-extending surface such as a tabletop or ground surface, thereby maintaining the container 10 in an upright position.

[0048] As illustrated in Figure 5 with continuing reference to Figures 1 , 2, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, and 4, in one or more embodiments, a manufacturing system is generally referred to by the reference numeral 54. In several embodiments, the manufacturing system 54 is used to manufacture the all-metal beverage container 10 of Figures 1 , 2, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, and 4. The system 54 includes a molding subsystem 56 and a seaming subsystem 58. The molding subsystem 56 includes a metal injection molding system 60 and / or a blowmolding system 62 for metals. The seaming subsystem 58 includes a seaming chuck 64, a seaming roll 66, and a source of sealing compound 68. In several embodiments, the seaming roll 66 includes at least two different seaming rollers, such as seaming roller 66a (shown in Figure 8A) and seaming roller 66b (shown in Figure 8B). In several embodiments, the system 54 includes additional subsystem(s), the subsystem 56 includes additional system(s), the subsystem 58 includes additional subsystem(s), or any combination thereof.

[0049] As illustrated in Figure 6 with continuing reference to Figures 1 , 2, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 4 and 5, in one or more embodiments, a method of manufacturing the all-metal beverage container 10 of Figures 1 -4, using the system of Figure 5, is generally referred to by the reference numeral 70. The method 70 includes molding the body 12 at step 72, connecting the base 16 to the body 12 at step 74, and connecting the lid 14 to the body 12 at step 76.

[0050] As illustrated in Figure 7 with continuing reference to Figures 1 -6, in one or more embodiments, at the step 72 the body 12 is molded using the metal injection molding system 60, and / or the blow molding system 62, of the molding subsystem 56. In one or more embodiments, the body 12 is metal injection molded at the step 72 using the metal- IQ -injection molding system 60. In one or more embodiments, the body 12 is blow molded at the step 72 using the metal blow-molding system 62. In one or more embodiments, the body 12 is both metal injection molded, and blow molded, at the step 72 using the systems 62 and 64, respectively.

[0051] At the step 72, in one or more embodiments, injection and / or blow molding the body 12 forms the side wall 22, the neck 24, and the lower cylindrical portion 26. At the step 72, in one or more embodiments, injection and / or blow molding the body 12 forms at least the side wall 22, and then additional processing steps form the neck 24 and / or the lower cylindrical portion 26.

[0052] In several embodiments, at the step 72, the body 12 of the container 10 is formed by metal injection molding (MIM); in several embodiments, the body 12 formed by metal injection molding (MIM) is made from a mix of powered metal and a polymer binder material; in several embodiments, the powdered metal includes one or more types of powdered metals, one or more types of powdered alloys, stainless steel, tungsten, titanium, other material(s), or any combination thereof; in several embodiments, one or more embodiments of the all-metal beverage container 10 described and / or illustrated in the present disclosure is / are at least partially composed of, and / or manufactured using, non-metal or non-metallic materials.

[0053] In several embodiments, at the step 72, to manufacture at least the container body 12 by molding, a metal preform is provided, and then the metal preform is blow molded to form the container body 12. In several embodiments, a metal preform is used rather than a plastic preform; in several embodiments, the metal preform is heated before the metal preform is blow molded.

[0054] In several embodiments, at the step 72, manufacturing the container body 12 by molding includes a plurality of steps including one or more heating steps, one or more steps of applying pressure, one or more molding steps such as one or more blow molding steps, or any combination thereof. In several embodiments, in addition to the body 12, the lid 14 and / or the base 16 are molded in accordance with one or more of the foregoing embodiments and / or other molding process embodiments.

[0055] In several embodiments, at the step 72, the container body 12 is not molded but instead is formed to have the side wall 22, the neck 25, and the cylindrical lower portion 26, with the forming including one or more forming steps, each of which uses one or more forming tools.

[0056] At the steps 74 and 76, in one or more embodiments, the body 12 is connected to the base 16 and the lid 14, respectively, as suggested by the exploded view of the lid 14, the body 12, and the base 16 in Figures 7.

[0057] As illustrated in Figure 8A with continuing reference to Figures 5-7, and to Figures 1 -4, in one or more embodiments, at the step 76 the lid 14 is connected to the base 12 in accordance with one or more embodiments. More particularly, in one or more embodiments, at the step 76 the lid 14 is positioned over, and / or applied to, the neck 24 of the body 12. The seaming chuck 64 of the seaming subsystem 58 of the manufacturing system 54 of Figure 5 engages the lid 14, pushing the lid 14 firmly against the end portion of the neck 24 opposite the lower cylindrical portion 26 (not shown in Figure 8A) so that the lip 40 of the lid 14 wraps around the neck 24. The seaming roller 66a of the seaming roll 66 rotates around the lid 14 and the body 12 while engaging at least the lip 40, producing the hook 41 a of the lip 40 of the lid 14 and the hook 41 b of the neck 24 of the body 12; the hook 41 nests within the hook 41 b, interlocking the lid 14 to the body 12.

[0058] As illustrated in Figure 8B with continuing reference to Figure 8A, Figures 5-7, and Figures 1 -4, in one or more embodiments, at the step 76 the seaming roller 66b of the seaming roll 66 rotates around the lid 14 and the body 12 while engaging at least the lip 40, flattening the hooks 41 a and 41 b (of the lip 40 and the neck 24, respectively), forming a double-seamed connection and producing a leak-tight seal between the lid 14 and the body 12. In one or more embodiments, the double-seamed connection creates a hermetic seal by interlocking the lid 14 with the body 12.

[0059] As illustrated in Figure 8C with continuing reference to Figures 8A and 8B, Figures 5-7, and Figures 1 -4, in one or more embodiments, a sealing compound 78 is disposed between and among the lip 14 and the body 12 including, for example as and shown in Figure 8C, between the hook 41 a of the lip 40 and the hook 41 b of the neck 24. In one or more embodiments, before and / or during the step 76, the sealing compound 78is drawn from the source of sealing compound 68 of the seaming subsystem 58 of the manufacturing system 54, and applied to the lip 14 and / or the body 12 so that, at the conclusion of the step 76, the sealing compound 78 is disposed between and among the lip 14 and the body 12 including, for example as and shown in Figure 8C, between the hook 41 a of the lip 40 and the hook 41 b of the neck 24. The sealing compound 78 from the source 68 further connects and seals the lid 14 and the body 12 together, in addition the embodiment(s) of the double-seamed connection described above.

[0060] At the step 74, the base 16 is connected to the body 12 in a manner similar to the above-described manner in which the lid 14 is connected to the body 12 at the step 76, forming a double-seamed connection and producing a leak-tight seal between the base 16 and the body 12. As described above in connection with Figure 3D, and shown in Figure 3D, at the conclusion of the step 74, the hook 47a nests within the hook 47b formed by the lower cylindrical portion 26 of the body 12, interlocking the base 16 to the body 12, and forming the double-seamed connection between the base 16 and the body 12; in one or more embodiments, the double-seamed connection creates a hermetic seal by interlocking the base 16 with the body 12. In several embodiments, the sealing compound 78 shown in Figure 8C is also disposed between and among the base 16 and the body 12 including, for example, between the hook 47a of the base 16 and the hook 47b of the lower cylindrical portion 26 of the body 12. In one or more embodiments, before and / or during the step 74, the sealing compound 78 is drawn from the source of sealing compound 68 of the seaming subsystem 58 of the manufacturing system 54, and applied to the base 16 and / or the body 12 so that, at the conclusion of the step 74, the sealing compound 78 is disposed between and among the base 16 and the body 12 including, for example, between the hook 47a of the base 16 and the hook 47b of the lower cylindrical portion 26. The sealing compound 78 from the source 68 further connects and seals the base 16 and the body 12 together.

[0061] As illustrated in Figures 9A and 9B, with continuing reference to Figures 1 -8C, respective ones of the all-metal beverage container 10 (i.e., the containers 10 and 10’) are stacked on top of each other, with the container 10’ stacked on top of the container 10. In several embodiments, the diameter D5’ of the base 16’ being less than thediameter D6 of the lid 14 permits the container 10’ to be stacked on top of the lid 14 of the container 10. In several embodiments, the diameter D5’ of the base 16’ being less than the diameter D4 of the lid 14, and thus also less than the diameter D6 of the lid 14, permits the container 10’ to be stacked on top of the lid 14 of the container 10. When the container 10’ is stacked on top of the container 10, at least a portion of the base 16’ contacts, and is supported by, at least a portion of the surface 38 of the lid 14, and the cylindrical inside surface 42 of the lid 14 of the container 10 extends circumferentially all around at least a portion of the base 16’ of the container 10’. The at least partial support of the base 16’ by the surface 38 of the lid 14, and the circumferential extension of the cylindrical inside surface 42 of the lid 14 around at least a portion of the base 16’, maintains the position of the container 10’, that is, the stacking (or the stacked position) of the container 10’ on top of the container 10. In several embodiments, the diameter D5’ of the base 16’ is less than diameter D4 of the lid 14 of the container 10 so that, when the container 10’ is stacked on top of the container 10, all or almost all of the bottommost extant of the base 16’ is able to contact, and be supported by, the surface 38 of the lid 14 of the container 10. In several embodiments, the diameter D4 defined by the horizontallyextending surface 38 of the all-metal lid 14 being less than the outer diameter D5 defined by the base 16, and thus also less than the inner diameter D6 defined by the cylindrical inside surface 42 of the all-metal lid 14, facilitates the vertical stacking of the all-metal beverage container 10’ with at least a portion of the base 16’ thereof contacting, and being supported by, at least a portion of the horizontally-extending surface 38 of the all-metal lid 14; and wherein the diameter D4 defined by the horizontally-extending surface 38 of the all-metal lid 14 being less than the outer diameter D5 defined by the base 16, and thus also less than the inner diameter D6 defined by the cylindrical inside surface 42 of the all-metal lid 14, facilitates the vertical stacking of the all-metal beverage container 10’ with the cylindrical inside surface 42 of the all-metal lid 14 extending circumferentially all around at least a portion of the base 16’ of the all-metal beverage container 10’ and thus being adapted to obstruct relative horizontal movement therebetween and thus the unstacking of the all-metal beverage container 10’. As shown in Figure 9B, an all-metal vertical undulating side profile 79, along the stacked vertical height of the container 10’vertically stacked on top of the container 10, is formed due to the frusto-spherical or frusto- spheroidal shape of each of the respective side walls 22, 22’ of the all-metal beverage container 10 and the another one of the all-metal beverage container 10’, which is vertically stacked on top of the all-metal beverage container 10.

[0062] As illustrated in Figure 10 with continuing reference to Figures 1 -9B, in one or more embodiments, an all-metal beverage container is generally referred to by the reference numeral 80 and includes a container body 82 and the container lid 14 connected thereto; the lid 14 of the all-metal beverage container 80 is identical to the lid 14 of the all-metal beverage container 10. The body 82 is composed of one or more types of metals, or combinations of metals, the metals including, for example, aluminum, steel, tin, aluminum alloy(s), steel alloy(s), tin alloy(s), other metal alloy(s), any combination(s) of the foregoing, etc. In one or more embodiments, each of the body 82 and the lid 14 is composed of either the same type of metal or the same types of metals. In one or more embodiments, each of the body 82 and the lid 14 is composed of either a different type of metal or different types of metals.

[0063] As illustrated in Figures 10, 11 , and 12, with continuing reference to Figures 1 - 9B, in one or more embodiments, the body 82 extends along a central axis 84 and defines an internal cavity 86. The body 82 includes a side wall 88, a circular or cylindrical neck 90 to which the lid 14 is connected, and a base 92 connected to the side wall 88. In one or more embodiments, as shown in Figures 10-12, the neck 90, the side wall 88, and the base 92 are integrally formed and composed of the same type(s) of metal(s). The neck 90 extends upward from the side wall 88. The base 92 extends downward from the side wall 22.

[0064] In one or more embodiments, the side wall 88 has a shape that is frusto-spherical or frusto-spheroidal, that is, in the shape of a truncated sphere or a truncated spheroid (i.e., a sphere-like but not perfectly spherical body). In addition, or instead, the side wall 88 (or a portion thereof) may be or include another curved shape, a cylindrical shape, a tapered shape (e.g., a frustoconical shape), another shape, or a combination thereof, according to one or more embodiments.

[0065] In one or more embodiments, as shown in Figure 12, the base 92 includes a horizontally-extending bottom surface 94 and a circular depression 96 formed therein, the depression 96 extending upwardly and forming a dome-shaped wall 98 of the base 92. As shown in Figure 12, the horizontally-extending bottom surface 94 is disk-shaped and circumferentially extends around the circular depression 96.

[0066] As shown in Figures 11 and 12, in one or mor embodiments, an outer diameter D7 is defined by the side wall 88 and extends within a plane that is perpendicular to the axis 84 and positioned vertically between the lid 14 and the base 92, and also vertically between the neck 90 and the surface 94; in several example embodiments, as shown in Figures 11 and 12, the outer diameter D7 is positioned vertically along the side wall 88 and within a middle portion 100 thereof positioned about midway between the neck 90 and the surface 94 (e.g., the middle 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, or 30% of the vertical height of the side wall 22, wherein the middle 0% would be the exact midpoint portion of the vertical height of the side wall 88). In several example embodiments, the outer diameter D7 is the maximum diameter of the body 82 and thus the all-metal beverage container 10. The outer diameter D7 is greater than an outer diameter D8 defined by the neck 90, the outer diameter D3 defined by the lid 14, the inside diameter D4 defined by the lid 14, and an outer diameter D9 defined by the bottom surface 94.

[0067] In one or more embodiments, the side wall 88 (or a portion thereof) may include an enlarged diameter portion, such as that defined by the side wall 88, which enlarged diameter portion defines the outer diameter D7; for example, in one or more embodiments, the side wall 88 includes a donut-shaped bulge (not shown) along its middle portion 100, with the donut-shaped bulge defining the outer diameter D7.

[0068] In one or more embodiments, as with the container 10, the pull-tab 30 of the container 80 includes the arm 32, which pivots at the point portion 34, causing the end 32a of the arm 32 to deform the scored area 36 of the lid 14. The deformation of the scored area 36, relative to the remainder of the surface 38, provides an opening to access the internal cavity 86, which contains a beverage that can be poured out of the all-metal beverage container 80 via the opening provided by the deformation of the scored area 36.

[0069] As shown in Figure 12, the cylindrical inside surface 42 of the lid 14 defines the inner diameter D6. In several embodiments, the diameter D9 of the surface 94 of the base 92 is less than the diameter D6 of the lid 14. In several embodiments, the diameter D9 of the surface 94 of the base 92 is less than the diameter of additional diameters defined by the lid 14 and visible in Figures 10, 11 , and 12. In several embodiments, the diameter D9 of the surface 94 of the base 92 is less than the diameter D4 of the lid 14 and thus is less than each of the diameter D6 and the diameter D3 of the lid 14.

[0070] In several embodiments, respective internal surfaces of the body 82 and the lid 14 at least partially define the internal cavity 86. In several embodiments, the internal cavity is at least partially defined by at least a portion of the internal surface of the side wall 88, at least a portion of the internal surface of the neck 90, at least a portion of the internal surface of the lid 14, at least a portion of the internal surface of the wall 98, and an internal surface 102 having the same disk shape as the surface 94 and positioned directly above the surface 94.

[0071] In several embodiments, the all-metal beverage container 80 is “all-metal” because at least the body 82 and the lid 14 are each composed of metal or metals; however, in several embodiments, the all-metal beverage container 80 is “all-metal” but also includes non-metal components, non-metal parts, non-metal accessories, non-metal coatings, non-metal liners, partially non-metal components, partially non-metal parts, partially non-metal accessories, partially non-metal coatings, partially non-metal lines, or any combination thereof. For example, in several embodiments, the all-metal beverage container 80 includes non-metal or non-metallic materials such as, for example, polymer(s), binder(s), polymer binder material(s), and / or one or more internal linings that line the inside surface(s) defined by, for example, the all-metal container body 82 of the all-metal beverage container 80; in several embodiments, the all-metal beverage container 80 includes one or more coatings and / or films applied to the inside surface(s) defined by, for example, the all-metal container body 82 of the all-metal beverage container 80; in several embodiments, the all-metal beverage container 80 includes one or more coatings, one or more films, one or more liners, or any combination thereof, which is / are applied to the inside surface(s) of the defined by, for example, the all-metalcontainer body 82 of the all-metal beverage container 80; in several embodiments, the all-metal container body 82 includes a liner that lines the inside surface(s) of the all-metal container body, the liner being composed of bisphenol A (BPA) and / or including a BPA- based epoxy; in several embodiments, the all-metal container body 82 includes a liner that lines the inside surface(s) of the all-metal container body, the liner being composed of a non-BPA material and thus not including BPA and / or a BPA-based epoxy; in several embodiments, the all-metal container body includes a liner that lines the inside surface(s) of the all-metal container body 82, the liner being composed of a non-BPA material and thus not including BPA and / or a BPA-based epoxy, and / or the liner being composed of non-BPA acrylic or polyester epoxies, and / or olefin polymers, and / or any combination thereof; in several embodiments, the all-metal container body 82 includes a liner that lines the inside surface(s) of the all-metal container body 82, the liner being composed of acrylic resin(s), polyesters, whole or partially plant-based oleoresins, or combination(s) thereof. For another example, in several embodiments, the all-metal beverage container 10 includes a non-metal cap or top that engages and connects to the lid 14, covering the lid 14 by contacting at least the lip 40, like a soda pop top or a can cover that snaps onto the lid 14. For another example, in several embodiments, the all-metal beverage container 10 includes a non-metal tether connected to the lid 14 and / or the body 82. For another example, in several embodiments, the all-metal beverage container 10 includes a non-metal jacket, such as a non-metal insulating jacket, surrounding at least the side wall 22 of the body 82.

[0072] In operation, with continuing reference to Figures 10, 11 , and 12, the internal cavity 86 is filled with a liquid beverage, and the lid 14 (with the scored area 36 unbroken or non-deformed) is connected to the body 82 in the same manner in which the lid 14 is connected to the body 12 of the container 10. The connections between the lid 14 and the body 82 prevent the liquid beverage from leaking out of the all-metal beverage container 80. To access the liquid beverage in the all-metal beverage container 80, a user or device stabilizes or holds in place the body 82 and thus the lid 14 connected thereto, and pivots the arm 32 of the lid 14 at the point portion 34, causing the end 32a of the arm 32 to deform the scored area 36 of the lid 14. The deformation of the scoredarea 36, relative to the remainder of the surface 38, provides an opening, into the surface 38 and through the lid 14, to access the internal cavity 86, which contains the liquid beverage that can be poured out of the all-metal beverage container 80 via the opening provided by the deformation of the scored area 36, for drinking or consumption by the user and / or one or more other purposes. All, or almost all, of the bottommost extant of the base 92, that is, all or almost all of the surface 94, is able to contact, and be supported by, a horizontally-extending surface such as a tabletop or ground surface, thereby maintaining the container 80 in an upright position.

[0073] As illustrated in Figure 13 with continuing reference to Figures 1 -12, in one or more embodiments, a manufacturing system is generally referred to by the reference numeral 104. In several embodiments, the manufacturing system 104 is used to manufacture the all-metal beverage container 80 of Figures 10-12. The system 104 includes a forming subsystem 106 and the seaming subsystem 58, which is identical to the seaming subsystem 58 of the system 54 of Figure 5. The forming subsystem 106 includes one or more presses 108 and one or more forming tools 1 10. The seaming subsystem 58 includes the seaming chuck 64, the seaming roll 66, and the source of sealing compound 68. As noted above in connection with Figure 5, in several embodiments, the seaming roll 66 includes at least two different seaming rollers, such as seaming roller 66a (shown in Figure 8A) and seaming roller 66b (shown in Figure 8B). In several embodiments, the system 104 includes additional subsystem(s), the subsystem 106 includes additional system(s), the subsystem 58 includes additional subsystem(s), or any combination thereof.

[0074] As illustrated in Figure 14 with continuing reference to Figures 1 -13, in one or more embodiments, the forming tools 110 include one or more dies 1 12, one or more holders 114, one or more punches 116, one or more doming tools 1 18, and other forming tools 120.

[0075] As illustrated in Figure 15 with continuing reference to Figures 1 -14, in one or more embodiments, the forming tools 1 10 include a press 122 of the one or more presses 115, and further include a drawing punch 124, a blank holder 126, a blank 128, and a drawing die 130.

[0076] As illustrated in Figure 16 with continuing reference to Figures 1 -15, a method of manufacturing the all-metal beverage container 80 is generally referred to by the reference numeral 132. The method 132 is a method of manufacturing the container 80 using the system 104. Step 134, step 136, step 138, and step 140 of the method 132 include the use of the forming subsystem 105. Step 142 includes the use of the seaming subsystem 58.

[0077] As illustrated in Figure 17 with continuing reference to Figures 1 -16, in one or more embodiments, at the step 134 of the method 132 of Figure 16, the blank 128 is provided. In one or more embodiments, the blank 128 is a disk; in one or more embodiments, the blank 128 is made of metal; in one or more embodiments, the blank 128 is punched from an aluminum sheet. When the blank 128 is provided, it is placed on top of the drawing die 130. The blank holder 126 is then placed on top of the blank 128 and the drawing die 130 such that the blank 128 is at least partially positioned between the blank holder 126 and the drawing die 130. The blank holder 126 and the drawing die 130 provide a clamping force to hold the blank 128 in position while being drawn.

[0078] As illustrated in Figure 18 with continuing reference to Figures 1 -17, at the step 136 of the method 132 of Figure 16, the blank 128 is drawn to form a body. In one or more embodiments, the step 136 includes using the press 122 to press the drawing punch 124 into the blank 128 that is positioned and secured between the blank holder 126 and the drawing die 128. As the drawing punch 124 is pressed into the blank 128, the blank 128 deforms around the drawing punch 124 and forms a shape corresponding to the shape of the drawing punch 124. In one or more embodiments, the drawing punch 124 is cylindrical and forms the blank 128 into a cylindrical cup 143 as shown in Figure 18; in one or more embodiments, the body may be wider, or have a larger diameter, than the desired width or diameter of the final container.

[0079] As illustrated Figures 19 and 20 with continuing reference to Figures 1 -18, at the step 138 of the method 132 of Figure 16, a doming punch 144 and a doming die 146 are used to form the dome 98 (also shown in Figure 12) in a bottom portion 148 of the cup 143. The doming die 146 includes an externally projecting dome 150 that corresponds with a domed recess 152 of the doming punch 144. The doming punch 144 is receivedwithin the cup 143 and presses the cup 143 onto the doming die 146 to form the dome 98. The dome 98 is formed in the bottom portion 148 of the cup 143 for one or more of the reasons described above. In several embodiments, the one or more doming tools 118 of the forming tools 110 shown in Figure 14 include the doming punch 144 and the doming die 146 shown in Figures 19 and 20. In several embodiments, the one or more punches 116 of the forming tools 1 10 shown in Figure 14 include the doming punch 144 shown in Figures 19 and 20.

[0080] Referring back to Figure 16 with continuing reference to Figures 1 -15 and 17-20, at the step 140 of the method 132, additional forming operation(s) are conducted before, during, or after the step 138 of forming the dome 98. In several embodiments, the cup 143 of Figures 19 and 20 undergoes various stages of formation, with the body initially being formed from the blank 128 drawn in the step 136 of the method 132. In one or more embodiments, at the step 140 of the method 132, at least one of the one or more presses 108 of the forming subsystem 106, and at least one of the one or more forming tools 1 10 of the forming subsystem 106, are used to form the container body 82 of the all-metal beverage container 80. In one or more embodiments, at the step 140 of the method 132 and referring to Figure 14, the one or more drawing dies 112, the one or more holders 114, the one or more punches 116, the one or more doming tools 118, the other forming tools 120, or any combination thereof, are used to form the container body 82 of the all-metal beverage container 80. In one or more embodiments, at the step 140 of the method 132 and referring to Figure 15, the press 122, the punch 124, the blank holder 126, the blank 128, the drawing die 130, or any combination thereof, are used to form the container body 82 of the all-metal beverage container 80. In one or more embodiments, at the step 140 of the method 132 and referring to Figures 14 and 15, the one or more drawing dies 112, the one or more holders 1 14, the one or more punches 116, the one or more doming tools 118, the other forming tools 120, the press 122, the punch 124, the blank holder 126, the blank 128, the drawing die 130, or any combination thereof, are used to form the container body 82 of the all-metal beverage container 80, including the internal cavity 86.

[0081] With continuing reference to Figure 16 with accompanying reference to Figures 1 -15 and 17-20, before the step 142 of the method 132, the internal cavity 86 of the container 80 is filled with a liquid beverage.

[0082] With continuing reference to Figure 16 with accompanying reference to Figures 1 -15 and 17-20, at the step 142 of the method 132 and after the internal cavity 86 of the container 80 is filled with the liquid beverage, the lid 14 is sealed and connected to the formed container body 82 in a manner substantially similar to the above-described manner in which the lid 14 is sealed and connected to the container body 12 of the all- metal beverage container 10, as illustrated in Figures 8A, 8B, and 8C.

[0083] As illustrated in Figures 21 A and 21 B, with continuing reference to Figures 1 -20, respective ones of the all-metal beverage container 80 (i.e., the containers 80 and 80’) are stacked on top of each other, with the container 80’ stacked on top of the container 80. In several embodiments, the diameter D9’ of the base 92’ being less than the diameter D6 of the lid 14 permits the container 80’ to be stacked on top of the lid 14 of the container 80. In several embodiments, the diameter D9’ of the base 92’ being less than the diameter D4 of the lid 14, and thus also less than the diameter D6 of the lid 14, permits the container 80’ to be stacked on top of the lid 14 of the container 80. When the container 80’ is stacked on top of the container 80, at least a portion of the base 92’ contacts, and is supported by, at least a portion of the surface 38 of the lid 14, and the cylindrical inside surface 42 of the lid 14 of the container 80 extends circumferentially all around at least a portion of the base 92’ of the container 80’. The at least partial support of the base 96’ by the surface 38 of the lid 14, and the circumferential extension of the cylindrical inside surface 42 of the lid 14 around at least a portion of the base 92’, maintains the position of the container 80’, that is, the stacking (or the stacked position) of the container 80’ on top of the container 80. In several embodiments, the diameter D9’ of the base 92’ is less than diameter D4 of the lid 14 of the container 80 so that, when the container 80’ is stacked on top of the container 80, all or almost all of the bottommost extant of the base 92’, that is, the surface 94, is able to contact, and be supported by, the surface 38 of the lid 14 of the container 10. In several embodiments, the diameter D4 defined by the horizontally-extending surface 38 of the all-metal lid 14 being less than theouter diameter D9 defined by the base 92, and thus also less than the inner diameter D6 defined by the cylindrical inside surface 42 of the all-metal lid 14, facilitates the vertical stacking of the all-metal beverage container 80’ with at least a portion of the base 92’ thereof contacting, and being supported by, at least a portion of the horizontally-extending surface 38 of the all-metal lid 14; and wherein the diameter D4 defined by the horizontallyextending surface 38 of the all-metal lid 14 being less than the outer diameter D9 defined by the base 92, and thus also less than the inner diameter D6 defined by the cylindrical inside surface 42 of the all-metal lid 14, facilitates the vertical stacking of the all-metal beverage container 80’ with the cylindrical inside surface 42 of the all-metal lid 14 extending circumferentially all around at least a portion of the base 92’ of the all-metal beverage container 80’ and thus being adapted to obstruct relative horizontal movement therebetween and thus the unstacking of the all-metal beverage container 80’. As shown in Figure 21 B, an all-metal vertical undulating side profile 154, along the stacked vertical height of the container 80’ vertically stacked on top of the container 80, is formed due to the frusto-spherical or frusto-spheroidal shape of each of the respective side walls 88, 88’ of the all-metal beverage container 80 and the another one of the all-metal beverage container 80’, which is vertically stacked on top of the all-metal beverage container 80.

[0084] In one or more embodiments, as illustrated in Figure 22, a computing node 1000 for implementing one or more of the above-described embodiments, and / or any combination thereof, is depicted. The node 1000 includes a microprocessor 1000a, an input device 1000b, a storage device 1000c, a video controller 10OOd, a system memory 1000e, a display 10OOf, and a communication device 1000g all interconnected by one or more buses 10OOh. In one or more embodiments, the storage device 1000c may include a floppy drive, hard drive, CD-ROM, optical drive, any other form of storage device or any combination thereof. In one or more embodiments, the storage device 1000c may include, and / or be capable of receiving, a floppy disk, CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, or any other form of non-transitory computer-readable medium that may contain executable instructions. In one or more embodiments, the communication device 1000g may include a modem, network card, or any other device to enable the node 1000 to communicate with other nodes. In one or more embodiments, any node represents a plurality ofinterconnected (whether by intranet or Internet) computer systems, including without limitation, personal computers, mainframes, PDAs, smartphones and cell phones; in one or more embodiments, one or more of the components of any of the above-described embodiments include at least the node and / or components thereof, and / or one or more nodes that are substantially similar to the node and / or components thereof. In one or more embodiments, one or more of the above-described components of the node and / or the above-described embodiments include respective pluralities of same components.

[0085] In one or more embodiments, one or more of the components of any of the above-described embodiments include at least the node 1000 and / or components thereof, and / or one or more nodes that are substantially similar to the node 1000 and / or components thereof. In one or more embodiments, one or more of the above-described components of the node 1000 and / or the above-described embodiments include respective pluralities of same components.

[0086] In one or more embodiments, a computer system includes at least hardware capable of executing machine readable instructions, as well as the software for executing acts (typically machine-readable instructions) that produce a desired result. In one or more embodiments, a computer system includes hybrids of hardware and software, as well as computer sub-systems. In one or more embodiments, hardware generally includes at least processor-capable platforms, such as client-machines (also known as personal computers or servers), and hand-held processing devices (such as smart phones, tablet computers, personal digital assistants (PDAs), or personal computing devices (PCDs), for example). In one or more embodiments, hardware may include any physical device that is capable of storing machine-readable instructions, such as memory or other data storage devices. In one or more embodiments, other forms of hardware include hardware sub-systems, including transfer devices such as modems, modem cards, ports, and port cards, for example.

[0087] In one or more embodiments, software includes any machine code stored in any memory medium, such as RAM or ROM, and machine code stored on other devices (such as floppy disks, flash memory, or a CD-ROM, for example). In one or more embodiments, software may include source or object code. In one or more embodiments, softwareencompasses any set of instructions capable of being executed on a node such as, for example, on a client machine or server. In one or more embodiments, combinations of software and hardware could also be used for providing enhanced functionality and performance for certain embodiments of the present disclosure. In one or more embodiments, software functions may be directly manufactured into a silicon chip. Accordingly, combinations of hardware and software are also included within the definition of a computer system and are thus envisioned by the present disclosure as possible equivalent structures and equivalent methods. In one or more embodiments, computer readable mediums include, for example, passive data storage, such as a random-access memory (RAM) as well as semi-permanent data storage such as a compact disk read only memory (CD-ROM). One or more embodiments of the present disclosure may be embodied in the RAM of a computer to transform a standard computer into a new specific computing machine. In one or more embodiments, data structures are defined organizations of data that may enable one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In one or more embodiments, data structure may provide an organization of data, or an organization of executable code. In one or more embodiments, any networks and / or one or more portions thereof, may be designed to work on any specific architecture. In one or more embodiments, one or more portions of any networks may be executed on a single computer, local area networks, client-server networks, wide area networks, internets, hand-held and other portable and wireless devices and networks. In one or more embodiments, database may be any standard or proprietary database software. In one or more embodiments, the database may have fields, records, data, and other database elements that may be associated through database specific software. In one or more embodiments, data may be mapped. In one or more embodiments, mapping is the process of associating one data entry with another data entry. In one or more embodiments, the data contained in the location of a character file can be mapped to a field in a second table. In one or more embodiments, the physical location of the database is not limiting, and the database may be distributed. In one or more embodiments, the database may exist remotely from the server, and run on aseparate platform. In one or more embodiments, the database may be accessible across the Internet. In one or more embodiments, more than one database may be implemented.

[0088] In one or more embodiments, a plurality of instructions stored on a non-transitory computer readable medium may be executed by one or more processors to cause the one or more processors to carry out, implement, or produce, in whole or in part, one or more of the above-described embodiments, or any combination thereof, including, for example, the operation of the system 54, the operation of the subsystem 56, the operation of the subsystem 58, the method 70, one or more steps of the method 70, the operation of the system 104, the operation of the subsystem 106, the method 132, one or more steps of the method 132, or any combination thereof. In one or more embodiments, such one or more processors may be or include one or more of the microprocessor 1000a, one or more other processors, one or more other controllers, any processor(s) that are part of the components of the above-described embodiments, and / or any combination thereof, and such a non-transitory computer readable medium may be distributed among one or more components of the above-described systems. In one or more embodiments, such one or more processors may execute the plurality of instructions stored on the non- transitory computer readable medium in connection with a 3D printing system including a three-dimensional (3D) printer to, for example, produce one or more of the components described above and / or illustrated in the figures; in one or more embodiments, such a 3D printing system includes the 3D printer and the node 1000, which: may be integrated with, or part of, the 3D printer; may be operably coupled to the 3D printer; may include the one or more processors and / or the non-transitory computer readable medium; or any combination thereof. In one or more embodiments, such one or more processors may execute the plurality of instructions stored on the non-transitory computer readable medium to implement or carry out one or more steps of the method 70 and / or 132; in one or more embodiments, such one or more processors and / or the non-transitory computer readable medium may be part of a robotic and / or computer-controlled manufacturing system; in one or more embodiments, such one or more processors and / or the non- transitory computer readable medium may be part of the node 1000, which may be part of, or operably coupled to, the robotic and / or computer-controlled manufacturing system.ln one or more embodiments, such one or more processors may execute the plurality of instructions in connection with a virtual computer system. In one or more embodiments, such a plurality of instructions may communicate directly with the one or more processors, and / or may interact with one or more operating systems, middleware, firmware, other applications, and / or any combination thereof, to cause the one or more processors to execute the instructions.

[0089] A method is described according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, which embodiments include, for example, a method of manufacturing an all- metal beverage container; in one or more embodiments, the method includes: forming an all-metal body so that the all-metal body includes: a side wall at least a portion of which has a frusto-spherical or frusto-spheroidal shape, the frusto-spherical or frusto-spheroidal shape being a truncated sphere or a truncated spheroid; wherein a portion of the frusto- spherical or frusto-spheroidal shape of the side wall defines a first outer diameter; a neck extending upward from the side wall, wherein the neck defines a second outer diameter; and a base connected to the side wall, opposite the neck, and adapted to be supported by a horizontally-extending surface, wherein the base defines a third outer diameter; wherein the first outer diameter is a maximum outer diameter of the all-metal body and thus the first outer diameter is greater than each of the second outer diameter defined by the neck and the third outer diameter defined by the base; and wherein the second outer diameter defined by the neck is greater than the third outer diameter defined by the base; and connecting an all-metal lid to the all-metal body, including: producing first and second hooks of the all-metal lid and the neck, respectively, so that the first hook of the all-metal lid nests within the second hook of the neck; and flattening the first and second hooks of the all-metal lid and the neck, respectively, so that a double-seamed connection is formed between the all-metal lid and the neck; wherein the respective steps of producing and flattening the first and second hooks produce an inside surface of the all-metal lid; wherein the inside surface is radially spaced from the flattened first hook of the all-metal lid and defines a first inner diameter; and wherein the flattened first hook of the all-metal lid defines a fourth outer diameter that is greater than the first inner diameter; wherein the first outer diameter defined by the portion of the frusto-spherical or frusto-spheroidalshape of the side wall of the all-metal body, as the maximum outer diameter of the all- metal beverage container, is greater than each of: the fourth outer diameter defined by the flattened first hook of the all-metal lid; and the first inner diameter defined by the inside surface of the all-metal lid; wherein the third outer diameter defined by the base is less than the first inner diameter defined by the inside surface of the all-metal lid so that another one of the all-metal beverage container is vertically stackable on top of the all- metal lid of the all-metal beverage container; and wherein, when so vertically stacked, an all-metal vertical undulating side profile along a stacked vertical height is formed due to the frusto-spherical or frusto-spheroidal shape of each of the respective side walls of the all-metal beverage container and the another one of the all-metal beverage container. In one or more embodiments, the base is integrally formed with the side wall of the all-metal body. In one or more embodiments, the neck is integrally formed with the side wall of the all-metal body. In one or more embodiments, the neck, the side wall, and the base of the all-metal body are integrally formed. In one or more embodiments, forming the all-metal body includes: molding the all-metal body; and connecting the base to the all-metal body. In one or more embodiments, molding the all-metal body includes: blow molding the all- metal body; and / or injection molding the all-metal body. In one or more embodiments, forming the all-metal body includes: drawing a blank to form a body; and conducting forming operation(s) on the body formed from drawing the blank. In one or more embodiments, conducting forming operation(s) on the body formed from drawing the blank includes forming a dome in the body formed from drawing the blank. In one or more embodiments, a sealing compound is disposed between the first and second hooks of the all-metal lid and the neck, respectively. In one or more embodiments, the all-metal lid includes a horizontally-extending surface on which the another one of the all-metal beverage container is supported when vertically stacked on the all-metal lid; wherein the horizontally-extending surface of the all-metal lid defines a diameter that is greater than the third outer diameter defined by the base and thus the third outer diameter is less than the diameter defined by the horizontally-extending surface; and wherein the third outer diameter defined by the base being less than the diameter defined by the horizontallyextending surface of the all-metal lid, and thus also less than the first inner diameterdefined by the inside surface of the all-metal lid, facilitates the vertical stacking of the another one of the all-metal beverage container with: at least a portion of the base thereof contacting, and being supported by, at least a portion of the horizontally-extending surface of the all-metal lid; and the inside surface of the all-metal lid extending circumferentially all around at least a portion of the base of the another one of the all- metal beverage container and thus being adapted to obstruct relative horizontal movement therebetween and thus the unstacking of the another one of the all-metal beverage container. In one or more embodiments, an internal cavity is at least partially defined by the all-metal body; wherein the method further includes filling the at least partially defined internal cavity with a liquid beverage before connecting the all-metal lid to the all-metal body; and wherein the connection of the all-metal lid to the all-metal body further defines the internal cavity within which the liquid beverage is contained. In one or more embodiments, the all-metal lid further includes: a scored area defined in the horizontally-extending surface; and a pull-tab including: a point portion connected to the horizontally-extending surface; and an arm pivotable about the point portion so that an end of the arm is adapted to deform the scored area when the arm is pivoted; and wherein the deformation of the score area, relative to the remainder of the horizontally-extending surface, provides an opening to access the internal cavity within which the liquid beverage is contained.

[0090] An all-metal beverage container is described according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; in one or more embodiments, the all-metal beverage container includes: an all-metal body, including: a side wall at least a portion of which has a frusto-spherical or frusto-spheroidal shape, the frusto-spherical or frusto- spheroidal shape being a truncated sphere or a truncated spheroid; wherein a portion of the frusto-spherical or frusto-spheroidal shape of the side wall defines a first outer diameter; and a neck extending upward from the side wall, wherein the neck defines a second outer diameter; and a base connected to the side wall, opposite the neck, and adapted to be supported by a horizontally-extending surface, wherein the base defines a third outer diameter; wherein the first outer diameter is a maximum outer diameter of the all-metal body and thus the first outer diameter is greater than each of the second outerdiameter defined by the neck and the third outer diameter defined by the base; and wherein the second outer diameter defined by the neck is greater than the third outer diameter defined by the base; an all-metal lid connected to the all-metal body via a double-seamed connection, the double-seamed connection including a flattened first hook of the all-metal lid, the flattened first hook being radially spaced from an inside surface defined by the all-metal lid; wherein the inside surface defines a first inner diameter; and wherein the flattened first hook of the all-metal lid defines a fourth outer diameter that is greater than the first inner diameter; wherein the first outer diameter defined by the portion of the frusto-spherical or frusto-spheroidal shape of the side wall of the all-metal body, is the maximum outer diameter of the all-metal beverage container, is greater than each of: the fourth outer diameter defined by the flattened first hook of the all-metal lid; and the first inner diameter defined by the inside surface of the all-metal lid; wherein the third outer diameter defined by the base is less than the first inner diameter defined by the inside surface of the all-metal lid so that another one of the all-metal beverage container is vertically stackable on top of the all-metal lid of the all-metal beverage container; and wherein, when so vertically stacked, an all-metal vertical undulating side profile along a stacked vertical height is formed due to the frusto-spherical or frusto-spheroidal shape of each of the respective side walls of the all-metal beverage container and the another one of the all-metal beverage container. In one or more embodiments, the base is integrally formed with the side wall of the all-metal body. In one or more embodiments, the neck is integrally formed with the side wall of the all-metal body. In one or more embodiments, the neck, the side wall, and the base of the all-metal body are integrally formed. In one or more embodiments, a sealing compound is disposed between the first and second hooks of the all-metal lid and the neck, respectively. In one or more embodiments, the all-metal lid includes a horizontally-extending surface on which the another one of the all-metal beverage container is supported when vertically stacked on the all-metal lid; wherein the horizontally-extending surface of the all-metal lid defines a diameter that is greater than the third outer diameter defined by the base and thus the third outer diameter is less than the diameter defined by the horizontally-extending surface; wherein the third outer diameter defined by the base being less than the diameterdefined by the horizontally-extending surface of the all-metal lid, and thus also less than the first inner diameter defined by the inside surface of the all-metal lid, facilitates the vertical stacking of the another one of the all-metal beverage container with: at least a portion of the base thereof contacting, and being supported by, at least a portion of the horizontally-extending surface of the all-metal lid; and the inside surface of the all-metal lid extending circumferentially all around at least a portion of the base of the another one of the all-metal beverage container and thus being adapted to obstruct relative horizontal movement therebetween and thus the unstacking of the another one of the all-metal beverage container. In one or more embodiments, an internal cavity is at least partially defined by the all-metal body; wherein the method further includes filling the at least partially defined internal cavity with a liquid beverage before connecting the all-metal lid to the all-metal body; and wherein the connection of the all-metal lid to the all-metal body further defines the internal cavity within which the liquid beverage is contained. In one or more embodiments, the all-metal lid further includes: a scored area defined in the horizontally-extending surface; and a pull-tab including: a point portion connected to the horizontally-extending surface; and an arm pivotable about the point portion so that an end of the arm is adapted to deform the scored area when the arm is pivoted; and wherein the deformation of the score area, relative to the remainder of the horizontally-extending surface, provides an opening to access the internal cavity within which the liquid beverage is contained. In one or more embodiments, an apparatus includes: a non-transitory computer readable medium; and a plurality of instructions stored on the non-transitory computer readable medium and executable by one or more processors to produce the all-metal beverage container; in one or more embodiments, the all-metal beverage container is produced by three-dimensional printing; in one or more embodiments, the execution of the plurality of instructions controls a three-dimensional printer, which is operably coupled to the one or more processors, to produce the all-metal beverage container by three-dimensionally printing the all-metal beverage container.

[0091] An apparatus is described according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; in one or more embodiments, the apparatus includes: a non-transitory computer readable medium; and a plurality of instructions stored on the non-transitorycomputer readable medium and executable by one or more processors; wherein the plurality of instructions are executed by the one or more processors so that the following steps are executed: forming an all-metal body so that the all-metal body includes: a side wall at least a portion of which has a frusto-spherical or frusto-spheroidal shape, the frusto-spherical or frusto-spheroidal shape being a truncated sphere or a truncated spheroid; wherein a portion of the frusto-spherical or frusto-spheroidal shape of the side wall defines a first outer diameter; a neck extending upward from the side wall, wherein the neck defines a second outer diameter; and a base connected to the side wall, opposite the neck, and adapted to be supported by a horizontally-extending surface, wherein the base defines a third outer diameter; wherein the first outer diameter is a maximum outer diameter of the all-metal body and thus the first outer diameter is greater than each of the second outer diameter defined by the neck and the third outer diameter defined by the base; and wherein the second outer diameter defined by the neck is greater than the third outer diameter defined by the base; and connecting an all-metal lid to the all-metal body, including: producing first and second hooks of the all-metal lid and the neck, respectively, so that the first hook of the all-metal lid nests within the second hook of the neck; and flattening the first and second hooks of the all-metal lid and the neck, respectively, so that a double-seamed connection is formed between the all-metal lid and the neck; wherein the respective steps of producing and flattening the first and second hooks produce an inside surface of the all-metal lid; wherein the inside surface is radially spaced from the flattened first hook of the all-metal lid and defines a first inner diameter; and wherein the flattened first hook of the all-metal lid defines a fourth outer diameter that is greater than the first inner diameter; wherein the first outer diameter defined by the portion of the frusto-spherical or frusto-spheroidal shape of the side wall of the all-metal body, as the maximum outer diameter of the all-metal beverage container, is greater than each of: the fourth outer diameter defined by the flattened first hook of the all-metal lid; and the first inner diameter defined by the inside surface of the all-metal lid; wherein the third outer diameter defined by the base is less than the first inner diameter defined by the inside surface of the all-metal lid so that another one of the all-metal beverage container is vertically stackable on top of the all-metal lid of the all-metal beverage container; andwherein, when so vertically stacked, an all-metal vertical undulating side profile along a stacked vertical height is formed due to the frusto-spherical or frusto-spheroidal shape of each of the respective side walls of the all-metal beverage container and the another one of the all-metal beverage container. In one or more embodiments, the base is integrally formed with the side wall of the all-metal body. In one or more embodiments, the neck is integrally formed with the side wall of the all-metal body. In one or more embodiments, the neck, the side wall, and the base of the all-metal body are integrally formed. In one or more embodiments, forming the all-metal body includes: molding the all-metal body; and connecting the base to the all-metal body. In one or more embodiments, molding the all-metal body includes: blow molding the all-metal body; and / or injection molding the all- metal body. In one or more embodiments, forming the all-metal body includes: drawing a blank to form a body; and conducting forming operation(s) on the body formed from drawing the blank. In one or more embodiments, conducting forming operation(s) on the body formed from drawing the blank includes forming a dome in the body formed from drawing the blank. In one or more embodiments, a sealing compound is disposed between the first and second hooks of the all-metal lid and the neck, respectively. In one or more embodiments, the all-metal lid includes a horizontally-extending surface on which the another one of the all-metal beverage container is supported when vertically stacked on the all-metal lid; wherein the horizontally-extending surface of the all-metal lid defines a diameter that is greater than the third outer diameter defined by the base and thus the third outer diameter is less than the diameter defined by the horizontally-extending surface; and wherein the third outer diameter defined by the base being less than the diameter defined by the horizontally-extending surface of the all-metal lid, and thus also less than the first inner diameter defined by the inside surface of the all-metal lid, facilitates the vertical stacking of the another one of the all-metal beverage container with: at least a portion of the base thereof contacting, and being supported by, at least a portion of the horizontally-extending surface of the all-metal lid; and the inside surface of the all- metal lid extending circumferentially all around at least a portion of the base of the another one of the all-metal beverage container and thus being adapted to obstruct relative horizontal movement therebetween and thus the unstacking of the another one of the all-metal beverage container. In one or more embodiments, an internal cavity is at least partially defined by the all-metal body; wherein the method further includes filling the at least partially defined internal cavity with a liquid beverage before connecting the all-metal lid to the all-metal body; and wherein the connection of the all-metal lid to the all-metal body further defines the internal cavity within which the liquid beverage is contained. In one or more embodiments, the all-metal lid further includes: a scored area defined in the horizontally-extending surface; and a pull-tab including: a point portion connected to the horizontally-extending surface; and an arm pivotable about the point portion so that an end of the arm is adapted to deform the scored area when the arm is pivoted; and wherein the deformation of the score area, relative to the remainder of the horizontally-extending surface, provides an opening to access the internal cavity within which the liquid beverage is contained.

[0092] It is understood that variations may be made in the foregoing without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

[0093] In one or more embodiments, the elements and teachings of the various embodiments disclosed herein may be combined in whole or in part in some or all of said embodiment(s). In addition, one or more of the elements and teachings of the various embodiments disclosed herein may be omitted, at least in part, or combined, at least in part, with one or more of the other elements and teachings of said embodiment(s).

[0094] Any spatial references such as, for example, “upper,” “lower,” “above,” “below,” “between,” “bottom,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “angular,” “upwards,” “downwards,” “side-to- side,” “left-to-right,” “left,” “right,” “right-to-left,” “top-to-bottom,” “bottom-to-top,” “top,” “bottom,” “bottom-up,” “top-down,” etc., are for the purpose of illustration only and do not limit the specific orientation or location of the structure described above.

[0095] In one or more embodiments, while different steps, processes, and procedures are described as appearing as distinct acts, one or more of the steps, one or more of the processes, or one or more of the procedures may also be performed in different orders, simultaneously or sequentially. In one or more embodiments, the steps, processes or procedures may be merged into one or more steps, processes or procedures. In one or more embodiments, one or more of the operational steps in each embodiment may beomitted. Moreover, in some instances, some features of the present disclosure may be employed without a corresponding use of the other features.

[0096] Although various embodiments have been disclosed in detail above, the embodiments disclosed are examples only and are not limiting, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many other modifications, changes, and substitutions are possible in the embodiments without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the present disclosure. Accordingly, all such modifications, changes, and substitutions are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure as defined in the following claims. In the claims, means-plus-function clauses are intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents, but also equivalent structures. Moreover, it is the express intention of the applicant not to invoke 35 U.S.C. § 1 12(f) for any limitations of any of the claims herein, except for those in which the claim expressly uses the word “means” together with an associated function.

Claims

ClaimsWhat is claimed is:1 . A method of manufacturing an all-metal beverage container, the method comprising: forming an all-metal body so that the all-metal body comprises: a side wall at least a portion of which has a frusto-spherical or frusto- spheroidal shape, the frusto-spherical or frusto-spheroidal shape being a truncated sphere or a truncated spheroid; wherein a portion of the frusto-spherical or frusto-spheroidal shape of the side wall defines a first outer diameter; a neck extending upward from the side wall, wherein the neck defines a second outer diameter; and a base connected to the side wall, opposite the neck, and adapted to be supported by a horizontally-extending surface, wherein the base defines a third outer diameter; wherein the first outer diameter is a maximum outer diameter of the all- metal body and thus the first outer diameter is greater than each of the second outer diameter defined by the neck and the third outer diameter defined by the base; and wherein the second outer diameter defined by the neck is greater than the third outer diameter defined by the base; and connecting an all-metal lid to the all-metal body, comprising: producing first and second hooks of the all-metal lid and the neck, respectively, so that the first hook of the all-metal lid nests within the second hook of the neck; and flattening the first and second hooks of the all-metal lid and the neck, respectively, so that a double-seamed connection is formed between the all-metal lid and the neck;wherein the respective steps of producing and flattening the first and second hooks produce an inside surface of the all-metal lid; wherein the inside surface is radially spaced from the flattened first hook of the all-metal lid and defines a first inner diameter; and wherein the flattened first hook of the all-metal lid defines a fourth outer diameter that is greater than the first inner diameter; wherein the first outer diameter defined by the portion of the frusto-spherical or frusto-spheroidal shape of the side wall of the all-metal body, as the maximum outer diameter of the all-metal beverage container, is greater than each of: the fourth outer diameter defined by the flattened first hook of the all-metal lid; and the first inner diameter defined by the inside surface of the all-metal lid; wherein the third outer diameter defined by the base is less than the first inner diameter defined by the inside surface of the all-metal lid so that another one of the all-metal beverage container is vertically stackable on top of the all-metal lid of the all-metal beverage container; and wherein, when so vertically stacked, an all-metal vertical undulating side profile along a stacked vertical height is formed due to the frusto-spherical or frusto-spheroidal shape of each of the respective side walls of the all- metal beverage container and the another one of the all-metal beverage container.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the base is integrally formed with the side wall of the all-metal body.

3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the neck is integrally formed with the side wall of the all-metal body.

4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the neck, the side wall, and the base of the all- metal body are integrally formed.

5. The method of claim 1 , wherein forming the all-metal body comprises: molding the all-metal body; and connecting the base to the all-metal body.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein molding the all-metal body comprises: blow molding the all-metal body; and / or injection molding the all-metal body.

7. The method of claim 1 , wherein forming the all-metal body comprises: drawing a blank to form a body; and conducting forming operation(s) on the body formed from drawing the blank.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein conducting forming operation(s) on the body formed from drawing the blank comprises: forming a dome in the body formed from drawing the blank.

9. The method of claim 1 , wherein a sealing compound is disposed between the first and second hooks of the all-metal lid and the neck, respectively.

10. The method of claim 1 , wherein the all-metal lid comprises a horizontally-extending surface on which the another one of the all-metal beverage container is supported when vertically stacked on the all-metal lid; wherein the horizontally-extending surface of the all-metal lid defines a diameter that is greater than the third outer diameter defined by the base and thus the third outer diameter is less than the diameter defined by the horizontally-extending surface; andwherein the third outer diameter defined by the base being less than the diameter defined by the horizontally-extending surface of the all-metal lid, and thus also less than the first inner diameter defined by the inside surface of the all-metal lid, facilitates the vertical stacking of the another one of the all- metal beverage container with: at least a portion of the base thereof contacting, and being supported by, at least a portion of the horizontally-extending surface of the all- metal lid; and the inside surface of the all-metal lid extending circumferentially all around at least a portion of the base of the another one of the all-metal beverage container and thus being adapted to obstruct relative horizontal movement therebetween and thus the unstacking of the another one of the all-metal beverage container.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein an internal cavity is at least partially defined by the all-metal body; wherein the method further comprises filling the at least partially defined internal cavity with a liquid beverage before connecting the all-metal lid to the all- metal body; and wherein the connection of the all-metal lid to the all-metal body further defines the internal cavity within which the liquid beverage is contained.

12. The method of claim 11 , wherein the all-metal lid further comprises: a scored area defined in the horizontally-extending surface; and a pull-tab comprising: a point portion connected to the horizontally-extending surface; and an arm pivotable about the point portion so that an end of the arm is adapted to deform the scored area when the arm is pivoted; andwherein the deformation of the score area, relative to the remainder of the horizontally-extending surface, provides an opening to access the internal cavity within which the liquid beverage is contained.

13. An all-metal beverage container, comprising: an all-metal body, comprising: a side wall at least a portion of which has a frusto-spherical or frusto-spheroidal shape, the frusto-spherical or frusto-spheroidal shape being a truncated sphere or a truncated spheroid; wherein a portion of the frusto-spherical or frusto-spheroidal shape of the side wall defines a first outer diameter; and a neck extending upward from the side wall, wherein the neck defines a second outer diameter; and a base connected to the side wall, opposite the neck, and adapted to be supported by a horizontally-extending surface, wherein the base defines a third outer diameter; wherein the first outer diameter is a maximum outer diameter of the all- metal body and thus the first outer diameter is greater than each of the second outer diameter defined by the neck and the third outer diameter defined by the base; and wherein the second outer diameter defined by the neck is greater than the third outer diameter defined by the base; an all-metal lid connected to the all-metal body via a double-seamed connection, the double-seamed connection comprising a flattened first hook of the all- metal lid, the flattened first hook being radially spaced from an inside surface defined by the all-metal lid; wherein the inside surface defines a first inner diameter; and wherein the flattened first hook of the all-metal lid defines a fourth outer diameter that is greater than the first inner diameter; wherein the first outer diameter defined by the portion of the frusto-spherical or frusto-spheroidal shape of the side wall of the all-metal body, as themaximum outer diameter of the all-metal beverage container, is greater than each of: the fourth outer diameter defined by the flattened first hook of the all-metal lid; and the first inner diameter defined by the inside surface of the all-metal lid; wherein the third outer diameter defined by the base is less than the first inner diameter defined by the inside surface of the all-metal lid so that another one of the all-metal beverage container is vertically stackable on top of the all-metal lid of the all-metal beverage container; and wherein, when so vertically stacked, an all-metal vertical undulating side profile along a stacked vertical height is formed due to the frusto-spherical or frusto-spheroidal shape of each of the respective side walls of the all- metal beverage container and the another one of the all-metal beverage container.

14. The all-metal beverage container of claim 13, wherein the base is integrally formed with the side wall of the all-metal body.

15. The all-metal beverage container of claim 13, wherein the neck is integrally formed with the side wall of the all-metal body.

16. The all-metal beverage container of claim 13, wherein the neck, the side wall, and the base of the all-metal body are integrally formed.

17. The all-metal beverage container of claim 13, wherein a sealing compound is disposed between the first and second hooks of the all-metal lid and the neck, respectively.

18. The all-metal beverage container of claim 13,wherein the all-metal lid comprises a horizontally-extending surface on which the another one of the all-metal beverage container is supported when vertically stacked on the all-metal lid; wherein the horizontally-extending surface of the all-metal lid defines a diameter that is greater than the third outer diameter defined by the base and thus the third outer diameter is less than the diameter defined by the horizontally-extending surface; wherein the third outer diameter defined by the base being less than the diameter defined by the horizontally-extending surface of the all-metal lid, and thus also less than the first inner diameter defined by the inside surface of the all-metal lid, facilitates the vertical stacking of the another one of the all- metal beverage container with: at least a portion of the base thereof contacting, and being supported by, at least a portion of the horizontally-extending surface of the all- metal lid; and the inside surface of the all-metal lid extending circumferentially all around at least a portion of the base of the another one of the all-metal beverage container and thus being adapted to obstruct relative horizontal movement therebetween and thus the unstacking of the another one of the all-metal beverage container.

19. The all-metal beverage container of claim 18, wherein an internal cavity is at least partially defined by the all-metal body; wherein the method further comprises filling the at least partially defined internal cavity with a liquid beverage before connecting the all-metal lid to the all- metal body; and wherein the connection of the all-metal lid to the all-metal body further defines the internal cavity within which the liquid beverage is contained.

20. The all-metal beverage container of claim 19,wherein the all-metal lid further comprises: a scored area defined in the horizontally-extending surface; and a pull-tab comprising: a point portion connected to the horizontally-extending surface; and an arm pivotable about the point portion so that an end of the arm is adapted to deform the scored area when the arm is pivoted; and wherein the deformation of the score area, relative to the remainder of the horizontally-extending surface, provides an opening to access the internal cavity within which the liquid beverage is contained.

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