Easy Open Can End with Dynamic Moveable Portion for Finger Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Typical easy-open metal cans are difficult to open due to the small gap between the pull tab handle and the can end panel, making it hard for users to insert their finger and access the contents.
Innovation Solution
A method of forming a container with a can end that includes a pull tab and a moveable portion with a downwardly inclined annular step, which shifts from an upward to a downward position in response to internal negative pressure, enlarging the gap between the moveable portion and the handle, enhancing finger accessibility. The annular step is inclined between 8 and 17 degrees and located halfway between the periphery and center of the moveable portion, allowing easier opening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the gap between the pull tab handle and the can end panel is kept small to maintain structural integrity and compactness, then the can end remains structurally sound, but it becomes difficult for users to insert their finger and open the can
Solution Approach 1:
The can end panel incorporates a moveable portion that dynamically changes position based on pressure differential. During normal conditions, the panel maintains a compact structure. During retort processing when negative pressure develops inside the container, the moveable portion automatically moves to enlarge the gap between the pull tab handle and the panel, providing finger accessibility without compromising normal structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes pressure differential as a triggering parameter to change the configuration of the can end panel. When the pressure differential exceeds a threshold (during retort cooling), the moveable portion shifts position, transforming the gap dimension from small to large, thereby resolving the contradiction between structural compactness and user accessibility
2Ease of operation
If a moveable portion is added to dynamically adjust the gap, then finger accessibility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The moveable portion is designed to automatically respond to pressure differential changes without requiring external control mechanisms. The panel self-adjusts its configuration based on the physical conditions inside the container, eliminating the need for motors, sensors, or complex control systems while still achieving the desired gap enlargement for finger insertion
3Ease of operation
If the moveable portion is positioned to maximize gap enlargement, then openability is enhanced, but the structural strength to withstand pressure differentials may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The can end panel transitions from a static structure to a dynamic one that adapts its configuration based on operational conditions. The moveable portion remains in a position that maintains structural strength under normal conditions, and only shifts to maximize gap enlargement when the pressure differential indicates the container is ready for opening, thus maintaining strength while enabling enhanced openability when needed
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides enhanced openability by increasing the gap between the pull tab handle and the moveable portion, making it easier for users to grasp and open the can, while also improving the container's ability to withstand pressure differentials and impacts during transportation and storage.
Implementation Method 1
moving the moveable portion from the first position to a second position extending downwardly away from the handle, such that a gap is formed or enlarged between the moveable portion and the handle, enhancing accessibility to a user's finger, the moving being in response to internal negative pressure caused by cooling of the product within the can body
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2D
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A method of forming a container (10) having enhanced openability is disclosed, including a providing a can body (14), providing a can end (12) having an approximately planar panel, a pull tab (30) affixed to the panel, and a moveable portion (40) disposed beneath a handle (34) of the tab (30), the moveable portion (40) being in a first position extending upwardly toward the handle (34), filling a comestible product into the can body at an elevated temperature, seaming the can end (12) to the can body (14), and moving the moveable portion (40) from the first position to a second position extending downwardly away from the handle (34), such that a gap is formed or enlarged between the moveable portion (40) and the handle (34), enhancing accessibility to a user's finger, the moving being in response to internal negative pressure caused by cooling of the product within the can body (14).