Can End Opening Geometry for High Flow Rate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing can ends with non-removable tear panels of small diameter (<47 mm) face issues with flow rate characteristics due to aspect ratios and opening areas, which are inadequate for quick consumption of soft drinks, particularly in smaller cans.
Innovation Solution
A can end design with an openable non-removable panel defined by a score line and a tab, featuring an oblate opening with a major-to-minor axis ratio greater than 1.7 and an opening area greater than 350 mm^2, along with a wider hinge width and notional circle-based score line portions, optimized for smooth operation and resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the aspect ratio of the opening is increased to improve flow characteristics, then the flow rate improves, but the opening area must be reduced which worsens the flow rate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the opening by increasing the aspect ratio beyond 1.7 and optimizing the opening area to greater than 350 mm². This parameter optimization resolves the contradiction by finding the optimal balance between aspect ratio and area that maximizes flow rate for small diameter cans.
2Strength
If the hinge width is increased to resist increased forces from the major axis length, then the structural strength improves, but the hinge width becomes too large which resists the tearing of the openable panel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the hinge width parameter to a specific range that balances structural strength and operational ease. By precisely controlling the hinge width within optimized dimensions, the patent resolves the contradiction between needing sufficient strength to handle increased forces and maintaining ease of operation for panel tearing.
3Volume of moving object
If the can end diameter is reduced for smaller cans, then the can size is reduced, but the flow rate characteristics deteriorate due to smaller opening area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the opening geometry parameters (aspect ratio and area) to compensate for the reduced can size. By optimizing these parameters specifically for small diameter cans, the patent resolves the contradiction between reduced can volume and maintained flow rate characteristics.
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 design provides improved flow characteristics and resistance to increased forces, making it suitable for smaller diameter cans, ensuring efficient pouring and drinking experiences.
Implementation Method 1
when, as in most cases, the score line does not extend the whole way around the opening, and thus defines a hinge in the end panel
Implementation Method 2
provide an opening through which the contents may be poured or drunk
Data Source
AI summary
A can end (10) having an end panel (12), an openable non-removable panel (15) defined by a score line (14) in the end panel (12) and a non-removable tab (13) attached to the end for acting on the openable panel (15) to cause it to pivot out of the plane of the end panel (12) to provide an opening, the opening being generally oblate with its minor axis passing through the tab characterized in that the ratio of the dimension of the opening on its major axis to the dimension of the opening on its minor axis is greater than 1.7 and the opening area is greater than 350 mm2.