Double Seam Modification for Child-Resistant Lid Notches and Threads

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current double seaming processes lack a third operation to modify the formed double seam, which is essential for creating child-resistant lids, limiting the ability to design and fabricate lids with configurations such as slots, notches, or threads.

Innovation Solution

A double seam modification tooling apparatus with a third operation modification chuck and roller assembly that can notch or thread the completed double seam, enabling the creation of child-resistant lids by punching notches or threads into the double seam.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a conventional double seaming process with two operations is used, then the double seam is formed efficiently, but the ability to modify the double seam for child-resistant lids is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to create child-resistant lidsVSAvoidseaming process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The seaming process is divided into three distinct operations: first operation rolling, second operation rolling, and third operation modification. Each operation performs a specific function - the first two operations form the basic double seam structure, while the third operation adds modification capabilities for child-resistant features. This segmentation allows the system to maintain efficiency while gaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The third operation modification roller is prepared in advance with specific groove geometries that correspond to different child-resistant lid requirements. By pre-configuring the modification roller with various groove patterns, the system can quickly switch between different modification types without requiring complex real-time adjustments, thus maintaining efficiency while achieving versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If standard double seam formation is used, then the sealing function is achieved, but additional modification operations for slots, notches, or threads cannot be performed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodification capabilityVSAvoidproduction time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The third operation modification roller is integrated into the existing double seaming machine structure, combining the sealing function with the modification function in a single continuous process. The modification roller works in conjunction with the first and second operation rollers, allowing all three operations to be performed in sequence without removing the can from the machine, thus avoiding additional production time while achieving enhanced adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The third operation modification roller is designed with universal applicability to create various types of modifications including slots, notches, and threads. By using a single multi-functional modification roller that can be configured with different groove geometries, the system achieves versatility in modification types without requiring multiple specialized devices, thereby maintaining production efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If child-resistant lid features are added to the double seam, then lid security is enhanced, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelid securityVSAvoidtooling apparatus complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The third operation modification roller applies localized modifications to specific portions of the double seam where child-resistant features are required. The groove geometry of the modification roller is designed to create precise local changes in the double seam structure, such as slots or notches, only in the areas needed for lid security. This localized approach enhances reliability without requiring complex modifications throughout the entire seaming process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The modification roller uses changes in groove geometry parameters to create different types of child-resistant features. By adjusting parameters such as groove depth, width, spacing, and pattern, the same modification roller can produce various configurations including slots, notches, and threads. This parameter-based approach allows for versatile lid security features while keeping the tooling apparatus relatively simple and maintainable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS11548054B2Double seam modification tooling apparatus and double seam modification process
Publication Date: 2023.01.10 N2 PACKAGING SYST LLC
  • US11548054B2 patent drawing
  • US11548054B2 patent drawing
  • US11548054B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present application is directed to a double seam modification tooling apparatus for double seam modification and the double seam modification process. More particularly, a tooling apparatus for double seam modification is provided which adds a third modification operation to the first and second double seam operations which form the finished double seam, as well as a process for modifying double seams to include patterns of integral slots, notches or threads, or the like, after the double seams have been previously completely formed by the double seam modification tooling apparatus. Child resistant lids can then be configured with mating tab notches or tab threads to allow for opening or closing the lid when the tabs are properly aligned with the notches and threads on the can rim modified double seams.