Metallic Can End With Microgap Sealing Frame
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reclosable can ends are either complex to manufacture or lack effective sealing properties, and often require additional laminations or films for sealing, which increase costs and manufacturing complexity.
Innovation Solution
A metallic can end with a microgap or weakening line that uses a sealing frame bonded to the fixed end surface and a closure unit bonded to the upwardly pivotable metallic end region, featuring sealing and latching ribs, and optionally a sealing film or plastic part to achieve easy actuation and strong sealing without internal laminations, utilizing a bonding agent for thermal bonding and reducing manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a reclosable can end is designed with complex sealing structures and internal laminations, then sealing properties are improved, but manufacturing complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the complex internal lamination structure from the can end design. Instead of using multiple internal sealing layers, the patent employs a simple microgap structure combined with external sealing elements (sealing frame and closure unit) that achieve effective sealing without internal complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses a thin sealing film that can be applied to the inner end side to cover the microgap, providing effective sealing with minimal material and structural complexity. This thin film approach replaces complex multi-layer laminations while maintaining sealing reliability
2Reliability
If internal laminations and sealing films are added to ensure sealing, then sealing properties are improved, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention employs cost-effective sealing solutions including a simple sealing film or coating applied to the inner end side, rather than expensive multi-layer laminations. The microgap structure itself serves as a simple, inexpensive sealing mechanism when combined with the external closure components
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the sealing approach from using thick, complex lamination structures to using a thin film or coating applied to the inner surface. This parameter change (from thick to thin) reduces material costs and simplifies manufacturing while maintaining sealing effectiveness
3Ease of operation
If a microgap is used for simple opening, then ease of operation is improved, but sealing reliability may be compromised without additional films
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces a sealing film or coating as an intermediary layer on the inner end side that works in conjunction with the microgap structure. This intermediary element provides the necessary sealing reliability while the microgap maintains ease of opening operation
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a composite sealing system combining the microgap structural feature with a sealing film or coating material. This composite approach integrates the mechanical advantage of the microgap with the sealing properties of the film, achieving both ease of operation and sealing reliability
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 enables a cost-effective, easy-to-manufacture can end with excellent sealing properties, allowing for simple opening and reclosing, while minimizing the use of internal laminations and films, ensuring secure closure with reduced manufacturing costs and maintaining imperviousness without additional inner films.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a bonding agent for thermal bonding
Data Source
AI summary
A metallic can end having a reclosable opening has a microgap or a weakening line peripherally around the opening, a sealing frame composed of plastic material surrounding the opening region, a closure unit composed of plastic that is disposed within the microgap or weakening line and that is pivotably attached to the fixed end surface via a pivot bearing. The sealing frame and the closure unit cooperate in a sealing manner. The metallic end region disposed within the peripheral microgap or the weakening line is received and held in the opening region of the end. The sealing frame is bonded to the fixed end surface and the closure unit is bonded to the upwardly pivotable metallic end region. Except for a possibly provided lacquer layer, the inner end side is at least largely free of lamination and the like.