Patterned Can End Seam for Reusable Tab-Less Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing containers lack efficient, reusable, and recyclable dispensing mechanisms that reduce plastic waste and provide safe, tab-less opening solutions.
Innovation Solution
A patterned can end with a radially displaceable element (RDISP) that forms a sealed cavity and includes a self-opening dispenser, allowing for reusable and recyclable containers with a tab-less opening closure and contoured-rim closure, featuring mechanical and visual identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If a reusable dispenser is used with recyclable containers, then plastic waste is reduced and recyclability is enhanced, but the device complexity increases due to the need for patterned seams and specialized coupling mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The can end is segmented into multiple radial displacement zones that create distinct seam patterns, allowing the reusable dispenser to engage with specific patterns while maintaining overall structural integrity. This segmentation enables selective engagement points without requiring complex overall design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patterned seam acts as an intermediary element between the recyclable container and the reusable dispenser. The seam pattern serves as a coupling interface that enables connection without requiring direct complex mechanical interfaces, simplifying the overall system while enabling reusability.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a tab-less opening closure is used, then consumer safety is enhanced by identifying non-drinkable contents, but the ease of operation decreases due to the need for specialized opening mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patterned seam incorporates visual indicators such as varying colors or contrasting patterns that allow consumers to easily identify the correct engagement orientation and confirm proper attachment. This visual feedback simplifies the opening operation while maintaining safety through clear identification of non-drinkable contents.
Solution Approach 2:
The patterned seam design inherently guides the user through the opening process by providing self-aligning features and visual cues. The seam pattern itself serves as the interface that automatically indicates the correct orientation and engagement method, eliminating the need for separate instructions or complex mechanisms.
3Reliability
If a patterned seam with radial displacement is used, then the sealing and engagement performance is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing process utilizes controlled parameter changes during forming operations to create the radial displacement pattern. By adjusting forming pressures, temperatures, or tooling characteristics, the desired seam pattern is achieved with tolerances suitable for reliable engagement without requiring extremely tight manufacturing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The radial displacement pattern is created through dynamic forming processes that allow for self-adjustment during manufacturing. The seam formation process inherently accommodates minor variations in material properties and dimensional tolerances, reducing the need for extremely tight manufacturing precision while still achieving reliable sealing.
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
Facilitates reusable dispensing systems that reduce plastic waste, enhance consumer safety by identifying non-drinkable contents, and provide durable, feature-rich dispensing mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
the dispenser resists rotation relative to the can about the can's longitudinal axis. The RDISP may, for example, be radially deflected by operation of a collar
Implementation Method 2
Continued operation of the collar in the FRD may, for example, operate an opening member to open the can
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and associated methods relate to a can having a pattern of radial displacement of material of a malleable can end with respect to a longitudinal axis of a malleable can body. In an illustrative example, the can end may sealingly couple to an open end of the longitudinally extending can body by a circumferential seam to form a sealed cavity. A can-opening dispenser may, for example, include at least one radially displaceable element (RDISP) configured such that, when operated into releasable engagement with the radially patterned seam, the dispenser resists rotation relative to the can about the can's longitudinal axis. The RDISP may, for example, be radially deflected by operation of a collar in a first rotational direction (FRD). Continued operation of the collar in the FRD may, for example, operate an opening member to open the can. Various embodiments may advantageously provide self-opening dispensers for recyclable cans.