Recloseable Can Opening Device with Sliding Base Plate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing opening devices for metal containers, such as can ends and bottle caps, are fragile, require high opening forces, and lack recloseability, leading to potential deformation, leakage, and loss of carbonation, especially when used with carbonated beverages.
Innovation Solution
A recloseable opening device featuring a base plate and tab with complementary cam profiles or rails/grooves that facilitate easy opening and reclosing, utilizing a sliding mechanism with a rivet connection for secure attachment and a flange for enhanced sealing, which reduces opening force and maintains carbonation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a hinge connection is used between the ring pull and plug sections, then the device can be opened, but the hinge becomes fragile and may detach during opening
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the fragile hinge connection entirely and replaces it with a direct integral connection between the ring pull and plug sections. The ring pull is formed as a single piece with the plug, eliminating the hinge joint that was prone to detachment while maintaining the opening function through direct pulling action.
Solution Approach 2:
The ring pull and plug sections are merged into a single integral component rather than being connected through a hinge joint. This consolidation strengthens the structure by eliminating the weak hinge connection point while preserving the opening functionality through the unified design.
2Ease of operation
If the plug is removed by pulling on a ring pull attached at the opposite end to the plug-neck fulcrum, then the plug can be opened, but high pull force is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a sliding mechanism that moves along a scored line on the container surface, adding a lateral dimensional component to the opening action. This sliding motion distributes the opening force along the score line rather than concentrating it at a single hinge point, reducing the peak pull force required while maintaining effective plug removal.
3Strength
If the closure neck part is directly fixed to the can body shoulder, then the closure can be secured, but the thin metal shoulder may deform under significant opening forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the direct fixed connection between the closure neck part and can body shoulder, replacing it with a sliding mechanism that moves along the container surface. This extraction of the rigid connection eliminates the stress concentration point that caused shoulder deformation while maintaining closure security through the sliding engagement with the scored line.
4Ease of operation
If a plastics opening device with tubular part is used, then the device can be opened easily, but accidental opening may occur due to premature tearing of the score
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a composite construction where the opening device is formed from a flexible yet strong material that combines the ease of opening with resistance to premature failure. The material properties are engineered to provide sufficient flexibility for easy opening while maintaining strength to prevent accidental tearing of the score line during normal handling and transportation.
5Ease of operation
If soft plastic is used for the opening device, then the device can be easily opened, but the plastic may deform or creep under high ambient temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent selects plastic material with specific thermal and mechanical parameters optimized for high ambient temperature conditions. The material properties are chosen to maintain dimensional stability and resistance to creep under elevated temperatures while preserving the flexibility needed for easy opening operation. This parameter optimization ensures the device remains functional across a range of environmental conditions.
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 device allows for easy and efficient opening and reclosing of metal containers with reduced force requirements, preventing leakage and maintaining carbonation, even under elevated pressures and temperatures, while being easy to manufacture and assemble.
Implementation Method 1
the base plate and/or tab further includes a wall which extends perpendicularly from the plate or tab respectively and provides an interference or friction fit with the edge of the aperture so as to seal around the perimeter of the closure aperture
Implementation Method 2
actuation of the tab translates into sliding movement of the base plate, and the closure panel and opening device include complementary features for moving the opening device relative to the closure panel for opening and reclosing
Data Source
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AI summary
An opening device of plastics material, which is suitable for closing and re-closing of a metal can end, for example. The opening device has two distinct parts: a base plate (10) and a tab (1), which are joined together by an integral rivet (14, 15). The opening device is used to close an aperture in the metal panel of a can end by fitting the base plate to the underside of the panel and connecting this to the tab on the top of the panel. A sliding action by pulling or retaining the tab actuates movement of the base plate for opening and reclosing of the closure panel.