WO2026030349A1 - Reclosable can ends - Google Patents
Reclosable can endsInfo
- Publication number
- WO2026030349A1 WO2026030349A1 PCT/US2025/039701 US2025039701W WO2026030349A1 WO 2026030349 A1 WO2026030349 A1 WO 2026030349A1 US 2025039701 W US2025039701 W US 2025039701W WO 2026030349 A1 WO2026030349 A1 WO 2026030349A1
- Authority
- WO
- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- tab
- lid base
- closure flap
- closure
- rivet
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Pending
Links
Abstract
Reclosable can ends including: a lid base including a scored area, wherein the scored area has a raised portion having a first height; a tab that causes the scored area to at least partially separate from the lid base to expose an opening in the lid base; a closure flap that includes: a first portion; a second portion; an opening; and a protruding portion; and a rivet that connects the tab and the closure flap to the lid base such that the tab and the closure flap are configured to rotate around the rivet, wherein the first portion is configured to be inserted into the opening in the lid base end when the tab and the closure flap are rotated to a position corresponding to a position of the opening in the lid base, and wherein a second height of the rivet is lower than the first height.
Description
RECLOSABLE CAN ENDS
Cross Reference to Related Applications
[0001] This application claims the benefit of United States Patent Application No. 19/271,550, filed July 16, 2025, and claims the benefit of United States Provisional Patent Application No. 63/676,878, filed July 29, 2024, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
[0002] This application is related to United States Patent Application No. 18/141,677, filed May 1, 2023, United States Provisional Application No. 63/455,956, filed March 30, 2023, United States Patent Application No. 16/853,237, filed April 20, 2020, now United States Patent No. 11,661,233, and United States Provisional Application No. 62/868,709, filed June 28, 2019, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
Technical Field
[0003] The disclosed subject matter relates to reclosable can ends.
Background
[0004] Cans are frequently used for storing and drinking such beverages as soda, beer, water, Ready To Drink (RTD) beverages and cocktails, energy drinks, juices, sparkling water and many more beverages and liquids, and/or for other cannable storage needs. Cans, which are often made from aluminum and aluminum alloy, are convenient for storing and drinking for many reasons. For example, aluminum is lightweight, is easily transportable, saves space in shipping containers, is sturdy, and is 100% recyclable. However, once a can is opened, it is typically not used as a portable container. In particular, cans are typically not reclosable, and it can therefore be difficult to transport an opened can and to keep a beverage in an opened can free from dirt, debris, or bugs.
[0005] Accordingly, it is desirable to provide reclosable can ends.
Summary
[0006] In accordance with some embodiments, reclosable can ends are provided.
[0007] In some embodiments, reclosable can ends are provided, comprising: a lid base, wherein the lid base comprises a scored area, wherein the scored area has a raised portion having a first height; a tab, wherein a first end of the tab is configured to apply pressure to the scored area of the lid base when a second end of the tab, opposite the first end of the tab, is lifted and causes the scored area to at least partially separate from the lid base to expose an opening in the lid base; a closure flap, wherein the closure flap comprises: a first portion that has dimensions corresponding to dimensions of the opening in the lid base, wherein the first portion of the closure flap connects with a portion of the tab; a second portion that comprises an outer edge that extends beyond the first portion of the closure flap; a protruding portion that protrudes from the outer edge of the second portion of the closure flap and includes an opening; at least one bump that can contact the second end of the tab when tab is in a downward position; and a rivet that connects the tab and the closure flap to the lid base such that the tab and the closure flap are configured to rotate around the rivet, wherein the rivet connects the tab and the closure flap to the lid base via the opening in the protruding portion of the closure flap, and wherein a second height of the rivet is lower than the first height, wherein the first portion of the closure flap is configured to be inserted into the opening in the lid base when the tab and the closure flap are rotated to a position corresponding to a position of the opening in the lid base, and wherein the outer edge of the second portion of the closure flap is positioned on a top portion of the lid base when the first portion of the closure flap is inserted into the opening in the lid base. In some of these embodiments, the lid base comprises a lid base pocket that has dimensions that correspond to the dimensions of the first portion of the closure flap. In some of these embodiments, the lid base comprises a depressed slide area formed from the lid base pocket to the opening in the lid base. In some of these embodiments, a bottom portion of the first portion of the closure flap includes a coating of sealant. In some of these embodiments, the coating of sealant comprises a plurality of layers of sealant. In some of these embodiments, the coating of sealant comprises a material that is harmless to consumers. In some of these embodiments, the second end of the tab is concave such that the second end curves toward the first end. In some of these embodiments, the first portion of the closure flap includes a raised bump that connects the closure flap to the tab. In some of these embodiments, the outer edge of the second portion of the closure flap is flat. In some of these embodiments, the outer edge of the second portion of the closure flap is angled upward away from the first portion of the closure flap. In some of these embodiments,
the outer edge of the second portion of the closure flap has an arched shape that bends away from the first portion of the closure flap. In some of these embodiments, the outer edge of the second portion of the closure flap has an arched shape that bends towards the first portion of the closure flap. In some of these embodiments, the outer edge of the second portion of the closure flap has an arched shape. In some of these embodiments, the rivet is formed as part of the top portion of the lid base. In some of these embodiments, the rivet is formed as part of the tab. In some of these embodiments, the rivet is not formed from any of the lid base, the tab, and the closure flap. In some of these embodiments, the lid base comprises a drip catch.
[0008] In some embodiments, reclosable can ends are provided, comprising: a lid base, wherein the lid base comprises a scored area wherein the scored area has a raised portion having a first height; a tab, wherein a first end of the tab is configured to apply pressure to the scored area of the lid base when a second end of the tab, opposite the first end of the tab, is lifted and causes the scored area to at least partially separate from the lid base to expose an opening in the lid base; a closure flap, wherein the closure flap comprises: a first portion that has dimensions corresponding to dimensions of the opening in the lid base, wherein the first portion of the closure flap connects with a portion of the tab; a second portion that comprises an outer edge that extends beyond the first portion of the closure flap; and a protruding portion that protrudes from the outer edge of the second portion of the closure flap and includes an opening; and a rivet that connects the tab and the closure flap to the lid base such that the tab and the closure flap are configured to rotate around the rivet, wherein the rivet connects the tab and the closure flap to the lid base via the opening in the protruding portion of the closure flap, and wherein a second height of the rivet is lower than the first height, wherein the first portion of the closure flap is configured to be inserted into the opening in the lid base when the tab and the closure flap are rotated to a position corresponding to a position of the opening in the lid base, wherein the outer edge of the second portion of the closure flap is positioned on the top portion of the lid base when the first portion of the closure flap is inserted into the opening in the lid base, and wherein the lid base comprises a push button that is positioned to serve as a stop against movement of the closure flap and the tab, but may be selectively depressed to permit movement of the closure flap and the tab. In some of these embodiments, the lid base comprises a lid base pocket that has dimensions that correspond to the dimensions of the first portion of the closure flap. In some of
these embodiments, the lid base comprises a depressed slide area formed from the lid base pocket to the opening in the lid base.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0009] Various objects, features, and advantages of the disclosed subject matter can be more fully appreciated with reference to the following detailed description of the disclosed subject matter when considered in connection with the following drawings, in which like reference numerals identify like elements.
[0010] FIGS. 1 A and IB show top views of a reclosable can end with an attached lid base, tab, rivet, and closure flap in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0011] FIG. 2A shows a top view of reclosable can end with a lid base and a closure flap in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0012] FIG. 2B shows a top view of a reclosable can end with a lid base and without an attached tab, rivet, or closure flap in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0013] FIGS. 3 A, 3B, 3C, and 3D show views of a tab in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0014] FIG. 3E shows views of a tab that has a rivet portion in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0015] FIG. 3F shows an underside of a lid base with an attached rivet in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0016] FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C show example views of an independent rivet for attaching a tab, a closure flap, and a lid base in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0017] FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D show example views of a scored flap and perforations corresponding to a can opening in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0018] FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, show views of a closure flap in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0019] FIGS. 7 A, 7B, and 7C show cross-sectional side views of a lid base, a closure flap, and a tab in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0020] FIG. 8 shows example cross-sectional side views of shapes for closure flaps in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0021] FIG. 9A shows a top view of a can end with an attached tab, closure flap, and rivet in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0022] FIG. 9B shows an example view of a closure flap with a closure flap rivet and a tab in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0023] FIGS. 9C and 9D show example views of a closure flap that can connect to a tab and/or a lid base rivet in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0024] FIG. 9E shows an additional closure flap rivet to connect a pull tab to a closure rivet in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0025] FIG. 9F shows an example view of a tab in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0026] FIG. 9G shows a cross-sectional view of a flattened rivet in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0027] FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C show example views of lid bases with different lid base rivet areas in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0028] FIG. 11 shows an example of a lid base with a slide area for a closure flap and a push button in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0029] FIG. 12 shows a top view of an example of a can end assembly in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0030] FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of the example of a can end assembly of FIG.
12 in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0031] FIG. 14 shows a cross-sectional view of the example of a can end assembly of FIG. 12 in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0032] FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of an example of a can end in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0033] FIG. 16 shows a top view of the example of a can end of FIG. 15 in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0034] FIG. 17 shows a top view of an example of a closure on a can end in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0035] FIG. 18 shows a top view of the example of a closure of FIG. 17 in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0036] FIG. 19 shows a top view of another example of a closure in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0037] FIG. 20 shows a perspective view of the example of a closure of FIG. 19 in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0038] FIG. 21 shows a cross-section view of the example of a closure of FIG. 17 or FIG. 19 in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0039] FIG. 22 shows a top view of an example of a tab in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0040] FIG. 23 shows a perspective view of the example of a tab of FIG. 22 in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0041] FIG. 24 shows a cross-sectional view of the example of a tab of FIG. 22 in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0042] FIG. 25 shows a top view of an example of a can end assembly having a safety feature in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0043] FIG. 26 shows a top view of an example of the closure of FIG. 25 in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0044] FIG. 27 shows a perspective view of an example of a closure of FIG. 25 in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0045] FIG. 28 shows a top view of an example of a can end assembly having another safety feature in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0046] FIG. 29 shows a top view of an example of the closure of FIG. 28 in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0047] FIG. 30 shows a perspective view of an example of a closure of FIG. 28 in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0048] FIGS. 31-56 show further features in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
Detailed Description
[0049] In accordance with various embodiments, reclosable can ends are provided. [0050] In some embodiments, reclosable can ends are described herein. In some embodiments, a reclosable can end can be part of any suitable type of can, such as a soda can, that can be used to store any suitable type of liquid or beverage, or a can that can be used for any other suitable cannable storage needs.
[0051] In some embodiments, a can that includes a reclosable can end can be opened. For example, in some embodiments, a lid base of the can end (e.g., a flat top portion of the can end) can be opened such that a scored flap of the lid base is pressed inward to expose an opening in the lid base. In some embodiments, a scored flap can be pressed inward in any suitable manner, such as by using a tab attached to the lid base that can act as a lever to apply pressure to the scored portion, thereby breaking a perforated border of the scored flap and lid base.
[0052] In some embodiments, the tab can be coupled to a closure flap that has a size and dimensions corresponding to an opening in the lid base such that the closure flap can be turned and then pressed into the opening to close the opening in the lid base, thereby providing a seal in the opening in the lid base. In some embodiments, the closure flap can be pulled and/or rotated out of the opening to open the lid base. Continuing further, in some embodiments, the closure flap can be reinserted in the lid base to reclose the opening in the lid base. In some embodiments, the closure flap can be inserted and rotated from an opening of an opened can any suitable number of times while still maintaining a seal over the opening.
[0053] In some embodiments, a tab can be coupled to a closure flap and attached to a lid base of a can end in any suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, a tab can be coupled to a closure flap and attached to a lid base via a rivet made from a raised center area of the lid base, as shown in and described below in connection with FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C. As another example, in some embodiments, a tab can be coupled to a closure flap and attached to a lid base via a rivet made from a raised center area of the tab, such as shown in and described below in connection with FIG. 3E. As yet another example, in some embodiments, a tab can be coupled to a closure flap and attached to a lid base via an independent rivet, such as shown in and described below in connection with FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C. In some embodiments, any suitable mechanism can be used to couple a tab to a closure flap and to attach the coupled tab
and closure flap to a lid base, which can allow the tab and the closure flap to lock and rotate together.
[0054] Note that, in some embodiments, “can end” can refer to a top portion of a can. In some embodiments, a can end can include any suitable elements, such as a lid base (e.g., a flat portion of a can end with shaped edges to allow the can end to attach to a can body), a scored flap corresponding to an opening in the lid base when the can has been opened, a closure flap, a tab, and/or any suitable rivets. Additionally, note that, in some embodiments, lid bases, closure flaps, tabs, and rivet(s) as described herein can be manufactured for can ends of any suitable size. [0055] In some embodiments, a closure flap, a tab, and any rivet(s) can remain attached to a can, thereby reducing litter and protecting consumers and animals from abrasions due to any sharp and/or metal edges. Additionally, in some embodiments, any suitable portions of a closure flap, a tab, rivet(s), a lid base, and/or any other suitable elements of a can end can be made from any suitable materials (e.g., aluminum and/or aluminum alloy as used in a can body), thereby allowing the closure flap, the tab, the rivet(s), and/or the lid base to be recycled.
[0056] Turning to FIGS. 1A and IB, top views of examples of reclosable can ends are shown in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. FIG. 1A shows an example of a lid base 100 that has not yet been opened. Note that, in some embodiments, a can end can be made of any suitable material, such as aluminum, an aluminum alloy, steel, and/or any other suitable materials. Additionally, note that, in some embodiments, a body of a can can be made of a different material than a can end. In some embodiments, an internal portion of a can end can be coated with any suitable material or combination of materials. For example, in some embodiments, an internal portion of the can end can be coated with epoxy resin. As another example, in some embodiments, an internal portion of the can end can be coated with a polymer plastic lining that is made of any suitable material or combination of materials (e.g., polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester, styrene, acrylic, vinyl, and/or any other suitable material(s)).
[0057] As illustrated, FIG. 1A includes a tab 102, a closure flap 108, a tab rivet area 110, lid base 100, and a scored flap 104. Note that, as shown in FIG. 1 A, scored flap 104 is fully attached to lid base 100, because tab 102 has not yet caused scored flap 104 to separate from a top portion of lid base 100. In some embodiments, tab 102 can be connected to any suitable portion of lid base 100 (e.g., a center portion, and/or any other suitable portion) in any suitable
manner. For example, in some embodiments, tab 102 can be connected to lid base 100 via a rivet in tab rivet area 110. Note that, in some such embodiments, a rivet in tab rivet area 110 can be a rivet that is part of lid base 100 (e.g., as shown in and described below in connection with FIGS. 10A, 10B, and/or 10C), a rivet that is part of tab 102 in tab rivet area 110 (e.g., as shown in and described below in connection with FIG. 3E), and/or an independent rivet inserted in tab rivet area 110 (e.g., as shown in and described below in connection with FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C). [0058] In some embodiments, tab 102 can cause a portion of scored flap 104 to at least partially separate from lid base 100, thereby opening lid base 100, as illustrated in FIG. IB. In some embodiments, opening lid base 100 can cause an opening 106 of lid base 100 to be exposed. In some embodiments, tab 102 can cause the portion of scored flap 104 to separate from lid base 100 in any suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, a tip of tab 102 that is above scored flap 104 can be pressed into scored flap 104, thereby causing a portion of scored flap 104 to be pressed into an interior of a can body attached to lid base 100. In some embodiments, the tip of tab 102 can be pressed into scored flap 104 in any suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, tab 102 can be operated as a second class lever and a first class lever around a corresponding to tab rivet area 110 by lifting a back end of tab 102 that is opposite the tip of tab 102, thereby causing the tip of tab 102 to apply pressure to scored flap 104.
[0059] As shown in FIG. IB, in some embodiments, tab 102 can be connected to a closure flap 108 in any suitable manner including a rivet, welding, recyclable sealant, rubber, recyclable glue, links, and/or in any other suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, tab 102 can be connected to closure flap 108 via a rivet corresponding to tab rivet area 110. Note that, in some embodiments, the rivet corresponding to tab rivet area 110 can be part of lid base 100 (e.g., as shown in and described below in connection with FIG. 10A), part of tab 102 (e.g., as shown in and described below in connection with FIG. 3E), and/or an independent rivet (e.g., as shown in and described below in connection with FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C).
[0060] As shown in FIG. IB, in some embodiments, closure flap 108 can have a size and a shape that corresponds to opening 106, thereby allowing closure flap 108 to be inserted into opening 106 to re-close and seal lid base 100 after scored flap 104 of lid base 100 has been opened.
[0061] Note that, as shown in FIG. IB, tab 102 can be joined by a rivet corresponding to tab rivet area 110, thereby allowing tab 102 to rotate in conjunction with closure flap 108, either clockwise or counterclockwise. For example, in some embodiments, closure flap 108 can be rotated to a position suitable for insertion of closure flap 108 into opening 106 to seal opening 106.
[0062] Additionally, note that, in some embodiments, scored flap 104 can have any suitable size and/or any suitable shape depressions. In some embodiments, scored flap 104 can be scored or perforated to allow a portion of scored flap 104 to separate from lid base 100 when a tip of tab 102 is depressed on scored flap 104 to open lid base 100. Note that, when opened, in some embodiments, scored flap 104 can remain attached to lid base 100 via a link 112. In some embodiments, any suitable portion of scored flap 104, link 112, and/or lid base 100 can be scored or perforated to allow any portion of scored flap 104 to bend from lid base 100 when lid base 100 is opened to allow the portion of scored flap 104 to remain attached to lid base 100 while providing a seal between closure flap 108 and opening 106.
[0063] In some embodiments, scored flap 104 can be scored in multiple ways around a circumference of opening 106 and at link 112. In some embodiments, scored flap 104, where it meets link 112, can curl upward and inward toward the center of lid base 100, such as shown in and described below in connection with FIG. 5C. As another example, in some embodiments, scored flap 104, where it meets link 112, can be scored such that it is a dead end stop with no curl as shown in and described below in connection with FIG. 5A. As yet another example, in some embodiments, scored flap 104, where it meets link 112, can be scored such that it can curl down and inward toward the center of scored flap 104 as shown in and described below in connection with FIG. 5D.
[0064] In some embodiments, an underside of link 112 can be perforated in any suitable manner (e.g., as shown in and described below in connection with FIG. 5B) to create a more desirable angle to provide a seal of closure flap 108 over opening 106 of lid base 100 and link 112. For example, in some embodiments, the underside of link 112 adjacent to a point at which link 112 connects to lid base 100 when lid base 100 is open can have small cuts or indents such that scored flap 104 bends around the perforations of link 112 when lid base 100 is open. In some embodiments, a depth of the perforations of the underside of link 112 can be deep enough
to allow scored flap 104 to bend straight inward into opening 106 and around link 112 area but shallow enough that link 112 remains connected to lid base 100 when lid base 100 is opened. [0065] Turning to FIG. 2A, an example of lid base 100 without a tab and when lid base 100 has not yet been opened (that is, scored flap 104 has not been pressed down) is shown in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. Note that, as shown in FIG. 2A, closure flap 108 can be positioned in a portion (e.g., a recessed portion, and/or any other suitable portion) of lid base 100 when closure flap 108 is not in use.
[0066] Turning to FIG. 2B, an example of lid base 100 without a tab and without a closure flap, when lid base 100 has not yet been opened is shown in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0067] Note that, in some embodiments, a lid base 100 can include a drip-catch 208 (e.g., that catches liquid that comes out of an opening of lid base 100 when open), a lid base pocket 210, a lid base rivet area 204, and a rim 212.
[0068] In some embodiments, drip-catch 208 of lid base 100 can have any suitable lid base pocket 210 with any type of depression, angle, edges, shape, arch, depth and width. In some embodiments, lid base pocket 210 can be used as a holding area for closure flap before lid base 100 is opened or when lid base 100 is re-opened. In some embodiments, lid base pocket 210 can be under a closure flap and can then be exposed once the closure flap is turned.
[0069] In some embodiments, drip-catch 208 can have a width or depth that is wide enough or deep enough to accommodate an opening of lid base 100 or a closure flap. As a more particular example, in an instance in which an opening of lid base 100 is wider than an opening of a traditional soda can, drip-catch 208 of lid base 100 can be relatively wider and more oval than a drip-catch of a traditional can end. In some embodiments, drip-catch 208 can include padding of any suitable type of material.
[0070] Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, shapes of rivet areas of a closure flap (e.g., closure flap 108 as shown in FIG. 2A) and a lid base (e.g., lid base 100 as shown in FIG. 2B) are shown in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. For example, referring to FIG. 2A, in some embodiments, any suitable rivet can be inserted in a closure flap rivet area 202 to couple closure flap 108 to a tab (not shown). Note that, in some embodiments, a rivet inserted in closure flap rivet area 202 can be any suitable rivet, such as a rivet that is part of the tab (e.g., as shown in and described below in connection with FIG. 3E), a rivet that is part of a lid base
(e g., as shown in and described below in connection with FIG. 10), and/or an independent rivet (e.g., as shown in and described below in connection with FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C). Additionally, note that, although closure flap rivet area 202 is shown as triangular in shape, in some embodiments, closure flap rivet area 202 can have any suitable shape (e.g., square, round, hexagonal, and/or any other suitable shape).
[0071] As another example, referring to FIG. 2B, in some embodiments, any suitable rivet can be used in lid base rivet area 204 to connect lid base 100 to a tab and closure flap. Note that, in some embodiments, the rivet can be a rivet that is part of the lid base (e.g., as shown in and described below in connection with FIGS. 10A, 10B, and/or 10C) that is located at lid base rivet area 204 on lid base 100, a rivet that is part of the tab (e.g., as shown in and described below in connection with FIG. 3E) that is inserted through the closure flap and through lid base rivet area 204, and/or an independent rivet (e g., as shown in and described below in connection with FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C). Additionally, note that, although lid base rivet area 204 is shown as circular in shape, in some embodiments, lid base rivet area 204 can be any suitable shape (e.g., square, triangular, hexagonal, and/or any other suitable shape). In some embodiments, lid base rivet area 204 can be smaller or larger than closure flap rivet area 202.
[0072] Note that, although tab 102, closure flap 108, and lid base 100 are shown in and described above in connection with FIGS. 1A, IB, 2A, and 2B, in some embodiments, any suitable alternative designs of tabs, closure flaps, lid bases, and rivets can be used in any suitable combination. For example, in some embodiments, alternative tab designs (e.g., as shown in and described below in connection with FIG. 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E, 9A, and/or 9F), alternative closure flap designs (e.g., as shown in and described below in connection with FIG. 6A, 6B, 6C, 7A, 7B, 7C, 8, 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D, and/or 11), alternative rivet designs (e.g., as shown in and described below in connection with FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D, 9E, 9F, 9G, 10A, 10B, and/or 10C), and/or alternative lid base designs (e.g., as shown in and described below in connection with FIGS. 10A, 10B, 10C, and/or 11) can be used in any suitable combination.
[0073] Turning to FIG. 3 A, a top view of tab 102 is shown in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. Note that tab 102 is shown in FIG. 3A with a tab rivet area 301 that is triangular in shape. In some embodiments, a tab can have a rivet area with any suitable shape (e.g., circular, triangular, square, L-shaped, hexagonal, and/or any other suitable shape). For example, as shown in FIG. 3C, a tab can have a round tab rivet area 312.
[0074] Turning to FIG. 3B, an angled side view of a tab 102 is shown in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. In some embodiments, a force part 302 of tab 102 (e.g., a back portion of a tab) can have an arched or concave shape that allows tab 102 to be pulled upward by a finger and to be rotated. Additionally, note that tab 102 can have any suitable shape or dimensions that differ from tabs used in other drink cans. For example, in some embodiments, tab 102 can have a thicker force part 302 and/or thicker side portions 304 and/or 306 relative to tabs used in other drink cans. As another example, in some embodiments, a length and/or a width of tab 102 from force part 302 to tab rivet area 301 can be different in shape than tabs used in other drink cans (e.g., longer, shorter, wider, thinner, and/or different in any other suitable manner).
[0075] In some embodiments, a tab, a closure flap, and a lid base can be coupled using an independent rivet (e.g., a rivet that is not a part of any of the tab, the closure flap, and/or the lid base). FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C show examples of independent rivets that can be used to couple any of a tab, a closure flap, and/or a lid base.
[0076] Turning to FIG. 4A, example views of an independent rivet with a circular top portion are shown in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. View 400 shows a three-dimensional side view of a rivet. As illustrated, the rivet includes a circular top portion 402, a triangular middle portion 404, and a circular bottom portion 406. In some embodiments, circular top portion 402 can overlap a tab and can lock into a tab rivet area and a closure flap rivet area, thereby holding both the tab and the closure flap to a lid base. In some embodiments, triangular middle portion 404 can act as a lock between the closure flap and the tab, thereby allowing the tab and the closure flap to rotate as one piece. In some embodiments, circular bottom portion 406 can go through lid base rivet area 204 (as shown in and described above in connection with FIG. 2B) of lid base 100 thereby allowing the tab and the closure flap to rotate together. In some embodiments, circular bottom portion 406 can be flattened by machinery to secure the rivet, as shown in and described below in connection with FIG. 9G. [0077] FIG. 4A additionally shows a top view 408 and a bottom view 410 of the rivet shown in view 400. Note that, as shown in FIG. 4A, in some embodiments, circular top portion 402 can have the largest area of the three portions of the rivet, and circular bottom portion 406 can have the smallest area of the three portions of the rivet. Note that, in some embodiments,
each section of a rivet can vary in height, width, length, circumference, and/or in any other suitable manner.
[0078] Turning to FIG. 4B, an example 412 of a rivet with a triangular top portion 414 is shown in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0079] Turning to FIG. 4C, an example 416 of a rivet with a round top and a cylindrical body 418 is shown in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0080] In some embodiments, shapes of holes of a closure flap can correspond to portions of a rivet. For example, in some embodiments, rivet 416 (as shown in and described above in connection FIG. 4C) can connect a tab with a circular tab rivet area to a closure flap with a circular closure flap rivet area. In some embodiments, this can allow the rivet and the closure flap to turn either clockwise or counter-clockwise.
[0081] It should be noted that the illustrated relative dimensions may differ from an actual rivet implemented in accordance with some embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, the height of each portion of 402, 404, 406, and 418 may be shorter than a width and/or a diameter of that portion. In some embodiments, the heights may be exaggerated herein for clarity.
[0082] Turning to FIG. 5 A, an example top view of a scored flap of a lid base (e.g., such as scored flap 104 as shown in and described above in connection with FIG. IB) is shown in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. FIG. 5B shows an example bottom view of the scored flap with perforations on the lid base. FIG. 5C shows an example top view of an alternate curved up scored area 502 where it meets link 112. FIG. 5D shows an example top view of an alternate curved down scored area 504 where it meets link 112. Note that, in some embodiments, any suitable scored flap can be used in connection with any lid base. [0083] In some embodiments, a closure flap can include any suitable elements that can allow a tab to exert pressure on a closure flap when a closure flap is inserted into an opening of a can to allow a more unified and/or tighter seal to be formed between the closure flap and the opening of the can. Additionally, a closure flap can include any suitable elements that allow a tab to rotate a connected closure flap. FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C show examples of closure flaps with various design elements. Note that, in some embodiments, any of the elements shown in FIGS. 6A, 6B, and/or 6C can be combined in any suitable manner in a closure flap.
[0084] As shown in FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, in some embodiments, a closure flap can have one or more variously shaped bumps, molds, raises, flaps, lips, or other designs. In some embodiments, a bump on a closure flap can aid a lock between a tab and the closure flap, aid in pushing and pulling the connected tab and closure flap, allow a tab to exert even pressure on a closure flap when the closure flap is inserted into an opening of a lid base, and/or perform any other suitable functions. In some embodiments, a closure flap can include any suitable bumps, such as bump 602 and/or bump 604 as shown in FIG. 6A, bump 610 and/or bump 614 as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6C, and/or any other suitable bumps. In some embodiments, the one or more bumps can correspond to raised portions of an interior of the closure flap. Note, that, in some embodiments, a closure flap can include any suitable number of bumps (e.g., zero, one, two, three, five, and/or any other suitable number), each located at any suitable position on the closure flap. In some embodiments, the one or more bumps on a closure flap can be generated in any suitable manner, for example, by using any suitable welding or molding technique (e.g., using injection molding and/or any other suitable molding, welding, or shaping technique).
[0085] In some embodiments, the one or more bumps can meet a bottom portion of a tab, which can cause the tab to exert even pressure on the closure flap when the closure flap is inserted into an opening of an open can, thereby allowing a more unified and/or tighter seal to be formed between the closure flap and an opening of the can. In addition, the one or more bumps can act and engage as a lock with a tab to assist in rotation of the closure flap over an opening of the can end. Note that examples of closure flaps with one or more bumps that meet a bottom portion of a tab are shown in and described below in more detail in connection with FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C. Turning to FIG. 3C, in some embodiments, a square shaped bump (e.g., bump 614 of FIGS. 6A and 6C) can fit into a square shaped tab opening 314 of a tab 310. As another example, in some embodiments, a round shaped bump (e.g., bump 610 of FIG. 6A) can fit into a round shaped tab opening 318 of tab 310. Note that, in some embodiments, each bump on a closure flap can have any suitable shape (e.g., round, square, rectangular, L-shaped, U-shaped, triangular, hexagonal, and/or any other suitable shape). Additionally, note that, in some embodiments, a tab can have openings of any suitable shape(s) that correspond to bumps of a closure flap that is to be connected to the tab.
[0086] Referring back to FIG. 6A, top views of an alternate closure flap 114 are shown in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. In some embodiments,
closure flap 114 can include one or more closure flap lips 612 (as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6C). In some embodiments, closure flap lips 612 can act as a lock or a hook that engages with lips on a tab. For example, turning to FIGS. 3C and 3D, tab 310 can include tab lips 316. In some embodiments, as a tab turns, closure flap lips 612 can act as pressure points against tab lips 316. In some embodiments, when the tab turns, both closure flap lips 612 and tab lips 316 can aid in the rotation (e.g., pushing or pulling a connected tab and closure flap), clockwise or counterclockwise, and locking of the tab to closure flap 114 while still allowing the tab to rotate. Note that, referring to FIG. 3D, in some embodiments, a tab can additionally include pressure points 320. In some embodiments, when pressure is applied to pressure points 320, the tab can engage with a connected closure flap to create a secure seal of the closure flap in an opening of a lid base. In some embodiments, pressure points 320 can be any suitable added material, bumps, and/or punctures. In some embodiments, pressure points 320 can be formed from any part of a mold and/or in any other suitable manner. Note that FIG. 3D shows an underside of tab 310. [0087] Referring back to FIG. 6A, in some embodiments, a closure flap can have an outer edge 609 that acts as an edge, lip, glide, flap, ledge, or seal. In some embodiments, outer edge 609 can extend beyond opening 106 and can allow for a seal when the closure flap is positioned over and seals opening 106. In some embodiments, outer edge 609 can additionally aid in rotation of the closure flap over the lid base.
[0088] Turning to FIG. 6B, an example cross-sectional side view of a closure flap is shown in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. Note that, in some embodiments, side edges of a closure flap can have any suitable shape(s) (e.g., angles, curves, bends, arches, cuts, bumps, molds, and/or any other suitable designs), such as shown in and described below in more detail in connection with FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C, and 8.
[0089] Turning to FIG. 6C, an example side view of a closure flap is shown in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. Note that, in some embodiments, side edges of a closure flap can have any suitable shape(s), as shown in and described below in more detail in connection with FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C, 8, 9B, 9C, and/or 9D. [0090] Turning to FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C, example cross-sectional side views of closure flaps, with a tab and a lid base, of different shapes inserted into an opening of a lid base are shown in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. Note that FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C each show three different potential edge shapes 702, 704, and 706, respectively,
of closure flaps. Additionally, note that the shapes of closure flaps shown in FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C are shown merely as examples, and, in some embodiments, any suitable shape can be used. Note that additional possible shapes of closure flaps are shown in and described below in connection with FIGS. 8, 9B, 9C, and/or 9D. Additionally, note that, in FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C, outer edge 609 of each closure flap is shown on top of lid base 100.
[0091] Note that, in some embodiments, the closure flap and/or bumps on the closure flap can each be made of any suitable material. For example, in some embodiments, the closure flap and/or the bumps can each be made of the same material as the can, such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy. In some embodiments, the closure flap and/or the bumps on the closure flap can each be made of any suitable material that allows the closure flap and/or the bumps to be recycled along with the can.
[0092] Additionally, note that, in some embodiments, the closure flap can have a depressed pocket (e.g., a depressed pocket 708 as shown in FIG. 7A) in the center that has dimensions that correspond to dimensions of an opening of an open can (e.g., opening 106 as shown in and described above in connection with FIG. IB).
[0093] In some embodiments, a bottom portion of the closure flap can have a lining sealant (e.g., lining sealant 710 as shown in FIG. 7A) of any suitable material, such as the same coating as the interior of the can body or any other suitable material. Note that, in some embodiments, any suitable type of sealant can be used, such as a sealant used in a lining or interior of the can (e.g., epoxy resin, any suitable polymer plastic, and/or any other suitable sealant). In some embodiments, the sealant can be any suitable sealant that satisfies any suitable criteria, such as being harmless to a consumer (e.g., BPA-free, and/or any other suitable harmless sealant), recyclable with aluminum, does not contaminate and/or change a taste of a beverage in a can, and/or that satisfies any other suitable criteria. In some embodiments, the lining sealant can have any suitable layers and/or can have any suitable thickness that can aid in sealing the opening of the can end and/or can aid in ease of use. In some embodiments, the lining sealant can have any suitable dimensions to correspond to a portion of a bottom of a corresponding closure flap or to the entire bottom of a corresponding closure flap. Additionally or alternatively, note that, in some embodiments, the closure flap can be covered prior to first use with a breakable sealant that prevents contaminants from entering an area under the closure flap.
[0094] Turning to FIG. 8, example cross-sectional side views of closure flaps of different shapes are shown in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. As illustrated, eight shapes, 802, 804, 806, 808, 810, 812, 814, and 816 are shown with multiple design options and/or combination options. Note that, as illustrated in FIG. 8, a closure flap can have any suitable dimensions, and any suitable shape that includes any suitable angles, cuts, edges, padding, grooves, molds, lips, pressure points, curls, and/or any other suitable designs. [0095] In some embodiments, a closure flap can have sections that can include: 1.) depressed pocket 708 (as shown in and described above in connection with FIG. 7 A); 2.) a closure seal lock area 826; and 3.) outer edge 609 (as shown in and described above in connection with FIG. 6). For example, in some embodiments, depressed pocket 708 can be various depths, angles, shapes, and/or widths in relationship to a closure seal lock area 826 for insertion inside of a lid base opening and/or insertion inside of a holding area of a lid base pocket (e.g., lid base pocket 210 of FIG. 2B), to accommodate movement of the closure flap (e.g., during rotation or positioning of the closure flap during opening or closing) and/or to aid in insertion of the closure flap in a lid base opening.
[0096] As another example, in some embodiments, as shown in shapes 812, 814, and 816, the closure flap can include a straight edge 818 that is connected to angle drop 819 of any suitable angle (e.g., 40 degrees, 45 degrees, 50 degrees, and/or any other suitable angle), that leads to an under-cut/indent 820 that acts as a hook. In some embodiments, under-cut/indent 820 can be positioned underneath an edge of opening 106 once lid base 100 is open. In some embodiments, this can allow for a seal of the closure flap over opening 106 such that the seal does not interfere with link 112 but allows the closure flap to work in conjunction with link 112 to seal a lid base opening.
[0097] As yet another example, in some embodiments, outer edge 609 of shape 814 can act with a spring-like action when the closure flap is depressed in the middle via an attached tab to provide resistance or assistance when the closure flap is depressed in a lid base opening and/or when the closure flap is rotated by a coupled tab. Note that shape 814 includes an upward arch and downward bend 822 into a curled edge 824 that can tuck under the arch 822 and which can sit on top of a drip catch of a lid base, which can be used to provide the spring-like action, resistance, pressure, and/or any other suitable function to assist a tight and non-leakable seal of the closure flap over a lid base opening and a link of a lid base opening (e.g., link 112, as shown
in and described above in connection with FIG. IB). Additionally, in some embodiments, curled edge 824 can provide a smooth surface area to an outer edge 609 of the closure flap such that the closure flap does not have an abrasive edge.
[0098] In some embodiments, a lid base can have a slide area in which a closure flap can move during rotation of the closure flap in and out of a lid base opening. In some embodiments, the slide area can aid in movement and/or rotation of the closure flap. Turning to FIG. 11, a top view of a lid base is shown in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. As illustrated, the lid base has a slide area 1102. In some embodiments, slide area 1102 can be level with a scored flap of the lid base (e.g., scored flap 104). Alternatively, in some embodiments, slide area 1102 can slope in any suitable direction (e.g., upward toward scored flap 104, downward toward scored flap 104, and/or in any suitable direction). Note that, in some embodiments, slide area 1102 can be any suitable portion of the lid base. For example, in some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 11, slide area 1102 can be a subset of the top area of the lid base (e.g., a right side of the lid base, a left side of the lid base, and/or any other suitable area of the lid base). As another example, in some embodiments, slide area 1102 can be a full top portion of the lid base. Note that, in some embodiments, slide area 1102 can be used in connection with any combination of any suitable tab, rivet(s), closure flap, scored area, link(s), and/or any other suitable elements of a can end described herein.
[0099] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 11, the lid base can include a push button 1103. In some embodiments, push button 1103 can act as a pressure point. In some embodiments, push button 1103 can be depressed to aid in rotation of closure flap out and away from the lid base opening to re-open the can end by loosening a connection of the closure flap within the lid base opening. Note that, in some embodiments, push button 1103 can be included in any suitable lid base and can be located at any suitable position on the lid base. Additionally, note that, in some embodiments, push button 1103 can be of any suitable shape and/or size (e.g., round, square, rectangular, triangular, L-shaped, and/or any other suitable shape). In some embodiments, push button 1103 can be formed via any suitable manufacturing technique(s) (e.g., any suitable molding technique, a pulled or pushed force manufacturing technique(s) as part of the lid base, welded onto the lid base, extruded from the lid base, and/or any other suitable technique(s)). In some embodiments, push button 1103 can be omitted.
[0100] Turning to FIGS. 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D, and 9F, another example of a tab and a closure flap are shown in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0101] Turning to FIG. 9A, a top view of a tab 902 connected to a closure flap 906 and lid base is shown in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. As illustrated, tab 902 can include a tab rivet area 910, a lip 916, and/or a middle bar 918. Note that FIG. 9F shows a top view of tab 902.
[0102] In some embodiments, tab rivet area 910 can correspond to a rivet that is used to couple tab 902 to the lid base. Note that, similar to what is described above, in some embodiments, a rivet used in connection with tab rivet area 910 can be any suitable rivet, such as an independent rivet (e.g., as shown in and described above in connection with FIGS. 4A, 4B, and/or 4C), a rivet that is part of a lid base (e.g., as shown in and described below in connection with FIG. 10), and/or a rivet that is part of tab 902 at a location of tab rivet area 910 (e.g., as shown in and described below in connection with FIG. 3E).
[0103] In some embodiments, middle bar 918 can engage with closure flap 906 in any suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, middle bar 918 can fasten to or otherwise engage with a platform area 908 (e g., as shown in FIG. 9B and 9C) of closure flap 906. As another example, in some embodiments, tab opening 318 (as shown in FIG. 3C) can fasten to and/or engage with a closure flap bump 904, as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B. As yet another example, in some embodiments, middle bar 918 can engage with any suitable independent rivet, such as a rivet 912 shown in FIG. 9E.
[0104] Turning to FIG. 9B, a side view of tab 902 and closure flap 906 is shown in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0105] Turning to FIGS. 9C and 9D, a top view of closure flap 906 and a side view of closure flap 906, respectively, are shown in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. As illustrated, closure flap 906 includes a bump 904 on platform area 908. In some embodiments, bump 904 can engage with tab 902 by being inserted through a circular tab opening of tab 902 (e.g., tab opening area 318, as shown in FIG. 9F). Referring back to FIG. 9A, in some embodiments, when bump 904 is inserted into the circular tab opening 318 of tab 902, bump 904 can act as a rivet that couples tab 902 and closure flap 906. For example, in some embodiments, bump 904 can be flattened (e.g., by a machine that applies pressure to bump 904), thereby causing bump 904 to act as a rivet that couples tab 902 and closure flap 906. Note that,
in instances in which bump 904 acts as a rivet that couples tab 902 and closure flap 906, bump 904 can couple tab 902 and closure flap 906 such that tab 902 and closure flap 906 rotate together in conjunction, thereby acting as a lock mechanism that can aid in tab 902 rotating closure flap 906. In some embodiments, when bump 904 is flattened, bump 904 can create a lip (e.g., as shown in and described below in connection with FIG. 9G) to keep tab 902 connected to closure flap 906.
[0106] Note that, as shown in section 920 of FIG. 9C, in some embodiments, platform area 908 can extend or protrude from an outer edge of the closure flap. In some embodiments, section 920 can increase a distance between rivet area 616 and a depressed pocket area of closure flap 906. In some embodiments, platform 908 can have any suitable dimensions (e.g., length, width, thickness, etc.), and platform 908 can protrude from the outer edge of the closure flap by any suitable amount.
[0107] Turning to FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C, examples of a lid base 1002 with different lid base rivet area designs are shown in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. Note that, in some embodiments, lid base 1002 can have any suitable outer rim (e g., an industry-standard can end outer rim, and/or any other suitable outer rim), which can be attached and sealed to a body of a can in any suitable manner (e.g., a double-seam method, and/or in any other suitable manner). Note that, in some embodiments, any suitable tab and/or closure flap can be used in connection with any of the lid bases shown in FIGS. 10A, 10B, and/or 10C.
[0108] Referring to FIG. 10A, lid base 1002 can include a protuberance 1004. In some embodiments, protuberance 1004 can be formed on lid base 1002 in any suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, protuberance 1004 can be formed via any suitable manufacturing technique(s) (e.g., any suitable molding technique, a pulled or pushed force manufacturing technique(s) as part of lid base 1002, welded onto lid base 1002, extruded from lid base 1002, and/or any other suitable technique(s)). In some embodiments, protuberance 1004 can be closed at a top portion of protuberance 1004. In some embodiments, protuberance 1004 can function as a rivet that can couple a closure flap and a tab to lid base 1002. For example, in some embodiments, protuberance 1004 can be inserted through a round shaped closure flap rivet area and through a round shaped tab rivet area. Continuing with this example, in some embodiments, protuberance 1004 can then be flattened in any suitable manner to allow
protuberance 1004 to function as a rivet. In some embodiments, protuberance 1004 can be flattened in any suitable manner, such as by a machine that depresses protuberance 1004 and/or applies pressure to protuberance 1004 in any suitable manner.
[0109] Turning to FIG. 10B, an example of lid base 1002 with a hollow protuberance 1006 is shown in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. In some embodiments, hollow protuberance 1006 can be formed in any suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, hollow protuberance 1006 can be formed via any suitable manufacturing technique(s) (e.g., any suitable molding technique, a pulled or pushed force manufacturing technique(s) as part of lid base 1002, welded onto lid base 1002, extruded from lid base 1002, and/or any other suitable technique(s)). In some embodiments, a hollow portion of hollow protuberance 1006 can be formed in any suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, an adhered protuberance can be drilled, bored, extruded, and/or circular hole punched. In some embodiments, hollow protuberance 1006 can act as a column that can receive any suitable rivet used to couple a tab and a closure flap to lid base 1002. For example, in some embodiments, hollow protuberance 1006 can receive an independent rivet, as shown in and described above in connection with FIGS. 4A, 4B, and/or 4C. As another example, in some embodiments, hollow protuberance 1006 can receive a rivet that is part of a tab, as shown in and described below in connection with FIG. 3E. In some embodiments, a rivet inserted in hollow protuberance 1006 can be sealed or attached from an underside of lid base 1002 in any suitable manner (e.g., as shown in and described below in connection with FIG. 3F). For example, in some embodiments, the rivet can be flattened in any suitable manner, such as by a machine that depresses the rivet and/or applies pressure to the rivet in any suitable manner.
[0110] Turning to FIG. 10C, an example of a lid base 1002 with a rivet opening 1008 is shown in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. In some embodiments, rivet opening 1008 can be formed in any suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, rivet opening 1008 can be formed from any suitable mold, can be circular hole punched in lid base 1002, bored in lid base 1002, drilled through lid base 1002, and/or formed in any other suitable manner. In some embodiments, any suitable rivet can be inserted through rivet opening 1008 to couple a tab and a closure flap to lid base 1002. For example, in some embodiments, rivet opening 1008 can receive an independent rivet, as shown in and described above in connection with FIGS. 4A, 4B, and/or 4C. As another example, in some embodiments,
rivet opening 1008 can receive a rivet that is part of a tab, as shown in and described below in connection with FIG. 3E.
[0111] Turning to FIG. 3E, examples of rivets that are part of a tab are shown in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. As illustrated, FIG. 3E shows different designs for rivets that can be attached to or are otherwise part of a tab 350. Note that, in some embodiments, tab 350 can be used in connection with any suitable closure flap and/or any suitable lid base that can receive a rivet that is part of tab 350. Additionally, note that, in some embodiments, a rivet that is part of tab 350 can be formed in any suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, a rivet can be adhered to tab 350 (e.g., welded to tab 350, pulled or pushed force or other suitable manufacturing technique as part of tab 350, and/or adhered in any other suitable manner), formed via any suitable mold, extruded, and/or formed in any other suitable manner.
[0112] In some embodiments, a rivet that is a part of tab 350 can be any suitable shape, and can include any suitable sections, each having any suitable shape. For example, in some embodiments, tab 350 can include a rivet 351 that has a circular shape. As another example, in some embodiments, tab 350 can include a rivet 352 that can include a triangular section that can act as a lock above a circular portion of rivet 352. As yet another example, in some embodiments, tab 350 can include a rivet 353 that includes a square section that can act as a lock above a circular portion of rivet 353.
[0113] In some embodiments, a circular portion of a rivet that is part of tab 350 can be inserted through a circular closure flap rivet area (e.g., circular closure flap rivet area 616, as shown in FIG. 6A, and/or any other suitable circular closure flap rivet area) and then through a circular lid base rivet area (e.g., lid base rivet area 204 as shown in FIG. 2B, hollow protuberance 1006 as shown in FIG. 10B, rivet opening 1008 as shown in FIG. 10C, and/or any other suitable circular lid base rivet area).
[0114] In some embodiments, a rivet can then be attached to the connected lid base, closure flap, and tab in any suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, the rivet can be flattened in any suitable manner, such as by a machine that depresses the rivet from an underside of the lid base after the rivet is inserted through the lid base rivet area. Turning to FIG. 3F, an underside of a lid base after a rivet is inserted and flattened is shown in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. As illustrated, FIG. 3F includes a
flattened rivet 354 that has been flattened by any suitable machine that applies pressure to the rivet after insertion through the lid base rivet area.
[0115] Turning to FIG. 9G, an example cross-sectional view of a machine flattened rivet is shown in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. As illustrated, FIG. 9G includes a flattened rivet 930, and a side portion 932. In some embodiments, flattened rivet 930 can correspond to any suitable rivet that is created using any suitable technique(s), as described above. Note that, in some embodiments, flattened rivet 930 can correspond to an independent rivet, a rivet that is part of a tab, a rivet that is part of a lid base, and/or any other suitable rivet. For example, in some embodiments, flattened rivet 930 can correspond to an independent rivet as shown in and described above in connection with FIGS. 4A, 4B, and/or 4C. As another example, in some embodiments, flattened rivet 930 can correspond to a rivet that is part of a tab as shown in and described above in connection with FIG. 3E and/or a rivet that is part of a lid base as shown in and described above in connection with FIG. 10A or 10B.
[0116] In some embodiments, side portion 932 can correspond to any suitable surface on which a lip of flattened rivet 930, once flattened, is positioned. For example, in an instance in which flattened rivet 930 corresponds to a rivet that is part of a tab or an independent rivet that is inserted through a tab, closure flap, and lid base, side portion 932 can correspond to a lid base, where flattened rivet 930 is flattened on an underside of the lid base. As another example, in an instance in which flattened rivet 930 corresponds to a rivet that is part of a lid base, side portion 932 can correspond to a tab, where flattened rivet 930 is flattened from above a tab.
[0117] Turning to FIGS. 12-14, an example 1200 of a can end assembly in accordance with some embodiments is shown. As illustrated, can end assembly 1200 include a can end 1202, a closure 1204, a tab 1206, and a center rivet 1208, in some embodiments.
[0118] Can end 1202, closure 1204, tab 1206, and center rivet 1208 can be made from any suitable material in some embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, can end 1202, closure 1204, tab 1206, and/or center rivet 1208 can be made from aluminum, tin, stainless steel, or any suitable combination of the same.
[0119] In some embodiments, can end 1202, closure 1204, and center rivet 1208 can include any suitable coating on an interior or exterior surface of the can end, the closure, and the center rivet. For example, in some embodiments, can end 1202, closure 1204, and/or center rivet
1208 can include an epoxy resin, BPA, acrylic, polyester, PVC from vinyl, oleoresins, or other chemicals coating on the interior surface of the can end.
[0120] In some embodiments, can end 1202 can be formed in any suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, can end 1202 can be formed by stamping, cutting, molding, or laser cutting the can end out of sheet material, such as sheet aluminum.
[0121] In some embodiments, closure 1204 can be formed in any suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, closure 1204 can be formed by stamping, cutting, molding, or laser cutting the closure out of sheet material, such as sheet aluminum.
[0122] In some embodiments, tab 1206 can be formed in any suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, tab 1206 can be formed by stamping, cutting, molding, or laser cutting the tab out of sheet material, such as sheet aluminum.
[0123] In some embodiments, center rivet 1208 can be formed in any suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, center rivet 1208 can be formed by extruding, pressing, stamping, or molding the center rivet from rod material, such as rod aluminum.
[0124] Further features of a can end in accordance with some embodiments are described below in connection with FIGS. 15 and 16. Further features of a closure in accordance with some embodiments are described below in connection with FIGS. 17-21. And, further features of a tab in accordance with some embodiments are described below in connection with FIGS. 22- 24.
[0125] Turning to FIGS. 15 and 16, a can end 1502 in accordance with some embodiments is shown. Can end 1502 can be used as can end 1200 in some embodiments. [0126] As illustrated, can end 1502 can include a recess portion 1504, a tear strip 1506, and a tear line 1508. When can end 1502 is unopened, tear strip 1506 is in a sealed position shown in FIG. 15 and tear strip, tear line, and can end are liquid, air, and gas tight. When a tab, such as tab 1206 as pressed with suitable force against the tear strip, the tear line breaks and the tear strip bends downward into an opened position.
[0127] In some embodiments, recess 1504 can have any suitable shape and dimensions. For example, in some embodiments, recess 1504 can have a deepest portion 1510 that has a shape and dimensions that generally matches the shape of the underside of a portion of a closure, such as closure 1204, when the closure is located therein. As another example, in some embodiments, recess 1504 can have a shallowest portion 1510 that is at a same height relative to
a top portion 1512 of the can end as tear strip 1506 is relative to the top portion when tear strip 1506 is in the sealed position. Such a configuration can allow the closure to slide up out of recess 1504 and deepest portion 1510 from the deepest portion to the shallowest portion and around to the tear strip and close the hole that is present when the tear strip is in the opened position.
[0128] Turning to FIGS. 17 and 18, an example 1702 of a closure that can be used as closure 1204 in accordance with some embodiments is shown. As illustrated in FIG. 17, closure 1702 is on a can end without a tab, such as tab 1206, on top of the closure. In this figure, the closure is at the 12 o'clock position on the can end. In use, the closure can rotate clockwise from the 12 o'clock position to the 6 o'clock position on the can end.
[0129] Closure can have any suitable shape in some embodiments. For example, the shape of the closure can allow it to close the hole that is present when tear strip 1506 is in the opened position.
[0130] As shown in FIG. 18, closure 1702 includes bumps 1704 and 1706, closure rivet 1708, a closure ear 1710, a closure hole 1712, and a closure ledge 1703 in some embodiments. [0131] In some embodiments, bumps 1704 and 1706 can have any suitable size and shape. For example, in some embodiments the bumps can be tall enough to touch the bottom of a tab, such as tab 1206, when positioned on top of it. The bumps can have any suitable shape, such as round (as shown), oval, elliptical, square, triangular, etc.
[0132] Rivet 1708 can be positioned to engage a tab, such as tab 1206, as shown in FIG.
12, in some embodiments. The rivet can be separate from or part of the remainder of closure 1702.
[0133] Closure ear 1710 can have any suitable size and shape in some embodiments. For example, the bottom portion of the ear can be rounded as shown in FIG. 18, flat, or multi-sided. [0134] Closure hole 1712 can have any suitable size, such as a size large enough to pass a center rivet, such as center rivet 1208, and spin around the rivet without being too tight to easily turn with a person's fingers and without being too loose so as to not automatically align with a hole in the can end when the closure is at the 6 o'clock position relative to the can end as described above.
[0135] Closure ledge 1703 can have any suitable size and shape in some embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, closure ledge can overlap with an area surrounding the
opening of the can end when in the opened position. Any suitable overlap can be used in some embodiments, such that liquid does not leak from the overlap, in some embodiments.
[0136] FIGS. 19-20 show an alternate example 1902 of a closure in accordance with some embodiments. As shown, closure 1902 includes bumps 1904 and 1906, closure rivet 1908, and closure ledge 1903 which can be the same as or similar to bumps 1704 and 1706, closure rivet 1708, and closure ledge 1703 as described above. As also shown, closure 1902 omits closure ear 1710 and closure hole 1712.
[0137] As shown in FIG. 21, the bottom of the closure (e.g., closures 1702 and/or 1902) can include an insertion portion 2102 that enters the opening formed when a can end is in the opened position. The outer circumference of the insertion portion can be shaped to match and engage with the inner circumference of the opening in some embodiments. As also shown in FIG. 21, the outer circumference of the insertion portion can have an angle a with respect to a vertical axis in the figure. In some embodiments, the angle a can be constant around the outer circumference of the insertion portion, while in other embodiments the angle a can vary over the course of different portions of the outer circumference of the insertion portion. In some embodiments, the angle a can smoothly vary over the outer circumference of the insertion portion.
[0138] FIGS. 22-24 show an example 2200 of a tab that can be used as tab 1206 in accordance with some embodiments. As illustrated, tab 2200 includes a rear side 2202, a front side 2204, a left side 2206, a right side 2208, and a center portion 2210 (outlined by the dashed line in FIG. 22).
[0139] Each of rear side 2202, front side 2204, left side 2206, right side 2208, and center portion 2210 can have any suitable dimensions in some embodiments.
[0140] The center of the rear side 2202 can be bent inward (as shown) or outward, or be straight, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the center of the rear side can additionally or alternatively be bent upward or downward, or be straight.
[0141] As shown, front side 2204 can be asymmetrical, in some embodiments. The forward-most point 2212 of the front side can be any where between the outermost edges of left side 2206 and right side 2208, in some embodiments. The curve formed by the front of the front side can have any suitable shape, such as that shown in FIGS. 22 and 23.
[0142] Left side 2206 and right side 2208 can have any suitable lengths, and be the same length or different lengths (as shown), in some embodiments. Left side 2206 and right side 2208 can each be straight (as shown), or be bent inward, outward, upward, and/or downward, in some embodiments.
[0143] In some embodiments, the tab can have any suitable bumps, depressions, indents, stamps, heights, ramps, cut-outs, or curling.
[0144] Center portion 2210 can have a center rivet hole 2214, a bend 2216, a downward bump 2218, and a closure rivet hole 2220, in some embodiments. The center rivet hole can have any suitable size and shape, in some embodiments. The bend can change the level of a rearward portion 2222 compared to a forward portion 2224 by any suitable amount. For example, as shown in FIG. 24, rearward portion 2222 is lower that the forward portion, which is not visible. The downward bump can have any suitable size and shape, in some embodiments. The closure rivet hole can have any suitable size and shape, in some embodiments.
[0145] Center portion 2210 can have any suitable size in some embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, can position center hole 2214 further from front portion 2204 than in other embodiments depending on the specific implementation. Any suitable distance between the forward-most portion of the center portion and the point 2212 can be used in some embodiments. Similarly, any suitable distances between each of center rivet hole 2214, bend 2216, downward bump 2218, and closure rivet hole 2220 can be used in some embodiments, and these distances can be selected based on a particular application in some embodiments.
[0146] In accordance with some embodiments, a closure that can be used as closure 1204 can include a safety feature that can make the can end difficult to open. For example, in some embodiments, such a safety feature can be used to make it difficult for the can end from being opened by a child or a person with a handicap.
[0147] Turning to FIGS. 25-27, an example of a closure incorporating a safety feature in accordance with some embodiments is illustrated. As shown, in some embodiments, the closure may include a main portion 2502, that can be the same or similar to that described above for closure 1702, and a bar portion 2504. The bar portion can have any suitable shape and size, in some embodiments. For example, the bar portion can be substantially rectangular and be longer than the distance from top to bottom in the figure across tear strip 1506 and tear line 1508, in some embodiments. In this way, if there is an attempt to open the can end by lifting the rear
portion of the tab, the front portion of the tab hits the bar portion, rather than the tear strip, and cannot force the tear strip downward. In some embodiments, bar portion 2504 can include a raised portion 2506 that makes grabbing the bar portion with one's finger or fingernail easier. Raised portion 2506 can have any suitable size and shape, and be in any suitable location, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, bar portion 2504 can include a break-away portion 2508 that enables the bar portion to be removed from the remainder to the closure by a user. For example, with reference to the view in FIG. 25, a user may grab the bar portion by the raised portion and rotate it counter-clock-wise. This may cause the bar portion to break away from the remainder of the closure at the break-away portion, so that the tab can then be used to open the can end. The break-away portion can include any suitable features to facilitate this process, such as scoring between the bar portion and the main portion of the closure, one or more cut-outs, thinner material, and/or any other suitable feature(s).
[0148] Turning to FIGS. 28-30, another example of a closure incorporating a safety feature in accordance with some embodiments is illustrated. As shown, in some embodiments, the closure may include a main portion 2802, that can be the same or similar to that described above for closure 1702, and a bar portion 2804. The bar portion can have any suitable shape and size, in some embodiments. For example, the bar portion can be partially triangular (as shown in FIG. 29) and span across any suitable portions of the area surrounding tear strip 1506 and tear line 1508. As another example, the bar portion can be flipped compared to what it is shown in FIGS. 28-30 so that it connects to the main portion on its right side rather than its left side. In this way, if a child attempts to open the can end by lifting the rear portion of the tab, the front portion of the tab hits some part of the bar portion, rather than the tear strip, and cannot force the tear strip downward. In some embodiments, bar portion 2804 can include a raised portion 2806, that may or may not attach to 2802, that makes grabbing the bar portion with one's finger or fingernail easier. Raised portion 2806 can have any suitable size and shape, and be in any suitable location, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, bar portion 2804 can include a break-away portion 2808 that enables the bar portion to be removed from the remainder to the closure by a user. For example, with reference to the view in FIG. 28, a user may grab the bar portion by the raised portion and rotate it counter-clock-wise, or other directions. This may cause the bar portion to break away from the main portion of the closure at the break-away portion, so that the tab can then be used to open the can end. The break-away portion can
include any suitable features to facilitate this process, such as scoring between the bar portion and the main portion of the closure, one or more cut-outs, thinner material, and/or any other suitable feature(s).
[0149] It is noted that the terms lid base and can end may be used interchangeably herein.
[0150] Turning to FIGS. 31-56, further features of some embodiments are shown and described further below:
[0151] Turning to FIGS. 31-34, an example of a drip catch 3101 in accordance with some embodiments, is shown. This drip catch may be present on lid base 104/can end 1502, in some embodiments. The drip catch areas may or may not slope upwards or downwards or be curved, to create an area that directs liquid on top of the can after opening to go back into the open area of the can end and back into the can, in some embodiments. The levels differ around the can end 104 / lid base 1502 and may become flat in some areas, in some embodiments.
[0152] FIGS. 31-34 also show an example of a flat surface area 3102, in some embodiments. The drip catch may be present on lid base 104/ can end 1502 / shallowest portion 1510 and adjacent to a flat surface area 3102, in some embodiments. In order to create a tight seal, in some embodiments, this area can be flat in the locations that, in this example, the closure ledge 1903 & 1703 and closure ear 1710, collectively link cover 3902, will be on when covering the open hole.
[0153] FIGS. 31-34 also show an example of a bump recessed back 3103, in accordance with some embodiments. Scored flap 104, bump recessed back 3103 may slope downward to create a secure connection point for the bottom and tip point of the tab that enables the tab to press on the scored flap bump 3104 to pierce the tear strip and open can, in some embodiments. This area around scored flap 104, bump recessed back 3103 may dip or have some curve to help the force of the tab to pierce the score area tear strip 1506 to the desired degree of ease of opening the can, engaging the tear strip 1506 to/and peeling the tear line 1508 from the can end, and to get the desired sound effect of pressure releasing from inside the can, in some embodiments.
[0154] FIGS. 31-34 also show an example of scored flap bump 3104, in accordance with some embodiments. Scored flap bump 3104 raises the connection point of the scored flap 104 to create bump recessed back 3103 and to allow room for the new closure design thickness, and to allow the tab to be pulled up to between a preferable 0°-120° angle (or any other suitable angle) to open the can and depress the scored flap into the open can, in some embodiments. In addition, the height of the scored flap bump 3104 allows the tab to be higher than the can end flat surface area 3102 therefore raising the tab above
the flat surface area 3102 will allow the tab to be rotated clockwise or counterclockwise at a desired angle of 10°-37° (or any other suitable angle) to glide over the tear strip and not interfere but, glide over the flat surface area 3102, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, scored flap bump 3104 extrudes upward toward the tab point 3108 - that may have first contact to engage the tear strip 1506 and pierce the tear line 1508 and open the can. This may be shaped in any way, in some embodiments. [0155] FIGS. 31-34 also show an example of a recessed dip 3105, in accordance with some embodiments. This recessed dip 3105 may be various shapes and depth to support the force applied to the rivet that allows the tear strip to break and vent the pressurized can to the optimum desired sound effect and desired ease of opening the can, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the recessed dip may be omitted. In some embodiments, recessed dip 3105 may be sloped or, a curved area on the scored flap bump 3104 and enable tab 1206 to connect with scored flap 104 as a first contact point to provide maximum leverage from the center rivet to the contact point to pierce the tear strip 1506 and get the desired sound effect and opening ease of the tear strip 1506 while still remaining strong to hold the needed psi pressure for a successful resealable and re-closable can end. In some embodiments, it may enable the tab to push down onto the scored flap bump 3104 to aid in opening the score flap and also aid in pushing the score flap deeper and back toward the rivet of the open can to have a successful pour of continents inside.
[0156] FIGS. 31-34 also show an example of a level two rivet 3106, in accordance with some embodiments. The drip catch may be present on lid base 104/can end 1502 center rivet and may have two levels punched in, in some embodiments. Level two rivet 3106 is after level one rivet 3308, in some embodiments. Level two rivet 3106 / lid base 104/can end 1502 center rivet: this center can end rivet punched, stamped, molded in is above level one rivet 3308, in some embodiments. Level two rivet 3106 has multiple functions; it’s the area where the tab and new closure / center rivet hole 2214 gets the final assembly, it’s a fulcrum point for opening the can, and a turning point collectively for the new closure and tab, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, its height from the base to the top is relative to the top of new closure / closure 1702 and top of the tab, and allows the upper most portion to be stamped to assemble all the parts to make the can end one unit.
[0157] FIGS. 31, 32, and 34-36 show an example of a tab rear thickness 3107, in accordance with some embodiments. Tab rear side 2202 / tab rear thickness 3107 may have a slight curve and may be thicker than the tab front side 2204, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, left side 2206 and right side 2208 may or may not be symmetrical and may become thicker toward the rear side to match
the thickness of the rear side and on the entire length of the rear side to enable the user to get a finger or device under it to pull up the tab. In some embodiments, the increasing thickness toward the rear side of the tab enables the user to get a firm grasp on the tab in order to rotate to reseal and reopen again. The entire tab exterior and interior may curve inward on the bottom to create a stronger tab, in some embodiments.
[0158] FIGS. 31-36 also show an example of a tab point thickness 3108, in accordance with some embodiments. The tab point may have any suitable thickness, in some embodiments.
[0159] FIGS. 31-35 also show an example of an upward bend 3109, in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, upward bend 3109 provides the flex needed in order to engage tab flex curve 3111 and the tab point 2212 with the scored flap. Tab upward bend 3109 may curve upward from the bottom part of the tab middle bar to the top part of the tab point that will push the scored flap bump 3104 to rip the tear strip 1506 and tear line 1508 and open the can, in some embodiments.
[0160] FIG. 32 also shows an example of a left and right-side thickness 3110, in accordance with some embodiments. Thickness 3110 can have any suitable dimensions in some embodiments.
[0161] FIGS. 31-35 also shows an example of a tab flex curve 3111, in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, tab flex curve 3111 hinges on level two rivet 3106 and closure angled closure ear 3305 under the tab and aids in the degree of the tab to open the can and then angle up and down to rotate to reseal and reopen. In some embodiments, the placement of the tab flex curve 3109 in relationship to the level one rivet 3308 and level two rivet 3106 causes it to be pulled past the level one rivet toward the scored flap to provide the best force to open the can, while relating additionally working with and relating to the angled closure ear 3305, while also keeping the new closure seated in the deepest portion 1510 / recess 1504 area as much as possible.
[0162] FIGS. 31-33 also shows an example of a tab bend area and key 3112, in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, tab bend area and key 3112 may slope/bend, drop below center rivet and curve upward toward center rivet. It may also act as a locking or key mechanism, to aid in assembly or turning - push and pull - of closure 1702, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the angles can work together and complement the relative area of closure 1702. In some embodiments, this tab center connects to the top part of the tab and is all one piece.
[0163] Turning to FIG. 33, an example of a tab handle top 3301 in accordance with some embodiments, is shown. Tap handle top 3301 may be a straight and level horizontal line on both top
sides of the tab give the tab strength 1702 being pulled up or down when can is opened and and/or when the tab is being manipulated/rotated and to make it stackable, in some embodiments.
[0164] FIGS. 32-34 also show an example of a tab handle bottom 3302, in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, tab handle bottom 3302 may be an angled or sloped, to allow the back of the tab, where the consumer pulls up, to become thicker than the front tab area that opens the can to become thinner at the point that engages with the scored flap bump 3104.
[0165] FIGS. 32-33 also show an example of a new closure angled lock 3303, in accordance with some embodiments. New closure angled lock 3303 may be positioned on the underside of closure 1702 curves and/or cut inward at a sharp angle to match the exposed can end tear line then outward again, underneath the can end tear line to provide a locking and sealing mechanism for the opening once opened, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, new closure angled lock 3303 meets and touches the scored flap 104 opened tear line 1508 and the link 112 where the score was broken. The bottom part of the new closure angled lock is designed to enable the inside pressure to push against the lock, to hold pressure coming from the inside the can and any liquid or other continents inside once the closure 1702 reseals the opening. This will enable a tight non-leaking seal, in some embodiments. A coating on this closure around the entire bottom, side and top surface may be thickened with any sort of sealant, thick enough and flexible, pliable enough to aid in an airtight seal, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, this angle will not necessarily be the entire circumference of the underside of new closure / closure 1702. The angle of this area changes around its circumference. A locking, screw-like portion of the closure may take up about 1/3 of the circumference of the new closure and to not interfere with the re-opening of the can, in some embodiments. A new closure angled lock may also engage other areas around this depressed pocket 708, in some embodiments.
[0166] FIG. 33 also shows an example of a new closure curved lock 3304, in accordance with some embodiments. New closure curved lock 3304 is part of closure 1702 bottom area that is curved, arched, angled to provide a seal over the link 112 (the attachment that keeps the scored flap 104 from falling into the can), in some embodiments. This lock covers and seals the link changing shape to marry to the broken/open tear line 1508 area around the circumference of the opening, in some embodiments. The angled lock/re-open slide 4101 and the new closure curved lock 3304 morph into the new closure angled lock 3303 and transition lock/seal & slide 4102, in order to rotate the tab that moves scored flap 104 out of the hole to re-open the can end. this is the preferable shape for new closure curved lock 3304 seen closer in fig. 52.
[0167] FIG. 33 also shows an example of an angled closure ear 3305, in accordance with some embodiments. As shown, angled closure ear 3305 slopes downward to a level bottom, in some embodiments. The top of ear 3305 levels off to meet center rivet hole 2214 and the matches the level of the bottom starting point of level two rivet 3106, in some embodiments. The top part, flat level, and angled part will touch the tab forward portion 2224 and engage and support the tab upward bend 3109 to provide leverage when opening the can, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, it is assembled on and is the same thickness of angled closure ear 3305 the same as the height as level one rivet 3308. In some embodiments, the angled closure ear 3305 has two functions: to enable the tab to raise and press on scored flap bump 3104 to open the can, then be angled at a degree to accommodate ease of angle needed to rotate to re-open new closure / closure 1702 from a preferable 0°- 90° angle clockwise and counterclockwise to open and re-close the can opening - reseal/reclose multiple times.
[0168] FIG. 33 also shows an example of a closure connection point 3306, in some embodiments. New closure connection point 3306 provides flexibility in the angles and shapes of how the angled closure ear 3305 is connecting to the closure ledge 1903 & 1703 and closure ear 1710, collectively link cover 3902, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, new closure connection point 3306 changes as the curve changes shape to meet with the closure ear angle. The top part, flat level, touches the bottom part of the tab center portion 2210 to provide support and leverage when opening the can, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, it is the same height as the top part of level one 5007 rivet and bottom part of level two 5008.
[0169] FIG. 33 also shows an example of an angled lock/re-open slide 3307, in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, angled lock/re-open slide 3307 may be positioned on the underside of closure 1702, that is also visible from above under the tab, is a transgressional angled area that morphs around the depressed pocket 708 edge circumference to provide a locking and sealing type mechanism in addition to a smooth re-opening when the tab rotates, preferably counterclockwise - looking down onto the can, to unlock the closure 1702 from the can end. Angled lock/re-open slide 3307 morphs into the angled lock 3303 and new closure curved lock 3304, and transition lock/seal & slide 4102 - all will meet to create a non-leaking resealable and reclosable can by connecting to and marrying the scored flap 104 opened tear line 1508 and the link 112 shape and dimensions where the score was broken, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the coating on this closure around the entire bottom, side, and top surface may be thickened with any sort of sealant to increase resealabulity and no leaking.
[0170] FIG. 33 also shows an example of a level one rivet 3308, in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, level one rivet 3308 is the first level of the new center rivet that molds into level two rivet 3106. It is the assembly point for the new closure center rivet hole 2214 and it allows the new closure to rotate to reseal and reopen the can, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the height is relative and preferably matches the thickness of the new closure and allows the tab forward portion 2224 to sit flush with the height of the level one rivet 3308.
[0171] Turning to FIG. 39, an example of depressed pocket sides 3901 in accordance with some embodiments, are shown. In some embodiments the area inside the dashed lines depressed pocket sides
3901 is the depressed pocket 708. It contains bumps 602 & 610 and now includes the more defined area of all of FIG. 8, in some embodiments.
[0172] FIG. 38 shows new closure curved lock 3304, angled lock 3303, angled lock/re-open slide 3307, and transition lock/seal & slide 4102 (described and seen better in FIG. 8), in some embodiments, these portions re-close and reseal the can after it is opened. These portions have a dual function to lock and seal and also as a slide to reopen as the tab turns it, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, it is an irregular shape in circumference, angles, slopes, curves, height, width and all dimensions. In some embodiments, the coating on this closure around the underside and possibly top surface may be thicker than a standard can end liner with any sort of sealant to increase resealabulity and a tight non-leaking seal. The measurement may or, may not be equal on both sides of the new closure, in some embodiments. For instance, in some embodiments, new closure angled lock 3303 side may be greater than new closure angled lock 3303 to accommodate the need for the bottom part of new closure angled lock 3303 to go under the can end platform and meet the tear with the angled inward lock area to prevent leaking and create a lock seal. So, the height may be relative to the thickness of the can end and the thickness of the closure (see FIG. 9), in some embodiments. For instance, in some embodiments, if the can end platform thickness is 0.22mm, the measurements can vary. See FIG. 42.
[0173] FIG. 39 also shows a link cover 3902, in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, link cover 3902 is broadens the coverage to the link 112, link area 4402 the spaces that are created around it when the can is opened to create and air tight seal that has no leaks. Any suitable design and shape can be used for this area, in some embodiments.
[0174] Turning to FIG. 40, an example of a the Bottom View of 4001 (Top View link cover
3902 in FIG. 49) in accordance with some embodiments, is shown. As illustrated, link cover 4001, which can include closure ledge 1903 & 1703 and closure ear 1710, covers link 112, in some
embodiments. The angles, curves of link cover 4001 may vary and may or may not be symmetrical as demonstrated in FIG. 49 Version 1 and Version 2 and FIG. 50 Version 3. Any embodiment shape of the link cover morphs into closure ear 1710, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, closure ear 1710's bottom is flat. The entire underside of closure ledge may be flat as is the flat surface area 3102 under that area and a bit beyond to make sure there is no buckling in the flat surface area 3102 near the open link, in order to create a seal on top of the can when it covers and sinks into the opening when it’s resealed, in some embodiments.
[0175] Turning to FIG. 41, an example of an angled lock/re-open slide 4101 in accordance with some embodiments, is shown. In some embodiments, angled lock/re-open slide 4101, from the x axis of the top of the closure, below the closure ledge 1703 that meets the exposed can end tear line 1508 can be preferably angled at -90° and is relative to the thickness of the tear line 1508 (e.g.,.22mm) and accommodating for the thickness of the coating to create a non-leaking seal. It may preferably be between -90° and -10, or match, or gradually transition, into the lowered angled portion until the bottom at approximately -20.3°, in some embodiments. This angle may continue around the circumference of the new closure, with the preferability that at the transition points, the angle and shape morphs into the shape and degrees of new closure angled lock 3303, new closure curved lock 3304, angled lock 3303, transition lock/seal & slide 4102, in order to marry and seal the link 112 (the attachment that keeps the scored flap 104 from falling into the can), and the rest of the opening, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the lower angled portion of the angled lock/re-open slide 4101 preferably is inclined less than -90° from the x axis of the top of the closure, preferably between -80° and -10°, more preferably between -70° and -15°, more preferably between -50° and -18°, and most preferably about -20.3°. In some embodiments, the height from the bottom to the mid-point is preferably between .10mm and ,24mm, more preferably between ,12mm and .20 mm, more preferably between .15 and ,20mm and most preferably ,18mm to accommodate a the closure to re-open but, not leak.
[0176] FIG. 41 also shows an example of a transition lock/seal & slide 4102, in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, transition lock/seal & slide 4102 side may have different dimensions than new closure curved lock 3304, angled lock/re-open slide 4101, and/or new closure angled lock 3303 to accommodate the need for the bottom part of new closure angled lock 3303 to go under the can end platform and meet the tear with the angled inward lock area to prevent leaking and create a lock seal. In some embodiments, the height may be relative to the thickness of the can end and
the thickness of the closure (see FIG. 9). For instance, if the can end platform thickness is ,22mm the measurements can be as shown in FIG. 1, in some embodiments.
[0177] Turning to FIG. 43, an example of a new closure thickness 4301 in accordance with some embodiments, is shown. New closure thickness 4301 have different values of thickness at different points in the new closure, in some embodiments. For instance, in some embodiments, the bottom may be thinner than the closure ledge 1703. As another example, these two components may have the same thickness, in some embodiments. Any suitable value(s) of thickness(es) can be used in some embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, the thickness can range from a standard soda can thickness (.16mm) to ,30mm up to ,50mm. In some embodiments, an aluminum sheet will start flat and most likely be one thickness, and then, when the tooling stamps the shape, it may affect the thickness on the top closure ledge compared to the new closure under ledge.
[0178] Turning to FIG. 44, an example of a flat surface area 4401 (3102) in accordance with some embodiments, is shown. In some embodiments, the area that is inside the fat dashes (white) is all flat. That being said, in some embodiments, there may be no need for a drip catch. In some embodiments, the entire area above the recess portion 1504 / drip catch 3101 may be flat and level to the surrounding area.
[0179] FIG. 44 also shows an example of a link area 4402, in accordance with some embodiments. As shown, link area 4402 is notated by dashes, connected to the curved up scored area 502 and curved down scored area 504. In some embodiments, the initial fracture of the tear strip occurs below the tab near level one rivet 3308 and may open the can clockwise or counterclockwise - preferably clockwise. The distance from level one rivet 3308 and the upper most portion of the link area 4402 is preferably close enough to allow the tear strip to fracture and far enough away to enable the link cover 3902 5104 to cover and seal the link area 4402 to create a tight seal that accommodates the design of the new closure fitting snugly into the open hole to create a full non-leaking seal, in some embodiments.
[0180] Turning to FIG. 45, an example of portion 4501, in accordance with some embodiments, is shown. As illustrated, portion 4501 is, in some embodiments, the most prominent and extended point along the bottom circumference of the new closure under-ledge. Once the new closure is in the seated, fully reclosed, or resealed position, this bottom curve may extend beyond — or fall short of — the distance of the closure ledge 1703 (FIG. 18), in some embodiments. In some embodiments, portion 4501 exists to encase the top and bottom edges of the exposed tear line 1508, acting as a type of lock and seal to create
a non-leaking closure. Additionally, in some embodiments, this area is designed to utilize pressure from carbonated beverages to push upward against the contact point between the lid base 100 and the lid base opening 106 edges, helping to prevent leakage in scenarios such as a can drop, squeezing of the can, or internal pressure caused by various factors, including altitude, impact, or compression. In some embodiments, it may be shorter to accommodate easier entry of the new closure into the open hole as the tab turns it. If it were too long, it may prevent the new closure from seating securely into the hole. As the tab rotates, the new closure will contact different points along the exposed tear line 1508 at different times during clockwise and counterclockwise movement, ultimately arriving at the final position to close the opening — and later, to reopen the can — in some embodiments.
[0181] FIG. 45 also shows an example portion 4502, in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, the closure angled lock 3303 may include a cavity 4502 formed during the stamping process. This cavity may extend partially or fully around the circumference of the closure angled lock and may be configured to partially or fully collapse during fabrication. The resulting consolidation may contribute to improved retention of the closure angled lock, mechanical interlocking with adjacent features, and/or enhanced sealing performance to help form a leak-resistant seal. In some embodiments, cavity 4502 may interact with and/or morph into one or more adjacent components — such as the transition lock/seal & slide 4102, portion 4701, new closure curved lock 3304, or angled lock/re-open slide 3307, and or 5101 — without requiring a specific sequence or order of integration, forming a continuous or tapered sealing interface around the circumference of the closure underside. These transitions may correspond to or be further illustrated in FIG. 41 and FIG. 42, which depicts how various structural elements flow or merge into one another around the closure geometry. The pre-formed geometry of cavity 4502 may be tailored to increase future surface area contact for sealant or liner engagement after compression. This design allows for enhanced resistance to pressure leakage upon sealing. The cavity geometry may vary depending on factors such as closure thickness, sealant thickness, lid base thickness, material properties, and tooling design. The length or thickness of the cavity may also differ from the upper extension (portion 4801), which rests atop the lid base once opened, and this differential geometry may improve sealing dynamics or ergonomic interaction when reclosing the can end. In certain manufacturing configurations, this cavity may be omitted entirely depending on process constraints or final performance requirements. This portion may later be mechanically collapsed as shown in FIG. 46.
[0182] FIG. 45 also shows an example portion 4503. In some embodiments, portion 4503 comprises a closure surface coated with a sealant material that may extend across the full underside surface of the closure flap. The sealant may also extend onto adjacent sidewall regions or edge contours of the closure flap to ensure multi-surface contact when engaged with the lid base 100 and lid base opening 106 edges that come in contact with the closure. The sealant material, sealing layer, or lining may be thicker than conventional can end sealants/liners and, in some implementations, may comprise a compressible or elastomeric polymer or other unique food-grade coating with malleable properties in order to fill any gaps or space between the opening 106, lower and upper portion of the lid base 100 after scored flap 104 of lid base 100 has been opened and descended into the can, improving sealing integrity and compensating for manufacturing or user tolerances or pressure variations, user drops, or carbonation from inside the can for a leak-free can end. In some embodiments, the sealant may be specifically formulated to respond to carbonation pressure, heat, or moisture by deforming or expanding to fill microgaps and prevent leakage. Additionally, the sealant or sealing lining may comprise a proprietary or customized polymer composition developed in collaboration with a third-party materials partner. This customized formulation may offer performance advantages over traditional food-safe sealants, such as enhanced re-sealability, resistance to degradation under thermal cycling, or improved contact conformity to aluminum surfaces. Such material innovations may enable the closure system to maintain integrity even under high internal pressure or repeated opening and reclosing.
[0183] FIG. 46 shows an example portion 4601, in accordance with some embodiments. This figure illustrates the same closure region shown in FIG. 45, but in a compressed configuration resulting from the stamping process. The cavity has been mechanically collapsed to form a flattened or compacted interface on the bottom portion of the closure angled lock 3303. This mechanically compressed structure may contribute to the mechanical retention and sealing performance of the closure system by reinforcing structural integrity and alignment when the closure is engaged with the lid base. In some embodiments, portion 4601 may interact with and/or morph into one or more adjacent components — such as the transition lock/seal & slide 4102, portion 4701, new closure curved lock 3304, or angled lock/re-open slide 3307, and or 5101 — without requiring a specific sequence or order of integration around the closure underside, forming a continuous or tapered sealing interface around the circumference of the closure underside. These transitions may correspond to or be further illustrated in FIG. 41 and FIG. 42, which depicts how various structural elements flow or merge into one another around the closure geometry. The post-formed geometry of 4601 may also be tailored to increase surface area contact for
sealant or liner engagement, enhancing resistance to pressure leakage. The compressed region may be formed to a length or thickness that differs from the upper extension (portion 4801), which rests atop the lid base once opened. This differential geometry may serve to improve sealing dynamics or ergonomic interaction when opening and reclosing the can end. The design, length, and dimensions of this lower region may vary depending on application-specific requirements, material behavior, and tool path constraints during fabrication. This compressed state reflects one possible manufacturing configuration of the cavity initially described in FIG. 45.
[0184] FIG. 47, in accordance with some embodiments, shows a version of the Angled Lock/Re- Open Slide 3307 FIG. 38 (Angled Lock/Re-Open Slide 4101 FIG. 40, FIG. 41 and FIG. 42) with an alternate version in FIG. 48. Both versions are intended to perform the same function, while allowing for slight differences in shape, thickness, or angle depending on manufacturing or performance requirements. In some embodiments, this portion may have a -90° angle as shown to line up and seal exposed tear line 1508 (FIG. 15). The distance, spacing, and angle relative to the tear line may vary to accommodate the sealant or lining of the closure. The angle may vary to optimize both the sealing performance and the ease of repeated reopening and reclosing of the can and seal the exposed tear line 1508 (FIG. 15). In some embodiments, portion 4701 may interact with and/or morph into one or more adjacent components — such as 5101, 4601, the transition lock/seal & slide 4102, portion 4701, new closure curved lock 3304, or angled lock/re-open slide 3307 — without requiring a specific sequence or order of integration around the closure underside, forming a continuous or tapered sealing interface around the circumference of the closure underside. In preferred embodiments, 4801 blends, morphs, and leads into and becomes closure ledge 1703 and closure ear 1710 (FIG. 18) — collectively Link Cover 3902 (FIG. 39), which covers the can end opening 106 and rests on top of lid base 100.
[0185] Turning to FIG. 48, an example of a portion 4801 in accordance with some embodiments, is shown. This is a version of the Angled Lock/Re-Open Slide 3307 FIG. 38 (Angled Lock/Re-Open Slide 4101 FIG. 40, FIG. 41 and FIG. 42) with an alternate version in FIG. 47. Both versions are intended to perform the same function, while allowing for slight differences in shape, thickness, or angle depending on manufacturing or performance requirements. As illustrated, this portion may be implemented without any severe or hard angles as illustrated in 4701 FIG. 47, resulting in a more streamlined profde. The angle may vary to optimize both the sealing performance and the ease of repeated reopening and reclosing of the can and to seal the exposed tear line 1508 (FIG. 15). The distance, spacing, and angle relative to the tear line may vary to accommodate the sealant or lining of the
closure. In some embodiments, portion 4801 may interact with and/or morph into one or more adjacent components — such as 5101, 4601, the transition lock/seal & slide 4102, portion 4701, new closure curved lock 3304, or angled lock/re-open slide 3307 — without requiring a specific sequence or order of integration around the closure underside, forming a continuous or tapered sealing interface around the circumference of the closure underside. In preferred embodiments, 4801 blends, morphs, and leads into and becomes closure ledge 1703 and closure ear 1710 (FIG. 18) — collectively Link Cover 3902 (FIG. 39), which covers the can end opening 106 and rests on top of lid base 100.
[0186] FIG. 49 illustrates two versions of closure configurations. Version 1 - New Closure and Version 2 - 4901 showing two possible versions of the Top View link cover 3902 (see FIG. 40 for the Bottom View 4001 and New Closure Thickness 4301 FIG. 43) (reference Closure ear 1710 FIG. 18). An additional version is also shown in FIG. 50, Version 3 - 5001. The variances in the structure contours and curved lines influence seal integrity, in conjunction with the sealant/lining seen in FIG. 45, FIG. 51, and FIG. 52. These features aim to create an airtight, leak-proof seal over the scored flap 104 once the can end is opened and the flap hangs inside the can. All versions contains an a closure hole 1712 (FIG. 18) that integrates with and may be coupled to the rivet, allowing closure flap 108 to rotate for repeated resealing and reopening of the can. It interacts with and seals the opening on top of the flat surface area (4401, FIG. 44). The link cover 3902 will blend and/or morph into 3306 to provide a transition point into the angled closure ear 3305 (FIG. 31-35).
[0187] Turning to FIG. 50, an example of a portion 5001 in accordance with some embodiments, is shown. As illustrated, the new closure design may be asymmetrical.
[0188] Turning to FIG. 51, an example of a portion 5101 in accordance with some embodiments, is shown. As illustrated, Version 1 - 5101 area 5101 is more of a straight line or angled feature, rather than a fully curved profile like curved lock in Version 2 - 3304 in FIG. 52. Both versions are designed to accomplish the same function: These linear or angled geometries may provide alternate structural transitions compared to the more arched or rounded geometry of closure curved lock 3304. In some embodiments, area 5101 may interact with and/or morph into one or more adjacent components — such as 4601, the transition lock/seal & slide 4102, portion 4701, new closure curved lock 3304, or angled lock/re-open slide 3307 — without requiring a specific sequence or order of integration around the closure underside, forming a continuous or tapered sealing interface around the circumference of the closure underside. Like the polymer sealant or lining 4503, portion 5102 may include the same type of sealant, which may cover the underside of the entire closure. Section 5103 is the same referenced section
as 4402 in FIG. 44 and is technically part of the lid base 100. Portion 5101 is designed to interact with and seal any perforations, spaces, or deformations in the area of 5103 / 4402 once the can is opened and the scored flap 104 has descended into the can opening. It may also act as a pushing mechanism to move the Scored Flap Bump 3104 back if it extends too far forward — further bending link area 4402 in FIG. 44, thus removing interference with the closure 1702 seal, helping to ensure an optimal, airtight, leak- free seal.
[0189] Turning to FIG. 52, an example of a New Closure Curved Lock 3304 in accordance with some embodiments, is shown. As illustrated, Version 1 - 5101 area 5101 is more of a straight line or angled feature, rather than a fully curved profile like New Closure Curved Lock 3304. Both versions are designed to accomplish the same function: These linear or angled geometries may provide alternate structural transitions compared to the more arched or rounded geometry of closure curved lock 3304. In some embodiments, area 5101 may interact with and/or morph into one or more adjacent components — such as 4601, the transition lock/seal & slide 4102, portion 4701, new closure curved lock 3304, or angled lock/re-open slide 3307 — without requiring a specific sequence or order of integration around the closure underside, forming a continuous or tapered sealing interface around the circumference of the closure underside. Like the polymer sealant or lining 4503, portion 5102 may include the same type of sealant, which may cover the underside of the entire closure. Section 5103 is the same referenced section as 4402 in FIG. 44 and is technically part of the lid base 100. Portion 5101 is designed to interact with and seal any perforations, spaces, or deformations in the area of 5103 / 4402 once the can is opened and the scored flap 104 has descended into the can opening. It may also act as a pushing mechanism to move the Scored Flap Bump 3104 back if it extends too far forward — further bending link area 4402 in FIG. 44, thus removing interference with the closure 1702 seal, helping to ensure an optimal, airtight, leak- free seal.
[0190] FIG. 53 is a cross-sectional view of the scored flap area in accordance with some embodiments. As illustrated, portion 5301 corresponds to the same Link Area 4402 shown in FIG. 44. Scored Flap 104 includes a recessed back region 3103, which may slope downward to create a secure connection point for the bottom and tip of the tab. This sloped area enables the tab to press against the Scored Flap Bump 3104 in order to pierce the Tear Strip 1506 and tear line 1508 FIG. 28, and initiate the opening of the can. The geometry of the recessed back 3103 may include one or more dips, curves, or variable depths that assist the applied force of the tab in effectively piercing the Tear Strip 1506 and tear line 1508 to the desired degree. This action helps engage the Tear Line 1508 and allows it to
perforate the lid base 100 and peel away from the can end, producing the desired sound effect of internal pressure release. While FIG. 53 illustrates one possible version, other variations may include differences in shape, contour, or slope depending on the specific tab design. This configuration represents a novel variation from traditional can ends and is specifically optimized to correlate with a new tab design, which may be positioned higher than conventional tabs to allow for a broader range of motion, including counter-clockwise rotation over the can end, enabling precise placement of the closure over the opening after the initial piercing and tearing process is complete.
[0191] Turning to FIG. 54, an example of a child-resistant / tamper-evident tear bar 5401, attached to the re-seal / re-close / re-open new closure and optionally to other closure designs such as closure flap 108, is shown in accordance with some embodiments. As illustrated, one figure shows the tab removed, and the other shows the tab assembled, with hidden lines indicating where the tear bar sits beneath the tab. Both drawings demonstrate that, in some embodiments, tear bar 5401 includes several components and is attached to the new closure via a perforated area or another form of shallow cut or score 5402, which is designed to tear or break off when the user grasps the end of the tear bar at slope 5405 and pulls, twists, or breaks it away. In some embodiments, the force used will meet the legal requirements to pass all state and federal cp/te tests and be easy enough for adults to use with a finger or another instrument to snap it off. In some embodiments, this bar is all aluminum, and it is part of any of the closure designs until the user snaps it off and disposes of it. In some embodiments, the bar can have any suitable shape(s), level(s), twist(s), turn(s), height(s), and/or curve(s) to not interfere with the scored flap bump 3104, as well as heights. In some embodiments, cp/te upslope 5404 into the cp/te transition 5403 into the perforated area 5402 will level off and be right above the can end. In some embodiments, cp/te upslope 5404 & cp/te upslope 5404 will prevent the tab from pushing down on the can end, engaging pressure and resistance from 5601 contact point on the can lid base 100, and will prevent the tab from pushing down on the scored flap and therefore prevent the opening of the can.
[0192] Turning to FIG. 55, an example of a child-resistant / tamper-evident tear bar 5501, in accordance with some embodiments, is shown. This version functions similarly to the tear bar 5401 shown in FIG. 54, but instead of being attached to the new closure, it is attached to the tab. As illustrated, one figure shows the tab from the top looking down, with hidden lines indicating where the tear bar sits beneath the tab, and the other shows from the bottom looking up. Both drawings demonstrate that, in some embodiments, tear bar 5501 includes several components and is attached to the forward portion of the tab with a perforated area, shallow cut or score 5502, which is designed to
tear or break off when the user grasps the end of the tear bar at slope 5405 and pulls, twists, or breaks it away. In some embodiments, the force needed will meet the legal requirements to pass all state and federal cp/te tests and be easy enough for adults to use with a finger or another instrument to snap it off. In some embodiments, bar may be aluminum, and it is part of the new closure until the user snaps it off and disposed of it. In some embodiments, the bar can have any suitable shape(s), level(s), twist(s), turn(s), height(s), and/or curve(s) as to not interfere with the bump recessed back 3103 & scored flap bump 3104. In some embodiments, this bar may have an upslope 5404 into the cp/te transition 5403 may level off to into the perforated area 5502 and be above the can end and above the new closure. In some embodiments, cp/te upslope 5404 & cp/te upslope 5404 will engage pressure and resistance from 5601 contact point on the can lid base 100, and will prevent the tab from pushing down on the scored flap and therefore prevent the opening of the can.
[0193] FIG. 55 also shows an example of a perforated area 5502, in accordance with some embodiments. As illustrated, this area is the breaking off point for the tear bar on 5401 and 5501. In some embodiments, on 5401 it is connecting the tear bar and new closure and, on 5501, it’s connecting the tear bar and the tab. center portion 2210.
[0194] FIG. 55 also shows an example of a supporting angle 5503, in accordance with some embodiments. Section 5103 is the same referenced section as 4402 in FIG. 44 and is technically part of the lid base 100. Once the user pierces and pushes the scored flap into the can opening, it can have any suitable shape(s), level(s), twist(s), tum(s), height(s), and/or curve(s) as to not interfere with the bump recessed back 3103 & scored flap bump 3104. In some embodiments, it can be in child resistant / tamper evedent / re-seal / re-close / tear bar 5501 and/or child resistant / tamper evedent / re-seal / reclose / tear bar 5401.
[0195] Turning to FIG. 56, an example of the two support angle 5601 in accordance with some embodiments, is shown. As illustrated, in some embodiments, the two support angle 5601 can touch the can end flat surface area 3102 to provide support, resistance and stopping the tab from opening the can. Angle 5403, 5404 and 5505 can have any suitable shape(s), level(s), twist(s), tum(s), height(s), and/or curve(s) as to not interfere with the bump recessed back 3103 & scored flap bump 3104 in child resistant / tamper evedent / re-seal / re-close / tear 5501 and child resistant / tamper evident / re-seal / re-close / tear bar 5401, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the angles 5502, 5403, 5601, 5504, and 5405 may form a triangle, curves, or other shapes designed to generate the precise resistance required to meet state and federal compliance standards for tamper-evident and child-resistant requirements.
[0196] Accordingly, reclosable can ends are provided.
[0197] Although the invention has been described and illustrated in the foregoing illustrative embodiments, it is understood that the present disclosure has been made only by way of example, and that numerous changes in the details of implementation of the invention can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, which is limited only by the claims that follow. Features of the disclosed embodiments can be combined and rearranged in various ways.
Claims
1. A reclosable can end, comprising: a lid base, wherein the lid base comprises a scored area, wherein the scored area has a raised portion having a first height; a tab, wherein a first end of the tab is configured to apply pressure to the scored area of the lid base when a second end of the tab, opposite the first end of the tab, is lifted and causes the scored area to at least partially separate from the lid base to expose an opening in the lid base; a closure flap, wherein the closure flap comprises: a first portion that has dimensions corresponding to dimensions of the opening in the lid base, wherein the first portion of the closure flap connects with a portion of the tab; a second portion that comprises an outer edge that extends beyond the first portion of the closure flap; a protruding portion that protrudes from the outer edge of the second portion of the closure flap and includes an opening; at least one bump that can contact the second end of the tab when tab is in a downward position; and a rivet that connects the tab and the closure flap to the lid base such that the tab and the closure flap are configured to rotate around the rivet, wherein the rivet connects the tab and the closure flap to the lid base via the opening in the protruding portion of the closure flap, and wherein a second height of the rivet is lower than the first height, wherein the first portion of the closure flap is configured to be inserted into the opening in the lid base when the tab and the closure flap are rotated to a position corresponding to a position of the opening in the lid base, and wherein the outer edge of the second portion of the closure flap is positioned on a top portion of the lid base when the first portion of the closure flap is inserted into the opening in the lid base.
2. The reclosable can end of claim 1, wherein the lid base comprises a lid base pocket that has dimensions that correspond to the dimensions of the first portion of the closure flap.
3. The reclosable can end of claim 2, wherein the lid base comprises a depressed slide area formed from the lid base pocket to the opening in the lid base.
4. The reclosable can end of claim 1, wherein a bottom portion of the first portion of the closure flap includes a coating of sealant.
5. The reclosable can end of claim 4, wherein the coating of sealant comprises a plurality of layers of sealant.
6. The reclosable can end of claim 4, wherein the coating of sealant comprises a material that is harmless to consumers.
7. The reclosable can end of claim 1, wherein the second end of the tab is concave such that the second end curves toward the first end.
8. The reclosable can end of claim 1, wherein the first portion of the closure flap includes a raised bump that connects the closure flap to the tab.
9. The reclosable can end of claim 1, wherein the outer edge of the second portion of the closure flap is flat.
10. The reclosable can end of claim 1, wherein the outer edge of the second portion of the closure flap is angled upward away from the first portion of the closure flap.
11. The reclosable can end of claim 1, wherein the outer edge of the second portion of the closure flap has an arched shape that bends away from the first portion of the closure flap.
12. The reclosable can end of claim 1, wherein the outer edge of the second portion of the closure flap has an arched shape that bends towards the first portion of the closure flap.
13. The reclosable can end of claim 1, wherein the outer edge of the second portion of the closure flap has an arched shape.
14. The reclosable can end of claim 1, wherein the rivet is formed as part of the top portion of the lid base.
15. The reclosable can end of claim 1, wherein the rivet is formed as part of the tab.
16. The reclosable can end of claim 1, wherein the rivet is not formed from any of the lid base, the tab, and the closure flap.
17. The reclosable can end of claim 1, wherein the lid base comprises a drip catch.
18. A reclosable can end, comprising: a lid base, wherein the lid base comprises a scored area wherein the scored area has a raised portion having a first height; a tab, wherein a first end of the tab is configured to apply pressure to the scored area of the lid base when a second end of the tab, opposite the first end of the tab, is lifted and causes the scored area to at least partially separate from the lid base to expose an opening in the lid base; a closure flap, wherein the closure flap comprises: a first portion that has dimensions corresponding to dimensions of the opening in the lid base, wherein the first portion of the closure flap connects with a portion of the tab; a second portion that comprises an outer edge that extends beyond the first portion of the closure flap; and a protruding portion that protrudes from the outer edge of the second portion of the closure flap and includes an opening; and
a rivet that connects the tab and the closure flap to the lid base such that the tab and the closure flap are configured to rotate around the rivet, wherein the rivet connects the tab and the closure flap to the lid base via the opening in the protruding portion of the closure flap, and wherein a second height of the rivet is lower than the first height, wherein the first portion of the closure flap is configured to be inserted into the opening in the lid base when the tab and the closure flap are rotated to a position corresponding to a position of the opening in the lid base, wherein the outer edge of the second portion of the closure flap is positioned on the top portion of the lid base when the first portion of the closure flap is inserted into the opening in the lid base, and wherein the lid base comprises a push button that is positioned to serve as a stop against movement of the closure flap and the tab, but may be selectively depressed to permit movement of the closure flap and the tab.
19. The reclosable can end of claim 20, wherein the lid base comprises a lid base pocket that has dimensions that correspond to the dimensions of the first portion of the closure flap.
20. The reclosable can end of claim 19, wherein the lid base comprises a depressed slide area formed from the lid base pocket to the opening in the lid base.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US63/676,878 | 2024-07-29 | ||
| US19/271,550 | 2025-07-16 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| WO2026030349A1 true WO2026030349A1 (en) | 2026-02-05 |
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