U.S. patent application number 12/324386 was filed with the patent office on 2010-05-27 for container.
Invention is credited to Evan Ira Phillips.
Application Number | 20100126992 12/324386 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42195275 |
Filed Date | 2010-05-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100126992 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Phillips; Evan Ira |
May 27, 2010 |
CONTAINER
Abstract
Containers comprises a closure system comprising a fixed element
and a movable closure element are disclosed. The containers may be
constructed to be resealable and improve sanitary conditions of the
dispensing portion and allow for easier opening with the ability to
be reclosed, over a conventional container.
Inventors: |
Phillips; Evan Ira; (Coral
Springs, FL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
LANDO & ANASTASI, LLP
ONE MAIN STREET, SUITE 1100
CAMBRIDGE
MA
02142
US
|
Family ID: |
42195275 |
Appl. No.: |
12/324386 |
Filed: |
November 26, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
220/212 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 47/286 20130101;
B65D 17/506 20130101; B65D 51/007 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/212 |
International
Class: |
B65D 51/00 20060101
B65D051/00 |
Claims
1. A container comprising: a container body; and a closure system
comprising: a fixed element comprising a can end comprising a
dispensing portion and a channel guide having a first end and a
second end, the fixed element secured to an end of the container
body; and a movable closure element comprising: a top cover
comprising a grip; a sealing portion residing within the container
body and comprising a channel constructed and arranged to accept
the channel guide; and a stem positioned within the channel and
having a top end constructed and arranged to be mated with the top
cover and a bottom end constructed and arranged to be mated with
the sealing portion; wherein at a first position the top cover
covers the dispensing portion, the sealing portion is in contact
with a bottom surface of the can end, and the stem is positioned at
the first end of the channel guide; at a second position the top
cover covers the dispensing portion and is rotated relative to the
first position, the sealing portion is spaced a predetermined
distance from the bottom surface of the can end, and the stem is
positioned at the first end of the channel guide; and at a third
position the top cover exposes the dispensing portion, the sealing
portion is spaced a predetermined distance from the bottom surface
of the can end, and the stem is positioned at the second end of the
channel guide.
2. The container of claim 1, wherein at the second position the
stem is rotated relative to the first position.
3. The container of claim 1, wherein at a fourth position the top
cover exposes the dispensing portion and is rotated relative to the
second position, the sealing portion is in contact with the bottom
surface of the can end, and the stem is positioned at the second
end of the channel guide.
4. The container of claim 3, wherein at a fifth position the top
cover exposes at least a portion of the dispensing portion and is
rotated relative to the second position, the sealing portion is
spaced a predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the can
end, and the stem is positioned at a predetermined distance from
the first end of the channel guide.
5. The container of claim 4, wherein at a sixth position the top
cover exposes at least a portion of the dispensing portion and is
rotated relative to the second position, the sealing portion is in
contact with the bottom surface of the can end, and the stem is
positioned at a predetermined distance from the first end of the
channel guide.
6. The container of claim 1, wherein the can end comprises a first
component and a second component.
7. The container of claim 6, wherein the first component comprises
the channel guide and a first section of the dispensing
portion.
8. The container of claim 7, wherein the second component comprises
a second section of the dispensing portion.
9. The container of claim 1, wherein the channel is constructed and
arranged to move around an outer surface of the channel guide.
10. The container of claim 9, wherein the channel is constructed
and arranged to secure itself to the channel guide at the
predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the can end.
11. The container of claim 9, wherein the channel is constructed
and arranged to secure itself to the stem at a predetermined
distance from the bottom surface of the can end.
12. The container of claim 1, wherein the bottom end of the stem
has a threaded surface constructed and arranged to be mated within
the channel.
13. The container of claim 1, wherein the fixed element comprises a
rim constructed and arranged to be mated with the container
body.
14. The container of claim 13, wherein the rim is double rolled and
crimped to a flange of the container body.
15. The container of claim 1, wherein the fixed element is made of
a material that is the same as the movable closure element.
16. The container of claim 15, wherein the material is
aluminum.
17. The container of claim 15, wherein the material is
polymeric.
18. A closure system for sealing a container constructed and
arranged to be mated with a container body comprising: a fixed
element comprising a can end comprising a dispensing portion and a
channel guide having a first end and a second end, the fixed
element constructed and arranged to be secured to an end of the
container body; and a movable closure element comprising: a top
cover comprising a grip; a sealing portion comprising a channel
constructed and arranged to accept the channel guide; and a stem
residing within the channel and having a top end constructed and
arranged to be mated with the top cover and a bottom end
constructed and arranged to be mated with the sealing portion;
wherein as the top cover and stem are rotated the sealing portion
moves vertically along the stem, and as the top cover and stem are
moved in a horizontal direction the sealing portion moves in the
horizontal direction.
19. The device of claim 18, wherein as the top cover is rotated in
a first direction the sealing portion moves vertically downward
relative to the channel guide.
20. The device of claim 19, wherein as the top cover is rotated in
a second direction the sealing portion moves vertically upward
relative to the channel guide.
21. The device of claim 19, wherein as the top cover is moved in a
horizontal direction from the first end of the channel guide to the
second end of the channel guide the dispensing portion is
exposed.
22. A closure system for sealing a container constructed and
arranged to be mated with a container body comprising: a fixed
element comprising a can end comprising a dispensing portion and a
channel guide having a first end and a second end, the fixed
element constructed and arranged to be secured to an end of the
container body; and a movable closure element comprising: a top
cover comprising a grip comprising a lever; and a sealing portion
comprising a channel constructed and arranged to accept the channel
guide and a lever receiving portion constructed and arranged to
accept the lever; wherein as the lever of the top cover is lifted,
the sealing portion moves in a vertical direction, and as the lever
is moved in a horizontal direction the sealing portion moves in the
horizontal direction.
23. The device of claim 22, wherein as the lever is lifted, the
sealing portion moves vertically downward relative to the can
end.
24. The device of claim 23, wherein as the top cover is moved in a
horizontal direction from the first end of the channel guide to the
second end of the channel guide the dispensing portion is
exposed.
25. A closure system for sealing a container constructed and
arranged to be mated with a container body comprising: a fixed
element comprising a can end comprising a dispensing portion and a
channel guide having a first end and a second end, the fixed
element constructed and arranged to be secured to an end of the
container body; and a movable closure element comprising: a top
cover comprising a lever; and a sealing portion comprising a lever
receiving portion, the top cover and the sealing portion being
operatively connected such that as the lever of the top cover is
lifted, the sealing portion moves in a vertical direction, and as
the top cover is moved in a horizontal direction the sealing
portion moves in the horizontal direction.
26. The device of claim 25, wherein the sealing portion moves
vertically downward relative to the channel guide.
27. The device of claim 25, wherein as the top cover is moved in a
horizontal direction from the first end of the channel guide to the
second end of the channel guide the dispensing portion is
exposed.
28. The device of claim 25, wherein at a first position the top
cover covers the dispensing portion, the lever of the top cover is
resting on the top cover, and the sealing portion is in contact
with a bottom surface of the can end; at a second position the top
cover covers the dispensing portion, the lever is lifted relative
to the first position, and the sealing portion is spaced a
predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the can end; and
at a third position the top cover and the sealing portion expose
the dispensing portion, and the sealing portion is spaced a
predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the can end.
29. The container of claim 28, wherein at a fourth position the top
cover and the sealing portion expose the dispensing portion, the
lever is lowered to rest on the top cover, and the sealing portion
is in contact with the bottom surface of the can end.
30. The container of claim 29, wherein at a fifth position the top
cover and the sealing portion expose at least a portion of the
dispensing portion, the lever of the top cover is lifted relative
to the fourth position, and the sealing portion is spaced a
predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the can end.
31. The container of claim 30, wherein at a sixth position the top
cover and the sealing portion expose at least a portion of the
dispensing portion, the lever is lowered to rest on the top cover,
and the sealing portion is in contact with the bottom surface of
the can end.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Technology
[0002] At least one example of the present invention relates
generally to a container. More particularly, certain examples
relate to a container or a closure system for a resealable
container having a sanitary, enclosed dispensing portion, such that
the dispensing portion remains protected from the environment
during, for example, shipping and storage of the container, and may
be protected from the environment during use by the consumer.
[0003] 2. Discussion of Related Art
[0004] Beverages, foods, and other consumer goods come in a variety
of containers for distribution and sale to consumers. In
particular, conventional beverage cans having a stay-on-tab type
closure are widely used because of their ease of manufacture, low
manufacturing costs, and reliability. However, sanitary concerns
exist with regard to the unprotected outside portion of the can
that comes into contact with the contents while pouring from the
beverage can, or comes directly into contact with the consumers
while drinking from the beverage can. Additionally, some consumers
have difficulty opening beverage cans, and once this beverage can
has been opened, it cannot be reclosed, so that protection of the
unprotected outside portion and storage after opening are not
feasible.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] Certain aspects and examples disclosed herein provide
sanitary containers, and methods of making them.
[0006] In accordance with a first aspect, a container is provided
comprising a container body and a closure system. The closure
system comprises a fixed element and a movable closure element. The
fixed element comprises a can end comprising a dispensing portion
and a channel guide having a first end and a second end. The fixed
element is secured to an end of the container body. The movable
closure element comprises a top cover comprising a grip, a sealing
portion residing within the container body and comprising a channel
constructed and arranged to accept the channel guide, and a stem
positioned within the channel and having a top end constructed and
arranged to be mated with the top cover and a bottom end
constructed and arranged to be mated with the sealing portion.
[0007] In accordance with this first aspect, at a first position
the top cover covers the dispensing portion, the sealing portion is
in contact with a bottom surface of the can end, and the stem is
positioned at the first end of the channel guide.
[0008] In accordance with this first aspect, at a second position
the top cover covers the dispensing portion and is rotated relative
to the first position, the sealing portion is spaced a
predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the can end, and
the stem is positioned at the first end of the channel guide.
[0009] In accordance with this first aspect, at a third position
the top cover exposes the dispensing portion, the sealing portion
is spaced a predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the
can end, and the stem is positioned at the second end of the
channel guide.
[0010] In accordance with an additional aspect, a closure system
for sealing a container constructed and arranged to be mated with a
container body is provided comprising a fixed element and a movable
closure element. The fixed element comprises a can end comprising a
dispensing portion and a channel guide having a first end and a
second end, the fixed element constructed and arranged to be
secured to an end of the container body. The movable closure
element comprises a top cover comprising a grip, a sealing portion
comprising a channel constructed and arranged to accept the channel
guide, and a stem residing within the channel and having a top end
constructed and arranged to be mated with the top cover and a
bottom end constructed and arranged to be mated with the sealing
portion. In accordance with this additional aspect, as the top
cover and stem are rotated, the sealing portion moves vertically
along the stem, and as the top cover and stem are moved in a
horizontal direction, the sealing portion moves in the horizontal
direction.
[0011] In accordance with an additional aspect, a closure system
for sealing a container constructed and arranged to be mated with a
container body is disclosed. The closure system comprises a fixed
element comprising a can end comprising a dispensing portion and a
channel guide having a first end and a second end, the fixed
element constructed and arranged to be secured to an end of the
container body. The closure element also comprises a movable
closure element comprising a top cover comprising a grip comprising
a lever. The movable closure element also comprises a sealing
portion comprising a channel constructed and arranged to accept the
channel guide and a lever receiving portion constructed and
arranged to accept the lever. In accordance with this aspect, as
the lever of the top cover is lifted, the lever moves to allow the
sealing portion to move vertically, and as the lever is moved in a
horizontal direction the sealing portion moves in the horizontal
direction.
[0012] Other advantages, novel features and objects of the
invention will become apparent from the following detailed
description of the invention when considered in conjunction with
the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] Certain illustrative examples are described below with
reference to the accompanying figures in which:
[0014] FIG. 1A illustrates an example of a perspective view of a
beverage container, in accordance with certain examples;
[0015] FIG. 1B illustrates a perspective view of a beverage
container, in accordance with certain examples;
[0016] FIG. 1C illustrates a perspective view of a beverage
container, in accordance with certain examples;
[0017] FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective exploded view of the
closure system shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, in accordance with certain
examples;
[0018] FIG. 2B illustrates a perspective exploded view of the
closure system shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, in accordance with certain
examples;
[0019] FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of a can cover of a
closure system, in accordance with certain examples;
[0020] FIG. 3B illustrates a perspective view of can end of a
closure system, in accordance with certain examples;
[0021] FIG. 3C illustrates a perspective view of a fixed element of
a closure system, in accordance with certain examples;
[0022] FIG. 3D illustrates a perspective view of a fixed element of
a closure system, in accordance with certain examples;
[0023] FIG. 4A illustrates a perspective view of a can cover of a
closure system, in accordance with certain examples;
[0024] FIG. 4B illustrates a perspective view of a can end of a
closure system, in accordance with certain examples;
[0025] FIG. 4C illustrates a perspective view of a fixed element,
in accordance with certain examples;
[0026] FIG. 4D illustrates a perspective view of a fixed element,
in accordance with certain examples;
[0027] FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective view of a can cover, in
accordance with certain examples;
[0028] FIG. 5B illustrates a perspective view showing detail 5B of
the can cover shown in FIG. 5A, in accordance with certain
examples;
[0029] FIG. 5C illustrates a perspective view of a can end, in
accordance with certain examples;
[0030] FIG. 5D illustrates a perspective view showing detail 5D of
the can end shown in FIG. 5C, in accordance with certain
examples;
[0031] FIG. 5E illustrates a perspective view of a fixed element
comprising the can cover and can end of FIGS. 5A-5D, in accordance
with certain examples;
[0032] FIG. 6A illustrates a perspective view of a fixed element,
in accordance with certain examples;
[0033] FIG. 6B illustrates a perspective view of a fixed element,
in accordance with certain examples;
[0034] FIG. 7A illustrates an exploded perspective view of a
portion of the closure system, in accordance with certain
examples;
[0035] FIG. 7B illustrates an exploded perspective view of a
portion of the closure system, in accordance with certain
examples;
[0036] FIG. 8A illustrates a perspective assembled view of the
portion of the closure system of FIG. 7A, in accordance with
certain examples;
[0037] FIG. 8B illustrates a perspective assembled view of the
portion of the closure system shown in FIG. 7B, in accordance with
certain examples;
[0038] FIG. 9A illustrates an exploded perspective view of a
portion of a closure system, in accordance with certain
examples;
[0039] FIG. 9B illustrates an exploded perspective view of a
portion of a closure system, in accordance with certain
examples;
[0040] FIG. 9C illustrates an exploded perspective view of a
portion of a closure system, in accordance with certain
examples;
[0041] FIG. 9D illustrates an exploded perspective view of a
portion of a closure system, in accordance with certain
examples;
[0042] FIG. 9E illustrates an exploded perspective view of a
portion of a closure system, in accordance with certain
examples;
[0043] FIG. 9F illustrates an exploded perspective view of a
portion of a closure system, in accordance with certain
examples;
[0044] FIG. 10A illustrates an exploded perspective view of a
portion of a closure system, in accordance with certain
examples;
[0045] FIG. 10B illustrates an exploded perspective view of a
portion of a closure system, in accordance with certain
examples;
[0046] FIG. 11A illustrates an aerial view of a closure system, in
accordance with certain examples;
[0047] FIG. 11B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the closure
system shown in FIG. 11A along section line 11B-11B, in accordance
with certain examples;
[0048] FIG. 12A illustrates an aerial view of a closure system, in
accordance with certain examples;
[0049] FIG. 12B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the closure
system shown in FIG. 12A along section line 12B-12B, in accordance
with certain examples;
[0050] FIG. 13A illustrates an aerial view of a closure system, in
accordance with certain examples;
[0051] FIG. 13B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the closure
system shown in FIG. 13A along section line 13B-13B, in accordance
with certain examples;
[0052] FIG. 14A illustrates an aerial view of a closure system, in
accordance with certain examples;
[0053] FIG. 14B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the closure
system shown in FIG. 14A along section line 14B-14B, in accordance
with certain examples;
[0054] FIG. 15A illustrates an example of a perspective view of a
beverage container, in accordance with certain examples;
[0055] FIG. 15B illustrates an example of a perspective view of a
beverage container, in accordance with certain examples;
[0056] FIG. 16A illustrates a perspective exploded view of the
closure system shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, in accordance with
certain examples;
[0057] FIG. 16B illustrates a perspective exploded view of the
closure system shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, in accordance with
certain examples;
[0058] FIG. 17A illustrates a perspective view of a closure system,
in accordance with certain examples;
[0059] FIG. 17B illustrates another perspective view of the closure
system shown in FIG. 17A, in accordance with certain examples;
[0060] FIG. 18A illustrates an exploded perspective view of the
closure system shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B, in accordance with
certain examples;
[0061] FIG. 18B illustrates another exploded perspective view of
the closure system shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B, in accordance with
certain examples;
[0062] FIG. 19A illustrates an aerial view of the closure system
shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B, in accordance with certain
examples;
[0063] FIG. 19B illustrates a cross-sectional view along section
line 19B-19B of the closure system shown in FIG. 19A, in accordance
with certain examples;
[0064] FIG. 20A illustrates an aerial view of a closure system, in
accordance with certain examples;
[0065] FIG. 20B illustrates a cross-sectional view along section
line 20B-20B of the closure system shown in FIG. 20A, in accordance
with certain examples;
[0066] FIG. 21A illustrates an aerial view of a closure system, in
accordance with certain examples;
[0067] FIG. 21B illustrates a cross-sectional view along section
line 21B-21B of the closure system shown in FIG. 21A, in accordance
with certain examples;
[0068] FIG. 22A illustrates an aerial view of a closure system, in
accordance with certain examples; and
[0069] FIG. 22B illustrates a cross-sectional view along section
line 22B-22B of the closure system shown in FIG. 22A, in accordance
with certain examples.
[0070] Certain features or components of the illustrative
containers and devices shown in the figures may have been enlarged,
distorted or otherwise shown in a non-conventional manner relative
to other features or components to facilitate a better
understanding of the novel containers and devices disclosed herein.
It will be recognized by the person of ordinary skill in the art,
given the benefit of this disclosure, that the containers and
devices disclosed herein can be used in any orientation relative to
gravity and suitable orientations will be readily selected by the
person of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of this
disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0071] Certain examples of the devices and methods disclosed herein
will be recognized by the person of ordinary skill in the art,
given the benefit of this disclosure to provide sanitary,
cost-effective containers. In particular, beverage containers are
provided that have a sanitary cover, are easier to open than
conventional cans, and can be repeatedly resealed. The beverage
container of certain examples disclosed herein will prevent the
dispensing portion of the beverage container from exposure to the
environment and ensure a safe and contaminant-free product. The
current manufacturing process for beverage cans may be adapted to
include the present invention, with reduced, minimal or no
additional cost.
[0072] Conventional beverage containers, such as aluminum cans, are
manufactured by well-known processes. In one process, aluminum cans
are made from an aluminum coiled sheet which is fed through a
cupping press that cuts discs and forms them into cup-like
containers. These cups drop from the press onto a conveyor, and are
fed into an ironing press where successive rings redraw and iron
the cup, reducing the sidewall thickness, and achieving a full
length can. The tops of the can bodies are then trimmed to
eliminate rough edges and ensure height uniformity. The can bodies
are then cleaned and dried. Subsequently, the can bodies are
labeled and coated with a clear protective layer of varnish. The
cans are then baked, treated with a coating, and re-baked. The top
portion of each can body is narrowed to form a neck with an outward
flange at the top edge. The bottom portions are domed to obtain the
strength required to withstand internal pressure if a carbonated
liquid will be added to the can. After testing for pin-holes and
defects, the can bodies are placed on pallets and shipped to a
beverage supplier.
[0073] The lids of conventional aluminum cans, typically referred
to as "can ends," are made by stamping shells from an aluminum
coiled sheet. The shells are coated with a sealant, and
subsequently a rivet is placed in each can end. On those cans using
a stay-on-tab type closure, the process further includes inserting
a separate piece of metal as the tab under the rivet to secure it
in place. The edges of the can ends generally have a curved flange.
The can ends are also scored to define the opening of the can end
in the finished product. The can ends are then shipped to the
beverage supplier, along with the can bodies.
[0074] At the beverage supplier, a filling machine is used to pour
the beverage into the can body. The process is completed after
filling when the can end is added, and secured to the can body by
forming a double seam with the can body. A double seam is formed by
interlocking edges of the two components, the outward top edge of
the can body and the curved flange at the edge of the can end,
curling the can end flange around the can body edge so that the can
end flange is partially rolled up and under the can body edge to
form a partial seam, and crimping and flattening the partial seam
against the can body to form a hermetic seal.
[0075] Most beverage cans have a stay-on-tab type closure such as
those disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,967,752 and 3,967,753 to
Cudzik, and described above. However, there are many aspects of the
conventional stay-on-tab closure that make it undesirable. The
stay-on-tab closure does not provide for a sanitary drinking
environment because the outer surface of the can and the top of the
can, which comprises the stay-on-tab closure, comes into contact
with the environment during storage, shipping, distribution,
display, handling, and ultimately, use by the consumer. When the
beverage is poured directly from the can through the opening formed
from the stay-on-tab closure, the beverage comes in contact with
the top and surface of the can, making for a potentially unsanitary
drinking environment. Additionally, if a consumer drinks the
beverage from the can directly, both the beverage and the mouth of
the consumer come into contact with the surface and top of the can,
also making for an unsanitary drinking environment. Additionally,
the stay-on-tab type closure does not allow for reclosing the
beverage container.
[0076] The present invention provides a beverage container that may
be manufactured by commercially available processes and machinery
with minimal retrofitting, low material and manufacturing costs,
ease of stacking during shipping and storage, increased sanitary
conditions of the dispensing portion, reliability and ease of
opening, closing, and resealing by consumers, pourability,
drinkability, recyclability, and decreased likelihood of spilling
the contents of the container. These advantages of the present
invention overcome the noted deficiencies of the conventional
stay-on-tab type closure beverage containers.
[0077] The present invention also provides a resealable closure
system to use with a beverage container that allows for locking of
the system in a secure, closed, sealed position, as well as locking
the device in various secure open positions. Additionally, after
the beverage container is initially opened, the user may recover
and protect the dispensing portion of the container to prevent
contaminants from residing in the dispensing portion area.
[0078] As used herein, the term "mate" or "mating" may describe any
manner of connecting or joining two or more components together.
The term "mate" or "mating" may describe any mechanical, thermal,
or chemical process that connect or join two or more components
together. In the examples disclosed herein, the term "mate" or
"mating" may mean welding, soldering, molding, adhering, crimping,
folding, double seaming, clamping, snapping, interlocking,
fastening or otherwise connecting two components. For example, two
or more components of the container may be welded, soldered,
molded, adhered, crimped, folded, double seamed, clamped, snapped,
or interlocked together. In certain examples, two or more
components may be mated by being fastened together with the
assistance of another component, thereby forming a rigid or
flexible, hinge connection. "Mating" may also mean connecting or
joining at least two components having compatible threaded
surfaces. The mating may be permanent or temporary.
[0079] In accordance with certain examples, a container is
disclosed. The container may be used to hold various contents
including, but not limited to consumable goods, and may have the
ability to seal and reseal the goods within the container. The
goods may be in the form of at least one of a solid, liquid or gas.
In certain examples, the contents may be a food, beverage, or other
consumable. In other examples, the contents may be other than a
food or beverage, but may still require sanitary conditions and
protection from contamination while dispensing and/or storing.
[0080] In accordance with certain examples, a container may
comprise a container body and a closure system. The closure system
may comprise a fixed element and a movable closure element. In
certain examples, the fixed element may comprise a can end
comprising a dispensing portion, and a channel guide having a first
end and a second end. The fixed element may be secured to an end of
the container body. The beverage container may additionally
comprise a movable closure element comprising a top cover, a
sealing portion and a stem. The top cover may comprise a grip. The
sealing portion may reside within the container body and comprise a
channel constructed and arranged to accept the channel guide of the
fixed element. The stem may be positioned within the channel and
have a top end constructed and arranged to be mated with the top
cover and a bottom end constructed and arranged to be mated with
the sealing portion. In certain examples, the stem may be formed as
a portion of the top cover and/or the sealing portion, and thus may
not be a separate component of the closure system.
[0081] In accordance with certain examples, at a first position,
the top cover covers the dispensing portion, the sealing portion is
in contact with a bottom surface of the can end, and the stem is
positioned at the first end of the channel guide. At a second
position, the top cover covers the dispensing portion and is
rotated relative to the first position, the sealing portion is
spaced a predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the can
end, and the stem is positioned at the first end of the channel
guide. At a third position the top cover exposes the dispensing
portion, the sealing portion is spaced a predetermined distance
from the bottom surface of the can end, and the stem is positioned
at the second end of the channel guide.
[0082] In accordance with certain examples, a closure system for
sealing a container may be constructed and arranged to be mated
with a container body. The closure system may comprise a fixed
element comprising a can end comprising a dispensing portion and a
channel guide having a first end and a second end. The fixed
element may be constructed and arranged to be secured to an end of
the container body. The closure system may also comprise a movable
closure element. The movable closure element may comprise a top
cover comprising a grip and a sealing portion comprising a channel
constructed and arranged to accept the channel guide. The movable
closure element may also comprise a stem residing within the
channel and having a top end constructed and arranged to be mated
with the top cover and a bottom end constructed and arranged to be
mated with the sealing portion. The closure system may be
constructed and arranged such that as the top cover and stem are
rotated the sealing portion moves vertically along the stem, and as
the top cover and stem are moved in a horizontal direction the
sealing portion moves in a horizontal direction.
[0083] In accordance with certain examples, a closure system for
sealing a container may be constructed and arranged to be mated
with a container body. The closure system may comprise a fixed
element comprising a can end comprising a dispensing portion and a
channel guide having a first end and a second end. The fixed
element may be constructed and arranged to be secured to an end of
the container body. The closure element may also comprise a movable
closure element comprising a top cover comprising a grip comprising
a lever. The lever may comprise a ring. The movable closure element
may also comprise a sealing portion comprising a channel
constructed and arranged to accept the channel guide and a lever
receiving portion constructed and arranged to accept the lever. In
accordance with certain examples, as the lever of the top cover is
lifted, the lever may move to allow the sealing portion to move
vertically, and as the lever is moved in a horizontal direction the
sealing portion may move in the horizontal direction.
[0084] In accordance with certain examples, the beverage container
may be configured to have a container body defining at least a
portion of the container that holds the contents of the container.
The container body may have an opening for filling and/or
dispensing, for example, that may be positioned at a first end
portion thereof. The container body may include a plurality of such
openings, each with similar or different functions. For example,
the container body may include a second opening positioned at a
second end portion thereof that may be opposite an opening
positioned at a first end portion. The container body may be made
from any suitable material for holding, storing, dispensing and/or
cooling or heating its contents in a cost-effective manner,
ensuring the integrity of the contents, without the risk of
contamination. The material may include, but not be limited to,
metals and plastics. For example, the container body may be made of
glass, steel, tin, aluminum, or plastic materials such as
polyethylene terephthalate (PET), high-density polyethylene,
low-density polyethylene, polysulfone, polyvinyl chloride,
polypropylene, polystyrene, polycarbonate, and the like. The
container body may be manufactured as a single component or from
multiple components. Container bodies manufactured from a single
component may include a seam or joint to provide a structural seal;
alternatively, such bodies may be seamless. Container bodies
manufactured from multiple components may be assembled by mating or
otherwise joining sub-components in various ways. The container
body may be formed of a variety of functional and/or ornamental
shapes. It will be within the ability of the person of ordinary
skill in the art, given the benefit of the disclosure, to select or
to design suitable shapes, sizes and materials for construction of
the container body disclosed herein. The container body may also be
configured to be filled or refilled.
[0085] The container may comprise a component to enclose and/or
seal the contents of the beverage container. The component may be
used to close a container body and to ensure the integrity of the
contents of the container, without risk of contamination. In
certain examples, the component may be constructed and arranged to
attach to the container body. The component may be a base plate.
The base plate may be attached opposite an end of the container
body that may be used for dispensing the contents of the container.
The base plate may be constructed of materials compatible with the
container body, such that the base plate may be mated with the
container body. In some examples, the base plate may be flat. In
certain other examples, the base plate may be domed to protrude
into the container to alleviate pressure within the container if
the contents are sealed under pressure or, for example, are
carbonated. Attachment of the base plate to the container body may
occur by temporarily or permanently mating the base plate and the
container body.
[0086] The container may comprise a closure system. The closure
system may be constructed and arranged, in conjunction with the
container body, to enclose the various contents inside the
container. The closure system may be constructed and arranged to
seal the contents inside the container to ensure the integrity of
the contents, without the risk of contamination prior to, during,
and after a consumer has used the container. In certain examples,
the closer system may be constructed and arranged to hermetically
seal the contents inside the container. The closure system may be
configured to provide an opening so that the contents of the
container may be dispensed, and to provide a sanitary surface for
dispensing and/or consuming the contents. The closure system may be
configured to be reclosable to allow a user to open and close the
container as desired, to control the size of the opening as
desired, and to lock and unlock the closure system in a specific
position to assist the user in dispensing a desired flow of
contents out of the container, or to allow the user to contain the
contents within the container.
[0087] The closure system may be formed of various functional
and/or ornamental shapes and sizes to be compatible with and to
mate with the container body. The closure system may be made, for
example, of any material to provide for sealing of the beverage
container, to ensure the integrity of the contents, without the
risk of contamination, and for holding, storing, and/or cooling or
heating the contents of the beverage container. The closure system
may be made of the same material as the container body or a
different material. It will be within the ability of the person of
ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of the disclosure, to
select or to design suitable shapes, sizes and materials for
construction of the closure system disclosed herein.
[0088] The closure system may comprise one or more components that
enclose and seal the contents inside the container. The closure
system may also comprise one or more components that allow the
contents within the container to be dispensed. Closure systems that
comprise more than one component may comprise a first component
constructed of one material and a second component constructed of a
different, compatible material so that the first component and the
second component may be mated. Either of the first component or the
second component and any other additional components of the closure
system may be the same or different material from the container
body, so long as there exists a seal between at least one component
of the closure system and the container body. The seal may be
formed in various manners, including, but not limited to, a
mechanical seal, a thermal seal, a chemical seal, or the like. The
components of the closure system may be pre-assembled prior to
securing the closure system to the container body, or may be
attached consecutively, either to the container body, to the
components of the closure system, or both. For example, components
of the closure system may be attached to each other and one or more
of the components of the closure system may be attached to the
container body. Each component of the closure system may be
permanently or temporarily attached to one or more other components
of the closure system, the container body, or both. The closure
system may be secured to the container body by various methods. The
securing may be accomplished by mating.
[0089] The closure system may comprise a component that provides
the seal between the closure system and the container body to
ensure the integrity of the contents of the container, without risk
of contamination, in conjunction with the other components of the
closure system. The component may be configured to provide a
sanitary opening for allowing contents to exit or enter the
container. The component may provide a sanitary opening for direct
consumption, for example, drinking, from the container. The
component may provide for stabilization of other components of the
closure system, for example to prevent movement of one component
relative to another. The component may be secured permanently to
the container body and may be constructed and arranged to accept
overflow or spillage from the container. The component may be a
fixed element that may comprise one or more sub-components. A fixed
element that comprises more than one sub-component may be
preassembled and attached to the container body as a collective
fixed element, or may be attached to the container body in
consecutive order. The fixed element may be secured to the
container body by mating. Each component of the fixed element may
be made of the same or different material from each other and from
the container body. The fixed element may provide a surface for
indicia for labeling the contents of the container, marketing, to
facilitate opening of the container, or the like. The fixed element
may provide a surface that is easily printed on using conventional
printing methods.
[0090] As noted above, the fixed element may comprise one or more
sub-components. For example, the fixed element may comprise a can
end that may be one or more components. The can end may comprise a
sub-component that provides an opening for allowing contents to
exit or enter the container. The opening may be constructed and
arranged to provide a sanitary area for direct consumption from the
container. The sub-component may be a dispensing portion
constructed and arranged to be compatible with and to be mated with
one or more components or sub-components of the closure system or
to the container body. The dispensing portion may be of various
functional and/or ornamental shapes and sizes suitable for
dispensing various fluids and solids. The dispensing portion may be
constructed and arranged to deliver contents directly to a consumer
(i.e., by mouth) or to deliver contents to another container, for
example, a cup or a bowl in the case of beverages or foods. In the
case of non-consumable goods, the dispensing portion may be
constructed and arranged to deliver contents to another container,
for example, a tray in the case of dispensing paint from a paint
can. The dispensing portion may be constructed and arranged to be
suitable for dispensing the contents in a reliable, accurate, and
easy manner. In certain examples, the dispensing portion may be
constructed and arranged to provide ease in drinking and/or pouring
directly from the container, and the dimensions of the dispensing
portion may be selected and adjusted by the consumer. The
dispensing portion may also allow passage of implements easily
through this portion, with clear access and in a non-tortuous path.
For example the dispensing portion may allow passage a funnel,
straw, or the like to assist with addition or dispensing the
contents of the container. It will be within the ability of the
person of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of the
disclosure, to select or to design suitable shapes, sizes and
materials for construction of the dispensing portion disclosed
herein.
[0091] The can end may be constructed and arranged to cooperate
with other components of the closure system. The can end may
provide a sub-component that allows cooperation with other
components of the closure system. The sub-component may allow other
components of the closure system to interact with it to accomplish
adequate sealing of the container. The sub-component may be
constructed and arranged to mate with other components of the
closure system to ensure that each component does or does not move
relative to a third component. In one embodiment, the sub-component
may be an aligner, guide, or connector to control the rate of
adjustment of this sub-component to another components. The
sub-component may be a channel guide. The channel guide may be
constructed and arranged to mate with other portions of the closure
system, such as portions of the movable closure element. The
channel guide may have a first end that participates in a sealing
or opening process of the container, and a second end that
participates in another sealing or opening process of the
container.
[0092] The can end comprising more than one sub-component may be
preassembled and attached to the container body as a collective can
end. Alternatively, it may be attached to the container body in
consecutive order, along with other components of the closure
system. The sub-components of the can end may be both secured to
the container body, or one sub-component of the can end may be
attached to another sub-component of the can end, which then may be
secured to the container body. The securing may be accomplished by
mating. Each component of the can may be made of the same or
different material from each other and from the other components of
the closure system, and the container body.
[0093] In a two-component can end, the first component may have a
dispensing portion and the second component may have a dispensing
portion. The dispensing portion of the first component may be
aligned with the dispensing portion of the second component. The
first component and the second component may be made of the same or
different, compatible materials. For example, the first and second
component may be made entirely of aluminum or a polymeric material.
In the alternative, the first component may be made of aluminum,
while the second component may be made of a polymeric material. The
dispensing portions of the first and second component may be the
same or different size and shape, so long as they provide a clear
path to the contents of the beverage container.
[0094] The first component of the can end may comprise the channel
guide. The channel guide may be positioned in the first component
so that it resides in a portion of the dispensing portion of the
second component of the can end. The first and second component may
both comprise a portion of the channel guide, so that mating of the
first and second components of the can end create the channel
guide. In certain examples the first component may be referred to
as a can cover, and the second component may be referred to as a
can end.
[0095] The sub-components of the can may be secured to each other
in various ways. For example, the first component may be attached
to the second component by way of an adhesive. For example, if the
container will be used for foodstuffs or liquids, a Food and Drug
Administration approved adhesive may be used. These components may
also be secured to one another by mating complementary parts to one
another. For example, mating may occur by matching up openings
within the first component with raised protions, such as pins or
pegs in the second component which are then flattened to secure the
components to each other. The first component and second component
may have edges that may be crimped to one another, for example, in
the case of aluminum components. Snap hooks may alternatively be
used to snap the first component into the second component. One or
more tabs may be used to engage and hold the first and second
components of the can end in place. The one or more tabs that are
engaged to hold the first and second components in place may be
held by being forced up against the inside one of the first and
second component. Of course, those skilled in the art may recognize
other means for securing the first and second components which may
be used to assemble this portion of the closure system.
[0096] The closure system may comprise a component to secure the
fixed element to the container body, and to retain the contents
within the container to ensure the integrity of the contents. The
component may be constructed and arranged to secure the fixed
element to the container body. In certain examples, the component
may be made as one piece as a part of the can end. As noted above,
beverage containers of the present invention may be manufactured by
commercially available processes with minimal retrofitting. The
fixed element may comprise a component that may be mated and
secured to the container body by conventional beverage can
manufacturing processes. For example, the component may be mated
with the container body to form a seam. The seam may be a double
seam that provides a hermetic seal. In other examples, the
component may be mated with the container body by snapping latches
in one component or sub-component into the grooves of another
component or sub-component. In certain examples, the component may
be a rim. The rim may be constructed and arranged to secure the
fixed element to the container body. The rim may be made of the
same or different material as any one of the components of the
container and/or closure system. The rim may have a perimeter that
is the same or different shape as the perimeter of the top portion
of the container body. For example, the rim may have a circular
outer circumference, and may have a diameter the same as or larger
than the diameter of the top portion of the container body. As
noted above, the rim may be made as part of the can end. In certain
other examples, the rim may be made as a separate component. The
rim may comprise at least one opening. The opening may be
constructed and arranged of a shape, size and material to
ultimately allow the contents of the container to be dispensed
smoothly and efficiently from the container. The opening may allow
for a can end fit within the opening. The opening may be a
pre-determined shape, for example, the opening may be in the shape
of a circle that is centered with respect to the outer perimeter of
the rim. In other examples, the opening may be off-set with respect
to the outer perimeter of the rim. The shape of the opening may be
the same or different shape as the outer perimeter of the rim. The
shape of the opening of the rim may be the same or different shape
as the outer perimeter of the spout.
[0097] The closure system may comprise a component that provides a
closure to the beverage container. The component may ensure the
integrity of the contents and enclose the contents of the
container, without risk of contamination, during holding, storing,
shipping, dispensing, and/or cooling or heating the contents by,
for example, the manufacturer, the distributor and/or the consumer.
Additionally, the component may protect the dispensing portion of
the container from the environment, thereby ensuring sanitary
conditions until a user opens the container. The component may also
protect the portion of the container from the environment after
opening, as desired by the user. The component may work together
with the fixed element to provide for a secure closure that ensures
the integrity of the contents of the container, without the risk of
contamination. The component may be a movable closure element that
may seal off the contents of the container from the environment.
The movable closure element may seal off the contents of the
container initially, and, subsequent to opening, may be used again
to seal off contents and further protect the dispensing portion
from the environment. The movable closure element may be
constructed and arranged to mate with one or more components of the
fixed element, the container body or both. In certain examples, the
movable closure element may be constructed and arranged to be mated
with the dispensing portion and/or the bottom surface of the can
end. The movable closure element may be constructed and arranged to
be used in a locked or unlocked position. The movable closure
element may be of various functional and/or ornamental shapes and
sizes to be mated with the other components of the closure system
and/or container body, and may be constructed of a material
suitable for such purposes. The movable closure element may be
sized and shaped to facilitate opening and closing of the
container. The movable closure element may provide a surface for
indicia for labeling the contents of the container, for marketing
purposes, to facilitate opening of the container, or the like. At
least a portion of the movable closure element may provide a
surface that is easily printed on using conventional printing
methods.
[0098] The movable closure element may comprise one or more
components that may be permanently or temporarily attached to each
other. The movable closure element may comprise a component to
cover the dispensing portion or an area of the fixed element larger
than the dispensing portion, and retain the contents inside the
container. In certain examples, the component may reveal the entire
dispensing portion, or a section thereof. The component may be in
contact with the fixed element at one or more points. The component
may have the ability to move from a first position to one or more
other positions to, for example, cover or reveal the dispensing
portion. Moving may involve, for example, one or more of sliding,
twisting, shifting, turning, pulling, pushing, transferring,
removing, or otherwise modifying the position of one or more
components of the closure system, for example, the top cover. The
component may reside outside the container and may serve as a top
cover for the container. The top cover may be of various functional
and/or ornamental shapes and sizes to provide protection to the
dispensing portion from the environment and to retain contents
within the container.
[0099] The top cover may comprise one or more sub-components to
assist a consumer in moving the top cover. For example, this
sub-component may assist the consumer in turning or twisting the
top cover to a position, or assist the consumer in shifting or
sliding the top cover to another position. The sub-component may be
a grip which may include, for example, one or more of any of an
edge, ridge, rim, notch, groove, cavity, depression, indentation,
pitted or rough surface, ring or lever that is on, in or attached
to the top cover suitable for assisting a consumer in moving the
top cover as desired. The grip may be manufactured as part of the
top cover, for example, in a molding process, or may be
manufactured separately, to be mated with the top cover during
manufacturing of the closure system. In certain examples, the grip
may be a portion of the top cover, that may be manipulated by the
user into a position that may then allow for moving the top cover,
for example, turning or shifting the top cover. The manipulation
may be performed by flipping a portion of the top cover that is
engaged with a hinge, which allows the portion of the top over to
move from a horizontal position to a vertical position, thereby
forming a sort of handle, lever, or the like. The top cover may
comprise a portion that may be mated with other portions of the
movable closure element, which may, together, assist in the opening
and closing of the container, and covering and revealing the
dispensing portion using the closure system. The top cover may also
comprise a portion that provides a seal between the top cover and
the top surface of the fixed element. In certain examples, this
portion may be a seal, such as a gasket or o-ring.
[0100] The movable closure element may also comprise a component to
provide a seal and retain the contents in the container in
conjunction with other components of the movable closure element.
This component may provide a secure, leak-proof closure for the
container. The component may also allow for dispensing of the
contents from the container. The component may be a sealing portion
comprising one or more components. The sealing portion may be of
various functional and/or ornamental shapes and sizes to provide a
seal for retaining contents inside the container. The sealing
portion may reside within the container and have contact with the
bottom surface of the can end. In certain examples, the sealing
portion may reside within the container but not necessarily be in
contact with the bottom surface of the can end. The sealing portion
may be constructed of materials that are compatible with the other
components of the beverage container, and may also be constructed
of materials that are compatible with the contents of the
container. For example, the sealing portion may be constructed of a
material that is inert or non-reactive with the contents of the
container. In certain examples, the sealing portion may be made of
polypropylene. Suitable shapes, sizes and materials for the sealing
portion will be readily selected by a person of ordinary skill in
the art, given the benefit of the disclosure. Other means may be
used alternatively or in conjunction with the above described
mechanical elements to secure the fixed element to the container
body.
[0101] The sealing portion may comprise a sub-component that may
assist with obtaining and maintaining the integrity of the seal of
the container, initially, and after opening and during use by the
consumer. The sub-component may enhance the sealing capability of
the sealing portion. The sub-component may be manufactured
separately from the sealing portion, or may be manufactured as part
of the sealing portion. In the former circumstance, the
sub-component may be mated with the sealing portion by various
mating techniques discussed above, including the use of an
adhesive, or through construction and arrangement of the
sub-component and the sealing portion. The sealing portion may be
constructed and arranged to accept the sub-component to ensure that
the two components mate properly. For example, the sealing portion
may contain a groove or other structure to accept the sub-component
into the sealing portion. In the latter circumstance, the
sub-component may be molded directly to the sealing portion through
conventional molding processes. The sub-component may be an o-ring
or gasket used to ensure a proper seal between the sealing portion
and the bottom surface of the can end. The o-ring or gasket may be
constructed of any suitable material to create such a seal, and
that may be compatible with the other components of the closure
system, such as the sealing portion and can end, as well as the
contents of the container. For example, the o-ring may be made of a
polymeric material that has a suitable flexibility to create the
desired seal. The sealing portion and the sub-component may be made
of the same material, as one piece, for example, an o-ring or
gasket like material that may function as the sealing portion and
as a seal.
[0102] The sealing portion may comprise a sub-component that may
allow for movement of the sealing portion in a given direction. The
sub-component may also interact with other components of the
closure system, such as the fixed element to prevent movement of
the sealing portion in a different given direction. The
sub-component may interact with other components of the closure
system, such as the fixed element, can end, or channel guide to
cover the dispensing portion, or to expose the dispensing portion.
The sub-component may further be constructed and arranged to mate
with or accept a component or sub-component of the fixed element.
In one embodiment, the sub-component may be an aligner, guide, or
connector to control the rate of adjustment of this sub-component
to another component. For example, the sub-component may be a
channel that may mate with a component of the fixed element, for
example, the can end. The channel may mate with at least a portion
of the channel guide of the can end. Alternatively, at least a
portion of the channel may mate with the channel guide. The channel
and channel guide may mate by various mechanisms. For example, the
channel and channel guide may mate such that it allows for movement
of the sealing portion relative to the channel guide. The movement
of the sealing portion relative to the channel guide may be in the
vertical direction, i.e., upwards or downwards.
[0103] The channel or channel guide may contain a section that
allows the sealing portion to move relative to each other, but that
permits movement of the channel up to a certain predetermined
distance. For example, the section of the channel or channel guide
may be constructed and arranged to prevent the sealing portion from
moving any further in a given direction. The section of the channel
or channel guide may prevent the sealing portion from becoming
separated from the other components of the closure system. The
section may also prevent the sealing portion from falling into the
container. The section may comprise a device that may secure the
sealing portion to the channel guide or the stem at a predetermined
distance from the bottom surface of the can end. The section may
comprise one or more snap-hooks to maintain the connection between
the sealing portion and the other components of the closure system,
such as the channel guide or the stem.
[0104] The movable closure element may also comprise a component
that secures other portions of the movable closure element to each
other. The component may allow for movement of the sealing portion
together with the top cover. The component may allow for the
movement of the sealing portion in a direction that is the same as
the direction in which the top cover is moved. Alternatively, the
component may allow for the movement of the sealing portion in a
direction that is not the same as the direction in which the top
cover is moved. The component may mate with the top cover and the
sealing portion by the same or different mating methods. The
component may be a stem, for example, that may be mated with the
top cover and the sealing portion. The stem may be constructed and
arranged to mate with the top cover by one mating method, and with
the sealing portion by a different mating method. The stem may have
a top end constructed and arranged to be mated with the top cover
and a bottom end constructed and arranged to be mated with the
sealing portion. The top end of the stem may mate with the top
cover by extending through the dispensing portion and/or the
channel guide of the can end. The mating of the top cover to the
top end of the stem may ensure that movement of the stem occurs
with movement of the top cover.
[0105] The stem may be mated with the top cover by way of various
methods. In certain examples, the stem and top cover may be mated
through the use of an adhesive. In other examples, snap hooks on
either the top cover or the top portion of the stem may provide the
mechanism for mating these two components. Yet in other examples,
well-known techniques such as spin welding may be used to mate
these two components, for example, if these components are
constructed from polymeric materials. Mating these two components
may include the use of a cross pin which would slide through holes
in the top cover and top portion of the stem, to keep these two
components in place. Other ways of mating involve crimping the two
components to each other, using a rivet or otherwise.
[0106] The stem may be positioned within the channel of the sealing
portion and may be constructed and arranged to mate with the
sealing portion. The bottom end of the stem may be constructed and
arranged to mate with a portion of the sealing portion in
communication with the channel. The portion of the sealing portion
may be constructed and arranged to accept and mate with the bottom
end of the stem. The mating may be such that movement of the stem
may cause movement of the sealing portion. In certain examples, a
movement of the stem (for example in a horizontal direction) may
cause movement of the sealing portion in a vertical direction, for
example upward or downward. In one embodiment, rotation of the stem
in one direction may cause movement of the sealing portion in a
downward direction. Because the channel guide of the fixed element
may be mated with the channel of the sealing portion, the sealing
portion will not rotate with the stem, but instead will only move
in a vertical direction. The bottom end of the stem may comprise a
threaded surface that mates with a compatible threaded surface of
the sealing portion. The bottom end of the stem may comprise a
threaded surface having a female thread which is compatible with
the threaded surface of the sealing portion having a male thread.
Alternatively, the bottom end of the stem may comprise a threaded
surface having a male thread which is compatible with the threaded
surface of the sealing portion having a female thread. The stem may
be of various functional and/or ornamental shapes and sizes to
secure the desired components of the closure system together. It
will be within the ability of the person of ordinary skill in the
art, given the benefit of the disclosure, to select or to design
suitable shapes, sizes and materials of the stem disclosed
herein.
[0107] To facilitate stacking of the containers for more convenient
and cost-effective shipping and storing, the top of the container
comprising a closure system may be constructed and arranged to
accept the bottom of another container body, or the base plate
attached to another container body. For example, the top cover of
the closure system may reside below the top edge of the fixed
element which mates with the container body such that the top cover
does not interfere in the stacking of multiple containers on top of
one another. In other examples, a side of the container body may be
constructed and arranged to accept a side of another container body
to facilitate stacking of the containers.
[0108] A container body may be provided of various functional
and/or ornamental shapes and sizes suitable for holding, storing,
handling, and/or cooling or heating the contents of the beverage
container. Conventional manufacturing processes as described above
are used for producing beverage can bodies may be used for
providing a container body. The closure system may be disposed on
the container body by placing, dropping, depositing, or the like.
This may be accomplished through automated processes or manually.
Securing may occur to ensure the integrity of the contents of the
container through mating of the container body to the closure
system. Mating may occur between the container body and the fixed
element. Mating may also occur between various components and
sub-components of the closure system and container body. The
securing may also occur using conventional methods of manufacturing
beverage cans, for example, by forming a double seam. A flange of
the fixed element may curl around a first edge of the container
body to form a partial seam. The partial seam may be crimped and
flattened for form a hermetic seal.
[0109] To assemble the beverage container, by automatic processes
or manually, all or part of the closure element may be
pre-assembled to be mated with the container body or inserted
through the container body and may be compatible with conventional
manufacturing processes of an aluminum can. Alternatively, portions
of the fixed element may be mated to each other and the container
body without being pre-assembled.
[0110] The operation of the assembled closure system of a container
is described below. At a first position, the top cover covers the
dispensing portion and may also cover a portion of the can end. At
this first position, the sealing portion is in contact with a
bottom surface of the can end in a locked position, and the stem is
positioned at the first end of the channel guide. The stem may be
mated to the top cover by any various means, including those
described above such that as the top cover is moved, the stem moves
in the same direction.
[0111] The user may use one or more of the grips of the top cover
to move the top cover in a desired direction, for example, to a
second position. As the top cover is moved in a desired direction,
due to the mating of the top cover and the top end of the stem, the
stem is moved in the same desired direction. Because the bottom end
of the stem is mated with the sealing portion, this causes the
sealing portion to move. For example, the bottom end of the stem
may have a threaded surface that is compatible with the threaded
surface of a portion of the sealing portion, which, upon movement
of the top cover would thereby move the sealing portion along the
threaded surface. For example, movement of the top cover would move
the sealing portion along the threaded surface in a vertical
downward direction away from the bottom surface of the can end. The
closure system may be constructed and arranged to prevent the
sealing portion from moving further away than a pre-determined
distance from the bottom surface of the can end to an unlocked
position at the first end of the channel guide.
[0112] The channel may contain a section that allows the sealing
portion to move relative to the channel guide, but that permits
movement of the channel up to a certain predetermined distance. For
example, the section of the channel may be constructed and arranged
to prevent the sealing portion from moving any further in a given
direction. The section of the channel may prevent the sealing
portion from becoming separated from the other components of the
closure system. The section may also prevent the sealing portion
from falling into the container. The section may comprise a device
that may secure the sealing portion to the channel guide or the
stem at a predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the can
end. The section may comprise one or more snap-hooks to maintain
the connection between the sealing portion and the other components
of the closure system, such as the channel guide or the stem.
[0113] The user may again use one or more of the grips of the top
cover to move the top cover in a desired direction, for example, to
a third position. As the top cover is moved in a desired direction,
due to the mating of the top cover and the top end of the stem, the
stem is moved in the same desired direction. Because the bottom end
of the stem is mated with the sealing portion, this in turn causes
the sealing portion to move. At the third position the top cover
exposes the dispensing portion, the sealing portion is spaced a
predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the can end, and
the stem is positioned at the second end of the channel guide.
[0114] The user may use one or more of the grips of the top cover
to move the top cover in a desired direction, for example, to a
fourth position. As the top cover is moved in a desired direction,
due to the mating of the top cover and the top end of the stem, the
stem is moved in the same desired direction. This desired direction
may be opposite the direction that the top cover and top end of the
screw are moved when transitioning from the first position to the
second position. In moving to this fourth position, the sealing
portion comes into contact with the bottom surface of the can end
in a locked position, and the stem is positioned at the second end
of the channel guide. In certain examples, a sub-component of the
sealing portion comes into contact with the bottom surface of the
can end. The sub-component may be an o-ring or gasket.
[0115] From the second position, the user may use one or more of
the grips of the top cover to move the top cover in a desired
direction, for example, to a fifth position. As the top cover is
moved in a desired direction, due to the mating of the top cover
and the top end of the stem, the stem is moved in the same desired
direction. Because the bottom end of the stem is mated with the
sealing portion, this in turn causes the sealing portion to move.
At a fifth position the top cover exposes at least a portion of the
dispensing portion, the sealing portion is spaced a predetermined
distance from the bottom surface of the can end, and the stem is
positioned at a predetermined distance from the first end of the
channel guide.
[0116] From the fifth position, the user may use one or more of the
grips of the top cover to move the top cover in a desired
direction, for example, to a sixth position. As the top cover is
moved in a desired direction, due to the mating of the top cover
and the top end of the stem, the stem is moved in the same desired
direction. This desired direction may be opposite the direction
that the top cover and top end of the screw are moved in when
transitioning from the first position to the second position. In
moving to this sixth position, the sealing portion comes into
contact with the bottom surface of the can end in a locked
position, and the stem is positioned at a predetermined distance
from the first end of the channel guide. In certain examples, a
sub-component of the sealing portion comes into contact with the
bottom surface of the can end. The sub-component may be an o-ring
or gasket.
[0117] Referring now to the figures, in one embodiment, FIGS. 1A-1C
illustrate a beverage container 10 in which a container body 100
made from a conventional manufacturing process is used. Container
body 100 is attached to closure system 102. Closure system 102
comprises a fixed element 104 and a movable closure element 106
(shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B). FIG. 1A is a perspective view of the
beverage container and illustrates a beverage container 10 in the
closed position. FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the beverage
container, and illustrates a beverage container 10 in a partially
opened position with top cover 118 partially exposing dispensing
portion 114. FIG. 1C is a perspective view of the beverage
container, and illustrates a beverage container 10 in a fully
opened position with top cover 118 fully exposing dispensing
portion 114.
[0118] As illustrated in the exploded views of FIGS. 2A and 2B,
closure system 102 of beverage container 10 of FIGS. 1A-1C
comprises multiple components. As shown, fixed element 104
comprises can end 108 having dispensing portion 110. In this
embodiment, fixed element 104 also comprises can cover 112
comprising dispensing portion 114 and channel guide 116. Fixed
element 104 may be assembled by placing can cover 112 on can end
108, aligning dispensing portion 114 with dispensing portion 110,
and aligning channel guide 116 with dispensing portion 110.
[0119] Closure system 102 of FIGS. 2A and 2B also comprises a
movable closure element 106. As shown, movable closure element 106
comprises top cover 118 having grip 119 to assist a user in opening
and closing the container. Movable closure element 106 also
comprises stem 122 and sealing portion 120 having channel 150.
Movable closure element 106 may be assembled by inserting top end
124 of stem 122 through dispensing portion 110 and channel guide
116 so that top end 124 of stem 122 can mate with opening 126 in
top cover 118. Sealing portion 120 can be mated with gasket 128 to
ensure a tight seal between the sealing portion and the bottom
surface 130 of can end 108. This may be accomplished by aligning
members 132 with openings 134 of sealing portion 120. Other various
means of attaching gasket 128 to sealing portion 120 may be used as
discussed above. Sealing portion 120 may be mated with stem 122, by
mating bottom end 136 of stem 122 having threaded surface 138 with
threaded section 140 of sealing portion 120. The mating of threaded
surface 138 with threaded section 140 allows sealing portion 120 to
move vertically, i.e., upwards or downwards relative to fixed
element 104.
[0120] In one embodiment, FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate one way that a
two-component fixed element may be assembled. FIG. 3A illustrates
can cover 112 comprising dispensing portion 114 and channel guide
116. FIG. 3B illustrates can end 108 comprising dispensing portion
110. To assemble the fixed element as shown in FIGS. 3C and 3D, an
adhesive, for example a Food and Drug Administration approved
adhesive, may be applied to a bottom surface of can cover 112
and/or top surface of can end 108. Can cover 112 and can end 108
may then be mated by aligning dispensing portion 114 and channel
guide 116 of can cover 112 with dispensing portion 110 of can end
108. This allows channel guide 116 to reside below the surface of
can end 108 through dispensing portion 110 of can end 108, as shown
in FIG. 3D.
[0121] In another embodiment, FIGS. 4A-4D illustrate another way
that a two-component fixed element may be assembled. FIG. 4A
illustrates can cover 112 comprising dispensing portion 114,
channel guide 116 and openings 142. FIG. 4B illustrate can cover
108 comprising dispensing portion 108 and pegs 144. To assemble the
fixed element as shown in FIGS. 4C and 4D, openings 142 of can
cover 112 are aligned with pegs 144 of can end 108, as can cover
112 is placed on top of can end 108. Once can cover 112 is in place
on top of can end 108, pegs 144 are flattened against can cover 112
and can end 108 to form flattened pegs 146 which secure these two
pieces in place to form the fixed element, as shown in FIGS. 4C and
4D.
[0122] In another embodiment, FIGS. 5A-5E illustrate another way
that a two-piece fixed element may be assembled. FIGS. 5A and 5B
illustrate can cover 112 comprising dispensing portion 114, channel
guide 116, and lip 148 having crimping groove 151. FIGS. 5C and 5D
illustrate can end 108 comprising dispensing portion 110 and
overhang 152 having crimp line 154. To assemble fixed element 104
as shown in FIG. 5E, lip 148 and overhang 152 are joined in and
crimped together to form a crimped portion 156 of fixed element
104.
[0123] In another embodiment, snap hooks may be used to mate the
components of the two-component fixed element. It will be within
the ability of the person of ordinary skill in the art, given the
benefit of the disclosure, to select or to design suitable shapes,
sizes and materials for mating the components of the fixed element
together.
[0124] In yet another embodiment as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the
fixed element may be constructed as one piece. In this embodiment,
fixed element 204 may be made of aluminum. Can end 208 comprises
dispensing portion 214 and channel guide 216. In this embodiment,
the starting material for can end 208 may be produced from
conventional manufacturing processes from which dispensing portion
214 and channel guide 216 may be formed. This embodiment requires
no can cover and streamlines the process of producing fixed element
204 for the closure system.
[0125] FIGS. 7A-8B illustrate perspective views of a portion of the
closure system in accordance with certain embodiments. FIGS. 7A and
7B illustrate top cover 118 having grip 119, fixed element 104
having channel guide 116 and dispensing portion 110, and stem 122
having top end 124 and bottom end 136 prior to assembly. As shown,
stem 122 is inserted into channel guide 116 of fixed element 104.
Top end 124 of stem 122 is mated with opening 126 of top cover 118.
Mating of these two components can be achieved by snap hooks 170 of
top end 124 of stem 122 being inserted into grooves 172 of opening
126 of top cover 118, or by other various mating means as discussed
above. FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate this assembled portion of the
closure element, from the top and bottom perspective views.
[0126] FIGS. 9A-9F illustrate various other methods for assembling
the top cover, stem, and fixed element (not shown in FIGS. 9A-9F)
together. For example, FIG. 9A again illustrates the use of snap
hooks 370 of top end 324 of stem 322 which can mate with grooves
372 of opening 326 of top cover 318. FIG. 9B illustrates the use of
an adhesive which may be applied to top end 424 of stem 422, to
opening 474 of top cover 418, or to both top end 424 and opening
474 to achieve the mating of these components. Spin welding may
also be used to mate these components as shown in FIG. 9C. In
another embodiment, fastener 676 may be inserted through openings
678 of top cover 618 and openings 680 of top end 624 of stem 622.
FIG. 9E illustrates pre-crimped rivet 782 which is inserted into
opening 726 of top cover 718. Fixed element (not shown) is placed
below top cover 718, followed by stem 722 which is inserted into
opening 774 along with washer 786. Once each of these components is
in place, pre-crimped rivet 782 is crimped, as shown in 784 to mate
the components together. In another example, FIG. 9F illustrates
stem 822 which may be inserted into opening 884 so that these
components may be crimped together at crimping area 888 of top
cover 818 and crimping groove 890 of stem 822. It will be within
the ability of the person of ordinary skill in the art, given the
benefit of the disclosure, to select or to design suitable mating
configurations for the components of the closure element as
disclosed herein.
[0127] Once stem 136, top cover 118 and fixed element 104 are
assembled, sealing portion 120 may be attached as shown in FIGS.
10A and 10B. Gasket 128 can be secured to sealing portion 120 by
aligning members 122 with opening 134 of sealing portion 120. Once
gasket 128 is in place, sealing portion 120 is screwed into place
by mating bottom end 136 of stem 122 with threaded section 140 of
sealing portion 120. This completes assembly of the closure
element, which is now ready to be mated with a container body in
one of the various ways described above, or by any other suitable
means
[0128] Upon first use of a container comprising closure system 102,
closure element 102 is located at a first position as shown in
FIGS. 11A and 11B. At this first, closed, locked position, top
cover 118 is resting on fixed element 104, covering dispensing
portion 114, and is mated with top end 124 of stem 122. Sealing
portion 120 is in contact with the bottom surface of fixed element
104 and forms a tight seal with use of gasket 128.
[0129] FIGS. 12A and 12B illustrate a second position in which
closure system 102 is in a closed, unlocked position. Top cover
118, with use of grips 119 is rotated in a clockwise direction. As
shown in FIG. 12A, stem 122 is also rotated with top cover 118.
FIG. 12B illustrates the effect that rotation of top cover 118 has
on sealing portion 120. As shown in FIG. 12B, sealing portion 120
is no longer in contact with the bottom surface of fixed element
304, and has moved a predetermined distance in a downward direction
as evidenced by the appearance of a section 141 of threaded portion
140 of sealing portion 120.
[0130] By releasing sealing portion 120 from the bottom surface of
fixed element 104, the user may now slide top cover 118 from first
end 107 of channel guide 116 to second end 109 of channel guide 116
or anywhere in between such as a predetermined distance from first
end 107 of channel guide 116. By moving top cover 118 to a
predetermined distance from first end 107 of channel guide 116 or
to second end 109 of channel guide 116, dispensing portion 114 of
fixed element 104 is revealed partially as shown in FIGS. 13A and
13B (at a fifth position) or fully, as shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B
(at a third position). These positions represent partially open,
unlocked or fully open, unlocked positions
[0131] In another embodiment, FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate
perspective views of a reclosable beverage container 90 that may be
completely constructed of aluminum. Beverage container 90 comprises
container body 900 and closure system 902. Closure system 902
comprises fixed element 904. As shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B movable
closure element comprises top cover 918 having grip 919, and rivet
960. FIG. 15B also shows movable closure element comprising sealing
portion 920 in addition to top cover 618 having grip 619, and
secured with rivet 960.
[0132] The exploded view of FIGS. 16A and 16B of closure system 902
illustrated in FIGS. 15A and 15B shows each of the components of
closure element 902. As shown, FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrate
components made of aluminum, with the exception of gasket 928,
which may be made of a polymeric material. Rivet 960 assists in
mating top end 924 of stem 922 with top cover 918. To accomplish
this, stem 922 is inserted through channel guide 916, allowing
fixed element 904 to be positioned against bottom surface 917 of
top cover 918. Gasket 928 can now be put in place on sealing
portion 920 having a male threaded surface 939 which mates with
bottom end 936 of stem 922. Bottom end 936 has female threaded
surface 938. In alternative embodiments, threaded surface 939 may
have a male thread, while threaded surface 938 may have a female
thread. FIGS. 16A and 16B also washer 962 which assists in mating
sealing portion 920 and stem 922.
[0133] In another embodiment, closure system 102' is illustrated in
FIGS. 17A and 17B and comprises fixed element 104' and movable
closure element comprising top cover 118' and sealing portion 120'.
Top cover 118' comprises grip 119'. In this embodiment, grip 119'
comprises ring 192' and lever 194' and assists the user in moving
top cover 118' in a desired direction, for example, horizontally,
and also allows sealing portion 120' to move in a desired
direction, for example, vertically. In other embodiments, the ring
may be optional. Top cover 118' also comprises openings 126' that
allow for securing of grip 119' to top cover 118' using a
fastener.
[0134] FIGS. 18A and 18B illustrate removable closure element 102'
in exploded views. As shown, grip 119' comprises ring 192' and
lever 194' which may be fastened to top cover 118' by placing
fastener 196' through opening 126' of top cover 118' and opening
193' of grip 119'. Fastener 196' may be any device or material
suitable for joining or affixing top cover 118' and grip 119'. For
example, fastener 196' may be a wire, a wire coated in plastic, a
hinge, spring, bolt, screw, nail, clasp, peg, or pin, for example,
a cotter pin. The fixed element 104', which may be made of one or
more components, as discussed above, comprises a dispensing portion
114' and a channel guide 116'. Sealing portion 120' comprises lever
receiving portion 198' which resides in channel 150'. Sealing
portion 120' may also comprise gasket 128' which is attached to
sealing portion 120' by mating member 132' with openings 134'. Top
cover 118' and grip 119' may be mated with fixed element 104' and
sealing portion 120' by inserting lever 194' through top cover 118'
and channel guide 116', and mating lever 194' with lever receiving
portion 198'. These components are connected by inserting fastener
101' through opening 103' of lever receiving portion 198' and
opening 105' of lever 194'.
[0135] FIGS. 19A-22B illustrate various positions of closure system
102' during operation. FIGS. 19A and 19B illustrate the closure
system in a closed, locked position, wherein top cover 118' is
covering dispensing portion 114' of fixed element 104'. Ring 192'
and lever 194' are resting horizontally on top cover 118' with
fastener 101' at first end 111' of opening 105'. Sealing portion
120' resides up against the bottom surface of fixed element 104',
with lever receiving portion 198' residing at a first end 107' of
channel guide 116'. In this closed position, closure system 102'
provides for a tight seal that prevents liquids from escaping a
container that utilizes this closure system.
[0136] FIGS. 20A and 20B illustrate closure system 102' in closed,
unlocked position, wherein dispensing portion 114' is still covered
by top cover 118' but sealing portion 120' no longer resides up
against the bottom surface of fixed element 104'. As shown, ring
192' has been moved such that lever 194' is no longer resting on
top cover 118' and is instead lever 194' is in a position
perpendicular to lever 194' in the closed position. Fastener 101'
follows opening 105' to reside at second end 113' of opening 105'
which causes lever receiving portion 198', and thus sealing portion
120', to move vertically downwards by a predetermined distance away
from the bottom surface of fixed element 104'.
[0137] FIGS. 21A and 21B illustrate closure system 102' in an open,
unlocked position, wherein top cover 118' is no longer covering
dispensing portion 114'. As shown, ring 192' and lever 194' are
still in a position wherein they are not resting on top cover 118'.
Lever 194' has moved in a horizontal direction, which also moves
top cover 118' and sealing portion 120' in a horizontal direction.
Lever receiving portion 198' now resides at second end 109' of
channel guide 116'. Sealing portion 120' remains at a predetermined
distance away from the bottom surface of fixed element 104'.
[0138] FIGS. 22A and 22B illustrate closure system 102' in an open,
locked position with sealing portion 120' up against the bottom
surface of fixed element 104'. Closure system 102' is in an open
position, wherein top cover 118' is no longer covering dispensing
portion 114'. As shown, ring 192' and lever 194' have been moved
and are now resting on top cover 118'. Fastener 101' follows
opening 105' to reside at first end 113' of opening 105' which
causes lever receiving portion 198', and thus sealing portion 120',
to move vertically upwards by a predetermined distance so that
sealing portion 120' resides up against the bottom surface of fixed
element 104'.
[0139] Any of the arrangements described above may be used for
beverages, foods, other consumable goods, or nonconsumable goods.
Additionally, as described above, containers may be made from any
material known to those skilled in the art, depending on the use
and function of the part or component. For example, container
bodies and base plates may be made from aluminum materials used in
the conventional manufacturing of can bodies. The fixed element,
top cover, and sealing portion, may be formed from common molding
and extrusion processes to create reproducible tolerances. The
movable closure elements may be formed from polypropylene, while
the can cover and stem may be manufactured from polyethylene
terephthalate. Alternatively, the can end may be manufactured from
aluminum materials used in the conventional manufacturing of can
bodies. The gasket may be made of silicon, rubber, plastic, or the
like.
[0140] Although the containers and methods of making them have been
described above in terms of certain examples and embodiments,
various alterations, modifications, substitutions, additions and
improvements will be readily apparent to the person of ordinary
skill in the art, given the benefit of the disclosure. Such
alterations, modifications, substitutions, additions and
improvements are intended to be within the scope and spirit of the
containers disclosed here. It is also intended that the indefinite
articles "a" and "an," as used above and in the appended claims,
mean one or more of the articles which they modify, and that the
terms "include," "including" and "having" are interchangeable with
the open ended term "comprising." Only the transitional phrases
"consisting of" and "consisting essentially of," are closed or
semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively, with respect to the
claims.
[0141] Use of ordinal terms such as "first," "second," "third," and
the like in the claims to modify a claim element does not by itself
connote any priority, precedence, or order of one claim element
over another or the temporal order in which acts of a method are
performed, but are used merely as labels to distinguish one claim
element having a certain name from another element having a same
name (but for the use of the ordinal term) to distinguish the claim
elements.
[0142] Those skilled in the art should appreciate that the
parameters and configurations described herein are exemplary and
that actual parameters and/or configurations will depend on the
specific application in which the systems and techniques of the
invention are used. Those skilled in the art should also recognize,
or be able to ascertain, using no more than routine
experimentation, equivalents to the specific examples of the
invention. It is therefore to be understood that the examples
described herein are presented by way of example only and that,
within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto,
the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically
described.
* * * * *