U.S. patent application number 14/205604 was filed with the patent office on 2014-07-10 for beverage delivery can.
This patent application is currently assigned to Ball Metal Beverage Container Corp.. The applicant listed for this patent is Ball Metal Beverage Container Corp., Boston Beer Corporation. Invention is credited to Oivind Brockmeier, Howard Chasteen, Andrew S. Gavrin, Peter D. Gladstone, Mark Jacober, Jeewon Jung, Charles James Koch, Zebulon Stevens Robbins, III.
Application Number | 20140190971 14/205604 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51060211 |
Filed Date | 2014-07-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140190971 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Robbins, III; Zebulon Stevens ;
et al. |
July 10, 2014 |
BEVERAGE DELIVERY CAN
Abstract
A beverage delivery can may comprise various configurations,
including various aperture shapes, sizes, and configurations and
various shapes, textures, configurations, and dimensions of the lid
and surface of the can. A beverage can may comprise various
exterior shapes such as a tapered shape, a faceted shape, a pint
glass shape and the like. In embodiments, the beverage may comprise
various types of nucleation devices. A beverage can may comprise a
vertical portion of the can, a continuous lip indentation
comprising an upper lip, a waist pinch, and a shoulder and the
like. In embodiments, various external packaging may be used with
one or more beverage delivery cans.
Inventors: |
Robbins, III; Zebulon Stevens;
(Duxbury, MA) ; Koch; Charles James; (Newton,
MA) ; Gladstone; Peter D.; (Arlington, MA) ;
Gavrin; Andrew S.; (Villanova, PA) ; Jacober;
Mark; (Arvada, CO) ; Chasteen; Howard;
(Westminster, CO) ; Jung; Jeewon; (Boston, MA)
; Brockmeier; Oivind; (Medford, MA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Ball Metal Beverage Container Corp.
Boston Beer Corporation |
Westminster
Boston |
CO
MA |
US
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Ball Metal Beverage Container
Corp.
Westminster
CO
Boston Beer Corporation
Boston
MA
|
Family ID: |
51060211 |
Appl. No.: |
14/205604 |
Filed: |
March 12, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13902437 |
May 24, 2013 |
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14205604 |
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14052052 |
Oct 11, 2013 |
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13902437 |
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61788156 |
Mar 15, 2013 |
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61651624 |
May 25, 2012 |
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61712688 |
Oct 11, 2012 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
220/269 ;
220/266; 220/284 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 7/04 20130101; B65D
17/521 20180101; B65D 71/46 20130101; B65D 71/14 20130101; B65D
2517/0011 20130101; B65D 2517/0013 20130101; B65D 17/4012
20180101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/269 ;
220/284; 220/266 |
International
Class: |
B65D 8/00 20060101
B65D008/00 |
Claims
1. A beverage can comprising: a lid; a continuous, circumferential
indentation proximal to the lid, adapted to facilitate receiving
the lip of a consumer of a beverage from the can, the indentation
characterized by: a waist pinch representing the location of the
smallest circumference of the indentation, the waist pinch located
on a plane substantially parallel to the lid; an upper lip having a
height in the range of 0.125 and 0.25 inches, wherein the upper lip
is disposed between the waist pinch and the lid, and is at an angle
in the range of 45 to 85 degrees from the plane of the waist pinch;
and a shoulder having a height in the range of 0.35 to 0.65 inches,
wherein the shoulder is disposed more distal from the lid of the
can than the waist pinch and is at an angle of 62 degrees from a
shoulder plane that is parallel to the plane of the waist
pinch.
2. The beverage can of claim 1 comprising at least one of a tapered
shape, a faceted shape, and a pint glass shape.
3. The beverage can of claim 1 further comprising a top that is
capable of being fully opened.
4. The beverage can of claim 1 further comprising a concave
top.
5. The beverage can of claim 1 wherein the lid is capable of
changing from opaque to transparent.
6. The beverage can of claim 1 wherein the lid comprises at least
two holes capable of being opened and positioned such that they are
in proximity to a user's nostrils during beverage consumption.
7. The beverage can of claim 1 further comprising a nucleation
device.
8. The beverage can of claim 1 wherein the lid has a diameter of at
least 2 and 1/8 inches.
9. The beverage can of claim 1 wherein the lid has a diameter of at
least 2 and 1/4 inches.
10. The beverage can of claim 1 wherein the lid has a diameter of
at least 2 and 3/8 inches.
11. The beverage can of claim 1 wherein the lid has a diameter of
at least 2 and 9/16 inches.
12. The beverage can of claim 1 further comprising an aperture
shaped such that a user's nose will enter the beverage can during
beverage consumption.
13. The beverage can of claim 1 further comprising an aperture in
the lid with the shape of at least one of a bell shape, a peanut
shape, a geometric shape, a converging shape, a diverging shape, a
shape with curvilinear contours, a shape that resembles visual
elements, and a shape that resembles a design element.
14. The beverage can of claim 1 further comprising a powder-coated
top cover.
15. The beverage can of claim 1 further comprising a surface
enhancement located at least on the outside of the upper lip.
16. The beverage can of claim 15 wherein the surface enhancement
comprises at least one of a rough surface and a surface with a
glass feel.
17. The beverage can of claim 1 further comprising a score line on
the lid, the beverage can further comprising a tab and a rim,
wherein the tab is capable of being slid along the rim to tear the
score line to fully open the top of the can.
18. The beverage can of claim 1 further comprising an aperture of
the lid, the aperture comprising a tab, wherein the tab is capable
of being twisted to puncture the lid of the can.
19. The beverage can of claim 18, wherein the tab is a slide tab
and further capable of being slid to tear the lid of the can, and
wherein the tab is capable of attaching to at least one of the side
and bottom of the can.
20. The beverage can of claim 18, wherein the tab is capable of
causing material to be removed from the can to create an opening in
the lid wherein at least one of the tab and material is capable of
being attached to the can.
21. The beverage can of claim 1, wherein the shoulder is at an
angle of 62 degrees from the shoulder plane that is parallel to the
plane of the waist pinch.
22. A beverage can comprising: a lid; a continuous, circumferential
indentation proximal to the lid, adapted to facilitate receiving
the lip of a consumer of a beverage from the can, the indentation
characterized by: a waist pinch representing the location of the
smallest circumference of the indentation, the waist pinch located
on a plane substantially parallel to the lid; an upper lip having a
height in the range of 0.125 and 0.25 inches, wherein the upper lip
is disposed between the waist pinch and the lid, and is at an angle
in the range of 45 to 85 degrees from the plane of the waist pinch;
and a shoulder having a height in the range of 0.35 to 0.65 inches,
wherein the shoulder is disposed more distal from the lid of the
can than the waist pinch, and is at an angle in the range of 60-74
degrees from a shoulder plane that is parallel to the plane of the
waist pinch.
23. The beverage can of claim 22, wherein the shoulder is disposed
more distal from the lid of the can than the waist pinch and is at
an angle of 60 degrees from the shoulder plane that is parallel to
the plane of the waist pinch.
24. The beverage can of claim 22, wherein the shoulder is disposed
more distal from the lid of the can than the waist pinch and is at
an angle of 61 degrees from the shoulder plane that is parallel to
the plane of the waist pinch.
25. The beverage can of claim 22, wherein the shoulder is disposed
more distal from the lid of the can than the waist pinch and is at
an angle of 63 degrees from the shoulder plane that is parallel to
the plane of the waist pinch.
26. The beverage can of claim 22, wherein the shoulder is disposed
more distal from the lid of the can than the waist pinch and is at
an angle of 64 degrees from the shoulder plane that is parallel to
the plane of the waist pinch.
27. The beverage can of claim 22, wherein the shoulder is disposed
more distal from the lid of the can than the waist pinch and is at
an angle of 65 degrees from the shoulder plane that is parallel to
the plane of the waist pinch.
28. The beverage can of claim 22, wherein the shoulder is disposed
more distal from the lid of the can than the waist pinch and is at
an angle of 66 degrees from the shoulder plane that is parallel to
the plane of the waist pinch.
29. The beverage can of claim 22, wherein the shoulder is disposed
more distal from the lid of the can than the waist pinch and is at
an angle of 67 degrees from the shoulder plane that is parallel to
the plane of the waist pinch.
30. The beverage can of claim 22, wherein the shoulder is disposed
more distal from the lid of the can than the waist pinch and is at
an angle of 68 degrees from the shoulder plane that is parallel to
the plane of the waist pinch.
31. The beverage can of claim 19, wherein the shoulder is disposed
more distal from the lid of the can than the waist pinch and is at
an angle of 69 degrees from the shoulder plane that is parallel to
the plane of the waist pinch.
32. The beverage can of claim 22, wherein the shoulder is disposed
more distal from the lid of the can than the waist pinch and is at
an angle of 70 degrees from the shoulder plane that is parallel to
the plane of the waist pinch.
33. The beverage can of claim 22, wherein the shoulder is disposed
more distal from the lid of the can than the waist pinch and is at
an angle of 71 degrees from the shoulder plane that is parallel to
the plane of the waist pinch.
34. The beverage can of claim 22, wherein the shoulder is disposed
more distal from the lid of the can than the waist pinch and is at
an angle of 72 degrees from the shoulder plane that is parallel to
the plane of the waist pinch.
35. The beverage can of claim 22, wherein the shoulder is disposed
more distal from the lid of the can than the waist pinch and is at
an angle of 73 degrees from the shoulder plane that is parallel to
the plane of the waist pinch.
36. The beverage can of claim 22, wherein the shoulder is disposed
more distal from the lid of the can than the waist pinch and is at
an angle of 74 degrees from the shoulder plane that is parallel to
the plane of the waist pinch.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 61/788,156, titled BEVERAGE DELIVERY CAN, filed
Mar. 15, 2013. This application is a continuation in part of U.S.
application Ser. No. 13/902,437, titled BEVERAGE DELIVERY CAN,
filed May 24, 2013, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 61/651,624, titled BEVERAGE DELIVERY CAN, filed May
25, 2012. This application is also a continuation in part of U.S.
application Ser. No. 14/052,052, titled BEVERAGE DELIVERY CAN,
filed Oct. 11, 2013, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 61/712,688, titled BEVERAGE DELIVERY CAN, filed
Oct. 11, 2012.
[0002] Each of the above applications is hereby incorporated by
reference herein in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0003] 1. Field
[0004] The invention is related to the field of beverage delivery,
and methods and systems for the creation of a beverage delivery
can.
[0005] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0006] Beverage cans have traditionally been considered to be less
desirable drinking vessels than other vessels, such as the glass
bottle, for reasons relating in part to aesthetic and tactile
qualities, limitations on liquid flow from a can, ergonomic
requirements of drinking from a can, and perceptual biases among
beverage consumers. Beverage cans, such as beer cans, may have less
weight than bottles or glasses and therefore feel less substantial
to a consumer. The aperture of a standard can may restrict liquid
flow from the can and require placing the mouth on what is
perceived as a sharp edge. The aperture size and location on the
can may limit the aroma of the beverage from reaching the sinus of
the beverage drinker. The flat lid, or top, of beverage cans may
limit the angle at which the can may be lifted relative to the
user's mouth due to the fact that the user's nose is pressed to the
lid as the angle increases. This may be uncomfortable for the user
and also force the user to bend their neck to an uncomfortable
angle in order to empty the beverage can of its contents. Beverage
cans may also be perceived, especially among consumers of adult
beverages, such as beer, as a distribution method of lower quality
beverages. Therefore there is a need for methods and systems of
creating beverage delivery cans that embody improved aesthetic and
tactile qualities and have improved aperture and shape to permit
greater sensory enjoyment of a can's contents while consuming the
contents in an ergonomically comfortable posture.
SUMMARY
[0007] Provided in this disclosure are a variety of methods,
structures and systems for improving beverage cans, the manufacture
of beverage cans, and the experience of drinking beverage cans.
These include methods and systems for improving the aesthetic
qualities of the beer can, for improving the sensory experience of
drinking a beverage, and the like.
[0008] In embodiments, a beverage can may comprise a continuous,
circumferential indentation proximal to the lid of the can, adapted
to facilitate receiving the lip of a consumer of a beverage from
the can, where the indentation may be characterized by a waist
pinch representing the location of the smallest circumference of
the indentation, the waist pinch located on a plane substantially
parallel to the lid of the beverage can; an upper lip that may have
a height in the range of 0.125 and 0.25 inches, wherein the upper
lip may be disposed between the waist pinch and the lid of the can
at an angle in the range of 45 to 85 degrees from the plane of the
waist pinch; and a shoulder that may have a height in the range of
0.35 to 0.65 inches, wherein the shoulder may be disposed more
distal from the lid of the can than the waist pinch and at an angle
of less than 74 degrees, such as 62 degrees, from a shoulder plane
that is parallel to the plane of the waist pinch.
[0009] In embodiments, a beverage can may comprise a continuous,
circumferential indentation proximal to the lid of the can, adapted
to facilitate receiving the lip of a consumer of a beverage from
the can, where the indentation may be characterized by a waist
pinch representing the location of the smallest circumference of
the indentation, the waist pinch located on a plane substantially
parallel to the lid of the beverage can; an upper lip that may have
a height in the range of 0.125 and 0.25 inches, wherein the upper
lip may be disposed between the waist pinch and the lid of the can
at an angle in the range of 45 to 85 degrees from the plane of the
waist pinch; and a shoulder that may have a height in the range of
0.35 to 0.65 inches, wherein the shoulder may be disposed more
distal from the lid of the can than the waist pinch and at an angle
in the range of 60 to 74 degrees from a shoulder plane that is
parallel to the plane of the waist pinch.
[0010] In embodiments, the beverage can may include a shoulder that
is disposed more distal from the lid of the can than the waist
pinch at an angle of 60 degrees from a shoulder plane that is
parallel to the plane of the waist pinch.
[0011] In embodiments, the beverage can may include a shoulder that
is disposed more distal from the lid of the can than the waist
pinch at an angle of 61 degrees from a shoulder plane that is
parallel to the plane of the waist pinch.
[0012] In embodiments, the beverage can may include a shoulder that
is disposed more distal from the lid of the can than the waist
pinch at an angle of 62 degrees from a shoulder plane that is
parallel to the plane of the waist pinch.
[0013] In embodiments, the beverage can may include a shoulder that
is disposed more distal from the lid of the can than the waist
pinch at an angle of 63 degrees from a shoulder plane that is
parallel to the plane of the waist pinch.
[0014] In embodiments, the beverage can may include a shoulder that
is disposed more distal from the lid of the can than the waist
pinch at an angle of 64 degrees from a shoulder plane that is
parallel to the plane of the waist pinch.
[0015] In embodiments, the beverage can may include a shoulder that
is disposed more distal from the lid of the can than the waist
pinch at an angle of 65 degrees from a shoulder plane that is
parallel to the plane of the waist pinch.
[0016] In embodiments, the beverage can may include a shoulder that
is disposed more distal from the lid of the can than the waist
pinch at an angle of 66 degrees from a shoulder plane that is
parallel to the plane of the waist pinch.
[0017] In embodiments, the beverage can may include a shoulder that
is disposed more distal from the lid of the can than the waist
pinch at an angle of 67 degrees from a shoulder plane that is
parallel to the plane of the waist pinch.
[0018] In embodiments, the beverage can may include a shoulder that
is disposed more distal from the lid of the can than the waist
pinch at an angle of 68 degrees from a shoulder plane that is
parallel to the plane of the waist pinch.
[0019] In embodiments, the beverage can may include a shoulder that
is disposed more distal from the lid of the can than the waist
pinch at an angle of 69 degrees from a shoulder plane that is
parallel to the plane of the waist pinch.
[0020] In embodiments, the beverage can may include a shoulder that
is disposed more distal from the lid of the can than the waist
pinch at an angle of 70 degrees from a shoulder plane that is
parallel to the plane of the waist pinch.
[0021] In embodiments, the beverage can may include a shoulder that
is disposed more distal from the lid of the can than the waist
pinch at an angle of 71 degrees from a shoulder plane that is
parallel to the plane of the waist pinch.
[0022] In embodiments, the beverage can may include a shoulder that
is disposed more distal from the lid of the can than the waist
pinch at an angle of 72 degrees from a shoulder plane that is
parallel to the plane of the waist pinch.
[0023] In embodiments, the beverage can may include a shoulder that
is disposed more distal from the lid of the can than the waist
pinch at an angle of 73 degrees from a shoulder plane that is
parallel to the plane of the waist pinch.
[0024] In embodiments, the beverage can may include a shoulder that
is disposed more distal from the lid of the can than the waist
pinch at an angle of 74 degrees from a shoulder plane that is
parallel to the plane of the waist pinch.
[0025] In embodiments, the beverage can may comprise at least one
of a tapered shape, a faceted shape and a pint glass shape.
[0026] In embodiments, the beverage can may comprise a top that is
capable of being fully opened.
[0027] In embodiments the beverage can may comprise a concave
top.
[0028] In embodiments, the beverage can may comprise a lid that is
capable of changing from opaque to transparent.
[0029] In embodiments, the beverage can may comprise a lid
comprising at least two holes capable of being opened and
positioned such that they are in proximity to a user's nostrils
during beverage consumption.
[0030] In embodiments, the beverage can my comprise a nucleation
device.
[0031] In embodiments, the beverage can may comprise a lid with a
diameter of 2 and 2/16 inches, 2 and 4/16 inches, 2 and 6/16
inches, or 2 and 9/16 inches.
[0032] In embodiments, the beverage can may comprise an aperture
shaped such that a user's nose may enter the beverage can during
beverage consumption.
[0033] In embodiments, the beverage can may comprise an aperture in
the lid with the shape of at least one of a bell shape, a peanut
shape, a geometric shape, a converging shape, a diverging shape, a
shape with curvilinear contours, a shape that resembles visual
elements, and a shape that resembles a design element.
[0034] In embodiments, the beverage can may comprise a
powder-coated top cover.
[0035] In embodiments, the beverage can may comprise a surface
enhancement located at least on the outside of the upper lip. In
embodiments, a surface enhancement may comprise at least one of a
rough surface and a surface with a glass feel.
[0036] In embodiments, the beverage can may comprise a score line
on the lid, and the can may comprise a tab and a rim, wherein the
tab may be capable of being slid along the rim to tear the score
line to fully open the top of the can.
[0037] In embodiments, the beverage can may comprise an aperture of
the lid, the aperture may comprise a tab wherein the tab may be
capable of being twisted to puncture the lid of the can. In
embodiments, the tab may be a slide tab and further capable of
being slid to tear the lid from the can, and the tab may be capable
of attaching to at least one of the side and bottom of the can. In
embodiments, the tab may be capable of causing material to be
removed from the can to create an opening in the lid wherein at
least one of the tab and material may be capable of being attached
to the can.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0038] FIG. 1 illustrates beverage can aperture shapes enabling
improved pour and aroma release qualities.
[0039] FIGS. 2 A-B illustrate an example dimension of a bell-shaped
aperture.
[0040] FIGS. 3 A-B illustrate an example bell-shaped aperture and
corresponding tab apparatus.
[0041] FIGS. 4 A-B illustrate an example dimension of a
peanut-shaped aperture.
[0042] FIGS. 5 A-B illustrate an example peanut-shaped aperture and
corresponding tab apparatus.
[0043] FIG. 6a illustrates a ceramic nucleation device in a plastic
frame.
[0044] FIG. 6b illustrates a snap-on top cover with a recessed
score line.
[0045] FIG. 7a illustrates nucleation device using a plastic disc
with micro etching placed on the bottom surface of a beverage
can.
[0046] FIG. 7b illustrates a snap-on top cover with a folded top
cover edge.
[0047] FIG. 8A illustrates nucleation ring placed on the bottom
surface of a beverage can.
[0048] FIG. 8B illustrates a snap-on top cover with a folded cover
edge and wide aperture.
[0049] FIGS. 9 A-B illustrates a tapered shape beverage delivery
can.
[0050] FIGS. 10 A-B illustrate a faceted shape beverage delivery
can.
[0051] FIGS. 11A-B illustrates a pint glass shape beverage delivery
can.
[0052] FIG. 12 illustrates an example embodiment of a four-pack
carrier for beverage cans.
[0053] FIG. 13 illustrates an example embodiment of a four-pack
carrier for beverage cans that includes dust cover lids for each
can.
[0054] FIG. 14 illustrates an example dimension of a pint glass
shape beverage can.
[0055] FIGS. 15 A-B illustrate one embodiment of an opening method
of a pint glass shape beverage can.
[0056] FIGS. 16 A-B illustrate an external packaging embodiment for
pint shape beverage cans.
[0057] FIGS. 17A and B depict example measurements of a lip
indentation for a beverage can.
[0058] FIG. 18 depicts a 12 oz. beverage can featuring a lip
indentation.
[0059] FIG. 19 depicts laser etching in the lip indentation of a
beverage can.
[0060] FIG. 20 depicts aroma holes placed in the lid of a beverage
can.
[0061] FIG. 21 depicts example embodiments of end features for a
beverage can.
[0062] FIG. 22 depicts example measurements of a lip indentation
and features of a beverage can.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0063] The present invention provides for an improved beverage can.
Drinking from currently available beverage cans is generally
perceived as a casual and less refined experience relative to
serving or drinking the same beverage from a glass vessel, such as
a bottle. Cans typically have less heft, sharper features, such as
around the aperture, or opening of the can, from which the beverage
is consumed, and may also lead to uncomfortable drinking
ergonomics, such as requiring the consumer to physically bend one's
neck to a less conformable degree than with a bottle, due in part
to aperture size and shape. Currently available beverage cans are
recognized as a convenient way to package and store beverages, with
a less expensive production cost. Cans are fundamentally designed
to store conveniently and open easily. Because current beverage can
production and design are typically optimized for low cost,
innovation has often been constrained to fit within the existing
manufacturing operations. As a result, the look, feel, and overall
sensory experience of a beverage consumed from a can may lack in
taste and aroma, or be perceived by the consumer to lack such
qualities, relative to other drinking vessel options. As taste is
only one aspect of beverage enjoyment, the sight, feel and sound of
the beverage can may influence the beverage drinking experience.
The beverage can packaging, for example, may establish initial
expectations, such as design and visual elements, which are then
transferred by the drinker to the perceived taste of the beer.
Aroma, another important factor in the drinking experience, may
also be impacted by the packaging, particularly the shape and size
of the container and drinking aperture, which may influence the
intensity of the aroma.
[0064] Referring to FIG. 1, in embodiments of the present
invention, a plurality of beverage can aperture shapes, sizes and
configurations are presented 100. In embodiments, the beverage can
may have an aperture opening for drinking the beverage that, when
opened, not only allows for the flow of liquid from the can, but
for the exit of the beverage aroma from the can in sufficient
amount and proximity to the nose of the consumer that the drinking
experience is multi-sensory to a greater degree than in the
currently available can apertures. In embodiments the aperture is
constructed to allow the nose of the drinker to enter the can
during beverage consumption, allowing the drinking to experience
the aroma of the beverage in a way that is similar to consuming the
beverage from an open-top container, such as a glass. In
embodiments of the present invention, the aperture may take on a
plurality of shapes including, but not limited to the shapes and
configurations presented in FIG. 1. Shapes may include, but are not
limited to, a bell shape 202A (as shown in FIGS. 2 A-B and 3 A-B),
a peanut shape 402A (as shown in FIGS. 4 A-B and 5 A-B), a
geometric shape, a converging/diverging shape, a shape with
curvilinear contours, or shapes that resemble design/visual
elements. A design/visual element may include, for example, a
design element that resembles the logo or design element of a
beverage manufacturer, to reinforce the association of the brand of
the manufacturer with the beverage can.
[0065] Each shape of aperture may have a pull back tab, a slide tab
or a slightly longer tab. In embodiments, the tab, or material that
is removed or displaced from a beverage can, may be enabled to be
fully removed from the beverage can, such that it is no longer
physically attached to the can, and placed in or on the beverage
can or carrier from which the beverage can was removed. In an
example embodiment, a tab or can top, after removal from the can,
may be attached to the bottom of the beverage can using a snap,
magnet, physical locking device, or some other means of securing
the tab or top to the beverage can or the carrier from which the
beverage can was removed. In another embodiment, the tab, or
material that is removed or displaced from a beverage can may be
secured to the carrier in which the beverage cans was packaged
among a plurality of cans, such as within a "six-pack" or
"four-pack." For example, the act of physically removing a beverage
can from the carrier may cause the tab or top of the can to be
removed from the can and remain secured to the carrier. In another
example, the act of physically removing a beverage can from the
carrier may not cause the tab or top of the beverage can to be
removed, but instead the carrier may be functionally fitted with an
area enabled to receive and secure a beverage can tab or top, such
as using the methods of securing can tabs and tops, as described
herein. In another embodiment, the tab or top of the beverage can
may be partially removed from the beverage can, leaving behind
material that may function as a hinge, permitting the user to bend
the tab or top over to the side of the can where it may be secured,
such as using a snap, magnet, physical locking device or some other
means of securing the tab or top to the beverage can. As shown in
FIGS. 3 and 5, a beverage can constructed according to the methods
and systems of the present invention may include an aperture tab
302A that may be opened by twisting the tab in order to puncture
the lid of the can. Continuing the example, further twisting of the
tab may cause a score line in the lid of the can to become severed,
allowing the user of the can to depress the tab apparatus into the
can, such as by forcing the tongue into the depression created in
the lid after the score line is severed by the twisting of the tab.
In embodiments this type of tab apparatus may be applied to a
plurality of aperture shapes and sizes, as described herein. In
other example embodiments, the tab may be completely removable from
the can, or may be a slide tab that attaches to the bottom or side
of the can. A geometric shape used for the aperture shape may be,
but is not limited to, a triangle, square, rectangle, hexagon,
octagon, pyramid, organic shape, asymmetrical shape, or some other
shape type. A converging/diverging shape may diverge toward the
mouth and nose and converge in the middle. A bell shape may be a
wide curve near the mouth, extending up more narrowly toward the
nose. Example dimensions of a bell-shaped and peanut-shaped
aperture are provided in FIGS. 2 and 4, respectively. Wider
apertures may permit a user's nose to enter the vessel of the
beverage can, as opposed to touching the exterior surface of the
top of the can. By entering the can, the user's nose is in closer
proximity to the liquid in the can and better able to smell the
aroma of the liquid and better sense the flavor of the liquid. This
may provide the user with a more comfortable drinking experience
that is more analogous to the experience of drinking from a glass
or other type of vessel that does not have a lid or top. Wider
apertures may also permit the liquid within the can to be better
viewed by the user. For example, a beverage such as beer may have a
plurality of colors depending on the beer type. By providing a
wider aperture, a user may have better visibility into the can and
be able to better appreciate distinctive colors, carbonation, or
other beverage qualities. Wider apertures along the circumference
where the beverage is to be consumed may facilitate a smoother pour
from the can. The smoother pour may improve beverage flow into the
mouth, such as a continuous flow as opposed to the gurgling pour
present with a too-small-aperture that requires intermittent
interruptions to the flow in order to permit air intake to the can.
The smoother pour may also facilitate a more gentle flow from the
can, allowing the beverage, such as beer, to be poured into a
drinking glass with less disruption to the liquid flow, permitting
a more desirable mixture of liquid beer and carbonation (i.e.,
"head") in the glass once the entirety of the can is emptied into
the drinking glass.
[0066] In embodiments, a beverage can lid or top may be transparent
in order to permit viewing the contents of the can by a user or
prospective buyer of the beverage. The transparent material used to
make the can top may be engraved, etched or marked using some other
means, including by using a second material to apply to the
transparent material, for the purpose of placing an aesthetic
feature on the material, such as a company logo, design, or other
aesthetic element. In another embodiment, the transparent material
may be engraved, etched or marked using some other means, including
by using a second material to apply to the transparent material,
for the purpose of placing words, information, or data on the
material. For example, a transparent lid that permits viewing the
beer contained in the beverage can may be etched with the words
"See for yourself the amber color that won First Place in
International Beer Contest X." In another embodiment, a beverage
can lid may be made to be opaque during transport and storage but,
upon opening, become clear, for example, by moving a facility that
is comprised of a slat, or plurality of slats that, when moved in a
direction, causes the can top to convert from an opaque to a
transparent state. In another embodiment, a beverage can lid or top
may consist of a fan facility comprised of slats that are arrayed
in 360 degrees along the plane of the beverage can top, or arrayed
in 360 degrees and conforming to a shape other than a flat plane,
for example, a concave, conical, or other non-flat shape.
Continuing the embodiment, the fan facility may be opened and
closed by a user of the fan by twisting or turning the can top so
that the individual slats in the fan facility fold into one
another, providing an aperture opening in the can through which the
beverage may be viewed, smelled, and consumed.
[0067] Referring to FIGS. 6b, 7b, and 8b, in embodiments, a
beverage can may have a "lip feel" that is created by the shape,
texture and dimension of the beverage can lid. For example, as
depicted in FIG. 6b, a beverage can lid 602B may have a snap-on top
cover 604B with a deep recess. The recessed portion of the lid may
have a score line and folded top cover edge 608B. The score line
may be a weak point in the beverage can material that allows the
can to be opened by a user action such as twisting, pushing, or
manipulating the can lid in some other manner. Referring to FIG.
7b, a beverage can lid 702B may have a snap-on top cover 704B with
a lid depression that is shallower than that depicted in FIG. 6b,
with the gradated depression leading to an aperture of a different
size that is depicted in FIG. 6b. FIG. 8b depicts another example
of a snap-on top cover 802B. In this example, the removal of the
snap-on top cover leaves an aperture that is nearly the entire
diameter of the beverage can and in this way simulates the look and
feel of a beverage glass insofar as there is virtually no lid
material present that is horizontal to the can.
[0068] In embodiments, a beverage can may incorporate surface
features that enhance the drinking experience. Such surface
enhancements may impact the "lip feel" or "mouth feel" by altering
the typical feeling of one's lips touching a metal can. The lip
feel may be enhanced by a "Chipped Coffee Cup" application to
simulate drinking from the edge of a glass. The lip feel may be
included in the stamping/end cap manufacturer process or done
during the post-processing phase of manufacturing. The surface of
the beverage can may be given a rough texture by physically
manipulating the surface, such as mechanically with a drill, file,
sandpaper or some other device that is capable of roughening the
beverage can surface. In embodiments, material may be added to the
beverage can material to alter is smoothness or roughness, such as
by covering the can with a resin, epoxy, polymer, plastic, glass,
sand, silicone, fiber, or some other material (together
"roughening/softening agents") capable of adhering to, or being
applied within a beverage can material, such as aluminum, steel, or
plastic. For example, such roughening/softening agents may be used
to create a beverage can that simulates the feel of glass to the
hand and/or mouth. In another example, a rough surface in an area
of the beverage can to which the mouth makes contact may "awaken"
the drinker by providing an element of surprise relative to the
normal feel of touching one's lips to a can, and may also provide a
different stimulus to the lips that is pleasurable and/or novel. In
embodiments, the material used to roughen or smooth the beverage
can may be applied to a surface coating that is applied to the
beverage can, such as through a spray or dip process in which the
can is coated in a substance capable of receiving and adhering to a
roughening/softening agent, as described herein. In embodiments, a
beverage can may have its surface texture altered by first dipping
the can in a substance that adheres to the can and is capable of
receiving and hold particles, and a second dipping process using
the same can in which the can, having been coated in the substance,
is dipped into a roughening/softening agent. Other deposition
techniques may be used in conjunction with roughening/softening
agents including, but not limited to, vapor, temperature
manipulation, or some other deposition technique. In embodiments, a
beverage can may have its surface texture altered by physically or
chemically etching the surface of the can. Roughening/softening
agents may be used to alter the surface of both the exterior and in
the interior of the can. In embodiments, a beverage can's surface
may be molded to provide texture and/or form. In embodiments,
roughening/softening agents may be used to mimic the look and or
feel of a material other than the material from which a beverage
can is made. For example, resin, polymer or actual glass may be
used for the upper portion of a can where a user's mouth touches
the can to provide a "glass feel" to a can that is otherwise not
made of glass.
[0069] In embodiments, a beverage can may include a nucleation
device. A beverage can may have different exterior shapes. Exterior
shapes may include, but are not limited to, a tapered shape, a
faceted shape, a pint glass shape, or some other exterior shape.
Each shape may have internal features, construction, opening
method, and external packaging, including external packaging that
is used to join a plurality of cans together for the purposes of
transportation.
[0070] The term nucleation, as used herein, refers to the process
that may occur when there is a change in pressure inside a vessel,
such as that caused by opening a beverage can, that may cause
dissolved carbon dioxide to begin escaping from the liquid
contained within the beverage can. Nucleation sites may exist on an
interior surface of a glass, a bottle, or a beverage can in the
form of microscopic cracks, scratches, particles adhered to the
surface (e.g., fiber particles from a dish cloth), or some other
surface defect, deformation, or surface feature. Nucleation sites
may also be intentionally created on the interior surface of the
beverage can, such as according to the methods and systems of
nucleation enhancement as described herein. As carbon dioxide
releases from the liquid, it may gather at a nucleation site until
it reaches a critical volume when it can release into the liquid,
for example in the form of a gas bubble, and rise to the liquid
surface. As nucleation occurs, it may form columns of gaseous
bubbles rising in the liquid and in some beverages, such as beer,
cause a foam or a "head" to form at the surface of the beer. This
may have the effect of increasing the sensory enjoyment of the
beer, as the nucleation may increase the flavor and aroma release
from the beer. Further, the foam created by the nucleation may be
visually appealing to the drinker, as a proper foam or "good head"
is a quality that is recognized and preferred by many beer
drinkers. Increased nucleation, such as that created using the
methods and systems described herein, may also be more readily
seen, smelled and appreciated when occurring within a beverage can
with a larger aperture that permits viewing into can and/or placing
one's nose in closer proximity to the liquid than is permitted by
traditional cans with smaller apertures. FIGS. 6A, 7A, and 8A
depict a plurality of example nucleation devices of a beverage can
according to the present invention. In embodiments the nucleation
device may be, but is not limited to, a ceramic nucleator 602A,
such as housed within a plastic frame (FIG. 6a), a disk attachment
facility, a ceramic facility, or a laser etching. The disc
attachment nucleation facility may be, but is not limited to, a
plastic disc 702A with micro etching on its surface, as shown in
FIG. 7a, which may attach to the bottom of the beverage can. The
ceramic facility may be, but is not limited to, a ceramic nucleator
602A at the bottom of the beverage can in a plastic frame that
extends from the bottom to the top of the beverage can, as shown in
FIG. 6a. The laser etching nucleation facility may be, but is not
limited to, a nucleation ring 802A that is laser etched through the
interior coating of a beverage can, as shown in FIG. 8a. Nucleation
may improve the quality, texture and carbonation of the beverage
housed in the can.
[0071] In embodiments, a beverage can may have a plurality of
exterior shapes. Shapes may include, but are not limited to, a
tapered shape 902A (FIG. 9A), a faceted shape 1002A (FIG. 10A), or
a pint glass shape 1102A (FIG. 11A). Referring to FIGS. 9 A-B, the
feature of the tapered shape may include, but are not limited to, a
powdercoated top cover 904A, flush surfaces 908A between the top
and the body, heavy gauge walls 910A, bell shaped aperture 902B,
deep concave surface 904B, and a wide rim 908B. The concavity of
the beverage can top may serve to increase the comfort with which
the beverage may be consumed insofar as the concavity may permit
the contents of the beverage can to be fully consumed from a more
ergonomically comfortable position for the user. By having a
concave depression in the top of the can, a user's upper-lip, nose
and other facial features may be able to break the horizontal plane
where a typical beverage can top would be located, making the
drinking experience more comfortable and analogous to drinking from
a glass, such as a beer pint glass. In combination with an
aperture, an increased aperture size and/or anthropomorphic shape,
as described herein, the concavity of the top may serve as a
chamber in which the aroma of the beverage is momentarily trapped
in close proximity to the user's nose. This may increase the
enjoyment and appeal of the beverage. In embodiments, in addition
to the concave top including an aperture through which a user may
consume the beverage, the concave top may have another opening, or
plurality of openings, that enable greater aroma from the beverage
to release from the can. An example of an opening may include, but
may not be limited to, those depicted in FIG. 20 at 2002. In
embodiments, as nucleation occurs within a beverage, such as a
beer, and rises to the top of the liquid as a foam, the concavity
of the top may enable the foam to remain held within the depression
of the top, as opposed to pouring over the edge as it would in a
typical can with a flat top. The concavity may also enable for
liquid to pour back into the can, such as when a user lowers the
can from the mouth, instead of having the liquid flow along the
surface of the can top or down the side of the can. The concavity
may also, in addition to providing an area for the foam of the
beverage to gather, may also enable the foam to settle back into
the beverage can over time in a manner analogous to the rise and
fall of foam within, for example, a beer glass. In embodiments, the
shape of the concavity may be molded. In an example, the concavity
may be molded to include the logo of a beverage company or some
other type of aesthetic feature. The construction details of a
tapered shape may include, but are limited to, a ceramic nucleator
in a plastic frame, plastic disk nucleator, or laser ring
nucleator, a snap-on top cover, and a recessed score line and
folded top cover edge. An example opening method of a tapered shape
beverage can may include, but is not limited, to twisting the tab
to puncture the lid, continuing to twist the tab to start tearing
the score line, and pushing the tongue into the can to fully open
the aperture. FIGS. 12 and 13 depict sample embodiments of external
packaging solutions that be used on the tapered shape beverage can,
which may include, but is not limited to, a four pack carrier 1202
and 1302 that protects the top of the can and openings on the front
and back that shows the unique shape of the can. Similar packaging
solutions may be used for other external beverage can shapes, as
described herein.
[0072] FIGS. 10 A-B depict a beverage can with a faceted shape.
Example features of the faceted shape may include, but are not
limited to, a powdercoated top cover 904A, structural facets 1004A
to provide stiffness, insulating paper sleeve label 1008A, peanut
shaped aperture 1002B on a slightly concave surface 1004B, and a
wide rim 1008B. The construction details of a faceted shape
beverage can may include, but are limited to, a ceramic nucleator
in a plastic frame, plastic disk nucleator, or laser ring
nucleator, snap-on top cover, recessed score line, and folded top
cover edge. The opening method of the faceted shape may include but
is not limited to twisting the tab to puncture the lid, continuing
to twist the tab to start tearing the score line, and pushing the
tongue into the can to fully open the aperture.
[0073] FIGS. 11A-B, 14 and 15 depict a beverage can with a pint
glass shape. As illustrated by FIG. 11A-B, features of the pint
glass shape may include, but are not limited to, a powdercoated top
cover 904A, a body shape modeled after the pint glass 1104A and a
full open aperture 1102B. FIG. 14 illustrates an example of the
dimensions of one embodiment of the pint glass shape beverage can
1400. The construction details of a pint glass shape, which may
include, but are limited to, a ceramic nucleator in a plastic
frame, plastic disk nucleator, or laser ring nucleator, a snap-on
top cover, a recessed score line and folded top cover edge. FIGS.
15 A-B illustrate one embodiment of an opening method of the pint
glass shape, which may include but is not limited to pulling out
the lock on the edge of the top of the can 1502A, sliding the tab
on the top of the can along the rim to tear the score line 1504A
and continuing until the top is fully opened 1508A. FIGS. 16 A-B
depict the external packaging solution, which may include, but is
not limited to a four-pack carrier 1602A where each beverage can
reside within a hole on the bottom of a rectangular box. A similar
packaging solution may be used for other external beverage can
shapes, as described herein.
[0074] FIGS. 17 A and B and FIG. 22 depict a beverage can with a
continuous lip indentation along the circumference of the can and
near the top of the can, beneath the lid, into which a user of the
beverage can may place his lower lip while drinking from the can.
Based at least in part on the lip indentation, the user's lip may
engage a larger area of the can before and during drinking a liquid
from the beverage can. This greater surface contact may enhance the
user's experience of drinking from the can and may also have
practical advantages over a standard straight-sided can. For
example, the sensory experience of drinking from a can with the lip
indentation may be enhanced by stimulating a greater number of
nerve endings in the lips. Because the average consumer likely has
experience drinking from standard aluminum cans that do not feature
a lip indentation, the novelty of placing one's lip within the lip
indentation may increase the pleasure of the experience and impart
a novel pleasure to the experience of drinking a fluid within the
can. Practical advantages of drinking from a can with the lip
indentation may include, but are not limited to, the user having a
greater width of mouth area near the aperture of the can from which
the liquid within the can will pour.
[0075] In an embodiment of the disclosure, this lip indentation may
feature an "upper lip" 1702A that is the upper portion of the
indentation, a "waist pinch" 1704A that is the inner-most portion
of the indentation, and a "shoulder" 1708A that is the lower-most
portion of the lip indentation. In an example and referring to FIG.
17 A, the lip indentation may feature an upper lip 1702A that
extends 0.15 inches in height from a plane of the lid to a plane of
the waist pinch 1704A, and which slopes inward from the lid of the
can towards the center of the can, to the waist pinch 1704A, at an
angle of 78.degree. (where the 78 degrees is measured between the
upper lip and the plane of the waist pinch outside of the can).
Continuing the example, the waist pinch 1704A may have a smaller
diameter than the can lid, from which the shoulder 1708A extends
downwardly and outwardly until meeting the vertical portion of the
can's circumference at a shoulder plane that is parallel to the
plane of the waist pinch. In this example, the shoulder extends for
0.5 inches in height from the plane of the waist pinch to the
shoulder plane, and forms an angle of 63 degrees with the shoulder
plane inside of the can. In embodiments, as depicted in FIG. 17 B
for example, the lip 1702A have a height in the range of
0.125-0.175 inches from the plane of the lid to the plane of the
waist pinch, and may slope inward towards the center of the can to
the waist pinch 1704A at an angle in the range of
45.degree.-80.degree. from the plane of the waist pinch. In
embodiments, the shoulder may have a height in the range of
0.35-0.65 inches from the plane of the waste pinch to the shoulder
plane at an angle in the range of 60.degree.-74.degree. from the
shoulder plane.
[0076] Further, referring to FIG. 22, the lip may have a height in
the range of 0.21 inches from the plane of the lid to the plane of
the waist pinch, and may slope inward towards the center of the can
to the waist pinch at an angle of 81.degree. from the plane of the
waist pinch. In embodiments, the shoulder may have a height of 0.48
inches from the plane of the waist pinch to the shoulder plane an
angle of 62.degree. from the shoulder plane. In various embodiments
as described herein, for example, the lip may have a height in the
range of 0.125-0.25 inches from the plane of the lid to the plane
of the waist pinch, and may slope inward towards the center of the
can to the waist pinch at an angle in the range of
45.degree.-85.degree. from the plane of the waist pinch. In
embodiments, the shoulder may have a height in the range of
0.35-0.65 inches from the plane of the waist pinch to the shoulder
plane, forming an angle in the range of 60.degree.-74.degree. with
the shoulder plane. The features of a beverage can with a
continuous lip indentation as described herein may provide various
benefits. By way of example, the user may not feel like the liquid
will spill out of the sides of his/her mouth when drinking as he or
she may with a traditional can. In embodiments, the user's lip may
go under the can and provide for the user to open his/her mouth or
open his/her mouth more than with a can without this feature. This
may allow air to go into the user's nose via the user's nasal
passage which may carry aroma into the user's nasal passages. In
embodiments, this may specifically allow air from the user's mouth
to get into the user's nose via a nasal passage and may enhance the
drinking experience by allowing air and/or aroma from the beverage
into the user's olfactory system. In embodiments, the user may not
need to hold his/her head back when drinking. In embodiments, the
beverage can having a continuous lip indentation may allow the
liquid to be deposited farther back inside the user's mouth
allowing for a more blended taste. For example, a user may taste
sweet, sour, and bitter from the tip of the tongue to the back of
the tongue respectively. By depositing the liquid farther back on
the user's tongue, the user's taste buds may be stimulated at the
same time causing a more blended taste.
[0077] In embodiments, the lip indentation, as described herein and
as depicted in FIG. 17 A and B, and FIG. 18, and FIG. 22 may be
combined with a plurality of lid diameter sizes, including but not
limited to a 202 lid size, 204 lid size, 206 lid size, 209 lid
size, or some other lid diameter size. In embodiments, a 202 lid
diameter size may be 2 and 2/16 inches, a 204 lid diameter size may
be 2 and 4/16 inches, a 206 lid diameter size may be 2 and 6/16
inches, and a 209 lid diameter size may be 2 and 9/16 inches. In
embodiments, lid diameter sizes may include 2.11 inches, 2.23
inches, a size in between, and the like, or some other diameter
size. In embodiments, and referring to FIG. 21, the aperture on the
206 lid may be 0.59 square inches and the aperture on the 202 lid
may be 0.53 square inches, and the like. In some embodiments, the
sizes may be reversed such that the 202 aperture is 0.59 square
inches and that of the 202 may be 0.53 square inches. In
embodiments, the top of the can may measure 2.330 inches across the
top. In embodiments, the aperture may be located a farther distance
from the edge of the can. This may allow the opening to be placed
closer to the user's nose and may provide for increased smell of
liquid and/or enhanced taste of the liquid consumed. In
embodiments, various lid sizes as described herein may be combined
with the can dimensions depicted in FIGS. 17A and B, 18, and 22 or
others as described herein, for example.
[0078] In embodiments, the lip indentation, as described herein and
as depicted in FIG. 17 A and B, and FIG. 22 may be combined with a
plurality of beverage can sizes, including but not limited to a 12
oz. can, 16 oz. can, 24 oz. can, 32 oz. can, or some other can
volume size. In embodiments, the lip indentation, as described
herein and as depicted in FIG. 22, may be combined with a plurality
of beverage can sizes, including but not limited to a 12 oz. can,
16 oz. can, 24 oz. can, 32 oz. can, or some other can volume size
and may be combined with various lid sizes such as 202, 204, 206,
209 or another lid size. In embodiments, the beverage can depicted
in FIG. 22 may be combined with a 206 can lid size and a 12 oz. can
or various combinations of the lid sizes, can dimensions and can
sizes herein. In various embodiments described herein, the beverage
can may be made by one of ordinary skill in the art and an
increased indent size may be achieved by pinching the lip indent
area more or less depending on the desired lip indentation. In
embodiments, various sizes in the ranges and as specifically noted
may be employed in constructing a beverage can as described herein
and may be employed in the various embodiments disclosed. While
various embodiments are described below with reference to specific
measurements and measurement ranges, it is understood that various
ranges and measurements as disclosed herein may be combined with
the specific embodiments described below and throughout this
description. In embodiments, the beverage can may be a standard,
two-piece, drawn and wall-ironed aluminum beverage can that is
necked to a 204 diameter and expanded to create an opening to which
a 206 diameter end may be attached. Variations as would be
understood by those of ordinary skill in the art may also be
constructed with varying sizes and dimensions as described herein.
In embodiments, a machine referred to and known in the art as a
"necker" may be employed to do the necking noted herein, however
other tools and/or machines may be employed in various
embodiments.
[0079] In embodiments, a beverage can with a continuous lip
indentation comprising an upper lip height in the range of
0.125-0.175 inches at an angle in the range of 45-80.degree. to the
plane of the waist pinch, a shoulder height in the range of
0.35-0.65 inches at an angle in the range of 62-74.degree. from the
shoulder plane may further comprise an aperture opening for
drinking the beverage. In embodiments, a beverage can with a
continuous lip indentation comprising an upper lip height of 0.21
inches at an angle of 81.degree. to the plane of the waist pinch, a
shoulder height of 0.48 inches at an angle of 62.degree. from the
shoulder plane may further comprise an aperture opening for
drinking the beverage. The aperture, when opened, may allow for
flow of liquid from the can and for the exit of the beverage aroma
from the can. In embodiments of the present invention, the aperture
may take on a plurality of shapes including, but not limited to a
bell shape a peanut shape, a geometric shape, a
converging/diverging shape, a shape with curvilinear contours,
shapes that resemble design/visual elements, and the like. In
embodiments, the aperture may have a pull back tab, a slide tab or
a slightly longer tab, and the like. In embodiments, the tab, or
material that is removed or displaced from a beverage can having a
continuous lip indentation, may be enabled to be fully removed from
the beverage can, such that it is no longer physically attached to
the can, and placed in or on the beverage can or carrier from which
the beverage can was removed. In another embodiment, the tab, or
material that is removed or displaced from the beverage can having
a continuous lip indentation may be secured to the carrier in which
the beverage cans was packaged among a plurality of cans, such as
within a "six-pack" or "four-pack." For example, the act of
physically removing a beverage can from the carrier may cause the
tab or top of the can to be removed from the can and remain secured
to the carrier. In another example, the act of physically removing
a beverage can from the carrier may not cause the tab or top of the
beverage can to be removed, but instead the carrier may be
functionally fitted with an area enabled to receive and secure a
beverage can tab or top, such as using the methods of securing can
tabs and tops, as described herein. In another embodiment, the tab
or top of the beverage can having a continuous lip indentation may
be partially removed from the beverage can, leaving behind material
that may function as a hinge, permitting the user to bend the tab
or top over to the side of the can where it may be secured, such as
using a snap, magnet, physical locking device or some other means
of securing the tab or top to the beverage can. In embodiments, the
aperture may be opened by twisting the tab in order to puncture the
lid of the can. Continuing the example, further twisting of the tab
may cause a score line in the lid of the can to become severed,
allowing the user of the can to depress the tab apparatus into the
can, such as by forcing the tongue into the depression created in
the lid after the score line is severed by the twisting of the tab.
In embodiments this type of tab apparatus may be applied to a
plurality of aperture shapes and sizes, as described herein. In
other example embodiments, the tab may be completely removable from
the can, or may be a slide tab that attaches to the bottom or side
of the can.
[0080] In embodiments, a beverage can with a continuous lip
indentation comprising an upper lip height in the range of
0.125-0.175 inches at an angle in the range of 45-80.degree. to a
plane of the waist pinch, a shoulder height in the range of
0.35-0.65 inches at an angle in the range of 62-74.degree. from the
shoulder plane may further comprise a lid or top that may be
transparent in order to permit viewing the contents of the can. In
embodiments, a beverage can with a continuous lip indentation
comprising an upper lip height of 0.21 inches at an angle
81.degree. to the plane of the waist pinch, a shoulder height of
0.48 inches at an angle of 62.degree. from the shoulder plane may
further comprise may further comprise a lid or top that may be
transparent in order to permit viewing the contents of the can. The
transparent material used to make the can top may be engraved,
etched or marked using some other means, including by using a
second material to apply to the transparent material. In
embodiments, a beverage can lid may be made to be opaque during
transport and storage but, upon opening, become clear, for example,
by moving a facility that is comprised of a slat, or plurality of
slats that, when moved in a direction, causes the can top to
convert from an opaque to a transparent state. In embodiments, the
lid or top of a beverage can having a continuous lip indentation
may consist of a fan facility comprised of slats that are arrayed
in 360 degrees along the plane of the beverage can top, or arrayed
in 360 degrees and conforming to a shape other than a flat plane,
for example, a concave, conical, or other non-flat shape.
Continuing the embodiment, the fan facility may be opened and
closed by a user of the fan by twisting or turning the can top so
that the individual slats in the fan facility fold into one
another, providing an aperture opening in the can through which the
beverage may be viewed, smelled, and consumed.
[0081] In embodiments, a beverage can with a continuous lip
indentation comprising an upper lip height in the range of
0.125-0.175 inches at an angle in the range of 45-80.degree. to the
plane of the waist pinch, a shoulder height in the range of
0.35-0.65 inches at an angle in the range of 62-74.degree. from the
shoulder plane may further comprise a "lip feel" that is created by
the shape, texture and dimension of the beverage can lid. In
embodiments, the beverage can lid may have a snap-on top cover with
a deep recess. In embodiments, a beverage can with a continuous lip
indentation comprising an upper lip height of 0.21 inches at an
angle 81.degree. to the plane of the waist pinch, a shoulder height
of 0.48 inches at an angle of 62.degree. from the shoulder plane
may further comprise a "lip feel" that is created by the shape,
texture and dimension of the beverage can lid. In embodiments, the
beverage can lid may have a snap-on top cover with a deep recess.
The recessed portion of the lid may have a score line and folded
top cover edge. The score line may be a weak point in the beverage
can material that allows the can to be opened by a user action such
as twisting, pushing, or manipulating the can lid in some other
manner. In embodiments, the beverage can may have a snap-on cover
with a lid depression a grated depression leading to an aperture of
a different size. In embodiments, removal of the snap-on top cover
may leave an aperture that is nearly the entire diameter of the
beverage can and in this way simulate the look and feel of a
beverage glass insofar as there is virtually no lid material
present that is horizontal to the can.
[0082] In embodiments, a beverage can with a continuous lip
indentation comprising an upper lip height in the range of
0.125-0.175 inches at an angle in the range of 45-80.degree. to the
plane of the waist pinch, a shoulder height in the range of
0.35-0.65 inches at an angle in the range of 62-74.degree. from the
shoulder plane may further incorporate surface features that
enhance the drinking experience. In embodiments, a beverage can
with a continuous lip indentation comprising an upper lip height of
0.21 inches at an angle 81.degree. to the plane of waist pinch, a
shoulder height of 0.48 inches at an angle of 62.degree. from the
shoulder plane may further incorporate surface features that
enhance the drinking experience. Such surface enhancements may
impact the "lip feel" or "mouth feel" by altering the typical
feeling of one's lips touching a metal can. The lip feel may be
enhanced by a "Chipped Coffee Cup" application to simulate drinking
from the edge of a glass. The lip feel may be included in the
stamping/end cap manufacturer process or done during the
post-processing phase of manufacturing. The surface of the beverage
can having a continuous lip indentation may be given a rough
texture by physically manipulating the surface, such as
mechanically with a drill, file, sandpaper or some other device
that is capable of roughening the beverage can surface. In
embodiments, material may be added to the beverage can material to
alter is smoothness or roughness, such as by covering the can with
a resin, epoxy, polymer, plastic, glass, sand, silicone, fiber, or
some other material (together "roughening/softening agents")
capable of adhering to, or being applied within a beverage can
material, such as aluminum, steel, or plastic. For example, such
roughening/softening agents may be used to create a beverage can
having a continuous lip indentation that simulates the feel of
glass to the hand and/or mouth. In embodiments, the material used
to roughen or smooth the beverage can may be applied to a surface
coating that is applied to the beverage can, such as through a
spray or dip process in which the can is coated in a substance
capable of receiving and adhering to a roughening/softening agent,
as described herein. In embodiments, a beverage can having a
continuous lip indentation may have its surface texture altered by
first dipping the can in a substance that adheres to the can and is
capable of receiving and hold particles, and a second dipping
process using the same can in which the can, having been coated in
the substance, is dipped into a roughening/softening agent. Other
deposition techniques may be used in conjunction with
roughening/softening agents including, but not limited to, vapor,
temperature manipulation, or some other deposition technique. In
embodiments, a beverage can having a continuous lip indentation may
have its surface texture altered by physically or chemically
etching the surface of the can, an example of which is shown in
FIG. 19, 1902. Roughening/softening agents may be used to alter the
surface of both the exterior and in the interior of the can. In
embodiments, a beverage can's surface may be molded to provide
texture and/or form. In embodiments, roughening/softening agents
may be used to mimic the look and or feel of a material other than
the material from which a beverage can is made. For example, resin,
polymer or actual glass may be used for the upper portion of a can
where a user's mouth touches the can to provide a "glass feel" to a
can that is otherwise not made of glass.
[0083] In embodiments, a beverage can with a continuous lip
indentation comprising an upper lip height in the range of
0.125-0.175 inches at an angle in the range of 45-80.degree. to the
plane of waist pinch, a shoulder height in the range of 0.35-0.65
inches at an angle in the range of 62-74.degree. from the shoulder
plane may include a nucleation device. In embodiments, a beverage
can with a continuous lip indentation comprising an upper lip
height of 0.21 inches at an angle 81.degree. to the plane of waist
pinch, a shoulder height of 0.48 inches at an angle of 62.degree.
from the shoulder plane may further include a nucleation device.
Nucleation sites may exist on an interior surface of a beverage can
having a continuous lip indentation, and the sites may be in the
form of microscopic cracks, scratches, particles adhered to the
surface (e.g., fiber particles from a dish cloth), or some other
surface defect, deformation, or surface feature. Nucleation sites
may also be intentionally created on the interior surface of the
beverage can having a continuous lip indentation, such as according
to the methods and systems of nucleation enhancement as described
herein. In embodiments the nucleation device may be, but is not
limited to, a ceramic nucleator, such as housed within a plastic
frame, a disk attachment facility, a ceramic facility, or a laser
etching. The disc attachment nucleation facility may be, but is not
limited to, a plastic disc with micro etching on its surface, which
may attach to the bottom of the beverage can having a continuous
lip indentation. The ceramic facility may be, but is not limited
to, a ceramic nucleator at the bottom of the beverage can in a
plastic frame that extends from the bottom to the top of the
beverage can. The laser etching nucleation facility may be, but is
not limited to, a nucleation ring that is laser etched through the
interior coating of a beverage can. Nucleation may improve the
quality, texture and carbonation of the beverage housed in the can
having a continuous lip indentation.
[0084] In embodiments, a beverage can with a continuous lip
indentation comprising an upper lip height in the range of
0.125-0.175 inches at an angle in the range of 45-80.degree. to the
plane of the waist pinch, a shoulder height in the range of
0.35-0.65 inches at an angle in the range of 62-74.degree. from the
shoulder plane may have a plurality of exterior shapes. In
embodiments, a beverage can with a continuous lip indentation
comprising an upper lip height of 0.21 inches at an angle
81.degree. to the plane of the waist pinch, a shoulder height of
0.48 inches at an angle of 62.degree. from the shoulder plane may
have a plurality of exterior shapes. Shapes may include, but are
not limited to, a tapered shape, a faceted shape, or a pint glass
shape. In embodiments, the feature of the tapered shape may
include, but are not limited to, a powdercoated top cover, flush
surfaces between the top and the body, heavy gauge walls, bell
shaped aperture, deep concave surface, and a wide rim. In
embodiments, the top of the beverage can having a continuous lip
indentation may have a concave depression. In combination with an
aperture, an increased aperture size and/or anthropomorphic shape,
as described herein, the concavity of the top may serve as a
chamber in which the aroma of the beverage is momentarily trapped
in close proximity to the user's nose. In embodiments, in addition
to the concave top including an aperture through which a user may
consume the beverage, the concave top may have another opening, or
plurality of openings, that enable greater aroma from the beverage
to release from the beverage can having a continuous lip
indentation. In embodiments, the shape of the concavity may be
molded. In an example, the concavity may be molded to include the
logo of a beverage company or some other type of aesthetic feature.
The construction details of a tapered shape may include, but are
limited to, a ceramic nucleator in a plastic frame, plastic disk
nucleator, or laser ring nucleator, a snap-on top cover, and a
recessed score line and folded top cover edge. An example opening
method of a tapered shape beverage can may include, but is not
limited, to twisting the tab to puncture the lid, continuing to
twist the tab to start tearing the score line, and pushing the
tongue into the can to fully open the aperture. In embodiments,
packaging solutions may be used on the tapered shape beverage can
having a continuous lip indentation, which may include, but is not
limited to, a four pack carrier that protects the top of the can
and openings on the front and back that shows the unique shape of
the can. Similar packaging solutions as described herein may be
used for other external beverage can shapes having a continuous lip
indentation.
[0085] In embodiments, a beverage can with a continuous lip
indentation comprising an upper lip height in the range of
0.125-0.175 inches at an angle in the range of 45-80.degree. to the
plane of the waist pinch, a shoulder height in the range of
0.35-0.65 inches at an angle in the range of 62-74.degree. from the
shoulder plane may have a faceted shape. In embodiments, a beverage
can with a continuous lip indentation comprising an upper lip
height of 0.21 inches at an angle of 81.degree. to the plane of the
waist pinch, a shoulder height of 0.48 inches at an angle of
62.degree. from the shoulder plane may have a faceted shape.
Example features of the faceted shape may include, but are not
limited to, a powdercoated top cover, structural facets to provide
stiffness, insulating paper sleeve label, peanut shaped aperture on
a slightly concave surface, and a wide rim. The construction
details of a faceted shape beverage can may include, but are
limited to, a ceramic nucleator in a plastic frame, plastic disk
nucleator, or laser ring nucleator, snap-on top cover, recessed
score line, and folded top cover edge. The opening method of the
faceted shape may include but is not limited to twisting the tab to
puncture the lid, continuing to twist the tab to start tearing the
score line, and pushing the tongue into the can to fully open the
aperture.
[0086] In embodiments, a beverage can with a continuous lip
indentation comprising an upper lip height in the range of
0.125-0.175 inches at an angle in the range of 45-80.degree. to the
plane of the waist pinch, a shoulder height in the range of
0.35-0.65 inches at an angle in the range of 62-74.degree. from the
shoulder plane may comprise a pint glass shape. In embodiments, a
beverage can with a continuous lip indentation comprising an upper
lip height of 0.21 inches at an angle 81.degree. to the plane of
the waist pinch, a shoulder height of 0.48 inches at an angle of
62.degree. from the shoulder plane may comprise a pint glass shape.
In embodiments, features of the pint glass shape may include, but
are not limited to, a powdercoated top cover, a body shape modeled
after the pint glass and a full open aperture. The example of the
dimensions of one embodiment of the pint glass shape beverage can
as illustrated in FIG. 14 may be combined with the beverage can
having a continuous indentation lip. In embodiments, the
construction details of a pint glass shape, may include, but are
limited to, a ceramic nucleator in a plastic frame, plastic disk
nucleator, or laser ring nucleator, a snap-on top cover, a recessed
score line and folded top cover edge. An embodiment of an opening
method of the beverage can having a continuous lip indentation and
having a pint glass shape, may include but is not limited to
pulling out the lock on the edge of the top of the can, sliding the
tab on the top of the can along the rim to tear the score line and
continuing until the top is fully opened. In embodiments, the
external packaging solution, may include, but is not limited to a
four-pack carrier where each beverage can reside within a hole on
the bottom of a rectangular box. A similar packaging solution may
be used for other external beverage can shapes, as described
herein.
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