EP2376339A1 - A device for sealing a container - Google Patents
A device for sealing a containerInfo
- Publication number
- EP2376339A1 EP2376339A1 EP09832715A EP09832715A EP2376339A1 EP 2376339 A1 EP2376339 A1 EP 2376339A1 EP 09832715 A EP09832715 A EP 09832715A EP 09832715 A EP09832715 A EP 09832715A EP 2376339 A1 EP2376339 A1 EP 2376339A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- container
- rims
- sealing
- floor
- tab
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Withdrawn
Links
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D21/00—Nestable, stackable or joinable containers; Containers of variable capacity
- B65D21/02—Containers specially shaped, or provided with fittings or attachments, to facilitate nesting, stacking, or joining together
- B65D21/0209—Containers specially shaped, or provided with fittings or attachments, to facilitate nesting, stacking, or joining together stackable or joined together one-upon-the-other in the upright or upside-down position
- B65D21/0224—Auxiliary removable stacking elements other than covers
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D43/00—Lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D43/02—Removable lids or covers
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D51/00—Closures not otherwise provided for
- B65D51/007—Separate closure devices for reclosing opened cans or tins, e.g. beer cans
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2251/00—Details relating to container closures
- B65D2251/08—Closures specially adapted for closing container mouths of differing size or configuration, e.g. screw/snap combination
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
- B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D2543/00018—Overall construction of the lid
- B65D2543/00259—Materials used
- B65D2543/00296—Plastic
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
- B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D2543/00444—Contact between the container and the lid
- B65D2543/00481—Contact between the container and the lid on the inside or the outside of the container
- B65D2543/0049—Contact between the container and the lid on the inside or the outside of the container on the inside, or a part turned to the inside of the mouth of the container
- B65D2543/00527—NO contact
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
- B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D2543/00444—Contact between the container and the lid
- B65D2543/00481—Contact between the container and the lid on the inside or the outside of the container
- B65D2543/00537—Contact between the container and the lid on the inside or the outside of the container on the outside, or a part turned to the outside of the mouth of the container
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
- B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D2543/00444—Contact between the container and the lid
- B65D2543/00592—Snapping means
- B65D2543/00601—Snapping means on the container
- B65D2543/00611—Profiles
- B65D2543/00638—Rolled edge
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
- B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D2543/00444—Contact between the container and the lid
- B65D2543/00592—Snapping means
- B65D2543/00601—Snapping means on the container
- B65D2543/00675—Periphery concerned
- B65D2543/00685—Totality
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
- B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D2543/00444—Contact between the container and the lid
- B65D2543/00592—Snapping means
- B65D2543/00712—Snapping means on the lid
- B65D2543/00722—Profiles
- B65D2543/00759—Flange or lip
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
- B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D2543/00444—Contact between the container and the lid
- B65D2543/00592—Snapping means
- B65D2543/00712—Snapping means on the lid
- B65D2543/00787—Periphery concerned
- B65D2543/00796—Totality
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
- B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D2543/00824—Means for facilitating removing of the closure
- B65D2543/00833—Integral tabs, tongues, handles or similar
- B65D2543/00842—Integral tabs, tongues, handles or similar outside of the lid
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a device for sealing a container, and in one particular example, a lid or cap for sealing a container such as a can or the like.
- the device is used to seal the container when the container contains food or beverage.
- containers such as cans, or the like
- a person may purchase a plurality of cans filled with drink, where the cans are typically opened upon purchase.
- the present invention seeks to substantially overcome, or at least ameliorate, one or more disadvantages of existing arrangements, or to provide alternatives to existing arrangements.
- the device for sealing a plurality of different sized containers, the device including a plurality of different sized rims, each of the different sized rims being for engaging with a respective different sized container, to seal the container.
- the rims extend from a first surface of the device.
- the device includes a walled portion for holding another container on the device, when the device is sealing the container.
- the walled portion extends from a second surface of the device.
- the first and second surfaces are opposite sides of a floor of the device.
- the first and second surfaces are the same surface and form a floor of the device.
- the floor of the device has a domed portion. In yet another aspect, the floor of the device is substantially flat.
- the device is circular in shape and includes a plurality of concentric rims, each of the plurality of rims being configured to fit around an edge of the respective container.
- the device includes a tab protruding from a side of the device, the tab being configured to be used to pull the device off a container.
- the device includes at least one venting hole formed within a floor of the device.
- the device includes a sliding tab, the sliding tab being moveable between open and closed positions, where in the open position, a recess formed in a floor of the device allows for contents within the container to be accessed, and where in the closed position, the recess is sealed by the sliding tab.
- the device includes at least one rib, the rib being formed within the device such that when a container is stacked on the device, the rib provides a space between the device and the stacked container.
- the device is configured to be used with aluminium cans.
- a device for sealing/capping a container including a rim for sealing with an edge of the container.
- the device is circular in shape and includes a plurality of concentric rims, each of the plurality of rims being configured to fit around the edge of a different sized container.
- the device includes a walled portion, wherein the walled portion is configured to support another container placed on the device.
- a device for sealing a container including:
- a second surface having a walled portion extending from the second portion, the walled portion being configured to hold a second container on the second surface.
- a device for sealing a plurality of different sized containers including a plurality of different sized rims extending from a surface of the device, each of the plurality of different sized rims being configured to engage with an edge of a respective container.
- a device for sealing a container including:
- sealing portion having a rim for sealing with an edge of the container
- the walled portion being operatively connected to the sealing portion, the walled portion being configured to hold a second container on/at least partially within the device.
- Figure IA is a schematic diagram of an example of a device for sealing a container
- Figure IB is a schematic diagram of the example device of Figure 1, used on a container;
- Figure 1C is a schematic diagram of the example device of Figure 1, used to stack a plurality of containers on top of another container;
- Figure 2A is a schematic diagram of a top view of an example of a device for sealing a container
- Figure 2B is a schematic diagram of a bottom view of the example device of Figure 2 A;
- Figure 2C is a schematic diagram of a top perspective view of the example device of Figure
- Figure 2D is a schematic diagram of a top perspective view of the example device of Figure
- Figure 2E is a schematic diagram of a side cross-sectional view of the example device of
- Figure 2F is a schematic diagram of a side view of the example device of Figure 2A;
- Figure 2G is a schematic diagram of a bottom perspective view of the example device of
- Figure 3 A is a schematic diagram of a top view of an example of another device for sealing a container
- Figure 3B is a schematic diagram of a bottom view of the example device of Figure 3 A;
- Figure 3C is a schematic diagram of a top perspective view of the example device of Figure
- Figure 3D is a schematic diagram of a top perspective view of the example device of Figure
- Figure 3E is a schematic diagram of a side cross-sectional view of the example device of
- Figure 3F is a schematic diagram of a side view of the example device of Figure 3 A;
- Figure 3G is a schematic diagram of a bottom perspective view of the example device of
- Figure 4A is a schematic diagram of a top view of another example device
- Figure 4B is a schematic diagram of a top perspective view of the example device of Figure
- Figure 4C is a schematic diagram of a side view of the example device of Figure 4A;
- Figure 4D is a schematic diagram of a bottom perspective view of the example device of
- Figure 4E is a schematic diagram of a side view of the example device of Figure 4A stacked with other devices;
- Figure 4F is a schematic diagram of a top perspective view of the device of Figure 4A stacked with other devices;
- Figures 5A and 5B are schematic diagrams of the device of Figure 4A being used to seal a first can and stack a second can onto the first can;
- Figure 6A is a schematic diagram of a perspective bottom view of another example of a device for sealing a container
- Figure 6B is a schematic diagram of a side view showing rims of the example device of
- Figure 6C is a schematic diagram of a side view of the example device of Figure 6A;
- Figure 7A is a schematic diagram of a perspective bottom view of another example of a device for sealing a container
- Figure 7B is a schematic diagram of a side view showing rims of the example device of
- Figure 7C is a schematic diagram of a side view of the example device of Figure 7A;
- Figures 8A to 8X are a schematic diagram showing example cross-sections of variations of the device of Figure 1 ;
- Figure 9 is another schematic diagram shown further example cross-sections of the variations of the device of Figure 1 ;
- Figure 1OA is a schematic diagram of a top view of another example device of Figure 1, showing a sliding tab in a closed position
- Figure 1OB is a schematic diagram of a top view of the example device of Figure 1OA, showing the sliding tab in an open position
- Figure 1OC is a schematic diagram of a bottom view of the example device of Figure 1OA, showing the sliding tab in a closed position;
- Figure 1OD is a schematic diagram of a bottom view of the example device of Figure 1OA, showing the sliding tab in an open position;
- Figure 1OE is a schematic diagram of a side cross-sectional view of the device of Figure 1OA, showing the cross section of the sliding tab;
- Figure 1 OF is a schematic diagram of a top perspective cross-sectional view of the device of
- Figure 1OA showing the cross section of the sliding tab
- Figure 1 OG is a schematic diagram of a top perspective view of the example device of Figure
- Figure 1 OH is a schematic diagram of a top perspective view of the example device of Figure
- FIGS 101 to 1OK are schematic diagrams shown examples of the sliding tab as used in
- Figure HA is a schematic diagram of a top view of another example device of Figure 1, showing venting holes and ribs/cavities;
- Figures HB and HF are schematic diagrams of a top perspective views of the example device of Figure 1 IA, showing venting holes and ribs/cavities;
- Figures HC and HD are schematic diagrams of side views of the example device of Figure
- Figure HE is a schematic diagram of a bottom view of the example device of Figure HA, showing venting holes and ribs/cavities;
- FIG. 1 A device of sealing/capping a container is shown in Figure 1.
- Figures IA and IB shows a device 1, which includes a rim 5 for sealing with an edge of a container 10.
- the rim 5 for sealing can form a part of a sealing portion 12.
- the sealing portion 12 can also be an engaging portion, where the rim 5 can engage with an edge of the container. This is further discussed below.
- Figures IA to 1C show that the device 1 can include a walled portion 15, where the walled portion 15 is configured to support another container 10 placed on/at least partially within the device 1 (as particularly shown in Figure 1C).
- the walled portion 15 can also be referred to as a receiving portion, where it is formed to receive and/or hold another container, or as described below, another device for sealing 1.
- the device 1 can include a first surface 20 having a rim 5 for sealing with an edge of the container 10.
- the device 1 can also include a second surface 25 which can include the walled portion 15 extending there from, where the walled portion 15 is configured to hold a second container 10 on the second surface 25.
- the first and second surfaces can be opposing sides of the same surface, where each opposing side includes the respective walled and sealing portions, or according to another example, can be the same surface of the device, and can be referred to as the floor or the base of the device 1.
- Figures 2 A to 2G show another example of the device 1, where the sealing portion 12 includes two rims 5A and 5B.
- a further example of the device 1 is shown in Figures 3A to 3G, where the walled portion 15 includes two walls 14A and 14B.
- the inner wall 14B and/or the inner rim 5B can be shorter in height than the outer wall 14A and/or the outer rim 5 A, respectively. This limits the interference by the shorter walls with the stacking functionality of the device, and further limits the interference of the shorter rims when the device is being used to seal a larger container (with the outer rims).
- the device shown can include a plurality of walls 14 for receiving the base of different sized containers, and can also include a plurality of rims 5 to fit to different sized containers.
- the device described herein can be used to seal different sized cans for food and beverage ranging from cans, which for example can range from 50mm to 160mm in diameter.
- the sealing feature can be improved by having a plurality of rims as the rim immediately inside the rim being used to seal the container can press against the edge of the container to further engage with the container.
- the sealing portion 12 has a smaller diameter than the walled portion 15, and although the sealing portion 12 can be connected to the walled portion 15 by any operable means, in this particular example, due to the change in diameter, they are connected via a stepped portion 13.
- Figures 4A to 4F show yet a further example of the device 1 , where the device 1 includes a tab 35, which in this example is semi-circular in shape and can be used by a user to lift the device 1 off a container.
- the tab 35 can be formed on any side of the device 1.
- Figures 4E and 4F also show that a plurality of devices 1 can be stacked due to the stepped portion 13, which allows for the sealing portion 12 of a device 1 to be received by the walled portion 15 of another device 1 (as in this example, they are formed on different sides of a holding surface of the device, or on two opposing surfaces).
- Figures 5A to 5B show examples of cans 40, being stacked by use of the device 1.
- the device 1 can be used to seal a first can, whilst also being used to provide a stacking mechanism for a second can on top of the first can.
- Figures 6A to 6C show further examples of a configuration of the device 1.
- the sealing portion 12 is arcuate (or circular) in shape (around its perimeter) and includes a plurality of concentric rims 5A and 5B, where each of the rims 5A, 5B is configured to fit around and/or engage with the edge of a different sized container.
- Figure 3 shows that the rims 5A and 5B may include a widened or flanged portion 7, which is particularly designed to snap-lock with an edge of a container.
- the diameter of the sealing portion is less than the diameter of the walled portion.
- Figures 7A to 7C show a variation of the device 1, where the sealing portion 12 and the walled portion 15 have the same diameter.
- This is effectively a reversible device where the sealing portion 12 includes a walled portion 15 on either side of a holding surface 30. Both sides of the holding surface 30 include rims 5, such that the device 1 can be used at either side for varying sizes of containers.
- the sealing portion 12 and the walled portion 15 can be operatively connected, depending on the configuration of the device 1.
- the holding surface 30, which can be the first and second surfaces as described herein, can be either domed or flat.
- the holding surface can be referred to as a base, or the like.
- the device 1 can be formed with a combination of a plurality of walled and sealing portions, on the same side or either sides of the holding surface.
- Figures 8A to 8X shows a cross-section of the various combinations of walled portions and sealing portion of the device 1.
- Figures 8A to 8M show examples of devices with the surfaces being flat
- Figures 8N to 8X show examples of devices with the surface being domed on one side.
- Figure 8A shows an example of a device with one rim and no stacking wall
- Figure 8B shows an example device with one rim and one stacking wall
- Figure 8C shows an example device with one rim and two stacking walls
- Figure 8D shows an example of the device with one stacking wall and two rims on one side
- Figure 8E shows an example of a device with one rim on each side and no stacking walls
- Figure 8F shows an example of a device with three rims, with two on one side and one or two stacking walls
- Figure 8G shows an example of a device with three rims, with two on one side and one no stacking walls
- Figure 8H shows an example of a device with two rims on one side and two stacking walls
- Figure 81 shows example devices with two stacking walls and a rim on either side.
- Figure 8J shows example devices with no stacking wall, but with a combination of two or more rims on either side.
- Figure 8K and 8L show examples of a device with one staking wall and one rim on either side.
- Figure 8M shows an example device with one rim and one stacking wall on either side of the holding surface.
- Figure 8N shows example devices with two rims on one side, and one rim on the other side, with no stacking wall.
- Figure 80 shows example devices with one rim on either side of the device with one staking wall on one side.
- Figure 8P shows an example of a device with one rim on either side and one staking wall, whereas Figure 8Q shows an example of devices having on rim on either side and a wall on either side.
- Figure 8R shows an example of a device with two rims on one side and a stacking wall.
- Figure 8S shows example devices having a rim on either side and no stacking wall.
- Figure 8T shows example devices having three rims with two rims on one side and one rim on the other side, and either one or no stacking walls.
- Figure 8U shows an example of a device with two rims (arranged on the same or either side) and two stacking walls.
- Figure 8V shows an example of a device with one rim and no stacking wall.
- Figure 8 W shows an example device with one rim and one stacking wall.
- Figure 8X shows an example device with one rim and two stacking walls.
- Figure 9 also shows further examples of the different variations of walls and rims which can form a part of the device 1.
- the device 1 described and shown in the figures is arcuate (or circular or elliptical) in shape so as to fit around the edge of an aluminium can, or the like, for sealing a drink within the can.
- the device is not limited to these shapes, and may be used to seal other types of containers, and thus the device can be manufactured for any other shape such as triangular, rectangular, square, or the like.
- the device 1 can be referred to as a cap, lid, closure, or the like, and the walled and/or sealing portions may not necessarily surround the entire diameter of the device, and may include discrete portions.
- a device 1 for sealing a plurality of different sized containers where the device 1 can include a plurality of different sized rims, where each of the different sized rims engage with a respective different sized container, to seal the container.
- the rims typically extend from a first surface of the device, and the device can include a walled portion for holding another container on the device, when the device is sealing the container, or stack another device with the device, for storage or the like.
- the walled portion can extend from a second surface of the device 1 , and according to one particular example, the first and second surfaces are opposite . sides of a floor of the device, or alternatively, as described herein, the first and second surfaces are the same surface and form a floor of the device.
- the floor of the device can have a domed portion, or be substantially flat.
- the device 1 is circular in shape and includes a plurality of concentric rims, each of the plurality of rims being configured to fit around an edge of the respective container.
- the device 1 is particularly suitable for use with aluminium cans, plastic cups, or the like.
- other shapes of the device 1 are also possible and are considered to fall within the scope of the present application.
- the device 1 can include numerous features, including but not limited to tabs, venting holes, a sliding tab, and ribs or cavities.
- a tab can be formed to protrude from a side of the device, where the tab is configured to be used to pull the device off a container.
- at least one venting hole formed within a floor of the device to allow for excess pressure to be released from the container, once the container is sealed.
- the device can also include a sliding tab, where the sliding tab is moveable between open and closed positions, where in the open position, a recess formed in a floor of the device allows for contents within the container to be accessed, and where in the closed position, the recess is sealed by the sliding tab.
- the device can also include at least one rib/cavity, where the rib/cavity is formed within the device such that when a container is stacked on the device, the rib provides a space between the device and the stacked container.
- the device described herein in one example, is a round plastic cap or lid, which can allow soft drink and alcoholic beverage cans to be stacked on top each of each other to be held or carried, minimise spillage from an opened can, and may also help retain the carbonation or effervescence of the liquid in the can.
- the device described may reduce the problem of spilling liquid from an opened can.
- the roof (or surface) and rim of the sealing section of the device can also allow the liquid to fall back into the can. It does this by providing a seal over the can which stops/limits liquid, which has come out of the opening of the can, from falling away from the can.
- a test was performed where a can was opened and was consequently sealed with the device described herein. After a twelve hour period, the carbonated beverage within the can was still almost fully effervescent, due to the seal provided by the device.
- the domed example of the device described herein may provide a tighter seal allowing the carbonated beverage to retain its effervescence for a longer period.
- the stacking feature described above can allow for another can to be placed on top of the can with the device. Accordingly, this can allow for two or more cans to be carried by a person, in each hand, either whilst walking or moving their arms whilst standing still.
- the stacking feature is a lcm wall around the outer edge of the device top. The internal diameter of the wall is the same as the diameter of a large can.
- the wall may be able to reduce the amount that the can placed on top moves with respect to the can underneath and thereby reduces the risk of dropping the can on top.
- the risk of slippage of at least one of the cans due to movement may be increased and a significant amount of the contents of the can may be lost.
- the device for sealing a container can be used for a variety of situations.
- attendees at a music festival which is typically held at a park can use the device to buy several beverages at once and carry the beverages to their friends.
- the device described herein can reduce the chance of the top can slipping off.
- the device can minimise the amount of the contents that leak out as well as keeping the drinking rim of the can clean, when the can hits the ground (which may be imperative in festival environment).
- the device described herein can allow for a person with two cans to have two of the cans in one hand being sealed and one of the can on the bottom of the other hand that they are drinking from to be sealed, where the person then only needs to hold the bottom can in each hand.
- a person holding an opened can with the device described herein placed on the can, as well as another opened can sitting in the stacking section of the device may be able to drink from the top can without spilling liquid from the bottom can whilst only holding the bottom can. At most, they might have to use one finger and thumb to stop the top can from falling out of the stacking section when they turn the can up past 90° to drink from the top can.
- the device described herein has numerous features which can be used separately or in combination.
- These features include, a stackable wall feature, no openings, the ability to be fitted up to at least three different can top sealing rims which can be applied in up to twelve combinations, a domed sealing roof/stackable floor to increase the tightness of the seal, and can also be carried conveniently in someone's pocket.
- the device is a round plastic product that has the diameter of a common soft drink can and it is about 1.5 cm high.
- the stacking feature On the topside is the stacking feature. This is a wall approximately 1 cm high at the outer edge of the device, which can receive a top can.
- the internal dimension of the stacking wall can be the same as the diameter of a large drink can.
- the stackable side can have a flat surface
- the surface can include a domed floor, which is pushed down onto the can, and increases the tightness of the device seal on the can.
- the sealing feature is on the bottom side of the device.
- This generally includes a rim which clips around the bottom edge of the top of a drink can.
- the rim is what attaches the device to the can top as well is helping to seal the can.
- the device can include two or more rims such that it can be used with varying sized drink cans. Accordingly, the device can be used with different types of cans.
- the rims can include a rim which is particularly suited for slim-line cans.
- the inner wall of the sealing rim has a cavity which is the length of a can top.
- the rim also generally includes edge, which is almost the width of the can top, and which clips under the bottom edge of the can top.
- the sealing rim combined with the floor of the stacking feature, can stop/limit liquid from spilling out of an opened can and helps the liquid to fall back into the can.
- the stacking and sealing features are further described below:
- the Stacking Feature
- the stacking feature can be a wall or a wall portion which is approximately 1 cm high at the outer edge of the device which the top can may be placed into.
- a second shorter stacking wall allows a can with a different or smaller diameter to be stacked. The height of the second shorter stacking rim will not interfere with a larger can being place in the larger outer wall stacking rim.
- the stacking feature generally has a flat bottom surface and can thus reduce the amount of sway a can placed into it has.
- the wall can run almost 1 cm, or more or less, up the outside edge of the can placed into it and the internal dimension of the wall can be the same as the diameter of a can of a large drink can.
- the stacking feature can reduce the amount of sway a can placed into it has.
- a person holding a bottom can with the device placed on the can and a can in the stacking feature, also with a device on top can, would be able to move their hand and greatly reduce the chances of dropping, contaminating or spilling either drink.
- the stacking feature may also have a domed floor. This floor would get pushed down as the device is being applied to the can top. It would increase the tightness that the device attaches to the can top and therefore increase the seal, which reduces the chances of dropping, contaminating or spilling either drink.
- stacking feature with a domed floor may also give more space for liquid in the opened can to flow into which would reduce the probability of the device being popped off by the pressure within the can.
- the device can also be made without the stacking feature, and can thus be used for domestic or office use.
- the Sealing Feature
- the sealing feature is generally on the bottom side of the device and can include a rim which clips around the bottom edge of the top of a drink can.
- the rim is generally what attaches the device to the can top as well is helping to seal the can. It will be appreciated that the device can include one, two, three or more of these rims as there are generally two diameters of large drink top cans and slim-line cans, which can allow for only one device to be used for the different types of cans.
- the inner wall of the sealing rim may have a cavity which is the length of a can top, and may also include an edge, which is almost the width of the can top, which clips under the bottom edge of the can top.
- the sealing rim combined with the floor of the stacking feature as described above, may stop/limit liquid from spilling out of the can and helps it to fall back into the can.
- this can include but is not limited to a device which can be made with up to many different combinations of one, two, or three or more rims and in any combination of the three rims, with or without the stacking features on one or both sides of the device, and/or with either a flat floor/ceiling or a domed floor/ceiling.
- the device described herein may include a stacking section with a flat floor and three rims in the sealing section. Two of the rims for the larger beverage cans and one rim for the slim-line can.
- the device may also be made in a smaller version which is particularly designed to fit slimline cans.
- the slim-line device may be made with or without a stacking feature and either a flat floor ceiling or domed floor ceiling.
- the device may have three, two, or one rim on one side, which can be arranged in at least seven different combinations with a different number of rims on the other side. This can lead to 49 or so different combinations of rims.
- the 49 or so different combination of rims can be made with two, one, or no stacking feature, which can lead to 147 different combinations.
- the device can have either a flat or domed floor, which can lead to 296 or so different combinations of features.
- the device is not limited to 3 sealing rims and 2 stacking walls.
- the device described herein has been designed to fit cans from various manufacturers around the world. This may include making minor adjustments to the diameter of the sealing rim for various sizes and shapes of cans in the future.
- Figures 1OA to 1OK show an example of the device 1, where the floor 50 includes a recess 55.
- the recess 55 is typically accessible to allow for contents of a container, which the device 1 I sealing to be consumed, poured out, released, emptied, accessed, or the like.
- the recess 55 has associated therewith, a sliding tab 60.
- the sliding tab 60 is typically used to cover the recess 55, when sealing of the container is required and the recess 55 is not required for use (that is, for example, if the device 1 is being used to cover a can of drink then if a user does not want to drink from the can, they can use the sliding tab 60 to cover the recess 55).
- the hole/recess 55 in the floor 50 of the device 1 is similar in size to that of a common aluminium drink can.
- the sliding tab 60 of this example can be slid open to create an opening (in the recess 55) for the contents of the container to be accessed/emptied without necessarily removing the device 1 from the container.
- the tab 60 when the tab 60 is slid shut, the device 1 can seal the container.
- Figures 1OA to 1OH show examples where the tab 60 is formed on the underside of the device 1 (that is, the side of the device 1 which typically faces the interior of the container which the device 1 is sealing, when the device is in use on a container).
- the tab 60 attaches to the device 1 by clipping on to a ball 65 at the centre (or substantially the centre) of the underside of the device 1. This allows the tab 60 to rotate (or pivot) and either opens or closes the hole in the floor 50 of the device 1.
- the tab 60 is shaped similar to a tennis racket.
- the head of the tab 60 has a semi-circular dome which fills the hole in the floor of the device.
- a small plinth 70 is on one edge of the dome to aid a user move the tab - I8 ⁇
- the plinth 70 may snap into slots on the edges of the hole/recess 55 in the floor 50 of the device 1 to secure the tab 60 and thus keep the hole/recess 55 either open or shut.
- FIG. 1OA to 1OK further show that the outside head of the dome of the tab 60 can include a small raised edge 75 which, when the tab 60 is in the closed position (as shown, for example, in Figure 1 OA), can line up with an identical shaped groove (not shown) in the underside of the device floor 50.
- the raised edge 70 and the groove can work together to help increase the seal of the device 1 when the tab 60 is in the closed position.
- the carbonation or pressure of the contents of the container may also push the tab 60 away from the contents of the container, and thus aid in the sealing of the container.
- tab 60 described herein is formed such that a second container is able to be stacked on the device 1, as described herein.
- Figures 1 IA to 1 IF show that the device 1 can also include at least one venting hole 80 in the floor 50 of the device 1.
- venting holes 80 can allow for pressure within the container to be released when the device is in use, sealing a container.
- venting holes 80 there are two venting holes 80, although it will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that any number of venting holes can be used (such as, for example 1 to 4). It will further be appreciated that the venting holes may be formed anywhere on the device 1, such as the sidewalls or the like. Further still, the diameters and shape of the venting holes 80 may differ depending on the use of the device 1.
- Figure 1 IA to 1 IF show the device 1 including one or more ribs/cavities 85. The ribs/cavities can be used in combination with the venting holes 80. Thus for example, if the venting holes 80 are formed on the floor 50 of the device 1, and the device 1 is being used on a container, then pressure released from this container may build if another container is stacked on the device 1.
- six ribs 85 can be formed to protrude and/or recess (when in the form of a cavity or the like) from the inner wall of a stacking wall.
- the ribs 85 can lift the container stacked on the device 1 (or create a space between the container stacked and the device 1, if recessing into the device 1), and allow for pressure to escape from underneath the stacked container and up the side of the stacked container through channels formed by the ribs.
- the ribs 85 are lmm wide and protrude from and/or recess (in the form of a cavity) into the device 0.2mm, and thus can lift the stacked container by 0.2mm.
- the ribs 85 can be wider and protrude higher from or recess lower into the device 1, if necessary (thus any size which is required can be used).
- the ribs 85 can also strengthen/tighten the hold on or engagement with the stacked container.
- the device described herein can be used in a variety of industries, including but not limited to products for sealing food and beverage containers.
- the device described herein can be applied to any container which can be used to hold beverages.
- containers include, and is not limited to, cups, mugs, canisters, or the like.
- the device of the present application may be used to secure the contents of the plastic cups, and in yet a further example, may also be used to stack multiple plastic cups on one another, so that they are easier to carry.
- the device described herein can provide the following advantages - the device can be used to seal an open can which may have some liquid within it, can stop/limit liquid from being spilt from an opened can, may allow for cans to be stacked on top of each other, may allow an opened can containing a carbonated beverage to stay carbonated for a longer period of time, and may also allow for multiple cans (either open or closed) to be held or carried in one hand.
- the above-described device can also avoid having to dispose of leftover carbonated liquid.
- the device can also provide longer lasting effervescence once a can or the like has been opened. Additionally, this can limit the chance of contamination of the liquid in an open can (which can cause sickness).
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Stackable Containers (AREA)
- Closures For Containers (AREA)
Abstract
Description
Claims
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
AU2008906507A AU2008906507A0 (en) | 2008-12-18 | A device for sealing a container | |
US14369209P | 2009-01-09 | 2009-01-09 | |
AU2009902621A AU2009902621A0 (en) | 2009-06-05 | A device for sealing a container | |
PCT/AU2009/001636 WO2010068986A1 (en) | 2008-12-18 | 2009-12-16 | A device for sealing a container |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP2376339A1 true EP2376339A1 (en) | 2011-10-19 |
EP2376339A4 EP2376339A4 (en) | 2013-10-30 |
Family
ID=42268172
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP09832715.8A Withdrawn EP2376339A4 (en) | 2008-12-18 | 2009-12-16 | A device for sealing a container |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20110290815A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2376339A4 (en) |
CN (1) | CN102317171A (en) |
AU (1) | AU2009328641B2 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2010068986A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (19)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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NL1038581C2 (en) * | 2011-02-15 | 2012-08-16 | Auke Woerdeman | SYSTEM FOR CONTAINING CONTAINERS, SUCH AS CANS OR BOTTLES. |
US9108776B2 (en) * | 2012-03-09 | 2015-08-18 | Wki Holding Company, Inc. | Lid, and container system and lid |
US8881938B2 (en) | 2012-08-08 | 2014-11-11 | Harl-Bella Holdings, Llc | Lid for beverage container |
PL222826B1 (en) * | 2013-07-18 | 2016-09-30 | Ajh047 Spółka Z Ograniczoną Odpowiedzialnością | Container inlet / outlet channel valve |
USD739729S1 (en) | 2013-08-08 | 2015-09-29 | Harl-Bella Holdings, Llc | Lid for beverage container |
USD736623S1 (en) | 2013-08-08 | 2015-08-18 | Harl-Bella Holdings, Llc | Lid with egg shaped basin |
USD756773S1 (en) | 2013-08-08 | 2016-05-24 | Harl-Bella Holdings, Llc | Lid with tear line |
USD737142S1 (en) | 2013-08-08 | 2015-08-25 | Harl-Bella Holdings, Llc | Lid with triangular shaped basin |
USD732972S1 (en) | 2013-08-22 | 2015-06-30 | Natura Cosmeticos S.A. | Flask |
US9371161B2 (en) | 2014-08-20 | 2016-06-21 | Barrel Associates & Supplies Co., Inc. | Universal cap seal for fifty-five gallon drums |
US20160068304A1 (en) * | 2014-09-08 | 2016-03-10 | Glenn Perry BOCHNER | Container arrangement |
WO2017031139A1 (en) | 2015-08-17 | 2017-02-23 | Csp Technologies, Inc. | Container orifice reducer with tamper evident seal |
US10569937B2 (en) | 2016-04-22 | 2020-02-25 | Csp Technologies, Inc. | Container orifice reducer with tamper evident seal |
EP3395708A1 (en) * | 2017-04-26 | 2018-10-31 | Poptopinc Ltd | Add-on device for a beverage can |
US20180346194A1 (en) * | 2017-06-02 | 2018-12-06 | Douglas Coughanour | Can Stacking Device |
GB2583720A (en) * | 2019-05-02 | 2020-11-11 | M K Dogar Design & Innovation Ltd | A can assembly |
US11479386B1 (en) * | 2020-04-07 | 2022-10-25 | Morne Brittnell | Stacking and organization device for cans and other containers |
US11596250B2 (en) * | 2020-06-15 | 2023-03-07 | MorePeas LLC | Modular storage system |
USD1019389S1 (en) | 2022-03-01 | 2024-03-26 | Cfs Brands, Llc | Disposable cup lid |
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2009
- 2009-12-16 CN CN2009801569464A patent/CN102317171A/en active Pending
- 2009-12-16 AU AU2009328641A patent/AU2009328641B2/en not_active Ceased
- 2009-12-16 EP EP09832715.8A patent/EP2376339A4/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2009-12-16 US US13/140,359 patent/US20110290815A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2009-12-16 WO PCT/AU2009/001636 patent/WO2010068986A1/en active Application Filing
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US4917258A (en) * | 1988-12-01 | 1990-04-17 | Boyd James B | Snap-on lid for opened soft drink cans |
US5586656A (en) * | 1995-01-13 | 1996-12-24 | Abrums; Rolin L. | Nestable and stackable storage unit |
WO2000002791A1 (en) * | 1998-07-10 | 2000-01-20 | Sonoco Development, Inc. | Dual function overcap |
US20060081633A1 (en) * | 2004-10-08 | 2006-04-20 | Fort James Corporation | Reclosable cup lid |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
AU2009328641A1 (en) | 2010-06-24 |
AU2009328641B2 (en) | 2011-04-21 |
US20110290815A1 (en) | 2011-12-01 |
WO2010068986A1 (en) | 2010-06-24 |
EP2376339A4 (en) | 2013-10-30 |
CN102317171A (en) | 2012-01-11 |
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