Patents Examined by Joseph C. Mereh
  • Patent number: 6375029
    Abstract: An improved can end, and method for making a can end, for pressurized beverage containers with a stay on tab. The tab incorporates a raised region with a hole. The raised region is positioned to receive the vapor vented from the can upon initial lifting of the tab. The raised region and hole are sized and shaped to discharge the vapor from the region, through the hole, and into the surrounding environment, appearing as a mist or cloud. Among other configurations, the raised region can be shaped as the top half of a bubble or a crescent, and the opening can be circular or elongated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: Alcoa Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Anthony, Eileen M. Smith, Andrew F. Clarke, George P. Kurzdorfer