Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming a visible symbol or other indicium on a tab portion of a beverage container. The method comprises the steps of advancing a tab stock material through a series of tab-forming stations. The tab portion is at least partially formed from the tab stock at each of the tab-forming stations. The advancement of the tab stock is dwelled or halted while the tab is formed. The tab stock is accelerated from dwell to resume advancement of the tab stock material between the stations. A selected portion of the tab is irradiated with light energy to form the visible indicium. The apparatus comprises a plurality of tab-forming stations, each tab-forming station at least partially forming the tab from a tab stock. A conveyor or track mechanism is configured to advance the tab stock from one tab-forming station to another. An etching apparatus is associated with the conveyor and tab-forming stations to selectively etch the symbol on the tab.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming a visible symbol or other indicium on a tab portion of a beverage container. The method comprises the steps of advancing a tab stock material through a series of tab-forming stations. The tab portion is at least partially formed from the tab stock at each of the tab-forming stations. The advancement of the tab stock is dwelled or halted while the tab is formed. The tab stock is accelerated from dwell to resume advancement of the tab stock material between the stations. A selected portion of the tab is irradiated with light energy to form the visible indicium. The apparatus comprises a plurality of tab-forming stations, each tab-forming station at least partially forming the tab from a tab stock. A conveyor or track mechanism is configured to advance the tab stock from one tab-forming station to another. An etching apparatus is associated with the conveyor and tab-forming stations to selectively etch the symbol on the tab.