Abstract: An easily openable can end and associated methods include an end panel, a score line formed in the end panel to define a prearranged opening area, a tab, the tab having a handle and a rivet securing the tab to the end panel. In particular, the end panel of the can end is provided with at least one moveable portion contactable with the lower surface of the tab at a location between the rivet and the end of the handle of the tab, the moveable portion being deformable upwardly under influence of pressure to push against the lower surface of the tab and thereby incline the handle of the tab away from the end panel to define a gap under the tab.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming a closure in which the closure includes a peelable panel with integral tab folded over the panel. The apparatus includes upper and lower reform tools, the upper reform tool having a tab relief feature and local scallops at each end of the tab relief. When reform tools move together for reforming, the tab relief feature is positioned over the tab fold and the scallops at the ends of the fold. As a result crushing and fracture of the tab during reforming is avoided.

Abstract: An easily openable can end (1) is disclosed including an end panel (2), a score line (3) formed in the end panel to define a prearranged opening area, a tab (10), the tab having a handle (12), tab securing means (20) for securing the tab to the end panel. In particular, the end panel of the can end is provided with at least one moveable portion (7) contactable with the lower surface of the tab at a location between the tab securing means and the end of the handle of the tab, the moveable portion being deformable upwardly under influence of pressure (p) to push against the lower surface of the tab and thereby incline (?) the handle of the tab away from the end panel to define a gap (d2) under the tab for finger access by a user. Also disclosed are various methods by which the pressure may be induced into a container incorporating the easily openable can end.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for folding a tab over a peelable panel on an end structure comprising a ring/panel. The ring and panel are formed from the same flexible material which has no inherent deadfold characteristic. In one embodiment an upper tab fold tool includes a pivotable plate for holding the folded edge of the tab in position prior to heat sealing to the peelable panel.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming a closure in which the closure includes a peelable panel with integral tab folded over the panel. The apparatus includes upper and lower reform tools, the upper reform tool having a tab relief feature and local scallops at each end of the tab relief. When reform tools move together for reforming, the tab relief feature is positioned over the tab fold and the scallops at the ends of the fold. As a result crushing and fracture of the tab during reforming is avoided.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for folding a tab over a peelable panel on an end structure comprising a ring/panel. The ring and panel are formed from the same flexible material which has no inherent deadfold characteristic. In one embodiment an upper tab fold tool includes a pivotable plate for holding the folded edge of the tab in position prior to heat sealing to the peelable panel.