With Cutting, Punching, Or Cutter Accommodating Means Patents (Class 220/277)
  • Patent number: 4944408
    Abstract: A cardboard/plastics film laminate package (1) is provided with an opening arrangement consisting of a channel (6) fixed to the top wall of the package over an opening area (4) bounded by a tearing line (3) part thickness perforations and an opening element (9). The opening element (9) is a strip having a pull-tab (10) at one end and a bent back penetrating portion (11) fixed at (14) to a part (14") of the opening area. On pulling the tab (10), the penetrating portion (11) wedges between the channel (6) and the opening area of the package and is forced to penetrate the opening area. On further pulling, the opening area of the package is torn away and removed through the channel (1) which then forms a pouring mouth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 31, 1990
    Assignee: Tetra Pak Holdings & Finance S.A.
    Inventor: Hans Rausing
  • Patent number: 4925034
    Abstract: A fitment for a package is stamped out of polystyrene strips and then hot melt adhesive bonded to the package so that a tab portion of the fitment overlies an openable flap formed by a score line in the package. The package is opened by rotating the tab so that the forward portion of the tab pushes the openable flap into the container. Since the forward portion of the tab is adhesively bonded to the openable flap, when a frangible connection between the tab and base fractures, the openable flap and tab can be removed to thereby expose an opening in the package. Rotation of the tab is initiated by pushing downwardly on the forward portion of the tab in order to fracture the score line of the package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 15, 1990
    Assignee: Combibloc, Inc.
    Inventors: Arthur R. Robichaud, Frank R. Wilgus, Warren C. Tyler, Jack Holmes
  • Patent number: 4907722
    Abstract: An easily openable sealed container comprising a rectangular parallelepipedal main body and a caplike reinforcing cover fitted over the top end of the main body. The top wall of the main body is provided with an opening forming thin wall portion. The cover has a top wall provided with an aperture opposed to the thin wall portion and an externally threaded spout projecting upward from the aperture-defining edge portion of the wall. A cap nut screwed on the spout has integral therewith a cutter for cutting the thin wall portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1988
    Date of Patent: March 13, 1990
    Assignee: Shikoku Kakoki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuo Ueda, Takehiko Aihara
  • Patent number: 4886178
    Abstract: A bubbler container for containing and transporting ultra-pure corrosive and poisonous liquid reagents which must be protected from exposure to air and from transmission of gas or vapor through containment walls, means for using the same in connection with unique valving and multiple layer seals for conduits is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1989
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventor: Hans-Juergen Graf
  • Patent number: 4883198
    Abstract: A container for semi-solid substances includes a releasable seal adapted to be opened by a user. Opening of the seal releases vacuum pressure inside the container to allow the semi-solid substance to be dispensed from the open end of the container as a unitary mass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1987
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1989
    Inventor: Wayne E. Manska
  • Patent number: 4823975
    Abstract: A can closure for a cylindrical can containing a carbonated beverage or drink typically to be opened at the can top which suitably has a rim thereabout. A can cover plate is provided having an underside surface sealably engagable with the can top rim. A can support plate is oriented below and opposing the can cover plate and is designed for supporting the can. An expansible back connects the can cover and support plates in expansible and contractible opposing relation to permit the can closure to close down upon and sealably engage the can top rim. A locking mechanism is provided to secure the expansible back once the can cover plate is sealably engaged with the can top rim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 25, 1989
    Inventor: Lynn R. Schwankl
  • Patent number: 4821912
    Abstract: A easy-open beverage container which can be selectably reclosed and reopened, after the container initially is opened. The reclosure structure may be contained on an opening tab, or alternatively may be separate from the tab.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 18, 1989
    Inventor: Robert A. Wells
  • Patent number: 4772152
    Abstract: A releasable connector comprises first and second elements (A,B). The elements (A,B) have flanges (10,34) which lie face-to-face when the elements are interconnected. The flange (10) of the first element (A) has flexible lugs (12) which carry barbs (14). The barbs (14) engage the flange (34) of the second element (B) to retain the elements together. The first element (A) has a socket (2) within which extends a nozzle (4). The second element (B) comprises a plug which fits in the socket (2) and which has a bore (38) fitting over the nozzle (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1986
    Date of Patent: September 20, 1988
    Assignee: Nomix Manufacturing Co. Limited
    Inventor: David C. Gill
  • Patent number: 4709830
    Abstract: A tamper evident closure for a wide mouth container having a closed endcap with an overcap to coaxially rotate thereabout. The overcap is provided with an integrally formed vertically depending knife blade which is constructed and arranged to engage a weakened portion of a raised annular rib in the endcap. The endcap is further provided with a raised hollow lug which projects vertically through a corresponding aperture in the overcap. The aperture is provided with a cutting edge. As the overcap is rotated, the cutting edge of the aperture severs the raised lug, thus providing an early indication of tampering. As the overcap is rotated further and completes a rotation about said container, the knife blade completely severs the weakened portion of the raised annular rib, thus completely detaching the closure from the container. An annular bead in said overcap and a corresponding groove in said endcap may be used to reattach the severed overcap to the body of the container for reuse of the contents therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1987
    Assignee: Courtesy Mold & Tool Corporation
    Inventor: Walter J. Kreiseder
  • Patent number: 4706753
    Abstract: A capsule for conveying chemicals through a borehole for stopping lost circulation has a fragile bottom plate. A weight for destroying the bottom plate is suspended above the capsule by a cord which extends over knife edges. A messenger for cutting the cord is mounted to a wire line. The weight is caused to collide with the messenger to cut the cord, for breaking the bottom plate. Thus, the chemicals are diffused.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1987
    Assignee: Takanaka Komuten Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Katsutoshi Ohkochi, Mamoru Shinozaki, Toshiyuki Ohshita, Masayasu Kitano, Seizo Kamata
  • Patent number: 4614437
    Abstract: A mixing container and an adapter to interconnect the mixing container to a second container to permit intermixing of the contents of the containers. The mixing container has a neck with a plurality of raised circumferential ribs thereon. The adapter has a central cylindrical sleeve. A first end of the sleeve is surrounded by a cylindrical skirt. The interior surface of the first end of the sleeve has a plurality of circumferential grooves which enable the adapter to engage the ribs on the neck of the mixing container. The interior surface of the cylindrical skirt has a screw thread to enable the adapter to engage a conventional threaded container neck. The opposite, or second, end of the sleeve has a cutting sleeve therein, concentric with the sleeve. The cutting sleeve is adapted to pierce a seal on the mixing container. The second end of the sleeve frictionally engages the raised circumferential ribs on the mixing container during the mixing operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1984
    Date of Patent: September 30, 1986
    Assignee: Dougherty Brothers Company
    Inventor: John D. Buehler
  • Patent number: 4555042
    Abstract: A tamper resistant container and closure assembly is disclosed. The assembly has an annular protective band which shields the lid from unauthorized access prior to removal of the protective band. The protective band is designed such that it resists manual removal and must be mechanically removed by a can opener or other type of cutting tool. Removal of the protective band allows removal of the lid from the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1985
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1985
    Inventor: Willard J. Rathbun
  • Patent number: 4550851
    Abstract: An improved container top for beverage container of the pull tab or ring type. The container top includes a generally "smile" shaped opening which is produced by actuation of a pull tab or ring opener. In one embodiment, the ring opener is slidable into a position to sever a smile shaped opening by fracturing at a tear line. In a second embodiment, the ring opener pivots about a rivet integral with the container top to an opening position and then out of the opening area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1984
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1985
    Assignee: Ernest R. Garrett
    Inventors: Ernest R. Garrett, Charles A. Chambers
  • Patent number: 4546897
    Abstract: A novel hermetically sealed, protective atmosphere transfer vessel is described which comprises a container defining an interior cavity and opening thereof for receiving a sample to be protected during transfer, an annular lip surrounding the opening for receiving a flexible puncturable membrane stretched across the opening for hermetically sealing the container, and a wire puncture bridge attached at one to the container and having at the other end a point positioned near the membrane whereby pressure internal of the container expands the membrane against the point to puncture and tear away the membrane for exposure of the sample. An alternative embodiment includes a lid for the container including an axial exhaust hole therethrough and a ball valve for sealing the exhaust hole under the influence of external pressure on the lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1984
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1985
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air Force
    Inventors: Joseph T. Maloy, John F. Leonard, David H. Fritts
  • Patent number: 4544079
    Abstract: An opener structure for a container includes a slidable plate juxtaposed against an external wall of the container. Retainer devices such as rivets retain the plate against the wall but permit relative sliding between the wall and the plate. A resilient punch supported from the plate rests on a shelf defined by the wall. A region of weakness lies adjacent the shelf so that if the plate slides away from the shelf, the punch will pierce the line of weakness and rupture it. A lever is provided to cause the plate to slide away from the shelf.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1984
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1985
    Assignees: Edwin Elrick, David L. Lockhart, Alfred Hunt
    Inventor: Edwin Elrick
  • Patent number: 4469249
    Abstract: A dispenser tap has a body, a handle, and a probe mounted within the body. The probe is hollow and has a pointed inner end with openings allowing liquid to be dispensed. The body has a spigot-receiving part which has a bore passing through it and a seal at one end thereof. The probe has radially outwardly extending pins that fit into corresponding slots in the body. In use, turning the handle cammingly moves the probe to an extended non-return position such that the seal is pierced and rupturned. The pins within the slots prevent the probe from rotating during this operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1981
    Date of Patent: September 4, 1984
    Assignee: Diemoulders Proprietary Limited
    Inventors: Jon H. Malpas, Alan R. Calder
  • Patent number: 4444610
    Abstract: This piercing device for lids constituted of a supple and tearable material includes a substantially plane rigid tab on which a pivoting axis is provided, which axis divides the tab into a piercing arm and a handling arm and is fixed on the lid.In order to produce this axis, there is provided a supple tab having about the same extension as the rigid tab, the supple tab being secured by one face to the rigid tab and by the other face to the lid, at least on the side of the handling arm of the rigid tab.This device is particularly designed to be produced in association with an installation for thermo-shaping, filling and sealing thermoplastic containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1982
    Date of Patent: April 24, 1984
    Assignee: S.A.R.L. Eroa Holding
    Inventors: Roland Torterotot, Jean C. Hautemont
  • Patent number: 4415393
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a tear-off port protector for a container comprises placing flexible, typically extruded tubing on a mandrel that fills the bore of the tubing, with the tubing preferably outwardly stretched by the mandrel. A cutting blade is spaced a predetermined distance of less than the tubing wall thickness from the mandrel. One then causes the cutting blade to form an annular cut about the tubing, while maintaining the predetermined distance, and thereafter one removes the tubing from the mandrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1981
    Date of Patent: November 15, 1983
    Assignee: Baxter Travenol Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert G. Grimes
  • Patent number: 4375861
    Abstract: In a can there are provided a number of weakening lines (1) in the body, the lid or the bottom, said weakening lines defining an opening section (2) intended for being rolled up or drawn away. In the opening section (2) there is arranged a perforating panel (3) being partly surrounded by three, rectilinear weakening lines at a distance from a weakening line (5 or 6) dependent on the form of the opening tool (4), said perforating panel (3) being arranged to be pressed into the interior of the can at the beginning of the opening operation. The panel is depressed by a beak (7) of the opening tool (4), whereby an admission aperture is formed permitting the insertion of a lobe (8) provided with an active point (14) at the end of the tool (4) pointing away from the beak (7). From the interior of the can the point (14) is pressed upwards through an initiating weakening (5), and the opening tool (4) is then rolled across the opening section (2) while rolling it up in the usual manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1980
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1983
    Assignee: Haustrups Fabriker A/S
    Inventor: Holger L. Jepsen
  • Patent number: 4345696
    Abstract: Disclosed is apparatus for forming an opening in a sealed container. A score or weakening groove is formed in the container end to define a tab which includes a raised boss. An opening bar movable with respect to the container but affixed thereto is moved over the container end to contact the raised boss. The tab is thus depressed into the container and severed along the weakening groove to form an opening. The opening bar is positioned over the tab during shipment and during the initial opening procedure to protect the tab during shipment and to protect the user from the contents of the container during the initial opening procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1980
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1982
    Assignee: Guimarin Container Co., Incorporated
    Inventor: Henry L. Guimarin
  • Patent number: 4289250
    Abstract: This relates to an easy opening container wherein a displaceable panel portion is defined by a line of weakness and has attached thereto an opening device. Most particularly, the opening device is formed of a length of flexible material, such as a tape, which is folded upon itself and has a lower leg bonded to the displaceable panel portion. The outer leg, which functions as a pull element, has secured thereto an opening element which extends beyond the fold and has a nose for effecting an axially inwardly directed opening force on the displaceable panel portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1980
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1981
    Assignee: The Continental Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas F. Jordan
  • Patent number: 4267929
    Abstract: A lid arrangement for a ski wax can with a tear-off casing. Said lid comprising a bottom surrounded by a peripheral skirt adapted to lie against the exterior of the casing. A sharp edge or knife edge is arranged on the interior of the lid at its skirt and facing away from the bottom of the lid. Said edge producing a cut in the upper edge of the can casing when being placed on the can. Said cut facilitating the initial tearing-off of the upper portion of the can casing. The cut produced has a depth preferably equal to the distance between peripheral, parallel score lines provided in the box casing for tearing purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1979
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1981
    Assignee: Tubefabrikken A/S
    Inventors: Lars Korterod, Arne Strand, Odd Ellingsen, Harry Broen
  • Patent number: 4254890
    Abstract: A non-sliver scored metal end closure member, and an apparatus and method for forming the same, are disclosed, characterized by the provision of a continuous scoreline between the radius and central panel portions of the end. The scoreline includes, in cross-sectional profile, a horizontal flat bottom wall, and outwardly divergent outer and inner side walls. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the scoreline is contained in the upper horizontal surface of the metal end, the outer side wall of the scoreline being concave and having a radius less than that of the radius portion of the metal end, the bottom wall being tangent to the outer side wall. The inner side wall comprises either a flat surface arranged at an obtuse angle of about 165.degree. relative to the bottom wall, or a concave surface tangent to the bottom wall. In another modification, the inner side wall is concave and tangent to the bottom wall, the radius of the inner side wall being at least as great as that of the outer side wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1979
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1981
    Assignee: Boise Cascade Corporation
    Inventor: Teddy M. Westphal
  • Patent number: 4215795
    Abstract: An end closure for a composite can body wherein the closure has a circumferential weakening line formed therein to facilitate the removal of the central portion of the closure by a can opener wherein the weakening line is formed by an offset shearing operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1979
    Date of Patent: August 5, 1980
    Assignee: Owens-Illinois, Inc.
    Inventor: William F. Elser
  • Patent number: 4207990
    Abstract: A hermetically sealed container with plural access ports is provided. The closure includes a severable dome unitary with the container and positioned over the container access opening. The dome is severable from the container by the action of a collar threadedly attached to the container. The dome is further provided with an access aperture that is closed off by a twist-off cap which, upon removal, exposes the dispensing aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1979
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1980
    Assignee: Automatic Liquid Packaging, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerhard H. Weiler, Louis T. Pagels
  • Patent number: 4204604
    Abstract: An improvement in a closure system for containers in which a cap member sealed at its base to an annular flange about the neck of the container is removeable by a cutting ring. The cap includes an upwardly projecting brim at the base separated from the side wall of the cap to provide an annular groove. The groove has at least one tapered recess. The cutting ring which can be positioned around the side wall of the cap has at least one depending tab with an inwardly directed sharpened projection. Normally, the tab rests in the recess of the groove. Upon rotation of the cutting ring, the tab is forced inwardly causing the sharpened projection to sever the side wall of the closure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1979
    Date of Patent: May 27, 1980
    Assignee: Cutter Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: Marius J. Morin, Colin J. Nichols, Myron R. Prouty
  • Patent number: 4200198
    Abstract: An opener for a metal can having cylindrical sidewalls and a top panel, the panel including a pouring tab scored therein, an elongated opener strip having one end attached to the inner surface of the pad at a point adjacent the can sidewall and the other end attached to the inner surface of the top panel at a point adjacent the can sidewall diametrical of the tab, a pop hole scored in the top panel adjacent the center and directly over the opening strip, an opener stick normally lying parallel and contiguous with the can top panel, the opener stick having the inner end affixed to the pop hole tab and the pop hole tab being affixed to the opener strip intermediate its ends so that when the opener stick is pivoted upwardly, the pop hole tab is torn from the panel, providing an open aperture in the panel, following which the opener stick may be downwardly displaced into the can causing the opener strip to apply force on the pouring tab to tear at least portions of the periphery of the tab from the panel exposing
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1978
    Date of Patent: April 29, 1980
    Assignee: Chinquapin Corporation
    Inventor: Allen D. West
  • Patent number: 4144994
    Abstract: A closure structure for a container having end closures, one of the end closures being arranged to facilitate opening by a conventional type cutter, the closure being characterized by a diaphragm having an annular area therein with a thickness less than the thickness of the closure material, so that the annular area may be readily pierced and severed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1978
    Date of Patent: March 20, 1979
    Assignee: Container Corporation of America
    Inventor: Robert W. Brickeen, Sr.
  • Patent number: 4141464
    Abstract: A can having a closure defined at least in part by a rupturable weakening line is provided with a finger-movable tab-like tool for safely opening the closure. The tool is a sheet metal lever pivotally attached to a can end in which the closure is deflectible and preferably non-severable. A depressor portion of the lever is raised from its prone or inoperative position and, in part, twisted about 90.degree. to locate its pressure-directing beak adjacent to a point along the weakening line, whereupon downward finger pressure on the depressor portion disrupts the line and deflects the closure inwardly. The lever is so shaped that depression of the twistable portion is limited by engagement therewith of an edge of the opening thus barring finger entry into the can opening as a safety measure. The lever may be provided at its opposite end with a handle whereby, when the closure has been opened as explained, the lever may be swung to clear the depressed end portion substantially from the can opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1978
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1979
    Assignee: USM Corporation
    Inventors: John S. Kelley, Albert E. Newton
  • Patent number: 4129227
    Abstract: An improved beverage can in which a hole is punched in the can top, so to allow drinking from the can, a scored tab of the hole being pushed down into the can and out-of-the-way instead of being torn off and tossed on the ground; the can in one design including a slide having attached "lock-in legs" which, when depressed, break the tab scoring, and when held-down slide is then pushed, it causes the tab to curl up inwardly into the can; and the slide in another design thereof including means to also roll the soft edges downward into the can so to prevent cutting the lips of a drinker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1978
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1978
    Inventors: Theodore K. O'Neil, George Spector
  • Patent number: 4084723
    Abstract: A combined container and container opener is disclosed, which is formed as an integral unit with a top end wall of the container having at least one punctum positioned on its surface, and the bottom end wall of the container having at least one protruding member being positionally mounted in vertical alignment with the corresponding punctum of the top end wall. To effect opening of the container, one container having the bottom end wall protruding members is aligned on top of a second container having the top end wall with correspondingly shaped and sized puncta, and by the use of manual pressure, the protruding members will puncture the puncta to permit access to the contents of the punctured container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1977
    Date of Patent: April 18, 1978
    Inventor: Richard P. Parker
  • Patent number: 4084718
    Abstract: A sealing fixture in combination with a cap member provides a fluid-tight compression seal between an elastomeric septum and a tubular body. The septum is disposed transversely on a first end of the sealing fixture, which is of cylindrical configuration with an axial bore. A second end of the sealing fixture fits over the tubular body. The cap member covers the septum by being screwed down over a threaded portion of the outer wall of the sealing fixture. An aperture is provided in the cap member through which an injection device can be inserted to puncture the septum so as to deliver a quantity of fluid to, or to remove a quantity of fluid from, the tubular body via the bore in the sealing fixture. An outer wall portion of the sealing fixture adjacent the first end thereof is tapered inwardly to form a sharp junction with an inner wall portion of the sealing fixture. This inner wall portion adjacent the first end of the sealing fixture is parallel to the axis of the bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1977
    Date of Patent: April 18, 1978
    Assignee: Varian Associates, Inc.
    Inventor: Brent Earl Wadsworth
  • Patent number: 4053648
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a combination of a bottle closure device and a complementarily formed bottle top for the sterile dispensing of flowable and/or pasty or viscous, sterile bottle contents, particularly of baby food, whereby the bottle top or its opening provided for the discharge of the contents, respectively, is covered under sterile conditions by a cover or closure wall, and said device being adapted to be attached to said bottle top and including on its inner face cutting means for the opening of said bottle, threads for threading onto the bottle top provided with complementary threads and for the simultaneous actuation of said cutting means, as well as means for the sterile dispensing or removal of the bottle contents after the opening of said bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1974
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1977
    Inventors: Manfred Carl Schmid, Rolf Richard Wilhelm Reiss
  • Patent number: 4051976
    Abstract: Improved easy opening means for containers. Especially adapted to those used for liquids, including carbonated beverages, and permitting drinking from the container or pouring out contents. An important feature is attachment of closure to container after opening to avoid litter. Main feature is an openable segment in the top defined by a score line that extends almost all around its periphery, but interrupted at one point by an unscored section which provides hingeable attachment means to secure the segment to the top within the container after opening. Opening of the segment is accomplished by a manually operated elongated leverage lift tab which is hingeably secured to the top by a rivet which is positioned just outside of the segment and close to the score line. The outer longer lift end of the lift tab extends over the container top beyond the segment, and the shorter inner end extends partially over the segment, and comprises a downward pressure exerting extension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1976
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1977
    Inventor: Walter Merton Perry
  • Patent number: 4047634
    Abstract: The invention resides in a lid for containers of the type having a pull tab attached to a separable panel on the lid. The lid is weakened along a line to define the panel which can be removed or bent to give access to the contents of the container. The panel has a well over which the pull tab extends to enable the tab to be lifted by a finger inserted in the well. The panel has a raised horseshoe shaped portion near the line of weakening. The bight of the horseshoe forms part of the well's perimeter and the end of the tab to be lifted is disposed between the legs of the horseshoe. Upon lifting of the tab end, the opposite end of the tab initiates fracture of the panel along the weakened line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1976
    Date of Patent: September 13, 1977
    Inventors: Robert McGeehin, Edward Dodswoth
  • Patent number: 4038746
    Abstract: Opening device for a package of coins. For the opening of packages of coins, there is provided a keylike device having a handle portion and two prongs at one end thereof spaced from each other and projecting from such end in generally parallel relationship to each other. One of said prongs is straight-sided and adapted for lying against the outside of a coin package when the device is in use. The other of said prongs is relatively shorter, is spaced from the first prong a distance slightly greater than the thickness of the rim of the packages with which said device is to be used and has a portion projecting from the end thereof in the direction remote from said first prong. In use, said device is placed with said first prong outside of the package and the second prong adjacent the inside of the rim of said package and the key is twisted to bring said projection against or under the free edge of said rim. Said key is then rocked to lift said rim and simultaneously further twisted to tear said package open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1975
    Date of Patent: August 2, 1977
    Inventor: Meryl L. Bromley
  • Patent number: 4018357
    Abstract: An improved easy-opening end closure wherein the end panel is formed with a number of intersecting, straight score lines which define a number of interconnected non-detachable openable segments adapted to be pushed inwardly to open the closure. An opening member is provided, adapted to effect opening of the closure pursuant to a panelwardly directed application of digital pressure on the nose portion thereof, and having a number of camming surfaces for fracturing the score lines and for urging the segments inwardly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1976
    Date of Patent: April 19, 1977
    Assignee: The Continental Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Obert M. Ostrem
  • Patent number: 4003495
    Abstract: A sheet metal can end or cover comprises a largely or wholly removable panel bounded by a peripheral tear line, and an integral closure within the panel, the closure being defined by a generally arcuate groove or depression formed at one side thereof with a coterminous, rupturable weakening line having a mid-locality extending nearer to but spaced from the panel tear line to provide a lifting lip therefor and a deflectable tongue portion extending toward the center of the panel. The weakening line and the tear line are preferably of the fractured but integral type fully disclosed in our U.S. Pat. No. 3,881,630 and extend on opposite sides of the panel. On depressing the locality of the mentioned weakening line with a tool, such as the tip of a spoon, the closure opens then permitting the tip to bear upwardly on the inside of the lifting lip as the bowl of the spoon is pivoted upon the tongue portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1976
    Date of Patent: January 18, 1977
    Assignee: USM Corporation
    Inventors: Frederick Gerard Joseph Grise, Walter Carl Lovell
  • Patent number: 4003493
    Abstract: An easy-open container having a wall in which an openable member is defined by a selectably separable region. A separate opening tab member is secured to the openable member to receive manual opening force and fracture the separable region. A flange on the opening tab member overlies at least part of the separable region to prevent the opening tab member and the attached openable member from freely entering the container. The openable member is nondetachably retained on the container by the configuration of the separated openable member, or by a pivotable connection between the opening tab member and the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1975
    Date of Patent: January 18, 1977
    Inventors: Robert A. Wells, Carl J. Strobe
  • Patent number: 3997075
    Abstract: An improved non-detachable end closure wherein a pull tab member initiates fracture of the opening score line. The pull tab member is fastened to the end panel with the pull tab nose portion resting on a raised bead formed on the opening flap member immediately adjacent the score line. The tab member is preloaded with a panelward force directed against the flap member, said force serving to reduce the effort required to fracture the score. Opening of the container is accomplished by lifting the tab member to initiate fracture of the score. The flap member remains attached to the end panel and is pushed into the container with finger or thumb pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1975
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1976
    Assignee: Continental Can Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Wayne T. Chiappe
  • Patent number: 3994413
    Abstract: An end structure for an easy open container includes an end wall and a panel defined by a score line. Fold portions, which support the panel in a plane different from the end wall, form an annular shoulder around the score line. A guard ring having portions defining a manually actuatable punch is rotatable on the shoulder between a first position wherein the punch has a distal relationship with the score line and a second position wherein the punch has a proximal relationship with the score line. The guard ring can be set to the first position to inhibit opening of the container and can be moved to the second position to facilitate opening of the container. With the rupturing of the score line and displacement of the panel to open the container, the guard ring displaces slightly to guard the sharp free edge of the ruptured score line and thereby to inhibit lacerations of the user's finger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1975
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1976
    Assignee: Dayton Reliable Tool & Mfg., Co.
    Inventor: George F. Smyth
  • Patent number: 3981411
    Abstract: This device consists primarily of a pivotable tab, which normally rests within a well recessed in the top of a can, the tab being lifted upwards from the well portion, when it is desired to open the can of liquid. The tab portion is provided with nipples, which will enable the tab, when rotated, to align with a scored line on the top of the can, which when cut out by pressing the tab downwards, will enable the liquid to be dispensed from the can.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1976
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1976
    Inventor: Robert A. Hofstetter
  • Patent number: 3970211
    Abstract: An end closure having a non-detachable flap partially severable from the end panel to provide an opening. The flap is recessed below the remainder of the panel and is broken away by a tab which fits into the recess. The tab is adapted to be pushed inwardly and, after rupturing the score between the end panel and the flap, functions to swing the flap inwardly about a hinge formed by an unscored area of the flap perimeter. The invention is primarily directed to a means of attaching the tab to the flap so as to provide a lost motion enabling the movement of the flap relative to the tab during the inward swing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1975
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1976
    Assignee: Continental Can Company, Inc.
    Inventor: George D. LaCross
  • Patent number: 3967750
    Abstract: An easy-open wall for a container and associated tab is provided and comprises an approximately U-shaped score line in the wall with the score line having a bight and a pair of extensions extending from the bight and having arcuate end lengths terminating in spaced ends. The spaced ends have a portion of the wall therebetween and the score line defines a panel which is completely severable from the wall while remaining attached at the wall portion to define an opening in the wall. The tab is attached substantially flatly against the wall and has a forward portion which overlies the panel adjacent the arcuate end lengths and has a rear portion with the rear portion being easily grasped and lifted to urge the forward portion against the panel to thereby sever the panel first along the arcuate end lengths and then progressively along the extensions and bight to move the panel within the container with the wall portion holding the panel securely to the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1975
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1976
    Assignee: Reynolds Metals Company
    Inventor: Daniel F. Cudzik
  • Patent number: 3964632
    Abstract: A multiple-motion easy-open closure for a can which has two rivets on the end panel, one rivet pivotably connecting a tab to the end panel and functioning to aid in cracking the score and the second rivet anchoring the tab to the end panel. The tab has a slot flanked by ribs and must be rotated until the second rivet, which extends through the slot has its head in alignment with a circular opening in the slot through which the tab may be lifted to rupture the score. The ribs are positioned tangentially to the arc of pivot of the tab and must be laterally deflected and assume an arcuate contour concentric with the pivot arc to accommodate passage of the second rivet between locked and unlocked positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1974
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1976
    Assignee: Continental Can Company, Inc.
    Inventor: John S. Bozek
  • Patent number: 3957172
    Abstract: An improved child-resistant self-opening end closure of the type wherein the tab is nested between end panel protrusions which obstruct access to the tab ring and prevent grasping and lifting of the tab to open the container. The end panel is formed with a recess beneath the nose portion of the tab which provides maximum clearance between the tab and the end panel, whereby depressing the nose portion of the tab causes the ring portion to tilt upwardly sufficiently to permit it to be grasped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1975
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1976
    Assignee: Continental Can Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary K. Hasegawa
  • Patent number: 3952912
    Abstract: Improved easy opening means for containers. Especially adapted to those used for liquids, including carbonated beverages, and permitting drinking from the container or pouring out contents. An important feature is attachment of closure to container after opening to avoid litter. Another feature is lift tab for easy opening, and with closure sealed by either a frangible adhesive sealant or by membrane sealing means. Lift tab initiates rupture of sealant, and then is pushed below container top with means to hold tab below opening so there is no interference when drinking from the can. Another closure has a small end for initial pressure release, and then whole closure hinges inwardly. Still another means comprises a slide gate with frangible membrane for sealing and for very easy opening. Optionally a pressure release button is provided to release the internal pressure before pulling the slide gate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1974
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1976
    Inventor: Walter Merton Perry
  • Patent number: 3949898
    Abstract: A container end panel having a non-detachable flap portion partially severable from the panel to provide an opening. The flap portion is recessed below the remainder of the panel and is broken away by a fitment which fits into the recess. The fitment is adapted to be pushed inwardly and after rupturing the score between the panel and the flap functions to swing the flap inwardly about a hinge formed by the unscored metal connecting the flap to the panel. The fitment is pressed into the opening and snaps within the opening and provides a guard shielding the users finger from the raw edges at the tear edge about the opening. The invention is also directed to a formation of the inner edge of the ring to facilitate rupturing the score and thereafter swinging the panel inwardly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1974
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1976
    Assignee: Continental Can Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Anil U. Patel, James V. DePhillips, Harry A. Peyser
  • Patent number: 3938693
    Abstract: A container end panel having a non-detachable flap portion partially severable from the panel to provide an opening. The flap portion is recessed below the remainder of the panel and is broken away by a fitment which fits into the recess. The fitment is adapted to be pushed inwardly and after rupturing the score between the panel and the flap functions to swing the flap inwardly about a hinge formed by the unscored metal connecting the flap to the panel. The fitment is pressed into the opening and snaps within the opening and provides a guard shielding the users finger from the raw edges at the tear edge about the opening. The invention is also directed to a formation of the inner edge of the ring to facilitate rupturing the score and thereafter swinging the panel inwardly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1975
    Date of Patent: February 17, 1976
    Assignee: Continental Can Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Anil U. Patel, James V. DePhillips, Harry A. Peyser
  • Patent number: RE29916
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a combination of a bottle closure device and a complementarily formed bottle top for the sterile dispensing of flowable and/or pasty or viscous, sterile bottle contents, particularly of baby food, whereby the bottle top or its opening provided for the discharge of the contents, respectively, is covered under sterile conditions by a cover or closure wall, and said device being adapted to be attached to said bottle top and including on its inner face cutting means for the opening of said bottle, threads for threading onto the bottle top provided with complementary threads and for the simultaneous actuation of said cutting means, as well as means for the sterile dispensing or removal of the bottle contents after the opening of said bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1978
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1979
    Inventors: Manfred C. Schmid, Rolf R. W. Reiss