Method of making easy-open, push-tab end for metal containers

Abstract

There is disclosed an easy-opening convenience end for generally cylindrical containers in which an end closure has a push tab or gate panel formed out of the thickness of the end closure and displaced beneath the plane of the end closure with a folded protective edge circumscribing the outer periphery of the gate panel, except for a limited portion which defines a hinge section between the gate panel and end closure. The folded edge tapers or otherwise merges into the thickness of the end closure adjacent to the hinge section, and a line of weakening or separation is formed between the fold and gate panel by a metal shearing operation so as to permit opening of the end closure by depression of the tab inwardly about its hinge section. Modified forms of ends incorporate relatively broad reinforcing areas in the closure surrounding opposite sides of the gate panel to facilitate initial separation of the gate panel away from the end. A reinforcing area within the gate panel takes the form of a raised pressure pad located adjacent to a corner at the leading end of the gate panel to aid in initial severance of the panel. In one of the modified forms, the gate panel or tab is raised upwardly through the aperture formed in the end closure, and a generally concave or depressed area extends transversely of the length of the raised tab both to strengthen it and to encourage localized separation of the panel initially along its leading or outer drinking edge.