SEAM ASSEMBLY AND METHODS

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/695,131, filed on September 16, 2024, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates to containers having a plate or lid coupled to the container using a seam coupling.

BACKGROUND

Various types of containers or canisters are utilized to retain or hold contents that may be initially pressurized, or may become pressurized over time. For example, aerosol canisters may be pressurized with an aerosol, and may retain this initial pressurization until a user causes aerosol to be released, thereby reducing the pressure within the aerosol canister. In some instances, a container may be pressurized, and may maintain the initial level of pressurization throughout the life cycle of the contents of the container. In still other instances, a container may become pressurized over time due to one or more factors that cause the container to become pressurized, such as a chemical reaction that occurs within the container.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to a container that is configured to store contents under pressure.

In some aspects, a container includes a body extending from a first open end to a second end opposite the first open end. The container includes a longitudinal axis extending from the first open end to the second end, the longitudinal axis defining a first direction that extends along the longitudinal axis toward the first open end, and a second direction extending opposite the first direction. The container includes a base plate configured to close a first open end and a seam coupling a perimeter of the base plate to the first open end of the body. A cross-sectional profile of the seam includes a body flange. The body flange includes a first body section extending from the body to a first body bend, and a second body section disposed outward of the first body section, relative to the longitudinal axis, the second body section extending from the first body bend in the first direction. The sectional profile of the seam includes a plate flange engaging and at least partially circumscribing a surface of the body flange. The plate flange includes a first plate section extending from the base plate to a first plate bend, a second plate section disposed outward of the first plate section, relative to the longitudinal axis, the second plate section extending from the first plate bend to a second plate bend in the first direction, and a third plate section disposed between the first plate section and the second plate section, the third plate section extending from the second plate bend in the second direction. A securement feature further seals the seam, the securement feature including at least one of an adhesive, a weld, a crimped interface, or at least one auxiliary bend.

In some aspects, a container that is configured to store contents under pressure includes a body extending from a first open end to a second end opposite the first open end. The container includes a base plate configured to close a first open end. The container includes a seam coupling a perimeter of the base plate to the first open end of the body. The seam includes a plate flange that extends from the base plate and is folded at least once to create two or more overlapping sections. The seam includes a body flange that extends from the body and is interposed between each of the two or more overlapping sections. A securement feature further seals the seam, the securement feature including at least one of an adhesive, a weld, a crimped interface, or an auxiliary fold of the body flange.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example container according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a side view of the container of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the container of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a top view of the container of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 2 taken at II-II, including a first example embodiment of a seam coupling a body of the container to a plate.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 5 taken at VI-VI.

FIGS. 7-9 illustrate an example method of forming the seam coupling of FIG. 5.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 2 taken at II-II, including a second example embodiment of a seam coupling a body of the container to a plate.

FIG. 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 10 taken at XI-XI.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 2 taken at II-II, including a third example embodiment of a seam coupling a body of the container to a plate.

FIG. 13 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 12 taken at XIII-XIII.

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 2 taken at II-II, including a fourth example embodiment of a seam coupling a body of the container to a plate.

FIG. 15 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 14 taken at XV-XV.

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 2 taken at II-II, including a fourth example embodiment of a seam coupling a body of the container to a plate.

FIG. 17 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 16 taken at XVI-XVI.

FIGS. 18-22 illustrate an example method of forming the seam coupling of FIG. 17.

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 2 taken at II-II, including a fifth example embodiment of a seam coupling a body of the container to a plate.

FIG. 24 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 22 taken at XXIV-XXIV.

FIGS. 25 and 26 illustrate an example method of forming the seam coupling of FIG. 24.

FIGS. 27-29 illustrate another example method of forming the seam coupling of FIG. 24.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before the embodiments of the disclosure are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including” and “comprising” and variations thereof is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items and equivalents thereof. Throughout the disclosure, the terms “about” and “approximately” mean plus or minus 5% of the number that each term precedes.

As noted above, in some contexts, it may be useful to store contents, such as fluids, gases, or combinations thereof, e.g., aerosols, under pressure in a container or cannister. In general, portable containers and cannisters containing pressurized contents may be sealed using one or more plates or lids. For example, conventional pressurized containers may include a plate to close a first open end of the container. Generally, the plate may be coupled to the container via a seam coupling that is configured to contain and withstand the pressure within the container. However, there is an increasing demand or need for containers that are either able to store contents at a higher fill pressure, or that exhibit a higher burst pressure (e.g., a pressure at which the container breaks). Conventional seam couplings may not be capable of withstanding these increasing fill pressures or may not exhibit these higher burst pressures. For example, initiatives to use more environmentally friendly refrigerant compositions (such as, e.g., R-32, R-454B, or other refrigerant compositions having a reduced global warming potential (GWP)) and regulations governing their transport and storage have led to a need for portable containers with seals that can withstand elevated pressures. In some embodiments, innovation in combustible fuels (such as, e.g., butane, propane, hydrogen, and other new forms of fuel) and regulations governing their transport and storage also have led to a need for portable containers with seals that can withstand elevated pressures. As such, there is a need for new methods and configurations for forming containers with stronger seals that can withstand increased maximum fill pressures or can exhibit higher burst pressures.

Embodiments of the present invention may address these and other issues, including with container designs that are able to store and transport pressurized contents at great pressures. For example, the container designs described herein may be configured to store and transport contents at filling pressures greater than about 300 psi, or about 325 psi, or about 350 psi, or about 400 psi, at 135 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, a minimum burst pressure of the container designs descried herein may be greater than about 950 psi, or about 980 psi, or about 1000 psi, at 135 degrees Fahrenheit. For example, the use of a seam coupling having an adhesive, weld, or crimp may significantly increase a strength of the seam coupling and the ability of a container to withstand greater internal pressures. In some embodiments discussed herein, the use of a triple seam coupling may also significantly increase a strength of the seam coupling and the ability of a container to withstand greater internal pressures. As such, embodiments of the present disclosure can allow pressurized contents to be stored within containers at increasing maximum fill pressures, or can increase a burst pressure of the container, ultimately driving further innovation in aerosols and other pressurized contents or goods by increasing the range of contents or goods that can be stored and transported in portable pressurized containers.

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide for a container that may include one or more plates, lids, or another type of closure for enclosing contents within the container. The container may include a body that extends circumferentially around a longitudinal axis. The body may extend between a first open end and a second open end. A plate or lid may be coupled to the first open end and configured to close the first open of the container.

In some embodiments, the plate or lid may be coupled to the first open end using a seam coupling. Specifically, the seam coupling may be a mechanical joint including a body flange and a plate flange that are rolled or folded together. As described below, the seam coupling can be reinforced using one or more of an adhesive, a weld, or a crimp. In some embodiments, the seam may be reinforced by adding extra folds or layers to the seam coupling. The reinforced seam may then increase the maximum fill pressure or the burst pressure of the container, allowing the container to store and transport a wider variety of pressurized contents.

FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a container 100 for holding pressurized contents (e.g., aerosols or other pressurized goods). The container 100 includes a body 104 that extends from a first end 108 of the body 104 to a second end 112 of the body 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the body 104 includes a cylindrical wall that extends circumferentially around a longitudinal axis 116 that extends through a center point of the first end 108 and a center point of the second end 112. The first end 108 of the body 104 includes a first open end 120 that is closable using a plate 124 or lid. In some examples, the container 100 includes a neck 128 that extends from the second end 112 of the body 104. The neck 128 can taper (e.g., decrease in diameter) from the second end 112 toward a second open end 132. In some embodiments, the neck 128 is integrally formed with the body 104. In some embodiments, the neck 128 is coupled to the body 104 via a crimp, seam coupling, or weld.

FIGS. 3 and 4 at least partially illustrate an internal surface and external surface of the plate 124 that closes the first open end 120 of the body 104. The plate 124 defines a circular perimeter shape and is configured to close the circular first open end 120 of the body 104. In some examples, when the plate 124 is coupled to the body 104, a center of the plate 124 is aligned along the longitudinal axis 116 extending through the first end 108 of the body 104. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the plate 124 can further include a venting feature 136 that is configured to open to release an internal pressure of the container 100 at a predetermined pressure.

Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the plate 124 is coupled to the first open end 120 of the body 104 via a seam coupling 200. As illustrated, the seam coupling 200 can be a double lock seam that mechanically couples the plate 124 to the body 104. As described further below, end portions of the plate 124 and the body 104 can be folded over one another to form layers of the seam coupling 200.

As illustrated in FIG. 6, the seam coupling 200 includes a body flange 204 that extends from the first open end 120 of the body 104. Additionally, the seam coupling 200 includes a plate flange 208 that extends from a perimeter of the plate 124. To form the seam coupling 200, the plate flange 208 is folded at least once to create a plurality of overlapping plate sections 212. Additionally, the body flange 204 is folded at least once to create a plurality of overlapping body sections 216 that are interposed between the plate sections 212. In some examples, the plate flange 208 is configured to engage and at least partially circumscribe the body flange 204. For example, as illustrated, the seam coupling 200 includes alternating layers of the plate sections 212 and the body section 216 that are mechanically interlocked by a plurality of folds or bends, thus creating a pressure tight coupling.

Still referring to FIG. 6, the plurality of plate sections 212 includes a first plate section 220, a second plate section 224, and a third plate section 228. The plate sections 220, 224, 228 are connected by a plurality of plate bends to form the overlapping plate sections 212. For example, the first plate section 220 extends from the perimeter of the plate 124 to a first plate bend 232. The first plate bend 232 folds outward (e.g., away from the longitudinal axis 116), such that the second plate section 224 extending from the first plate bend 232 is disposed further from the longitudinal axis 116 than the first plate section 220. The second plate section 224 extends from the first plate bend 232 in a first direction (e.g., toward the second end 112 of the body 104). The second plate section 224 extends from the first plate bend 232 to a second plate bend 236. The second plate bend 236 folds inward (e.g., toward the longitudinal axis 116) such that the third plate section 228 extending from the second plate bend 236 in a second direction, opposite the first direction, is disposed between the first plate section 220 and the second plate section 224.

Still referring to FIG. 6, the plurality of body sections 216 includes a first body section 240 and a second body section 244. The body sections 240, 244 are connected by a plurality of body bends to form the overlapping body sections 216. For example, the first body section 240 extends from the first open end 120 of the body 104 to a first body bend 248. The first body bend 248 folds outward, such that the second body section 244 extending from the first body bend 248 in the first direction is disposed further from the longitudinal axis 116 than the first body section 240.

As described above, the plate flange 208 and the body flange 204 are folded over one another to create overlapping layers. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the overlapping layers of the seam coupling 200 in order from furthest inward (e.g., closest to the longitudinal axis 116) to furthest outward (e.g., farthest from the longitudinal axis 116) the first plate section 220, the first body section 240, the third plate section 228, the second body section 244, and the second plate section 224.

In some examples, the plate bends 232, 236 at least partially engage and circumscribe the body bends 248. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the first flange bend 232 engages and circumscribes the first body bend 248. Additionally, the second plate bend 236 that connects the second plate section 224, and the third plate section 228 engages and circumscribes a distal end of the second body section 244 (e.g., the end of the second body section 244 opposite the first body bend 248).

Still referring to FIG. 6, in some examples, the seam coupling 200 is further sealed by a sealant 252. For example, the sealant 252 is interposed between two or more of the overlapping layers (e.g., the plate sections 212 and the body sections 216). The sealant 252 can provide extra strength to the seam coupling 200 and can dam any fluid pathways within the seam coupling 200 to ensure that the pressurized contents, e.g., an aerosol or good, stored within the container 100 do not leak from the container 100 through the seam coupling 200.

In some examples, the sealant 252 is partially or totally replaced by an adhesive 256. Specifically, the adhesive 256 is interposed between two or more of the overlapping layers to increase a strength of the seam coupling 200. For example, the adhesive can increase an engagement between adjacent sections of the plate sections 212 and the body sections 216 by adhering the adjacent sections together, decreasing the likelihood of the seam coupling 200 breaking apart or otherwise failing. As such, adding the adhesive 256 to the seam coupling 200 can increase the maximum fill pressure or the burst pressure of the container 100, allowing the container 100 to store and transport a wider variety of pressurized contents. The adhesive 256 can also dam any fluid pathways within the seam coupling 200 ensuring that the pressurized aerosol or good stored within the container 100 does not leak from the container 100 through the seam coupling 200.

Referring to FIGS. 7-9, a method for manufacturing the seam coupling 200 is illustrated. In some examples, the adhesive 256 (and/or the sealant 252) is applied to one or more of the plate sections 212 and the body sections 216 of the seam coupling 200 during or prior to the bending of the plate flange 208 and the body flange 204. As illustrated in FIG. 7, the plate flange 208 and the body flange 204 are first bent outward at the first body bend 248 and the first plate bend 232 (e.g., using a roller or a crimper), so that the first body section 240 engages the first plate section 220 and so that the second body section 244 engages the second plate section 224. Referring to FIG. 8, the plate flange 208 is then bent at the second plate bend 236 so that the third plate section 228 engages the second body section 244. Finally, referring to FIG. 9, the plate flange 208 and the body flange 204 are then bent again at the first plate bend 232 and the first body bend 248 so that the third plate section 228 engages the first body section 240. In the illustrated examples, two or more of the plate bends 232, 236 and the body bends 248 are formed simultaneously. In some embodiments, the plate bends 232, 236 and the body bends 248 may instead be formed one at a time and in any order.

In some examples, the plate bends 232, 236 and the body bends 248 can be formed by a roller that extends circumferentially around the longitudinal axis 116. In some examples, the roller is actuated in a direction that is either substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 116 (e.g., to form the second plate bend 236), or substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 116 (e.g., to form the first plate bend 232 and the first body bend 248). In some embodiments, the plate bends 232, 236 and the body bends 248 are formed by a crimping tool. Furthermore, as described above, the sealant 252 or the adhesive 256 can be disposed between any two or more of the overlapping sections.

In some examples, a height 258 of the seam coupling 200 (e.g., a height of the second plate section 224) and a length of the body flange 204 can be varied to increase a contact surface area between the plate sections 212 and the body sections. For example, the height of the seam coupling 200 can advantageously be increased by lengthening one or more of the body sections 216 and the plate sections 212 to increase a contact surface area between the plate sections 212 and the body sections. Specifically, the height of the seam coupling 200 is at least about 3.80 mm, or at least about 3.90 mm, or at least about 4.00 mm.

In some examples, the body 104 and the plate 124 each comprise an aluminum alloy. Additionally, one or more sections of the body 104 and the plate 124 can include a tin plating. However, in other embodiments, the body 104 and the plate 124 instead comprise a different material or metal alloy, such as steel or iron, or can include a different material plated thereon. As described below, the metal alloys of the body 104 and the plate 124 can advantageously be fused or otherwise welded together to form a stronger coupling. Specifically, the material composition of the body 104 and the plate 124 permits the the body 104 and the plate 124 to be welded or fused together.

In some configurations, a seam coupling can be strengthened by welding one or more of overlapping layers of the seam coupling. In this regard, for example, FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate another embodiment of a seam coupling 300. The seam coupling 300 of FIGS. 10 and 11 may generally include similar features as the seam coupling 200 of FIGS. 5-9, including but not limited to a body flange 304, a plate flange 308, a plurality of plate sections 312 including a first plate section 320, a second plate section 324, and a third plate section 328, a plurality of body sections 316 including a first body section 340 and a second body section 344, a plurality of plate bends including a first plate bend 332 and a second plate bend 336, one or more body bends including a first body bend 348, as well as a sealant or adhesive. Additionally, the seam coupling 300 may be configured to couple the body 104 of the container 100 to the plate 124. Thus, discussion of the seam coupling 200 above also generally applies to similar components of the seam coupling 300, and the discussion of the seam coupling 300 below also generally applies to similar components of the seam coupling 200.

In some aspects, the seam couplings 200 and 300 may differ. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11 the seam coupling 300 is strengthened by a weld 360. The weld 360 includes a weld bead that couples the body flange 304 to the plate flange 308. As illustrated in FIG. 11, the weld 360 is disposed between the second plate bend 336 and the first body section 320. Specifically, the weld 360 couples the second plate bend 336 and the first body section 340. In some embodiments, the weld 360 can instead couple the first body section 340 and the third plate section 328.

In some embodiments, the weld 360 is a fillet weld having a weld bead that at least partially circumscribes the body 104 of the container 100. In some examples, the weld bead of the weld 360 can circumscribe an entirety of the container 100, thus creating a continuous coupling between the first body section 340 to the second plate bend 336 and/or the third plate section 328.

The weld 360 is configured to couple and strengthen the engagement between the first body section 340 and the second plate bend 336 and/or the third plate section 328, decreasing the likelihood of the seam coupling 300 breaking apart or otherwise failing. As such, adding the weld 360 to the seam coupling 300 can increase the maximum fill pressure or the burst pressure of the container 100, allowing the container 100 to store and transport a wider variety of pressurized contents. The weld 360 can also dam one or more fluid pathways within the seam coupling 300 ensuring that the pressurized aerosol or good stored within the container 100 does not leak from the container 100 through the seam coupling 300.

In some configurations, a seam coupling can be strengthened by laser welding one or more of overlapping layers of the seam coupling. In this regard, for example, FIGS. 12 and 13 illustrate another embodiment of a seam coupling 400. The seam coupling 400 of FIGS. 12 and 13 may generally include similar features as the seam coupling 200 of FIGS. 5-9 and the seam coupling 300 of FIGS. 10 and 11, including but not limited to a body flange 404, a plate flange 408, a plurality of plate sections 412 including a first plate section 420, a second plate section 424, and a third plate section 428, a plurality of body sections 416 including a first body section 440 and a second body section 444, a plurality of plate bends including a first plate bend 432 and a second plate bend 436, one or more body bends including a first body bend 448, as well as a sealant or adhesive. Additionally, the seam coupling 300 may be configured to couple the body 104 of the container 100 to the plate 124. Thus, discussion of the seam couplings 200, 300 above also generally applies to similar components of the seam coupling 400, and the discussion of the seam coupling 400 below also generally applies to similar components of the seam couplings 200, 300.

In some aspects, the seam couplings 200, 300, and 400 may differ. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13 the seam coupling 400 is strengthened by a weld 460. The weld 460 is a laser weld or a seam weld configured to join or fuse two or more of the plate sections 412 and the body sections 416. As illustrated in FIG. 13, the weld 460 joins the second plate section 424, the second body section 444, and the third plate section 428. However, it is within the scope of the present disclosure for the weld 460 to join any two or more adjacent sections of the plate sections 412 and the body sections 416.

In some embodiments, the weld 460 does not join the plate sections 412 and the body sections 416 along an entire height 458 of the seam coupling 400 (e.g., measured substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 116 between the first plate bend 432 and the second plate bend 436). For example, the weld 460 may only join a lower half of the plate sections 412 and the body sections 416 (e.g., a half of the plate sections 412 and the body sections 416 farthest from the second open end 132). However, in some embodiments, the weld 460 can join the plate sections 412 and the body sections 416 along the entire height of the seam coupling 400.

The weld 460 is configured to join two or more of the plate sections 412 and the body section 416, decreasing the likelihood of the seam coupling 400 breaking apart or otherwise failing. As such, adding the weld 460 to the seam coupling 400 can increase the maximum fill pressure or the burst pressure of the container 100, allowing the container 100 to store and transport a wider variety of pressurized contents. The weld 460 can also dam one or more fluid pathways within the seam coupling 400 ensuring that the pressurized contents stored within the container 100 do not leak from the container 100 through the seam coupling 300.

In some configurations, a seam coupling can be decreased in size by removing one or more overlapping layers of the seam coupling. In this regard, for example, FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate another embodiment of a seam coupling 500. The seam coupling 500 of FIGS. 14 and 15 may generally include similar features as the seam coupling 200 of FIGS. 5-9, the seam coupling 300 of FIGS. 10 and 11, and the seam coupling 400FIGS. 12 and 13, including but not limited to a body flange 504, a plate flange 508, a plurality of plate sections 512 including a first plate section 520 and a second plate section 524, one or more body sections 516 including a first body section 540, and one or more plate bends including a first plate bend 532. Additionally, the seam coupling 500 may be configured to couple the body 104 of the container 100 to the plate 124. Thus, discussion of the seam couplings 200, 300, 400 above also generally applies to similar components of the seam coupling 500, and the discussion of the seam coupling 500 below also generally applies to similar components of the seam couplings 200, 300, 400.

In some aspects, the seam couplings 200, 300, 400, 500 may differ. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 14 and 15 the seam coupling 500 may be a single lock seam. As illustrated in FIG. 15, the seam coupling 500 includes the first plate section 520 that extends from the perimeter of the plate 124 to the first plate bend 532. The first plate bend 532 folds outward (e.g., away from the longitudinal axis 116), such that the second plate section 524 extending from the first plate bend 532 is disposed further from the longitudinal axis 116 than the first plate section 520. Additionally, the seam coupling 500 includes the first body section 540 interposed between the first plate section 520 and the second plate section 524.

As illustrated in FIG. 15, two or more of the first plate section 520, the first body section 540, and the second plate section 524 are joined via a weld 560. The weld 560 can be a seam weld or laser weld. As illustrated in FIG. 15, the weld 460 joins the second plate section 524 and the first body section 540. However, it is within the scope of the present disclosure that the weld 560 can join any two or more adjacent sections of the plate sections 512 and the body sections 516.

As illustrated in FIGS. 14 and 15, the weld 560 does not join the plate sections 512 and the body sections 516 along an entire height of the seam coupling 500 (e.g., measured substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 116 between the first plate bend 532 and a distal end of the second plate section 524 opposite the first plate bend 532). For example, the weld 560 may only join a lower half of the plate sections 512 and the body sections 516 (e.g., a half of the plate sections 512 and the body sections 516 farthest from the second open end 132). However, in some embodiments, the weld 560 can join the plate sections 512 and the body sections 516 along the entire height of the seam coupling 500.

The weld 560 is configured to couple and strengthen the engagement between the first body section 540 and the second plate section 524 and/or the first plate section 520, decreasing the likelihood of the seam coupling 500 breaking apart or otherwise failing. As such, adding the weld 560 to the seam coupling 500 can increase the maximum fill pressure or the burst pressure of the container 100, allowing the container 100 to store and transport a wider variety of pressurized contents. The weld 560 can also dam one or more fluid pathways within the seam coupling 500 ensuring that the pressurized aerosol or good stored within the container 100 does not leak from the container 100 through the seam coupling 500. Additionally, reducing a number of layers of the seam coupling 500 may decrease material costs, as well as ease the task of seam welding or laser welding the seam coupling 500.

In some configurations, a seam coupling can be strengthened by increasing the number of overlapping layers of the seam coupling. In this regard, for example, FIGS. 16-22 illustrate another embodiment of a seam coupling 600. The seam coupling 600 of FIGS. 16-22 may generally include similar features as the seam coupling 200 of FIGS. 5-9, the seam coupling 300 of FIGS. 10 and 11, the seam coupling 400 of FIGS. 12 and 13, and the seam coupling 500 of FIGS. 14 and 15, including but not limited to a body flange 604, a plate flange 608, a plurality of plate sections 612 including a first plate section 620, a second plate section 624, and a third plate section 628, a plurality of body sections 616 including a first body section 640 and a second body section 644, a plurality of plate bends including a first plate bend 632 and a second plate bend 636, one or more body bends including a first body bend 648, as well as a sealant or adhesive. Additionally, the seam coupling 600 may be configured to couple the body 104 of the container 100 to the plate 124. Thus, discussion of the seam couplings 200, 300, 400, 500 above also generally applies to similar components of the seam coupling 600, and the discussion of the seam coupling 600 below also generally applies to similar components of the seam couplings 200, 300, 400, 500.

In some aspects, the seam couplings 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 may differ. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 16 and 17 the seam coupling 600 is a triple lock seam that is strengthened by additional layers of the plate sections 612 and the body sections 616.

Referring to FIG. 17, the plurality of plate sections 612 includes a first plate section 620, a second plate section 624, a third plate section 628, and a fourth plate section 668. The plate sections 620, 624, 628 are connected by a plurality of plate bends to form the overlapping plate sections 612. For example, the first plate section 620 extends from the perimeter of the plate 124 to a first plate bend 632. The first plate bend 632 folds outward (e.g., away from the longitudinal axis 116), such that the second plate section 624 extending from the first plate bend 632 is disposed further from the longitudinal axis 116 than the first plate section 620. The second plate section 624 extends from the first plate bend 632 in the first direction (e.g., toward the second end 112 of the body 104). The second plate section 624 extends from the first plate bend 632 to a second plate bend 636. The second plate bend 636 folds inward (e.g., toward the longitudinal axis 116) such that the third plate section 628 extending from the second plate bend 636 in a second direction, opposite the first direction, is disposed between the first plate section 620 and the second plate section 624. The third plate section 628 extends from the second plate bend 636 to a third plate bend 672 (e.g., a first auxiliary bend). The third plate bend 672 folds outward such that the fourth plate section 668 extending from the third plate bend 672 in the first direction, is disposed between the second plate section 624 and the third plate section 628.

Still referring to FIG. 17, the plurality of body sections 616 includes a first body section 640, a second body section 644, and a third body section 676. The body sections 640, 644, 676 are connected by a plurality of body bends to form the overlapping body sections 616. For example, the first body section 640 extends from the first open end 120 of the body 104 to a first body bend 648. The first body bend 648 folds outward, such that the second body section 644 extending from the first body bend 248 in the first direction is disposed further from the longitudinal axis 116 than the first body section 240. The second body section 644 extends from the first body bend 648 to a second body bend 680 (e.g., a second auxiliary bend). The second body bend 680 folds inward such that the third body section 676 extending from the second body bend 680 in the second direction, is disposed between the first body section 640 and the second body section 644.

As described above, the plate flange 608 and the body flange 604 are folded over one another to create overlapping layers. As illustrated in FIG. 17, the overlapping layers of the seam coupling 600 in order from furthest inward (e.g., closest to the longitudinal axis 116) to furthest outward (e.g., farthest from the longitudinal axis 116) the first plate section 620, the first body section 640, the third plate section 628, the third body section 676, the fourth plate section 668, the second body section 644, and the second plate section 624.

Still referring to FIG. 17, in some examples, the overlapping layers of the seam coupling 600 may overlap according to an overlap ratio. For example, a primary overlap 684 between the plate flange 608 and the body flange 604 includes an engagement between the fourth plate section 668 and the third body section 676. The fourth plate section 668 and the third body section 676 engage one another (e.g., contact) along a first engagement distance 688 measured substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 116. Additionally, a secondary overlap 686 between the plate flange 608 and the body flange 604 includes an engagement between the third plate section 628 and the first body section 676. The third plate section 628 and the third body section 676 engage one another (e.g., contact) along a second engagement distance 692 measured substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 116. In some examples, the overlap ratio of the first engagement distance 688 divided by the second engagement distance 692 is between about 0.3 and about 0.7, inclusive. In some embodiments, the overlap ratio is between about 0.4 and about 0.6, inclusive, or between about 0.3 and about 0.6, inclusive.

In some examples, the plate bends 632, 636, 672 at least partially engage and circumscribe the body bends 648, 680. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 17, the first plate bend 632 engages and circumscribes the first body bend 648. Additionally, the second plate bend 636 engages and circumscribes the second body bend 680. Finally, the third plate bend 672 engages and circumscribes a distal end of the third body section 676 (e.g., the end of the third body section 676 opposite the second body bend 680).

Referring to FIGS. 18-22, a method for manufacturing the seam coupling 600 is illustrated. As illustrated in FIG. 18, the plate flange 608 and the body flange 604 are first bent outward at the first body bend 648 and the first plate bend 632 (e.g., using a roller or a crimper), so that the first body section 640 engages the first plate section 620 and so that the second body section 644 engages the second plate section 624. Referring to FIG. 19 the plate flange 608 is bent at the third plate bend 672 so that the fourth plate section 668 engages the third body section 676. Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, the body flange 604 and the plate flange 608 are bent at the second body bend 680 and the third plate bend 672 a first time and then a second time so that the fourth plate section 668 engages the second body section 644 and so that the second body section 644 engages the second plate section 624. Finally, referring to FIG. 22, the plate flange 608 and the body flange 604 are bent again at the first body bend 648 and the first plate bend 632 at the so that the third plate section 628 engages the first body section 640.

In some examples, the plate bends 632, 636, 672 and the body bends 648, 680 can be formed by a roller that extends circumferentially around the longitudinal axis 116. In some examples, the roller is actuated in a direction that is either substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (e.g., to form the third plate bend 672, as well as a first 90 degree bend at the second plate bend 636 and a first 90 degree bend at the second body bend 680), or substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis (e.g., to form the first plate bend 232 the first body bend 248, as well as a second 90 degree bend at the second plate bend 636 and a second 90 degree bend at the second body bend 680). In some embodiments, the plate bends 632, 636, 672 and the body bends 648680 are formed by a crimping tool. Furthermore, as described above, the sealant or the adhesive can be disposed between any two or more of the overlapping sections.

As described above, increasing the number of layers of the seam coupling 600 can decrease the likelihood of the seam coupling 600 breaking apart or otherwise failing. As such, adding the layers to the seam coupling 600 can increase the maximum fill pressure or the burst pressure of the container 100, allowing the container 100 to store and transport a wider variety of pressurized contents. The extra layers of the seam coupling 600 can also increase a length of the fluid pathway between an inside of the container 100 and the ambient environment, thus ensuring that the pressurized aerosol or good stored within the container 100 does not leak from the container 100 through the seam coupling 600.

In some configurations, a seam coupling can be strengthened by crimping two or more overlapping layers of the seam coupling together. In this regard, for example, FIGS. 23-29 illustrate another embodiment of a seam coupling 700. The seam coupling 700 of FIGS. 23-29 may generally include similar features as the seam coupling 200 of FIGS. 5-9, the seam coupling 300 of FIGS. 10 and 11, the seam coupling 400 of FIGS. 12 and 13, the seam coupling 500 of FIGS. 14 and 15, and the seam coupling 600 of FIGS. 16-22, including but not limited to a body flange 704, a plate flange 708, a plurality of plate sections 712 including a first plate section 720, a second plate section 724, and a third plate section 728, a plurality of body sections 716 including a first body section 740 and a second body section 744, a plurality of plate bends including a first plate bend 732 and a second plate bend 736, one or more body bends including a first body bend 748, as well as a sealant or adhesive. Additionally, the seam coupling 700 may be configured to couple the body 104 of the container 100 to the plate 124. Thus, discussion of the seam couplings 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 above also generally applies to similar components of the seam coupling 700, and the discussion of the seam coupling 700 below also generally applies to similar components of the seam couplings 200, 300, 400, 500, 600.

In some aspects, the seam couplings 200, 300, 400, 500, 600700 may differ. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 23 and 24 the seam coupling 700 is strengthened by crimping the seam coupling 700. Referring to FIG. 24, the seam coupling 700 can be crimped to form a plurality of undulations 796 in the seam coupling. The plurality of undulations 796 increase an engagement between the plate sections 712 and the body sections 716 of the seam coupling 700. Specifically, the undulations 796 can interlock adjacent engaged layers of the seam coupling 700. Additionally, the undulations 796 can increase a surface contact area, and therefore a frictional force between adjacent sets of the plate sections 712 and the body sections 716. For example, the undulations can increase a surface contact area between adjacent sets of the plate sections 712 and the body sections 716 by at least 4%. Increasing an engagement between adjacent sections of the overlapping sections decreases the likelihood of the seam coupling 700 breaking apart or otherwise failing. As such, adding crimping to the seam coupling 700 can increase the maximum fill pressure or the burst pressure of the container 100, allowing the container 100 to store and transport a wider variety of pressurized contents. The undulations 796 in the seam coupling 700 can also increase a length of the fluid pathway between an interior of the container 100 and the ambient environment, ultimately helping to ensure that the pressurized aerosol or good stored within the container 100 does not leak from the container 100 through the seam coupling 700.

For example, one or more of the plurality of plate sections 712 may include plate undulations 800 and one or more of the plurality of body sections 716 may include body undulations 804. As illustrated in FIG. 24, the plate undulations 800 of the plate sections 712 overlap and engage the complimentary body undulations 804 in the body sections 716.

As illustrated in FIGS. 25 and 26, a method for crimping the seam coupling 700 is illustrated. For example, the undulations 796 in the seam coupling 700 can be formed using a crimping die 808. Referring to FIG. 25, the crimping die 808 includes a first crimping interface 812 defining a first plurality of undulations and a second crimping interface 816 defining a second plurality of undulations that are complimentary to the first plurality of undulations. As illustrated in FIG. 25, the seam coupling 700 is initially disposed between the first crimping interface 812 and the second crimping interface 816. The first crimping interface 812 and the second crimping interface 816 are then advance toward the seam coupling 700 to crimp the seam coupling 700, resulting in the undulations 796 thereon, as illustrated in FIG. 26.

As illustrated in FIGS. 27-29, a method for manufacturing the seam coupling 700 is illustrated. In some examples, the plate sections 712 and the body sections 716 are crimped during or prior to the bending of the plate flange 708 and the body flange 704. As illustrated in FIG. 27, the plate flange 708 and the body flange 704 are first bent outward at the first body bend 748 and the first plate bend 732 (e.g., using a roller or a crimper), so that the first body section 740 engages the first plate section 720 and so that the second body section 744 engages the second plate section 724. Referring to FIG. 28, the plate flange 708 is bent at the second plate bend 736 so that the third plate section 728 engages the second body section 744. Referring to FIG. 29, the plate flange 708 and the body flange 704 are then bent again at the first plate bend 732 and the first body bend 748 so that the third plate section 728 engages the first body section 740. In the illustrated examples, two or more of the plate bends 732, 736 and body bends 748 are formed simultaneously, however the plate bends 732, 736 and body bends 748 may instead be formed one at a time and in any order. As described above, as the seam coupling 700 is folded, the plate undulations 800 of the plate sections 712 overlap and engage the complimentary body undulations 804 in the body sections 716.

In some examples, in order to increase a maximum internal pressure that the container 100 is able to sustain, a material thickness of the body 104 and the plate 124 can be increased . For example, the material thickness of the body 104 can be increased to at least 0.020 inches. Additionally, the material thickness of the plate 124 can be increased to at least 0.031 inches.

While various spatial and directional terms, such as top, bottom, lower, mid, lateral, horizontal, vertical, front and the like may be used to describe embodiments of the present disclosure, it is understood that such terms are merely used with respect to the orientations shown in the drawings. The orientations may be inverted, rotated, or otherwise changed, such that an upper portion is a lower portion, and vice versa, horizontal becomes vertical, and the like.

Variations and modifications of the foregoing are within the scope of the present disclosure. It is understood that the embodiments disclosed and defined herein extend to all alternative combinations of two or more of the individual features mentioned or evident from the text and/or drawings. All of these different combinations constitute various alternative aspects of the present disclosure. The claims are to be construed to include alternative embodiments to the extent permitted by the prior art.

Also as used herein, ordinal numbers are used for convenience of presentation only and are generally presented in an order that corresponds to the order in which particular features are introduced in the relevant discussion. Accordingly, for example, a “first” feature may not necessarily have any required structural or sequential relationship to a “second” feature, and so on. Further, similar features may be referred to in different portions of the discussion by different ordinal numbers. For example, a particular feature may be referred to in some discussion as a “first” feature, while a similar or substantially identical feature may be referred to in other discussion as a "third" feature, and so on. In this regard, for example, designations such as “first,” “second,” etc., generally indicate only the order in which a thus-labeled component is introduced for discussion and generally do not indicate or require a particular spatial, functional, temporal, or structural primacy or order. Relatedly, similar or identical components may be referred to with different ordinal numbers in different contexts.

Also as used herein, unless otherwise limited or defined, “integral” and derivatives thereof (e.g., “integrally”) describe elements that are manufactured as a single piece without fasteners, adhesive, or the like to secure separate components together. For example, an element stamped, cast, or otherwise molded as a single-piece component from a single piece of sheet metal or using a single mold, without rivets, screws, or adhesive to hold separately formed pieces together is an integral (and integrally formed) element. In contrast, an element formed from multiple pieces that are separately formed initially then later connected together, is not an integral (or integrally formed) element.

Also as used herein, unless otherwise limited or defined, “substantially parallel” indicates a direction that is within ± 12 degrees of a reference direction (e.g., within ± 6 degrees or ± 3 degrees), inclusive. Similarly, unless otherwise limited or defined, “substantially perpendicular” similarly indicates a direction that is within ± 12 degrees of perpendicular a reference direction (e.g., within ± 6 degrees or ± 3 degrees), inclusive. Correspondingly, “substantially vertical” indicates a direction that is substantially parallel to the vertical direction, as defined relative to the reference system (e.g., a local direction of gravity, by default), with a similarly derived meaning for “substantially horizontal” (relative to the horizontal direction). Discussion of directions “transverse” to a reference direction indicate directions that are not substantially parallel to the reference direction. Correspondingly, some transverse directions may be perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the relevant reference direction.

Unless otherwise limited or defined, the terms “about” and “approximately,” as used herein with respect to a reference value, refer to variations from the reference value of ± 20% or less (e.g., ± 15, ± 10%, ± 5%, etc.), inclusive of the endpoints of the range. Similarly, as used herein with respect to a reference value, the term “substantially equal” (and the like) refers to variations from the reference value of less than ± 5% (e.g., ± 2%, ± 1%, ± 0.5%) inclusive.

Also as used herein, unless otherwise limited or defined, “or” indicates a non-exclusive list of components or operations that can be present in any variety of combinations, rather than an exclusive list of components that can be present only as alternatives to each other. For example, a list of “A, B, or C” indicates options of: A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; and A, B, and C. Correspondingly, the term “or” as used herein is intended to indicate exclusive alternatives only when preceded by terms of exclusivity, such as “only one of,” or “exactly one of.” For example, a list of “only one of A, B, or C” indicates options of: A, but not B and C; B, but not A and C; and C, but not A and B. In contrast, a list preceded by “one or more” (and variations thereon) and including “or” to separate listed elements indicates options of one or more of any or all of the listed elements. For example, the phrases “one or more of A, B, or C” and “at least one of A, B, or C” indicate options of: one or more A; one or more B; one or more C; one or more A and one or more B; one or more B and one or more C; one or more A and one or more C; and one or more A, one or more B, and one or more C. Similarly, a list preceded by “a plurality of” (and variations thereon) and including “or” to separate listed elements indicates options of one or more of each of multiple of the listed elements. For example, the phrases “a plurality of A, B, or C” and “two or more of A, B, or C” indicate options of: one or more A and one or more B; one or more B and one or more C; one or more A and one or more C; and one or more A, one or more B, and one or more C.

In some implementations, devices or systems disclosed herein can be utilized, manufactured, installed, etc. using methods embodying aspects of the disclosed technology. Correspondingly, any description herein of particular features, capabilities, or intended purposes of a device or system should be considered to disclose, as examples of the disclosed technology a method of using such devices for the intended purposes, a method of otherwise implementing such capabilities, a method of manufacturing relevant components of such a device or system (or the device or system as a whole), and a method of installing disclosed (or otherwise known) components to support such purposes or capabilities. Similarly, unless otherwise indicated or limited, discussion herein of any method of manufacturing or using for a particular device or system, including installing the device or system, should be understood to disclose, as examples of the disclosed technology, the utilized features and implemented capabilities of such device or system.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that while the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in connection with particular embodiments and examples, the disclosure is not necessarily so limited, and that numerous other embodiments, examples, uses, modifications and departures from the embodiments, examples, and uses are intended to be encompassed by the claims attached hereto. Various features and advantages of the invention are set forth in the following claims.