Patent ID: 7353607
Filing Date: 2008-04-08
Classification: B67B

Abstract:
1. A can opener comprising: first and second handle members pivotally connected to each other; a rotatable traction wheel and a rotatable cutter blade movable by the first and second handle members respectively between an inoperative position in which the wheel and the blade are spaced apart for receiving an edge of a can to be opened and an operative position in which the wheel and the blade are close together for turning and cutting the edge of said can; an operating lever supported for pivotal reciprocation relative to the handle members; a ratchet assembly arranged to be driven by the operating lever upon reciprocation for operating the traction wheel and the cutter blade, the ratchet assembly comprising a ratchet wheel in engagement with the traction wheel and a spring-loaded pawl movable by the operating lever for turning the ratchet wheel in a driving direction upon reciprocation of the operating lever, wherein the pawl has front and rear portions taken in the driving direction, with the front portion operably connected to the operating lever and the rear portion engaged with the ratchet wheel for turning the ratchet wheel, wherein at least one of the first and second handle members further comprises a front end portion forming a chamber and wherein the ratchet assembly is mounted within the chamber; and a casing mounted within the chamber, wherein the ratchet assembly is housed within the casing.