Patent Publication Number: US-2022227527-A1

Title: Re-Closeable Cap for a Can

Description:
PRIOR HISTORY 
     This application is a national stage entry or 371 application from International Patent Application No. PCT/US2020/030882 filed in the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) as International Receiving Office on 30 Apr. 2020. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates generally to cap formation for outfitting a beverage can. More particularly, the present invention relates to a re-closeable cap as variously exemplified for attachment to an upper can portion of a beverage can for covering a beverage-letting aperture formed in the upper can portion and/or for controlling beverage flow through the beverage-letting aperture. 
     Brief Description of the Prior Art 
     The present invention was born from the recognition of a need in the prior art for a re-closeable cap that is easily outfittable upon a beverage can or easily pre-packaged atop beverage cans for consumer use. To address this need in the art, the author considered ways to develop a re-closeable cap that would be easy for a consumer to understand and to provide a cap that would require a subconsciously similar motor task memory type of function on par with that of opening a can with a can opener, for example. The author determined the importance for market adoption of a re-closeable cap may well stem from a flip-flop functioning mechanism to mimic the current teeter-totter type mechanism for opening cans of this type. 
     The prior art thus perceives a need for a low cost, unibody, re-closeable can cap for outfitting an upper portion of a beverage can and enabling a user to selectively cover the upper can portion for preventing contaminants from freely entering the otherwise open beverage can and further for controlling beverage flow from an open beverage can. 
     Further, the prior art perceives a need for a re-closeable cap for outfitting a beverage can with a view toward improving or adding hygienic protections to beverage cans coming from manufacturers and packaging companies throughout the distribution channels terminating at the user consumption point. The present invention attempts to address this perceived need by providing certain low cost, unibody, re-closeable caps for outfitting beverage cans and providing removable barriers thereupon as the outfitted cans move through distribution channels as summarized in more detail hereinafter. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     Among the many objectives of this invention is the provision of a re-closeable cap as variously exemplified for outfitting a beverage can and enabling a manufacturer or packaging company or retailer to outfit beverage cans prior to consumer purchase for protecting the upper can portion and providing the user with readily available means to cover an otherwise open beverage can, and may preferably remain affixed to the cans through the time of disposal. 
     Notably, however, the re-closable caps according to the present invention may also be removed by end user or consumer before consumption of the can contents. In this instance, the re-closeable caps primarily provide a hygienic barrier of protection during transit to the consumer from the packaging company. The user thus has the option of maintaining the re-closeable caps upon the beverage cans or may remove the caps as elected. 
     In this regard, it is noted that aluminum beverage cans are some the best or most often recycled materials. Providing a beverage can cap that travels with the can from packaging to the consumer and into the recycling process means that relatively more caps will enter the recycling process if piggybacked upon beverage cans that have become standard in the industry. 
     Secondarily, the present invention provides a cap for selectively covering an upper can portion of the beverage can and/or to control beverage flow from a beverage can as outfitted with the various beverage can caps. The upper can portion of the beverage can usable in combination with the beverage can cap(s) according to the present invention is believed to essentially comprise an upper can rim and a can capping plate. 
     The re-closeable caps according to the present invention may be said to essentially and preferably outfit a beverage can, preferably at the time of manufacture or beverage can packaging and travel with the beverage can through to the recycling or disposal process. Secondarily, the caps may be outfitted upon the beverage cans by the consumer. In either case, the re-closeable caps preferably and essentially comprise a unibody material construction particularly configured to comprise a cap rim and a cap plate centrally located relative to the cap rim. The cap rim attaches the re-closeable cap to a can rim. 
     The cap plate is believed to be central to the practice of the present invention and preferably comprises a static structure and at least a first dynamic structure all formed from the unibody material construction with complex upper surface landscape and cut lines to achieve the functionality more particularly described hereinbelow. Now summarizing, the first dynamic structure is pivotally matable with the static structure for (a) selectively providing a can-opening access aperture for enabling a user to consume can contents by way of a can opening formed in the can capping plate, and (b) selectively closing the can-opening access aperture for enabling the user to cover the can opening. 
     The re-closeable caps are all preferably formed with a select material construction in a unibody form having an inherent material resiliency. Noting that standardized beverage cans are typically constructed from a relatively rigid material, it will be noted that the can material construction may thus operate to actuate select portions of the re-closeable cap by way of its inherent material resiliency when outfitted upon the upper can portion for enhancing functionality of the re-closeable cap as outfitted upon the upper can portion. 
     In this regard, the first dynamic structure may preferably comprise an eccentric switch mechanism configured for maintaining the first dynamic structure in at least the first and second states of pivotal extension. In this regard, the static structure may be resiliently actuated via outside force input and cooperative action of the switch mechanism to position the first dynamic structure in at least the first and second states of pivotal extension and the inherent resilience maintains the first dynamic structure in at least the first and second states of pivotal extension when outside forces are absent. 
     Further, it will be seen that select portions of the first dynamic structure may resiliently overlap with select portions of the static structure when outfitted upon the upper can portion for enhancing functionality of the re-closeable cap. In this regard, an exemplary a rim wall-engaging protrusion formed opposite the first dynamic structure may provide a structural aid to direct edging of the first dynamic structure into overlapped relation with edging of the static structure for enhancing a can opening covering configuration by forming a seal at the overlap site of the opposed edging. 
     The first dynamic structure is preferably configured to mate with the static structure for maintaining the re-closeable cap in a can-opening access configuration. More particularly, the first dynamic structure is configured to simultaneously mate with the static structure by way of multiply spaced mate features as exemplified by the complex landscape of the cap surfacing as more particularly described below. When the first dynamic structure clamshell closes into engagement with the static structure, multiple surfaces, spaced from one another, frictionally engage with one another. Thus, the multiply spaced mate features enhance mated engagement of the first dynamic structure with the static structure. 
     The re-closeable caps may further preferably comprise a second dynamic structure as exemplified by a swinging cover element. The second dynamic structure at least partially covers the can opener element/assembly of the upper can portion and is pivotal in a direction opposite that of the first dynamic structure for enabling the user to form the can opening in the can capping plate by moving in unison with the can opener element. The static structure may preferably comprise a can opener access window as described in connection a certain embodiment, which can opener access window enhances a user&#39;s ability to access the can opener element. 
     Preferably, the second dynamic structure is configured to mate with the can opener element for enhancing movement therewith in unison. Noting that the first dynamic structure mates with the complex upper surfacing of the cap, it follows that the first dynamic structure is further preferably configured to mate with the second dynamic structure for maintaining the re-closeable cap in a can-opening access configuration. 
     The re-closeable caps according to the present invention may further preferably comprise a cap rim groove matable with a can rim groove situated in inferior adjacency to the can rim as is relatively standard in the industry. The matable cap and can rim grooves enhance cap-to-can attachment. To further enhance the cap-to-can attachment hold, the cap rim may further comprise at least one undercut formation. As described hereinbelow, the undercut formation(s) are configured for securing the cap rim groove in mated engagement with the can rim groove. 
     A preferred embodiment of the cap comprises a first dynamic structure and a static structure whereby opposed edging situated in superior adjacency to a tip portion of the can opener element. The tip portion of the can opener element operates to structurally support the opposed edging for enhancing a sealed interface at the opposed edging. The re-closeable caps according to the present invention may further preferably comprise a finger depression feature. The finger depression feature overlaps the first and second dynamic structures for enabling the user to depress the same and selectively actuate either of the first and second dynamic structures to initiate further movement thereof. 
     In an alternative embodiment, the re-closeable cap is rotatably outfitted upon the upper can portion for enabling the use to selectively cover the can opening with at least the static structure. This embodiment may preferably comprise at least one turning nub formed in adjacency to the cap rim for enhancing the user&#39;s ability to rotate the re-closeable cap relative to the upper can portion when outfitted thereupon. Further, at least one cap-removing grip formation is provided in connection with this embodiment and formed in alignment with the at least one turning nub for enhancing the user&#39;s ability to remove the re-closeable cap from the upper can portion. 
     This embodiment further preferably comprises a lower cap skirt that seats down upon a neck portion of the upper can portion. It will be seen from a consideration of the illustrative matter submitted in support of these specifications that the neck portion extends obliquely relative to the can capping plate and that the lower cap skirt extends obliquely relative to the cap plate, the lower cap skirt paralleling the neck portion. 
     Noting that the neck portion comprises an upper neck portion and a lower neck portion, and that the lower cap skirt comprises a skirt edge, the skirt edge particularly terminates intermediate the upper and lower neck portions for enhancing safe use of the re-closeable cap during cap rotation relative to the upper can portion. In contrast to this alternative embodiment, the preferred embodiment is designed for relatively permanent, non-rotatable attachment to the upper can portion and thus is preferably devoid of turning nubs, grip formations, and skirt features of this type. 
     The re-closeable caps according to the present invention may all be preferably provided in series within a web form for simultaneously outfitting a plurality of upper can portions of beverage cans by way of a multi-pack packaging arrangement as variously exemplified. As will be discussed in more detail, the preferred embodiment is designed for relatively permanent attachment to the upper can portions at the time of manufacture or packaging through contents consumption with a view toward further entering the recycling system in view of the fact that beverage cans are among the most recycled items in the system. The caps may further preferably comprise cap-marking indicia for individually labeling re-closeable caps as provided in series within the web form for enabling multiple consumers to properly identify outfitted beverage cans as belonging to individual consumers at the time of consumption. 
     Other secondary objects of the present invention, as well as particular features, elements, and advantages thereof, will be elucidated or become apparent from, the following brief descriptions of the drawings and the accompanying drawing figures. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Other features and objectives of the invention will become more evident from a consideration of the following brief descriptions of patent drawings. 
         FIG. 1  is a top perspective view of a generic beverage can outfitted with a first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing a swinging cover element of the first re-closeable cap for a beverage can in a retracted state. 
         FIG. 2  is an exploded top perspective view of a generic beverage can outfitted with the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the swinging cover element of the first re-closeable cap for a beverage can in a retracted state. 
         FIG. 2A  is a top plan view of a Prior Art generic beverage can in an unopened state or configuration. 
         FIG. 3  is an exploded top perspective view of a generic beverage can outfitted with the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the swinging cover element of the first re-closeable cap for a beverage can in the extended state and a can opener element of the beverage can in a can-opening extended state. 
         FIG. 3A  is a top plan view of a Prior Art generic beverage can in an opened state or configuration with a can opener element thereof depicted in a can-opening extended state. 
         FIG. 4  is a top perspective view of a generic beverage can outfitted with the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the swinging cover element of the first re-closeable cap for a beverage can in an extended state. 
         FIG. 5  is a first elevational side view of a generic beverage can outfitted with the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the swinging cover element of the first re-closeable cap for a beverage can coupled to the can opener element of the beverage can being directed into an extended state. 
         FIG. 6  is a second elevational side view of a generic beverage can outfitted with the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the swinging cover element of the first re-closeable cap for a beverage can coupled to the can opener element of the beverage can being directed into a retracted state. 
         FIG. 7  is a first top perspective view of the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing a cap swinging structure thereof in a first state of swing extension. 
         FIG. 7A  is a second top perspective view of the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure thereof in a second state of swing extension. 
         FIG. 7B  is a third top perspective view of the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure thereof in a third state of swing extension. 
         FIG. 8  is an edge view of the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure thereof in broken lining in the first, second, and third states of swing extension. 
         FIG. 9  is a top perspective view of a generic beverage can outfitted with the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure thereof in a fully open state of swing extension. 
         FIG. 10  is a top plan view of a generic beverage can outfitted with the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure thereof in the fully open state of swing extension for fully uncovering a can opening of the beverage can. 
         FIG. 10A  is a top perspective view of a generic beverage can outfitted with the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure thereof exploded from the first re-closeable cap for a beverage can and in the fully open state of swing extension. 
         FIG. 11  is a top perspective view of a generic beverage can outfitted with the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure in a fully open state before a first state of swing retraction. 
         FIG. 12  is a first top perspective view of the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure in a first state of swing retraction. 
         FIG. 12A  is a second top perspective view of the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure in a second state of swing retraction. 
         FIG. 12B  is a third top perspective view of the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure in a third state of swing retraction. 
         FIG. 13  is an edge view of the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure thereof in broken lining in the first, second, and third states of swing retraction. 
         FIG. 14  is a top perspective view of a generic beverage can outfitted with the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure thereof in a fully retracted, can opening-covering state. 
         FIG. 15  is a top plan view of the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention as outfitted upon a generic beverage can showing the cap swinging structure thereof in a fully retracted, can opening-covering state. 
         FIG. 16  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention as outfitted upon a generic beverage can as sectioned from  FIG. 15  to showing the cap swinging structure thereof in a fully retracted, can opening-covering state and the can opening plate of the beverage can extending downwardly within the beverage can. 
         FIG. 16A  is an enlarged, fragmentary section view as enlarged and sectioned from  FIG. 16  to show in greater detail the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention as outfitted upon a generic beverage can. 
         FIG. 17  is a top perspective view of a generic beverage can outfitted with the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure thereof in a fully open, can-opening access state in an optional first state of rotation relative to the beverage can. 
         FIG. 17A  is a top plan view of a generic beverage can outfitted with the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure thereof in a fully open, can-opening access state in the optional first state of rotation relative to the beverage can. 
         FIG. 18  is a top perspective view of a generic beverage can outfitted with the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure thereof in a fully open, can-opening access state in an optional second state of rotation relative to the beverage can. 
         FIG. 18A  is a top plan view of a generic beverage can outfitted with the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure thereof in a fully open, can-opening access state in the optional second state of rotation relative to the beverage can. 
         FIG. 19  is a top perspective view of a generic beverage can outfitted with the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure thereof in a fully open, can-opening access state in an optional third state of rotation relative to the beverage can. 
         FIG. 19A  is a top plan view of a generic beverage can outfitted with the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure thereof in a fully open, can-opening access state in the optional third state of rotation relative to the beverage can. 
         FIG. 20  is an enlarged top perspective view of the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure thereof in a fully retracted, can opening-covering state. 
         FIG. 21  is an enlarged top plan view of the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure thereof in a fully retracted, can opening-covering state. 
         FIG. 22  is an enlarged top perspective view of the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the swinging cover element thereof in an extended state and the cap swinging structure in a retracted stated. 
         FIG. 22A  is a first enlarged top perspective view of the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the swinging cover element thereof in a retracted state and the cap swinging structure in a first extended state. 
         FIG. 23  is a second enlarged top perspective view of the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the swinging cover element thereof in a retracted state and the cap swinging structure in a second extended state. 
         FIG. 24  is an enlarged top perspective view of the first re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure thereof in the fully open state of swing extension. 
         FIG. 25  is a top perspective view of a first alternative re-closeable cap packaging arrangement according to the present invention showing a series of six first re-closeable caps according to the present invention formed in a packaging material web. 
         FIG. 26  is a top plan view of the first alternative re-closeable cap packaging arrangement according to the present invention showing a series of six first re-closeable caps according to the present invention formed in a packaging material web. 
         FIG. 27  is a lateral edge view of the first alternative re-closeable cap packaging arrangement according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 28  is a longitudinal sectional view of a series of stacked first alternative re-closeable cap packaging arrangements according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 29  is a top perspective view of the first alternative re-closeable cap packaging arrangement according to the present invention showing a series of six first re-closeable caps according to the present invention formed in a packaging material web in outfitted or assembled relation with or upon a series of six generic beverage cans. 
         FIG. 30  is a top perspective view of the first alternative re-closeable cap packaging arrangement according to the present invention showing a series of five first re-closeable caps according to the present invention formed in a packaging material web in outfitted or assembled relation with or upon a series of five generic beverage cans and depicting a single first re-closeable cap removed from the first alternative re-closeable cap packaging arrangement. 
         FIG. 30A  is a top perspective view of a generic beverage can outfitted with a first re-closeable cap according to the present invention as removed from the first alternative re-closeable cap packaging arrangement otherwise depicted in  FIG. 30 . 
         FIG. 31  is a top perspective view of a generic beverage can outfitted with a second alternative re-closeable cap according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 32  is an exploded top perspective view of a generic beverage can and the second alternative re-closeable cap according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 33  is an enlarged, fragmentary cross-sectional view of an upper portion of a generic beverage can outfitted with the second alternative re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the can opening plate of the beverage can extending downwardly within the beverage can. 
         FIG. 34  is an enlarged, fragmentary cross-sectional view as enlarged and sectioned from  FIG. 33  to depict in greater detail the structures associated with the attachment site of the upper portion of a generic beverage can as outfitted with the second alternative re-closeable cap according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 35  is a first series of three second alternative re-closeable caps according to the present invention outfitted with first number-based, cap-marking indicia for labeling the three second alternative re-closeable caps from top to bottom as 1 cap—2 cap—3 cap. 
         FIG. 36  is a second series of three second alternative re-closeable caps according to the present invention outfitted with second letter-based, cap-marking indicia for labeling the three second alternative re-closeable caps from top to bottom as A cap—B cap—C cap. 
         FIG. 37  is a third series of three second alternative re-closeable caps according to the present invention outfitted with third shape-based, cap-marking indicia for denoting the three second alternative re-closeable caps from top to bottom as 5-point star cap—4-point star cap—7-point star cap. 
         FIG. 38  is a top plan view of a third alternative re-closeable cap according to the present invention as attached to or outfitted upon a generic beverage can and showing a dotted line detail for depicting a perforated or cut line for the cap swinging structure and the swinging cover element of the third alternative re-closeable cap according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 38A  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view as sectioned from  FIG. 38  to diagrammatically depict or highlight the slotted features following separations along the dotted line detail of the cap swinging structure and the swinging cover element of the third alternative re-closeable cap. 
         FIG. 38B  is a diagrammatic depiction of the structures otherwise depicted in  FIG. 38A  to further diagrammatically depict or highlight a first slotted feature following its separation along the dotted line detail of the cap swinging structure of the third alternative re-closeable cap. 
         FIG. 38C  is an enlarged, fragmentary depiction as enlarged from  FIG. 38B  to show in greater clarity or detail the structures associated with the first slotted feature following its separation along the dotted line detail of the cap swinging structure of the third alternative re-closeable cap. 
         FIG. 38D  is an enlarged, fragmentary depiction as enlarged from  FIG. 38C  to show in greater clarity or detail the edge-to-edge scored separation point along the dotted line detail of the cap swinging structure of the third alternative re-closeable cap. 
         FIG. 39  is a top perspective view of the third alternative re-closeable cap according to the present invention in outfitted assembly upon an upper can portion of a beverage can. 
         FIG. 40  is a top plan view of the third alternative re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure in a locked, full state of swing extension or can-opening access state highlighting pivot points of the cap swinging structure. 
         FIG. 40A  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view as sectioned from  FIG. 40  to show in greater clarity or detail the cap swinging structure in a full state of swing extension 
         FIG. 41  is a top perspective view of the third alternative re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure in a full state of swing extension or can-opening access state highlighting pivot points of the cap swinging structure. 
         FIG. 42  is an edge view of the third alternative re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure thereof in broken lining in first, second, and third states of swing extension. 
         FIG. 43  is top perspective view of the third alternative re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure thereof in a first state of swing extension. 
         FIG. 44  is top perspective view of the third alternative re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure thereof in a second state of swing extension. 
         FIG. 45  is top perspective view of the third alternative re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure thereof in a third state of swing extension. 
         FIG. 46  is a longitudinal cross-section depiction of the third alternative re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure thereof in a first state of swing extension to depict a first aspect of an eccentric switch effect of a flip-flop mechanism according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 47  is a longitudinal cross-section depiction of the third alternative re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure thereof in a second state of swing extension to depict a second aspect of an eccentric switch effect of a flip-flop mechanism according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 48  is a longitudinal cross-section depiction of the third alternative re-closeable cap according to the present invention showing the cap swinging structure thereof in a third state of swing extension to depict a third aspect of an eccentric switch effect of a flip-flop mechanism according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 49  is a reduced top plan view of the third alternative re-closeable cap according to the present invention shown in exploded relation relative to an underlying generic beverage can and showing a dotted line detail for depicting a perforated or cut line for the cap swinging structure shown in a fully retracted, can-opening covering state and the swinging cover element of the third alternative re-closeable cap according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 49A  is an enlarged, fragmentary sectional view as enlarged and sectioned from  FIG. 49  to depict in greater clarity or detail a first aspect of an optional locking mechanism according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 49B  is a first enlarged, fragmentary sectional view as enlarged and sectioned from  FIG. 49  to depict in greater clarity or detail a second aspect of an optional locking mechanism according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 49C  is a second enlarged, fragmentary sectional view to depict in greater clarity or detail the second aspect of an optional locking mechanism when the cap is outfitted upon the beverage can according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 49D  is an enlarged, fragmentary sectional view as enlarged from  FIG. 49C  to depict in still greater clarity or detail the second aspect of an optional locking mechanism when the cap is outfitted upon the beverage can according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 50  is a top plan view of the third alternative re-closeable cap according to the present invention shown in assembled relation with an underlying generic beverage can and showing the cap swinging structure shown in a locked, fully open, can-opening access state. 
         FIG. 50A  is an enlarged, fragmentary sectional view as enlarged and sectioned from  FIG. 50  to depict in greater clarity or detail the structures associated with the cap swinging structure according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 50B  is an enlarged, fragmentary sectional view as enlarged and sectioned from  FIG. 50A  to depict in greater clarity or detail structures in adjacency to the underlying can opener element when the cap swinging structure is in the locked, fully open, can-opening access state. 
         FIG. 51  is a top plan view of the third alternative re-closeable cap according to the present invention shown in assembled relation with an underlying generic beverage can and showing the cap swinging structure shown in a fully retracted, can-opening covering state. 
         FIG. 51A  is an enlarged, fragmentary sectional view as enlarged and sectioned from  FIG. 51  to depict in greater clarity or detail the structures associated with the cap swinging structure and the underlying can opener element according to the present invention. 
         FIG. 51B  is an enlarged, fragmentary sectional view as enlarged and sectioned from  FIG. 51A  to depict in greater clarity or detail structures in adjacency to the underlying can opener element when the cap swinging structure is in the fully retracted can-opening covering state. 
         FIG. 52  is a top perspective view of a third alternative re-closeable cap packaging arrangement according to the present invention showing a series of six third re-closeable caps according to the present invention formed in a packaging material web. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     Referring now to the drawings with more specificity, the following specifications generally describe certain re-closable caps as variously exemplified for outfitting and capping beverage cans, which beverage cans have become relatively standard in the industry for serving beverages to consumers. A generic beverage can usable in combination with the re-closeable caps according to the present invention is generally depicted and referenced at  10  throughout the illustrative matter submitted in support of these specifications. 
     The beverage can  10  usable in combination with the alternative re-closeable caps  100 ,  200 , and  300  according to the present invention preferably comprise a can rim  8 , a frustoconical neck portion  9 ; a can groove  17  formed in inferior adjacency to the can rim; a can rim inner wall as at  18 ; a can capping plate  7 ; an indentation or depression  6  formed in the can capping plate  7 ; a (pivotable) can opener element or assembly  5 ; a turning center  2  (e.g. a pivot pin through which an axis of rotation extends) of the can opener element or assembly  5 ; a (scored) can-opening or aperture-forming plate portion  4 ; and a can opening  3  once the (scored) aperture-forming plate portion  4  is separated from the can capping plate portion  7  forming a can opening edge  1  at the score line. 
     The present specifications further contemplate certain embodiments of the re-closeable cap as generally depicted at a first alternative embodiment or first alternative re-closeable cap as at  300 ; a second alternative embodiment or second alternative re-closeable cap as at  100 ; and a third alternative embodiment or third alternative re-closeable cap as at  200 . The third alternative embodiment or third alternative re-closeable cap as at  200  may be considered the preferred embodiment according to the present invention while the first alternative re-closeable cap is utilized to exemplify the various component features of the caps  300  and  200 . The second alternative re-closeable cap  100  is illustrated to support various peripheral features also embraced by the caps  300  and  200 . 
     The variously exemplified re-closeable caps  100 ,  200 , and  300  according to the present invention are all designed to be removably outfitted upon or attached to an upper can portion of a beverage can  10  typified by aluminum cans for containing sodas, beers or any other beverage that is sold after having been packaged and sealed by a manufacturer or packaging company. The re-closeable caps  200  and  300  are particularly designed with a view toward outfitting beverage cans during the manufacturing or packaging process so as to provide a cap that will ride upon an outfitted beverage from packaging to user consumption for enhancing safety concerns. Further, it is contemplated that the re-closeable caps  200  and  300  will travel with the outfitted beverage cans  10  to the point of disposal with the aim of directing as many re-closeable caps  200 / 300  into the recycling process as possible given the high tendency for aluminum beverage cans to enter recycling systems. 
     In this regard, it is contemplated that the re-closeable caps  100 ,  200 , and  300  for beverage cans  10  according to the present invention may thus be attached to the upper can portion exemplified by a can rim  8  of the beverage can  10  preferably by the manufacturer or packaging company, but alternatively by the consumer. In either case, the re-closeable caps  100 ,  200 , and  300 , when outfitted upon beverage cans  10 , operate to selectively open or allow access to beverage can  10  contents and close or cover the beverage can  10  after the scored aperture-forming plate  4  has been depressed or removed from the score line or edge  1  of the beverage can  10 . 
     The variously exemplified re-closeable caps  100 ,  200 , and  300  may also be attached or outfitted upon the can rims  8  or upper can portions of beverage cans  10  by the manufacturers, packaging company, or establishments that sell the canned products. The variously exemplified re-closeable caps  100 ,  200 , and  300  may also be outfitted upon multiply arranged beverage cans  10  as part of a multi-cap packaging arrangement as at  301  in  FIGS. 25-30  for forming a multi-can-capped packaging arrangement as at  302  in  FIGS. 29 and 30 . 
     The reader will note that while the packaging arrangements  301  and  302  are depicted comprising the first alternative re-closeable caps  300 , that similar packaging arrangements are contemplated comprising the second and third alternative re-closeable caps  100  and  200 . In this regard, an exemplary packaging arrangement  201  is generally depicted in  FIG. 52  showing a series of third alternative re-closeable caps  200  within a preferably or optionally thermoformed web  90  preferably outfitted with arrangement-grabbling finger holes as at  91 . In this last regard, the reader will note that the re-closeable caps may alternatively be formed by or constructed by way of injection molding, stamping and/or paper-based constructions. 
     The packaging arrangements  201  and  301  are exemplary and show a series of six caps per web  90  with pre-cut or perforated lining as at  93  or enabling easier removal of cap-outfitted beverage cans  10  from the web(s)  90 . The present invention contemplates multi-pack arrangements differing in cap number such as four-pack and two-pack arrangements. Once a cap-outfitted beverage can  10  is removed from the multi-pack arrangements  201 / 301 , an opening  92  remains with opening or aperture edging  93 ′. Arrangement  301  further depicts grip leftovers or remnants  94  as remnant portions of grip or nub formations formed upon the cap  300 . Further, the detached cap-outfitted can  10  shown in  FIG. 30A  depicts a stacking ledge  80 , which ledges may be included in the overall design for aiding a stacked series of webs  90  or packaging arrangements as generally depicted in  FIGS. 27 and 28 . 
     Comparatively referencing  FIGS. 25-30A , the reader will there consider that when packaging arrangements  301  and  302  are provided, a single beverage can  10  as outfitted with any of the re-closeable caps ( 100 ,  200 , or)  300  is removed from the packaging arrangement  302  of the packaging material web  90 , the re-closeable cap  300  remains attached to or outfitted upon the beverage can as generally depicted in  FIG. 30A . When provided as part of the packaging arrangement  301 , the re-closeable caps  100 ,  200 , and  300  according to the present invention not only function as a protective cover for the outfitted beverage can  10  as provided to the consumer at the time of purchase, but may also be utilized by the consumer as a re-closeable cap for a beverage can  10  later during the time of consumption as discussed in more detail below. 
     This dual-functionality is of critical importance for the consumer, particularly in view of beverage cans  10  of this type often being brought outdoors for contents consumption. In this regard, it is noted that outside elements are ever-present and debris and/or insects can gain access to an uncovered beverage can  10  through the can opening  3  formed in the beverage can  10  once the scored aperture-forming plate  4  has been depressed or removed from the score line or edge  1 . The opening-covering functionality of the re-closeable caps  100 ,  200 , and  300  helps prevent contamination of the container or beverage can  10  contents. In some cases, such contamination can be lethal or fatal to the consumer as in the case of insect bites and the like. 
     All of the re-closeable caps  100 ,  200 , and  300  may be said to preferably comprise a number of features, including a unibody (one piece), thermoplastic material construction, which unibody is configured to provide a cap rim as at  15  and a cap plate centrally located relative to the cap rim  15 . These two structural features are central to the practice of the re-closeable caps  100 ,  200 , and  300 . The cap rim  15  operates to enable the user to attach the re-closeable caps to the can rim  8  of the upper can portion of the beverage can  10 . The cap plate comprises a number of features that define the primary functionality of the caps  100 ,  200 , and  300 , and particularly caps  200  and  300 . The cap plate very basically comprises a static structure or portion as at  63 , a first dynamic structure or as at  21 , and a second dynamic structure or portion as at  39 . 
     The first dynamic structure or portion  21  may otherwise be referred to as a cap swinging structure  21 . The first dynamic structure or portion  21  is a movable or dynamic feature according to the present invention that essentially and selectively provides a capping function as well as pivots or swings through space in superior adjacency to the static or stationary static structure  62 . The two elements thus move in a clamshell-like manner with the first dynamic structure or portion  21  being the primary movable half of the two-part action for selectively capping an otherwise accessible can opening  3 . The first dynamic structure or portion  21  may thus be referred to as a cap swinging structure  21 . 
     The static portion or structure  63  is that stationary portion of the cap plate that remains relatively fixed in place in parallel relation to the can capping plate  7 . The static portion or structure  63  may, however, comprise the second dynamic portion or structure  39  preferably defined or otherwise referred to as a swing cover element  39 . Similar to the cap swinging structure  21 , the swing cover element  39  pivots or swings through space in superior adjacency to the otherwise stationary static portion  63 , but in an opposite direction relative to the cap swinging structure  21 . The second dynamic structure or swing cover element  39  covers at least a portion of the can opener element  5  and preferably moves in unison therewith during cover-enabled can opening events. 
     The re-closable caps  100 ,  200 , and  300  all further preferably comprise a lower cap skirt or funnel skirt as at  11 ; a series of circumferentially spaced outwardly radiating turning nubs as at  12 ; a series of circumferentially spaced cap-removal grip formations as at  13  preferably aligned with the turning nubs  12 ; and a recessed cap groove  14  for cooperably mating with the recessed can groove  17 . The lower cap skirt or funnel skirt  11  seats down upon the neck portion  9  of the upper can portion when the cap rim  15  receives the can rim  8 . The reader will note that standard beverage cans  10  of the type illustrated in the drawing support submitted with these specifications provide a neck portion  9  that extends obliquely relative to the can capping plate  7 . 
     The lower cap skirt  11  according to the present invention similarly preferably extends obliquely relative to the cap plate such that the lower cap skirt  11  parallels the neck portion. The neck portion  9  of the upper can portion preferably comprises an upper neck portion and a lower neck portion defining the upper and lower ends of the oblique, frustoconical region. The lower cap skirt  11  according to the present invention preferably comprises a lower skirt edge as at  16 , which lower skirt edge  16  preferably terminates intermediate the upper and lower neck portions for enhancing safe use of the re-closeable caps during cap rotations relative to the upper can portion. In other words, the exposed portion of the neck portion helps space the user&#39;s fingers from the lower skirt edge  16  such that rotations against the user&#39;s skin of the lower skirt edge become less likely. 
     The re-closeable caps  100 ,  200 , and  300  may further operate as a spill-prevention barrier and still further to help prevent or retard carbonation leakage from the container contents. There are two primary mechanisms to open the re-closeable caps  200  and  300  for enabling access to container contents held within the beverage can  10 , and to re-close the re-closeable caps  200  and  300  for covering or closing the beverage can  10  according to the present invention as discussed in more detail below. 
     The first option, mechanism or method for opening-closing the re-closeable caps  200  and  300  basically derives primarily from the “flip-flop” or swinging pivot action of the cap swinging structure  21  and secondarily by way of the swinging cover element  39 . The first re-closable option named the “flip-flop” option is figuratively depicted in an opening sequence comparatively set forth in  FIGS. 7, 7A, 7B and 8  and in a closing sequence comparatively depicted in  FIGS. 12, 12A, 12B and 13 . This option is believed to be simpler and easier to understand, and mostly protects or covers the beverage can  10  from insects and dirt/debris entering into the beverage can  10  when the cap swinging structure  21  is in a fully retracted, can opening covering state or configuration as generally depicted in  FIGS. 14-16A . As an added benefit, the fully retracted cap swinging structure  21  helps to prevent major spillage of beverage from the beverage can  10 . 
     Both the cap swinging structure  21  and the swinging cover element  39  are pivotally attached to the re-closeable caps  200  and  300 . The swinging cover element  39  is preferably pivotally attached to the re-closeable caps  200  and  300  at laterally-opposed swinging cover hinges as at  42 , the pivot axes of which swinging cover hinges  42  lie within a first mid-lid hinge plane preferably and substantially dividing the anterior half of the cap  300  from the posterior half of the re-closeable cap  300 . In the re-closeable cap  200 , the swinging cover hinges  42  are preferably provided as pivot points as discussed in more detail in connection with re-closeable cap  200 . 
     The cap swinging structure  21  is preferably pivotally attached to the re-closeable caps  300  and  200  at swinging structure hinges  19 , the pivot axes of which hinges  19  lie within a second mid-lid hinge plane preferably and substantially dividing the anterior half of the cap  300  from the posterior half of the caps  300 . In the re-closeable cap  200 , the swinging structure hinges  19  are preferably provided as two pairs of laterally opposed pivot points as discussed in more detail in connection with re-closeable cap  200 . 
     The second option for selectively covering the can opening  3  is generally and comparatively depicted in  FIG. 17  through  FIG. 19A  in connection with re-closeable cap  300 . The re-closeable cap  300  may be rotated about the longitudinal axis of the beverage can  10  extending through the turning center  2  by turning the re-closeable cap  300  180 (plus-minus) degrees clockwise or counter-clockwise relative to the can opening  3 . One of the benefits of this iteration is that re-closeable cap  300  may be operated so as to place the cap swinging structure  21  into a fully extended can access state as generally depicted in  FIGS. 17 and 17A , and proceed to selectively cover the can opening  3  with the static portion or structure  63  or posterior portions of the re-closeable caps  300  by rotating the caps  300  about an axis of rotation without removing the re-closeable caps  300  from the beverage can  10 . 
     As prefaced above, the re-closable caps  100 ,  200 , and  300  and associated packaging arrangements  201  and  301  are preferably constructed from a thinly formed thermoplastic material and provided in web form by a preferred thermoforming process. The benefits of the thermoforming process are primarily the relatively low cost thereof, its aesthetic look, and user friendliness of thermoformed packaging and products. It is noted that materials used in the thermoforming process are usually not structural and thin, which makes it difficult to design thermoformed parts having moving aspects as embodied in the re-closable caps  100 ,  200 , and  300  according to the present invention. Notably, the re-closeable caps  100 ,  200 , and  300  may alternatively be formed by or constructed by way of injection molding, stamping and/or paper-based constructions. 
     One of the reasons why the present invention is able to function consistently and reliably is the fact that re-closeable caps  100 ,  200 , and  300  are configured to form a relatively tight grip between the resilient cap rim(s) as at  15  on top of structurally much firmer or rigid can rim(s)  8  and the interlocking relationship of the dynamic anterior portion and the static posterior portion of the caps  200  and  300  as defined by the dynamic cap swinging structure  21  and static posterior structure  63  each of which structures  21  and  63  are provided with multiply spaced interlocking protrusions and depressions for mated engagement with one another as generally depicted in  FIG. 10A . When these two structures  21  and  63  are interlocked, the mated engagement thereof creates a highly stable thermoplastic material construction that not only mates well together but further functions as a unified and stable double-layer cover mechanism. 
     In other words, the double layer of thermoplastic material and the mated engagement thereof allows or enables the manufacturer to create a unique functional mechanism from an otherwise relatively thin and relatively soft single layer of inherently resilient thermoplastic material. The preferred, relatively thin and soft thermoplastic material further allows the formation of the packaging arrangements  201  and  301  with additional benefits to open and close the beverage can  10  without adding cost and enabling cost savings in many instances. 
     The reader will here note, however, that the interlock-ability of the cap swinging structure  21  with the static portion or structure  63  of re-closeable cap  200  (which embodiment  200  is not necessarily designed to rotate atop the upper can portion) is of secondary importance as compared to the interlock-ability of the cap swinging structure  21  with the static portion or structure  63  of re-closeable cap  300 . The re-closeable cap  200  primarily functions with the “flip-flop” function for selectively opening and closing the cap with the rotational option being of secondary importance. The re-closeable cap  200  is designed with a significantly tight fit of the cap rim  15  upon the can rim  8 . The reader will further note that re-closeable cap  200  is devoid of can opener access window  69 . 
     It is contemplated that the type of packaging arrangement  301  shown in  FIGS. 25-30  and the packaging arrangement  201  shown in  FIG. 2  will support the development of other non-carbonated beverages to be provided or packaged in beverage cans  10  of the type generally contemplated typically constructed from aluminum material(s). Note: The reader will note that the re-closeable caps  200  and  300  may preferably dimensioned so as to tightly outfit the can rim  8  to prevent even minimal spillage of beverages of both non-carbonated and carbonated types. The differences in material construction of the beverage can  10  relative to the re-closeable caps  200  and  300  enable added functionality whereby the relatively rigid material construction of the beverage can  10  may operate to actuate however slightly the material construction of the re-closeable caps for enhancing functionality of the caps  200  and  300 . 
     When a user takes a packaged beverage can  10  as typically provided in a 6-pack arrangement as generally depicted in  FIGS. 25-30A , the user may remove an individual beverage can  10  from the packaging web material  90  having a series of caps as exemplified by re-closeable caps  300  in  FIGS. 25-30A , and particularly depicted in  FIG. 30A . The re-closeable caps  100 ,  200 , and  300  may further preferably comprise a cap groove as at  14  that tightly grips, mates or cooperates with the can groove  17 . Bearing the cap groove  14  in mind, the re-closeable caps  100 ,  200 , and  300  may further preferably comprise a series of circumferentially spaced undercut formations  74  formed in the cap groove  14  as generally depicted and referenced in  FIGS. 32-34  in connection with the second alternative re-closeable cap  100 . 
     The undercut formations  74  essentially provide apertures or slots spaced circumferentially about the periphery of the caps  100 ,  200 , and  300  that further provide undercut edges as at  75 . The undercut edges  75  are configured to slide into engagement with the bottom rim edge  76  of the can rim  8  for holding the caps  100 ,  200 , and  300  to the can rim  8  under the bottom rim edge  76  for significantly increasing the grip or hold action of the caps  100 ,  200 , and  300  without adding significant friction in order to make it possible for drinker to still rotate the  100 ,  200 , and  300  as outfitted upon the beverage can  10  by hand if the user so chooses. Simultaneously, the undercuts  74  and the undercut edges  75 , as engaged with the bottom rim edge  76 , prevents the caps  100 ,  200 , and  300  from coming off of the beverage can  10  when an outfitted beverage can  10  is removed from the arrangement  201  or from the arrangement  301  as in  FIG. 30A  as the case may be. 
     In the next step, the user may open the outfitted beverage can  10  by way of the standard can opener element  5  or opener assembly. In this regard, the reader will note that the standard can opener element  5  preferably comprises a slot or window as at  79 . The finger-grabbing outer edge  70  of the can opener element  5  is accessible via the can opener window  69  and under the top edge  71  of the swing cover element  39 . In other words, the finger-grabbing outer edge  70  is visible and accessible under top edge  71  via the window  69  to provide the user with a good grip access by his or her fingertip in order to open the beverage can  10  as has become standard in the art. The can opener element  5  and the swing cover element, preferably mated to one another, move in unison as the user pulls up on the can opener element as generally depicted in  FIGS. 4 and 22 . 
     The re-closeable caps  200  and  300  may further preferably comprise a finger depression feature as at  40 . The finger depression feature  40  preferably overlaps the first dynamic portion and the static portion for enabling the user to depress the same to selectively actuate the first and second dynamic portions. In other words, the fingertip depression  40  aids the user to direct a fingertip therein to direct force into the end of the can opener element opposite the outer edge  70 . 
     The swinging cover element  39  covers the can opener element  5  and moves in the same manner as or in unison with the can opener element  5  to enable the user to open the beverage can  10  by depressing the scored plate  4  for forming the can opening  3 . The lock-receiving protrusion  32  of the swinging cover element  39  fits into can opener gap  79  and preferably mates therewith as generally and comparatively depicted in  FIGS. 3-6 . After the beverage can  10  is opened, the can opener element  5  interlocks with the swinging cover element  39  and may be pushed back or retracted into a flattened state as usually is done once a beverage can  10  is opened as generally depicted in  FIGS. 14-16A . At that moment the can opening  3  is covered by the cap swinging structure  21  of the re-closable cap  300  as generally depicted in  FIG. 16A . 
     Comparatively referencing  FIGS. 1 and 7-10 , the user may then lift the cap swinging structure  21  (as optionally initiated by the finger depression feature  40 ) from a fully-retracted, can-opening covering state (as depicted in  FIG. 1 ), and pivot the cap swinging structure  21  about the pivot axis defined by swinging structure hinges  19  so as to re-position the cap swinging structure  21  in a fully-extended or fully open can-opening access state as generally depicted in  FIGS. 9 and 10 . The user may lift up the cap swinging structure  21  by gripping it with a fingertip as at the tip or edge  68  or groove  82  of the cap swinging structure  21 . 
     Once the user engages the tip or edge  68  and lifts the tip or edge  68 , the cap swinging structure  21  pivots about the pivot axis defined by the swinging structure hinges  19 , and may be pivoted to a fully extended or fully open can-opening access state whereby a lock (depression  55 ) formed in the raised, arcuate locking structure  49  of the re-closeable cap  300  mates with the a key structure  56  formed at the tip or edge  68  of the cap swinging structure  21 . The swinging structure hinges  19  are preferably living hinge mechanisms whereby the material construction bends back and forth maintaining some inherent internal resistivity, which internal resistivity allows the cap swinging structure  21  to actuably spring up when the lock depression  55  of the raised, arcuate locking structure  49  releases the key structure  56  of the cap swinging structure  21 . 
     To release the key structure  56  from the lock depression  55  of the static portion  63  of the re-closable cap  300 , the user may depress the back side  62  of the key structure  56 . Before the act of finger-depressing the back side  62  to release the mated engagement of the key structure  56  and the lock depression  55 , the corresponding male and female features of the two mated portions (comprising the pivotable or dynamic, cap swinging structure  21  and the static portion  63 ) are interlocked as generally depicted in  FIG. 17A . From a consideration of  FIG. 17A , it will be seen that the cap opening  50  is fully open and the can opening  3  is exposed. Beverage contained within the outfitted beverage can  10  may then be readily consumed by way of the can opening  3  and cap opening  50 . 
     The interlocking mechanism of the cap swinging structure  21  and the static portion  63  may be further preferably defined or described in connection with certain peripheral support features. In this regard, the front wall  48  of the swinging structure  21  may be pressed against the front wall  47  of the locking structure  49 . At the same time the back wall  46  of the lever receiving depression  72  may be pressed against the back sides  45  of the laterally opposed lever  41  for creating directional frictional forces in opposite directions. 
     Both side walls  43  of laterally opposed levers  41  are squeezed between side walls  44  of the lever-receiving depression  72  pushing the edge  67  of can opener window or gap  79  against side edge  66  of the swinging cover element  39 , making a tight seal between these two edges  66  and  67 . The can opener element  5  firmly stays between these relatively strong structures created by interlocking the lever-receiving depression  72  and the structural lever(s)  41 . The lock-receiving protrusion  32  further tightly fits into the can opener window or gap  79 . Lock  33  tightly fits into or mates with the lock-receiving protrusion  32  and the lock support step  64  presses against the swinging cover element  39  at the same time it presses against the edge  70  of the can opener element  5 . 
     At the same time, both sides of the lock support  64  press against inner walls  65  of the structural levers  41  as counterbalance to pressure from the engagement of side wall  44  of the lever-receiving depression  72  and side wall  43  of the structural lever  41 . The secure interlocked relationship between the dynamic cap swinging structure  21  and the static portion  63  is important for exercising the option of enabling can opening access and coverage by rotating the re-closeable cap  300  180 degrees relative to the can opening  3  and for further preventing beverage from passing through gaps. Also, these structural arrangements help form a seal between the cap depression  20  and the can capping plate  7  when rotated to a can opening cover configuration as generally depicted in  FIG. 19A . The reader will note that side edge  66  and edge  67  are created as a result of a cut through a unibody material construction thereby providing a tight fit when these two edges  66  and  67  are pressed against one another. 
     When interlocking the dynamic cap swinging structure  21  to the static portion  63 , the key structure  56  of the cap winging structure  21  is pressed into the lock depression  55  of the locking structure  49 . The front wall  52  of the key structure  56  presses against the front wall  51  of the lock depression  55  of the locking structure  49 . The side walls  54  of the key structure  56  are squeezed between the side walls  53  of the lock depression  55  of the locking structure  49 . The front portion of the structural levers  41  are connected by the arch of the can opener-engaging protrusion  23  of which flange  61  is an extension. 
     The whole structure under the pressure from the back side  45  of the structural lever  41  leans forward and down, keeping flange  61  pressed against indention  6  of the can capping plate  7  and creates a seal in closed position when the re-closeable cap  300  is turned 180 degrees to the can opening covering configuration as generally depicted in  FIGS. 19 and 19A . The lock-receiving protrusion  32  receives the lock  33  as generally depicted in  FIGS. 10, 10A, 11, 17, 17A, 23, and 24 . The interlocking action of multiple components by way of frictional engagement of numerously opposed surfaces provides significant stability and further eliminates gap or leakage points through which beverage may otherwise seep when in the rotatably closed position by turning the re-closeable cap  300  180 degrees from the reference point (shown in  FIG. 17A ) to the rotatable closed, can opening covering configuration generally depicted in  FIGS. 19 and 19A . 
     The reader will note that the first dynamic structure exemplified by the cap swinging structure  21  overarches the second dynamic structure as exemplified by the swinging cover element  39  as well as a portion of the static structure  63  represented by flange  61  and a portion of the finger depression feature  40 . The structure of flange  61  is a semi-dynamic structure, allowing the can opener element  5  to simultaneously move with the swinging cover element  39  by bending flexible material at the line between pivot points  42  and across the flange  61  structure. Thus, dynamically, it functions when the drinker uses the can opener element  5  to open the beverage can  10 . 
     Because the tip  98  of the can opener element  5  extends beyond the center pivot point  2 , it is difficult to provide a cap swinging structure  21  by just folding some structure toward the static structure  63  while at the same time retaining the ability to open the swinging cover element  39  while maintaining the structural integrity of cap plate. The resolution to the problem was to provide the perforation or cut line  95  that extends in a zig-zag like manner and extending the flange structure  61  past the pivot point  2  and totally or significantly overlapping the front end of can opener element  5  at or near the tip  98 . These considerations provided the basis for the arch-like swinging action of the cap swinging structure. 
     The user can also close the re-closeable caps  300  and  200  by pushing one&#39;s fingertip into the fingertip depression  40 . Referencing  FIG. 11 , the reader will there consider vector  77  depicting a fingertip force pushing the can opener-receiving protrusion  23  down toward or into the can opening  3  with the can opener element  5  underneath or underlying the can opener-receiving protrusion  23  as comparatively depicted in  FIGS. 11 and 17A . 
     At the same time, the opposite end of the can opener element  5 , the can opener edge  70  is pushed up as at vector  78  in  FIG. 11 . The back sides  45  of levers  41  release pressure from the back wall  46  of the lever-receiving depression  72 . With minimal force downwardly directed, the lock depression  55  of the locking structure  49  releases the key structure  56  of the cap swinging structure  21 . The entire cap swinging structure  21  raises up under material internal resilience at the hinges  19  of the cap swinging structure  21  as generally depicted in  FIG. 12 . 
     Then user may then retract the cap swinging structure  21  back into or toward the cap opening  50  as generally depicted in  FIGS. 12 — 16 A. The reader will note that the back edge  57  of the cap opening  50  and the outer edge  58  of the cap swinging structure  21  are created as a result of cut made in the unibody material construction thereby forming a relatively tight fit and locking them together when the outer edge  58  is pressed past back edge  57 . At the same time, the edge  59  of flange  61  meets the inner edge  60  of the cap swinging structure  21 . Edges  59  and  60  are also formed as a result of a cut through the unibody material construction. 
     Referencing  FIGS. 38-52 , the reader will more particularly consider the third alternative re-closeable cap  200  according to the present invention. The dotted lines  95  depict a perforated line or cut lines for releasing the cap swinging structure  21  for dynamic movement intermediate the (locked) fully open or extended state or configuration, and the fully retracted state or configuration. The dotted lines  95  further define a perforation line or cut lines for releasing the swinging cover element  39 . 
     The reader will note that the swinging structure hinges  19  and swinging cover hinges  42  are depicted at dots or points  19  and  42 . In other words, the swinging structure hinges and swinging cover hinges of the third alternative re-closeable cap  200  are preferably pivot point. In the case of pivot points  19 , a pivot point  19  remains after the perimeter of the cap swinging structure  21  defined by the anterior first dotted line  95  is cut or slit. The only spots or points not cut or slit are the pivot points  19  within the track of the first dotted line  95 . Similarly, in the case of the swing cover element  39 , the swinging cover hinges  42 , the pivot points  42  are uncut points on the second or posterior perforation or cut line  95 . The reader will note that the horizontal line between pivot points  42  is not cut or slit. 
     The reader will consider the tip or bend portion  81  adjacent the medial most pivot points  19  of the anterior or first cut line  95 . The tip or bend portion  81  is intentionally formed as such in adjacency to the medial most pivot points  19  in order to create a novel “eccentric switch” effect as comparatively and figuratively depicted in  FIGS. 46-48 . The eccentric switch provided by tip or bend portion  81  allows the cap swinging structure  21  to be used as a “flip-flop” mechanism for maintaining a state of actuation by way of the inherent material resiliency of the material construction. 
     Referencing  FIG. 46 , it will be seen that the tip or bend portion  81  contacts the can capping plate  7  when being directed toward the fully open state or configuration at a first state of extension. At this state of extension, the pivot point  19  experiences a force as depicted at vector  87 . With the tip or bend portion  81  in constant contact with the can capping plate  7 , the cap swinging portion is further directed toward the fully open or extended state. 
     To enable further movement of the cap swinging portion  21  to the second state of extension, the static portion  63  is momentarily actuated as at  63 ′ and a downward restorative force is created as at vectors  88 . When further directed to the third state of extension, the cap swinging plate  21  with the tip or bend portion  81  still in contact with the can capping plate  7  again reaches a point where pivot point(s)  19  experience a force  87 . The inherent resiliency of the material construction thereby helps maintain the cap swinging structure  21  in a state of extension at least at the first and third states of extension. 
     Comparatively referencing  FIGS. 38 and 38A , it will be seen that  FIG. 38A  is a cross-sectional view as sectioned from  FIG. 38  to depict a locking mechanism associated with the third alternative re-closeable cap  200 . Reference numbers  57  and  58  in  FIG. 38A  depict opposing edges formed after the perforation or cut line is cut or slit. The gap between edges  57  and  58  is exaggerated in  FIG. 38A  to illustratively denote the separation. A more accurate rendering of the edge-to-edge separation point or configuration is depicted in  FIG. 38D . In other words, the slit is depicted as a little space between edges  57  and  58 , but in actuality there is no space when in the fully retracted position as otherwise shown in  FIG. 38D . A similar description applies to the slit that forms the opposed edges  66  and  67  of the swinging cover element  39 . 
     Referencing  FIG. 38B through 38D , the reader will there further consider how the slit formed at line  95  enables locking/sealing functionality. The space  84  between the cap swing structure  21  and the can capping plate  7  provides enough travel distance for the cap swinging structure  21  and the outer edge  58  to be pressed as at vector  83  to snap past the static edge  57  and under restorative forces of the inherent material resiliency, the cap swinging structure  21  moves back to modified original position forming a “frictional seal/lock” where the edges  57  and  58  opposite the same slit  95  touch at the cutting point forming a “frictional seal/lock” that prevents liquid leakage. 
     Referencing  FIGS. 40 and 40A , the reader will there consider the relative positions of edges  59  and  60  and pivot points of hinges  19  and the tip or bend portion  81  when the cap swinging portion  21  is a locked, fully open or extended state. It will be recalled that when the user retracts the cap swinging structure  21  back into or toward the cap opening  50 , the back edge  57  of the cap opening  50  and the outer edge  58  of the cap swinging structure  21  form a relatively tight fit, locking them together when the outer edge  58  is pressed past back edge  57 . At the same time, the edge  59  of flange  61  meets the inner edge  60  of the cap swinging structure  21 . Edges  59  and  60  are also formed as a result of a cut through the unibody material construction.  FIG. 40A  depicts a double mated engagement of the cap swinging structure  21  and the lock mechanism  55  whereby tip or edge  68  fits into recess  99  and tip or edge  101  fits into groove  82 . 
     Referencing  FIGS. 49 through 49D , the reader will there consider an optional locking mechanism for the flip-flop cap swinging structure  21 , the concepts of which may further extend to the swinging cover element  39 . The primary concept being illustrated to provide a locking mechanism whereby the static edge  57  of the slit  95  is directed into overlapped relation with the opposed dynamic edge  58  of slit  95  for forming a tight seal at the overlap site. This is achieved by providing a rim wall-engaging protrusion as at  97  adjacent the target overlap site. The rim wall-engaging protrusion  97  presses against the inner can rim wall  18  of can rim  8  when the re-closeable caps are outfitted upon the upper can rim  8  thereby forcing as at  96  the side wall  22  of cap depression radially inwardly causing edges  57  and  58  to overlap as generally depicted in  FIGS. 49C and 49D . 
     Referencing  FIGS. 50-51A , the reader will there consider certain additional considerations directed to the re-closeable cap  200  operable in connection with a beverage can  10  and particularly the tip  98  of the can opener element  5 . Referencing the opposed edges  59  and  60  formed by cutting or slicing the cut line  95 . The can opener tip  98  may preferably serve or provide a support platform where the edges  59  and  60  meet when the cap swinging portion is in a fully retracted configuration a generally depicted in  FIG. 51 . 
     Referencing  FIG. 51B , it will be seen that the can opener tip  98  supports the cap swinging structure  21  such that the edges  59  and  69  are tightly aligned for forming a better seal as enabled by the tip  98  support. The reader will further note that a further function of the can opener tip  98  is to help direct upwardly the flip-flop structure  21  when it is in a fully retracted state by pressing on the opposite side of opener  5  pivotable about turning center  2  serving as a fulcrum. The rocker pivot point raises tip  98  pushing the edge  60  of the cap swinging structure and as result the cap swinging structure  21  pops up at slit  95  allowing for an easier grip of the flip-flop, cap swinging structure  21 . 
     The second alternative re-closeable cap  100  is presented in the illustrative support primarily to highlight the undercut features  74  as generally depicted and referenced in  FIGS. 32-34  and to demonstrate a number of ways to outfit the re-closeable caps  300 ,  100 , and  200 . Referencing  FIGS. 35-37  the reader will there consider the second alternative re-closeable cap  100  according to the present invention with cap-marking indicia for labeling re-closeable caps from top to bottom as 1 cap—2 cap—3 cap; A cap—B cap—C cap; and 5-point star cap—4-point star cap—7-point star cap. It is contemplated that the exemplary packaging arrangements  301  and  201  may provide a series of re-closeable caps outfitted with cap-marking indicia for individually labeling re-closeable caps so that consumers may more properly identify outfitted beverage cans as belonging to individual users by way of the cap-marking indicia. 
     While the above descriptions contain much specificity, this specificity should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention, but rather as an exemplification of the invention. In certain embodiments, the basic invention may be said to essentially teach or disclose a re-closeable can cap as variously exemplified for outfitting a beverage can for with a view toward improving or adding hygienic protections to beverage cans coming from manufacturers and packaging companies throughout the distribution channels terminating at the user consumption point. The re-closeable caps according to the present invention outfit an upper can portion of the beverage can primarily for providing means for selectively covering and uncovering a can opening so as to provide a readily available barrier atop the upper can portion. 
     The re-closeable caps according to the present invention may thus be said to essentially outfit a beverage can enabling a user to selectively cover an upper can portion of the beverage can having a can rim and a can capping plate. The re-closeable caps preferably and essential comprise a unibody material construction particularly configured to comprise a cap rim and a cap plate centrally located relative to the cap rim. The cap rim receives the can rim thereby attaching the re-closeable cap to the upper can portion. 
     The cap plate comprises a static structure and a first dynamic structure as exemplified by the cap swinging structure  21  pivotally attached to the static structure as at  63 . The first dynamic structure is pivotal for selectively providing a can-opening access aperture as extended from portions of the static structure and selectively closing the can-opening access aperture as retracted back to a can opening covering configuration. The can-opening access aperture enables a user to consume can contents by way of an underlying can opening formed in the can capping plate. 
     The re-closeable caps are all preferably formed with a select material construction in a unibody form having an inherent material resiliency. Noting that the upper can portion is typically constructed from a relatively rigid material, it will be further noted that the can material construction may thus operate to actuate select portions of the re-closeable cap by way of its inherent material resiliency when outfitted upon the upper can portion for enhancing functionality of the re-closeable cap as outfitted upon the upper can portion. 
     In this regard, the first dynamic structure may preferably comprise an eccentric switch mechanism configured for maintaining the first dynamic structure in at least the first and second states of pivotal extension. In this regard, the static structure may be resiliently actuated by cooperative action of the switch mechanism to position the first dynamic structure in at least the first and second states of pivotal extension and the inherent resilience maintains the first dynamic structure in at least the first and second states of pivotal extension when outside forces are absent. 
     Further, it will be recalled that select portions of the first dynamic structure may resiliently overlap with select portions of the static structure when outfitted upon the upper can portion for enhancing functionality of the re-closeable cap. In this regard, an exemplary a rim wall-engaging protrusion formed opposite the first dynamic structure may provide a structural aid to direct edging of the first dynamic structure into overlapped relation with edging of the static structure for enhancing a can opening covering configuration by forming a seal at the overlap site of the opposed edging. 
     The first dynamic structure is preferably configured to mate with the static structure for maintaining the re-closeable cap in a can-opening access configuration. More particularly, the first dynamic structure is configured to simultaneously mate with the static structure by way of multiply spaced mate features as exemplified by the complex landscape of the cap surfacing as described in detail hereinabove. When the first dynamic structure clamshell closes into engagement with the static structure, multiple surfaces, spaced from one another, frictionally engage with one another. Thus, the multiply spaced mate features enhance mated engagement of the first dynamic structure with the static structure. 
     The re-closeable caps may further preferably comprise a second dynamic structure as exemplified by the swinging cover element  39 . The second dynamic structure at least partially covers the can opener element/assembly of the upper can portion and is pivotal in a direction opposite that of the first dynamic structure for enabling the user to form the can opening in the can capping plate by moving in unison with the can opener element. The static structure may preferably comprise a can opener access window as described in connection with cap  300 , which can opener access window enhances a user&#39;s ability to access the can opener element. 
     Preferably, the second dynamic structure is configured to mate with the can opener element for enhancing movement therewith in unison. Noting that the first dynamic structure mates with the complex upper surfacing of the cap, it follows that the first dynamic structure is further preferably configured to mate with the second dynamic structure for maintaining the re-closeable cap in a can-opening access configuration. 
     The re-closeable caps according to the present invention may further preferably comprise a cap rim groove matable with a can rim groove situated in inferior adjacency to the can rim as is relatively standard in the industry. The matable cap and can rim grooves enhance cap-to-can attachment. To further enhance the cap-to-can attachment hold, the cap rim may further comprise at least one undercut formation. As described hereinabove, the undercut formation(s) are configured for securing the cap rim groove in mated engagement with the can rim groove. 
     The re-closeable cap exemplified by cap  200  comprises a first dynamic structure and a static structure whereby opposed edging situated in superior adjacency to a tip portion of the can opener element. The tip portion of the can opener element operates to structurally support the opposed edging for enhancing a sealed interface at the opposed edging. The re-closeable caps according to the present invention may further preferably comprise a finger depression feature. The finger depression feature overlaps the first and second dynamic structures for enabling the user to depress the same and selectively actuate either of the first and second dynamic structures to initiate further movement thereof. 
     In the primary case of the cap  300 , the re-closeable cap is rotatably outfitted upon the upper can portion for enabling the use to selectively cover the can opening with at least the static structure. As has been shown, this embodiment may preferably comprise at least one turning nub formed in adjacency to the cap rim for enhancing the user&#39;s ability to rotate the re-closeable cap relative to the upper can portion when outfitted thereupon. Further, at least one cap-removing grip formation is provided in connection with this embodiment and formed in alignment with the at least one turning nub for enhancing the user&#39;s ability to remove the re-closeable cap from the upper can portion. 
     The re-closeable cap  300  further preferably comprises a lower cap skirt that seats down upon a neck portion  9  of the upper can portion. It will be seen from a consideration of the illustrative matter submitted in support of these specifications that the neck portion extends obliquely relative to the can capping plate and that the lower cap skirt extends obliquely relative to the cap plate, the lower cap skirt paralleling the neck portion. 
     Noting that the neck portion comprises an upper neck portion and a lower neck portion, and that the lower cap skirt comprises a skirt edge, the skirt edge particularly terminates intermediate the upper and lower neck portions for enhancing safe use of the re-closeable cap during cap rotation relative to the upper can portion. In contrast to cap  300 , cap  200  is designed for relatively permanent, non-rotatable attachment to the upper can portion and thus is preferably devoid of turning nubs, grip formations, and skirt features of this type. Recalling that the author determined improved marketability of a cap that mimics current or state of the art can mechanisms, the preferred cap  200  provides a preferred flip-flop mechanism that mimics state of the art can opener elements  5  and rendering rotatability of caps a secondary concern. 
     The re-closeable caps according to the present invention may all be preferably provided in series within a web form as at  90  for simultaneously outfitting a plurality of upper can portions of beverage cans by way of a multi-pack packaging arrangement as exemplified by arrangements  201  and  301 . As has been discussed, cap  200  is designed for relatively permanent attachment to the upper can portions at the time of manufacture or packaging through contents consumption with a view toward further entering the recycling system in view of the fact that beverage cans are among the most recycled items in the system. The caps may further preferably comprise cap-marking indicia for individually labeling re-closeable caps as provided in series within the web form for enabling multiple consumers to properly identify outfitted beverage cans as belonging to individual consumers at the time of consumption.