THE PROTECTION OF A RIM OF A CONTAINER

摘要

A protective ring (52) is engaged around the rim (54) at the periphery of a top end member (14) of a container (10). The protective ring (52) has a substantially circular channel (60) defined between two spaced depending walls (62, 64). The protective ring is made of an insulating material so that a smooth drinking surface defined thereby protects a consumer's lips from the heat or cold of the can. The protective ring (52) may protect the rim (54) from damage and an extension (68) thereof protects the consumer against ingesting dirt or contaminants collecting in an annular groove (56) in the top end member.