Patent attributes
A self-aligning, pivotally engaging container sealing device is provided. The device comprises a base, a sealing head including an upper die member pivotally mounted relative to the base, and a lower die member supported by the base for free pivotal and vertical movement relative thereto. The lower die member is biased generally upwardly by a spring or other biasing mechanism, while permitted to tilt substantially freely about a generally horizontal axis. The device may be manually actuated by pivotally lowering the sealing head to operatively engage the die members. Initial contact by the descending upper die member on a part of the lower die member impels the lower die member to tilt into parallel alignment with the upper die member, before any significant force from the biasing member is transmitted through the lower die member to the upper die member to clamp and form a seal between a container flange and container cover located between the upper and lower die members.