Disposable filling cartridge for bottles or vials

Abstract

A disposable filling cartridge (6b) for releasing a filling product into a bottle (2b), comprising: a single chamber container (60b) having a rupturable membrane (78b); a connector (20b) which can be screwed onto the bottle (2b); and a slider (100b) which is accommodated in the connector (20b) in a sliding manner.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention belongs to the field of refill cartridges for concentrated products, which are widely used in the fields of household hygiene, cosmetics, personal care, food and beverage products, etc. The production and sale of such cartridges have been growing significantly for many years because they meet the requirements of reducing the use of raw materials and protecting the environment, which are now not only deeply ingrained in consumers' awareness but also fundamental guidelines of corporate policies. Background Art

[0002] Refill cartridges usually contain only one product, either in liquid or powder form. On the other hand, some cartridge designs provide for two products, either two liquids or one liquid and one powder, which must be kept separate before mixing.

[0003] Typically, the consumer injects a predetermined amount of water into a bottle or vial; applies the cartridge to the mouth of the bottle, and then the cartridge releases one or more concentrated products into the bottle according to different methods. Usually, a solution for the desired use is formed inside the bottle after shaking.

[0004] Some embodiments of refill cartridges are described, for example, in US - A1 - 2022 / 0203391 and US 9751667. However, the refill cartridges described in these applications have some drawbacks. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Certain functional features of the refill cartridge are crucial for its acceptance by consumers. For example, the force applied by the user to apply the cartridge to the bottle and release the product should be very small to avoid unnecessary manual effort. The applicant has noticed that the force that the user needs to apply should not exceed 100 N.

[0006] It is also recommended that all the products contained in the cartridge be released into the bottle to avoid the user feeling that the product is wasted.

[0007] It is also recommended that the cartridge be applied to the bottle in an effectively sealed manner so as to prevent the product from leaking out of the cartridge or water from flowing out of the bottle during the mixing operation.

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide a refill cartridge for a bottle or vial that meets the industry requirements and overcomes the drawbacks discussed above with respect to the prior art.

[0009] This object is achieved by the cartridge according to claim 1. The dependent claims disclose further advantageous embodiments of the invention. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010] The features and advantages of the filling cylinder according to the present invention will be apparent from the following description, which is given by way of non-limiting example in accordance with the accompanying drawings in the table below, in which:

[0011] A) Figures 1a to 5e relates to a first embodiment of the present invention, in which:

[0012] - Figure 1a is a cross-sectional view of a filling cylinder according to an embodiment of the present invention, which is applied to a bottle and is in an initial or stationary configuration;

[0013] - Figure 1b depicts Figure 1a the tearing device of the cylinder;

[0014] - Figure 2a shows Figure 1a the filling cylinder, which is applied to a bottle and is in a final or working configuration;

[0015] - Figure 2b depicts Figure 2a the tearing device of the cylinder;

[0016] - Figure 3a and Figure 3b show the connector of the filling cylinder according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] - Figure 3c is Figure 3a and Figure 3b the cross-sectional view of the connector;

[0018] - Figure 4a depicts the container of the filling cylinder according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] - Figure 4b is Figure 4a the cross-sectional view of the container;

[0020] - Figure 5a and Figure 5b show the slider of the filling cylinder according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] - Figure 5c is Figure 5a and Figure 5b the side view of the slider;

[0022] - Figure 5d is Figure 5a and Figure 5b the plan view of the slider;

[0023] - Figure 5e is Figure 5a and Figure 5bCross-sectional view of the sliding member;

[0024] B) Figures 1ab to 6 Relates to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein:

[0025] - Figure 1ab Is a cross-sectional view of a filling cylinder according to an embodiment of the present invention, which is applied to a bottle and is in an initial or stationary configuration;

[0026] - Figure 1bb Depicts Figure 1ab The tearing device of the cylinder;

[0027] - Figure 2ab Shows Figure 1ab The filling cylinder, which is applied to a bottle and is in a final or working configuration;

[0028] - Figure 2bb Depicts Figure 2ab The tearing device of the cylinder;

[0029] - Figure 3ab And Figure 3bb Shows the connector of the filling cylinder according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] - Figure 3cb Is Figure 3ab And Figure 3bb The cross-sectional view of the connector;

[0031] - Figure 4ab Depicts the container of the filling cylinder according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] - Figure 4bb Is Figure 4ab The cross-sectional view of the container;

[0033] - Figure 5ab And Figure 5bb Shows the filling cylinder according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] - Figure 5cb Is Figure 5ab And Figure 5bb The side view of the sliding member;

[0035] - Figure 5db Is Figure 5ab And Figure 5bb The plan view of the sliding member;

[0036] - Figure 5eb Is Figure 5ab And Figure 5bb The cross-sectional view of the sliding member;

[0037] - Figure 6Shows an enlarged view of the mating area between the neck of the bottle and the slider of the filling cylinder according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Description

[0038] Description of the first embodiment

[0039] Reference Figures 1a to 5e , 1 generally denotes such a component, which includes: a bottle 2 with a bottleneck 4; and a disposable filling cylinder 6 for containing the product intended to be poured into the bottle, and this disposable filling cylinder is applied to the bottleneck 4 of the bottle 2.

[0040] The bottleneck 4 includes an annular neck wall 8, which has a main neck axis X and terminates at a neck surface 10, and this neck surface is in the form of a circular crown and is located in a hypothetical plane orthogonal to the main neck axis X. The inner edge 10' of the neck surface 10 defines the perimeter of the main mouth 11 of the bottle 2.

[0041] The bottleneck 4 includes a threaded portion 12 for applying the cylinder 6 and pouring the product. Preferably, as described, the threaded portion 12 is located externally, that is, arranged on the outer surface of the neck wall 8. According to a variant embodiment, the threaded portion 12 is located internally, that is, arranged on the inner surface of the neck wall 8.

[0042] Connector

[0043] The cylinder 6 includes a connector 20 for screwing the cylinder 6 onto the bottleneck 4. For this purpose, the connector 20 includes an annular connection wall 22, and this annular connection wall is provided with a threaded portion 24 adapted to be screwed into the threaded portion 12 of the bottleneck 4. The connection wall 22 has a main cylinder axis Z, and when the cylinder 6 is applied to the bottle 2, this main cylinder axis is coaxial with the neck main axis X. The connection wall 22 defines the perimeter of the connector compartment 23.

[0044] Preferably, the connector 20 further includes an annular intermediate wall 26 connected to the connection wall 22, and preferably, this annular intermediate wall extends axially away from the connection wall 22 in a flared shape.

[0045] Preferably, the connector 20 includes a plurality of reinforcing fins 26' arranged externally and spaced circumferentially and combined with the connection wall 22 and the intermediate wall 26; for example, each reinforcing fin 26' is located in a hypothetical plane passing through the main cylinder axis Z.

[0046] In addition, the connector 20 includes, for example, an annular connection wall 28 connected to the intermediate wall 26, and the annular connection wall extends axially in a circular shape. The connection wall 28 is adapted to be permanently connected to the container 60 of the cylinder 6 (e.g., by snap connection), as will be discussed below. For this purpose, the connection wall 28 preferably has, on the inside, annular ridges 30 and grooves 32 arranged side by side axially to achieve a snap connection with the container 60.

[0047] In addition, the connector 20 includes an annular (preferably circular) sealing wall 34, which projects radially inwards from the connection wall 22, for example, near the connection with the intermediate wall 26. The sealing wall 34 has an inner sealing surface 35 adapted to form a fluid-tight slide with the slider 100, as will be discussed below.

[0048] In addition, the connector 20 includes an annular functional partition 36 extending axially and coaxial with the connection wall 22, and the annular functional partition is arranged inside the intermediate wall 26, for example, radially inside the intermediate wall.

[0049] Preferably, the functional partition 36 includes a first functional wall 38a having a predetermined circumferential extension, for example, a semi-circular circumferential extension. The first functional wall 38a has at least one guiding recess, preferably two guiding recesses 40', 40'' spaced circumferentially apart, and these two guiding recesses extend radially outwards relative to the rest of the functional wall.

[0050] In addition, preferably, the functional partition 36 includes a second functional wall 38b, which is substantially the same as the first functional wall 38a, is symmetric with the first functional wall 38a about an imaginary plane passing through the main axis Z of the cylinder, and is separated from the first functional wall 38a at the ends to form discharge channels, in particular, a first discharge channel 42' and a second discharge channel 42''.

[0051] In other words, the functional partition 36 is constituted by such an annular wall, which is constituted by circumferentially continuous wall sections, and these wall sections are separated at the ends to form the discharge channels 42', 42'', and these discharge channels connect the peripheral compartment 44 of the connector 20 and the central compartment 46 of the connector 20. The peripheral compartment is located radially outside the functional partition 36 (externally defined by the connection wall 28 or the intermediate wall 26), and the central compartment is located radially inside the functional partition 36, and the central compartment is further in direct communication with the main nozzle 11 of the bottle 2.

[0052] In addition, preferably, the functional partition 36 includes at least one coupling groove 48 on the inner side surfaces of the functional walls 38a, 38b, and the at least one coupling groove is adapted to achieve a releasable snap engagement with the slider 100, as will be discussed below.

[0053] Preferably, the container 6 is made of a single piece of plastic material, for example, a single piece made of high density polyethylene (HDPE) by injection molding.

[0054] Container

[0055] The cartridge 6 further comprises a container 60 which is adapted to engage stably with the connector 20, for example, by snap - fitting, and is provided with a single chamber for receiving a liquid or powder product.

[0056] Preferably, the container 60 comprises an annular container wall 62 having a container main axis Y which is co - axial with the connector main axis Z when the container is applied to the connector 20.

[0057] The container wall 62 defines a single chamber 64 for receiving the product to be released and extends from a connecting end 66 to a base end 68. The container 60 has a closed base 70 at the base end 68.

[0058] Preferably, the container wall 62 has an annular ridge 72 and a groove 74 at the connecting end 66 for forming a connection with the connector 20, and in particular with the ridge 30 and the groove 32 of the connector 20, such as a snap - fit connection.

[0059] The ridge 72 and the groove 74 of the container 60 and the ridge 30 and the groove 32 of the connector 20 form an example of an axial connection means which is adapted to axially engage the container to the connector such that relative rotation is unconstrained.

[0060] According to an alternative embodiment (not shown), the container and the connector are engaged by a threaded connection.

[0061] The container wall 62 has a head surface 76 in the form of a circular crown at the connecting end 66, which head surface lies in a plane imaginary orthogonal to the container main axis Y.

[0062] Finally, the container 60 includes a frangible membrane 78 disposed at the connecting end 66 for sealingly closing the chamber 64. Preferably, the membrane 78 is sealed on the head surface 76. Thus, the product to be poured into the bottle 2 can be sealed within the chamber 64 of the container 60.

[0063] Preferably, the membrane is mainly made of high density polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene (PP).

[0064] Preferably, the container 60 is made of a single piece of plastic material, for example, a single piece made of high density polyethylene (HDPE) by injection molding.

[0065] Slider

[0066] The cartridge 6 further comprises a sliding member 100 which is fluid-impermeable and translatable in the connector 20.

[0067] The sliding member 100 comprises an outer sliding member wall 102 which is annular (preferably circular) with a sliding member major axis J, which coincides with the connector major axis X when the sliding member is received in the connector.

[0068] The outer sliding member wall 102 extends from a base end 104 along the sliding member major axis J to an opposite region 106, the base end being intended to bear against the neck 4 and in particular against the neck surface 10 of the neck wall 8.

[0069] The outer sliding member wall 102 has an annular base surface 108 at the base end 104, which contacts the neck surface 10 of the neck wall 8 when the cartridge 6 is applied to the bottle 2, thereby forming a fluid-impermeable seal. Preferably, the base surface 108 lies in a plane imaginary orthogonal to the sliding member major axis J.

[0070] Generally, the base surface 108 of the outer sliding member wall 102 of the sliding member 100 and the neck surface 10 of the neck wall 8 of the bottle 2 form an example of a static sealing means of the cartridge-bottle assembly, which is adapted to form a static seal between the connector 20 of the cartridge 6 and the neck 4 of the bottle 2.

[0071] The outer sliding member wall 102 further has an outer sliding member surface 110 between the base end 104 and the opposite region 106, which contacts the sealing surface 35 of the sealing wall 34 in a sliding manner when the sliding member is received in the connector 20, thereby forming a fluid-impermeable seal.

[0072] Generally, the outer sliding member wall 102 of the sliding member 100 and the sealing wall 34 of the connector 20 form an example of a fluid-impermeable sliding means of the cartridge, which is adapted to form a fluid-impermeable slide between the connector and the sliding member.

[0073] The sliding member 100 further comprises a plurality of guide fins 112 at the opposite region 106, which project radially outwards from the outer sliding member wall 102, for example, the guide fins are arranged in axially symmetric positions, for example, the number of the guide fins is four.

[0074] Each guide fin 112 is adapted to slide in a respective guide recess 40', 40'' of the functional partition 36 to guide the sliding member 100 to slide in the connector 20, thereby particularly avoiding the rotation of the sliding member relative to the sliding member major axis J.

[0075] Generally, the guiding fins 112 and the guiding recesses 40', 40'' form an example of a guiding device of the cylinder 6, which guiding device is adapted to guide the translational movement of the sliding member 100 axially relative to the connector 20.

[0076] In addition, generally, the guiding fins 112 and the guiding recesses 40', 40'' form an example of a rotational pulling device, which rotational pulling device is adapted to engage the connector with the sliding member and is adapted to cause the sliding member to rotate and slide by the rotation of the connector.

[0077] Preferably, the outer sliding member wall 102 has a plurality of outer gaps 113 passing through the thickness of the outer sliding member wall 102, and these outer gaps are arranged to be circumferentially spaced apart, preferably near the base end 104 of the outer sliding member wall 102.

[0078] In addition, the sliding member 100 includes a lower base 114 at the base end 104, and the lower base is positioned substantially along a plane orthogonal to the main axis J of the sliding member. A lower orifice 116 passing through the thickness of the lower base 114 is provided at the center of the lower base 114. When the cylinder 6 is applied to the bottle 2, the lower orifice 116 communicates with the main orifice 11 of the neck 4 of the bottle 2.

[0079] In addition, the sliding member 100 includes an annular baffle wall 118 protruding axially downward from the lower base 114. Preferably, the baffle wall 118 has a substantially circular inner baffle surface 120. In addition, preferably, the baffle wall 118 has a frustoconical outer baffle surface 118'.

[0080] The baffle wall 118 is arranged radially inside the base surface 108 of the sliding member 100, and the base surface forms a static seal with the neck of the bottle.

[0081] The lower wall 114 has a plurality of lower gaps 122 passing through the thickness of the lower base 114, and these lower gaps are arranged radially inside relative to the baffle wall 118 below the lower base 114.

[0082] The sliding member 100 further includes an annular inner sliding member wall 124, which annular inner sliding member wall protrudes axially upward from the lower base 114. Preferably, the annular inner sliding member wall protrudes axially upward from the lower base coaxially with the main axis J of the sliding member, for example, at the peripheral edge of the lower orifice 116. The inner sliding member wall 124 is arranged radially inside the outer sliding member wall 102 and extends from the lower end 126 to the opposite region 127 at the lower orifice 116. Preferably, the opposite region is arranged axially higher than the opposite region 106 of the outer sliding member wall 102.

[0083] The inner sliding member wall 124 preferably defines an inner sliding member compartment 133 in an annular manner.

[0084] The slider 100 also includes an upper base 128 at the relative area 127, which is positioned substantially along a plane orthogonal to the main axis J of the slider. The upper base 128 is provided with a plurality of upper gaps 130 passing through the thickness of the upper base 128.

[0085] Preferably, an additional structure 132 is provided on the upper base 128, which protrudes axially upward from the upper base 128 (for example, in a cylindrical shape) and has a pointed structure 134 at the top.

[0086] The slider 100 further includes a first set of vanes 140, which includes a plurality of first vanes 142 that protrude axially and are circumferentially spaced apart and arranged successively. The slider 100 also includes a second set of vanes 144, which includes a plurality of second vanes 146 that protrude axially and are circumferentially spaced apart and arranged successively. The first vanes 142 of the first set of vanes 140 are arranged radially inside the second vanes 146 of the second set of vanes 144.

[0087] Each vane 142, 146 is formed by an upwardly twisted vane wall 150. In addition, preferably, each vane 142, 146 includes a pointed tooth 152, which, for example, protrudes axially upward from the top of the vane wall 150 at the circumferential end of the vane wall.

[0088] In addition, preferably, the first vanes 142 protrude axially from the inner slider wall 124; similarly preferably, the second vanes 146 protrude axially from the outer slider wall 102. For example, the second vanes and the guide fins 112 are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction.

[0089] Generally, the vanes 142, 144 form an example of a tearing device of a cylinder, which is adapted to tear and / or pierce the film 78 of the container 60.

[0090] The slider 100 has an upper slider compartment 131 above the upper base 128 (for example, radially inside the first vanes 142); thus, the upper gaps 130 communicate the upper slider compartment 131 with the inner slider compartment 133.

[0091] Finally, an outer slider compartment 135 of the slider 100 is defined between the outer slider wall 102 and / or the second vanes 146 on one side and the inner slider wall 124 and / or the first vanes 142; the side gaps 113 connect the space outside the outer slider wall 102 with the outer slider compartment 133, and the lower gaps 122 communicate the outer slider space 133 with the bottle.

[0092] In addition, the slider 100 includes at least one coupling ridge 148 that projects radially outward from the slider 100 (such as from the second blade 146 of the second blade group 144). In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the at least one coupling ridge projects radially outward from the outer slider wall.

[0093] The coupling ridge 148 is adapted to releasably snap-engage with a corresponding coupling groove 48 of the functional partition 36 of the connector 20 to couple the slider 100 to the connector 20.

[0094] Generally, the coupling ridge 148 of the slider 100 and the coupling groove 48 of the connector 20 form an example of a positioning and coupling device for the cylinder, which is adapted to releasably couple the slider to the connector in a predetermined relative axial position.

[0095] Preferably, the slider 100 is made as a single piece from a plastic material, for example by injection molding from high-density polyethylene (HDPE).

[0096] Cylinder

[0097] The cylinder 6 includes a container 20, a connector 60, and a slider 100.

[0098] The container 20 is applied to the connector 20 by the connecting means. In other words, according to the described exemplary embodiment, the annular ridge 72 and the groove 74 of the container 60 engage with the groove 32 and the ridge 30 of the connector 20, respectively.

[0099] The slider 100 is slidably received in the connector 20. Specifically, the outer slider wall 102 of the slider 100 is inserted into the connector compartment 23 defined by the connecting wall 22 and is in sliding contact with the sealing wall 34 of the connector 20, thereby forming a fluid-tight seal.

[0100] The blades 142, 146 of the slider 100 are arranged opposite to the membrane 78 of the container 20 such that the blades can act on the membrane by translation and tearing.

[0101] In the initial or stationary configuration ( Figure 1a and Figure 1b ), the slider 100 is held in the lower or stationary limit position in the connector 20 by the positioning and coupling device. In other words, the coupling ridge 148 of the slider 100 snap-engages with the functional partition 36 and specifically with the coupling grooves 48 of the functional walls 38a, 38b.

[0102] In this configuration, the blades 142, 146 of the tearing device are located below the membrane 78 of the container 60 and are axially spaced apart from or slightly in contact with the membrane 78.

[0103] In addition, in this configuration, the side gap 113 is located below the sealing portion between the slider 100 and the connector 20, for example, in the connector compartment 23.

[0104] First, the user injects a predetermined amount of water into the bottle 2 or vial, and then pours the product contained in the container 20 into it to prepare a solution suitable for use as a disinfectant, detergent, deodorant, etc.

[0105] The cylinder 6 is placed on the bottle 2, thereby placing the slider 100 on the neck 4. Specifically, the base surface 108 of the slider 100 contacts the neck surface 10 of the neck 4 to form a static fluid-tight seal.

[0106] Initially, the connector 20 is not fully screwed onto the bottle.

[0107] To pour the product contained in the container 20 into the bottle 2, the user screws the connector 20 onto the neck 4 of the bottle. Specifically, the threaded portion 24 of the connector 20 is screwed onto the threaded portion 12 of the neck 4 of the bottle 2.

[0108] Since the slider 100 is stably abutted against the neck 4, when the connector 20 is screwed onto the neck 4 of the bottle 2, the slider 100 remains stationary relative to the bottle, while the connector 20 slides axially along the slider; during this sliding, the outer slider wall 102 and the sealing wall 34 of the connector 20 remain in a fluid-tight state.

[0109] As the connector 20 is screwed onto the neck 4, the membrane 78 of the container 60 abuts more and more tightly against the vanes 142, 146 of the slider 100 until the membrane is torn, cracked, perforated or cut.

[0110] Therefore, the product in the chamber 64 of the container 60 tends to flow out under the action of gravity.

[0111] In the final or working configuration ( Figure 1b and Figure 2b ), the slider 100 is in the upper limit position relative to the connector 20, in which the side gap 113 is upstream of the sealing portion between the slider 100 and the connector 20; this enables the peripheral compartment 44 of the connector 20 to communicate with the outer slider compartment 135 of the slider 100.

[0112] After the film 78 is torn, a part of the product flows into the upper slider compartment 131 of the slider (i.e., the space inside the first blade group 140) and then from the upper slider compartment into the bottle. Specifically, these products flow into the upper slider compartment 131, pass through the upper gap 130 and fall into the inner slider compartment 133, and then from the inner slider compartment 133, flow through the lower nozzle 116 of the slider 100 and the main nozzle 11 of the bottle 2 and fall into the bottle.

[0113] Another part of the product flows into the outer slider compartment 135 of the slider 100, that is, into the space between the inner slider wall 124 and the outer slider wall 102 (i.e., between the first blade group 140 and the second blade group 144). These products flow through the lower gap 122 of the slider 100 and the main nozzle 11 of the bottle 2 and fall into the bottle 2.

[0114] Another part of the product flows to the outside of the second blade group 144, and specifically, to the outside of the functional partition 36 of the connector 20, that is, into the peripheral compartment 44 of the connector 20. This part of the product is conveyed towards the functional partition 36 through the intermediate wall 26 (advantageously in the shape of a funnel), passes through the functional partition 36 via the discharge channels 42', 42'', flows into the outer slider compartment 135 of the slider 100 through the side gap 113 in the upper limit position, and then passes through the lower gap 122 and the main nozzle 11 and falls into the bottle.

[0115] Advantageously, the product passing through the lower gap 122 and flowing towards the main nozzle 11 of the bottle is guided by the baffle wall 118, which separates this product and the static seal between the slider 100 and the neck 4 of the bottle 2.

[0116] Description of another embodiment

[0117] Reference Figures 1ab to 6 , 1b as a whole represents such a component, which includes: a bottle 2b with a bottleneck 4b; and a disposable filling cartridge 6b for containing the product intended to be poured into the bottle, and this disposable filling cartridge is applied to the bottleneck 4b of the bottle 2b.

[0118] The bottleneck 4b includes an annular neck wall 8b, which has a neck main axis X and terminates at a neck surface 10b. The neck surface is in the form of a circular crown and is located in a hypothetical plane orthogonal to the neck main axis X. The inner edge 10b' of the neck surface 10b defines the perimeter of the main nozzle 11b of the bottle 2b.

[0119] The bottleneck 4b includes a threaded portion 12b for applying the cartridge 6b and pouring the product. Preferably, as described, the threaded portion 12b is located externally, that is, arranged on the outer surface of the neck wall 8b. According to a variant embodiment, the threaded portion 12b is located internally, that is, arranged on the inner surface of the neck wall 8b.

[0120] Connector

[0121] The cylinder 6b includes a connector 20b for screwing the cylinder 6b onto the bottleneck 4b. For this purpose, the connector 20b includes an annular connecting wall 22b provided with a threaded portion 24b adapted to be screwed into the threaded portion 12b of the bottleneck 4b. The connecting wall 22b has a cylinder main axis Z which is coaxial with the neck main axis X when the cylinder 6b is applied to the bottle 2b. The connecting wall 22b defines the perimeter of a connector compartment 23b.

[0122] Preferably, the connector 20b further includes an annular intermediate wall 26b connected to the connecting wall 22b, which preferably extends axially away from the connecting wall 22b in a flared shape.

[0123] Preferably, the connector 20b includes a plurality of reinforcing fins 26b' arranged externally and circumferentially spaced apart and joined to the connecting wall 22b and the intermediate wall 26b; for example, each reinforcing fin 26b' lies in a plane passing through the cylinder main axis Z.

[0124] In addition, the connector 20b includes an annular connecting wall 28b, for example connected to the intermediate wall 26b, which extends axially in a circular shape. The connecting wall 28b is adapted to be permanently connected (e.g., by snap connection) to the container 60b of the cylinder 6b, as will be discussed below. For this purpose, the connecting wall 28b preferably has annular ridges 30b and grooves 32b arranged side by side axially on the inside to enable a snap connection with the container 60b.

[0125] In addition, the connector 20b includes an annular (preferably circular) sealing wall 34b which projects radially inwards from the connecting wall 22b, for example near the connection with the intermediate wall 26b. The sealing wall 34b has an inner sealing surface 35b adapted to form a fluid-tight slide with the slider 100b, as will be discussed below.

[0126] In addition, the connector 20b preferably includes an annular coupling wall 36b' joining the intermediate wall 26b and the connecting wall 28b. The coupling wall 36b' includes at least one coupling ridge 48b' located on the inner surface of the coupling wall 36b', which projects radially inwards and is adapted to form a releasable snap engagement with the slider 100b, as will be discussed below.

[0127] Preferably, the connector 6b is made as a single piece from a plastic material, for example by injection molding from high-density polyethylene (HDPE).

[0128] Container

[0129] The cartridge 6b further includes a container 60b which is adapted to stably engage with the connector 20b, for example by snap - fitting, and is provided with a single chamber for containing a liquid or powder product.

[0130] Preferably, the container 60b includes an annular container wall 62b having a container main axis Y which is coaxial with the connector main axis Z when the container is applied to the connector 20b.

[0131] The container wall 62b defines a single chamber 64b for containing the product to be released and extends from a connection end 66b to a base end 68b. The container 60b has a closed base 70b at the base end 68b.

[0132] Preferably, the container wall 62b has an annular ridge 72b and a groove 74b at the connection end 66b for forming a connection with the connector 20b, and in particular with the ridge 30b and the groove 32b of the connector 20b, such as a snap - fit connection.

[0133] The ridge 72b and the groove 74b of the container 60b and the ridge 30b and the groove 32b of the connector 20b form an example of an axial connection means which is adapted to axially engage the container to the connector such that relative rotation is unrestricted.

[0134] According to an alternative embodiment (not shown), the container and the connector are engaged by a threaded connection.

[0135] The container wall 62b has a head surface 76b in the form of a circular crown at the connection end 66b, which head surface lies in a plane imaginary plane orthogonal to the container main axis Y.

[0136] The container 60b is coupled to a frangible membrane 78b disposed at the connection end 66b for sealingly closing the chamber 64b. Preferably, the membrane 78b is sealed on the head surface 76b. Thus, the product to be poured into the bottle 2b can be sealed within the chamber 64b of the container 60b.

[0137] Preferably, the membrane is mainly made of high - density polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene (PP). Preferably, the container 60b is made as a single piece from a plastic material, for example by injection molding from high - density polyethylene (HDPE).

[0138] Slider

[0139] The cartridge 6b further includes a fluid - impermeable slider 100b which is translatable in the connector 20b.

[0140] The slider 100b includes an outer slider wall 102b that is annular (preferably circular) and has a slider main axis J, which coincides with the connector main axis X when the slider is received in the connector 20b.

[0141] The outer slider wall 102b extends from a base end 104b along the slider main axis J to an opposite region 106b, and the base end is intended to abut against the bottleneck 4b, and specifically against the neck surface 10b of the neck wall 8b.

[0142] The outer slider wall 102b has an annular base surface 108b at the base end 104b, which contacts the neck surface 10b of the neck wall 8b when the cylinder 6b is applied to the bottle 2b, thereby forming a fluid-tight seal. Preferably, the base surface 108b is in the form of a circular crown and is located in a virtual plane orthogonal to the slider main axis J.

[0143] Generally, the base surface 108b of the outer slider wall 102b of the slider 100b and the neck surface 10b of the neck wall 8b of the bottle 2b form an example of a static sealing device of the cylinder-bottle assembly, which is adapted to form a static seal between the connector 20b of the cylinder 6b and the neck 4b of the bottle 2b.

[0144] The outer slider wall 102b also has an outer slider surface 110b between the base end 104b and the opposite region 106b, which slidably contacts the sealing surface 35b of the sealing wall 34b when the slider is received in the connector 20b, thereby forming a fluid-tight seal.

[0145] Generally, the outer slider wall 102b of the slider 100b and the sealing wall 34b of the connector 20b form an example of a fluid-tight sliding device of the cylinder, which is adapted to form a fluid-tight slide between the connector and the slider.

[0146] Preferably, the outer slider wall 102b has a plurality of side gaps 113b passing through the thickness of the outer slider wall 102b, and these side gaps are arranged to be circumferentially spaced apart, preferably near the base end 104b of the outer slider wall 102b.

[0147] In addition, the slider 100b includes a lower base 114b at the base end 104b, which is generally positioned in a plane orthogonal to the slider main axis J. A lower nozzle 116b passing through the thickness of the lower base 114b is provided at the center of the lower base 114b. When the cylinder 6b is applied to the bottle 2b, the lower nozzle 116b communicates with the main nozzle 11b of the neck 4b of the bottle 2b.

[0148] In addition, the slider 100b includes an annular baffle wall 118b that projects axially downward from the lower base 114b. Preferably, the baffle wall 118b has a generally circular inner lateral baffle surface 120b. Additionally, preferably, the baffle wall 118b has a frustoconical outer lateral baffle surface 118b'.

[0149] The baffle wall 118b is arranged radially inside the base surface 108b of the slider 100b, and this base surface forms a static seal with the neck of the bottle.

[0150] Preferably, the baffle wall 118b of the slider 100b is dimensioned to be inserted into the main mouth 11b of the bottle 2b in an interference fit manner so as to contact the inner surface of the neck wall 8b in an interference fit manner.

[0151] The baffle wall 118b of the slider 100b is configured to be inserted into the main mouth 11b of the bottle 2b in an interference fit manner and thus generates a force due to friction that restricts or prevents relative rotation between the slider and the neck of the bottle, thereby forming an example of an anti-rotation device for the cylinder, which is adapted to block or limit relative rotation between the slider and the neck of the bottle.

[0152] According to a variant embodiment (not shown), the anti-rotation device includes an anti-rotation portion of the slider, which is configured to abut against a portion of the neck of the bottle, thereby preventing relative rotation between the slider and the neck of the bottle.

[0153] The lower wall 114b has a plurality of lower gaps 122b that pass through the thickness of the lower base 114b, and these lower gaps are arranged radially inside relative to the baffle wall 118b below the lower base 114b.

[0154] The slider 100b further includes an annular inner slider wall 124b that projects axially upward from the lower base 114b. Preferably, the annular inner slider wall projects axially upward from the lower base coaxially with the main axis J of the slider, for example, at the peripheral edge of the lower mouth 116b. The inner slider wall 124b is arranged radially inside the outer slider wall 102b and extends from the lower end 126b to the opposite region 127b at the lower mouth 116b. Preferably, the opposite region is arranged at the same height as the opposite region 106b of the slider wall 102b.

[0155] The slider 100b further includes an upper base 129b at the opposite region 127b and the opposite region 106b, which is positioned substantially along a plane orthogonal to the main axis J of the slider and projects radially outward from the outer slider wall 102b.

[0156] An additional structure 132b is provided at the center of the upper base 129b, which projects axially upward (e.g., in a cylindrical shape) and has a pointed structure 134b at the top.

[0157] The slider 100b further includes a first blade group 140b, which includes a plurality of first blades 142b that project upward and are circumferentially spaced apart and arranged successively (e.g., arranged around the additional structure 132b).

[0158] Preferably, the slider 100b further includes a second blade group 144b, which includes a plurality of second blades 146b that project upward and are circumferentially spaced apart and arranged successively. The second blades 146b of the second blade group 144b are arranged radially outside the first blades 142b of the first blade group 140b.

[0159] Preferably, the slider 100b includes a third blade group 149b, which includes a plurality of third blades 151b that project axially upward and are circumferentially spaced apart. The third blades 151b of the third blade group 149b are arranged radially outside the second blades 146b of the second blade group 144b.

[0160] Each blade 142b, 146b, 151b is composed of an upwardly twisted sharp blade wall 150b.

[0161] In addition, preferably, the first blade 142b projects axially from the inner slider wall 124b; the second blade 146b projects axially from the outer slider wall 102b; and the third blade 151b projects axially from the upper base 129b at the periphery of the upper base 129b.

[0162] Generally, the blades 142b, 144b, 151b form an example of a tearing device of a cylinder, which is suitable for tearing and / or piercing a film 78b applied to a container 60b.

[0163] The slider 100b has an upper slider compartment 131b above the upper base 129b (e.g., radially inside the first blade 142b). On the other hand, the inner slider wall 124b of the slider 100b externally defines the periphery of the inner slider compartment 133b. The upper base 129b also has upper gaps 130b, which pass through the thickness of the upper base 129b and are at least partially arranged radially inside the first blade 142b. Therefore, the upper gaps 130b and the inner slider compartment 133b communicate the upper slider compartment 131b and the lower mouth 116b.

[0164] In addition, an outer slider compartment 135b is defined between the inner slider wall 124b and the first vane 142b on one side and the outer slider wall 102b and the second vane 146b on the other side. The outer slider compartment is closed at the bottom by the lower base 114b and has a plurality of lower gaps 122b.

[0165] The outer slider space 135b communicates with the side space outside the slider via the side gap 113b.

[0166] In addition, the slider 100b has a peripheral slider compartment 139b above the upper base 129b, radially inside the third vane 151b, and radially outside the second vane 146b. In addition, the upper base 129b has a peripheral gap 141b that passes through the thickness of the third vane 151b, is radially positioned inside the third vane, and is radially positioned outside the second vane 146b. Thus, the peripheral slider space 139b communicates with the side space outside the slider via the peripheral gap 141.

[0167] In addition, the slider 100b includes at least one coupling groove 148b arranged, for example, circumferentially at the periphery of the upper base 129b. The coupling groove 148b is adapted to releasably snap-engage with a corresponding coupling ridge 48b' of the connector 20b to couple the slider 100b to the connector 20b.

[0168] Generally, the coupling groove 148b of the slider 100b and the coupling ridge 48b' of the connector 20b form an example of a positioning and coupling device for the cylinder, which is adapted to releasably couple the slider to the connector in a predetermined relative axial position.

[0169] Preferably, the slider 100b is made of a single piece of plastic material, for example, a single piece made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) by injection molding.

[0170] Cylinder

[0171] The cylinder 6b includes a container 20b, a connector 60b, and a slider 100b.

[0172] The container 20b is applied to the connector 60b by the connection means. In other words, according to the described exemplary embodiment, the annular ridge 72b and the groove 74b of the container 60b engage with the groove 32b and the ridge 30b of the connector 20b, respectively.

[0173] The slider 100 is received in the connector 20b in a slidable manner. Specifically, the slider wall 102b of the slider 100b is inserted into the connector compartment 23b defined by the connecting wall 22b and is in slidable contact with the sealing wall 34b of the connector 20b, thereby forming a fluid-tight seal.

[0174] The vanes 142b, 146b, 151b of the slider 100b are arranged opposite to the membrane 78b of the container 20b such that the vanes can act on the membrane by translation and tearing.

[0175] In the initial or rest configuration ( Figure 1ab and Figure 1bb ), the slider 100b is held in the lower or rest limit position in the connector 20b by the positioning and coupling means. In other words, the coupling ridge 48b' of the connector 20b is snap-fitted with the upper base 129b, and specifically with the coupling groove 148b of the upper wall 129b.

[0176] In this configuration, the vanes 142b, 146b, 151b of the tearing device are located below the membrane 78b of the container 60b and are axially spaced from or slightly in contact with the membrane 78b.

[0177] Furthermore, in this configuration, the side clearance 113b is located below the sealing portion between the slider 100b and the connector 20b, for example, in the connector compartment 23b.

[0178] First, the user injects a predetermined amount of water into the bottle 2b or vial, and then pours the product contained in the container 20b into it to configure a solution suitable for use as a disinfectant, detergent, deodorant, etc.

[0179] The cylinder 6b is placed on the bottle 2b, thereby placing the slider 100b on the neck 4b. Specifically, the base surface 108b of the slider 100b contacts the neck surface 10b of the neck 4b to form a static fluid-tight seal.

[0180] Initially, the connector 20b is not fully screwed onto the bottle.

[0181] To pour the product contained in the container 20b into the bottle 2b, the user screws the connector 20b onto the neck 4b of the bottle. Specifically, the threaded portion 24b of the connector 20b is screwed onto the threaded portion 12b of the neck 4b of the bottle 2b.

[0182] With the anti-rotation device, when the connector 20b is screwed onto the neck 4b of the bottle 2b, the slider does not rotate or rotates in a very limited manner relative to the neck of the bottle. In other words, when the baffle wall 118b is inserted into the main nozzle 11b in an interference fit manner, an anti-rotation force is generated to prevent or limit the rotation of the slider relative to the neck of the bottle.

[0183] On the other hand, when the connector 20b is screwed onto the neck 4b of the bottle 2b, it slides axially along the slider; during this sliding, the outer slider wall 102b and the sealing wall 34b of the connector 20b remain in a fluid-tight state.

[0184] As the connector 20b is screwed onto the neck 4b, the membrane 78b of the container 60b presses more and more tightly against the vanes 142b, 146b, 151b of the slider 100b until the membrane is torn, cracked, perforated or cut.

[0185] Therefore, the product in the chamber 64b of the container 60b tends to flow out under the action of gravity.

[0186] In the final or working configuration ( Figure 1bb and Figure 2bb ), the slider 100b is in the upper limit position relative to the connector 20b. In this upper limit position, the side gap 113b is upstream of the seal between the slider 100b and the connector 20b; this allows the peripheral compartment 44b of the connector 20b to communicate with the outer slider compartment 135b of the slider 100b.

[0187] After the membrane 78b is torn, a part of the product (A) flows into the peripheral compartment 44b of the connector 20b, passes through the side gap 113b from the peripheral compartment into the outer slider compartment 135b, and passes through the lower gap 122b from the outer slider compartment, then through the lower nozzle 116b and the main nozzle 11b of the bottle 2b and into the bottle.

[0188] Another part of the product (B) flows into the peripheral slider compartment 139b of the slider 100b, passes through the peripheral gap 141b from the peripheral slider compartment into the peripheral compartment 44b of the connector 20b, passes through the side gap 113b from the peripheral compartment into the outer slider compartment 135b of the slider 100b, and flows into the bottle through the lower gap 122b from the outer slider compartment, then through the lower nozzle 116b and the main nozzle 11b of the bottle 2b.

[0189] Another part of the product (C) flows into the outer slider compartment 135b and passes through the lower gap 122b from the outer slider compartment, then through the lower nozzle 116b and the main nozzle 11b of the bottle 2b and into the bottle.

[0190] Another portion of the product (D) flows into the upper slider compartment 131b of the slider 100b, passes through the upper gap 130b from the upper slider compartment and into the inner slider compartment 133b of the slider 100b, and flows into the bottle from the inner slider compartment through the lower nozzle 116b and the main nozzle 11b of the bottle 2b. In the case where the additional structure 132b is provided, this additional structure further promotes the discharge of the product from the upper slider compartment 131b.

[0191] Therefore, discharging the product from the container into the bottle is particularly effective.

[0192] Furthermore, advantageously, the product flowing through the lower gap 122b and towards the main nozzle 11b of the bottle is guided by the baffle wall 118b, which separates the static seal between the product and the slider 100b and the neck 4b of the bottle 2b.

[0193] According to an advantageous aspect, the cartridge can be applied to the most common nozzles in the industry (such as the nozzles identified by the codes 28 / 410 and 28 / 400) without structural or dimensional changes.

[0194] --o--

[0195] Innovatively, the cartridge according to the present invention meets the industry requirements and overcomes the disadvantages discussed above with respect to the prior art.

[0196] For example, advantageously, the force applied by the user to apply the cartridge to the bottle and release the product is very small, typically less than 100 N, and the release of the product is rapid.

[0197] Furthermore, advantageously, all of the product within the cartridge is released into the bottle without waste.

[0198] According to other advantageous aspects, the cartridge is attached to the bottle in an effectively sealed manner, which prevents the product from flowing out of the cartridge or water from flowing out of the bottle during the mixing operation.

[0199] Obviously, in order to meet the current requirements, those skilled in the art can make modifications to the cartridge described above, and such modifications are all included within the scope of protection defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A disposable filling cylinder for releasing a filling product into a bottle (2; 2b), the filling cylinder comprising: - A single-chamber container (60; 60b) having a chamber (64; 64b) for containing the product and a rupturable membrane (78; 78b) configured to enclose the chamber (64; 64b); - A connector (20; 20b) that can be screwed onto the neck (4; 4b) of the bottle (2; 2b), the connector including an annular connecting wall (28) surrounding a peripheral compartment (44) of the connector, and the connecting wall being connected to the container (60; 60b) such that the peripheral compartment (44) is disposed opposite the membrane (78; 78b); - A slider (100; 100b) slidably received in the connector (20; 20b), the slider being provided with a movable tearing device for the membrane (78; 78b) of the container (60; 60b), and the slider being actuated by screwing the connector (20; 20b) onto the neck (4; 4b) of the bottle (2; 2b), the slider including: a) A lower base (114; 114b) adapted to abut against the neck (4; 4b) of the bottle, the lower base being provided with a lower mouth (116; 116b) and a plurality of lower gaps (122; 122b) passing through the thickness of the lower base (114; 114b); b) An inner slider wall (124; 124b) extending axially from a lower end (126; 126b) at the lower base (114; 114b) to an opposite region (127; 127b), wherein the inner slider wall (124; 124b) is radially disposed between the lower gaps (122; 122b) and the lower mouth (116; 116b), and the inner slider wall defines the periphery of an inner slider compartment (133; 133b); c) An upper base (128; 129b) closing the inner slider compartment (133; 133b) from above and provided with a plurality of upper gaps (130; 130b) passing through the thickness of the upper base (128; 129b); d) An outer slider wall (102; 102b) extending axially from a lower end (104; 104b) at the lower base (114; 114b) to an opposite region ((106; 106b)), wherein the outer slider wall (102; 102b) is radially disposed outside the lower gaps (122; 122b), externally defining the periphery of an outer slider compartment (135; 135b), and the outer slider wall includes a plurality of side gaps ((113; 113b)) passing through the thickness of the outer slider wall (102; 102b); such that after the membrane (78; 78b) of the container is torn, the product is conveyed through the lower gaps (122; 122b) and the lower mouth (116; 116b) into the bottle (2; 2b).

2. The filling cylinder according to claim 1, wherein, The lower base (114; 114b) has a base surface (108; 108b) on the outside and below for achieving a static seal with the neck surface (10; 10b) of the neck (4; 4b).

3. The filling cylinder according to claim 2, wherein, The slider (100; 100b) includes an annular and axially protruding baffle wall (118; 118b), and the baffle wall is arranged radially between the lower gap (122; 122b) and the base surface (108; 108b).

4. The filling cylinder according to claim 3, wherein, The baffle wall (118; 118b) has a frustoconical lateral outer baffle surface (118'; 118b').

5. The filling cylinder according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a fluid-impermeable sliding device adapted to enable fluid-impermeable sliding between the connector (20; 20b) and the slider (100; 100b).

6. The filling cylinder according to claim 5, wherein, The fluid-impermeable sliding device includes an annular seal wall (34; 34b) of the connector (20; 20b), the annular seal wall protruding radially inward and having a side seal surface (35; 35b); and an outer surface (110; 110b) of the outer slider wall (102; 102b) of the slider (100; 100b), and the side seal surface and the outer surface are in contact with each other and slide in a fluid-impermeable manner.

7. The filling cylinder according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The tearing device includes a plurality of first blades (142; 142b) that protrude axially and are successively arranged and spaced circumferentially apart.

8. The filling cylinder according to claim 7, wherein, The first blades (142; 142b) protrude axially from the inner slider wall (124; 124b).

9. The filling cylinder according to claim 7 or 8, wherein, The upper base (128; 129b) has a plurality of upper gaps (130; 130b) arranged radially inside the first blades (142; 142b), and the plurality of upper gaps pass through the thickness of the upper wall to lead to the inner slider compartment (133; 133b）。 10. The filling cylinder according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The tearing device includes a plurality of second blades (146; 146b) that protrude axially and are successively arranged and spaced circumferentially apart.

11. The filling cylinder according to claim 10, wherein, The second blades (146; 146b) protrude axially from the outer slider wall (102; 102b).

12. The filling cylinder according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The tearing device includes a plurality of third blades (151b) that protrude axially and are successively arranged and spaced circumferentially apart.

13. The filling cylinder according to claim 12, wherein, The third blades (151b) protrude axially from the upper base near the periphery of the upper base (129; 129b).

14. The filling cylinder according to claim 13, wherein, The upper blades (129b) have a plurality of peripheral gaps (141b) arranged radially inside the third blades (151b), and the plurality of peripheral gaps pass through the thickness of the upper base to lead to the connector (20b).

15. The filling cylinder according to claim 14 when dependent on claims 10 and 7, wherein,The second blades (146b) are arranged radially outside the first blades (142b), and the third blades (151b) are arranged radially outside the second blades (146b).

16. A filling cylinder according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising positioning and coupling means adapted to releasably couple the sliding member to the connector in a predetermined relative axial position.

17. The filling cylinder according to claim 16, wherein, The positioning and coupling device includes at least one coupling ridge (48b') of the connector (20b) and at least one coupling groove (148b) of the slider (100b), and the at least one coupling ridge and the at least one coupling groove can be releasably engaged by snap fit.

18. A filling cylinder according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising anti-rotation means adapted to prevent or limit relative rotation between the sliding member and the bottle.

19. The filling cylinder according to claim 18, wherein, The anti-rotation device includes an anti-rotation portion of the sliding member, which is configured to engage with the neck of the bottle in an interference fit manner.

20. The filling cylinder according to claim 19, wherein, The anti-rotation portion of the sliding member (100; 100b) is an annular baffle wall (118; 118b), and the annular baffle wall extends axially below the lower base (114; 114b).

21. The filling cylinder according to claim 18, wherein, The anti-rotation device includes an anti-rotation portion of the sliding member (100; 100b), which is configured to abut against a part of the neck of the bottle.

22. A filling cylinder according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising axial connection means adapted to axially engage the container to the connector such that relative rotation is unconstrained.

23. The filling cylinder according to claim 22, wherein, The axial connection device includes: a circumferential ridge (30; 30b) radially extending from the connector (20; 20b); and at least one circumferential groove (74; 74b) of the container (60; 60b), which is adapted to be received within the ridge (30; 30b).

24. A container (60; 60b) for a filling cylinder (6; 6b) for a bottle (2; 2b), the container comprising a single chamber (64; 64b) for a product to be poured into the bottle (2; 2b) and a frangible membrane (78; 78b) configured to enclose the chamber (64; 64b).

25. A connector (20; 20b) for a filling cylinder (6; 6b) for a bottle (2; 2b), the connector being screwable onto the neck (4; 4b), the connector is adapted to internally receive the sliding member (100; 100b) in a sliding and fluid-tight manner for screwing the connector onto the bottle.

26. A sliding member (100; 100b) for a filling cylinder (6; 6b) for a bottle (2; 2b), the sliding member being axially translatable into a connector (20; 20b) of the cylinder (6; 6b), and the sliding member comprising tearing means adapted to tear a membrane (78; 78b) of a container (60; 60b) of the cylinder (6; 6b), the tearing means being activated by translating the sliding member (100; 100b) relative to the connector (20; 20b).

27. A for a filling cylinder (6; 6b), the filling cartridge is for a bottle (2; 2b), and the tearing device includes: - a connector (20; 20b); and - a sliding member (100; 100b), which is received within the connector (20; 20b).

28. A filling cylinder (6; 6b) for a bottle (2; 2b), comprising: - The tearing device according to claim 27; and - a container (60; 60b), which is applied to the connector (20; 20b).

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