Fragrance cartridge
The fragrance cartridge with a biasable closure member and actuation mechanism addresses the issue of premature fragrance depletion and leakage in vehicle systems, ensuring controlled and prolonged fragrance release.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- GB2023017520
- Authority / Receiving Office
- GB · GB
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2023-11-15
- Publication Date
- 2025-05-21
AI Technical Summary
Existing fragrance delivery systems in vehicles lack a mechanism for selectively controlling the release of fragrance, leading to premature depletion and potential leakage, which reduces the longevity and convenience of the fragrance cartridges.
A fragrance cartridge with a closure arrangement featuring a biasable closure member that defaults to a closed configuration, ensuring fragrance is only released when correctly positioned in a vehicle fragrance delivery unit, utilizing a spring for biasing and a projection for actuation, along with a seal to prevent leakage and enhance longevity.
The solution provides a fragrance cartridge that maintains fragrance freshness and longevity by preventing unintended release, ensuring convenient and controlled fragrance delivery, reducing waste, and enhancing user experience.
Smart Images

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Abstract
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD The present disclosure relates to a fragrance cartridge. Aspects of the invention relate to a fragrance cartridge, to a fragrance delivery unit and a vehicle. BACKGROUND It is known to use air fresheners which passively release a fragrance to provide a pleasant smell inside a vehicle cabin. For example, an air freshener may be suspended from a rear-view mirror (e.g., using string). Alternatively, an air freshener may be clipped to a structure adjacent to a HVAC outlet (e.g., to a baffle which overlaps the HVAC outlet). More recently, some vehicles have included a fragrance delivery system which has one or more components designed to actively distribute fragrance inside the vehicle cabin. For example, a known fragrance delivery system includes a fragrance delivery unit which receives a fragrance cartridge containing a fragrant substance, and a blower unit configured to blow fragrance-entrained air from the fragrance delivery unit around the vehicle cabin. It is an aim of the present invention to address one or more of the disadvantages associated with the prior art. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Aspects and embodiments of the invention provide a fragrance cartridge, a fragrance delivery unit and a vehicle as claimed in the appended claims. According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a fragrance cartridge for an in-vehicle fragrance delivery unit. The fragrance cartridge comprises: a cartridge housing having an aperture extending therethrough; a reservoir for a fragrant substance configured to release fragrance, the reservoir located within the housing; and a closure arrangement configured to selectively open and close the aperture, the closure arrangement comprising a closure member, the closure member being moveable between a closed configuration in which the closure member closes the aperture and prevents release of fragrance from the cartridge housing, and an open configuration in which the closure member opens the aperture such that fragrance is releasable from the cartridge housing. The closure arrangement may further comprise a seal, and the closure member may sealingly engage the seal to close the aperture and prevent release of fragrance from the cartridge housing in the closed configuration, and the closure member may be disengaged from the seal to open the aperture such that fragrance is releasable from the cartridge housing in the open configuration. The closure arrangement facilitates the reversible opening and closing of the aperture in the cartridge housing, such that fragrance from the fragrant substance can be selectively released from the cartridge housing via the aperture when desired. In this way, the closure member is moved to the closed configuration when the release of fragrance is not desired and so the fragrance cartridge is effectively resealed after use, or in-between uses, i.e. when the fragrance cartridge is removed from an in-vehicle fragrance delivery unit. This results in a fragrance cartridge that is long-lasting and can be in use longer before the fragrant substance becomes depleted of fragrance (i.e. compared to fragrance cartridges that are not resealable). Optionally, the closure arrangement is configured such that the closure is biased in the closed configuration. Biasing the closure member in the closed configuration results in the default configuration of the cartridge being “closed”, i.e. not releasing fragrance. In this way, the longevity, effectiveness, and freshness of the fragrant substance is increased, as the release of fragrance is selectively controlled. Moreover, the fragrance cartridge can be seen as being “self-sealing” in that the closure member is biased closed and a user is not required to manually close or re-seal the fragrance cartridge after use. This improves the convenience of using the cartridge and reduces the risk of the cartridge not being effectively sealed after use, thereby promoting the longevity of the fragrant substance. Optionally, the closure arrangement furthers comprise a spring configured to bias the closure member in the closed configuration. The spring can provide a biasing force to the closure member irrespective of orientation of cartridge. In this way, the cartridge will be biased in the closed configuration if stored upside down or on its side when not located in an in-vehicle fragrance delivery unit. In this way, the fragrance cartridge is maintained in the closed configuration when removed from an in-fragrance delivery unit, resulting in improved longevity of the fragrant substance as fragrance is not released when the cartridge is not in use. Optionally, the spring may be arranged within the cartridge housing such that a first end ofthe spring is coupled to the closure member and a second end ofthe spring rests against the reservoir. The arrangement of the spring supports the closure member in its respective configuration relative to the reservoir and reduces the risk ofthe closure member falling and potentially damaging the reservoir. Optionally, the spring is a coil spring ora leaf spring. The springs have been found to provide the appropriate biasing force while being compact within the housing, thereby providing additional space within the housing to be occupied by the reservoir, increasing the capacity and longevity ofthe cartridge. Optionally, the closure member comprises an actuation surface configured to engage in use with a complimentary actuation surface of an in-vehicle fragrance delivery unit so as to urge the closure member to the open configuration. The movement of the closure member to the open configuration is initiated by engagement with an in-vehicle fragrance delivery unit, meaning the closure member is otherwise closed. In this way, the user is not required to interact with the closure member to release fragrance from the cartridge, making for a more convenient means for releasing fragrance. Moreover, since the closure member is biased in the closed configuration, release of fragrance from the fragrance cartridge is prevented until the cartridge is correctly positioned relative to the in-vehicle fragrance delivery unit, improving the longevity and freshness of the fragrant substance. Optionally, the actuation surface of the closure member comprises a projection that extends beyond the cartridge housing when the closure member is in the closed configuration. The arrangement provides for a simple means of facilitating engagement of the actuation surface with a surface external to the closure member so as to move the closure member to the open configuration. Optionally, the projection comprises a cammed surface. The cammed surface provides a means of facilitating engagement with a complimentary engagement surface in an axial direction, e.g. providing movement of the closure member to the open configuration in response to an axial movement of the fragrance cartridge relative to the in-vehicle fragrance delivery unit. This provides for a simple means of releasing fragrance. Optionally, the projection comprises a ramped surface. The ramped surface further promotes movement of the closure member in response to an axial engagement with the complimentary actuation surface of an in-vehicle fragrance delivery unit. Optionally, the projection defines a pyramidal or triangular prism shape. Such a shape provides the projection with at least two ramped surfaces. The multiple ramped surfaces can act as a flow diverter, e.g. for directing air through the aperture and into the housing in two directions. Diverting air increases the exposure of the reservoir to air, thereby promoting an increased release of fragrance from the cartridge via the air. Optionally, the cartridge housing comprises a base and a plurality of walls, and wherein the fragrance cartridge further comprises an arrangement of ribs in the cartridge housing, the ribs configured to support the reservoir in the housing and space the reservoir from the walls and / or the base of the housing. The arrangement of ribs centralises the reservoir within the housing, thereby increasing the surface area of the reservoir that is exposed to air flow when the closure member is in the open configuration. In this way, the release of fragrance from the cartridge is increased. Moreover, supporting the reservoir in the housing prevents movement of the reservoir during use of the vehicle, thereby avoiding potential damage to the cartridge and rattling of the reservoir within the housing that may generate noise. Optionally, the fragrance cartridge further comprises a ferrous insert, optionally located adjacent to a wall of the housing, the ferrous insert configured to co-operate in use with a magnet of an in-vehicle fragrance delivery unit. The ferrous insert provides a means of securing the fragrance cartridge relative to an in-vehicle fragrance delivery unit in use. Moreover, the engagement between the ferrous insert in the fragrance cartridge and a magnet of an in-vehicle fragrance delivery provides haptic feedback to a user that the cartridge has been correctly positioned therein. Optionally, the fragrance cartridge further comprises an identification arrangement mounted to an outer surface of the cartridge housing. The identification arrangement can provide a user or a computer system with data regarding the fragrance cartridge, e.g. relating to the type of fragrance in the cartridge, or relating to the authenticity of the cartridge. Optionally, the reservoir comprises a porous body configured to contain the fragrant substance. A porous body is an effective means of providing for and releasing fragrance from the cartridge. Moreover, the porous body is easily containable in the housing (e.g. compared to a liquid), and is simple to replace upon depletion. Optionally, the fragrance cartridge further comprises a liquid fragrant substance that is carried within pores of the porous body. Providing the fragrant substance as a liquid provides for a strong release of fragrance. Carrying the liquid fragrant substance within pores of the porous body provides a containment of the liquid, reducing the risk of spillages in the cartridge housing. Moreover, fragrance can be released gradually from within the porous body, facilitating a consist and gradual release of fragrance from the cartridge over a longer period. Optionally, the seal comprises a first seal surface located within the housing and configured to engage with the closure member, and a second seal surface located outside the housing and configured in use to engage with a complimentary engagement surface of an in-vehicle fragrance delivery unit. The seal performs multiple functions by supporting the closure member in the closed configuration and by supporting the fragrance cartridge in the in-vehicle fragrance delivery unit. Sealing the fragrance cartridge relative to fragrance delivery unit can prevent rattling of the cartridge that may generate noise in the vehicle. Optionally, the seal is co-moulded to an inside surface of the cartridge housing and to an outside surface of the cartridge housing, so as to form the first seal surface and the second seal surface. A single seal can perform multiple sealing functions (i.e. sealing the closure member inside the housing and sealing the cartridge in place outside the housing). Co-moulding provides a strong connection between the housing and seal, reducing the risk of seal failure and fragrance being erroneously released from cartridge when closed and / or the fragrance cartridge disengaging from the in-vehicle delivery unit during use. Optionally, the seal is formed from a rubber, e.g. silicone rubber. Silicone rubber has been found to provide effective seal surfaces, providing an effective seal between respective components. Optionally, the cartridge housing comprises a first housing component and a second housing component, wherein the first housing component is removeably connected to the second housing component. The housing components provide for a simple means of accessing the inside of the housing, facilitating replacement or maintenance of internal components, e.g. a user may replace the reservoir when it becomes depleted. In this way, the fragrance cartridge can continue to be used after internal components become depleted or damaged, resulting in reduced waste generation. Optionally, wherein the aperture is provided in one of the first housing component and the second housing component. The aperture does not “bridge” across two housing components. As such, detaching the housing components from each other is a simple process that does not pose a risk of disrupting the means of releasing fragrance, e.g. by moving the closure member to an incorrect position. Optionally, the fragrance cartridge further comprises a cartridge guide formation configured to engage in use with a corresponding guide formation of an in-vehicle fragrance delivery unit. The guide arrangement helps to provide accurate alignment and smooth movement between the cartridge and the fragrance delivery unit during relative movement thereof. Optionally, the cartridge guide formation is a groove or channel configured to receive a corresponding rib of an in-vehicle vehicle fragrance delivery unit. The guide formations are simple to manufacture, and provide a simple arrangement for improving accuracy of alignment and smoothness of movement between the fragrance cartridge and the fragrance delivery unit during relative movement thereof. According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a fragrance delivery unit for a vehicle. The fragrance delivery unit is configured to receive one or more fragrance cartridges as disclosed herein. The fragrance delivery unit may comprise an actuation surface configured to engage the closure arrangement of the fragrance cartridge to urge the closure member to the open configuration when the fragrance cartridge is received in the fragrance delivery unit. Such a fragrance delivery unit benefits from the advantages of the fragrance cartridge outlined above. The fragrance delivery unit can provide the actuation surface to urge the closure member of the fragrance cartridge to the open configuration, facilitating the opening of the cartridge when positioned within the fragrance delivery unit. This provides for an intuitive means of releasing fragrance from the cartridge, which does not require significant user intervention, reducing the likelihood of the fragrance cartridge failing to release fragrance. A fragrance delivery system comprising the fragrance delivery unit as disclosed herein and one or more fragrance cartridges as disclosed herein. Such a system benefits from the advantages of the fragrance cartridge and / or the fragrance delivery unit outlined above. According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a vehicle comprising one or more fragrance cartridges as disclosed herein and / or the fragrance delivery unit as disclosed herein and / or the fragrance delivery system as disclosed herein. Such a vehicle benefits from the advantages of the fragrance cartridge and / or the fragrance delivery unit and / or the fragrance delivery system outlined above. Within the scope of this application it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and / or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and / or features of any embodiment can be combined in anyway and / or combination, unless such features are incompatible. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and / or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS One or more embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a schematic plan view of a vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; Figure 2 shows a schematic front view of a fragrance delivery system of the vehicle of Figure 1; Figure 3 shows a schematic front view of a touchscreen and user inputs of the fragrance delivery system of Figure 2; Figure 4 shows a schematic view of a control system of the fragrance delivery system of Figure 2; Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a glovebox area of the vehicle of Figure 1; Figures 6A and 6B show perspective views of a fragrance delivery unit of the fragrance delivery system of Figure 2; Figure 7 shows a perspective view of a fragrance cartridge in accordance with an embodiment ofthe invention; Figures 8A, 8B and 8C show an exploded perspective, side and front view, respectively, of the fragrance cartridge of Figure 7; Figure 9 shows a cross-sectional view through plane A of Figure 7; Figure 10 shows a cross-sectional view ofthe fragrance cartridge located in the fragrance delivery system of Figure 2; Figure 11 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion ofthe fragrance delivery system of Figure 2. DETAILED DESCRIPTION A fragrance delivery system in accordance with an embodiment ofthe present invention is described herein with reference to the accompanying Figures 2 to 6A. As shown in Figure 1, the fragrance delivery system is installed in a vehicle 1000. With reference to Figures 1 and 2, there is illustrated a vehicle 1000 with a vehicle cabin 1002. The vehicle 1000 includes an instrument panel or dashboard area 1004 inside the vehicle cabin 1002. The dashboard area 1004 has a steering wheel 1006, a centre console 1008, and a fragrance delivery system 10. As will be described in more detail below, the fragrance delivery system 10 has a fragrance delivery unit 12 which is configured to supply fragrance-entrained air along a fragrance flow path 14 into the vehicle cabin 1002. In the illustrated arrangement, the steering wheel 1006 is provided on a left-hand side ofthe centre console 1008 and the fragrance delivery unit 12 is provided on a right-hand side ofthe centre console 1008 in a glovebox assembly 1010 ofthe vehicle 1000. In alternative arrangements, the steering wheel 1006 and / or fragrance delivery unit 12 are provided on the opposite sides ofthe centre console 1008 to that shown. In some arrangements, the steering wheel 1006 and fragrance delivery unit 12 are provided on the same side of the centre console 1008. In some arrangements, the fragrance delivery unit 12 is provided in a central region ofthe dashboard area 1004. The centre console 1008, or another part of the dashboard 1004 or the vehicle more generally, may include a user input device for the fragrance delivery system 10 by which one or more user inputs 16 may be provided to the fragrance delivery system 10. The user input device may be a touchscreen 18, for which the one or more inputs 16 may be provided as icons on the touchscreen 18, and / or as manual switches, buttons or other controls. As shown in Figure 3, the one or more user inputs 16 may include: a power input 16a configured to turn the fragrance delivery system 10 on or off; a fragrance compartment control input 16b configured to open or close a fragrance storage compartment 22 of the fragrance delivery unit 12 (as described in more detail below); one or more fragrance selection inputs 16c which allow a particular fragrance and / or combination of fragrances to be selected; one or more fragrance intensity inputs 16d which allow an intensity of one or more fragrances to be selected; and / or an instruction input 16e configured to output visual and / or audible instructions for operating the fragrance delivery system 10. Any other suitable user inputs may also be provided. In the illustrated arrangement, there are three fragrance selection inputs 16c which correspond to three different fragrance cartridges 24 (which will be described in more detail below). It will be understood that in fragrance delivery systems 10 including greater or less than three fragrance cartridges 24, the number of fragrance selection inputs 16c may vary accordingly. Where only a single fragrance cartridge 24 is provided, the fragrance selection inputs 16c may be omitted entirely. Similarly, the fragrance compartment control input 16b may be omitted (e.g., in arrangements where the fragrance storage compartment 22 can be manually opened and closed). Similarly, the fragrance intensity inputs 16d may be omitted (e.g., in arrangements where the fragrance delivery system 10 only has a single fragrance intensity level, or arrangements which automatically control the fragrance intensity level). Similarly, the instruction input 16e may be omitted. In some arrangements, the fragrance delivery system 10 may be operated automatically and the user inputs 16 and user input device may be omitted entirely. In some arrangements, the fragrance delivery system 10 may be operated remotely (e.g., via an app on a mobile device). In some embodiments, the fragrance delivery system 10 may be operated by voice control (e.g., including a microphone which sends an input signal to a controller configured to perform voice recognition on the input signal to determine a requested setting of the fragrance delivery system 10). Referring to Figures 2 and 4, the fragrance delivery system 10 includes a control system 200. The control system 200 includes one or more controllers 210. The control system 200 may be configured to receive one or more input signals 260 (e.g., from the one or more user inputs 16) and to determine a desired fragrance delivery setting based on the one or more input signals 260. The control system 200 may then output one or more control signals 270 to the fragrance delivery unit 12 to control the output of fragrance-entrained air from the fragrance delivery unit 12. The control system 200 as illustrated in Figures 2 and 4 comprises one controller 210, although it will be appreciated that this is merely illustrative. The controller 210 comprises processing means 220 and memory means 230. The processing means 220 may be one or more electronic processing devices which operably execute computer-readable instructions. The memory means 230 may be one or more memory devices. The memory means 230 may be electrically coupled to the processing means 220. The memory means 230 may be configured to store instructions, and the processing means 220 may be configured to access the memory means 230 and execute the instructions stored thereon. The controller 210 comprises an input means 240 and an output means 250. The input means 240 may comprise an electrical input of the controller 210. The output means 250 may comprise an electrical output of the controller 210. The input means 240 is arranged to receive one or more input signals 260 from the one or more user inputs 16. The one or more input signals 260 may be electrical signals which are indicative of a one or more desired settings of the fragrance delivery system 10. The output means 250 is arranged to output one or more control signals 270 for controlling one or more components of the fragrance delivery unit 12 in order to control the output of fragrance-entrained air from the fragrance delivery unit 12. For example, the output means 250 may output a control signal 270 to a blower unit 26 of the fragrance delivery unit 12 (as illustrated schematically in Figure 6B) in response to a user instruction made via the power input 16a and / or one or more of the fragrance intensity inputs 16d. The output means 250 may output a control signal 270 to a fragrance delivery mechanism 36 of the fragrance delivery unit 12 (as illustrated schematically in Figure 6B) in response to a user instruction made via one or more of the fragrance selection inputs 16c. The output means 250 may output a control signal 270 to a compartment drive mechanism 38 of the fragrance delivery unit 12 (as illustrated schematically in Figure 6A) in response to a user instruction made via the fragrance compartment control input 16b. Referring now to Figure 5, the glovebox assembly 1010 of the vehicle 1000 is shown in more detail. The glovebox assembly 1010 includes a glovebox body 1012 which defines a glovebox interior 1014 for storing objects, such as driving gloves. The glovebox assembly 1010 also includes a glovebox closure 1016 which is coupled to the glovebox body 1012 by a hinge arrangement 1018. In this way, the glovebox closure 1016 is pivotal between an open state (illustrated in Figure 5) in which the glovebox interior 1014 is accessible for insertion and / or removal of objects, and a closed state (not illustrated) in which the glovebox interior 1014 is covered by the glovebox closure 1016. In the illustrated arrangement, the fragrance delivery unit 12 is provided in the glovebox assembly 1010. In particular, the fragrance delivery unit 12 may be provided in a recess 1020 in a rear of the glovebox body 1012 such that at least part of the fragrance delivery unit 12 is accessible from the glovebox interior 1014. For example, the fragrance storage compartment 22, described in more detail below, may be opened and closed by sliding through the recess 1020. In this way, the fragrance delivery unit 12 may be accessed by moving the glovebox closure 1016 to the open state. In alternative arrangements, the fragrance delivery unit 12 may be positioned elsewhere. For example, the glovebox body 1012 may not have a recessed region 1020, and the fragrance delivery unit 12 may instead be positioned fully inside the glovebox interior 1014. Alternatively, the fragrance delivery unit 12 may be positioned in, and directly accessible from, a front or lower region of the dashboard area 1004. Alternatively, the fragrance delivery unit 12 may be positioned in any other suitable location in the vehicle cabin 1002. Referring now to Figures 6A and 6B, the fragrance delivery unit 12 is shown in more detail. The fragrance delivery unit 12 has a housing 20 and a fragrance storage compartment 22 which is configured to receive one or more fragrant substances (e.g., contained in one or more fragrance cartridges 24). The fragrance delivery unit 12 also includes a blower unit 26 (shown schematically on Figure 6B) which is configured to drive a flow of air through the fragrance delivery unit 12. In particular, the blower unit 26 may drive a flow of air through or past the one or more fragrant substances in the fragrance storage compartment 22 to entrain fragrance in the flow of air before being expelled through a fragrance delivery unit outlet 28. The fragrance delivery unit outlet 28 may be connected to a duct arrangement (not shown in Figures 6A and 6B) for guiding the fragrance-entrained air along a flow path 14 into the vehicle cabin 1002. The blower unit 26 may be controlled by a control signal 270 from the controller 210 of the control system 200 described above (e.g., in response to the power input 16a and / or one or more fragrance intensity inputs 16d being operated by the user). In the illustrated arrangement, the fragrance delivery unit outlet 28 is provided on an upper surface 30 of the housing 20. In alternative arrangements, the fragrance delivery unit outlet 28 may be provided on a side surface 32 or a lower surface 34 of the housing 20. In the illustrated arrangement, the fragrance storage compartment 22 is configured to receive a plurality of fragrance cartridges 24. The fragrance cartridges 24 may each contain a fragrant substance, for example in the form of a liquid fragrance stored in a reservoir and / or absorbed in a porous ceramic block within each cartridge. The fragrance cartridges 24 may each contain a different fragrant substance, so that a user can choose different fragrances and / or combinations thereof. Alternatively, the fragrance cartridges 24 may all contain the same fragrant substance, with the plurality of fragrance cartridges 24 providing a greater capacity for the fragrant substance than a single similarly sized fragrance cartridge 24. In alternative arrangements, the fragrance storage compartment 22 may receive a fragrant substance directly (e.g., by pouring a fragrant liquid directly into a reservoir formed within or by the fragrance storage compartment 22). In the illustrated arrangement, the fragrance storage compartment 22 is in the form of a tray. In alternative arrangements, the fragrance storage compartment 22 may be formed of any other suitable structure (e.g., a frame with supports for receiving one or more fragrance cartridges 24). In order to control which of the fragrance cartridges 24 are used to deliver fragrance via the exhaust 28, the fragrance delivery unit 12 may include a fragrance delivery mechanism 36 (shown schematically on Figure 6B). The fragrance delivery mechanism 36 may be configured to control the flow of air through the fragrance delivery unit 12 (driven by the blower 26) to selectively entrain a fragrant substance from one or more of the fragrance cartridges 24 in the flow of air. In other words, the fragrance delivery mechanism 36 may be configured to selectively provide a fluid communication between one or more of the fragrance cartridges 24 and the flow of air through the fragrance delivery unit 12 (driven by the blower 26). The fragrance delivery mechanism 36 may include one or more valves, moveable baffles or other air directing components. The fragrance delivery mechanism 36 may be controlled by a control signal 270 output from the controller 210 of the control system 200 described above (e.g., in response to one or more fragrance selection inputs 16c being operated by the user). In the illustrated arrangement, the fragrance storage compartment 22 is configured to receive three fragrance cartridges 24, but in alternative arrangements the fragrance storage compartment 22 may receive greater than three fragrance cartridges 24 or less than three fragrance cartridges 24 (e.g., a single fragrance cartridge 24). The fragrance storage compartment 22 is movable relative to the housing 20 between an open position (illustrated in Figure 6A), and a closed position (illustrated in Figure 6B). It will be understood that the open position of the fragrance storage compartment 22 is for loading and / or unloading of fragrance cartridges 24, and the closed position corresponds to the normal operating state of the fragrance delivery unit 12. In the illustrated arrangement, the fragrance storage compartment 22 is slidable relative to the housing 20 to transition between the open and closed positions. In other arrangements, the fragrance storage compartment 22 may be pivotable relative to the housing 20 to transition between the open and closed positions. The fragrance delivery unit 12 may include a compartment drive mechanism 38 (illustrated schematically on Figure 6A) for moving the fragrance storage compartment 22 between the open and closed positions. The compartment drive mechanism 38 may be controlled by a control signal 270 output from the controller 210 of the control system 200 described above (e.g., in response to the fragrance compartment control input 16b being operated by the user). In alternative arrangements, the fragrance storage compartment 22 may be spring-loaded and / or manually moved between the open and closed positions (e.g., by gripping and then pulling the fragrance storage compartment 22). In the illustrated arrangement, the fragrance delivery unit 12 has an electrical connector 50 for connecting one or more power and / or control lines to electrical components of the fragrance delivery unit 12. For example, the electrical connector 50 may be configured to connect the blower unit 26 and / or the fragrance delivery mechanism 36 and / or the compartment drive mechanism 38 to an electrical power source (e.g., a battery of the vehicle 1000). The electrical connector 50 may also be configured to receive one or more control signals 270 from the controller 210 for controlling the blower unit 26 and / or the fragrance delivery mechanism 36 and / or the compartment drive mechanism 38. The electrical connector 50 may be positioned on the upper surface 30, side surface 32, or lower surface 34 of the housing 20. In the illustrated arrangement, a single electrical connector 50 is provided for the fragrance delivery unit 12, but in some arrangements a separate electrical connector 50 may be provided for each electrical component of the fragrance delivery unit 12. The housing 20 of the fragrance delivery unit 12 may be formed of a plurality of housing portions 40, 42, 44 which are coupled together. For example, the housing 20 may include a side housing portion 40, an upper housing portion 42 which is coupled to an upper end of the side housing portion 40, and a lower housing portion 44 which is coupled to a lower end of the side housing portion 40. In some arrangements, the housing portions 40, 42, 44 are releasably coupled together (e.g., via a snap-fit arrangement, such as an arrangement include one or more clips 46). This may help to provide access to the inside of the housing 20 for maintenance or other purposes. The housing 20 may also include one or more mounting arrangements 48 (e.g., including one or more apertures for receiving a fastener) for mounting the fragrance delivery unit 12 at an appropriate position in the dashboard area 1004. Referring now to Figures 7 to 9, the fragrance cartridge 24 will be discussed in more detail. The fragrance cartridge 24 is intended to be used with an in-vehicle fragrance delivery unit 12. The fragrance cartridge 24 has a cartridge housing 52 having an aperture 54 extending therethrough. The cartridge housing 52 defines an internal volume and the aperture 56 extends through the housing 52 so as to define an opening into the internal volume of the cartridge 24. The aperture 56 provides a flow path between the internal volume and an area external to or outside of the housing 52. A reservoir 56 for a fragrant substance configured to release fragrance is located within the housing 52. The fragrance cartridge 24 includes a closure arrangement 58 configured to selectively open and close the aperture 54. The closure arrangement 58 includes a closure member 60 which is moveable between a closed configuration (see Figure 9), in which the closure member 60 closes the aperture 54 and prevents release of fragrance from the cartridge housing 52, and an open configuration (see Figure 10), in which the closure member 60 opens the aperture 54 such that fragrance is releasable from the cartridge housing 52 (e.g. via a flow of fragrance-entrained air). Put another way, the closure member 60 is configured to selectively block and unblock a flow path for air between the internal volume of the housing 52 and an area external to or outside of the housing 52. The housing 52 includes a base wall 70, an upper wall 72 opposite to the base wall, a front side wall 74a, a rear side wall 74b, and two lateral side walls 74c. The side walls 74a, 74b, 74c are arranged to connect the base wall 70 and the upper wall 72. The housing 52 includes a curved interface 78 between each adjacent wall 70, 72, 74a, 74b, 74c in the illustrated embodiment (i.e. a curved comer or edge). The housing 52 may be formed of any suitable material, for example a rigid plastic. In the figures, the aperture 54 extends through the upper wall 72 of the housing 52, but it will be appreciated that the aperture 54 and thus the closure arrangement 58 may be located elsewhere on the housing 52. The term “rear” in the current context refers to a wall intended to be distal to an open end of the fragrance delivery unit 12 when which the fragrance cartridge 24 is located therein (e.g. the end of the cartridge 24 that is first introduced to the fragrance storage compartment 22). The term “front” refers to a wall intended to be proximal to the open end of the fragrance delivery unit 12 when the fragrance cartridge 24 is located therein. In the illustrated embodiment, the closure arrangement 58 includes a seal 62. The closure member 60 sealingly engages the seal 62 to close the aperture 54 and prevent release of fragrance from the cartridge housing 52 in the closed configuration. The closure member 60 is disengaged from the seal 62 to open the aperture 54 such that fragrance is releasable from the cartridge housing 52 in the open configuration. The seal 62 may be configured to engage with the closure member 60 so as to hermetically seal the housing 52 when the closure member 60 is in the closed configuration. As shown in the figures, the seal 62 is arranged to extend around the perimeter of the aperture 54. In this arrangement, the seal 62 is formed as a single component. In alternative arrangements, the seal 62 may be formed of multiple components and / or may be provided in various positions about the perimeter of the aperture 52. The seal 62 includes a first seal surface 62a located within the housing 52. The first seal surface 62a is configured to engage with the closure member 60 (e.g. when in the closed configuration). The first seal surface 62a extends beyond the perimeter of the aperture 54 inside the housing 52 so as to provide an interface between the upper wall 72 of the housing 52 and an upper surface of the closure member 60. The seal 62 includes a second seal surface 62b located outside of the housing 52. The second seal surface 62b is configured to engage with a complementary engagement surface 92 of the fragrance delivery unit 12 when the cartridge 24 is in use. The second seal surface 62b extends outwardly beyond the perimeter of the aperture 54 outside of the housing 52 so as to provide an interface between the upper wall 72 of the housing 52 and the complementary engagement surface 92 of the fragrance delivery unit 12. The first seal surface 62a and the second seal surface 62b may be formed from separate components, or may be opposing surfaces of a single seal 62. In the illustrated arrangement, a single seal 62 provides both seal surfaces 62a, 62b as well as an intermediate seal surface 62c that connects the first and second seal surfaces 62a, 62b. The intermediate seal surface 62 is arranged to contact the edges of the housing 52 defined by the aperture 54. The seal 62 may be seen as defining a generally C-shaped cross-section. In some arrangements, the seal 62 is co-moulded to an inside surface of the cartridge housing 52 and to an outside surface of the cartridge housing 52 to form the first and second seal surfaces 62a, 62b. The seal 62 may be formed from any suitable material, for example silicone rubber, EPDM, TPU or any suitable rubber material. In the illustrated arrangement, the closure arrangement 58 is configured such that the closure member 60 is biased in the closed configuration. In this way, the default configuration of the closure member 60 is closed. The fragrance cartridge 24 can be seen as being “self-sealing”, in that a user is not required to manually close and / or reseal the closure arrangement 58 after use. As shown in Figures 8A to 9, the closure arrangement 58 includes a spring 64. The spring 64 is arranged and configured to bias the closure member 60 in the closed configuration. The spring 64 is configured to provide a biasing force to the closure member 60. The spring 64 can provide the biasing force irrespective of the orientation of the fragrance cartridge 24, e.g. the closure member 60 will not fall into the open configuration under gravity, as the spring 64 will continue to bias the closure member 60 closed, even when the fragrance cartridge 24 is upside down, on its side, etc. The spring 64 may be any suitable spring type, e.g. a coil spring or a leaf spring. The spring 64 is configured to provide a biasing force strong enough to hold the closure member 60 in the closed configuration, but not so strong that the moving the closure member 60 to the open configuration requires a significant force. The spring 64 may have a spring constant suitable for providing such a biasing force. It will be appreciated that any suitable arrangement may be provided to bias the closure member 60 in the closed configuration in combination with or as an alternative to the spring 64, e.g. an elastic material, a pneumatic or hydraulic system, a magnetic system, or the like. As is best seen in Figure 9, the spring 64 is arranged within the cartridge housing 52. The spring 64 may be arranged within the housing 52 such that a first end of the spring 64a is coupled to the closure member 60 (e.g. coupled to an underside or a lower surface of the closure member 60), and a second end of the spring 64b is supported or rests against the reservoir 56. This arrangement is advantageous in supporting the closure member 60 relative to the reservoir 56. The closure member60 is positioned relative to the aperture 54 such that the aperture 54 is completely covered or blocked by the closure member 60 when in the closed configuration. The closure member 60 includes an actuation surface 94 configured to receive an actuation force and move toward the open configuration in response thereto. In the illustrated arrangement, the actuation force can be seen as a force that acts against the spring 64 (e.g. toward the base wall 70) so as to move the closure member 60 against the spring 64 (i.e. into the housing 52 toward the reservoir 56). Put another way, the actuation force is sufficient to overcome the biasing force of the spring 64 and compress the spring 64. The actuation force may be provided by any suitable source. As will be discussed in relation to Figure 10, the actuation force is provided by the fragrance delivery unit 12 when the cartridge 24 is positioned therein. The actuation surface 94 is configured to engage in use with a complimentary actuation surface 96 of the fragrance delivery unit 12 so as to urge the closure member 60 to the open configuration. The closure member 60 includes a projection 98 that extends beyond the cartridge housing 52 (i.e. outwardly of the housing 52) when the closure member 60 is in the closed configuration. The projection 98 may be positioned completely within the aperture 54 when the closure member 60 is in the closed configuration. The actuation surface 94 includes or is defined by the projection 98. The projection 98 may include a cammed surface. The projection 98 may include a ramped surface. The cammed and / or ramped surfaces promote the downward movement of the closure member 60 in response to an axial engagement with the complementary actuation surface 96 of the fragrance delivery unit 12, e.g. the cartridge 24 may be slid into the fragrance delivery unit 12. In the figures, the projection 98 has two ramped surfaces. The projection 98 can be seen as defining a pyramidal ortriangular prism shape (i.e. having at least two ramped surfaces that meet to define a central apex or edge). The at least two ramped surfaces can act as a flow diverter or splitter, for directing air into the housing 52 in at least two directions, split by the apex or edge of the projection 96. The upper edge of the projection 96 may be curved, to improve ease of manufacture and to provide a wider area to engage with the corresponding actuation surface 96. In some arrangements, the upper edge of the projection 96 may be substantially planar. It will be understood that the projection 98 may define any suitable shape capable of being actuated by the complementary actuation surface 96. The closure member 60 includes a seat 100 from which the projection 98 extends in the illustrated arrangement. The seat 100 provides an interface between the closure member 60 and the seal 62. In the figures, the seat 100 has a substantially planar surface, such that the interface between the first seal surface 62a and the seat 100 is substantially planar. The planar interface provides for a secure engagement between the closure member 60 and the seal 62, improving the effectiveness of the seal 62. As can be best seen in Figures 8A to 8C, the closure member 60 includes a series of legs 102 that project from an underside surface of the seat 100. The legs 102 provide support to the closure member 60 in the open configuration, while also facilitating air flow around an underside of the closure member 60 (e.g. around the legs 102). Four legs 102 are provided in the figures, but it should be appreciated that any suitable number may be provided. In some arrangements, no legs 102 are provided. In the figures, the closure member 60 includes a guide arrangement 66 at an underside or a lower surface. The guide arrangement 66 is configured to receive the spring 64 so as to support the spring 60 relative to the closure member 60. The guide arrangement 66 may include a series of downward members 68a, 68b that project in a generally downward direction from the closure member 60 so as to support the spring 64 beneath the closure member 60. The downward members 68a, 68b may be arranged to centralise the spring 64 beneath the closure member 60. In the illustrated arrangement, the downward members 68a, 68b include a central downward member 68a (e.g. that extends from an underside of the central edge or apex of the projection 98), and at least one outer downward member 68b is provided (e.g. that extends from an underside of the ramped surface) that at least partially surrounds the central downward member 68a. The downward members 68a, 68b define an annulus therebetween into which the spring 64 is received. The downward members 68a, 68b may be integrally formed with the closure member 60 or provided as separate components. The reservoir 56 may be in any suitable form, e.g. a receptacle for containing a fragrant fluid (e.g. a liquid or a gel). In the illustrated embodiment, the reservoir 56 is a porous body that is configured to contain the fragrant substance. The porous body contains a series of pores into which the fragrant substance can be introduced. The fragrant substance may be in the form of a liquid fragrant substance (e.g. an oil) that is carried in the pores of the porous body. The porous body may be a ceramic block, e.g. a porous alumina ceramic that may include or be composed of aluminium sulphide and / or silicon dioxide. The porous ceramic block facilitates the re-use of the fragrance cartridge 24 once the fragrant substance has been depleted, e.g. additional fragrant liquid can be introduced into the pores of the ceramic block to allow its continued use as the reservoir 56. Alternatively, the ceramic block can be simply removed from the cartridge housing 52 when depleted, facilitating simple replacement with another ceramic block. In the figures, the reservoir 56 includes an identification arrangement 84 on an outer surface of the reservoir 56 to assist a user in identifying information about the reservoir 56, e.g. the fragrant substance located therein. The identification arrangement 84 may be any suitable form, including an engraving in the reservoir 56, a barcode, a printed label, or the like. As can be seen in the figures, the reservoir 56 and / or the housing 52 are configured such that the reservoir 56 is spaced apart from each of the walls 70, 72, 74 when located within the housing 52. This arrangement increases a surface area of the reservoir 56 that is exposed to air flow when the cartridge 24 is in use (i.e. when in the open configuration), thereby increasing the entrainment of fragrance in the air and out of the housing 52. An arrangement of ribs 76 may be provided in the cartridge housing 52 to support the reservoir 56 in the housing, e.g. so that the reservoir 56 can rest on / against the ribs 76 in the housing 52. The ribs 76 may be configured to space the reservoir 56 from any of the walls. The ribs 76 may be configured to secure the reservoir 56 in the housing 52, e.g. so as to prevent the reservoir from rattling within the housing 52. In the figures, a rib 76 may project inwardly (i.e. toward the internal volume) from one or more of the side walls 74 to space the reservoir 56 from the side walls 74 (e.g. via contact between the reservoir 56 and the ribs 76). One or more ribs 76 may be provided on the base wall 70, such that the reservoir 56 is supported in the housing 52 via the rib 76 and is spaced apart from the base wall 70. The ribs 76 may form part of the housing 52 (e.g. be integrally formed with a respective wall of the housing 52), may form part of the reservoir 56 (e.g. the ribs 76 may be integrally formed with the reservoir 56), or may be provided as separate components that are inserted into the housing 52 once the reservoir 56 is positioned therein. In the figures, the housing 52 includes a first housing component 52a and a second housing component 52b. The housing components 52a, 52b are removeably connected to each other, e.g. such the housing components 52a, 52b can be simply disconnected from each otherto access the internal volume of the housing 52 (e.g. to replace or refill the reservoir 56). The housing components 52a, 52b may be configured to form an airtight connection. This prevents the release of fragrance from the housing 52 via a connection point between the housing components 52a, 52b. The respective housing components 52a, 52b may be attached via a snap-fit connection, threaded fasteners, a clamped connection, or any suitable means. The aperture 54 is provided in one of the housing components 52a, 52b so that the aperture 54 does not “bridge” across the two housing components 52a, 52b. In the figures, the aperture 54 extends through the first housing component 52a. The housing 52 may include more than two detachable housing components in some embodiments. The cartridge housing 52 includes a groove or channel 80 in the illustrated embodiment. The groove or channel 80 extends at least partially around an outer surface of the housing 52. In the illustrated embodiment, the groove or channel 80 is defined by a recessed region in the rear side wall 74b and at least partially in each of the two lateral side walls 74c. The groove or channel 80 acts as a cartridge guide formation configured to engage in use with a corresponding guide formation of the fragrance delivery unit 12. For example, as is shown in Figure 11, the fragrance delivery unit 12 includes a rib 82 that is received in the groove or channel 80. It should be understood that the guide formation of the fragrance cartridge 24 and the fragrance delivery unit 12 may be different in some embodiments, e.g. an interlocking mechanism, or grooves on the fragrance delivery unit 12 and a corresponding projection on the cartridge 24, etc. The fragrance cartridge 24 may include an identification arrangement 90. The identification arrangement 90 can provide a user ora computer system with data regarding the fragrance cartridge 24, including for example information relating to the type of fragrance in the cartridge 24, or the authenticity of the cartridge 24. The identification arrangement 90 may be in any suitable form including for example a barcode, a printed arrangement, an engraving, or embossment on the cartridge housing 52, a QR code, a radio-frequency identification arrangement, a SIM card, or the like. In the figures, the identification arrangement 90 is a SIM card. The SIM card 90 is mounted to an outer surface of the cartridge housing 52, for example in a recessed region of the housing 52. In the figures, the identification arrangement 90 is mounted to the upper wall 72 of the housing 52, e.g. adjacent to the aperture 54. Although not shown, the fragrance delivery unit 12 and / or the fragrance delivery system 10 may include a reading device capable of extracting data from the identification arrangement 90 when the cartridge 24 is in use. The extracted data may be inputted into the control system 200 and / or may be displayed on the console 1008 for the user. The fragrance cartridge 24 may include a ferrous insert 86. The ferrous insert 86 may be located adjacent the rear side wall 74b of the housing 52. In the figures, the ferrous insert 86 is retained inside the housing 52 against the rear side wall 74b, e.g. by a recessed area in the rear side wall 74b that is dimensioned to receive and retain the ferrous insert 86. The ferrous insert 86 may be a block made of ferrous material. Ferrous material can include, by way of example, steel or iron. The ferrous insert 86 is configured to co-operate with a magnet 88 of the fragrance delivery unit 12 as will be discussed in more detail with reference to Figure 10. Figure 10 and 11 indicate a portion of the fragrance delivery system 10 having a fragrance delivery unit 12 and a fragrance cartridge 24 located within the fragrance delivery unit 12. Figure 10 shows a cross-sectional view that indicates the interior of the housing 52 of the fragrance cartridge 24, while Figure 11 shows a cross-sectional view illustrating the exterior of the housing 52 of the fragrance cartridge 24. As can be seen, the fragrance cartridge 24 has been introduced into the fragrance delivery unit 12 (e.g. into the fragrance storage compartment 22) via an open end 104 of the fragrance delivery unit 12. The fragrance cartridge 24 is aligned and secured in the fragrance delivery unit 12 by various means. For example, a rib 82 is provided to fit into the groove 80 of the cartridge 24. The rib 82 is configured to be complimentary to the groove 80 on the cartridge 24, e.g. the rib 82 may be substantially U-shaped so as to fit into the groove in the rear side wall 74b and in the lateral side walls 74c. The fragrance delivery unit 12 includes an engagement surface 92 that is configured to be sealingly engaged with the second seal surface 62b of the cartridge 24, In this way, the cartridge 24 can be secured within the fragrance delivery unit 12, and the air flow path through the fragrance delivery system 10 can be effectively controlled (e.g. fragrance-entrained air does not escape into the system 10 via the connection between the fragrance cartridge 24 and delivery unit 12, but rather can be effectively directed to the blower unit 26). The fragrance delivery unit 12 includes a magnet 88. The magnet 88 may be positioned at a “closed” end of the fragrance delivery unit 12 so as to be proximal to the ferrous insert 86 when the cartridge 24 is positioned in the fragrance delivery unit 12. The ferrous insert 86 and the magnet 88 are configured to co-operate with each other. For example, when the ferrous insert 86 is brought into proximity with the magnet 88, the insert 86 will be attracted to the magnet 88 so as to retain the cartridge 24 in the fragrance delivery unit, while also providing haptic feedback to a user that the cartridge 24 has been correctly positioned. In an alternative arrangement, the cartridge 24 may include a magnet, and the fragrance delivery unit 12 may include a ferrous inset. It will be appreciated that the ferrous insert 86 and / or the magnet 88 may be in any suitable position. In other arrangements, an alternative means may be provided to align and retain the cartridge 24, e.g. a clip arrangement. In some embodiments, no means of retaining the cartridge 24 relative to the fragrance delivery unit 12 is provided. The fragrance delivery unit 12 includes a rib that defines the complementary actuation surface 96, although it should be appreciated that any actuation surface 96 may be implemented. The rib 96 extends in a generally downward direction, the fragrance cartridge 24 may be slid into the fragrance delivery unit 12 in an axial direction. The rib 96 contacts the projection 98 of the closure member 60 (e.g. the ramped surfaces and the apex or edge) as the cartridge 24 slides into the fragrance delivery unit 12, thereby providing the actuation force to move the closure member 60 into the open configuration. It will be appreciated that the cartridge 24 may be moved into engagement with the rib 96 via any suitable motion. In the illustrated arrangement, the closure member 60 is completely disengaged from the seal 62 in the open configuration, such that air can enter the housing 52 through various sides of the aperture 54. In some arrangements, the closure member 60 may only be partially disengaged from the seal 62 in the open configuration, e.g. a hinge mechanism may be provided. The rib 96 is configured to retain the closure member 60 in the open configuration. The rib 96 is dimensioned to remain in engagement with the projection 98 after moving the closure member 60 to the open configuration. The closure member 60 is retained in the open configuration while the cartridge 24 is positioned in the fragrance delivery unit 12. Maintaining the closure member 60 in the open configuration facilitates a continuous flow of air into the housing 52 and a continuous flow of fragrance entrained air out of the housing 52, when the cartridge 24 is in use. When the cartridge 24 is removed from the fragrance delivery unit 12 (e.g. to change to a different fragrance cartridge 23), the projection 98 is moved out of engagement with the rib 96, and so the actuation force is removed. The closure member 60 is thus biased by the spring 64 toward the closed configuration (e.g. as shown in Figure 9). In this way, flow of air into and out of the housing 52 is prevented when the cartridge 24 is not in use. It will be appreciated that various changes and modifications can be made to the present invention without departing from the scope of the present application. It should also be noted that whilst the appended claims set out particular combinations of features described above, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the particular combinations hereafter claimed, but instead extends to encompass any combination of features herein disclosed.
Claims
1. A fragrance cartridge for an in-vehicle fragrance delivery unit, the fragrance cartridge comprising:a cartridge housing having an aperture extending therethrough;a reservoir for a fragrant substance configured to release fragrance, the reservoir located within the housing; anda closure arrangement configured to selectively open and close the aperture, the closure arrangement comprising a seal and a closure member, the closure member being moveable between a closed configuration in which the closure member sealingly engages the seal to close the aperture and prevent release of fragrance from the cartridge housing, and an open configuration in which the closure member is disengaged from the seal to open the aperture such that fragrance is releasable from the cartridge housing.
2. The fragrance cartridge of claim 1, wherein the closure arrangement is configured such that the closure member is biased in the closed configuration.
3. The fragrance cartridge of claim 2, wherein the closure arrangement further comprises a spring configured to bias the closure member in the closed configuration.
4. The fragrance cartridge of claim 3, wherein the spring is arranged within the cartridge housing such that a first end of the spring is coupled to the closure member and a second end of the spring rests against the reservoir.
5. The fragrance cartridge of any preceding claim, wherein the closure member comprises an actuation surface configured to engage in use with a complimentary actuation surface of an in-vehicle fragrance delivery unit so as to urge the closure member to the open configuration.
6. The fragrance cartridge of claim 5, wherein the actuation surface of the closure member comprises a projection that extends beyond the cartridge housing when the closure member is in the closed configuration.
7. The fragrance cartridge of claim 6, wherein the projection comprises a cammed surface.
8. The fragrance cartridge of claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the projection comprises a ramped surface.
9. The fragrance cartridge of any of claims 6 to 8, wherein the projection defines a pyramidal or triangular prism shape.
10. The fragrance cartridge of any preceding claim, wherein the cartridge housing comprises a base and a plurality of walls, and wherein the fragrance cartridge further comprises an arrangement of ribs in the cartridge housing, the ribs configured to support the reservoir in the housing and space the reservoir from the walls and / or the base of the housing.
11. The fragrance cartridge of any preceding claim, wherein the fragrance cartridge further comprises a ferrous insert, optionally located adjacent to a wall of the housing, the ferrous insert configured to co-operate in use with a magnet of an in-vehicle fragrance delivery unit.
12. The fragrance cartridge of any preceding claim, wherein the fragrance cartridge further comprises an identification arrangement mounted to an outer surface of the cartridge housing.
13. The fragrance cartridge of any preceding claim, wherein the reservoir comprises a porous body configured to contain the fragrant substance.
14. A fragrance delivery unit for a vehicle, the fragrance delivery unit configured to receive one or more fragrance cartridges of any preceding claim, wherein the fragrance delivery unit comprises an actuation surface configured to engage the closure arrangement of the fragrance cartridge to urge the closure member to the open configuration when the fragrance cartridge is received in the fragrance delivery unit.
15. A vehicle comprising one or more fragrance cartridges of any of claims 1 to 13 and / or the fragrance delivery unit of claim 14.21
Citation Information
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