Air freshening device and air freshener

Abstract

An air freshening device comprising a housing (1 – figure 2), an air freshener (5) and at least one support member (21), where the air freshener 5 is supported and extends outwardly from the support m

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The present disclosure relates to an air freshening device and an air refreshener. The air freshening device is suitable for delivering a perfume and / or reducing malodour. At least in certain embodiments the air freshener is replaceable. Aspects of the disclosure relate to the air freshening device, a housing for the air freshening device and an air freshener. BACKGROUND It is known to provide an air freshener in an air freshening device to deliver perfume and / or to reduce malodour. The air freshener typically comprises an air freshening composition which is depleted over time. The efficacy of the air freshener may vary during the effective lifetime of the air freshener. The rate at which perfume is dispensed and / or or the efficacy with which malodour is treated may decrease as the air freshening composition is depleted. Known air freshening devices do not enable adjustment of the rate at which the air freshening composition is use. 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 of the present invention relate to an air freshening device, a housing for an air freshening device and an air freshener as claimed in the appended claims. According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided an air freshening device comprising: a housing; an air freshener disposed in the housing; and one or more support member for supporting the air freshener; wherein the air freshener is supported by, and extends outwardly from, the one or more support member. The air freshener extends outwardly from the one or more support member. For example, the air freshener may extend radially outwardly from the support member. The one or more support member may be inset from an outer edge of the air freshener. The one or more support member may support the air freshener away from the outer edge thereof. The one or more support member may support a central section of the air freshener. At least in certain embodiments the air freshener may be supported within the housing such that the outer edge of the air freshener is not held or restrained. This may facilitate dispersion of a perfume and / or reduction of malodours. The one or more support member may be at least substantially aligned with a geometric centre of the housing. The air freshener may comprise an air freshener composition which is depleted during use. The mounting arrangement of the air freshener in the air freshening device may enable this depletion to occur at the outer edge at least substantially uninterrupted. At least in certain embodiments this may enable more consistent operation of the air freshener over its effective lifetime. For example, the air freshener may provide more consistent dispersal of a perfume compared to a prior art air freshener. The air freshener may comprise an outer edge. The outer edge may extend around a periphery of the air freshener. The air freshener may comprise opposing first and second major surfaces. In use, at least one of the first and second major surfaces is exposed to the ambient conditions. A release liner may be provided to coverthe at least one of the firstand second major surfaces for storage of the air freshener. The release liner may be removed prior to use, for example when the air freshener is replaced. At least in certain embodiments the air freshener is unsupported along the outer edge. The one or more support member may be spaced apart from the outer edge. For example, the one or more support member may be inset from the outer edge. At least in certain embodiments, the one or more support member may be configured to support a central section of the air freshener. The air freshener may have a circular profile, for example comprising or consisting of a disc. The air freshener may comprise or consist of an annular portion. A mounting aperture may be formed in a centre of the annular portion. The housing may have a circular profile (in plan form). The one or more support member may be disposed in a geometric centre of the circular profile of the housing. The housing may comprise at least one air-circulation aperture to enable circulation of air through the air freshening device. The air may circulate over a surface of the air freshener. The at least one aircirculation aperture may be configured to enable air to circulate over the outer edge of the air freshener. Alternatively, or in addition, the at least one air-circulation aperture may enable air to circulate over at least one major surface of the air freshener. The at least one air-circulation aperture may extend at least partway around the air freshener. The at least one air-circulation aperture may extend around the periphery of the air freshener. The at least one air-circulation aperture may be disposed proximal to the outer edge of the air freshener. The housing may comprise a first housing member and a second housing member. The air freshener may be disposed between the first and second housing members. The first and second housing members may be spaced apart from each other in an axial direction to form the at least one aircirculation aperture. The at least one air-circulation aperture may extend around the perimeter of the air freshener. The at least one air-circulation aperture may be annular in shape. The housing may have a single air-circulation aperture, for example extending around the perimeter of the air freshener. The one or more support member may be provided on the first housing member and / or the second housing member. Alternatively, or in addition, the one or more support member may be provided on the air freshener. For example, the air freshener may comprise one or more projection for cooperating with the housing to support the air freshener. The first and second housing members may be movable relative to each other. For example, at least one of the first and second housing members may be movable in an axial direction to adjust a spacing between the first and second housing members. The movement of the first and second housing members relative to each other may adjust a size of the at least one air-circulation aperture. The position of the second housing member relative to the first housing member may be continuously variable. For example, the second housing member may slide or translate relative to the first housing member. Alternatively, a threaded coupling may be provided between the first and second housing members to provide continuous adjustment. A locking member may be provided to lock the first and second housing members at the predetermined position relative to each other. The first and second housing members may be configured to be disposed in one or more predetermined position relative to each other. The second housing member may be disposed in two or more predetermined positions relative to the first housing member. The air freshening device may comprise an adjustable mounting member. The adjustable mounting member may be selectively mounted in two or more positions to set the relative position of the first and second housing members. A locking clip may be provided to lock the second housing member In each of the two or more predetermined positions. The locking clip may selectively locate in one or more first recess to locate the second housing member to a first height; and one or more second recess to locate the second housing member at a second height. The or each recess may be formed in the adjustable mounting member, for example. The air freshening device may comprise a locking mechanism for locking the first and second housing member to each other. The air freshening device may comprise a release spring for biasing the first and second housing members apart. The one or more support member may be provided on the first housing member to support the air freshener. The second housing member may also be mounted to the one or more support member. The one or more support member may comprise a pillar (or a shaft) for supporting the air freshener. The air freshener may be supported on the pillar. The air freshener may comprise an aperture in which the pillar locates. The aperture may be referred to as a mounting aperture. The mounting aperture may be formed centrally. The air freshener may comprise an air freshener support which cooperates with the one or more support member to support the air freshener. The air freshener support may comprise or consist of a collar. The collar may have an aperture for receiving a portion of the one or more support member. The collar may, for example, be composed of a plastics material. The air freshener support may be disposed in a centre of the air freshener. The air freshener support may be aligned with a geometric centre of the air freshener. The housing and / or the air freshener may be elliptical, oval or polygonal. At least in certain embodiments, the housing and / or the air freshener may be circular. The air freshener may be in the form of a disc. The air freshener support may be disposed coincident with a centre of the disc. The air freshener may comprise one or more channel extending in a radial direction. The one or more channel may be formed in a tray. The air freshener may comprise or consist of an air freshening composition. The air freshening composition may comprise a perfume mixture and / or a malodour reduction material. The air freshening composition may have a semi-solid or solid form. The air freshening composition may be in the form of a gel. The air freshening composition may be transparent, semi-transparent, translucent or opaque. The air freshening composition may be in the form of a disc. The air freshener support may be disposed in a centre of the disc. The air freshener support may be coaxial with a central axis of the disc. The air freshening composition may be in the form of an annulus. The air freshener support may be provided in a central aperture of the annulus. The air freshener support may be coaxial with a central axis of the annulus. The air freshener may comprise a tray for supporting the air freshening composition. The tray may comprise one or more reinforcing feature, for example in the form of a ridge or channel. The one or more reinforcing feature may extend in a radial direction. The radial orientation of the one or more reinforcing feature may facilitate shrinkage of the air freshening composition, for example as the one or more active component is depleted. The air freshener support may be separate from the tray. The tray may be mounted to or connected to the air freshener support. At least in certain embodiments the air freshener support may be formed integrally with the tray. At least in certain embodiments, the air freshener is self-supporting. According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided an air freshening device comprising: a housing; an air freshener disposed in the housing; and one or more support member for supporting the air freshener; wherein the one or more support member supports a central section of the air freshener. The one or more support member may locate in a central aperture formed in the air freshener. At least in certain embodiments the air freshener may be supported within the housing such that an outer edge of the air freshener is not held or restrained. The air freshener may comprise an air freshener support, for example comprising or consisting of a collar. The air freshener support may be disposed in a centre of the air freshener. The air freshener support may be aligned with a geometric centre of the air freshener. The air freshener may comprise or consist of an air freshening composition. The air freshening composition may comprise a perfume mixture and / or a malodour reduction material. The air freshening composition may have a semi-solid or solid form. The air freshening composition may be in the form of a gel. The air freshening composition may be in the form of a disc. The air freshener support may be disposed in a centre of the disc. The air freshener support may be coaxial with a central axis of the disc. The air freshening composition may be in the form of an annulus. The air freshener support may be provided in a central aperture of the annulus. The air freshener support may be coaxial with a central axis of the annulus. The air freshener may comprise a tray for supporting the air freshening composition. The tray may comprise one or more reinforcing features, for example in the form of a ridge or channel. The one or more reinforcing feature may extend in a radial direction. The radial orientation of the one or more reinforcing feature may facilitate shrinkage of the air freshening composition, for example as the one or more active component is depleted. The air freshener support may be separate from the tray. The tray may be mounted to or connected to the air freshener support. At least in certain embodiments the air freshener support may be formed integrally with the tray. According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a housing for an air freshener, the housing comprising: a first housing member; a second housing member; and a support member for supporting the air freshener. The support member may comprise a pillar for locating in a mounting aperture provided in the air freshener to support the air freshener inside the housing. The first and second housing members may define a chamber for receiving an air freshener. The air freshener may of the type described herein. The housing may comprise at least one air-circulation aperture to enable circulation of air. In use, the air may circulate over a surface of an air freshener disposed in the housing. The at least one aircirculation aperture may be configured to enable air to circulate over an outer edge of the air freshener. Alternatively, or in addition, the at least one air-circulation aperture may enable air to circulate over at least one major surface of the air freshener. The at least one air-circulation aperture may extend at least partway around the air freshener. The at least one air-circulation aperture may extend around the periphery of the air freshener. The at least one air-circulation aperture may be disposed proximal to the outer edge of the air freshener. The first and second housing members may be spaced apart from each other in an axial direction to form at least one air-circulation aperture. The at least one air-circulation aperture may extend around the perimeter of the air freshener. The at least one air-circulation aperture may be annular in shape. The housing may have a single air-circulation aperture, for example extending around the perimeter of the air freshener. The one or more support member may be provided on the first housing member and / or the second housing member. Alternatively, or in addition, the one or more support member may be provided on the air freshener. For example, the air freshener may comprise one or more projection for cooperating with the housing to support the air freshener. The first and second housing members may be movable relative to each other to adjust a position of the first and second housing members relative to each other in an axial direction. The position of the first and second housing members may be adjustable relative to each other along an axis. The spacing between the first and second housing members may be adjustable along the axis. One of the first and second housing members may locate at different heights relative to the other one of the first and second housing members. The position of the first and second housing members relative to each other may be continuously variable. For example, the first and second housing members may have complementary threads to provide continuous adjustment. A locking member may be provided to lock the first and second housing members at the predetermined position relative to each other. The first and second housing members may be configured to be disposed in one or more predetermined position relative to each other. The second housing member may be disposed in two or more predetermined positions relative to the first housing member. The air freshening device may comprise an adjustable mounting member. The adjustable mounting member may be selectively mounted in two or more positions to set the relative positions of the first and second housing members. The first and second housing members may be positioned relative to each other in at least a first predetermined position and a second predetermined position. The first and second housing members may be selectively positioned in the at least first and second predetermined positions. A locking clip may be provided to lock the second housing member in each of the two or more predetermined positions. The locking clip may selectively locate in one or more first recess to locate the second housing member to a first height; and one or more second recess to locate the second housing member at a second height. The or each recess may be formed in the adjustable mounting member, for example. At least one air-circulation aperture may be formed between the first and second housing members. The size of the at least one air-circulation aperture being adjustable in dependence on the position of the first and second housing members relative to each other. A locking clip may be provided for locking the position of the first and second housing members relative to each other. The air freshener may be in the form of an annulus. The mounting aperture may be formed in a centre of the annulus. The pillar may be configured to locate in the mounting aperture formed in a centre of the annulus. A central axis of the pillar may be aligned with a central axis of the annulus. According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided an air freshener for insertion into an air freshening device, the air freshener comprising: an air freshening composition; and an air freshener support for supporting the air freshening composition in the air freshening device. The air freshener may be configured to be inserted into an air freshening device of the type described. The air freshener support may comprise a collar for mounting on a pillar provided in the air freshening device. The air freshener may be configured to be inserted into an air freshening device of the type described herein. The air freshener may be suitable for insertion into an air freshening device of the type described herein. The air freshener support may comprise a shaft for cooperating with the air freshening device. For example, the air freshening device may comprise an aperture for receiving an end of the shaft to mount the air freshener. The air freshening composition may comprise a disc portion. The air freshener support may be disposed in a centre of the disc portion. The air freshener support may be coaxial with a central axis of the disc portion. The air freshening composition may comprise or consist of an annular portion. The air freshener support may be disposed in a centre of the annular portion. The air freshener support may be coaxial with a central axis of the annular portion. The air freshener may comprise a tray. The tray may be circular. The air freshening composition may be disposed in the tray. The tray may comprise at least one reinforcing feature, such as a ridge or a channel. The tray may comprise at least one reinforcing ridge. The at least one ridge may extend in a radial direction. The air freshener support may be formed integrally with the tray. The collar may, for example, be moulded with the tray. The air freshener support may be separate from the tray. The tray may be mounted to or connected to the air freshener support. According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided an air freshener for insertion into an air freshening device, the air freshener comprising: an air freshening composition; and wherein the air freshening composition comprises or consists of an annular portion. An aperture is formed in a centre of the annular portion. The aperture may form a mounting aperture for mounting the air freshener. An air freshener support may optionally be disposed in the aperture. The air freshener support may, for example, comprise a collar. Alternatively, a support member may locate directly in the aperture to mount the air freshening composition. 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 any way 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 perspective view of an air freshening device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 shows a side view of the air freshening device shown in Figure 1; Figure 3 shows the air freshening device shown in Figure 1 with a front housing member removed; Figure 4 shows a rear view of the air freshening device shown in Figure 1; Figure 5 shows a mounting arrangement of the front housing member of the air freshening device; Figure 6A shows an air freshener for installation in an air freshening device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6B shows a tray for supporting an air freshening composition in the air freshener shown in Figure 6A; Figure 6C shows an air freshener in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention which is at least partially depleted; Figures 7A and 7B shows an air freshening device in accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention in first and second positions; Figures 8A and 8B shows the front housing member of the air freshening device shown in Figures 7A and 7B; Figure 9 shows a locking clip for the air freshening device shown in Figures 7A and 7B; Figure 10 shows an adjustable cover mount for adjusting a relative position of the front housing member in the air freshening device shown in Figures 7A and 7B; and Figures 11A-C illustrate operation of the locking clip and the adjustable cover mount to adjust the axial position of the adjustable cover mount. DETAILED DESCRIPTION An air freshening device 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention is described herein with reference to the accompanying figures. The air freshener device 1 may, for example, be installed in a washroom or a bathroom to deliver a perfume and / or to reduce malodour. A perspective view and a side view of the air freshener 1 are shown in Figures 1 and 2 respectively. The air freshener device 1 comprises a housing 3 and an air freshener 5 (shown in Figure 3). The air freshener 5 is disposed inside the housing 3. The air freshener 5 comprises an air freshening composition 7 which comprises one or more active component. The one or more active component may, for example, comprise a perfume and / or a malodour reduction material. The air freshening composition 7 has a semi-solid or a solid form. At least in certain embodiments, the air freshening composition 7 is self-supporting. The air freshener 5 is generally planar and has an outer edge 9 which extends around a periphery of the air freshener 5. The housing 3 and the air freshener 5 have complementary profiles in the present embodiment. The housing 3 and the air freshener 5 are generally circular in plan form. The housing 3 and the air freshener 5 may have different profiles from each other. It will be understood that the housing 3 and / or the air freshener 5 may have other shapes. For example, the housing 3 and / or the air freshener 5 may be elliptical, oval or polygonal. The housing 3 comprises at least one air-circulation aperture 11 (shown in Figures 1 and 2) to enable circulation of air over the air freshener 5. The at least one air-circulation aperture 11 is open to an exterior of the housing 3 such that the air freshener 5 is in fluid communication with the ambient air. In use, the at least one air-circulation aperture 11 may promote the diffusion of perfume from the air freshening composition 7 and / or the reduction of malodour in the ambient air. The at least one aircirculation aperture 11 in the present embodiment is formed in a side of the housing 3. The outer edge 9 of the air freshener 5 is disposed proximal to the at least one air-circulation aperture 11. The at least one air-circulation aperture 11 extends at least partway around an outer perimeter of the housing 3. The housing 3 in the present embodiment comprises a single air-circulation aperture 11 which extends around the outer perimeter of the housing 3. Thus, the side of the housing 3 is at least substantially open. This outer edge 9 of the air freshener 5 is exposed to the ambient air around the perimeter of the air freshener 5. It has been recognised that this facilitates operation of the air freshening composition 7. The housing 3 comprises a first housing member 13 and a second housing member 15. The air freshener 5 is disposed in the housing 3 between the first and second housing members 13, 15. The first housing member 13 comprises a backplate 14 for mounting the air freshener device 1. As shown in Figure 4, the first housing member 13 comprises a plurality of apertures 17 for receiving mechanical fasteners (not shown) to mount the air freshener device 1. The mechanical fasteners in the present embodiment comprise screws, but different types of fastener may be employed. The second housing member 15 comprises a front plate 16 (or a cover). One or more apertures may be formed in the front plate 16 to enable air to circulate over the air freshener 5. In the present embodiment, the front plate 16 is substantially continuous and does not include any apertures. The first and second housing members 13, 15 have circular profiles and are arranged coaxially. In the present embodiment, the radius of the second housing member 15 is larger than the radius of the first housing member 13. As shown in Figure 3, the housing 3 comprises at least one support member 21 for supporting the air freshener 5. The at least one support member 21 is in the form of a pillar or a shaft 21 in the present embodiment. The pillar 21 is configured to locate in a mounting aperture 23 formed in the air freshener 5. The pillar 21 is located centrally and extends along a central axis X of the air freshener device 1. In the present embodiment, the pillar 21 has a central axis which is coincident with the central axis X of the air freshener device 1. The pillar 21 is moulded integrally with the first housing member 13 in the present embodiment. The pillar 21 is configured also to mount the second housing member 15. As shown in Figure 5, the second housing member 15 comprises a cover mount 25 which locates inside the pillar 21. The pillar 21 and the cover mount 25 are arranged concentrically when the housing 3 is assembled. The cover mount 25 comprises at least one retaining leg 27-n to retain the second housing member 15 in position. The cover mount 25 comprises first and second retaining legs 27-1,27-2 in the present embodiment. The first and second retaining legs 27-1, 27-2 comprise respective first and second projections 29-1,29-2 which are configured releasably to engage a retaining clip 31 (shown in Figure 4). The retaining clip 31 is a spring member, for example formed of spring steel or other resilient material. The function of the retaining clip 31 is described in more detail herein. A release spring 33 is disposed centrally in the cover mount 25. The release spring 33 is configured to bias the second housing member 15 away from the first housing member 13 along the central axis X. The retaining clip 31 is mounted to an underside of the first housing member 13. The retaining clip 31 comprises first and second spring legs 35-1, 35-2 configured to cooperate with the first and second projections 29-1,29-2 respectively. In the present embodiment, the retaining clip 31 is U-shaped and the first and second spring legs 35-1,35-2 extend parallel to each other. As shown in Figure 4, the first and second projections 29-1, 29-2 extend through respective apertures formed in a base of the first housing member 13 and engage an underside of the first and second spring legs 35-1, 35-2 thereby retaining the second housing member 15 in place. The first and second spring legs 35-1, 35-2 are movable apart to release the first and second projections 29-1,29-2. Other materials may be used to form the retaining clip 31. The first and second housing members 13, 15 can be separated, for example to replace the air freshener 5. As shown in Figure 4, a release mechanism 37 is provided to displace the first and second spring legs 35-1,35-2 away from each other. The release mechanism 37 comprises a release member 39 having first and second transfer arms 41-1,41-2 coupled to the first and second spring legs 35-1, 35-2. The first and second transfer arms 41-1,41-2 are oriented at an oblique angle relative to a radius of the air freshener device 1. The release member 39 is movable in a first direction to displace the first and second spring legs 35-1, 35-2 apart. The displacement of the release member 39 in the first direction displaces the first and second spring legs 35-1, 35-2 apart. The spring bias of the retaining clip 31 biases the first and second spring legs 35-1, 35-2 towards each other. The retaining clip 31 thereby biases the release member 39 in a second direction. The first and second directions are opposite to each other. In the present embodiment, the first and second directions are first and second radial directions. The release member 39 may be movable in other directions. In a variant, the release member 39 may be rotatable, for example to rotate a cam surface to displace the first and second spring legs 35-1,35-2 apart. The release member 39 is disposed on an underside of the first housing member 13. The release member 39 is at least partially enclosed within the first housing member 13. When the first housing member 13 is fastened to a wall or similar surface, access to the release member 39 is restricted to help reduce or prevent tampering with the air freshener device 1. In the present embodiment, a key 45 is used to displace the release member 39 in the first direction. The first housing member 13 comprises at least one access aperture 43-n for receiving a prong 47-n to displace the release member 39 in the first radial direction. The first housing member 13 comprises first and second access apertures 43-1,43-2 for receiving respective first and second prongs 47-1,47-2 of a key 47. The first and second prongs 47-1, 47-2 are inserted through the first and second access apertures 43-1,43-2 and engage the release member 39. The first and second prongs 47-1, 47-2 act on the release member 39 and displace the release member 39 in the first radial direction. The first and second transfer arms 41-1,41-2 travel with the release member 39 and displace the first and second spring legs 35-1,35-2 outwardly (i.e., away from each other). The outwards movement of the first and second spring legs 35-1,35-2 disengages the first and second projections 29-1,29-2, thereby releasing the second housing member 15. The release spring 33 biases the second housing member 15 outwardly away from the first housing member 13 along the central axis X. The second housing member 15 may then be removed, for example to enable the air freshener 5 to be replaced. The air freshener 5 will now be described with reference to Figures 6A, 6B and 6C. The air freshener 5 comprises the air freshening composition 7, a tray 50 and at least one air freshener support 51. A removable liner or cover (not shown) may be provided over the air freshening composition 7. The liner or cover is removed when the air freshener 5 is installed in the housing 3. The tray 50 is provided to support the air freshening composition 7. The tray 50 is shown without the air freshening composition 7 in Figure 6B. The air freshening composition 7 may be moulded in the tray 50. The tray 50 comprises a base and an outer sidewall. The tray 50 comprises a plurality of ridges 59 to reinforce the air freshener 5. The ridges 59 are formed in the base of the tray 50. The ridges 59 extend in a radial direction in the present embodiment, but other patterns are contemplated. The at least one air freshener support 51 is configured to cooperate with the pillar 21 to support the air freshener 5 in the housing 3. The air freshener support 51 in the present embodiment comprises a collar 51 for locating on the pillar 21. The air freshening composition 7 extends radially outwardly from the collar 51. The air freshener support 51 in the present embodiment is in the form of a collar 51. The collar 51 comprises a central aperture 53 which is sized to receive pillar 21 in order to mount the air freshener 5 to the first housing member 13. In a variant, the air freshener support 51 may comprise a connector for connecting to the housing 3. As outlined, above, the air freshener 5 is generally circular in plan form. In the present embodiment, the air freshening composition 7 comprises an annular portion 57. The collar 51 is disposed centrally in the air freshening composition 7. The collar 51 and the annular portion 57 are arranged concentrically about the central axis X. At least in certain embodiments, the air freshener 5 is self-supporting. The air freshening composition 7 may have a solid form or a semi-solid form. The air freshening composition 7 in the present embodiment comprises a gel. The air freshening composition 7 may be transparent, semi-transparent, translucent or opaque. The air freshening composition 7 in the present embodiment is translucent. The tray 50 may help to support the air freshening composition 7. The air freshening composition 7 has sufficient structural integrity at least substantially to maintain the form of the annular portion 57. The outer edge 9 extends around a periphery of the air freshener 5. As described herein, the outer edge 9 is disposed proximal to the circulation aperture formed in the side of the housing 3. The air freshener support 51 may comprise one or more retaining feature for retaining the air freshening composition 7. The one or more retaining feature may comprise a recess or aperture to interlock mechanically with the air freshening composition 7. The one or more retaining feature may comprise an annular groove or channel extending around an outside of the collar 51. The recess or aperture may comprise a negative return positively to secure the air freshening composition 7. In the present embodiment, the air freshener support 51 is formed integrally with the tray 50. For example, the air freshener support 51 may be moulded with the tray 50. In a variant, the air freshener support 51 may be formed separately from the tray 50. As described herein, the air freshening composition 7 comprises one or more active component, such as a perfume and / or a malodour reduction material. In use, the one or more active component is depleted, for example as the perfume evaporates or is dissipated into the environment and / or the malodour reduction material is consumed. The size of the air freshening composition 7 decreases as the one or more active component is depleted, for example as the perfume evaporates or dissipates. In the present embodiment, this results in a reduction of the diameter of the air freshening composition 7. A depleted air freshener 5 is shown in Figure 6C by way of example. By providing the air freshener support 51 in a central location, the outer edge of the air freshening composition 7 can contract. The air freshening composition 7 contracts around the at least one air freshener support 51. At least in certain embodiments, the air freshening composition 7 remains attached to the air freshener support 51 even when depleted. This may facilitate removal of the air freshening composition 7 from the housing 3. The tray 50 may also provide support for the air freshening composition 7. In the present embodiment, the air freshening composition 7 and the tray 50 are arranged in a side-by-side arrangement. One of the major surfaces of air freshening composition 7 may be disposed in contact with a surface of the tray 50. The major surface of the air freshening composition 7 in the present embodiment is not fastened (mechanically or adhesively) to the tray 50. The air freshening composition 7 is able to contract relative to the outer sidewall of the tray 50 as the one or more active component is depleted. In use, the volume of the air freshening composition 7 decreases over time which typically causes the air freshening composition 7 to separate from the outer sidewall of the tray 50. The air freshener 5 is replaced when the air freshener composition 7 is depleted. This may occur on a predetermined time schedule or when it is determined that the air freshener 5 is no longer effective. To replace the air freshener 5, the housing 3 is opened using the key 47, The key 47 is inserted and pressure applied to displace the release member 39 in the first direction. The first and second transfer arms 41-1, 41-2 displace the first and second spring legs 35-1, 35-2 outwardly, thereby disengaging the first and second projections 29-1, 29-2 and releasing the cover mount 25. The release spring 33 biases the second housing member 15 away from the first housing member 13, thereby displacing the first and second projections 29-1,29-2 past the first and second spring legs 35-1,35-2. The key 47 may be removed. The spring bias of the first and second spring legs 35-1,35-2 biases the release member 39 in the second direction. The second housing member 15 can be removed to provide access to an interior of the housing 3. The depleted air freshener 5 may be removed from the first housing member 13. The air freshener composition 7 remains attached to the air freshener support 51 thereby facilitating removal of the depleted air freshener 5 from the housing 3. A new air freshener 5 is installed by locating the air freshener support 51 onto the pillar 21 of the first housing member 13. The air freshener 5 is supported in the housing 3 by the air freshener support 51. The second housing member 15 is then mounted to the first housing member 13 to close the housing 3. The second housing member 15 is mounted by inserting the cover mount 25 into the pillar 21. The first and second projections 29-1,29-2 engage the first and second spring legs 35-1, 35-2 respectively, thereby retaining the second housing member 15 in position. The air-circulation aperture 11 formed between the first and second housing members 13, 15 is open thereby enabling circulation of air over the outer edge 9 of the air freshener 5. A further embodiment of the air freshener device 1 will now be described with reference to Figures 7 to 10. Like reference numerals are used for like components. The description herein will focus on the differences over the above embodiment. In the above embodiment, the first and second housing members 13, 15 are fastened in a predetermined position relative to each other along the central axis X. The size of the air-circulation aperture 11 formed between the first and second housing members 13, 15 is thereby fixed. In the present embodiment, the positioning of the first and second housing members 13, 15 is adjustable along the central axis X. The first and second housing members 13, 15 can be positioned in two or more predetermined positions relative to each other along the central axis X. In the present embodiment, the second housing member 15 can be selectively positioned in one of a first position and a second position relative to the first housing member 13. As shown in Figures 7A and 7B, the first and second positions correspond to different gaps between the first and second housing members 13, 15 along the central axis X. The first position corresponds to a first gap of approximately 6mm and the second position corresponds to a second gap of approximately 11mm. It will be understood that the magnitude of the first gap and / or the second gap may be increased or decreased. The adjustable connection between the first and second housing members 13, 15 will now be described. The first housing member 13 comprises at least one support member 21 in the form of a pillar 21. The mounting arrangement of the air freshener 5 on the pillar 21 is unchanged from the above embodiment. In particular, the pillar 21 locates in the mounting aperture 23 formed in the air freshener 5. The second housing member 15 is modified to replace the cover mount 25 with an adjustable cover mount 75. As shown in Figures 8A and 8B, the adjustable cover mount 75 comprises at least one retaining leg 77-n to retain the second housing member 15 in position. The adjustable cover mount 75 comprises first and second retaining legs 77-1,77-2 in the present embodiment. The first and second retaining legs 77-1, 77-2 comprise respective first and second projections 79-1, 79-2 which are configured releasably to engage the retaining clip 31. The retaining clip 31 is unchanged from the above embodiment. The engagement of the first and second projections 79-1, 79-2 and the retaining clip 31 is the same as the above embodiment. The adjustable cover mount 75 can be selectively mounted to the second housing member 15 at a first height H1 (shown in Figure 8A) or a second height H2 (shown in Figure 8B) relative to the front plate 16. The first and second heights H1, H2 are different from each other to enable the first and second housing members 13,15 selectively to be disposed in one of the first and second positions. The second housing member 15 comprises a base 81 for mounting the adjustable cover mount 75. The base 81 is formed on an inside of the second housing member 15. In the present embodiment, the base 81 comprises a cylindrical sidewall 83 having a plurality of side apertures 85 for receiving a locking clip 87. As shown in Figure 9, the locking clip 87 comprises a grip portion 88, a first clip leg 89-1 and a second clip leg 89-2. The first and second clip legs 89-1, 89-2 having opposing, first and second projections 91-1, 91-2 configured to locate in recesses 93 formed on the sides of the adjustable cover mount 75. The recesses 93 are in the form of slots 93 In the present embodiment. The recesses 93 are formed at the first and second heights H1, H2 corresponding to the different mounting positions of the adjustable cover mount 75. A first pair of the recesses 93(A) is formed at the first height H1; and a second pair of the recesses 93(B) is formed at the second height H2. It will be understood that that two or more heights H1, H2 may be predefined. The operation of the locking clip 87 will now be described with reference to Figures 11A-C. The locking clip 87 is movable between an open (unlocked) position (shown in Figure 11 A) and a locked position (shown in Figures 11B and 11C). The position of the adjustable cover mount 75 along the central axis X is fixed when the locking clip 87 is in the locked position. When the locking clip 87 is in the locked position, the first and second projections 91-1, 91-2 are located in the recesses 93, thereby fastening the adjustable cover mount 75 in position and preventing or restricting movement along the central axis X. The adjustable cover mount 75 is movable along the central axis X when the locking clip 87 is in the open position. When the locking clip 87 is in the open position, the first and second projections 91-1, 91-2 are offset from the recesses 93, thereby enabling movement of the adjustable cover mount 75 along the central axis X. The first and second clip legs 89-1, 89-2 comprise respective non-return features 95-1,95-2 to prevent the locking clip 87 being withdrawn unintentionally from the base 91. The non-return features 95-1, 95-2 comprise first and second tabs 95-1, 95-2 which engage the base 81 when the locking clip 87 is withdrawn. Rotation of the adjustable cover mount 75 about the central axis X may be prevented or constrained so as to maintain alignment of the first and second projections 29-1,29-2 with the retaining clip 31. For example, the adjustable cover mount 75 and the base 81 may have interlocking profiles to prevent rotation. In the present embodiment, the locking clip 87 comprises a spring clip 94 which extends through an aperture formed in the base 81. The spring clip 94 cooperates with at least one engagement member 95 positively to locate the locking clip 87 in each of the open (unlocked) and locked positions. The spring clip 94 is formed integrally with the locking clip 87 in the present embodiment but could be a separate feature or integrated into the adjustable cover mount 75. As shown most clearly in Figures 8A and 8B, the second housing member 15 comprises a plurality of fins 97 disposed on an underside of the front plate 16. The fins 97 extend in a radial direction in the present embodiment. The fins 97 may help to promote radial airflow through the air freshener 5. The tips of the fins 97 engage, or are disposed proximal to, the first housing member 13 when the second housing member 15 is in the first position. This may reduce the loads transmitted to the adjustable cover mount 75, for example if a force is applied to the second housing member 15. The housing 3 may optionally comprise one or more alignment feature 99 for aligning the first and second housing members 13, 15 in a predetermined angular position relative to each other. As shown in Figures 8A and 8B, each alignment feature 99 in the present embodiment comprises a projection 99 formed on the second housing member 15. The projections 99 locate in complementary recesses (not shown) formed in the first housing member 13. The projections 99 prevent the second housing member 15 being mounted to the first housing member 13 unless they are in the predetermined angular alignment. The one or more alignment features 99 may be implemented in each embodiment described herein. In use, the height of the adjustable cover mount 75 is adjustable. An operator manually displaces the locking clip 87 to the open (unlocked) position to enable the height of the adjustable cover mount 75 to be adjusted. The second housing member 15 is removed from the first housing member 13 to provide access to the adjustable cover mount 75. The locking clip 87 is displaced to the open position to enable the adjustable cover mount 75 to be positioned selectively at one of the first and second heights H1, H2. The locking clip 87 is displaced to the locked position to fasten the adjustable cover mount 75 in position. The first and second projections 91-1, 91-2 locate in the first pair of the recesses 93(A) to fasten the adjustable cover mount 75 at the first height H1. When the housing 3 is assembled, the second housing member 15 locates in the first position (relative to the first housing member 13) when the adjustable cover mount 75 is disposed at the first height H1. The gap between the first and second housing members 13, 15 is 6mm when the second housing member 15 is in the first position. The first and second projections 91-1, 91-2 locate in the second pair of the recesses 93(B) to fasten the adjustable cover mount 75 at the second height H2. When the housing 3 is assembled, the second housing member 15 locates in the second position (relative to the first housing member 13) when the adjustable cover mount 75 is disposed at the second height H2. The gap between the first and second housing members 13, 15 is 11 mm when the second housing member 15 is in the second position. The mounting of the second housing member 15 to the first housing member 13 is unchanged from the 5 above embodiment. As in the above embodiment, the pillar 21 and the adjustable cover mount 75 are arranged concentrically in the assembled housing 3. In the above embodiment, the first and second housing members 13, 15 can be selectively disposed in first and second predetermined positions. In a variant, the first and second housing members 13, 15 10 may be selectively disposed in more than two predetermined positions. Alternatively, the positioning of the first and second housing members 13, 15 may be continuously adjustable. For example, the first and second housing members 13,15 may have complementary threaded sections to enable continuous adjustment of positions of the first and second housing members 13,15 relative to each other. 15 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.

Claims

1. An air freshening device comprising:a housing;an air freshener disposed in the housing; andone or more support member for supporting the air freshener;wherein the air freshener is supported by, and extends outwardly from, the one or more support member.

2. An air freshening device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the air freshener has an outer edge extending around a periphery thereof, the air freshener being unsupported along the outer edge.

3. An air freshening device as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the housing comprises at least one air-circulation aperture to enable circulation of air through the air freshening device, the at least one air-circulation aperture extending at least partway around the air freshener.

4. An air freshening device as claimed in any one of claims 1, 2 or 3, wherein the housing comprises a first housing member and a second housing member, the air freshener being disposed between the first and second housing members.

5. An air freshening device as claimed in claims 3 and 4, wherein the first and second housing members are movable relative to each other to adjust a size of the at least one air-circulation aperture.

6. An air freshening device as claimed in claim 4 or claim 5 comprising a locking mechanism for locking the first and second housing member to each other.

7. An air freshening device as claimed in any one of claims 4, 5 or 6 comprising a release spring for biasing the first and second housing members apart.

8. An air freshening device as claimed in any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the second housing member is mounted to the one or more support member.

9. An air freshening device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more support member comprises a pillar, the air freshener being supported on the pillar.

10. An air freshening device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the air freshener comprises an air freshener support which cooperates with the one or more support member to support the air freshener.

11. An air freshening device as claimed in claim 10, wherein the air freshener support comprises or consists of a collar, the collar having an aperture for receiving a portion of the one or more support member.

12. An air freshening device as claimed in claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the air freshener support is disposed in a centre of the air freshener.

13. An air freshening device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the air freshener comprises or consists of an annular portion.

14. An air freshening device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the air freshener comprises an air freshening composition, the air freshening composition comprising a perfume mixture and / or a malodour reduction material.

15. An air freshening device as claimed in claim 14, wherein the air freshener comprises a tray, the air freshening composition being disposed in the tray.

16. An air freshening device as claimed in claim 14 or claim 15, wherein the air freshening composition has a semi-solid or solid form.

17. A housing for an air freshener, the housing comprising:a first housing member;a second housing member; anda support member for supporting the air freshener;wherein the support member comprises a pillar for locating in a mounting aperture provided in the air freshener to support the air freshener inside the housing.

18. A housing as claimed in claim 17, wherein the first and second housing members are movable relative to each other to adjust a position of the first and second housing members relative to each other in an axial direction.

19. A housing as claimed in claim 18, wherein the first and second housing members can be positioned relative to each other in at least a first predetermined position and a second predetermined position.

20. A housing as claimed in claim 18 or 19, wherein at least one air-circulation aperture is formed between the first and second housing members, the size of the at least one air-circulation aperture being adjustable in dependence on the position of the first and second housing members relative to each other.

21. A housing as claimed in any one of claims 18, 19 and 20 comprising a locking clip for locking the position of the first and second housing members relative to each other.

22. An air freshener for insertion into an air freshening device, the air freshener comprising: an air freshening composition; andan air freshener support for supporting the air freshening composition in the air freshening device;wherein the air freshener support comprises a collar for mounting on a pillar provided in the air freshening device.

23. An air freshener device as claimed in claim 22, wherein the air freshening composition comprises an annular portion, the air freshener support being disposed in a centre of the annular portion.

24. An air freshener device as claimed in claim 22 or claim 23 comprising a tray, the air freshening composition being disposed in the tray.

25. An air freshener device as claimed in claim 24, wherein the tray comprises at least one reinforcing ridge.21

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