Dispensing package for floor treatment composition

Abstract

A dispensing package for a floor treatment composition. The dispensing package includes a coupling shell and a container. The coupling shell is provided with a dispensing opening and at least one front aperture. The container includes a membrane seal that engages a sealing surface of the container. The coupling shell can provide a connection between the container and a dispensing system.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Dispensing package for floor treatment composition [Background technology]

[0002] Various dispensing systems for floor treatment compositions exist in which a container containing the floor treatment composition is engaged with a mop. In such systems, the floor treatment composition is dispensed onto the floor either directly from the container or via a component of the mop. In one configuration, an inverted container is engaged with the mop in some manner, and the floor treatment composition is dispensed from the container by a trigger dispenser, an electric pump, or gravity-fed.

[0003] When a person is mopping a floor, the mop head often collides with furniture placed on the floor, the base of a cabinet, an object protruding from the floor, or other objects that impede the movement of the mop head. These collisions cause the mop to rapidly decelerate. Even when such collisions do not occur, a typical mop pattern employed by a user is a reciprocating motion in which the mop accelerates and decelerates along a line or in a generally elliptical or generally circular pattern. The acceleration and deceleration, particularly those caused by collisions, can generate strong forces at the connection between the container and the mop.

[0004] The high forces generated by accelerating and decelerating the mop can cause leaks in the connection between the container and the mop, which can be frustrating for the user because the floor treating composition may be wasted, the user may come into contact with the floor treating composition, and the user may have to clean up the leaked floor treating composition stain.

[0005] Some dispensing systems for floor treatment compositions use a cannula that penetrates a membrane seal on a container. The cannula provides a path for liquid transport from within the container to a location downstream of the cannula. In some configurations, the membrane seal remains exposed to the environment after it is applied to the container to close it. The membrane seal may be unintentionally ruptured when the container is packaged in secondary packaging, when placed on a pallet for delivery, during delivery, when handled in a retail environment, or when handled by users of the floor treatment composition. A leaking membrane seal can be unsatisfactory for manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and users because the floor treatment composition may be wasted, handlers may come into contact with the floor treatment composition, and handlers may have to clean up the leaked floor treatment composition.

[0006] Some containers for floor treatment compositions intended for use with mop devices are plastic bottles having a base, a body extending from the base, a shoulder extending from the body, and a neck at the top of the container extending from the shoulder. A closure of some kind is attached to the neck in some manner. The neck is typically narrower in cross section than the body. Such containers are typically impractical for display or storage in an inverted position, with the neck oriented toward the shelf on which the container rests, because the small footprint supporting a large, increased mass distributed over a larger footprint would tend to make the container unstable with respect to tipping. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] In view of the above limitations, there is a continuing unmet need for a dispensing system for a floor treating composition that allows a dispensing container containing the floor treating composition to securely engage with the dispensing system so as to reduce the possibility of leakage. There is a further continuing unmet need for a dispensing container for a floor treating composition that provides protection for a membrane sealant after the membrane sealant is applied to the container. There is a further continuing unmet need for a dispensing container for a floor treating composition that can be stably displayed or stored in an upright or inverted position. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A dispensing package for a floor treating composition, the dispensing package comprising a unitary shell including a top wall, the top wall having a top wall periphery and a shell wall extending from the top wall periphery, the top wall and the shell wall partially defining a shell interior, the top wall having a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis and intersecting the longitudinal axis at a z-axis, the z-axis being orthogonal to the longitudinal and transverse axes, the unitary shell having a front aperture in the top wall, a dispensing opening in the top wall aligned with the z-axis, and a shell wall extending from the top wall at least partially defining the dispensing opening. a coupling shell surrounding the coupling shell and further including a neck attachment portion projecting from the top wall into the shell interior and aligned with the z-axis; and a container including a base, a body wall extending from the base toward the coupling shell and extending about the z-axis, a shoulder extending from the body wall to a neck extending about the z-axis, a finish extending about the z-axis and from the neck to a sealing surface extending about the z-axis, and a membrane seal engaging the sealing surface, wherein the neck attachment portion engages the neck and the top wall is spaced from the shoulder. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] A device for cleaning or treating floors. [Figure 2] The container and the mating shell together form the dispensing package. [Figure 3] FIG. [Figure 4]FIG. [Figure 5] 5 is a cross-sectional view of the coupling shell of FIG. 4 taken along line AA'. [Figure 6] It is a container. [Figure 7A] FIG. 10 is a top view of a mating shell engaged with a container. [Figure 7B] 7B is a cross-sectional view of the mating shell engaged with the container shown at AA' in FIG. 7A. [Figure 8] A device for cleaning or treating floors. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of the distribution system. [Figure 10] The dispensing system has a cradle in a first position. [Figure 11A] The dispensing system has a cradle in a first position. [Figure 11B] The dispensing system has a cradle in a first position. [Figure 12] The dispensing system has the cradle in a second position and the docking shell engaged with the latch. [Figure 13A] 1 illustrates a docking shell seated within a cradle, the cradle being in a first position. [Figure 13B] The docking shell is shown seated within the cradle, with the cradle approaching a second position and the docking shell contacting the latch. [Figure 13C] 1 shows the docking shell approximately seated in the cradle and the opening frame and latch laterally displaced. [Figure 13D] 1 illustrates the docking shell seated in the cradle, the cradle in a second position, and the docking shell latch engaged with the latch. [Figure 14] FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. [Figure 16] FIG. [Figure 17] FIG. [Figure 18] FIG. [Figure 19] FIG. [Figure 20] FIG. [Figure 21] FIG. [Figure 22] FIG. [Figure 23] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the docking shell. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] A device 1 for dispensing a floor treatment composition is shown in Figure 1. Device 1 may include a handle 5, a dispensing system 10, a dispensing package 15, and a mop head 20. Dispensing system 10 may include dispensing package 15. In operation, dispensing system 10 may dispense a floor treatment composition contained in dispensing package 15 from dispensing package 15 onto a floor.

[0011] In use, a user of device 1 may obtain dispensing package 15 containing a floor treatment composition. The user may place dispensing package 15 into device 1 and then use device 1. The user may use device 1 to treat a floor by applying the floor treatment composition to the floor and maneuvering device 1 to advance across the floor. The floor treatment composition may be, by way of non-limiting example, a floor cleaning composition, a floor sanitizing composition, a floor fragrance composition, a floor polishing composition, a floor friction enhancing composition, etc.

[0012] The floor treatment composition may include a surfactant and water. Optionally, the floor treatment composition may further include a fragrance. Optionally, the floor treatment composition may include components selected from an acrylic polymer, didecyldimethylammonium chloride, chlorhexidine diacetate, propylene glycol butyl ether, phenoxyisopropanol, a fragrance, an alkyl dimethyl amine oxide, an alkyl polyglucoside, and water. The floor treatment composition may include a C10-C16 alkyl dimethyl amine oxide.

[0013] The floor treatment composition may comprise from about 0.001% to about 15% by weight of a surfactant, a cationic antimicrobial active, a nitrogen-containing polymer, and water. The surfactant may be selected from the group consisting of nonionic surfactants, anionic surfactants, zwitterionic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, and mixtures thereof. The surfactant may be a nonionic surfactant. The floor treatment composition may comprise from about 0.001% to about 0.5% by weight of a surfactant and from about 0.005% to about 1% by weight of a cationic antimicrobial active. The floor treatment composition may comprise from about 95% to about 99.994% by weight of water. The floor treatment composition may comprise from about 0.005% to about 1% by weight of a nitrogen-containing polymer. The floor treatment composition may comprise from about 0.001% to about 0.5% by weight of a fragrance.

[0014] The mop head 20 may be or have attached thereto a sponge, brush, abrasive material, a bundle of fabric strips, a bundle of fibers, etc. Optionally, a wipe 25 may be attached to the mop head 20. The wipe 25 may be a disposable or reusable wipe.

[0015] The mop head 20 may have a generally rectangular shape with a width of about 200 mm to about 500 mm, optionally about 350 mm, and a length of about 50 mm to about 200 mm, optionally about 100 mm. The wipe 25 may be a nonwoven wipe. Optionally, the wipe 25 may be a laminate of nonwoven layers. The wipe 25 may optionally include an absorbent core between a surface of the wipe 25 intended to contact the floor and a backsheet that is attachable to and removable from the mop head 20. The wipe 25 may be the same as or substantially similar to the wipe 25 provided as part of the SWIFFER WET JET, available from The Procter & Gamble Company (Cincinnati, Ohio, United States).

[0016] The dispensing system 10 may include a liquid conduit 30 that discharges the floor treatment composition from the dispensing package 15 onto the floor. The end or terminus of the liquid conduit 30 may include a nozzle 35 for forming a spray of the floor treatment composition as it is discharged from the device 1. The outlet of the liquid conduit 30 or any nozzle 35 may be designed to discharge the floor treatment composition 50 a distance of 0.05 m to about 1 m in front of the mop head 20. The conduit 30 may be a flexible plastic tube having an inner diameter of about 1 mm to about 5 mm and formed from a material such as TYGON, polyethylene, polypropylene, vinyl, or the like. The nozzle 35 may be a conical nozzle.

[0017] The dispensing system 10 may include a manual or electromechanical pump for pumping the floor treatment composition from the dispensing package 15. Optionally, the floor treatment composition may be gravity fed. The handle 5 may include a trigger for a manual pump, a valve for gravity feeding, or an electrical switch 3 that is part of an electrical circuit connected to an electromechanical pump. The user may choose when to apply the floor treatment composition at their own discretion or as instructed.

[0018] Dispensing package 15 is shown in FIG. 2. Dispensing package 15 may include a mating shell 40 and a container 125. The mating shell 40 may include features that help a user securely align and fit the mating shell 40 to a device (such as device 1, as a non-limiting example). The mating shell 40 may include features that help a user securely align and fit the dispensing package 15 to device 1. The container 125 contains a floor treatment composition 50. To use the dispensing package 15 shown in FIG. 2, a user positions the dispensing package 15 so that the mating shell 40 is oriented toward the floor and fits the dispensing package 15 into the dispensing system 10. The open end of the container 125 may have a sealing surface, and a membrane seal 160 may engage the sealing surface. The membrane seal 160 may be recessed relative to the top wall 55 of the mating shell 40 to help protect the membrane seal 160 from unintentional rupture.

[0019] The combiner shell 40 may be a molded plastic part. The combiner shell 40 may be an interface between the container 125 and other components of the dispensing system 10. The combiner shell 40 may include a top wall 55 (FIG. 3). The top wall 55 may be generally oriented toward the floor when the floor treating composition 50 is being dispensed. The top wall 55 may have a top wall perimeter 60. The top wall perimeter 60 may bound the top wall 55 to define a boundary of the top wall 55 and a boundary between the top wall 55 and a shell wall 65. The shell wall 65 may extend from the top wall perimeter 60. The top wall 55 and the shell wall 65 together may partially define a shell interior.

[0020] The top wall 55 may have a longitudinal axis L and a transverse axis T that is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis L and intersects the longitudinal axis L at a z-axis Z. The z-axis Z may be orthogonal to the longitudinal axis L and the transverse axis T. The top wall 55 may be substantially planar so as to provide a wide surface for supporting the dispensing package 15 when it is stored or displayed on a shelf in a position where the docking shell 40 rests on the shelf. The top wall 55 may be further along the longitudinal axis L than along the transverse axis T.

[0021] The joining shell 40 may include a forward aperture 70 in the top wall 55. Optionally, the joining shell 40 may include a pair of forward apertures 70 in the top wall 55. Optionally, the joining shell 40 may include a pair of forward apertures 70 in the top wall 55 on one side of the longitudinal axis L. Optionally, each of the pair of forward apertures 70 may be positioned on either side of the transverse axis T. That is, the transverse axis T may be between each of the forward apertures 70. The joining shell 40 may further include a pair of rear apertures 75 in the top wall 55. Each of the pair of rear apertures 75 may be positioned on either side of the transverse axis T, with the longitudinal axis L between the front aperture 70 and the rear aperture 75. The transverse axis T may be between each of the rear apertures 75. The front apertures 70 and rear apertures 75 thus arranged are spaced apart from one another, with one aperture in each of the four quadrants defined by the longitudinal axis L and the transverse axis T. These spaced apart apertures provide locations for one or more latches to engage the docking shell 40, and thereby the device 1, to engage the dispensing package 15 within the dispensing system 10.

[0022] A portion of the front apertures 70 and a portion of the rear apertures 75 may be aligned with one another in a direction parallel to the horizontal axis T. Such an arrangement may provide a symmetrical or substantially symmetrical force distribution at the top wall 55 of the joining shell 40 when the dispensing package 15 is engaged within the dispensing system 10 and the device 1 is being manipulated across a floor by a user. The symmetrical force distribution at the top wall 55 may simplify the structural design and molding of the joining shell 40, as the thickness of the joining shell 40 may be set to the minimum thickness necessary to operate under maximum stress.

[0023] The top wall 55 may be open at the z-axis Z to provide a path for the floor treating composition 50 to be transported from within the container 125 to the outside of the container 125. As a non-limiting example, a dispensing opening 80 may be provided in the top wall 55 and aligned with the z-axis Z. Providing a dispensing opening 80 aligned with the z-axis Z may provide a symmetrical or substantially symmetrical force distribution at the top wall 55 when the dispensing package 15 is engaged with the device 1 and the device is being manipulated across a floor by a user. The dispensing opening 80 may be a dispensing opening that is completely bounded by the top wall 55.

[0024] The front apertures 70 may each have a leading edge 85 oriented away from the longitudinal axis L. The leading edges 85 may be equidistant from the longitudinal axis L. Similarly, the rear apertures 75 may each have an inner edge 90 oriented toward the longitudinal axis L. The inner edges 90 may be equidistant from the longitudinal axis L. Such an arrangement may provide uniform loading of the top wall 55 during use, which may simplify the structural design and molding of the docking shell 40.

[0025] Each of the front aperture 70 and the rear aperture 75 may be equidistant from the z-axis Z. Such an arrangement may provide a symmetrical or substantially symmetrical force distribution at the top wall 55 when the dispensing package 15 is engaged with the device 1 and the device is being manipulated across a floor by a user, which may simplify the structural design of the docking shell 40.

[0026] The dispensing package 15 may further include a first guide aperture 95 and a second guide aperture 100 in the top wall 55 positioned along the longitudinal axis L and on either side of the transverse axis T. Each of the front aperture 70 and the rear aperture 75 may be closer to the transverse axis T than the first guide aperture 95 and the second guide aperture 100. The first guide aperture 95 and the second guide aperture 100 may extend further away from the z-axis Z than the front aperture 70 and the rear aperture 75. Positioning the first guide aperture 95 and the second guide aperture 100 in this manner may provide a more spatially compact location for attaching the dispensing package 15 to the device 1 via one or more of the front aperture 70 and the rear aperture 75. Such an arrangement also places the front aperture 70 and rear aperture 75 closer to the neck of the container 125, providing better transfer of force from the latch to the neck of the container 125 to provide a leak-proof connection.

[0027] The first guide aperture 95 and the second guide aperture 100 may each be larger in area than the respective front aperture 70 and the respective rear aperture 75. This may be practical in that the guide apertures may provide the majority of the resistance force that stabilizes the dispensing package 15 within its fit within the dispensing system 10, as compared to the latches of the dispensing system 10, which may fit within one or more of the front aperture 70 and rear aperture 75. Additionally, the latches of the dispensing system 10 may be movable, and movable structures made from plastic may not be as durable as male molded plastic parts that are not movable relative to the material through which they extend.

[0028] The front aperture 70 and the rear aperture 75 may be outboard of the first guide aperture 95 and the second guide aperture 100 relative to the longitudinal axis L. The front aperture 70 and the rear aperture 75 may extend farther from the longitudinal axis L than the first guide aperture 95 and the second guide aperture 100, thereby providing greater torque resistance to rotational movement of the top wall 55 about the longitudinal axis L than that provided by the first guide aperture 95 and the second guide aperture 100. The front aperture 70 and the rear aperture 75 may be outboard of the first guide aperture 95 and the second guide aperture 100.

[0029] The first guide aperture 95 and the second guide aperture 100 may have a width measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L that is greater than the length measured along the longitudinal axis L. It is believed that users of the device 1 tend to move the device back and forth more vigorously than side to side. The forces generated by accelerating and decelerating the dispensing package 15 in this manner must be transmitted to the device 1. A guide aperture having a width greater than its length may accommodate a guide fitted into a guide aperture also having a width greater than its length, improving lateral shear resistance.

[0030] The docking shell 40 may extend further along the longitudinal axis L than along the transverse axis T. The top wall 55 may have second order rotational symmetry about the z-axis Z. This may help a user to properly align and engage the dispensing package 15 within the dispensing system 10 so that the first and second guide apertures 95, 100 can properly engage with their mating guides, and the front and rear apertures 70, 75 can properly engage with latches.

[0031] The mating shell 40 may include a dispensing opening 80 aligned with the z-axis Z. The dispensing opening 80 may provide an opening in the mating shell 40 through which the neck of the container 125 may engage the device 1. Providing a dispensing opening 80 aligned with the z-axis Z is practical in that other portions of the top wall 55 away from the z-axis Z may be used to engage the mating shell 40 with the device 1. Additionally, guide apertures may be distributed around the dispensing opening 80 to stabilize the position of the dispensing opening 80 relative to other components of the dispensing system 10.

[0032] The dispensing opening 80 may have a scalar open area. The scalar open area of ​​the dispensing opening 80 is a scalar quantity having units of length squared. The scalar open area of ​​the dispensing opening 80 is measured as the area of ​​the dispensing opening 80 measured perpendicular to the z-axis Z. To protect the membrane seal from damage during shipping and storage of the dispensing package 15, the dispensing opening 80 may have a smaller scalar open area than the neck attachment below the top wall 55. The scalar open area of ​​the neck attachment is a scalar quantity having units of length squared. The scalar open area of ​​the neck attachment bounded by the neck attachment is measured perpendicular to the z-axis Z. So positioned, when the coupling shell 40 is fitted to the neck of the container 125, the membrane seal may be recessed relative to the top wall 55, thereby reducing the likelihood of the membrane seal being unintentionally punctured during shipping and storage of the dispensing package 15.

[0033] Each front aperture 70 and each rear aperture 75 is approximately 4 mm 2 ~approx. 100mm 2 The scalar open area of ​​the front aperture 70 and the rear aperture 75 is measured perpendicular to the z-axis Z. The scalar open area of ​​the distribution opening 80 is about 50 mm 2 ~approx. 1000mm 2 , optionally about 100mm 2 ~approx. 500mm 2 The dispensing opening 80 may be circular, elliptical, or polygonal. The first guide aperture 95 and the second guide aperture 100 may each individually be in the range of about 4 mm.2 ~approx. 500mm 2 , optionally about 50mm 2 ~about 200mm 2 The front aperture 70 and the rear aperture 75 may be rectangular with short edges parallel to the longitudinal axis L. The front aperture 70 and the rear aperture 75 may be square with two edges parallel to the longitudinal axis L and two edges perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L. The guide apertures may have a scalar opening area of ​​approximately 50 mm. 2 ~about 300mm 2 The guide apertures may have individual scalar opening areas of about 50 mm 2 Approximately 300 mm from 2 The combined scalar open area of ​​the guide apertures may be about 50% to about 200% of the combined scalar open area of ​​the front aperture 70 and the rear aperture 75. The guide apertures may be bean-shaped, kidney-shaped, rectangular, square, oval, elongated oval, or other shape.

[0034] The container 125 may have a volume of about 0.1 L to about 5 L, optionally about 1 L to about 3 L. The dispensing package 15 has a volume of about 1 L / mm 2 ~Approx. 1L / 100mm 2 The ratio of the volume of the container 125 to the combined scalar opening area of ​​the first guide aperture 95 and the second guide aperture 100 may be about 0.05 L / mm. Such a configuration may assist a user in fitting the dispensing package 15 to the device 1. The dispensing package 15 may have a flow rate of about 0.05 L / mm. 2 ~About 1L / 500mm 2 The ratio of the volume of the container 125 to the combined scalar opening area of ​​the front aperture 70 and the rear aperture 75 may be 1 / 2.001 to 1 / 2.001. Such a configuration may help to provide a secure connection between the dispensing package 15 and the device 1 via one or more latches.

[0035] The combined scalar opening area of ​​the front aperture 70 and the rear aperture 75 as measured in the plane defined by the longitudinal axis L and the transverse axis T may be about 20% to about 70%, optionally about 30% to about 50%, optionally about 40% of the scalar opening area of ​​the distribution opening 80 as measured in the plane defined by the longitudinal axis L and the transverse direction.

[0036] A top view of the mating shell 40 is shown in FIG. 4. The front edge 85 and inner edge 90 of the front aperture 70 and the rear aperture 75 may be oriented in the same direction. At least a portion of the front edge 85 may be angled relative to the top wall 55. Similarly, at least a portion of the inner edge 90 of the rear aperture 75 may be angled relative to the top wall 55. Sloping the front edge 85 and / or inner edge 90 may facilitate guiding the latch into the respective aperture and may establish proper fit of the dispensing package 15 within the dispensing system 10. The top wall 55 may be at least partially angled about the front aperture 70 and the rear aperture 75. Sloping the front edge 85 and / or inner edge 90 may also provide a reaction surface that translates a force applied to the top wall 55 in the z-axis Z direction into a force applied to the latch in a direction substantially parallel to the plane defined by the longitudinal axis L and the transverse axis T, causing the latch to translate laterally.

[0037] Each of the front edges 85 may have substantially the same shape. Each of the inner edges 90 may have substantially the same shape. The front apertures 70 and the rear apertures 75 may be equidistant from the longitudinal axis L. Such an arrangement, individually or in combination, may provide a substantially uniform loading of the top wall 55 by the engaged latches.

[0038] The coupling shell 40 may further comprise a neck fitting 110 that surrounds or partially surrounds the dispensing opening 80, protrudes from the top wall 55 into the shell interior 115, and is aligned about or partially about the z-axis Z ( FIG. 5 ). The neck fitting 110 is a snap-on or threaded neck fitting 110 that comprises a snap ring or threads 121 that cooperate with threads or beads on the neck of the container 125 to engage the neck fitting 110 with the neck of the container 125. The neck fitting 110 may be a threaded neck fitting 110 that has threads that complementarily mate with threads on the neck of the container 125 to engage the neck fitting 110 with the neck of the container 125. Optionally, the neck fitting 110 may be a bayonet neck fitting 110 that complementarily fits with the neck of the container 125 to engage the neck fitting 110 with the neck of the container 125 .

[0039] The shell wall 65 may extend further along the z-axis Z than the neck mount 110. This configuration may provide space for the guide to protrude through the first guide aperture 95 and the second guide aperture 100 without the shoulder of the container 125 interfering with the fit of the guide within the guide aperture. Additionally, the shell wall terminal rim 120 may be configured to partially or fully contact the shoulder of the container 125 to support or partially support the container 125 at or near the shoulder when the container 125 is inverted.

[0040] The neck mount 110 may further include a land seal 165 that may engage with a membrane seal of the container 125. The land seal 165 may be a portion of the top wall 55 oriented toward the shell interior 115 that is raised relative to an adjacent portion of the top wall 55 oriented toward the shell interior 115. The land seal 165 may be a continuous or discontinuous rib about the z-axis Z that protrudes from the top wall 55 in a direction oriented toward the shell interior 115. The land seal 165 may sandwich the membrane seal between the land seal 165 and the sealing surface of the container 125. The land seal 165 may help ensure that the membrane seal of the container 125 does not pull away from the sealing surface of the container 125 if the membrane seal is punctured.

[0041] The bonding shell 40 can be a molded plastic part, the structure having a thickness of about 0.5 mm to about 10 mm. The material of construction of the bonding shell 40 can be polyethylene terephthalate, low density polyethylene, high density polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, polystyrene, polycarbonate, polylactide, acrylic, acrylic, acrylonitrile butadiene, styrene, fiberglass, nylon, or similar plastic material that can be formed into a bonding shell. The bonding shell 40 can be a paperboard part, a molded paperboard part, or a cast paperboard part.

[0042] The dispensing package 15 may further comprise a container 125 (FIG. 6). The container 125 may include a base 130, a body wall 135 extending from the base 130 towards the coupling shell 40 and about the z-axis Z, a shoulder 137 extending from the body wall 135 to a neck 140 extending about the z-axis Z, a finish 150 extending about the z-axis and from the neck 140 to a sealing surface 155 extending about the z-axis, and a membrane seal 160 engaging the sealing surface 155. The neck attachment 110 may be engaged with the neck 140.

[0043] Base 130 may be configured so that base 130 of container 125 can rest on a horizontal surface without further support. Base 130 may include raised or grooved features to provide strength, improved stability, or practical ability to shape container 125. Body wall 135 encloses most of the storage volume of container 125. Shoulder 137 marks the transition from body wall 135 to neck 140, with the shape of container 125 tapering at neck 140 relative to body wall 135.

[0044] The neck 140 of the container 125 may include threads or beads 145 that protrude away from the z-axis Z and extend around or partially around the z-axis Z, and the neck attachment portion 110 may be engaged with the threads or beads 145. The threads or beads 145 may provide a reaction surface against which the snap ring or threads 121 of the neck attachment portion 110 may be mated. The threads or beads 145 on the neck 140 may resist displacement of the neck attachment portion 110 along the z-axis Z relative to the neck 140. The neck attachment portion 110 may be engaged with the threads or beads 145 on the neck 140. The snap ring or threads 121 of the neck attachment portion 110 and the threads or beads 145 on the neck 140 may together engage the neck attachment portion 110 with the container 125. The neck 140 of the container 125 may include one or more threads that complement one or more threads on the neck mount 110 to engage the neck mount 110 with the container 125 by rotating the neck 140 and the neck mount 110 relative to one another.

[0045] The container 125 may be a thin-walled plastic container or a pulp or pulp-based container or a lined pulp container. The container 125 may be a blow molded, injection molded, injection blow molded, or other molded container. The container 125 may have an open end 170 bounded by a sealing surface 155. The open end 170 may be approximately 50 mm 2 ~about 2000mm 2 , optionally about 100mm 2 ~approx. 1000mm 2 may have a scalar aperture area of

[0046] The material of construction of container 125 can be pulp, polyethylene terephthalate, low density polyethylene, high density polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, polystyrene, polycarbonate, polylactide, acrylic, acrylic, acrylonitrile butadiene, styrene, fiberglass, nylon, or similar plastic material that can be formed into container 125. Container 125 can be a paperboard component, a molded paperboard component, or a cast paperboard component, and can optionally include an internal bladder or film liner made from a polymeric material or even a biodegradable polymeric material.

[0047] The membrane seal 160 can be an elastomeric membrane. The membrane seal 160 can be silicone or a single layer of silicone. Optionally, the membrane seal 160 can be a laminate of silicone and polyethylene terephthalate. The surface of the membrane seal 160 facing the interior container 125 can be polyethylene terephthalate to provide chemical compatibility between the membrane seal 160 and the contents of the container 125. The membrane seal 160 can be an elastomeric membrane. The membrane seal 160 can have a thickness of less than 5 mm, optionally less than 3 mm, optionally less than 2 mm, and optionally less than 1 mm. The membrane seal 160 can have a shape that can cover the sealing surface 155 of the container 125 and the open end 170 of the container 125. The membrane seal 160 can have a circular shape, and the sealing surface 155 of the container can similarly be a circular ring. The membrane seal 160 may be joined to the sealing surface 155 by, by way of non-limiting example, heat welding, gluing, welding, or other techniques.

[0048] When the mating shell 40 is assembled with the container 125, the top wall 55 of the mating shell 40 may be spaced apart from the shoulder 137 of the container 125 (FIGS. 7A, 7B). Such a configuration may provide space within the dispensing package 15 to accommodate a guide that may protrude through the first guide aperture 95 and the second guide aperture 100. The guide may provide a clue to the user as to how to properly orient the dispensing package 15 within the device 1 and, optionally, may provide some mechanical engagement between the guide and the top wall 55 of the mating shell 40.

[0049] The dispensing system 10 is shown in more detail in FIG. 8 . The dispensing system 10 may include a housing 180 that partially encloses a cavity 190. The cavity 190 may be sized and dimensioned to receive the dispensing package 15. The cavity 190 may be aligned with the z-axis Z. The housing 180 may be open toward the front of the device 1 so that the dispensing package 15 may be inserted into and removed from the cavity 190 from the front of the dispensing system 10. An opening 185 may be provided at the rear of the cavity 190 to allow a user to push the dispensing package 15 from the rear and out the front of the cavity 190. The housing 180 may be between the handle 5 and the mop head 20.

[0050] The dispensing system 10 may further include a cradle 200 movable within the housing 180 along the z-axis Z from a first position to a second position, as shown, by way of non-limiting example, in Figure 8. The cradle 200 may be sized and dimensioned to hold the dispensing package 15 in an appropriate rotational position about the z-axis Z so as to deliver the floor treatment composition 50 within the dispensing package 15 to the mop head 20.

[0051] In a first position where the dispensing package 15 is not installed within the cavity 190, the cradle 200 may present a molded surface to a user that is free of sharp protrusions or edges, as a non-limiting example shown in FIG. 8 . An attachment for disposing the floor treatment composition 50 within the dispensing package 15 in fluid communication with the mop head 20 may be shielded from contact by the user by the cradle 200. When the cradle 200 is moved to the second position, the floor treatment composition 50 within the dispensing package 15 may be in fluid communication with the mop head 20. To release the dispensing package 15 from the dispensing device 10, the user may press the button 250 toward the z-axis Z, thereby sliding a frame having an attachment that hooks in some way to the dispensing package 15 to a position where the attachment is disengaged from the dispensing package 15. The cradle 200 may then be moved or moved from the second position back to the first position, and the dispensing package 15 may be removed from the dispensing device 10.

[0052] After inserting the dispensing package 15 into the cavity 190, the user can push the dispensing package 15 downward. Pushing the dispensing package 15 downward pushes the cradle 200 into the second position.

[0053] An exploded view of the components positioned within the housing 180 is shown in Figure 9. The chassis 210 may be supported in a fixed position along the z-axis Z within the housing 180. The chassis 210 is a framework that supports various accessories for providing fluid communication between the floor treatment composition 50 within the dispensing package 15 and the mop head 20. The chassis 210 may further include a mechanism for securing the dispensing package 15 to the device 1.

[0054] The chassis 210 may support an inlet cannula 220 that is shielded from a user when the cradle 200 is in a first position and that protrudes through the cradle 200 when the cradle 200 is in a second position. The inlet cannula 220 may provide a liquid transport path through which the floor treatment composition 50 is delivered from within the dispensing package 15 to the mop head 20.

[0055] The chassis 210 may be engaged with the housing 180 at a fixed position along the z-axis Z. The cradle spring 230 may engage the cradle 200 and be positioned between the cradle 200 and the chassis 210. The cradle spring 230 may provide an upward driving force to disengage the dispensing package 15 from the inlet cannula 220 when the release mechanism is actuated.

[0056] When a user inserts the dispensing package 15 into the cavity 190, the cradle spring 230 may have a first stored energy that is greater than or equal to zero. The user may then push the dispensing package 15 downward to move the cradle 200 from the first position to the second position. As the cradle 200 moves downward, energy may be stored in the cradle spring 230 such that, in the second position, the cradle spring 230 has a second stored energy that is greater than the first stored energy. When the cradle release mechanism is activated, the energy stored in the cradle spring 230 moves the cradle 200 above the inlet cannula 220, disengaging the dispensing package 15 from the inlet cannula 220.

[0057] The sliding lock 240 may be slidingly engaged with the chassis 210. The sliding lock 240 may be reciprocally movable relative to the z-axis Z through a range of motion and at a fixed position along the z-axis Z. A user may engage the sliding lock 240 with the dispensing package 15 by inserting the dispensing package 15 into the cavity 190 and pushing down on the dispensing package 15, thereby moving the cradle 200 from a first position to a second position.

[0058] The slide lock 240 may include a button 250 that may be pressed to disengage the slide lock 240 from the dispensing package 15. The button 250 may be oriented in a direction away from the z-axis Z. The button 250 may be operably positioned such that a user can manually manipulate the position of the slide lock 240 relative to a fixed position along the z-axis Z. The button 250 may be the intended user-contact surface of the slide lock 240.

[0059] The sliding lock 240 may include an open frame 260 engaged with or extending from a button 250. The open frame 260 is open in alignment with the z-axis Z throughout the intended range of motion of the open frame 260. The open frame 260 provides space through which the inlet cannula 220 and any vent cannula may protrude such that they may protrude through the cradle 200 to engage the dispensing package 15 when the cradle 200 is in the second position. The button 250 may be integral with the open frame 260, i.e., molded as a single continuous piece, or may be attached to the open frame 260. The button 250 may provide an ergonomic surface that a user can press to manually manipulate the position of the open frame 260.

[0060] A plurality of latches 270 may extend from the open frame 260. Each latch 270 may extend from the open frame 260 in a direction toward the cradle 200 to a free end 280. One or more of the latches 270 may capture a portion of the dispensing package 15 to hold the dispensing package 15 in place while the device 1 is in use.

[0061] Each of the latches 270 may have a capture side 290 oriented toward the button 250 and a capture surface 300 oriented toward the open frame 260. The capture side 290 refers to the side of the latch 270 to which the capture surface 300 depends. The capture surface 300 acts to capture a portion of the dispensing package 15 and hold the dispensing package 15 in place when the device 1 is in use. When the capture surface 300 engages the dispensing package 15, it may provide a force or component of a force on the dispensing package 15 that is generally aligned with the z-axis Z in a direction toward the mop head 20. The capture surface 300 pulls on a portion of the dispensing package 15 to maintain the dispensing package 15 engaged with the inlet cannula 220 when the cradle 200 is in the second position. Providing the capture side 290 toward the button 250 is practical in that the act of pressing the button 250 may disengage the latch from structure that the latch engages on the dispensing package 15. A user may have better fine muscle control and stability to press the button 250 than to pull a tab or grip to disengage the latch 270, so pressing to disengage may be more advantageous than pulling. When a user presses the button 250, the frame spring 310 may be loaded, and as the cradle 200 moves toward the first position, the loaded stored energy may return the open frame 260 to its engaged position, with the cradle 200 over the latch 270 and the dispensing package 15 easily removed from the cavity 190. In this manner, the force required to engage the latch 270 with the dispensing package 15 is applied by the frame spring 310, rather than by the user. The force applied by the spring may be more controllable than the force applied by the user, increasing the likelihood that the latch 270 will be properly engaged with the dispensing package 15.

[0062] The capture side 290 of the free end 280 of each latch 270 may have a sloped surface 285 oriented away from the open frame 260. The sloped surface 285 may help facilitate engagement between the dispensing container 15 and the latch 270. When the dispensing container 15 is pushed down and the cradle 200 moves from the first position toward the second position, structure on the dispensing package 15 may depress the latch 270. The sloped surface 285 on the free end 280 of the latch 270 may transfer a portion of the applied normal force laterally, causing the open frame 260 to slide laterally and allowing the latch 270 to grip structure on the dispensing package 15, such as one or more front apertures 70 and / or rear apertures 75. The front edge 85 of the front aperture 70 and the inner edge 90 of the rear aperture 75 may also cooperate to transfer normal forces applied to the dispensing package 15 laterally to assist in translation of the open frame 260. Such cooperating ramped surfaces may help reduce the normal force a user must apply to the open frame 260 to move the dispensing package 15 into position so that the dispensing package 15 can be received and securely engaged by the latch 270 when the cradle 200 is in the second position. Additionally, the cooperating ramped surfaces guide the proper mating of the dispensing package 15 and the latch 270 when these elements are imperfectly aligned. By providing a ramped surface 285 oriented away from the open frame 260 on the capture side 290 of the free end 280 of each latch 270, a downward force on the dispensing package 15 may move the open frame 260 to engage the latch 270 with the dispensing package 15. Energy stored in the frame spring 310 may move the open frame 260 so that lateral engagement of the latch 270 with the dispensing package 15 can occur. The cooperating ramped surfaces may be cammed relative to one another.

[0063] The open frame 260 may have an engaged position and a disengaged position. The open frame 260 may be biased to be in the engaged position. The engaged position is a position where a dispensing package 15 is placed when the cradle 200 is in the second position, such that a latch 270 extending from the open frame 260 engages with the dispensing package 15. The engaged position of the open frame 260 is a position where the open frame 260 may tend to be when the cradle 200 is in the first position and a user is not pressing the button 250. When the open frame 260 is in the engaged position, the button 250 may be further away from the z-axis Z than when the open frame 260 is in the disengaged position. In the engaged position, the latch 270 is positioned to capture a portion of the dispensing package 15 when the cradle 200 is in the second position and a dispensing package 15 is placed. To transition the open frame 260 from the engaged position to the disengaged position, the user can press the button 250 to slide the open frame 260 partially across the z-axis Z, thereby moving the latch 270 to a position where it is not in a position to capture a portion of the dispensing package 15 when the cradle 200 is in the second position.

[0064] To bias the open frame 260 to the engaged position, the dispensing system 10 may further include a one-dimensional frame spring 310. The frame spring 310 may be biased to push the open frame 260 away from the z-axis Z so that the open frame 260 is in the engaged position. To move the open frame 260 to the disengaged position, a user may press the button 250 to displace the open frame 260. As the open frame 260 moves from the engaged position to the disengaged position, the frame spring 310 stores energy. When the user stops pressing the button 250, the frame spring 310 releases the stored energy, returning the open frame 260 to the engaged position. The frame spring 310 may have a compression or extension axis perpendicular to the z-axis Z. Biasing the open frame 260 to be in the engaged position may be practical to provide a stable mechanical engagement between the dispensing package 15 and the dispensing system 10. Furthermore, biasing the open frame 260 in this manner may require the user to provide some effort to engage the dispensing package 15 within the dispensing system 10, and the user may sense whether engagement has occurred by feeling a change in the force applied to the dispensing package 15 as it engages with the latch 270.

[0065] When a dispensing package 15 is not installed and the cradle 200 is in a first position, the open frame 260 may be in an engaged position, but the latch 270 is not engaged with the dispensing package 15. When a dispensing package 15 is installed in the cavity 190 and the cradle 200 is pushed down to a second position, the latch 270 may be engaged with the dispensing package 15. By pressing the button 250, the open frame 260 may be moved to a disengaged position, which releases the dispensing package 15 from capture by the latch 270 and allows the cradle spring 230 to push up the cradle 200, allowing a user to easily remove the dispensing package 15 from the cavity 190.

[0066] The dispensing system 10 may further include a carriage stop 265 or a pair of carriage stops 265 that project outward from the open frame 260 in a direction away from the z-axis Z, and optionally in a direction perpendicular to the z-axis Z. Each carriage stop 265 may be engaged with a respective stop catch 267 that is engaged with the chassis 210 or is an integral part thereof. The carriage stops 265 may limit the reciprocating range of motion of the open frame 260 as it moves from the disengaged position to the engaged position. The carriage stops 265 may be integral with the open frame 260, i.e., may be a single, continuous molded part.

[0067] In operation, a user can remove a dispensing package 15 by pressing the button 250. Pressing the button 250 can translate the open frame 260 to a disengaged position, thereby releasing the latch 270 from engagement with the dispensing package 15. The user can then remove the dispensing package 15 from the dispensing system 10. When the user releases the button 250, the open frame 260 can translate back to the engaged position. However, because there is no dispensing package 15 in the dispensing system 10, the latch 270 does not engage the dispensing package 15. The carriage stop 265 contacting the stop catch 267 limits the range of motion of the open frame 260 as the button 250 translates away from the z-axis Z.

[0068] The inlet cannula 220 may protrude through the open frame 260 in a direction parallel to or aligned with the z-axis Z. The dispensing system 10 may include two or more inlet cannulas 220, optionally two or more inlet cannulas 220. The inlet cannula 220 may include an inlet cannula inlet 330. The inlet cannula inlet 330 is the open end of the inlet cannula 220 through which the floor treatment composition 50 is transported on its way to the mop head 20. The inlet cannula inlet 330 may be sharpened so as to pierce the membrane seal 160. The inlet cannula 220 may be a non-coring needle so that the membrane seal 160 remains intact even when the membrane seal 160 is pierced by puncturing it. This is in contrast to a coring needle, in which the core of the membrane seal 160 separates or partially separates from the membrane seal 160 as the needle pushes through the membrane seal 160. Non-coring needles may be advantageous when a user engages and disengages the same dispensing package 15 multiple times with the dispensing system 10, as the membrane seal 160 pierced by a non-coring needle may be less likely to leak after the needle is removed compared to when a coring needle is used. Additionally, non-coring needles are less likely to generate chaff particles from the membrane seal 160 when piercing it.

[0069] The entrance cannula 220 may be straight. The entrance cannula 220 may be formed from a metal such as stainless steel, titanium, or aluminum. The entrance cannula 220 may have an outer diameter of about 0.5 mm to about 5 mm, optionally about 1 mm to about 3 mm. The entrance cannula 220 may have an inner diameter of about 0.2 mm to about 3 mm, optionally about 1 mm to about 3 mm. The entrance cannula inlet 330 may be straight or have a beveled edge and may have a tip angle of about 0 degrees to about 30 degrees, optionally about 10 degrees to about 20 degrees.

[0070] When the cradle 200 is in the first position, the inlet cannula entrance 330 may be between the chassis 210 and the cradle 200, which may shield the inlet cannula 220 when the cradle 200 is in the first position. The first position of the cradle 200 may occur when the dispensing package 15 is not installed in the dispensing system 10 or before the dispensing package 15 is pressed down to engage the dispensing package 15 with the inlet cannula 220.

[0071] The cradle 200 may include a liquid transfer aperture 340. The liquid transfer aperture 340 may be aligned with the inlet cannula 220 such that the liquid transfer aperture 340 is aligned with the inlet cannula 220. When the cradle 200 is in the second position, the inlet cannula inlet 330 may protrude through the cradle 200 at the liquid transfer aperture 340 in the cradle 200. When the dispensing package 15 is installed in the dispensing system 10, the liquid transfer aperture 340 may be aligned with the dispensing opening 80 of the coupling shell 40. This may allow the inlet cannula 220 to protrude through the cradle 200 at the liquid transfer aperture and pierce the membrane seal 160 through the dispensing opening 80, thereby allowing the floor treating composition 50 to be transported from the dispensing package 15 to the bed.

[0072] The dispensing system 10 may optionally include a vent cannula 225 that protrudes through the opening 260 in a direction parallel to the z-axis Z. The cradle 200 may further include a vent aperture 342. The vent aperture 342 may be aligned with the vent cannula 225. The vent cannula 225 may include a vent cannula outlet 335. When the cradle 200 is in the first position, the vent cannula outlet 335 may be between the chassis and the cradle 200 and aligned with the liquid transport aperture 340. When the cradle 200 is in the second position, the vent cannula 225 may protrude through the vent opening 342. The vent cannula outlet 335 is where airflow exits the vent cannula 225, i.e., into the dispensing package 15, during venting. The vent cannula 225 may provide for ventilation from the dispensing package 15 as the floor treating composition 50 is dispensed from within the dispensing package 15. As the floor treating composition 50 flows out of the dispensing package 15, air may be exhausted into the dispensing package 15 to equalize the pressure within the dispensing package 15 with the ambient pressure of the environment in which the device 1 is used. The vent cannula 225 may not be required if pressure equalization is addressed in another way, for example, by providing a vent as part of the dispensing package 15 or by containing the floor treating composition 50 in a collapsible bag that collapses as the floor treating composition 50 is dispensed therefrom. Optionally, the inlet cannula 220 may have a vent integrated therein.

[0073] The vent cannula 225 may be in fluid communication with a one-way vent valve 375 that is open to fluid flow in a direction toward the vent cannula outlet 335. When the dispensing package 15 is installed in the dispensing device 10, the vent cannula outlet 335 may be within the container 125 of the dispensing package 15.

[0074] The cradle 200 may include a plurality of engagement apertures 350 aligned with the latches 270 such that the engagement apertures 350 are aligned with the latches 270. When the cradle 200 is in the first position, the cradle 200 rests on the latches 270 such that the latches 270 are between the chassis 210 and the cradle 200. When the cradle 200 is moved to the second position, the cradle 200 lowers relative to the chassis 210 and the latches 270 may protrude through the cradle 200. When the dispensing package 15 is engaged with the dispensing system 10 and the cradle 200 is in the second position, the latches 270 may latch onto a portion of the dispensing package 15.

[0075] The cradle 200 may further comprise a pair of spaced apart guides 395 that protrude from the outward facing surface 390 of the cradle 200. The guides 395 may be further from the z-axis Z than the engagement apertures 350. The guides 395 may be outboard of the engagement apertures 350, and the z-axis Z may be aligned with and between the guides 395. The guides 395 may provide a protruding shape that may fit or conform to a portion of the dispensing package 15 when the dispensing package 15 is in the proper mating position.

[0076] Optionally, the cradle 200 may further comprise a pair of spaced apart stems 385 projecting from the inwardly facing surface 380 of the cradle 200. These stems 385 may fit into and / or through openings through the chassis 210 to help guide movement of the cradle 200 from the first position to the second position and to stabilize the mating of the cradle 200 with the chassis 210.

[0077] The dispensing system 10 may further include a pump 360 in fluid communication with the inlet cannula 220. The pump 360 may pump the floor treatment composition 50 from the dispensing package 15 to the mop head 20. The mop head 20 may be in fluid communication with the pump 360. The pump 360 may be connected to the mop head 20 via the conduit 30.

[0078] The pump 360 may be a manual piston pump 360 activated by a trigger that is repeatedly pulled or pressed to generate upstrokes and downstrokes of the pump 360. The pump 360 may be an electromechanical pump 360 activated by a switch 3 attached to the handle 5. The pump 360 may be, by way of non-limiting example, a gear pump, impeller pump, piston pump, screw pump, peristaltic pump, diaphragm pump, or any other pump that can fit into a small space having a volume of less than 1 L. When an electromechanical pump 360 is used, a power source may be on-board the device 1. The power source may be integrally molded into the dispensing system 10 or may be attached to the dispensing system 10. The power source may be a rechargeable battery, a disposable battery, or household alternating current connected to the device by a cord with an optional transformer. The pump 360 may provide a flow rate of about 20 mL / min to about 400 mL / min, optionally about 150 mL / min to about 250 mL / min.

[0079] The dispensing system 10 may further include a check valve 365 downstream of the pump 360. The check valve 365 may be downstream of the pump 360 and upstream of the conduit 30. The check valve 365 may be directional to permit flow from the pump 360 into the conduit 30. The check valve 365 may help prevent backflow into the pump 360 and may also act to retain the bed treatment composition 50 within the conduit 30 by creating a vacuum within the conduit 30 downstream of the check valve 365, thereby reducing the possibility of uncontrolled dripping out of the conduit 30 when the pump 360 is not operating or when the device is not in use.

[0080] The dispensing system 10 may include a pair of opposing cradle supports 370. The cradle supports 370 are oriented toward the z-axis Z and may engage with a cradle inward-facing surface 380 when the cradle 200 is in the first position. The cradle inward-facing surface 380 is oriented toward the chassis 210. The cradle 200 may have an outward-facing surface 390 opposite the cradle inward-facing surface 380. The cradle supports 370 may support the cradle 200 from below when the cradle 200 is in the first position and may resist movement of the cradle 200 from the first position toward the second position. The cradle 200 may be in the first position before the dispensing package 15 is installed in the dispensing system 10. In this situation, the cavity 190 is open, so a user may unintentionally contact the cradle 200 and push the cradle 200 down toward the chassis 210. As a result, the inlet cannula 220 may unintentionally protrude through the cradle 200 at the fluid transport aperture 340, making the inlet cannula 220 and optional vent cannula 225 accessible to the user.

[0081] Each of the cradle supports 370 may extend across at least a portion of the outward-facing surface 390 from an actuation arm 400 that extends outside the periphery 405 of the cradle 200. The cradle supports 370 may extend from the actuation arm 400 toward the z-axis Z to support the cradle 200 from below. When a dispensing package 15 is inserted into the cavity 190 and seated within the cradle 200, portions of the dispensing package 15 may push against the actuation arm 400, pushing the arm end 402 of the actuation arm 400 away from the z-axis Z. Moving the arm end 402 of the actuation arm 400 away from the z-axis Z may disengage the cradle supports 370 from the inward-facing surface 380 of the cradle 200. In effect, the dispensing package 15 may spread the actuation arms 400 apart, thereby moving the cradle supports 370 from below the cradle 200. This releases the cradle 200 to move from the first position towards the second position.

[0082] Providing the actuation arms 400 outside the periphery 405 of the cradle 200 and on a portion of the outward-facing surface 390 may provide a mechanism for disengaging the cradle supports 370 from the cradle 200 by default when a dispensing package 15 is seated within the cradle 200. A user does not need to manually operate a switch or lever or other mechanical or electromechanical device to disengage the cradle supports 370. Rather, the cradle supports 370 are disengaged by the user performing the intended action of placing the dispensing package 15 into the cradle 200. This simplifies user operation of the dispensing system 10. Furthermore, because the actuation arms 400 are on both sides of the cradle 200, it is unlikely that a user could unintentionally disengage both cradle supports 370 simultaneously and move the cradle 200 from a first position to a second position.

[0083] Each cradle support 370 may be engaged with a lever arm 410 that engages with the chassis 210 at a hinge 420. Each hinge 420 may include a hinge spring 430 biased to rotate the lever arm 410 toward the z-axis Z. By supporting the cradle 200 in a first position with the cradle supports 370 depending from the lever arms 410 hingedly engaged with the chassis 210, the cradle supports 370 may be easily and repeatedly disengaged and engaged from the cradle inward-facing surface 380. The hinge spring 430 biased to rotate the lever arms 410 toward the z-axis Z may provide automatic engagement between the cradle supports 370 and the cradle inward-facing surface 380. The hinge spring 430 may be a coil spring with one end engaged with the chassis 210 and the other end engaged with the lever arm 410 at or near the location where the lever arm 410 connects to the hinge 420.

[0084] The mechanism for suppressing unintentional movement of the cradle 200 from the first position to the second position includes a lever arm 410 extending from a hinge 420 engaged with the chassis 210 to the actuation arm 400, the cradle support 370 extending from the lever arm 410 in a direction toward the z-axis Z at a position between the hinge 420 and the actuation arm 400 and engaged with the cradle inward surface 380, the actuation arm 400 extending outside the peripheral portion 405 and across at least a portion of the cradle outward surface 390, the hinge 420 including a hinge spring 430 biased to rotate the lever arm 410 toward the z-axis Z, and the cradle support 370 can be disengaged from the cradle 200 by inserting the dispensing package 15 into the cavity 190 and fitting the dispensing package 15 to the cradle 200, making it easy for the user to operate. A portion of the dispensing package 15 may push the actuation arm 400 in a direction away from the z-axis Z, which in turn moves the cradle support 370 from under the cradle 200 such that the cradle 200 is free to be pushed from the first position to the second position. A user does not even need to understand that the mechanism exists or how it operates, as the mechanism may operate automatically when the user inserts the dispensing package 15 into the cavity 190 as part of the expected use of the device 1.

[0085] Assembly of the components of dispensing system 10 is shown in FIG. 10 , where cradle 200 is in a first position. In the first position, inlet cannula 220 is positioned between cradle 200 and chassis 210. This may limit the possibility of a user unintentionally touching inlet cannula 220. Furthermore, when cradle 200 is in the first position, actuation arm 400 reaches and slightly above outward-facing surface 390 of cradle 200. Below cradle 200, cradle support 370 engages inward-facing surface 380 of cradle 200, thereby resisting movement of cradle 200 from the first position to the second position.

[0086] In FIG. 11A , the cradle 200 is in a first position, and the mating shell 40 of the dispensing package 15 is not shown for clarity. Because the actuation arm 400 must be moved outward to disengage the cradle support 370 from the inward-facing surface 380 of the cradle 200, it may be difficult for a user to unintentionally manipulate the cradle 200 to the second position without inserting a dispensing package 15. As shown in FIG. 11B , when the cradle 200 is in the second position, the inlet cannula 220 protrudes upward through the liquid transfer aperture 340. The latch 270 also protrudes upward through the engagement aperture 350. The cradle support 370 is outboard of the cradle 200 to enable movement of the cradle 200 from the first position to the second position. The actuation arm 400 is also shown moved outward, away from the z-axis, as would be the case if a dispensing package 15 were attached to the cradle 200.

[0087] 12, where docking shell 40 is included in the drawing, when cradle 200 is in the second position, inlet cannula 220 protrudes upwardly through liquid transfer aperture 340. Latch 270 also protrudes upwardly through engagement aperture 350. Cradle support 370 is external to cradle 200 to allow movement of cradle 200 from the first position to the second position. Actuation arm 400 is also shown moved outward, away from the z-axis, as would be the case if a dispensing package 15 were attached to cradle 200.

[0088] 12 illustrates the cradle 200 in a second position with the mating shell 40, which may form part of the dispensing package 15. As shown in FIG. 12, the latch 270 passes through the engagement aperture 350 of the cradle 200 and projects upwardly through the front aperture 70 and rear aperture 75 of the mating shell 40. The catch side 290 of the latch 270 engages with the front aperture 70 and rear aperture 75 of the mating shell 40 to secure the mating shell 40, thereby securely securing the container 125 within the cavity 190. One or more of the engagement positions of the latch 270 and one or more of the front aperture 70 and rear aperture 75 may provide stability to the dispensing package 15 in the event that a user bumps the mop head 20 against a stationary object during use.

[0089] 13A-13D show how the docking shell 40 can engage with the latch 270. In FIG. 13A, the dispensing package 15 is brought near the cradle 200 by a user. The frame spring 310 can be in a low or no stored energy state. The engagement aperture 350 is aligned with the latch 270 so that the latch 270 can pass through the engagement aperture 350. The front aperture 70 and the rear aperture 75 are also aligned with the latch 270. The guide 395 is aligned with the first guide aperture 95 and the second guide aperture 100.

[0090] In FIG. 13B, a user pushes the dispensing package 15 downward from the first position toward the second position. The cradle spring 230 stores energy as it is loaded. The front aperture 70 and rear aperture 75 contact the latch 270. The angled surface 285 of the free end 280 of the latch 270 may contact a cooperatively angled edge of the front aperture 70 or rear aperture 75 with which the respective latch 270 is aligned. A normal force applied to the dispensing package 15 by the user may be transferred to the angled surface 285 of the free end 280 of the latch 270. A component of that normal force may provide a lateral force that moves the open frame 260 laterally. When the latch 270 is fully pushed out (FIG. 13C), the cradle 200 may be slightly further depressed along the z-axis Z. The open frame 260 and latch 270 can be moved rearward and the catch surface 300 of the latch 270 can engage the docking shell 40 (FIG. 13D).

[0091] As previously mentioned, a user may disengage the dispensing package 15 by pressing the button 250 to move the open frame 260 and disengage the latch 270 from the front and rear apertures 70, 75 of the docking shell 40. Once disengaged, the cradle spring 230 may push the cradle 200 back from the second position to the first position. In the first position, the user may disengage the dispensing package 15 from the device 1.

[0092] The dispensing package 15 can be engaged with the dispensing system 10 by the following steps: The dispensing package 15 can be manually positioned so that the mating shell 40 is oriented downward. That is, the dispensing shell 40 can be oriented toward the cradle 200. The front aperture 70 is aligned with the engagement aperture 350 and the liquid transfer aperture 340 of the dispensing opening 80. The top wall 55 is manually contacted with the cradle 200. The container 125 is manually pushed downward to move the cradle 200 from the first position to the second position, thereby causing the inlet cannula 220 to pierce the membrane seal 160. The latch 270 engages with the front aperture 70. The container 125 is then released, leaving the dispensing package 15 engaged with the latch 270. The method can further include contacting the dispensing package 15 with an actuation arm 400 to disengage the cradle support 370 from the inward-facing surface 380. The method may further include pressing the button 250 to move the open frame 260 from an engaged position to a disengaged position to disengage the dispensing package 15 from the one or more latches 270 .

[0093] Non-limiting examples of a joinder shell 40 that may be used as part of a dispensing package 15 are shown in FIGS. 14-22. The joinder shell 40 may include at least two support zones 440. Each support zone 440 may include a portion of the top wall 55 and an open area 450 in the top wall 55 that is at least partially bounded by a leading edge 85 that is substantially parallel or parallel to the longitudinal axis L. Such one or more leading edges 85 may provide a location for the dispensing package 15 to securely engage with the device 1. The open area 450 may be continuous between the support zones 440. A continuous open area 450 may help reduce part weight, thereby reducing material and shipping costs incurred by users and making the dispensing package 15 easier to handle.

[0094] One or more of the leading edges 85 may be chamfered or beveled. As discussed above, the chamfered or beveled leading edges 85 may help guide the latch 270 into the open area 450 of the support zone 440 and, in some cases, may transfer a force to the latch 270 to laterally displace the latch 270 so that the latch 270 can pass through the open area 450 and subsequently latch onto the top wall 55.

[0095] Each of the support zones 440 may be at least partially bounded by opposing leading edges 85 that are substantially parallel or parallel to the longitudinal axis L. Having both opposing leading edges 85 parallel or substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L may provide two orientations about the z-axis Z in which the dispensing package 15 may be engaged with the device 1. Both opposing leading edges 85 may be chamfered or beveled to allow the latch 270 to conveniently mate with the support zones 440 in either orientation of the coupling shell 40 about the z-axis Z.

[0096] The open area 450 can be continuous between the support zones 440, for example, as shown in Figures 14-20 and 23. This can reduce the weight of the joining shell 40 and reduce the amount of material required to manufacture the joining shell 40. Optionally, the open area 450 can be continuous with the neck attachment portion 110, which can also reduce the weight of the joining shell 40 and reduce the amount of material used to manufacture the joining shell 40. A non-limiting example of such an arrangement is shown in Figure 23, which is a bottom view of a joining shell 40 in which the neck 110 is not continuous.

[0097] The docking shell 40 may include four support zones 440. The four support zones 440 may be distributed into four quadrants defined by the longitudinal axis L and the transverse axis T. Providing four support zones 440 may provide greater stability and engagement redundancy for the dispensing package 15 to the device 1. The support zones 440 may be positioned on either side of the transverse axis T. Such an arrangement may help stabilize the dispensing package 15 from rotational movement about the z-axis Z when the device 1 is in use. Optionally, the support zones 440 may be positioned on either side of the longitudinal axis L, thereby providing stability for the dispensing package 15 against side-to-side movement along the longitudinal axis L of the device 1. The support zones 440 on either side of the transverse axis T may or may not be aligned with each other relative to an axis parallel to the transverse axis T.

[0098] The leading edges 85 may be equidistant from the longitudinal axis L. Optionally, the support zone 440 may be equidistant from the z-axis A. The support zone 440 may be equidistant from the transverse axis T. The support zone 440 may be equidistant from the longitudinal axis L. These arrangements, and combinations of these arrangements, may simplify the mechanical design of the mechanism for engaging the latch 270 with the dispensing package 15 and provide symmetry of the mechanism.

[0099] 14-22, the open area 450 may extend further from the longitudinal axis L than the first guide aperture 95 and the second guide aperture 100, which may increase the torque resistance of the connection between the dispensing package 15 and the device 1. Optionally, the front aperture 70 and the rear aperture 75 are not aligned with each other relative to an axis parallel to the transverse axis T. Similarly, the support zones 440 may not be aligned with each other relative to an axis parallel to the transverse axis T (e.g., FIGS. 21 and 22).

[0100] A bottom view of the combining shell 40 is shown in Figure 23. The neck attachment portion 110 may partially surround the dispensing opening 80. The neck attachment portion 110 may surround more than about 30%, optionally more than 50%, optionally more than 80%, and optionally 100% of the dispensing opening 80. The neck attachment portion 110 need only have sufficient structure to securely engage the neck 140 of the container 125 under the expected forces that the neck attachment portion 110 may need to withstand during manufacturing, secondary packaging, distribution, shelf display, transportation to a user's home, and installation and use at a user's home.

[0101] combination The following is an example. A. A dispensing package (15) for a floor treatment composition (50), the dispensing package comprising: A combining shell (40) including a top wall (55), the top wall having a top wall periphery (60) and a shell wall (65) extending from the top wall periphery, the top wall and the shell wall partially defining a shell interior (115), the top wall having a longitudinal axis (L) and a transverse axis (T) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and intersecting the longitudinal axis at a z-axis (Z), the z-axis being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and the transverse axis, the combining shell comprising: a front opening (70) in the upper wall; a dispensing opening (80) in the top wall aligned with the z-axis; a combining shell (40) further including a neck attachment (110) at least partially surrounding the dispensing opening, projecting from the top wall into the shell interior and aligned with the z-axis; a container (125) including a base (130), a body wall (135) extending from the base toward the coupling shell and extending about the z-axis, a shoulder (137) extending from the body wall to a neck (140) extending about the z-axis, a finish (150) extending about the z-axis and from the neck to a sealing surface (155) extending about the z-axis, and a membrane seal (160) engaging the sealing surface, wherein the neck fitment engages the neck; The top wall is spaced from the shoulder, dispensing package (15).

[0102] B. The dispensing package of paragraph A, wherein the dispensing package comprises a pair of the front apertures.

[0103] C. The dispensing package of paragraph B, wherein the pair of front apertures are on one side of the longitudinal axis.

[0104] D. The dispensing package of paragraphs B or C, wherein the front apertures are on opposite sides of the horizontal axis.

[0105] E. The dispensing package of any of paragraphs B-D, wherein the front apertures each have a leading edge (85) oriented away from the longitudinal axis, the leading edges being equidistant from the longitudinal axis.

[0106] F. The dispensing package of any of paragraphs B-E, wherein the forward apertures each have a leading edge (85) oriented away from the longitudinal axis, at least a portion of the leading edge being chamfered or beveled relative to the top wall.

[0107] G. The dispensing package of any of paragraphs B-F, wherein the front apertures each have a leading edge (85) oriented away from the longitudinal axis, the leading edges being equidistant from the longitudinal axis, and each leading edge having substantially the same shape.

[0108] H. The dispensing package of any of paragraphs A-G, wherein the shell wall extends further along the z-axis than the neck attachment portion.

[0109] I. The dispensing package of any of paragraphs A-H, wherein the dispensing package further comprises a first guide aperture (95) and a second guide aperture (100) in the top wall positioned along the longitudinal axis and on either side of the horizontal axis, the first guide aperture and the second guide aperture extending further from the z-axis than the front aperture.

[0110] J. The dispensing package of any of paragraphs AI, wherein the first guide aperture and the second guide aperture each have a larger area than the respective front aperture.

[0111] K. The dispensing package of any of paragraphs A-J, wherein the dispensing opening has a smaller scalar opening area than the neck attachment portion.

[0112] L. The dispensing package of any of paragraphs B-K, wherein the front aperture extends further from the longitudinal axis than the first guide aperture and the second guide aperture.

[0113] M. The dispensing package of any of paragraphs A-L, wherein the shell further comprises a pair of rear apertures (75) in the top wall positioned on either side of the horizontal axis, the longitudinal axis being between the front apertures and the rear apertures, and a portion of the front apertures and a portion of the rear apertures being aligned with one another in a direction parallel to the horizontal axis.

[0114] N. The dispensing package of paragraph M, wherein the rear apertures each have an inner edge (90) oriented toward the longitudinal axis, the inner edges being equidistant from the longitudinal axis.

[0115] O. The dispensing package of paragraph N, wherein at least a portion of the inner edge is chamfered or beveled relative to the top wall.

[0116] P. The dispensing package of paragraph N or O, wherein each inner edge has substantially the same shape.

[0117] Q. The dispensing package of any of paragraphs M-P, wherein the rear apertures are equidistant from the longitudinal axis.

[0118] R. The dispensing package of any of paragraphs MQ, wherein the front aperture and the rear aperture are equidistant from the longitudinal axis.

[0119] S. The dispensing package of any of paragraphs M-R, further comprising a first guide aperture (95) and a second guide aperture (100) in the top wall positioned along the longitudinal axis and on either side of the transverse axis, the first guide aperture and the second guide aperture extending further from the z-axis than the rear aperture.

[0120] T. The dispensing package of paragraph S, wherein the first guide aperture and the second guide aperture each have a larger area than the respective rear aperture.

[0121] U. The dispensing package of paragraphs S or T, wherein the first guide aperture and the second guide aperture have a width measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis that is greater than a length measured along the longitudinal axis.

[0122] V. The dispensing package of any of paragraphs A-U, wherein the neck attachment comprises a land seal (165) that engages with the membrane seal.

[0123] W. The dispensing package of any of paragraphs A-V, wherein the combining shell extends further along the longitudinal axis than along the transverse axis.

[0124] X. The dispensing package of any of paragraphs B-W, wherein the front apertures are equidistant from the z-axis.

[0125] Y. The dispensing package of any of paragraphs M-X, wherein the rear apertures are equidistant from the z-axis.

[0126] Z. The dispensing package of any of paragraphs A-Y, wherein the membrane seal is recessed relative to the top wall.

[0127] AA. The dispensing package of any of paragraphs A-Z, wherein the neck further comprises a thread or bead (145) projecting from the neck away from the z-axis and extending around or partially around the z-axis, and the neck attachment portion is engaged with the thread or bead.

[0128] BB. A method of engaging a dispensing package (15) according to any of paragraphs A-AA, comprising: manually positioning the joining shell in a downward orientation; manually aligning the z-axis of the mating shell to a predetermined position and then manually positioning the mating shell in a disengaged position; manually pushing downward on the container to move the docking shell from the disengaged position to the engaged position in a direction coincident with the z-axis; releasing the dispensing package, leaving the dispensing package in the engaged position.

[0129] CC. The method of paragraph BB, wherein the method further includes perforating the membrane seal as the mating shell is moved from the disengaged position to the engaged position.

[0130] The dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein should not be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​recited. Instead, unless otherwise indicated, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm."

[0131] All documents cited herein, including any cross-referenced or related patents or patent applications, and any patent application or patent to which this application claims priority or benefit, are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any document shall not be deemed to be prior art to any invention disclosed or claimed herein, or to teach, suggest, or disclose any such invention, either alone or in combination with any other reference or references. Furthermore, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall control.

[0132] While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this invention.

Claims

1. A dispensing package (15) for a floor treatment composition (50), said dispensing package comprising: A joining shell (40) including a top wall (55), the top wall having a top wall periphery (60) and a shell wall (65) extending from the top wall periphery, the top wall and the shell wall partially defining a shell interior (115), the top wall having a longitudinal axis (L) and a transverse axis (T) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and intersecting the longitudinal axis at a z-axis (Z), the z-axis being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and the transverse axis, the joining shell comprising: a front aperture (70) in the top wall; a dispensing opening (80) in said top wall and aligned with said z-axis; a combining shell (40) further including a neck attachment (110) at least partially surrounding the dispensing opening, protruding from the top wall into the shell interior, and aligned with the z-axis; a container (125) including a base (130); a body wall (135) extending from the base toward the coupling shell and extending about the z-axis; a shoulder (137) extending from the body wall to a neck (140) extending about the z-axis; a finish (150) extending about the z-axis and from the neck to a sealing surface (155) extending about the z-axis; and a membrane seal (160) engaging the sealing surface, wherein the neck mount engages the neck; The dispensing package (15), wherein the top wall is spaced from the shoulder.

2. The dispensing package of claim 1 , wherein the dispensing package comprises a pair of the front apertures.

3. 3. The dispensing package of claim 2, wherein the pair of forward apertures are on one side of the longitudinal axis.

4. 4. A dispensing package according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the front apertures are on either side of the transverse axis.

5. A dispensing package according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the forward apertures each have a leading edge (85) oriented away from the longitudinal axis, the leading edges being equidistant from the longitudinal axis.

6. A dispensing package as described in any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein each of the forward apertures has a leading edge (85) oriented away from the longitudinal axis, at least a portion of the leading edge being chamfered or beveled relative to the top wall.

7. A dispensing package according to any preceding claim, wherein the shell wall extends further along the z-axis than the neck attachment portion.

8. The distribution package of any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a first guide aperture (95) and a second guide aperture (100) in the top wall positioned along the longitudinal axis and on either side of the horizontal axis, the first guide aperture and the second guide aperture extending further away from the z-axis than the front aperture.

9. A dispensing package according to any preceding claim, wherein the dispensing opening has a smaller scalar open area than the neck fitting.

10. 10. The dispensing package of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the shell further comprises a pair of rear apertures (75) in the top wall positioned on either side of the horizontal axis, the longitudinal axis being between the front aperture and the rear aperture, and a portion of the front aperture and a portion of the rear aperture being aligned with each other in a direction parallel to the horizontal axis.

11. 11. The dispensing package of claim 10, wherein the rear apertures each have an inner edge (90) oriented toward the longitudinal axis, the inner edges being equidistant from the longitudinal axis.

12. 12. A dispensing package according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the front aperture and the rear aperture are equidistant from the longitudinal axis.

13. The distribution package of any one of claims 10 to 12, further comprising a first guide aperture (95) and a second guide aperture (100) in the top wall positioned along the longitudinal axis and on either side of the horizontal axis, the first guide aperture and the second guide aperture extending further away from the z-axis than the rear aperture.

14. A dispensing package according to any preceding claim, wherein the combining shell extends further along the longitudinal axis than along the transverse axis.

15. A dispensing package according to any preceding claim, wherein the membrane seal is recessed relative to the top wall.

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