Housing for volatile composition dispenser

Abstract

A housing for a volatile composition dispenser is described. A housing for holding a cartridge containing a volatile composition, comprising a front frame and a rear frame that can move away from each other or toward each other to open and close the housing, the front frame comprising a window configured to receive a portion of the cartridge, the front frame comprising a window configured to receive a portion of the cartridge, the front frame comprising a window configured to receive a portion of the cartridge, at least a portion of the periphery of the window being bordered by a wall portion projecting from the window toward the interior of the housing, the wall portion being configured to support the cartridge within the housing without adhesion, the rear frame comprising one or more openings configured to allow airflow into the housing, and the housing comprising holding the cartridge between the front frame and the rear frame to allow the volatile composition to evaporate from the cartridge.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of devices and systems for delivering volatile compositions, and more particularly to an openable and closable housing for a volatile composition dispenser, a housing for holding a replaceable cartridge, and related components and methods.

Background Art

[0002] Systems for delivering volatile materials into the atmosphere are well known in the art. Such systems include insect repellents, air fresheners, malodor removers, etc., which function by evaporating the volatile material into the space to provide various benefits such as air purification or malodor removal.

[0003] Most volatile composition dispensers are configured for single use. Typical disposable air freshener dispenser devices are described in WO 98 / 16262 and WO 2017 / 192639, which include an air freshener medium in a container and a push button actuator that can break a foil covering the container to manually operate and initiate the dispensing of the air freshener into the air. A problem associated with such devices is that after the volatile composition is depleted, the volatile composition dispenser cannot be refilled or replenished and restarted. As a result, the entire product is discarded, contributing to the environmental problem of plastic waste.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Therefore, a volatile composition dispenser is needed that features a reusable housing and replaceable cartridges for delivering volatile materials. In addition, it would be beneficial for the volatile composition dispenser to offer an easy-to-use and more intuitive operating mechanism, as well as improved user satisfaction. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The housing of this disclosure comprises a refillable and reusable housing via a cartridge containing a volatile composition. Thus, in some embodiments, the present invention provides the following:

[0007] 1. A housing for holding a cartridge containing a volatile composition, the housing comprising a front frame and a rear frame that can move away from each other or toward each other to open and close the housing, The front frame has a window configured to receive part of the cartridge, At least a portion of the window is bordered by a wall portion that protrudes from the window into the interior of the housing, and the wall portion is configured to support the cartridge within the housing without adhesive. The rear frame has one or more openings configured to allow airflow into the housing, The housing is configured to hold the cartridge between the front and rear frames, allowing the volatile composition to evaporate from the cartridge. housing.

[0008] 2. The housing as described in Clause 1, such that when the housing holds the cartridge and is oriented for use, a portion of the cartridge rests on a portion of the wall portion.

[0009] 3. The wall portion comprises a solid wall and / or The wall portion includes either or both of intermittent walls and a series of projections. Housing as described in Clause 1 or 2.

[0010] 4. A housing as described in any one of clauses 1 to 3, wherein the wall and rear frame are configured to support the cartridge without adhesive.

[0011] 5. The housing is one of the housings described in any one of clauses 1 to 4, which allows the cartridge to be removed from the housing without being touched by the user.

[0012] 6. The front frame and the rear frame are connected via hinges, and The housing has a locking mechanism for locking the housing in a closed position, which can be released. Housing as described in any one of clauses 1 to 5.

[0013] 7. The housing as described in Clause 6, wherein the hinge is located at the first end of the housing and the locking mechanism is located at the opposite end of the housing.

[0014] 8. The housing as described in Clause 6 or 7, wherein the front frame and the rear frame can be opened to each other at an angle of at least 90°.

[0015] 9. The housing according to any one of clauses 6 to 8, wherein the locking structure comprises a button latch on the front frame, the button latch being configured to engage releasably with a corresponding structure on the rear frame.

[0016] 10. The button latch includes a deformable overhang button connected to the latch. Optionally, the latch has a T-shape including a stem portion with a diameter of 1.2 mm to 1.4 mm. Housing as described in Clause 9.

[0017] 11. The latch can withstand a force of 95 to 115 N without being damaged, and the force is applied substantially perpendicular to the latch from the maximum distance of the deformable overhang button, for the housing according to clause 10.

[0018] 12. The deformable overhang button substantially elastically retains deformation over the deformation range for opening and closing the locking structure during at least 100 locking cycles, for the housing according to clause 10 or 11.

[0019] 13. The deformable overhang button is located on the back of the front frame, and the protrusion of the deformable overhang button onto the front of the front frame overlaps with the flat area on the front of the front frame, for the housing according to any one of clauses 10 to 12.

[0020] 14. The force required to open the housing is 15 N to 55 N for at least 10 locking cycles when the force is applied substantially perpendicular to the deformable overhang button, for the housing according to any one of clauses 10 to 13.

[0021] 15. The locking structure is configured to generate a sound of at least 50 dB, Optionally, a sound of 50 dB to 65 dB, for the housing according to clause 6 or any one of clauses 7 to 14 dependent on claim 6.

[0022] 16. The sound is generated when the deformable overhang button part returns from the deformed state to the natural state, for the housing according to clause 15.

[0023] 17. The force required to close the housing is 20 N to 120 N for at least 10 locking cycles when the force is applied substantially perpendicular to the center point of the rear frame of the housing, for the housing according to any one of clauses 1 to 16.

[0024] 18. The housing according to any one of Clauses 1 to 17, wherein the rear frame comprises one or more rib elements configured to exert a compressive force on the cartridge when the housing is closed and the cartridge is positioned within the housing.

[0025] 19. A volatile composition dispenser, Housing as defined in any one of clauses 1 to 18, and A cartridge configured to be placed inside a housing, A reservoir containing at least one liquid volatile composition, A membrane for sealing the reservoir, A cartridge equipped with Equipped with, The cartridge is held within the housing without adhesive. The cartridge is supported by the wall, and The cartridge can be removed from the housing without being touched by the user. Volatile composition dispenser.

[0026] 20. The volatile composition dispenser according to Clause 19, wherein the cartridge has a maximum travel distance of less than 4 mm within the plane of the window.

[0027] 21. The housing and cartridge shall be such that when the service life of the cartridge located within the housing is reached, the cartridge will... (i) Steps to open the housing, (ii) The step of turning the housing upside down, A volatile composition dispenser according to either clause 19 or 20, configured to be removable from a housing without the step of disengaging or detaching the cartridge from the housing.

[0028] In this configuration, the openable housing configuration and the arrangement of wall portions configured to support the cartridge provide the advantages described in detail herein. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0029] This specification details the present invention and concludes with claims that clearly define it, but the present invention is thought to be better understood from the following description made in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Figure 1] This is a front perspective view of a single-component volatile composition dispenser. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a rear perspective view of the volatile composition dispenser shown. [Figure 3A] Figure 1 is an exploded side perspective view of the volatile composition dispenser shown. [Figure 3B] The front and rear frames are shown. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram of a fracture mechanism with a single configuration. [Figure 5A] This is a front view of the housing in its open state, in a single configuration, where the housing has a through-latch locking structure. [Figure 5B] Figure 5A is a perspective view of the housing including the cartridge. [Figure 6A] This shows one configuration of a volatile composition dispenser in a locked state, equipped with a button latch. [Figure 6B] This is a front view of the volatile composition dispenser shown in Figure 6A, in the open state. [Figure 6C] Figure 6B is a perspective view of the volatile composition dispenser shown. [Figure 7] This is a side view of a single-component volatile composition dispenser, showing a housing with separation slots. [Figure 8] This is a front view of a single-component volatile composition dispenser, showing a housing with a separation tab. [Figure 9]This is a front view of a cartridge configuration in which the cartridge includes a removable sealing substrate with a pull tab. [Figure 10] This diagram illustrates the effect of compressive force on the filling level of volatile substances within the cartridge. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0030] Herein, various configurations are described in order to provide an overall understanding of the structure, function, manufacture, and principles of use of the apparatus and methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these configurations are shown in the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the apparatus and methods specifically described herein and shown in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary configurations, and that the scope of the various configurations of this disclosure is defined solely by the claims. Features illustrated or described in relation to one exemplary configuration can be combined with features of other exemplary configurations. Such modifications and variations are included within the scope of this disclosure.

[0031] The present invention relates to a housing for use with a cartridge containing a volatile composition, wherein the housing and the cartridge together form a volatile composition dispenser. Specifically, the housing is for holding the cartridge during use and is, for example, for ensuring the correct configuration and proper airflow and preventing any leakage or spillage of the volatile composition.

[0032] housing The present invention relates to a housing for holding a cartridge containing a volatile composition, comprising a front frame and a rear frame that can move away from each other or toward each other to open and close the housing, The front frame has a window configured to receive part of the cartridge, At least a portion of the window is bordered by a wall portion that protrudes from the window into the interior of the housing, and the wall portion is configured to support the cartridge within the housing without adhesive. The rear frame has one or more openings configured to allow airflow into the housing, The housing is configured to hold the cartridge between the front and rear frames, allowing the volatile composition to evaporate from the cartridge.

[0033] The housing is for holding a cartridge containing a volatile composition, and the cartridge is configured to be held between the front frame and the rear frame. In this context, "holding" should be understood as securing the cartridge within the housing in a manner appropriate for the cartridge to perform its function. Thus, the housing ensures that the cartridge is held in an appropriate form and can prevent the cartridge from falling out and leaking the volatile composition.

[0034] The housing comprises a front frame and a rear frame. The front frame and the rear frame together may form substantially the entire housing, for example, at least 90% or at least 95% by weight of the housing.

[0035] The front and rear frames are configured to move toward or toward each other in order to open and close the housing. The front and rear frames may be completely detachable from each other and movable toward and toward each other without any constraint, or they may be connected at a first end (e.g., via a hinge) but movable toward or toward each other at a second end on the opposite side. For example, the front and rear frames may be connected at a first end and be able to move toward or toward each other at a second end on the opposite side in order to open and close the housing. In some configurations, the front and rear frames may be able to open to an angle of at least 90°, which improves the ease of replacing cartridges in the housing. When the housing is closed, the front and rear frames define an internal space for holding cartridges containing volatile compositions.

[0036] The front frame includes a window configured to receive a portion of the cartridge held within the housing. The window advantageously allows the cartridge to be seen from the outside of the volatile composition dispenser, which may allow for easy determination of the volatile composition's filling level without opening the dispenser. The window may be a notch in the housing (e.g., the front frame), or it may be a portion of the housing (e.g., the front frame) made from a transparent material. The window is configured to receive a portion of the cartridge, thereby allowing a portion of the cartridge to be placed within the window.

[0037] The window portion may have any suitable shape. To securely hold the cartridge and prevent it from rotating, the window may be elliptical. The window may have any suitable size. For example, the window may have a maximum dimension of about 4.5 cm to about 5.5 cm. The window may be elliptical and have an aspect ratio of about 1.2 to about 1.8, for example, about 1.3 to about 1.6.

[0038] At least a portion of the window is bordered by a wall portion that projects from the window into the interior of the housing. The wall portion is configured to support the cartridge within the housing without adhesive. For example, a portion of the cartridge may rest on the wall portion when the cartridge is held within the housing. To provide a stable base for the cartridge, the wall portion may project substantially perpendicularly from the window of the housing. Thus, the wall portion may project from the window at an angle to the window, for example, 80° to 100° or 85° to 95°. This allows the cartridge to be supported and held securely within the housing, but allows for quick and easy removal by the user, since the cartridge is not glued to the housing. In this context, “adhesion” refers to the use of adhesive, such as glue, adhesive tape, or adhesive strips such as Velcro, to secure the cartridge within the housing. Thus, in some configurations, the cartridge may not have adhesive on the outer portion of the cartridge that is intended to releasably bond the cartridge to the housing.

[0039] The wall portion may have any suitable shape that allows the wall portion to support the cartridge within the housing without adhesive bonding. For example, the wall portion may consist of a solid (e.g., uninterrupted) wall, or it may consist of interrupted portions of the wall, or it may be formed from a plurality of protrusions. Those skilled in the art will understand that any of these configurations can be used to support the cartridge within the housing.

[0040] In addition to the cartridge being supported by the wall portion without adhesive, the housing may be configured to support the cartridge without any mounting mechanism. In this context, “mounting mechanism” refers to any mechanism that secures the cartridge within the housing and requires an active release or disengagement step, and does not allow the cartridge to easily fall out of the housing when the housing is opened and inverted. For example, “mounting mechanism” could refer to a hook or clamp, or any other mounting means for securing the cartridge to the housing that requires a disengagement or release step. Alternatively, the housing may be configured to hold the cartridge using mounting means that can be released or disengaged without touching the cartridge, such as via a button or slider.

[0041] Accordingly, the housing described herein typically allows the user to remove a used or completed cartridge from the housing without having to touch the cartridge, and advantageously avoids contact between the user's hands and the organic components of the volatile composition throughout the cartridge's lifecycle. This is advantageous because, at the end of the cartridge's life, the film is still moistened with residual volatile materials (and any non-volatile components present) that are typically organic and unpleasant to touch. This advantage may also be achieved by ensuring that the cartridge is held within the housing without adhesive or attachment, so that the user can easily lift the open housing to remove the cartridge without having to disengage or remove the cartridge from the housing. This advantage is illustrated by Figures 6B and 6C showing how the cartridge may be positioned within the housing. When this housing is opened, it is difficult to lift the cartridge without touching the film, and therefore advantageous that the cartridge can be removed instead by simply lifting the open housing and letting the cartridge fall.

[0042] Thus, in some configurations described herein, the housing can be configured such that the cartridge can be removed from the housing without the user touching the cartridge. In this context, “without the user touching” should be understood as enabling the removal of the cartridge without the user touching the cartridge, whether the user touches the cartridge directly or indirectly, such as by using gloves or another tool like a stick.

[0043] Therefore, in some configurations, the housing and cartridge are such that when the service life of the cartridge located within the housing is reached, the cartridge is... (i) Steps to open the housing, (ii) The step of turning the housing upside down, The cartridge can be configured to be removed from the housing without the need for a step to disengage or detach the cartridge from the housing.

[0044] Therefore, in some configurations, the housing is configured such that, when the housing is in an open configuration, the cartridge placed inside the housing can be removed by bending the housing.

[0045] The combination of a window configured to receive a portion of the cartridge and a wall portion configured to support the cartridge within the housing helps to hold the cartridge securely in place when the housing is closed, without requiring adhesive or other bonding means. In some such configurations, the window may be a cutout in the front frame configured to receive a portion of the cartridge. For example, the window may be a cutout in the front frame configured to receive the reservoir of the cartridge.

[0046] To facilitate the release of the volatile composition, the rear frame includes one or more openings configured to allow airflow into the housing, thereby allowing evaporated volatile composition to exit the housing. The openings may be configured as described in U.S. Patent No. 11,207,440. Furthermore, the front frame may also include one or more openings to facilitate airflow through the housing. In some configurations, the openings included in the front frame may have a smaller opening area than one or more openings in the rear frame.

[0047] As referred to herein, when the housing is closed, the front and rear frames define an internal space for holding a cartridge containing a volatile composition. Thus, the housing is configured to hold the cartridge between the front and rear frames.

[0048] The front and rear frames may both be provided with a locking structure for releasably connecting the front and rear frames together when the housing is closed. Thus, the locking structure can releasably lock the housing in the closed state. The locking structure may be located at the movable end of the housing (e.g., a second end), which faces a first end to which the front and rear frames may be connected, for example, via a hinge. Various locking structures can be utilized, including, for example, latches, snap fasteners, clasps, and catches. Specific examples of latch locking structures include through-latch and button latch structures. Therefore, in some configurations, the locking structure may include a button latch on the front frame, which is configured to releasably engage with a corresponding structure on the rear frame. The button latch may include a deformable overhanging button connected to the latch, and the latch may have a T-shape. The T-shaped latch may engage with a corresponding structure on the rear frame, such as a groove or latch. In some configurations, the T-shape may include a stem portion having a diameter of 1.2 mm to 1.4 mm. Although the components of the locking structure have been described above as being located on the front or rear frame, those skilled in the art will understand that these arrangements can be reversed so that the button latch is located on the rear frame and can engage with the corresponding structure on the front frame.

[0049] In some configurations, the components of the locking structure (e.g., the latch described above) can withstand forces of 95–115 N without breaking, provided that the force is applied substantially perpendicularly to the component (e.g., the latch) over the maximum distance from the mounting point to the rest of the housing (e.g., from the mounting point to the deformable overhang button described above).

[0050] To enhance the ease of operation of the locking mechanism, the housing may have a flat portion on the frame opposite the working part of the locking mechanism. For example, if a deformable overhang button is located on the rear of the front frame, the projection of the deformable overhang button onto the front of the front frame may overlap with a flat area on the front of the front frame. This means that when the user grips the housing while wishing to activate the deformable overhang button on the rear frame, the user's hand may be able to grip the aforementioned flat area on the front frame and grip it firmly. The flat area may also provide an effective base for the user to press the deformable overhang button while pressing this flat area. Those skilled in the art will understand that this flat area may be applicable to other locking mechanisms.

[0051] Typically, the peak force required to activate a locking mechanism is between 15N and 55N. This force is generally measured by applying it perpendicularly to the locking mechanism over 10 locking cycles. For example, the peak force required to open the housing may be between 15N and 55N (e.g., 25N and 55N) over at least 10 locking cycles when the force is applied substantially perpendicularly to the deformable overhang button. While not theoretically bound, it is thought that an actuation force of less than 15N could result in the housing opening spontaneously or accidentally, such as during a fall. On the other hand, an actuation force exceeding 55N may be difficult for some users to operate and may require manufacturing parts with higher durability, potentially increasing costs.

[0052] The locking mechanism may be configured to produce a sound of at least 50 dB (e.g., 50 dB to 65 dB) when the housing is closed and the locking mechanism is engaged. This sound confirms to the user that the housing is properly closed and locked in the closed position. This sound confirms to the user that the cartridge has been activated, and is therefore particularly advantageous when the housing is used with a cartridge that is activated by closing the housing, as described herein. This overcomes the problem of prior art volatile composition dispensers, including button actuation mechanisms, in which the user is often unsure whether pressing the button has properly activated the cartridge. The sound can also enhance user satisfaction. The sound may be produced, for example, when a deformable overhang button portion returns from a deformed state to a natural state and / or when the latch engages with the intended corresponding structure.

[0053] The peak force required to close the housing when it does not contain a cartridge as defined herein, including engaging the locking mechanism if one exists, may be, for example, 10N to 40N for at least three locking cycles. Typically, this force may correspond to the peak force required to overcome and engage the locking mechanism to fix the housing in the closed position. In some configurations, the peak force for closing the housing when it does not contain a cartridge may be 13N to 35N, for example, 15N to 30N.

[0054] On the other hand, the peak force required to close the housing when the housing is accommodating a cartridge as defined herein may be higher than those described above, including the force required to engage the locking mechanism if present. This may be particularly true when closing the housing causes the sealing substrate to break and / or when the housing includes rib elements that act to compress the cartridge as described herein. In this case, the peak force required to close the housing may be 20N to 120N, e.g., 45N to 110N, 50N to 105N, or 55N to 100N for at least 10 locking cycles. The higher peak force required to close the housing when accommodating a cartridge may be caused by the force required to break the sealing substrate and / or compress the cartridge, in addition to the force required to actuate the locking mechanism.

[0055] The peak force required to close the housing can be measured by fixing the front frame at an angle such that the joint between the front and rear frames is horizontally parallel when the housing is closed. The rear frame can then be positioned in equilibrium near the front frame, for example, in a position where components of the locking mechanism are in contact but the locking mechanism is not engaged. The peak force can be measured by applying a force perpendicularly downward to the dimensional center point of the rear frame of the housing and determining the peak force required to close the housing.

[0056] As described above, the housing has a front frame and an opposing rear frame. The front frame and the rear frame are movable relative to each other, allowing the housing to represent a closed position and an open position. The front frame and the rear frame may be pivotally connected to each other or may be completely separable. In some configurations, the front frame and the rear frame may be pivotally connected to each other, for example. This is advantageous because it reduces the total number of separate parts and makes it easier for the user to replace cartridges in the volatile composition dispenser. For example, the user can hold the housing with one hand and the replacement cartridge with the other. In contrast, if the front frame and the rear frame are completely separable, there are three parts that the user must handle with both hands.

[0057] To improve ease of use, the housing may be equipped with hinges as described herein (for example, the housing may be equipped with a pivotably connected front frame and rear frame). The hinge / pivot connection allows the user to utilize a lever effect when closing the housing and applying the compressive force as described herein.

[0058] In some configurations, the connection between the front and rear frames (e.g., a pivot) may provide some resistance (e.g., frictional resistance) to opening and closing the housing, allowing the front and rear frames to hold an open position without external support. This can, advantageously, improve the ease of replacing cartridges within the housing.

[0059] In some configurations, the connection between the front and rear frames (e.g., a pivot) may provide sufficient resistance (e.g., frictional resistance) when opening and closing the housing so that the front and rear frames can hold the open position without external support. This can, advantageously, improve the ease of replacing cartridges within the housing. The housing may also include a releasable catch or other means for temporarily locking the front and rear frames in the open position to facilitate cartridge replacement.

[0060] Regardless of the nature of the connection between the front and rear frames, the front and / or rear frames may be provided with separation tabs and / or separation slots that facilitate the user's gripping of the front and / or rear frames and facilitate the separation of the front frame from the rear frame. If separation tabs are provided on both the front and rear frames, the separation tabs may be spaced apart from each other to facilitate the user's gripping. For example, one or more separation slots may be contained within the interface between the front and rear frames, or may be contained entirely within the front or rear frame. If more than one separation slot is used, the first separation slot may be located on one side of the housing, and the second separation slot may be located on the opposite side of the housing.

[0061] When separation tabs are used, the front frame may have one or more front separation tabs spaced apart from each other, and the rear frame may similarly have one or more rear separation tabs spaced apart from each other. In such a configuration, one or more front separation tabs may similarly be spaced apart from one or more rear separation tabs.

[0062] The housing can typically be formed from a plastic material such as polypropylene. Those skilled in the art will recognize other suitable plastics that may be used.

[0063] The rear frame can help secure the cartridge within the housing. For example, on one side, the cartridge may be secured by the window / wall portion as described above, and on the opposite side of the cartridge, it may be secured by the rear frame. The rear frame may have one or more rib elements that can be configured to collide with the cartridge when the housing is closed. Thus, the rib elements on the rear frame can collide with one side of the cartridge, while the opposite side of the cartridge is received by the window and supported by the wall portion of the front frame. This allows the rib elements, together with the front frame, to exert a compressive force on the cartridge, helping to secure the cartridge in place. The advantages arising from the compressive force are described in more detail below. The rib elements can take the form of one or more projections extending from the rear frame toward the center of the housing. The rib elements can have any suitable shape, such as a cube, cuboid, cylinder, cone, or polygon, which may have any suitable size and, for example, straight or curved edges and faces. The rib elements may have any suitable size, but typically they may have a maximum dimension extending from the rear frame by about 0.1–1 cm and a maximum dimension parallel to the plane of the rear frame by about 0.1–2 cm. However, those skilled in the art will understand that larger or smaller rib elements may be used.

[0064] Typically, the rib elements are configured to apply compressive force to the cartridge membrane (either through direct impact via the membrane or through one or more additional components or layers) when the housing is closed.

[0065] In configurations where rib elements are configured to directly apply compressive force to the membrane during use, the rib elements should be of an appropriate size and shape so as not to rupture, penetrate, or otherwise damage the membrane.

[0066] Volatile composition dispenser The present invention also provides a volatile composition dispenser, which dispenses Housing as defined herein, and A cartridge configured to be placed inside a housing, A reservoir containing at least one liquid volatile composition, It comprises a cartridge containing a membrane for sealing the reservoir.

[0067] A volatile composition dispenser can be used to dispense at least one volatile composition and / or other solutions or compositions, such as perfumes, fragrances, and / or insecticides, into the area surrounding the volatile composition dispenser or into the atmosphere. A volatile composition may consist of a single chemical substance or a single material that can enter the gas phase under atmospheric conditions, or more generally, a volatile composition may consist of a mixture of chemical substances and / or materials that can enter the gas phase under atmospheric conditions.

[0068] While volatile composition dispensers may be intended for use in interior spaces such as rooms within buildings or in the passenger compartments of vehicles, the present invention is not limited to such uses. Although volatile composition dispensers are discussed herein in relation to use in interior spaces such as rooms within buildings, those skilled in the art will understand that dispensers may be configured for use in any suitable environment and may be configured to dispense any suitable solution, chemical, material, and / or composition.

[0069] A volatile composition dispenser may be configured as a non-electric volatile composition dispenser for the continuous delivery of a volatile composition. "Non-electric" may mean that the device is passive and does not need to be powered by an external energy source. The volatile composition dispenser does not need to be powered by a heat source, gas source, or current source, and the volatile composition is generally not delivered by aerosol means.

[0070] The continuous emission of at least one volatile composition may be for any suitable length, such as up to 20, 30, 40, 60, or 90 days, shorter or longer, or any period between 10 and 90 days. Naturally, the volatile composition dispenser may contain more or fewer volatile compositions to increase or decrease its effective service life. Furthermore, the effective service life of the volatile composition dispenser may depend on the operating conditions (i.e., temperature, pressure, moisture content, airflow, etc.).

[0071] As described above, the housing may include a window and a wall extending from around the window. In some configurations, the volatile composition dispenser may include a cartridge configured to be received by the window and supported by the wall portion. For example, the cartridge may include a portion (e.g., a reservoir portion) that substantially matches the shape of the window of the front frame. The aforementioned (e.g., reservoir) portion may be configured to extend into the window of the front frame by at least 1 mm, at least 2 mm, at least 3 mm, at least 4 mm, or at least 5 mm. In such cases, the aforementioned (e.g., reservoir) portion may extend entirely through the window or remain within the window. Furthermore, the aforementioned (e.g., reservoir) portion may substantially match the circumferential shape of the window and / or the circumferential shape of the wall portion extending from the window. The aforementioned (e.g., reservoir) portion may remain within the window and be configured to have a maximum distance of less than 3 mm, e.g., less than 2 mm, e.g., less than 1 mm, e.g., less than 0.5 mm from around the window and / or the wall portion.

[0072] In some configurations, the cartridge may be held within the housing so that it cannot rotate within the housing. This may be the case, for example, when the cartridge is received by a non-circular window within the housing.

[0073] In yet another configuration, the cartridge, once received by the window, is substantially immobile within the window's plane. For example, the cartridge may have a maximum travel distance within the window's plane of less than 4 mm, e.g., less than 3 mm, less than 2 mm, or less than 1 mm. In this context, maximum travel distance refers to the longest distance the cartridge can move linearly within the window's plane. This characteristic can be measured while the housing is open.

[0074] This disclosure relates to a method for preparing a volatile composition dispenser, (i) the step of providing a housing as defined herein, (ii) A method further comprising the step of placing a cartridge inside a housing, the cartridge having a reservoir for containing at least one liquid volatile composition and a membrane for sealing the reservoir.

[0075] cartridge A volatile composition dispenser comprises a cartridge configured to be housed within a housing. The cartridge is typically a single-use, disposable cartridge containing a volatile composition for release into the surrounding environment. When the cartridge runs out of volatile composition, it can be removed from the housing and replaced with a new cartridge. The depleted cartridge may be discarded. This configuration (a reusable housing with a disposable, replaceable cartridge) reduces the amount of material contributing to landfills and uses less volume of material (e.g., plastic) during the manufacturing process compared to a completely disposable, disposable volatile composition dispenser. Nevertheless, those skilled in the art will understand that a volatile composition dispenser may instead comprise a reusable cartridge that is itself refillable, so that a depleted cartridge can be removed from the housing, refilled with volatile composition, and then returned to the housing for reuse.

[0076] The cartridge comprises at least a reservoir and a membrane. Typically, the cartridge also includes a sealing substrate. The reservoir contains a volatile composition and is sealed by the membrane and, if present, the sealing substrate. If both the membrane and the sealing substrate are present, they may seal the reservoir in any order. Thus, the membrane may surround the sealing substrate, or the sealing substrate may surround the membrane.

[0077] The cartridge may include a sealing region as described herein. Therefore, the cartridge may include an outer sealing region in which both the reservoir and the outer periphery of the film can be sealed. In a configuration where the sealing substrate surrounds the film, the outer periphery of the sealing substrate may be sealed to the outer periphery of the film within the outer sealing region; that is, insofar as the sealing substrate can be removed from the cartridge, the outer peripheries of the reservoir, film, and sealing substrate may be sealed together within the outer sealing region. This may occur when the edges of the reservoir and film are adjacent. Alternatively, the edge of the reservoir may extend beyond the edge of the film, and the sealing substrate may be directly sealed to the reservoir in the outer periphery region of the reservoir beyond the edge of the film. In a configuration where the film surrounds the sealing substrate and the cartridge also includes a break mechanism for breaking the sealing substrate, the outer sealing region may include only the outer periphery of the reservoir and film. In such a configuration, the cartridge may also include an inner sealing region in which the inner periphery of the reservoir is sealed to the sealing substrate. This can be achieved by providing an intermediate step in the inner circumference of the reservoir (for example, between the outer circumference of the reservoir and the main body), and the sealing substrate can be sealed in the intermediate step of the reservoir.

[0078] The reservoir, film, and encapsulation substrate will be described in order below.

[0079] reservoir The reservoir contains the volatile composition and has an opening surrounded by a membrane and a sealing substrate.

[0080] The cartridge reservoir may typically be formed from a plastic material and, advantageously, may be transparent so that the filling level of the volatile composition in the reservoir can be easily observed. An example of a suitable material is polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0081] In some configurations, the reservoir may be configured to be received by a window in the housing, and as a result, the cartridge is held securely within the housing when the housing is closed. In such configurations, it may be advantageous for the reservoir to be formed from a transparent material so that the level of volatile composition filling in the reservoir can be seen from the outside of the volatile composition dispenser, such as through the window.

[0082] The reservoir may have any suitable shape. To securely hold the cartridge and prevent its rotation, the reservoir may correspond to the shape of a window in the housing configured to hold the cartridge together. Therefore, the reservoir may have an elliptical shape. A combination of a window and a reservoir, both having an elliptical shape, ensures that the cartridge is held firmly within the window and cannot rotate within it. Furthermore, the absence of corners / vertices makes it easier to place and remove the cartridge from the window than a polygonal shape that requires specific alignment. When an elliptical cartridge is placed within an elliptical window, the curved edges of the cartridge and window naturally align the cartridge during insertion, improving ease of use and user experience. The reservoir may have any suitable size. For example, the reservoir may have a maximum dimension of approximately 4.5 cm to approximately 5.5 cm. The reservoir may be elliptical and have an aspect ratio of approximately 1.2 to approximately 1.8, for example, approximately 1.3 to approximately 1.6. These dimensions can be measured at the maximum distance from the membrane in a plane parallel to the plane of the membrane. The reservoir may have a trapezoidal taper as it extends away from the membrane (for example, the reservoir may have a tapered cross-section as the distance from the membrane increases). This taper guides the cartridge into the window during insertion, thus improving the ease of insertion into the housing window. The reservoir may have a variable depth, which may also increase the ease of insertion into the housing window, as the shallower end of the reservoir may be inserted first, and the inclined section of the reservoir may assist in aligning the reservoir into the window during insertion. Thus, the reservoir may have a depth at the first end that is greater than the depth at the second end. In some configurations, the reservoir may comprise a first end section, a second end section at the opposite end of the first end section, and an inclined section between them. In some configurations, the inclined section may have an inclination angle of 2° to 35°, e.g., 3° ​​to 25°, e.g., 4° to 15°.The first and second end sections may correspond to the respective ends of the cartridge such that the inclined sections extend to and from the first and / or second ends. Alternatively, the first and / or second end sections may have a substantially uniform depth with the inclined sections in between. In this regard, the substantially uniform depth may correspond to a maximum depth to minimum depth ratio of about 1 to about 1.4, preferably about 1 to about 1.3, and more preferably about 1 to about 1.2, where the maximum and minimum depths are measured along a line that bisects the cartridge longitudinally.

[0083] It is worth noting that reservoir depth can be particularly useful when the sealing substrate is removable. Removable sealing substrates are described in more detail below. For example, if the reservoir depth is sufficient, the user may grip the sidewall of the reservoir while removing the sealing substrate. A reservoir depth of at least 5 mm, more preferably at least 6 mm, even more preferably at least 7 mm, or most preferably at least 8 mm is considered to provide a suitable gripping surface when the user removes the sealing substrate. The above represents the minimum reservoir depth that provides a sufficient gripping surface, but it is further considered that if the reservoir depth is too high, the cartridge may become difficult to handle. For example, the reservoir depth may be 15 mm or less, preferably about 14 mm or less, more preferably about 13 mm or less, and most preferably 12 mm or less. Of course, a range of reservoir depths may be created by combining the minimum and maximum reservoir depths.

[0084] Furthermore, as mentioned above, if the reservoir depth varies along its length and / or width, it may be preferable to have the reservoir depth described above adjacent to the pull tab for the sealing substrate. This can improve the ease of gripping the cartridge while removing the sealing substrate. For example, if the pull tab is located on the side of the cartridge, the maximum reservoir sidewall depth may be adjacent to the pull tab, for example, on the side of the cartridge.

[0085] As described above, the reservoir has a side wall. The periphery may extend outside the side wall. The periphery of the cartridge may have a sealing region to which the film and sealing substrate are bonded to the reservoir. If the sealing substrate is removable, an adhesive insufficiency region may be provided at the periphery. To provide sufficient adhesion between the film and the sealing substrate, the periphery should have a width of at least 3 mm, more preferably at least 5 mm (generally perpendicular to the side wall). To facilitate the removal of the sealing substrate, the insufficiency region may have a width of at least 1 mm, more preferably 2 mm, and even more preferably at least 2.5 mm, from the outer edge of the periphery toward the side wall. If the adhesive insufficiency region exceeds 2.5 mm, it is thought that it will adversely affect the adhesion between the sealing substrate and the film, which may lead to leakage during transport, storage, and / or use.

[0086] film The volatile composition is in liquid form and is configured to evaporate through a membrane. Therefore, the cartridge includes a microporous membrane, sometimes referred to herein as the “membrane” for brevity. The membrane may surround a reservoir so that the volatile composition cannot escape the cartridge without passing through the membrane. The membrane may also prevent the passage of liquid so that the volatile composition can escape the cartridge only by evaporation through or from the membrane.

[0087] The membrane is vapor permeable and can draw up liquid, but prevents the free flow of liquid from the membrane. Any suitable membrane can be used. Specific properties that may result in an advantageous membrane are described below, purely as examples. However, the present invention is not limited to membranes having the following properties, and any membrane known in the art that can evaporate volatile compositions can be used in the present invention.

[0088] The film can have any suitable volume-average pore size, such as 0.01 μm to 0.5 μm, e.g., 0.02 μm to 0.3 μm, e.g., 0.05 μm to 0.2 μm, more specifically 0.065 μm to 0.15 μm, as it can provide improvements in terms of evaporation rate and control of leakage or evaporation of volatile compositions. In certain configurations, the film may have volume-average pore sizes of 0.065 μm to 0.15 μm, 0.07 to 0.12 μm, 0.07 to 0.11 μm, or 0.08 to 0.1 μm.

[0089] In some configurations, the membrane may have a pore size distribution such that at least 50%, for example, at least 60%, for example, at least 70%, for example, at least 80%, or for example, at least 90% of the membrane's pores have a pore size of 0.065 μm to 0.15 μm.

[0090] The membrane may contain polyethylene such as ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) (for example, it may be formed from it), but polyethylene chains of other lengths may also be used. As used herein, UHMWPE refers to polyethylene having a molecular weight of about 3.5 million to 7.5 million amu.

[0091] The film may have a thickness of approximately 0.01 mm to 1 mm, or approximately 0.2 mm to 0.4 mm, or approximately 0.22 mm to 0.37 mm, for example, approximately 0.25 mm to 0.35 mm in the z direction.

[0092] The membrane may be formed from a single piece or a single sheet of material. In other words, the membrane does not have to be laminated. Therefore, the membrane may be formed from a single sheet of polyethylene having the thickness described above.

[0093] Those skilled in the art will understand that the surface area of ​​the film can vary depending on the size of the cartridge preferred by the user. In some configurations, the (evaporative) surface area of ​​the film may be approximately 2 cm² to 100 cm², or approximately 10 cm² to 50 cm², or approximately 10 cm² to 45 cm², or approximately 10 cm² to 35 cm², or approximately 15 cm² to 40 cm², or approximately 15 cm² to 35 cm², or approximately 20 cm² to 35 cm², or approximately 30 cm² to 35 cm², or approximately 35 cm².

[0094] The membrane may have any suitable porosity. For example, the membrane may have a porosity of 45% to 70% by volume, for example, 45% to 65%. In a particular configuration, the porosity may be 50% to 70%, for example, 55% to 65%.

[0095] The membrane is 0.6-2 cm 3 It may have any appropriate total pore volume, such as / g. Typically, the total pore volume is 0.65–1.6 cm³. 3 / g, for example, 0.7~1.5cm 3 It may be / g. In a specific configuration, the total pore volume is 0.8 to 1.4 cm³. 3 / g is also acceptable.

[0096] The membrane has a concentration of 0.3-0.8 g / cm³. 3 It can have any suitable bulk density, such as 0.35–0.75 g / cm³. Typically, the bulk density is 0.35–0.75 g / cm³. 3 For example, 0.4~0.7 g / cm³ 3 This is possible. In a particular configuration, the bulk density is 0.4-0.6 g / cm³. 3 That's fine.

[0097] Suitable membranes for the present invention include polyethylene membranes available from Microporous, LLC, having the properties described herein.

[0098] The membrane may contain any suitable fillers and plasticizers known in the art. Examples of fillers include finely ground silica, clay, zeolite, carbonate, activated carbon, and mixtures thereof. In one configuration, the membrane may be filled with silica at a total weight of about 30% to about 80%.

[0099] In one aspect of the present invention, the film may contain a dye sensitive to the amount of volatile composition it is in contact with in order to indicate the end of its service life. Alternatively, the film may become transparent upon contact with a fragrance or volatile composition to indicate that diffusion is occurring. Other means known in the art for indicating the end of service life can be conceived within the scope of the present invention.

[0100] The films described herein can, advantageously, provide a distinct visual change when wetted with a volatile composition and when dried (whether before use or at the end of the service life). Such a visual change may be more detectable if the film does not contain a white pigment (e.g., TiO2). Therefore, the film may contain less than 5% by weight of a white pigment, e.g., less than 1% by weight of a white pigment, less than 0.1% by weight of a white pigment, or less than 0.01% by weight of a white pigment. The film may not contain a white pigment at all.

[0101] The visual change when a film is wet compared to dry may be more pronounced when the film contains a coloring dye / pigment or a black dye / pigment. Therefore, the film may contain a coloring or black dye / pigment such as activated carbon. Such a coloring or black pigment / dye (e.g., activated carbon) may be present in any preferred amount, such as 0.1 to 5% by weight, for example, 0.3 to 1% by weight.

[0102] Sealing substrate The cartridge may comprise a sealing substrate surrounding a reservoir and therefore a volatile composition. This prevents the evaporation of the volatile composition as long as the sealing substrate is in place and intact. The sealing substrate may be removed or broken to allow the volatile composition to evaporate. This removal or breaking may be referred to herein as "activating" or "operating" the cartridge. The cartridge typically comprises a sealing substrate and is configured to be activated before use, i.e., the sealing substrate is configured to be broken or removed before use. In this context, "use" means enabling the volatile composition to evaporate from the cartridge so that the volatile composition dispenser can perform its function of dispensing the volatile composition by evaporation.

[0103] Non-limiting examples of suitable encapsulating substrates include impermeable films, foils, or laminates, such as flexible (e.g., polymer) films, flexible (e.g., metallic) foils, or composite materials (e.g., foil / polymer film laminates). The impermeable films, foils, or laminates are supplied bonded to the cartridge to prevent evaporation of the volatile composition. A specific example of a suitable encapsulating substrate is aluminum foil.

[0104] The encapsulation substrate can have any suitable thickness, such as 10 μm to 1 mm, 15 μm to 100 μm, 18 μm to 50 μm, or 20 μm to 35 μm.

[0105] As mentioned above, there are two possible configurations for the order of the encapsulation substrate and the film.

[0106] In some configurations, a sealing substrate may be positioned between the film and the volatile composition to prevent the volatile composition from contacting the film. In such configurations, the sealing substrate is ruptured before use. This is achieved by rib elements present on the housing, as discussed herein, which may be configured to cause the sealing substrate to rupture when the housing is closed, allowing the volatile composition to pass through the ruptured sealing substrate and come into contact with the film. The volatile composition may then impregnate the film or evaporate from the film. The cartridge may include a rupture mechanism, and the rupture of the sealing substrate may be caused by the activation of the rupture mechanism by the rib elements. Preferred rupture mechanisms are described in detail in U.S. Patents 10,561,754, 10,561,755, and 10,561,756. Alternatively, the rib elements may directly rupture the sealing substrate by applying pressure to it through the film. Therefore, the film may be deformable, but for example, when a rib element collides with the film, the film can deform toward the sealing substrate in the direction of the applied force (e.g., a compressive force as described herein). In such a configuration, the sealing substrate may be formed from a substantially inelastic material such as a metal foil. When a force (e.g., the compressive force described herein) is applied to the film, the film deforms and comes into contact with the sealing substrate. The sealing substrate cannot deform or bend sufficiently in the direction of the force and may break due to the force. In such a configuration, when the film is deformed by the applied force and presses against the sealing substrate, it is important that the sealing substrate breaks before the film is damaged. In other words, the applied force causes the sealing substrate to break, while the film deforms without breaking, fracturing, or tearing. Therefore, in some configurations, the film may surround the sealing substrate, and the sealing substrate may be configured to break due to a force applied to the sealing substrate through the film (e.g., a compressive force applied by a rib element).

[0107] In other configurations, the film may be positioned between the volatile composition and the sealing substrate, so that the volatile composition comes into contact with the film but cannot evaporate and leave the cartridge because the film is surrounded by the sealing substrate. In such configurations, the housing may have ribs that directly break the sealing substrate, as described above. However, this may result in only small holes in the sealing substrate, limiting the rate at which the volatile composition can evaporate from the cartridge and potentially having a detrimental effect on the efficacy of the volatile composition dispenser. Alternatively, in such configurations, the sealing substrate may be provided as a removable component (such as a removable film, foil, or laminate) that surrounds the film and prevents the evaporation of the volatile composition before the sealing substrate is removed. When this type of sealing substrate is removed from the cartridge, the entire film may be exposed to the ambient environment, allowing for an increased evaporation rate of the volatile composition. In such cases, the sealing substrate may be provided with a pull tab to allow consumers to easily remove the sealing substrate from the cartridge before use.

[0108] If a pull tab is provided on the sealing substrate to facilitate its removal, the pull tab may be of any preferred size. For example, the pull tab may have a length of about 20 mm or less, preferably about 15 mm or less, or more preferably about 10 mm or less. As another example, the pull tab may have a length of about 2 mm to about 20 mm, preferably about 5 mm to about 15 mm, or more preferably about 5 mm to about 10 mm, specifically including all values ​​within these ranges and any range thus produced. Similarly, the width of the pull tab may be about 20 mm or less, preferably about 15 mm or less, or more preferably about 10 mm or less. As another example, the pull tab may have a width of about 2 mm to about 20 mm, preferably about 5 mm to about 15 mm, or more preferably about 5 mm to about 10 mm, specifically including all values ​​within these ranges and any range thus produced. The pull tab may be placed in any preferred location on the sealing substrate. Preferably, the pull tab is placed adjacent to the sealing area.

[0109] If the length and / or width of the pull tab exceeds the above values, it may be difficult to package the cartridge. For example, the housing and cartridge may be packaged together or separately. If the cartridge is placed inside the housing, the housing may be in an open or closed position. When in the closed position, it is desirable to ensure that the pull tab is similarly positioned inside the housing. If the cartridge is placed outside the housing, it may be useful to show a portion of the pull tab to the consumer to indicate the ease with which the cartridge can be operated. However, if the length and / or width exceeds the above values, it may be difficult to show only a portion of the pull tab while concealing the rest.

[0110] It is worth noting that if a separation slot is provided in the housing, the pull tab may be configured to extend through the separation slot. In such a configuration, the user can remove the encapsulating substrate through the separation slot. Furthermore, to facilitate the removal of the encapsulating substrate, the separation slot may be appropriately sized to allow the encapsulating substrate to pass through the separation slot with substantial deformation and without requiring any additional force from the user.

[0111] In some configurations, the sealing substrate may be a breakable substrate.

[0112] In some configurations, the encapsulating substrate may be a removable encapsulating substrate.

[0113] Compression force As described herein, the rear frame may include one or more rib elements that can be configured to apply a compressive force to a cartridge placed within the housing. The opposite side of the cartridge is held in place by the front frame, and the compressive force is generated by the compression of the cartridge between the front frame and the rib elements. The compressive force is generated by the compression between the front frame and the rib elements, but for brevity and simplicity, the compressive force is described herein in relation to the action of the rib elements on the cartridge.

[0114] Typically, such rib elements are configured to apply compressive force to the cartridge membrane either through direct impact of the rib elements on the membrane or through one or more additional components or layers when the housing is closed. Compressive force may be applied to the cartridge for substantially its entire service life, while the cartridge is located within the housing. In other words, as long as the cartridge is within the housing, compressive force may be applied to the cartridge so that the volatile composition evaporates from the cartridge. In this context, the term “substantially” may mean at least 80% of the time, at least 85% of the time, at least 90% of the time, or at least 95% of the time.

[0115] As used herein, compressive force refers to a force acting to compress a portion of the cartridge and can be understood as a force acting on the surface of the cartridge in a direction toward the interior of the cartridge. While compressive force may act substantially perpendicular to the surface of the cartridge, those skilled in the art will understand that compressive force may act at an angle to the surface of the cartridge, and that it can still provide the benefits discussed below. Compressive force can typically act in a direction substantially perpendicular to the surface of the cartridge, such as at an angle of 60° to 120°.

[0116] The compressive force can have any appropriate magnitude. The magnitude of the compressive force should be high enough to achieve the effects described below, but not excessively high to undesirably rupture or otherwise damage the cartridge. Therefore, the magnitude of the compressive force may be, for example, about 30 N to about 120 N, for example, about 35 N to about 100 N, for example, about 40 N to about 90 N. Those skilled in the art will understand that smaller or larger compressive forces may be appropriate in some situations.

[0117] The compressive force can be approximated as being equal to the release force described below, but for the purposes of the present invention, the magnitude of the compressive force can be measured by measuring the release force as described herein.

[0118] This compressive force offers several advantages, which are described below.

[0119] Firstly, the force applied by the rib element may cause the sealing substrate to break when the housing is closed (for example, by activating a break mechanism located directly beneath the membrane), as will be described in more detail herein. In this case, the compressive force causes the cartridge to act simply by closing the housing, avoiding a common problem in the prior art where the user is unsure whether they have applied sufficient force to the button to properly actuate the cartridge, including a push button or other actuation mechanism.

[0120] Secondly, the compressive force applied to the cartridge by the rib element causes an equal and opposite reaction force applied to the housing by the cartridge, which biases the housing to open. This reaction force is sometimes referred to herein as the “opening force.” Typically, the housing is provided with a locking mechanism for releasably locking the housing into a closed position, and while the locking mechanism is engaged, the opening force prevents the housing from opening. However, when the locking mechanism is released or disengaged, the housing will spring open at least partially due to the opening force applied to the housing by the cartridge held within the housing. Thus, in some configurations described herein, when the housing is in a closed position, the cartridge applies an opening force to the housing, and the term “opening force” should be understood as the force that biases the housing to open. This is advantageous because when the locking mechanism is disengaged or unlocked, the housing springs open at least partially, allowing for easy gripping of the front and rear frames. This increases the ease with which the housing can be opened. The opening force may have a magnitude equal to the magnitude of the compressive force described above. In some configurations, the release force can be approximately 3N to 140N, 10N to 100N, 20N to 60N, preferably 25N to 45N. The release force can be measured by closing the housing with a new cartridge, fixing the front or rear frame at an angle such that the joint between the front and rear frames is horizontally parallel, and measuring the peak vertical release force at the midpoint of the housing when the locking structure is released / disengaged (taking gravity into account).

[0121] Thirdly, the cartridge includes a reservoir containing the volatile composition. When a compressive force acts on a deformable portion of the reservoir or on the membrane enclosing the reservoir, the resulting deformation may reduce the thickness of the reservoir along the direction in which the force acts. Typically, the compressive force acts in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane of the membrane, for example, at 60° to 120° to the membrane. When this direction is horizontal, this is the case when the volatile composition dispenser is in its intended upright configuration as shown in Figure 6A, and the reduced horizontal thickness of the reservoir causes an increase in the height of the liquid volatile composition within the reservoir. As shown in Figure 10, this provides a higher fill level appearance, especially when the fill level of the volatile composition is easily visible through a window in the front frame of the housing, and increases consumer satisfaction with the volatile composition dispenser.

[0122] Fourth, when a compressive force acts on a deformable portion of the reservoir or the membrane surrounding the reservoir, the resulting deformation ensures that the cartridge is held securely within the housing and does not move or rattle within the housing when the housing is moved. This gives the product a premium feel and increases user satisfaction. The effect of this benefit may be increased when the front frame of the housing is provided with a window configured to receive the reservoir of the cartridge, as described herein.

[0123] As described above, the cartridge and housing may be packaged together, and the cartridge may be placed inside the housing within the packaging. In configurations where the housing is closed and the cartridge is actuated by a rib element, additional sealing means should be taken to ensure that the volatile composition does not evaporate before the intended use by the consumer. In another packaging configuration, the housing may be in an open or closed position while the cartridge is separated from the housing within the same packaging. In yet another configuration, the housing may be sold in separate packaging from the cartridge. In any of the above configurations, two or more cartridges may be included in the packaging, and such cartridges may have the same volatile composition or may contain different volatile compositions.

[0124] If the cartridge includes a sealing substrate configured to break during housing closure as described herein, the film may become wet with a volatile composition. Since volatile compositions typically contain various organic compounds and solvents, users typically prefer to avoid the need to touch a wet film. The configurations described herein are advantageous in that they allow the cartridge to be operated without the user needing to touch the cartridge during the operating process, thereby avoiding any contact between the user's hands and the organic components of the volatile composition. Accordingly, in some configurations described herein, the sealing substrate is configured to break during housing closure.

[0125] Volatile compositions Volatile compositions may include, but are not limited to, substances that can function as deodorizers, odor inhibitors, odor neutralizers, odor blockers, odor preventatives, odor masking materials, aromatherapy materials, aromacology materials, insecticides, air and / or surface cleaners, and / or combinations thereof. In various other configurations, volatile compositions may include various other materials that can act in the gas phase to modify, enhance, and / or treat the atmosphere or area outside the volatile composition dispenser.

[0126] As used herein, “volatile composition” refers to a material that can volatilize at room temperature and atmospheric pressure without requiring an additional energy source. A volatile composition may consist entirely of a single volatile material. A volatile composition may also consist entirely of a mixture of volatile materials (i.e., the mixture has two or more volatile components). Furthermore, not all of the constituent substances of the composition need to be volatile. Any suitable volatile composition in any amount or form, including liquids or emulsions, can be used.

[0127] Materials suitable for use in this specification may include non-volatile components such as carrier materials (e.g., water, solvents, etc.). Where a composition is described herein as being “delivered,” “evaporated,” or “released,” this should be understood to refer to the volatilization of its volatile components, and it is not necessary for its non-volatile components to be emitted.

[0128] Volatile compositions can be in the form of fragrance oils. Most conventional fragrance materials are volatile essential oils. Volatile compositions can be volatile organic compounds that are commonly available from fragrance manufacturers. Furthermore, volatile compositions can be synthetically or naturally formed materials. Examples include, but are not limited to, oils of bergamot, bitter orange, lemon, mandarin, fennel, cedar leaf, clove leaf, cedarwood, geranium, lavender, orange, origanum, petitgrain, white cedar, patchouli, neroli, and rose absolute. In the case of air purifiers or fragrances, different volatile materials may be similar, related, complementary, and / or contrasting.

[0129] The volatile composition may preferably be in liquid form at 25°C. As described herein, the microporous membranes used in the present invention may have an advantageously increased appearance change when wetted with the volatile composition.

[0130] The volatile composition may have a combined vapor pressure of at least 8 Pa at 25°C, for example, at least 30 Pa at 25°C.

[0131] In addition to, or as part of, the volatile composition, the cartridge may contain any known malodorous composition for neutralizing odors. Suitable malodorous compositions include cyclodextrins, reactive aldehydes, and ionones.

[0132] While not bound by theory, the continuous discharge of volatile compositions may be a function of various factors, such as the size of the film pores, the surface area of ​​the film, the physical properties of the volatile composition, such as molecular weight and saturated vapor pressure ("VP"), and the viscosity and / or surface tension of the volatile composition.

[0133] The volatile composition may be formulated to include a mixture of volatile materials comprising: about 10% to about 100% of the total weight of volatile materials, each having a VP of less than about 0.01 torr at 25°C; alternatively, about 40% to about 100% of the total weight of volatile materials, each having a VP of less than about 0.1 torr at 25°C; alternatively, about 50% to about 100% of the total weight of volatile materials, each having a VP of less than about 0.1 torr at 25°C; and alternatively, about 90% to about 100% of the total weight of volatile materials, each having a VP of less than about 0.3 torr at 25°C. In one embodiment, the volatile material mixture may contain 0% to about 15% of the total weight of volatile materials, each with a VP of about 0.004 torr to about 0.035 torr at 25°C; 0% to about 25% of the total weight of volatile materials, each with a VP of about 0.1 torr to about 0.325 torr at 25°C; and about 65% to about 100% of the total weight of volatile materials, each with a VP of about 0.035 torr to about 0.1 torr at 25°C. One source of information for obtaining the saturated vapor pressure of volatile materials is the EPI Suite®, version 4.0, available from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

[0134] Tables 1 and 2 below show two exemplary volatile compositions containing volatile substance mixtures with various VP volatile substances. These compositions are shown for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the invention.

[0135] [Table 1]

[0136] [Table 2]

[0137] The viscosity of the volatile composition can control how and when it is delivered to the microporous membrane. For example, a lower viscosity composition may flow faster than a higher viscosity volatile composition. Therefore, the membrane may be initially wetted with a lower viscosity material. To help prevent the liquid from seeping through the microporous membrane, the volatile composition may have a viscosity of less than about 23 cP and a surface tension of less than about 33 mN / m.

[0138] In one embodiment, the volatile composition may have a viscosity of about 1.0 cP to less than about 25 cP, or about 1.0 cP to less than about 23 cP, or about 1.0 cP to less than about 15 cP.

[0139] A volatile composition may be designed to contain a surface tension of approximately 19 mN / m to less than approximately 33 mN / m, or approximately 19 mN / m to less than approximately 30 mN / m, or approximately 19 mN / m to less than approximately 27 mN / m.

[0140] This disclosure also relates to a method for delivering a volatile composition into an internal space, (i) the step of providing a volatile composition dispenser as defined herein to an internal space, (ii) A method comprising the step of activating a volatile composition dispenser to enable the release of at least one liquid volatile composition.

[0141] consumer products Cartridges for placement inside the housing disclosed herein may be provided in the form of consumer products. This disclosure also includes consumer products, (i) Outer packaging and, (ii) one or more cartridges as defined herein, (iii) Instructions for using one or more cartridges with a reusable housing as defined herein, The consumer product provides one or more cartridges packaged within the outer packaging.

[0142] In some configurations, the consumer product may take the form of a refillable cartridge pack, in which case the refill pack packaging does not include a reusable housing as mentioned in the instructions. The ingredients of the consumer product are listed below.

[0143] The outer packaging may be any suitable packaging, such as rigid or flexible packaging. From the standpoint of protecting the cartridge from accidental damage or breakage, the packaging may be rigid or semi-rigid. For example, the packaging may be formed from plastic material or cardboard material. In some configurations, the outer packaging may be formed from a combination of rigid and semi-rigid materials, such as a combination of plastic and cardboard material.

[0144] In some configurations, the outer packaging may be formed mostly from cardboard material. For example, the outer packaging may be formed from at least 50% by weight of cardboard material, for example, at least 60% by weight, at least 70% by weight, at least 80% by weight, at least 90% by weight, or at least 95% by weight of cardboard material.

[0145] The outer packaging can take any suitable form. In some configurations, the outer packaging may take the form of blister packaging or clamshell packaging, including a combination of plastic and cardboard. Blister packaging may have any suitable structure, including face-sealed blisters, full-face-sealed blisters, full-card blisters, and trap blisters. In some configurations, the outer packaging may take the form of a box, such as a corrugated cardboard box.

[0146] Suitable cardboard materials that can be used for outer packaging include corrugated cardboard (single-sided, single-walled, double-walled, triple-walled, and honeycomb corrugated cardboard, etc.) and paperboard. In some configurations, the cardboard material may be laminated with a plastic material.

[0147] Suitable plastic materials that can be used for outer packaging include PET (polyethylene terephthalate) and PVC (polyvinyl chloride), but those skilled in the art will understand that other plastics may be used.

[0148] Consumer products include instructions for using one or more cartridges with a reusable housing. In this context, “use” can be understood as placing the cartridge within the reusable housing so that the reusable housing supports the cartridge and allows for the effective release of volatile substances without causing spillage or leakage. Using a cartridge with a housing specified in the instructions may also provide additional benefits, which may not be obtained if the cartridge is used with a housing not specified in the instructions. These benefits are described in detail herein with respect to housings.

[0149] Instructions may be provided within the outer packaging, for example, as an insert within the outer packaging, or as a marking on one or more cartridges themselves, but the instructions do not need to be physically packaged within the outer packaging. Instructions may be provided in any form that is provided to the consumer at the time of purchase or use of the consumer product. Accordingly, it is expressly intended that instructions may be present outside the outer packaging as a separate component alongside the outer packaging (for example, on a shelf alongside the consumer product), or may be provided electronically during use or purchase (for example, as part of an electronically accessed advertisement or sales list).

[0150] The instruction manual instructs the user to use one or more cartridges with a reusable housing in which the cartridges are fitted. The instruction may take the form of a written note or graphic indication that one or more cartridges are suitable for or fit a particular reusable housing. Thus, the instruction manual may instruct the user to place one or more cartridges in a housing having the features defined below. Thus, in some configurations, the present invention provides a consumer product in which the instruction manual instructs the user to use one or more cartridges with a reusable housing having any combination of the features defined herein.

[0151] The instructions may instruct the user to place one or more cartridges into a single, specific reusable housing, such as a housing of a particular brand having the characteristics defined herein. Alternatively, the instructions may provide a list of possible reusable housings in which one or more cartridges can be used, each of which listed housings having the characteristics defined herein.

[0152] Herein, various configurations are described in order to provide an overall understanding of the structure, function, manufacture, and principles of use of the apparatus and methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these configurations are shown in the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the apparatus and methods specifically described herein and shown in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary configurations, and that the scope of the various configurations of this disclosure is defined solely by the claims. Features illustrated or described in relation to one exemplary configuration can be combined with features of other exemplary configurations. Such modifications and variations are included within the scope of this disclosure.

[0153] Figure 1 shows a front perspective view of the volatile composition dispenser 1 (hereinafter referred to as "dispenser") according to the present invention in a closed state, and Figure 2 shows a rear perspective view of the dispenser 1. The dispenser 1 comprises a housing 10 according to the present invention, having a front frame 100 and a rear frame 200. The front frame 100 and the rear frame 200 are configured to move apart from or toward each other in order to open and close the housing. The front frame 100 and the rear frame 200 may be completely detachable from each other and movable toward and apart from each other without any constraint, or they may be connected at a first end but movable toward or apart from each other at a second end on the opposite side. For example, the front frame 100 and the rear frame 200 may be connected at a first end and pivotally move toward or toward each other at a second end on the opposite side in order to open and close the housing. When the housing 10 is closed, the front frame 100 and the rear frame 200 form an internal space. The cartridge 30 containing the volatile composition may be located within the internal space of the housing 10. Figure 2 also shows a locking structure L(L1) that allows the front frame 100 and the rear frame 200 to be releasably connected to each other when the housing 10 is closed. Details of the locking structure L will be described later.

[0154] Figure 3A shows the internal components of dispenser 1 equipped with a breaking mechanism. The front frame 100 has a window 101 configured to show the cartridge 30. The window 101 may be made up of various different shapes, including, for example, a circle, an ellipse, a rectangle, a square, etc.

[0155] The cartridge 30 can be configured in various ways. The cartridge may contain a liquid volatile composition configured to evaporate through a membrane. Referring to Figure 3, the cartridge 30 may include a container 32 having a reservoir 321 in which the volatile composition is stored. A sealing substrate 33 may cover the reservoir 321, as well as be sealably attached to the reservoir 321 defining the reservoir, to prevent the volatile composition from being released until the dispenser 1 is activated. The sealing substrate 33 can be ruptured to release the volatile composition 31 by activating a rupture mechanism 34 located adjacent to the sealing substrate 33. One or more rupture elements 37 may be located within the rupture mechanism 34, or they may puncture the sealing substrate 33. The rupture elements 37 may be pins. The cartridge 30 may also include a membrane 39 located outside the cartridge 30. The membrane 39 may be sealably attached to a flange 322 located on the outer edge 323 of the container 32. The membrane 39 can enclose the container 32, the volatile composition, the sealing substrate 33, and the rupture mechanism 34. The membrane 39 may be configured to bend when pressure or an operating force is applied to it. The membrane 39 may also be porous to continuously absorb and volatilize the volatile composition.

[0156] As described above, in some configurations, the cartridge may include a removable sealing substrate located outside the film. In such configurations, the cartridge may not require a breaking mechanism to break the sealing substrate.

[0157] The shape of the container 32 / reservoir 321 may be configured to correspond to the shape of the window 101 of the front frame 100. For example, the container 32 / reservoir 321 may define a substantially elliptical or oblong shape, and its width-to-length ratio may be about 1:2 to 1:2.5. By enabling the container 32 / reservoir 321 to fit into the window 101 of the front frame 100, the cartridge 30 can be positioned in place without moving around inside the front frame.

[0158] The front frame 100 is shown in more detail in Figure 3B. The front frame 100 includes a window 101 configured to receive a portion of the cartridge. Part of the perimeter of the window 101 is bordered by a wall portion 102 that projects substantially vertically from the window 101 into the interior of the housing. The wall portion 102 is configured to support the cartridge within the housing without adhesive. The front frame 100 shown in Figure 3B has a button latch L2 that forms part of a locking structure. This button latch type locking structure is described in more detail in Figures 6A to 6C.

[0159] As shown in Figure 4, the breaking mechanism 34 may comprise an outer frame 36 and a movable member 35 movably attached to the outer frame 36 by an elastic member 38. The elastic member 38 may be formed of one or more springs. The breaking mechanism 34 may further comprise a plurality of breaking elements 37 positioned on the edge of the movable member 35. As shown in Figure 4, the breaking elements 37 may be spaced apart from each other along the periphery of the breaking mechanism 34 and extend from at least two sides perpendicular to the surface of the breaking mechanism, but each breaking element 37 has a tip 371 for drilling holes in the sealing substrate 33. The breaking elements 37 are generally arranged in pairs. For example, a pair of breaking elements 37 positioned on opposing sides of the movable member 35 would allow at least one pair of opposite holes to be drilled in the sealing substrate 33, with the hole on one side of the sealing substrate 33 allowing air to enter the container 32 and the other hole on the opposite side allowing the volatile composition to be discharged from the container 32 and impregnated with the film 39.

[0160] The rear frame 200 may include one or more rib elements 201 configured to apply a compressive force to the cartridge 30 when the housing 10 is closed and the front and rear frames move toward each other. This compressive force offers several advantages as described above. The rear frame 200 may also include a plurality of rib elements 201 configured to spatially align with the breaking element 37 of the breaking mechanism 34, so that when the rib elements 201 come into contact with the cartridge 30, the rib elements press against the breaking element 37, thereby causing the sealing substrate 33 to break. Similar to the arrangement of the breaking element 37, the rib elements 201 may be arranged in pairs near the periphery of the rear frame 200. For example, a pair of rib elements 201 may be arranged on the first opposite side of the rear frame (e.g., vertically), as shown in Figure 3.

[0161] Alternatively, the rib elements 201 may be configured as breaking elements, each having a tip for puncturing the sealing substrate 33 through the membrane 39 when the housing 10 is closed. In this case, the breaking mechanism 34 of the cartridge 30 can be omitted. However, because the membrane 39 has cushioning properties, a greater force is required when closing the housing to cause the sealing substrate 33 to break (in some cases, consumers may have to repeatedly open and close the housing to properly operate the cartridge 30 (by puncturing the sealing substrate 33)).

[0162] The rib element 201 has a ridge shape and may protrude from the inner surface of the rear frame 200 and extend from around the rear frame 200. Peripheral arrangement of the rib element 201 is more preferable to ensure accurate placement of compressive force on the fracture element 37 by aligning the rib element 201 with the fracture element 37. The rib element 201 may extend along a direction perpendicular to the plane defined by the rear frame, or along a direction inclined with respect to the plane defined by the rear frame (i.e., neither parallel nor perpendicular). However, in either case, it is preferable that the rib element 201 is perpendicular to the plane defined by the front frame when the housing is fully closed, so that the rib element can apply maximum compressive force to the cartridge 30.

[0163] The rib element 201 may have a height of 0.1 to 1 cm, which may cause deformation of the cartridge 30 (or its membrane 39) sufficient to actuate the breaking element 37, but without causing significant problems when closing the housing 10. For similar reasons, the rib element 201 may have an extension length in the range of 0.1 to 2 cm.

[0164] The rib element 201 may have a cartridge contact surface that is separated from the inner surface of the rear frame 200. The cartridge contact surface may have a width in the range of 0.1 to 0.5 cm (i.e., the width of the rib element 201). The cartridge contact surface may be flat or rounded, and preferably is substantially free of protrusions so that the contact area between the rib element 201 and the cartridge 30 is large enough to uniformly apply a large compressive force.

[0165] The front frame 100 and the rear frame 200 are configured to move apart from or toward each other in order to open and close the housing. In one configuration, the front frame 100 and the rear frame 200 may be connected at a first end and can move apart from each other or toward each other at a second end on the opposite side in order to open and close the housing. Optionally, the front frame 100 and the rear frame 200 are connected at the first end via a hinge structure comprising a knuckle element located on either the front frame or the rear frame and a pin element located on the other of the front frame or the rear frame. The knuckle element or the pin element may be molded as an integral part of the front frame or the rear frame.

[0166] As shown in Figures 2 and 6A, the front frame 100 and the rear frame 200 may further include a locking structure for releasably connecting the front frame and the rear frame together when the housing 10 is closed. The locking structure may be located at the movable end of the housing 10 (e.g., the second end). Various locking structures can be used, for example, including latches, snap fasteners, clasps, and catches. Specific examples of latch locking structures shown in the figures include through-latch and button latch structures.

[0167] Figures 5A and 5B show an example of the configuration of a through-latch lock structure L1. The through-latch lock structure L1 performs its locking function through the cooperation of a door latch portion L11 located on one of the front and rear frames and a through-hole portion L12 located on the other of the front and rear frames. Typically, the door latch portion L11 is a slat-like element having a proximal end L111 fixed to one of the front and rear frames and a distal end L112 extending outward (for example, toward the other of the front and rear frames). The through-hole L12 located on the front frame and the other side of the rear frame penetrates the entire thickness direction of the frame and includes a hole or slit L121 having dimensions that allow the distal end L112 of the door latch L11 to pass through. Furthermore, it includes an overhang member L122 that hangs down from the wall of the hole or slit L121, extends inward, and engages with the door latch L11 as its tip L112 passes through the hole or slit L121, thereby locking the through-latch structure. When an external force is applied, the overhang member L122 can disengage from the door latch L11, allowing the distal end L112 to be pulled out of the hole or slit L121, thereby unlocking the through-latch structure.

[0168] For example, the door latch portion L11 may have one or more notches L113 adjacent to the distal end L112. The notches may be a complete internal hole (e.g., the center of a section in the width direction) or a semi-open hole at the edge of a section. When the distal end of the door latch portion passes through the hole or slit of the through-hole portion, the overhang member L122 engages with the notch L113, and the door latch portion L11 can be locked.

[0169] The door latch portion L11 may be configured to be flexible, in which case it can bend in the thickness direction when an external force is applied. The overhang member L122 may also be flexible and deformable when force is applied. This allows the door latch portion to be unlocked by applying force in the thickness direction to the distal end of the door latch portion L11, causing it to bend and disengage the overhang member L122 from the notch L113. Similarly, the overhang member L122 can be deformed by applying force and subsequently released from the notch L113. Of course, it is also possible to apply force to both the door latch portion and the overhang member simultaneously to disengage them from each other.

[0170] Alternatively, the locking structure can take the form of a button latch L2, which comprises an overhanging button L21 and a latching member L23, utilizing the cooperation of these two members to lock and unlock the device. Figure 6A shows one configuration of a volatile composition dispenser in a locked state, which includes a button latch L2. The button latch L2 comprises a flexible overhanging button L21, which is located on the edge of the front frame 100 and has a complementary groove L22 on the corresponding edge of the rear frame 200. When the housing 10 is closed and the front and rear frames are locked, the overhanging button L21 can just fill the groove L22, forming a smooth and complete appearance.

[0171] Figures 6B and 6C show the housing 10 in a fully open state. The button latch L2 further comprises a latch member L23 inside the button L21, the latch member L23 comprising a latch body L233 and a pillar L231 connecting the button L21 and the latch body L233. Two half-open notches L232 (between the button L21 and the latch body L233) are formed by the button L21, the pillar L231, and the latch body L233. Two projections L24 are positioned near the groove L22 and extend from the inner surface of the rear frame 200 at positions corresponding to the notches L232. When the housing 10 is closed, the projections L24 engage with the notches L232, and the pillar L231 engages with the gap between the projections L24, stably locking the front frame 100 and the rear frame 200. To open the housing 10 again, the consumer can press button L21 to deform it, which in turn causes pillar L231 to separate from the gap and projection L24 to disengage from the notch, thereby unlocking the latch structure.

[0172] As shown in Figures 6A to 6C, the overhang button L21 may be located on the edge of the front frame 100, the groove L22 may be located on the corresponding edge of the rear frame 200, or the overhang button L21 may be located on the edge of the rear frame 200 and the groove L22 may be located on the front frame 100 in a corresponding manner. Also, as shown in Figures 6A to 6C, the button latch L2 may be located in a position different from the upper side, for example, on the left side or the right side of the housing 10 or both.

[0173] One advantage of the button latch mechanism is that it provides an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Furthermore, the larger button area offers consumer comfort when unlocking the lock mechanism.

[0174] The volatile composition dispenser can be operated by positioning the cartridge 30 inside the front frame 100 with the container 32 fitted into the window 101 of the front frame 100, then moving the front frame 100 and the rear frame 200 toward each other to bring the rib element 201 into contact with the cartridge 30, causing the sealing substrate 33 to break, and optionally by mutually locking the front frame 100 and the rear frame 200 in a releasable manner.

[0175] When the cartridge 30 has used up all of its volatile composition, the user can unlock the locking mechanism to open the housing 10, remove the used cartridge from the housing, reload another cartridge 30 into the housing 10, and then close the housing 10.

[0176] As shown in Figure 7, the housing 10 may include separation slots 720 to facilitate the separation of the front frame 100 from the rear frame 200. As shown, the separation slots 720 may be located on the interface 710 between the front frame 100 and the rear frame 200. Additional separation slots may be provided on the opposite side of the housing 10. It is worth noting that one or more separation slots 710 may be located on the opposite side of the pivot axis. For example, the separation slots 710 may be located on the upper part 750 of the housing when the pivot axis is located on the lower part 760 of the housing 10. Conversely, the separation slots 710 may be located on the lower part 760 when the pivot axis is located on the upper part 750.

[0177] If it is desirable to remove the sealing substrate 33 (shown in Figure 3) from the cartridge 30 (shown in Figure 3), the separation slot 720 or the opposite separation slot may have a length (a length generally parallel to the length 715 of the interface 710) of at least 60 percent of the length 715 of the interface 710, more preferably at least 70 percent of the length 715 of the interface 710, and even more preferably at least 80 percent of the length 715 of the interface 710. Regardless of whether the sealing substrate is removed from the separation slot 710, the separation slot 710 may have a length of at least about 10 percent of the length 715 of the interface 710. For example, the separation slot 710 may have a length of about 10 percent to about 60 percent, more preferably about 10 percent to about 70 percent, or even more preferably about 10 percent to about 80 percent of the length 715 of the interface 710.

[0178] Referring here to Figures 7 and 9, the separation slot is located on the opposite side of the pivot axis of the housing 10, i.e., the separation slot is located in the upper 750 or lower 760, and the separation slot may have a length substantially parallel to the minor axis 972 of the cartridge 930. The values ​​provided above for the length of the separation slot 720 also apply to this configuration. In such a configuration, it is worth noting that the length of the separation slot 720 may be substantially parallel to the minor axis 972 of the cartridge 930.

[0179] Referring here to Figures 7 and 8, the housing 10 may be provided with isolation tabs 810 and 820, either in combination with or independently of the isolation slots. Separation tabs 810 and 820 may be included one on the front frame 100, one on the rear frame 200, or one each on the front frame 100 and the rear frame 200. The configuration shown in Figure 8 may be beneficial when the front frame 100 and the rear frame 200 are pivotable relative to each other, particularly when the pivot axis is located at the lower part 760 of the housing 10. In contrast, when the pivot axis is located at the upper part 750 of the housing 10, the isolation tabs 810 and 820 may be positioned adjacent to the lower part 760 of the housing 10. Additional isolation tabs may be provided on the front frame 100 and / or the rear frame 200. In such a configuration, the additional isolation tabs may be spaced apart from the isolation tabs 810 and 820. Additional separation tabs may be useful if the front frame 100 is completely separable from the rear frame 200.

[0180] Referring now to Figure 9, a cartridge 930 suitable for use with the housing 10 described herein is shown. The cartridge 930 comprises a sealing region 935, which may comprise a portion of a sealing substrate 921 and a portion of a film, as described herein. A pull tab 940 may be provided to facilitate removal of the sealing substrate 921. The pull tab 940 may be formed integrally with the sealing substrate 921 or it may be separate and bonded to the sealing substrate.

[0181] As shown in the illustration, the cartridge comprises a long axis 971 and a short axis 972. The pull tab 940 may have a length 945 that is generally parallel to the long axis 971 and a width 947 that is generally parallel to the short axis 972, in order to facilitate packaging. The length 945 and width 947 of the pull tab 940 may be any preferred values ​​as described herein.

[0182] Figure 10 shows an illustrated side cross-sectional view of a cartridge 1001 having a reservoir 1004 containing a volatile composition. The reservoir 1004 is sealed by a membrane 1003a. Since cartridge 1001 is not subjected to any compressive force, the membrane 1003a does not deform, and the reservoir has a filling level of the volatile composition 1004a. In contrast, cartridge 1002 is subjected to a compressive force F acting horizontally. The compressive force F deforms the membrane 1003b of the cartridge, thereby reducing the horizontal thickness of the reservoir 1004 and causing an increase in the filling level of the volatile composition 1004b.

[0183] Additional examples are shown below. A. A volatile composition dispenser 1, A housing 10 having a first end and a second end on the opposite side, comprising a front frame 100 that can move away from each other or toward each other to open and close the housing, and a rear frame 200 having one or more rib elements 201, and A cartridge (30, 930) configured to be placed inside the housing 10, A reservoir containing at least one liquid volatile composition, A cartridge (30, 930) comprising a sealing substrate 33 that encloses a reservoir, A volatile composition dispenser 1 is configured such that at least one liquid volatile composition in the cartridge 30 is delivered to the atmosphere when the housing 10 is closed, when the front frame and rear frame move toward each other, causing one or more rib elements 201 to come into contact with the cartridge 30 and resulting in the rupture of the sealing substrate 33.

[0184] B. The volatile composition dispenser 1 according to paragraph A, wherein cartridge 30 is a refillable cartridge, and the refillable cartridge is removably (or removably) disposed within the housing so that it can be removed from within the housing 10 when the housing 10 is opened, another refillable cartridge can be placed inside the housing 10, and then the housing 10 can be closed.

[0185] C. The volatile composition dispenser 1 according to paragraph A or B, wherein the front frame 100 and the rear frame 200 are connected at first ends and can pivot at opposite second ends to move away from each other or toward each other to open and close the housing, and optionally one or more rib elements 201 extend tangentially along the pivot direction of the front frame and the rear frame, and optionally the front frame 100 and the rear frame 200 are connected at first ends via a hinge structure comprising a knuckle element located on either the front frame or the rear frame and a pin element located on the other of the front frame or the rear frame, and optionally the knuckle element or the pin element is molded as an integral part of the front frame or the rear frame.

[0186] D. The front frame 100 and the rear frame 200 further comprises a locking structure at a second end opposite the housing for releasably locking the front frame and the rear frame together when the housing is closed, wherein the locking structure is optionally selected from the group consisting of latches, snap fasteners, clasps, and catches, as described in any one of paragraphs A to C.

[0187] E. A volatile composition dispenser 1 according to any one of paragraphs A to D, wherein each of one or more rib elements 201 has a substantially protruding cartridge contact surface, and the cartridge further comprises one or more breaking elements 37 spatially aligned with one or more rib elements 201, so that when one or more rib elements 201 approach or come into contact with the cartridge 30, one or more rib elements 201 are pressed against one or more breaking elements 37, thereby causing the sealing substrate 33 to break.

[0188] F. A volatile composition dispenser 1 according to any one of paragraphs A to E, wherein one or more rib elements 201 are located near the periphery of the rear frame 200, and optionally, one or more rib elements 201 include a first rib element closer to the first end of the housing 10 and a second rib element closer to the second end on the opposite side of the housing 10.

[0189] G. The volatile composition dispenser 1 according to any one of paragraphs A to F, wherein the housing 10 is a reusable housing that can be used multiple times with a replaceable cartridge.

[0190] H. A method for delivering a volatile composition into an internal space, (i) Providing a volatile composition dispenser 1 according to any one of paragraphs A to G in an internal space, (ii) A method comprising the step of activating the volatile composition dispenser 1 by moving the front frame and the rear frame toward each other to close the housing 10.

[0191] I. A volatile composition dispenser 1, A housing 10 having a first end and a second end on the opposite side, the housing includes a front frame 100 and a rear frame 200 that can move away from each other or toward each other to open and close the housing, the front frame 100 and / or the rear frame 200 include one or more separation slots 720, the housing 10, and A cartridge (30, 930) configured to be placed inside the housing 10, A reservoir containing at least one liquid volatile composition, A cartridge (30, 930) comprising a sealing substrate 33 that encloses a reservoir, A volatile composition dispenser 1 is configured such that at least one liquid volatile composition in a cartridge 30 is delivered to the atmosphere via the rupture and / or removal of a sealing substrate 33.

[0192] J. The volatile composition dispenser 1 according to paragraph I, wherein the front frame 100 and the rear frame 200 are pivotable relative to each other, a separation slot 720 is located adjacent to the upper part 750 of the housing 10, and the pivot axes of the front frame 100 and the rear frame 200 are located at the lower part 760 of the housing 10.

[0193] K. The volatile composition dispenser 1 according to paragraph I, wherein the front frame 100 and the rear frame 200 are pivotable relative to each other, a separation slot 720 is located adjacent to the lower part 760, and a pivot axis is located at the upper part 750 of the housing 10.

[0194] The volatile composition dispenser 1 according to paragraph I, wherein the L. separation slot 720 is located on the side of the housing 10.

[0195] M. A volatile composition dispenser 1 according to any one of paragraphs I to L, wherein the separation slot is located at the interface 710 between the front frame 100 and the rear frame 200.

[0196] N. A volatile composition dispenser 1 according to any one of paragraphs I to M, wherein the cartridge comprises a removable sealing substrate 33.

[0197] The volatile composition dispenser 1 according to paragraph N, wherein the sealing substrate 33 comprises a pull tab 945 positioned adjacent to a sealing region 935 on the cartridge 930.

[0198] The volatile composition dispenser 1 according to paragraph O, wherein the pull tab 945 has a length of 20 mm or less, preferably about 15 mm or less, or more preferably about 10 mm or less.

[0199] Q. A volatile composition dispenser 1 according to any one of paragraphs O to P, wherein the pull tab 945 has a length of about 2 mm to about 20 mm, preferably about 5 mm to about 15 mm, or more preferably about 5 mm to about 10 mm.

[0200] A volatile composition dispenser 1 according to any one of paragraphs O to Q, wherein the R. pull tab 945 has a width of about 20 mm or less, preferably about 15 mm or less, or more preferably about 10 mm or less.

[0201] A volatile composition dispenser 1 according to any one of paragraphs O to R, wherein the pull tab 945 has a width of about 2 mm to about 20 mm, preferably about 5 mm to about 15 mm, or more preferably about 5 mm to about 10 mm.

[0202] A volatile composition dispenser 1 according to any one of paragraphs O to S, wherein a front frame 100 and a rear frame 200 are pivotably connected, and a separation slot is located on the side of the housing 10, and the separation slot has a length of at least 60 percent, more preferably at least 70 percent, or even more preferably at least 80 percent of the length 715 of the interface 710 between the front frame 100 and the rear frame 200.

[0203] U. A volatile composition dispenser 1 according to any one of paragraphs I and L to T, wherein a front frame 100 and a rear frame 200 are pivotably connected, and a separation slot is located on the side of the housing 10, and the separation slot has a length of about 10 percent to about 60 percent, more preferably about 10 percent to about 70 percent, or even more preferably about 10 percent to about 80 percent of the length 715 of the interface 710 between the front frame 100 and the rear frame 200.

[0204] V. A volatile composition dispenser 1 according to any one of paragraphs O to S, wherein the front frame 100 and the rear frame 200 are pivotably connected, and the separation slot is located on the opposite side of the pivot axis of the housing 10, and the separation slot has a length of at least 60 percent, more preferably at least 70 percent, or even more preferably at least 80 percent of the length of the short axis 972 of the cartridge 930.

[0205] W. A volatile composition dispenser 1 according to any one of paragraphs O to S and V, wherein the front frame 100 and the rear frame 200 are pivotably connected, and the separation slot is located on the opposite side of the pivot axis of the housing 10, and the separation slot has a length of about 10 percent to about 60 percent, more preferably about 10 percent to about 70 percent, or even more preferably about 10 percent to about 80 percent of the length of the short axis 972 of the cartridge 930.

[0206] X. A volatile composition dispenser 1 according to any one of paragraphs N to W, wherein a pull tab 945 extends through a separation slot.

[0207] Y. A method for delivering a volatile composition into an internal space, (i) A step of providing the volatile composition dispenser 1 described in any one of paragraphs I to W in an internal space, (ii) a method comprising the step of activating the volatile composition dispenser 1 by breaking or removing a sealing substrate, wherein the removal of the sealing substrate may be before inserting the cartridge into the housing or before pulling the sealing substrate through the separation slot.

[0208] Z. A method for delivering a volatile composition into an internal space, according to paragraph Y, wherein the rear frame 200 comprises one or more rib elements 201 that break the sealing substrate 33 when the housing 10 is closed.

[0209] AA. Volatile composition dispenser 1, A housing 10 having a first end and a second end on the opposite side, the housing comprising a front frame 100 and a rear frame 200 that can move away from each other or toward each other to open and close the housing, the front frame 100 and / or the rear frame 200 comprising one or more separation tabs 810 / 820, and A cartridge (30, 930) configured to be placed inside the housing 10, A reservoir containing at least one liquid volatile composition, A cartridge (30, 930) comprising a sealing substrate 33 that encloses a reservoir, A volatile composition dispenser 1 is configured such that at least one liquid volatile composition in a cartridge 30 is delivered to the atmosphere via the rupture and / or removal of a sealing substrate 33.

[0210] A volatile composition dispenser 1 according to paragraph AA, wherein the front frame 100 and the rear frame 200 are pivotable relative to each other, the separation tabs 810 and 820 are positioned adjacent to the upper part 750 of the housing 10, and the pivot axes of the front frame 100 and the rear frame 200 are positioned at the lower part 760 of the housing 10.

[0211] The volatile composition dispenser 1 according to paragraph AA, wherein the front frame 100 and the rear frame 200 are pivotable relative to each other, the separation tabs 810 and 820 are positioned adjacent to the lower part 760, and the pivot axis is positioned at the upper part 750 of the housing 10.

[0212] AD. A volatile composition dispenser 1 according to any one of paragraphs AA to AC, wherein the front frame 100 comprises a separation tab 810 and the rear frame 200 comprises a separation slot 820.

[0213] A volatile composition dispenser 1 according to any one of paragraphs AA to AD, comprising a removable sealing substrate 33 for the cartridge.

[0214] AF. The volatile composition dispenser 1 according to paragraph AE, wherein the sealing substrate 33 comprises a pull tab 945 positioned adjacent to a sealing region 935 on the cartridge 930.

[0215] The volatile composition dispenser 1 according to paragraph AF, wherein the pull tab 945 has a length of 20 mm or less, preferably about 15 mm or less, or more preferably about 10 mm or less.

[0216] AH. A volatile composition dispenser 1 according to any one of paragraphs AF to AG, wherein the pull tab 945 has a length of about 2 mm to about 20 mm, preferably about 5 mm to about 15 mm, or more preferably about 5 mm to about 10 mm.

[0217] A volatile composition dispenser 1 according to any one of paragraphs AF to AH, wherein the AI. pull tab 945 has a width of about 20 mm or less, preferably about 15 mm or less, or more preferably about 10 mm or less.

[0218] AJ. A volatile composition dispenser 1 according to any one of paragraphs AF to AI, wherein the pull tab 945 has a width of about 2 mm to about 20 mm, preferably about 5 mm to about 15 mm, or more preferably about 5 mm to about 10 mm.

[0219] AK. A method for delivering a volatile composition into an internal space, (i) A step of providing the volatile composition dispenser 1 described in any one of paragraphs AA to AJ in an internal space, (ii) A method comprising the step of activating the volatile composition dispenser 1 by breaking or removing a sealing substrate, wherein the removal of the sealing substrate may occur before inserting the cartridge into the housing slot.

[0220] A method for delivering the volatile composition described in paragraph AK into an internal space, wherein the aluminum rear frame 200 comprises one or more rib elements 201 that break the sealing substrate 33 when the housing 10 is closed.

[0221] A cartridge (30, 930) for AM.Volatile composition dispenser 1, comprising a container 32 having a reservoir 321, a sealing substrate 33 that sealably covers the reservoir 321, and a film, wherein the sealing substrate 33 is breakable or removable.

[0222] AN. A cartridge (30, 930) for a volatile composition dispenser 1 as described in paragraph AM, wherein the substrate is breakable.

[0223] AO. A cartridge (30, 930) for a volatile composition dispenser 1 as described in paragraph AN, wherein the substrate comprises a film, foil, or laminated material.

[0224] AP. A cartridge (30, 930) for the volatile composition dispenser 1 described in paragraph AM, wherein the encapsulating substrate is removable.

[0225] AQ. A cartridge (30, 930) for a volatile composition dispenser 1 according to paragraph AP, wherein the sealing substrate 33 comprises a pull tab 945 positioned adjacent to a sealing region 935 on the cartridge 930.

[0226] A cartridge (30, 930) for a volatile composition dispenser 1 according to any one of paragraphs AP to AQ, wherein the pull tab 945 has a length of 20 mm or less, preferably about 15 mm or less, or more preferably about 10 mm or less.

[0227] A cartridge (30, 930) for a volatile composition dispenser 1 according to any one of paragraphs AP to AR, wherein the pull tab 945 has a length of about 2 mm to about 20 mm, preferably about 5 mm to about 15 mm, or more preferably about 5 mm to about 10 mm.

[0228] A cartridge (30, 930) for a volatile composition dispenser 1 according to any one of paragraphs AP to AS, wherein the pull tab 945 has a width of about 20 mm or less, preferably about 15 mm or less, or more preferably about 10 mm or less.

[0229] A cartridge (30, 930) for a volatile composition dispenser 1 according to any one of paragraphs AP to AT, wherein the pull tab 945 has a width of about 2 mm to about 20 mm, preferably about 5 mm to about 15 mm, or more preferably about 5 mm to about 10 mm.

[0230] AV. A method for delivering a volatile composition into an internal space, (i) A step of providing a cartridge for a volatile composition dispenser 1 as described in any one of paragraphs AP to AU, (ii) A method comprising the steps of removing the sealing substrate and inserting the cartridge into the front frame 100 of the housing 10.

[0231] A method for delivering the volatile composition described in paragraph AV into the internal space, wherein the removal of the sealing substrate is performed before inserting the cartridge into the front frame 100 of the housing 10.

[0232] A method for delivering the volatile composition described in paragraph AV into the internal space, wherein the removal of the sealing substrate is performed after the cartridge is inserted into the front frame 100 of the housing 10.

[0233] The dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein should not be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​listed. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the listed value and the functionally equivalent range encompassing that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "approximately 40 mm."

[0234] All documents referenced herein, including any patents or patent applications that are cross-referenced or related, and any patent applications or patents for which this application claims priority or benefit thereof, are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. No citation of any document shall be deemed prior art to any invention disclosed or claimed herein, nor shall any such invention be taught, suggested, or disclosed, either alone or in combination with any one or more other 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 any document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition given to that term in this document shall prevail.

[0235] While specific embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent 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. Therefore, it is intended that all such changes and modifications within the scope of the invention be covered in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A housing for holding a cartridge containing a volatile composition, the housing comprising a front frame and a rear frame that can move away from each other or toward each other to open and close the housing, The front frame is provided with a window configured to receive a portion of the cartridge, At least a portion of the area surrounding the window is bordered by a wall portion that protrudes from the window toward the interior of the housing, and the wall portion is configured to support the cartridge within the housing without adhesive. The rear frame is provided with one or more openings configured to allow airflow to the housing, The housing is configured to hold the cartridge between the front frame and the rear frame, allowing the volatile composition to evaporate from the cartridge. housing.

2. The housing according to claim 1, wherein when the housing holds the cartridge and is oriented for use, a portion of the cartridge rests on a portion of the wall portion.

3. The aforementioned wall portion comprises a solid wall and / or The wall portion includes one or both of the intermittent wall and a series of projections. The housing according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The housing according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the wall portion and the rear frame are both configured to support the cartridge without adhesive bonding.

5. The housing according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the housing allows the cartridge to be removed from the housing without being touched by the user.

6. The front frame and the rear frame are connected via a hinge, and The housing is provided with a locking structure for locking the housing in a closed state in a releasable manner. Optionally, the hinge is located at the first end of the housing, and the locking mechanism is located at the opposite end of the housing. The housing according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The housing according to claim 6, wherein the front frame and the rear frame can be opened to each other at an angle of at least 90°.

8. The housing according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the locking structure comprises a button latch on the front frame, the button latch is configured to engage releasably with a corresponding structure on the rear frame.

9. The button latch includes a deformable overhang button connected to the latch, and the following (a) to (e): (a) The latch has a T-shape including a stem portion having a diameter of 1.2 mm to 1.4 mm, (b) The latch can withstand a force of 95 to 115 N without breaking, and the force is applied substantially perpendicular to the latch at the maximum distance from the deformable overhang button. (c) The deformable overhang button maintains substantially elastic deformation over the deformation range for opening and closing the locking structure for at least 100 locking cycles, (d) The deformable overhang button is located on the rear of the front frame, and the projection of the deformable overhang button onto the front of the front frame overlaps with the flat area on the front of the front frame, and (e) The force required to open the housing is 15 N to 55 N for at least 10 locking cycles when applied substantially perpendicular to the deformable overhang button. The housing according to claim 8, wherein one or more of the following apply.

10. The locking structure is configured to generate a sound of at least 50 dB (for example, 50 dB to 65 dB) when the housing is closed and the locking structure is engaged. The housing according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein optionally, the sound is generated when the deformable overhang button portion returns from a deformed state to a natural state.

11. The housing according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the force required to close the housing is 20 N to 120 N for at least 10 locking cycles when the force is applied substantially perpendicular to the center point of the rear frame of the housing.

12. The housing according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the rear frame comprises one or more rib elements configured to exert a compressive force on the cartridge when the housing is closed and the cartridge is positioned inside the housing.

13. A volatile composition dispenser, The housing according to any one of claims 1 to 12, and A cartridge configured to be placed inside the housing, A reservoir containing at least one liquid volatile composition, A membrane for sealing the reservoir, A cartridge equipped with Equipped with, The cartridge is held within the housing without adhesive, The cartridge is supported by the wall portion, and The cartridge can be removed from the housing without being touched by the user. Volatile composition dispenser.

14. The volatile composition dispenser according to claim 13, wherein the cartridge has a maximum travel distance of less than 4 mm within the plane of the window.

15. The housing and the cartridge are configured such that when the service life of the cartridge located within the housing is reached, the cartridge is... (i) The step of opening the housing, (ii) The step of turning the housing upside down, The volatile composition dispenser according to claim 13 or 14, configured to allow the cartridge to be removed from the housing without the step of disengaging or detaching it from the housing.

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