Capsule and cap assembly for concentrated refillable capsules

Abstract

A cap assembly for a refill capsule and related refill system is disclosed. The cap assembly (200) includes an inner wall (202) defining a conduit (203) through the cap assembly (200) and an outer wall (204) surrounding the inner wall to form a circumferential gap between the inner wall and the outer wall (202, 204). A connecting wall joins the inner and outer walls (202, 204). The cap assembly (200) further includes a closure member (208) sealed to the inner wall (202) by a peripheral breakable connection (210). The breakable connection (210) is disposed between a first peripheral recess (222) formed between the inner wall (202) and a downstream side (208b) of the closure member (208) and a second peripheral recess (224) between the inner wall (202) and an upstream side (208b) of the closure member (208).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a cap assembly for a concentrated cleaning product refill capsule system that includes an easy-break seal. [Background technology]

[0002] Any discussion of prior art throughout this specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such prior art is widely known or forms part of the common general knowledge in the art.

[0003] WO 2007 / 145773 describes a mixing unit which comprises a sealed container joined to a second container.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-158361 describes a refill container that can facilitate refilling operations.

[0005] Liquid cleaning and hygiene products, such as all-purpose surface cleaners, glass cleaners, or degreasers, are often supplied in ready-to-use concentrations in a wide variety of containers with a wide variety of dispensing systems. Typically, such liquid cleaning products contain one or more active ingredients diluted with water (or another solvent) to a concentration suitable for use in residential or commercial environments.

[0006] Cleaning products supplied in ready-to-use concentrations are advantageous in that the products can be supplied in safe and effective concentrations and can be appropriately labeled. Ready-to-use products are also more convenient for the user because they do not require dilution or reconstitution prior to use.

[0007] One example of a widely used container system for cleaning products is a spray bottle with a trigger actuator. Such a system generally includes a bottle with a body and a neck, the neck configured to engage a removable spray nozzle. The spray nozzle is generally secured to the neck of the bottle by complementary threads on the neck and nozzle. After use, the container or vessel in which the cleaning product is provided is typically discarded and a replacement is required.

[0008] Although the spray bottles in which the cleaning product is dispensed generally have a lifespan that extends beyond the point at which the cleaning product is depleted, refilling spray bottles with cleaning product is not commonly practiced in the home environment.

[0009] In commercial or industrial settings, spray bottles may be refilled for reuse by diluting a predetermined amount of concentrate with water. The concentrated cleaning solution may be supplied in a bottle, which typically has a larger volume than the spray bottles used by cleaning professionals due to the fact that the concentrate container is not carried throughout the cleaning process.

[0010] However, while it is known to supply concentrated cleaning solutions for dilution prior to use, refilling spray bottles with water and concentrated cleaning solutions is not widely practiced due to the many challenges in safely and effectively administering concentrated products, especially in residential environments.

[0011] Care must be taken when handling concentrated cleaning solutions, both while refilling the spray bottle and when storing the concentrate. To avoid health risks, concentrated cleaning solutions should be transported and stored correctly and kept out of reach of children and animals, even more so than diluted cleaning solutions.

[0012] Additionally, concentrated (undiluted) cleaning solutions can cause damage to surfaces within the home and should be avoided from spilling to avoid damage to clothing and household items.

[0013] Further difficulties may be encountered in ensuring that concentrated cleaning products are diluted to safe and effective concentrations. Over-dilution of concentrated cleaning solutions with water may result in poor cleaning results. Under-dilution of concentrated cleaning solutions may result in health risks, damage to household products, and excessive consumption of concentrated cleaning solutions.

[0014] Despite the desire to reduce the plastic waste created by discarding empty bottles, as well as the desire to reduce the costs and resources required to ship and store ready-to-use cleaning products, convenient refill systems suitable for use in home and professional environments are not widely available.

[0015] The inventors have been able to develop a refillable capsule system for use with spray bottles (and other cleaning product containers) that can solve many of the problems associated with conventional cleaning product dispensing systems and overcome many of the problems noted above. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0016] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2007 / 145773 [Patent Document 2] JP 2012-158361 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0017] It is an object of the present invention to provide a refill capsule and associated cap assembly that overcomes the above-mentioned shortcomings associated with current cleaning products that allow for the reuse of a receptacle or container for the cleaning product.

[0018] Another object of the present invention is to provide a refill system with a cap assembly that allows a user to safely and reliably deliver a predetermined amount of concentrated cleaning solution into a spray bottle or similar container for dilution.

[0019] Another object of the present invention is to provide a refill capsule and associated cap assembly that allows for safe and reliable delivery of concentrated cleaning solution to a refill container.

[0020] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a refill capsule and associated cap assembly which can be easily and reliably connected to a refill container and which allows for the expulsion of concentrate into the refill container.

[0021] These and other objects are accomplished by the invention as described in the following text and drawings. [Means for solving the problem]

[0022] In a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cap assembly having an easy-to-break seal configured to close and seal a refill capsule for a cleaning concentrate, the cap assembly comprising a easy-to-break seal configured such that the easy-to-break seal breaks when the cap assembly engages a refill container.

[0023] A cap assembly according to the invention is set out in the accompanying claims. Optional features are set out in the dependent claims.

[0024] The capping system according to the present invention allows for safe and convenient storage and transport of a volumetric concentrated cleaning solution. The system can be engaged with a refillable container, for example, by a threaded engagement. When the system is engaged with the refillable container, the frangible seal is configured to break, thereby releasing the concentrated cleaning solution contained in the capsule and flowing into the refillable container.

[0025] The present invention relates to a cap assembly for a refillable capsule which provides an improved easy-break seal.

[0026] It should be noted that hereinafter the term "comprising" encompasses the terms "consisting essentially of" and "consisting of." When the term "comprising" is used, the listed steps or options need not be exhaustive and additional steps or features may be included. As used herein, the indefinite article "a" or "an" and its corresponding definite article "the" mean at least one, or one or more, unless otherwise specified.

[0027] The terms "upstream" and "downstream" as used herein refer to the direction of fluid flow through the refill system during use, with the fluid flowing from the upstream end to the downstream end. In the context of the present invention, the fluid flows from the upstream refill capsule system into the downstream refill container. The proximal direction is the upstream direction and the distal direction is the downstream direction.

[0028] In specifying any range of values ​​or amounts, any particular upper value or amount can be associated with any particular lower value or amount.

[0029] Various features of the invention referred to in individual sections above apply mutatis mutandis to other sections, as appropriate. Thus, features specified in one section may be combined with features specified in other sections, as appropriate. Any section headings are added for convenience only and are not intended to limit the disclosure in any way.

[0030] The present invention is not limited to the examples shown in the drawings. Thus, when features recited in a claim are followed by reference numerals, it will be understood that such numerals are included only to enhance the clarity of the claim and do not limit the scope of the claim in any way.

[0031] The present invention relates to a cap assembly for a refill capsule system, the cap assembly being configured to seal a container filled with a concentrated cleaning solution, the cap assembly comprising a frangible seal configured to be broken when the cap assembly is screwed onto a refill container.

[0032] The cap assembly includes an inner wall defining a conduit through the cap assembly, the conduit extending from an upstream end to a downstream end, an outer wall surrounding the inner wall along at least a first portion of its length, the outer wall spaced from the first portion of the inner wall defining a circumferential gap between the inner wall and the outer wall, and a connecting wall extending between the inner wall and the outer wall and preventing fluid flow through the gap between the inner wall and the outer wall.

[0033] The cap assembly further comprises an occlusion member configured to seal the conduit, the occlusion member having an upstream side and a downstream side and a support surface on the downstream side, the occlusion member being sealed to the inner wall by a frangible connection located between the proximal and distal ends of the conduit, the frangible connection extending in a plane P perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A of the conduit.

[0034] The frangible connection is disposed between a first peripheral recess formed between the inner wall and the downstream side of the obstruction member and a second peripheral recess between the inner wall and the upstream side of the obstruction member.

[0035] By forming a frangible connection between two opposing recesses, the thickness (longitudinal) of the connection, and the width (radial) of the frangible connection at its thinnest point, can be tightly controlled, which may allow for reliable production of an frangible seal, while providing an area of ​​material that is thin enough to ensure that the seal fails when a force is applied proximally to the closure member (e.g., when the cap assembly is screwed or pushed into a refill container).

[0036] The support surface of the cap assembly may extend perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A of the conduit.

[0037] The occlusion member may be hollow and tapered, extending from a downstream base to an upstream tip. For example, the occlusion member may be conical or frusto-conical. The occlusion member may be open at the base.

[0038] The support surface of the obstruction member preferably extends in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A of the conduit.

[0039] The closure member may be hollow and may taper from the downstream base to the upstream apex. In some configurations, the closure member is open at the base. In such configurations, the support surface extends around the periphery of the base and is therefore located adjacent the frangible connection. By providing an inverted hollow closure member as described above, the closure member may be configured to float within the fluid contained in the capsule body, thereby reducing the likelihood of the closure member settling and blocking the conduit after the seal is broken.

[0040] The conduit may have a first cross-sectional diameter upstream of the easy-break connection and a second cross-sectional diameter downstream of the easy-break connection, the first cross-sectional diameter being larger than the second cross-sectional diameter.

[0041] A frangible connection may be formed between the occlusion member and the conduit in a region of the conduit having a second, smaller cross-sectional diameter. The plug may be configured to force the occlusion member into a region of the conduit having a larger diameter as the plug advances upstream. In other words, the system may be configured such that a proximal abutment of a surface of the plug is disposed in a wider portion of the conduit when the plug is in the second position.

[0042] By providing a region of the conduit having a cross-sectional diameter greater than the maximum diameter of the occlusion member, the likelihood of the occlusion member blocking the outflow of fluid through the conduit is reduced.

[0043] The outer wall downstream of the connecting wall may be provided with engagement means, for example threads, configured to engage corresponding engagement means on the refill container.

[0044] The outer wall upstream of the connecting wall may be provided with engagement means, for example one or more threads, configured to engage with corresponding engagement means on the capsule body.

[0045] The inner wall may include a protrusion or ridge extending radially inwardly from an inner surface of the inner wall.

[0046] The cap assembly is preferably molded to form at least the closure member, the connecting portion, and the conduit as a continuous molded piece. The connecting portion may be configured to be the thinnest portion of the cap assembly. The connecting portion may be 0.05-0.2 mm thick, more preferably 0.1-0.2 mm thick. The cap assembly may be formed from a molded polymeric material, such as a polypropylene material. The polymeric material may be injection molded.

[0047] The cap assembly can be configured to engage the refill container such that the frangible connection is broken when the cap assembly engages the refill container. For example, the support surface can be configured such that the rim of the refill container bears against the support surface when the cap assembly is screwed onto the neck of the refill container.

[0048] The cap assembly may form part of a cap system, the cap assembly as described above further comprising a plug. The plug may be movably mounted within the cap assembly for axial movement between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the proximal abutment surface of the plug is downstream of the frangible connection. In the second position, the proximal abutment surface of the plug is upstream of the frangible connection. In such a configuration, the plug is configured to bear against the support surface of the occlusion member and break the frangible connection.

[0049] For convenience, the tubular body of the plug and the conduit of the cap assembly may have a circular cross-section, which may facilitate easier manufacture and assembly, however, it will be appreciated that other cross-sectional shapes are possible within the scope of the invention. For example, polygonal cross-sections are possible, as well as elliptical cross-sections.

[0050] The plug can include a tubular body having an open proximal end and an open distal end, the open proximal end surrounded by a first rim providing a proximal abutment surface for compressing the support surface of the occlusion member, and the plug also includes a flange with a distal abutment surface against which the rim of the refill container can compress to move the plug between the first and second positions.

[0051] The outer skirt wall may be coaxially disposed relative to the tubular body, and the skirt wall may be radially spaced from the tubular body to define a plug recess between the skirt wall and the tubular body.

[0052] The skirt wall can extend from a skirt distal end connected to the distal end of the tubular body to a free proximal end, which can include a flange provided with a distal abutment surface and can further include additional features configured to engage the cap assembly and more precisely hold the plug in place within the housing.

[0053] For example, the free end of the skirt may include a radially outwardly extending flange that provides a distal abutment surface for engaging the rim of the refill container. The free end of the skirt may also include at least one radially outwardly extending tab configured to engage at least one thread on the inner surface of the outer wall of the cap assembly. The tab is configured to ride over the thread when the plug is pushed from the first position to the second position. However, the tab may prevent or limit the extent to which the plug may become dislodged from the cap assembly during transport.

[0054] Additionally or alternatively, it may be possible to improve the safety of the plug being maintained in the first position during transport and / or storage by providing a circumferential ridge or protrusion on the inner surface of the cap assembly conduit and / or the outer wall of the tubular body.

[0055] To further improve fluid flow through the cap system, the plug can include one or more notches that form a discontinuity in the rim of the tubular body. The one or more discontinuities can ensure that a flow path through the cap assembly is possible even when the occlusion member settles above the rim of the tubular body.

[0056] To provide additional security against leakage between the capsule body and the cap system, a shrink wrap cover may be provided extending around at least a portion of the capsule body and at least a portion of the cap assembly.

[0057] There is also provided a refill system which may comprise the cap assembly as described above, further a plug and a capsule body for containing a concentrated cleaning solution, wherein the capsule body is engaged with the cap assembly and the interior volume of the capsule body is in fluid communication with the upstream end of the conduit.

[0058] Advantageously, the capsule may comprise an opening surrounded by a rim, the rim being able to abut against the connecting wall of the cap assembly, such an arrangement stiffening the connecting wall against bending.

[0059] The refill system may also include a shrink wrap cover extending around at least a portion of the capsule body and at least a portion of the cap assembly.

[0060] The invention will now be further illustrated by way of the following non-limiting figures and examples.

[0061] By way of example, the invention will now be described with reference to the following figures. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0062] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective longitudinal cross-sectional view of a refillable capsule comprising a capsule, a plug and a cap assembly according to the present invention; [Figure 2A] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of the refill system prior to rupture of the easy-to-break seal. [Figure 2B] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the refill system after rupture of the easy-to-break seal. [Figure 3A] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a cap assembly according to the present invention having an easy-to-break seal. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is an enlarged view of the easy-to-break seal of FIG. 3A. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a plug according to the present invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the proximal end of a refillable capsule system comprising the cap system of FIG. 1. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0063] In the detailed description, like reference numbers are used to denote like features of the various illustrated devices according to this invention.

[0064] Figure 1 illustrates a refill system for containing a concentrated cleaning solution configured for use with a refill container. Figure 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an assembled refill system including a capsule body 100, a cap assembly 200, and a plug 300. As shown in Figure 1, a longitudinal axis A extends from the closed end of the capsule body 100, through the cap assembly 200, and the plug 300.

[0065] 1, the capsule body 100 comprises a generally hollow container configured to receive a quantity of concentrated cleaning solution. The concentrated cleaning solution is contained within an interior volume 102 of the capsule body 100. The capsule body 100 comprises a neck 104 having an open end surrounded by a rim 108. The neck 104 comprises threads 106 configured to engage corresponding threads on a cap assembly 200.

[0066] The cap assembly 200 is configured to seal the capsule and extends from an upstream end to a downstream end. The upstream end of the cap assembly 200 is configured to engage the capsule body 100. The downstream end of the cap assembly 200 is an end configured to engage a refill container, as will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 2A and 2B.

[0067] The cap assembly 200 defines a conduit 203 through the cap assembly 200 through which fluid can flow to exit the capsule body 100. The conduit 203 extends through the cap assembly 200 from an open upstream end to an open downstream end. An occlusion member 208 seals the conduit 203 and prevents fluid communication between the upstream and downstream ends of the conduit 203. The occlusion member 208 is sealed to the inner wall of the conduit by a frangible seal that can be broken by applying pressure to the occlusion member 208.

[0068] The plug 300 is disposed within the cap assembly 200 and is configured to bear against the closure member 208 and break the frangible seal when the refill system is threaded (or otherwise engaged) into the refill container. The plug 300 includes an internal bore through which cleaning fluid can escape when the plug 300 is used to break the seal in the cap assembly 200.

[0069] Advantageously, the refill system can be wrapped in a shrink wrap cover. The shrink wrap cover can cover the entirety of the cap assembly 200 and the capsule body 100 or can cover only a portion of the capsule body 100 and the capsule assembly 200. Advantageously, the shrink wrap cover can extend around the system such that the joint between the capsule body 100 and the cap assembly 200 is surrounded by the shrink wrap cover. By shrink wrapping the capsule body 100 and the cap assembly 200 together, the possibility of the cap assembly 200 being inadvertently removed from the capsule body 100 is further reduced.

[0070] 2A and 2B, use of the system will now be described in more detail.

[0071] 2A and 2B show an expanded view of a refill system comprising a cap assembly 200 and a plug 300. The capsule body 100 has been omitted for clarity. 2A and 2B also show an upper portion of a refill container 400 having a neck 402 defining an opening in fluid communication with the interior volume of the container.

[0072] 2A shows the system prior to use with the closure member 208 sealed within the conduit 203. As shown in FIG. 2A, the refill system is supplied with a plug 300 disposed within the cap assembly 200. In the configuration shown in FIG. 2A, the plug 300 is spaced apart from (i.e., not in direct contact with) the closure member 208. The plug 300 is mounted within the cap assembly 200 and secured in place against accidental movement (e.g., during transport or storage). However, the plug 300 and cap assembly 200 are configured such that the plug 300 can be axially pushed towards the closure member 208 by squeezing an abutment surface provided on the plug 300.

[0073] The plug 300 can be secured or attached in different ways within the cap assembly 200. An exemplary plug and cap assembly combination is described in further detail with reference to Figures 3-6.

[0074] The cap assembly 200 includes threads 230 (or other engagement means) configured to engage corresponding container threads on the refill container 400. The threads 230 enable the cap assembly 200 to be screwed onto the neck 402 of the refill container 400. The threads 230 are provided on an inner surface of the cap assembly 200, while the threads 404 of the refill container 400 are provided on an outer surface of the container 400. Thus, when the cap assembly 200 is screwed onto the neck 402 of the container 400, the neck 402 of the container 400 and the rim 406 at which the neck 402 terminates are guided into the cap assembly 200.

[0075] 2B, the plug 300 is disposed within the cap assembly 200 such that introduction of the neck 402 into the cap assembly 200 compresses the plug 300, tending to push the plug in an upstream direction, towards the capsule, and into contact with the occlusion member 208. As shown in FIG. 2B, as the rim 406 advances within the cap assembly, the plug 300 first abuts the occlusion member 208 and then begins to exert a force against the occlusion member as the rim 406 advances further. As the plug compresses the occlusion member 208, the force exerted on the occlusion member 208 increases to the point that the frangible seal between the occlusion member and the conduit 203 is broken, and the occlusion member 208 is pushed in an upstream direction such that it no longer seals the conduit 203.

[0076] When the seal provided by the closure member 208 is broken, concentrated cleaning solution flows from the interior volume of the capsule, through the conduit 203 in the cap assembly, through the internal bore of the plug 300 and downward into the refill container 400 .

[0077] Once the capsule is emptied, the cap assembly 200 is unscrewed from the neck 402 of the container 400 and can be safely discarded.

[0078] By providing a refill system as described above, it is possible to provide a safe, convenient and effective method of delivering a controlled amount of concentrated cleaning solution to a refill container.

[0079] The abutment surface is configured to contact the support surface of the closure member such that a net force is applied to the closure member along longitudinal axis A, perpendicular to the plane in which the frangible connection extends.

[0080] The abutment surface of the plug therefore preferably has at least two-fold rotational symmetry with respect to the longitudinal axis A. For example, the abutment surface of the plug may be provided by a continuous circumferential rim of the tubular body terminating in a plane Q. Alternatively, the abutment surface may comprise a discontinuous rim comprising a plurality of projections equally spaced circumferentially around the rim of the tubular body, the projections terminating in the plane Q. The projections may take the form of teeth equally spaced around the circumference of the rim. For example, in the case of an abutment surface comprising two teeth, the teeth may be arranged diametrically opposite one another.

[0081] Advantageously, by including projections equally spaced around the circumference of the tubular body, it may be possible to reduce the surface area of ​​the proximal abutment surface that contacts the seal to be broken. This may increase the pressure applied to the support member (because the area over which force is applied to the seal is reduced), thus improving the certainty that the seal will break. While reducing the surface area of ​​the abutment surface, the equal spacing of the projections may ensure that the frangible connection is snapped rather than peeled off asymmetrically. Such an arrangement may allow the thickness of the frangible connection to be increased (thereby increasing manufacturing tolerances) without significantly increasing the force required from the user to move the plug from a first position to a second position (e.g., by threading the cap system onto the neck of a refill container).

[0082] By providing a rotationally symmetric abutment surface configured to apply a net force perpendicular to the plane in which the frangible connection extends along the longitudinal axis A, the frangible connection can be configured to snap and break at its circumference rather than peeling from an initial tear around the seal. Such circumferential failure of the seal can result in an audible snap or click to the user, thereby providing positive feedback that the frangible connection has been successfully broken and that liquid contained in the capsule body can escape.

[0083] The cap assembly is preferably molded to form at least the closure member, the connecting portion, and the conduit as a continuous molded piece. The connecting portion may be configured to be the thinnest portion of the cap assembly. The connecting portion may be 0.05-0.2 mm thick, more preferably 0.1-0.2 mm thick. The cap assembly may be formed from a molded polymeric material, such as a polypropylene material. The polymeric material may be injection molded.

[0084] For convenience, the tubular body of the plug and the conduit of the cap assembly may have a circular cross-section, which may facilitate easier manufacture and assembly, however, it will be appreciated that other cross-sectional shapes are possible within the scope of the invention. For example, polygonal cross-sections are possible, as well as elliptical cross-sections.

[0085] The systems described herein can provide several advantages that can result in an improved refill system.

[0086] Improved Cap Assembly The cap assembly 200 will now be described in more detail with reference to Figures 3A and 3B, which show cross-sectional views of the cap assembly 200. The plug 300 has been omitted from Figures 3A and 3B.

[0087] The cap assembly described herein includes several improvements that can improve performance. The cap assembly can include improved wall structure, improved easy break seals, improved safety features, and improved audible and tactile feedback to the user. Each of these improvements is described in more detail below. Additionally, it will be appreciated that the features described below can be incorporated into the refill system, either alone or in combination with other features, to provide a further improved product.

[0088] As shown in Figure 3A, the cap assembly 200 includes an interior wall 202 defining a conduit 203 extending from an open upstream end to an open downstream end. An occlusion member 208 is positioned within the conduit 203 and has an upstream side 208a and a downstream side 208b. The occlusion member 208 is sealed to the interior wall 202 about its periphery by a frangible connection 210. The frangible connection is located between the upstream and downstream open ends of the conduit 203 and is described in more detail in Figure 3B.

[0089] An outer wall 204 extends around the inner wall 202. The outer wall 204 is connected to the inner wall 202 by a connecting wall 212 or portion. The connecting wall 212 extending between the inner wall 202 and the outer wall 204 prevents the flow of fluid through the cap assembly between the inner wall 202 and the outer wall 204. Thus, the only path that fluid can flow through the cap assembly is through the inner conduit 203 when the frangible connection 210 is broken.

[0090] The inner wall 202 is coaxially disposed within the outer wall 204, forming a circumferential gap 214 between the inner wall 202 and the outer wall 204. In the embodiment shown in Figure 3A, a connecting wall 212 connects to each of the inner wall 202 and the outer wall 204 partway along their length. This forms an upstream gap 214a between the inner wall 202 and the outer wall 204 upstream of the connecting wall 212, and a downstream gap 214b between the inner wall 202 and the outer wall 204 downstream of the connecting wall 212.

[0091] By providing the upstream gap 214a, the seal between the capsule body 100 and the cap assembly 200 can be improved because the inner wall 202 can be specifically adapted to form a seal between the cap assembly 200 and the capsule body 100 within the neck 104 of the capsule, and the outer wall can be 203, specifically adapted to form a seal between the cap assembly 200 and the capsule around the neck 104 of the capsule body 100. In at least some examples, the outer wall 204 can provide a child-resistant closure to the capsule body 100. For example, the outer wall 204 can be provided with a plurality of ratchet teeth (not shown) that mate with a plurality of ratchet teeth on the capsule body 100, allowing the cap assembly 200 to be screwed onto the capsule body 100, but preventing the cap assembly 200 from being loosened from the capsule assembly. The child-resistant closure may prevent the cap assembly 200 from being loosened from the capsule body 100 completely (or at least without destroying the cap assembly 200), or may be configured to prevent the cap assembly 200 from being loosened from the capsule body 100 unless a predetermined axial force is applied to the cap assembly 200 in a direction towards the capsule body 100.

[0092] Additionally, by providing an upstream void 104a to accommodate the neck 214 of the capsule body 100, the neck 104 can be used to provide structural reinforcement to the cap assembly 200, minimizing the extent to which it flexes when pressure is applied to rupture the frangible seal 210. By minimizing the extent to which the cap assembly 200 can flex under pressure from the plug, the frangible seal 208 is more likely to suddenly fail under pressure, resulting in a snap or click that provides audible and tactile feedback to the user that the seal has been broken and the concentrate can be dispensed.

[0093] By providing the downstream gap 214b, at least a portion of the plug 300 can be accommodated between the inner wall 202 and the outer wall 204. This can allow the plug 300 to be retained within the cap assembly 200 during transport and storage, and held precisely in place until the user screws the refill system into a refill container.

[0094] It will be appreciated that while the provision of the upstream void 214a and the downstream void 214b can be combined to provide advantages over known systems, in at least some examples the cap assembly can include only the upstream void 214a or only the downstream void 214b.

[0095] The conduit 203 provided by the inner wall 202 of the cap assembly can have a variable diameter along its length. For example, the diameter of the conduit 203 upstream of the breakable seal 210 can be larger than the diameter of the conduit 203 downstream of the breakable seal 210. By increasing the diameter of the conduit 203 upstream of the breakable seal 210, the occlusion member 208 can be forced by the plug 300 into a region of the conduit 203 having a larger diameter than the occlusion member 208. This further reduces the possibility that the occlusion member 208 will block the conduit 203 and prevent the escape of cleaning fluid from the capsule body 100 through the cap assembly 200 and plug 300.

[0096] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 3A, the inner wall 202 is shaped to have a barrel-shaped or bulbous upstream end to provide a barrel seal for sealing with the neck 104 of the refillable capsule body 100. Instead of having a cylindrical shape with generally parallel sides, the upstream end of the conduit 203 is barrel-shaped with a steadily decreasing cross-sectional diameter (i.e., cross-section in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A) from a maximum diameter upstream of the easy-break seal 210 to the upstream rim of the conduit 203. By varying the diameter of the conduit 203 at the upstream end, variations in manufacturing tolerances can be taken into account and / or a tighter seal can be provided between the capsule body 100 and the cap assembly 200, since a narrower open end of the conduit 203 can be inserted into the neck 104 of the capsule body 100 and a tight seal can be formed between the barrel seal rim and the neck of the capsule body 100.

[0097] 3A, the connecting wall 212 may further include a circumferential channel 234 or recess adjacent the inner wall 202 on the upstream side. The channel 234 reduces the thickness of the connecting wall 212 at the point where the inner wall 202 joins the connecting wall 212. This may increase the extent to which the upstream portion of the inner wall 202 can flex inwardly to fit within the neck 104 of the capsule body 100 (as shown in FIG. 5).

[0098] The inner wall 202 downstream of the occlusion member 208 has a generally cylindrical configuration with substantially parallel walls. However, as shown in Figure 3A, the inner surface of the inner wall 202 may include a radially inwardly projecting ridge or protrusion 216. The ridge or protrusion 216 may advantageously engage a corresponding protrusion on the plug 300, as described in more detail below with reference to Figure 5.

[0099] As shown in FIG. 3A, occlusion member 208 is positioned within conduit 23 formed by interior wall 22 to close the conduit and prevent the passage of fluid unless frangible seal 210 is broken.

[0100] The obturator 208 shown in Figure 3A comprises a conical or frusto-conical shape and extends from an upstream apex 218 to a downstream base 220. The base 220 is preferably open to allow access to the hollow interior of the conical obturator 208 from the downstream side. By providing a hollow pointed obturator 208, the likelihood of the obturator 208 settling above the opening formed through the inner conduit after the seal is broken is reduced. Conversely, the buoyancy provided by the hollow obturator 208 means that the obturator will tend to float away from the conduit 203.

[0101] The base 220 of the closure member provides a support surface against which a plug of the cap assembly can bear to apply pressure to break the frangible seal. The support surface 220 preferably extends in a plane R perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A of the cap assembly 200.

[0102] 3B shows an enlarged view of the frangible connection 210 formed between the occlusion member 208 and the inner wall 202. As shown in FIG. 3B, the frangible connection 210 extends between the outer periphery of the occlusion member 208. The frangible connection 210 is preferably 0.05-0.2 mm thick, and more preferably 0.1 mm-0.2 mm thick. However, one skilled in the art will appreciate that other dimensions may be selected depending on the materials used and the dimensions of the system 10.

[0103] The frangible connection 210 is formed between two opposing recesses or channels 222, 224. The recesses or channels 222, 224 are shown in cross-section in Figure 3B. However, it will be appreciated that for an occlusion member 208 having a circular cross-section, the recesses or channels 222, 224 may be formed as circumferential channels or annular grooves.

[0104] The first recess 224 is formed upstream of the frangible connection 210 between the upstream side 208a of the occlusion member 208 and the inner surface of the inner wall 202. The second recess 224 is formed downstream of the frangible connection 210 between the downstream side 208b of the occlusion member 208 and the inner surface of the inner wall 202. By forming the frangible connection 210 between two opposing recesses or channels, the thickness (longitudinal) and width (lateral) of the frangible connection 210 can be controlled and minimized.

[0105] The channels 222 and 224 (or channels) extend from an open end to a closed end, with an easy-break connection forming the closed end in each case. The closed end of each recess or channel can advantageously have a rounded profile, as shown in Figure 3B. By providing an easy-break connection between one or more opposing rounded channels, the width of the easy-break connection at its thinnest point is closely controlled.

[0106] It will be appreciated that the lateral width of the thinnest portion of the frangible connection 210 may be controlled by varying the radius of curvature of the rounded channels. A smaller radius of curvature of the first channel or recess 222 may be selected to be substantially the same as the second channel or recess 224.

[0107] 3A , the frangible connection 210 preferably extends in a plane P that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A of the cap assembly 200. By providing a flat seal (relative to the longitudinal axis A), the frangible connection 210 will tend to snap about its circumference substantially simultaneously as the plug 300 bears against the support surface 220. This is in contrast to a frangible connection that extends in a plane that extends at a non-perpendicular angle to the longitudinal axis A, which will tend to peel from the "bottom" end (the portion of the frangible connection that is first brought into proximity with the plug) toward the "top" end (the portion of the seal furthest from the advancing plug).

[0108] One advantage of simultaneously breaking the frangible connection around the periphery of the closure member 208 is that the frangible connection may suddenly break, causing a snap or click as the frangible connection 210 breaks. The snap or click from the breakage of the frangible connection may provide audible and / or tactile feedback to the user that a component sealing the refill system has broken and that the concentrated cleaning solution disposed within the capsule body 100 will be dispensed.

[0109] plug The plug 300 will now be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 4, which shows a cross-sectional view of the plug 300.

[0110] The plugs described herein include several improvements that can improve performance. The plugs can include features that contribute to improved wall structure, improved support surfaces for breaking the frangible seal, improved safety features, and improved audible and tactile feedback to the user. Each of these improvements is described in more detail below. Additionally, it will be appreciated that the features described below can be incorporated into the refill system, alone or in combination with other features, to provide a further improved product.

[0111] 4, plug 300 includes a generally tubular body 302 defining an internal conduit therethrough having a proximal abutment surface 304 (for engaging bearing surface 220 on occlusion member 208). Proximal abutment surface 304 is provided by a rim that circumscribes an open proximal end of generally tubular body 302.

[0112] 4, the plug 300 further comprises a skirt extending about the tubular body 304. The skirt comprises a generally tubular skirt wall 306 coaxially disposed relative to the tubular body 302 to provide a double-walled plug. The skirt wall 306 is spaced (radially) from the tubular body 302 to form a plug recess 308 between the skirt wall 306 and the tubular body 302.

[0113] The skirt wall 206 is connected at its distal end to the distal end of the tubular body 302 and includes a free proximal end. The free proximal end of the skirt 306 further includes an outwardly extending flange 310 providing a distal abutment surface 312 for abutting against the rim of the refill container 400 (see FIGS. 2A and 2B).

[0114] By providing a plug 300 comprising an inner tubular body 302 and an outer skirt 306, the plug assembly 300 can be more precisely retained within the cap assembly 200. For example, the plug recess 308 can receive components of the cap assembly (e.g., the inner wall 202) and precisely retain the plug 300 within the cap assembly 200 until the user screws the system onto the refill container 400.

[0115] The distal abutment surface 312 at the free end of the skirt wall 306 can be configured to provide a number of additional benefits. For example, the free end of the skirt wall 306 can include a proximal seal 318 configured to seal against the connecting wall 212 of the cap assembly 200. The proximal seal 318 can include a circumferential ridge with an apex that provides a reduced surface area in contact with the connecting wall 212, thereby improving sealing.

[0116] The free proximal end of the skirt wall 306 may also include one or more detents 320 configured to engage the threads 230 of the cap assembly 200. The engagement of the one or more detents 320 with the threads 230 may provide additional security that the plug 300 will remain in place within the cap assembly 200.

[0117] The one or more prongs 230 can also retain the plug 300 within the cap assembly 200 after the product has been used. Because the plug 300 must be forced into the cap assembly 200 to break the frangible connection 210, the prongs are preferably configured to be able to overcome the cap assembly threads 230 as the plug 300 advances toward the occlusion member 208. Thus, the one or more prongs 230 can include a concave distal surface and a convex proximal surface.

[0118] 4, the plug 300 may further include a circumferential ridge or protrusion 314 on the outer surface of the tubular body 302. The ridge or protrusion 314 may be configured to engage a corresponding ridge or protrusion (e.g., ridge 216) on a complementary cap assembly 200, which may further improve retention of the plug 300 within the cap assembly prior to use.

[0119] 4, the plug 300 may also include one or more notches or slots 316 in the wall of the tubular body 302. The notches or slots preferably extend from the proximal rim 304 of the tubular body 302 halfway along the tubular body 302. The discontinuity in the rim 304 formed by the notches or slots 316 may advantageously improve fluid flow through the cap assembly 200 and plug 300 after the frangible connection 210 is broken by ensuring that the occlusion member 208 cannot form a seal against the rim 304 of the plug 300.

[0120] In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the plug 300 includes two diametrically opposed notches 316 (only one of which is visible in the cross-sectional view shown in Figure 4), however, the tubular body 302 may include only one notch, or may include more than two notches.

[0121] Providing a discontinuity in the rim of the tubular body 302 can also provide the additional advantage of reducing the surface area of ​​the abutment surface 304 that contacts the support surface 220 of the occlusion member 208, thereby increasing the force per unit area exerted on the occlusion member 208.

[0122] Although not shown in the drawings, it will be understood that the occlusion member 208 can be modified (in addition to or as an alternative to the plug 300) to enhance the flow of cleaning fluid through the plug 300 and cap assembly 200 in a similar manner. For example, the occlusion member 208 can be modified to provide a discontinuity, such as a notch or recess, in the support surface 220 of the occlusion member 208 that prevents the occlusion member 208 from forming a seal with the plug 300 after the frangible connection is broken.

[0123] As can be seen, the plug 300 with the flat rim 304 and the closure member 208 with the flat support surface 220 can form a seal with each other when the closure member 208 is lowered onto the opening of the tubular member 302 of the plug 300. When the flat surfaces align and contact to form a seal around the periphery of the rim 304, the closure member 208 can prevent the escape of fluid from the capsule body 100 after the frangible connection 210 is broken.

[0124] However, by providing one or more notches or slots in either (or both) the rim 304 or the support surface 220, when the occlusion member 208 is lowered against the tubular body 302 of the plug, the fluid contained in the capsule can still flow through the tubular body 302 of the plug 300 due to the openings formed by the slots in the notches.

[0125] As shown in FIG. 4, the plug 300 can further comprise at least one barrier or beam 322 extending across the distal opening of the tubular body 302. The beam 322 may extend across the diameter of the distal opening, or multiple beams may extend across the opening. The beam is configured to allow fluid flow therethrough, but to prevent or limit the insertion of an object (e.g., a finger) into the conduit formed by the tubular body 302. This minimizes the possibility that the frangible connection 210 will be inadvertently or inappropriately broken by an object passing through the tubular body 302.

[0126] Refill System As will now be described with reference to FIG. 5, when assembled, the capsule body 100, the cap assembly 200, and the plug 300 can provide a system that offers further advantages.

[0127] 5 shows a close-up view of the distal end of the refill system 10. The neck 104 of the capsule body 100 and the rim 108 surrounding the opening of the neck 104 are clearly shown. The neck 104 of the capsule body 100 also includes one or more threads 106 extending around (on the exterior surface) the neck 104 that are configured to engage corresponding threads on the cap assembly 200.

[0128] Also clearly shown is the cap assembly 200. The cap assembly 200 comprises the double-walled construction described above with reference to Figures 3A and 3B. The inner surface of the outer wall 204 comprises one or more threads 232 configured to engage the threads 106 on the capsule body 100.

[0129] The cap assembly 200 is screwed onto the capsule body 100 such that the rim 108 of the neck 104 is located within the upstream gap 214a. Advantageously, the rim 108 of the neck 104 abuts against the connecting wall 212 of the cap assembly. By engaging the capsule body 100 with the cap assembly 200 such that the rim 108 of the capsule body 100 abuts against the connecting wall 212 of the cap assembly 200, the neck 104 of the connecting wall 212 is prevented from bending when the plug 300 presses against the closure member 208. Furthermore, by abutting the rim 108 of the capsule body 100 against the connecting wall 212 of the cap assembly, additional security against leakage from the capsule can be provided.

[0130] The cap assembly 200 is further configured such that an upstream end of the inner wall 202 (which may be configured as a barrel-shaped seal, as described above) is disposed within the neck 104 of the capsule body 100. Thus, the inner wall 202 forms an additional seal with the neck 104 of the capsule body 100.

[0131] The engagement between the plug 300 and the cap assembly 200 will now also be described with reference to Figure 5. As shown in Figure 5, the plug 300 is disposed within the cap assembly 200. The plug 300 shown in Figure 5 is structurally similar to the plug described with reference to Figure 4.

[0132] As shown, the plug 300 is positioned within the cap assembly 200 such that the distal end of the inner wall 202 of the cap assembly is positioned within a recess 308 formed between the tubular body 302 and the skirt wall 306. During assembly, a ridge 314 on the plug 300 is pressed through a corresponding ridge 216 on the inner wall 202 of the cap assembly. The engagement of the two ridges 216 and 314 can help retain the plug 300 within the cap assembly 200 during transportation and storage of the system 10.

[0133] The one or more prongs 320 of the plug 300 can also help retain the plug 300 within the cap assembly 200 by engaging the threads 230 on the inner surface of the outer wall 204. Preferably, at least two prongs are provided to precisely engage the one or more threads 230 on the cap.

[0134] The combination of the plug 300 and cap assembly 200 described herein can be configured to prevent the occlusion member 208 from blocking fluid flow through the cap assembly after the frangible connection 210 is broken.

[0135] For example, as shown in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 5 , the inner wall 202 of the cap assembly 200 may be configured to have a first diameter downstream of the breakable connection 210 and a second, larger diameter upstream of the breakable connection 210. To ensure that the occlusion member 208 is forced or lifted into a position where it cannot seal against the inner wall 202 of the cap assembly 200 after the breakable connection 210 is broken, the plug 300 may be configured to allow the rim or abutment surface 304 to travel upstream beyond the point where the breakable connection 210 joins the occlusion member 208 to the inner wall 202. This may be accomplished by ensuring that the maximum travel distance of the plug 300 is not limited by the cap assembly until the rim 204 forces the occlusion member 208 into the expanded diameter portion of the conduit 203.

[0136] 5, the maximum travel of the plug 300 towards the frangible connection 208 is the point where the seal 318 on the skirt wall 306 abuts the connecting wall 212 of the cap assembly 200. In the illustrated embodiment, the rim 304 of the tubular body 302 and the seal 318 terminate at the same cross-section. The frangible connection 210 is positioned downstream of the connecting wall 212 to ensure that travel of the plug 300 is not restricted until the occlusion member is lifted out of the narrower portion of the conduit 203.

[0137] Alternatively (or additionally), the rim or abutment surface 304 of the plug 300 may extend proximally beyond the sealing surface 318 of the skirt wall 306 .

[0138] The capsule body 100, the cap assembly 200, and the plug 300 may be made of any suitable material known in the art. For example, the capsule, the cap assembly, and the plug may be made of polyethylene or polypropylene and may be formed by injection molding techniques. Advantageously, the capsule body 100 may be made of polyethylene, and the cap assembly 200 and the plug may be made of polypropylene.

[0139] It will be appreciated that aspects of the invention include embodiments in which the above-mentioned features are provided alone or in combination with other features described herein. For example, the frangible connection described above can be provided in a refill system having a cap assembly that screws directly onto the neck of the refill container. In such a system, the cap can be configured such that the rim of the refill container directly presses against the closure member to break the frangible connection and allow concentrated cleaning solution to flow through the cap assembly and into the refill container.

[0140] Additionally, the plugs described herein may be provided with cap assemblies having different sealing arrangements than those described herein. For example, the notches and slots in the plug assembly that prevent the closure member from sealing against the plug opening may be used with cap assemblies having different configurations and different closure members.

[0141] Although the invention has been described with reference to exemplary or preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that various changes can be made and equivalents can be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications can be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope of the invention. Therefore, the invention is not limited to the particular or preferred embodiments or preferred features disclosed, but the invention is intended to include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

[0142] The present invention also includes the following provisions.

[0143] Clause 1. A cap assembly (200) for a refillable capsule, comprising: an inner wall (202) defining a conduit (203) through said cap assembly (200), said conduit (203) including an inner wall (202) extending from an upstream end to a downstream end; an outer wall (204) surrounding the inner wall (202) along at least a first portion of its length, the outer wall (204) being spaced from the first portion of the inner wall (202) and defining a circumferential gap (214a, 214b) between the inner wall and the outer wall (202, 204); a connecting wall (212) extending between the inner and outer walls (202, 204) and preventing the flow of fluid through the gap between the inner and outer walls (202, 204); Equipped with The cap assembly (200) further comprises a closure member (208) configured to seal the conduit (203), the closure member (208) having an upstream side (208a) and a downstream side (208b) and a support surface (220) on the downstream side; The occlusion member (208) is sealed to the inner wall (202) by a peripheral frangible connection (210) located between the proximal and distal ends of the conduit (203); The peripheral frangible connection (210) extends in a plane P perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (A) of the conduit (203); the frangible connection is disposed between a first peripheral recess (222) formed between the inner wall (202) and the downstream side (208b) of the occlusion member (208) and a second peripheral recess (224) between the inner wall (202) and the upstream side (208b) of the occlusion member (208); Cap assembly (200).

[0144] Clause 2. The cap assembly (200) of clause 1, wherein the support surface (220) extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (A) of the conduit (203).

[0145] Clause 3. The cap assembly (200) of clause 1 or 2, wherein the closure member (208) is tapered, e.g., conical or frustoconical, and extends from a base (220) to an apex (218).

[0146] Clause 4. The cap assembly (200) of any one of clauses 1 to 3, wherein the closure member (208) is hollow and open at the base.

[0147] Clause 5. The cap assembly (200) of any one of clauses 1 to 4, wherein the closure member (208) is oriented to have the apex (218) in an upstream direction and the base in a downstream direction.

[0148] Clause 6. The cap assembly (200) according to any one of clauses 1 to 5, wherein the support surface (220) is adjacent to the easy-to-break connection portion (210).

[0149] Clause 7. A cap assembly (200) described in any one of clauses 1 to 6, wherein the conduit (203) has a first cross-sectional diameter upstream of the easy-to-break connection (210) and a second cross-sectional diameter downstream of the easy-to-break connection (210), the first cross-sectional diameter being larger than the second cross-sectional diameter.

[0150] Clause 8. The cap assembly (200) of any one of clauses 1 to 7, wherein the circumferential gap comprises a downstream gap (214b) extending from an open downstream end and terminating at a closed end at the connecting wall (212).

[0151] Clause 9. The cap assembly (200) of any one of clauses 1-8, wherein the gap comprises an upstream gap (214a) extending from an open upstream end and terminating at a closed end at the connecting wall (214).

[0152] Clause 10. A cap assembly (200) described in any one of clauses 1 to 9, wherein the gap comprises an upstream gap (214a) and a downstream gap (214b), and the upstream gap and the downstream gap (214a, 214b) are separated from each other by the connecting wall (212).

[0153] Clause 11. A cap assembly (200) described in any one of clauses 1 to 10, wherein the outer wall (204) downstream of the connecting wall (212) is provided with engagement means, such as a thread (230), configured to engage with a corresponding engagement means (404) on a refill container (400).

[0154] Clause 12. A cap assembly (200) according to any one of clauses 1 to 11, wherein the outer wall (204) upstream of the connecting wall (212) is provided with engagement means, e.g., a screw thread (232), configured to engage with a corresponding engagement means (106) on the refill capsule (100).

[0155] Clause 13. A cap assembly (200) according to any one of clauses 1 to 12, wherein the inner wall (202) has a protrusion or ridge (216) extending radially inward from an inner surface of the inner wall (202).

[0156] Clause 14. The cap assembly (200) of any one of clauses 1-13, wherein the cap assembly (200) comprises polypropylene.

[0157] Clause 15. A cap system comprising a cap assembly (200) described in any one of clauses 1 to 14, further comprising a plug (300), the plug (300) being movably mounted within the cap assembly (200) for axial movement, the plug (300 being configured to compress the support surface (220) of the closure member (208) and break the frangible connection portion (210) when advanced proximally.

[0158] Clause 16. The plug (300) a tubular body (302) having an open proximal end and an open distal end, the open proximal end being surrounded by a first rim (304) providing a proximal abutment surface for bearing against the support surface (220) of the occlusion member (208); a skirt including a tubular skirt wall (306) extending about and coaxially disposed relative to the tubular body (302), the skirt wall (306) being radially spaced from the tubular body (302) and defining a plug recess (308) between the skirt wall (306) and the tubular body (302); Equipped with The skirt wall (306) extends from a skirt distal end connected to a distal end of the tubular body (303) to a free proximal end; The free proximal end of the skirt comprises: an outwardly extending flange (310) with a distal abutment surface (312) for abutting against the rim (406) of the refill container (400); Equipped with The plug (300) is disposed within the cap assembly (200) such that a downstream end of the inner wall (202) is disposed within the plug recess (308). 15. A system as described in clause 15.

[0159] Clause 17. A refill system (10) comprising the system described in clause 15 or 16, further comprising a capsule (100) for containing a concentrated refill liquid, the capsule (100) engaging with the cap assembly (200), and an internal volume of the capsule (100) in fluid communication with the upstream end of the conduit (203).

[0160] Clause 18. A refill system (10) as described in clause 17, wherein the capsule (100) has an opening surrounded by a rim (108), the rim (108) abutting the connecting wall (212) of the cap assembly (200).

[0161] Clause 19. The refill system (10) of clause 17 or 18, further comprising a shrink wrap cover extending around at least a portion of said capsule (100) and at least a portion of said cap assembly (200).

[0162] Clause 20. A plug (300) for use in a cap assembly of a refill capsule, comprising: a hollow tubular body (302) having an open proximal end and an open distal end, the open proximal end being surrounded by a first rim (304) providing a proximal abutment surface for bearing against a frangible seal component of a cap assembly; The proximal abutment surface is preferably configured to contact the support surface of the occlusion member such that a net force is applied to the occlusion member along longitudinal axis A, perpendicular to the plane in which the frangible connection extends. A hollow tubular body (302); a skirt including a tubular skirt wall (306) extending about and coaxially disposed relative to the tubular body (302), the skirt wall (306) being radially spaced from the tubular body (302) and defining a plug recess (308) between the skirt wall (306) and the tubular body (302); Equipped with The skirt wall (306) extends from a skirt distal end where the skirt wall (306) is connected to the tubular body (302) to a free proximal end; The free proximal end of the skirt comprises: an outwardly extending flange (310) with a distal abutment surface (312) for abutting against the rim (406) of the refill container (400); Equipped with Plug(300).

[0163] Clause 21. The plug (300) of clause 20, wherein the free end of the skirt wall (306) further comprises a proximal sealing rim (318) for sealing against the sealing surface (212) of the cap assembly (200).

[0164] Clause 22. The plug (300) according to clause 20 or 21, wherein the proximal seal rim (318) tapers towards an apex.

[0165] Clause 23. The plug (300) according to any one of clauses 20 to 22, wherein the sealing apex (318) terminates in the same plane as the rim (304).

[0166] Clause 24. A plug (300) as described in any one of clauses 20 to 23, wherein the tubular body (202) further comprises at least one notch (316) or slot, preferably two or more notches, preferably two diametrically opposed notches, forming a discontinuity in the first rim (304).

[0167] Clause 25. The plug (300) of any one of clauses 20-24, wherein the tubular body (302) is provided with a protrusion or ridge (314) extending around an outer surface of the tubular body (302).

[0168] Clause 26. A plug (300) described in any one of clauses 20 to 25, wherein the free proximal end of the skirt wall (306) further comprises at least one claw (320) radially outward of the distal abutment surface (312).

[0169] Clause 27. A plug (300) described in any one of clauses 20 to 26, wherein the at least one prong (320) is curved away from the distal abutment surface (312) to provide a distal concave surface and a proximal convex surface.

[0170] Clause 28. The plug (300) according to any one of clauses 20 to 27, wherein the at least one claw (320) comprises two claws, preferably three claws, more preferably four or more claws (320).

[0171] Clause 29. Thus, the plug according to any one of clauses 20 to 28, wherein the abutment surface of the plug preferably has at least two-fold rotational symmetry with respect to the longitudinal axis A. For example, the abutment surface of the plug may be provided by a continuous circumferential rim of the tubular body terminating in a plane Q. Alternatively, the abutment surface may comprise a discontinuous rim comprising a plurality of projections equally spaced circumferentially around the rim of the tubular body, the projections terminating in a plane Q. The projections may take the form of teeth equally spaced around the circumference of the rim. For example, in case of an abutment surface comprising two teeth, the teeth may be arranged diametrically opposite each other.

[0172] Clause 30. A cap system for refillable capsules, comprising: A plug (300) according to the preceding claims, A cap assembly (200), an inner wall (202) defining a conduit (203) through the cap assembly (200), the conduit (203) including an inner wall (202) extending from an upstream end to a downstream end; an outer wall (204) surrounding the inner wall (202) along at least a first portion of its length, the outer wall (204) being spaced from the first portion of the inner wall (202) and defining a circumferential gap (214b) between the inner wall and the outer wall (202, 204) extending from an open downstream end to a closed upstream end; and a connecting wall (212) extending between the inner and outer walls (202, 204) and preventing fluid flow through the gap (214b), the connecting wall (212) forming the closed upstream end of the gap (214b); A cap assembly (200) comprising: Equipped with The cap assembly (200) further comprises an occlusion member (208) configured to seal the conduit (203), the occlusion member (208) comprising an upstream side (208a) and a downstream side (208b); The occlusion member (208) is sealed to the inner wall (202) by a peripheral frangible connection (210) located between the proximal and distal ends of the conduit (203); The frangible connection (210) extends in a plane P perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (A) of the conduit (203); the plug (300) is disposed within the cap assembly (200) such that the outer wall (204) of the cap assembly (200) surrounds the plug (300) and the inner wall (202) of the cap assembly (200) extends into the plug recess (308); the proximal abutment surface (304) of the plug (300) is aligned with and faces the support surface (220) of the occlusion member (208); system.

[0173] Clause 31. The system described in Clause 30, wherein the frangible connection (210) is disposed between a first peripheral recess (222) formed between the inner wall (202) and the downstream side (208b) of the obstruction member (208) and a second peripheral recess (224) between the inner wall (202) and the upstream side (208b) of the obstruction member (208).

[0174] Clause 32. The system of clause 30 or 31, wherein the support surface (220) extends in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (A) of the conduit (203).

[0175] Clause 33. The system of any one of clauses 30 to 32, wherein the obstruction member (208) is conical or frustoconical and extends from a base to an apex (218).

[0176] Clause 34. A system described in any one of clauses 30 to 33, wherein the occlusion member (208) is hollow and open at the base, and preferably the occlusion member (208) is oriented with the apex (218) in the upstream direction and the base in the downstream direction.

[0177] Clause 35. A system described in any one of clauses 30 to 34, wherein the outer wall (204) has an engagement means, such as a thread (230), on its inner surface, and the claw (320) is configured to engage with the engagement means (230).

[0178] Clause 36. The system of any one of clauses 30-35, wherein the inner wall (202) has a protrusion or ridge (216) extending radially inward from an inner surface of the inner wall (202).

[0179] Clause 37. A refill system (10) comprising the system described in clauses 30 to 36, the refill system further comprising a capsule (100) for containing a concentrated cleaning product, the capsule (100) engaging with the cap assembly (200), and an internal volume of the capsule (100) being in fluid communication with the upstream end of the conduit (203).

[0180] Clause 38. A refill system (10) as described in clause 37, wherein the capsule (100) has an opening surrounded by a rim (104), the rim (104) pressing against the connecting wall (212) of the cap assembly (200).

[0181] Clause 39. The refill system (10) of clause 37 or 38, further comprising a shrink wrap cover extending around at least a portion of said capsule (100) and at least a portion of said cap assembly (200).

Claims

1. A cap assembly (200) for a refillable capsule, comprising: an inner wall (202) defining a conduit (203) through said cap assembly (200), said conduit (203) including an inner wall (202) extending from an upstream end to a downstream end; an outer wall (204) surrounding the inner wall (202) along at least a first portion of its length, the outer wall (204) being spaced from the first portion of the inner wall (202) and defining a circumferential gap (214a, 214b) between the inner wall and the outer wall (202, 204); a connecting wall (212) extending between the inner and outer walls (202, 204) and preventing fluid flow through the gap between the inner and outer walls (202, 204); Equipped with The cap assembly (200) further comprises a closure member (208) configured to seal the conduit (203), the closure member (208) having an upstream side (208a) and a downstream side (208b) and a support surface (220) on the downstream side; The occlusion member (208) is sealed to the inner wall (202) by a peripheral frangible connection (210) located between the proximal and distal ends of the conduit (203); said peripheral frangible connection (210) extends in a plane P perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (A) of said conduit (203); the frangible connection is disposed between a first peripheral recess (222) formed between the inner wall (202) and the upstream side (208a) of the occlusion member (208) and a second peripheral recess (224) between the inner wall (202) and the downstream side (208b) of the occlusion member (208); Cap assembly (200).

2. The cap assembly (200) of claim 1, wherein the support surface (220) extends in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (A) of the conduit (203).

3. The cap assembly (200) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the closure member (208) is tapered and extends from a base (220) to a top (218).

4. The cap assembly (200) of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the conduit (203) has a first cross-sectional diameter upstream of the easy-to-break connection (210) and a second cross-sectional diameter downstream of the easy-to-break connection (210), the first cross-sectional diameter being larger than the second cross-sectional diameter.

5. The cap assembly (200) of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the circumferential gap comprises a downstream gap (214b) extending from an open downstream end and terminating in a closed end at the connecting wall (212).

6. The cap assembly (200) of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the cavity comprises an upstream cavity (214a) extending from an open upstream end and terminating in a closed end at the connecting wall (214).

7. The cap assembly (200) of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the gap comprises an upstream gap (214a) and a downstream gap (214b), the upstream gap and the downstream gap (214a, 214b) being separated from each other by the connecting wall (212).

8. The cap assembly (200) of any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the outer wall (204) downstream of the connecting wall (212) is provided with engagement means configured to engage with corresponding engagement means (404) on a refill container (400).

9. The cap assembly (200) of any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the outer wall (204) upstream of the connecting wall (212) is provided with engagement means configured to engage with corresponding engagement means (106) on a refill capsule (100).

10. The cap assembly (200) of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the inner wall (202) comprises a protrusion or ridge (216) extending radially inward from an inner surface of the inner wall (202).

11. The cap assembly (200) of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the cap assembly (200) comprises polypropylene.

12. 12. A cap system comprising: a cap assembly (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 11; and further comprising a plug (300), the plug (300) movably mounted within the cap assembly (200) for axial movement, the plug (300) configured to bear against the support surface (220) of the occlusion member (208) and break the frangible connection (210) when advanced proximally.

13. The plug (300) is a tubular body (302) having an open proximal end and an open distal end, the open proximal end being surrounded by a first rim (304) providing a proximal abutment surface for bearing against the support surface (220) of the occlusion member (208); a skirt including a tubular skirt wall (306) extending around and coaxially disposed relative to the tubular body (302), the tubular skirt wall (306) being radially spaced from the tubular body (302) and defining a plug recess (308) between the tubular skirt wall (306) and the tubular body (302); Equipped with The tubular skirt wall (306) extends from a skirt distal end connected to a distal end of the tubular body (303) to a free proximal end; The free proximal end of the skirt comprises: an outwardly extending flange (310) with a distal abutment surface (312) for abutting against the rim (406) of the refill container (400); Equipped with The plug (300) is disposed within the cap assembly (200) such that a downstream end of the inner wall (202) is disposed within the plug recess (308). The system of claim 12.

14. A refill system (10) comprising the system of claims 12-13, further comprising a capsule (100) for containing a concentrated refill liquid, said capsule (100) engaging said cap assembly (200), and an internal volume of said capsule (100) in fluid communication with the upstream end of said conduit (203).

15. 15. The refill system (10) of claim 14, wherein the capsule (100) comprises an opening surrounded by a rim (108), the rim (108) abutting the connecting wall (212) of the cap assembly (200).

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