Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to a refill innovation, more particularly to a refillable refill container, and to a method of providing a refillable refill container filled with liquid or a granular material.

Background of the Invention

Refill containers are known, for example for the dispensing of a product into a container. Some refill containers are used to provide an amount of a liquid, which may be in concentrated form, into a reusable container, such as a bottle, which may contain water or another liquid. Some refill containers are usable to provide an amount of a granular material, which may be a powder, to another container. Some refill containers are designed to be suitable for dispensing either a liquid or a granular material.

Known refill containers (often termed “refills” or “recharges”) in the market are one-shot. The single-use design is undesirable from an environmental perspective; if not recyclable or recycled, they contribute to the problem of consumer waste; but can be attractive in certain industries, such as food and drink, home care and health care, in which user safety and hygiene are of paramount concern.

It is therefore desirable to provide a reusable refill container, which can be filled more than one time and that can be opened and closed in a clean and secure way.

Summary of the Invention

The present application provides a refillable refill container. The present application also provides a method of providing a refillable refill container filled with liquid or a granular material.

According to a first aspect there is provided a refillable refill container for the dispensing of a product, the product being a liquid or a granular material, into a container through a neck of the container, comprising: a reservoir, defining a flow port, for holding a liquid or

I a granular material to be dispensed, and a base, co-operatively assembled with the reservoir, for application to the neck of the container; the reservoir reversibly movable relative to the base, between application and removal of the base to the neck of the container or a filling head of a filling station, from a first relative position in which the flow port is sealed, for preventing flow of a liquid or a granular material from the reservoir, to a second relative position in which the flow port is open, for allowing flow of a liquid or a granular material from the reservoir during dispensing or into the reservoir during refilling.

The refillable refill container is designed for the interior of the reservoir to be accessible only after the refillable refill container has been fitted to a container neck or a filling head.

In an example, the reservoir is reversibly movable relative to the base, between the first relative position and the second relative position, along a longitudinal axis of the refillable refill container.

In an example, the base is provided with an internal screw thread arrangement for the application of the base to the neck or the filling head through rotational engagement with an external screw thread arrangement of the neck or the filling head.

In an example, the reservoir is reversibly movable relative to the base through rotational engagement of an internal screw thread arrangement of the reservoir and an external screw thread arrangement of the base, the reservoir rotatable relative to the base about the longitudinal axis.

In an example, a drive control mechanism is provided between the reservoir and the base that comprises at least one projection of the reservoir, extending in a radial direction towards the longitudinal axis of the refillable refill container, and at least one movable member of the base, the movable member movable between a radially inward position and a radially outward position and being resiliently biased towards the radially outward position, the at least one projection and at least one movable member relatively configured for the at least one projection of the reservoir to ride over the movable member of the base during rotation of the reservoir relative to the base in a first direction of rotation around the longitudinal axis and for at least one projection to abut against the movable member during rotation of the reservoir relative to the base in a second, opposite direction of rotation about the longitudinal axis.

In an example, the at least one movable member is a ramp comprising a slide surface, extending in a circumferential direction, around a longitudinal axis of the refillable refill container, and terminating at an abutment face of the ramp, the ramp pivotable about an axis of rotation that extends through a first, fixed end of the ramp, so that a second, movable end of the ramp is movable between a radially inward position and a radially outward position, the second, movable end of the ramp resiliently biased towards the radially outward position by a biasing element.

In an example, a stop mechanism is provided between the reservoir and the base, the stop mechanism functional to lock the reservoir in rotation with the base prior to generation of a releasing force through rotation of the reservoir, following the application of the base to the neck or the filling head, about the longitudinal axis and in the same direction of rotation in which the base was screwed onto the neck or the filling head.

In an example, the reservoir defines a filling opening, separate from the flow port, and further comprising a cover assembled with the reservoir to seal the filling opening.

In an example, the cover is non-removably assembled with the reservoir.

Thus, the flow port defined by the reservoir may the only way of accessing the interior of the reservoir. In this case, filling, dispensing and refilling is via the flow port. The reservoir may be provided with a filling opening that is separate to the flow port, which is sealed using a cover. The filling opening may be permanently sealed by the cover; initial filling may be via the filling opening or the flow port, and dispensing and refilling via the flow port. The cover may alternatively be removable; initial filling may be via the filling opening or the flow port, dispensing via the flow port and refilling via the filling opening or the flow port. The refillable refill container may further comprise a protective cover removably applied over the base.

In an example, the base is provided with a sealing stopper element functional to block the flow port of the reservoir when the reservoir is in the first relative position, to provide a releasable seal between the base and the reservoir that is held while the reservoir is in the first relative position and released as the reservoir is moved from the first relative position into the second relative position.

In an example, the base is provided with a sealing ring element functional to encompass an exterior wall portion of the reservoir, to provide a maintained seal between the base and the reservoir that is held while the reservoir is in the first relative position, as the reservoir is moved from the first relative position into the second relative position, and while the reservoir is in the second relative position.

In an example, the flow port of the reservoir is provided with an air intake for enabling the flow of air into the reservoir during dispensing.

In an example, the reservoir is transparent.

In an example, a displacement mechanism is provided between the reservoir and the base, functional to control the extent that the reservoir can be moved relative to the base, that comprises a first plurality of protrusions of the base, and a second plurality of protrusions of the reservoir, the second plurality of protrusions interacting with the first plurality of protrusions during rotation of the reservoir from the first relative position into the second relative position to define a stop position for the second relative position.

According to a second aspect there is provided a method of providing a refillable refill container filled with a product, being a liquid or a granular material, for the dispensing of a liquid or a granular material into a container through a neck of the container, comprising: receiving a reservoir, defining a flow port for holding a liquid or a granular material to be dispensed, receiving a base, for application to the neck of the container; co-operatively assembling the base with the reservoir into a first relative position in which the flow port is sealed, and from which the reservoir, between application and removal of the base to the neck of the container, is reversibly movable relative to the base to a second relative position in which the flow port is open; applying the base to a filling head of a filling station, moving the reservoir relative to the base to the second relative position in which the flow port is open; introducing a liquid or a granular material into the reservoir through the flow port, moving the reservoir relative to the base back into first second relative position in which the flow port is closed, and removing the base from the filling head of the filling station.

The reservoir may define a filling opening, separate from the flow port, and the method may further comprise: receiving a cover, for sealing the initial filling opening; introducing a liquid or a granular material into the reservoir through the filling opening, and assembling the cover with the reservoir to seal the initial filling opening.

The step of assembling the cover with the reservoir to seal the filling opening may comprise removably assembling the cover with the reservoir.

The method may then further comprise, after removably assembling the cover with the reservoir to seal the filling opening: receiving the refillable refill container following dispensing of a liquid or a granular material from the reservoir, removing the cover to unseal the filling opening; introducing a liquid or a granular material into the reservoir through the initial filling opening, and reassembling the cover to reseal the filling opening.

The he step of assembling the cover with the reservoir to seal the filling opening may comprise non-removably assembling the cover with the reservoir.

The method may further comprise receiving and removably applying a protective cover over the base.

Use of the refillable refill container according to the first aspect is a third aspect. The refillable refill container is designed to be open only when the refillable refill container is fitted to the neck of a container, for dispensing a product from the reservoir into the container, or fitted to a filling head, for receiving a product a product from the filling head into the container.

Further particular and preferred aspects of the invention are set out in the accompanying dependent claims.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The present invention will now be more particularly described, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure I shows a refillable refill container in a closed condition;

Figure 2 shows the refillable refill container in an open condition;

Figure 3 shows components for assembly to form the refillable refill container, in a disassembled condition;

Figure 4 the components for assembly to form the refillable refill container, in an assembled condition;

Figure 5 shows the refillable refill container with an initial filling of a liquid or a granular material;

Figure 6 shows the refillable refill container and a container, prior to use of the refillable refill container with the container,

Figure 7 shows the refillable refill container during application to the container, Figure 8 shows the refillable refill container during dispensing into the container, Figure 9 shows the refillable refill container during removal from the container, Figure 10 shows the refillable refill container fitted to the container and in the closed condition,

Figure I I shows the refillable refill container fitted to the container and in the open condition,

Figures I 2 & I 3 show features of a drive control mechanism of the refillable refill container; Figures 14 to 17 show features of a displacement control mechanism of the refillable refill container;;

Figure 18 shows a cross-section through the refillable refill container following application to the container;

Figure 19 illustrates a feature of the refillable refill container;

Figure 20 illustrates refilling of the refillable refill container;

Figures 21 & 22 show perspective top and bottom views respectively of a reservoir component of the refillable refill container;

Figures 23 & 24 show perspective top and bottom views respectively of a base component of the refillable refill container;

Figures 25 to 3 I show different sectional views of the refillable refill container; and Figures 32 & 33 show sectional views of the refillable refill container in use on a container, the refillable refill container in a closed condition and in an open condition respectively.

Description

Illustrative embodiments and examples are described below in sufficient detail to enable those of ordinary skill in the art to embody and implement the apparatus described herein. It is to be understood that embodiments and examples can be provided in many alternate forms and the invention should not be construed as limited only to the embodiments and examples set forth herein.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein are to be interpreted as is customary in the art. In addition, features referred to herein in the singular can number one or more, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Similarly, the terms “comprises”, “comprising”, “includes”, “including”, “has” and/or “having” when used herein, specify the presence of the stated feature or features, and do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In the following description, all orientational terms, such as upper, lower, radially and axially, are used in relation to the drawings and should not be interpreted as limiting on the invention, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and in some instances the drawings may have been exaggerated or simplified for illustrative purposes only.

"Refill" is a new type of product that can be used several times, guaranteeing a clean and safe use.

In some embodiments the opening and closing of the system is done only on an adapted bottle or on a filling head.

There is no risk of mishandling the system, which could result in a loss of liquid.

Some embodiments may provide or relate to a concentrated homecare recharge system/device/method.

First assembly example: assembly of a reservoir and a base component. Lid may be delivered separately. First filling example a. Industrial filling of the reservoir from the top b. Installation of a non-removable cover c. First warranty seal: with a label, bar code, QR code, colour code, other

Usage example: d. Initial position i. The initial position may have the base blocked inside the reservoir ii. The protective cover may be removed e. Opening example i. Acting only on the reservoir the assembly may be screwed on an adapted bottle ii. After placing the base on a suitable neck, the base may be locked. iii. In the continuity of the movement, the reservoir may rise in relation to the base, which may open a sealing area and releases the product iv. To separate the two actions, it may be possible to have a mechanical stop that creates a point of resistance to promote sequencing between the two movements. f. Clean and secure tightness closure i. By acting only on the reservoir, the whole assembly is unscrewed ii. The reservoir may be lowered in relation to the base and the sealing area is once again ensured, thus no product leakage. iii. In the continuity of the movement and always acting only on the reservoir, the base may be released from the neck. iv. The initial position is once again obtained. g. Filling on a dedicated terminal i. The same procedure of use may be done but this time on a filling head (at least by gravity) ii. The filling may be done through the space created in the sealing area between the reservoir and the base. The outlet is thus converted into an inlet for the filling of the product. iii. The refill is then refilled and ready for use again iv. There may be the possibility to put a label/other to ensure protection and identification.

Referring now to the drawings.

I . First assembly: assembly of the reservoir I and base 2 components. Lid 3 is delivered separately.

2. First filling: a. Industrial filling of the reservoir I from the top 3 b. Installation of a non-removable cover 4 c. First warranty seal: with a label, bar code, QR code, colour code, other

3. Usage: a. Initial position: i. The initial position shows the base 2 blocked inside the reservoir I ii. The protective cover is removed b. Opening: i. Acting only on the reservoir I we screw the assembly on the adapted bottle 5 ii. After placing the base 2 on a suitable neck 5, the base 2 is locked. iii. In the continuity of the movement, the reservoir I rises in relation to the base 2, which opens the sealing area 6 and releases the product iv. To separate the two actions, it is possible to have a mechanical stop that creates a point of resistance to promote sequencing between the two movements. c. Clean and secure tightness closure: i. By acting only on the reservoir I , the whole assembly is unscrewed ii. The reservoir is lowered in relation to the base 2 and the sealing area 6 is once again ensured, thus no product leakage. iii. In the continuity of the movement and always acting only on the reservoir I , the base 2 is released from the neck 5. iv. The initial position is once again obtained. d. Filling on a dedicated terminal: i. The same procedure of use is done but this time on a filling head (at least by gravity) ii. The filling is done through the space created in the sealing area 6 between the reservoir I and the base 2. The outlet is thus converted into an inlet for the filling of the product. iii. The refill is then refilled and ready for use again iv. There is the possibility to put a label/other to ensure protection and identification.

In More Detail

A refillable refill container 100, suitable for the dispensing of a liquid or a granular material into a container through a neck of the container, is shown in Figures I & 2. The refillable refill container 100 comprises a reservoir I that defines a flow port 101 and a base 2. The reservoir I is for holding liquid or granular material to be dispensed, and base 2 is for application to the neck of the container.

The base 2 is shown co-operatively assembled with the reservoir I such that, and as will be described further, the reservoir I is reversibly movable relative to the base 2, from a first relative position, as illustrated in Figure I , in which the flow port 101 is sealed, to a second relative position, as illustrated in Figure 2, in which the flow port 101 is open.

In this embodiment, whether the flow port 101 is opened or closed is determined by the relative position of the reservoir I and the base 2.

How the refillable refill container 100 is reconfigured between the closed condition shown in Figure I and the open condition shown in Figure 2 is described below.

As indicated in Figure I , the reservoir I has a longitudinal, central axis I 10, in relation to which an axial direction I I I and a radial direction I 12 of the refillable refill container 100 are defined.

In this embodiment, the reservoir I defines a filling opening 102, which is separate from the flow port 101, for which a cover, in the form of lid 4, is provided. The lid 4 may be removably or non-removably assembled with the reservoir I to seal the filling opening 102. In an example, the lid 4 is non-removably assembled with the reservoir I using any suitable fixing means. In a specific example, the lid 4 is non-removably assembled with the reservoir I using a snap-fit arrangement. As will be described further below, the filling opening 102 may be used for initial filling of the reservoir I and then, if the lid 4 is removably assembled with the reservoir I , for refilling the reservoir I . Alternatively, the filling opening 102 may be used for initially filling the reservoir I with any subsequent refilling being via the flow port 101. The flow port 101 may however be used for initial filling. In an alternative embodiment, the reservoir I is not provided with any such filling opening so that the reservoir is initially filled using the flow port 101 and any refilling is also by using the flow port 101. It is to be appreciated that the refillable refill container may be provided empty or filled with a liquid or a granular material product.

In this illustrated example, the filling opening 102 is at the top 3 of the reservoir I , at the opposite end to the end I 13 of the reservoir that comprises the flow port 101.

According to a preferred example, the reservoir I and base 2 are received, the base 2 is co-operatively assembled with the reservoir into the first relative position, in which the flow port 101 is sealed, a liquid or a granular material is introduced into the reservoir I through the filling opening 102, and the lid 4 is assembled with the reservoir I to seal the filling opening 102. As mentioned above, a liquid may be introduced into the reservoir I subsequently through the flow port 102, whether the lid 4 is non-removably or removably assembled with the reservoir I .

The reservoir I , base 2 and lid 4 of the refillable refill container 100 are shown prior to assembly in Figure 3 and following assembly in Figure 4.

In Figure 5, the refillable refill container 100 is shown with an initial filling of liquid 501. In an example, and in this illustrated example, the reservoir I is transparent. This feature allows a user to visually detect the presence of product within the reservoir I and facilitates the determination of a level of dispensable liquid 501 provided or remaining within the refillable refill container 100. In an example, the dispensable liquid 501 is coloured, providing improved visual detectability. As already stated, refillable refill container 100 may alternatively be filled with a granular material, which may be a powder. In a preferred example, and in this illustrated example, the refillable refill container 100 further comprises a protective cover 502 removably applied over the base 2. The protective cover 502 is usable to provide a function of sealing an interior of the base 2 from atmosphere. The protective cover 502 is usable to provide a function of indicating a status of the refillable refill container 100. For example, a protective cover applied following initial filling or following refilling for sealing and indicating that the refillable refill container has not been opened for dispensing product currently held within the reservoir. A protective cover may provide a warranty seal, with a label, bar code, QR code, colour code or other indicia. A protective cover is preferably applied following initial filling and after each refilling.

Reference will now also be made to Figures 6 to 9, which show the refillable refill container 100 and a container 601 having a neck 602.

Any protective cover provided over the base 2 of the refillable refill container 100 should be removed prior to initiating the application of the base 2 onto a container neck, for dispensing a liquid or a granular material from the reservoir into the container.

The base 2 may be arranged for application to the neck of a container or a filling head of a filling station in any suitable manner.

In this embodiment, the base 2 is provided with an internal screw thread arrangement, indicated, for example at 103 in Figure I , for the application of the base 2 to a container neck or filling head through rotational engagement with an external screw thread arrangement of the container neck or filling head. Any suitable screw thread arrangement may be used for the internal screw thread arrangement 103, and which may be a left-hand turn or a right-hand turn.

As can be seen from comparison of the closed condition of the refillable refill container 100 shown in Figure I (in which the reservoir I is in the first relative position), and the open condition of the refillable refill container 100 shown in Figure 2 (in which the reservoir I is in the second relative position) the reservoir I is reversibly movable relative to the base 2, between the first relative position and the second relative position, along the longitudinal axis I 10 of the refillable refill container 100.

According to this embodiment, the reservoir I is reversibly movable relative to the base 2 through rotational engagement of an internal screw thread arrangement, indicated at 201 , of the reservoir I with an external screw thread arrangement, indicated at 202, of the base I , the reservoir I being rotatable relative to the base I about the longitudinal axis I 10. Any suitable screw thread arrangement may be used for the external screw thread arrangement 201 , and which may be a left-hand turn or a right-hand turn.

In Figure 6, the refillable refill container 100, filled with liquid 501 to be dispensed, is shown having been received ready for application to the neck of 602 of container 601 , which is holding a liquid 603. In an example, the liquid 603 held in the container is water and the liquid 501 held in the refillable refill container 100 is a concentrated liquid product.

In this example, the refillable refill container 100 is attachable to the neck 602 of container 601 using a twisting action in view of neck 602 comprising an externally facing screw thread arrangement that is operatively configured to engage with the refillable refill container 100. In Figure 7, screwing of the base 2 onto the container neck 602 in a first direction of rotation 701 about the longitudinal axis I 10 of the refillable refill container 100 is indicated. In this embodiment, this is achieved through gripping the reservoir I and turning it in the first direction of rotation 701 ; it is to be appreciated that the entire refillable refill container 100 is fitted to the container 601 without the base 2 needing to be touched. This feature is advantageous for supporting hygienic usage of the refillable refill container 100.

During application of the base 2 to the container neck 602, the reservoir I remains in the first relative position, in which a flow of the liquid 501 through the flow port 101 is prevented; however, and as indicated in Figure 8, following application of the base 2 to the container neck 602, continued rotation of the reservoir I in the first direction of rotation 701 causes the reservoir I to move along the longitudinal axis I 10, away from the container 601 in the direction indicated at 801 , into the second relative position in which a flow of the liquid 501 through the flow port 101 is allowed and dispensing from the reservoir I into the container neck 602 is thereby permitted. As shown, the refillable refill container 100 and container 601 are oriented to use gravity in the dispensing of a liquid or a granular material product from the reservoir I into the container 601.

Following dispensing of the liquid 501 from the reservoir I , the refillable refill container 100 is detachable from the container 601 , again using a twisting action. In Figure 9, screwing of the base 2 from the container neck 602 in a second direction of rotation 901 about the longitudinal axis I 10 of the refillable refill container 100, that is opposite to the first direction of rotation 701 , is indicated. In this embodiment, this is achieved through gripping the reservoir I and turning it in the second direction of rotation 701 ; it is to be appreciated that the refillable refill container 100 is removed from the container 601 without the base 2 needing to be touched. This feature is advantageous for supporting hygienic usage of the refillable refill container 100.

Until removal of the base 2 from the container neck 602 begins, the reservoir I moves, around the base 2 and along the longitudinal axis I 10, towards the container 601 in the direction indicated at 902, from the second relative position into the first relative position; continued rotation of the reservoir I in the second direction of rotation 901 causes the base 2 to unscrew from the container neck.

Thus, between application and removal of the base 2 to and from the neck 602 of the container 601 , the reservoir is reversibly movable relative to the base 201 from the first position in which the flow port is closed to the second relative position in which the flow port is open.

Four phases of using the refillable refill container 100 can be identified: phase I - application of base to container neck, flow from reservoir is prevented phase 2 - base applied, reservoir moved relative to base to permit flow from reservoir phase 3 - base applied, reservoir moved back to prevent any further flow from reservoir phase 4 - removal of base from the container neck, flow from reservoir remains prevented In an embodiment, and in this embodiment, a stop mechanism is provided between the reservoir I and the base 2. The purpose of the stop mechanism is to lock the reservoir I in rotation with the base 2 prior to generation of a releasing force through rotation of the reservoir I , following the application of the base 2 to the container neck, about the longitudinal axis I 10 and in the same direction of rotation in which the base 2 was screwed onto the container neck 602. The stop mechanism may take or comprise any suitable arrangement suitable to provide this effect. The feature improves reliability of operation by negating reliance on frictional forces to provide differentiation between phases (application/removal of base and movement of reservoir to open/close the flow port).

Reference will now also be made to Figure 10, which shows the refillable refill container 100 fitted to the container neck 602 and in the closed condition and to Figure I I , which shows the refillable refill container 100 fitted to the container neck 602 and in the open condition.

In this embodiment, the base 2 is provided with a stopper element 1001 functional to block the flow port 101 of the reservoir I when the reservoir I is in the first relative position, to provide a releasable blocking between the base 2 and the reservoir I that is held while the reservoir I is in the first relative position and released as the reservoir I is moved from the first relative position into the second relative position.

According to this embodiment also, the stopper element 1001 is provided with an air intake

1002.

In this embodiment, the base 2 provided with a sealing ring element 1 101 functional to encompass an exterior wall portion I 102 of the reservoir I , to provide a maintained seal between the base 2 and the reservoir I that is held while the reservoir I is in the first relative position, as the reservoir I is moved from the first relative position into the second relative position, and while the reservoir I is in the second relative position. In an example, the design of the maintained seal improves linear flow through the flow port 101. According to this illustrated embodiment, the sealing ring element 1 101 of the base 2 stays in contact with the reservoir I at all times, and the stopper element 1001 of the base is inserted within the flow port 101 when the refillable refill container 100 is in the closed condition and withdrawn from the flow port 101 when the refillable refill container 100 is in the open condition.

In Figure I I , a flow passage 1 101 between the flow port 101 of the reservoir I and the base 2, through which product can flow, is indicated. A location flange I 104 of the refillable refill container 100, for abutting against a top of the container neck 602 is also indicated.

Referring now to Figure 12 and Figure 13 also, a drive control mechanism is provided between the reservoir I and the base 2. Figure 12 shows the refillable refill container 100 in the closed position, and Figure 13 shows the refillable refill container 100 in the open position.

By “between” it is meant that the mechanism is functional between the two components; in other words, there is physical co-operation between the two components to provide the action of the mechanism.

As will be described in further detail, the drive control mechanism comprises at least one projection of the reservoir, extending in a radial direction towards the longitudinal axis of the refillable refill container, and at least one movable member of the base, the movable member movable between a radially inward position and a radially outward position and being resiliently biased towards the radially outward position, the at least one projection and at least one movable member relatively configured for the at least one projection of the reservoir to ride over the movable member of the base during rotation of the reservoir relative to the base in a first direction of rotation around the longitudinal axis and for at least one projection to abut against the movable member during rotation of the reservoir relative to the base in a second, opposite direction of rotation about the longitudinal axis. In this example, elements of the drive control mechanism are distributed across the reservoir I and the base 2 (in other words, at least one part on the reservoir I and at least one other part on the base 2, these parts interacting during operation of the mechanism).

In this specific illustrated example, the drive control mechanism comprises at least one projection, such as projection 1201 , of the reservoir I and at least one movable member, such as ramp 1202 of the base 2. The at least one projection 1201 extends in the radial direction I 12 towards the longitudinal axis I 10 of the refillable refill container 100, and the at least one ramp 1202 comprises a slide surface 1301 , extending in the circumferential direction, indicated by arrow 1301 , around the longitudinal axis I 10, and terminating at an abutment face 1302 of the ramp 1202.

The slide surface 1301 of the ramp 1201 is movable; the ramp 1202 is pivotable about an axis of rotation 1203 that extends through a first, fixed end 1204 of the ramp 1201 , so that a second, movable end 1205 of the ramp 1202 is movable between a radially inward position and a radially outward position. Further, the second, movable end 1205 of the ramp 1202 is resiliently biased towards the radially outward position by a biasing element (not shown). The biasing element may be of any suitable type, for example a spring or rubber member.

The at least one projection 1201 and at least one ramp 1202 are relatively configured for the at least one projection 1201 of the reservoir I to ride over the slide surface 1301 of the at least one ramp 1202 during rotation of the reservoir I relative to the base 2 in a first direction of rotation (closing) around the longitudinal axis I 10 and for at least one projection 1202 to abut against at least one abutment face 1302 during rotation of the reservoir I relative to the base 2 in a second, opposite direction of rotation (opening) about the longitudinal axis I 10. Thus, as the reservoir I is rotated in one direction, the projection 1201 pushes on the slide surface 1301 causing the second, movable end 1205 of the ramp 1202 to move inwards, allowing the projection 1201 to pass over the ramp 1202; when the projection 1201 has been rotated beyond the slide surface 1301 , the second, movable end 1205 of the ramp 1202 is moved back into the radially outward position under the action of the biasing element. When the reservoir I is then rotated back, in the other direction, the projection 1201 abuts the abutment face 1302 of the ramp 1202, the biasing element maintaining the second, movable end 1205 of the ramp 1202 in the radially outward position.

A projection of the drive control mechanism may have any suitable form. A movable element having a different form to that described above may be utilised to the same effect. For example, a movable element may be used that is movable in its entirety as the projection rotated to pass over it, or that is compressed by the projection as the projection travels along the movable element. The main principle is that the movable element flexes or yields in some way to allow the projection to ride over it in one direction of rotation but not in the opposite direction of rotation.

In an embodiment, and in this embodiment, a displacement control mechanism is provided between the reservoir I and the base 2. The purpose of the displacement control mechanism is to control the extent that the reservoir I can be moved relative to the base 2. When the refillable refill container 100 is in use on a container neck, the displacement control mechanism prevents removal of the base 2 from the container neck and defines a stop position for the second relative position of the reservoir I .

By “between” it is meant that the mechanism is functional between the two components; in other words, the two components mechanically co-operate to provide the action of the mechanism.

The base 2 and the reservoir I are shown in the closed position Figure 14 and 15, and in the open position in Figures 16 and 17.

As will be described in further details, the displacement control mechanism limits movement of the reservoir relative to the base, and comprises a first plurality of protrusions of the base, and a second plurality of protrusions of the reservoir, the second plurality of protrusions interacting with the first plurality of protrusions during rotation of the reservoir from the first relative position into the second relative position to define a stop position for the second relative position. In this example, elements of the displacement control mechanism are distributed across the reservoir I and the base 2 (in other words, at least one part on the reservoir I and at least one other part on the base 2, these parts contacting during operation of the mechanism). More specifically, in this example, the displacement control mechanism comprises a plurality of protrusions that are distributed between the base 2 and the reservoir I and are configured to interact as the refillable refill container 100 is moved between the closed and open positions.

As shown, in this illustrated example, the base 2 is provided with a first plurality of protrusions, such as protrusions 1401 and 1402, and the reservoir I is provided with, a second plurality of protrusions, such as protrusions 1403 and 1404. By “protrusion” it is meant an element or volume of material that projects radially outwardly. A protrusion of the displacement control mechanism may take any form, for example a bump, block, rib or ramp. The displacement control mechanism may comprise protrusions having different forms.

When the reservoir I is grasped and opened, protrusion 1403 of the reservoir I is moved into contact with protrusion 1401 of the base 2. This provides an initial stop point; with continued application of the turning force on the reservoir I , the protrusion 1403 will pass over the protrusion 1401. This allows rotation of the reservoir I , relative to the base 2, in the same direction to continue. Continued rotation of the reservoir I in the opening direction moves the protrusion 1404 of the reservoir I into abutting contact with protrusion 1402 of the base 2. This provides a final stop point, which functions to prevent the base 2 from being dismantled from a container neck during use. When the reservoir I is subsequently screwed in the closing direction, when nearing the closed condition, the protrusion 1403 will ride back over the protrusion 1401. In an example, the protrusion 1401 has the form of a ramp, profiled to allow the protrusion 1403 to move over more easily when rotated in the closing direction, from the second relative position into the first relative position than in the opening direction, from the first relative position into the second relative position. An arrangement of protrusions that differs from that described above may be utilised to the same effect. The main principle is that at least one protrusion of the base co-operates with at least one protrusion of the reservoir to provide a stop point, to limit how far the reservoir can be rotated relative to the base.

In a preferred example, and as indicted in Figure I 5, two sets of the protrusion are provided, at diametrically opposed locations, indicated at 1501 and 1501 to provide stability to the operation of the refillable refill container. The protrusion of the reservoir interact with the protrusion of the base during rotation of the reservoir from the first relative position into the second relative position to define a stop position for the second relative position.

Referring now to Figure 18, in this illustrated example, the reservoir I comprises a filling level indicator 1801 , which may provide by any suitable mark or other indicator, for indicating that a predetermined volume of product has been introduced into the reservoir I , for dispensing from the refillable refill container 100. The reservoir I may comprise one or more other indicators, for an arrow 1802 for indicating a correct orientation for the refillable refill container 100 for dispensing. In this Figure, the refillable refill container 100 is shown in use with a container 5 that is specifically designed for the refillable refill container 100 to be used with it.

Turning now to Figure 19, according to this illustrated example, the air intake 1002 is provided by a tubular element 1901 having a sloped edge profile, indicated at 1902, which provides a difference between diametrically opposite points in the extent of protrusion into the reservoir I . As can be seen in this Figure, the air intake 1002 is aligned substantially centrally with respect to an alignment element 1903, which is used during refilling of the reservoir I . The alignment element 1503 comprises a plurality of ribs, such as ribs 1904, 1905 and 1906, that extend into the base 2 towards the reservoir I , in the axial direction, and that are distributed circumferentially, in this example substantially equidistantly, to form channels therebetween, such as channel 1907 between ribs 1904 and 1905 and channel 1908 between ribs 1904 and 1906. A sealing member 1909 is provided over openings to the channels. The sealing member 1909 may be configured for displacement and return, or removal and reapplication or replacement.

Figure 20 illustrates filling of the refillable refill container 100 at a refilling station 2001. The refilling station 2001 comprises at least one filling head 2002. As indicated, filling head 2002 comprises a first nozzle 2003 for delivering product and a second nozzle 2004 for air. The filling head 2002 is engageable with the base 2 of the refillable refill container 100, more particularly to dock with the alignment element 1903 of the base 2. As shown, the first and second nozzles 2003, 2004 of the filling head 2002 are beatable within respective channels, such as channels 1906 and 1907, of the alignment element 1903. The liquid flow trajectory during filling is indicated by arrow 2007. The air intake trajectory during filling is indicated by arrow 2008.

A method of providing a refillable refill container filled with a product, being a liquid or a granular material, for the dispensing of a liquid or a granular material into a container through a neck of the container, comprising: receiving a reservoir, defining a flow port for holding a liquid or a granular material to be dispensed, receiving a base, for application to the neck of the container; co-operatively assembling the base with the reservoir into a first relative position in which the flow port is sealed, and from which the reservoir, between application and removal of the base to the neck of the container, is reversibly movable relative to the base to a second relative position in which the flow port is open; applying the base to a filling head of a filling station, moving the reservoir relative to the base to the second relative position in which the flow port is open; introducing a liquid or a granular material into the reservoir through the flow port, moving the reservoir relative to the base back into first second relative position in which the flow port is closed, and removing the base from the filling head of the filling station.

The method may be used with a reservoir that is or is not provided with a filling opening that is separate from the flow port.

A method of providing a refillable refill container filled with a liquid or a granular material for the dispensing of a liquid or a granular material into a container through a neck of the container, comprises: receiving a reservoir, defining a flow port and a filling opening, separate from the flow port, for holding a liquid or a granular material to be dispensed; receiving a base, for application to the neck of the container; receiving a cover, for sealing the filling opening; co-operatively assembling the base with the reservoir into a first relative position in which the flow port is sealed, and from which the reservoir, between application and removal of the base to the neck of the container, is reversibly movable relative to the base to a second relative position in which the flow port is open; introducing a liquid or a granular material into the reservoir through the filling opening, and assembling the cover with the reservoir to seal the filling opening.

The method may optionally comprise receiving and removably applying a protective cover over the base.

The cover may be removably assembled on the reservoir.

The method may further comprise, after removably assembling the cover with the reservoir to seal the filling opening: receiving the refillable refill container following dispensing of a liquid or a granular material from the reservoir, removing the cover to unseal the filling opening; introducing a liquid or a granular material into the reservoir through the filling opening, and reassembling the cover to reseal the filling opening.

The method may further comprise, after assembling the cover with the reservoir to seal the filling opening: receiving the refillable refill container following dispensing of liquid from the reservoir; applying the base to a filling head of a filling station; moving the reservoir relative to the base to the second relative position in which the flow port is open; introducing a liquid or a granular material into the reservoir through the flow port; moving the reservoir relative to the base back into first second relative position in which the flow port is closed; and removing the base from the filling head of the filling station.

The cover may be non-removably assembled the reservoir. Figures 21 & 22 show perspective top and bottom views respectively of the reservoir I , and Figures 23 & 24 show perspective top and bottom views respectively of the base 2. Figure 25 shows a side view of the base 2 and Figure 26 shows a cross-section view of the base 2 along the line A-A of Figure 25. Figure 27 shows a different side view of the base 2 and Figure 28 shows a cross-section view of the base 2 along the line B-B of Figure 26. Figure 29 shows a plan view of the base 2.

Figures 30 & 3 I show different sectional views of the refillable refill container 100 in the closed condition.

Figure 32 shows a sectional view of the refillable refill container 100 in use on a container 5, with the refillable refill container 100 in the closed condition, and Figure 33 shows a sectional view of the refillable refill container 100 in use on the container 5, with the refillable refill container 100 in the open condition.

It should thus be appreciated that a container may be specifically designed for the refillable refill container 100 to be used with it; similarly, a filling head may be specifically designed for the refillable refill container 100 to be recharged using it.

It is further to be appreciated that the base 2 of the refillable refill container 100 is usable as an outlet during dispensing product from the reservoir I and as an inlet during refilling the reservoir I with product. As described, initial (or subsequent) filling may be through a different opening (filling opening 102).

The refillable refill container 100 may be made from any suitable material or materials, which may be or include a plastics material. In a specific example, the reservoir I , base 2 and lid 4 are each made from polypropylene (PP). The refillable refill container 100 may be manufactured using any suitable process or processes. The refillable refill container 100 may have any suitable dimensions. In a specific example, the reservoir I has a weight of 13g, the base 2 has a weight of 3. Ig and the lid 4 has a weight of 1.4g (together totalling a weight of 17.5g). In a specific example, the reservoir I has a capacity of 75ml. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention is not to be considered as limited to this capacity as it will work with a wide range of other reservoir capacities. In a specific application, the refillable refill container 100 is provided for use in the home care industry. In a specific example, the refillable refill container 100 is provided filled with a liquid cleaning product, which may be of any suitable type and which may be intended for cleaning hard surfaces or fabrics. The refillable refill container 100 may be filled with a liquid having any suitable viscosity. In another specific example, the refillable refill container 100 is provided filled with a granular material, which may be a powder.

The disclosed refillable refill container is designed to be open only when the refillable refill container is fitted to the neck of a container, for dispensing a product from the reservoir into the container, or fitted to a filling head, for receiving a product a product from the filling head into the container.

The disclosed refillable refill container is advantageously reusable (refillable/ rechargeable), hygienic (a user needs only touch the exterior of the reservoir to effect dispensing from the refillable refill container; a removable protective cover is usable over the base), and secure (the refillable refill container remains in a closed position until fitted onto a container, after which it is movable into an open position for dispensing and is then moved back into the closed position before removal from the container). The reusable and secure aspects are beneficial for reducing waste, and the hygienic and secure aspects are beneficial for maintaining cleanliness and improving consumer perception and product acceptability in certain industries.

Further, the disclosed refillable refill container is “child-friendly” in that it is designed so that the contents of the reservoir cannot be accessed without using another element, such as a container neck, as described above, a filling head, as also described above, or a tool for example, to open the reservoir.

Although illustrative embodiments and examples of the invention have been disclosed in detail herein, with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the precise embodiment and examples shown and/or described and that various changes and modifications can be effected therein by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.