Device

The invention relates to a locking mechanism for retaining a removable cartridge. Particularly, but not exclusively, the invention relates to a device for dispensing a fluid from a cartridge, the device incorporating said locking mechanism.

An air fragrancing device is an example of a device which dispenses a fluid. Air fragrancing devices are often used in domestic environments where they create a pleasant fragrance or mask a bad odour. Commonly, these devices operate in combination with a fragrance refill cartridge.

The cartridge may be wick-based, wherein a fragranced liquid is drawn up the wick and evaporates on exposure to the air, or aerosol based.

It is important that the user of the device is able to replace the refill cartridge with minimal skill or effort. Disadvantageously, known devices incorporate a hatch or cover over the cartridge. The hatch is often difficult to access and may be locked in place. In order to access the refill cartridge, the user must first locate the hatch and then release it. This is time consuming and may require the user to have a suitable tool to hand. Other known devices rely on a push-fitting to hold the refill cartridge in position in the device. However, such devices have the disadvantage that the cartridge can be accidentally knocked out of the device, or a large force is required to overcome the push fit in order to pull out the cartridge.

Replacement of the refill cartridge can be particularly difficult for an elderly or disabled person who may not have the required dexterity or strength to remove the cartridge. For example, devices are known which require a user to carry out two separate steps in order to remove a refill cartridge; the first step being to open a hatch, and the second step to press a trigger or button to release the cartridge from a locked position. This type of mechanism can be very difficult to operate, especially by th ^° e elderly or disabled.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a locking mechanism for a device for dispensing a fluid which attempts to overcome the aforementioned problems. It is a further object of the invention to provide a device for dispensing a fluid which incorporates said mechanism.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a device for dispensing a fluid, the device comprising a body for housing at least one cartridge containing a fluid to be dispensed; the body having a first end and a second end, the second end comprising an opening for receiving the cartridge, wherein a locking member is located at the second end, the locking member being operable to move from a first position, in which the cartridge is releasable from said device, to a second position, in which a portion of the locking member extends across at least a part of the cartridge, so as to partially cover said part of the cartridge.

Advantageously, provision of the locking member ensures that the cartridge is retained in the device. Furthermore, the arrangement provides a one step mechanism

for releasing the cartridge. In so doing, the device is readily operational by a less able bodied user.

Preferably, in the first position, the refill cartridge is freely releasable from said device. Advantageously, in the first position, the refill cartridge moves out of the device without the need for a further release step, or trigger.

Preferably, in the second position, the locking member is adapted to retain the refill cartridge in a dispensing configuration.

In the dispensing configuration, the refill cartridge is preferably operational. For example, when a wick-based cartridge is used, in the dispensing configuration, the wick is in contact with a suitable heat source.

Alternatively, when an aerosol refill cartridge is used, in the dispensing configuration, the valve stem is in contact with a suitable actuation assembly.

Preferably, the locking member comprises a body portion, preferably a fixing portion, and preferably a locating portion. Preferably, the locking member is substantially between 0.5cm and 5cm in length, more preferably substantially between 1.5cm and 3cm, most preferably substantially 2.6cm. Preferably, the locking member, preferably the body portion is substantially between 0.2cm and 2cm in width, more preferably substantially between 0.5cm and lcm, most preferably substantially 0.8cm.

Preferably, the locking member is rotatably mounted on the device. Preferably, the locking member is rotatably

mounted about at least one fixed point, preferably on the base of the device. Preferably, the locking member is rotatably mounted on the device by the fixing portion.

Preferably, the fixing portion extends from the body portion. Preferably, the fixing portion comprises a fixing head which is adapted to secure the fixing portion to the device. More preferably, the fixing portion comprises a pair of preferably symmetrical arms, preferably, each having a fixing section adapted to locate in a receiving aperture in the device, preferably, the base of the device. Preferably, the fixing portion, preferably, the fixing head is operable to rotate in the receiving aperture. Preferably, the fixing portion, preferably, the fixing head or each fixing section is resiliently deformable and is preferably received in the receiving aperture in a snap fit manner.

Preferably, a gripping member is provided on the locking member. Preferably, the gripping member extends in a direction parallel to the longitudinal length of the locking member. Preferably, the gripping member is located centrally of the locking member. More preferably, the gripping member extends downwardly from the locking member. Most preferably, the gripping member extends to a point which is substantially coplanar with the second end, preferably substantially coplanar with the base of the device. Preferably, the gripping member extends downwardly substantially between 0.1cm and lcm from the locking member, preferably, substantially between 0.2cm to 0.5cm, most preferably substantially 0.3cm. Preferably, the gripping member comprises a textured surface.

Provision of the gripping member allows the user to readily grip the locking member. Further, the provision of the textured surface provides an effective surface which the user can push against when moving said member from the first position to the second position and vice versa .

Further, when the gripping member extends downwardly to lie coplanar with the base, the gripping member acts as a supporting structure for the device.

Preferably, at least one indent is provided on the device. Preferably, the at least one indent is adapted to receive the locating portion. Preferably, three indents are provided, preferably being spaced equidistantly from each other. Provision of said indents enables the locking member to move into a number of predetermined positions. Preferably the positions are substantially 45° apart.

The user is able to move the locking member through a number of predetermined positions due to the relationship between the locating portion and the indents. Due to the resilient nature of the locking member, said member is forced into a locking position when the locating portion is in a detent. Due to this configuration, a user is able to feel and hear the mode of operation as the locating portion locates into a detent. This is particularly advantageous for disabled people, specifically the blind or partially sighted.

Preferably, the locking member is located on the device on a plane which is substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the device.

Preferably, in the first position, the locking member lies substantially parallel to the opening, preferably, parallel to the longitudinal length of the opening.

Advantageously, in the first position, the locking member does not obstruct the entry of the refill cartridge into the body of the device.

Preferably, the opening is dimensioned to receive the refill cartridge, preferably in a close fitting manner. More preferably, the opening and, preferably, an inner chamber of said device, mimic the profile of the refill cartridge.

Preferably, in the second position, the locking member extends across a portion of the opening. Preferably, the locking member extends beyond the opening. Preferably, when the refill cartridge is in the device, the locking member extends across at least a portion of the base of the cartridge. Preferably, the locking member extends across substantially the whole width of the base of the cartridge .

Advantageously, in the second position, the locking member retains the refill cartridge in the device. Furthermore, the weight of the refill cartridge bearing down on the locking member, applies a force to the locking member, which helps to keep said member in the second position. In so doing, there is a reduced risk of the locking member being accidentally knocked out of the second position.

Preferably, a cut-out is provided on the device for housing the locking member. Advantageously, the cut-out allows for easy storage of the locking member.

In an alternative embodiment, preferably, a notch is located on the cut-out. Preferably, the notch projects from a wall of said cut-out, preferably by substantially 0. lcm.

The notch ensures that when the locking member is rotated into the second position, said member is at substantially 90° to the longitudinal axis of the device. In so doing, when the refill cartridge is placed into the device, the locking member extends across a central portion of said cartridge to secure said cartridge in position.

Preferably, a recess is provided on the device, preferably adjacent the opening. Preferably, the recess is dimensioned to receive at least one finger, preferably two fingers. Preferably, the recess has a depth of substantially between lcm and 10cm, most preferably substantially between lcm and 3cm, most preferably substantially 1.5cm. Preferably, the recess comprises a pair of hemispherically-shaped cut-outs.

Advantageously, the recess allows the user to position their fingers therein and to grip and guide the cartridge out of the body and through the opening. Due to the depth of the recess, there is sufficient space to enable people with larger fingers to easily access the cartridge. The simple design of the recess is such that the user needs little instruction as to how to remove the cartridge.

Preferably, the locking member is manufactured from coloured materials.

The use of coloured materials enables the user to see the locking member more readily. This allows the user to very quickly visualise where on the device he or she can access the cartridge. Further advantageously, use of such material simplifies the instructions to the user.

Preferably, the fluid is a liquid. More preferably, the fluid is a vapourised gas. Preferably, the fluid exiting the device is a vapourised gas.

Preferably, the second end of the device comprises a support surface of the device. Preferably, the second end comprises the base of the device.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a device for dispensing a fluid, the device comprising a body for housing at least one cartridge containing a fluid to be dispensed; the body having a first end; and a second end, the second end comprising an opening for receiving the cartridge, wherein a recess for receiving at least one finger is provided at the second end.

Preferably, the recess comprises a pair of hemispherically-shaped cut-outs, preferably dimensioned to each receive at least one finger.

Preferably, a locking member is located on said device.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided an assembly comprising, a device for dispensing a fluid, the device comprising a body for housing at least one cartridge containing a fluid to be dispensed; the body having a first end; and a second end, the second end comprising an opening for receiving the cartridge, wherein a locking member is located at the second end, the locking member being operable to move from a first position, in which the cartridge is releasable from said device, to a second position, in which at least a portion of the locking member extends across at least a part of the cartridge, so as to partially cover said part of the cartridge, the assembly further comprising at least one cartridge containing a fluid to be dispensed.

According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a locking mechanism for a device for dispensing a fluid, the device comprising a body for housing at least one cartridge containing a fluid to be dispensed; the body comprising an opening for receiving the cartridge; the locking mechanism comprising a body portion and a fixing portion, wherein the body portion is operable to move from a first position, in which the cartridge is releasable from said device, to a second position, in which said portion extends across at least a part of the cartridge, so as to partially cover said part of the cartridge.

All of the features described herein may be combined with any of the above aspects, in any combination.

An embodiment of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

Figure 1 shows a schematic front view of an air fragrancing device according to the invention;

Figure 2 shows a schematic perspective underside view of an air fragrancing device;

Figure 3 shows a schematic perspective underside view of an air fragrancing device in a second position;

Figure 4 shows a schematic perspective view of a part of an air fragrancing device;

Figure 5 shows a schematic perspective view of a part of an air fragrancing device;

Figure 6 shows a schematic perspective side view of a part of an air fragrancing device;

Figure 7 shows a schematic perspective view of a part of an air fragrancing device;

Figures 8a and 8b show a schematic underside view of the air fragrancing device of Figures 1 to 3 in a first position and a second position respectively;

Figures 9a, 9b and 9c show a schematic perspective view, a schematic underside view in a first position and a schematic underside view in a second position respectively of an alternative embodiment of an air fragrancing device;

Figures 10a, 10b and 10c show a first schematic underside view, a second schematic underside view, and a schematic side view respectively of a further embodiment of an air fragrancing device.

Figure 11 shows a schematic perspective view of an alternative embodiment of an air fragrancing device; and

Figure 12 shows a schematic underside view of an alternative embodiment of an air fragrancing device.

Figures 1 to 3 show an air fragrancing device 2 according to the invention. The air fragrancing device 2 comprises a generally pear-shaped body 4 having a top portion 6, a base 8 and a longitudinal axis 9. An arched vent 10 is provided in the body 4. The vent 10 extends downwardly towards the base 8 to meet an opening 12 therein. The opening 12, together with an inner chamber 13, are dimensioned to receive a refill cartridge (not shown) . A locking member 16 is located on the base 8, as shown in Figure 3, and as will be described in more detail below. An aperture 18, through which fluid exits the air fragrancing device 2, is provided in the top portion 6 as shown in Figures 2 and 3.

The base 8 comprises the opening 12 and a recess or cutout 20. The cut-out 20 has a generally curved outer wall 22 which acts as a stop for the locking member 16. A plurality of indents 24 are provided on the cut-out 20. Three indents 24 are shown in Figure 2 but it will be understood that any number may be provided. The indents 24 are equidistantly spaced apart about a central

receiving aperture 26, such that the locking member 16 locates in each indent 24 at 60° intervals.

The locking member 16 is shown in Figures 4 to 7. The locking member 16 is approximately 2.6cm in length and is manufactured as a one-piece moulding. The locking member 16 comprises a body portion 28, having a surface 30 in which is moulded parallel gutters 32. A locating portion 34 extends from a part of the surface 30 to be received in one of the indents 24. A fixing portion 36 is located at an end of the locking member 16. The fixing portion 36 comprises a pair of arms 38 which extend parallel to each other and perpendicular from the body portion 28. A fixing section 40 is provided at an end of each said arm 38 as shown in Figures 4 to 7. The fixing portion 36 and the fixing section 40 are resiliently deformable so that the arms 36 move together when said portion 36 is push fitted into the receiving aperture 26.

A gripping member 42 is located on an upper surface 44 of the locking member 16. The surface of the gripping member 42 is textured which provides a user with a suitable surface against which he/she can grip and push against when moving said member from either the first position or the second position.

In use, in order to replace a refill cartridge, the locking member 16 is moved out of the second position, as shown in figure 8b, and into the first position, as shown in Figure 8a. The user pushes against the body portion 28 to cause the locating portion 34 to dislodge and be forced out of the indent 24. The fixing portion 36 rotates in the aperture 26 until the locking member 16 no longer

obstructs the opening 12. In this position, the refill cartridge can be guided out of the chamber 13 without the need for a further release mechanism. The user is then able to guide a new refill cartridge into the chamber 13. In order to move the locking member 16 into the second position, the user rotates the body portion 28 which causes the fixing portion 36 to rotate in the aperture 26 and the locating portion 34 to move into a preferred indent 24. Although three indents are shown, the central indent 24 is the preferred indent 24 for the second position. In this position, the body portion 28 lies at substantially 90° to the longitudinal axis 9 of the device 2. Due to the resilient nature of the locating member 16 a ^click' can be heard and the user feels a resistance as said locating portion 34 moves from one position and into the other. Further, in the second position, the body portion 28 extends part of the way across the base of the refill cartridge to provide a support on which said cartridge sits .

The locking member 16 is preferably coloured, for example orange, in order to increase the visibility for the user.

Figures 9a, 9b and 9c show an alternative embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment 100, the cut-out 120 comprises a first wall 150, a second wall 152 and a curved third wall 154. A notch 156 projects from the first wall 150 to abut against the locking member 116. The notch 156 projects approximately 0.1cm from said wall 150.

The locking member 116 comprises a gripping member 142. The gripping member 142 is approximately 2.7cm in length and has a tapered end. The gripping member 142 extends

downwardly from the locking member 116 by approximately 0.3cm to lie coplanar with the base of the device 100.

In this embodiment, the locking member 116 is attached to the cut-out 120 by a screw 160. The screw 160 is located approximately 0.7cm from the wall 150. The locking member 116 is attached in such a way as to be rotatably movable from a first position, as shown in Figure 9b, to a second position as shown in Figure 9c.

In the first position, the locking member 116 lies substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 109 of the air fragrancing device 100, being adjacent the second wall 152 of the cut-out 120. In this position, the second wall 152 prevents further movement of the locking member 116 in a clockwise direction and enables the user to insert the refill cartridge 114 without obstruction.

In the second position, as shown in Figure 9c, the locking member 116 is positioned so as to lie across a generally central area of the refill cartridge 114. The locking member 116 extends at least half way across said cartridge

114, towards the vent 110. The notch 128 ensures that the locking member 116 extends substantially vertically down, in parallel with the first wall 122. The locking member

116 provides a support surface on which the refill cartridge 114 stands in a dispensing configuration.

In use, in order to change the refill cartridge 114, the user rotates the locking member 116 from the second position to the first position. This is achieved by the user pushing against the gripping member 130 until the locking member 116 abuts against the second wall 152 of

the cut-out 120. In this first position, the refill cartridge 114 can be readily removed from the device 100 and replaced by a new cartridge 114. When a new cartridge 114 is inserted into the opening 112, the user rotates the locking member 116 approximately 90° in an anticlockwise direction towards the vent 110. In so doing, the locking member 116 extends across a portion of the refill cartridge 114 to support and maintain said cartridge 114 in a dispensing configuration. The notch 128 ensures that said member 116 maintains the 90° position of the second position.

Figures 10a, 10b and 10c show a further alternative embodiment of a locking member 216. In this embodiment, the locking member 216 is attached directly to a portion of the surface of the base 208. A cut-out 220 is not provided. The locking member 216 is movably attached to the base 208 by means of a screw 260. The screw 260 allows rotatable movement of the locking member 216 from a first position, as shown in Figure 10a, into a second position shown in Figure 10b. The locking member 216 is able to rotate 120° about the screw 260.

In the first position, an end of the locking member 216 extends beyond the rim of the base 208 so as to be readily- seen and accessible to a user. In the second position, the locking member 216 extends fully across the refill cartridge 214 such that the end of said member 216 extends beyond said cartridge 214. In this position, the user can readily hold and move the locking member 216.

Figure 11 shows a further embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment 300, a finger recess 362 is provided in

the air fragrancing device 300. The finger recess 362 comprises two shaped recesses for each receiving a part of a finger. In so doing, the user is able to insert two fingers into said recess 362 in order to grip the refill cartridge 314. In this manner, the user is able to guide said cartridge 314 out of the opening 312.

Figure 12, shows a further embodiment in which the locking member 416 is provided on a base 408 incorporating the finger recess 462.

It will be understood by the reader, that the locking member 16, as shown in Figure 4, would be equally suitable to be combined with the finger recess embodiment of Figure 10.

Although the air fragrancing device is shown connected to a mains power lead, it will be understood that said device may comprise a docking station and rechargeable batteries, or conventional batteries. Such an arrangement would allow the user to move said device around the home and outside, for example, to the garden. When used in the garden, the device is preferably adapted for pest control.

The invention is not limited to the use of a fragrance but is equally suited to use with liquids for pest control, and pharmaceutical preparations which can be vaporised, for example, formulations to ease congestion. When used for pest control, a suitable UV light can be incorporated into the device.

Advantageously, the invention provides a locking member which is of simple construction and is user friendly. The

construction of the locking member allows the user to readily understand the principles of operation.

Further advantageously, the elderly or disabled user can readily operate the locking mechanism. This is due to the arrangement which provides a one step release mechanism for removing the refill cartridge. Also, the use of the locating portion and indent to provide a "click" noise during operation, provides a further indication to the user that the mechanism is operating correctly.

Further, when said member is coloured, the user is able to see the locking member without the need for extensive inspection of the device. In so doing, the user is able to quickly change the refill cartridge without much effort.

The reader' s attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.

Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings)

may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment (s) . The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) , or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.