How a Refillable Capsule Plug Seals Cleaning Concentrates

A specialized plug design for refillable cleaning product capsules that ensures a secure, leak-proof seal when the capsule is attached to a bottle.

What it covers

This patent describes a mechanical plug used in a refillable capsule system, such as those for concentrated cleaning liquids. The plug features a tubular body with a specific rim and skirt design that creates a recess, allowing it to interface perfectly with a bottle's opening. It includes a frangible (breakable) seal that acts as a gatekeeper; when the capsule is pressed onto the bottle, the plug's abutment surface pushes against this seal to open the flow of concentrated liquid into the bottle. The design ensures that the connection is stable and aligned, preventing leaks during the mixing process.

What it doesn't cover

• —Does not cover the chemical composition of the concentrated liquid inside the capsule.
• —Does not cover non-frangible sealing mechanisms like screw-on caps or threaded closures.
• —Does not cover the specific design of the refillable vessel itself, only the plug interface.
• —Does not cover pump-action or spray-trigger mechanisms used to dispense the final product.

The clever bit

The plug uses a specific 'frangible sealing component' that breaks only when the plug is correctly seated, ensuring the concentrate is released cleanly into the bottle without dripping or premature exposure to air.

Why it matters

As consumer goods companies move toward sustainability, refillable systems are becoming the standard for reducing plastic waste. This patent protects the mechanical reliability of the interface between a concentrated refill and a permanent bottle, which is the most common point of failure for these products.

Real-world examples

• 1.Refillable concentrated cleaning spray systems
• 2.Household detergent refill capsules