SE2251587A1 - A base fixing adapter for a lockable receptacle holder, a lockable receptacle holder, a method of securing a receptacle to a lockable receptacle holder, and use of a base fixing adapter - Google Patents

Abstract

The disclosure presents a base fixing adapter (100) for a lockable receptacle holder (10), the lockable receptacle holder (10) comprising a base support (20) for supporting a receptacle base (210) of a receptacle (200) and a neck confmer (30) for confining a neck or shoulder (230) of the receptacle (200), the base fixing adapter (100) comprising a receptacle interface (110) for the receptacle (200) and a holder interface (120) for engaging the base support (20) of the lockable receptacle holder (10), wherein the receptacle interface (110) is configured to at least party surround the receptacle (200). A lockable receptacle holder (10), a method of securing a receptacle (200), and a use of a base fixing adapter (100) are also presented.

Description

Technical field The present disclosure generally pertains to receptacle holders, and more precisely to a base fixing adapter and to a lockable respectable holder. The lockable receptacle holder is intended for a dispensing receptacle for dispensing liquid or creamy hygiene products such as soap, shampoo, lotion or hand sanitizer. In detail, the disclosure relates to a base fixing adapter and a lockable respectable holder that more securely hold the dispensing receptacle.

Background art For environmental reasons, disposable hygiene products in e. g. hotel rooms and public areas are increasingly being substituted With fixed, e.g. Wall-mounted, larger volume dispensers. A general problem With refillable receptacles for such dispensers is that they may be subj ect to theft and tampering.

To address these problems there are provided holders With looking mechanisms. The document WO2021076034Al discloses a lockable receptacle holder With a holder base portion for supporting a bottom of a receptacle and a holder upper portion that together With a pivotal confining member may releasably confine a neck or shoulder of the receptacle.

WO2021 l77878Al discloses a lockable receptacle holder With a holder base portion for supporting a bottom of a receptacle and a holder upper portion configured to at least partially enclose and releasably confine a neck or shoulder the receptacle. There is further a cap looking member for preventing removal of a cap of the receptacle. Summary of the invention It is an object of the present disclosure to yet further improve the protection against theft and tampering, at a low cost. This object is according to a first aspect of the present disclosure obtained by a base fixing adapter for a lockable receptacle holder. The lockable receptacle holder comprises a base support for supporting a receptacle base of a receptacle and a neck conf1ner for conf1ning a neck or shoulder of the receptacle. The base fixing adapter comprises a receptacle interface for the receptacle and a holder interface for engaging the base support of the lockable receptacle holder. The receptacle interface is configured to at least party surround the receptacle.

Thus, the base fixing adapter may improve the ability of a lockable receptacle holder to securely hold a receptacle. Since the receptacle interface is configured to at least party surround the receptacle, eg. the receptacle base, the base fixing adapter may securely hold the receptacle in a positive fit (forrn fit). The receptacle interface for the receptacle, optionally for engaging the receptacle base, at least party surrounds the receptacle and may thereby at least hinder the receptacle from a lateral movement. Now, When the receptacle is hindered from a lateral movement, is engaged or is securely held, by the base fixing adapter While the neck or shoulder of the receptacle is confined (in other Words securely held) by the neck conf1ner, the receptacle is Well protected against theft. Typically, a receptacle secured in this Way may only be removed from the lockable receptacle holder by breaking or deforrning the holder, the receptacle and/or the base fixing adapter.

As the receptacle interface of the base fixing adapter at least party surrounds the receptacle, Water and hygiene products that run along the receptacle may be caught in the base fixing adapter and/or be directed to a desired location. In particular if the receptacle interface completely surrounds the receptacle base. In other Words, the receptacle interface may be larger than the receptacle base. Typically, the receptacle base and the receptacle interface may be circular, and the diameter of the receptacle interface may be larger than the diameter of the receptacle base.

The neck conf1ner is conf1gured to conf1ne, thus detain, the neck or shoulder of the receptacle, such that the neck or shoulder is hindered from moving away from the lockable receptacle holder. The neck conf1ner may comprise a pivotal conf1ning member for releasably conf1ning the neck or shoulder of the receptacle. The pivotal conf1ning member may be pivoted, typically in a plane that is substantially orthogonal to a longitudinal direction of the lockable receptacle holder, between a closed position and a release position. In use, the pivot plane is typically substantially horizontal. Altematively, the neck confmer may selectively detain or release the neck or shoulder by being attached by screws.

The holder interface and the receptacle interface may respectively be configured such that a greater force is required to disengage the base fixing adapter from the base support than from the receptacle.

The base fixing adapter may be thin-Walled. A particularly thin-Walled yet strong base fixing adapter may be obtained by the application of a strengthening rib. Thus, the base fixing adapter may be thin-Walled and comprise a strengthening rib. The strengthening rib is preferably distanced from the holder interface. The strengthening rib may preferably be positioned close to the outer circumference of the base fixing adapter.

The base fixing adapter may comprise a receptacle side that faces the receptacle during use, and an opposite support side that faces the base support during use. The receptacle side may comprise the receptacle interface. The support side may compromise the holder interface and a strengthening rib. The holder interface may, in addition to the optional strengthening rib, act to strengthen a thin-Walled base fixing adapter.

The base fixing adapter may be essentially boWl-shaped. The rim or brim of the boWl- shaped base fixing adapter may form the receptacle interface. The holder interface may protrude from the bottom of the boWl-shaped base fixing adapter. The boWl-shaped base fixing adapter may be thin-Walled, and may be strengthened by the holder interface at least partly being provided as ribs or bulges. In addition, the bottom of the boWl-shaped base fixing adapter may comprise a strengthening rib that does not form part of the holder interface.

According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a lockable receptacle holder comprising a base support for supporting a receptacle base of a receptacle and a neck confmer for confming a neck or shoulder of the receptacle. The lockable receptacle holder further comprising a base fixing adapter comprising a receptacle interface for the receptacle, e.g. its base, and a holder interface for engaging the base support, Wherein the receptacle interface is configured to at least party surround the receptacle, e. g. its base.

According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a lockable receptacle holder comprising a base support for supporting a receptacle base of a receptacle and a neck confiner for confining a neck or shoulder of the receptacle. The neck confiner comprising a pivotal conf1ning member for releasably conf1ning the neck or shoulder of the receptacle. The lockable receptacle holder further comprising a base fixing adapter comprising a receptacle interface for the receptacle and a holder interface for engaging the base support. The receptacle interface may be configured to at least party surround the receptacle.

The lockable receptacle holder of the previous aspects may be made of metal, such as stainless steel. In some examples, the lockable receptacle holder is formed by cut, folded and j oined pieces of metal. The lockable receptacle holder may not comprise any housing that encloses the receptacle. In other Words, the lockable receptacle holder may hold the receptacle in a manner such that almost the entire, at least the label of the receptacle, remains visible.

The base fixing adapter may be essentially boWl-shaped and be made of polymer material. Altematively, the base fixing adapter may generally have the shape of a rod structure and be made of metal, such as stainless steel.

Typically, the neck confiner is positioned above the base support and above the receptacle. The neck confiner may involve moving parts, such as a pivotal confining member. By arranging moving parts of the lockable receptacle holder above the receptacle there is little risk that the moving parts become clogged or restricted from moving by being subject to hygiene product dispensed from the receptacle.

Typically, no moving parts of the lockable receptacle holder are positioned behind the receptacle. In other Words between the receptacle and the structure, such as a Wall, to Which the lockable receptacle holder is mounted. Thereby, the receptacle may be mounted particularly close to the Wall.

According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of securing a receptacle to a lockable receptacle holder. The method comprises attaching the base fixing adapter to a receptacle base of the receptacle, attaching the base fixing adapter to a base support of the lockable receptacle holder, and attaching a neck or shoulder of the receptacle to the lockable receptacle holder by means of a neck confiner of the lockable receptacle holder. Attaching the neck or shoulder of the receptacle to the lockable receptacle holder may comprise pivoting a conf1ning member, e.g. a hook- shaped conf1ning member, of the neck confmer.

The base fixing adapter may be configured to at least partly surround the receptacle base. Attaching the base fixing adapter to the receptacle base may easily be performed by pushing the receptacle base into the base fixing adapter. The dimension of the base fixing adapter may be adapted to the dimension of the receptacle base, such that the base fixing adapter snugly fits around the receptacle base and remains attached in a friction-fit. Attaching the base fixing adapter to the base support may involve pushing the base fixing adapter towards the base support until a snap-fit connection is obtained. The base support and a holder interface of the base fixing adapter may be conf1gured to engage in a positive fit and optionally also in a friction-fit or snap-f1t.

According to a f1fth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a use of a base fixing adapter for securing a receptacle in a lockable receptacle holder. The lockable receptacle holder comprises a base support for supporting a receptacle base of the receptacle and a neck conf1ner for confining a neck or shoulder of the receptacle. The neck conf1ner may comprise a pivotal conf1ning member that may releasably conf1ne the neck or shoulder of the receptacle. The base fixing adapter comprises a receptacle interface for engaging the receptacle base of the receptacle and a holder interface for engaging the base support of the lockable receptacle holder. The use comprises attaching the base fixing adapter to the receptacle base and to the base support. The receptacle interface may be configured to at least party surround the receptacle base.

The lockable receptacle holder described above may for example be of the type described in WO202 l 076034Al or WO202l l77878Al.

Additional conceivable features and advantages of the base fixing adapter, the lockable receptacle holder and the method will become clear from the following description of embodiments and examples. Brief description of the drawings The embodiments disclosed herein are illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings, in which figure 1 is an exploded, isometric view of a lockable receptacle holder and a base fixing adapter of a first embodiment, figures 2-3 correspond to figure 1 but with the base fixing adapter attached to the lockable receptacle holder, figure 4 shows the lockable receptacle holder of figure 1 but with a neck confiner pivoted to an open position, figure 5-6 show the base fixing adapter obliquely from below and above, figure 7 shows the lockable receptacle holder, the base fixing adapter of the first embodiment and a receptacle as well as arrows indicating a method of securing the receptacle to the lockable receptacle holder, figure 8 is an isometric view of a base fixing adapter of a second embodiment and a portion of a lockable receptacle holder similar to the one of figure 1, and figure 9 shows the base fixing adapter of figure 8.

Detailed description of embodiments Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter. The invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided by way of example so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those persons skilled in the art.

Figures 1 to 3 and 5 to 7 disclose a first embodiment of a base fixing adapter 100 for a lockable receptacle holder 10. The lockable receptacle holder 10 of the first embodiment is shown in figures 1 to 4 and 6 and comprises a base support 20 for supporting a receptacle base 210 of a receptacle 200 (see figure 7) and a neck confiner 30 for confining a neck or shoulder 230 of the receptacle 200. Figures 8 and 9 disclose a second embodiment of the base fixing adapter 100" described in detail further below.

The base fixing adapter 100 of the first embodiment comprises a receptacle interface 110 for the receptacle 200, more precisely for the receptacle base 210 of the receptacle 200, and a holder interface 120 for engaging the base support 20 of the lockable receptacle holder 10. The receptacle interface 110 is configured to at least party surround the receptacle 200, more precisely the receptacle base 210. Referring e.g. to figure 7, the top side of the base fixing adapter 100 may be referred to as the receptacle side and the bottom side of the base fixing adapter 100 may be referred to as the support side.

As described below, the receptacle interface 110 for the receptacle 200 may engage the receptacle base 210 in a friction-fit connection. Thus, the receptacle interface 110 may be configured for attachment to the receptacle base 210. However, the receptacle interface 1 10 needs not be configured for attachment to the receptacle 200. The receptacle interface 1 10 may be larger than the receptacle base 210 such that the receptacle interface 1 10 only engages and hinders the receptacle base 210 in the event that an attempt is made to remove the receptacle 200 from the lockable receptacle holder 10.

The base fixing adapter 100 is separate from the lockable receptacle holder 10. The base fixing adapter 100 may, as in the current embodiments, be a one-piece element. A one- piece element may be easy to handle and manufacture, and requires no assembly.

As is illustrated in figures 5 to 7, the base fixing adapter may be thin-walled. By the expression thin-walled is meant that the wall thickness of the base fixing adapter 100 is less than 3 millimeters and typically less than 2 millimeters. A thin-walled base fixing adapter 100 may be light-weight, require little material and space, and may be elastically deforrnable and thereby provide advantageous mechanical properties. A thin-walled base fixing adapter 100 that fits snugly on the receptacle base 210 (see figure 7) may be particularly beneficial.

The base fixing adapter 100 may be made of polymer material. Advantages involve low weight, low material costs and elastic deforrnability. The base fixing adapter 100 may be made of polypropylene, a material that is suitable for manufacture by injection moulding and is comparably low cost. Further, polypropylene is resistant to chemicals, may be impact resistant and have high flexural strength. Another conceivable material is metal such as stainless steel.

The base fixing adapter 100 may be of a shape that that may be produced by additive layer manufacturing, which is particularly suitable for small series. In other words, the base fixing adapter 100 may be of a shape that may be built up in successive layers of material under computer control.

Referring to figures 5 and 6, the current base fixing adapter 100 is essentially bowl- shaped. The base fixing adapter 100 may be circular. In use, the base fixing adapter 100 is aligned with the longitudinal direction of the receptacle 200 and of the lockable receptacle holder 10. In other words, the bowl opening faces the receptacle 200. In the current example, the diameter of the bowl-shaped base fixing adapter 100 is approximately 6 times the height of the bowl-shaped base fixing adapter 100, a typical range for the ratio being 4 to 8.

The rim or brim of the bowl-shaped base fixing adapter 100 may form the receptacle interface 110. The bottom, more precisely the inner bottom, of the bowl-shaped base fixing adapter 100 may be essentially, or entirely, flat. The transition from the bowl bottom to the rim 110 may be rounded, as is illustrated. The holder interface 120 may, as is shown, protrude from the bottom, more precisely outer bottom, of the bowl-shaped base fixing adapter 100. The holder interface 120 may be a number of protrusions 122, 124, 127 arranged in a pattem that fits the shape of the base support 20, such that a positive fit, optionally a snap-f1t, may be formed between the holder interface 120 and the base support 20.

As is illustrated, the base fixing adapter 100 may comprise a plurality of through-holes 130, 128. A through-hole, or through-holes, may prevent water or hygiene products from accumulating in the base fixing adapter 100. Such at least one through-hole may be referred to as a drainage hole. At least one drainage hole may be positioned at, or in the vicinity of, a lowest (in use) point of the base fixing adapter 100. The inner bottom of the base fixing adapter 100 may slope (not illustrated) towards its center. The drainage hole may, as is shown, be positioned in the center of the base fixing adapter 100. The base support 20 may comprise a corresponding drainage opening, which is aligned with the drainage hole of the base fixing adapter 100 (see figure 2). As is clear from e. g. figure 2, the drainage opening may also serve as the fixing through opening 25 described below.

The drainage hole 130, if present, is preferably relatively small such that a person°s finger may not pass therethrough. Such a design may be beneficial as it hinders malicious person from pushing the base support 20 and the neck confiner 30 apart by exercising a force onto the receptacle 200 through the drainage hole 130 of the base fixing adapter 100. Thus, the drainage hole 130 is preferable sized or shaped such that a finger may not pass therethorugh. For example, the drainage hole 130 may be circular with a diameter less than 10 millimeters, or less than 5 millimeters. In a real implementation, the size of the through hole 130 is typically smaller than illustrated in the figures.

As is schematically illustrated by the dashed line in figure 5, the base fixing adapter 100, more precisely its bottom, or support side, may comprise a strengthening rib 129. Thereby the base fixing adapter 100 and in particular the bottom wall may be thin-walled yet strong. In fact, the bottom of the base fixing adapter 100 may be thinner than its rim 110. The strengthening rib 129 may be C-shaped as seen in a plan view (from below during use). Thereby, the C-shaped strengthening rib 129 may essentially encircle the base fixing adapter 100 while leaving room for the base support 20 to extend into the holder interface 120. The protrusions 122, 124, 127 may also, in addition to the strengthening rib 129, act to strengthen the thin-walled base fixing adapter 100.

In the current example, the receptacle interface 110 comprises at least one protrusion 112 and the holder interface 120 comprises at least one protrusion 122. By means of the protrusions, the base fixing adapter 100 may engage both the receptacle 200 and the lockable receptacle holder 10 in a positive fit. Thus, the receptacle 200 and the lockable receptacle holder 10 may engage in a positive fit. The base fixing adapter 100 may in other words function as an adapter that accomplishes a secure, positive, fit between the receptacle 200 and the lockable receptacle holder 10.

The lockable receptacle holder 10, more precisely its base support 20, may be free from protrusions that protrude toward the receptacle 200. The base support 20 may, as is shown, have a flat surface facing the receptacle 200. Such a lockable receptacle holder may be suitable for selective use with or without a base fixing adapter 100. As has been mentioned, the base fixing adapter 100 is preferably thin-walled. In particular a thin- walled bottom (positioned between the receptacle and the base part) of the base fixing adapter 100 is advantageous to facilitate selective use of the lockable receptacle holder with or without a base fixing adapter 100.

As is clear from e.g. figures 2 and 7 in conjunction, with the current design the receptacle base 210 typically cannot be removed from the base support 20 by a movement in the lateral direction without breaking or at least deforrning one of the receptacle 200, the base fixing adapter 100 or the lockable receptacle holder 10. The lateral direction, or (in use) horizontal direction, corresponds to a direction that is essentially normal to the longitudinal direction of the receptacle 200 and to the lockable receptacle holder 10. In use, the longitudinal direction corresponds to the vertical direction. The neck confiner 30 hinders the neck or shoulder 230 of the receptacle from being moved in the lateral direction, and hinders the receptacle 200 from being moved in the longitudinal direction away from the base support 20.

In other undepicted exampless, the base support 20 may instead or in addition comprise a protrusion that engages a recess in the base fixing adapter 100.

As mentioned, the receptacle interface 110 of the base fixing adapter 100 may comprise, or more precisely may consists of, a rim 112 that is configured to at least party surround the receptacle base 210.

As is shown, the rim 112 may extend continuously around the circumference of the base fixing adapter 100. Such a rim 112 may securely hold the receptacle base 210, and may facilitate the manufacture of the base fixing adapter 100. The rim 112 need however not be continuous but may be formed of separate sections or may comprise a number of through-holes.

In other undepicted examples, the receptacle interface 110 may be formed of a lattice structure or of a number (preferably at least three) of bars that are positioned substantially equidistant around the circumference of the receptacle base 210. ll The receptacle interface 110 is configured to at least party surround the receptacle base 210. The longitudinal extension (height) of the portion (for example the rim 112) of the receptacle interface 110 that least party surround the receptacle base 210 should be sufficiently large to secure the receptacle base 210, yet not too large such that the label of the receptacle is not obscured or covered. A suitable longitudinal extension, or height, of said portion is 10-30 millimeters. Thus, the height of the bowl-shaped base fixing adapter 100 may be 10-30 millimeters.

As has been mentioned, the holder interface 120 of the base fixing adapter 100 may be configured to engage the base support 20 of the lockable receptacle holder 10 in a positive fit. The holder interface 120 may in addition be configured to engage the base support 20 in a snap-fit, as is illustrated in figures 1 and 2. A snap-fit connection may facilitate the base fixing adapter 100 remaining attached to the base support 20 when the receptacle is d, typically pulled out from, the base fixing adapter 100. Still, the snap-fit allows for the base fixing adapter 100 being removed from the lockable receptacle holder 10 for cleaning, replacement (size or colour change) or exchange (if broken or wom). Thus, a snap-fit may facilitate handling.

In undepicted altematives, the holder interface 120 may be configured to engage the base support 20 in a friction-fit. However, a snap-fit connection may be may be preferred as it allows release by a predeterrnined force that is not greatly affected by moisture or potentially lubricating hygiene products.

Typically, the holder interface 120, e.g. by means of the snap-fit connection, may be configured such that a greater force is required for removing the base fixing adapter 100 from the base support 20 than from the receptacle 200. The base fixing adapter 100 may be configured to be attached to the receptacle base 210 in a friction-fit connection, but may in some examples not be configured to attach to (but only at least partly surround) the receptacle base 210 at all.

As is shown, the holder interface 120 may comprises protruding portions 122, 124 (or bulges) that define a groove 125 for receiving the base support 20. More precisely, there are inner and outer 122, 124 protruding portions between which the groove 125 is defined.

As is illustrated, the outer protruding portion 124 may extend continuously around the 12 groove 125 to thereby strengthen the base fixing adapter 100. As is shown, the strengthening rib 129 may be distanced from the outer protruding portion 124 of the holder interface 120 and may be positioned close to the outer circumference of the base fixing adapter 100. Apart from providing increased strengthening, a strengthening rib 129 positioned radially outside the holder interface 120 may improve the visual appearance of the base fixing adapter 100 as the strengthening rib 129 may at least partly cover (in a side view) the holder interface 120.

The groove 125 may secure the base fixing adapter 100 and thus the receptacle 200 against the receptacle being pulled or pushed laterally. In the current embodiment, the groove 125 (and thus the protruding portions 122, 124) is essentially U-shaped or horseshoe-shaped. The groove 125 is shaped to receive a correspondingly shaped portion 22 of the base support 20 of the lockable receptacle holder 10. In the shown embodiment of the lockable receptacle holder 10, the base support 20 is essentially U-shaped or horseshoe-shaped.Referring in particular to figure 5, the holder interface 120 comprises a hook portion 127 for engaging the base support 20 in a snap-f1t. In the current example, there are three hook portions 127 arranged at a distance from one another. The hook portion 127 is comprised in the inner protruding portions 122. The hook portion 127 may be refed to as a cantilever snap-f1t.

The current hook portion 127 extends adjacent an elongated through-hole 128 or slot. In more detail, the hook portion 127 comprises a proximal end at a center plane of the base fixing adapter 100. A distal end of the hook portion 217 is configured the engage the base support 20, i.e. comprises an undercut. The hook portion 127, or more precisely its proximal end, extends adjacent the elongated through-hole 128. Such a design facilities the hook portion 217 being formed by injection moulding, using only two moulds. The length of the elongated through-hole 128 equals the width of the hook portion 127.

The base support 20 comprises a fixing through opening 25 through which the hook portion 127 extends. The essentially U-shaped or horseshoe-shaped base support 20 def1nes the fixing through opening 25.

Referring in particular to figures 1 to 4 and 7, the lockable receptacle holder 10 (also the holder 10" of the second embodiment) comprises a base support 20 for supporting the 13 receptacle base 210 of the receptacle 200, a neck conf1ner 30 for confining the neck or shoulder 230 of the receptacle 200, and a base fixing adapter 100. A holder back portion, by means of which the lockable receptacle holder 10 may be fixed (typically by screws, adhesive tape or glue) to for example a wall, extends between the base support 20 and the neck conf1ner 30. The lockable receptacle holder, excluding the base fixing adapter 100, may be of the type disclosed in WO2021076034A1 or WO2021177878A1.

Thus, referring to WO2021076034A1 (reference numerals indicated in present figure 4), the lockable receptacle holder may comprise a holder base portion (corresponding to the above-described base support 20) conf1gured to support the bottom of a receptacle, a holder upper portion (corresponding to the above-described base support neck conf1ner 30), an elongated holder back portion 40 extending between the holder base portion and the holder upper portion.

The lockable receptacle holder may further comprise a confining member 50 having a hook-shaped front portion and pivotally attached to the holder upper portion so that the confming member 50 may pivot relative the holder upper portion between a closed position and a release position. In the closed position (see eg. present figure 1), the hook- shaped front portion and the holder upper portion form an at least partially closed space for confining the neck and/or the shoulder of the receptacle. In the release position (se present figure 4), the hook-shaped front portion and the holder upper portion are spaced apart to allow removal of a receptacle from the receptacle holder.

The conf1ning member 50 may be pivotally attached to the holder upper portion by a pivot shaft (pivot axis indicated in figure 2) extending through a rear portion of the holder upper portion and a rear portion of the conf1ning member 50.

The lockable receptacle holder may further comprise a locking member 60 attached to one of the holder upper portion and the conf1ning member 50 and having a locking portion configured to be received into one opening of a through-hole 32 in the other of the holder upper portion and the conf1ning member 50 when the conf1ning member 50 is in the closed position, thereby preventing movement of the confining member 50. 14 The locking portion, and typically the entire locking member 60, may be resilient so that it may be brought out of engagement with the through-hole 32 by application of a force onto the locking portion through the other opening of the through-hole thereby allowing the confining member 50 to be pivoted relative the holder upper portion.

Referring to WO2021177878A1 (reference numerals indicated in present figure 4), the lockable receptacle holder (10; 10°) may comprise holder base portion (corresponding to the present base support 20) configured to support the bottom of a receptacle, a holder upper portion (corresponding to the present base support neck confiner 30) and an elongated holder back portion 40 extending between the holder base portion and the holder upper portion, wherein the holder base portion and the holder upper portion may extend laterally from the holder back portion 40 and parallel to each other.

The holder upper portion may comprise an at least partially closed space configured to at least partially enclose and releasably confine the neck or shoulder of the receptacle placed on the holder base portion.

The lockable receptacle holder may further comprise a confining member 50 having a hook-shaped front portion and pivotally attached to the holder upper portion by a pivot shaft (pivot axis indicated in figure 2) so that the confining member 50 may pivot relative the holder upper portion between a closed position (figure 1) in which the hook shaped front portion and the holder upper portion form the at least partially closed space for confining the neck and/or the shoulder of the receptacle, and a release position (figure 4) in which the hook-shaped front portion and the holder upper portion are spaced apart to allow removal of the receptacle from the receptacle holder.

In altemative to the pivotal confining member, the holder upper portion may comprise a closed space configured to enclose and releasably confine the neck or shoulder of the receptacle placed on the holder base portion, and the upper holding portion may be releasably attachable by screws to the holder back portion.

The lockable receptacle holder may further comprise a locking a cap locking member 80 for preventing removal of a cap of the receptacle in the receptacle holder, wherein the cap locking member 80 has a first cap locking section extending upwards from the holder upper portion and a second cap locking section extending laterally from the first cap locking section over a portion of the space such that second cap locking section extends over a portion of the cap of the receptacle placed on the holder base portion.

The various versions of the lockable receptacle holders described in WO2021076034A1 or WO2021177878A1 are intended to be encompassed by the above recited claim languages. The present disclosure mainly concerns the base fixing adapter and its use together With a lockable receptacle holder. The latter may for example be one according to the above WO-publications. Importantly, the lockable receptacle holder (10; 10°) should comprise a base support and a neck confiner (similar to the holder upper portion and conf1ning member in the WO-publications).

In the disclosed example of the lockable receptacle holder 10, the neck confiner 30 comprises a pivotally attached confining member 50 that is pivotable between a closed position (figure 1) Wherein an at least partially closed space for confining the neck and/or the shoulder 230 of the receptacle 200 is formed and a release position (figure 4) in Which removal of the receptacle 200 from the lockable receptacle holder 10 is allowed. Such a design involves the advantage that the receptacle 200 may be secured in the lockable receptacle holder 10 using one hand only.

The applicant reserves the right, should any of the features of WO2021076034A1 or WO2021177878A1 be considered essential to the present disclosure, to incorporate such features into the present disclosure in order to provide further details on plausible lockable receptacle holders as such.

Referring to figure 7, a method of securing a receptacle 200 to a lockable receptacle holder 10 comprising a base f1xing adapter 100 Will next be described. The lockable receptacle holder and the base fixing adapter 100 may be of the above types.

The method of securing the receptacle 200 comprises three main steps 101, 102, 103. Apart from the last step of actuating the neck confiner (step 103), the steps of the method may performed in any order.

A first step 101 involves attaching the base f1xing adapter 100 to a receptacle base 210 of the receptacle 200. This step may comprise pushing the receptacle base 210 into the base 16 fixing adapter 100, more precisely into a receptacle interface 110. Typically, the base fixing adapter 100 is thereafter retained on the receptacle base 210 in a friction-fit.

A second step 102 involves attaching the base fixing adapter 100 to a base support 20 of the lockable receptacle holder 10. This step may comprise pushing the base fixing adapter 100 in the longitudinal direction towards the base support 20 until a snap-fit (or friction- fit) connection is obtained. If the base fixing adapter 100 is already attached to the receptacle 200, this step 102 may be performed by a user holding the receptacle 200 (with the base fixing adapter 100 attached thereto) while pushing the receptacle 200 with the base fixing adapter 100 towards the base support 20 until the connection is obtained.

Again, the two just mentioned steps 101, 102 may be performed in the reversed order. Thus, the first step may involve attaching the base fixing adapter 100 alone to the base support 20. The user may in such case place the base fixing adapter 100 on the base support 20 and subsequently press the base fixing adapter 100 towards the base support 20 until engagement is obtained. This may be performed using one hand only. In fact, provided that a base fixing adapter 100 and a lockable receptacle holder 10 as exemplified in the figures is used, the method of securing the receptacle 200 to the lockable receptacle holder 10 may be performed using one hand only.

A third step 103 involves attaching a neck or shoulder 230 of the receptacle 20 to the lockable receptacle holder 10 by means of a neck confiner 30 of the lockable receptacle holder 10. This step may involve pivoting a confining member 50 or attaching releasable holder upper portion (see WO2021177878A1 figures 7a and 7b) by screws. When the confining member 50 has been pivoted to an inner end position, or closed position, the confining member 50 may be locked by a resilient locking member 60 entering into a through-hole 32 (see present figure 7 and WO2021076034A1 or WO2021177878A1).

Referring still to figure 7, a method of removing a receptacle 200 that is secured to the lockable receptacle holder 10 next be briefly described. The method of removing the receptacle 200 essentially corresponds to performing the method of securing a receptacle 200 in the reverse order (but the base fixing adapter 100 need not be removed from the base support 20). However, a first removing step may comprise inserting (see arrow pointing downwards towards through hole 32) an undepicted tool through the through- 17 hole 32 to bring the resilient locking member 60 out of engagement With the through-hole 32 (WO2021177878A1 figure 2 or 4a) to thereby free the pivotable confining member 50. The base fixing adapter 100 may be configured such that a greater force is required to separate it from the base support 20 than from the receptacle 200. Thus, advantageously, When the receptacle 200 is removed to be refilled or exchanged, the base fixing adapter 100 may typically remain attached to the base support 20.

Next, the second embodiment Will be described, With reference to figures 8 and 9. The reference numerals of the first embodiment are used also for the second embodiment, but denoted With a prime.

The lockable receptacle holder 10" of the second embodiment differs from the lockable receptacle holder 10 of the first embodiment in that its base support 20" comprises a separate fixing through opening 25 " for the holder interface 120" of the base fixing adapter 100". The base fixing adapter 100" comprises a receptacle interface 110" for the receptacle base 210" of the receptacle and a holder interface 120" for engaging the base support 20" of the lockable receptacle holder 10". The receptacle interface 110" is configured to at least party surround the receptacle base.

The base fixing adapter 100" is separate from the lockable receptacle holder 10". The base fixing adapter 100" may, as shown in figure 9, be a one-piece element. The base fixing adapter 100" may be formed by cutting, e.g. laser cutting, a precursor from a metal sheet and subsequently bending the flat precursor to the shape of the base fixing adapter 100". The base fixing adapter 100" of the second embodiment is preferably made of metal, such as stainless steel.

Referring to figures 8 and 9, the base fixing adapter 100" may generally have the shape of a rod structure With a ring portion and an elongate attachment portion. In use (figure 8), the elongate attachment portion protrudes from the ring portion toWard base support 20". The ring portion, or receptacle portion, may form the receptacle interface 110" and the attachment portion may form the holder interface 120". 18 Thus, there may be a bend 140" joining the receptacle portion and the base portion, see especially figure 9. Before bending, the base portion preferably extends into the receptacle portion as is apprehended from figure 9.

The base fixing adapter 100" is adaptable to receptacles or Various shapes and sizes as only the receptacle portion needs to be adapted. The elongate attachment portion, and the cooperating fixing through opening 25 " of the lockable receptacle holder 10", may remain unchanged for a Variety of receptacles.

The base fixing adapter 100" may be configured such that a greater force is required for disengaging the base fixing adapter 100" from the lockable receptacle holder 10" than from the receptacle. As is apprehended from figure 8, in use, the holder interface 120" may be configured to engage the base support 20" in a positive-fit connection. In the disclosed example, the holder interface 120" comprises a hook portion 127" for engaging the base support 20 in a snap-fit connection. The receptacle interface 110" may be configured to extend continuously around the receptacle.

As is illustrated in figures 8 and 9, the base portion may comprise two leg portions each comprising a hook portion 127" for engaging the base support 20". more precisely, the fixing through opening 25". The fixing through opening 25" may be shaped as a slot (whereas the fixing through opening 25 of the first embodiment is essentially circular).

The hook portions 127" may be refed to as cantileVer snap-fit.

The base portion may be elongated and may, as mentioned, comprise two leg portions. The base fixing adapter 100", including the leg portions of the base portion, may be made of a resilient material, such as metal, e. g. stainless steel. In order to remove the base fixing adapter 100" from the base support 20", the user may need to use a pair of pliers, or a similar tool, to force the leg portions together such that the hook portions 127" may be disengaged from the fixing through opening 25" (see figure 8).

Preferably, as is shown, in use the base portion with the hook portions 127" are positioned on the rear side of the receptacle. In other words, the base portion is preferably positioned between the holder back portion 40" and the receptacle. Thereby, the chief part of the two leg portions are hidden by the receptacle and not accessible to a malicious person who 19 wishes to remove the base fixing adapter 100". If the bend 140", as shown, faces the inner of the receptacle portion, the two leg portions may be positioned close to the receptacle such that access is additionally limited. As is understood, a user who wishes to remove the base fixing adapter 100" will first remove the receptacle by disengaging the neck confiner 30" (not shown in figures 8 or 9).

Modifications and other variants of the described embodiments will come to mind to ones skilled in the art having benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing description and associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the embodiments are not limited to the specific example embodiments described in this disclosure and that modifications and other variants are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure. For example, the lockable receptacle holder 10 need not be oriented as disclosed in the figures. The lockable receptacle holder 10 may be mounted upside down, such that the receptacle base 210 is positioned vertically above the neck or shoulder 230.

Furthermore, although specific terms may be employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. Therefore, persons skilled in the art would recognize numerous variations to the described embodiments that would still fall within the scope of the appended claims. As used herein, the terms "comprise/comprises" do not exclude the presence of other elements or steps. Furthermore, although individual features may be included in different claims (or embodiments), these may possibly advantageously be combined, and the inclusion of different claims (or embodiments) does not imply that a certain combination of features is not feasible and/or advantageous. In addition, singular references do not exclude a plurality. Finally, reference numerals in the claims are provided merely as a clarifying example and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims in any way.

Claims (18)

Claims

1. A base fixing adapter (100) for a lockable receptacle holder (10), the lockable receptacle holder (10) coniprising a base support (20) for supporting a receptacle base (210) of a receptacle (200) and a neck confiner (30) for confining a neck or shoulder (230) of the receptacle (200), the base fixing adapter (100) con1prising a receptacle interface (110) for the receptacle (200) and a holder interface (120) for engaging the base support (20) of the lockable receptacle holder (10), Wherein the receptacle interface (110) is conf1gured to at least party surround the receptacle (200).

2. The base fixing adapter (100) of clain1 1 conf1gured such that a greater force is required for disengaging the base fixing adapter (100) froni the lockable receptacle holder (10) than froni the receptacle (200).

3. The base fixing adapter (100) of claini 1 or 2, Wherein the holder interface (120) is configured to engage the base support (20) in a positive-fit connection.

4. The base fixing adapter (100) of any preceding clain1, Wherein the holder interface (120) con1prises a hook portion (127) for engaging the base support (20) in a snap-fit connection.

5. The base fixing adapter (100) of any preceding clain1, Wherein the receptacle interface is configured to extend continuously around the receptacle (200).

6. The base fixing adapter (100) of any preceding clain1, Wherein the base fixing adapter (100) is thin-Walled, the Wall thickness of the base fixing adapter (100) being less than 3 niillinieters, and the base fixing adapter (100) n1ay coniprise a strengthening rib (129).

7. The base fixing adapter (100) of any preceding clain1, Where in the receptacle interface (110) con1prises at least one protrusion (112) for at least party surrounding thereceptacle base (210) and the holder interface (120) comprises at least one protrusion (122) for engaging the base support (20).

8. The base fixing adapter (100) of any preceding claim, Wherein the receptacle interface (110) comprises a rim (112) that is conf1gured to at least party surround the receptacle base (210).

9. The base fixing adapter (100) according to any of claims 6 to 8, Wherein the holder interface (120) comprises protruding portions (122, 124) that define a groove (125) for receiving the base support (20).

10. The base fixing adapter (100) of claim 4 and 6, Wherein the holder interface (120) comprises a hook portion (127) for engaging the base support (20), Wherein the hook portion (127) extends adjacent an elongated through-hole (128) made in the base fixing adapter (100).

11. The base fixing adapter (100) according to any of claims 6 to 10, Wherein the base fixing adapter (100) is essentially boWl-shaped, a rim of the boWl forrning the receptacle interface (110) and the holder interface (120) protruding from the bottom of the boWl.

12. The base fixing adapter (100”) according to any of claims 1 to 5, Wherein the holder interface (120°) is a one-piece element, preferably a metal element.

13. The base fixing adapter (100°) of claim 12 comprising a receptacle portion comprising receptacle interface (110°) and a base portion comprising the holder interface (120°), the base portion being joined to the receptacle portion by a bend (140”).

14. The base fixing adapter (100”) of claim 13, Wherein the base portion comprises two leg portions each comprising a hook portion (127) for engaging the base support (20°).

15. A lockable receptacle holder (10) comprisinga base support (20) for supporting a receptacle base (210) of a receptacle (200), a neck confiner (30) for confining a neck or shoulder (230) of the receptacle (200), and a base fixing adapter (100) comprising a receptacle interface (110) for the receptacle (200) and a holder interface (120) for engaging the base support (20), Wherein the receptacle interface (110) is configured to at least party surround the receptacle (200).

16. The lockable receptacle holder (10) of claim 15, Wherein the neck confiner (30) comprises a pivotally attached confining member (5 0) that is pivotable between a closed position in Which an at least partially closed space for confining the neck and/or the shoulder (230) of the receptacle (200) is forrned and a release position in Which removal of the receptacle (200) from the lockable receptacle holder (10) is allowed.

17. A method of securing a receptacle (200) to a lockable receptacle holder (10) comprising a base fixing adapter (100), the method comprising attaching (101) the base fixing adapter (100) to a receptacle base (210) of the receptacle (200), attaching (102) the base fixing adapter (100) to a base support (20) of the lockable receptacle holder (10), and attaching (103) a neck or shoulder (230) of the receptacle (200) to the lockable receptacle holder (10) by means of a neck confiner (30) of the lockable receptacle holder (10).

18. Use of a base fixing adapter (100) for securing a receptacle (200) in a lockable receptacle holder (10), the lockable receptacle holder (10) comprising a base support (20) for supporting a receptacle base (210) of the receptacle (200) and a neck confiner (3 0) for confining a neck or shoulder (230) of the receptacle (200),the base frxing adapter (100) comprising a receptacle interface (110) for engaging the receptacle base (210) of the receptacle (200) and a holder interface (120) for engaging the base support (20) of the lockable receptacle holder (10), the use comprising attaching the base frxing adapter (100) to the receptacle base (210) 5 and to the base support (20).