Dispensers

Abstract

A method of manufacturing a dispenser for a product in stick form (50). The dispenser includes an inner tube (12) and a product concealing tube (16) disposed outwardly of the inner tube (12). The product concealing tube (16) is retractable and extendable relative to the inner tube (12) for exposing and covering a product stick (50) extending from a distal end of the inner tube (12) in use. The method includes: providing a first blank of sheet material for providing the inner tube (12) of the dispenser; wrapping the first blank around a mandrel to provide the inner tube (12) of the dispenser; and providing a second blank of sheet material for providing the product concealing tube (16) of the dispenser. The second blank comprises a slot, and a guide element (38) disposed within the slot. The method also includes: applying a bonding agent to the second blank in a region corresponding to a surface of the guide element (38); and wrapping the second blank around the inner tube (12) while the inner tube (12) is held on a mandrel to provide the product concealing tube (16), with the surface of the guide element (38) to which bonding agent has been applied facing the inner tube (12), such that the guide element (38) becomes bonded to an exterior surface of the inner tube (12). The slot provides a recess (24) in the interior surface of the formed product concealing tube (16). In use, the product concealing tube (16) is movable relative to the inner tube (12) with the guide element (38) cooperating with the recess (24) for guiding the movement of the product concealing tube (16) relative to the inner tube (12). There is also provided a dispenser for a product in stick form (50).

Claims

1. A method of manufacturing a dispenser for a product in stick form, the dispenser comprising an inner tube and a product concealing tube disposed outwardly of the inner tube, wherein the product concealing tube is retractable and extendable relative to the inner tube for exposing and covering a product stick extending from a distal end of the inner tube in use; the method comprising: providing a first blank of sheet material for forming the inner tube of the dispenser; wrapping the first blank around a mandrel to form the inner tube of the dispenser; providing a second blank of sheet material for forming the product concealing tube of the dispenser, wherein the second blank comprises a slot and a guide element disposed within the slot; applying a bonding agent to a surface of the guide element; wrapping the second blank around the inner tube while the inner tube is held on the mandrel to form the product concealing tube, with the surface of the guide element to which the bonding agent has been applied facing the inner tube, such that the guide element becomes bonded to an exterior surface of the inner tube, wherein the slot provides a recess in an interior surface of the formed product concealing tube; wherein, in use, the product concealing tube is movable relative to the inner tube with the guide element cooperating with the recess for guiding movement of the product concealing tube relative to the inner tube.

2. The method of claim 1 wherein, the product concealing tube is slidably and rotatably movable relative to the inner tube along a helical path.

3. The method of claim 1 wherein the second blank is positioned relative to the inner tube during the wrapping of the second blank around the inner tube such that the product concealing tube once formed is in a position relative to the inner tube which corresponds to a fully retracted position of the product concealing tube relative to the inner tube in the dispenser, the fully retracted position of the product concealing tube in the dispenser being the most retracted position of the product concealing tube relative to the inner tube.

4. The method of claim 1 wherein the second blank of sheet material is wrapped around the inner tube to form the product concealing tube while the inner tube is still located on the mandrel used to form the inner tube.

5. The method of claim 1 wherein the guide element cooperates with the recess to define fully retracted and fully extended positions of the product concealing tube relative to the inner tube, wherein the fully retracted and fully extended positions of the product concealing tube relative to the inner tube correspond to positions in which the guide element abuts respective ones of opposed end edges of the recess defined by the slot in the product concealing tube so as to act as a stop preventing further movement of the product concealing tube relative to the inner tube in a given direction.

6. The method of claim 1 wherein the first blank comprises first and second opposed edges for providing proximal and distal end edges of the inner tube, the first and second edges being connected at their respective ends by opposed third and fourth edges, wherein the third edge provides a leading edge of the first blank as it is wrapped around the mandrel to form the inner tube, and the fourth edge provides a trailing edge of the first blank, wherein the third edge is connected to the first edge so as to define an angle other than 90 degrees with the first edge and is connected to the second edge so as to define an angle other than 90 degrees with the second edge so as to provide a sloping leading edge of the first blank, and optionally wherein the fourth edge is connected to the first edge so as to define an angle other than 90 degrees with the first edge and is connected to the second edge so as to define an angle other than 90 degrees with the second edge so as to provide a sloping trailing edge of the first blank.

7. The method of claim 1 wherein the second blank comprises first and second opposed edges for providing proximal and distal end edges of the product concealing tube, the first and second edges being connected at their respective ends by opposed third and fourth edges, wherein the third edge provides a leading edge of the second blank as it is wrapped around the inner tube to form the product concealing tube, and the fourth edge provides a trailing edge of the second blank, wherein the third edge is connected to the first edge so as to define an angle other than 90 degrees with the first edge and is connected to the second edge so as to define an angle other than 90 degrees with the second edge so as to provide a sloping leading edge of the second blank.

8. The method of claim 1 wherein the recess extends only partially through a wall of the product concealing tube, wherein the second blank is wrapped around the inner tube to form the product concealing tube in a manner such that the slot in the second blank is covered by an outer winding of the second blank.

9. The method of claim 1 wherein side edges of the slot extend parallel to one another, wherein the slot is of uniform width, wherein a greatest width of the guide element corresponds to a width of the slot, wherein the guide element is snugly received between side edges of the recess provided by the slot along an entire extent of a relative movement available between the guide element and the recess provided by the slot.

10. The method of claim 1 wherein side edges of the slot diverge from one another with distance from an end of the slot.

11. The method of claim 1 wherein the slot comprises side edges and opposed end edges, the end edges being spaced from edges of the second blank which provide proximal and distal end edges of the product concealing tube.

12. The method of claim 1 wherein, in the second blank, the guide element is frangibly connected to a periphery of the slot, the method optionally further comprising the step of breaking the frangible connection between the guide element and the periphery of the slot.

13. The method of claim 12 wherein the method further comprises the step of removing a sub-assembly of the inner tube and the product concealing tube from the mandrel around which the second blank was wrapped to form the product concealing tube, and wherein the frangible connection is broken during or prior to the step of removing the sub-assembly; or wherein the frangible connection is broken during the step of wrapping the second blank around the inner tube to form the product concealing tube.

14. The method of claim 1 wherein the method comprises providing a third blank of sheet material for forming an outer tube, wrapping the third blank around the mandrel to form the outer tube, locating a sub-assembly of the inner tube and the product concealing tube within the outer tube, and fixing the outer tube relative to the inner tube such that the outer tube is not movable relative to the inner tube.

15. A dispenser for a product stick, the dispenser comprising an inner tube and a product concealing tube disposed outwardly of the inner tube, wherein the product concealing tube is retractable and extendable relative to the inner tube for exposing and covering the product stick extending from a distal end of the inner tube in use, wherein the inner tube and the product concealing tube are made of paper-based or card-based material, wherein the product concealing tube comprises a recess in an interior surface thereof and the inner tube comprises a guide element bonded to an exterior surface thereof, wherein the recess comprises side edges and opposed end edges, the end edges being spaced from proximal and distal end edges of the product concealing tube, the product concealing tube being movable relative to the inner tube with the guide element cooperating with the recess for guiding movement of the product concealing tube relative to the inner tube.

16. The dispenser of claim 15 wherein the side edges of the recess diverge from one another with distance from an end of the recess, and wherein the recess is wedge shaped.

17. The dispenser of claim 15 wherein the side edges of the recess extend parallel to one another, wherein the recess is of uniform width, wherein a greatest width of the guide element corresponds to a width of the recess, and wherein the guide element is snugly received between the side edges of the recess along an entire extent of a relative movement available between the guide element and the recess.

18. The dispenser of claim 15 wherein the dispenser further comprises an outer tube, wherein the product concealing tube is located between the inner and outer tubes, wherein the outer tube is fixed relative to the inner tube, and wherein the outer tube is made of paper-based or card-based material.

19. The dispenser of claim 15 wherein the guide element cooperates with the edges of the recess for guiding the movement of the product concealing tube relative to the inner tube.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

(1) Some embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

(2) FIG. 1 shows a dispenser in accordance with the invention with a removable cap in place;

(3) FIG. 2 is an exploded view showing the components of the dispenser of FIG. 1;

(4) FIG. 3 shows the dispenser of FIG. 1 with its cap removed and the product concealing tube in a fully extended position covering the product stick;

(5) FIG. 4A is a perspective view showing the dispenser of FIG. 1 with its cap removed and the product concealing tube in a fully extended position covering the product stick;

(6) FIG. 4B is a sectional view along the line A-A of FIG. 4A;

(7) FIG. 5 shows the dispenser of FIG. 1 with its cap removed and the product concealing tube in a fully retracted position exposing the product stick;

(8) FIG. 6A is a perspective view showing the dispenser of FIG. 1 with its cap removed and the product concealing tube in a fully retracted position exposing the product stick;

(9) FIG. 6B is a sectional view along the line A-A of FIG. 6A;

(10) FIG. 7A illustrates a first blank for providing the inner tube of an embodiment of a dispenser in accordance with FIGS. 1-6B;

(11) FIG. 7B illustrates a second blank for providing the product concealing tube and guide element of an embodiment of a dispenser in accordance with FIGS. 1-6B;

(12) FIG. 7C illustrates a third blank for providing the outer tube of an embodiment of a dispenser in accordance with FIGS. 1-6B;

(13) FIG. 7D illustrates a fourth blank for providing the cap of an embodiment of a dispenser in accordance with FIGS. 1-6B;

(14) FIG. 8A illustrates a first step in a process of manufacturing the dispenser in accordance with the embodiment of FIGS. 1-6B involving wrapping the first blank of FIG. 7A around a mandrel to provide the inner tube;

(15) FIG. 8B illustrates a second step in a process of manufacturing the dispenser in accordance with the embodiment of FIGS. 1-6B involving wrapping the second blank of FIG. 7B around the inner tube to provide the product concealing tube;

(16) FIG. 8C illustrates a third step in a process of manufacturing the dispenser in accordance with the embodiment of FIGS. 1-6B involving removing the sub-assembly of the inner tube and product concealing tube from the mandrel;

(17) FIG. 8D illustrates a fourth step in a process of manufacturing the dispenser in accordance with the embodiment of FIGS. 1-6B involving wrapping the third blank of FIG. 7C around a mandrel to provide the outer tube;

(18) FIG. 8E illustrates a fifth step in a process of manufacturing the dispenser in accordance with the embodiment of FIGS. 1-6B involving removing the outer tube from the mandrel;

(19) FIG. 8F illustrates a further step in the process of manufacturing the dispenser in accordance with the embodiment of FIGS. 1-6B involving inserting the inner tube and product concealing tube sub-assembly into the outer tube;

(20) FIGS. 9A and B illustrate the resulting wound inner tube and product concealing tube respectively;

(21) FIG. 10 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the second blank for providing the product concealing tube and guide element;

(22) and FIG. 11 illustrates yet another embodiment of the second blank for providing the product concealing tube and guide element.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

(23) With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2 a dispenser 2 for a product in stick form is shown.

(24) References to the proximal and distal end of the outer tube, inner tube and product concealing tube respectively may correspond to the ends which will typically be lowermost and uppermost in use. Thus, the proximal and distal ends of a tube may be interchangeably referred to as the lower and upper ends thereof. The proximal and distal ends of a component may also be referred to as the first and second ends thereof.

(25) The dispenser 2 comprises a base part 4 and a removable cap 6. In this embodiment, the base part 4 and cap 6 are tubular in shape. They may for example be circular in cross section, although other cross sectional shapes may be possible.

(26) The cap 6 is made from a paper-based or card-based material such as paperboard or cardboard. Its upper (or distal) end 8 may be closed by a disc 10 of such a material in a conventional manner which locates against a rolled over lip 11 formed at the upper end 8. The disc 10 may be a laminated structure, for example comprising a plurality of layers of card material bonded together, or a unitary, one piece construction. The disc 10 could of course be located in some other manner. In another embodiment, for example the upper end 8 of the cap 6 need not be rolled and an end closure in the form of a plug may be inserted into the upper end of the cap and bonded into position.

(27) The base part 4 comprises an outer tube 14 which is made from a paper-based or card-based material such as paperboard or cardboard. The outer tube 14 is of a wrapped tube construction formed in a manner later described, and is not spirally wound.

(28) As shown in the embodiment, the cap 6 lies flush with the outer tube 14. The cap 6 is, similar to the base part 4, formed of a wrapped tube construction, rather than being spirally wound.

(29) The dispenser is shown in exploded form in FIG. 2, which better illustrates the components of the base part.

(30) The base part 4 further includes a product concealing tube 16 which is rotatably and slidably received within the outer tube 14. The product concealing tube 16 is also made from a paper-based or card-based material such as paperboard or cardboard, and is of a wrapped tube construction, rather than being spirally wound.

(31) The base part further comprises an inner tube 12 formed of a paper-based or card-based material which supports a product stick 50. The inner tube 12 provides a product stick carrier. The inner tube 12 is fixed at its base to the outer tube 14.

(32) The inner tube 12 is formed of a wrapped tube construction, rather than being spirally wound. A proximal or lower end of the inner tube may be closed by an end closure, such as a disc or plug, which may be formed of a paper-based or card-based material. A disc may be of a laminated structure, for example comprising a plurality of layers of card material bonded together, or a unitary, one piece construction. The disc or plug may be bonded to the proximal end of the inner tube 12 e.g. using adhesive. As described with reference to the outer tube 14, the proximal end of the inner tube 12 may be rolled inwardly as shown in the illustrated embodiment. A closure disc 15 may then be located against the lip 13 formed by the inwardly rolled end of the inner tube. In other embodiments, an end plug may be inserted into the proximal end of the inner tube, and may be bonded in place, without inward rolling of the end of the inner tube 12.

(33) A guide element 38 in the form of a lug made from a paper-based or card-based material such as paperboard or cardboard is bonded to the outer surface of the inner tube 12. The guide element 38 is received in a helical recess 24 in the interior surface of the product concealing tube 16 such that relative rotation of the product concealing tube 16 and the outer tube 14 (and inner tube 12) will move the recess 24 along the guide element 38 thereby lowering or raising the product concealing tube 16, as will be described further below. As described further below, the guide element was provided as part of the blank for the product concealing tube 16, being frangibly connected to the periphery of the slot in the blank which provides the recess 24 in the interior surface of the product concealing tube 16. The dispenser is shown in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-6B in the configuration which arises after breaking of the frangible connection between the guide element 38 and the slot, enabling the product concealing tube 16 to move relative to the inner tube 12, with the recess 24 moving relative to the guide element 38 which is fixed to the inner tube 12.

(34) FIG. 3 illustrates the dispenser as shown in FIG. 1 when the cap 6 has been removed, and with the product concealing tube 16 in a fully extended position relative to the outer tube 14 (and inner tube 12). In this position, the product concealing tube 16 covers the product stick 50.

(35) FIG. 4A is similar to FIG. 3, being a perspective view of the dispenser with the cap removed and the product concealing tube 16 in a fully extended position. FIG. 4B is a section taken along the line A-A of FIG. 4A.

(36) As may be seen in more detail in FIG. 4B, the bottom (proximal) end of the outer tube 14 is rolled inwardly to provide a lip 13 for locating a base closure disc 15. This is a similar construction to the closed end of the cap 6, described above. The base disc 15 could of course be located in some other manner. In another embodiment, for example the lower end of the outer tube 14 need not be rolled and the base disc 15 may simply be bonded in position. The base disc 15 may be formed of a paper-based or card-based material. The base disc 15 may be of a laminated structure, for example comprising a plurality of layers of card material bonded together, or a unitary, one piece construction.

(37) In the illustrated embodiment, the base closure disc 15 is bonded to a bottom (proximal) end of the inner tube 12 to thereby fix the outer tube 14 in relation to the inner tube 12. However, in particular where the end of the outer tube 14 is not inwardly rolled, any suitable arrangement may be used to close the end of the outer tube and to fix the outer tube relative to the inner tube. For example, a closure plug may achieve this effect without inward rolling, or another arrangement may be used. The outer tube is advantageously fixed to the inner tube at the base of the tubes to avoid interfering with movement of the product concealing tube.

(38) The product concealing tube 16 is able to move in the space defined between the inner and outer tubes between its fully extended and fully retracted positions relative to the inner tube 12 and outer tube 14, and also the product stick 50.

(39) In the configuration shown in FIGS. 3, 4A and B, it may be seen that the product concealing tube 16 covers the product stick i.e. the sides thereof.

(40) FIG. 5 illustrates the dispenser as shown in FIG. 1 when the cap 6 has been removed, and with the product concealing tube 16 in a fully retracted position relative to the outer tube 14 (and inner tube 12). In this position, the product concealing tube 16 exposes the product stick 50.

(41) FIG. 6A is similar to FIG. 5, being a perspective view of the dispenser with the cap removed and the product concealing tube 16 in a fully retracted position. FIG. 6B is a section taken along the line A-A of FIG. 6A.

(42) In the fully retracted position, the product concealing tube 16 still projects upwardly from the upper i.e. distal end of the outer tube 14 and also from the upper i.e. distal end of the inner tube, but to a lesser degree than when in the fully extended position of FIGS. 3, 4A and 4B. In this way, the product is exposed for use.

(43) As shown in FIG. 2, the product concealing tube 16 comprises an axially extending helical recess 24 formed in an interior surface thereof. The recess has an upper or distal end 27 and a lower or proximal end 25. This helical recess 24 is provided by a correspondingly shaped slot in the blank which has been used to form the product concealing tube 16, as described in more detail below. The slot is covered by an outer winding of the blank in providing the product concealing tube 16, so that it is not visible from the exterior of the tube. In this way, a recess corresponding to the shape of the slot in the blank is provided, which extends only partially through the thickness of the wall of the product concealing tube 16.

(44) In this embodiment, and as can best be seen in FIG. 2, and in the view of the second blank for forming the product concealing tube 16 later described, the helical recess 24, (and thus the slot which defines the recess 24) does not extend to the proximal (i.e. lower) edge 26 of the product concealing tube 16.

(45) The helical recess 24 may extend by any desired amount around the axis of the product concealing tube 16. The configuration of the helical recess e.g. the helix angle thereof will determine the degree of rotation required to extend or retract the product concealing tube by a predetermined amount.

(46) The upper end of the helical recess 24 will be below the upper edge of the product concealing tube 16, but need not necessarily be below the upper edge of the outer tube when the product concealing tube 16 is in a fully retracted position.

(47) As mentioned above, the inner tube 12 is rotationally and slidably fixed relative to the outer tube 14. For example, in the embodiment illustrated, this is achieved by bonding the outer tube 14 to a disc closing the proximal end of the inner tube 12. However, any suitable method may be used. The inner tube 12 projects upwardly beyond a distal end of the outer tube 14, and, in the embodiment illustrated, the inner tube 12 has a greater height than the outer tube 14.

(48) The product stick 50 is arranged radially inwardly of the inner tube 16 and, in the embodiment shown, projects upwardly from the outer tube 14 in all operational states of the dispenser, as can be seen for example in FIGS. 5B and 6B. As the inner tube 12 is rotationally fixed to the outer tube 14, both it and the product stick 50 remain static during use of the dispenser 2. As will be described further below, raising or lowering of the product concealing tube 16 relative to the outer tube 14 due to relative rotation thereof guided by the movement of the helical recess 24 over the guide element 38 will therefore expose or cover the product stick 50.

(49) The product stick may be secured to the inner tube 12 in any suitable manner. This may or may not involve the use of additional components. For example the product stick may be bonded to a carrier disc or plug formed of a paper-based or card-based material and bonded to a distal (upper) end of the inner tube 12. Such a carrier disc or plug may be located at the distal tip of the product stick or may be recessed therefrom to enable the distal end portion of the inner tube 12 to support the sides of the product stick at its base. In other embodiments, the product stick might be secured to the inner tube 12 using an interference fit, or a mechanical interlocking arrangement or using a magnetic coupling, for example. Any arrangement may be used which fixes the product stick relative to the inner tube 12, with the distal end of the product stick 50 extending beyond the distal tip of the inner tube 12 for access by the user when the product concealing tube 16 is in a retracted position. It is envisaged that the product stick could even be secured to a proximal end of the product stick e.g. using an end closure such as a carrier disc or plug as described above in relation to the distal end. However, the further the product stick extends into the inner tube 12, the greater the extent of the product stick which will not be available for use, and hence the greater the portion of the product stick which may be wasted. The product stick may be bonded to the inner tube 12 directly or indirectly (e.g. via a carrier, such as an end closure), using any suitable bonding agent e.g. adhesive, or wax, or a layer of the unset product itself.

(50) The product concealing tube 16 is rotatably and slidably received over the inner tube 12. Thus, the product concealing tube 16 is radially sandwiched between the outer tube 14 and the inner tube 12. The inner tube 12 is arranged radially inwardly of the product concealing tube 16 with the guide 38 disposed in the recess 24 provided in the interior surface of the product concealing tube 16.

(51) Having described the overall construction of the dispenser 2, its mode of operation will now be described.

(52) Turning to operation of the dispenser 2, prior to first use, the dispenser 2 is in the closed configuration shown in FIG. 1.

(53) To use the dispenser 2, the cap 6 is first removed, as shown in FIG. 3. It will be seen from this Figure that the product concealing tube 16 is in a fully extended position, and projects from the outer tube 14 and covers the product stick 50. The guide element 38 is disposed at the proximal (bottom) end 25 of the slot 24 in this position.

(54) The product concealing tube 16 is then rotated relative to the outer tube 14. The user may grip the exposed section of the product concealing tube 16 and the outer tube 14 and simply twist. The relative rotation of the product concealing tube and the outer tube will cause the product concealing tube 16 to retract into the outer tube, thereby exposing the product stick 50. This is due to the interaction between the helical recess 24 on the product concealing tube 16 and the guide element 38 on the inner tube 12, which is rotationally fixed relative to the outer tube 14.

(55) The product concealing tube 16 is retractable relative to the outer tube 14 to the fully retracted position shown in FIG. 5.

(56) Relative rotation of the inner tube 16 and outer tube 18 to retract the product concealing tube 16 can continue until such time as the distal (upper) end 27 of the recess 24 engages the guide element 38. At this point, the product stick 50 is exposed to the fullest extent possible. This fully retracted position is shown in FIG. 5. The inner tube 16 need not of course be fully retracted for application of the product. The terms fully extended and fully retracted refer to the most fully extended and retracted positions of the product concealing tube relative to the inner tube and outer tube that are available, under the control of the cooperation between the guide element 38 and the recess 24.

(57) The length of the helical recess 24 and the length of the guide element 38 and the helix angle of the recess 24 will determine how much rotation is required to fully retract the product concealing tube 16.

(58) After application of the product, the product concealing tube 16 and outer tube 14 may be rotated in the opposite direction in order to extend the product concealing tube 16 further from the outer tube 14. The axial movement of the product concealing tube 16 will be limited by the engagement of the guide element 38 with the proximal end 25 of the slot 24. In this position, the product stick 50 will once more be fully covered and protected by the product concealing tube 16.

(59) The cap 6 can then be replaced over the inner tube 16 to close the dispenser.

(60) It should be noted that as shown in FIG. 5, a portion of the product concealing tube 16 still projects from the outer tube 14 even when the product concealing tube 16 is fully retracted. This means that the cap 6 may still be replaced on the dispenser 2 in that condition, and provide a portion of the product concealing tube which can be grasped to initiate rotation relative to the outer tube 12 when it is desired to extend the product concealing tube 16 once more.

(61) The dispenser may initially be provided to the user in the configuration of FIG. 3 or 5, i.e. with the product concealing tube fully extended or retracted, as in both cases, the cap may fit over the product concealing tube and abut the upper or distal end of the outer tube 14.

(62) It will be seen from the above description that a dispenser 2 in accordance with the invention operates in a manner such that rather than extending and retracting a product stick, the product stick is selectively exposed by the extension and retraction of a tubular shield relative to an outer tube. This may make the product easier to handle, provide greater stability to the product stick and allow the exposure of the product stick to be more finely controlled.

(63) The dispenser 2 as described above is advantageous in that apart from the product stick 50, it may be and preferably is made entirely from a paper-based or card-based material. It will therefore be fully recyclable. At least the tubular elements and the guide element of the dispenser are preferably made from a paper-based or card-based material.

(64) It will be understood that various modifications may be made to the embodiment disclosed without departing from the scope of the invention.

(65) While the embodiment has been illustrated with respect to the case in which the product concealing tube 16 is both rotatably and slidably movable relative to the inner tube 12 and outer tube 14, it is envisaged that in other arrangements only linear movement between the product concealing tube and inner and outer tubes might be possible. Such arrangements might then use a recess in the interior surface of the product concealing tube 16 which extends along a direction parallel to an axis of the tube, and which has side edges extending in such a direction. The cooperation between the guide element and the recess will still control the movement of the product concealing tube 16 relative to the inner and outer tubes i.e. the extent of the available movement. In yet other arrangements, depending upon the configuration of the recess, the degree of rotation required to advance or retract the product concealing tube may differ from that illustrated.

(66) Furthermore, while in the embodiment illustrated, the guide element 38 is snugly received in the recess 24, such that the recess and guide element cooperate with one another to define the path of possible movement of the product concealing tube relative to the inner tube, in other embodiments some latitude may be available in the lateral position of the guide element within the recess. The boundary of the recess may then cooperate with the guide element to guide the movement of the product concealing tube relative to the inner tube to the extent that it defines an area within which the guide element may move, with movement of the product concealing tube relative to the inner tube being possible in any manner provided that the guide element remains within the recess.

(67) In yet other arrangements, it is envisaged that the outer tube 14 could be omitted. However, the use of an outer tube as shown may provide a neater and more attractive dispenser. The outer tube may cooperate with a removable cap to provide part of the exterior of the dispenser, and/or may be provided with an attractive decorative appearance e.g. by printing of the outer surface thereof.

(68) The use of a removable cap is also optional.

(69) A preferred embodiment of a method for forming the dispenser in accordance with the embodiment of FIGS. 1-6B will now be described.

(70) First the blanks for the various components will be illustrated by reference to FIGS. 7A-D. It will be noted that FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of the exploded view of the dispenser, and some features are exaggerated. For example, the shape of the guide element and the configuration of the slot shown in FIG. 2 are schematic.

(71) Each of the blanks shown in FIGS. 7A-D is provided by a single piece of card or paper based material e.g. paperboard or cardboard.

(72) FIG. 7A illustrates a blank 60 in the flat for providing the inner tube 12 with the surface will define an outer surface of the inner tube uppermost. The blank includes a first edge 62 which will provide the proximal end edge of the inner tube 12 and a second edge 64 which will provide the distal end edge of the inner tube. The blank also includes a third edge 66 which provides a leading edge of the blank 60 as it is wrapped around a mandrel, and a fourth edge 68 which provides a trailing edge.

(73) The blank 60 is generally trapezoidal in shape, having first and second edges 62, 64 which are parallel, and third and fourth edges 66, 68 which are parallel. The hatched area denoted 69 is an area to which a bonding agent e.g. adhesive is applied as described below. The leading corner of the blank 60 is rounded. This may facilitate feeding of the blank around the inner tube in the process described without buckling It will be seen that the leading third edge 66 is a sloping edge, which defines an angle other than 90 degrees with both the first and second edges 62, 64. The trailing fourth edge 68 is likewise a sloping edge which defines an angle other than 90 degrees with both the first and second edges 62, 64.

(74) FIG. 7B illustrates a blank 70 in the flat for providing the product concealing tube 16 with the surface will define an outer surface of the product concealing tube uppermost. The blank includes a first edge 72 which will provide the proximal end edge of the product concealing tube 12 and a second edge 74 which will provide the distal or upper end edge of the product concealing tube.

(75) The blank also includes a third edge 76 which provides a leading edge of the blank 70 as it is wrapped around a mandrel to provide the tube, and a fourth edge 78 which provides a trailing edge.

(76) The first and second edges 72,74 of the blank 70 are generally parallel. The first edge 72 includes a first portion that is parallel to the second edge, and a second portion adjacent the fourth edge 78 which provides a chamfered edge, meeting the fourth edge 78 at an angle other than 90 degrees. A chamfered edge need not be provided, or if provided may be of a different extent or configuration to that shown (or may be associated alternatively or additionally with the second edge 74. The presence of a chamfered edge may help to reduce the amount of material present and may facilitate bonding of the blank into tubular form. However, it may be desirable to avoid providing a chamfer in a region to be printed and/or visible to a user. The region 79 is shaded to denote the region to which a bonding agent e.g. adhesive is applied to retain the wrapped tube in its wound configuration. A skived edge region of lower thickness may be provided in the vicinity of the trailing edge 78 to reduce the overall thickness of the tube in the region where the wound layers overlap. This may help to provide a flush appearance to the seam at the trailing edge 78.

(77) The leading corner of the blank 70 is rounded. This may facilitate feeding of the blank around the inner tube in the process described without buckling. It will be seen that the leading third edge 76 is a sloping edge, which defines an angle other than 90 degrees with both the first and second edges 74, 72.

(78) A slot 80 is provided in the blank 70, closer to the leading third edge 76 than the trailing fourth edge 78. The slot has parallel side edges 82, 84 and end edges 86, 88, which smoothly transition into the side edges. The end edges 86, 88 of the slot are spaced from the second and first edges 72, 74 of the blank 70 respectively. The side edges of the slot extend along a direction which is other than 90 degrees with respect to the first and second edges 72, 74. The longitudinal axis of the slot extends along the same direction. In this way, the slot will provide a helical recess on the interior surface of the product concealing tube formed by wrapping the blank 70 around a mandrel. The side edges of the recess will also extend along a helical path.

(79) A guide element 38 in the form of a lug is provided at the end of the slot 80 which will be toward the distal end of the product concealing tube 16 once formed. The guide element 38 is frangibly connected to the periphery of the slot e.g. using frangible bridges. In the illustrated embodiment, the slot 80 has uniform width and the guide element 38 fits snugly within the slot. The guide element 38 will thus fit snugly within the slot throughout travel of the product concealing tube relative to the inner tube.

(80) The blank 70 thus is a blank for providing the product concealing tube 16 and also the guide element 38.

(81) The blank 90 for providing the outer tube 16 is shown in FIG. 7C in the flat with the surface will define an outer surface of the outer tube uppermost. The blank includes a first edge 92 which will provide the proximal end edge of the outer tube 12 and a second edge 94 which will provide the distal or upper end edge of the outer tube. The blank also includes a third edge 96 which provides a leading edge of the blank 70 as it is wrapped around a mandrel to provide the tube, and a fourth edge 98 which provides a trailing edge.

(82) The first and second edges 92, 94 of the blank 90 are generally parallel. However, the first edge 92 includes a step around half way along its length. This feature is optional, but is useful in the context of the illustrated embodiment in which the lower end of the outer tube is rolled inwardly. The recessed portion adjacent the third edge 96 means that the thickness of material to be rolled in at the end of the tube is reduced e.g. to one layer of material, corresponding to the outer winding of the blank.

(83) The first edge 92 also includes a chamfered edge adjacent the fourth edge 98, meeting the fourth edge 98 at an angle other than 90 degrees. As described in relation to the product concealing tube, the presence of a chamfered edge is optional, and, where present, the degree of chamfer and extent of the chamfer may differ from that illustrated depending upon factors such as the extent of the area of the blank to be printed and/or visible. A chamfer might alternatively or additionally be provided at the other end of the trailing edge adjacent the second edge 94. Chamfering may be helpful in reducing the amount of material present where this is not detrimental to the appearance of the resulting tube or the bonding of the blank to provide the tube, and may facilitate in bonding of the blank in tubular form. The region 99 is shaded to denote the region to which a bonding agent e.g. adhesive is applied to retain the wrapped tube in its wound configuration. A skived edge region of lower thickness may be provided in the vicinity of the trailing edge 98 to reduce the overall thickness of the tube in the region where the wound layers overlap.

(84) The leading corner of the blank 90 is rounded. This may facilitate feeding of the blank around the mandrel in the process described without buckling. It will be seen that the leading third edge 96 is a sloping edge, which defines an angle other than 90 degrees with both the first and second edges 92, 94.

(85) The blank 100 for providing the tubular cap 6 is shown in FIG. 7D in the flat with the surface will define an inner surface of the cap uppermost. The blank is of the same general shape as the blank 90 for providing the outer tube, but is a mirror image about the edge 94 of the blank 90. The blank 100 includes a first edge 102 which will provide the lower end edge of the cap 6 and a second edge 104 which will provide the upper end edge of the cap. The blank also includes a third edge 106 which provides a leading edge of the blank 100 as it is wrapped around a mandrel to provide the cap, and a fourth edge 108 which provides a trailing edge.

(86) The first and second edges 102, 104 of the blank 100 are generally parallel. However, the second edge 104 includes a step around half way along its length. This feature is optional, but is useful in the context of the illustrated embodiment in which the upper end of the cap is rolled inwardly. The recessed portion adjacent the third edge 106 means that the thickness of material to be rolled in at the end of the tube is reduced e.g. to one layer of material, corresponding to the outer winding of the blank.

(87) The second edge 104 also includes a chamfered edge adjacent the fourth edge 108, meeting the fourth edge 108 at an angle other than 90 degrees. As with the outer tube and product concealing tube, the presence or absence of a chamfer, the configuration of the chamfer and/or whether any additional chamfered edge is provided may be selected as desired depending on factors such as the visibility of the edge, the importance of reducing the amount of material etc. The region 109 is shaded to denote the region to which a bonding agent e.g. adhesive is applied to retain the wrapped tube in its wound configuration. A skived edge region of lower thickness may be provided in the vicinity of the trailing edge 108 to reduce the overall thickness of the tube in the region where the wound layers overlap.

(88) The leading corner of the blank 106 is rounded. This may facilitate feeding of the blank around the mandrel in the process described without buckling. It will be seen that the leading third edge 106 is a sloping edge, which defines an angle other than 90 degrees with both the first and second edges 102, 104.

(89) It will be appreciated that which of the first and second edges of the blank shown in FIG. 7A provides the proximal or distal edge of the resulting inner tube in use may vary from that illustrated. Similarly, whether the rounded leading edge of the blanks of FIGS. 7A-D is at the proximal or distal end of the resulting tube may differ from the arrangement illustrated. However, the guide element 38 should advantageously be frangibly connected to the end of the slot 80 which will be the distal end of the resulting recess in the formed tube, and the stepped edges of the blanks in FIGS. 7C and D should be located at the edge of the blank which is intended to be rolled inwardly if rolling is to be performed. If rolled edges are not used, the stepped edges may be omitted.

(90) One method of forming the dispenser using the set of blanks shown in FIGS. 7A-D will now be described by reference to FIGS. 8A-E.

(91) In a first step shown in FIG. 8A, the first blank 60 is wrapped around a mandrel 200 rotating in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 8A with the third edge 66 leading in order to provide the inner tube 12. The wrapping process is performed such that the first and second edges 62, 64 of the first blank 60 are perpendicular to the axis of the mandrel. A bonding agent e.g. adhesive is applied to the region 69 adjacent the fourth, trailing edge 68 on the surface which will form the interior of the inner tube prior to the blank being wound around the mandrel. In this way, the inner surface of the region 68 will become adhered to an adjacent inner winding of the inner tube to retain the tube in its wound configuration.

(92) In the second step shown in FIG. 8B, the second blank 70 is wrapped around the formed inner tube 12 produced in the first step of FIG. 8A while the inner tube 12 is still on the mandrel 200. The second blank 70 is wrapped around the inner tube 12 and the mandrel 200 while the mandrel is rotating in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 8B, with the third edge 76 leading in order to provide the product concealing tube 16. The wrapping process is performed such that the first and second edges 74, 72 of the second blank 70 are perpendicular to the axis of the mandrel.

(93) A bonding agent e.g. adhesive is applied to the region 79 adjacent the fourth, trailing edge 78 on the surface which will form the interior of the product concealing tube prior to the blank being wound around the mandrel. In this way, the inner surface of the region 78 will become adhered to an adjacent inner winding of the product concealing tube to retain the tube in its wound configuration. A bonding agent e.g. adhesive is also applied to the inner surface of the guide element 38 of the blank 70 prior to the blank 70 being wrapped around the mandrel 200. In this way the guide element 38 becomes bonded to the exterior surface of the inner tube 12. The remainder of the internal surface of the blank 70 is left free of bonding agent e.g. adhesive such that the resulting product concealing tube 16 is attached to the inner tube 12 only via the guide element 38 (until such time as the frangible connection between the guide element 38 and the periphery of the slot 80 is broken). The guide element 38 remains within the slot 80 throughout the winding process, and subsequently, regardless of whether the frangible connection is broken. The slot 80 creates the recess 24 on the interior of the resulting product concealing tube. The slot 80 is covered by the outer winding of the blank such that the recess does not extend through the entire thickness of the wall of the product concealing tube.

(94) As the guide element 38 is at the end of the slot 80 which is at the distal end of the resulting product concealing tube, when the guide element 38 become bonded to the inner tube, the product concealing tube will initially be in its most retracted position relative to the inner tube. This may help support the product concealing tube as it is formed. Thus the second blank 70 should be positioned relative to the first blank 60 so as to be in a position to result in the product concealing tube having a desired fully retracted position relative to the inner tube. The product concealing tube 16 will remain in this fully retracted position until the frangible connection of the guide element 38 to the slot 80 is broken to allow relative movement between the inner tube 12 and product concealing tube 16.

(95) In other embodiments the product concealing tube might not necessarily be formed in its most retracted position. The relevant position will be determined by the position of the first and second blanks relative to one another during wrapping around the mandrel, and the position of the guide element 38 within the slot 80 when frangible connected thereto.

(96) In the next step, FIG. 8C, the sub-assembly 202 of the product concealing tube 16 and inner tube 12 is removed from the mandrel 200. As illustrated, the frangible connection is broken during or prior to this step and the product concealing tube 16 moves toward its fully extended position relative to the inner tube 12 as the sub-assembly is removed from the mandrel 200. Advantageously the process is performed such that the frangible connection breaks during this step to permit movement of the product concealing tube relative to the inner tube, or previously during winding of the second blank to provide the product concealing tube (i.e. after the guide element 38 becomes bonded to the exterior of the inner tube). However, in other embodiments, if the frangible connection is not already broken to permit movement of the product concealing tube relative to the inner tube a specific subsequent step could be performed urging the product concealing tube 16 toward a more extended position relative to the inner tube 12 in order to break the frangible connection between the guide element 38 and slot 80. Such a step could be performed after step 8C and before assembly of the sub-assembly of the inner tube and product concealing tube with an outer tube as described below.

(97) Of course, in yet other embodiments, it is envisaged that breakage of the frangible connection could occur at a later stage, even subsequent to assembly of the product concealing tube and inner tube with the outer tube e.g. upon insertion of a stick product or even upon first use of the product by a user. Such options may be more appropriate where the product concealing tube is not initially in a fully retracted position relative to the inner tube.

(98) In the next step shown in FIG. 8D, the outer tube 14 is produced by wrapping the blank 90 around a second, larger diameter mandrel 204 while the mandrel rotates in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 8D, with the third edge 96 leading. The wrapping process is performed such that the first and second edges 92, 94 of the second blank 70 are perpendicular to the axis of the mandrel. A bonding agent e.g. adhesive is applied to the region 99 adjacent the fourth, trailing edge 98 on the surface which will form the interior of the outer tube prior to the blank being wound around the mandrel 204. In this way, the inner surface of the region 98 will become adhered to an adjacent inner winding of the outer tube to retain the tube in its wound configuration.

(99) In the next step 8E the outer tube 14 is removed from the mandrel 204. As shown, the proximal end of the outer tube is to the right in FIG. 8D.

(100) The proximal edge of the outer tube 14 is rolled inwardly to provide the lip 13. Any suitable technique may be used. As described earlier, due to the shape of the edge 92 of the blank 90, only a single ply of material need be rolled inwardly to create the lip, as the inner winding of the outer tube will be recessed from the proximal end due to the recessed portion of the edge 92. A closure disc 15 is then located on the lip to close the proximal end of the outer tube 14. The disc may be secured in place using a bonding agent e.g. adhesive.

(101) Steps 8D and E are effectively repeated using the fourth blank 100 for providing the cap. Thus, in the next step (not shown) the tubular cap 6 is produced by wrapping the blank 100 around the second, larger diameter mandrel 204 while the mandrel rotates in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 8D, with the third edge 106 leading. A bonding agent e.g. adhesive is applied to the region 80 adjacent the fourth, trailing edge 108 on the surface which will form the interior of the cap prior to the blank being wound around the mandrel 204. In this way, the inner surface of the region 108 will become adhered to an adjacent inner winding of the cap to retain the tube in its wound configuration.

(102) In the next step the cap 6 is removed from the mandrel 204.

(103) The lower edge of the cap 6 is rolled inwardly to provide the lip 11. Any suitable technique may be used. As described earlier, due to the shape of the edge 104 of the blank 100, only a single ply of material need be rolled inwardly to create the lip, as the inner winding of the cap will be recessed from the upper end due to the recessed portion of the edge 102. A closure disc 10 is then located on the lip to close the upper end of the cap 6. The disc may be secured in place using a bonding agent e.g. adhesive.

(104) It will be appreciated that the steps of forming the cap need not be carried out after forming the outer tube, and these steps may be carried out before, or at the same time as one another (with a different mandrel of the same diameter to mandrel 204 then being used). Likewise, it is not necessary that the sub-assembly of the inner tube and product concealing tube is necessarily produced before the outer tube and/or the cap. The sub-assembly may be produced subsequently or at the same time as the outer tube and/or cap.

(105) In the next step, shown in FIG. 8F, the sub-assembly of the inner tube 12 and product concealing tube 16 is located coaxially with the outer tube 14 and inserted into the base. The product concealing tube 16 remains in its fully extended position relative to the inner tube 12, by virtue of frictional engagement between the tubes and between the guide element 38 and edges of the slot. In other embodiments, as discussed above, the product concealing tube need not be in the fully extended position.

(106) A bonding agent e.g. adhesive is applied to the lower end of the inner tube 12 before performing this step, so that when inserted into the outer tube so as to contact the closure disc 15 of the outer tube 14, the bottom of the inner tube 12 will become bonded to the closure disc of the outer tube 14, thereby fixing the inner tube 12 to the outer tube 14. The fixing of the outer tube and the inner tube to on another does not interfere with the ability of the product concealing tube 16 to slide in the space between the outer tube and inner tube (at least once the frangible connection of the guide element 38 to the periphery of the slot 80 is broken if this has not already occurred).

(107) A product stick is disposed within the assembly of the product concealing tube, inner tube and outer tube such that it extends from the distal end of the inner tube and beyond the distal end of the product concealing tube when in the fully retracted position. The product stick may be affixed to the inner tube e.g. the distal end thereof in any suitable manner as described above. The product stick may be inserted into the distal end of the inner tube through the open end of the product concealing tube prior to or preferably after insertion of the product concealing tube and inner tube sub-assembly into the end of the outer tube in step 8F.

(108) A cap, where provided, is then located over the distal end of the dispenser. The product concealing tube is typically in the fully extended position covering the product stick when the cap is applied, but this need not be so. Likewise, the cap may be provided before insertion of the product stick and subsequently removed to enable the stick to be inserted and then replaced.

(109) Once the frangible connection between the guide element 38 and the periphery of the slot is broken, the product concealing tube 16 is free to move relative to the inner tube (and outer tube) between the fully extended and fully retracted positions defined by engagement between the guide element and the distal 27 and proximal 25 ends of the recess 24 provided by the slot 80 of the second blank 70 in the interior of the wound product concealing tube 16. This movement is as earlier described in relation to FIGS. 1-6B. In this embodiment, the guide element 38 is snugly received in the recess 24, and engages the side edges of the slot throughout the available range of relative movement.

(110) As mentioned above, the frangible connection may be broken during the step of wrapping the second blank 70 around the mandrel 200 and/or during removal of the product concealing tube from the mandrel on which it is wound. Alternatively the frangible connection may be broken after production of the sub-assembly 202 of the inner tube 12 and product concealing tube 16. This may take place before or after assembly with the outer tube 14. This may be achieved by applying a suitable force acting to move the product concealing tube relative to the inner tube in the appropriate direction based on the initial position of the guide element within the slot. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the position of the guide element 38 is at the upper, or distal end of the slot 80, such that the product concealing tube 16 is initially in its fully retracted position. The product concealing tube 16 may then be pulled apart from the inner tube in order to break the frangible connection.

(111) In yet other embodiments, the frangible connection may be broken at the stage of insertion of a product stick, or even later, upon first use by a user. However, breaking of the frangible connection during manufacture of the dispenser, in particular during or prior to removal of the inner tube and product concealing tube sub-assembly from the mandrel is preferred. This may provide greater control over the breaking of the connection. The frangible connection may be designed to have a strength which is expected to result in it breaking during the desired part of the manufacturing process. For example, the number and strength of frangible bridges provided may be used to control the time of breaking of the connection. Breaking of the frangible connection between the guide element and periphery of the slot described herein refers to such breaking of the connection to permit relative movement of the product concealing tube and inner tube. References to the frangible connection being between the guide element and periphery of the slot do not imply that the connection is broken before the second blank is wrapped to form the product concealing tube. The slot is still present in the tube, but may then be referred to as the recess.

(112) By providing the guide element as part of the second blank for the product concealing tube, being frangibly connected to the periphery of the slot, the method disclosed herein enables the dispenser to be provided without needing to provide an additional component bearing the guide element. The guide element is provided as part of the second blank, but becomes bonded to the inner tube as part of the same step in which the product concealing tube is wound. This results in a more streamlined process, with only one step being needed to both provide the guide element associated with the inner tube and also provide the product concealing tube.

(113) The method may be performed so as to result in no more than two plies of material being present at any point in any of the formed tubes i.e. the inner tube, outer tube, product concealing tube, cap.

(114) FIG. 9A illustrates the formed i.e. wound inner tube 12, and FIG. 9B illustrates the formed i.e. wound product concealing tube 16. The distal end of each tube is shown uppermost.

(115) The sloping leading edge 66 of the first blank 60 shown in FIG. 7A results in the lap seam to the interior of the wound inner tube 12 extending along a helical path. In this way, the seam is spread over a greater distance than would be the case with a straight leading edge to the blank. This has been found to provide an improved tube with a rounder cross section than would be the case with a straight leading edge, which may result in a tube of tear drop shaped cross section. Similarly, the trailing edge 68 slopes, and provides a helical seam extending around the exterior of the inner tube.

(116) FIG. 9B similarly shows the helical lap seam obtained on the interior of the product concealing tube by virtue of the sloping leading edge 76. In contrast, the exterior lap seam extends parallel to the axis of the tube, due to the straight trailing edge 78. This may maximise the available area for printing or other finishing, since this surface of the product concealing tube may be visible to the user, and it may be desirable to provide some aesthetic finish. Such concerns are less in the context of the inner tube, which is not generally visible to the user. However, in alternative embodiments, a sloping trailing edge may alternatively be provided for the product concealing tube where the functional benefit of the resulting lap seam shape is of greater importance than aesthetic considerations.

(117) The sloping leading edges of the third and fourth blanks 90, 100 similarly provide improved shape properties to the resulting outer tube and cap. Again, for these components, the trailing edge is shown as straight, to maximise area for printing etc., but this need not be the case.

(118) The shapes of the blanks shown in FIGS. 7A-D are only exemplary.

(119) Some alternative configurations of the second blank for providing the product concealing tube 16 will now be described. As shown in FIG. 10, an alternative embodiment of the blank 70 includes similar features to those of the blank 70, and such features will be denoted using corresponding reference numerals annotated by . Only the significant differences will be described.

(120) The slot 80 in this further embodiment has sidewalls 82, 84 which diverge from one another with distance from an end 86 of the slot, providing a wedge shaped slot. In this case, the wedge shaped slot has a teardrop shape. However, other forms are possible, such as a more triangular shape. The end 86 of the slot will be located to the distal end of the product concealing tube, such that the product concealing tube will be in its most retracted position relative to the inner tube when the product concealing tube is wound around the inner tube.

(121) The guide element 38 is again in the shape of a lug, and located at the end 86, being frangibly connected to the periphery of the slot at that end. This shape of slot will result in a recess in the interior of the resulting product concealing tube that does not have an axis extending along a helical path, but does have side edges corresponding to the side edges 82, 84 which extend along helical paths. Thus, once the frangible connection between the guide element 38 and the slot 80 is broken, the product concealing tube may move along a helical path with respect to the inner tube with the movement being guided by the cooperation of the guide element and the periphery of the slot. In this case, movement of the product concealing tube relative to the inner tube is possible in various manners, including both axial and radial movement, with the extent and direction of the relative movement possible being constrained by engagement of the guide element 38 with the periphery of the slot i.e. recess in the product concealing tube. In this embodiment, engagement between the guide element and the periphery of the slot does not necessarily dictate the path of the movement of the product concealing tube relative to the inner tube but limits the range of such movement possible.

(122) This configuration of slot has been found to be particularly advantageous in the context of the method described herein, facilitating wrapping of the blank 70 about the mandrel to provide the product concealing tube, but with the guide element still remaining within the slot, and with reduced tendency to jump over the edges of the slot. Where the frangible connection breaks during winding of the product concealing tube it may be helpful to enable some lateral movement of the guide element within the slot. Furthermore, providing a greater range of possible movement of the product concealing tube relative to the inner tube may facilitate use of the dispenser, enabling the user to wiggle the product concealing tube relative to the inner tube (i.e. by grasping the outer tube and moving the product concealing tube) to help move the product concealing tube. This may be useful were the product concealing tube is held by a relatively tight friction fit between the outer tube and inner tube, for example. While the user may twist the product concealing tube relative to the outer tube such that the relative movement follows a helical path e.g. with the guide element 38 engaging one of the side edges of the slot, this need not be the case, and the user might use a linear motion or indeed some other movement to advance or retract the product concealing tube e.g. zigzagging provided the guide element remains within the slot.

(123) Production of a dispenser including a product concealing tube obtained from the blank shown in FIG. 10 is as described in relation to FIGS. 8A-8F, with the blank 70 substituted for the blank 70. As the blank 70 is wound around the mandrel 200 to provide the product concealing tube, the guide element becomes bonded to the outer surface of the inner tube as previously described.

(124) FIG. 11 shows another alternative configuration of a second blank for providing the product concealing tube 16. As shown in FIG. 11, the alternative embodiment of the blank 70 includes similar features to those of the blank 70, and such features will be denoted using corresponding reference numerals annotated by . Only the significant differences will be described.

(125) The slot 80 includes an end 86 which will be at the distal end of the product concealing tube. However, at the opposite end the slot extends to the first edge 72 of the blank 70 which will be at the proximal end of the resulting tube. An elongate guide element 38 is provided in the slot, being frangibly connected to the periphery thereof in the position shown.

(126) Production of a dispenser including a product concealing tube obtained from the blank shown in FIG. 11 is as described in relation to FIGS. 8A-8F, with the blank 70 substituted for the blank 70. As the blank 70 is wound around the mandrel 200 to provide the product concealing tube, the guide element becomes bonded to the outer surface of the inner tube as previously described.

(127) Cooperating stop tabs 108, 111 associated with the distal end of the guide member and the proximal, open end 88 of the slot respectively form a stop mechanism to ensure the guide element remains within the slot once the frangible connection is broken, and engage one another to define a fully extended position of the product concealing tube relative to the inner tube in the dispenser. Other arrangements might be envisaged e.g. including pairs of cooperating stop tabs on each side of the guide element. However, the illustrated embodiment in which a single tab 111 is provided on one side of the slot with a cooperating single tab 108 on the guide element 38 may be advantageous in allowing an edge 110 of the guide element 38 to run along and engage the opposed edge 84 of the slot along the entire length thereof, assisting in guidance.

(128) The shape of the blank 70 differs slightly from that of blanks 70 and 70. While the sloping leading edge 76 is present, no rounded corner is provided, and the shape of the trailing edge differs from that of the previous embodiments. Any of the shapes or parts thereof for the contour of the second blank 70, 70 or 70 may be used interchangeably, depending upon the particular attributes of the product concealing tube required e.g. location of any printing, amount of material to be present etc. Other shapes may be used for any of the blanks described without departure from the invention as described herein. However, the use of the sloping leading edge at least is advantageous as described.

(129) The blanks 70, 70 are each provided by a single piece of card or paper based material e.g. paperboard or cardboard as in the earlier embodiment.

(130) The dispensers described herein may be provided in an outer package e.g. outer carton, which may be of paperboard or cardboard material.

(131) It will be appreciated that various modifications may be made to the embodiments described herein. In particular, the shape of the guide element and the slot may vary from the examples illustrated. While embodiments have been illustrated in which the slot has a width similar to that of the guide element at one end, whether or not the side edges of the slot then diverge or run parallel, this need not necessarily be the case, particularly where a frangible connection is provided between the slot and guide element. However, a slot width closer to that of the guide element where the guide element is disposed may be useful in facilitating handling of the second blank, and controlling the position of the guide element even if a frangible connection is not provided or has broken.

(132) Furthermore, while the invention has been illustrated by reference to the case in which a frangible connection is provided between the guide element and the periphery of the slot in the second blank, it is envisaged that such a connection may be omitted. For example, the guide element may be held within the slot to the degree necessary to allow handling of the second blank to form the product concealing tube with the guide element becoming bonded to the outer surface of the inner tube by virtue of a frictional engagement between the edges of the guide element and slot.

(133) However, the use of a frangible connection is advantageous to facilitate handling of the blank and its use to provide the product concealing tube as described herein.

(134) It is believed that a dispenser of the construction resulting from the method described herein, i.e. with a guide element bonded to the exterior of an inner tube, is advantageous in its own right. Thus, in further aspects, the invention extends to a dispenser for a product in stick form, and including an inner tube and a product concealing tube disposed outwardly of the inner tube, wherein the product concealing tube is retractable and extendable relative to the inner tube for exposing and covering a product stick extending from a distal end of the inner tube in use. The product concealing tube comprises a recess in an interior surface thereof and the inner tube comprises a guide element bonded to an exterior surface thereof, the product concealing tube being movable relative to the inner tube with the guide element cooperating with the recess for guiding the movement of the product concealing tube relative to the inner tube. In these further aspects, it is envisaged that the inner tube and product concealing tube might each be provided by a conventional spiral wound tube. The guide element may then be bonded to the exterior of the inner tube, and the recess machined into the interior of the outer tube to provide a dispenser functioning in the same manner as the dispenser obtained in accordance with the methods described herein. Such dispensers are advantageous in that by bonding the guide element to the exterior of the inner tube the number of components needed is minimised. A wider range of slot and guide element shapes may be envisaged where the dispenser is not formed using the methods described above i.e. with the guide element initially forming part of the second blank. A recess having side edges which diverge one another, i.e. of the shape shown in FIG. 10, may also be advantageous in the context of such a dispenser formed by other methods, facilitating operation of the dispenser, and providing greater latitude in the available movement between the product concealing tube and inner tube to extend and retract the product concealing tube relative to the inner tube.