MXPA00002303A - A system for dispensing coreless rolls of product - Google Patents

Abstract

A system for dispensing coreless rolls of product (12, 710). The system includes:(1) a rotary dispenser (10, 40, 100) including a frame (14, 42, 102), a mounting means, and a pair of cooperating plungers (28, 52, 114), each plunger (28, 52, 114) including:a base, the base being fixed to the frame;a distal end, the distal end having a radius of curvature;and a central shaft, the central shaft connecting the base and the distal end and providing sufficient length so the plunger (28, 52, 114) has a length at least as great as its widest dimension so the plunger (28, 52, 114) is adapted to penetrate a mounting hole (800) defined at an end of a coreless roll product (12, 710), and (2) a coreless roll (12, 710) of product that is self-supporting in the rotary dispenser (10), the coreless roll (12) including:a rolled web of product that is wound substantially throughout its diameter about a winding axis (806, 906) into a cylinder having first and second flat ends (712);and at least one flat end (712) defining a mounting hole (800) at substantially the center of the winding axis (806, 906) of the coreless roll (12, 710), the mounting hole (800) having a depth and having side (702) generally perpendicular to the end (712) of the roll (12, 710), the sides (702) being separated by a distance that is less than the depth of the hole (800). The mounting hole (80) of the coreless roll (12, 710) is adapted to receive a plunger (28, 52, 114) from a rotary dispenser (10) such that radial displacement of the coreless roll (12, 710) with respect to the frame (14, 42, 102) is prevented during use.

Description

A SYSTEM FOR ROLLING ROLLS WITHOUT PRODUCT NUCLEUS FIELD OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to the field of roll format products for the consumer and commercials such as, for example, absorbent paper products and which include tissue for the toilet and paper towels. More specifically, this invention relates to an improved coreless roll product of absorbent paper that is formed to be easily assembled in a spout.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Consumer and commercial absorbent paper products such as toilet tissue and paper towels are typically distributed and dispensed in roll form, and almost always include a cylindrical hue core around which the product is wrapped. The core usually of the same type of cardboard, which is stuck together with the product so that the core remains intact and product is not separated from the core. The product is then assembled by mounting the roll on a spindle, such as can be found on the toilet roll for the bathroom, which passes through or penetrates the internal space of the core. Some jets include spikes that penetrate into the space. hue within the nucleus for only a limited extent as evidenced in the patents of the United States of America No. 390,084 and 2,905,404 granted to Lane and Simmons, respectively Recently, the rolls without core of tissue for toilet have appeared in the market, primarily in Europ that are rolled through the full diameter of the roll. H advantages and disadvantages associated with coreless rolls. The coreless rolls are ecologically superior to the core rolls because no adhesives or waste materials are used to make the product. In addition, more product can be provided in the space than would otherwise have been occupied by the kernel. Core rolls are more expensive to manufacture than coreless rolls because of the cost of making the rolls and joining the cores to the product. In addition, core rolls have the advantage of being less subject to looting in commercial locations due to their inherent incompatibility with conventional suppliers. On the other hand, there are problems with the coreless rolls that until now have been difficult to overcome.

Conventional dispensing systems for coreless roll typically include an enclosed support surface on which the roll is supported as it is turned and an opening through which the product is passed. When they are functional, these assortment systems have some undesirable characteristics, including an inability to control the drag to remove the product from the fact that the product currently touches the inside dispenser, which could be considered non-sanitary by some consumers, and the lack of capacity to provide a 180 degree product access to the consumer. Many of the problems described above would be overcome if there was a spout system for mounting a roll without a core to rotate around its axis, as do the roll core spouts, in a safe and stable manner. Unfortunately, the supplier has yet to be developed.

One of the problems that remains in the development path of such a dispensing system involves how a coreless roll is mounted in the spout. If the roll is not centered, a rotating imbalance will be created when the roll is turned. Also, the roll will avoid the product assortment until expiration in the case that its winding axis is not centered precisely on the spout. In addition, if the roll is not mounted safely, it can be subject to pillage and reliable assortment. However, since many coreless rolls have unbroken and flat side surfaces, locating the winding shaft location is difficult. Other non-coiled rolls have poor depressions to receive a dowel or bolt and / or bolt or other fastening system which does not provide robust and secure attachment of the coreless coil.

It is clear that there is a need for an improved system to allow effective sorting of core rolls such as, for example, coreless rolls of commercial paper products and for the absorbent consumer.

SYNTHESIS OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to the problems described above by providing a system for supplying rolls without product core. The system includes: (1) rotating jet which includes a frame, a mounting means, and at least one pair of cooperating pistons, the piston includes: a base, the base being fixed to the frame; distal end, the distal end has a radius of curvature; a central axis, the central axis connects the base and the distal end and provides a sufficient length so that the plunger has a length at least as large as a wider dimension so that the plunger is adapted to penetrate a defined mounting hole at one end of coreless roll product, and (2) at least one coreless product roll which is self-supporting in the rotating assortment, the coreless roll includes: a rolled textile product which is rolled essentially through its diameter around of a winding shaft in a cylinder having the first and second flat ends; and at least one flat end defining a mounting hole in essentially core winding axis of the coreless roll, the mounting hole has a depth and generally has sides perpendicular to the end of the roll, the sides being separated by a distance which is less than the depth of the orifice The mounting hole of the coreless roll is adapted to receive a plunger from a rotating spout so that radial displacement of the coreless roll with respect to the frame is avoided during use.

The mounting means for the dispenser may, for example, be an aperture defined in the frame for an securing member such as a bolt. Other mounting means, such as clips, bolts, screws, latches and the like can also be used.

In one embodiment of the spout system, the coreless coil securing means may also include a pair of opposing arms that are connected to the frame. In such an embodiment, a plunger is mounted on an inner side of each arm that includes: (1) a base, the base being fixed to the frame; (2) a distant end, the far end has a radius of curvature; and 3) a central axis, the central axis connects the base and the distal end and provides a sufficient length so that the plunger has a length at least as large as its widest dimension so that the plunger is adapted to penetrate a depression defined at one end of a roll product without a core, whereby the radial displacement of the coreless roll with respect to said frame was avoided during use.

The spout used in the system may also include presser means for elastically pressing for at least one of the opposite arms toward the coreless roll. The presser means may be in the form of at least u of the opposing arms being constructed of an elastic material, so that the arm (or arms) is configured to be slightly displaced when an unnumbered roll is secured within the pump.

The pair of opposing arms can be adapted to pivot apart from each other to define a loading position to pivot towards one another to define an assortment position.

The dispenser used in the system may also include fixing means for fixing the opposite arms in the dispensing position. For example, the fastening means may be a cover surrounding the opposing arms. Alternatively and / or additionally, the fastening means may be any conventional fastening mechanism that includes but is not limited to bolts, clips, bolts, and similar jaws.

The plunger may have a cross section q is "circular, triangular, square, diamond, semicircular," X "," Y "or" T "or similar.It is desirable that the plunger have a section width If the piston has a circular cross section, it is desirable that the diameter be at least 1 cm.

The distal end of the plunger may have a radius of curvature and desirably defines a hemisphere. Then, other geometries are contemplated for the shape of the distal end of the plunger. It is also contemplated that the embolus may have a narrow width or a variable width.

The distal end of the plunger must extend from its base by a distance sufficient to penetrate the depression at the end of the coreless roll. Generally speaking, the distal end of the plunger extends from the base at a distance that is at least equal to or greater than the width of the plunger. Desirably, that distance is from about 1.0 to about 2.0 times the width of the plunger For example, if the plunger has a cross-sectional width of about 1 centimeter, it is desirable that the far end of the plunger extends more than about 1 centimeter or more from its base. As a further example, the distant end of the plunger may desirably extend by 1.25 centimeters, 1. centimeters, 1.75 centimeters, or 2.0 centimeters. Generally speaking, a larger extension of the plunger helps to provide greater penetration into the depressions defined in the ends of the coreless roll product and helps prevent pillaging of the coreless roll product from the spout.

In another embodiment, the jet used in the system may include retractable pistons. Generally speaking, the jets used in the system can be adjusted with a retractable piston adapter or a retraction element or the jets can be originally constructed with a retractable piston element. Such adapter / element may include: (1) a box defining a central cavity and opening at one end of the central cavity; (2) a retractable stem having a distal end, a central axis, and its base, the retractable piston being configured so that the base and a first part of the central axis are retained in a box and the distal end and a second part of the central axis extends through the opening in one end of the central cavity so that the plunger is adapted to penetrate a defined depression in one end of a core roll product; (3) elastic means in communication with the plunger, the elastic means are configured to apply a force against the plunger so that the plunger is adapted to retract into the central cavity when a greater opposing force is applied against its far end during loading and extending when the opposition force may be removed; and (4) fastening means for securing the adapter to a core roll product spout.

The box can further include a mounting base so that the adapter can be more easily fastened to a core roll product dispenser.

The elastic means in communication the plunger can be a spring, a clip, a sponge, an elasric material or the like which can be compressed, rolled or pulled so that the plunger can be retracted and which exert a force while compressed , rolled or pulled so that the plunger can be extended.

The base of the plunger may be configured to define an opening for a cavity inside the plunger. The elastic means may protrude into the cavity inside the plunger. For example, if the spring means is a spring, the spring may protrude into the base of the plunger.

Retraction means in communication with the retractable piston can be used to retract the plunger against the force applied by the resilient means. The retraction means may be a knob, a lever and a cam mechanism, or a pull or the like.

In one embodiment, fixation means may be included to retain the retractable plunger in an extended position on the adapter. The fixing means may be a cam, a lever, a pin, a ratchet or the like. fixing means can be activated by a key or a per The retractable piston may further include retainer means to prevent the retractable piston p completely through the opening at one end of the central cavity. These retaining means may be, for example, a flange, a lip, a bolt, a wedge or a similar structure.

An important element of the system of the present invention is a roll with no product core that is self-supporting in a rotating spout. The roll includes a woven product wrap that is wound through its diameter around a winding shaft in a cylinder having the first and second planar ends. At least one flat end defines a mounting hole in essentially the center of the coiled shaft of the coreless roll. The mounting hole has depth and has sides generally perpendicular to the extr of the roll. The sides are separated by a distance that is smaller than the depth of the hole so that the mounting hole is adapted to receive a plunger from a rotating surti.

The depth of the mounting hole can be at least about 5 percent of the width of the coreless roll. For example, the depth of the mounting hole may be at least about 10 percent of the width of the coreless roll. Generally speaking, it is desirable that the depth of the mounting hole runs from about 1 to about 2 times the width of the hole.

It is contemplated that the coreless roll of product used in the system of the present invention may be a coreless roll that is essentially, but not completely, wound through its diameter. According to the present invention, such a coreless roll wound essentially through its diameter, will lack a conventional plastic or cardboard core but will still incorporate a small opening through the roll in the center of the roll along the length of winding shaft. Coreless rolls of this type are described, for example, in U.S. Patents Nos. 5,669,576; 5,467,936; 5,387,284; 5,281,386; 5,271,575 and 5,271,137. The coreless rolls described by these patents are formed by winding the roll on the mandrel and then removing the coreless roll from the mandrel so that the coreless roll defines a central opening that extends completely through the roll along the length of the roll. the length of the winding axis. The central opening can generally serve as a mounting hole even though its depth will be the full length of the central opening along the winding axis. Therefore, the depth of this mounting hole will be 100 percent or equal to the full width of the coreless roll. The "width" of the roll refers to the distance between a first flat end of the coreless roll defining a mounting hole and a second flat end of coreless roll defining a mounting hole. Desirably, each flat end of the coreless roll defines or mounting hole in essentially the center of the roll d axis of the roll and at least one, and desirably each of the mounting hole has a depth and has the sides generally perpendicular to the end of the roll. roll, the sides being separated by a distance that is less than the depth of the hole.

The mounting hole may have a generally circular cross section. Alternatively, the mounting orifice can have a polygonal cross section. The cross section can be triangular, square, diamond, semicircular, "X", "Y" or "T" or similar. It is desirable that the mounting hole have a cross-sectional width of at least 1 centimeter. If the mounting job has a circular cross section, it is desirable that the diameter be at least 1 centimeter. It is contemplated that different cross sections and / or mounting holes of different depth and / or different diameters may be used.

In one embodiment, the coreless roll can include an essentially and permanently compressed part essentially the center of the winding axis of the roll and a non-compressed part at a flat end defining the mounting hole. A section or part of the compressed roll part may further include corrugations generally around the winding axis of the roll. These corrugations are generally visible when the roll is essentially depleted and essentially remains in the compressed part. In one aspect of the invention, the essential and permanently compressed part of the roll is partially decompressed by essentially depleting the roll. For example, the compressed part of the roll may jump back slightly or exhibit some elasticity and may be essentially compressed permanently. The elasticity or the light bounce can be useful to provide a force against a plunger of a rotating jet to help maintain the roll and to prevent overdrafting. The coreless rolls the type formed on a mandrel and having a small opening through the roll in the center of the roll along the length of the unrolled shaft will lack a compressed part in the center of the winding shaft. The use of such coreless rolls is contemplated by the present invention even though they lack the compressed core which helps to provide spring or elasticity to prevent overdrawing to help keep a roll essentially depleted in place. The coreless roll can be an absorbent paper product roll. For example, the absorbent paper product can be selected from paper towels, paper tissue, paper cleaning cloth and the like. The coreless roll may be a roll of a non-woven tea or a textile. For example, the non-woven fabric can be a woven material, a woven material, a gathered material, a stitched and bonded material, a meltblown fiber fabric, a woven fabric of coiled yarns, a carded and bonded fabric, tissue formed by air, or coformed fabric and / or combinations of one or more thereof. The coreless roll can be a roll of a composite material. For example, the composite material can be a laminate, a film and textile laminate, and a nonwoven film laminate, and an elastomeric composite or the like.

These and various other advantages and features of novelty which characterize the invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims appended here and form a part thereof. However, for a better understanding of the invention, of its advantages, and of the objects obtained by its use, reference should be made to the drawings which also form part here and to the accompanying descriptive matter in which an illustrated and described preferred embodiment of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is an illustration of an example core roll product nozzle.

Figure 2 is an illustration of an exemplary core product roll product detail.

Figure 3 is an illustration of an example core roll product nozzle.

Figure 4 is an illustration of an example core roll product nozzle.

Figure 5 is an illustration of an example core roll product nozzle.

Figure 6 is an illustration of an exemplary retractable plunger element.

Figure 7 is an illustration of a product roll detail without example core.

Figure 8 is an illustration of a roll if example core showing an axial compaction.

Figure 9 is an illustration of a roll without example core showing a radial bulge.

Figure 10 is an illustration of a detail of an exemplary method for processing a coreless roll.

Figure 11 is an illustration of a detail of an exemplary method for treating a coreless roll.

Figure 12 is an illustration of a detail of an exemplary method for treating a coreless roll.

Figure 13 is an illustration of a detail of an example method for processing a coreless roll.

Figure 14 is an illustration of a detail of an exemplary method for treating a coreless roll.

Figure 15A is an illustration of a part of an exemplary coreless roll showing axial compaction.

Figure 15B is an illustration of an exemplary coreless roll showing an axial compactac.

Figure 16 is an illustration of a non-compacted coreless roll part.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Referring now to the drawings, where the like reference numbers designate a corresponding structure through the views, and referring particularly to Figure 1, there is shown (not necessarily scale) an illustration of an example jet to use the system of assortment of the present invention. The dispenser used to supply a coreless roll product having at least one and desirably, a pair of mounting holes the ends of the coreless roll.

Many different types of products can be produced in a coreless roll format. For example, consumer and commercial absorbent products such as shop towels, non-woven fabrics, cleaning cloths, bathroom tissue and pap towels are frequently distributed and supplied in a roll format. There is shown in Figure 1 a dispenser 10 for supplying coreless roll products 12 (shown in dashed lines having a pair of mounting holes defined in the ends of the coreless roll.

The spout 10 includes a frame 14 having mounting holes 16 defined therein to allow the frame to be mounted on a stationary surface, such as a wall. The spout 10 further includes a coreless core securing mechanism 18 to secure a coreless roll. 12 d product (e.g., a bathroom tissue) for rotation within the frame 14. In the version shown in Figure 1, the core locking mechanism includes a first arm 20, a second central arm 22 and third arm 24.

Even though the dispenser is described in terms of an article having the arms connected to a reinforcing bar, it should be understood that other incorporations in the system may be used. For example, some suppliers may have sides instead of arms. In either case, the arms or sides are separated by a distance that is slightly greater than the roll width of the core roll product to be stocked.

The dispenser 10 shown in FIG. 1 is designed to accommodate two rolls of non-numbered roll product (eg, toilet tissue) rather in the manner of many conventional dispensers that are available for commercial application. Desirably, the outer arms 20 24 can be made of an elastic material, such as a spring steel, and are configured so that they are moved slightly when a coreless roll is secured between the central arm 22 and the respective outer arms 24. In this manner, the outer arms 20 and 24 press the respective coreless roll 20 towards the central arm 22.

In some dispensers that can be used in the system, the outer arms 20 and 24 are constructed so that they are rigid and will not move. In that case, use a hinge or pivot at the base of the outer arms or some other position on the outer arms so that the arms can be moved outwards (eg away from the central arm 22) to a loading position and toward adent (for example, towards central arm 22) to an assortment position.

An important advantage of the system is that the coreless locking mechanism 18 is designed to cooperate with the mounting holes in the core rolls to prevent radial displacement of the core rolls 12 with respect to the frame 14 of the spout 10. during use, so that the coreless roll can be dispensed s afraid of a radial displacement during use with as much confidence as a roll with conventional core d product of absorbent paper can be dispensed. Another advantage is that the coreless coil lock mechanism cooperates with the mounting holes in the coreless rolls to make it extremely difficult to discharge the spout roll until the roll is essentially depleted.

This is achieved by providing the pistons 28 on the inner surfaces 26 of the respective arms 20, 22 and 24 of the securing mechanism 18. Referring now to Figure 2, there is shown an example plunger 28 Each plunger 28 is configured to have a base 30, a distal end 32 and a central axis 34.

Generally speaking, the base 30 is fixed to the outer arms 20 and 24 and the central arm 22 of the spout. It is contemplated that the base 30 may be attached to the frame and dispenser modes that lack arms of the type described herein. The plunger 28 may be a discrete unit and the base 30 may be adhered, attached, connected or otherwise fixed to the arms of the dispenser. For example, the base of the plunger can be joined by gums, welds, bolts, screws, fasteners, clips or other means. Alternatively, the plunger can be formed as an integral part of the outer arms, the central arms or the frame by the same manufacturing techniques used to form the arms and / or the frame. For example, the plunger may be formed as part of the arms and / or the frame during a process such as, for example, injection molding, melting, machining, sculpting, or the like.

The distal end 32 of the plunger 28 may have a radius of curvature and desirably defines a hemisphere. The rounded tip serves as a centering device for loading the roll and facilitates loading by providing a leading edge. Of course, other geometries are contemplated by the shape of the distal end of the plunger.

The central axis 34 of the plunger 28 connects the base 3 and the distal end 32 and provides a sufficient length so that the plunger 28 has a length at least as large as its widest dimension so that the plunger is adapted to penetrate a depression defined at one end of a roll product without a core so that the radial displacement of the coreless roll with respect to said frame is avoided during use.

Generally speaking, it is desirable for the embolus to have a width in cross section that is slightly greater than the width of the depression at the end of the coreless roll product. This configuration assists in securing the roll when it is loaded, preventing over-wrapping of the roll during dispensing and helping to retain the roll when said roll is exhausted. For example, if the depressions defined at both ends of the coreless roll have a diameter of slightly less than one centimeter (for example, -0.9 centimeters), the stem will desirably have a diameter or width of about one centimeter or slightly greater than one centimeter. .

In one embodiment of the system, it is desirable that the plunger have a cross-sectional width of less than 1 centimeter (approximately 1/2 inch). If the plunger has a circular cross section, it is desirable that the diameter be at least 1 centimeter. Desirably, central axis 34 has the parallel and straight sides. The straight plunger arms help keep the roll from wobbling during the assortment, help the roll to rotate freely and prevent damage to the roll during assortment. It also contemplates that the plunger may have a narrow width or a variable anc.

The plunger may be configured so that it is essentially fixed, or is unable to rotate around an axis. In such a case, it is desirable that the plunger be constructed of materials that provide low levels of friction to allow the coreless roll to rotate freely. Alternatively, the plunger may be configured so that it can rotate freely. It is contemplated that the plunger may be configured so as to be capable of rotating with the core roll during the assortment.

Referring again to Figure 1, a number of plungers 28 extend from the respective arms 20, 22 and to where the coreless roll 12 of the product is maintained during operation. These pistons 28 are specifically designed to penetrate the depressions defined at each end of the coreless roll to secure the core roll against pillage and to prevent radial displacement of the coreless roll during use.

In the embodiments of the invention in which the arms 20 and 24 are constructed of an elastic material, it will be appreciated that the pressure provided by the elasticity of the arms will help the pistons 28 to penetrate the depressions defined at the ends of the coreless roll. increase assurance of the coreless rolls inside the dispenser during use.

In other embodiments where the arms 20 are constructed of a rigid material and a bisag or pivot is used, an elastic means such as a spring or a rubber strip can be used to help press the arms into a coreless roll.

Desirably, the spout 10 includes a cover 30 that is hinged to the frame 14 by the hinges 32. U slidable window 34 can be provided in the cover 30 to selectively expose the roll 12 of the core roll product that is being stocked at a particular point. in time, and deny access to the other roll or to the emptying place. The cover 30, the hinges 32, and the sliding sale 34 are conventional.

The cover 30 can also function as a closure means to help secure the coreless core 12 to the spout. By closing the cover over the spout one can avoid the movement of the outer arms 20 and 24 so that coreless roll 12 can not be discharged and remains in place until it is exhausted.

Referring now to Figure 3, there is shown another embodiment of a dispenser that can be used in the assortment system of the present invention. Figure 3 illustrates example dispenser 40 for supplying a coreless roll 12 d product. The dispenser 40 includes a frame 42, which is involved as a relatively simplified shield around the space where the coreless roll 12 will be placed during use. The frame 42 has the mounting holes defined in a rear part thereof for mounting spout 40 on a stationary surface, such as a wall. The spout 40 further includes a coreless core locking mechanism 46 which is involved as a first arm and a second arm 50 constructed of an elastic material. A p of pistons 52 mounted on the respective elastic arms 48 are constructed and arranged to penetrate into the depressions defined at the ends of the coreless roll in the manner described above. It is contemplated that the plungers 52 may be molded, formed, set, welded or otherwise constructed as an integral part of the arms 48 and 52 in v to be discrete units mounted on the arms.

It is also contemplated that only one of the braces needs to be configured so that it is elastic to achieve a satisfactory operation of the present invention (eg, to load the jet). Desirably, both arms 48 and 50 will be elastic.

Referring now to Figures 4 and 5, there is shown another embodiment of the jets that can be used in the assortment system of the present invention. L Figures 4 and 5 illustrate an example jet 100 for dispensing coreless roll 12 of product. The spout 100 includes frame 102 which is essentially a mounting plate. The frame 102 has the mounting holes 104 defined in a rear part thereof for mounting the jet 100 to a stationary surface such as a wall. The spout 1 further includes a rollless locking mechanism 106 which is designed as a first arm 108 and a second arm 110. A pair of hinges or pivots 112 connect first arm 108 and the second arm 110 to the frame 104.

A pair of plungers 114 mounted on the respective arms 108 and 110 are constructed and arranged to penetrate the depressions defined at the ends of the coreless paper in the manner described above. It is contemplated that the plungers 114 may be molded, formed, set, welded or otherwise constructed as an integral part of the arms 108 and 110 instead of being discrete units mounted on the arms.

It is contemplated that only one of the arms 108 and 1 requires that it be configured so that a loading position can be opened and closed to a discharge position to achieve a satisfactory operation of the present invention (eg, to load the dispenser). . Desirably, both arms 108 and 110 will be configured so that they function as a hinge or pivot.

In other embodiments, the assortments may be included with a closure means for retaining the arms 1 and 110 in a dispensing position. The closing means can be a cam, a lever, a ratchet, a bolt or the like. The closure means may be activator by a key or a pern. Such fastening means will be desirable for the dispensers used in environments where the pillage of the product may be encountered. The plunger closure means will discourage discharge of the coreless roll by making the plunger difficult to push out of the depressions defined at the end of the coreless roll product.

In some embodiments of the assorted system the jets may include plungers which may be retractable Desirably, this is achieved by the provision of retractable plunger elements on the interior surfaces of the jet arms. Each element may be configured essentially in accordance with the construction shown in Figure 6. As an example and with reference to Figure 6, the element may include a box 212 defining a central cavity 214 and an opening 216 and an end 218 of the central cavity 214. The cage can be an integral part of the respective arms 20, 22 and 24 of the securing mechanism shown in Figure 1 or it can be a discrete unit that is attached to one of the arms. Each element includes a retractable piston 2 having a distal end 222, a central axis 224, and a ba 226. Each element includes an elastic means 228 communicating with the plunger 220.

The elements of the securing mechanism may optionally include fastening means 230 as shown in Figure 6. The fastening means may be used if the box is constructed as a discrete unit and not integral with the arms of the securing mechanism (example. , if the box is not molded, welded, constructed, etc., as part of the arms of the assurance mechanism).

For example, the retractor plunger elements can be constructed to include a backing plate that can be attached to the box to hold the elastic means contained within the element and to allow convenient positioning of the plunger in the central cavity of the drawer. Generally speaking, the retractable piston is configured so that the base and a first part of the central axis are retained in the box and the distal end and the second central axis part extend through the opening and one end the central cavity so that the plunger is adapted to penetrate a mounting hole defined at one end of the coreless roll product. The plunger may be configured to be essentially fixed or unable to rotate about an axis. In such a case, it is desirable that the plunger is constructed of materials provided with low friction levels to allow the coreless roll to rotate freely. Alternatively, the plunger may be configured so that it can rotate freely. It is contemplated that the plunger may be configured to be capable of rotating with the core roll during assortment.

The retractable piston may further include a retaining means for preventing the retractable piston from passing completely through the opening at one end of the central cavity. Generally speaking, the base of the plunger may serve as the means of retention. This can be achieved by constructing the plunger so that the width of its base is greater than the width of the opening at the end of the central cavity. This difference in physical size prevents the plunger from completely passing through the opening. However, it is contemplated that many other types of retaining means may be used. Examples may include, but are not limited to, flanges, lips, bolts, rings, wedges, clips, posts, chains, or structures similar devices.

The resilient means is configured to provide or apply a force against the plunger so that the plunger is adapted to retract within the central cavity when a greater opposing force is applied against its distal end during loading and extends when s Remove the major opposition force. The elastic means and communication with the plunger can be a springa clip, a sponge, an elastomeric material or the like which can be compressed, rolled or pulled so that the embolus can be retracted and which exert a force while they are compressed, rolled or pulled so that the embolus can be extended.

The base of the plunger may be configured to define an opening in a cavity inside the plunger. The elastic means may protrude into the cavity in the interior of the plunger. For example, if the spring means is a spring, the spring may protrude into the plunger base.

The spout system of the present invention uses a coreless roll wherein the depth and / or the dimensions of the coreless roll mounting hole exceed the ranges previously considered practical. Tale incorporations are useful for providing a coreless roll that is self-supporting when mounted on a rotating spout that can be made less subject to pillage, and that is more stable and provides a more robust and reliable assortment. These embodiments are particularly useful for the assortments described above.

This can be achieved by treating a roll if product core to create a mounting hole in at least one end so that the roll is self-supporting when mounted on a rotating spout. Referring now to Figure 7, there is shown a cross-sectional view of a coreless roll 710 with a mounting hole 800. The mounting orifice 800 has a width "W" and a depth "D". According to the invention, the depth "D" of the mounting hole 800 should be at least as large as the width "W of the mounting hole 800 and desirably larger than the width of the mounting hole. Figure 7, this relationship should establish an axially oriented surface generally parallel to the sides 702 of the mounting hole 800. In order to provide a stable, reliable sturdy assortment, as well as to make the coreless roll less susceptible to pillage, it is desirable that the mounting holes have a circular cross section having a diameter varying from about 0.25 inches to about 0.75 inches, and a depth of at least about 1 times the width Desirably, the depth may vary from From about 1 to about 2 times the width, S contemplates that depths of more than about 2 times as wide can be used.

This can be achieved by: (a) providing a roll of product that is wound through its diameter around a winding shaft in a cylinder having the first and second flat ends; (b) placing one face of an indentation tool essentially at the center of the rolled d axis of the roll in at least one end; (c) presses the face of the indented tool positioned on the roll end to generate a force essentially along the wound d axis sufficient to compress essentially a part of the coreless roll, leaving a compressed part of the roll for define a mounting hole having a depth and having sides generally perpendicular to the end of the roll, the sides being separated by a distance that is less than the depth of the hole, and (d) removing the indentation tool from the mounting hole without deforming essentially the sides of the mounting hole.

Generally speaking, it is desirable that the product roll, especially a roll of absorbent paper product, have a relatively high density level.

Desirably, the density or firmness of the roll will be greater than that of the rolls of like product wrapped around a conventional core. The density of the roll can be determined by conventional techniques. The roll firmness can be determined using a firmness tester such as, for example, a Kersha Roll Firmness Tester, Model 4Z289B (1) available from Kershaw Instrumentation, Inc., d Swedesboro, New Jersey. The tester can be equipped with a standard RDSA-1.40 spindle.

It is important that the indentation tool is applied in essentially the center of the roll and compresses the center of the roll with a force that is essentially aligned along the winding axis of the roll. It is desirable that the force be sufficient to generate an axial center compaction of the roll as shown in FIG. 8. In FIG. 8 a coreless roll 710 is shown with a tool 20 inserted in the roll. A central portion 804 around the winding ej 806 is axially compressed. Habland generally, satisfactory levels of axial compaction can be achieved with certain types of coreless rolls such as, for example, the high density rolls of the paper tissue when the pressing step compresses the central part of the roll by at least 5 percent, based on the width of the roll. For example, desirable levels of axial compaction can be achieved when the pressing step compresses a central part of the roll by at least 10 percent, based on the roll width.

If the compression forces are not completely axial, the central core will fail by arcing outwardly to the side as shown in FIG. 9. In said FIG. 9, a coreless roll 710 is shown with a tool 200 inserted in it. roll. A central portion 90 around the winding shaft 906 is shown bulging outwardly to one side. This fault can be described as radial bulging. Not only does such failure deform the indentation form, it can also create an indentation outside the center and can even deform the entire roll.

The indentation tool can be part of a rotating element mounted radially around and / or under the roll when passing it in a treatment station Referring now to Figure 10, there is shown a conveyor system 1000 which carries the roll 710 in a Directed as indicated by the arrows associated with it.

A first tool 200 is part of a rotary element 202 and a second tool 200 'is part d of a second rotary element 202'. Each element and tool are positioned essentially at the center of the rolled-up axis 806 of the coreless roll 710 and pressed into the flat surfaces 712 and 712 'of the roll by rotating each respective element in the direction of the arrows associated therewith. the elements 202 and 202 'are adjusted so that the tools 200 and 200' follow the center of the wound d-axis 906 of the coreless roll 710 as it is carried by the conveyor system 1000.

In such a configuration, it is desirable that the face d of the indentation tool have a radius of curvature. If the face of the tool 200 were flat or conical, the tool would have a point of contact that would not be parallel to the flat surface 712 and 712 'of the roll. This is illustrated in FIG. 11, which shows a flat face tool 300 to be rotated (in the direction of the arrow associated therewith) on the flat surface 712 of a coreless roll. The arrow marked "f" extending from the flat face is intended to represent generally the direction of the force applied by the face of the tool. Note that the force is not perpendicular to the roll car at all times. This condition is taught to result in the failure described as bulky radial.

Referring now to Figure 12, a radially facing tool 302 is shown rotating this on the flat surface 712 of the coreless roll. The arrow marked "f" extends from the flat face and is intended to generally represent the direction of the force applied by the face of the tool. Note that the force is shown as generally perpendicular to the face of the roll at all times. This condition is generally thought to produce the desired axial compaction of the center of the roll and avoids the described failure as the radial bulge.

The profile of the indentation tool behind the contact head or face may be configured to avoid contact with the sides of the mounting hole. For example, the face of the indentation tool may be larger in a cross section or wider than the part of the tool (eg, the rod or shaft) behind the face. This is generally illustrated in Figures 13 and 14. Fig. 13 shows a tool 400 with a radial face 402 and a straight stem 404 when the tool contacts the flat surface 712 of the roll 710 while the tool 400 rotates in the direction of the arrow associated with it. see in Figure 13, an edge of the shaft 404 very po above the face 402 makes contact with the roll. This is most likely to have been found when the orifice depth is equal to or greater than the width as specified in the dispensing system of the present invention. The contact of the spindle 404 with the flat surface of the roll typically deforms the side of the mounting hole so that the roll may be difficult to mount in a rotating spout and / or produce bulging or deformation of the roll.

Figure 14 is an illustration of an example tool configuration which avoids this problem. A tool 410 with a radial face 412 and a rod or narrow shaft 414 makes contact with the planar surface 712 of the roll 710 while the tool 410 rotates in the direction of the arrow associated therewith. As can be seen in Figure 14, the edge of the shaft 414 well above the car 412 avoids contact with the roll. This configuration allows satisfactory formation of a mounting hole where the depth of the hole is equal to or greater than the width as specified in the present invention.

The pressing step can create sufficient axial compression to generate the corrugations generally around the winding axis of the roll on at least a part of the essentially permanently compressed part of the roll. This is illustrated in Figure 15A which shows core 500 of an essentially finished roll exhibiting the results of axial compaction in the form of corrugation 502 generally on the entire compressed part of the roll. Upon exhaustion of the roll, corrugations 502 have a tendency to recover or expand the core 500 by a small amount in the direction shown by the arrows associated with it. This phenomenon is an advantageous feature of an aspect of an incorporation of the system and helps keep the roll essentially finished by preventing it from falling off. a pump If the spout is of the type that has spring loaded plungers, axial compaction helps prevent the essentially finished core from arching to be unsuitable for an additional supply. Figure 15B is an illustration which shows core 500 of an essentially finished roll exhibiting the results of axial compaction in the form of corrugations 502 generally on only the small sections of the compressed part of the roll. Generally speaking, the advantages of axial compaction may still be present even when the corrugations are present only on the small sections of the compressed part of the roll.

Figure 16 is an illustration of a core 60 of an essentially finished roll lacking any significant axial compaction that could appear in the form of corrugations on the compressed part of the roll. As the roll is exhausted, the non-compacted core 600 can be bent when it is pressurized by the pistons loaded with a spring in a rotating jet.

Desirably the spout system uses a product-free roll that is self-supporting in a rotating assortment and is made as described generally above. The roll includes a rolled fabric of product that is wound through its diameter around a winding shaft in a cylinder having the first and second flat ends. At least one flat end defines a mounting hole and essentially the center of the winding shaft of the core roll. The mounting hole has a depth and has the generally perpendicular sides at the end of the roll as shown in Figure 7. The sides are separated by a distance that is less than the depth of the square hole that the mounting hole is adapted to. to receive an embolus from a rotating jet.

The depth of the mounting hole can be at least about 5 percent of the width of the coreless roll. For example, the depth of the mounting hole may be at least about 10 percent of the width of the coreless roll. Generally speaking, it is desirable that the depth of the mounting hole runs from about 1 to about 2 times the width of the hole Desirably, each flat end of the coreless roll defines or mounting hole in essentially the center of the rolled-up shaft. of the roll and at least one and desirably each mounting hole has a depth and has a side generally perpendicular to the end of the roll, the sides being separated by a distance that is less than the depth of the hole.

The hole or mounting holes may have a generally circular and transverse section. The mounting hole can also have a polygonal transverse section. The cross section can be square triangular, diamond, semicircular, "X", "Y", "T" or similar. It is desirable that the mounting hole have a cross sectional width of at least one centimeter. If the mounting hole has a circular cross-section, it is desirable that the diameter be at least 1 centimeter. It is contemplated that different cross sections and / or different diameters and / or different depths of mounting holes may be used.

In an embodiment of the invention, the core roll used in the spout system may include a compressed part essentially permanently in essentially the center of the winding axis of the roll and a non-compressed part of the flat end defining the mounting hole. A section of the compressed part of the roll may also include the corrugations generally around the roll winding axis as shown in Figures 15A and 15B. These corrugations are generally visible when the roll is essentially depleted and the compressed part essentially remains. In one aspect of the invention, the substantially permanent compressed portion of the roll is partially decompressed as the roll is essentially finished as described above. For example, the compressed part of the roll may jump back slightly or exhibit some elasticity and still be essentially permanently compressed. A light return spring or elasticity may be used to provide a force against a plunger of a rotating assortment such as, for example, of the type shown in Figs. 1-6 to keep the roll in place and prevent overdrawing.

It should be understood, however, that while many features and advantages of the present invention have been established in the foregoing description, along with details of the structure and function of the invention, the description is only illustrative, and changes can be made in the detail, especially in matters of form, size and arrangement of part within the principles of the invention to the full extent indicated by the generally broad meaning of the terms in which the appended claims are expressed.

Claims (43)

R E I V I N D I C A C I O N S

1. A system for supplying rolls without core product, the system comprises: A rotating jet including a frame, one mounting means and at least one pair of cooperating pistons each piston includes: a base, the base being fixed to the frame a distant end, the far end has a radius of curvature; Y a central axis, the central axis connects the base and the distal end and provides a sufficient length so that the plunger has a length of at least t large as its dimension of its width so that the plunger is adapted to penetrate a Mounting hole defined at the end of a roll product without a core, At least one roll of coreless product which is self-supporting in the rotating spout, the roll comprises: a woven product that is wound essentially through its diameter around a winding shaft in a cylinder having the first and second flat ends; Y at least one flat end defining or mounting hole in essentially the center of the rolled-up d axis of the coreless roll, the mounting hole has a depth and has sides generally perpendicular to the end of the roll, the sides being separated by a distance that e smaller than the depth of the hole, wherein the mounting hole of the roll core is adapted to receive a plunger from a rotary assortment wherein the radial displacement of the roll without core with respect to said frame is avoided during use.

2. The system as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that the coreless roll is wound essentially through its diameter to define or mounting hole comprising a central opening extending entirely through the roll along the longitu of the central axis.

3. The system as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that the coreless roll is completely wound through its diameter.

4. The system as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that the coreless coil securing means further comprises a pair of opposite arms which are connected to the frame, and a piston is mounted on an inner lad of each arm including: a base, the base with the frame fixed; a distant end, the far end has a radius of curvature; Y a central axis, the central axis connects the base and the distal end and provides a sufficient length so that the plunger has at least a length as large as its width dimension so that the plunger is adapted to penetrate an orifice. assembly defined at one end of the coreless roll product, whereby the radial displacement of the coreless roll with respect to said frame is avoided during use.

5. The system as claimed in clause 4, further characterized in that it comprises pressing means for elastically pressing at least one of the arms opposite to the coreless roll.

6. The system as claimed in clause 5, characterized in that the pressing means comprise at least one of the opposite arms constructed of an elastic material, and said at least one arm is configured to be slightly displaced when the roll No core is insured inside the spout.

7. The system as claimed in clause 4, characterized in that the pair of opposing arms are adapted to pivot apart from one another to define a loading position and pivot towards each other to define an assortment position.

8. The system as claimed in clause 4, further characterized in that it comprises fixing means for fixing the opposite arms in the dispensing position

9. The system as claimed in clause 8, characterized in that the fixing means comprise a cover that surrounds the opposite arms.

10. The system as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that the plunger has a transverse section and the coreless mounting hole has a circular cross section.

11. The system as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that the piston has a polygonal cross section and the mounting hole of the roll if core has a polygonal cross section.

12. The system as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that the plunger has a cross-sectional diameter of at least 1 centimeter and the mounting hole of the coreless roll has a cross-sectional diameter of slightly less than the diameter of the plunger.

13. The system as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that the distal end of the plunger defines a hemisphere.

14. The system as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that the distal end of the plunger extends from its base by a distance that is from about 1.0 to about 2.0 times the width of the plunger.

15. The system as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that at least one of the pistons is retractable.

16. The system as claimed in clause 3, characterized in that the depth of the mounting hole is at least about 5 percent of the width of the coreless roll.

17. The system as claimed in clause 3, characterized in that the depth of the mounting hole is at least about 10 percent of the width of the coreless roll.

18. The system as claimed in clause 3, characterized in that each flat end defines or mounting hole in essentially the center of the coiled axis d of the coreless roll, at least one mounting hole has a depth and has generally perpendicular sides at the end of the roll, the sides being separated by a distance that is less than the depth of the hole

19. The system as claimed in clause 3, characterized in that the coreless roll includes a part essentially permanently and essentially compressed in the center of the winding axis of the roll and a non-compressed part in a flat end defining the hole in the roll. mounting.

20. The system as claimed in clause 19, characterized in that at least a part of the compressed part of the core includes corrugations generally around the winding axis of the roll.

21. The system as claimed in clause 19, characterized in that the essentially permanently compressed part of the roll is partially decompressed to essentially terminate the roll.

22. The system as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that the roll of product without core is a product of absorbent paper.

23. The system as claimed in clause 22, characterized in that the absorbent paper product is selected from paper towels, paper tissue, paper cleaning cloth and the like.

24. The system as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that the product roll without core is a non-woven fabric.

25. The system as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that the coreless roll of the product is a composite material.

26. A system for supplying rolls without core product, the system comprises: a rotating jet including a frame mounting means to allow the frame to be mounted on a stationary surface such as a wall; Y coreless roll securing means for securing a coreless roll product to rotate within the frame, the coreless roll securing means comprises at least one element including: a box defining a central cavity and an opening at one end of the central cavity; a retractable piston having a distal end, a central axis, and a base, the retractable piston is configured so that the base and a first part of the central part are retained in the box and the distal end and the second part of the central axis it extends through the opening at the end of the central cavity so that the plunger is adapted to penetrate a defined depression in an end of the coreless roll product; Y elastic means in communication with the plunger, the elastic means are configured to apply a force against the plunger so that the plunger is adapted to retract into the central cavity when a greater opposing force is applied against its distal end; the load and extends when the opposing force is removed and removed, and At least one roll with no product core which is self-supporting in the rotating spout, the roll comprises: a rolled fabric of product which is wound essentially through its diameter around its winding shaft into a cylinder having the first and second flat ends; Y at least one flat end defining or mounting hole in essentially the center of the wound d axis of the coreless roll, the mounting hole has a depth and has the sides generally perpendicular to the end of the roll, the sides being separated by a distance which is less than the depth of the hole, wherein the mounting hole of the core roll is adapted to receive a retractable plunger from a rotating spout and wherein the radial displacement of the coreless roll with respect to said frame is avoided during use

27. The system as claimed in clause 26, characterized in that the coreless roll is wound essentially through its diameter to define or mounting hole comprising a central opening extending completely through the roll along the length of the roll. length of the central axis.

28. The system as claimed in clause 26, characterized in that the coreless roll is completely wound through its diameter.

29. The system as claimed in clause 26, characterized in that the coreless roll securing means further comprises a pair of opposite arms which are connected to the frame, and mounted on an inner side of each arm is an element including: a box defining a central cavity and an opening at one end of the central cavity; a retractable piston having a distal end, a central axis, and a base, the retractable piston is configured such that the base and the first central shaft part e retained in the case and the distal end and the second part of the central axis it extends through the opening at one end of the central cavity so that the plunger is adapted to penetrate a defined depression at one end of a coreless roll product; elastic means in communication with the plunger the elastic means are configured to apply a force against the plunger so that the plunger is adapted to retract in the central cavity when a greater opposing force is applied against its distal end during the loading. and extend when the major opposition force is removed.

30. The system as claimed in clause 29, further characterized in that it comprises pressure means for elastically pressing at least one of the arms opposite the coreless roll.

31. The system as claimed in clause 29, characterized in that said pressing means comprises at least one of the opposite arms constructed of an elastic material, and said at least one arm is configured to be moved slightly when a roll No core is insured inside the spout.

32. The system as claimed in clause 29, characterized in that the piston defines an aperture for a cavity inside the piston.

33. The system as claimed in clause 29, characterized in that the elastic means and communication with the plunger are a spring.

34. The system as claimed in clause 33, characterized in that the elastic means protrudes into the cavity inside the plunger.

35. The system as claimed in clause 26, characterized in that the coreless core securing means further comprises means for retracting and communicating with the retractable piston to retract the piston e against the force applied by the elastic means.

36. The system as claimed in clause 26, characterized in that the coreless roll securing means further comprises closing means for holding the retractable piston in an extended position.

37. The system as claimed in clause 26, characterized in that the retractable piston further includes retaining means for preventing the retractable piston from passing fully through the opening at one end of the central cavity.

38. The system as claimed in clause 28, characterized in that the depth of the mounting hole is at least about 5 percent of the width of the coreless roll.

39. The system as claimed in clause 28, characterized in that the depth of the mounting hole is at least about 10 percent of the width of the coreless roll.

40. The system as claimed in clause 28, characterized in that each flat end defines or mounting hole in essentially the center of the coiled shaft d of the coreless roll, at least one mounting hole has a depth and has generally perpendicular sides at the end of the roll, the sides being separated by a distance that is less than the depth of the hole.

41. The system as claimed in clause 28, characterized in that the roll includes a part essentially permanently compressed essentially at the center of the winding axis of the roll and a non-compressed part at a flat end defining the mounting hole.

42. The system as claimed in clause 41, characterized in that at least a portion of the compressed part of the roll generally includes corrugation around the winding axis of the roll.

43. The system as claimed in clause 42, characterized in that the part permanently compressed of the roll is partially decompressed when the roll is essentially finished.