US20130248645A1 - Paper Towel Dispenser with Disinfecting Contact Surface - Google Patents

Paper Towel Dispenser with Disinfecting Contact Surface Download PDF

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Publication number
US20130248645A1
US20130248645A1 US13/802,111 US201313802111A US2013248645A1 US 20130248645 A1 US20130248645 A1 US 20130248645A1 US 201313802111 A US201313802111 A US 201313802111A US 2013248645 A1 US2013248645 A1 US 2013248645A1
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United States
Prior art keywords
assembly
mount
reservoir
retaining plate
paper towel
Prior art date
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Abandoned
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US13/802,111
Inventor
Edward J. Miller
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Individual
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Individual
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Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Priority to US13/802,111 priority Critical patent/US20130248645A1/en
Publication of US20130248645A1 publication Critical patent/US20130248645A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47K—SANITARY EQUIPMENT NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; TOILET ACCESSORIES
    • A47K10/00—Body-drying implements; Toilet paper; Holders therefor
    • A47K10/16—Paper towels; Toilet paper; Holders therefor
    • A47K10/18—Holders; Receptacles
    • A47K10/22—Holders; Receptacles for rolled-up webs
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47K—SANITARY EQUIPMENT NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; TOILET ACCESSORIES
    • A47K10/00—Body-drying implements; Toilet paper; Holders therefor
    • A47K10/24—Towel dispensers, e.g. for piled-up or folded textile towels; Toilet-paper dispensers; Dispensers for piled-up or folded textile towels provided or not with devices for taking-up soiled towels as far as not mechanically driven
    • A47K10/32—Dispensers for paper towels or toilet-paper
    • A47K10/34—Dispensers for paper towels or toilet-paper dispensing from a web, e.g. with mechanical dispensing means
    • A47K10/38—Dispensers for paper towels or toilet-paper dispensing from a web, e.g. with mechanical dispensing means the web being rolled up with or without tearing edge
    • A47K10/3836—Dispensers for paper towels or toilet-paper dispensing from a web, e.g. with mechanical dispensing means the web being rolled up with or without tearing edge with roll spindles which are supported at one side
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47K—SANITARY EQUIPMENT NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; TOILET ACCESSORIES
    • A47K10/00—Body-drying implements; Toilet paper; Holders therefor
    • A47K10/24—Towel dispensers, e.g. for piled-up or folded textile towels; Toilet-paper dispensers; Dispensers for piled-up or folded textile towels provided or not with devices for taking-up soiled towels as far as not mechanically driven
    • A47K10/32—Dispensers for paper towels or toilet-paper
    • A47K10/34—Dispensers for paper towels or toilet-paper dispensing from a web, e.g. with mechanical dispensing means
    • A47K10/38—Dispensers for paper towels or toilet-paper dispensing from a web, e.g. with mechanical dispensing means the web being rolled up with or without tearing edge
    • A47K2010/389—Accessories or combination with other devices, e.g. music boxes, clocks, heating devices or shelfs

Definitions

  • the present invention generally relates to a paper towel dispenser, more specifically to a paper towel dispenser that utilizes an integrated disinfecting contact surface that reduces the transmission of communicable disease due to indirect physical contact routes of transmission.
  • paper towel dispensers are typically provided with an apparatus that holds and allows the distribution of paper towels to individual wishing to dry their hands.
  • paper towel dispensers are provided as either an automated dispenser or a hand operated dispenser. The difference between two types of dispenser is that automated dispensers do not require contact with the apparatus to dispense a paper towel while hand operated dispensers require an engagement with the users hand to dispense a paper towel.
  • automated paper towel dispensers are favored for reducing the transmission of communicable diseases, it should be noted that more model are complicated and expensive due to being designed for industrial or commercial use. This disadvantage leaves users in domestic environments relying on hand operated dispensers that increases the risk of transmitting communicable diseases.
  • the present invention accomplishes through the use of an upright paper towel dispenser that incorporates an absorbent pad that is in fluid communication with a reservoir containing an antimicrobial solution. A user wishing to acquire a paper towel would engage the absorbent pad contain the antimicrobial solution. The antimicrobial solution would eliminate the majority to communicable diseases that would normally reside at the same contact point.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view displaying the component and sub component distribution of the paper towel dispenser with disinfecting surface as per the current embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective view displaying the reservoir assembly and the retaining plate assembly detached from the pedestal assembly and the stationary base assembly as per the current embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 3 is a perspective view displaying the current embodiment of the present invention with a paper towel roll mounted into position.
  • FIG. 4 is an expanded view displaying the component and subcomponent distribution of the stationary base, the pedestal assembly, the reservoir assembly, the platform assembly, and the retaining cap assembly as per the current embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view displaying the internal component and subcomponent distribution of the stationary base, the pedestal assembly, the reservoir assembly, the platform assembly, and the retaining cap assembly as per the current embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 6 is an enhanced view displaying the connection between the reservoir assembly and the retaining plate assembly as per the current embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 7 is an enhanced view displaying the connection between the reservoir assembly and the pedestal assembly as per the current embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 8 is a front perspective view displaying the reservoir base coupler positioned at its maximum height per the current embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 9 is a front perspective view displaying the reservoir base coupler positioned at its minimum height per the current embodiment of the present invention.
  • the present invention is a paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface that prevents the transmission of communicable diseases through indirect physical contact routes by integrating an absorbent pad 38 in fluid communication with a reservoir filled with an antimicrobial solution 24 .
  • the present invention comprises a stationary base 1 , a pedestal assembly 6 , a reservoir assembly 18 , a retaining plate assembly 32 , and a platform assembly 39 .
  • the stationary base 1 , the pedestal assembly 6 , the reservoir assembly 18 , and the retaining plate 36 are provided with a collinear arrangement, wherein an axilary line drawn through the present invention would intersect the center of each of the said components.
  • the stationary base 1 is the lower structure that ensures that the present invention is able to rest on top of a flat surface.
  • the stationary base 1 is the lower point of contact for the paper towel roll 44 .
  • the stationary base 1 is positioned below the pedestal assembly 6 opposite the positioning of the reservoir assembly 18 .
  • the pedestal assembly 6 is the centrally positioned structural element that is found between the stationary base 1 and the reservoir assembly 18 .
  • the pedestal assembly 6 is the portion of the present invention that traverses through the paper towel tube.
  • the pedestal assembly 6 is detachably coupled proximal to the reservoir assembly 18 .
  • the reservoir assembly 18 is the functional component that contains the disinfecting agent utilized by the present invention.
  • the reservoir assembly 18 is found positioned between the pedestal assembly 6 and the retaining plate 36 .
  • the retaining plate assembly 32 is the upper portion of the present invention that contacts the upper portion of the paper towel roll 44 .
  • the retaining plate assembly 32 is the component that contains the disinfecting surface.
  • the platform assembly 39 is a raised shelf that allows the user to place secondary items, such as antibacterial soap pumps and potential hands free options for interacting with the current embodiment of the present invention without, affecting its operability.
  • the platform assembly 39 is coupled the stationary base 1 , wherein the main portion of the platform assembly 39 is found positioned above the stationary base 1 .
  • the platform assembly 39 is shaped in a particular manner that allows it to partially encircle the centrally positioned collinear alignment between the pedestal assembly 6 , the reservoir assembly 18 , and the retaining plate assembly 35 , wherein the positioning of the platform assembly 39 relative to the collinear alignment is understood as being a peripheral positioning.
  • the stationary base 1 is the lower structural element that provides the present invention with a means of resting on top of a flat surface.
  • the stationary base 1 comprises at least three ground contacting elements 2 , a bearing surface 3 , a pedestal assembly mount 4 , a plurality of platform assembly mounts 5 .
  • the at least three ground contacting elements 2 are non marring feet that are distributed on the lower portion of the stationary base 1 in a manner that is optimally suited for stabilizing the stationary base 1 on top of a flat surface.
  • the bearing surface 3 is the upper portion of the stationary base 1 that contacts the paper towel roll 44 .
  • the bearing surface 3 is provided as a smooth planar surface that enables the rotation of the paper towel roll 44 when mounted to the present invention.
  • the pedestal assembly mount 4 is provided as the coupling point for connecting the pedestal assembly 6 to the stationary base 1 .
  • the pedestal assembly mount 4 is positioned centrally to the stationary base 1 .
  • the pedestal assembly mount 4 is provided as an emplacement that utilizes a plurality of means to secure the pedestal assembly 6 to the stationary base 1 .
  • the plurality of platform assembly mounts 5 are provided as the means to couple the platform assembly 39 to the stationary base 1 .
  • the plurality of platform assembly mounts 5 are distributed on the bearing surface 3 , wherein the each of the plurality of platform assembly mounts 5 are found traversing into the stationary base 1 through the bearing surface 3 .
  • the pedestal assembly 6 is a centrally positioned support structure that elevates the reservoir assembly 18 and the retaining plate assembly 32 .
  • the pedestal assembly 6 is found positioned within the paper towel roll 44 .
  • the pedestal assembly 6 is positioned between the stationary base 1 and the reservoir assembly 18 .
  • the pedestal assembly 6 is coupled to the stationary base 1 by way of the pedestal assembly mount 4 .
  • the pedestal assembly 6 comprises a stationary base mount 7 , a lower stabilizing element 8 , an elongated cylinder body 9 , and a reservoir assembly mount 10 .
  • the stationary base mount 7 is provided as the complementary component to the pedestal assembly mount 4 .
  • the stationary base mount 7 is coupled to the pedestal assembly mount 4 resulting in a secure engagement between the pedestal assembly 6 and the stationary base 1 .
  • the stationary base mount 7 is terminally positioned to the elongated cylinder body 9 of the pedestal assembly 6 , on the extremity that is closest to the stationary base 1 .
  • the elongated cylinder body 9 is structural form of the pedestal assembly 6 .
  • the elongated cylinder body 9 is provided with two terminal ends which correspond to the stationary base mount 7 and the reservoir assembly mount 10 , respectively.
  • the elongated cylinder body 9 is provided with a normal positioning to the bearing surface 3 , wherein the normal positioning corresponds to a geometric understanding of a rigid body being centrally positioned and perpendicular to another body or plane.
  • the lower stabilizing element 8 Positioned adjacent to bearing surface 3 and the elongated cylinder body 9 is the lower stabilizing element 8 .
  • the lower stabilizing element 8 is provided as a ring structure that prevent the horizontal movement of the lower portion of the paper towel roll 44 when dispensing paper towels.
  • the lower stabilizing element 8 is positioned concentric to the elongated cylinder body 9 with a proximal positioning to the stationary base mount 7 .
  • the lower stabilizing element 8 is found coincident to the bearing surface 3 resulting in an opposite relational positioning to the at least three ground contacting elements 2 .
  • the reservoir assembly mount 10 is provided as the portion of the pedestal assembly 6 that is detachably coupled to the reservoir assembly 18 .
  • the reservoir assembly mount 10 comprises a height adjustment mechanism 11 and a reservoir base coupler 15 .
  • the height adjustment mechanism 11 is provided as a means to vary distance between the stationary base 1 and the retaining plate assembly 32 to accommodate differently sized paper towel roll 44 .
  • the reservoir base coupler 15 is provided in combination with the height adjustment mechanism 11 in order to enable an adjustable distance for paper towel rolls 44 while additionally permitting a detachable engagement between reservoir assembly 18 and the reservoir assembly mount 10 .
  • the height adjustment mechanism 11 comprises a shaft 12 , a slot 13 , and a adjustable fastener 14 .
  • the shaft 12 is a vertically positioned channel that traverse into the elongated cylinder body 9 from the reservoir assembly mount 10 .
  • the shaft 12 is found positioned concentrically to the elongated cylinder body 9 .
  • the shaft 12 sleeves the reservoir base coupler 15 while permitting and extending and retracting relationship as a mean of varying the distance between the reservoir assembly mount 10 and the reservoir assembly 18 .
  • the slot 13 is provided as a lateral opening that traverses through the elongated cylinder body 9 and the shaft 12 .
  • the slot 13 functions as the mounting point for the adjustable fastener 14 .
  • the adjustable fastener 14 is provided as a means to control the depth of the reservoir base coupler 15 within the shaft 12 .
  • the adjustable fastener 14 is found engaged to slot 14 and the shaft 12 .
  • the reservoir base coupler 15 comprises a first magnetic coupler 16 and an adjuster mount 17 .
  • the first magnetic coupler 16 is terminally positioned opposite the adjuster mount 17 along the length of the reservoir base coupler 15 .
  • the positioning of first magnetic coupler 16 and the adjuster mount 17 permits a collinear and polar distribution of the components, wherein the distribution can be understood as providing a cylindrical shaped body for the reservoir base coupler 15 .
  • the first magnetic coupler 16 is provided a complimentary component that enables a detachable engagement between the reservoir base coupler 15 and the reservoir assembly 18 .
  • the adjuster mount 17 is provided as the portion of the reservoir base coupler 15 that traverses into the shaft 12 .
  • the adjuster mount 17 engages the adjustable fastener 14 within the shaft 12 .
  • the reservoir base coupler 15 will traverse into the shaft 12 at different depths. This relationship enables the interaction between the adjustable fastener 14 and the adjuster mount 17 , relative to the slot 13 , to function as the deciding factor for the height adjustment of the reservoir base coupler 15 .
  • the reservoir assembly 18 is provided as the component assembly that contains an antimicrobial solution 24 for use in disinfecting the contacting surfaces of the retaining plate assembly 32 .
  • the reservoir assembly 18 is found positioned between pedestal assembly 6 and the retaining plate assembly 32 .
  • the reservoir assembly 18 is detachably coupled to the pedestal assembly 6 by way of the reservoir assembly mount 10 .
  • the reservoir assembly 18 is detachably coupled to the retaining plate assembly 32 , wherein the aforementioned coupling is found positioned opposite to the coupling between the reservoir assembly 18 and the pedestal assembly 6 .
  • reservoir assembly 18 comprises a reservoir base 19 , a hollow body 22 , a retaining plate assembly mount 25 , and at least one wick 28 .
  • the reservoir base 19 is the lower portion of the reservoir assembly 18 that is detachably coupled to the reservoir assembly mount 10 .
  • the reservoir base 19 functions primarily as a structural element but contains additional components that enable the detachable engagement between the reservoir base 19 and the reservoir assembly mount 10 .
  • the reservoir base 19 comprise a pedestal assembly coupler 20 .
  • the pedestal assembly coupler 20 functions as the mounting point for the reservoir base coupler 15 .
  • the pedestal assembly coupler 20 comprise a second magnetic coupler 21 .
  • the second magnetic coupler 21 is the integrated component that is complementary to the first magnetic coupler 16 of the reservoir base coupler 15 .
  • the first magnetic coupler 16 and the second magnetic coupler 21 allow the reservoir base coupler 15 to be magnetically retained against the pedestal assembly coupler 20 . By being magnetically retained, the first magnetic coupler 16 and the corresponding second magnetic coupler 21 allow for a detachable engagement between the reservoir assembly 18 and the pedestal assembly 6 .
  • Positioned opposite to the pedestal assembly coupler 20 is the hollow body 22 .
  • the hollow body 22 is positioned between the reservoir base 19 and the retaining plate assembly mount 25 .
  • the hollow body 22 is provided as portion of the reservoir assembly 18 that functions as the containment vessel for the antimicrobial solution 24 . To allow this function the hollow body 22 is provided with an interior chamber 23 .
  • the interior chamber 23 is positioned within the hollow body 22 of the reservoir assembly 18 .
  • the Interior chamber 23 contains the antimicrobial solution 24 that serves to disinfect the contact surfaces of the present invention.
  • the retaining plate assembly mount 25 is the upper portion of the reservoir assembly 18 that engages the retaining plate assembly 32 .
  • the retaining plate assembly mount 25 is found positioned above the hollow body 22 , opposite to the reservoir base 19 .
  • the retaining plate assembly mount 25 comprises a first threaded mount 26 and at least one channel opening 27 .
  • the first threaded mount 26 is provided as the component that allows a detachable engagement between the retaining plate assembly mount 25 and the retaining plate assembly 32 .
  • the at least one channel opening 27 is provided as the containing channel that allows the movement of the antimicrobial solution 24 from within the interior chamber 23 to the contacting surface of the retaining plate 36 .
  • the at least one channel opening 27 is found traversing into the interior chamber 23 .
  • the at least one channel is provided specifically for the at least one wick 28 subsequently the at least one channel is traversed by the at least one wick 28 .
  • the at least one wick 28 functions as the component that allows the antimicrobial solution 24 to travel from the interior chamber 23 to retaining plate assembly 32 .
  • the at least one wick 28 accomplishes this through a capillary action provided by its material construction.
  • the at least one wick 28 comprises a first end 29 , a second end 30 , and a stopper 31 .
  • the first end 29 and the second end 30 are provided as the extremities of the at least one wick 28 .
  • the second end 30 is found positioned within the interior chamber 23 while the first end 29 and the stopper 31 are positioned adjacent to the retaining plate 36 mount.
  • the positioning of the first end 29 relative to the second end 30 is provided by the positioning of the stopper 31 which prevents the first end 29 from traversing the at least one channel.
  • the retaining plate assembly 32 is the upper portion of the present invention that contains the contacting surface but additionally functions as a means to retain the paper towel roll 44 to allow separation of a perforated sheet.
  • the retaining plate assembly 32 is found detachably coupled to the reservoir assembly 18 .
  • the retaining plate assembly 32 is found detachably coupled to the retaining plate assembly mount 25 .
  • the retaining plate assembly 32 comprises a retaining cap 33 , a retaining plate 36 , and an absorbent pad 38 .
  • the retaining cap 33 is as the means to secure the retaining plate 36 to the retaining plate 36 mount.
  • the retaining cap 33 additionally functions as a maniputable surface that allows the user to detachably couple the reservoir assembly 18 from the pedestal assembly 6 , providing the retaining plate assembly 32 is coupled to the reservoir assembly 18 .
  • he retaining cap 33 comprises a second threaded mount 34 and a knob 35 .
  • the second threaded mount 34 is the complementary component engagement to the first threaded mount 26 of the retaining plate assembly mount 25 .
  • the knob 35 is the portion of the retaining cap 33 that is positioned above the second threaded mount 34 .
  • the knob 35 is the most visible portion of the retaining cap 33 .
  • the knob 35 functions as a handle, wherein the user would grab the knob 35 to remove the reservoir assembly 18 and the retaining plate assembly 32 from the pedestal assembly 6 .
  • the knob 35 additionally functions as the handles that permit the user to attach and detach the retaining plate assembly 32 to the reservoir assembly 18 .
  • the retaining cap 33 is utilized as the means to retain the retaining plate 36 to the retaining plate assembly mount 25 , by way of the engagement between the first threaded mount 26 and the second threaded mount 34 .
  • the retaining plate 36 is provided as a barrier between the user and the paper towel roll 44 .
  • the retaining plate 36 is positioned around the retaining plate assembly mount 25 wherein the retaining plate assembly mount 25 is positioned concentrically to the retaining plate 36 .
  • the retaining plate 36 contains an absorbent pad mount 37 that holds the absorbent pad 38 .
  • the absorbent pad mount 37 is aligned with the at least one channel resulting in the first end 29 being positioned within the absorbent pad mount 37 .
  • the absorbent pad 38 is provided as a moisture retaining material that is positioned concentrically with the absorbent pad mount 37 .
  • the absorbent pad 38 is the disinfecting contact surface that utilizes the antimicrobial solution 24 transported through the at least one wick 28 as the means to disinfect the surface after user contact.
  • the absorbent pad 38 is provided in fluid communication with the at least one wick 28 , allowing the movement of the antimicrobial solution 24 from within the interior chamber 23 to the absorbent pad 38 .
  • the aforementioned engagement is permitted through the positioning and engagement between the first end 29 and the absorbent pad 38 within the absorbent pad mount 37 .
  • the platform assembly 39 is the raised shelf that is positioned above the stationary base 1 and functions as a non-interfering surface, where the user would be able to deposit or position a plurality of secondary items that include but are not limited to, soap dispensers, lotion dispensers, and possible mechanical systems that would allow for hand-free operation of the paper towel dispenser.
  • the platform assembly 39 is found positioned peripherally to the positioning of the collinear alignment that exists between the pedestal assembly 6 , the reservoir assembly 18 , and the retaining plate assembly 35 .
  • the platform assembly 39 comprises a plurality of support posts 40 , a plurality of platform fasteners 41 , a raised platform 42 , and at least one bounding obstruction 43 .
  • the plurality of support posts 40 are provided as vertically oriented columns that elevate the positioning of the raised platform 42 relative to the positioning of the stationary base 1 .
  • Each of the plurality of support posts 40 found coupled to each of the plurality of platform assembly mounts 5 , wherein the each support post 40 of the plurality of support posts 40 corresponds to each platform assembly mount 5 of the plurality of platform assembly mounts 5 .
  • the plurality of support posts 40 are positioned between stationary base 1 and the raised platform 42 .
  • the raised platform 42 is the elevated shelf that is positioned above the bearing surface 3 of the stationary base 1 .
  • the raised platform 42 provides the user with a non interfering surface for positioning secondary items.
  • the raised platform 42 is specifically shaped to prevent unwanted interactions with the operability of the paper towel dispenser.
  • the raised platform 42 accomplishes this by being peripherally positioned to the centralized portion of the present invention intended for the paper towel roll 44 , wherein the centralized portion additionally serves as the positioning of the collinear alignment between the pedestal assembly 6 , the reservoir assembly 18 , and the retaining plate assembly 35 .
  • the raised platform 42 is secured to the plurality of support posts 40 by way of the plurality of platform fasteners 41 .
  • Each of the plurality of platform fasteners 41 traverse into each of the plurality of support posts 40 , by traversing through the raised platform 42 on the side opposite the plurality of support posts 40 .
  • Positioned on top of the raised platform 42 is at least one bounding obstruction 43 .
  • the at least one bounding obstruction 43 is the peripherally positioned obstruction that is provided as a barrier for maintaining the secondary items that are positioned on top of the raised platform 42 in place.
  • the at least one bounding obstruction 43 is peripherally positioned on the raised platform opposite the plurality of support posts 40 .
  • the at least one bounding obstruction 43 provides a containing barrier but can additionally be configured as a mount for the secondary items.
  • the user would place a paper towel roll 44 or refill a used paper towel roll 44 to the paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface by detaching the retaining plate assembly 32 and the reservoir assembly 18 from pedestal assembly 6 .
  • the user would grab the knob 35 of the retaining cap 33 and pull in upward motion.
  • the force of the user pulling the knob 35 would translate through the retaining plate assembly 32 to the reservoir assembly 18 and the cause the magnetic engagement between the reservoir base coupler 15 and the pedestal assembly coupler 20 by way of the first magnetic coupler 16 and the second magnetic coupler 21 , respectively.
  • the detachable coupling is provided between the retaining plate 36 and the reservoir assembly 18 by way of the detachable engagement of the first threaded mount 26 to the second threaded mount 34 , the coupling is able to secure the two components sufficiently, allowing then to be detached from the pedestal assembly 6 as a combined component.
  • the detached components enable access to the pedestal assembly 6 and the stationary base 1 .
  • spent paper towel rolls 44 would be removed and replaced with new ones.
  • the new paper towel roll 44 would be sleeved over the pedestal assembly 6 until resting on the bearing surface 3 .
  • the inner portion of the paper towel roll 44 would be stabilized by the lower stabilizing element 8 which would keep the paper towel roll 44 concentric to the present invention.
  • the user would manipulate the present invention and reconnect the reservoir assembly 18 to the pedestal assembly 6 .
  • the lower portion of the retaining plate 36 would lightly rest on the upper portion of the new paper towel roll 44 while the first magnetic coupler 16 and the second magnetic coupler 21 reengaged in a detachable coupling.
  • the user prior to reattaching the reservoir assembly 18 to the pedestal assembly 6 , the user would compare the height of the paper towel roll 44 between the lower portion of the retaining plate 36 and the bearing surface 3 .
  • the user would utilize the height adjustment mechanism 11 .
  • the user would remove the adjustable fastener 14 from its engagement with the slot 13 and the adjuster mount 17 .
  • the user would then adjust the height of the reservoir base coupler 15 , realigning the adjuster mount 17 to another slot 13 .
  • the adjustable fastener 14 would then be placed in alignment with the repositioned adjuster mount 17 and the slot 13 .
  • the engagement of the adjustable fastener 14 and the adjuster mount 17 would secure the reservoir base coupler 15 to the appropriate height for connecting the reservoir assembly 18 and retaining plate assembly 32 to accommodate the new paper towel roll 44 .
  • the user would acquire a single paper towel from the paper towel roll 44 by utilizing the paper towel dispenser with disinfecting surface.
  • the user would initially wash their hands.
  • the user would then utilize their index finger and middle finger to form a “V” shape around the knob 35 .
  • the user would push their index finger and their middle finger on to the absorbent pad 38 .
  • the pressure placed on the absorbent pad 38 The user would then pull out a single paper towel or pull out a desired length causing the rotation of the paper towel roll 44 on top of the bearing surface 3 .
  • the user would then push down the retaining plate 36 by way of the absorbent pad 38 to retain the paper towel roll 44 from turning.
  • the user would then pull down on the corner of the single paper towel detaching it from the paper towel roll 44 .
  • the index finger and the middle finger that contacted the retaining plate assembly 32 through the absorbent pad 38 would be sanitized through the antimicrobial solution 24 found in the absorbent pad 38 .
  • the user would acquire a single paper towel roll 44 with significantly reduced risk of indirect physical contact transmission of germs.
  • the bearing surface 3 is provided as a smooth surface with a low friction coefficient to enable the rotation of the paper towel roll 44 during the dispensing process. While the bearing surface 3 is described with the aforementioned characteristic, a particular material construction is not explicitly specified. Even though the particular material construction is not explicitly specified it should be noted that the bearing surface 3 can be constructed of any material that enables the smooth rotation of a paper towel roll 44 when coincident with surface.
  • the pedestal assembly mount 4 and the stationary base mount 7 are coupled together in a non-specific engagement.
  • the pedestal assembly mount 4 and the stationary base mount 7 are described through a non specific engagement, the pedestal assembly mount 4 and the stationary base mount 7 are depicted as being coupled through the use of a threaded bolt and a threaded opening, respectively.
  • the attachment means in the current embodiment of the present invention is broadly described it should be understood that any mean utilized to couple the stationary base mount 7 to the pedestal assembly mount 4 could potentially be utilized as long as the engagement provides a normal positioning of the elongated cylinder body 9 .
  • the height adjustment mechanism 11 is described as being provided through the interactions of the shaft 12 , the slot 13 , and the detachable coupler with the adjuster mount 17 of the reservoir base coupler 15 . While the present invention describes the aforementioned components as being required for the variable height adjustment of the reservoir assembly 18 and the retaining plate assembly 32 , the particular engagement for the adjustable fastener 14 and the adjuster mount 17 are not explicitly specified. Although no explicit engagement is described it should be noted that a component arrangement that allows an analog of the reservoir base coupler 15 to be secured in place within the shaft 12 , through a component that traverses through the shaft 12 and to engage the reservoir base coupler 15 would constitute an obvious variation.
  • the engagement between the first magnetic coupler 16 and the second magnetic coupler 21 is described to an extent sufficient to understand a that a magnetic engagement exists. While the first magnetic coupler 16 and the second magnetic coupler 21 are not explicitly described as containing magnets, it should be understood that at least one magnetic component within the aforementioned engagement would be required. With the aforementioned, the first magnetic coupler 16 or the second magnetic coupler 21 could potentially be a non magnetic metallic plate as long as the former is a magnetic component.
  • the absorbent pad 38 is constructed from cellulose. While the current embodiment of the present invention utilizes an absorbent pad 38 constructed of cellulose, it should be noted that additional embodiments of the present invention can potentially construct the absorbent pad 38 of any material that does not hinder the function of the existing component construction
  • the antimicrobial solution 24 utilized to disinfect the surfaces of the retaining plate 36 is an alcohol. While the present invention does not explicitly described the concentration or the type of alcohol, the current embodiment of the present invention can utilizes at least 50% wt ethanol or isopropyl alcohol with no discernible difference in capillary transport through the at least one wick 28 . Although the current embodiment utilizes alcohol additional embodiment may potentially utilizes any antimicrobial solution 24 that is able to be transported through the at least one wick 28 from the interior chamber 23 .
  • the plurality of support posts 40 are mounted to the plurality of platform mounts through a non specific engagement. While the coupling between the plurality of support posts 40 and the plurality of platform mounts is not explicitly explained, it should be noted that the engagement could include a detachable or permanent engagement.
  • the non specific engagement allows the platform assembly 39 to be coupled to the stationary base 1 as a permanent component or as an accessory component that can be included depending on the wants of the user. It should be noted that the non specific engagement permits could potentially be provided by the coupling with an adhesive compound or a detachable engagement such as a magnetic coupling.
  • the reservoir assembly 18 can be provided with two additional hollow bodies that enable the distribution of antibacterial soap and a moisturizing solution.
  • the additional embodiment would allow for an individual or combined dispensing spout or separate means for distributing the antibacterial soap or moisturizing solution from within the interior chamber 23 of their hollow bodies.
  • the above mentioned embodiment describes an antibacterial soap and moisturizing solution dispensed from secondary and tertiary hollow bodies, that it should be understood that any solution that could potentially be utilized. This interpretation allows for the use of perfumes or other solutions to be incorporated into the construction of the additional embodiment.
  • the dispensing process described would be provided with an automated system that does not require direct human contact with the apparatus to acquire a single paper towel.
  • the aforementioned additional embodiment utilizes a pedestal assembly 6 , a reservoir assembly 18 , and an absorbent pad 38 but would not require the user to interact with the retaining plate 36 in order to dispense paper towels.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Apparatus For Disinfection Or Sterilisation (AREA)

Abstract

A paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface is an apparatus designed to reduce the transmission of communicable disease from indirect physical contact routes of transmission by providing a disinfecting surface that is most frequently engaged by users. The present invention accomplishes through the use of an upright paper towel dispenser that incorporates an absorbent pad in fluid communication with a reservoir containing an antimicrobial solution. The paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface is additionally able to adjust to variety of paper towel sizes through the incorporation of a height adjustment mechanism. The present invention comprises a stationary base, a pedestal assembly, a reservoir assembly, a retaining plate assembly, and a platform assembly. The reservoir would be filled with an antimicrobial solution capable of eliminating germs upon contact. The platform assembly would provide a non-interfering elevated shelf for storing a plurality of secondary items.

Description

  • The current application claims a priority to the U.S. Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 61/610,165 filed on Mar. 13, 2012.
    • FIELD OF THE INVENTION
  • The present invention generally relates to a paper towel dispenser, more specifically to a paper towel dispenser that utilizes an integrated disinfecting contact surface that reduces the transmission of communicable disease due to indirect physical contact routes of transmission.
    • BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  • It is well known that the transmission of communicable diseases is a serious problem for individuals with compromised immune systems. Individuals with compromised immune system are more susceptible to mild strains of infectious diseases. In a comprised immune system, these mild strains are able progress into potentially serious infections that can cause complications with existing medical conditions or cause serious illness that risks the life of the individual. In order to reduce the transmission of communicable diseases, several protocols have been developed that focus on the reduction of primary and secondary routes of transmissions. These protocols focus heavily on washing hands for the reduction of secondary and tertiary indirect contact routes of transmissions. While existing protocols focus on washing hands as a preventative means for reducing the transmission of communicable diseases, the existing protocols inadvertently create a highly trafficked contact point that can potentially spread diseases in the form of the paper towel dispenser.
  • Existing paper towel dispensers are typically provided with an apparatus that holds and allows the distribution of paper towels to individual wishing to dry their hands. Traditionally paper towel dispensers are provided as either an automated dispenser or a hand operated dispenser. The difference between two types of dispenser is that automated dispensers do not require contact with the apparatus to dispense a paper towel while hand operated dispensers require an engagement with the users hand to dispense a paper towel. While automated paper towel dispensers are favored for reducing the transmission of communicable diseases, it should be noted that more model are complicated and expensive due to being designed for industrial or commercial use. This disadvantage leaves users in domestic environments relying on hand operated dispensers that increases the risk of transmitting communicable diseases.
  • It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide a paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface that reduces the transmission of communicable disease due to indirect physical contact routes of transmission by providing a self disinfecting contact point that reduces communicable diseases passing on towards the user. The present invention accomplishes through the use of an upright paper towel dispenser that incorporates an absorbent pad that is in fluid communication with a reservoir containing an antimicrobial solution. A user wishing to acquire a paper towel would engage the absorbent pad contain the antimicrobial solution. The antimicrobial solution would eliminate the majority to communicable diseases that would normally reside at the same contact point.
    • BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view displaying the component and sub component distribution of the paper towel dispenser with disinfecting surface as per the current embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective view displaying the reservoir assembly and the retaining plate assembly detached from the pedestal assembly and the stationary base assembly as per the current embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 3 is a perspective view displaying the current embodiment of the present invention with a paper towel roll mounted into position.
  • FIG. 4 is an expanded view displaying the component and subcomponent distribution of the stationary base, the pedestal assembly, the reservoir assembly, the platform assembly, and the retaining cap assembly as per the current embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view displaying the internal component and subcomponent distribution of the stationary base, the pedestal assembly, the reservoir assembly, the platform assembly, and the retaining cap assembly as per the current embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 6 is an enhanced view displaying the connection between the reservoir assembly and the retaining plate assembly as per the current embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 7 is an enhanced view displaying the connection between the reservoir assembly and the pedestal assembly as per the current embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 8 is a front perspective view displaying the reservoir base coupler positioned at its maximum height per the current embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 9 is a front perspective view displaying the reservoir base coupler positioned at its minimum height per the current embodiment of the present invention.
    •  DETAIL DESCRIPTIONS OF THE INVENTION
  • All illustrations of the drawings are for the purpose of describing selected versions of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.
  • Referencing FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the present invention is a paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface that prevents the transmission of communicable diseases through indirect physical contact routes by integrating an absorbent pad 38 in fluid communication with a reservoir filled with an antimicrobial solution 24. The present invention comprises a stationary base 1, a pedestal assembly 6, a reservoir assembly 18, a retaining plate assembly 32, and a platform assembly 39. The stationary base 1, the pedestal assembly 6, the reservoir assembly 18, and the retaining plate 36 are provided with a collinear arrangement, wherein an axilary line drawn through the present invention would intersect the center of each of the said components. The stationary base 1 is the lower structure that ensures that the present invention is able to rest on top of a flat surface. The stationary base 1 is the lower point of contact for the paper towel roll 44. The stationary base 1 is positioned below the pedestal assembly 6 opposite the positioning of the reservoir assembly 18. The pedestal assembly 6 is the centrally positioned structural element that is found between the stationary base 1 and the reservoir assembly 18. The pedestal assembly 6 is the portion of the present invention that traverses through the paper towel tube. The pedestal assembly 6 is detachably coupled proximal to the reservoir assembly 18. The reservoir assembly 18 is the functional component that contains the disinfecting agent utilized by the present invention. The reservoir assembly 18 is found positioned between the pedestal assembly 6 and the retaining plate 36. The retaining plate assembly 32 is the upper portion of the present invention that contacts the upper portion of the paper towel roll 44. The retaining plate assembly 32 is the component that contains the disinfecting surface. the platform assembly 39 is a raised shelf that allows the user to place secondary items, such as antibacterial soap pumps and potential hands free options for interacting with the current embodiment of the present invention without, affecting its operability. The platform assembly 39 is coupled the stationary base 1, wherein the main portion of the platform assembly 39 is found positioned above the stationary base 1. the platform assembly 39 is shaped in a particular manner that allows it to partially encircle the centrally positioned collinear alignment between the pedestal assembly 6, the reservoir assembly 18, and the retaining plate assembly 35, wherein the positioning of the platform assembly 39 relative to the collinear alignment is understood as being a peripheral positioning.
  • Referencing FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, the stationary base 1 is the lower structural element that provides the present invention with a means of resting on top of a flat surface. In the present invention the stationary base 1 comprises at least three ground contacting elements 2, a bearing surface 3, a pedestal assembly mount 4, a plurality of platform assembly mounts 5. The at least three ground contacting elements 2 are non marring feet that are distributed on the lower portion of the stationary base 1 in a manner that is optimally suited for stabilizing the stationary base 1 on top of a flat surface. The bearing surface 3 is the upper portion of the stationary base 1 that contacts the paper towel roll 44. The bearing surface 3 is provided as a smooth planar surface that enables the rotation of the paper towel roll 44 when mounted to the present invention. The pedestal assembly mount 4 is provided as the coupling point for connecting the pedestal assembly 6 to the stationary base 1. The pedestal assembly mount 4 is positioned centrally to the stationary base 1. The pedestal assembly mount 4 is provided as an emplacement that utilizes a plurality of means to secure the pedestal assembly 6 to the stationary base 1. The plurality of platform assembly mounts 5 are provided as the means to couple the platform assembly 39 to the stationary base 1. The plurality of platform assembly mounts 5 are distributed on the bearing surface 3, wherein the each of the plurality of platform assembly mounts 5 are found traversing into the stationary base 1 through the bearing surface 3. The
  • Referencing FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, the pedestal assembly 6 is a centrally positioned support structure that elevates the reservoir assembly 18 and the retaining plate assembly 32. The pedestal assembly 6 is found positioned within the paper towel roll 44. The pedestal assembly 6 is positioned between the stationary base 1 and the reservoir assembly 18. The pedestal assembly 6 is coupled to the stationary base 1 by way of the pedestal assembly mount 4. In the present invention the pedestal assembly 6 comprises a stationary base mount 7, a lower stabilizing element 8, an elongated cylinder body 9, and a reservoir assembly mount 10. The stationary base mount 7 is provided as the complementary component to the pedestal assembly mount 4. The stationary base mount 7 is coupled to the pedestal assembly mount 4 resulting in a secure engagement between the pedestal assembly 6 and the stationary base 1. The stationary base mount 7 is terminally positioned to the elongated cylinder body 9 of the pedestal assembly 6, on the extremity that is closest to the stationary base 1. The elongated cylinder body 9 is structural form of the pedestal assembly 6. The elongated cylinder body 9 is provided with two terminal ends which correspond to the stationary base mount 7 and the reservoir assembly mount 10, respectively. The elongated cylinder body 9 is provided with a normal positioning to the bearing surface 3, wherein the normal positioning corresponds to a geometric understanding of a rigid body being centrally positioned and perpendicular to another body or plane. Positioned adjacent to bearing surface 3 and the elongated cylinder body 9 is the lower stabilizing element 8. The lower stabilizing element 8 is provided as a ring structure that prevent the horizontal movement of the lower portion of the paper towel roll 44 when dispensing paper towels. The lower stabilizing element 8 is positioned concentric to the elongated cylinder body 9 with a proximal positioning to the stationary base mount 7. The lower stabilizing element 8 is found coincident to the bearing surface 3 resulting in an opposite relational positioning to the at least three ground contacting elements 2.
  • Referencing FIG. 4 and FIG. 6, the reservoir assembly mount 10 is provided as the portion of the pedestal assembly 6 that is detachably coupled to the reservoir assembly 18. In the present invention the reservoir assembly mount 10 comprises a height adjustment mechanism 11 and a reservoir base coupler 15. The height adjustment mechanism 11 is provided as a means to vary distance between the stationary base 1 and the retaining plate assembly 32 to accommodate differently sized paper towel roll 44. The reservoir base coupler 15 is provided in combination with the height adjustment mechanism 11 in order to enable an adjustable distance for paper towel rolls 44 while additionally permitting a detachable engagement between reservoir assembly 18 and the reservoir assembly mount 10. In the present invention the height adjustment mechanism 11 comprises a shaft 12, a slot 13, and a adjustable fastener 14. The shaft 12 is a vertically positioned channel that traverse into the elongated cylinder body 9 from the reservoir assembly mount 10. The shaft 12 is found positioned concentrically to the elongated cylinder body 9. The shaft 12 sleeves the reservoir base coupler 15 while permitting and extending and retracting relationship as a mean of varying the distance between the reservoir assembly mount 10 and the reservoir assembly 18. The slot 13 is provided as a lateral opening that traverses through the elongated cylinder body 9 and the shaft 12. The slot 13 functions as the mounting point for the adjustable fastener 14. The adjustable fastener 14 is provided as a means to control the depth of the reservoir base coupler 15 within the shaft 12. The adjustable fastener 14 is found engaged to slot 14 and the shaft 12. In the present invention the reservoir base coupler 15 comprises a first magnetic coupler 16 and an adjuster mount 17. The first magnetic coupler 16 is terminally positioned opposite the adjuster mount 17 along the length of the reservoir base coupler 15. The positioning of first magnetic coupler 16 and the adjuster mount 17 permits a collinear and polar distribution of the components, wherein the distribution can be understood as providing a cylindrical shaped body for the reservoir base coupler 15. The first magnetic coupler 16 is provided a complimentary component that enables a detachable engagement between the reservoir base coupler 15 and the reservoir assembly 18. The adjuster mount 17 is provided as the portion of the reservoir base coupler 15 that traverses into the shaft 12. The adjuster mount 17 engages the adjustable fastener 14 within the shaft 12. Dependent on the positioning of the adjustable fastener 14 within the slot 13, the reservoir base coupler 15 will traverse into the shaft 12 at different depths. This relationship enables the interaction between the adjustable fastener 14 and the adjuster mount 17, relative to the slot 13, to function as the deciding factor for the height adjustment of the reservoir base coupler 15.
  • Referencing FIGS. 3-5, the reservoir assembly 18 is provided as the component assembly that contains an antimicrobial solution 24 for use in disinfecting the contacting surfaces of the retaining plate assembly 32. The reservoir assembly 18 is found positioned between pedestal assembly 6 and the retaining plate assembly 32. The reservoir assembly 18 is detachably coupled to the pedestal assembly 6 by way of the reservoir assembly mount 10. The reservoir assembly 18 is detachably coupled to the retaining plate assembly 32, wherein the aforementioned coupling is found positioned opposite to the coupling between the reservoir assembly 18 and the pedestal assembly 6. In the present invention reservoir assembly 18 comprises a reservoir base 19, a hollow body 22, a retaining plate assembly mount 25, and at least one wick 28. The reservoir base 19 is the lower portion of the reservoir assembly 18 that is detachably coupled to the reservoir assembly mount 10. The reservoir base 19 functions primarily as a structural element but contains additional components that enable the detachable engagement between the reservoir base 19 and the reservoir assembly mount 10. To enable this engagement the reservoir base 19 comprise a pedestal assembly coupler 20. The pedestal assembly coupler 20 functions as the mounting point for the reservoir base coupler 15. In order to provide a detachable engagement the pedestal assembly coupler 20 comprise a second magnetic coupler 21. The second magnetic coupler 21 is the integrated component that is complementary to the first magnetic coupler 16 of the reservoir base coupler 15. The first magnetic coupler 16 and the second magnetic coupler 21 allow the reservoir base coupler 15 to be magnetically retained against the pedestal assembly coupler 20. By being magnetically retained, the first magnetic coupler 16 and the corresponding second magnetic coupler 21 allow for a detachable engagement between the reservoir assembly 18 and the pedestal assembly 6. Positioned opposite to the pedestal assembly coupler 20 is the hollow body 22. The hollow body 22 is positioned between the reservoir base 19 and the retaining plate assembly mount 25. The hollow body 22 is provided as portion of the reservoir assembly 18 that functions as the containment vessel for the antimicrobial solution 24. To allow this function the hollow body 22 is provided with an interior chamber 23. The interior chamber 23 is positioned within the hollow body 22 of the reservoir assembly 18. Interior chamber 23 contains the antimicrobial solution 24 that serves to disinfect the contact surfaces of the present invention. The retaining plate assembly mount 25 is the upper portion of the reservoir assembly 18 that engages the retaining plate assembly 32. The retaining plate assembly mount 25 is found positioned above the hollow body 22, opposite to the reservoir base 19. In the present invention the retaining plate assembly mount 25 comprises a first threaded mount 26 and at least one channel opening 27. The first threaded mount 26 is provided as the component that allows a detachable engagement between the retaining plate assembly mount 25 and the retaining plate assembly 32. The at least one channel opening 27 is provided as the containing channel that allows the movement of the antimicrobial solution 24 from within the interior chamber 23 to the contacting surface of the retaining plate 36. The at least one channel opening 27 is found traversing into the interior chamber 23. The at least one channel is provided specifically for the at least one wick 28 subsequently the at least one channel is traversed by the at least one wick 28. The at least one wick 28 functions as the component that allows the antimicrobial solution 24 to travel from the interior chamber 23 to retaining plate assembly 32. The at least one wick 28 accomplishes this through a capillary action provided by its material construction. In the present invention the at least one wick 28 comprises a first end 29, a second end 30, and a stopper 31. The first end 29 and the second end 30 are provided as the extremities of the at least one wick 28. The second end 30 is found positioned within the interior chamber 23 while the first end 29 and the stopper 31 are positioned adjacent to the retaining plate 36 mount. The positioning of the first end 29 relative to the second end 30 is provided by the positioning of the stopper 31 which prevents the first end 29 from traversing the at least one channel.
  • Referencing FIG. 5, the retaining plate assembly 32 is the upper portion of the present invention that contains the contacting surface but additionally functions as a means to retain the paper towel roll 44 to allow separation of a perforated sheet. The retaining plate assembly 32 is found detachably coupled to the reservoir assembly 18. Specifically the retaining plate assembly 32 is found detachably coupled to the retaining plate assembly mount 25. In the present invention the retaining plate assembly 32 comprises a retaining cap 33, a retaining plate 36, and an absorbent pad 38. The retaining cap 33 is as the means to secure the retaining plate 36 to the retaining plate 36 mount. The retaining cap 33 additionally functions as a maniputable surface that allows the user to detachably couple the reservoir assembly 18 from the pedestal assembly 6, providing the retaining plate assembly 32 is coupled to the reservoir assembly 18. To accomplish this function he retaining cap 33 comprises a second threaded mount 34 and a knob 35. The second threaded mount 34 is the complementary component engagement to the first threaded mount 26 of the retaining plate assembly mount 25. The knob 35 is the portion of the retaining cap 33 that is positioned above the second threaded mount 34. The knob 35 is the most visible portion of the retaining cap 33. The knob 35 functions as a handle, wherein the user would grab the knob 35 to remove the reservoir assembly 18 and the retaining plate assembly 32 from the pedestal assembly 6. The knob 35 additionally functions as the handles that permit the user to attach and detach the retaining plate assembly 32 to the reservoir assembly 18. The retaining cap 33 is utilized as the means to retain the retaining plate 36 to the retaining plate assembly mount 25, by way of the engagement between the first threaded mount 26 and the second threaded mount 34. The retaining plate 36 is provided as a barrier between the user and the paper towel roll 44. The retaining plate 36 is positioned around the retaining plate assembly mount 25 wherein the retaining plate assembly mount 25 is positioned concentrically to the retaining plate 36. The retaining plate 36 contains an absorbent pad mount 37 that holds the absorbent pad 38. The absorbent pad mount 37 is aligned with the at least one channel resulting in the first end 29 being positioned within the absorbent pad mount 37. The absorbent pad 38 is provided as a moisture retaining material that is positioned concentrically with the absorbent pad mount 37. The absorbent pad 38 is the disinfecting contact surface that utilizes the antimicrobial solution 24 transported through the at least one wick 28 as the means to disinfect the surface after user contact. The absorbent pad 38 is provided in fluid communication with the at least one wick 28, allowing the movement of the antimicrobial solution 24 from within the interior chamber 23 to the absorbent pad 38. The aforementioned engagement is permitted through the positioning and engagement between the first end 29 and the absorbent pad 38 within the absorbent pad mount 37.
  • Referencing FIG. 1 and FIG. 4, the platform assembly 39 is the raised shelf that is positioned above the stationary base 1 and functions as a non-interfering surface, where the user would be able to deposit or position a plurality of secondary items that include but are not limited to, soap dispensers, lotion dispensers, and possible mechanical systems that would allow for hand-free operation of the paper towel dispenser. In addition to being coupled to the stationary base 1, the platform assembly 39 is found positioned peripherally to the positioning of the collinear alignment that exists between the pedestal assembly 6, the reservoir assembly 18, and the retaining plate assembly 35. In the current embodiment of the present invention, the platform assembly 39 comprises a plurality of support posts 40, a plurality of platform fasteners 41, a raised platform 42, and at least one bounding obstruction 43. the plurality of support posts 40 are provided as vertically oriented columns that elevate the positioning of the raised platform 42 relative to the positioning of the stationary base 1. Each of the plurality of support posts 40 found coupled to each of the plurality of platform assembly mounts 5, wherein the each support post 40 of the plurality of support posts 40 corresponds to each platform assembly mount 5 of the plurality of platform assembly mounts 5. the plurality of support posts 40 are positioned between stationary base 1 and the raised platform 42. The raised platform 42 is the elevated shelf that is positioned above the bearing surface 3 of the stationary base 1. The raised platform 42 provides the user with a non interfering surface for positioning secondary items. The raised platform 42 is specifically shaped to prevent unwanted interactions with the operability of the paper towel dispenser. The raised platform 42 accomplishes this by being peripherally positioned to the centralized portion of the present invention intended for the paper towel roll 44, wherein the centralized portion additionally serves as the positioning of the collinear alignment between the pedestal assembly 6, the reservoir assembly 18, and the retaining plate assembly 35. The raised platform 42 is secured to the plurality of support posts 40 by way of the plurality of platform fasteners 41. Each of the plurality of platform fasteners 41 traverse into each of the plurality of support posts 40, by traversing through the raised platform 42 on the side opposite the plurality of support posts 40. Positioned on top of the raised platform 42 is at least one bounding obstruction 43. the at least one bounding obstruction 43 is the peripherally positioned obstruction that is provided as a barrier for maintaining the secondary items that are positioned on top of the raised platform 42 in place. The at least one bounding obstruction 43 is peripherally positioned on the raised platform opposite the plurality of support posts 40. The at least one bounding obstruction 43 provides a containing barrier but can additionally be configured as a mount for the secondary items.
  • Referencing FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, in the current embodiment of the present invention, the user would place a paper towel roll 44 or refill a used paper towel roll 44 to the paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface by detaching the retaining plate assembly 32 and the reservoir assembly 18 from pedestal assembly 6. The user would grab the knob 35 of the retaining cap 33 and pull in upward motion. The force of the user pulling the knob 35 would translate through the retaining plate assembly 32 to the reservoir assembly 18 and the cause the magnetic engagement between the reservoir base coupler 15 and the pedestal assembly coupler 20 by way of the first magnetic coupler 16 and the second magnetic coupler 21, respectively. Although the detachable coupling is provided between the retaining plate 36 and the reservoir assembly 18 by way of the detachable engagement of the first threaded mount 26 to the second threaded mount 34, the coupling is able to secure the two components sufficiently, allowing then to be detached from the pedestal assembly 6 as a combined component. The detached components enable access to the pedestal assembly 6 and the stationary base 1. With the pedestal assembly 6 and the stationary base 1 accessible, spent paper towel rolls 44 would be removed and replaced with new ones. The new paper towel roll 44 would be sleeved over the pedestal assembly 6 until resting on the bearing surface 3. The inner portion of the paper towel roll 44 would be stabilized by the lower stabilizing element 8 which would keep the paper towel roll 44 concentric to the present invention. At this point the user would manipulate the present invention and reconnect the reservoir assembly 18 to the pedestal assembly 6. The lower portion of the retaining plate 36 would lightly rest on the upper portion of the new paper towel roll 44 while the first magnetic coupler 16 and the second magnetic coupler 21 reengaged in a detachable coupling.
  • Referencing FIG. 8, in the current embodiment of the present invention, prior to reattaching the reservoir assembly 18 to the pedestal assembly 6, the user would compare the height of the paper towel roll 44 between the lower portion of the retaining plate 36 and the bearing surface 3. Dependent on the measurement of the paper towel roll 44, wherein the measurement would indicate if the new paper towel roll 44 was the same height as the pervious roll, the user would utilize the height adjustment mechanism 11. To adjust the height to accommodate the new paper towel roll 44 the user would remove the adjustable fastener 14 from its engagement with the slot 13 and the adjuster mount 17. The user would then adjust the height of the reservoir base coupler 15, realigning the adjuster mount 17 to another slot 13. The adjustable fastener 14 would then be placed in alignment with the repositioned adjuster mount 17 and the slot 13. The engagement of the adjustable fastener 14 and the adjuster mount 17 would secure the reservoir base coupler 15 to the appropriate height for connecting the reservoir assembly 18 and retaining plate assembly 32 to accommodate the new paper towel roll 44.
  • In the current embodiment of the present invention, the user would acquire a single paper towel from the paper towel roll 44 by utilizing the paper towel dispenser with disinfecting surface. To acquire the single paper towel from the paper towel roll 44 the user would initially wash their hands. The user would then utilize their index finger and middle finger to form a “V” shape around the knob 35. The user would push their index finger and their middle finger on to the absorbent pad 38. The pressure placed on the absorbent pad 38. The user would then pull out a single paper towel or pull out a desired length causing the rotation of the paper towel roll 44 on top of the bearing surface 3. At which point, the user would then push down the retaining plate 36 by way of the absorbent pad 38 to retain the paper towel roll 44 from turning. The user would then pull down on the corner of the single paper towel detaching it from the paper towel roll 44. The index finger and the middle finger that contacted the retaining plate assembly 32 through the absorbent pad 38 would be sanitized through the antimicrobial solution 24 found in the absorbent pad 38. Through the aforementioned process the user would acquire a single paper towel roll 44 with significantly reduced risk of indirect physical contact transmission of germs.
  • In the current embodiment of the present invention, the bearing surface 3 is provided as a smooth surface with a low friction coefficient to enable the rotation of the paper towel roll 44 during the dispensing process. While the bearing surface 3 is described with the aforementioned characteristic, a particular material construction is not explicitly specified. Even though the particular material construction is not explicitly specified it should be noted that the bearing surface 3 can be constructed of any material that enables the smooth rotation of a paper towel roll 44 when coincident with surface.
  • In the current embodiment of the present invention, the pedestal assembly mount 4 and the stationary base mount 7 are coupled together in a non-specific engagement. Although the pedestal assembly mount 4 and the stationary base mount 7 are described through a non specific engagement, the pedestal assembly mount 4 and the stationary base mount 7 are depicted as being coupled through the use of a threaded bolt and a threaded opening, respectively. While the attachment means in the current embodiment of the present invention is broadly described it should be understood that any mean utilized to couple the stationary base mount 7 to the pedestal assembly mount 4 could potentially be utilized as long as the engagement provides a normal positioning of the elongated cylinder body 9.
  • In the current embodiment of the present invention, the height adjustment mechanism 11 is described as being provided through the interactions of the shaft 12, the slot 13, and the detachable coupler with the adjuster mount 17 of the reservoir base coupler 15. While the present invention describes the aforementioned components as being required for the variable height adjustment of the reservoir assembly 18 and the retaining plate assembly 32, the particular engagement for the adjustable fastener 14 and the adjuster mount 17 are not explicitly specified. Although no explicit engagement is described it should be noted that a component arrangement that allows an analog of the reservoir base coupler 15 to be secured in place within the shaft 12, through a component that traverses through the shaft 12 and to engage the reservoir base coupler 15 would constitute an obvious variation.
  • In the current embodiment of the present invention, the engagement between the first magnetic coupler 16 and the second magnetic coupler 21 is described to an extent sufficient to understand a that a magnetic engagement exists. While the first magnetic coupler 16 and the second magnetic coupler 21 are not explicitly described as containing magnets, it should be understood that at least one magnetic component within the aforementioned engagement would be required. With the aforementioned, the first magnetic coupler 16 or the second magnetic coupler 21 could potentially be a non magnetic metallic plate as long as the former is a magnetic component.
  • In the current embodiment of the present invention, the absorbent pad 38 is constructed from cellulose. While the current embodiment of the present invention utilizes an absorbent pad 38 constructed of cellulose, it should be noted that additional embodiments of the present invention can potentially construct the absorbent pad 38 of any material that does not hinder the function of the existing component construction
  • In the current embodiment of the present invention, the antimicrobial solution 24 utilized to disinfect the surfaces of the retaining plate 36 is an alcohol. While the present invention does not explicitly described the concentration or the type of alcohol, the current embodiment of the present invention can utilizes at least 50% wt ethanol or isopropyl alcohol with no discernible difference in capillary transport through the at least one wick 28. Although the current embodiment utilizes alcohol additional embodiment may potentially utilizes any antimicrobial solution 24 that is able to be transported through the at least one wick 28 from the interior chamber 23.
  • In the current embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of support posts 40 are mounted to the plurality of platform mounts through a non specific engagement. While the coupling between the plurality of support posts 40 and the plurality of platform mounts is not explicitly explained, it should be noted that the engagement could include a detachable or permanent engagement. The non specific engagement allows the platform assembly 39 to be coupled to the stationary base 1 as a permanent component or as an accessory component that can be included depending on the wants of the user. It should be noted that the non specific engagement permits could potentially be provided by the coupling with an adhesive compound or a detachable engagement such as a magnetic coupling.
  • In an additional embodiment of the present invention the reservoir assembly 18 can be provided with two additional hollow bodies that enable the distribution of antibacterial soap and a moisturizing solution. The additional embodiment would allow for an individual or combined dispensing spout or separate means for distributing the antibacterial soap or moisturizing solution from within the interior chamber 23 of their hollow bodies. Furthermore while the above mentioned embodiment describes an antibacterial soap and moisturizing solution dispensed from secondary and tertiary hollow bodies, that it should be understood that any solution that could potentially be utilized. This interpretation allows for the use of perfumes or other solutions to be incorporated into the construction of the additional embodiment.
  • In an additional embodiment of the present invention, the dispensing process described would be provided with an automated system that does not require direct human contact with the apparatus to acquire a single paper towel. The aforementioned additional embodiment utilizes a pedestal assembly 6, a reservoir assembly 18, and an absorbent pad 38 but would not require the user to interact with the retaining plate 36 in order to dispense paper towels.
  • Although the invention has been explained in relation to its preferred embodiment, it is to be understood that many other possible modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as hereinafter claimed.

Claims (19)

What is claimed is:
1. A paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface comprises:
a stationary base;
a pedestal assembly;
a reservoir assembly;
a retaining plate assembly;
a platform assembly;
the stationary base comprises at least three ground contacting elements, a bearing surface, a plurality of platform assembly mounts, and a pedestal assembly mount;
the pedestal assembly comprises a stationary base mount, a lower stabilizing element, an elongated cylinder body, and a reservoir assembly mount;
the reservoir assembly comprises a reservoir base, a hollow body, a retaining plate assembly mount, and at least one wick;
the retaining plate assembly comprises a retaining cap, a retaining plate, and an absorbent pad;
the platform assembly comprises a plurality of support posts, a plurality of platform fasteners, a raised platform, and at least one bounding obstruction;
the reservoir assembly mount comprises a height adjustment mechanism and a reservoir base coupler;
the reservoir base comprises a pedestal assembly coupler;
the hollow body comprises an interior chamber and a retaining plate assembly mount;
the retaining plate assembly mount comprises a first threaded mount and at least one channel opening;
the at least one wick comprises a first end, a second end, and a stopper;
the retaining cap comprises a second threaded mount and a knob;
the retaining plate comprises an absorbent pad mount;
the height adjustment mechanism comprises a shaft, slot, and a adjustable fastener;
the reservoir base coupler comprises a first magnetic coupler and an adjuster mount;
the pedestal assembly coupler comprises a second magnetic coupler;
2. The paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface as claimed in claim 1 comprises:
the stationary base, the pedestal assembly, the reservoir assembly, and the retaining plate assembly being in a collinear alignment;
the platform assembly being coupled to the stationary base;
the platform assembly being positioned peripherally to the collinear alignment of the pedestal assembly, the reservoir assembly, and the retaining plate assembly;
the pedestal assembly being positioned between the reservoir assembly and the stationary base;
the reservoir assembly being positioned between the pedestal assembly and the retaining plate assembly;
the pedestal assembly being secured proximal to the stationary base;
the reservoir assembly being detachably coupled proximal to the pedestal assembly;
the retaining plate assembly being detachably coupled proximal to the reservoir assembly;
3. The paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface as claimed in claim 1 comprises:
the stationary base mount being terminally positioned on the elongated cylinder body;
the reservoir assembly mount being terminally positioned on the elongated cylinder body opposite the stationary base mount;
the stationary base mount being securely coupled to the pedestal assembly mount;
the elongated cylinder body being normal to the bearing surface;
the lower stabilizing element being concentric to the elongated cylinder body;
the lower stabilizing element being positioned adjacent to the bearing surface opposite the at least three ground contacting elements;
4. The paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface as claimed in claim 1 comprises:
the reservoir assembly mount being detachably coupled to the reservoir base;
the hollow body being positioned between the reservoir base and the retaining plate assembly mount;
5. The paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface as claimed in claim 4 comprises:
the reservoir base coupler being magnetically retained to the pedestal assembly coupler by way of the first magnetic coupler and the second magnetic coupler, respectively;
6. The paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface as claimed in claim 4 comprise:
the reservoir base being extendably coupled to the height adjustment mechanism by way of the reservoir base coupler;
the shaft being positioned concentrically to the elongated cylinder body;
the first magnetic coupler being terminally positioned opposite the adjuster mount along the reservoir base mount;
the shaft being extendably traversed into by the reservoir base coupler;
the shaft being traversed across by the slot;
the adjustable fastener being engaged within the slot and the shaft;
the adjustable fastener being coincident with the adjuster mount within the shaft;
7. The paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface as claimed in claim 1 comprises:
the at least one channel opening traversing into the interior chamber;
the at least one channel opening being traversed by the at least one wick;
the first end and the stopper being positioned adjacent to the retaining plate assembly mount, wherein the stopper prevent the first end from traversing into the interior chamber;
the second end being positioned within the interior chamber;
8. The paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface of claim 7 wherein, an antimicrobial solution being contained within the interior chamber.
9. The paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface as claimed in claim 1 comprises:
the retaining plate assembly mount being positioned concentrically to the retaining plate;
the retaining plate being held against the retaining plate assembly mount by way of the retaining cap;
the first end being in fluid communication with the absorbent pad;
10. The paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface as claimed in claim 1 comprises:
the knob being positioned above the second threaded mount;
the retaining plate assembly mount being coupled to the retaining cap by way of the engagement between the first threaded mount and the second threaded mount;
the first end being positioned within the absorbent pad mount;
the absorbent pad being positioned within the absorbent pad mount;
11. The paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface as claimed in claim 1 comprises:
the plurality of platform assembly mounts being distributed on the bearing surface;
each of the plurality of platform assembly mounts being coupled to each of the plurality of support posts;
the raised platform being coupled adjacent to the plurality of support posts, opposite the plurality of platform assembly mounts;
the raised platform being secured to the plurality of support posts by way of the plurality of platform fasteners;
the at least one bounding obstruction being positioned peripherally to the raised platform opposite the plurality of support posts;
12. A paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface comprises:
a stationary base;
a pedestal assembly;
a reservoir assembly;
a retaining plate assembly;
a platform assembly;
the stationary base comprises at least three ground contacting elements, a bearing surface, a plurality of platform assembly mounts, and a pedestal assembly mount;
the pedestal assembly comprises a stationary base mount, a lower stabilizing element, an elongated cylinder body, and a reservoir assembly mount;
the reservoir assembly comprises a reservoir base, a hollow body, a retaining plate assembly mount, and at least one wick;
the retaining plate assembly comprises a retaining cap, a retaining plate, and an absorbent pad;
the platform assembly comprises a plurality of support posts, a plurality of platform fasteners, a raised platform, and at least one bounding obstruction;
the reservoir assembly mount comprises a height adjustment mechanism and a reservoir base coupler;
the reservoir base comprises a pedestal assembly coupler;
the hollow body comprises an interior chamber and a retaining plate assembly mount;
the retaining plate assembly mount comprises a first threaded mount and at least one channel opening;
the at least one wick comprises a first end, a second end, and a stopper;
the retaining cap comprises a second threaded mount and a knob;
the retaining plate comprises an absorbent pad mount;
the height adjustment mechanism comprises a shaft, slot, and a adjustable fastener;
the reservoir base coupler comprises a first magnetic coupler and an adjuster mount;
the pedestal assembly coupler comprises a second magnetic coupler;
13. The paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface as claimed in claim 12 comprises:
the stationary base, the pedestal assembly, the reservoir assembly, and the retaining plate assembly being in a collinear alignment;
the platform assembly being coupled to the stationary base;
the platform assembly being positioned peripherally to the collinear alignment of the pedestal assembly, the reservoir assembly, and the retaining plate assembly;
the pedestal assembly being positioned between the reservoir assembly and the stationary base;
the reservoir assembly being positioned between the pedestal assembly and the retaining plate assembly;
the pedestal assembly being secured proximal to the stationary base;
the reservoir assembly being detachably coupled proximal to the pedestal assembly;
the retaining plate assembly being detachably coupled proximal to the reservoir assembly;
14. The paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface as claimed in claim 12 comprises:
the stationary base mount being terminally positioned on the elongated cylinder body;
the reservoir assembly mount being terminally positioned on the elongated cylinder body opposite the stationary base mount;
the stationary base mount being securely coupled to the pedestal assembly mount;
the elongated cylinder body being normal to the bearing surface;
the lower stabilizing element being concentric to the elongated cylinder body;
the lower stabilizing element being positioned adjacent to the bearing surface opposite the at least three ground contacting elements;
15. The paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface as claimed in claim 12 comprises:
the reservoir assembly mount being detachably coupled to the reservoir base;
the hollow body being positioned between the reservoir base and the retaining plate assembly mount;
the reservoir base coupler being magnetically retained to the pedestal assembly coupler by way of the first magnetic coupler and the second magnetic coupler, respectively;
the reservoir base being extendably coupled to the height adjustment mechanism by way of the reservoir base coupler;
the shaft being positioned concentrically to the elongated cylinder body;
the first magnetic coupler being terminally positioned opposite the adjuster mount along the reservoir base mount;
the shaft being extendably traversed into by the reservoir base coupler;
the shaft being traversed across by the slot;
the adjustable fastener being engaged within the slot and the shaft;
the adjustable fastener being coincident with the adjuster mount within the shaft;
16. The paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface as claimed in claim 12 comprises:
the interior chamber comprises an antimicrobial solution, wherein the antimicrobial solution is contained within the interior chamber;
the at least one channel opening traversing into the interior chamber;
the at least one channel opening being traversed by the at least one wick;
the first end and the stopper being positioned adjacent to the retaining plate assembly mount, wherein the stopper prevent the first end from traversing into the interior chamber;
the second end being positioned within the interior chamber;
17. The paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface as claimed in claim 12 comprises:
the retaining plate assembly mount being positioned concentrically to the retaining plate;
the retaining plate being held against the retaining plate assembly mount by way of the retaining cap;
the first end being in fluid communication with the absorbent pad;
18. The paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface as claimed in claim 12 comprises:
the knob being positioned above the second threaded mount;
the retaining plate assembly mount being coupled to the retaining cap by way of the engagement between the first threaded mount and the second threaded mount;
the first end being positioned within the absorbent pad mount;
the absorbent pad being positioned within the absorbent pad mount;
19. The paper towel dispenser with disinfecting contact surface as claimed in claim 12 comprises:
the plurality of platform assembly mounts being distributed on the bearing surface;
each of the plurality of platform assembly mounts being coupled to each of the plurality of support posts;
the raised platform being coupled adjacent to the plurality of support posts, opposite the plurality of platform assembly mounts;
the raised platform being secured to the plurality of support posts by way of the plurality of platform fasteners;
the at least one bounding obstruction being positioned peripherally to the raised platform opposite the plurality of support posts;
US13/802,111 2012-03-13 2013-03-13 Paper Towel Dispenser with Disinfecting Contact Surface Abandoned US20130248645A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US13/802,111 US20130248645A1 (en) 2012-03-13 2013-03-13 Paper Towel Dispenser with Disinfecting Contact Surface

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US201261610165P 2012-03-13 2012-03-13
US13/802,111 US20130248645A1 (en) 2012-03-13 2013-03-13 Paper Towel Dispenser with Disinfecting Contact Surface

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Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20140124610A1 (en) * 2012-11-07 2014-05-08 Gray Allan Titus Covered dispenser for sheet material

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20140124610A1 (en) * 2012-11-07 2014-05-08 Gray Allan Titus Covered dispenser for sheet material

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