US20210289995A1 - Soap Sheet Dispenser - Google Patents
Soap Sheet Dispenser Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20210289995A1 US20210289995A1 US17/197,567 US202117197567A US2021289995A1 US 20210289995 A1 US20210289995 A1 US 20210289995A1 US 202117197567 A US202117197567 A US 202117197567A US 2021289995 A1 US2021289995 A1 US 2021289995A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- dispenser
- sheets
- sheet
- soap
- door
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- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Classifications
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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
- A47K10/24—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
- A47K10/42—Dispensers for paper towels or toilet-paper dispensing from a store of single sheets, e.g. stacked
- A47K10/426—Dispensers for paper towels or toilet-paper dispensing from a store of single sheets, e.g. stacked dispensing from the front or sides of the dispenser
- A47K10/427—Dispensers for paper towels or toilet-paper dispensing from a store of single sheets, e.g. stacked dispensing from the front or sides of the dispenser with means for urging the whole stack towards the dispensing opening, e.g. a spring
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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
- A47K10/24—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
- A47K10/42—Dispensers for paper towels or toilet-paper dispensing from a store of single sheets, e.g. stacked
- A47K10/44—Dispensers for paper towels or toilet-paper dispensing from a store of single sheets, e.g. stacked with mechanical dispensing means for prehension of the next sheet to be dispensed
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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
- A47K5/00—Holders or dispensers for soap, toothpaste, or the like
- A47K5/06—Dispensers for soap
- A47K5/08—Dispensers for soap for solid soap
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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
- A47K10/24—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
- A47K2010/3233—Details of the housing, e.g. hinges, connection to the wall
-
- 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
- A47K2010/3266—Wet wipes
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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
- A47K10/24—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
- A47K10/42—Dispensers for paper towels or toilet-paper dispensing from a store of single sheets, e.g. stacked
- A47K2010/428—Details of the folds or interfolds of the sheets
Definitions
- the present invention relates to soap dispensers. More particularly, the present invention pertains to a soap sheet dispenser that dispenses an individual soap sheet upon activation of a motion sensor to minimize contact with potentially unsanitary surfaces.
- the present invention substantially diverges in design elements from the known art and consequently it is clear that there is a need in the art for an improvement to existing soap dispensers.
- the instant invention substantially fulfills these needs.
- the present invention provides a soap sheet dispenser wherein the same can be utilized for providing convenience for the user when retrieving an individual sanitizing sheet with minimal contact.
- the present system comprises a housing having a rear wall, a perimeter sidewall, and an open front end defining an interior volume.
- a door is hingedly affixed to the perimeter sidewall, wherein the door is selectively movable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the closed position the door encloses the interior volume.
- a dispenser cartridge is removably securable within the interior volume.
- a plurality of sheets impregnated with a soap is removably securable within the dispenser cartridge in a stacked configuration.
- a slot is disposed through a lower end of the dispenser cartridge, wherein one of the plurality of sheets is dispensed through the slot upon activation of a motion sensor disposed on the door.
- at least one fastener is disposed on an exterior surface of the rear wall, the fastener configured to removably secure the housing to a wall surface.
- a gap is defined between a lower edge of the door and the perimeter sidewall, the gap dimensioned to receive one of the plurality of sheets therethrough.
- a lock is disposed on the housing, wherein the lock selectively retains the door in a closed position.
- the door further comprises a transparent panel therein.
- the dispenser cartridge further comprises a window through a front side thereof, the window comprising a width less than that of each of the plurality of sheets.
- a spring loading mechanism is disposed within the dispenser cartridge, wherein the spring loading mechanism is configured to compact the plurality of sheets towards the slot.
- the spring loading mechanism comprises a plate affixed to a spring, wherein the plate rests against an uppermost sheet of the plurality of sheets.
- a motor is operably connected to the motion sensor, wherein the motor is configured to actuate to dispense a sheet of the plurality of sheets when the motion sensor is activated.
- the motor is operably connected to at least one roller disposed within the dispenser cartridge, whereupon actuation of the motor the roller rotates to dispense a lowermost sheet within the plurality of sheets.
- each adjacent sheet of the plurality of sheets in interwoven in the stacked configuration, such that upon dispensing a sheet of plurality of sheets, an adjacent sheet is primed for dispensing through the slot.
- FIG. 1 shows an exploded view of an embodiment of the soap sheet dispenser.
- FIG. 2 shows a close-up view of the gap of an embodiment of the soap sheet dispenser.
- FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the dispenser cartridge of an embodiment of the soap sheet dispenser.
- FIG. 4 shows a side view of an embodiment of the soap sheet dispenser.
- the soap sheet dispenser 11 comprises a housing 12 having a rear wall (as shown in FIG. 4, 13 ) and a perimeter sidewall 14 extending therefrom, thereby defining an interior volume.
- the interior volume is dimensioned to removably receive a dispenser cartridge 18 therein.
- a door 17 is hingedly affixed to the perimeter sidewall 14 and is selectively movable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the closed position the door 17 encloses the interior volume.
- the door 17 further comprises a transparent panel 27 therein, wherein the transparent panel 27 provides a view into the interior volume. In this manner, the user can readily visualize whether the dispenser cartridge 18 needs to be refilled with additional single use soap sheets 19 .
- the dispenser cartridge 18 is removably securable within the housing 12 , such that the user can remove the dispenser cartridge 18 for refilling when the plurality of sheets 19 are depleted.
- the plurality of sheets 19 are stored within the dispenser cartridge 18 in a stacked configuration to facilitate dispensing a single sheet at a time.
- the plurality of sheets 19 are impregnated with a cleansing material, such as soap or hand sanitizer, to allow a user to readily clean their hands.
- the plurality of sheets 19 comprise a stabilized cleansing material in a sheet format such that the plurality of sheets 19 are dissolvable upon contact with water. In this way, waste can be minimized.
- the soap impregnated within the plurality of sheets 19 is dissolvable within water, such as a dry soap activated by contact with water, such that the shelf life of the plurality of sheets 19 is maximized.
- the dispenser cartridge 18 further comprises a slot 21 disposed through a lower end 22 thereof, wherein the slot 21 is dimensioned receive a single sheet of the plurality of sheets 19 therethrough.
- a window 28 is disposed through a front side (as shown in FIG. 3, 29 ) of the dispenser cartridge 18 , wherein the window provides access to the interior of the dispenser cartridge 18 .
- the window 28 is utilized to gauge the number of sheets of the plurality of sheets 19 remaining within the dispenser cartridge 18 , whereas, in alternate embodiments, the user can refill the dispenser cartridge 18 via inserting the plurality of sheets 19 through the window 28 .
- the window 28 is dimensioned to have a width greater than the plurality of sheets 19 .
- the width of the window 28 is less than that of the plurality of sheets 19 to prevent the sheets from exiting the dispenser cartridge 18 therethrough during use.
- the upper end of the dispenser cartridge 18 may be removably affixed to the dispenser cartridge 18 to provide an access point for refilling the dispenser cartridge 18 .
- FIG. 2 there is shown a close-up view of the gap of an embodiment of the soap sheet dispenser.
- the door 17 is in the closed position, defining a gap 24 between the perimeter sidewall 14 of the housing and a lower edge 25 of the door 17 .
- the gap 24 is disposed through the lower edge 25 of the door 17 , such that the gap 24 is aligned with the slot of the dispenser cartridge.
- the sheet 19 immediately exists through the gap 24 upon being dispensed through the slot.
- a motion sensor 23 is disposed on a front side of the door 17 , wherein the motion sensor 23 is operably connected to the dispenser cartridge. In this manner, upon actuation of the motion sensor 23 , such as by a user waving a hand in front of the motion sensor 23 , the dispenser cartridge dispenses a sheet 19 therefrom. In this manner, user contact with the soap sheet dispenser is minimized, thereby reducing the risk of contamination, or spread of pathogens caused due to user operation.
- the motion sensor 23 can be further calibrated to operate upon detection of motion within a threshold distance to reduce the risk of unintended activation.
- the housing further comprises a manual control thereon, the manual control configured to instruct the dispenser cartridge to dispense a sheet 19 upon actuation of the manual control.
- the dispenser cartridge 18 further comprises a dispensing mechanism therein.
- the dispenser mechanism comprises a motor 33 operably connected to the motion sensor, such that upon actuation of the motion sensor, the motor 33 is activated to rotate at least one roller 34 disposed within a lower end of the dispenser cartridge 18 .
- the roller 34 Upon rotation of the roller 34 , a lowermost sheet of the plurality of sheets 19 is dispensed through the slot 21 .
- the roller 34 comprise a height equivalent to a distance between a floor of the dispenser cartridge 18 and the slot 21 .
- the plurality of sheets 19 each comprise multiple panels folded over each other defining a series of interwoven adjacent sheets. In this manner, upon dispensing of a single sheet of the plurality of sheets 19 , an adjacent sheet is primed for dispensing through the slot 21 .
- the dispenser cartridge 18 further comprises a spring mechanism having a plate 31 affixed to one or more springs 32 attached to an upper end of the dispenser cartridge 18 .
- the plate 31 is configured to provide even pressure to an uppermost sheet of the plurality of sheets 19 to drive the plurality of sheets 19 towards the rollers 34 and the slot 21 . In this manner, the plate 31 exerts sufficient pressure against the plurality of sheets 19 to ensure that the lowermost sheet is engaged with the roller 34 .
- the user can insert additional sheets 19 via the window 28 within the front side 29 of the dispenser cartridge 18 .
- the upper end of the dispenser cartridge 18 can be removed to insert additional sheets 19 into the interior of the dispenser cartridge 18 .
- FIG. 4 there is shown a side view of an embodiment of the soap sheet dispenser.
- at least one fastener 35 is disposed on the rear wall 13 of the housing 12 , wherein the fasteners 35 are configured to removably secure the housing 12 to a support surface, such as a wall.
- the fasteners 35 are removably securable to the rear wall 13 , such that the fasteners 35 can be removed when the housing 12 is being used in a free-standing manner, such as on a countertop or stand.
- the fasteners 35 may be removably securable via friction fit or rotationally securable within an aperture via a tab extending from a portion of the fastener.
- the fasteners 35 comprise suction cups, however, in alternate embodiments, alternate fasteners 35 are contemplated, such as hook and loop, bolts, screws, and the like.
- the housing 12 includes a lock 26 thereon, wherein the lock 26 is configured to retain the door 17 in the closed position. In this manner, only authorized individuals can open the housing 12 to remove or refill the dispenser cartridge.
- the housing 12 can be installed on a wall surface via the fasteners 35 or rested on a countertop or stand.
- a user can wave a hand in front of the motion sensor or actuate a manual control to actuate the motor within the dispenser cartridge to dispense a sheet of the plurality of sheets through the slot and gap.
- the user can spread the soap impregnated within the plurality of sheets over their hands before rinsing their hands in a nearby sink.
- the user can avoid utilizing a sink entirely. In this way, the user can minimize the amount of contact with communal objects, thereby reducing the risk of contracting various pathogens.
- the user can throw the depleted sheet away, or in some embodiments, the sheet is configured to dissolve when contacting water to minimize waste.
- the dispenser cartridge is depleted, the user can open the housing 12 and refill the dispenser cartridge with additional sheets.
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Abstract
A soap sheet dispenser is provided. The soap sheet dispenser includes a housing having a rear wall, a perimeter sidewall, and an open front end defining an interior volume. A door is hingedly affixed to the perimeter sidewall, wherein the door is selectively movable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the closed position the door encloses the interior volume. A dispenser cartridge is removably securable within the interior volume. A plurality of sheets impregnated with a soap is removably securable within the dispenser cartridge in a stacked configuration. A slot is disposed through a lower end of the dispenser cartridge, wherein one of the plurality of sheets is dispensed through the slot upon activation of a motion sensor disposed on the door.
Description
- This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/991,819 filed on Mar. 19, 2020. The above identified patent application is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety to provide continuity of disclosure.
- The present invention relates to soap dispensers. More particularly, the present invention pertains to a soap sheet dispenser that dispenses an individual soap sheet upon activation of a motion sensor to minimize contact with potentially unsanitary surfaces.
- Many public restrooms utilize communal soap dispensers to provide soap for hand washing purposes. Typically, the soap is provided in pump dispenser to dispense liquid or foaming soap to a user. However, such soaps can spill, leak, or otherwise cause a mess on the sink countertop, requiring frequent cleaning to avoid undesirable appearances. Furthermore, refiling such soap dispensers can lead to further spills and may be cumbersome or frustrating to refill regularly.
- Additionally, particularly with increased hygiene awareness to combat the spread of communicable diseases, many individuals may be averse to utilizing communal items, such as soap dispensers. In some cases, motion activated liquid soap dispensers are provided to minimize user contact with communal items, however, such soap dispensers may be difficult to maintain. Often, such cautious individuals prefer systems that require no personal interaction with objects that are not disposable or individualized, such as paper towels. Therefore, a dispenser that can provide individuals sheets impregnated with soap to users upon activation of a motion sensor is desired.
- In light of the devices disclosed in the known art, it is submitted that the present invention substantially diverges in design elements from the known art and consequently it is clear that there is a need in the art for an improvement to existing soap dispensers. In this regard, the instant invention substantially fulfills these needs.
- In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the known types of soap dispensers now present in the known art, the present invention provides a soap sheet dispenser wherein the same can be utilized for providing convenience for the user when retrieving an individual sanitizing sheet with minimal contact.
- The present system comprises a housing having a rear wall, a perimeter sidewall, and an open front end defining an interior volume. A door is hingedly affixed to the perimeter sidewall, wherein the door is selectively movable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the closed position the door encloses the interior volume. A dispenser cartridge is removably securable within the interior volume. A plurality of sheets impregnated with a soap is removably securable within the dispenser cartridge in a stacked configuration. A slot is disposed through a lower end of the dispenser cartridge, wherein one of the plurality of sheets is dispensed through the slot upon activation of a motion sensor disposed on the door. In some embodiments, at least one fastener is disposed on an exterior surface of the rear wall, the fastener configured to removably secure the housing to a wall surface.
- In some embodiments, a gap is defined between a lower edge of the door and the perimeter sidewall, the gap dimensioned to receive one of the plurality of sheets therethrough. In another embodiment, a lock is disposed on the housing, wherein the lock selectively retains the door in a closed position. In other embodiments, the door further comprises a transparent panel therein. In yet another embodiment, the dispenser cartridge further comprises a window through a front side thereof, the window comprising a width less than that of each of the plurality of sheets. In some embodiments, a spring loading mechanism is disposed within the dispenser cartridge, wherein the spring loading mechanism is configured to compact the plurality of sheets towards the slot. In another embodiment, the spring loading mechanism comprises a plate affixed to a spring, wherein the plate rests against an uppermost sheet of the plurality of sheets. In other embodiments, a motor is operably connected to the motion sensor, wherein the motor is configured to actuate to dispense a sheet of the plurality of sheets when the motion sensor is activated. In yet another embodiment, the motor is operably connected to at least one roller disposed within the dispenser cartridge, whereupon actuation of the motor the roller rotates to dispense a lowermost sheet within the plurality of sheets. In some embodiments, each adjacent sheet of the plurality of sheets in interwoven in the stacked configuration, such that upon dispensing a sheet of plurality of sheets, an adjacent sheet is primed for dispensing through the slot.
- Although the characteristic features of this invention will be particularly pointed out in the claims, the invention itself and manner in which it may be made and used may be better understood after a review of the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein like numeral annotations are provided throughout.
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FIG. 1 shows an exploded view of an embodiment of the soap sheet dispenser. -
FIG. 2 shows a close-up view of the gap of an embodiment of the soap sheet dispenser. -
FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the dispenser cartridge of an embodiment of the soap sheet dispenser. -
FIG. 4 shows a side view of an embodiment of the soap sheet dispenser. - Reference is made herein to the attached drawings. Like reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to depict like or similar elements of the soap sheet dispenser. The figures are intended for representative purposes only and should not be considered to be limiting in any respect.
- Referring now to
FIG. 1 , there is shown an exploded view of an embodiment of the soap sheet dispenser. Thesoap sheet dispenser 11 comprises ahousing 12 having a rear wall (as shown inFIG. 4, 13 ) and aperimeter sidewall 14 extending therefrom, thereby defining an interior volume. The interior volume is dimensioned to removably receive adispenser cartridge 18 therein. Adoor 17 is hingedly affixed to theperimeter sidewall 14 and is selectively movable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the closed position thedoor 17 encloses the interior volume. In the illustrated embodiment, thedoor 17 further comprises atransparent panel 27 therein, wherein thetransparent panel 27 provides a view into the interior volume. In this manner, the user can readily visualize whether thedispenser cartridge 18 needs to be refilled with additional singleuse soap sheets 19. - The
dispenser cartridge 18 is removably securable within thehousing 12, such that the user can remove thedispenser cartridge 18 for refilling when the plurality ofsheets 19 are depleted. The plurality ofsheets 19 are stored within thedispenser cartridge 18 in a stacked configuration to facilitate dispensing a single sheet at a time. The plurality ofsheets 19 are impregnated with a cleansing material, such as soap or hand sanitizer, to allow a user to readily clean their hands. In some embodiments, the plurality ofsheets 19 comprise a stabilized cleansing material in a sheet format such that the plurality ofsheets 19 are dissolvable upon contact with water. In this way, waste can be minimized. In alternate embodiments, the soap impregnated within the plurality ofsheets 19 is dissolvable within water, such as a dry soap activated by contact with water, such that the shelf life of the plurality ofsheets 19 is maximized. In this way, thedispenser cartridge 18 does not require frequent refilling absent regular use. In the illustrated embodiment, thedispenser cartridge 18 further comprises aslot 21 disposed through alower end 22 thereof, wherein theslot 21 is dimensioned receive a single sheet of the plurality ofsheets 19 therethrough. In the shown embodiment, awindow 28 is disposed through a front side (as shown inFIG. 3, 29 ) of thedispenser cartridge 18, wherein the window provides access to the interior of thedispenser cartridge 18. In some embodiments, thewindow 28 is utilized to gauge the number of sheets of the plurality ofsheets 19 remaining within thedispenser cartridge 18, whereas, in alternate embodiments, the user can refill thedispenser cartridge 18 via inserting the plurality ofsheets 19 through thewindow 28. In such embodiments, thewindow 28 is dimensioned to have a width greater than the plurality ofsheets 19. However, in other embodiments, the width of thewindow 28 is less than that of the plurality ofsheets 19 to prevent the sheets from exiting thedispenser cartridge 18 therethrough during use. In such embodiments, the upper end of thedispenser cartridge 18 may be removably affixed to thedispenser cartridge 18 to provide an access point for refilling thedispenser cartridge 18. - Referring now to
FIG. 2 , there is shown a close-up view of the gap of an embodiment of the soap sheet dispenser. In the illustrated embodiment, thedoor 17 is in the closed position, defining agap 24 between theperimeter sidewall 14 of the housing and alower edge 25 of thedoor 17. In this manner, upon dispensing asheet 19 from the slot within the dispenser cartridge, thesheet 19 is guided downward upon contact with an interior of thedoor 17 and exits the housing through thegap 24. In this manner, the user can readily access thesheet 19 upon actuation of the dispenser cartridge. In some embodiments, thegap 24 is disposed through thelower edge 25 of thedoor 17, such that thegap 24 is aligned with the slot of the dispenser cartridge. In such embodiments, thesheet 19 immediately exists through thegap 24 upon being dispensed through the slot. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, amotion sensor 23 is disposed on a front side of thedoor 17, wherein themotion sensor 23 is operably connected to the dispenser cartridge. In this manner, upon actuation of themotion sensor 23, such as by a user waving a hand in front of themotion sensor 23, the dispenser cartridge dispenses asheet 19 therefrom. In this manner, user contact with the soap sheet dispenser is minimized, thereby reducing the risk of contamination, or spread of pathogens caused due to user operation. Themotion sensor 23 can be further calibrated to operate upon detection of motion within a threshold distance to reduce the risk of unintended activation. In alternate embodiments, the housing further comprises a manual control thereon, the manual control configured to instruct the dispenser cartridge to dispense asheet 19 upon actuation of the manual control. - Referring now to
FIG. 3 , there is shown a cross-sectional view of the dispenser cartridge of an embodiment of the soap sheet dispenser. Thedispenser cartridge 18 further comprises a dispensing mechanism therein. In the shown embodiment, the dispenser mechanism comprises amotor 33 operably connected to the motion sensor, such that upon actuation of the motion sensor, themotor 33 is activated to rotate at least oneroller 34 disposed within a lower end of thedispenser cartridge 18. Upon rotation of theroller 34, a lowermost sheet of the plurality ofsheets 19 is dispensed through theslot 21. In such embodiments, theroller 34 comprise a height equivalent to a distance between a floor of thedispenser cartridge 18 and theslot 21. In the shown embodiment, the plurality ofsheets 19 each comprise multiple panels folded over each other defining a series of interwoven adjacent sheets. In this manner, upon dispensing of a single sheet of the plurality ofsheets 19, an adjacent sheet is primed for dispensing through theslot 21. - In the shown embodiment, the
dispenser cartridge 18 further comprises a spring mechanism having aplate 31 affixed to one ormore springs 32 attached to an upper end of thedispenser cartridge 18. Theplate 31 is configured to provide even pressure to an uppermost sheet of the plurality ofsheets 19 to drive the plurality ofsheets 19 towards therollers 34 and theslot 21. In this manner, theplate 31 exerts sufficient pressure against the plurality ofsheets 19 to ensure that the lowermost sheet is engaged with theroller 34. Once the plurality ofsheets 19 are depleted, the user can insertadditional sheets 19 via thewindow 28 within thefront side 29 of thedispenser cartridge 18. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the upper end of thedispenser cartridge 18 can be removed to insertadditional sheets 19 into the interior of thedispenser cartridge 18. - Referring now to
FIG. 4 , there is shown a side view of an embodiment of the soap sheet dispenser. In the illustrated embodiment, at least onefastener 35 is disposed on therear wall 13 of thehousing 12, wherein thefasteners 35 are configured to removably secure thehousing 12 to a support surface, such as a wall. In some embodiments, thefasteners 35 are removably securable to therear wall 13, such that thefasteners 35 can be removed when thehousing 12 is being used in a free-standing manner, such as on a countertop or stand. In such embodiments, thefasteners 35 may be removably securable via friction fit or rotationally securable within an aperture via a tab extending from a portion of the fastener. In the illustrated embodiment, thefasteners 35 comprise suction cups, however, in alternate embodiments,alternate fasteners 35 are contemplated, such as hook and loop, bolts, screws, and the like. Furthermore, in the shown embodiment, thehousing 12 includes alock 26 thereon, wherein thelock 26 is configured to retain thedoor 17 in the closed position. In this manner, only authorized individuals can open thehousing 12 to remove or refill the dispenser cartridge. - In one use, the
housing 12 can be installed on a wall surface via thefasteners 35 or rested on a countertop or stand. A user can wave a hand in front of the motion sensor or actuate a manual control to actuate the motor within the dispenser cartridge to dispense a sheet of the plurality of sheets through the slot and gap. Once the sheet is retrieved, the user can spread the soap impregnated within the plurality of sheets over their hands before rinsing their hands in a nearby sink. Alternatively, in embodiments utilizing an impregnated hand sanitizer, the user can avoid utilizing a sink entirely. In this way, the user can minimize the amount of contact with communal objects, thereby reducing the risk of contracting various pathogens. Once finished, the user can throw the depleted sheet away, or in some embodiments, the sheet is configured to dissolve when contacting water to minimize waste. When the dispenser cartridge is depleted, the user can open thehousing 12 and refill the dispenser cartridge with additional sheets. - It is therefore submitted that the instant invention has been shown and described in various embodiments. It is recognized, however, that departures may be made within the scope of the invention and that obvious modifications will occur to a person skilled in the art. With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly, and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.
- Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention.
Claims (20)
1. A soap sheet dispenser, comprising:
a housing having a rear wall, a perimeter sidewall, and an open front end defining an interior volume;
a door hingedly affixed to the perimeter sidewall, the door selectively movable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the closed position the door encloses the interior volume;
a dispenser cartridge removably securable within the interior volume;
a plurality of sheets impregnated with a soap removably securable within the dispenser cartridge in a stacked configuration;
a slot disposed through a lower end of the dispenser cartridge, wherein one of the plurality of sheets is dispensed through the slot upon activation of a motion sensor disposed on the door.
2. The soap sheet dispenser of claim 1 , wherein a gap is defined between a lower edge of the door and a perimeter sidewall, the gap dimensioned to receive one of the plurality of sheets therethrough.
3. The soap sheet dispenser of claim 1 , further comprising a lock disposed on the housing, wherein the lock selectively retains the door in the closed position.
4. The soap sheet dispenser of claim 1 , wherein the door further comprises a transparent panel therein.
5. The soap sheet dispenser of claim 1 , wherein the dispenser cartridge further comprises a window through a front side thereof, the window comprising a width less than that of each of the plurality of sheets.
6. The soap sheet dispenser of claim 1 , further comprising a spring loading mechanism within the dispenser cartridge configured to compact the plurality of sheets towards the slot.
7. The soap sheet dispenser of claim 6 , wherein the spring loading mechanism comprises a plate affixed to a spring, wherein the plate rests against an uppermost sheet of the plurality of sheets.
8. The soap sheet dispenser of claim 1 , further comprising a motor operably connected to the motion sensor, wherein the motor is configured to actuate to dispense a sheet of the plurality of sheets when the motion sensor is activated.
9. The soap sheet dispenser of claim 8 , wherein the motor is operably connected to at least one roller disposed within the dispenser cartridge, whereupon actuation of the motor the roller rotates to dispense a lowermost sheet of the plurality of sheets.
10. The soap sheet dispenser of claim 1 , wherein each adjacent sheet of the plurality of sheets is interwoven in the stacked configuration, such that upon dispensing a sheet of the plurality of sheets, an adjacent sheet is primed for dispensing through the slot.
11. A soap sheet dispenser, comprising:
a housing having a rear wall, a perimeter sidewall, and an open front end defining an interior volume;
a door hingedly affixed to the perimeter sidewall, the door selectively movable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the closed position the door encloses the interior volume;
a dispenser cartridge removably securable within the interior volume;
a plurality of sheets impregnated with a soap removably securable within the dispenser cartridge in a stacked configuration;
a slot disposed through a lower end of the dispenser cartridge, wherein one of the plurality of sheets is dispensed through the slot upon activation of a motion sensor disposed on the door.
12. The soap sheet dispenser of claim 11 , wherein a gap is defined between a lower edge of the door and a perimeter sidewall, the gap dimensioned to receive one of the plurality of sheets therethrough.
13. The soap sheet dispenser of claim 11 , further comprising a lock disposed on the housing, wherein the lock selectively retains the door in the closed position.
14. The soap sheet dispenser of claim 11 , wherein the door further comprises a transparent panel therein.
15. The soap sheet dispenser of claim 11 , wherein the dispenser cartridge further comprises a window through a front side thereof, the window comprising a width less than that of each of the plurality of sheets.
16. The soap sheet dispenser of claim 11 , further comprising a spring loading mechanism within the dispenser cartridge configured to compact the plurality of sheets towards the slot.
17. The soap sheet dispenser of claim 16 , wherein the spring loading mechanism comprises a plate affixed to a spring, wherein the plate rests against an uppermost sheet of the plurality of sheets.
18. The soap sheet dispenser of claim 11 , further comprising a motor operably connected to the motion sensor, wherein the motor is configured to actuate to dispense a sheet of the plurality of sheets when the motion sensor is activated.
19. The soap sheet dispenser of claim 18 , wherein the motor is operably connected to at least one roller disposed within the dispenser cartridge, whereupon actuation of the motor the roller rotates to dispense a lowermost sheet of the plurality of sheets.
20. The soap sheet dispenser of claim 11 , wherein each adjacent sheet of the plurality of sheets is interwoven in the stacked configuration, such that upon dispensing a sheet of the plurality of sheets, an adjacent sheet is primed for dispensing through the slot.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US17/197,567 US20210289995A1 (en) | 2020-03-19 | 2021-03-10 | Soap Sheet Dispenser |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US202062991819P | 2020-03-19 | 2020-03-19 | |
US17/197,567 US20210289995A1 (en) | 2020-03-19 | 2021-03-10 | Soap Sheet Dispenser |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20210289995A1 true US20210289995A1 (en) | 2021-09-23 |
Family
ID=77747038
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US17/197,567 Abandoned US20210289995A1 (en) | 2020-03-19 | 2021-03-10 | Soap Sheet Dispenser |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US20210289995A1 (en) |
-
2021
- 2021-03-10 US US17/197,567 patent/US20210289995A1/en not_active Abandoned
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