US20210386252A1 - Wipes dispenser - Google Patents
Wipes dispenser Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20210386252A1 US20210386252A1 US17/343,611 US202117343611A US2021386252A1 US 20210386252 A1 US20210386252 A1 US 20210386252A1 US 202117343611 A US202117343611 A US 202117343611A US 2021386252 A1 US2021386252 A1 US 2021386252A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- container
- dispenser
- actuator
- lid
- lever
- Prior art date
- 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.)
- Abandoned
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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
- A47K10/421—Dispensers for paper towels or toilet-paper dispensing from a store of single sheets, e.g. stacked dispensing from the top of the dispenser
-
- 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
- A47K10/185—Holders for boxes of tissue
-
- 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
-
- 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
- A47K2010/3246—Locking mechanisms for the housing
-
- 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
Definitions
- This disclosure generally relates to an apparatus for dispensing consumable material, such as wet or dry wipes comprising paper material.
- Wipes dispensers provide a convenient storage system for sheets of consumable material. Such sheets of consumable material can be referred to as “wipes,” for example, wet or dry wipes made of a fibrous paper material (for example, disposable wipes for wiping and/or sanitizing a user's hands). Wipes dispensers are generally designed to allow a user to retrieve one or more sheets of consumable material from a container. After one sheet is retrieved from the dispenser, another sheet may become available for subsequent retrieval.
- Some wipes dispensers are capable of accommodating more than one type of container holding sheets of consumable material.
- Such scenarios may advantageously ensure that only authorized types of containers and/or products stored in such containers are utilized, which may in turn that facilitate certain quality and/or compatibility standards being met.
- a wipes dispenser that is able to detect whether a particular container is authorized for use with the dispenser and limit or prevent access to sheets within such container when such container is not authorized for use with the dispenser.
- the wipes dispenser includes a lid that provides access to sheets of material held within a container received in the dispenser, it would be beneficial for the dispenser to limit or restrict opening of such lid (for example, via mechanical and/or electronic mechanisms) where such container is not authorized for use with the dispenser.
- Some wipes dispensers incorporate a nozzle to temporarily hold and/or guide each sheet of consumable material of the container prior to retrieval by a user.
- such sheets may slip through the nozzle under the effect of gravity, thus making retrieval difficult for a user.
- the user is typically required to reach their hand (or fingers) inside the container to retrieve such topmost sheet. Not only is this difficult for the user, but health concerns can arise where the user's hands or fingers may deposit dirt and/or germs within the container and/or on the sheets held therewithin.
- a wipes dispenser prefferably has a nozzle which has a neutral or rest position when holding a sheet within a container that is oriented or otherwise configured in such a manner so as to inhibit the sheet from slipping out of the nozzle under the effect of gravity.
- wipes dispensers it may be difficult for a user to insert and/or position a new container into the wipes dispenser due to the structural configuration of the dispenser.
- some wipes dispensers are designed to receive and/or retain containers via frictional and/or mechanical engagement with structural components design with little tolerance. In such cases, users may be required to apply a substantial amount of force to press the new container into engagement with the dispenser.
- one aspect of some implementations of a dispenser (which may also be referred to as a “dispensing system”) described herein includes mechanical and/or electrical components that inhibit or prevent a lid of the dispenser from opening and/or being opened under certain conditions, such as until a lock mechanism is disengaged.
- Some configurations of the dispensers described herein include one or more movable lock mechanisms that are configured to interact with (for example, mechanically engage) a lever, a coupler gear connected with the lever, a lid, and/or other structural components of the dispenser to inhibit movement of the lever and/or lid when in a first position (for example, a “locking” or “locked” position) and allow movement of the lever and/or lid when in a second position (for example, an “unlocked” position).
- some such lock mechanisms are configured to interact with structural features of a container (for example, a container that is authorized for use with the dispenser). This can permit (e.g., unlock) movement from such first position to such second position.
- Some configurations of the dispensers described herein include electronic components that are configured to determine whether a particular container received by the dispenser is authorized for use with the dispenser. In some implementations, based on a determination that the container is authorized, a controller can instruct an electric motor of the dispenser to cause movement of a lid of the dispenser and/or inhibit, prevent, or cease to instruct such motor from taking such action.
- Some of the dispensers described herein utilize mechanical and/or electronic components and/or functionality.
- some configurations of the dispensers described herein are configured to be operated mechanically (for example, via actuation of a lever of the dispenser) and some configurations of the dispensers described herein are configured to be operated electronically (for example, via sensors configured to sense the presence of a user's hand).
- some configurations of dispensers described herein incorporate hybrid functionality, allowing operation via mechanical and/or electronic means.
- a dispenser comprises: a housing configured to receive a container including a plurality of sheets of consumable material (e.g., wipes); a lid configured to move between a closed position and an open position to provide a user with access to at least one of said plurality of sheets of consumable material when the container is received by the housing; an actuator configured to be operated by the user; a transmission configured to transmit force from the actuator to the lid to cause movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position; and a lock comprising a blocker and a lock engagement feature.
- the lock engagement feature can be configured to engage a corresponding container engagement feature on the container when the container is received by the housing.
- the dispenser can be configured such that: when the lock engagement feature is not engaged with the corresponding container engagement feature on the container, the blocker blocks movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position; and when the lock engagement feature is engaged with the corresponding container engagement feature on the container, movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position is allowed.
- a system or kit can comprise the dispenser and the wipes or other consumable sheet material.
- the actuator can comprise a lever coupled to the housing and configured to be depressed by the user.
- the lever can be configured to cause the lid to move from the closed position to the open position when the lock engagement feature is engaged with the corresponding container engagement feature on the container.
- said blocker can be configured to inhibit the lever from causing the lid to move from the closed position to the open position.
- the lid includes an arm comprising gear teeth
- the dispenser further comprises a coupler gear coupled to a portion of the lever and configured to rotate upon movement of the lever
- the coupler gear comprises gear teeth configured to engage the gear teeth of the arm of the lid
- movement of the lever causes movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position via engagement between the gear teeth of the coupler gear and the gear teeth of the arm of the lid.
- the blocker can comprise a protrusion. When the lock engagement feature is not engaged with the corresponding container engagement feature on the container, the protrusion can engage the gear teeth of the coupler gear and inhibit the lever from causing movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position.
- the lid and the lock can be rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to rotate about a first axis, and the lever can be rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to rotate about a second axis that is generally parallel to and spaced from the first axis.
- the lid and the lock are independently rotatable with respect to one another about the first axis.[ 0010 ]
- the dispenser further comprises said container.
- the lock can comprise a body and the lock engagement feature can extend outward from the body.
- the container can comprise a body and a tab extending outward from the body of the container, the body of the container comprising an interior for holding said plurality of sheets of consumable material.
- the tab of the container When the container is received by the housing, the tab of the container can be configured to contact the lock engagement feature, thereby moving the lock from a first position to a second position.
- the blocker When the lock is in said first position, the blocker can block movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position.
- the lock When the lock is in said second position, movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position can be allowed.
- the housing and the container comprise corresponding alignment features configured to interact with one another to align the tab of the container with the lock engagement feature when the container is received by said housing.
- the tab of the container can be located at a first end of the container and the alignment feature of the container can be located at second end of said container that is opposite the first end of the container.
- the alignment feature of the container can comprise a recessed portion (which can include an opening) on at least a portion of a bottom surface of the container and wherein the alignment feature of the housing comprises a protrusion extending outward from a portion of said housing and configured to be received within the recessed portion on said at least the portion of the bottom surface of the container.
- the recessed portion of the container is not aligned with an axis extending through a center of a cross-section of the container.
- the lever can be configured to move between a first lever position and a second lever position.
- movement of the lever from the first lever position toward the second lever position causes said lid to move from the closed position toward the open position; movement of the lever from the second lever position toward the first lever position causes said lid to move from the open position toward the closed position; and the lever is biased toward said first lever position.
- the lever is biased toward said first lever position by at least one biasing member coupled to a portion of said lever and a portion of said housing.
- the dispenser further comprises a dampener configured to dampen movement of the lever from the second lever position to the first lever position.
- the housing can comprise: a cabinet; a frame connected to the cabinet; a base, the base and the frame positioned away from each other to define a space for receiving the container; and a handle movably coupled to the cabinet and configured to connect the base to the cabinet.
- movement of the handle allows the base to move from a first position to a second position, the base being positioned farther from the frame when in the second position than when in the first position.
- the dispenser can further comprise at least one biasing member coupled to the cabinet and the base, wherein the at least one biasing member is configured to bias the base toward the first position.
- the handle can comprise a slot and the base can comprise a cam mechanism configured to slide relative to the slot to allow the base to move from the first position to the second position.
- the housing comprises a frame configured to be positioned proximate an end of said container when said container is received by said housing, and the frame comprises: an opening configured to provide access to at least one of said plurality of sheets of consumable material of said container when said container is received by said housing; one or more flexible arms extending adjacent to the opening; and a nozzle connected to the one or more flexible arms, the nozzle configured to receive and operably position at least one of said plurality of sheets of consumable material for the user when said container is received by said housing.
- the one or more flexible arms can be configured to allow an axis extending through the nozzle to be oriented transverse relative to an axis corresponding to gravitational force on at least one of the nozzle and said at least one of said plurality of sheets of consumable material.
- said nozzle is configured to move from a first position to a second position when said at least one of said plurality of sheets of consumable material is pulled by said user, the first position being an at rest position of the nozzle; when the nozzle is in said first position, the one or more flexible arms are curved; and when the nozzle is in said second position, the one or more flexible arms are not curved.
- the axis extending through the nozzle when the nozzle is in said first position, the axis extending through the nozzle is transverse with respect to an axis extending through a center of the opening of the frame; and when the nozzle is in said second position, the axis extending through the nozzle is generally parallel to said axis extending through the center of the opening in the frame.
- a dispenser comprises a housing configured to receive a container including a plurality of sheets of consumable material, the housing comprising a frame configured to be positioned proximate an end of said container when said container is received by said housing.
- the frame can comprise: an opening configured to provide access to at least one of said plurality of sheets of consumable material of said container when said container is received by said housing; one or more flexible arms extending adjacent to the opening; and a nozzle connected to the one or more flexible arms, the nozzle configured to receive and operably position at least one of said plurality of sheets of consumable material for the user when said container is received by said housing; wherein the one or more flexible arms are configured to allow an axis extending through the nozzle to be oriented transverse relative to an axis corresponding to gravitational force on at least one of the nozzle and said at least one of said plurality of sheets of consumable material.
- said nozzle is configured to move from a first position to a second position when the first wipe is pulled by said user, the first position being an at rest position of the nozzle; when the nozzle is in said first position, the one or more flexible arms are curved; and when the nozzle is in said second position, the one or more flexible arms are not curved.
- the axis extending through the nozzle when the nozzle is in said first position, the axis extending through the nozzle is transverse with respect to an axis extending through a center of the opening of the frame; and when the nozzle is in said second position, the axis extending through the nozzle is generally parallel to said axis extending through the center of the opening in the frame.
- the dispenser can further comprise a first tab connected to and extending from the nozzle, the first tab spaced from the one or more flexible arms, wherein the first tab is configured to contact a second tab extending outward from a portion of the frame when the nozzle is in said second position.
- the second tab extends partially across said opening of the frame.
- an electronic dispenser comprises: a housing configured to receive a container including one or more sheets of consumable material; a lid configured to move between a closed position and an open position to provide a user with access to said one or more sheets of consumable material when the container is received by the housing; a motor operatively coupled to the lid; an electronic controller; a sensor configured to transmit a signal to the controller responsive to detecting a presence of an object; and a container authorization sensor unit configured to provide an indication to the controller of whether the container is authorized for use with the electronic dispenser.
- the controller is configured to instruct the motor to cause the lid to move from the closed position to the open position in response to both of the following conditions being satisfied: the controller has received said signal from the sensor; and the controller has received said indication from the container authorization sensor unit that the container is authorized for use with the electronic dispenser.
- the controller is configured to instruct the motor to cause the lid to move from the closed position to the open position only upon receipt of said indication from the container authorization sensor unit that the container is authorized for use with the electronic dispenser.
- the container authorization sensor unit comprises a first switch and a first actuator; the first actuator is configured to move between a first position where the first actuator engages the first switch and a second position where the first actuator does not engage the first switch; and the first switch is configured to provide said indication that the container is authorized for use with the electronic dispenser when the first actuator is in one of said first and second positions.
- the first switch is configured to provide said indication when the first actuator is in said second position.
- the first actuator is biased toward the first position.
- the first switch and the first actuator are positioned within a portion of the housing; and engagement between the first actuator and a first tab of said container causes said first actuator to move from the first position where the first actuator engages the first switch to the second position where the first actuator does not engage the first switch.
- the electronic dispenser further comprises said container.
- said container comprises a body, an interior for holding said one or more sheets of consumable material, a first end comprising an opening for providing access to said interior, and a second end opposite the first end; said first tab extends outward from the body proximate the first end of the container; and said first tab is configured to move said first actuator from the first position to the second position when said container is received by said housing.
- the electronic dispenser further comprises a circuit board positioned within the portion of the housing and configured to mount the first switch, wherein the circuit board comprises a hole, and wherein the first actuator comprises a first portion configured to engage the first switch when in the first position and a second portion extending through the opening of the circuit board and configured to engage the first tab of the container when said container is received by said housing.
- the container authorization sensor unit further comprises a second switch and a second actuator, the second actuator configured to move between a first position where the second actuator engages the second switch and a second position where the second actuator does not engage the second switch;
- the second switch is configured to provide an indication to the controller that the container is authorized for use with the electronic dispenser when the second actuator is in the second position; and upon receipt of said indication from the second switch that said container is authorized for use with the electronic dispenser, the controller is configured to instruct the motor to cause the lid to move from the closed position to the open position.
- the controller is configured to instruct the motor to cause the lid to move from the closed position to the open position only upon receipt of both of said indications from said first and second switches that said container is authorized for use with the electronic dispenser.
- the first actuator is biased toward the first position of the first actuator and wherein the second actuator is biased toward the second position of the second actuator.
- the first actuator and first switch are positioned near a top portion of the housing and the second actuator and second switch are positioned near a bottom portion of the housing.
- the electronic dispenser further comprises said container, wherein said container comprises: a body comprising an interior for holding said one or more sheets of consumable material; a first end configured to be positioned adjacent the top portion of the housing; a second end opposite the first end; a first tab extending outward from the body near the first end; and an opening in a surface at the second end of the container.
- the portion of the second actuator can be configured to extend through the opening in the surface at the second end of the container when the container is received by the housing and said second actuator can be in said second position of the second actuator when the portion of the second actuator extends through the opening of the container.
- the first tab of the container can be configured to move the first actuator from the first position of the first actuator to the second position of the first actuator when the portion of the second actuator extends through the opening of the container.
- an axis extending through said opening in said surface at the second end of the container is not aligned with an axis extending through a center of a cross-section of the container.
- the electronic dispenser can further comprise a first gear configured to be rotated by the motor, the first gear comprising a finger configured to contact a portion of the lid to move the lid from the closed position to the open position.
- the electronic dispenser further comprises a second gear rotatably coupled between the first gear and the motor and configured to allow the motor to cause rotation of the first gear.
- the lid is configured to be moved manually from the closed position to the open position independent of rotation of the first gear.
- the first gear and the lid are configured to rotate about a first axis and wherein the motor is configured to rotate about a second axis that is spaced from the first axis.
- the electronic dispenser further comprises an indicator configured to indicate a status of the electronic dispenser.
- a dispenser comprises: a housing configured to receive a container including a plurality of sheets of consumable material; a lid configured to move between a closed position and an open position to provide a user with access to at least one of said plurality of sheets of consumable material when the container is received by the housing; an actuator, wherein the actuator is configured to cause movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position responsive to operation by the user; a motor operatively coupled to the lid; an electronic controller; a sensor configured to transmit a signal to the controller responsive to detecting a presence of an object, wherein, responsive to receiving said signal from said sensor, the controller is configured to instruct the motor to cause movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position; and a lock comprising a blocker and a lock engagement feature, the lock engagement feature configured to engage a corresponding container engagement feature on the container when the container is received by the housing.
- the dispenser can be configured such that: when the lock engagement feature is not engaged with the corresponding container engagement feature on the container, the blocker blocks movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position; and when the lock engagement feature is engaged with the corresponding container engagement feature on the container, movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position is allowed.
- the dispenser can be configured to allow the motor to cause movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position without causing movement of the actuator.
- the actuator comprises a lever coupled to the housing and configured to be depressed by the user, wherein the lever is configured to cause the lid to move from the closed position to the open position when the lock engagement feature is engaged with the corresponding container engagement feature on the container, and wherein, when the lock engagement feature is not engaged with the corresponding container engagement feature on the container, said blocker is configured to inhibit the lever from causing the lid to move from the closed position to the open position.
- the lid includes a first arm comprising gear teeth.
- the dispenser can further comprise: a first lever cam secured to a portion of the lever and configured to rotate with rotation of the lever; and a first coupler gear configured for engagement with the first lever cam and further configured to be rotated by the first lever cam when the first lever cam is rotated by the lever, wherein the first coupler gear comprises gear teeth configured to engage the gear teeth of the first arm of the lid.
- the lid includes a second arm comprising gear teeth
- the dispenser further comprises a second coupler gear comprising gear teeth configured to engage the gear teeth of the second arm of the lid
- the second coupler gear is configured to be rotated by the motor.
- the dispenser further comprises a second lever cam secured to a portion of the lever and configured to rotate with rotation of the lever, the second lever cam configured for engagement with the second coupler gear and further configured to rotate the second coupler gear when the second lever cam is rotated by the lever; and the second coupler gear and the second lever cam are coupled together such that the second lever cam remains stationary when the second coupler gear is rotated by the motor.
- the first coupler gear rotates along with the second coupler gear when the second coupler gear is rotated by the motor; and the first coupler gear and the first lever cam are coupled together such that the first lever cam remains stationary when the second coupler gear is rotated by the motor.
- the second coupler gear and the second lever cam are coupled together such that the second lever cam does not rotate when the second coupler gear is rotated by the motor; and the first coupler gear and the first lever cam are coupled together such that the first lever cam does not rotate when the second coupler gear is rotated by the motor.
- the first coupler gear comprises a slot that is configured to receive a protrusion of the first lever cam and allow the protrusion to move within a length defined by the slot
- the second coupler gear comprises a slot that is configured to receive a protrusion of the second lever cam and allow the protrusion to move within a length defined by the slot
- movement of the protrusion of the first lever cam within the slot of the first coupler gear and movement of the protrusion of the second lever cam within the slot of the second coupler gear allows the first and second lever cams to remain stationary when the first and second coupler gears rotate.
- the second coupler gear comprises a cam mechanism
- the dispenser further comprises a cam follower coupled with the cam mechanism of the second coupler gear, the cam follower configured to be moved by the motor and, in response, cause the second coupler gear to rotate.
- the cam follower is at least partially rotatably coupled with the cam mechanism of the second coupler gear, and wherein, when movement of the second coupler gear is inhibited, the cam follower is configured to rotate with respect to the cam mechanism, thereby allowing the motor to rotate responsive to instruction from the controller.
- the cam follower is coupled with a biasing member.
- FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate various perspective views of a dispenser.
- FIG. 1C illustrates a perspective view of the dispenser of FIGS. 1A-1B with a lid of the dispenser in an open position.
- FIG. 1D illustrates the dispenser of FIGS. 1A-1B and a container positioned away from one another.
- FIGS. 2A-2B illustrate exploded perspective views of the dispenser of FIGS. 1A-1B .
- FIGS. 3A-3B illustrate exploded perspective views of a portion of the dispenser of FIGS. 1A-1B .
- FIGS. 4A-4F illustrate various views of a portion of the dispenser of FIGS. 1A-1B .
- FIGS. 5A illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the dispenser of FIGS. 1A-1B .
- FIGS. 5B-5C illustrate exploded perspective views of the portion of the dispenser shown in FIG. 5A .
- FIGS. 5D, 5E, and 5F illustrate top perspective, cross-sectional, and bottom perspective views of a portion of the dispenser of FIGS. 1A-1B .
- FIG. 5G illustrates an enlarged portion of that which is shown in FIG. 5F .
- FIG. 5H illustrates a cross-section taken through the portion of the dispenser shown in FIG. 5A .
- FIGS. 6A-6B illustrate exploded perspective views of a portion of the dispenser of FIGS . 1 A- 1 B .
- FIG. 6C illustrates a perspective view of lock mechanisms of the dispenser of FIGS. 1A-1B .
- FIG. 6D illustrates a top view of the dispenser of FIGS. 1A-1B .
- FIG. 6E illustrates a cross-section taken through a portion of the dispenser shown in FIG. 6D .
- FIG. 6F illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of the cross-section of the dispenser shown in FIG. 6E .
- FIG. 6G illustrates the enlarged view of FIG. 6F where a container is positioned away from a lock mechanism of the dispenser in accordance with aspects of this disclosure.
- FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate sample alternative configurations for a lock mechanism and a container.
- FIGS. 8A-8B illustrate enlarged perspective views of a portion of the dispenser of FIGS. 1A-1B and a portion of a container in accordance with aspects of this disclosure.
- FIG. 8C illustrates an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the dispenser of FIGS. 1A-1B and the container of FIGS. 8A-8B with a cross-section taken through the container to better illustrate aspects of the dispenser and container.
- FIG. 8D illustrates a bottom view of the container of FIGS. 8A-8C .
- FIGS. 9A-9B illustrate various perspective views of a portion of the dispenser.
- FIG. 9C illustrates a top view of the portion of the dispenser shown in FIGS. 9A-9B .
- FIG. 9D illustrates a cross-section taken through a portion of that which is shown in FIG. 9C , where a nozzle of the dispenser is in a first position.
- FIG. 9E illustrates the cross-section shown in FIG. 9D where the nozzle of the dispenser is in a second position.
- FIG. 9F illustrates the cross-section taken through the portion of the dispenser shown in FIG. 9D with a wipe positioned within the nozzle.
- FIG. 9G illustrates the cross-section taken through the portion of the dispenser shown in FIG. 9E with a wipe positioned within the nozzle.
- FIGS. 10A-10B illustrate perspective views of another implementation of a dispenser.
- FIG. 10C illustrates a perspective view of the dispenser of FIGS. 10A-10B where a lid of the dispenser is in an open position.
- FIGS. 10D-10E illustrate perspective views of the dispenser and a container spaced from one another.
- FIG. 11 illustrates a schematic diagram of a portion of the dispenser of FIGS . 10 A- 10 C.
- FIGS. 12A-12B illustrate top and bottom partially exploded perspective views of the dispenser of FIGS. 10A-10B .
- FIG. 13A illustrates a partially exploded perspective view of a portion of the dispenser of FIGS. 10A-10B .
- FIG. 13B illustrates an exploded perspective view of that which is shown in FIG. 13A .
- FIG. 14A illustrates a bottom perspective view of a base of a housing of the dispenser of FIGS. 10A-10B .
- FIGS. 14B-14C illustrate top and bottom perspective views of an actuator of the dispenser of FIGS. 10A-10B .
- FIG. 14D illustrates a top view of the dispenser of FIGS. 10A-10C .
- FIG. 14E illustrates a cross-section taken through a portion of the dispenser shown in FIG. 14D .
- FIG. 14F illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of the cross-section shown in FIG. 14E .
- FIG. 15A illustrates a partially exploded perspective view of the dispenser of FIGS . 10 A- 10 B.
- FIG. 15B illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of that which is shown in FIG. 15A .
- FIG. 16A-16B illustrates top and bottom perspective views of a portion of the dispenser of FIGS. 10A-10B .
- FIG. 16C illustrates a cross-section through the portion of the dispenser shown in FIGS. 16A-16B and illustrates a nozzle of the dispenser in a first position.
- FIG. 17A illustrates a perspective view of a cross-section taken through a portion of the dispenser shown in FIG. 14D .
- FIG. 17B illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of that which is shown in FIG. 17A .
- FIG. 17C illustrates an enlarged view similar to that which is shown in FIG. 17B where a lid of the dispenser is in a partially opened position.
- FIGS. 18A-18B illustrate front and back perspective views of another implementation of a dispenser.
- FIG. 18C illustrates a perspective view of the dispenser of FIGS. 18A-18B where a lid of the dispenser has been activated via actuation of a lever in accordance with aspects of this disclosure.
- FIG. 18D illustrates a perspective view of the dispenser of FIGS. 18A-18B where a lid of the dispenser has been activated electronically in accordance with aspects of this disclosure.
- FIG. 19 illustrates a schematic diagram of a portion of the dispenser of FIGS. 18A-18B .
- FIGS. 20A-20B illustrate front and back partially exploded perspective views of the dispenser of FIGS. 18A-18B .
- FIG. 21 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a portion of the dispenser of FIGS. 18A-18B .
- FIGS. 22A-22B illustrate perspective views of a portion of the dispenser of FIGS. 18A-18B .
- FIG. 22C illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the dispenser of FIGS. 18A-18B and FIG. 22D illustrates a cross-sectional view of the portion of the dispenser illustrated in FIG. 22C .
- FIGS. 23A-23D illustrate side views of a portion of the dispenser of FIGS. 18A-18B and further illustrate electronic operation a lid of the dispenser.
- FIGS. 24A-24B illustrate enlarged perspective views of a portion of the dispenser of FIGS. 18A-18B .
- FIGS. 25A-27B illustrate side views of a portion of the dispenser of FIGS. 18A-18B and enlarged portions of such views, and further illustrate a safety mechanism of the dispenser during electronic operation.
- FIGS. 28A-28B illustrate views of a portion of the dispenser of FIGS. 18A-18B with another configuration for a cam mechanism.
- FIGS. 29A-29B illustrate cross-sectional views of a portion of the dispenser of FIGS. 18A-18B and further illustrate a lid and lever of the dispenser during manual operation.
- FIG. 30A illustrates a top view of the dispenser of FIGS. 18A-18B .
- FIG. 30B illustrates a cross-section taken through a portion of the dispenser shown in FIG. 30A .
- FIG. 30C illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of that which is shown in FIG. 30B .
- FIG. 30D illustrates the enlarged view of FIG. 30C where a container is positioned away from a lock mechanism of the dispenser in accordance with aspects of this disclosure.
- FIGS. 1A-9E show an illustrative implementation of a dispenser 100 and/or portions thereof.
- the dispenser 100 can be a manual dispenser configured to be operated mechanically by a user (for example, via the use of a lever of the dispenser).
- the dispenser 100 does not include any electronic components.
- the dispenser 100 can include any of the features discussed anywhere in this disclosure.
- FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate front and back perspective views of the dispenser 100 .
- FIG. 1C illustrates a front perspective view of the dispenser 100 where a lid 110 of the dispenser 100 is in an open position, as described in more detail below.
- FIG. 1C also illustrates a lever 120 of the dispenser 100 in a second position, for example, after the lever 120 has been moved (for example, actuated).
- the lid 110 , the lever 120 , and the interaction between the lid 110 and the lever 120 is described in more detail below.
- the dispenser 100 can include and/or be configured to receive a container 101 which can include one or more sheets of consumable material. As shown in FIG.
- FIG. 1D illustrates a front perspective view of the dispenser 100 and container 101 where the container 101 is removed from (for example, not received by) the dispenser 100 .
- FIGS. 2A-2B illustrate partially exploded front and back (respectively) perspective views of the dispenser 100 .
- the dispenser 100 can include a housing 104 , a lid 110 , and an actuator configured for operation and/or interaction with the lid 110 (for example, configured to cause rotation of the lid 110 ).
- Such actuator can be a lever, for example, the lever 120 .
- the lid 110 and lever 120 can be coupled to portions of the housing 104 , for example, to a top portion of the housing 104 .
- the dispenser 100 includes a transmission configured to transmit force from an actuator of the dispenser 100 to the lid 110 , for example, to cause movement of the lid 110 from a closed position to an open position, and/or to any of a plurality of positions of the lid 110 between such closed and open positions of the lid 110 .
- an actuator of the dispenser 100 comprises a lever, such as lever 120
- the lid 110 and lever 120 can be coupled to one another, for example, rotatably coupled together such that movement (e.g., rotation) of the lever 120 causes movement (e.g., rotation) of the lid 110 , and vice versa.
- FIGS. 2A-2B illustrate various other components that can be included in the dispenser 100 , such as one or more lock mechanisms 130 , one or more coupler gears 132 , one or more bushings 134 , a dampener 136 (which can also be referred to as a “damper”), and a dampener mount 138 , each of which are described in more detail below.
- one or more lock mechanisms 130 one or more coupler gears 132 , one or more bushings 134 , a dampener 136 (which can also be referred to as a “damper”), and a dampener mount 138 , each of which are described in more detail below.
- FIGS. 3A-3B illustrate front and back exploded perspective views of the housing 104 of the dispenser 100 .
- the housing 104 can include a cabinet 140 , a frame 150 , and a base 160 .
- the housing 104 includes a handle 170 coupled with the cabinet 140 and the base 160 .
- the handle 170 can be movably (for example, pivotably) connected to the cabinet 140 and/or movably (for example, slidably) connected to the base 160 .
- the handle 170 can allow the base 160 to move relative to the cabinet 140 and/or frame 150 , which can provide more space and/or distance between the base 160 and the frame 150 to allow for convenient loading of a container 101 into housing 104 (for example, into and/or between frame 150 and base 160 ).
- the frame 150 which can form and/or define a top portion of the housing 104 , can be connected to the cabinet 140 , for example, at or near a first (e.g., top) end of the cabinet 140 .
- the base 160 which can form and/or define a bottom portion of the housing 104 , can be connected to the cabinet 140 , for example, at or near a second (e.g., bottom) end of the cabinet 140 .
- the frame 150 and/or the base 160 can be connected to the cabinet 140 via one or more fasteners, for example.
- the frame 150 is integral with the cabinet 140 .
- the frame 150 is movably (for example, rotatably) connected to the cabinet 140 , which can aid with insertion of the container 101 between the frame 150 and the base 160 , for example.
- the frame 150 can be configured to secure and/or receive a top end of the container 101 and/or the base 160 can be configured to secure and/or receive a bottom end of the container 101 .
- the frame 150 and the base 170 are each described in more detail below.
- the cabinet 140 can be configured to be mounted to a wall, for example, via one or more fasteners and/or via adhesive materials.
- the housing 104 can be configured to stand upright on a horizontal surface, for example, without the need to mount the housing 104 (e.g., the cabinet 140 ) to a wall or other surface.
- the dispenser 100 or a portion thereof can be mounted in a vertical, horizontal, or other orientation.
- the cabinet 140 includes a first wall 141 (which may be referred to as a “front” wall) and one or both of sidewalls 142 a, 142 b connected to and extending transverse (for example, generally perpendicular) to front wall 141 .
- the front wall 141 is not planar.
- the front wall 141 can be curved.
- the front wall 141 can be curved between the sidewalls 142 a, 142 b.
- a curvature of the front wall 141 corresponds to a shape of the container 101 , for example, a curvature of a side and/or surface of the container 101 .
- the front wall 141 can be curved to match a curvature of a portion of a perimeter of the cylindrical shape of the container 101 .
- Such configurations can advantageously allow the container 101 to be conveniently and efficiently received by the housing 104 and can reduce overall size of the dispenser 100 in one or more dimensions.
- the base 160 can include a surface 161 and a wall 162 extending around a perimeter of the surface 161 or a portion of the surface 161 .
- the wall 162 can be cylindrical, among other shapes. As shown, the wall 162 can extend above and/or below the surface 161 .
- the wall 162 can have a variable height around the surface 161 .
- the wall 162 can have a maximum height at a portion of the base 160 that is adjacent to the cabinet 140 and can have a minimum height that is diametrically opposed to the location of the maximum height.
- Such configuration can allow the container 101 (for example, a bottom portion of the container 101 ) to be positioned (for example, inserted) into base 160 and/or can provide some securement of the container 101 , for example, from lateral movement.
- the base 160 can be coupled to the cabinet 140 , for example, via one or more biasing members. Such one or more biasing members can bias the base 160 towards a particular position relative to the cabinet 140 and/or frame 150 . Such one or more biasing members can be utilized alongside the handle 170 discussed further below. Such one or more biasing members can be, for example, springs 149 (see FIGS. 3B, 4C, and 4F ), such as helical coil springs.
- the dispenser 100 can include one or more springs 149 that connect to portions of the cabinet 140 and portions of the base 160 .
- the base 160 can include cavities 165 connected to and/or along a portion of wall 162 of base 160 that are sized to receive portions of springs 149 .
- Springs 149 can bias the base 160 in a direction toward the frame 150 and can work alongside the handle 170 as discussed in more detail below.
- the cavities can be cylindrical and/or can include a hollow or partially hollow interior sized and/or shaped to receive the springs 149 .
- the dispenser 100 can include a handle 170 .
- the handle 170 can be movably (for example, pivotably) connected to a portion of the cabinet 140 .
- the handle 170 can include a pivot portion 171 (for example, a rod) that is pivotably connected to sidewalls 142 a, 142 b of the cabinet 140 .
- the pivot portion 171 can include ends that are sized to be received in holes 143 in sidewalls 142 a, 142 b (see FIG. 3B ).
- the pivot portion 171 can be sized to receive a pin or rod that can be positioned within a channel extending through and/or defined by the pivot portion 171 and that can extend within and/or through the openings 143 .
- the handle 170 can include a main body connected to the pivot portion 171 that can include an end 172 .
- the end 172 can be opposite the pivot portion 171 and can be configured to be moved (for example, “pressed”) to cause the handle 170 to pivot relative to the pivot portion 171 , the cabinet 140 , and/or an axis extending through openings 143 . Movement of the handle 170 and the base 160 is discussed further below.
- the handle 170 is configured to be actuated by being depressed, such as being pivoted downward.
- the base 160 can be coupled with the handle 170 in a variety of ways.
- the base 160 can include a cam mechanism that can be configured to engage (for example, slidably engage) the handle 170 or a portion thereof.
- the handle 170 (for example, a main body of the handle 170 ) can include a cam follower configured to interact with the cam mechanism of the base 160 to allow the base 160 to move relative to the handle 170 .
- the base 160 can include a cam mechanism that can include and/or be defined by a stem 164 extending from a portion of the base 160 (for example, from the wall 162 and/or the surface 161 ) and one or more cams 164 a, 164 b extending transverse (for example, generally perpendicular) to the stem 164 .
- the handle 170 can include a cam follower including rails 173 a, 173 b separated by a slot sized to receive a portion of the stem 164 .
- the rails 173 a, 173 b can be configured to guide movement of the cams 164 a, 164 b (for example, via contact therebetween), thereby allowing the stem 164 and base 160 to move (for example, slide) relative to the handle 170 and/or the slot positioned between the rails 173 a, 173 b.
- the base 160 can include walls 169 a, 169 b which can extend from (e.g., downward from) surface 161 and can be spaced from one another a distance that is sized to receive a portion of the handle 170 (for example, sized to receive a width of the handle 170 ).
- the wall 162 includes an opening 168 that provides access to the end 172 of the handle 170 when the handle 170 is coupled with the base 160 .
- the opening 168 can also be defined by a portion of the wall 162 that does not extend below or only minimally extends below the surface 161 in order to provide access to the end 172 of the handle 170 when the handle 170 is coupled with the base 160
- FIGS. 4A-4F illustrate a portion of the dispenser 100 , namely, a portion of the cabinet 140 along with the base 160 and handle 170 .
- FIGS. 4A and 4D illustrate side views of a portion of the cabinet 140 , the base 160 , and the handle 170 in various positions as described further below.
- FIGS. 4B and 4E illustrate bottom perspective views a portion of the cabinet 140 , the base 160 , and the handle 170 in various positions as described further below.
- FIGS. 4C and 4F illustrate back views a portion of the cabinet 140 , the base 160 , and the handle 170 in various positions as described further below.
- the handle 170 can move (for example, pivot) relative to the cabinet 140 between a first position (which can be described as a neutral, locked, and/or closed position) as shown in FIGS. 4A-4C and a second position (which can be described as an unlocked and/or open position) as shown in FIGS. 4D-4F .
- first position which can be described as a neutral, locked, and/or closed position
- second position which can be described as an unlocked and/or open position
- the base 160 can be configured to at least partially slide relative to the handle 170 via engagement between a cam mechanism of the base 160 (for example, stem 164 and cams 164 a, 164 b ) and a cam follower of the handle 170 (for example, rails 173 a, 173 b and the slot therebetween).
- a cam mechanism of the base 160 for example, stem 164 and cams 164 a, 164 b
- a cam follower of the handle 170 for example, rails 173 a, 173 b and the slot therebetween.
- Such movement of the base 160 relative to the handle 170 can allow the base 160 to move from a first position (shown in FIGS. 4A-4C ) to a second position where the base 160 is positioned farther from the frame 150 , for example.
- Such first position of the base 160 can be described as a neutral, locked, and/or closed position.
- the base 160 can be configured to move between such first position of the base 160 and a plurality of positions between such first position and a lowermost position of the base 160 (for example, a position where the base 160 is positioned at a maximum distance from the frame 150 while still being coupled with the handle 170 ).
- Such configurations can advantageously allow for more convenient insertion and/or positioning of a container 101 within the housing 104 .
- the dispenser 100 includes one or more springs 149 connected to portions of the cabinet 140 and the base 160 .
- Such springs 149 can help bias the base 160 towards the first position (shown in FIGS. 4A-4C ).
- Such configuration can advantageously allow the base 160 to move toward and/or return to its first position ( FIGS. 4A-4C ).
- the handle 170 can be moved (for example, pivoted) by application of a force on end 172 .
- a user can apply a downward force on end 172 of handle 170 to cause movement of the handle 170 .
- the base 160 can be movable relative to the handle 170 , thereby allowing a user to adjust the position of the base 160 in order to insert and/or position a container inside the dispenser 100 or a portion thereof.
- the end 172 of the handle 170 can be accessible to a user (for example, to a user's finger, palm, wrist, forearm, etc.), via an opening 168 of the base 160 (which may be referred to as an “access region” of the base 160 ).
- the base 160 is similar or identical to base 360 discussed with reference to dispenser 300 below.
- the base 160 includes a keying feature similar or identical to recessed portion 308 .
- the dispenser 100 can be configured to receive a container that is identical to container 101 but that has a keying feature similar or identical to protrusion 209 of container 200 .
- FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate a portion of the dispenser 100 .
- FIGS. 5A-5C also illustrate how the lid 110 , the lever 120 , and the frame 150 of the housing 104 can be coupled together.
- FIGS. 5A-5C also illustrate various other components of the dispenser 100 as described in more detail below.
- the lever 120 can be coupled to a portion of the housing 104 (for example, to the frame 150 ) in a variety of ways.
- the lever 120 can include an actuator 121 .
- the actuator 121 can provide a plane or surface for a user to operate the lever 120 (for example, move and/or rotate the lever 120 ).
- the lever 120 is configured to be actuated by being depressed, such as being pivoted downward.
- the actuator 121 can be sized and/or shaped to facilitate contact and/or operation by a variety of portion's of the user's body.
- the actuator 121 can be configured to be operated by a finger, a hand, an arm, an elbow, or another portion of a user's body.
- Various embodiments are configured to enable actuation of the lever 120 without the user's hand needing to contact the lever 120 .
- the lever 120 can be adapted to be actuated by a user's elbow.
- the lever 120 can include an indicator 129 that can provide an indication to a user of how to actuate the lever 120 .
- the indicator 129 can comprise an arrow indicating a proper direction by which the lever 120 can be actuated.
- the lever 120 can include lever arms 122 a, 122 b extending from the actuator 121 .
- the lever arms 122 a, 122 b can be spaced from one another to define an opening therebetween, and such opening can be sized and/or shaped to correspond to a size and/or shape of the lid 110 or a portion thereof.
- the lever arms 122 a, 122 b can be coupled to a portion of the frame 150 .
- the lever arms 122 a, 122 b can be rotatably coupled to a portion of the frame 150 .
- the lever arms 122 a, 122 b can be coupled (for example, rotatably coupled) to a portion of the housing 104 (e.g., the frame 150 ) and be configured to rotate about a common axis that extends through a portion of ends of the lever arms 122 a, 122 b.
- the frame 150 can include a trim portion 152 and a body portion 154 connected to the trim portion 152 .
- the trim portion 152 comprises an annular shape and/or structure.
- the body portion 154 can be configured to connect to a portion of the cabinet 140 , for example, via one or more fasteners.
- the frame 150 can include and/or define an opening 151 that can provide access to one or more sheets of consumable material of the container 101 when the container is received by the housing 104 .
- the trim portion 152 of the frame 150 can include and/or define such opening 151 .
- the opening 151 can be circular, among other shapes.
- the trim portion 152 can be cylindrical, among other shapes.
- the body portion 154 of the frame 150 can be configured to receive, position, secure, and/or house various components of the dispenser 100 .
- the body portion 154 can include and/or be defined by one or more walls which define (for example, at least partially define) an interior for receiving, positioning, securing, and/or housing various components of the dispenser 100 .
- the body portion 154 can include a back wall 154 a and two sidewalls 154 b, 154 c connected to and/or extending transverse (for example, generally perpendicular to) to the back wall 154 a.
- the frame 150 can include protruding rings 155 extending outward from the sidewalls 154 b, 154 c and including an opening extending therethrough, and such opening can also extend through the walls 154 b, 154 c.
- the protruding rings 155 can be cylindrical, among other shapes.
- the protruding rings 155 can be sized and/or shaped to be received in corresponding sockets 124 a, 124 b on the lever arms 122 a, 122 b.
- the sockets 124 a, 124 b can extend outward from the arms 122 a, 122 b at ends thereof and can comprise a cylindrical shape that is sized and/or shaped to receive (or alternatively, to be received by) the rings 155 of frame 150 .
- Engagement between rings 155 and sockets 124 a, 124 b can at least partially couple (for example, rotatably couple) the lever 120 to the frame 150 .
- the lever 120 can be coupled (for example, rotatably coupled) to the frame 150 (and thus, the housing 104 ) via coupler gears 132 which can sandwich the walls 154 b, 154 c between themselves and the lever arms 122 a, 122 b and/or sockets 124 a, 124 b.
- the dispenser 100 includes bushings 134 which can be positioned over the rings 155 and in between the rings 155 and the sockets 124 a, 124 b.
- FIG. 5H illustrates a cross-section taken through the portion of the dispenser 100 shown in FIG. 5A and show an illustrative assembly of the lever 120 , frame 150 , lid 110 , and how the coupler gears 132 , bushings, 134 , rings 155 , lever arms 122 a, 122 b, sockets 124 a, 124 b can be positioned and engaged.
- the sockets 124 a, 124 b can include openings that are configured to allow a prong of the coupler gears 132 to secure within and/or through.
- the sockets 124 a, 124 b can include cross-shaped openings configured to allow legs of a prong of coupler gears 132 to pass through and engage (for example, snap into engagement with) the sockets 124 a, 124 b.
- Such engagement of the coupler gears 132 and the sockets 124 a, 124 b can secure (for example, “sandwich”) the walls 154 b, 154 c of frame 150 .
- the dispenser 100 can include coupler gears 132 .
- the coupler gears 132 can be configured to couple (for example, at least partially couple) the lever arms 122 a, 122 b to the frame 140 , for example, to the protruding rings 155 and/or to the body portion 154 of the frame (and/or sidewalls 154 b, 154 c ).
- the coupler gears 132 can include a main body comprising gear teeth and a prong 132 a (see FIG. 5H ).
- the prong 132 a can comprise one or more resilient legs.
- the prong 132 a can secure to the sockets 124 a, 124 b of lever arms 122 , for example, via the one or more legs of the prong 132 a passing through an opening in sockets 124 a.
- the coupler gears 132 are secured to the lever arms 122 a, 122 b (for example, the sockets 124 a, 124 b ) in such a manner that the coupler gears 132 (and gear teeth thereof) rotate with rotation of the lever 122 .
- the coupler gears 132 can be secured to the lever arms 122 a, 122 b (for example, the sockets 124 a, 124 b ) in such a manner that the coupler gear 132 and the lever 120 rotate together about an axis extending through a center of the sockets 124 a, 124 b and/or extending through a center of the protruding rings 155 when the lever 120 is actuated.
- the coupler gears 132 can be secured to the lever arms 122 a, 122 b (for example, the sockets 124 a, 124 b ) in such a manner that the coupler gear 132 and the lever 120 rotate together about an axis extending through a center of the sockets 124 a, 124 b and/or extending through a center of the protruding rings 155 when the lever 120 is actuated.
- the sidewalls 154 b, 154 c can be positioned between (for example, sandwiched between) ends of the lever arms 122 a, 122 b (and/or sockets 124 a, 124 b ) and the coupler gears 132 .
- the lid 110 can include a main body 110 a that can be sized and/or shaped to correspond and/or cover the access opening 151 of the frame 150 and/or an open end of a container 101 (where the container 101 has such an open end) such as that shown with respect to the container 101 in FIG. 1D and/or container 101 ′ (see FIG. 7A ) which can be similar to container 101 as discussed below.
- the main body 110 a of the lid 110 can comprise a circular shape, among others.
- the lid 110 can comprise a connecting portion 110 b connected to and/or extending from the main body 110 a and configured to couple the lid 110 to a portion of the housing 104 , for example, a portion of the frame 150 .
- the lid 110 can be coupled (for example, rotatably coupled) to the frame 150 via a rod 109 .
- rod 109 is integral with the lid 110 , for example, integral with the arms 110 c.
- the rod 109 is not integral with the lid 110 (for example, not integral with the arms 110 c ).
- the lid 110 can include one or more arms 110 c (for example, one, two, three, four, five, or six or more arms 110 c ) including through-holes sized to receive the rod 109 .
- the arms 110 c are spaced from one another by a gap or spacing, as shown. Such gap or spacing can advantageously allow portions of the lock mechanisms 130 (discussed further below) to also be coupled to rod 109 to enable rotation of the lock mechanisms 130 about rod 109 as discussed further below.
- the rod 109 can extend through the through-holes of the arms 110 c and be extend through openings in a portion of the frame 150 , for example, holes 154 d.
- the holes 154 d can be positioned on sidewalls 154 b, 154 c or can be positioned on a rim that extends along an end or upper portion of the walls 154 a, 154 b, 154 c (see FIGS. 5B-5C ).
- one or more of the one or more arms 110 c of the lid 110 can include gear teeth configured to engage with gear teeth of the coupler gears 132 as discussed further below.
- the arms 110 c can still be spaced form one another by a gap or spacing as shown, and such gap or spacing can advantageously allow portions of the lock mechanisms 130 (discussed further below) to also be coupled to rod 109 to enable rotation of the lock mechanisms 130 about rod 109 as discussed further below.
- FIGS. 5A-5H illustrate portions of the dispenser 100 (such as those discussed above) without the lock mechanism(s) 130 , merely for the purpose of better illustrating such portions of the dispenser 100 .
- the dispenser 100 can include one or more of such lock mechanisms 130 , which can interact with the components of the dispenser 100 shown and/or discussed with reference to FIGS. 5A-5H .
- FIGS. 5D-5E illustrate how the lever 120 and the lid 110 can interact with one another during operation of the dispenser 100 .
- the lid 110 can include one or more arms 110 c, and one or more of such arms 110 c can include gear teeth configured to engage gear teeth of coupler gears 132 .
- FIG. 5D-5E illustrate perspective and cross-section views (respectively) of the lid 110 in a partially open position.
- the coupler gears 132 can be secured to the lever 120 (for example, via free ends of arms 122 a, 122 b of lever 120 and/or via sockets 124 a, 124 b of lever 120 ) in such a manner so as to follow rotation of the lever 120 about a pivot axis, such as pivot axis P 1 (see FIG. 5E ).
- the coupler gears 132 are fixed relative to the lever 120 or portions of the lever 120 .
- pivot axis P 1 is generally parallel to and/or spaced from pivot axis P 2 .
- the lever 120 and the lid 110 are positioned and/or coupled relative to one another with a mechanical connection having a predetermined ratio that allows the lid to move (for example, rotate) at a faster speed and/or angular velocity than the lever 120 .
- the coupler gears 132 and gear teeth of arms 110 c can be configured in such a manner such that the lid 110 is configured to rotate about pivot axis P 2 at a speed and/or angular velocity than is greater than a speed and/or angular velocity by which the lever 120 rotates about pivot axis P 1 .
- lid 110 and lever 120 are illustrated as rotating about axes that are not aligned with one another (for example, are spaced from one another), in alternative configurations, the lid 110 and lever 120 can be configured (for example, positioned and/or coupled to one another and/or portions of the housing 104 ) such that they rotate about the same axis.
- the lever 120 can be configured to move (for example, rotate) between a first position (for example, that shown in FIGS. 1A-1B and 5A ) and a second position (for example, that shown in FIG. 1C ).
- first position of the lever 120 can be described as a neutral or closed position and such second position of the lever 120 can be described as an actuated or moved position (such as a fully moved position).
- the lid 110 can be configured to move (for example, rotate) between a first position (which can be described as a neutral or closed position) such as that shown in FIGS. 1A-1B and 5A , and a second position (which can be described as an open or fully open position), such as that shown in FIG. 1C .
- the dispenser 100 includes one or more biasing members configured to bias the lever 120 and/or the lid 110 to and/or toward such first position.
- Such configurations can advantageously urge the lid 110 to return to a closed position to cover the one or more sheets of consumable material in the container 101 and/or cover the access opening 151 of frame 150 .
- Such configurations can also advantageously urge the lever 120 to return to its neutral position where it may be actuated by a user.
- Such biasing members can be, for example, a spring 139 illustrated in FIGS. 5B-5C .
- One end of the spring 139 can be coupled to a portion of the lever 120 , for example, an opening or notch 125 on an arm 122 a, 122 b of the lever 120 .
- Another end of the spring 139 can be connected to a portion of the housing 104 , for example, an opening or notch 158 on frame 150 .
- the tension force in the spring 139 can apply a biasing force on the lever 120 to urge the lever 120 to return to the neutral position of the lever 120 .
- notch 125 can be located on either or both of arm 122 a, 122 b, for example, at or near an end of the either or both of arm 122 a, 122 b.
- the notch 125 is positioned in a recessed surface of the arm 122 and/or 122 b as shown in FIGS. 5B-5C , and such recessed surface can have a depth that is sized to match a length of notch 125 and/or of the notch 158 .
- notch 158 is illustrated on only sidewall 154 c (or a rim extending adjacent the sidewall 154 c ), such notch 158 or another notch 158 can be positioned in a similar or identical position on sidewall 154 b (or a rim extending adjacent the sidewall 154 b ), which may enable two springs 125 to be utilized as described above to bias the lever 120 and/or the lid 110 .
- the dispenser 100 include a dampener configured to dampen movement (for example, rotation) of the lever 120 and/or the lid 110 .
- the dispenser 100 can include a dampener 136 .
- the dampener 136 can be positioned adjacent one of the coupler gears 132 .
- the dampener 136 can include a protrusion configured to fit within an opening on a side of the coupler gear 132 .
- the dampener 136 can be configured to dampen movement, for example, rotation, of lever 120 via engagement with one of the coupler gears 132 .
- the dampener 136 can be mounted to a portion of the housing 104 (for example, a portion of the frame 150 ) via a dampener mount 138 , which can be a bracket such as an L-shaped bracket.
- a dampener mount 138 can be a bracket such as an L-shaped bracket.
- the dispenser 100 includes two dampeners 136 and/or two dampener mounts 138 , and each of the dampeners 136 are configured to dampen movement of the lever 120 via engagement with a respective one of the coupler gears 132 .
- the dampener 136 can be a rotary dampener and/or a one-way dampener, for example, and can dampen movement (for example, rotation) of the coupler gear 132 and/or lever 120 only in one direction.
- FIGS. 5F-5G illustrate the dampener mount 138 in dotted lines to better show the dampener 136 .
- the dispenser 100 includes both of the spring 139 and the dampener 136 .
- the dispenser 100 can advantageously allow the lever 120 to return to its neutral position (and the lid 110 to the closed position) slowly in order to allow a user to have sufficient time to retrieve one of the one or more sheets of consumable material. Accordingly, in such configurations, there may be a delay of the return of the lever 120 and/or lid 110 to their neutral (e.g., biased) positions.
- the dampener 136 and/or spring(s) 139 are configured such that it takes the lever 120 and/or lid 110 less than our equal to about: 1 seconds, 2 seconds, 3 seconds, 4 seconds, 5 seconds, 6 seconds, 7 seconds, 8 seconds, 9 seconds, 10 seconds, 11 seconds, 12 seconds or alternative amount of time to return to their neutral (e.g., biased) positions from their fully open and/or fully actuated positions.
- the dispenser 100 may be desirable for the dispenser 100 to inhibit or prevent movement of the lid 110 and/or the lever 120 unless a particular type of container is utilized with the dispenser 100 .
- a container utilized with for example, positioned within and/or received by the housing 104
- a condition such as having certain structural features.
- FIGS. 6A-6B illustrate perspective views of at least the lid 110 , rod 109 , lever 120 , and coupler gears 132 discussed above.
- FIGS. 6A-6B also illustrate lock mechanisms 130 that can be incorporated into dispenser 100 .
- the lock mechanism 130 (which may also be referred to as a “lock”) can be configured to inhibit (for example, prevent) movement of the lever 120 and/or lid 110 .
- FIG. 6C illustrates a back perspective view of the lock mechanisms 130 .
- the lock mechanism 130 can allow the dispenser 100 to inhibit or prevent movement of the lid 110 and/or lever 120 unless a particular type of container is utilized with the dispenser 100 .
- the lock mechanism 130 can include a body portion 130 a and one or more blockers (also called “brake bars”).
- the blockers comprise protrusions 130 c extending transverse (for example, generally perpendicular) to the body portion 130 a and/or a plane of the body portion 130 a.
- the blocker selectively engages with structures of the dispenser 100 that transmit force from the handle 120 to the lid 110 and can selectively block (e.g., completely or partially) the transmission of such force.
- the lock mechanism 130 can include one or more arms 130 d that can be configured to couple to rod 109 .
- the one or more arms 130 d (which can be one, two, three, four, or five or more arms 130 d ), can include an opening (for example, a through-hole) sized to receive the rod 109 and an opening configured to allow the rod 109 to be positioned within such opening (see FIG. 6C ).
- the arms 130 d can allow the lock mechanism 130 to be movably (for example, rotatably) coupled to the rod 109 .
- the lock mechanism 130 is configured to rotate independent of the lid 110 .
- the lock mechanism 130 can be configured to move (for example, rotate) from and/or between a first position (such as that shown in FIG. 6F ) and a second position (such as that shown in FIG. 6G ).
- a first position such as that shown in FIG. 6F
- a second position such as that shown in FIG. 6G
- the one or more protrusions 130 c can engage with the gear teeth of the coupler gear 132 and thereby inhibit or prevent the coupler gear 132 , lever 120 , and lid 110 from rotating.
- Such one or more protrusions 130 c can include one, two, three, four, or five or more protrusions 130 c.
- the lock mechanism 130 moves to the second position automatically, upon removal of the container 101 from the dispenser 100 , and/or by gravity.
- the lock mechanism 130 can include one or more engagement features configured to engage one or more engagement features on the container 101 , for example, when the container 101 is received by the housing 104 or a portion thereof.
- the lock mechanism 130 can be configured to inhibit (for example, prevent) movement of the lid 110 from a closed position (see, for example, FIGS. 1A-1B ) to an open position (see, for example, FIG. 1C ) when the one or more engagement features of the lock mechanism 130 are not engaged with the one or more engagement features on the container 101 and allow movement of the lid 110 from the closed position to the open position when the one or more engagement features of the lock mechanism are engaged with the one or more engagement features on the container 101 .
- the lock mechanism 130 can include one or more tabs 130 b (which can also be described as “locking tabs”) extending transverse (for example, generally perpendicular) to the body portion 130 a and/or a plane of the body portion 130 a.
- the tabs 130 b can be spaced from the one or more protrusions 130 c.
- the one or more tabs 130 b can extend transverse (for example, generally perpendicular) to the body portion 130 a and/or a plane of the body portion 130 a.
- FIG. 6D illustrates a top view of the dispenser 100 and FIG. 6E illustrates a cross-section taken through a portion of the dispenser 100 shown in FIG. 6D .
- FIG. 6F illustrates an enlarged portion of the cross-section of the dispenser 100 shown in FIG. 6E where the lock mechanism 130 is in a first position as described further below.
- FIG. 6G illustrates the enlarged portion of the cross-section of the dispenser 100 shown in FIG. 6F where the lock mechanism 130 is in a second position.
- Such first position of the lock mechanism 130 FIG. 6F
- the tab 130 b of the lock mechanism 130 is positioned farther from a bottom portion of the dispenser 100 and/or the base 160 of the housing 104 when in the first position ( FIG. 6F ) than when in the second position ( FIG. 6G ).
- FIG. 6E-6F illustrate the dispenser 100 with lock mechanism 130 and container 101 which includes a tab 103 extending outward from a body of the container 101 (see also FIG. 1D ).
- the container 101 can include one or more tabs 103 that can be arranged and/or numbered in a manner so as to correspond with an arrangement and/or number of the one or more tabs 130 b of the lock mechanism 130 .
- the one or more tabs 103 of the container 101 can engage (for example, contact) the one or more tabs 130 b of the lock mechanism 130 .
- Such engagement can allow the tabs 103 to move (for example, “push”) the tabs 130 b upward, thereby rotating the lock mechanism 130 in a rotational direction so as to move blockers (e.g., protrusion 130 c ) out of engagement with gear teeth of coupler gear 132 .
- blockers e.g., protrusion 130 c
- Such action can thereby allow the coupler gear 132 , lever 120 , and lid 110 to move (for example, rotate) as described above to open the lid 110 .
- the container 101 can include any number of tabs 103 , such as one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, or eight or more tabs 103 , and such tabs 103 can extend from a body of the container 103 and be spaced from one another, for example, around a perimeter of the container 101 .
- the tabs 103 can be spaced from one another around a circumference of a circular cross-section of the container 101 .
- the tabs 103 are positioned proximate an end of the container 101 , such as a top end of the container 101 configured to be positioned near a top portion of the housing 104 when the container 101 is received by the housing 104 .
- the tabs 103 can be positioned in another location.
- FIG. 6G illustrates a position of the lock mechanism 130 prior to insertion of and/or after removal of the container 101 , for example, prior to engagement between and/or after disengagement of the tab(s) 103 and the tab(s) 130 b.
- FIG. 6G may also illustrate a position of the lock mechanism 130 when a non-authorized and/or non-compatible container is received by the dispenser 100 . For example, if a container not having the one or more tabs 103 and/or not having one or more tabs 103 in a particular arrangement, number, and/or positioning that aligned with corresponding tab(s) 130 b of the lock mechanism 130 was inserted into the housing 104 , the lock mechanism 130 may remain at the position shown in FIG.
- the blocker e.g., protrusion 130 c
- the lock mechanism 130 inhibits or prevents operation of the lid 110 with such a container.
- the number, arrangement, and/or positioning of the one or more tabs 130 b of the lock mechanism 130 and/or the number, arrangement, and/or positioning of the one or more tabs 103 can be modified to create a large variety of configurations to customize a particular dispenser for use with a particular container. This can advantageously allow dispensers to be associated with particular types of products and/or particular types of customers employing the dispensers.
- the dispenser 100 can include two lock mechanisms 130 , each of which can be configured to engage and/or interact with each of the two coupler gears 132 to allow or inhibit rotation of the coupler gears 132 (and/or lever 120 and lid 110 as described above).
- two lock mechanisms 130 may be independently movable (for example, rotatable) relative to one another, for example, about rod 109 .
- the dispenser 100 can include an alternative amount of lock mechanisms 130 , however, such as one lock mechanism 130 , or more than two lock mechanisms 130 .
- the dispenser 100 includes one lock mechanism 130 that includes each of the two lock mechanisms illustrated in at least FIG. 6C but as one integral component.
- FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate sample alternative embodiments of lock mechanisms 130 ′ and a container 101 ′ and further illustrate a varying number of tabs 130 b ′ and tabs 103 ′ that can be employed.
- Such illustrative lock mechanisms 130 ′ and container 101 ′ can be utilized with dispenser 100 in a similar or identical manner as that described above with reference to lock mechanism 130 and container 101 .
- Any of the lock mechanisms discussed herein can include one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, or twelve or more tabs (similar or identical to tabs 130 b, 130 b ′ for example), or any other value, such as between one and fifty tabs (similar or identical to tabs 130 b, 130 b ′ for example), or any value therebetween, or any range bounded by any combination of these values or ranges, although values outside these values or ranges can be used in some cases.
- any of the container discussed herein can include one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, or twelve or more tabs (similar or identical to tabs 103 , 103 ′ for example), or any other value, such as between one and fifty tabs (similar or identical to tabs 103 , 103 ′ for example), or any value therebetween, or any range bounded by any combination of these values or ranges, although values outside these values or ranges can be used in some cases.
- the dispenser 100 and container 101 may have corresponding alignment features that can help align and/or otherwise position tab(s) 103 of the container 101 and tab(s) 130 b of the lock mechanism 130 so that they can engage (e.g., contact) one another to effectuate movement of the lock mechanism 130 (for example, to an “unlocked” position as shown in FIG. 6E-6F ).
- FIGS. 8A-8D show illustrative alignment features that can be incorporated in the dispenser 100 and container 101 .
- the base 160 of the dispenser 100 can include a protrusion 166 that can extend outward from (for example, transverse or generally perpendicular from) surface 161 of base 160 .
- Such protrusion 166 can extend outward from surface 161 , for example, toward frame 150 (see FIG. 8A and 3A ).
- the protrusion 166 can be cylindrical and/or can have a tapered and/or partially conical (for example, frustoconical) shape.
- the protrusion 166 includes an opening 167 that can extend through the protrusion 166 .
- the container 101 can include a recessed portion 107 that can be sized and/or shaped to receive the protrusion 166 .
- Recessed portion 107 can extend inward from (for example, transverse or generally perpendicular from) surface 105 of the container 101 , which can be a bottom surface of the container 101 at an end of the container 101 .
- the recessed portion 107 can be cylindrical and/or can have a tapered and/or partially conical shape (for example, frustoconical) shape.
- FIG. 8C illustrates a perspective view of the container 101 positioned within the base 160 with a cross-section of the container 101 removed to illustrate how the protrusion 166 can be received within the recessed portion 107 .
- the protrusion 166 and the recessed portion 107 can advantageously be utilized to allow the tab(s) 103 of the container 101 and the tab(s) 130 b of the lock mechanism 130 to be properly positioned (for example, aligned) relative to one another so that the tab(s) 103 engage the tab(s) 130 b when the container 101 is inserted into the housing 104 .
- the protrusion 166 is positioned (for example, “centered”) in a location other than at a center of a cross-section of the base 160 and/or surface 161
- the recessed portion 107 is positioned (for example, “centered”) in a location other than at a center of a cross-section of the container 101 and/or surface 105 .
- the protrusion 166 is not positioned at an axis that extends through a center of a cross-section of the base 160 and/or surface 161 .
- the recessed portion 107 is not positioned at an axis that extends through a center of a cross-section of the container 101 and/or surface 105 . Such configurations can advantageously ensure that the tab(s) 103 of container are properly aligned with tab(s) 130 b when the protrusion 166 is position within recessed portion 107 .
- Such configurations can limit or prevent misalignment of such tab(s) 103 , 130 b that may be possible if the recessed portion 107 was positioned at a center of a cross-section of the container 101 or surface 105 , for example, where the container 101 could be rotated, thus moving the tab(s) 103 out of vertical alignment with tab(s) 130 b even where protrusion 166 is within recessed portion 107 .
- the base 160 can include more than one protrusion 166 (such as two, three, four, or five or more protrusions 166 ) and the container 101 can include more than one recessed portion 107 (such as two, three, four, or five or more recessed portions 107 ).
- the recessed portion 107 is shown in one illustrative position on the surface 105 of container 101 and the protrusion 166 is shown in one illustrative position on surface 161
- the recessed portion 107 can be positioned in a variety of other positions on surface 105 and the protrusions 166 can be positioned in a variety of other positions on surface 161 .
- such variety of other positions can be any position other than one that is aligned with a center of a cross-section of the surface 161 , 105 , in some implementations.
- FIGS. 9A-9B illustrate top and bottom perspective views (respectively) of the frame 150
- FIG. 9C illustrates a top view of the frame 150
- the frame 150 can include a trim portion 152 that can include and/or define an opening 151 (which also may be referred to as an “access opening”) and a body portion 154 .
- the frame 150 can include a wipe retainer mechanism, which advantageously can hold a wipe in a convenient position for use.
- the wipe retainer mechanism can include one or more flexible arms 153 extending from a portion of the trim portion 152 .
- the frame 150 can include one, two, three, four, five, or six or more flexible arms 153 .
- the flexible arm(s) 153 can extend from portions of the trim portion 152 adjacent and/or across the opening 151 (for example, extend across a portion of the opening 151 from underneath).
- the flexible arm(s) 153 can be spaced from one another.
- the wipe retainer mechanism can include a nozzle 156 that can be connected to portions of the flexible arm(s) 153 , for example, connected to free ends of the flexible arm(s) 153 .
- the nozzle 156 can be configured to receive and secure (such as partially secure) one of more of the sheets of consumable material that are housed within the container 101 , for example, when the container 101 is received by the housing 104 .
- the nozzle 156 can include and/or be bound by a wall having a cylindrical shape and/or a tapered and/or conical shape and an opening extending therethrough that can receive the sheets.
- Such wall of nozzle 156 can include a slit along a portion of the body that can allow sheets to be inserted into and/or pulled out of the opening of the nozzle 156 .
- the arms 153 can comprise a material that is flexible (for example, bendable) and/or resilient.
- the arms 153 can comprise a material that is more flexible than a material of the frame 150 (for example, the trim portion 152 and/or the body portion 154 ).
- FIG. 9D illustrates a cross-section taken through the frame 150 as shown in FIG. 9C .
- FIG. 9D illustrates a first position of the flexible arm(s) 153 and the nozzle 156 , which can be referred to as an at rest or neutral position.
- the flexible arm(s) 153 and/or the fact that the arms 153 do not extend entirely across the opening 151 of the trim portion 152 can allow the nozzle 156 to be positioned as shown in FIG.
- an axis A 1 extending through the nozzle 156 (for example, through a center of the nozzle 156 and/or an opening of the nozzle 156 ) is not aligned with and/or is transverse to an axis A 2 that may be aligned with the gravitational force on the nozzle 156 and/or on the one or more sheets received by the nozzle 156 .
- Such positioning due at least in part to the flexibility of arms 153 and/or the fact that the frame 150 , trim portion 152 , and/or arms 153 are not configured (for example structurally arranged) such that the axis A 1 of the nozzle 156 is aligned with the axis A 2 , inhibits the ability of the sheets received by nozzle 156 from slipping and/or falling out of nozzle 156 (for example, downward into the container 101 ) under the effect of gravity.
- the frame 150 can include a tab 159 connected to the nozzle 156 .
- the tab 159 can have a first end connected to the nozzle 156 and a second end that can be “free” (for example, a cantilevered end).
- FIG. 9E illustrates the flexible arm(s) 153 , nozzle 156 , and tab 159 in a second position which may represent a position when a user pulls one or more sheets received by the nozzle 156 . Such a user pull (which may be in an “upward” direction given the view shown in FIG.
- the axis A 1 extending through the nozzle 156 (for example, a center of nozzle 156 ) can be aligned with and/or generally parallel to the axis A 2 described above.
- FIG. 9F and 9G illustrate cross-sections taken through the frame 150 similar to FIG. 9D and 9E but also illustrate a wipe 1 received by the nozzle 156 .
- the wipe 1 is merely illustrative of a type of sheet of consumable material that can be utilized with the dispenser 100 . It is to be understood that such wipe 1 may be connected with (for example, linked) to a plurality of other wipes that may be stored in any of the containers discussed herein for utilization with any of the dispensers discussed herein.
- such wipe 1 may be linked with a plurality of other wipes via perforated joints (which can allow separate of the wipe 1 from such linked plurality of other wipes and/or such plurality of other wipes may be stored in a cylindrical structure and/or configuration sized and/or shaped to be received within a container having a cylindrical structure.
- FIGS. 10A-17C show an illustrative implementation of a dispenser 200 or portions thereof.
- the dispenser 200 can include any of the features of the dispenser 100 .
- the dispenser 200 can be an electronic dispenser configured to be operated electronically.
- the dispenser 200 can be triggered and/or actuated electronically.
- the dispenser 200 does not include a manual actuator, such as the lever 120 .
- FIGS. 10A-10B illustrate front and back perspective views (respectively) of the dispenser 200 where a lid of the dispenser 200 is in a closed position as discussed further below.
- FIG. 10C illustrates a front perspective view of the dispenser 200 where the lid 210 of the dispenser 200 is in an open position, as also described in more detail below.
- FIGS. 10A and 10C also illustrate a sensor 293 and an indicator 297 that can be employed in the dispenser 200 as discussed in more detail below.
- FIGS. 10D-10E illustrate front and back perspective views (respectively) of a container 201 removed from the dispenser 200 .
- the container 201 can include a plurality of tabs 203 that can be similar or identical to tabs 103 discussed above with reference to container 101 and/or 101 ′.
- the container 201 can include a recessed portion 207 that can be similar or identical to recessed portion 107 discussed above with reference to container 101 .
- the container 201 includes a keying feature, such as a keyed protrusion 209 configured to be received within a keyed recessed portion 208 in base 260 (see FIGS. 10D and 13B ) to aid a user in properly positioning the container 201 within the dispenser 200 and/or alignment of the tabs 203 with corresponding actuators 289 when the container 201 is received by the dispenser 200 as discussed in more detail below.
- FIG. 11 illustrates a schematic diagram of a portion of the dispenser 200 .
- the dispenser 200 can include a sensor 293 , a controller 290 , and a motor 295 .
- the motor 295 can be configured to cause rotation of a lid 210 of the dispenser 200 as discussed in more detail below.
- the motor 295 is powered by a power source, such as a source of AC or DC electrical power.
- the motor 295 is powered by an on-board power source 296 , such as a battery, capacitor, or otherwise, that is positioned within a portion of the dispenser 200 , such as a housing 204 of the dispenser 200 or a portion of such housing 204 .
- the power source 296 can comprise batteries 284 discussed below with reference to FIG. 13B .
- the motor 295 is configured to receive power from an external source, such as from a console, wall socket, or other external power source.
- the housing 204 includes an electrical connector configured to connect with an end of a power cable that is connected to a wall socket.
- the dispenser 200 can include the controller 290 .
- the controller 290 can be in communication with the sensor(s) 293 .
- the controller 290 can be in communication with the motor 295 and/or configured to instruct the motor 295 to operate.
- the controller 290 can comprise a processor 291 and a memory 292 coupled with the processor 291 .
- the controller 290 is embodied in one or more printed circuit boards, such as one or both of printed circuit board 283 a, 283 b as shown in at least FIG. 13B .
- the dispenser 200 can include a sensor 293 .
- the sensor 293 can be a proximity sensor configured to detect the presence of an object (for example, a user's hand) within a threshold proximity.
- Such proximity sensor can be an optical sensor, ultrasonic sensor, infrared sensor among others.
- the sensor 293 can be configured to generate one or more signals upon detection of the presence of an object within such threshold proximity and transmit such one or more signals to the controller 290 .
- such sensor 293 can be positioned on a portion of the housing 204 of the dispenser 200 , for example, on a portion of the frame 250 (see FIG.
- the dispenser 200 can include one or sensors 293 , such as one, two, three, four, five, or six or more sensors 293 , and such sensors 293 can be positioned on different portions of the dispenser 200 , such as any of the portions mentioned above or elsewhere herein.
- the dispenser 200 includes an indicator 297 configured to indicate a status of the dispenser 200 .
- Such status can indicate whether the dispenser 200 is “on” or “off”, a condition of a power source of the dispenser 200 (for example, empty, full, or somewhere in between), whether the container 201 is authorized for use with the dispenser 200 , among other things.
- the indicator 297 can be an LED indicator, for example.
- the indicator 297 can be in communication with the controller 290 and operation of the indicator 297 can be controlled by the controller 290 .
- the controller 290 can instruct or otherwise cause the indicator 297 to illuminate (for example, a particular color such as red or green) to indicate any of the above statuses or information.
- the controller 290 can instruct or otherwise cause the indicator 297 to blink (for example, a particular color such as red or green) to indicate any of the above statuses or information.
- the dispenser 200 can include a container authorization sensor unit configured to provide an indication to the controller of whether a particular container received by the dispenser 200 is authorized for user with the dispenser 200 .
- container authorization sensor unit can comprise a container authorization detector 294 .
- the container authorization detector 294 can be configured to provide an indication to the controller 290 whether a container utilized with (for example, positioned within the housing 204 ) is authorized for use with the dispenser 200 .
- the controller 290 can be adapted to determine whether a container utilized with (for example, positioned within the housing 204 ) is authorized for use with the dispenser 200 based on information and/or signal(s) received and/or not received from the container authorization detector 294 .
- the container authorization detector 294 can be in communication with, can include, and/or can form part of, the controller 290 .
- the controller 290 can be in communication with the sensor(s) 293 and can receive one or more signals from the sensor(s) 293 indicative of an object being within proximity of the sensor(s) 293 .
- Such signal(s) can thus be indicative of a request (for example, by a user) to operate the dispenser 200 (for example, to open the lid 210 and provide access to one or more sheets within container 202 received by the dispenser 200 .
- Certain embodiments are configured such that, after receiving one or more signals from the sensor 293 , the controller 290 interacts with or otherwise utilizes the container authorization detector 294 to determine whether a particular container within the dispenser 200 is authorized for use with the dispenser 200 before instructing the motor 295 to cause rotation of the lid 210 .
- the controller 290 can determine whether a particular container within the dispenser 200 is authorized for use with the dispenser 200 based on an indication provided by the container authorization detector 294 that a container within the dispenser 200 is authorized for use with the dispenser 200 and/or based on not receiving an indication by the container authorization detector 294 that a container within the dispenser 200 is authorized for use with the dispenser 200 .
- the controller 290 can instruct the motor 295 to cause the lid 210 to move from a closed position to an open position.
- the controller 290 subsequent to receiving one or more signals from the sensor 293 , instructs the motor 295 to cause the lid 210 to move from a closed position to an open position only after receiving an indication that a container is authorized for use with the dispenser 200 .
- the container authorization detector 294 can include mechanical and/or electronic components that can allow the container authorization detector 294 to be utilized by the controller 290 to determine whether a container received by the dispenser 200 is authorized for use with the dispenser 200 .
- the container authorization detector 294 can comprise a sensor unit, which can include one or more sensors, switches, or detectors.
- the container authorization detector 294 comprises one or more switches and one or more actuators that can move in and out of engagement with the one or more switches.
- the one or more actuators can be configured to interact with and/or engage portions of the container 201 , and such interaction and/or engagement can be utilized to detect whether the container 201 is authorized for use with the dispenser 200 .
- the container authorization detector 294 can include one or more switches 288 and one or more actuators 289 .
- interaction and/or engagement between the actuator(s) 289 and portions of the container 201 (such as tab(s) 203 )) and resulting engagement or lack of engagement with switch(es) 288 can be utilized to detect whether the container 201 is authorized for use with the dispenser 200 .
- the container authorization detector 294 can include the switch 282 and actuator 280 discussed further below.
- interaction and/or engagement between the actuator(s) 280 and portions of the container 201 (such as opening 207 ), or a similar portion of a container 201 that does not have opening 207 , and resulting engagement or lack of engagement with switch 282 can be utilized to detect whether a container is authorized for use with the dispenser 200 .
- FIGS. 12A-12B illustrate front and back perspective views of the dispenser 200 where a lid 210 of the dispenser 200 is removed from a housing 204 of the dispenser 200 .
- the housing 204 can include a cabinet 240 , a frame 150 , and a base 160 Similar to the dispenser 100 , in some implementations, the housing 204 includes a handle 270 coupled with the cabinet 240 and the base 260 .
- the handle 270 can be movably (for example, pivotably) connected to the cabinet 240 and/or movably (for example, slidably) connected to the base 260 .
- the handle 270 can allow the base 260 to move relative to the cabinet 240 and/or frame 250 , which can provide more space and/or distance between the base 260 and the frame 250 to allow for loading of a container 201 into housing 204 (for example, into and/or between frame 250 and base 260 ).
- the frame 250 which can form and/or define a top portion of the housing 204 , can be connected to the cabinet 240 , for example, at or near a first (e.g., top) end of the cabinet 240 .
- the base 260 which can form and/or define a bottom portion of the housing 204 , can be connected to the cabinet 240 , for example, at or near a second (e.g., bottom) end of the cabinet 240 .
- the frame 250 and/or the base 260 can be connected to the cabinet 240 via one or more fasteners, for example, and/or can be connected to the cabinet 240 via one or more mechanical connections.
- the frame 250 is integral with the cabinet 240 .
- the frame 250 is movably (for example, rotatably) connected to the cabinet 240 , which can aid with insertion of the container 201 between the frame 250 and the base 260 , for example.
- the frame 250 can be configured to secure and/or receive a top end of the container 201 and/or the base 260 can be configured to secure and/or receive a bottom end of the container 201 .
- the frame 250 and the base 260 are each described in more detail below.
- the cabinet 240 can be configured to be mounted to a wall, for example, via one or more fasteners and/or via adhesive materials.
- the housing 204 can be configured to stand upright on a horizontal surface, for example, without the need to mount the housing 204 (e.g., the cabinet 240 ) to a wall or other vertical surface.
- the dispenser 200 or a portion thereof can be mounted in a vertical, horizontal, or other orientation.
- FIG. 13B illustrates an exploded view of the housing 204 to better illustrate aspects of the cabinet 240 , the base 260 , and the handle 270 .
- the cabinet 240 includes a first wall 241 a (which may be referred to as a “back” wall), a second wall 241 b (which may be referred to as a “front” wall), and one or both of sidewalls 242 a, 242 b connected to and extending transverse (for example, generally perpendicular) to front and/or back walls 241 a, 241 b.
- the back wall 241 a can extend along a portion of a height of the cabinet 240 , for example, a top half of a height of the cabinet 240 (see FIG.
- the front wall 241 b can extend along a portion of a height of the cabinet 240 , for example, a bottom half of a height of the cabinet 240 (see FIG. 13B ).
- the front wall 241 b is not planar.
- the front wall 241 b can be curved.
- the front wall 241 b can be curved between the sidewalls 242 a, 242 b.
- a curvature of the front wall 241 b corresponds to a shape of the container 201 , for example, a curvature of a side and/or surface of the container 201 .
- the front wall 241 b can be curved to match a curvature of a portion of a perimeter of the cylindrical shape of the container 201 .
- Such configurations can advantageously allow the container 201 to be conveniently and efficiently received by the housing 204 and can reduce overall size of the dispenser 200 in one or more dimensions.
- the dispenser 200 can include a transmission (which can include one or more gears, such as a gear 286 and a gear 287 ), a motor 295 , a circuit board 283 a, and a power source.
- the power source can comprise one or more batteries 284 (which can together form a power source of the dispenser 200 as discussed above), such as one, two, three, four, five, or six or batteries 284 .
- the cabinet 240 includes one or more walls that define a cavity 243 configured to house the circuit board 283 a and/or the one or more batteries 284 .
- the cabinet 240 includes a cover 245 a and/or cover 245 b that can enclose the circuit board 283 a and/or one or more batteries 284 within the cavity 243 .
- the dispenser 200 can include a circuit board 283 b, one or more switches 288 mounted to the circuit board 283 b and one or more actuators 289 coupled (for example, movably coupled) to the circuit board 283 b and positioned proximate respective ones of the switches 288 (see FIGS. 15A-15B ).
- the circuit board 283 b, one or more switches 288 , and one or more actuators 289 are discussed in more detail below.
- the dispenser 200 can include a base 260 .
- the base 260 can be similar or identical to the base 160 discussed above with reference to the dispenser 100 in some or many respects.
- the base 260 can include a surface 261 and a wall 262 that can be similar or identical to the surface 161 and the wall 162 discussed above and therefore such description above with respect to the surface 161 and the wall 162 is equally applicable to the surface 261 and the wall 262 of the base 260 .
- the base 260 can be coupled to the cabinet 260 via one or more biasing members (such as springs 149 ) in a similar or identical manner as that described above with reference to the base 160 and cabinet 160 and therefore such discussion above with reference to the base 160 and the cabinet 140 is equally applicable to the base 260 and the cabinet 240 .
- the base 260 can include cavities 265 connected to and/or along a portion of wall 262 of base 260 that are sized to receive portions of springs 149 .
- Springs 149 can bias the base 260 in a direction toward the frame 250 and can work alongside the handle 270 as discussed in more detail below.
- the base 260 can include a cam mechanism that is similar or identical to the cam mechanism described above with reference to base 160 . For example, with reference to FIG.
- the base 260 can include a stem 264 and cams 264 a, 264 b that can be similar or identical to stem 164 and cams 164 a, 164 b of the base 160 .
- the base 260 can include an opening or access region 268 that can be similar or identical to opening or access region 168 described above with respect to the base 160 .
- the base 260 can include walls 269 a, 269 b (see FIG. 14A ) that can be similar or identical to the walls 169 a, 169 b described with reference to the base 160 .
- FIG. 14A illustrates a bottom perspective view of the base 260 without also showing the handle 270 .
- the dispenser 200 can include a handle 270 that can be similar or identical to the handle 170 of dispenser 100 .
- the handle 270 can include a pivot portion 271 (which can be similar or identical to pivot portion 171 ) movably connected (for example, pivotably connected) to sidewalls 242 a, 242 b of the cabinet 240 in a similar or identical manner as that discussed above with reference to pivot portion 171 of handle 170 and sidewalls 142 a, 142 b.
- the handle 270 can include a cam follower configured to interact with the cam mechanism of the base 260 (for example, stem 264 and/or cams 264 a, 264 b ) that can be similar or identical to the cam follower described above with respect to the handle 170 .
- the handle 270 can include a cam follower including and/or defined by rails 273 a, 273 b separated by a slot and configured to interact with stem 264 and cams 264 a, 264 b in a similar or identical manner as that described above with respect to rails 173 a, 173 b.
- the handle 270 can include an end 272 that can be similar or identical to the end 172 described above with respect to the handle 170 .
- the base 260 and the handle 270 can engage and interact with one another in a similar or identical manner as that described above with reference to the base 160 and the handle 170 in order to facilitate movement of the base 260 , for example, in relation to the frame 250 to aid in positioning of the container 201 within the housing 204 . Accordingly, such discussion is equally applicable with respect to the base 26 and the handle 270 and is not repeated here for the sake of brevity.
- the base 260 can include an opening 267 , for example, in the surface 261 and a cavity 263 .
- the cavity 263 can extend below the surface 261 and can be sized and/or shaped to receive a switch 282 , a biasing member (such as spring 281 ), and at least a portion of an actuator 280 .
- the cavity 263 can have a cylindrical shape, among others (see FIG. 14A ).
- the cavity 263 can include one or more openings 263 a (such as one, two, three, four, five, or six or more openings 263 a ) configured to receive one or more legs 280 b of the actuator 280 .
- FIGS. 14B-14C illustrate top and bottom perspective views of the actuator 280 .
- the actuator 280 can include a main body 280 a, one or more legs 280 b (such as one, two, three, four, five, or six or more legs 280 b ) extending outward from the main body 280 a and spaced from one another, and a projection 280 c extending transverse (for example, generally perpendicular) to a surface of the main body 280 a and/or a plane defined by a surface of the main body 280 a.
- the projection 280 c has a cross-section that is cross-shaped (for example, shaped like a “+” symbol).
- the main body 280 a can have a cylindrical shape, among others.
- the main body 280 a can have a top surface and a skirt wall defining sidewalls (or a continuous sidewall) of the actuator 280 , and the legs 280 b can extend outward from such skirt wall.
- the legs 280 b can comprise an L-shape in some implementations.
- the legs 280 b can extend through the openings 263 a of the cavity 263 can be coupled to the cavity 263 in such a manner so as to allow the actuator 280 to be axially movable within the cavity 263 (such as along an axis extending through a center of the cavity 263 ).
- Such configuration can allow the actuator 280 (for example, via the projection 280 c ) to move in an out of engagement with the switch 282 .
- the switch 282 can be positioned adjacent a surface of the cavity 263 , for example, a surface of the cavity 263 that is opposite the bottom planar surface shown in FIG. 14A .
- FIG. 14D illustrates a top view of the dispenser 200
- FIG. 14E illustrates a cross-section of the dispenser 200 and the container 201 taken through a portion of that shown in FIG. 14D
- the container 201 can include an opening 207 extending through a surface 205 (for example, a bottom surface) of the container 201
- FIG. 14F illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of the cross-section shown in FIG. 14E . More specifically, FIG.
- the 14F illustrates an enlarged view of a cross-section through the container 201 , the surface 205 , the opening 207 extending through the surface 205 , the base 260 , the handle 270 , the actuator 280 , the spring 281 , the switch 282 , and the cavity 263 .
- the actuator 280 can extend slightly beyond a plane of the surface 261 of the base 260 when in a first position, for example, a neutral and/or biased position which can be biased by the spring 281 .
- the actuator 280 can have a first position, as illustrated in FIG. 14E-14F , where it is not engaging the switch 282 .
- the projection 280 c does not engage (for example, compress a portion of) the switch 282 , but rather, is positioned above and/or adjacent the switch 282 .
- the spring 281 can bias the actuator 280 towards such first position.
- the spring 281 can be positioned between a surface of the actuator 280 and a surface of the cavity 263 and/or can surround the switch 282 and/or the projection 280 c.
- the actuator 280 can have a second position where the actuator 280 (for example, the projection 280 c ) engages the switch 282 .
- the actuator 280 can be positioned farther in the cavity 263 when in such second position, in some implementations.
- the actuator 280 when the actuator 280 is such second position, the actuator 280 can be positioned at or below the opening 267 in the base 260 .
- the actuator 280 and/or switch 282 can be utilized by the dispenser 200 (for example, the controller 290 ) to determine whether a particular container received by the dispenser 200 is authorized for use with the dispenser 200 .
- the controller 290 can instruct the motor 295 to cause rotation of the lid 210 upon determination that such particular container is authorized for use with the dispenser 200 based on a status (for example, position) of the switch 282 and/or based on information received (or not received) from the switch 282 .
- the controller 290 instructs the motor 295 to cause rotation of the lid 210 only upon a determination that such particular container is authorized for use with the dispenser 200 .
- the switch 282 can generate and/or transmit one or more signals when it is engaged by the actuator 280 and/or can generate and/or transmit one or more signals when it is not engaged by the actuator 280 .
- the controller 290 can make a determination that a given container is authorized for use with the dispenser 200 if the switch 282 is not engaged by the actuator 280 (for example, the actuator 280 is in the first position discussed above). Additionally, in some implementations, the controller 290 determines that a given container is authorized for use with the dispenser 200 only if the switch 282 is not engaged by the actuator 280 . In some implementations, the switch 282 generates and/or transmits one or more signals to the controller 290 only when the switch 282 is engaged by the actuator 280 .
- the actuator 280 may be depressed (for example, in the second position described above) and may engage the switch 282 .
- the switch 282 can provide an indication (for example, via one or more generated and/or transmitted signals) to the controller 290 , and the controller 290 can determine that such container is not authorized for use with the dispenser 200 .
- the controller 290 can refrain from instructing the motor 295 to cause rotation of the lid 210 , despite having received one or more signals from the sensor 293 associated with a user request to operate the dispenser 200 (for example, to open the lid 210 ).
- the actuator 280 can be allowed to be in the first (for example, non-actuated) position.
- the switch 282 can provide an indication (for example, generate and/or transmit one or more signals) to the controller 290 , and the controller 290 can determine that such container 201 is authorized for use with the dispenser 200 .
- the controller 290 can instruct the motor 295 to cause rotation of the lid 210 , for example, after previously receiving one or more signals from the sensor 293 associated with a user request to operate the dispenser 200 .
- FIG. 15A illustrates the dispenser 200 with the frame 250 and lid 210 removed and with the container 201 received by the dispenser 200 .
- FIG. 15B illustrates an enlarged portion of that shown in FIG. 15A .
- the dispenser 200 can include a circuit board 283 b and one or more switches 288 mounted to the circuit board 283 b.
- the dispenser 200 can include one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, seventeen, eighteen, nineteen or twenty or more switches 288 .
- the dispenser 200 can include one or actuators 289 coupled to and/or operably positioned by the circuit board 283 b.
- the dispenser 200 can include one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, seventeen, eighteen, nineteen or twenty or more actuators 289 .
- the number of switches 288 can correspond to the number of actuators 289 and vice versa.
- the circuit board 283 b can include one or more openings 283 c which can be circular among other shapes. The number of openings 283 c can correspond with the number of actuators 289 and/or the number of switches 288 . In some implementations, the circuit board 283 b does not include such openings 283 c.
- FIGS. 15A-15B illustrate the container 201 and one more tabs 203 of the container 201 which can be similar or identical to tabs 103 of container 201 discussed above.
- the container 201 can include one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, seventeen, eighteen, nineteen or twenty or more tabs 203 .
- the number of tabs 203 can correspond to the number of actuator(s) 289 and/or switches 288 , for example, in cases where the dispenser 200 and the container 201 are designed to be particularly utilized together.
- the actuator(s) 289 can comprise a first portion configured to engage a portion of the container 201 (for example, the tab(s) 203 of the container 201 ) and a second portion configured to be positioned proximate and/or adjacent the switch(es) 288 .
- a first portion can be a rod or stem and such second portion can be or comprise a surface from which such rod or stem extends (for example, extends transverse or generally perpendicularly from) (see FIG. 15B ).
- the actuator(s) 289 are movably coupled to the circuit board 283 b.
- a first portion of the actuator 289 extends through an opening 283 c, is inhibited or prevented from moving laterally (for example, relative to a plane of the circuit board 283 b, and is allowed to move relative to (for example, within) the opening 283 c, and a second portion of the actuator 289 is configured to engage the switch 288 when the actuator is in a first position and not engage the switch 288 when the actuator 289 is in a second position.
- the actuator 289 is biased toward such first position, for example, by a spring 299 .
- FIG. 15A-15B illustrate two actuators 289 , as discussed above, the dispenser 200 can include an alternative amount of actuators 289 .
- FIG. 15B illustrates a number of switches 288 without actuators positioned thereupon, merely for the purpose of better illustrating the switches 288 . It is to be understand that the dispenser 200 can include an equal number of switches 288 and actuators 289 , however.
- the actuators 289 can be configured to engage with tabs 203 of the container 201 when container 201 is received by the dispenser 200 .
- the tabs 203 can contact and cause movement of the actuators 289 from a first position where the actuators 289 are engaged with the switches 288 to a second position where the actuators 289 are not engaged with the switches 288 .
- the actuators 289 are biased via springs 299 to or toward such first position.
- such springs 299 (which can correspond in number with the number of the actuators 289 and/or switches 288 ) can be positioned around a portion (for example a rod or stem portion of the actuators 289 ) and can engage a surface (for example, a bottom surface) of the circuit board 283 b.
- the actuator(s) 289 and switch(es) 288 can be utilized by the dispenser 200 (for example, the controller 290 ) to determine whether a particular container received by the dispenser 200 is authorized for use with the dispenser 200 .
- the controller 290 can instruct the motor 295 to cause rotation of the lid 210 upon determination that such particular container is authorized for use with the dispenser 200 , for example, before or after receiving one or more signals from sensor 293 indicative of a request to open the lid 210 .
- the controller 290 instructs the motor 295 to cause rotation of the lid 210 only upon such determination that such particular container is authorized for use with the dispenser 200 .
- the switch(es) 288 can generate and/or transmit one or more signals when engaged by the actuator(s) 289 and/or can generate and/or transmit one or more signals when not engaged by the actuator(s) 289 .
- the controller 290 can compare the detected combination (number, location, and/or arrangement of engaged and/or not engaged switches) to a database to determine whether the container is authorized.
- the database such as a lookup table, can include a list of combinations (each including a number, location, and/or arrangement of engaged and/or not engaged switches) that indicate an authorized container.
- the controller 290 can make a determination that a given container is authorized for use with the dispenser 200 if any or all of the switch(es) 288 are not engaged by the actuators 289 . In some implementations, the controller 290 determines that a given container is authorized for use with the dispenser 200 only if all of the switches 288 are not engaged by the actuators 289 . In some implementations, the switch(es) 289 generate and/or transmit one or more signals to the controller 290 only when engaged by the actuator(s) 289 .
- the dispenser 200 includes two actuators 289 and two switches 288 . If a given container does not include at least two tabs 203 and/or the arrangement of two of the tabs 203 does not match the arrangement of the two actuators 289 such that the tabs 203 do not engage the two actuators 289 when the container 201 is positioned in the dispenser 200 , the actuators 289 may remain engaged with the switches 288 . In such cases, the switches 288 can provide an indication (for example, via one or more generated and/or transmitted signals) to the controller 290 , and the controller 290 can determine that such container is not authorized for use with the dispenser 200 .
- the controller 290 can refrain from instructing the motor 295 to cause rotation of the lid 210 , even despite having received one or more signals from the sensor 293 associated with a user request to operate the dispenser 200 .
- the switches 288 can provide an indication (for example, via one or more generated and/or transmitted signals) to the controller 290 , and the controller 290 can determine that such container is authorized for use with the dispenser 200 .
- the controller 290 can instruct the motor 295 to cause rotation of the lid 210 , for example, subsequent to receiving one or more signals from the sensor 293 .
- the number, arrangement, and/or positioning of the switch(es) 288 and actuator(s) 289 can be varied along with the number, arrangement, and/or position of tab(s) 203 of the container 201 . This can advantageously allow for a significant number of dispenser-container customized combinations that ensure only particular containers are able to be utilized with particular dispensers.
- both of switch(es) 288 and switch 282 are utilized by the controller 290 to determine whether a container is authorized for use with the dispenser 200 .
- the controller 290 determines whether the switch(es) 288 and the switch 282 is engaged or not engaged with the actuators 289 , 280 (respectively) before instructing the motor 295 to cause rotation of the lid 210 .
- the controller instructs the motor 295 to cause rotation of the lid 210 if (for example, only if) all of the switch(s) 288 and switch 282 are not engaged by the actuators 289 , 280 .
- the controller instructs the motor 295 to cause rotation of the lid 210 if (for example, only if) all of the switch(s) 288 and switch 282 are engaged by the actuators 289 , 280 .
- the switch(es) 288 , actuator(s) 289 and switch 282 and actuator 280 can together provide a dual electronic mechanism that the controller 290 can utilize to determine whether a particular container received by the dispenser 200 is authorized for use with the dispenser 200 , and based on such determination, instruct or cease to instruct, the motor 295 to cause rotation of the lid 210 .
- the dispenser 200 and container 201 can include corresponding alignment features that can help align and/or otherwise position tab(s) 203 of the container 201 and actuator(s) 289 so that they can engage (e.g., contact) one another to effectuate movement of the actuator(s) 289 as discussed above.
- the actuator 280 of base 260 and the opening 207 of container 201 can interact in a similar manner as that described above with reference to protrusion 166 of base 160 and recessed portion 107 of container 101 .
- the positioning of a portion of the actuator 280 of base 260 within and/or through the opening 207 can cause alignment of the tab(s) 203 so that they can engage the actuator(s) 289 when the container 201 is received by the dispenser 200 .
- the actuator 280 and opening 261 can be positioned at a variety of positions with respect to a cross-section of the base 160 and/or surface 161 , for example, other than at a center of such cross-sections so as to enable proper orientation and/or alignment of the tabs 203 of the container 201 when positioned in the dispenser 200 .
- the opening 207 of container 201 can be positioned at a variety of positions with respect to a cross-section of the container 201 and/or surface 205 , for example, other than at a center of such cross-sections so as to enable proper orientation and/or alignment of the tabs 203 of the container 201 when positioned in the dispenser 200 .
- the base 260 can include a recessed portion 208 (for example, in wall 262 ) that is sized and/or shaped to receive a key protrusion 209 of the container 201 .
- the key protrusion 209 and recessed portion 208 can aid a user in properly positioning the container 201 within the dispenser 200 .
- the tab(s) 203 align with and/or engage the actuator(s) 289 and/or at least a portion of the actuator 280 is positioned within and/or aligned with the opening 207 .
- the cabinet 240 includes a recessed portion 247 sized and/or shaped to accommodate a protruding portion or surface of the recessed portion 208 , which may extend outward from the wall 262 as shown in FIG. 14A .
- FIGS. 16A-16B illustrate top and bottom perspective views of the frame 250 of the dispenser 200 and FIG. 16C illustrates a cross-section taken through a portion of the frame 250 .
- the frame 250 can be similar or identical to frame 150 of dispenser 100 discussed above.
- the frame 250 can include a trim portion 252 and a body portion 254 connected to the trim portion 252 .
- the trim portion 252 comprises an annular shape and/or structure.
- the body portion 254 can be configured to connect to a portion of the cabinet 240 (for example, via one or more fasteners or via another type of mechanical connection) or can be integral with the cabinet 240 .
- the frame 250 can include and/or define an opening 251 that can provide access to one or more sheets of consumable material of the container 201 when the container 201 is received by the housing 204 .
- the trim portion 252 of the frame 250 can include and/or define such opening 251 .
- the opening 251 can be circular, among other shapes.
- the trim portion 252 can be cylindrical, among other shapes.
- the frame 250 can include a wipe retainer mechanism, which can be similar or identical to the wipe retainer mechanism described above in connection with the dispenser 100 .
- the wipe retainer mechanism can include one or more flexible arms 253 extending from a portion of the trim portion 252 .
- the frame 250 can include one, two, three, four, five, or six or more flexible arms 253 .
- the flexible arm(s) 253 can extend from portions of the trim portion 252 adjacent and/or across the opening 251 (for example, extend across a portion of the opening 251 from underneath).
- the flexible arm(s) 253 can be spaced from one another.
- the wipe retainer mechanism can include a nozzle 256 that can be connected to portions of the flexible arm(s) 253 , for example, connected to free ends of the flexible arm(s) 253 .
- the nozzle 256 can be configured to receive and secure (such as partially secure) one of more of the sheets of consumable material that are housed within the container 201 , for example, when the container 201 is received by the housing 204 .
- the nozzle 256 can include and/or be defined by a wall having a cylindrical shape and/or a tapered and/or conical shape and an opening extending therethrough that can receive the sheets.
- Such wall of nozzle 256 can include a slit along a portion of the body that can allow sheets to be inserted into and/or pulled out of the opening of the nozzle 256 .
- FIG. 16C illustrates a first position of the flexible arm(s) 253 and the nozzle 256 , which can be referred to as an at rest or neutral position.
- the flexible arm(s) 253 and/or the fact that the arms 253 do not extend entirely across the opening 251 of the trim portion 252 can allow the nozzle 256 to be positioned as shown in FIG.
- an axis A 3 extending through the nozzle 256 (for example, through a center of the nozzle 256 and/or an opening of the nozzle 256 ) is not aligned with and/or is transverse to an axis A 2 that may be aligned with the gravitational force on the nozzle 256 and/or on the one or more sheets received by the nozzle 256 .
- Such positioning due at least in part to the flexibility of arms 253 and/or the fact that the frame 250 , trim portion 252 , and/or arms 253 are not configured (for example structurally arranged) such that the axis A 3 of the nozzle 256 is aligned with the axis A 2 , inhibits the ability of the sheets received by nozzle 256 from slipping and/or falling out of nozzle 256 (for example, downward into the container 201 ) under the effect of gravity. While not illustrated, one or more wipes may be positioned in the nozzle 256 in a similar or identical manner as that shown and described in FIGS. 9F-9G above.
- the frame 250 can include a tab 259 connected to the nozzle 256 .
- the tab 259 can have a first end connected to the nozzle 256 and a second end that can be “free” (for example, a cantilevered end).
- the tab 259 can be similar or identical to the tab 159 discussed with reference to the dispenser 100 .
- the flexible arm(s) 253 , nozzle 256 , and tab 259 can move between a first position ( FIG. 16C ) and a second position where the axis A 3 is aligned with and/or generally parallel to axis A 2 in a similar or identical manner as described with reference to flexible arm(s) 153 , nozzle 156 , and tab 159 and as shown in FIGS. 9D-9E .
- a difference between arm(s) 253 and arm(s) 153 of dispenser 100 is that arm(s) 253 can include a connecting portion 253 a connected to the trim portion 252 that has a greater width than a remaining width of the arm(s) 253 .
- Such configuration can allow for greater strength of the arm(s) 253 , for example, to resist breaking away from the trim portion 252 .
- FIGS. 17A illustrates a perspective view of a cross-section taken through the dispenser 200 as shown in FIG. 14D .
- FIG. 17B illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of that shown in FIG. 17A .
- the dispenser 200 can include a gear 286 operably coupled (for example, rotatably coupled) to the motor 295 .
- a gear 287 is positioned between the gear 286 and the motor 295 (and/or a gear or gear teeth fixed to the motor 295 ).
- the motor 295 can be configured to engage and rotate the gear 286 , for example, via gear 287 . Rotation of the gear 286 can cause rotation of the lid 210 .
- the gear 286 includes a finger 286 a configured to engage and contact a portion of the lid 210 .
- Rotation of the gear 286 can cause rotation of the finger 286 a and rotation of the lid 210 , for example, as illustrated in FIG. 17C .
- the lid 210 comprises a recessed portion sized and/or shaped to receive the finger 286 a of the gear 286 (see FIGS. 17B-17C ).
- the gear 286 , finger 286 a, and/or lid 210 can be configured to rotate about an axis R 1 .
- the gear 287 can be configured to rotate about an axis R 2 and the motor 295 (and/or a gear fixed to the motor 295 ) can be configured to rotate about an axis R 3 .
- axis R 1 is spaced from and/or generally parallel to axis R 2 and/or axis R 3 .
- the gear 286 is directly engaged with motor 295 (and/or a gear fixed to motor 295 ), for example, where dispenser 200 does not include gear 287 .
- the lid 210 can be moved independent of movement of the gear 286 , finger 286 a, gear 287 , and/or motor 295 .
- a user may lift and/or rotate the lid 210 manually, which can advantageously allow the lid 210 to be moved when a power source (for example, batteries) of the dispenser 200 are depleted.
- a power source for example, batteries
- FIGS. 18A-30D show an illustrative implementation of a dispenser 300 or portions thereof.
- the dispenser 300 can be similar or identical to either of dispensers 100 , 200 in some or many respects, as can be seen by various ones of FIGS. 18A-30D or portions thereof.
- the dispenser 300 can be a hybrid dispenser, incorporating both mechanical and electronic components which enable mechanical operation (for example, via a lever) and electronic operation (for example, via a sensor and/or motor).
- FIGS. 18A-18B illustrate front and back perspective views of the dispenser 300 .
- FIG. 18C illustrates the dispenser 300 with a lid 310 of the dispenser 300 that has been partially opened via operation of an actuator of the dispenser 300 (such as via actuation of a lever 320 of the dispenser 300 ).
- FIG. 18D illustrates the dispenser 300 with the lid 310 in a partially open position which has been activated electronically, for example, via a sensor 393 .
- the dispenser 300 can be configured to allow the lid 310 to be opened (for example, moved from the closed position to the open position) via electronic operation without causing movement of the lever 320 .
- FIG. 19 illustrates a schematic diagram of a portion of the dispenser 300 .
- the dispenser 300 can include one or more sensors 393 , a controller 390 , and a motor 395 .
- the motor 395 can be configured to cause rotation of the lid 310 of the dispenser 300 as discussed in more detail below.
- the motor 295 is powered by a power source, such as a source of AC or DC electrical power.
- the motor 395 is powered by an on-board power source 396 , such as a battery (e.g., batteries 384 ), capacitor, or otherwise, that is positioned within a portion of the dispenser 300 , such as a housing 304 of the dispenser 300 or a portion of such housing 304 .
- a battery e.g., batteries 384
- the motor 395 is configured to receive power from an external source, such as from a console, wall socket, or other external power source.
- the housing 304 includes an electrical connector configured to connect with an end of a power cable that is connected to a wall socket.
- the dispenser 300 can include the controller 390 .
- the controller 390 can be in communication with the sensor(s) 393 .
- the controller 390 can be in communication with the motor 395 and/or configured to instruct the motor 395 to operate.
- the controller 395 can include a processor 391 and a memory 392 coupled with the processor 391 .
- the controller 390 is embodied in one or more printed circuit boards, such as printed circuit board 383 as shown in at least FIG. 21 .
- the dispenser 300 can include a sensor 393 .
- the sensor 393 can be a proximity sensor configured to detect the presence of an object (for example, a user's hand) within a threshold proximity.
- Such proximity sensor can be an optical sensor, ultrasonic sensor, infrared sensor among others.
- the sensor 393 can be configured to generate one or more signals upon detection of the presence of an object within such threshold proximity and transmit such one or more signals to the controller 390 .
- such sensor 393 can be positioned on a portion of the housing 304 of the dispenser 300 , for example, on a portion of the lever 320 , or another portion of the housing 304 such as the frame 350 , the base 360 , cabinet 340 , or on the lid 310 of the dispenser 300 .
- the dispenser 300 can include one or more sensors 393 , such as one, two, three, four, five, or six or more sensors 393 , and such sensors 393 can be positioned on different portions of the dispenser 300 , such as any of the portions mentioned above or elsewhere herein.
- the dispenser 300 includes an indicator 397 configured to indicate a status of the dispenser 300 .
- the indicator 397 can be similar or identical to indicator 297 discussed above with reference to the indicator 297 of the dispenser 200 .
- the indicator 397 can be positioned on a portion of the housing 304 of the dispenser 300 , for example, on a portion of the lever 320 , or another portion of the housing 304 such as the frame 350 , the base 360 , cabinet 340 , or on the lid 310 of the dispenser 300 .
- the indicator 397 can be positioned proximate to the sensor 393 , for example, as shown with respect to dispenser 200 .
- FIGS. 20A-20B illustrate partially exploded front and back (respectively) perspective views of the dispenser 300 .
- the dispenser 300 can include a housing 304 , a lid 310 , and an actuator configured for operation and/or interaction with the lid 110 .
- Such actuator can be a lever, for example, the lever 320 .
- the lid 310 and lever 320 can be coupled to portions of the housing 304 , for example, to a top portion of the housing 304 .
- the dispenser 300 includes a transmission configured to transmit force from an actuator of the dispenser 300 to the lid 100 , for example, to cause movement of the lid 110 from a closed position to an open position, and/or to any of a plurality of positions of the lid 310 between such closed and open positions of the lid 310 .
- an actuator of the dispenser 100 comprises a lever, such as lever 320
- the lid 310 and lever 320 can be coupled to one another, for example, rotatably coupled together such that movement (e.g., rotation) of the lever 320 causes movement (e.g., rotation) of the lid 310 , and vice versa.
- 20A-20B illustrate various other components that can be included in the dispenser 300 , such as one or more lock mechanisms 330 , a coupler gear 332 , a coupler gear 333 , one or more cams 334 , a cam follower 335 , springs 331 a, 331 b, a dampener 336 , and a dampener mount 338 .
- the dampener 336 and dampener mount 338 can be identical to the dampener 136 and dampener mount 138 discussed above with reference to dispenser 100 .
- FIG. 21 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the housing 304 .
- the housing 304 can include a frame 350 , a cabinet 340 , a base 360 , and a handle 370 .
- the frame 350 can be similar or identical to the frame 150 and/or 250 of dispensers 100 , 200 in some or many respects.
- the base 360 can be similar or identical to the base 160 and/or base 260 of dispensers 100 , 200 in some or many respects.
- the base 360 can include a surface 361 , a wall 362 , an opening 368 , a protrusion 366 , an opening 367 , and cavities 365 that can be identical to the surface 161 , the wall 162 , the opening 168 , the protrusion 166 , the opening 167 , and the cavities 165 (respectively) as described above with reference to the dispenser 100 .
- the base 360 can be coupled to the cabinet 340 with springs 149 in an identical manner as that described above with reference to the base 160 and cabinet 140 .
- the handle 370 can be similar or identical to the handle 170 and/or 270 discussed above with reference to dispensers 100 , 200 .
- the handle 370 can include a pivot portion 371 , an end 372 , and rails 373 a, 373 b that are identical to the pivot portions 171 , 271 , ends 172 , 272 , and/or rails 173 a, 173 b, 273 a, 273 b (respectively) of the dispensers 100 , 200 .
- the base 360 , handle 370 , and cabinet 340 can be coupled together and/or can interact in an identical manner as that described above with reference to the base 160 , handle 170 , and cabinet 140 .
- the base 360 can include a recessed portion 308 that is identical to the recessed portion 208 of the base 260 and/or can be configured to receive a key protrusion similar or identical to key protrusion 209 of container 201 (see FIGS. 10E and 21 ).
- the dispenser 300 or a portion thereof (for example, the cabinet 340 ) can be mounted in a vertical, horizontal, or other orientation.
- the cabinet 340 can include a cavity 343 configured to receive the circuit board 383 , one or more batteries 384 , motor 395 , and cam mechanism 387 coupled to the motor 395 and configured to be rotated by the motor 395 as explained further below.
- the cabinet 340 can include one or both of covers 345 a, 345 b (which can be separable like that shown with respect to covers 245 a, 245 b in FIG. 13B ) that can enclose the circuit board 383 , batteries 384 , motor 395 , and/or cam mechanism 387 .
- Cabinet 340 can include a recessed portion 347 that is sized and/or shaped to receive a protruding portion of recessed portion 308 in an identical manner as that described above with reference to recessed portions 247 and 208 .
- FIGS. 22A-22B illustrate front perspective views of a portion of the dispenser 300 . More specifically, FIGS. 22A-22B illustrate connection and/or interaction between the lever 320 , the lid 310 , the motor 395 , the motor cam 387 , lever cams 334 , springs 331 a, 331 b, dampener 336 , dampener mount 338 , sensor 393 , lock mechanism 330 (which may also be referred to as a “lock”), coupler gear 332 , and coupler gear 333 .
- the lever 320 and the lid 310 can be similar or identical to the lever 120 and lid 110 (respectively) of the dispenser 100 .
- the lever 320 can include lever arms 322 a, 322 b that can be identical to the lever arms 122 a, 122 b of lever 120 .
- the lever 320 and lid 310 can be coupled to the housing 304 , for example, to the frame 250 of the housing 304 , in a similar or identical manner as that discussed and shown with respect to lever 120 , lid 110 , housing 104 , and frame 150 of the dispenser 100 with the use of the coupler gears 332 , 333 and lever cams 334 which are discussed in more detail below.
- FIG. 22C illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the dispenser 300 , namely illustrating the lid 310 , lever 320 (which can have an actuator 321 and lever arms 322 a, 322 b that are similar or identical to actuator 121 and lever arms 122 a, 122 b of lever 120 ), and frame 350 , which can be similar or identical for frame 150 .
- FIG. 22D illustrates a cross-section taken through the portion of the dispenser 300 shown in FIG. 22C .
- the frame 350 can include walls 354 a, 354 b, 354 c, and/or protruding rings 355 that are (respectively) similar or identical to walls 154 a, 154 b, 154 b, and/or protruding rings 155 of the frame 150 .
- the lever 320 can include sockets 324 a, 324 b similar or identical to sockets 124 a, 124 b of lever 120 . Similar to the coupler gears 132 discussed above with reference to dispenser 100 , the coupler gears 332 , 333 and lever cams 334 can couple the lever arms 322 a, 322 b to sidewalls 354 b, 354 c of the frame 350 .
- the frame 350 can be coupled to the lever 320 such that sidewalls 354 b, 354 c and/or protruding rings 355 are positioned (for example, sandwiched) between the lever arms 322 a, 322 b and/or sockets 324 a, 324 b and the coupler gears 323 / 333 and lever cams 334 , as shown in FIG. 22D .
- the lever 320 can include an indicator 329 that can provide an indication to a user of how to actuate the lever 320 .
- the indicator 329 can comprise an arrow indicating a proper direction by which the lever 320 can be actuated.
- FIGS. 23A-23D show illustrative electronic operation of the dispenser 300 .
- the dispenser 300 can include one or more sensors 393 that can communicate with the controller 390 , for example, by generating and/or transmitting one or more signals indicator of a presence of an object within a threshold proximity of the sensor 393 , to the controller 390 .
- the controller 390 can instruct the motor 395 to cause rotation of the lid 310 .
- FIGS. 23A-23D illustrate how the lid 310 can be operated (for example, rotated). FIGS.
- FIGS. 23A-23D do not illustrate the frame 350 and lever 320 (and other components of the dispenser 300 ) for the purpose of better illustrating how certain components of the dispenser 300 interact during electronic operation of the dispenser 300 .
- FIGS. 23A-23D illustrate the lid 310 , which can be similar or identical to the lid 110 in some, many, or all respects.
- the lid 310 can include one or more arms 310 c comprising gear teeth configured to engage gear teeth of the coupler gear 332 as discussed further below, similar to that discussed with reference to arms 110 c of lid 110 and coupler gears 132 of the dispenser 100 above.
- FIG. 23A illustrates the lid 310 in a closed position.
- the motor 395 can be configured to rotate a motor cam 387 upon instruction from the controller 390 .
- FIG. 23B illustrates the motor cam 387 having been rotated to a position where it has engaged and moved a cam follower 335 which is coupled to the coupler gear 332 .
- the cam follower 335 can be coupled with a spring 331 a that connects the cam follower 335 to a portion of the housing 304 (for example, a portion of the frame 350 ).
- the spring 331 a can provide rigidity to the cam follower 335 (for example, via application of a tensile force on cam follower 335 ) that allows the cam follower 335 to cause (for example, impart) rotation of the coupler gear 332 upon engagement with the motor cam 387 .
- Rotation of the coupler gear 332 causes rotation of the lid 310 via engagement between gear teeth of the coupler gear 332 and teeth on arms 310 c of the lid 310 which can be identical to arms 110 c of lid 110 discussed above.
- FIG. 23C illustrates the lid 310 in an open position, for example, a fully open position.
- movement e.g., rotation
- the lid 310 can stop and stay at that position for as long as the “flat” or constant radius section of the motor cam 387 continues.
- FIG. 23D after an end of the cam follower 335 passes such “flat” or constant radius section of the motor cam 387 , the cam follower 335 is released from any driving force from the motor cam 387 and the lid 310 can move (for example, rotate) back to a closed position.
- the lid 310 is biased toward such closed position by the spring 331 a, similar to that discussed above with reference to lid 110 of the dispenser 100 .
- the dampener 336 can dampen such biased movement toward such closed position, similar to that discussed with reference to dampener 136 of the dispenser 100 .
- FIGS. 23A-23D show illustrative electronic operation of the dispenser 300 when a lock mechanism 330 (also shown in FIGS. 23A-23D ) is in an unlocked position where it is not inhibiting movement of the lid 310 , as will be discussed further below.
- FIGS. 24A-24B illustrate enlarged perspective views of the coupler gear 332 , coupler gear 333 , and lever cams 334 .
- the lever cams 334 can be secured and/or fixed to the lever 320 , for example, to arms 322 a, 322 b and/or sockets 324 a, 324 b of the lever 320 as discussed above.
- the lever cams 334 can be fixed to lever arms 322 a, 322 b and/or sockets 324 a, 324 b in a manner as that described above with reference to FIGS. 22C-22D .
- the lever cams 334 can include a main body and a prong 334 b extending outward from the main body.
- the prong 334 b can be sized to be received within openings in sockets 324 a, 324 b which can be identical to openings in sockets 124 a, 124 b of lever 120 .
- the prong 334 b has one or more legs that are flexible and/or resilient, similar or identical to the legs described with reference to coupler gears 132 that can pass through openings in the lever arms 322 a, 322 b (and/or sockets 324 a, 324 b ) such as described with reference to lever arms 122 a, 122 b (and/or sockets 124 a, 124 b ).
- the prong 334 b has a cross-shaped structure as shown in FIGS.
- the lever cams 334 can be configured to be secured to the lever arms 322 a, 322 b such that rotation of the lever cams 334 follows with the rotation of the lever 320 and/or lever arms 322 a, 322 b.
- the coupler gear 333 can include gear teeth 333 a, a main body, an opening 333 e in the main body, and a finger (which can also be referred to as a “leg”) 333 b extending outward from the main body and having an opening 333 c that can be connected with a portion of spring 331 b (see FIG. 20A-20B and 22D ).
- An end of such spring 331 b can be coupled to the finger 333 b and a portion of the housing 304 , such as a portion of the frame 350 .
- an end of the spring 331 b can be connected to a portion of the wall 354 a of frame 350 via a bracket or tab 354 h (see FIG.
- the coupler gear 333 can include a cavity sized and/or shaped to receive a portion of the cam 332 , as shown.
- the coupler gear 333 can include a slot 333 d configured to receive a protrusion 334 a of the lever cam 334 and allow the protrusion 334 to move relative to (for example, along) the slot 333 d as described below.
- the coupler gear 332 can include gear teeth 332 a, a main body, and a leg 332 b extending outward from the main body and comprising cams 333 c extending opposite one another from the leg 332 b.
- the cams 333 c (which may be cylindrical) can engage a portion of the cam follower 335 and allow the cam follower 335 to rotate relative to an axis extending through the cams 333 c as described below with reference to FIGS. 25A-27A .
- the coupler gear 332 can include a slot 332 d that can be configured to receive the protrusion 334 a of the lever cam 334 and allow the protrusion 334 a to move relative to (for example, along) the slot 332 d as described below.
- the slots 332 d, 333 d can be equal in length in some implementations.
- the lever cams 334 can be fixed with respect to the lever 320 such that rotation of either lever cams 334 or the lever 320 causes rotation of both.
- the slots 332 d, 333 d of coupler gears 323 , 333 advantageously allow the coupler gears 332 , 333 to rotate without imparting rotation to the lever cams 334 and thus the lever 320 .
- the slots 332 d, 333 d allow the protrusion 334 a of the lever cam 334 to freely move within and/or along the slots 332 d, 333 d when the coupler gears 332 , 333 rotate during electronic operation, so that rotation is not imparted to the lever 320 .
- the lid 310 can be operated (for example, moved from the closed position to the open position) via the motor 395 without causing movement of the lever 320 .
- protrusions 334 a are positioned to abut a portion of the coupler gears 332 , 332 adjacent the slots 332 d, 333 d, which allows the protrusion 334 a to impart rotation of the coupler gears 332 , 333 in the same rotational direction when the lever 320 causes the cams 334 to rotate, as described with reference to FIGS. 29A-29B below.
- the lid 310 of the dispenser 300 can be obstructed, and thus prevented from being opened, for example, when the dispenser 300 is attempting to operate in the electronic mode (such as that described above with respect of FIGS. 23A-23D ).
- the dispenser 300 can include a safety mechanism that can allow the motor 395 and/or motor cam 387 to rotate despite lack of an ability of the coupler gear 332 to rotate.
- FIGS. 25A-27B illustrate a safety mechanism that can be included in the dispenser 300 .
- All of FIGS. 25A, 26A, and 27A illustrate an obstruction which provides a force on the lid 310 and thus prevents the lid 310 from opening. Because movement (e.g., rotation) of the lid 310 can be linked with movement (e.g., rotation) of the coupler gear 332 (as described above), such an obstruction can also prevent the coupler gear 332 (and/or couple gear 333 ) from movement (e.g., rotation).
- rotation of the motor 395 and motor cam 387 may be initiated upon receipt of an instruction from the controller 390 .
- the motor cam 387 can rotate into engagement with a portion of the cam follower 335 , as explained above.
- the motor cam 387 contacts the cam follower 335 it applies a force to the cam follower 335 and the cam follower 335 in turn applies a force (for example, a rotational force) on the coupler gear 332 .
- the cam follower 335 is coupled with a spring 331 a that can apply a tensile force on a portion of the cam follower 335 which in turn imparts a rigidity to the cam follower 335 that typically allows the cam follower 335 to transfer the force applied by the motor cam 387 to the coupler gear 332 .
- a spring 331 a that can apply a tensile force on a portion of the cam follower 335 which in turn imparts a rigidity to the cam follower 335 that typically allows the cam follower 335 to transfer the force applied by the motor cam 387 to the coupler gear 332 .
- the cam follower 335 can be moved (for example, rotated) back to its position via the biasing force applied by the spring 331 a.
- the cam follower 335 can include a slot sized to receive the leg 332 b of the coupler gear 332 and holes sized and/or shaped to receive the cams 332 b.
- the cam follower 335 can rotate about an axis extending through a center of cams 332 b, for example.
- FIGS. 28A-28B illustrate another embodiment for a motor cam 387 ′ that can be utilized in a similar manner as that discussed above with reference to motor cam 387 .
- Motor cam 387 ′ can have a Z-shape, as shown.
- FIGS. 29A-29B illustrate how the dispenser 300 can operate in a mechanical mode, for example, via actuation of the lever 320 and engagement with the lid 310 .
- the lever cams 334 can be fixed relative to the lever 320 and/or lever arms 322 and can be configured to rotate with the rotation of the lever 320 and/or lever arms 322 .
- the lever cam 334 can include a protrusion 334 a that can be received within the slot 333 d of the coupler gear 333 .
- Rotation of the lever 320 can cause the lever cam 333 to rotate and cause protrusions 334 a to contact and move coupler gear 333 , for example, via contact between a portion of the coupler gear 333 bounding and/or adjacent to the slot 333 d.
- Rotation of coupler gear 333 can cause lid 310 to rotate in an identical manner as discussed above with reference to coupler gear 132 and gear teeth on arms 110 c of lid 110 .
- FIGS. 29A illustrate a cross-section taken through arm 322 a, coupler gear 333 , and lever cam 334 , a similar manner of engagement can exist between coupler gear 332 and another lever cam 334 on the arm 322 b of the lever 320 .
- FIG. 30A illustrates a top view of the dispenser 300 and FIG. 30B illustrates a cross-section taken through the dispenser 300 shown in FIG. 30A .
- FIG. 30C illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of that which is shown in FIG. 30B .
- the dispenser 300 can include one or more lock mechanisms 330 that are similar or identical to the lock mechanisms 130 .
- the lock mechanism 330 can include one or more protrusions 330 c and one or more tabs 330 b.
- the lock mechanism 330 can be configured to move between a first position ( FIG. 30D ) and a second position ( FIG. 30C ). In the first position ( FIG.
- a protrusion 330 c of the lock mechanism 330 can contact a portion of the coupler gear 333 , such as gear teeth 333 a and/or a protrusion 333 e of the coupler gear 333 , thereby preventing rotation of the coupler gear 333 and in turn, the lid 310 and/or the lever 320 .
- the lock mechanism 330 can be moved to a second position ( FIG. 30C ) when one or more tabs 330 b of the lock mechanism 330 engage one or more tabs 303 of the container 301 , thus allowing the rotation of the coupler gear 333 and in turn the lid 310 and/or the lever 320 .
- Such configuration and/or interaction between the lock mechanism 330 , container 301 (and/or tabs 303 ) can be similar to as that discussed above with reference to lock mechanism 130 , container 101 (and/or tabs 103 ) of dispenser 100 to inhibit movement of the lid 310 when the container 301 is not authorized for use with the dispenser 300 .
- Terms relating to circular shapes as used herein, such as diameter or radius, should be understood not to require perfect circular structures, but rather should be applied to any suitable structure with a cross-sectional region that can be measured from side-to-side.
- Terms relating to shapes generally, such as “circular” or “cylindrical” or “semi-circular” or “semi-cylindrical” or any related or similar terms, are not required to conform strictly to the mathematical definitions of circles or cylinders or other structures, but can encompass structures that are reasonably close approximations.
- the terms “approximately,” “about,” and “substantially” as used herein represent an amount close to the stated amount that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, in some embodiments, as the context may dictate, the terms “approximately”, “about”, and “substantially” may refer to an amount that is within less than or equal to 10% of the stated amount.
- the term “generally” as used herein represents a value, amount, or characteristic that predominantly includes or tends toward a particular value, amount, or characteristic.
- the term “generally parallel” can refer to something that departs from exactly parallel by less than or equal to 20 degrees and the term “generally perpendicular” can refer to something that departs from exactly perpendicular by less than or equal to 20 degrees.
- a device configured to are intended to include one or more recited devices. Such one or more recited devices can also be collectively configured to carry out the stated recitations.
- a processor configured to carry out recitations A, B, and C can include a first processor configured to carry out recitation A working in conjunction with a second processor configured to carry out recitations B and C.
- dispensers have been disclosed in the context of those embodiments and examples, the technology of this disclosure extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or other uses of the embodiments, as well as to certain modifications and equivalents thereof.
- This disclosure expressly contemplates that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with, or substituted for, one another.
- the scope of this disclosure should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above, but should be determined only by a fair reading of the claims that follow.
Landscapes
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Public Health (AREA)
- Containers And Packaging Bodies Having A Special Means To Remove Contents (AREA)
- Sheets, Magazines, And Separation Thereof (AREA)
Abstract
Various dispensers configured to provide access to consumable material are disclosed. In certain embodiments, the dispenser includes a housing configured to receive a container, a lid configured to move between closed and open positions, a motor, a controller, a sensor configured to transmit a signal to the controller responsive to detecting a presence of an object, and a container authorization sensor unit configured to provide an indication to the controller of whether the container is authorized for use with the dispenser. In certain embodiments, the controller is configured to instruct the motor to cause the lid to move from the closed position to the open position in response to both of the following conditions being satisfied: the controller has received said signal from the sensor; and the controller has received said indication from the container authorization sensor unit that the container is authorized for use with the dispenser.
Description
- This application claims the priority benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/089,368, filed Oct. 8, 2020 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/037,193, filed Jun. 10, 2020, the entireties of which are incorporated by reference herein.
- This disclosure generally relates to an apparatus for dispensing consumable material, such as wet or dry wipes comprising paper material.
- Wipes dispensers provide a convenient storage system for sheets of consumable material. Such sheets of consumable material can be referred to as “wipes,” for example, wet or dry wipes made of a fibrous paper material (for example, disposable wipes for wiping and/or sanitizing a user's hands). Wipes dispensers are generally designed to allow a user to retrieve one or more sheets of consumable material from a container. After one sheet is retrieved from the dispenser, another sheet may become available for subsequent retrieval.
- Various dispensers for consumable materials, such as wipes, are disclosed. Some wipes dispensers are capable of accommodating more than one type of container holding sheets of consumable material. In some cases, it may be beneficial to limit the number and/or type of containers that a wipes dispenser is compatible with. For example, in some situations, it may be beneficial to have a wipes dispenser be compatible with a particular type or configuration of container(s) such that only certain types of containers and/or sheets of consumable material are utilized with the wipes dispenser. Such scenarios may advantageously ensure that only authorized types of containers and/or products stored in such containers are utilized, which may in turn that facilitate certain quality and/or compatibility standards being met. It would be beneficial to have a wipes dispenser that is able to detect whether a particular container is authorized for use with the dispenser and limit or prevent access to sheets within such container when such container is not authorized for use with the dispenser. For example, where the wipes dispenser includes a lid that provides access to sheets of material held within a container received in the dispenser, it would be beneficial for the dispenser to limit or restrict opening of such lid (for example, via mechanical and/or electronic mechanisms) where such container is not authorized for use with the dispenser.
- Some wipes dispensers incorporate a nozzle to temporarily hold and/or guide each sheet of consumable material of the container prior to retrieval by a user. However, in some cases, such sheets may slip through the nozzle under the effect of gravity, thus making retrieval difficult for a user. In such cases, when the topmost one of the sheets falls through the nozzle (for example, towards a bottom of the container), the user is typically required to reach their hand (or fingers) inside the container to retrieve such topmost sheet. Not only is this difficult for the user, but health concerns can arise where the user's hands or fingers may deposit dirt and/or germs within the container and/or on the sheets held therewithin. It would be beneficial for a wipes dispenser to have a nozzle which has a neutral or rest position when holding a sheet within a container that is oriented or otherwise configured in such a manner so as to inhibit the sheet from slipping out of the nozzle under the effect of gravity.
- With some wipes dispensers, it may be difficult for a user to insert and/or position a new container into the wipes dispenser due to the structural configuration of the dispenser. For example, some wipes dispensers are designed to receive and/or retain containers via frictional and/or mechanical engagement with structural components design with little tolerance. In such cases, users may be required to apply a substantial amount of force to press the new container into engagement with the dispenser. It would be beneficial for a wipes dispenser to have one or more structural components that are at least partially movable relative to one another in order to facilitate convenient insertion of a new container.
- At least some of the aforementioned concerns, or other concerns, are overcome by various implementations of the solutions described herein. For example, one aspect of some implementations of a dispenser (which may also be referred to as a “dispensing system”) described herein includes mechanical and/or electrical components that inhibit or prevent a lid of the dispenser from opening and/or being opened under certain conditions, such as until a lock mechanism is disengaged.
- Some configurations of the dispensers described herein include one or more movable lock mechanisms that are configured to interact with (for example, mechanically engage) a lever, a coupler gear connected with the lever, a lid, and/or other structural components of the dispenser to inhibit movement of the lever and/or lid when in a first position (for example, a “locking” or “locked” position) and allow movement of the lever and/or lid when in a second position (for example, an “unlocked” position). As described in more detail below, in some implementations, some such lock mechanisms are configured to interact with structural features of a container (for example, a container that is authorized for use with the dispenser). This can permit (e.g., unlock) movement from such first position to such second position.
- Some configurations of the dispensers described herein include electronic components that are configured to determine whether a particular container received by the dispenser is authorized for use with the dispenser. In some implementations, based on a determination that the container is authorized, a controller can instruct an electric motor of the dispenser to cause movement of a lid of the dispenser and/or inhibit, prevent, or cease to instruct such motor from taking such action.
- Some of the dispensers described herein utilize mechanical and/or electronic components and/or functionality. For example, some configurations of the dispensers described herein are configured to be operated mechanically (for example, via actuation of a lever of the dispenser) and some configurations of the dispensers described herein are configured to be operated electronically (for example, via sensors configured to sense the presence of a user's hand). Further, some configurations of dispensers described herein incorporate hybrid functionality, allowing operation via mechanical and/or electronic means.
- In some implementations, a dispenser comprises: a housing configured to receive a container including a plurality of sheets of consumable material (e.g., wipes); a lid configured to move between a closed position and an open position to provide a user with access to at least one of said plurality of sheets of consumable material when the container is received by the housing; an actuator configured to be operated by the user; a transmission configured to transmit force from the actuator to the lid to cause movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position; and a lock comprising a blocker and a lock engagement feature. The lock engagement feature can be configured to engage a corresponding container engagement feature on the container when the container is received by the housing. The dispenser can be configured such that: when the lock engagement feature is not engaged with the corresponding container engagement feature on the container, the blocker blocks movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position; and when the lock engagement feature is engaged with the corresponding container engagement feature on the container, movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position is allowed. A system or kit can comprise the dispenser and the wipes or other consumable sheet material.
- The actuator can comprise a lever coupled to the housing and configured to be depressed by the user. The lever can be configured to cause the lid to move from the closed position to the open position when the lock engagement feature is engaged with the corresponding container engagement feature on the container. When the lock engagement feature is not engaged with the corresponding container engagement feature on the container, said blocker can be configured to inhibit the lever from causing the lid to move from the closed position to the open position. In some implementations, the lid includes an arm comprising gear teeth, the dispenser further comprises a coupler gear coupled to a portion of the lever and configured to rotate upon movement of the lever, and the coupler gear comprises gear teeth configured to engage the gear teeth of the arm of the lid, and wherein, when the lock engagement feature is engaged with the corresponding container engagement feature on the container, movement of the lever causes movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position via engagement between the gear teeth of the coupler gear and the gear teeth of the arm of the lid. The blocker can comprise a protrusion. When the lock engagement feature is not engaged with the corresponding container engagement feature on the container, the protrusion can engage the gear teeth of the coupler gear and inhibit the lever from causing movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position. The lid and the lock can be rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to rotate about a first axis, and the lever can be rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to rotate about a second axis that is generally parallel to and spaced from the first axis. In some implementations, the lid and the lock are independently rotatable with respect to one another about the first axis.[0010] In some implementations, the dispenser further comprises said container. The lock can comprise a body and the lock engagement feature can extend outward from the body. The container can comprise a body and a tab extending outward from the body of the container, the body of the container comprising an interior for holding said plurality of sheets of consumable material. When the container is received by the housing, the tab of the container can be configured to contact the lock engagement feature, thereby moving the lock from a first position to a second position. When the lock is in said first position, the blocker can block movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position. When the lock is in said second position, movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position can be allowed.
- In some implementations, the housing and the container comprise corresponding alignment features configured to interact with one another to align the tab of the container with the lock engagement feature when the container is received by said housing. The tab of the container can be located at a first end of the container and the alignment feature of the container can be located at second end of said container that is opposite the first end of the container. The alignment feature of the container can comprise a recessed portion (which can include an opening) on at least a portion of a bottom surface of the container and wherein the alignment feature of the housing comprises a protrusion extending outward from a portion of said housing and configured to be received within the recessed portion on said at least the portion of the bottom surface of the container. In some implementations, the recessed portion of the container is not aligned with an axis extending through a center of a cross-section of the container. The lever can be configured to move between a first lever position and a second lever position. In some implementations, when the lock engagement feature is engaged with the corresponding container engagement feature on the container: movement of the lever from the first lever position toward the second lever position causes said lid to move from the closed position toward the open position; movement of the lever from the second lever position toward the first lever position causes said lid to move from the open position toward the closed position; and the lever is biased toward said first lever position. In some implementations, the lever is biased toward said first lever position by at least one biasing member coupled to a portion of said lever and a portion of said housing. In some implementations, the dispenser further comprises a dampener configured to dampen movement of the lever from the second lever position to the first lever position.
- The housing can comprise: a cabinet; a frame connected to the cabinet; a base, the base and the frame positioned away from each other to define a space for receiving the container; and a handle movably coupled to the cabinet and configured to connect the base to the cabinet. In some implementations, movement of the handle allows the base to move from a first position to a second position, the base being positioned farther from the frame when in the second position than when in the first position. The dispenser can further comprise at least one biasing member coupled to the cabinet and the base, wherein the at least one biasing member is configured to bias the base toward the first position. The handle can comprise a slot and the base can comprise a cam mechanism configured to slide relative to the slot to allow the base to move from the first position to the second position.
- In some implementations, the housing comprises a frame configured to be positioned proximate an end of said container when said container is received by said housing, and the frame comprises: an opening configured to provide access to at least one of said plurality of sheets of consumable material of said container when said container is received by said housing; one or more flexible arms extending adjacent to the opening; and a nozzle connected to the one or more flexible arms, the nozzle configured to receive and operably position at least one of said plurality of sheets of consumable material for the user when said container is received by said housing. The one or more flexible arms can be configured to allow an axis extending through the nozzle to be oriented transverse relative to an axis corresponding to gravitational force on at least one of the nozzle and said at least one of said plurality of sheets of consumable material. In some implementations: said nozzle is configured to move from a first position to a second position when said at least one of said plurality of sheets of consumable material is pulled by said user, the first position being an at rest position of the nozzle; when the nozzle is in said first position, the one or more flexible arms are curved; and when the nozzle is in said second position, the one or more flexible arms are not curved. In some implementations: when the nozzle is in said first position, the axis extending through the nozzle is transverse with respect to an axis extending through a center of the opening of the frame; and when the nozzle is in said second position, the axis extending through the nozzle is generally parallel to said axis extending through the center of the opening in the frame.
- In some implementations, a dispenser comprises a housing configured to receive a container including a plurality of sheets of consumable material, the housing comprising a frame configured to be positioned proximate an end of said container when said container is received by said housing. The frame can comprise: an opening configured to provide access to at least one of said plurality of sheets of consumable material of said container when said container is received by said housing; one or more flexible arms extending adjacent to the opening; and a nozzle connected to the one or more flexible arms, the nozzle configured to receive and operably position at least one of said plurality of sheets of consumable material for the user when said container is received by said housing; wherein the one or more flexible arms are configured to allow an axis extending through the nozzle to be oriented transverse relative to an axis corresponding to gravitational force on at least one of the nozzle and said at least one of said plurality of sheets of consumable material. In some implementations: said nozzle is configured to move from a first position to a second position when the first wipe is pulled by said user, the first position being an at rest position of the nozzle; when the nozzle is in said first position, the one or more flexible arms are curved; and when the nozzle is in said second position, the one or more flexible arms are not curved. In some implementations: when the nozzle is in said first position, the axis extending through the nozzle is transverse with respect to an axis extending through a center of the opening of the frame; and when the nozzle is in said second position, the axis extending through the nozzle is generally parallel to said axis extending through the center of the opening in the frame. The dispenser can further comprise a first tab connected to and extending from the nozzle, the first tab spaced from the one or more flexible arms, wherein the first tab is configured to contact a second tab extending outward from a portion of the frame when the nozzle is in said second position. In some implementations, the second tab extends partially across said opening of the frame.
- In some implementations, an electronic dispenser comprises: a housing configured to receive a container including one or more sheets of consumable material; a lid configured to move between a closed position and an open position to provide a user with access to said one or more sheets of consumable material when the container is received by the housing; a motor operatively coupled to the lid; an electronic controller; a sensor configured to transmit a signal to the controller responsive to detecting a presence of an object; and a container authorization sensor unit configured to provide an indication to the controller of whether the container is authorized for use with the electronic dispenser. In some implementations, the controller is configured to instruct the motor to cause the lid to move from the closed position to the open position in response to both of the following conditions being satisfied: the controller has received said signal from the sensor; and the controller has received said indication from the container authorization sensor unit that the container is authorized for use with the electronic dispenser.
- In some implementations, the controller is configured to instruct the motor to cause the lid to move from the closed position to the open position only upon receipt of said indication from the container authorization sensor unit that the container is authorized for use with the electronic dispenser. In some implementations: the container authorization sensor unit comprises a first switch and a first actuator; the first actuator is configured to move between a first position where the first actuator engages the first switch and a second position where the first actuator does not engage the first switch; and the first switch is configured to provide said indication that the container is authorized for use with the electronic dispenser when the first actuator is in one of said first and second positions. In some implementations, the first switch is configured to provide said indication when the first actuator is in said second position. In some implementations, the first actuator is biased toward the first position. In some implementations: the first switch and the first actuator are positioned within a portion of the housing; and engagement between the first actuator and a first tab of said container causes said first actuator to move from the first position where the first actuator engages the first switch to the second position where the first actuator does not engage the first switch.
- In some implementations, the electronic dispenser further comprises said container. In some implementations: said container comprises a body, an interior for holding said one or more sheets of consumable material, a first end comprising an opening for providing access to said interior, and a second end opposite the first end; said first tab extends outward from the body proximate the first end of the container; and said first tab is configured to move said first actuator from the first position to the second position when said container is received by said housing. In some implementations, the electronic dispenser further comprises a circuit board positioned within the portion of the housing and configured to mount the first switch, wherein the circuit board comprises a hole, and wherein the first actuator comprises a first portion configured to engage the first switch when in the first position and a second portion extending through the opening of the circuit board and configured to engage the first tab of the container when said container is received by said housing.
- In some implementations: the container authorization sensor unit further comprises a second switch and a second actuator, the second actuator configured to move between a first position where the second actuator engages the second switch and a second position where the second actuator does not engage the second switch; the second switch is configured to provide an indication to the controller that the container is authorized for use with the electronic dispenser when the second actuator is in the second position; and upon receipt of said indication from the second switch that said container is authorized for use with the electronic dispenser, the controller is configured to instruct the motor to cause the lid to move from the closed position to the open position. In some implementations, the controller is configured to instruct the motor to cause the lid to move from the closed position to the open position only upon receipt of both of said indications from said first and second switches that said container is authorized for use with the electronic dispenser. In some implementations, the first actuator is biased toward the first position of the first actuator and wherein the second actuator is biased toward the second position of the second actuator. In some implementations, the first actuator and first switch are positioned near a top portion of the housing and the second actuator and second switch are positioned near a bottom portion of the housing.
- In some implementations, the electronic dispenser further comprises said container, wherein said container comprises: a body comprising an interior for holding said one or more sheets of consumable material; a first end configured to be positioned adjacent the top portion of the housing; a second end opposite the first end; a first tab extending outward from the body near the first end; and an opening in a surface at the second end of the container. The portion of the second actuator can be configured to extend through the opening in the surface at the second end of the container when the container is received by the housing and said second actuator can be in said second position of the second actuator when the portion of the second actuator extends through the opening of the container. The first tab of the container can be configured to move the first actuator from the first position of the first actuator to the second position of the first actuator when the portion of the second actuator extends through the opening of the container. In some implementations, an axis extending through said opening in said surface at the second end of the container is not aligned with an axis extending through a center of a cross-section of the container.
- The electronic dispenser can further comprise a first gear configured to be rotated by the motor, the first gear comprising a finger configured to contact a portion of the lid to move the lid from the closed position to the open position. In some implementations, the electronic dispenser further comprises a second gear rotatably coupled between the first gear and the motor and configured to allow the motor to cause rotation of the first gear. In some implementations, the lid is configured to be moved manually from the closed position to the open position independent of rotation of the first gear. In some implementations, the first gear and the lid are configured to rotate about a first axis and wherein the motor is configured to rotate about a second axis that is spaced from the first axis. In some implementations, the electronic dispenser further comprises an indicator configured to indicate a status of the electronic dispenser.
- In some implementations, a dispenser comprises: a housing configured to receive a container including a plurality of sheets of consumable material; a lid configured to move between a closed position and an open position to provide a user with access to at least one of said plurality of sheets of consumable material when the container is received by the housing; an actuator, wherein the actuator is configured to cause movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position responsive to operation by the user; a motor operatively coupled to the lid; an electronic controller; a sensor configured to transmit a signal to the controller responsive to detecting a presence of an object, wherein, responsive to receiving said signal from said sensor, the controller is configured to instruct the motor to cause movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position; and a lock comprising a blocker and a lock engagement feature, the lock engagement feature configured to engage a corresponding container engagement feature on the container when the container is received by the housing. The dispenser can be configured such that: when the lock engagement feature is not engaged with the corresponding container engagement feature on the container, the blocker blocks movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position; and when the lock engagement feature is engaged with the corresponding container engagement feature on the container, movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position is allowed.
- The dispenser can be configured to allow the motor to cause movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position without causing movement of the actuator. In some implementations, the actuator comprises a lever coupled to the housing and configured to be depressed by the user, wherein the lever is configured to cause the lid to move from the closed position to the open position when the lock engagement feature is engaged with the corresponding container engagement feature on the container, and wherein, when the lock engagement feature is not engaged with the corresponding container engagement feature on the container, said blocker is configured to inhibit the lever from causing the lid to move from the closed position to the open position. In some implementations, the lid includes a first arm comprising gear teeth. The dispenser can further comprise: a first lever cam secured to a portion of the lever and configured to rotate with rotation of the lever; and a first coupler gear configured for engagement with the first lever cam and further configured to be rotated by the first lever cam when the first lever cam is rotated by the lever, wherein the first coupler gear comprises gear teeth configured to engage the gear teeth of the first arm of the lid. When the lock engagement feature is engaged with the corresponding container engagement feature on the container, movement of the lever can cause movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position via engagement between the first lever cam, the first gear coupler, and the first arm of the lid. In some implementations: the lid includes a second arm comprising gear teeth; the dispenser further comprises a second coupler gear comprising gear teeth configured to engage the gear teeth of the second arm of the lid; and the second coupler gear is configured to be rotated by the motor. When the lock engagement feature is engaged with the corresponding container engagement feature on the container, rotation of the second coupler gear can cause movement of the lid from the closed position to the open position via engagement between the second coupler gear and the second arm of the lid.
- In some implementations: the dispenser further comprises a second lever cam secured to a portion of the lever and configured to rotate with rotation of the lever, the second lever cam configured for engagement with the second coupler gear and further configured to rotate the second coupler gear when the second lever cam is rotated by the lever; and the second coupler gear and the second lever cam are coupled together such that the second lever cam remains stationary when the second coupler gear is rotated by the motor. In some implementations: the first coupler gear rotates along with the second coupler gear when the second coupler gear is rotated by the motor; and the first coupler gear and the first lever cam are coupled together such that the first lever cam remains stationary when the second coupler gear is rotated by the motor. In some implementations: the second coupler gear and the second lever cam are coupled together such that the second lever cam does not rotate when the second coupler gear is rotated by the motor; and the first coupler gear and the first lever cam are coupled together such that the first lever cam does not rotate when the second coupler gear is rotated by the motor. In some implementations, at least one of: the first coupler gear and the first lever cam rotate about a common axis; the second coupler gear and the second lever cam rotate about a common axis; and the first coupler gear and the second coupler gear rotate about a common axis. In some implementations: the first coupler gear comprises a slot that is configured to receive a protrusion of the first lever cam and allow the protrusion to move within a length defined by the slot; the second coupler gear comprises a slot that is configured to receive a protrusion of the second lever cam and allow the protrusion to move within a length defined by the slot; and movement of the protrusion of the first lever cam within the slot of the first coupler gear and movement of the protrusion of the second lever cam within the slot of the second coupler gear allows the first and second lever cams to remain stationary when the first and second coupler gears rotate.
- In some implementations: the second coupler gear comprises a cam mechanism; and the dispenser further comprises a cam follower coupled with the cam mechanism of the second coupler gear, the cam follower configured to be moved by the motor and, in response, cause the second coupler gear to rotate. In some implementations, the cam follower is at least partially rotatably coupled with the cam mechanism of the second coupler gear, and wherein, when movement of the second coupler gear is inhibited, the cam follower is configured to rotate with respect to the cam mechanism, thereby allowing the motor to rotate responsive to instruction from the controller. In some implementations, the cam follower is coupled with a biasing member.
- For purposes of summarizing the disclosure, certain aspects, advantages, and features of the technology have been described herein. Not necessarily any or all such advantages are achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment of the technology disclosed herein. No aspects of this disclosure are essential or indispensable. Neither the preceding summary nor the following detailed description purports to limit or define the scope of protection. The scope of protection is defined by the claims.
- Certain features of this disclosure are described below with reference to the drawings. The illustrated embodiments are intended to illustrate, but not to limit the embodiments. Various features of the different disclosed embodiments can be combined to form further embodiments, which are part of this disclosure.
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FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate various perspective views of a dispenser. -
FIG. 1C illustrates a perspective view of the dispenser ofFIGS. 1A-1B with a lid of the dispenser in an open position. -
FIG. 1D illustrates the dispenser ofFIGS. 1A-1B and a container positioned away from one another. -
FIGS. 2A-2B illustrate exploded perspective views of the dispenser ofFIGS. 1A-1B . -
FIGS. 3A-3B illustrate exploded perspective views of a portion of the dispenser ofFIGS. 1A-1B . -
FIGS. 4A-4F illustrate various views of a portion of the dispenser ofFIGS. 1A-1B . -
FIGS. 5A illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the dispenser ofFIGS. 1A-1B . -
FIGS. 5B-5C illustrate exploded perspective views of the portion of the dispenser shown inFIG. 5A . -
FIGS. 5D, 5E, and 5F illustrate top perspective, cross-sectional, and bottom perspective views of a portion of the dispenser ofFIGS. 1A-1B . -
FIG. 5G illustrates an enlarged portion of that which is shown inFIG. 5F . -
FIG. 5H illustrates a cross-section taken through the portion of the dispenser shown inFIG. 5A . -
FIGS. 6A-6B illustrate exploded perspective views of a portion of the dispenser of FIGS . 1A-1B . -
FIG. 6C illustrates a perspective view of lock mechanisms of the dispenser ofFIGS. 1A-1B . -
FIG. 6D illustrates a top view of the dispenser ofFIGS. 1A-1B . -
FIG. 6E illustrates a cross-section taken through a portion of the dispenser shown inFIG. 6D . -
FIG. 6F illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of the cross-section of the dispenser shown inFIG. 6E . -
FIG. 6G illustrates the enlarged view ofFIG. 6F where a container is positioned away from a lock mechanism of the dispenser in accordance with aspects of this disclosure. -
FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate sample alternative configurations for a lock mechanism and a container. -
FIGS. 8A-8B illustrate enlarged perspective views of a portion of the dispenser ofFIGS. 1A-1B and a portion of a container in accordance with aspects of this disclosure. -
FIG. 8C illustrates an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the dispenser ofFIGS. 1A-1B and the container ofFIGS. 8A-8B with a cross-section taken through the container to better illustrate aspects of the dispenser and container. -
FIG. 8D illustrates a bottom view of the container ofFIGS. 8A-8C . -
FIGS. 9A-9B illustrate various perspective views of a portion of the dispenser. -
FIG. 9C illustrates a top view of the portion of the dispenser shown inFIGS. 9A-9B . -
FIG. 9D illustrates a cross-section taken through a portion of that which is shown inFIG. 9C , where a nozzle of the dispenser is in a first position. -
FIG. 9E illustrates the cross-section shown inFIG. 9D where the nozzle of the dispenser is in a second position. -
FIG. 9F illustrates the cross-section taken through the portion of the dispenser shown inFIG. 9D with a wipe positioned within the nozzle. -
FIG. 9G illustrates the cross-section taken through the portion of the dispenser shown inFIG. 9E with a wipe positioned within the nozzle. -
FIGS. 10A-10B illustrate perspective views of another implementation of a dispenser. -
FIG. 10C illustrates a perspective view of the dispenser ofFIGS. 10A-10B where a lid of the dispenser is in an open position. -
FIGS. 10D-10E illustrate perspective views of the dispenser and a container spaced from one another. -
FIG. 11 illustrates a schematic diagram of a portion of the dispenser of FIGS . 10A-10C. -
FIGS. 12A-12B illustrate top and bottom partially exploded perspective views of the dispenser ofFIGS. 10A-10B . -
FIG. 13A illustrates a partially exploded perspective view of a portion of the dispenser ofFIGS. 10A-10B . -
FIG. 13B illustrates an exploded perspective view of that which is shown inFIG. 13A . -
FIG. 14A illustrates a bottom perspective view of a base of a housing of the dispenser ofFIGS. 10A-10B . -
FIGS. 14B-14C illustrate top and bottom perspective views of an actuator of the dispenser ofFIGS. 10A-10B . -
FIG. 14D illustrates a top view of the dispenser ofFIGS. 10A-10C . -
FIG. 14E illustrates a cross-section taken through a portion of the dispenser shown inFIG. 14D . -
FIG. 14F illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of the cross-section shown inFIG. 14E . -
FIG. 15A illustrates a partially exploded perspective view of the dispenser of FIGS . 10A-10B. -
FIG. 15B illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of that which is shown inFIG. 15A . -
FIG. 16A-16B illustrates top and bottom perspective views of a portion of the dispenser ofFIGS. 10A-10B . -
FIG. 16C illustrates a cross-section through the portion of the dispenser shown inFIGS. 16A-16B and illustrates a nozzle of the dispenser in a first position. -
FIG. 17A illustrates a perspective view of a cross-section taken through a portion of the dispenser shown inFIG. 14D . -
FIG. 17B illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of that which is shown inFIG. 17A . -
FIG. 17C illustrates an enlarged view similar to that which is shown inFIG. 17B where a lid of the dispenser is in a partially opened position. -
FIGS. 18A-18B illustrate front and back perspective views of another implementation of a dispenser. -
FIG. 18C illustrates a perspective view of the dispenser ofFIGS. 18A-18B where a lid of the dispenser has been activated via actuation of a lever in accordance with aspects of this disclosure. -
FIG. 18D illustrates a perspective view of the dispenser ofFIGS. 18A-18B where a lid of the dispenser has been activated electronically in accordance with aspects of this disclosure. -
FIG. 19 illustrates a schematic diagram of a portion of the dispenser ofFIGS. 18A-18B . -
FIGS. 20A-20B illustrate front and back partially exploded perspective views of the dispenser ofFIGS. 18A-18B . -
FIG. 21 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a portion of the dispenser ofFIGS. 18A-18B . -
FIGS. 22A-22B illustrate perspective views of a portion of the dispenser ofFIGS. 18A-18B . -
FIG. 22C illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the dispenser ofFIGS. 18A-18B andFIG. 22D illustrates a cross-sectional view of the portion of the dispenser illustrated inFIG. 22C . -
FIGS. 23A-23D illustrate side views of a portion of the dispenser ofFIGS. 18A-18B and further illustrate electronic operation a lid of the dispenser. -
FIGS. 24A-24B illustrate enlarged perspective views of a portion of the dispenser ofFIGS. 18A-18B . -
FIGS. 25A-27B illustrate side views of a portion of the dispenser ofFIGS. 18A-18B and enlarged portions of such views, and further illustrate a safety mechanism of the dispenser during electronic operation. -
FIGS. 28A-28B illustrate views of a portion of the dispenser ofFIGS. 18A-18B with another configuration for a cam mechanism. -
FIGS. 29A-29B illustrate cross-sectional views of a portion of the dispenser ofFIGS. 18A-18B and further illustrate a lid and lever of the dispenser during manual operation. -
FIG. 30A illustrates a top view of the dispenser ofFIGS. 18A-18B . -
FIG. 30B illustrates a cross-section taken through a portion of the dispenser shown inFIG. 30A . -
FIG. 30C illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of that which is shown inFIG. 30B . -
FIG. 30D illustrates the enlarged view ofFIG. 30C where a container is positioned away from a lock mechanism of the dispenser in accordance with aspects of this disclosure. - Various features and advantages of the disclosed technology will become more fully apparent from the following description of the several specific embodiments illustrated in the figures. These embodiments are intended to illustrate the principles of this disclosure. However, this disclosure should not be limited to only the illustrated embodiments. The features of the illustrated embodiments can be modified, combined, removed, and/or substituted as will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon consideration of the principles disclosed herein.
- Various consumable material dispensing apparatuses, systems, kits, and related methods are disclosed. Certain embodiments of the dispensing apparatuses are described in the context of sheets of consumable material (for example, wipes), due to particular utility in that context. However, the embodiments and inventions disclosed herein can also be applied to other types of consumable materials, such as towels (for example, paper towels), tissues (for example, facial tissues), napkins, or otherwise. No features, structure, or step disclosed herein is essential or indispensable.
- Although certain configurations for dispensers are discussed below with reference to certain descriptive headings, such headings are intended merely for organizational convenience. Various features and aspects of any of the dispenser configurations discussed below can be combined and/or incorporated into any of the other dispenser configurations discussed below.
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FIGS. 1A-9E show an illustrative implementation of adispenser 100 and/or portions thereof. As discussed below, thedispenser 100 can be a manual dispenser configured to be operated mechanically by a user (for example, via the use of a lever of the dispenser). In some implementations, thedispenser 100 does not include any electronic components. Thedispenser 100 can include any of the features discussed anywhere in this disclosure. -
FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate front and back perspective views of thedispenser 100.FIG. 1C illustrates a front perspective view of thedispenser 100 where alid 110 of thedispenser 100 is in an open position, as described in more detail below.FIG. 1C also illustrates alever 120 of thedispenser 100 in a second position, for example, after thelever 120 has been moved (for example, actuated). Thelid 110, thelever 120, and the interaction between thelid 110 and thelever 120 is described in more detail below. As also shown inFIG. 1C , thedispenser 100 can include and/or be configured to receive acontainer 101 which can include one or more sheets of consumable material. As shown inFIG. 1C and as described further below, thelever 120 can interact with thelid 110 to provide access to the one or more sheets of consumable material within thecontainer 101 when thecontainer 101 is received by thedispenser 100 or a portion thereof (for example, a housing of the dispenser 100).FIG. 1D illustrates a front perspective view of thedispenser 100 andcontainer 101 where thecontainer 101 is removed from (for example, not received by) thedispenser 100. -
FIGS. 2A-2B illustrate partially exploded front and back (respectively) perspective views of thedispenser 100. As shown, thedispenser 100 can include ahousing 104, alid 110, and an actuator configured for operation and/or interaction with the lid 110 (for example, configured to cause rotation of the lid 110). Such actuator can be a lever, for example, thelever 120. As discussed in more detail below, thelid 110 andlever 120 can be coupled to portions of thehousing 104, for example, to a top portion of thehousing 104. In some implementations, thedispenser 100 includes a transmission configured to transmit force from an actuator of thedispenser 100 to thelid 110, for example, to cause movement of thelid 110 from a closed position to an open position, and/or to any of a plurality of positions of thelid 110 between such closed and open positions of thelid 110. For example, where an actuator of thedispenser 100 comprises a lever, such aslever 120, thelid 110 andlever 120 can be coupled to one another, for example, rotatably coupled together such that movement (e.g., rotation) of thelever 120 causes movement (e.g., rotation) of thelid 110, and vice versa.FIGS. 2A-2B illustrate various other components that can be included in thedispenser 100, such as one ormore lock mechanisms 130, one or more coupler gears 132, one ormore bushings 134, a dampener 136 (which can also be referred to as a “damper”), and adampener mount 138, each of which are described in more detail below. -
FIGS. 3A-3B illustrate front and back exploded perspective views of thehousing 104 of thedispenser 100. As shown, thehousing 104 can include acabinet 140, aframe 150, and abase 160. In some implementations, thehousing 104 includes ahandle 170 coupled with thecabinet 140 and thebase 160. As discussed in more detail below, thehandle 170 can be movably (for example, pivotably) connected to thecabinet 140 and/or movably (for example, slidably) connected to thebase 160. As also discussed in more detail below, thehandle 170 can allow the base 160 to move relative to thecabinet 140 and/orframe 150, which can provide more space and/or distance between the base 160 and theframe 150 to allow for convenient loading of acontainer 101 into housing 104 (for example, into and/or betweenframe 150 and base 160). - The
frame 150, which can form and/or define a top portion of thehousing 104, can be connected to thecabinet 140, for example, at or near a first (e.g., top) end of thecabinet 140. Thebase 160, which can form and/or define a bottom portion of thehousing 104, can be connected to thecabinet 140, for example, at or near a second (e.g., bottom) end of thecabinet 140. Theframe 150 and/or the base 160 can be connected to thecabinet 140 via one or more fasteners, for example. In some implementations, theframe 150 is integral with thecabinet 140. In some implementations, theframe 150 is movably (for example, rotatably) connected to thecabinet 140, which can aid with insertion of thecontainer 101 between theframe 150 and thebase 160, for example. Theframe 150 can be configured to secure and/or receive a top end of thecontainer 101 and/or the base 160 can be configured to secure and/or receive a bottom end of thecontainer 101. Theframe 150 and the base 170 are each described in more detail below. - In some implementations, the
cabinet 140 can be configured to be mounted to a wall, for example, via one or more fasteners and/or via adhesive materials. In some implementations, thehousing 104 can be configured to stand upright on a horizontal surface, for example, without the need to mount the housing 104 (e.g., the cabinet 140) to a wall or other surface. Thedispenser 100 or a portion thereof (for example, the cabinet 140) can be mounted in a vertical, horizontal, or other orientation. - With continued reference to
FIGS. 3A-3B , in some implementations, thecabinet 140 includes a first wall 141 (which may be referred to as a “front” wall) and one or both ofsidewalls front wall 141. In some implementations, thefront wall 141 is not planar. For example, thefront wall 141 can be curved. As shown, thefront wall 141 can be curved between thesidewalls front wall 141 corresponds to a shape of thecontainer 101, for example, a curvature of a side and/or surface of thecontainer 101. As another example, where thecontainer 101 comprises a cylindrical shape, thefront wall 141 can be curved to match a curvature of a portion of a perimeter of the cylindrical shape of thecontainer 101. Such configurations can advantageously allow thecontainer 101 to be conveniently and efficiently received by thehousing 104 and can reduce overall size of thedispenser 100 in one or more dimensions. - With reference to
FIGS. 3A-3B , the base 160 can include asurface 161 and awall 162 extending around a perimeter of thesurface 161 or a portion of thesurface 161. Thewall 162 can be cylindrical, among other shapes. As shown, thewall 162 can extend above and/or below thesurface 161. Thewall 162 can have a variable height around thesurface 161. For example, thewall 162 can have a maximum height at a portion of the base 160 that is adjacent to thecabinet 140 and can have a minimum height that is diametrically opposed to the location of the maximum height. Such configuration can allow the container 101 (for example, a bottom portion of the container 101) to be positioned (for example, inserted) intobase 160 and/or can provide some securement of thecontainer 101, for example, from lateral movement. - The base 160 can be coupled to the
cabinet 140, for example, via one or more biasing members. Such one or more biasing members can bias the base 160 towards a particular position relative to thecabinet 140 and/orframe 150. Such one or more biasing members can be utilized alongside thehandle 170 discussed further below. Such one or more biasing members can be, for example, springs 149 (seeFIGS. 3B, 4C, and 4F ), such as helical coil springs. Thedispenser 100 can include one ormore springs 149 that connect to portions of thecabinet 140 and portions of thebase 160. For example, the base 160 can includecavities 165 connected to and/or along a portion ofwall 162 ofbase 160 that are sized to receive portions ofsprings 149.Springs 149 can bias the base 160 in a direction toward theframe 150 and can work alongside thehandle 170 as discussed in more detail below. The cavities can be cylindrical and/or can include a hollow or partially hollow interior sized and/or shaped to receive thesprings 149. - With continued reference to
FIGS. 3A-3B and as discussed previously, thedispenser 100 can include ahandle 170. Thehandle 170 can be movably (for example, pivotably) connected to a portion of thecabinet 140. For example, thehandle 170 can include a pivot portion 171 (for example, a rod) that is pivotably connected to sidewalls 142 a, 142 b of thecabinet 140. For example, thepivot portion 171 can include ends that are sized to be received inholes 143 insidewalls FIG. 3B ). As another example, thepivot portion 171 can be sized to receive a pin or rod that can be positioned within a channel extending through and/or defined by thepivot portion 171 and that can extend within and/or through theopenings 143. Thehandle 170 can include a main body connected to thepivot portion 171 that can include anend 172. Theend 172 can be opposite thepivot portion 171 and can be configured to be moved (for example, “pressed”) to cause thehandle 170 to pivot relative to thepivot portion 171, thecabinet 140, and/or an axis extending throughopenings 143. Movement of thehandle 170 and thebase 160 is discussed further below. In various embodiments, thehandle 170 is configured to be actuated by being depressed, such as being pivoted downward. - The base 160 can be coupled with the
handle 170 in a variety of ways. For example, the base 160 can include a cam mechanism that can be configured to engage (for example, slidably engage) thehandle 170 or a portion thereof. The handle 170 (for example, a main body of the handle 170) can include a cam follower configured to interact with the cam mechanism of the base 160 to allow the base 160 to move relative to thehandle 170. For example, the base 160 can include a cam mechanism that can include and/or be defined by astem 164 extending from a portion of the base 160 (for example, from thewall 162 and/or the surface 161) and one ormore cams stem 164. Thehandle 170 can include a camfollower including rails stem 164. Therails cams stem 164 andbase 160 to move (for example, slide) relative to thehandle 170 and/or the slot positioned between therails - As shown in
FIG. 3B , in some implementations, the base 160 can includewalls surface 161 and can be spaced from one another a distance that is sized to receive a portion of the handle 170 (for example, sized to receive a width of the handle 170). In some implementations, thewall 162 includes anopening 168 that provides access to theend 172 of thehandle 170 when thehandle 170 is coupled with thebase 160. Theopening 168 can also be defined by a portion of thewall 162 that does not extend below or only minimally extends below thesurface 161 in order to provide access to theend 172 of thehandle 170 when thehandle 170 is coupled with thebase 160 -
FIGS. 4A-4F illustrate a portion of thedispenser 100, namely, a portion of thecabinet 140 along with thebase 160 and handle 170.FIGS. 4A and 4D illustrate side views of a portion of thecabinet 140, thebase 160, and thehandle 170 in various positions as described further below.FIGS. 4B and 4E illustrate bottom perspective views a portion of thecabinet 140, thebase 160, and thehandle 170 in various positions as described further below.FIGS. 4C and 4F illustrate back views a portion of thecabinet 140, thebase 160, and thehandle 170 in various positions as described further below. - The
handle 170 can move (for example, pivot) relative to thecabinet 140 between a first position (which can be described as a neutral, locked, and/or closed position) as shown inFIGS. 4A-4C and a second position (which can be described as an unlocked and/or open position) as shown inFIGS. 4D-4F . When thehandle 170 is in such first position (FIGS. 4A-4C ), the base 160 can be held (for example, “locked”) in place, and when thehandle 170 is in such second position (FIGS. 4D-4F ), the base 160 can be allowed to move relative to thehandle 170,cabinet 140, and/orframe 150. For example, the base 160 can be configured to at least partially slide relative to thehandle 170 via engagement between a cam mechanism of the base 160 (for example, stem 164 andcams handle 170 can allow the base 160 to move from a first position (shown inFIGS. 4A-4C ) to a second position where thebase 160 is positioned farther from theframe 150, for example. Such first position of the base 160 can be described as a neutral, locked, and/or closed position. When thehandle 170 is in the second position illustrated inFIGS. 4D-4F , the base 160 can be configured to move between such first position of thebase 160 and a plurality of positions between such first position and a lowermost position of the base 160 (for example, a position where thebase 160 is positioned at a maximum distance from theframe 150 while still being coupled with the handle 170). Such configurations can advantageously allow for more convenient insertion and/or positioning of acontainer 101 within thehousing 104. - With reference to
FIGS. 4C and 4F and as discussed above, in some implementations, thedispenser 100 includes one ormore springs 149 connected to portions of thecabinet 140 and thebase 160.Such springs 149 can help bias the base 160 towards the first position (shown inFIGS. 4A-4C ). Such configuration can advantageously allow the base 160 to move toward and/or return to its first position (FIGS. 4A-4C ). Thehandle 170 can be moved (for example, pivoted) by application of a force onend 172. For example, a user can apply a downward force onend 172 ofhandle 170 to cause movement of thehandle 170. When thehandle 170 is in a position other than that shown inFIGS. 4A-4C , the base 160 can be movable relative to thehandle 170, thereby allowing a user to adjust the position of the base 160 in order to insert and/or position a container inside thedispenser 100 or a portion thereof. Theend 172 of thehandle 170 can be accessible to a user (for example, to a user's finger, palm, wrist, forearm, etc.), via anopening 168 of the base 160 (which may be referred to as an “access region” of the base 160). - In some implementations, the
base 160 is similar or identical tobase 360 discussed with reference todispenser 300 below. For example, in some implementations, thebase 160 includes a keying feature similar or identical to recessedportion 308. In such configurations, thedispenser 100 can be configured to receive a container that is identical tocontainer 101 but that has a keying feature similar or identical toprotrusion 209 ofcontainer 200. -
FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate a portion of thedispenser 100.FIGS. 5A-5C also illustrate how thelid 110, thelever 120, and theframe 150 of thehousing 104 can be coupled together.FIGS. 5A-5C also illustrate various other components of thedispenser 100 as described in more detail below. Thelever 120 can be coupled to a portion of the housing 104 (for example, to the frame 150) in a variety of ways. - The
lever 120 can include anactuator 121. Theactuator 121 can provide a plane or surface for a user to operate the lever 120 (for example, move and/or rotate the lever 120). In various embodiments, thelever 120 is configured to be actuated by being depressed, such as being pivoted downward. Theactuator 121 can be sized and/or shaped to facilitate contact and/or operation by a variety of portion's of the user's body. For example, theactuator 121 can be configured to be operated by a finger, a hand, an arm, an elbow, or another portion of a user's body. Various embodiments are configured to enable actuation of thelever 120 without the user's hand needing to contact thelever 120. For example, thelever 120 can be adapted to be actuated by a user's elbow. Thelever 120 can include anindicator 129 that can provide an indication to a user of how to actuate thelever 120. For example, theindicator 129 can comprise an arrow indicating a proper direction by which thelever 120 can be actuated. - The
lever 120 can include leverarms actuator 121. Thelever arms lid 110 or a portion thereof. Thelever arms frame 150. For example, as discussed further below, thelever arms frame 150. Thelever arms lever arms - The
frame 150 can include atrim portion 152 and abody portion 154 connected to thetrim portion 152. In some embodiments, thetrim portion 152 comprises an annular shape and/or structure. Thebody portion 154 can be configured to connect to a portion of thecabinet 140, for example, via one or more fasteners. Theframe 150 can include and/or define anopening 151 that can provide access to one or more sheets of consumable material of thecontainer 101 when the container is received by thehousing 104. For example, thetrim portion 152 of theframe 150 can include and/or definesuch opening 151. Theopening 151 can be circular, among other shapes. Thetrim portion 152 can be cylindrical, among other shapes. - The
body portion 154 of theframe 150 can be configured to receive, position, secure, and/or house various components of thedispenser 100. Thebody portion 154 can include and/or be defined by one or more walls which define (for example, at least partially define) an interior for receiving, positioning, securing, and/or housing various components of thedispenser 100. Thebody portion 154 can include aback wall 154 a and twosidewalls back wall 154 a. - The
frame 150 can include protrudingrings 155 extending outward from thesidewalls walls sockets lever arms sockets arms rings 155 offrame 150. Engagement betweenrings 155 andsockets lever 120 to theframe 150. However, as discussed further below, thelever 120 can be coupled (for example, rotatably coupled) to the frame 150 (and thus, the housing 104) via coupler gears 132 which can sandwich thewalls lever arms sockets - As shown in
FIGS. 5B-5C , in some implementations, thedispenser 100 includesbushings 134 which can be positioned over therings 155 and in between therings 155 and thesockets FIG. 5H illustrates a cross-section taken through the portion of thedispenser 100 shown inFIG. 5A and show an illustrative assembly of thelever 120,frame 150,lid 110, and how the coupler gears 132, bushings, 134, rings 155, leverarms sockets FIGS. 5B-5C , thesockets sockets sockets sockets walls frame 150. - As discussed above, the
dispenser 100 can include coupler gears 132. The coupler gears 132 can be configured to couple (for example, at least partially couple) thelever arms frame 140, for example, to the protruding rings 155 and/or to thebody portion 154 of the frame (and/orsidewalls prong 132 a (seeFIG. 5H ). Theprong 132 a can comprise one or more resilient legs. Theprong 132 a can secure to thesockets prong 132 a passing through an opening insockets 124 a. In some implementations, the coupler gears 132 are secured to thelever arms sockets lever arms sockets coupler gear 132 and thelever 120 rotate together about an axis extending through a center of thesockets lever 120 is actuated. With reference toFIGS. 5B-5C and 5G-5H , when thelever 120 is coupled with theframe 140, thesidewalls lever arms sockets - With reference to
FIG. 5B-5C , thelid 110 can include amain body 110 a that can be sized and/or shaped to correspond and/or cover the access opening 151 of theframe 150 and/or an open end of a container 101 (where thecontainer 101 has such an open end) such as that shown with respect to thecontainer 101 inFIG. 1D and/orcontainer 101′ (seeFIG. 7A ) which can be similar tocontainer 101 as discussed below. Themain body 110 a of thelid 110 can comprise a circular shape, among others. - The
lid 110 can comprise a connectingportion 110 b connected to and/or extending from themain body 110 a and configured to couple thelid 110 to a portion of thehousing 104, for example, a portion of theframe 150. Thelid 110 can be coupled (for example, rotatably coupled) to theframe 150 via arod 109. In some implementations,rod 109 is integral with thelid 110, for example, integral with thearms 110 c. In alternative configurations, therod 109 is not integral with the lid 110 (for example, not integral with thearms 110 c). Thelid 110 can include one ormore arms 110 c (for example, one, two, three, four, five, or six ormore arms 110 c) including through-holes sized to receive therod 109. In some implementations, thearms 110 c are spaced from one another by a gap or spacing, as shown. Such gap or spacing can advantageously allow portions of the lock mechanisms 130 (discussed further below) to also be coupled torod 109 to enable rotation of thelock mechanisms 130 aboutrod 109 as discussed further below. Therod 109 can extend through the through-holes of thearms 110 c and be extend through openings in a portion of theframe 150, for example, holes 154 d. Theholes 154 d can be positioned onsidewalls walls FIGS. 5B-5C ). Advantageously, one or more of the one ormore arms 110 c of thelid 110 can include gear teeth configured to engage with gear teeth of the coupler gears 132 as discussed further below. In some implementations of thelid 110 where therod 109 is integral with thelid 110, for example, integral witharms 110 c,main body 110 a, and/or connectingportion 110 b, thearms 110 c can still be spaced form one another by a gap or spacing as shown, and such gap or spacing can advantageously allow portions of the lock mechanisms 130 (discussed further below) to also be coupled torod 109 to enable rotation of thelock mechanisms 130 aboutrod 109 as discussed further below. -
FIGS. 5A-5H illustrate portions of the dispenser 100 (such as those discussed above) without the lock mechanism(s) 130, merely for the purpose of better illustrating such portions of thedispenser 100. However, as discussed below, thedispenser 100 can include one or more ofsuch lock mechanisms 130, which can interact with the components of thedispenser 100 shown and/or discussed with reference toFIGS. 5A-5H . -
FIGS. 5D-5E illustrate how thelever 120 and thelid 110 can interact with one another during operation of thedispenser 100. As mentioned above, thelid 110 can include one ormore arms 110 c, and one or more ofsuch arms 110 c can include gear teeth configured to engage gear teeth of coupler gears 132.FIG. 5D-5E illustrate perspective and cross-section views (respectively) of thelid 110 in a partially open position. As discussed above, the coupler gears 132 can be secured to the lever 120 (for example, via free ends ofarms lever 120 and/or viasockets lever 120 about a pivot axis, such as pivot axis P1 (seeFIG. 5E ). For example, in some implementations, the coupler gears 132 are fixed relative to thelever 120 or portions of thelever 120. - As shown in
FIGS. 5D-5E , movement of thelever 120 about pivot axis P1 (for example, via application of a downward force Fi on anactuator 121 of lever 120) can cause movement of thelid 110 about pivot axis P2 via interaction between gear teeth of coupler gears 132 and gear teeth ofarms 110 c oflid 110. In some implementations, pivot axis P1 is generally parallel to and/or spaced from pivot axis P2. - In some implementations, the
lever 120 and thelid 110 are positioned and/or coupled relative to one another with a mechanical connection having a predetermined ratio that allows the lid to move (for example, rotate) at a faster speed and/or angular velocity than thelever 120. For example, the coupler gears 132 and gear teeth ofarms 110 c can be configured in such a manner such that thelid 110 is configured to rotate about pivot axis P2 at a speed and/or angular velocity than is greater than a speed and/or angular velocity by which thelever 120 rotates about pivot axis P1. Although thelid 110 andlever 120 are illustrated as rotating about axes that are not aligned with one another (for example, are spaced from one another), in alternative configurations, thelid 110 andlever 120 can be configured (for example, positioned and/or coupled to one another and/or portions of the housing 104) such that they rotate about the same axis. - The
lever 120 can be configured to move (for example, rotate) between a first position (for example, that shown inFIGS. 1A-1B and 5A ) and a second position (for example, that shown inFIG. 1C ). Such first position of thelever 120 can be described as a neutral or closed position and such second position of thelever 120 can be described as an actuated or moved position (such as a fully moved position). Similarly, thelid 110 can be configured to move (for example, rotate) between a first position (which can be described as a neutral or closed position) such as that shown inFIGS. 1A-1B and 5A , and a second position (which can be described as an open or fully open position), such as that shown inFIG. 1C . - In some implementations, the
dispenser 100 includes one or more biasing members configured to bias thelever 120 and/or thelid 110 to and/or toward such first position. Such configurations can advantageously urge thelid 110 to return to a closed position to cover the one or more sheets of consumable material in thecontainer 101 and/or cover the access opening 151 offrame 150. Such configurations can also advantageously urge thelever 120 to return to its neutral position where it may be actuated by a user. Such biasing members can be, for example, aspring 139 illustrated inFIGS. 5B-5C . One end of thespring 139 can be coupled to a portion of thelever 120, for example, an opening or notch 125 on anarm lever 120. Another end of thespring 139 can be connected to a portion of thehousing 104, for example, an opening or notch 158 onframe 150. - In some embodiments, when the
lever 120 is moved, for example, actuated, the tension force in thespring 139 can apply a biasing force on thelever 120 to urge thelever 120 to return to the neutral position of thelever 120.Such notch 125 can be located on either or both ofarm arm notch 125 is positioned in a recessed surface of the arm 122 and/or 122 b as shown inFIGS. 5B-5C , and such recessed surface can have a depth that is sized to match a length ofnotch 125 and/or of thenotch 158. Althoughnotch 158 is illustrated ononly sidewall 154 c (or a rim extending adjacent thesidewall 154 c),such notch 158 or anothernotch 158 can be positioned in a similar or identical position onsidewall 154 b (or a rim extending adjacent thesidewall 154 b), which may enable twosprings 125 to be utilized as described above to bias thelever 120 and/or thelid 110. - In some implementations, the
dispenser 100 include a dampener configured to dampen movement (for example, rotation) of thelever 120 and/or thelid 110. For example, with reference toFIGS. 5B-5B and 5F-5G , thedispenser 100 can include adampener 136. Thedampener 136 can be positioned adjacent one of the coupler gears 132. Thedampener 136 can include a protrusion configured to fit within an opening on a side of thecoupler gear 132. Thedampener 136 can be configured to dampen movement, for example, rotation, oflever 120 via engagement with one of the coupler gears 132. As shown, thedampener 136 can be mounted to a portion of the housing 104 (for example, a portion of the frame 150) via adampener mount 138, which can be a bracket such as an L-shaped bracket. Although the figures illustrate only onedampener 136 positioned adjacent to one of the coupler gears 132, in some implementations, thedispenser 100 includes twodampeners 136 and/or two dampener mounts 138, and each of thedampeners 136 are configured to dampen movement of thelever 120 via engagement with a respective one of the coupler gears 132. Thedampener 136 can be a rotary dampener and/or a one-way dampener, for example, and can dampen movement (for example, rotation) of thecoupler gear 132 and/orlever 120 only in one direction.FIGS. 5F-5G illustrate thedampener mount 138 in dotted lines to better show thedampener 136. - In some implementations, the
dispenser 100 includes both of thespring 139 and thedampener 136. In such configurations, thedispenser 100 can advantageously allow thelever 120 to return to its neutral position (and thelid 110 to the closed position) slowly in order to allow a user to have sufficient time to retrieve one of the one or more sheets of consumable material. Accordingly, in such configurations, there may be a delay of the return of thelever 120 and/orlid 110 to their neutral (e.g., biased) positions. In some cases, thedampener 136 and/or spring(s) 139 are configured such that it takes thelever 120 and/orlid 110 less than our equal to about: 1 seconds, 2 seconds, 3 seconds, 4 seconds, 5 seconds, 6 seconds, 7 seconds, 8 seconds, 9 seconds, 10 seconds, 11 seconds, 12 seconds or alternative amount of time to return to their neutral (e.g., biased) positions from their fully open and/or fully actuated positions. - In some cases, it may be desirable for the
dispenser 100 to inhibit or prevent movement of thelid 110 and/or thelever 120 unless a particular type of container is utilized with thedispenser 100. For example, in some cases, it may be desirable for thedispenser 100 to inhibit or prevent movement of thelid 110 and/or thelever 120 unless a container utilized with (for example, positioned within and/or received by the housing 104) is authorized (for example, is of a particular type and/or configuration) and/or satisfies a condition, such as having certain structural features. -
FIGS. 6A-6B illustrate perspective views of at least thelid 110,rod 109,lever 120, and coupler gears 132 discussed above.FIGS. 6A-6B also illustratelock mechanisms 130 that can be incorporated intodispenser 100. Advantageously, as discussed further below, the lock mechanism 130 (which may also be referred to as a “lock”) can be configured to inhibit (for example, prevent) movement of thelever 120 and/orlid 110.FIG. 6C illustrates a back perspective view of thelock mechanisms 130. Thelock mechanism 130 can allow thedispenser 100 to inhibit or prevent movement of thelid 110 and/orlever 120 unless a particular type of container is utilized with thedispenser 100. - The
lock mechanism 130 can include abody portion 130 a and one or more blockers (also called “brake bars”). In certain implementations, the blockers compriseprotrusions 130 c extending transverse (for example, generally perpendicular) to thebody portion 130 a and/or a plane of thebody portion 130 a. In various embodiments, the blocker selectively engages with structures of thedispenser 100 that transmit force from thehandle 120 to thelid 110 and can selectively block (e.g., completely or partially) the transmission of such force. - The
lock mechanism 130 can include one ormore arms 130 d that can be configured to couple torod 109. The one ormore arms 130 d (which can be one, two, three, four, or five ormore arms 130 d), can include an opening (for example, a through-hole) sized to receive therod 109 and an opening configured to allow therod 109 to be positioned within such opening (seeFIG. 6C ). Thearms 130 d can allow thelock mechanism 130 to be movably (for example, rotatably) coupled to therod 109. In some implementations, thelock mechanism 130 is configured to rotate independent of thelid 110. - With reference to
FIGS. 6F-6G , which will be described in more detail below, thelock mechanism 130 can be configured to move (for example, rotate) from and/or between a first position (such as that shown inFIG. 6F ) and a second position (such as that shown inFIG. 6G ). When thelock mechanism 130 is in such second position (FIG. 6G ), the one ormore protrusions 130 c can engage with the gear teeth of thecoupler gear 132 and thereby inhibit or prevent thecoupler gear 132,lever 120, andlid 110 from rotating. Such one ormore protrusions 130 c can include one, two, three, four, or five ormore protrusions 130 c. In various embodiments, thelock mechanism 130 moves to the second position automatically, upon removal of thecontainer 101 from thedispenser 100, and/or by gravity. - The
lock mechanism 130 can include one or more engagement features configured to engage one or more engagement features on thecontainer 101, for example, when thecontainer 101 is received by thehousing 104 or a portion thereof. Thelock mechanism 130 can be configured to inhibit (for example, prevent) movement of thelid 110 from a closed position (see, for example,FIGS. 1A-1B ) to an open position (see, for example,FIG. 1C ) when the one or more engagement features of thelock mechanism 130 are not engaged with the one or more engagement features on thecontainer 101 and allow movement of thelid 110 from the closed position to the open position when the one or more engagement features of the lock mechanism are engaged with the one or more engagement features on thecontainer 101. Such one or more engagement features of thelock mechanism 130 can inhibit movement of thelid 110 from the closed position to the open position by inhibiting movement of thelever 120 and/or the coupler gears 132, since, as described above, thelever 120 and/or coupler gears 132 can interact with and/or cause thelid 110 to rotate. For example, with reference toFIG. 6C , thelock mechanism 130 can include one ormore tabs 130 b (which can also be described as “locking tabs”) extending transverse (for example, generally perpendicular) to thebody portion 130 a and/or a plane of thebody portion 130 a. Thetabs 130 b can be spaced from the one ormore protrusions 130 c. The one ormore tabs 130 b can extend transverse (for example, generally perpendicular) to thebody portion 130 a and/or a plane of thebody portion 130 a. -
FIG. 6D illustrates a top view of thedispenser 100 andFIG. 6E illustrates a cross-section taken through a portion of thedispenser 100 shown inFIG. 6D .FIG. 6F illustrates an enlarged portion of the cross-section of thedispenser 100 shown inFIG. 6E where thelock mechanism 130 is in a first position as described further below.FIG. 6G illustrates the enlarged portion of the cross-section of thedispenser 100 shown inFIG. 6F where thelock mechanism 130 is in a second position. Such first position of the lock mechanism 130 (FIG. 6F ) can be described as an “unlocked” position of thelock mechanism 130 and such second position of the lock mechanism 130 (FIG. 6G ) can be described as a “locked”, “locking”, and/or “blocking” position, for example, due to engagement with gear teeth ofcoupler gear 132 as described below. In some implementations, thetab 130 b of thelock mechanism 130 is positioned farther from a bottom portion of thedispenser 100 and/or thebase 160 of thehousing 104 when in the first position (FIG. 6F ) than when in the second position (FIG. 6G ). -
FIG. 6E-6F illustrate thedispenser 100 withlock mechanism 130 andcontainer 101 which includes atab 103 extending outward from a body of the container 101 (see alsoFIG. 1D ). Thecontainer 101 can include one ormore tabs 103 that can be arranged and/or numbered in a manner so as to correspond with an arrangement and/or number of the one ormore tabs 130 b of thelock mechanism 130. In such configuration, whensuch container 101 is secured withinhousing 104 ofdispenser 100, the one ormore tabs 103 of thecontainer 101 can engage (for example, contact) the one ormore tabs 130 b of thelock mechanism 130. Such engagement can allow thetabs 103 to move (for example, “push”) thetabs 130 b upward, thereby rotating thelock mechanism 130 in a rotational direction so as to move blockers (e.g.,protrusion 130 c) out of engagement with gear teeth ofcoupler gear 132. Such action can thereby allow thecoupler gear 132,lever 120, andlid 110 to move (for example, rotate) as described above to open thelid 110. - The
container 101 can include any number oftabs 103, such as one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, or eight ormore tabs 103, andsuch tabs 103 can extend from a body of thecontainer 103 and be spaced from one another, for example, around a perimeter of thecontainer 101. For example, where thecontainer 101 is cylindrical, thetabs 103 can be spaced from one another around a circumference of a circular cross-section of thecontainer 101. In some implementations, thetabs 103 are positioned proximate an end of thecontainer 101, such as a top end of thecontainer 101 configured to be positioned near a top portion of thehousing 104 when thecontainer 101 is received by thehousing 104. However, thetabs 103 can be positioned in another location. -
FIG. 6G illustrates a position of thelock mechanism 130 prior to insertion of and/or after removal of thecontainer 101, for example, prior to engagement between and/or after disengagement of the tab(s) 103 and the tab(s) 130 b.FIG. 6G may also illustrate a position of thelock mechanism 130 when a non-authorized and/or non-compatible container is received by thedispenser 100. For example, if a container not having the one ormore tabs 103 and/or not having one ormore tabs 103 in a particular arrangement, number, and/or positioning that aligned with corresponding tab(s) 130 b of thelock mechanism 130 was inserted into thehousing 104, thelock mechanism 130 may remain at the position shown inFIG. 6G (e.g., a “locking” position). As shown, in the locked position, the blocker (e.g.,protrusion 130 c) is interleaved with, or otherwise provides a physical interference with, thecoupler gear 132. As such, thelock mechanism 130 inhibits or prevents operation of thelid 110 with such a container. - The number, arrangement, and/or positioning of the one or
more tabs 130 b of thelock mechanism 130 and/or the number, arrangement, and/or positioning of the one ormore tabs 103 can be modified to create a large variety of configurations to customize a particular dispenser for use with a particular container. This can advantageously allow dispensers to be associated with particular types of products and/or particular types of customers employing the dispensers. - With reference to
FIG. 6C , thedispenser 100 can include twolock mechanisms 130, each of which can be configured to engage and/or interact with each of the two coupler gears 132 to allow or inhibit rotation of the coupler gears 132 (and/orlever 120 andlid 110 as described above). In some cases, such twolock mechanisms 130 may be independently movable (for example, rotatable) relative to one another, for example, aboutrod 109. Thedispenser 100 can include an alternative amount oflock mechanisms 130, however, such as onelock mechanism 130, or more than twolock mechanisms 130. In some implementations, thedispenser 100 includes onelock mechanism 130 that includes each of the two lock mechanisms illustrated in at leastFIG. 6C but as one integral component. -
FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate sample alternative embodiments oflock mechanisms 130′ and acontainer 101′ and further illustrate a varying number oftabs 130 b′ andtabs 103′ that can be employed. Suchillustrative lock mechanisms 130′ andcontainer 101′ can be utilized withdispenser 100 in a similar or identical manner as that described above with reference to lockmechanism 130 andcontainer 101. Any of the lock mechanisms discussed herein can include one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, or twelve or more tabs (similar or identical totabs tabs tabs tabs - In some cases, it may be beneficial for the
dispenser 100 and container 101 (for example, an authorized container) to have corresponding alignment features that can help align and/or otherwise position tab(s) 103 of thecontainer 101 and tab(s) 130 b of thelock mechanism 130 so that they can engage (e.g., contact) one another to effectuate movement of the lock mechanism 130 (for example, to an “unlocked” position as shown inFIG. 6E-6F ).FIGS. 8A-8D show illustrative alignment features that can be incorporated in thedispenser 100 andcontainer 101. As shown, thebase 160 of thedispenser 100 can include aprotrusion 166 that can extend outward from (for example, transverse or generally perpendicular from)surface 161 ofbase 160.Such protrusion 166 can extend outward fromsurface 161, for example, toward frame 150 (seeFIG. 8A and 3A ). Theprotrusion 166 can be cylindrical and/or can have a tapered and/or partially conical (for example, frustoconical) shape. In some implementations, theprotrusion 166 includes anopening 167 that can extend through theprotrusion 166. - As also shown in
FIGS. 8A-8D , thecontainer 101 can include a recessedportion 107 that can be sized and/or shaped to receive theprotrusion 166. Recessedportion 107 can extend inward from (for example, transverse or generally perpendicular from)surface 105 of thecontainer 101, which can be a bottom surface of thecontainer 101 at an end of thecontainer 101. The recessedportion 107 can be cylindrical and/or can have a tapered and/or partially conical shape (for example, frustoconical) shape.FIG. 8C illustrates a perspective view of thecontainer 101 positioned within the base 160 with a cross-section of thecontainer 101 removed to illustrate how theprotrusion 166 can be received within the recessedportion 107. - The
protrusion 166 and the recessedportion 107 can advantageously be utilized to allow the tab(s) 103 of thecontainer 101 and the tab(s) 130 b of thelock mechanism 130 to be properly positioned (for example, aligned) relative to one another so that the tab(s) 103 engage the tab(s) 130 b when thecontainer 101 is inserted into thehousing 104. In some implementations, theprotrusion 166 is positioned (for example, “centered”) in a location other than at a center of a cross-section of thebase 160 and/orsurface 161, and/or the recessedportion 107 is positioned (for example, “centered”) in a location other than at a center of a cross-section of thecontainer 101 and/orsurface 105. For example, in some implementations, theprotrusion 166 is not positioned at an axis that extends through a center of a cross-section of thebase 160 and/orsurface 161. As another example, in some implementations, the recessedportion 107 is not positioned at an axis that extends through a center of a cross-section of thecontainer 101 and/orsurface 105. Such configurations can advantageously ensure that the tab(s) 103 of container are properly aligned with tab(s) 130 b when theprotrusion 166 is position within recessedportion 107. Further, such configurations can limit or prevent misalignment of such tab(s) 103, 130 b that may be possible if the recessedportion 107 was positioned at a center of a cross-section of thecontainer 101 orsurface 105, for example, where thecontainer 101 could be rotated, thus moving the tab(s) 103 out of vertical alignment with tab(s) 130 b even whereprotrusion 166 is within recessedportion 107. - Although the figures illustrate one
protrusion 166 and one recessedportion 107, the base 160 can include more than one protrusion 166 (such as two, three, four, or five or more protrusions 166) and thecontainer 101 can include more than one recessed portion 107 (such as two, three, four, or five or more recessed portions 107). Furthermore, although the recessedportion 107 is shown in one illustrative position on thesurface 105 ofcontainer 101 and theprotrusion 166 is shown in one illustrative position onsurface 161, the recessedportion 107 can be positioned in a variety of other positions onsurface 105 and theprotrusions 166 can be positioned in a variety of other positions onsurface 161. For example, such variety of other positions can be any position other than one that is aligned with a center of a cross-section of thesurface -
FIGS. 9A-9B illustrate top and bottom perspective views (respectively) of theframe 150, whileFIG. 9C illustrates a top view of theframe 150. As discussed previously, theframe 150 can include atrim portion 152 that can include and/or define an opening 151 (which also may be referred to as an “access opening”) and abody portion 154. Theframe 150 can include a wipe retainer mechanism, which advantageously can hold a wipe in a convenient position for use. - The wipe retainer mechanism can include one or more
flexible arms 153 extending from a portion of thetrim portion 152. For example, theframe 150 can include one, two, three, four, five, or six or moreflexible arms 153. The flexible arm(s) 153 can extend from portions of thetrim portion 152 adjacent and/or across the opening 151 (for example, extend across a portion of theopening 151 from underneath). The flexible arm(s) 153 can be spaced from one another. - The wipe retainer mechanism can include a
nozzle 156 that can be connected to portions of the flexible arm(s) 153, for example, connected to free ends of the flexible arm(s) 153. Thenozzle 156 can be configured to receive and secure (such as partially secure) one of more of the sheets of consumable material that are housed within thecontainer 101, for example, when thecontainer 101 is received by thehousing 104. Thenozzle 156 can include and/or be bound by a wall having a cylindrical shape and/or a tapered and/or conical shape and an opening extending therethrough that can receive the sheets. Such wall ofnozzle 156 can include a slit along a portion of the body that can allow sheets to be inserted into and/or pulled out of the opening of thenozzle 156. Thearms 153 can comprise a material that is flexible (for example, bendable) and/or resilient. Thearms 153 can comprise a material that is more flexible than a material of the frame 150 (for example, thetrim portion 152 and/or the body portion 154). -
FIG. 9D illustrates a cross-section taken through theframe 150 as shown inFIG. 9C .FIG. 9D illustrates a first position of the flexible arm(s) 153 and thenozzle 156, which can be referred to as an at rest or neutral position. The flexible arm(s) 153 and/or the fact that thearms 153 do not extend entirely across theopening 151 of thetrim portion 152 can allow thenozzle 156 to be positioned as shown inFIG. 9D , where, under the effect of gravity due to weight of thenozzle 156, flexible arm(s) 153, and/or one or more sheets of consumable material received by thenozzle 156, an axis A1 extending through the nozzle 156 (for example, through a center of thenozzle 156 and/or an opening of the nozzle 156) is not aligned with and/or is transverse to an axis A2 that may be aligned with the gravitational force on thenozzle 156 and/or on the one or more sheets received by thenozzle 156. Such positioning, due at least in part to the flexibility ofarms 153 and/or the fact that theframe 150,trim portion 152, and/orarms 153 are not configured (for example structurally arranged) such that the axis A1 of thenozzle 156 is aligned with the axis A2, inhibits the ability of the sheets received bynozzle 156 from slipping and/or falling out of nozzle 156 (for example, downward into the container 101) under the effect of gravity. - As shown, the
frame 150 can include atab 159 connected to thenozzle 156. Thetab 159 can have a first end connected to thenozzle 156 and a second end that can be “free” (for example, a cantilevered end).FIG. 9E illustrates the flexible arm(s) 153,nozzle 156, andtab 159 in a second position which may represent a position when a user pulls one or more sheets received by thenozzle 156. Such a user pull (which may be in an “upward” direction given the view shown inFIG. 9E ), can cause movement of theflexible arms 153,nozzle 156, andtab 159 until thetab 159 contacts ablocking tab 157 of theframe 150 that can extend from thetrim portion 152 at least partially across theopening 151. As shown, in such position, the axis A1 extending through the nozzle 156 (for example, a center of nozzle 156) can be aligned with and/or generally parallel to the axis A2 described above. -
FIG. 9F and 9G illustrate cross-sections taken through theframe 150 similar toFIG. 9D and 9E but also illustrate a wipe 1 received by thenozzle 156. The wipe 1 is merely illustrative of a type of sheet of consumable material that can be utilized with thedispenser 100. It is to be understood that such wipe 1 may be connected with (for example, linked) to a plurality of other wipes that may be stored in any of the containers discussed herein for utilization with any of the dispensers discussed herein. For example, such wipe 1 may be linked with a plurality of other wipes via perforated joints (which can allow separate of the wipe 1 from such linked plurality of other wipes and/or such plurality of other wipes may be stored in a cylindrical structure and/or configuration sized and/or shaped to be received within a container having a cylindrical structure. -
FIGS. 10A-17C show an illustrative implementation of adispenser 200 or portions thereof. Thedispenser 200 can include any of the features of thedispenser 100. As discussed below, thedispenser 200 can be an electronic dispenser configured to be operated electronically. For example, thedispenser 200 can be triggered and/or actuated electronically. In some implementations, thedispenser 200 does not include a manual actuator, such as thelever 120. -
FIGS. 10A-10B illustrate front and back perspective views (respectively) of thedispenser 200 where a lid of thedispenser 200 is in a closed position as discussed further below.FIG. 10C illustrates a front perspective view of thedispenser 200 where thelid 210 of thedispenser 200 is in an open position, as also described in more detail below.FIGS. 10A and 10C also illustrate asensor 293 and anindicator 297 that can be employed in thedispenser 200 as discussed in more detail below.FIGS. 10D-10E illustrate front and back perspective views (respectively) of acontainer 201 removed from thedispenser 200. - As shown in
FIGS. 10D-10E , thecontainer 201 can include a plurality oftabs 203 that can be similar or identical totabs 103 discussed above with reference tocontainer 101 and/or 101′. Thecontainer 201 can include a recessedportion 207 that can be similar or identical to recessedportion 107 discussed above with reference tocontainer 101. In some implementations, thecontainer 201 includes a keying feature, such as akeyed protrusion 209 configured to be received within a keyed recessedportion 208 in base 260 (seeFIGS. 10D and 13B ) to aid a user in properly positioning thecontainer 201 within thedispenser 200 and/or alignment of thetabs 203 withcorresponding actuators 289 when thecontainer 201 is received by thedispenser 200 as discussed in more detail below. -
FIG. 11 illustrates a schematic diagram of a portion of thedispenser 200. As shown, thedispenser 200 can include asensor 293, acontroller 290, and amotor 295. Themotor 295 can be configured to cause rotation of alid 210 of thedispenser 200 as discussed in more detail below. In some variants, themotor 295 is powered by a power source, such as a source of AC or DC electrical power. In some variants, themotor 295 is powered by an on-board power source 296, such as a battery, capacitor, or otherwise, that is positioned within a portion of thedispenser 200, such as ahousing 204 of thedispenser 200 or a portion ofsuch housing 204. For example, thepower source 296 can comprisebatteries 284 discussed below with reference toFIG. 13B . In some variants, themotor 295 is configured to receive power from an external source, such as from a console, wall socket, or other external power source. For example, in some variants, thehousing 204 includes an electrical connector configured to connect with an end of a power cable that is connected to a wall socket. - As shown in
FIG. 11 , thedispenser 200 can include thecontroller 290. Thecontroller 290 can be in communication with the sensor(s) 293. Thecontroller 290 can be in communication with themotor 295 and/or configured to instruct themotor 295 to operate. As also shown, thecontroller 290 can comprise aprocessor 291 and amemory 292 coupled with theprocessor 291. In some implementations, thecontroller 290 is embodied in one or more printed circuit boards, such as one or both of printedcircuit board FIG. 13B . - As mentioned above, the
dispenser 200 can include asensor 293. Thesensor 293 can be a proximity sensor configured to detect the presence of an object (for example, a user's hand) within a threshold proximity. Such proximity sensor can be an optical sensor, ultrasonic sensor, infrared sensor among others. Thesensor 293 can be configured to generate one or more signals upon detection of the presence of an object within such threshold proximity and transmit such one or more signals to thecontroller 290. With reference to at leastFIGS. 10A and 10C ,such sensor 293 can be positioned on a portion of thehousing 204 of thedispenser 200, for example, on a portion of the frame 250 (seeFIG. 12A ), or another portion of thehousing 204, such as thebase 260, handle 270,cabinet 240, or on thelid 210 of thedispenser 200. Thedispenser 200 can include one orsensors 293, such as one, two, three, four, five, or six ormore sensors 293, andsuch sensors 293 can be positioned on different portions of thedispenser 200, such as any of the portions mentioned above or elsewhere herein. - In some implementations, the
dispenser 200 includes anindicator 297 configured to indicate a status of thedispenser 200. Such status can indicate whether thedispenser 200 is “on” or “off”, a condition of a power source of the dispenser 200 (for example, empty, full, or somewhere in between), whether thecontainer 201 is authorized for use with thedispenser 200, among other things. Theindicator 297 can be an LED indicator, for example. Theindicator 297 can be in communication with thecontroller 290 and operation of theindicator 297 can be controlled by thecontroller 290. For example, thecontroller 290 can instruct or otherwise cause theindicator 297 to illuminate (for example, a particular color such as red or green) to indicate any of the above statuses or information. As another example, thecontroller 290 can instruct or otherwise cause theindicator 297 to blink (for example, a particular color such as red or green) to indicate any of the above statuses or information. - The
dispenser 200 can include a container authorization sensor unit configured to provide an indication to the controller of whether a particular container received by thedispenser 200 is authorized for user with thedispenser 200. For example, with reference toFIG. 11 , such container authorization sensor unit can comprise acontainer authorization detector 294. Thecontainer authorization detector 294 can be configured to provide an indication to thecontroller 290 whether a container utilized with (for example, positioned within the housing 204) is authorized for use with thedispenser 200. Thecontroller 290 can be adapted to determine whether a container utilized with (for example, positioned within the housing 204) is authorized for use with thedispenser 200 based on information and/or signal(s) received and/or not received from thecontainer authorization detector 294. Thecontainer authorization detector 294 can be in communication with, can include, and/or can form part of, thecontroller 290. - As discussed above, the
controller 290 can be in communication with the sensor(s) 293 and can receive one or more signals from the sensor(s) 293 indicative of an object being within proximity of the sensor(s) 293. Such signal(s) can thus be indicative of a request (for example, by a user) to operate the dispenser 200 (for example, to open thelid 210 and provide access to one or more sheets within container 202 received by thedispenser 200. - Certain embodiments are configured such that, after receiving one or more signals from the
sensor 293, thecontroller 290 interacts with or otherwise utilizes thecontainer authorization detector 294 to determine whether a particular container within thedispenser 200 is authorized for use with thedispenser 200 before instructing themotor 295 to cause rotation of thelid 210. For example, before or subsequent to receiving one or more signals from thesensor 293, thecontroller 290 can determine whether a particular container within thedispenser 200 is authorized for use with thedispenser 200 based on an indication provided by thecontainer authorization detector 294 that a container within thedispenser 200 is authorized for use with thedispenser 200 and/or based on not receiving an indication by thecontainer authorization detector 294 that a container within thedispenser 200 is authorized for use with thedispenser 200. - In response to the signal from the
sensor 293, and/or to an indication that a container is authorized for use with thedispenser 200, thecontroller 290 can instruct themotor 295 to cause thelid 210 to move from a closed position to an open position. Some embodiments are configured such that thecontroller 290, subsequent to receiving one or more signals from thesensor 293, instructs themotor 295 to cause thelid 210 to move from a closed position to an open position only after receiving an indication that a container is authorized for use with thedispenser 200. - The
container authorization detector 294 can include mechanical and/or electronic components that can allow thecontainer authorization detector 294 to be utilized by thecontroller 290 to determine whether a container received by thedispenser 200 is authorized for use with thedispenser 200. Thecontainer authorization detector 294 can comprise a sensor unit, which can include one or more sensors, switches, or detectors. In some implementations, thecontainer authorization detector 294 comprises one or more switches and one or more actuators that can move in and out of engagement with the one or more switches. In some implementations, the one or more actuators can be configured to interact with and/or engage portions of thecontainer 201, and such interaction and/or engagement can be utilized to detect whether thecontainer 201 is authorized for use with thedispenser 200. For example, as discussed in more detail below, thecontainer authorization detector 294 can include one ormore switches 288 and one ormore actuators 289. As discussed in more detail below, interaction and/or engagement between the actuator(s) 289 and portions of the container 201 (such as tab(s) 203)) and resulting engagement or lack of engagement with switch(es) 288 can be utilized to detect whether thecontainer 201 is authorized for use with thedispenser 200. In some embodiments, thecontainer authorization detector 294 can include theswitch 282 andactuator 280 discussed further below. As discussed in more detail below, interaction and/or engagement between the actuator(s) 280 and portions of the container 201 (such as opening 207), or a similar portion of acontainer 201 that does not haveopening 207, and resulting engagement or lack of engagement withswitch 282 can be utilized to detect whether a container is authorized for use with thedispenser 200. -
FIGS. 12A-12B illustrate front and back perspective views of thedispenser 200 where alid 210 of thedispenser 200 is removed from ahousing 204 of thedispenser 200. With reference to at leastFIGS. 12A-13A and similar todispenser 100, thehousing 204 can include acabinet 240, aframe 150, and a base 160 Similar to thedispenser 100, in some implementations, thehousing 204 includes ahandle 270 coupled with thecabinet 240 and thebase 260. Thehandle 270 can be movably (for example, pivotably) connected to thecabinet 240 and/or movably (for example, slidably) connected to thebase 260. Similar to as discussed above with reference to thedispenser 100 and handle 170, thehandle 270 can allow the base 260 to move relative to thecabinet 240 and/orframe 250, which can provide more space and/or distance between the base 260 and theframe 250 to allow for loading of acontainer 201 into housing 204 (for example, into and/or betweenframe 250 and base 260). - The
frame 250, which can form and/or define a top portion of thehousing 204, can be connected to thecabinet 240, for example, at or near a first (e.g., top) end of thecabinet 240. Thebase 260, which can form and/or define a bottom portion of thehousing 204, can be connected to thecabinet 240, for example, at or near a second (e.g., bottom) end of thecabinet 240. Theframe 250 and/or the base 260 can be connected to thecabinet 240 via one or more fasteners, for example, and/or can be connected to thecabinet 240 via one or more mechanical connections. In some implementations, theframe 250 is integral with thecabinet 240. In some implementations, theframe 250 is movably (for example, rotatably) connected to thecabinet 240, which can aid with insertion of thecontainer 201 between theframe 250 and thebase 260, for example. Theframe 250 can be configured to secure and/or receive a top end of thecontainer 201 and/or the base 260 can be configured to secure and/or receive a bottom end of thecontainer 201. Theframe 250 and the base 260 are each described in more detail below. - In some implementations, the
cabinet 240 can be configured to be mounted to a wall, for example, via one or more fasteners and/or via adhesive materials. In some implementations, thehousing 204 can be configured to stand upright on a horizontal surface, for example, without the need to mount the housing 204 (e.g., the cabinet 240) to a wall or other vertical surface. Thedispenser 200 or a portion thereof (for example, the cabinet 240) can be mounted in a vertical, horizontal, or other orientation. -
FIG. 13B illustrates an exploded view of thehousing 204 to better illustrate aspects of thecabinet 240, thebase 260, and thehandle 270. In some implementations, thecabinet 240 includes afirst wall 241 a (which may be referred to as a “back” wall), asecond wall 241 b (which may be referred to as a “front” wall), and one or both ofsidewalls back walls back wall 241 a can extend along a portion of a height of thecabinet 240, for example, a top half of a height of the cabinet 240 (seeFIG. 12B ) and/or thefront wall 241 b can extend along a portion of a height of thecabinet 240, for example, a bottom half of a height of the cabinet 240 (seeFIG. 13B ). In some implementations, thefront wall 241 b is not planar. For example, thefront wall 241 b can be curved. As shown, thefront wall 241 b can be curved between thesidewalls front wall 241 b corresponds to a shape of thecontainer 201, for example, a curvature of a side and/or surface of thecontainer 201. As another example, where thecontainer 201 comprises a cylindrical shape, thefront wall 241 b can be curved to match a curvature of a portion of a perimeter of the cylindrical shape of thecontainer 201. Such configurations can advantageously allow thecontainer 201 to be conveniently and efficiently received by thehousing 204 and can reduce overall size of thedispenser 200 in one or more dimensions. - With continued reference to
FIG. 13B , thedispenser 200 can include a transmission (which can include one or more gears, such as agear 286 and a gear 287), amotor 295, acircuit board 283 a, and a power source. The power source can comprise one or more batteries 284 (which can together form a power source of thedispenser 200 as discussed above), such as one, two, three, four, five, or six orbatteries 284. In some implementations, thecabinet 240 includes one or more walls that define acavity 243 configured to house thecircuit board 283 a and/or the one ormore batteries 284. In some implementations, thecabinet 240 includes acover 245 a and/or cover 245 b that can enclose thecircuit board 283 a and/or one ormore batteries 284 within thecavity 243. As also shown, thedispenser 200 can include acircuit board 283 b, one ormore switches 288 mounted to thecircuit board 283 b and one ormore actuators 289 coupled (for example, movably coupled) to thecircuit board 283 b and positioned proximate respective ones of the switches 288 (seeFIGS. 15A-15B ). Thecircuit board 283 b, one ormore switches 288, and one ormore actuators 289 are discussed in more detail below. - As shown in
FIG. 13B , thedispenser 200 can include abase 260. The base 260 can be similar or identical to the base 160 discussed above with reference to thedispenser 100 in some or many respects. For example, the base 260 can include asurface 261 and awall 262 that can be similar or identical to thesurface 161 and thewall 162 discussed above and therefore such description above with respect to thesurface 161 and thewall 162 is equally applicable to thesurface 261 and thewall 262 of thebase 260. - The base 260 can be coupled to the
cabinet 260 via one or more biasing members (such as springs 149) in a similar or identical manner as that described above with reference to thebase 160 andcabinet 160 and therefore such discussion above with reference to thebase 160 and thecabinet 140 is equally applicable to thebase 260 and thecabinet 240. For example, as shown, the base 260 can includecavities 265 connected to and/or along a portion ofwall 262 ofbase 260 that are sized to receive portions ofsprings 149.Springs 149 can bias the base 260 in a direction toward theframe 250 and can work alongside thehandle 270 as discussed in more detail below. The base 260 can include a cam mechanism that is similar or identical to the cam mechanism described above with reference tobase 160. For example, with reference toFIG. 14A , the base 260 can include astem 264 andcams cams base 160. The base 260 can include an opening oraccess region 268 that can be similar or identical to opening oraccess region 168 described above with respect to thebase 160. In some implementations, the base 260 can includewalls FIG. 14A ) that can be similar or identical to thewalls base 160.FIG. 14A illustrates a bottom perspective view of thebase 260 without also showing thehandle 270. - The
dispenser 200 can include ahandle 270 that can be similar or identical to thehandle 170 ofdispenser 100. For example, thehandle 270 can include a pivot portion 271 (which can be similar or identical to pivot portion 171) movably connected (for example, pivotably connected) to sidewalls 242 a, 242 b of thecabinet 240 in a similar or identical manner as that discussed above with reference to pivotportion 171 ofhandle 170 andsidewalls handle 270 can include a cam follower configured to interact with the cam mechanism of the base 260 (for example, stem 264 and/orcams handle 170. For example, thehandle 270 can include a cam follower including and/or defined byrails stem 264 andcams rails handle 270 can include anend 272 that can be similar or identical to theend 172 described above with respect to thehandle 170. - The
base 260 and thehandle 270 can engage and interact with one another in a similar or identical manner as that described above with reference to thebase 160 and thehandle 170 in order to facilitate movement of thebase 260, for example, in relation to theframe 250 to aid in positioning of thecontainer 201 within thehousing 204. Accordingly, such discussion is equally applicable with respect to the base 26 and thehandle 270 and is not repeated here for the sake of brevity. - With reference to
FIGS. 13B-14A , the base 260 can include anopening 267, for example, in thesurface 261 and acavity 263. Thecavity 263 can extend below thesurface 261 and can be sized and/or shaped to receive aswitch 282, a biasing member (such as spring 281), and at least a portion of anactuator 280. Thecavity 263 can have a cylindrical shape, among others (seeFIG. 14A ). Thecavity 263 can include one ormore openings 263 a (such as one, two, three, four, five, or six ormore openings 263 a) configured to receive one ormore legs 280 b of theactuator 280. -
FIGS. 14B-14C illustrate top and bottom perspective views of theactuator 280. Theactuator 280 can include amain body 280 a, one ormore legs 280 b (such as one, two, three, four, five, or six ormore legs 280 b) extending outward from themain body 280 a and spaced from one another, and aprojection 280 c extending transverse (for example, generally perpendicular) to a surface of themain body 280 a and/or a plane defined by a surface of themain body 280 a. In some implementations, theprojection 280 c has a cross-section that is cross-shaped (for example, shaped like a “+” symbol). Themain body 280 a can have a cylindrical shape, among others. Themain body 280 a can have a top surface and a skirt wall defining sidewalls (or a continuous sidewall) of theactuator 280, and thelegs 280 b can extend outward from such skirt wall. Thelegs 280 b can comprise an L-shape in some implementations. Thelegs 280 b can extend through theopenings 263 a of thecavity 263 can be coupled to thecavity 263 in such a manner so as to allow theactuator 280 to be axially movable within the cavity 263 (such as along an axis extending through a center of the cavity 263). Such configuration can allow the actuator 280 (for example, via theprojection 280 c) to move in an out of engagement with theswitch 282. Theswitch 282 can be positioned adjacent a surface of thecavity 263, for example, a surface of thecavity 263 that is opposite the bottom planar surface shown inFIG. 14A . -
FIG. 14D illustrates a top view of thedispenser 200 andFIG. 14E illustrates a cross-section of thedispenser 200 and thecontainer 201 taken through a portion of that shown inFIG. 14D . As shown inFIG. 10E , thecontainer 201 can include anopening 207 extending through a surface 205 (for example, a bottom surface) of thecontainer 201.FIG. 14F illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of the cross-section shown inFIG. 14E . More specifically,FIG. 14F illustrates an enlarged view of a cross-section through thecontainer 201, thesurface 205, theopening 207 extending through thesurface 205, thebase 260, thehandle 270, theactuator 280, thespring 281, theswitch 282, and thecavity 263. Theactuator 280 can extend slightly beyond a plane of thesurface 261 of the base 260 when in a first position, for example, a neutral and/or biased position which can be biased by thespring 281. Theactuator 280 can have a first position, as illustrated inFIG. 14E-14F , where it is not engaging theswitch 282. For example, in such first position of theactuator 280, theprojection 280 c does not engage (for example, compress a portion of) theswitch 282, but rather, is positioned above and/or adjacent theswitch 282. Thespring 281 can bias theactuator 280 towards such first position. Thespring 281 can be positioned between a surface of theactuator 280 and a surface of thecavity 263 and/or can surround theswitch 282 and/or theprojection 280 c. Theactuator 280 can have a second position where the actuator 280 (for example, theprojection 280 c) engages theswitch 282. Theactuator 280 can be positioned farther in thecavity 263 when in such second position, in some implementations. For example, in some implementations, when theactuator 280 is such second position, theactuator 280 can be positioned at or below theopening 267 in thebase 260. - The
actuator 280 and/or switch 282 can be utilized by the dispenser 200 (for example, the controller 290) to determine whether a particular container received by thedispenser 200 is authorized for use with thedispenser 200. In some implementations, thecontroller 290 can instruct themotor 295 to cause rotation of thelid 210 upon determination that such particular container is authorized for use with thedispenser 200 based on a status (for example, position) of theswitch 282 and/or based on information received (or not received) from theswitch 282. In some implementations, thecontroller 290 instructs themotor 295 to cause rotation of thelid 210 only upon a determination that such particular container is authorized for use with thedispenser 200. Theswitch 282 can generate and/or transmit one or more signals when it is engaged by theactuator 280 and/or can generate and/or transmit one or more signals when it is not engaged by theactuator 280. In some implementations, thecontroller 290 can make a determination that a given container is authorized for use with thedispenser 200 if theswitch 282 is not engaged by the actuator 280 (for example, theactuator 280 is in the first position discussed above). Additionally, in some implementations, thecontroller 290 determines that a given container is authorized for use with thedispenser 200 only if theswitch 282 is not engaged by theactuator 280. In some implementations, theswitch 282 generates and/or transmits one or more signals to thecontroller 290 only when theswitch 282 is engaged by theactuator 280. - As an example, if a container not having the
opening 207 and/or not having anopening 207 in a location that would align with (for example, so as to receive of a portion of) theactuator 280 of the base 260 when the container is positioned within thedispenser 200, theactuator 280 may be depressed (for example, in the second position described above) and may engage theswitch 282. In such cases, theswitch 282 can provide an indication (for example, via one or more generated and/or transmitted signals) to thecontroller 290, and thecontroller 290 can determine that such container is not authorized for use with thedispenser 200. As a result, thecontroller 290 can refrain from instructing themotor 295 to cause rotation of thelid 210, despite having received one or more signals from thesensor 293 associated with a user request to operate the dispenser 200 (for example, to open the lid 210). - As another example, if a
container 201 having anopening 207 withactuator 280 is inserted into thedispenser 200, theactuator 280 can be allowed to be in the first (for example, non-actuated) position. In such cases, theswitch 282 can provide an indication (for example, generate and/or transmit one or more signals) to thecontroller 290, and thecontroller 290 can determine thatsuch container 201 is authorized for use with thedispenser 200. As a result, thecontroller 290 can instruct themotor 295 to cause rotation of thelid 210, for example, after previously receiving one or more signals from thesensor 293 associated with a user request to operate thedispenser 200. -
FIG. 15A illustrates thedispenser 200 with theframe 250 andlid 210 removed and with thecontainer 201 received by thedispenser 200.FIG. 15B illustrates an enlarged portion of that shown inFIG. 15A . As discussed previously with respect toFIG. 13B , thedispenser 200 can include acircuit board 283 b and one ormore switches 288 mounted to thecircuit board 283 b. For example, thedispenser 200 can include one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, seventeen, eighteen, nineteen or twenty ormore switches 288. Thedispenser 200 can include one oractuators 289 coupled to and/or operably positioned by thecircuit board 283 b. For example, thedispenser 200 can include one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, seventeen, eighteen, nineteen or twenty ormore actuators 289. The number ofswitches 288 can correspond to the number ofactuators 289 and vice versa. Thecircuit board 283 b can include one ormore openings 283 c which can be circular among other shapes. The number ofopenings 283 c can correspond with the number ofactuators 289 and/or the number ofswitches 288. In some implementations, thecircuit board 283 b does not includesuch openings 283 c. -
FIGS. 15A-15B illustrate thecontainer 201 and onemore tabs 203 of thecontainer 201 which can be similar or identical totabs 103 ofcontainer 201 discussed above. Thecontainer 201 can include one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, seventeen, eighteen, nineteen or twenty ormore tabs 203. The number oftabs 203 can correspond to the number of actuator(s) 289 and/orswitches 288, for example, in cases where thedispenser 200 and thecontainer 201 are designed to be particularly utilized together. - The actuator(s) 289 can comprise a first portion configured to engage a portion of the container 201 (for example, the tab(s) 203 of the container 201) and a second portion configured to be positioned proximate and/or adjacent the switch(es) 288. For example, such first portion can be a rod or stem and such second portion can be or comprise a surface from which such rod or stem extends (for example, extends transverse or generally perpendicularly from) (see
FIG. 15B ). In some implementations, the actuator(s) 289 are movably coupled to thecircuit board 283 b. For example, in some implementations, a first portion of theactuator 289 extends through anopening 283 c, is inhibited or prevented from moving laterally (for example, relative to a plane of thecircuit board 283 b, and is allowed to move relative to (for example, within) theopening 283 c, and a second portion of theactuator 289 is configured to engage theswitch 288 when the actuator is in a first position and not engage theswitch 288 when theactuator 289 is in a second position. In some implementations, as shown inFIGS. 15A-15B , theactuator 289 is biased toward such first position, for example, by aspring 299. AlthoughFIGS. 15A-15B illustrate twoactuators 289, as discussed above, thedispenser 200 can include an alternative amount ofactuators 289.FIG. 15B illustrates a number ofswitches 288 without actuators positioned thereupon, merely for the purpose of better illustrating theswitches 288. It is to be understand that thedispenser 200 can include an equal number ofswitches 288 andactuators 289, however. - The
actuators 289 can be configured to engage withtabs 203 of thecontainer 201 whencontainer 201 is received by thedispenser 200. For example, when thecontainer 201 is received by thedispenser 200, thetabs 203 can contact and cause movement of theactuators 289 from a first position where theactuators 289 are engaged with theswitches 288 to a second position where theactuators 289 are not engaged with theswitches 288. In some implementations, theactuators 289 are biased viasprings 299 to or toward such first position. For example, such springs 299 (which can correspond in number with the number of theactuators 289 and/or switches 288) can be positioned around a portion (for example a rod or stem portion of the actuators 289) and can engage a surface (for example, a bottom surface) of thecircuit board 283 b. - The actuator(s) 289 and switch(es) 288 can be utilized by the dispenser 200 (for example, the controller 290) to determine whether a particular container received by the
dispenser 200 is authorized for use with thedispenser 200. In some implementations, thecontroller 290 can instruct themotor 295 to cause rotation of thelid 210 upon determination that such particular container is authorized for use with thedispenser 200, for example, before or after receiving one or more signals fromsensor 293 indicative of a request to open thelid 210. In some implementations, thecontroller 290 instructs themotor 295 to cause rotation of thelid 210 only upon such determination that such particular container is authorized for use with thedispenser 200. - The switch(es) 288 can generate and/or transmit one or more signals when engaged by the actuator(s) 289 and/or can generate and/or transmit one or more signals when not engaged by the actuator(s) 289. In some embodiments, the
controller 290 can compare the detected combination (number, location, and/or arrangement of engaged and/or not engaged switches) to a database to determine whether the container is authorized. The database, such as a lookup table, can include a list of combinations (each including a number, location, and/or arrangement of engaged and/or not engaged switches) that indicate an authorized container. In some implementations, thecontroller 290 can make a determination that a given container is authorized for use with thedispenser 200 if any or all of the switch(es) 288 are not engaged by theactuators 289. In some implementations, thecontroller 290 determines that a given container is authorized for use with thedispenser 200 only if all of theswitches 288 are not engaged by theactuators 289. In some implementations, the switch(es) 289 generate and/or transmit one or more signals to thecontroller 290 only when engaged by the actuator(s) 289. - In one example, the
dispenser 200 includes twoactuators 289 and twoswitches 288. If a given container does not include at least twotabs 203 and/or the arrangement of two of thetabs 203 does not match the arrangement of the twoactuators 289 such that thetabs 203 do not engage the twoactuators 289 when thecontainer 201 is positioned in thedispenser 200, theactuators 289 may remain engaged with theswitches 288. In such cases, theswitches 288 can provide an indication (for example, via one or more generated and/or transmitted signals) to thecontroller 290, and thecontroller 290 can determine that such container is not authorized for use with thedispenser 200. As a result, thecontroller 290 can refrain from instructing themotor 295 to cause rotation of thelid 210, even despite having received one or more signals from thesensor 293 associated with a user request to operate thedispenser 200. However, if another container having twotabs 203 that align with and contact theactuators 289 is positioned in thedispenser 200, theswitches 288 can provide an indication (for example, via one or more generated and/or transmitted signals) to thecontroller 290, and thecontroller 290 can determine that such container is authorized for use with thedispenser 200. In such case, thecontroller 290 can instruct themotor 295 to cause rotation of thelid 210, for example, subsequent to receiving one or more signals from thesensor 293. - The number, arrangement, and/or positioning of the switch(es) 288 and actuator(s) 289 can be varied along with the number, arrangement, and/or position of tab(s) 203 of the
container 201. This can advantageously allow for a significant number of dispenser-container customized combinations that ensure only particular containers are able to be utilized with particular dispensers. - In some implementations, both of switch(es) 288 and switch 282 are utilized by the
controller 290 to determine whether a container is authorized for use with thedispenser 200. For example, in some implementations, in response to receiving one or more signals from the sensor(s) 293, thecontroller 290 determines whether the switch(es) 288 and theswitch 282 is engaged or not engaged with theactuators 289, 280 (respectively) before instructing themotor 295 to cause rotation of thelid 210. As another example, in some implementations, the controller instructs themotor 295 to cause rotation of thelid 210 if (for example, only if) all of the switch(s) 288 and switch 282 are not engaged by theactuators motor 295 to cause rotation of thelid 210 if (for example, only if) all of the switch(s) 288 and switch 282 are engaged by theactuators actuator 280 can together provide a dual electronic mechanism that thecontroller 290 can utilize to determine whether a particular container received by thedispenser 200 is authorized for use with thedispenser 200, and based on such determination, instruct or cease to instruct, themotor 295 to cause rotation of thelid 210. - Similar to as discussed with reference to the
dispenser 100 andcontainer 101, thedispenser 200 andcontainer 201 can include corresponding alignment features that can help align and/or otherwise position tab(s) 203 of thecontainer 201 and actuator(s) 289 so that they can engage (e.g., contact) one another to effectuate movement of the actuator(s) 289 as discussed above. For example, theactuator 280 ofbase 260 and theopening 207 ofcontainer 201 can interact in a similar manner as that described above with reference toprotrusion 166 ofbase 160 and recessedportion 107 ofcontainer 101. For example, the positioning of a portion of theactuator 280 ofbase 260 within and/or through theopening 207 can cause alignment of the tab(s) 203 so that they can engage the actuator(s) 289 when thecontainer 201 is received by thedispenser 200. Similar to as discussed with reference toprotrusion 166 ofbase 160, theactuator 280 andopening 261 can be positioned at a variety of positions with respect to a cross-section of thebase 160 and/orsurface 161, for example, other than at a center of such cross-sections so as to enable proper orientation and/or alignment of thetabs 203 of thecontainer 201 when positioned in thedispenser 200. Similar to as discussed with reference to the recessedportion 107 ofcontainer 101, theopening 207 ofcontainer 201 can be positioned at a variety of positions with respect to a cross-section of thecontainer 201 and/orsurface 205, for example, other than at a center of such cross-sections so as to enable proper orientation and/or alignment of thetabs 203 of thecontainer 201 when positioned in thedispenser 200. - With reference to
FIG. 10D-10E and 13B , the base 260 can include a recessed portion 208 (for example, in wall 262) that is sized and/or shaped to receive akey protrusion 209 of thecontainer 201. Thekey protrusion 209 and recessedportion 208 can aid a user in properly positioning thecontainer 201 within thedispenser 200. In some implementations, when thekey protrusion 209 is positioned within the recessedportion 208 of thebase 260, the tab(s) 203 align with and/or engage the actuator(s) 289 and/or at least a portion of theactuator 280 is positioned within and/or aligned with theopening 207. With reference toFIGS. 13B and 14A , in some implementations, thecabinet 240 includes a recessedportion 247 sized and/or shaped to accommodate a protruding portion or surface of the recessedportion 208, which may extend outward from thewall 262 as shown inFIG. 14A . -
FIGS. 16A-16B illustrate top and bottom perspective views of theframe 250 of thedispenser 200 andFIG. 16C illustrates a cross-section taken through a portion of theframe 250. Theframe 250 can be similar or identical to frame 150 ofdispenser 100 discussed above. Theframe 250 can include atrim portion 252 and abody portion 254 connected to thetrim portion 252. In some embodiments, thetrim portion 252 comprises an annular shape and/or structure. Thebody portion 254 can be configured to connect to a portion of the cabinet 240 (for example, via one or more fasteners or via another type of mechanical connection) or can be integral with thecabinet 240. Theframe 250 can include and/or define anopening 251 that can provide access to one or more sheets of consumable material of thecontainer 201 when thecontainer 201 is received by thehousing 204. For example, thetrim portion 252 of theframe 250 can include and/or definesuch opening 251. Theopening 251 can be circular, among other shapes. Thetrim portion 252 can be cylindrical, among other shapes. - The
frame 250 can include a wipe retainer mechanism, which can be similar or identical to the wipe retainer mechanism described above in connection with thedispenser 100. The wipe retainer mechanism can include one or moreflexible arms 253 extending from a portion of thetrim portion 252. For example, theframe 250 can include one, two, three, four, five, or six or moreflexible arms 253. The flexible arm(s) 253 can extend from portions of thetrim portion 252 adjacent and/or across the opening 251 (for example, extend across a portion of theopening 251 from underneath). The flexible arm(s) 253 can be spaced from one another. - The wipe retainer mechanism can include a
nozzle 256 that can be connected to portions of the flexible arm(s) 253, for example, connected to free ends of the flexible arm(s) 253. Thenozzle 256 can be configured to receive and secure (such as partially secure) one of more of the sheets of consumable material that are housed within thecontainer 201, for example, when thecontainer 201 is received by thehousing 204. Thenozzle 256 can include and/or be defined by a wall having a cylindrical shape and/or a tapered and/or conical shape and an opening extending therethrough that can receive the sheets. Such wall ofnozzle 256 can include a slit along a portion of the body that can allow sheets to be inserted into and/or pulled out of the opening of thenozzle 256. -
FIG. 16C illustrates a first position of the flexible arm(s) 253 and thenozzle 256, which can be referred to as an at rest or neutral position. The flexible arm(s) 253 and/or the fact that thearms 253 do not extend entirely across theopening 251 of thetrim portion 252 can allow thenozzle 256 to be positioned as shown inFIG. 16C , where, under the effect of gravity due to weight of thenozzle 256, flexible arm(s) 253, and/or one or more sheets of consumable material received by thenozzle 256, an axis A3 extending through the nozzle 256 (for example, through a center of thenozzle 256 and/or an opening of the nozzle 256) is not aligned with and/or is transverse to an axis A2 that may be aligned with the gravitational force on thenozzle 256 and/or on the one or more sheets received by thenozzle 256. Such positioning, due at least in part to the flexibility ofarms 253 and/or the fact that theframe 250,trim portion 252, and/orarms 253 are not configured (for example structurally arranged) such that the axis A3 of thenozzle 256 is aligned with the axis A2, inhibits the ability of the sheets received bynozzle 256 from slipping and/or falling out of nozzle 256 (for example, downward into the container 201) under the effect of gravity. While not illustrated, one or more wipes may be positioned in thenozzle 256 in a similar or identical manner as that shown and described inFIGS. 9F-9G above. - As shown, the
frame 250 can include atab 259 connected to thenozzle 256. Thetab 259 can have a first end connected to thenozzle 256 and a second end that can be “free” (for example, a cantilevered end). Thetab 259 can be similar or identical to thetab 159 discussed with reference to thedispenser 100. The flexible arm(s) 253,nozzle 256, andtab 259 can move between a first position (FIG. 16C ) and a second position where the axis A3 is aligned with and/or generally parallel to axis A2 in a similar or identical manner as described with reference to flexible arm(s) 153,nozzle 156, andtab 159 and as shown inFIGS. 9D-9E . - In some implementations, a difference between arm(s) 253 and arm(s) 153 of
dispenser 100 is that arm(s) 253 can include a connectingportion 253 a connected to thetrim portion 252 that has a greater width than a remaining width of the arm(s) 253. Such configuration can allow for greater strength of the arm(s) 253, for example, to resist breaking away from thetrim portion 252. -
FIGS. 17A illustrates a perspective view of a cross-section taken through thedispenser 200 as shown inFIG. 14D .FIG. 17B illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of that shown inFIG. 17A . As discussed with reference toFIG. 13B and as shown inFIG. 17B , thedispenser 200 can include agear 286 operably coupled (for example, rotatably coupled) to themotor 295. In some implementations, agear 287 is positioned between thegear 286 and the motor 295 (and/or a gear or gear teeth fixed to the motor 295). Themotor 295 can be configured to engage and rotate thegear 286, for example, viagear 287. Rotation of thegear 286 can cause rotation of thelid 210. For example, in some implementations, thegear 286 includes afinger 286 a configured to engage and contact a portion of thelid 210. Rotation of thegear 286 can cause rotation of thefinger 286 a and rotation of thelid 210, for example, as illustrated inFIG. 17C . In some implementations, thelid 210 comprises a recessed portion sized and/or shaped to receive thefinger 286 a of the gear 286 (seeFIGS. 17B-17C ). - The
gear 286,finger 286 a, and/orlid 210 can be configured to rotate about an axis R1. Thegear 287 can be configured to rotate about an axis R2 and the motor 295 (and/or a gear fixed to the motor 295) can be configured to rotate about an axis R3. In some implementations, axis R1 is spaced from and/or generally parallel to axis R2 and/or axis R3. In some variants, thegear 286 is directly engaged with motor 295 (and/or a gear fixed to motor 295), for example, wheredispenser 200 does not includegear 287. - In some implementations, the
lid 210 can be moved independent of movement of thegear 286,finger 286 a,gear 287, and/ormotor 295. For example, in some implementations, a user may lift and/or rotate thelid 210 manually, which can advantageously allow thelid 210 to be moved when a power source (for example, batteries) of thedispenser 200 are depleted. -
FIGS. 18A-30D show an illustrative implementation of adispenser 300 or portions thereof. Thedispenser 300 can be similar or identical to either ofdispensers FIGS. 18A-30D or portions thereof. As discussed in more detail below, thedispenser 300 can be a hybrid dispenser, incorporating both mechanical and electronic components which enable mechanical operation (for example, via a lever) and electronic operation (for example, via a sensor and/or motor). -
FIGS. 18A-18B illustrate front and back perspective views of thedispenser 300.FIG. 18C illustrates thedispenser 300 with alid 310 of thedispenser 300 that has been partially opened via operation of an actuator of the dispenser 300 (such as via actuation of alever 320 of the dispenser 300).FIG. 18D illustrates thedispenser 300 with thelid 310 in a partially open position which has been activated electronically, for example, via asensor 393. In certain embodiments, thedispenser 300 can be configured to allow thelid 310 to be opened (for example, moved from the closed position to the open position) via electronic operation without causing movement of thelever 320. -
FIG. 19 illustrates a schematic diagram of a portion of thedispenser 300. As shown, thedispenser 300 can include one ormore sensors 393, acontroller 390, and amotor 395. Themotor 395 can be configured to cause rotation of thelid 310 of thedispenser 300 as discussed in more detail below. In some variants, themotor 295 is powered by a power source, such as a source of AC or DC electrical power. In some variants, themotor 395 is powered by an on-board power source 396, such as a battery (e.g., batteries 384), capacitor, or otherwise, that is positioned within a portion of thedispenser 300, such as ahousing 304 of thedispenser 300 or a portion ofsuch housing 304. In some variants, themotor 395 is configured to receive power from an external source, such as from a console, wall socket, or other external power source. For example, in some variants, thehousing 304 includes an electrical connector configured to connect with an end of a power cable that is connected to a wall socket. - As shown in
FIG. 19 , thedispenser 300 can include thecontroller 390. Thecontroller 390 can be in communication with the sensor(s) 393. Thecontroller 390 can be in communication with themotor 395 and/or configured to instruct themotor 395 to operate. As also shown, thecontroller 395 can include aprocessor 391 and amemory 392 coupled with theprocessor 391. In some variants, thecontroller 390 is embodied in one or more printed circuit boards, such as printedcircuit board 383 as shown in at leastFIG. 21 . - As mentioned above, the
dispenser 300 can include asensor 393. Thesensor 393 can be a proximity sensor configured to detect the presence of an object (for example, a user's hand) within a threshold proximity. Such proximity sensor can be an optical sensor, ultrasonic sensor, infrared sensor among others. Thesensor 393 can be configured to generate one or more signals upon detection of the presence of an object within such threshold proximity and transmit such one or more signals to thecontroller 390. With reference to at leastFIGS. 18A and 18C ,such sensor 393 can be positioned on a portion of thehousing 304 of thedispenser 300, for example, on a portion of thelever 320, or another portion of thehousing 304 such as theframe 350, thebase 360,cabinet 340, or on thelid 310 of thedispenser 300. Thedispenser 300 can include one ormore sensors 393, such as one, two, three, four, five, or six ormore sensors 393, andsuch sensors 393 can be positioned on different portions of thedispenser 300, such as any of the portions mentioned above or elsewhere herein. - In some implementations, the
dispenser 300 includes anindicator 397 configured to indicate a status of thedispenser 300. Theindicator 397 can be similar or identical toindicator 297 discussed above with reference to theindicator 297 of thedispenser 200. Theindicator 397 can be positioned on a portion of thehousing 304 of thedispenser 300, for example, on a portion of thelever 320, or another portion of thehousing 304 such as theframe 350, thebase 360,cabinet 340, or on thelid 310 of thedispenser 300. Theindicator 397 can be positioned proximate to thesensor 393, for example, as shown with respect todispenser 200. -
FIGS. 20A-20B illustrate partially exploded front and back (respectively) perspective views of thedispenser 300. As shown, thedispenser 300 can include ahousing 304, alid 310, and an actuator configured for operation and/or interaction with thelid 110. Such actuator can be a lever, for example, thelever 320. As discussed in more detail below, thelid 310 andlever 320 can be coupled to portions of thehousing 304, for example, to a top portion of thehousing 304. In some implementations, thedispenser 300 includes a transmission configured to transmit force from an actuator of thedispenser 300 to thelid 100, for example, to cause movement of thelid 110 from a closed position to an open position, and/or to any of a plurality of positions of thelid 310 between such closed and open positions of thelid 310. For example, where an actuator of thedispenser 100 comprises a lever, such aslever 320, thelid 310 andlever 320 can be coupled to one another, for example, rotatably coupled together such that movement (e.g., rotation) of thelever 320 causes movement (e.g., rotation) of thelid 310, and vice versa.FIGS. 20A-20B illustrate various other components that can be included in thedispenser 300, such as one ormore lock mechanisms 330, acoupler gear 332, acoupler gear 333, one ormore cams 334, acam follower 335, springs 331 a, 331 b, adampener 336, and adampener mount 338. Thedampener 336 and dampener mount 338 can be identical to thedampener 136 and dampener mount 138 discussed above with reference todispenser 100. -
FIG. 21 illustrates an exploded perspective view of thehousing 304. Thehousing 304 can include aframe 350, acabinet 340, abase 360, and ahandle 370. Theframe 350 can be similar or identical to theframe 150 and/or 250 ofdispensers base 160 and/orbase 260 ofdispensers surface 361, awall 362, anopening 368, aprotrusion 366, anopening 367, andcavities 365 that can be identical to thesurface 161, thewall 162, theopening 168, theprotrusion 166, theopening 167, and the cavities 165 (respectively) as described above with reference to thedispenser 100. The base 360 can be coupled to thecabinet 340 withsprings 149 in an identical manner as that described above with reference to thebase 160 andcabinet 140. Thehandle 370 can be similar or identical to thehandle 170 and/or 270 discussed above with reference todispensers handle 370 can include apivot portion 371, anend 372, and rails 373 a, 373 b that are identical to thepivot portions rails dispensers base 360, handle 370, andcabinet 340 can be coupled together and/or can interact in an identical manner as that described above with reference to thebase 160, handle 170, andcabinet 140. The base 360 can include a recessedportion 308 that is identical to the recessedportion 208 of thebase 260 and/or can be configured to receive a key protrusion similar or identical tokey protrusion 209 of container 201 (seeFIGS. 10E and 21 ). Thedispenser 300 or a portion thereof (for example, the cabinet 340) can be mounted in a vertical, horizontal, or other orientation. - With continued reference to
FIG. 21 , thecabinet 340 can include acavity 343 configured to receive thecircuit board 383, one ormore batteries 384,motor 395, andcam mechanism 387 coupled to themotor 395 and configured to be rotated by themotor 395 as explained further below. Thecabinet 340 can include one or both ofcovers covers FIG. 13B ) that can enclose thecircuit board 383,batteries 384,motor 395, and/orcam mechanism 387.Cabinet 340 can include a recessedportion 347 that is sized and/or shaped to receive a protruding portion of recessedportion 308 in an identical manner as that described above with reference to recessedportions -
FIGS. 22A-22B illustrate front perspective views of a portion of thedispenser 300. More specifically,FIGS. 22A-22B illustrate connection and/or interaction between thelever 320, thelid 310, themotor 395, themotor cam 387,lever cams 334, springs 331 a, 331 b,dampener 336,dampener mount 338,sensor 393, lock mechanism 330 (which may also be referred to as a “lock”),coupler gear 332, andcoupler gear 333. Thelever 320 and thelid 310 can be similar or identical to thelever 120 and lid 110 (respectively) of thedispenser 100. For example, thelever 320 can include leverarms lever arms lever 120. Thelever 320 andlid 310 can be coupled to thehousing 304, for example, to theframe 250 of thehousing 304, in a similar or identical manner as that discussed and shown with respect tolever 120,lid 110,housing 104, and frame 150 of thedispenser 100 with the use of the coupler gears 332, 333 andlever cams 334 which are discussed in more detail below.FIG. 22C illustrates a perspective view of a portion of thedispenser 300, namely illustrating thelid 310, lever 320 (which can have anactuator 321 and leverarms actuator 121 and leverarms frame 350, which can be similar or identical forframe 150.FIG. 22D illustrates a cross-section taken through the portion of thedispenser 300 shown inFIG. 22C . Theframe 350 can includewalls rings 355 that are (respectively) similar or identical towalls rings 155 of theframe 150. Thelever 320 can includesockets sockets lever 120. Similar to the coupler gears 132 discussed above with reference todispenser 100, the coupler gears 332, 333 andlever cams 334 can couple thelever arms frame 350. For example, theframe 350 can be coupled to thelever 320 such that sidewalls 354 b, 354 c and/or protrudingrings 355 are positioned (for example, sandwiched) between thelever arms sockets lever cams 334, as shown inFIG. 22D . Thelever 320 can include anindicator 329 that can provide an indication to a user of how to actuate thelever 320. For example, theindicator 329 can comprise an arrow indicating a proper direction by which thelever 320 can be actuated. -
FIGS. 23A-23D show illustrative electronic operation of thedispenser 300. As discussed above, thedispenser 300 can include one ormore sensors 393 that can communicate with thecontroller 390, for example, by generating and/or transmitting one or more signals indicator of a presence of an object within a threshold proximity of thesensor 393, to thecontroller 390. Upon receipt of such signal(s) from the sensor(s) 393, thecontroller 390 can instruct themotor 395 to cause rotation of thelid 310.FIGS. 23A-23D illustrate how thelid 310 can be operated (for example, rotated).FIGS. 23A-23D do not illustrate theframe 350 and lever 320 (and other components of the dispenser 300) for the purpose of better illustrating how certain components of thedispenser 300 interact during electronic operation of thedispenser 300.FIGS. 23A-23D illustrate thelid 310, which can be similar or identical to thelid 110 in some, many, or all respects. For example, thelid 310 can include one ormore arms 310 c comprising gear teeth configured to engage gear teeth of thecoupler gear 332 as discussed further below, similar to that discussed with reference toarms 110 c oflid 110 and coupler gears 132 of thedispenser 100 above. -
FIG. 23A illustrates thelid 310 in a closed position. Themotor 395 can be configured to rotate amotor cam 387 upon instruction from thecontroller 390.FIG. 23B illustrates themotor cam 387 having been rotated to a position where it has engaged and moved acam follower 335 which is coupled to thecoupler gear 332. Thecam follower 335 can be coupled with aspring 331 a that connects thecam follower 335 to a portion of the housing 304 (for example, a portion of the frame 350). Thespring 331 a can provide rigidity to the cam follower 335 (for example, via application of a tensile force on cam follower 335) that allows thecam follower 335 to cause (for example, impart) rotation of thecoupler gear 332 upon engagement with themotor cam 387. Rotation of thecoupler gear 332 causes rotation of thelid 310 via engagement between gear teeth of thecoupler gear 332 and teeth onarms 310 c of thelid 310 which can be identical toarms 110 c oflid 110 discussed above. -
FIG. 23C illustrates thelid 310 in an open position, for example, a fully open position. As shown inFIG. 23C , as a “flat” or constant radius section of themotor cam 387 reaches an end of thecam follower 335, movement (e.g., rotation) of thelid 310 can stop and stay at that position for as long as the “flat” or constant radius section of themotor cam 387 continues. As shown inFIG. 23D , after an end of thecam follower 335 passes such “flat” or constant radius section of themotor cam 387, thecam follower 335 is released from any driving force from themotor cam 387 and thelid 310 can move (for example, rotate) back to a closed position. In some implementations, thelid 310 is biased toward such closed position by thespring 331 a, similar to that discussed above with reference tolid 110 of thedispenser 100. In some implementations, thedampener 336 can dampen such biased movement toward such closed position, similar to that discussed with reference todampener 136 of thedispenser 100. -
FIGS. 23A-23D show illustrative electronic operation of thedispenser 300 when a lock mechanism 330 (also shown inFIGS. 23A-23D ) is in an unlocked position where it is not inhibiting movement of thelid 310, as will be discussed further below. -
FIGS. 24A-24B illustrate enlarged perspective views of thecoupler gear 332,coupler gear 333, andlever cams 334. Thelever cams 334 can be secured and/or fixed to thelever 320, for example, toarms sockets lever 320 as discussed above. Thelever cams 334 can be fixed to leverarms sockets FIGS. 22C-22D . Thelever cams 334 can include a main body and aprong 334 b extending outward from the main body. Theprong 334 b can be sized to be received within openings insockets sockets lever 120. In some variants, theprong 334 b has one or more legs that are flexible and/or resilient, similar or identical to the legs described with reference to coupler gears 132 that can pass through openings in thelever arms sockets arms sockets prong 334 b has a cross-shaped structure as shown inFIGS. 24A-24B and does not include such flexible and/or resilient legs. Similar to as discussed with reference to the coupler gears 132, thelever cams 334 can be configured to be secured to thelever arms lever cams 334 follows with the rotation of thelever 320 and/or leverarms - With reference to
FIGS. 24A-24B , thecoupler gear 333 can includegear teeth 333 a, a main body, anopening 333 e in the main body, and a finger (which can also be referred to as a “leg”) 333 b extending outward from the main body and having anopening 333 c that can be connected with a portion ofspring 331 b (seeFIG. 20A-20B and 22D ). An end ofsuch spring 331 b can be coupled to thefinger 333 b and a portion of thehousing 304, such as a portion of theframe 350. For example, an end of thespring 331 b can be connected to a portion of thewall 354 a offrame 350 via a bracket ortab 354 h (seeFIG. 22D ). Such configuration can allow thespring 331 b to bias thecoupler gear 333 towards a neutral position and/or closed of thelever 320 and/orlid 310 as discussed above. Thecoupler gear 333 can include a cavity sized and/or shaped to receive a portion of thecam 332, as shown. Thecoupler gear 333 can include aslot 333 d configured to receive aprotrusion 334 a of thelever cam 334 and allow theprotrusion 334 to move relative to (for example, along) theslot 333 d as described below. - The
coupler gear 332 can includegear teeth 332 a, a main body, and aleg 332 b extending outward from the main body and comprisingcams 333 c extending opposite one another from theleg 332 b. Thecams 333 c (which may be cylindrical) can engage a portion of thecam follower 335 and allow thecam follower 335 to rotate relative to an axis extending through thecams 333 c as described below with reference toFIGS. 25A-27A . Thecoupler gear 332 can include aslot 332 d that can be configured to receive theprotrusion 334 a of thelever cam 334 and allow theprotrusion 334 a to move relative to (for example, along) theslot 332 d as described below. Theslots - As discussed above, the
lever cams 334 can be fixed with respect to thelever 320 such that rotation of eitherlever cams 334 or thelever 320 causes rotation of both. In such configurations and where the coupler gears 332, 333 are coupled with thelever cams 334 as shown and described above, theslots lever cams 334 and thus thelever 320. For example, with reference toFIGS. 23A-23D , which illustrate electronic operation of thedispenser 300, theslots protrusion 334 a of thelever cam 334 to freely move within and/or along theslots lever 320. Accordingly, in some implementations, thelid 310 can be operated (for example, moved from the closed position to the open position) via themotor 395 without causing movement of thelever 320. At the same time,such protrusions 334 a are positioned to abut a portion of the coupler gears 332, 332 adjacent theslots protrusion 334 a to impart rotation of the coupler gears 332, 333 in the same rotational direction when thelever 320 causes thecams 334 to rotate, as described with reference toFIGS. 29A-29B below. - In some cases, there is a possibility that the
lid 310 of thedispenser 300 can be obstructed, and thus prevented from being opened, for example, when thedispenser 300 is attempting to operate in the electronic mode (such as that described above with respect ofFIGS. 23A-23D ). For example, in some cases, it may be that themotor 395 andmotor cam 387 are being operated, but because thelid 310 is obstructed, thecoupler gear 332 is prevented from being moved. In some implementations, thedispenser 300 can include a safety mechanism that can allow themotor 395 and/ormotor cam 387 to rotate despite lack of an ability of thecoupler gear 332 to rotate. -
FIGS. 25A-27B illustrate a safety mechanism that can be included in thedispenser 300. All ofFIGS. 25A, 26A, and 27A illustrate an obstruction which provides a force on thelid 310 and thus prevents thelid 310 from opening. Because movement (e.g., rotation) of thelid 310 can be linked with movement (e.g., rotation) of the coupler gear 332 (as described above), such an obstruction can also prevent the coupler gear 332 (and/or couple gear 333) from movement (e.g., rotation). - With reference to
FIGS. 25A-25B , rotation of themotor 395 andmotor cam 387 may be initiated upon receipt of an instruction from thecontroller 390. In such cases, themotor cam 387 can rotate into engagement with a portion of thecam follower 335, as explained above. When themotor cam 387 contacts thecam follower 335 it applies a force to thecam follower 335 and thecam follower 335 in turn applies a force (for example, a rotational force) on thecoupler gear 332. As discussed above, thecam follower 335 is coupled with aspring 331 a that can apply a tensile force on a portion of thecam follower 335 which in turn imparts a rigidity to thecam follower 335 that typically allows thecam follower 335 to transfer the force applied by themotor cam 387 to thecoupler gear 332. With reference toFIGS. 26A-26B , when thecoupler gear 332 is prevented from movement via the obstruction on thelid 310 and as the force applied by themotor cam 387 overcomes the biasing force applied on thecam follower 335 by thespring 331 a, thecam follower 335 is allowed to rotate, thereby allowing themotor cam 387 to operate normally to avoid damage to themotor cam 387 and/ormotor 395. As themotor cam 387 continues and passes and end of the cam follower 335 (seeFIGS. 27A-27B ), thecam follower 335 can be moved (for example, rotated) back to its position via the biasing force applied by thespring 331 a. Thecam follower 335 can include a slot sized to receive theleg 332 b of thecoupler gear 332 and holes sized and/or shaped to receive thecams 332 b. Thecam follower 335 can rotate about an axis extending through a center ofcams 332 b, for example. -
FIGS. 28A-28B illustrate another embodiment for amotor cam 387′ that can be utilized in a similar manner as that discussed above with reference tomotor cam 387.Motor cam 387′ can have a Z-shape, as shown. -
FIGS. 29A-29B illustrate how thedispenser 300 can operate in a mechanical mode, for example, via actuation of thelever 320 and engagement with thelid 310. As discussed above, thelever cams 334 can be fixed relative to thelever 320 and/or lever arms 322 and can be configured to rotate with the rotation of thelever 320 and/or lever arms 322. As discussed above, thelever cam 334 can include aprotrusion 334 a that can be received within theslot 333 d of thecoupler gear 333. Rotation of thelever 320 can cause thelever cam 333 to rotate and causeprotrusions 334 a to contact and movecoupler gear 333, for example, via contact between a portion of thecoupler gear 333 bounding and/or adjacent to theslot 333 d. Rotation ofcoupler gear 333 can causelid 310 to rotate in an identical manner as discussed above with reference tocoupler gear 132 and gear teeth onarms 110 c oflid 110. AlthoughFIGS. 29A illustrate a cross-section taken througharm 322 a,coupler gear 333, andlever cam 334, a similar manner of engagement can exist betweencoupler gear 332 and anotherlever cam 334 on thearm 322 b of thelever 320. -
FIG. 30A illustrates a top view of thedispenser 300 andFIG. 30B illustrates a cross-section taken through thedispenser 300 shown inFIG. 30A .FIG. 30C illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of that which is shown inFIG. 30B . As discussed above, thedispenser 300 can include one ormore lock mechanisms 330 that are similar or identical to thelock mechanisms 130. Thelock mechanism 330 can include one ormore protrusions 330 c and one ormore tabs 330 b. Thelock mechanism 330 can be configured to move between a first position (FIG. 30D ) and a second position (FIG. 30C ). In the first position (FIG. 30D ), aprotrusion 330 c of thelock mechanism 330 can contact a portion of thecoupler gear 333, such asgear teeth 333 a and/or aprotrusion 333 e of thecoupler gear 333, thereby preventing rotation of thecoupler gear 333 and in turn, thelid 310 and/or thelever 320. Thelock mechanism 330 can be moved to a second position (FIG. 30C ) when one ormore tabs 330 b of thelock mechanism 330 engage one ormore tabs 303 of thecontainer 301, thus allowing the rotation of thecoupler gear 333 and in turn thelid 310 and/or thelever 320. Such configuration and/or interaction between thelock mechanism 330, container 301 (and/or tabs 303) can be similar to as that discussed above with reference to lockmechanism 130, container 101 (and/or tabs 103) ofdispenser 100 to inhibit movement of thelid 310 when thecontainer 301 is not authorized for use with thedispenser 300. - Terms of orientation used herein, such as “top,” “bottom,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “longitudinal,” “lateral,” and “end” are used in the context of the illustrated embodiment. However, the present disclosure should not be limited to the illustrated orientation. Indeed, other orientations are possible and are within the scope of this disclosure.
- Terms relating to circular shapes as used herein, such as diameter or radius, should be understood not to require perfect circular structures, but rather should be applied to any suitable structure with a cross-sectional region that can be measured from side-to-side. Terms relating to shapes generally, such as “circular” or “cylindrical” or “semi-circular” or “semi-cylindrical” or any related or similar terms, are not required to conform strictly to the mathematical definitions of circles or cylinders or other structures, but can encompass structures that are reasonably close approximations.
- Conditional language, such as “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include or do not include, certain features, elements, and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and/or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments.
- Conjunctive language, such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to convey that an item, term, etc. may be either X, Y, or Z. Thus, such conjunctive language is not generally intended to imply that certain embodiments require the presence of at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z.
- The terms “approximately,” “about,” and “substantially” as used herein represent an amount close to the stated amount that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, in some embodiments, as the context may dictate, the terms “approximately”, “about”, and “substantially” may refer to an amount that is within less than or equal to 10% of the stated amount. The term “generally” as used herein represents a value, amount, or characteristic that predominantly includes or tends toward a particular value, amount, or characteristic. As an example, in certain embodiments, as the context may dictate, the term “generally parallel” can refer to something that departs from exactly parallel by less than or equal to 20 degrees and the term “generally perpendicular” can refer to something that departs from exactly perpendicular by less than or equal to 20 degrees.
- Unless otherwise explicitly stated, articles such as “a” or “an” should generally be interpreted to include one or more described items. Accordingly, phrases such as “a device configured to” are intended to include one or more recited devices. Such one or more recited devices can also be collectively configured to carry out the stated recitations. For example, “a processor configured to carry out recitations A, B, and C” can include a first processor configured to carry out recitation A working in conjunction with a second processor configured to carry out recitations B and C.
- The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and the like are synonymous and are used inclusively, in an open-ended fashion, and do not exclude additional elements, features, acts, operations, and so forth. Likewise, the terms “some,” “certain,” and the like are synonymous and are used in an open-ended fashion. Also, the term “or” is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, for example, to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some, or all of the elements in the list.
- Overall, the language of the claims is to be interpreted broadly based on the language employed in the claims. The language of the claims is not to be limited to the non-exclusive embodiments and examples that are illustrated and described in this disclosure, or that are discussed during the prosecution of the application.
- The technology of the present disclosure has been discussed in the context of certain embodiments and examples. The technology extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the embodiments and certain modifications and equivalents thereof. Any two or more of the components of any of the dispensers described herein can be made from a single monolithic piece or from separate pieces connected together. Various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes of the invention. The scope of this disclosure should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described herein.
- Certain features that are described in this disclosure in the context of separate implementations can also be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single implementation can also be implemented in multiple implementations separately or in any suitable subcombination. Although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations, one or more features from a claimed combination can, in some cases, be excised from the combination, and the combination may be claimed as any subcombination or variation of any subcombination.
- Moreover, while operations may be depicted in the drawings or described in the specification in a particular order, such operations need not be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, and all operations need not be performed, to achieve the desirable results. Other operations that are not depicted or described can be incorporated in the example methods and processes. For example, one or more additional operations can be performed before, after, simultaneously, or between any of the described operations. Further, the operations may be rearranged or reordered in other implementations. Also, the separation of various system components in the implementations described above should not be understood as requiring such separation in all implementations, and it should be understood that the described components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single product or packaged into multiple products. Additionally, other implementations are within the scope of this disclosure.
- Some embodiments have been described in connection with the accompanying drawings. The figures are drawn to scale, but such scale is not limiting, since dimensions and proportions other than what are shown are contemplated and are within the scope of the disclosed invention. Distances, angles, etc. are merely illustrative and do not necessarily bear an exact relationship to actual dimensions and layout of the devices illustrated. Components can be added, removed, and/or rearranged. Further, the disclosure herein of any particular feature, aspect, method, property, characteristic, quality, attribute, element, or the like in connection with various embodiments can be used in all other embodiments set forth herein. Additionally, any methods described herein may be practiced using any device suitable for performing the recited steps.
- In summary, various embodiments and examples of dispensers and related methods have been disclosed. Although the dispensers have been disclosed in the context of those embodiments and examples, the technology of this disclosure extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or other uses of the embodiments, as well as to certain modifications and equivalents thereof. This disclosure expressly contemplates that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with, or substituted for, one another. Thus, the scope of this disclosure should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above, but should be determined only by a fair reading of the claims that follow.
Claims (20)
1. An electronic dispenser comprising:
a housing configured to receive a container including one or more sheets of consumable material;
a lid configured to move between a closed position and an open position to provide a user with access to said one or more sheets of consumable material when the container is received by the housing;
a motor operatively coupled to the lid;
an electronic controller;
a sensor configured to transmit a signal to the controller responsive to detecting a presence of an object; and
a container authorization sensor unit configured to provide an indication to the controller of whether the container is authorized for use with the electronic dispenser;
wherein the controller is configured to instruct the motor to cause the lid to move from the closed position to the open position in response to both of the following conditions being satisfied:
the controller has received said signal from the sensor; and
the controller has received said indication from the container authorization sensor unit that the container is authorized for use with the electronic dispenser.
2. The electronic dispenser of claim 1 , wherein the controller is configured to instruct the motor to cause the lid to move from the closed position to the open position only upon receipt of said indication from the container authorization sensor unit that the container is authorized for use with the electronic dispenser.
3. The electronic dispenser of claim 1 , wherein:
the container authorization sensor unit comprises a first switch and a first actuator;
the first actuator is configured to move between a first position where the first actuator engages the first switch and a second position where the first actuator does not engage the first switch; and
the first switch is configured to provide said indication that the container is authorized for use with the electronic dispenser when the first actuator is in one of said first and second positions.
4. The electronic dispenser of claim 3 , wherein the first switch is configured to provide said indication when the first actuator is in said second position.
5. The electronic dispenser of claim 3 , wherein the first actuator is biased toward the first position.
6. The electronic dispenser of claim 3 , wherein:
the first switch and the first actuator are positioned within a portion of the housing;
engagement between the first actuator and a first tab of said container causes said first actuator to move from the first position where the first actuator engages the first switch to the second position where the first actuator does not engage the first switch.
7. The electronic dispenser of claim 6 , further comprising said container.
8. The electronic dispenser of claim 7 , wherein:
said container comprises a body, an interior for holding said one or more sheets of consumable material, a first end comprising an opening for providing access to said interior, and a second end opposite the first end;
said first tab extends outward from the body proximate the first end of the container; and
said first tab is configured to move said first actuator from the first position to the second position when said container is received by said housing.
9. The electronic dispenser of claim 8 , further comprising a circuit board positioned within the portion of the housing and configured to mount the first switch, wherein the circuit board comprises a hole, and wherein the first actuator comprises a first portion configured to engage the first switch when in the first position and a second portion extending through the opening of the circuit board and configured to engage the first tab of the container when said container is received by said housing.
10. The electronic dispenser of claim 3 , wherein:
the container authorization sensor unit further comprises a second switch and a second actuator, the second actuator configured to move between a first position where the second actuator engages the second switch and a second position where the second actuator does not engage the second switch;
the second switch is configured to provide an indication to the controller that the container is authorized for use with the electronic dispenser when the second actuator is in the second position; and
upon receipt of said indication from the second switch that said container is authorized for use with the electronic dispenser, the controller is configured to instruct the motor to cause the lid to move from the closed position to the open position.
11. The electronic dispenser of claim 10 , wherein the controller is configured to instruct the motor to cause the lid to move from the closed position to the open position only upon receipt of both of said indications from said first and second switches that said container is authorized for use with the electronic dispenser.
12. The electronic dispenser of claim 10 , wherein the first actuator is biased toward the first position of the first actuator and wherein the second actuator is biased toward the second position of the second actuator.
13. The electronic dispenser of claim 10 , wherein the first actuator and first switch are positioned near a top portion of the housing and the second actuator and second switch are positioned near a bottom portion of the housing.
14. The electronic dispenser of claim 10 , further comprising said container, wherein:
said container comprises:
a body comprising an interior for holding said one or more sheets of consumable material;
a first end configured to be positioned adjacent the top portion of the housing;
a second end opposite the first end;
a first tab extending outward from the body near the first end; and
an opening in a surface at the second end of the container;
a portion of the second actuator is configured to extend through the opening in the surface at the second end of the container when the container is received by the housing, said second actuator being in said second position of the second actuator when the portion of the second actuator extends through the opening of the container; and
the first tab of the container is configured to move the first actuator from the first position of the first actuator to the second position of the first actuator when the portion of the second actuator extends through the opening of the container.
15. The electronic dispenser of claim 14 , wherein an axis extending through said opening in said surface at the second end of the container is not aligned with an axis extending through a center of a cross-section of the container.
16. The electronic dispenser of claim 1 , further comprising:
a first gear configured to be rotated by the motor, the first gear comprising a finger configured to contact a portion of the lid to move the lid from the closed position to the open position.
17. The electronic dispenser of claim 16 , further comprising a second gear rotatably coupled between the first gear and the motor and configured to allow the motor to cause rotation of the first gear.
18. The electronic dispenser of claim 16 , wherein the lid is configured to be moved manually from the closed position to the open position independent of rotation of the first gear.
19. The electronic dispenser of claim 16 , wherein the first gear and the lid are configured to rotate about a first axis and wherein the motor is configured to rotate about a second axis that is spaced from the first axis.
20. The electronic dispenser of claim 1 , further comprising an indicator configured to indicate a status of the electronic dispenser.
Priority Applications (1)
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US17/343,611 US20210386252A1 (en) | 2020-06-10 | 2021-06-09 | Wipes dispenser |
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US17/343,611 US20210386252A1 (en) | 2020-06-10 | 2021-06-09 | Wipes dispenser |
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Cited By (1)
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WO2023141434A1 (en) * | 2022-01-21 | 2023-07-27 | Gojo Industries, Inc. | Wet wipes dispensing canister |
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Also Published As
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US20210386253A1 (en) | 2021-12-16 |
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