WO2021087149A1

WO2021087149A1 - Air powered dispenser door lift and auto-close mechanism

Info

Publication number: WO2021087149A1
Application number: PCT/US2020/058018
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ciavarella Nick; Glasgow SETH; Marshall AARON
Original assignee: Gojo Industries, Inc.
Priority date: 2019-10-29
Filing date: 2020-10-29
Publication date: 2021-05-06

Abstract

A dispenser for wipes includes a structure defining an interior space for wipes. A door is attached to the structure and movable between a first position enabling access to the interior space for removal of a wipe from the interior space and a second position inhibiting access to the interior space. A bladder is attached to the door and a pressure source attached to the bladder. An actuator is attached to the pressure source, and the bladder urges the door to the first position when the actuator is in a first state. Fluid from the pressure source inflates the bladder to an inflated state. The door moves to the second position when the actuator is in a second state such that the fluid escapes the bladder returning the bladder to a deflated state.

Description

AIR POWERED DISPENSER DOOR LIFT AND AUTO-CLOSE MECHANISM

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/927,290, filed on October 29, 2019, entitled “AIR POWERED DISPENSER DOOR LIFT AND AUTO-CLOSE MECHANISM,” which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The instant disclosure is generally directed towards a product dispenser, or simply, a dispenser. For example, the instant disclosure is directed toward a dispenser including an air-powered door and self-closing mechanism.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Dispensers can dispense a product to a user. Dispensers can be used, for example, in schools, hospitals, nursing homes, factories, restaurants, etc.

SUMMARY

[0004] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key factors or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0005] In some examples, a dispenser for wipes includes a structure defining an interior space for wipes. The dispenser also includes a door attached to the structure and movable between a first position and a second position, the first position enabling access to the interior space for removal of a wipe from the interior space and the second position inhibiting access to the interior space. The dispenser further includes a bladder attached to the door. The dispenser still further includes a pressure source attached to the bladder and an actuator attached to the pressure source. The bladder urges the door to the first position when the actuator is in a first state such that a fluid from the pressure source inflates the bladder to an inflated state. Additionally, the door moves to the second position when the actuator is in a second state such that the fluid escapes the bladder returning the bladder to a deflated state.

[0006] In some examples, a dispenser for wipes includes a structure defining an interior space for wipes. The dispenser also includes a door attached to the structure and movable between a first position and a second position, the first position enabling access to the interior space for removal of a wipe from the interior space and the second position inhibiting access to the interior space. The dispenser further includes a bladder attached to the door. The dispenser still further includes an inflation valve attached to the bladder and a deflation valve attached to the bladder. As the door is urged to the first position from the second position, fluid flows through the inflation valve into the bladder to inflate the bladder to an inflated state. After the door is urged to the first position, the fluid escapes the bladder through the deflation valve returning the bladder to a deflated state and moving the door to the second position from the first position.

[0007] In some examples, a dispenser for wipes includes a structure defining an interior space for wipes. The dispenser also includes a door attached to the structure and movable between a first position and a second position, the first position enabling access to the interior space for removal of a wipe from the interior space and the second position inhibiting access to the interior space. The dispenser further includes a bladder attached to the door, the bladder comprising a permeable material. As the door is urged to the first position from the second position, fluid flows through the permeable material into the bladder to inflate the bladder to an inflated state. After the door is urged to the first position, the fluid escapes the bladder through the permeable material returning the bladder to a deflated state and moving the door to the second position from the first position.

[0008] The following description and annexed drawings set forth certain illustrative aspects and implementations. These are indicative of but a few of the various ways in which one or more aspects can be employed. Other aspects, advantages, and/or novel features of the disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the annexed drawings. DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example dispenser;

[0010] FIG. 2 is similar to FIG. 1, showing a door in a first position;

[0011] FIG. 3 is a cross-section view of the dispenser of FIG. 1 taken along line

3—3;

[0012] FIG. 4 is a cross-section view of the dispenser of FIG. 2 taken along line

4—4;

[0013] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an example dispenser;

[0014] FIG. 6 is similar to FIG. 5, showing a door in a first position;

[0015] FIG. 7 is a cross-section view of the dispenser of FIG. 6 taken along line

7—7;

[0016] FIG. 8 is a cross-section view of the dispenser of FIG. 6 taken along line

8—8;

[0017] FIG. 9 is a detail view of an example dispenser;

[0018] FIG. 10 is similar to FIG. 9 showing a door in a first position;

[0019] FIG. 11 is a cross-section view of the dispenser of FIG. 9 taken along line

11-11;

[0020] FIG. 12 is a detail view of selected portions of the example dispenser of FIG. 9;

[0021] FIG. 13 is a cross-section view of the dispenser of FIG. 9 taken along line

13-13;

[0022] FIG. 14 is a cross-section view of the dispenser of FIG. 10 taken along line

14-14;

[0023] FIG. 15 is a detail view of an example bladder showing a door in the second position; and

[0024] FIG. 16 is similar to FIG. 15 showing the door in the first position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] The claimed subject matter is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are generally used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide an understanding of the claimed subject matter. It is evident, however, that the claimed subject matter can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, structures and devices are illustrated in block diagram form in order to facilitate describing the claimed subject matter. Relative size, orientation, etc. of parts, components, etc. may differ from that which is illustrated while not falling outside of the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0026] Referring to FIG. 1, an example dispenser 100 is illustrated. In some examples, the dispenser 100 can be used for storing and dispensing a product. The product can be a material that can comprise any type of a wipe, sanitary wipes, bathing wipes, disinfectant wipes, anti-bacterial wipes, etc. In some examples, the wipes may be made of materials such as polyester, polypropylene, cotton, wood pulp, or rayon fibers formed into sheets. These wipes may comprise, for example, cleaning materials such as disinfectants, sanitizers, antiseptics, soaps, moisturizers, alcohol-infused liquids, or the like. Indeed, the product is not specifically limited to these examples, and could include other types of materials.

[0027] The dispenser 100 can be located on a horizontal or nearly horizontal surface (not shown) at locations where wipes are commonly used. In some examples, the dispenser may be mounted to a surface (not shown), such as a surface of a wall, ceiling, door, object, support structure, etc. The dispenser 100 can be used in any number of environments, including, but not limited to, hospitals, medical clinics, kitchens, bathrooms, prisons/jails, rehabilitation facilities, nursing homes, restaurants, schools, factories, warehouses, etc.

[0028] The dispenser 100 includes a structure 102 defining an interior space 300 (shown in FIG. 3) for wipes. In some examples, the structure 102 comprises at least one wall 104 that can define the interior space 300 of the structure 102 within which wipes can be stored and/or dispensed. As shown in FIG. 1, the wall 104 can be a front wall of the structure 102, and other walls such as a right wall 106, a left wall 800 (shown in FIG. 8), a rear wall 400 (shown in FIG. 4), and a bottom wall 402 can be attached to one another to define the interior space 300. Of course, additional walls can be added to achieve particular desired functional and aesthetic needs of the structure 102.

[0029] In some examples, the structure 102 includes a top 108 that can be attached to a top side of the remainder of the structure 102 in order to form a top wall. The top 108 can provide access to the interior space 300 in order to replace bulk packages of wipes. In some examples, the top 108 can be snap-fit onto the structure 102, enabling a user to snap the top 108 onto and off of the structure 102. In other examples, the top 108 can include a first portion 110 and a second portion 112 where the second portion 112 is attached to the first portion 110 through a hinge 114. This hinged arrangement can enable a user to place the second portion 112 in an open position away from the first portion 110 to provide access to the interior space 300 as a hinged lid. Any number of examples of a top 108 are suitable for use with the device of the present disclosure. In other examples, the top 108 can be a wall similar to the other walls 104, 106, 800, 400, 402 of the structure.

[0030] It is to be appreciated that the walls 104, 106, 400, 402, 800 and the top 108 can provide an airtight enclosure for the interior space 300 in order to eliminate and/or reduce premature drying of the wipes located within the interior space 300. In some examples, the walls 104, 106, 400, 402, 800 and the top 108 are not airtight, however, the amount of air exchanged between an exterior space and the interior space 300 of the dispenser 100 will not prematurely dry the wipes prior to a predetermined time.

[0031] In some examples, the structure 102 comprises a rigid and/or durable structure and/or material that may be impervious to air. For example, the structure 102 may comprise a metal material (e.g., steel, aluminum, titanium, etc.), though, in other examples, the structure 102 may comprise plastic materials, composite materials, etc. Indeed, the structure 102 comprises any number of materials that can limit user access to the interior space 300 of the structure 102 and limit atmospheric air passage to the interior space 300 of the structure 102.

[0032] As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the dispenser 100 includes a door 116 attached to the structure 102. The door is movable between a first position 200 as shown in FIG. 2 and a second position 118 as shown in FIG. 1. The first position 200 enables access to the interior space 300 for removal of a wipe from the interior space 300 (e.g., an open position). Conversely, the second position 118 inhibits user access to the interior space 300 (e.g., a closed position). In some examples, the door 116 is attached to the structure 102 through a hinge 202 enabling rotation of the door 116 from the first position 200 to the second position 118.

[0033] Referring to FIG. 3, a cross-section of the dispenser 100 taken along line 3-3 of FIG. 1 is illustrated according to some examples. As shown, a bladder 302 is attached to the door 116. For the purposes of this disclosure, attachment to the door 116 can include a physical attachment or simply close contact such that change in size of the bladder 302 can urge the door 116 from the second position 118 to the first position 200. The bladder 302 has the ability to accommodate differing fluid pressures within the bladder 302. For example, the presence of a relatively high fluid pressure within the bladder 302 can expand the bladder 302, while a relatively low fluid pressure within the bladder 302 enables the bladder to decrease in size, diameter, etc. The bladder 302 can be comprised of any number of suitable materials enabling the described expansion and contraction over the expected service life of the dispenser 100. For the purposes of the present disclosure, a fluid can include a liquid, a gas, or a combination of the two. It is to be understood that the fluid can include air, but can include numerous other fluids as well.

[0034] A pressure source 304 is attached to the bladder 302. The pressure source 304 can be comprised of a flexible material such that an application of force upon a portion of the pressure source 304 can decrease the internal volume of the pressure source 304 and cause an increase in fluid pressure (e.g., air pressure) within the pressure source 304. The application of force upon a portion of the pressure source 304 can result from an actuator 308 that is attached to the pressure source 304. In some examples, the actuator 308 is a button, however, any suitable actuator is contemplated for use with the devices of the present disclosure, e.g., levers, switches, etc.

[0035] The actuator 308 can be selectively placed in a first state 404 as shown in FIG. 4 and a second state 310 as shown in FIG. 3. As a user desires a wipe from the interior space 300, the user can push the actuator 308 (e.g., a button) to move the actuator from the second state 310 to the first state 404. This action moves the actuator 308 downward to decrease the internal volume of the pressure source 304 as shown in FIG. 4, where the pressure source 304 is notably smaller than as represented in FIG. 3 (e.g., compressed). This decreased internal volume tends to increase the fluid pressure within the pressure source 304 and urge fluid out of the pressure source 304. In some examples, the actuator 308 is placed in the first state 404 when the button is depressed, and the actuator 308 is placed in the second state 310 when the button is not depressed.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 3, the pressure source 304 is attached to the bladder 302 through a fluid path 306. The fluid path 306 enables transmission of the fluid and the increased fluid pressure from the pressure source 304 to the bladder 302. The fluid path 306 can be constructed of any suitable material and be routed along any suitable path. FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 show the fluid path 306 routed to the bottom wall 402, however many alternate routes are contemplated. In some examples, the pressure source 304 may be attached directly to the bladder 302.

[0037] As shown in FIG. 3, the bladder 302 can be relatively small when the actuator 308 is in the second state 310 and the door 116 is in the second position 118. In the figure, the bladder 302 is located downward and to the right of an arm 312 attached to the door 116.

[0038] Referring to FIG. 4, when the actuator 308 is in the first state 404 (e.g., when a user depresses the actuator), the fluid tends to move from the pressure source 304, through the fluid path 306 to the bladder 302. This flow of the fluid tends to inflate the bladder 302 to an inflated state. A portion of the bladder 302 impinges upon a portion of the door 116 to urge the door 116 to the first position 200. Movement of the door 116 to the first position 200 can be accomplished by any number of structures. In the shown example, a portion of the bladder 302 impinges upon the arm 312. It is worthy of note that expansion or dimensional change of the bladder 302 can be limited in some directions as desired by the design of the dispenser 100. For example, the bladder 302 can be located relatively close to at least one of the rear wall 400 or a ledge (not shown) below the bladder 302. These physical limitations can limit the expansion in certain directions which forces the bladder 302 to inflate or expand in the direction of the arm 312. This can result in greater motion of the door 116 with smaller quantities of fluid moving into the bladder 302. [0039] Because the door 116 is located a distance from an axis of rotation of the hinge 202 mounting the door 116 to the top 108, a moment arm is created. Force applied by the inflated bladder 302 on the arm 312 urges a rotational motion to move the door 116 to the first position 200. In FIG. 4, rotation of the door from the second position 118 to the first position 200 is a clockwise rotation around the axis of rotation of the hinge 202. In other terms, the bladder 302 urges the door 116 to the first position 200 when the actuator 308 is in a first state 404 such that a fluid from the pressure source 304 inflates the bladder 302 to an inflated state. In some examples, the fluid is air that is common to the environment surrounding the dispenser 100.

[0040] As long as the bladder 302 remains in the inflated state, the door 116 is urged to remain in the first position 200. However, the bladder 302 and potentially other components of the dispenser 100 are configured to release the fluid from the bladder 302. Release of the fluid from the bladder 302 tends to deflate the bladder 302 to a deflated state. When in the deflated state, the force applied by the bladder 302 onto the door 116 (e.g., on the arm 312) is removed, and the door 116 can return to the second position 118. As such, the door 116 moves to the second position 118 when the actuator 308 is in the second state 310 (e.g., the user has removed a force depressing the actuator 308) such that the fluid escapes the bladder 302, thereby returning the bladder 302 to the deflated state as shown in FIG. 3.

[0041] It is worthy of note that the components of the dispenser 100 can be engineered and designed such that the door 116 remains in the first position 200 for a desired length of time even after the actuator 308 is returned to the second state 310 (e.g., the user has removed a force depressing the actuator 308). This length of time can be determined by the rate of fluid escaping the bladder 302. The rate of fluid escaping the bladder 302 can be controlled by any number of factors including, but not limited to, the location of the release of the fluid, fluid friction properties of the fluid path 306, etc. Furthermore, the desired length of time that the door 116 remains in the first position 200 can be based upon human ergonomic factors such as an expected time required for a user to remove a wipe from the interior space 300 when the door 116 is in the first position 200. In some examples, the door 116 may remain in the first position 200 for a few seconds prior to beginning a closing motion to return to the second position 118. [0042] In some examples, the fluid escapes from the bladder 302 back to the pressure source 304 through the fluid path 306. As such, a closed system can be implemented such that the pressure source 304, the fluid path 306 and the bladder 302 are airtight and the reduction in size of the pressure source 304 forces fluid to the bladder 302 which then, over a predetermined period of time, returns to the pressure source 304. As such, the bladder 302 returns to the deflated state due to air decay as air escapes the bladder 302, enabling the door 116 to return to the second position 118.

[0043] In some examples, the fluid escapes from the bladder 302 through designed leak paths, such as loose fittings along the fluid path 306, or non-airtight connections between the fluid path 306 and at least one of the pressure source 304 or the bladder 302.

[0044] In some examples, the components of the fluid path 306 and/or the bladder 302 can be permeable or semi-permeable (e.g., the bladder 302 can be porous) to permit the fluid to escape to atmosphere or escape to the interior space 300. In other examples, small holes can be defined the at least one of the fluid path 306 or the bladder 302. Regardless of designed leak paths, permeable material, or holes providing escape routes for the fluid, the rate of fluid loss from these variations is less than the rate of fluid increase when the actuator 308 is moved from the first state 404 to the second state 310. This rate difference enables the bladder 302 to move to the inflated state rather than have the fluid simply escape from the components prior to the bladder 302 inflating.

[0045] Various structures can be utilized to create a controlled flow leak path for the fluid to escape the bladder 302. In some examples, at least one of the bladder 302 or the fluid path 306 can define a relatively small hole. After the bladder 302 has been inflated to the inflated state, pressure within the bladder 302 will be lessened through air decay as the fluid (e.g., air) escapes through the relatively small hole. In other examples, the leak path can include a knife-edge indent on a portion of a fitting or tubing that make up at least one of the bladder 302 or the fluid path 306. The knife- edge indent can allow the fluid to pass by a fitting to an exterior space. In some examples, the leak path can be created by a duck bill valve that can provide a partial seal at desired times and locations rather than a full-seal valve.

[0046] In some examples, the bladder 302 is biased to the deflated state such that the bias of the bladder 302 facilitates the fluid escaping the bladder 302. In other words, the bladder 302 can be engineered and manufactured such that the bladder material exerts a greater force inward to urge the fluid to escape the bladder 302 than the force (e.g. pressure) of the fluid contained within the bladder 302 in the inflated state.

[0047] As the bladder 302 begins to deflate, the force acting upon the door 116 decreases. In some examples, the force of gravity upon the door 116 in the first position 200 is sufficient to urge the door 116 back to the second position 118. In other examples, a biasing member (e.g., a spring) can be used instead of gravity or in addition to gravity to urge the door 116 back to the second position 118. In other words, a force that urges the door 116 from the first position 200 to the second position 118 includes at least one of gravity or a biasing member.

[0048] In some examples, when the door 116 is in the second position 118, the door 116 is oriented at an angle that is greater than 90° relative to a location of the door 116 when the door 116 is in the first position 200.

[0049] Because deflation of the bladder 302 enables the door 116 to return to the second position 118 without user action, the closing of the door 116 can be termed an auto-close feature. As such, the user does not have to take further action after moving the actuator 308 to the first state 404. Instead, the user can simply remove a wipe from the interior space 300 and proceed to another task. The door 116 will return to the second position 118 automatically at a predetermined rate to restrict access to the interior space 300.

[0050] Through engineering and design application, it is possible to control the speed at which the door 116 returns to the second position 118, enabling a door closing speed that is non-constant throughout the entire movement. In some examples, the bladder 302 resists the force that urges the door 116 from the first position 200 to the second position 118 with greater resistance when the door 116 is closer to the first position 200 than when the door is closer to the second position 118. The differing resistance provided by the bladder 302 can be accomplished in any number of ways including, but not limited to, greater stiffness of the bladder material in the inflated or a partially inflated state, positioning of the bladder 302 relative to the arm 312, etc. The lessened resistance closer to the second position 118 can help ensure the door 116 is fully closed as it returns to the second position 118. In some examples, the door 116 can include a latch that cooperates with the actuator 308 or another structure attached to the top 108 to maintain the door 116 in the second position 118 when the dispenser 100 is not in use.

[0051] Returning to FIG. 3, the fluid flow between the pressure source 304 and the bladder 302 can be controlled in various ways. In some examples, the dispenser 100 can include a valve 314 at a location between the pressure source 304 and the bladder 302. In the shown example, the valve 314 is attached to the exhaust location of the pressure source 304 (shown at the bottom of the pressure source 304) and attached to the fluid path 306. In some examples, this valve 314 can be termed an inflation valve, and can limit at least one of the fluid flow rate or the flow direction of fluid between the bladder 302 and the pressure source 304. In some examples, the inflation valve 314 allows the fluid to flow from the pressure source 304 to the bladder 302 to inflate the bladder 302 to the inflated state. In some examples, the inflation valve 314 can be a one-way valve (e.g., a check valve) that inhibits flow of the fluid from the bladder 302 to the pressure source 304. In other words, the inflation valve 314 can permit fluid flow in the direction of arrow 316 and inhibit or prohibit fluid flow in the opposite direction (e.g., back to the pressure source 304).

[0052] In some examples, the inflation valve 314 can be a “ball-in-cage” one-way valve located at the pressure source 304. In these examples, the inflation valve can include a ball (e.g., a ball bearing or occlusion ball) that can be elevated or lowered within a cage. There is a seal having an inside diameter approximating the outside diameter of the ball such that the ball location can provide a seal to block flow in one ball location and permit flow at the other ball location. In these examples, the ball-in- cage valve can seal an outlet from the pressure source 304, the outlet being different from the fluid path 306 as the ball moves to a top region of the cage. The ball is moved by the increased pressure within the pressure source 304 as the actuator 308 is moved to the first state 404. As the actuator 308 returns to the second state 310, the ball moves downward in the cage to release the seal. As the outlet is opened, the fluid (e.g., air) can “recover” going back into the pressure source 304 from a location exterior to the pressure source 304, the fluid path 306 and the bladder 302.

[0053] Referring to FIG. 5, an example dispenser 500 is illustrated showing the door 116 in the second position 118 and the actuator 308 in the second state 310. As with previous examples, the dispenser 500 includes the structure 102 and the top 108. [0054] Referring to FIG. 6, the dispenser 500 is illustrated showing the door 116 in the first position 200 and the actuator 308 in the first state 404.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 7, a partial cross-section view of the dispenser 500 is illustrated taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 6. In this and other examples, the fluid path 306 is routed around a top area of the dispenser 500 instead of being routed to the bottom of the dispenser 500 and then up to the bladder 302. The actuator 308 can be depressed by a user to move to the first state 404 where at least a portion of the actuator 308 imparts a force on the pressure source 304. The two diagonal lines 502 schematically represent an altered (e.g., smaller) exterior dimension after being acted upon by the arrow-like extension of the actuator 308. The force applied by the actuator 308 onto the pressure source 304 causes at least one dimension of the pressure source 304 to become smaller. The diagonal lines 502 shown are simply a schematic representation, and do not represent an anticipated shape of the flexible material of the pressure source 304. The smaller dimension of the pressure source 304 forces the fluid from the pressure source 304, into the fluid path 306, and into the bladder 302.

[0056] Referring to FIG. 8, a cross-section view of the dispenser 500 is illustrated taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 6. As shown in this view from below, the pressure source 304 can be located within a shelf or cradle 802 in order to maintain a desired location for the pressure source 304 and to provide a relatively firm backstop upon which the pressure source 304 will be forced into by the actuator 308 (shown in FIG. 7). In this and other examples, the when the pressure source 304 is acted upon by the actuator 308, the fluid is urged to move out of the pressure source 304 through the tube-like portion 804. A fluid transfer fitting 805 can be located between the tube-like portion 804 and an inflation valve 806. FIG. 8 shows the fluid transfer fitting in outline only, and any suitable fitting including, but not limited to, a rubber elbow air connection can be used to place the tube-like portion 804 in fluid communication with the inflation valve 806. In some examples, the inflation valve 806 can be a check valve (e.g., a one-way valve) that permits fluid flow toward the bladder 302 and inhibits flow of the fluid from the bladder 302 to the pressure source 304.

[0057] A fluid transfer fitting 808 is located between the inflation valve 806 and a transitional fitting 810. The fluid exits the transitional fitting 810 and moves into the bladder 302 to place the bladder 302 into the inflated state. As with previous examples, the inflated state urges the door 116 into the first position 200 as shown in FIG. 6. In some examples, fitting 812 attaches the transitional fitting 810 to the bladder 302 and can be attached in such a way that it is not airtight. In some examples, the attachment can be a loose-fit zip tie that creates a leak path, or a path for the fluid to escape from the bladder without returning to the pressure source. As has been noted previously, several other types of leak paths are contemplated. Of course, the example fluid path 306 and its components can vary and do not necessarily look like or even include all of the components shown in FIG. 8.

[0058] Referring to FIG. 9, an example top 900 is shown with the door 116 in the second position 118. This and other examples of a top for the dispenser can include more than one actuator 902. In some examples, there are two actuators 902, and they are placed on lateral sides of the door 116.

[0059] Referring to FIG. 10, the top 900 is illustrated showing the door 116 in the first position 200. Referring to FIG. 11 , a cross-section view taken along line 11 - 11 of FIG. 9 is illustrated. One of the actuators 902 can be actuated by a user to place the actuator in a first state to apply a force on the pressure source 1100. As shown, the pressure source 1100 can be a bellows-type pressure source and it is compressed by the downward force represented by arrow 1102. As the force decreases the size and interior volume of the pressure source 1100, the fluid is forced downward and through valve unit 1104.

[0060] The valve unit 1104 can include two separate valves as shown; an inflation valve 1106 and a deflation valve 1108. The increased pressure and fluid flow from the pressure source 1100 into the valve unit 1104 will tend to close the inflation valve 1106 on the left. The inflation valve 1106 is shown in an open state and will be urged into a closed state so that the fluid will pass to the right side of the valve unit 1104 into the deflation valve 1108. The fluid and fluid pressure will not move the inflation valve 1106 from its shown open position, and flow around the inflation valve 1106 and into the fluid path 306 where it will eventually inflate the bladder (not shown). Because there are two actuators 902, FIG. 11 shows cross-sections of two different tubes (generally shown at 306 in FIG. 11) that will be connected together as shown in FIG. 12.

[0061] In some examples, the valve unit 1104 can be snap-fit into the top 900 using the relatively flexible tabs 1110. Additionally, valve unit 1104 can incorporate the inflation valve 1106 and the deflation valve 1108 into a single unit, or a single valve. Other valve types are also contemplated that can include the functions of the inflation valve 1106 and the deflation valve 1108 into a single valve.

[0062] Remaining with FIG. 11, when the bladder returns from an inflated state to a deflated state, fluid will be returning on the fluid path 306 from the upper right of the figure to the lower central part of the figure (e.g., back to the valve unit 1104). The fluid will pass into the deflation valve 1108 where the pressure and fluid flow will close the valve such that the deflation valve 1108 inhibits flow of the fluid from the bladder to the pressure source 1100. In this way, the deflation valve 1108 can be a one-way valve or check valve. A separate leak path is provided in the dispenser to enable the fluid to escape the bladder to return the bladder to the deflated state. Any number of suitable leak paths are acceptable. In some examples, the inflation valve 1106 also inhibits flow of the fluid from the bladder to the pressure source 1100 by at least one of providing a leak path for the fluid to move to an exterior space or closing a valve between the bladder and the pressure source 1100. For the purposes of this disclosure, an exterior space can be defined as a space exterior to the pressure source 1100, the bladder, and the fluid path 306.

[0063] Referring to FIG. 12, some components of the top 900 are shown while others have been removed for clarity. The actuators 902 can be positioned and attached to the pressure sources 1100. In turn, the pressure sources 1100 can be positioned and attached to the valve units 1104. One fluid path 306 (e.g., a tube) is attached to an outlet of each valve unit 1104. The fluid paths 306 are joined together at a fitting 1200 that, regardless of shape, acts as a “tee” fitting for fluid transfer such that the fluid will flow from both fluid paths 306 to a second portion 1202 that will deliver fluid to the bladder 302. In other words, the second portion 1202 and the fluid paths 306 are in fluid communication.

[0064] In some examples, the bladder 302 can be placed within an encapsulation structure 1204. The encapsulation structure 1204 defines an opening 1206 enabling a portion of the bladder 302 to inflate beyond the dimensions of the encapsulation structure 1204. As described previously, this feature can enable greater motion of a portion of the bladder 302 with less fluid from the pressure sources 1100 because a portion of the bladder is restrained from inflating. This enables the bladder 302 to place a greater force on the door 116 with less force applied to the actuators 902. [0065] While two actuators 902 are shown in some examples, it is to be appreciated that it may be possible for one actuator 902 of the pair of actuators 902 to adequately inflate the bladder 302 to urge the door 116 to the first position 200.

[0066] Referring to FIG. 13, it is possible for a portion of an arm 1300 attached to the door 116 to be partially placed into the opening 1206 (shown in FIG. 12) defined by the encapsulation structure 1204. In this way, the door 116 can be rotated to greater angles with less fluid moving into the bladder 302. FIG. 13 shows the door 116 in the second position 118 (e.g., the closed position).

[0067] Referring to FIG. 14, the bladder 302 is in the inflated state and acting upon the arm 1300 to urge rotation about hinge 1400 such that the door 116 moves to the first position 200. As shown in FIG. 14, the bladder 302 can be confined in some directions not only by the encapsulation structure 1204, but also by the geometry of the top 900.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 15, a detail view of an example bladder 1500 is illustrated, showing the door 116 in the first position 200 and the bladder 1500 in an inflated state. In some examples, the bladder 1500 is a bellows-type bladder. As in previous examples, the door 116 is attached to the structure 102. The door 116 is movable between the first position 200 as shown in FIG. 15 and a second position 118 as shown in FIG. 16. The first position 200 enables access to the interior space 300 (e.g., the door is open) for removal of a wipe from the interior space 300 and the second position 118 inhibits access to the interior space 300 (e.g., the door is closed). In some examples, the bladder 1500 is attached to the door 116. As shown in FIG. 15 and FIG. 16, the bladder is attached to arm 1502 of the door 116 and can provide force at a distance from an axis of rotation, such as an axis for a hinge 1504 to provide mechanical advantage.

[0069] In some examples, an inflation valve 1506 is attached to the bladder 1500. which can be at a rear facing portion of the bladder 1500. The inflation valve 1506 can extend through an aperture 1508 defined by the top 1510 in order to attach the bladder 1500 to the top 1510. The inflation valve 1506 is in fluid communication with a space exterior relative to the interior space 300.

[0070] Additionally, a deflation valve 1512 is attached to the bladder 1500. The deflation valve 1512 can extend through an aperture 1514 defined by the arm 1502 in order to attach the deflation valve 1512 to the door 116. Of course, the bladder 1500 can be attached to the door 116 in any suitable location. The deflation valve 1512 is in fluid communication with a space exterior relative to the bladder 1500 allowing the fluid to escape from the bladder 1500 to return the bladder 1500 to the deflated state as shown in FIG. 16. In some examples, the deflation valve 1512 could simply be a designed porosity (e.g., controlled leak path) of the material that forms the bladder 1500. In such examples, the top 900 can include a single valve (e.g., the inflation valve 1506) and rely upon the porosity of the bladder 1500 to provide a leak path as a deflation valve.

[0071] In some examples, the door 116 is urged from the second position 118 to the first position 200 without the use of an actuator as in previous examples. In some examples, a user can urge (e.g., lift, rotate, etc.) the door 116 from the second position 118 to the first position 200 to gain access to the interior space 300 in order to remove a wipe from the interior space 300. As the door 116 is urged to the first position 200 from the second position 118, the fluid (e.g., air) flows through the inflation valve 1506 into the bladder 1500 to inflate the bladder 1500 to an inflated state as shown in FIG. 15. After the door 116 is urged to the first position 200, the fluid escapes the bladder 1500 through the deflation valve 1512 in order to return the bladder to the deflated state as shown in FIG. 16 and move the door 116 to the second position 118 from the first position 200. As with previous examples, after the user lifts or urges the door 116 to the first position 200, the door 116 can remain in the first position 200 for a few seconds and then auto-close as the fluid escapes the bladder 1500. In some examples, the door 116 can remain in the first position 200 for a dwell time, despite the fluid escaping from the bladder 1500. In other words, the geometry of the bladder, properties of the bladder, location of the bladder, controlled rate of fluid escape, etc. can be engineered and designed such that the door 116 will remain in the first position 200 despite the fluid escaping the bladder 1500 during the dwell time.

[0072] It is worthy of note that various leak paths have been discussed for various examples of the dispensers. The disclosure is not intended to limit any particular leak path to any particular example of dispenser, and various leak paths, valves, actuators etc., can be used with multiple examples of the dispensers described herein.

[0073] It is also worthy of note that the door has been described and shown in a substantially horizontal orientation in the second position, however, some examples may include doors having a substantially vertical orientation in the second position. In some examples, the horizontal orientation may be easier to assemble, as several of the described components can be combined into one piece. However, in some examples, the vertical orientation can be more efficient to operate.

[0074] As a review of operation of various examples of the described dispensers, the following order of operation is presented as an example for further description. A user (e.g., a health care professional) actuates the actuator or compresses the pressure source on the dispenser to generate increased fluid pressure within the pressure source. The fluid, at a higher pressure, is transferred through a fluid path that can include a one way valve to the bladder. The fluid at greater pressure inflates the bladder to the inflated state and the inflated bladder acts upon the door to move the door to the first position. In some examples, the door is rotated greater than 90° to the first position. While in the first position, the door enables user access to an interior space within the dispenser that contains wipes. The user then removes a wipe from the interior space and is free to conduct other activities; no further action is required by the user. A leak path is defined by components of the dispenser that enable the bladder to deflate to a deflated state. The pressure source must provide enough fluid and fluid pressure to compensate for fluid lost through the leak path to inflate the bladder. Various leak paths have been previously described. The force of gravity, a biasing member, or a combination of the two provide a force upon the door in the first position that is sufficient to urge the door in a closing motion to return to the second position as the bladder deflates. In some examples, the bladder resists the closing motion with greater force when the door is closer to the first position than when the door is closer to the second position. As the bladder deflates, the pressure source recovers, filling with fluid and the door fully closes.

[0075] A number of benefits can be realized using the apparatus and methods described in the present disclosure. The dispenser can eliminate the usage of electricity or batteries to provide the auto-close mechanism of the dispenser. Rather than using electricity or battery power, the disclosed dispenser can automatically close the dispenser door by taking advantage of gravity and decaying air pressure to urge the door to the second position. The door can be controlled to close slowly and close with no external forces provided by a user. The air decay feature can provide time for the user to reach in to obtain a wipe prior to returning to the second position. In other words, the door can remain in the first position (e.g., open) for a couple of seconds and employ a delay prior to closing so that the user has adequate time to obtain a wipe. [0076] The described dispenser can also be significantly quieter than a powered closing mechanism. The dispenser can be self-operating (e.g., the auto-close feature) and does not require a user to physically close the door of the dispenser after obtaining a wipe. The lack of user interaction to close the door can be beneficial to inhibit contamination of a health care professional’s hands as they touch the dispenser after obtaining a wipe. As some users may forget to close the door on other dispensers, the presently described dispenser can reduce dry-out of the wipes, as the door can automatically shut without the need for user interaction. In some situations, users may prefer to not shut the door of the dispenser to eliminate a potential contamination of their hands after obtaining a wipe. The auto-close feature can also inhibit potential contamination of the wipes within the dispenser in situations when the user has forgotten or chosen not to close the door.

[0077] Additionally, the described dispenser can save time for users by allowing the users to open the door of the dispenser, obtain a wipe, and then conduct other activities — the requirement to close the door can be disregarded. The user can also use only one hand to obtain a wipe rather than having to use two hands to open a dispenser, hold the wipe, and then close a dispenser door. The dispenser can provide benefits over spring-loaded lids that require two hands to operate, which can provide greater opportunity for hand contamination·

[0078] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing at least some of the claims.

[0079] Various operations of embodiments are provided herein. The order in which some or all of the operations described should not be construed to imply that these operations are necessarily order dependent. Alternative ordering will be appreciated having the benefit of this description. Further, it will be understood that not all operations are necessarily present in each embodiment provided herein. Also, it will be understood that not all operations are necessary in some embodiments.

[0080] Many modifications may be made to the instant disclosure without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed subject matter. Unless specified otherwise, “first,” “second,” or the like are not intended to imply a temporal aspect, a spatial aspect, an ordering, etc. Rather, such terms are merely used as identifiers, names, etc. for features, elements, items, etc. For example, a first component and a second component generally correspond to component A and component B or two different or two identical components or the same component.

[0081] Moreover, "exemplary" is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, illustration, etc., and not necessarily as advantageous. As used in this application, "or" is intended to mean an inclusive "or" rather than an exclusive "or".

In addition, "a" and "an" as used in this application are generally to be construed to mean "one or more" unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form. Also, at least one of A and B or the like generally means A or B or both A and B. Furthermore, to the extent that "includes", "having", "has", "with", or variants thereof are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to "comprising”.

[0082] Also, although the disclosure has been illustrated and described with respect to one or more implementations, equivalent alterations and modifications will occur to others skilled in the art based upon a reading and understanding of this specification and the annexed drawings. The disclosure includes all such modifications and alterations and is limited only by the scope of the following claims. In particular regard to the various functions performed by the above described components (e.g., elements, resources, etc.), the terms used to describe such components are intended to correspond, unless otherwise indicated, to any component which performs the specified function of the described component (e.g., that is functionally equivalent), even though not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure. In addition, while a particular feature of the disclosure may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several implementations, such feature may be combined with one or more other features of the other implementations as may be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A dispenser for wipes comprising: a structure defining an interior space for wipes; a door attached to the structure and movable between a first position and a second position, the first position enabling access to the interior space for removal of a wipe from the interior space and the second position inhibiting access to the interior space; a bladder attached to the door; a pressure source attached to the bladder; and an actuator attached to the pressure source, wherein the bladder urges the door to the first position when the actuator is in a first state such that a fluid from the pressure source inflates the bladder to an inflated state, and the door moves to the second position when the actuator is in a second state such that the fluid escapes the bladder returning the bladder to a deflated state.

2. The dispenser of claim 1 , wherein the fluid escapes from the bladder back to the pressure source.

3. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the actuator comprises a button, the actuator placed in the first state when the button is depressed, and the actuator placed in the second state when the button is not depressed.

4. The dispenser of claim 1 , wherein the bladder is biased to the deflated state such that the bias of the bladder facilitates the fluid escaping the bladder.

5. The dispenser of claim 1, comprising: an inflation valve between the bladder and the pressure source, the inflation valve allowing the fluid to flow from the pressure source to the bladder to inflate the bladder to the inflated state.

6. The dispenser of claim 5, wherein the inflation valve inhibits flow of the fluid from the bladder to the pressure source.

7. The dispenser of claim 1, comprising: a deflation valve attached to the bladder, the deflation valve allowing the fluid to escape from the bladder to return the bladder to the deflated state.

8. The dispenser of claim 7, wherein the deflation valve inhibits flow of the fluid from the bladder to the pressure source.

9. The dispenser of claim 1 , wherein when the door is in the second position, the door is oriented at an angle that is greater than 90° relative to a location of the door when the door is in the first position.

10. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein a force that urges the door from the first position to the second position includes at least one of gravity or a biasing member.

11. The dispenser of claim 10, wherein the bladder resists the force that urges the door from the first position to the second position with greater resistance when the door is closer to the first position than when the door is closer to the second position.

12. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the fluid is air and the bladder returns to the deflated state due to air decay as air escapes the bladder.

13. A dispenser for wipes comprising: a structure defining an interior space for wipes; a door attached to the structure and movable between a first position and a second position, the first position enabling access to the interior space for removal of a wipe from the interior space and the second position inhibiting access to the interior space; a bladder attached to the door; an inflation valve attached to the bladder; and a deflation valve attached to the bladder, wherein as the door is urged to the first position from the second position, fluid flows through the inflation valve into the bladder to inflate the bladder to an inflated state, and after the door is urged to the first position, the fluid escapes the bladder through the deflation valve returning the bladder to a deflated state and moving the door to the second position from the first position.

14. The dispenser of claim 13, wherein the fluid escapes from the bladder back to a pressure source.

15. The dispenser of claim 13, wherein the inflation valve inhibits flow of the fluid from the bladder to a pressure source.

16. The dispenser of claim 13, wherein the deflation valve inhibits flow of the fluid from the bladder to a pressure source.

17. The dispenser of claim 13, wherein a single valve comprises the inflation valve and the deflation valve.

18. A dispenser for wipes comprising: a structure defining an interior space for wipes; a door attached to the structure and movable between a first position and a second position, the first position enabling access to the interior space for removal of a wipe from the interior space and the second position inhibiting access to the interior space; and a bladder attached to the door, the bladder comprising a permeable material, wherein as the door is urged to the first position from the second position, fluid flows through the permeable material into the bladder to inflate the bladder to an inflated state, and after the door is urged to the first position, the fluid escapes the bladder through the permeable material returning the bladder to a deflated state and moving the door to the second position from the first position.

19. The dispenser of claim 18, wherein the bladder is a bellows-type bladder.

20. The dispenser of claim 18, comprising a biasing member attached to the door to provide a closing force to urge the door from the first position to the second position.