WO2023167671A1

WO2023167671A1 - Dispenser with improved dispensing mechanism

Info

Publication number: WO2023167671A1
Application number: PCT/US2022/018677
Authority: WO
Inventors: Klemen Erzen
Original assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
Priority date: 2022-03-03
Filing date: 2022-03-03
Publication date: 2023-09-07

Abstract

A dispenser for dispensing sheet material from one or more rolls of sheet material is provided. The dispenser includes a housing having an interior volume and a dispensing mechanism disposed within the housing to dispenser sheet material. The dispensing mechanism includes a drive roller and a pressure roller biased against the drive roller forming a nip through which sheet material is dispensed. The pressure roller and/or drive roller includes a center portion defining a center diameter D1, a first end defining an end diameter D2, and a second end defining an end diameter D3. The ratio of D1 to D2 and/or D1 to D3 is from about 5:1 to about 1.1:1.

Description

DISPENSER WITH IMPROVED DISPENSING MECHANISM

BACKGROUND

Washrooms in commercial and residential buildings typically include products such as toilet tissue, paper towels, diapers, feminine products, liquid products such as soap, and aerosol products such as air fresheners. These products are typically housed by a dispenser and are dispensed as needed by the user. Those skilled in the art have spent considerable time designing dispensers that can more easily dispense the products noted above. For instance, dispensers including electronically connected dispensing mechanisms can be used to provide sheet materials. Such dispensers are often referred to as "hands-free” dispensers since the dispenser is capable of dispensing a portion of sheet material upon sensing a user within the detection zone of the dispenser. The mechanism used to dispense sheet material can include rollers and motors, however, operation of dispensing components causes noise. Further, as sheet material is dispensed, it can become creased or uncentered as it passes through the dispensing mechanism, which leads to user frustration or malfunction. Additionally, opening the covers of dispensers can be noisy as maintenance staff often let go of the cover such that it can then drop to an open position. This causes noise when the cover reaches the open position and also causes strain on the connection between the cover and the housing.

In view of the above improved dispensing mechanisms and components for dispensers are needed.

SUMMARY

In general, the present disclosure is directed to a dispenser for dispensing sheet material from one or more rolls of sheet material. The dispenser includes a housing having an interior volume so as to retain a first roll of sheet material. A dispensing mechanism is disposed within the housing to dispense sheet material. The dispensing mechanism includes a drive roller and a pressure roller biased against the drive roller forming a nip through which sheet material is dispensed. The pressure roller and/or drive roller includes a center portion defining a center diameter D1 , a first end defining an end diameter D2, and a second end defining an end diameter D3. The ratio of D1 to D2 and/or D1 to D3 is from about 5:1 to about 1.1 :1.

In embodiments, the pressure roller and/or drive roller includes an outer surface that curves from the first end to the second end.

In other embodiments, the drive roller includes a first end coupled to the housing and a second end coupled to the motor. The first end includes a spindle having a gasket material disposed thereon. The gasket material is disposed between the first end and the housing to provide cushioning between the first end of the drive roller and the housing. Additional gasket material can be disposed between the second end of the drive roller and the motor. The gasket material can be disposed within an interior of the drive roller. The gasket material can also be disposed between a portion of the drive roller and a gear.

In other example embodiments, the dispenser includes a front cover coupled to a back plate. The front cover is configured to be moved from a closed position to an open position. The back plate includes a slot having a first end and a second end. The front cover includes a tab configured to be disposed in the slot. A back plate magnet is disposed on the second end of the slot and a front cover magnet is disposed on the tab such that when the front cover is moved from the closed position to the open position, the back plate magnet and front cover magnet are oriented with the same polarity facing each other to stop the front cover. In certain embodiments, a metal tube is disposed along the slot of the back plate and a front cover magnet is disposed on the tab, such that when the front cover is moved from a closed position to an open position the front cover magnet moves within the metal tube to stop the front cover.

In embodiments, the dispenser can include a roll retaining device for holding one or more rolls of sheet material. The roll retaining device includes a first arm assembly having one or more gear teeth thereon, a second assembly having one or more gear teeth thereon; and a gear coupled to the back plate, the first arm assembly, and the second arm assembly. Rotation of the gear moves the first arm assembly and the second arm assembly. The first arm assembly and second arm assembly can be spring-loaded.

The dispenser can include additional sensors and control circuitry in order to initiate a dispense cycle upon detection of an object placed within a detection zone of the dispenser. Additionally, the housing can be configured to retain a second roll of sheet material.

Methods for dispensing sheet materials are also provided.

Other features and aspects of the present disclosure are discussed in greater detail below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A full and enabling disclosure of the present disclosure is set forth more particularly in the remainder of the specification, including reference to the accompanying figures, in which:

Figure 1 illustrates a side view, partially in cross-section, of a sheet material dispenser according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

Figure 2 illustrates is a front view of a portion of the dispenser of FIG. 1 in a open position according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of a pressure roller according to example embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of a drive roller according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

Figure 5 illustrates a partial cross section view of a drive roller in a dispenser according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

Figure 6 illustrates a partial cross section view of a drive roller in a dispenser according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

Figure 7 illustrates a partial exploded view of a drive roller and electric motor according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

Figure 8 illustrates a partial exploded view of a drive roller and electric motor according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

Figure 9 illustrates a partial perspective view of a front cover in a closed position on a backplate according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

Figure 10 illustrates a partial perspective view of a front cover in an open position on a backplate according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

Figure 11 illustrates a partial perspective view of a backplate according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

Figure 12 illustrates a partial perspective view of a backplate according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

Figure 13 illustrates a partial perspective view of a front cover according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

Figure 14 illustrates a partial perspective view of a front cover and backplate according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

Figure 15 illustrates a perspective view of an example backplate having a roll retaining device thereon according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

Figure 16 illustrates a perspective view of an example backplate having a roll retaining device thereon according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

Figure 17 illustrates a perspective view of an example backplate having a roll retaining device thereon according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

Figure 18 illustrates a perspective view of an example backplate having a roll retaining device thereon according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

Figure 19 illustrates a plan view of an example roll retaining device; and

Figure 20 illustrates a plan view of an example roll retaining device.

Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent the same or analogous features or elements of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

It is to be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the present discussion is a description of exemplary embodiments only, and is not intended as limiting the broader aspects of the present disclosure.

As used herein, the terms "first”, "second”, and "third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual components.

The terms "coupled,” "fixed,” "attached to,” and the like refer to both direct coupling, fixing, or attaching, as well as indirect coupling, fixing, or attaching through one or more intermediate components or features, unless otherwise specified herein.

The singular forms "a”, "an”, and "the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, is applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms, such as "about”, "approximately”, and "substantially”, are not to be limited to the precise value specified. In at least some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value, or the precision of the methods or machines for constructing or manufacturing the components and/or systems. For example, the approximating language may refer to being within a 1 , 2, 4, 10, 15, or 20 percent margin. These approximating margins may apply to a single value, either or both endpoints defining numerical ranges, and/or the margin for ranges between endpoints.

The embodiments including dispensers of the present disclosure, including components thereof, can comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of the essential elements and limitations of the embodiments described herein, as well as any additional or optional components or limitations described herein or otherwise useful.

As used herein, the term "comprising” is intended to be inclusive or open-ended, and is not intended to exclude additional elements or method steps which do not prevent operation of the invention.

As used herein, the term "hinge” refers to a jointed or flexible device that connects and permits pivoting or turning of a part to a stationary component. Hinges include, but are not limited to, metal pivotable connectors, such as those used to fasten a door to frame, and living hinges. Living hinges may be constructed from plastic and formed integrally between two members. A living hinge permits pivotable movement of one member in relation to another connected member.

As used herein, the terms "sheet material” and "paper” means a material that is thin in comparison to its length and breadth. Generally speaking, sheet materials should exhibit a relatively flat planar configuration and be flexible to permit folding, rolling, stacking, and the like. Exemplary sheet materials and papers include, but are not limited to, paper tissue, bath/toilet tissue, paper towels, wipes, label rolls, or other fibrous, film, polymer, or filamentary products. The terms "sheet material” and "paper” may be used interchangeably.

In one embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a dispenser for dispensing sheet material from one or more rolls of sheet material. The dispenser includes a housing having an interior volume so as to retain a first roll of sheet material. A dispensing mechanism is disposed within the interior of the housing. The dispensing mechanism includes a drive roller and a pressure roller. The pressure roller and/or drive roller has a diameter D1 about a center portion of the roller and two diameters D2, D3 about a first and second end of the roller, respectively. The ratio of D1 to D2 and/or D1 to D3 is from about 5:1 to about 1.1 :1. In such an embodiment, the diameter D1 about the center portion of the pressure roller or drive roller is larger than the diameters D2, D3 about the ends of the roll.

In other embodiments, the drive roller includes a first end coupled to the housing and a second end coupled to a motor. The first end includes a spindle having a gasket material disposed thereon. The gasket material is disposed between the first end and the housing to provide cushioning between the first end of the drive roller and the housing. A gasket material can be further disposed between the second end of the drive roller and the motor.

In other embodiments, the dispenser includes a front cover coupled to a back plate, the front cover being movable from a closed position to an open position. The back plate includes a slot having a first end and a second end, wherein the front cover comprises a tab configured to be disposed in the slot. A back plate magnet is disposed on the second end of the slot and a front cover magnet is disposed on the tab such that when the front cover is moved from the closed position to the open position, the back plate magnet and front cover magnet are oriented with the same polarity facing each other to stop the front cover. In other embodiments, a metal tube is disposed along the slot of the back plate and a front cover magnet is disposed on the tab, such that when the front cover is moved from a closed position to an open position the front cover magnet moves within the metal tube to stop the front cover.

Still, in other embodiments, the dispenser includes a roll retaining device. The roll retaining device includes a first arm assembly having one or more gears thereon; a second assembly having one or more gears thereon; and a gear coupled to the back plate, the first arm assembly, and the second arm assembly, such that rotation of the gear moves the first arm assembly and the second arm assembly in opposing directions.

The dispensers according to example embodiments of the present disclosure can provide numerous benefits and technical effects. For instance, configuring the pressure roller and/or drive roller as provided is beneficial for re-centering the sheet material as it passes through the nip resulting in less wrinkling of the sheet material as it is dispensed. Such a configuration also leads to more evenly dispensed sheet material and less jamming of sheet material in the dispenser. Placement of gasket material as disclosed herein reduces overall noise during operation of the dispensing mechanism. Thus, dispensers provided herein can be utilized in noise-sensitive environments, such as patient rooms in hospitals. Dispensers can also be equipped with magnets disposed on the back plate and the front cover. The magnets are positioned such that as the front cover is opened, the magnets are oriented with the same polarity facing each other in order to stop the front cover. This provided cushion when opening the front cover and holds the front cover in an open position that does not put additional strain on the connection between the front cover and the back plate. Lastly, the roll holding device provided improves centering of the roll of sheet material leading to decreased paper jams and uneven dispensing.

FIGS. 1-2 illustrate an example embodiment of a dispenser 10 for dispensing a dispensable product in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The dispenser 10, as shown, is configured for dispensing rolled sheet material products, such as rolled sheets of paper towels or toilet paper. The dispenser 10 is particularly suited for dispensing paper towels, tissues, and the like. Generally, the dispenser 10 is configured for dispensing multiple rolls of material. The dispenser is not limited to any particular type of roll material, or any particular application. The dispenser is illustrated in the figures as a paper towel roll dispenser for purposes of illustration only.

As shown in FIGS. 1-2, the dispenser 10 includes a housing 17 having an interior volume 15 that is designed to house one or more rolls of sheet material 18. For example, the housing 17 can be configured to house a first roll of sheet material 18 (e.g., a main roll) and/or a second roll of sheet material (e.g., a stub roll). The housing 17 may be formed of any suitable material or materials. The housing 17 may take on any manner of shapes or configurations. Generally, the dispenser 10 can include a front cover 20 and a backplate 30. The front cover 20 can be positioned in an open position or a closed position. In certain embodiments, the front cover 20 can define one or more of the sidewalls of the dispenser 10. In other embodiments, however, the front cover 20 can form at least a portion, but not substantially all, of the sidewalls of the dispenser 10. In other embodiments, however, the front cover 20 does not form any portion of the sidewalls of the dispenser 10. The front cover 20 can be pivotally coupled to the backplate 30. For example, one or more hinges can be used to pivotally couple the front cover 20 to the backplate 30. Any conventional pivotal attaching mechanism may be used in this regard. For example, in certain embodiments, a simple rotatable rod is provided and retained by rod holders. It should be appreciated that any number of conventional pivotal arrangements are known by those skilled in the art and may be utilized to pivotally mount the front cover 20 to the backplate 30. In other embodiments, the front cover 20 can be completely removable or detachable from the backplate 30.

The dispenser 10 also include a roll retaining device 22 configured to hold the roll of sheet material 18. While one roll retaining device 22 is shown, the disclosure is not so limited. Indeed, any number of roll retaining devices 22 can be used or incorporated into the dispenser 10 disclosed herein. For example, in embodiments where the dispenser 10 is configured to hold at least two rolls of sheet material 18, at least two roll retaining devices 22, such as a first roll retaining device and a second roll retaining device, can be used. In certain embodiments, a first roll retaining device can be used to hold a first roll of sheet material (e.g., a main roll) and a second roll retaining device can be used to hold a second roll of sheet material (e.g., a stub roll). Roll retaining devices 22 are generally known in the art and are capable of supporting a roll of sheet material such that sheet material can be unrolled and dispensed via a dispensing opening in the dispenser. For example, certain roll retaining devices have an arm with a nub and/or hub thereon, the nub or hub can be inserted into the core diameter of the roll, thus allowing the roll to move circumferentially in order to dispense sheet material from the roll. Any known configurations of roll retaining devices can be used herein.

A dispensing mechanism 50 is disposed within the housing 17. The dispensing mechanism 50 can be provided in a module and disposed in the housing 17. The dispensing mechanism 50 includes components configured to dispense sheet material 12 from the roll of sheet material 18 in a controlled manner. For example, the dispensing mechanism 50 can include a pressure roller 80 and a drive roller 100 forming a nip 36 through which sheet material 12 is dispensed. The sheet material 12 runs off the roll 18 and between the pressure roller 80 and drive roller 100 and through a dispensing opening 44 disposed in a lower end 45 of the housing 17. Alternatively, the dispensing opening 44 can be formed in the front cover 20, or both in a portion of the front cover 20 and a portion of the lower end (not shown). The dispensing opening 44 may have a serrated edge (not shown), or it may carry teeth (also not shown) for severing the web of sheet material (if it is not perforated). Each end of the pressure roller 80 and the drive roller 100 can be rotatably mounted to a side panel of the housing 17 or of a module housing located within the housing 17. For example, suitable roll holders disposed within the housing 17 can secure the pressure roller 80 and the drive roller 100 within the housing. A transmission housing 51 containing a transmission for transmitting drive from an electric motor 52 to the drive roller 100 so as to rotate this roller. Additional control circuitry can be included for operating said rollers.

A detection sensor 56 may be mounted to the lower end 45 of the housing 17 (or, alternatively, to a module in the housing (not shown)) adjacent a lens 58, as illustrated in FIG. 1 . It will be understood, however, that the detection sensor 56 and/or lens 58, or any activations system shown and/or described herein or known in the art, may be mounted in any area of the housing, so long as it operates as described herein. In this embodiment, the sensor 56 is desirably, but not by way of limitation, a conventional passive sensor for detecting infrared radiation. Passive infrared detectors are known in the art, and are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,757,337 to Shikaumi and U.S. Pat. No. 4,960,248 to Bauer et al., both of which are incorporated herein by reference. A passive infrared detector which may be used with the dispenser 10 is a Model 40623 sold by Eltec Instruments Inc. However, those of skill in the art will appreciate that various different infrared detectors are available, and that many of the available detectors are suitable for use with the dispenser 10. In practice, the sensor 56 is arranged to detect infrared radiation from a user's hand placed below the lens 58, and upon detecting the radiation, to transmit a signal for activating the electric motor 52 so as to dispense a length of sheet material through the dispensing opening 44.

It will by understood, however, that other activation mechanisms, such as capacitive and ultrasonic, may be used in the present disclosure. Capacitive proximity sensors produce an electrostatic field that will sense both metal objects and non-metallic materials such as paper, glass, liquids and cloth. Ultrasonic proximity sensors use a transducer to send and receive high frequency sound signals. When a target enters the beam, the sound is reflected back to the sensor, causing it to energize or de-energize the output circuit. Another sensor type is inductive. In this case an electromagnetic field is used, however, detection is limited to only metallic objects.

Referring now to FIG. 3, an example embodiment of a pressure roller 80 is shown. The pressure roller 80 includes a center portion 81 disposed between a first end 84 and a second end 86 of the pressure roller 80. The center portion 81 has a center diameter D1 . The first end 84 has an end diameter D2 and the second end 86 has an end diameter D3. The end diameter D2 and end diameter D3 can be the same or can be different. The center diameter D1 is larger than either end diameter D2 and/or end diameter D3. For example, the ratio of D1 to D2 and/or D1 to D3 is from about 5:1 to about 1.1 :1 , such as from about 4.5:1 to about 2:1 , such as from about 4:1 to about 2.5:1 , such as about 3:1. Thus, the diameter about the center of the pressure roller 80 is larger than the diameter of the pressure roller 80 at either of the ends. Further, the pressure roller 80 has an outer surface 88 extending circumferentially around the pressure roller and also extending longitudinally from the first end 84 to the second end 86. The outer surface 88 curves from the first end 84 to the second end 86, as shown in FIG. 3. Optionally, one or more indentations 89 can be disposed along the longitudinal length of the pressure roller 80. Spindles 83, 85 are disposed on each end of the pressure roller 80 to facilitation placement and holding of the pressure roller 80 in the housing 17 of the dispenser 10.

Fig. 4 illustrates an example embodiment of a drive roller 100. The drive roller 100 includes a center portion 401 disposed between a first end 101 and a second end 102 of the drive roller 100. The center portion 105 has a center diameter D1. The first end 101 has an end diameter D2 and the second end 102 has an end diameter 36. The end diameter D2 and end diameter D3 can be the same or can be different. The center diameter D1 is larger than either end diameter D2 and/or end diameter D3. For example, the ratio of D1 to D2 and/or D1 to D3 is from about 5:1 to about 1.1 :1 , such as from about 4.5:1 to about 2:1 , such as from about 4:1 to about 2.5:1 , such as about 3:1 . Thus, the diameter about the center of the drive roller 100 is larger than the diameter of the drive roller 100 at either of the ends. Further, the drive roller 100 has an outer surface 107 extending circumferentially around the drive roller 100 and also extending longitudinally from the first end 102 to the second end 103. The outer surface 107 curves from the first end 102 to the second end 103, as shown in FIG. 4. Optionally, one or more indentations 108 can be disposed along the longitudinal length of the drive roller 100. Spindles 102,103 are disposed on each end of the drive roller 100 to facilitation placement and holding of the drive roller 100 in the housing 17 of the dispenser 10.

FIGS. 5-8 refer to example embodiments of a drive roller 100. As shown, in FIG. 5, the drive roller 100 includes a first end 101 having a spindle 102 disposed thereon. The spindle 102 is configured to be retained within an aperture 104 within the housing such that the drive roller 100 is secured to the dispenser 10 but is capable of rotating around its longitudinal axis. As can be appreciated, friction will be generated between the spindle 102 and the aperture 104 as the drive roller 100 turns in order to dispense sheet material 12. Accordingly, gasket material 106 is disposed between the spindle 102 and the aperture 104. The gasket material 106 provides cushioning between the first end 101 of the drive roller 100 and the housing 17. The gasket material 106 can include any type of elastomeric material including rubbers, such as silicone rubber, styrene butadiene rubber, butyl rubber, natural rubbers, cloth-inserted rubbers, polyurethane rubbers, silicone, thermoplastic elastomers, thermoplastic polyurethane, neoprenes, nitriles, ethylene propylene diene monomer, combinations thereof, and any other suitable rubber-like material or cushioning material capable of reducing friction and wear between the drive roller 100 and the housing 17.

Referring now to FIG. 6, a second end 110 of the drive roller 100 is shown. The second end 110 of the drive roller 100 is configured to be coupled to a motor 112. In certain embodiments, the second end 110 of the drive roller 100 includes an aperture 114 into which at least a portion of the motor 112 or motor housing can be inserted. Gasket material 106 is disposed between surfaces of the second end 110 of the drive roller 100 and the motor 115. In another embodiment, gasket material 106 is disposed within an interior 117 of the drive roller 100. As shown in FIGS. 7-8, the outer surface 118 of the drive roller 100 can be coated with gasket material 106. Thus, additional gasket material 106 can extend from the outer surface 118 of the drive roller 100 into the interior 117 of the drive roller 100. Such embodiments can reduce manufacturing complexity by reducing the number of parts that are produced and assembled. As shown, the gasket material 106 is disposed within the interior 117 of the drive roller 100 and a motor gear 120 is disposed between the gasket material 106 and the motor 112. The motor 112 can be coupled to the housing 17 via a bracket 113.

FIGS. 9-14 illustrate various example embodiments of the front cover 20 and backplate 30. As shown, the front cover 20 includes a tab 90 disposed within a slot 92 located in the backplate 30. FIG. 9 illustrates the front cover in a closed position, while the front cover is in an open position in FIG. 10. As shown, the slot 92 has a first end 94 and a second end 96. The slot 92 can be circular in shape, including a partial circle, or can be C-shaped (as shown). However, other shapes and embodiments can be utilized herein. The tab 90 is able to travel from the first end 94 to the second end 96 of the slot 92 as the front cover 20 is moved from the closed position to an open position. As shown particularly in FIG. 10, a front cover magnet 97 is disposed on the tab 90 such that when the front cover 20 is in an open position the front cover magnet 97 faces the second end 96 of the slot 92. A backplate magnet 98 is disposed about the second end 96 of the slot 92. The front cover magnet 97 and back plate magnet 98 are positioned such that when the front cover 20 is in an open position the front cover magnet 97 and back plate magnet 98 are oriented with the same polarity facing each other in order to stop the front cover 20. Such magnet orientation and placement provides a cushion-effect that stops the front cover 20 from hitting the bottom of the slot 92 disposed in the backplate 30, which reduces noise generated upon opening the front cover 20 of the dispenser 10. Additionally, by utilizing opposing magnetic force, the front cover 20 can be held in a closed position without putting additional stress or strain on components of the front cover 20 and backplate 30.

FIGS. 12-14, illustrate another embodiment of a front cover 20 and backplate 30 assembly. As shown, a tube 99 is disposed within the slot 92 of the backplate 30. The tube 99 can include a partially opened tube where a portion of the tube is open such that the tab 90 having the front cover magnet 97 disposed thereon is disposed within the tube 99. Generally, the tube 99 is formed from any suitable metal material. For example, the tube 99 can be formed from copper or aluminum. As the front cover magnet 97 moves along the length of the tube 99, the front cover magnet 97 induces a current within the tube 99. By Lenz's Law, the current creates a magnetic field that opposes the field of the falling front cover magnet 97. Accordingly, the front cover magnet 97 experiences a resistive force and will fall more slowly within the tube 99. Thus, as the front cover magnet 97 moves within the tube 99, the magnetic force causes the front cover 20 to open more slowly and can even stop movement of the front cover 20.

FIGS. 15-18 illustrate example embodiments of roll retaining devices that can be used in the dispensers provided herein. As shown, a roll retaining device 200 is disposed on an inner surface 33 of the backplate 30. The roll retaining device 200 includes a first arm assembly 202 having one or more gear teeth 203 thereon and a second arm assembly 204 having one or more gear teeth 205 thereon. The first arm assembly 202 includes a first holding arm 220 extending generally perpendicular to the inner surface 33 of the backplate 30. Similarly, the second arm assembly 204 includes a second holding arm 222 extending generally perpendicular to the inner surface 33 of the backplate 30. A roll of sheet material 18 is configured to be held between the first holding arm 220 and the second holding arm 222. The first arm assembly 202 and second arm assembly 204 are secured to the inner surface 33 by one or more retaining bars 210. A gear 250 is coupled to the backplate 30. Gear teeth 203 and gear teeth 205 are then configured to engage the teeth located on the gear 250. Rotation of the gear 250 moves the first arm assembly 202 and the second arm assembly 204. For example, as the gear 250 is turned in a first direction, the first holding arm 220 and second holding arm 222 each move away from each other. For example, FIG. 15 shows the first holding arm 220 and second holding arm 222 in a close position, however, after actuating gear 250, the first holding arm 220 and the second holding arm 222 are spaced farther apart from each other as shown in FIG. 16. Thus, rolls of sheet material having wider sheets can be held in the dispenser 10. Similarly, actuating the gear 250 to move the first holding arm 220 and second holding arm 222 closer together allows for rolls with smaller width sheets to be accommodated. Advantageously, the gear 250 is configured to move the first arm assembly 202 and second arm assembly 204 an equal distance upon each rotation or turn of the gear 250. Such equidistance movement ensures that rolls placed on the roll retaining device 200 remain centered with respect to the dispensing mechanism 50 and/or dispensing opening 44. Additionally, it should be noted that the gear 250 can be configured to open the arms when turned in either a clockwise or a counterclockwise direction. Each of the first arm assembly 202 and the second arm assembly 204 can optionally be spring-loaded.

FIGS. 19-20 illustrate another example embodiment of a roll retaining device that can be used in the dispensers provided herein. As shown, the roll retaining device 300 includes a first arm assembly 302 and a second arm assembly 304. Scissor arms 310a, 310b are coupled to the each of the first arm assembly 302 and the second arm assembly 304. More specifically, a first end 320 of scissor arm 310a is coupled to a lower portion of the first arm assembly 302 and a second end 322 of scissor arm 310a is coupled to an upper portion of the second arm assembly 304. Similarly, a first end 324 of scissor arm 310b is coupled to a lower portion of the second arm assembly 304 and a second end 326 of scissor arm 310b is coupled to an upper portion of the first arm assembly 302. The scissor arms 310a, 310b can be coupled to the arm assemblies 302,304 via any suitable means, such as fastened with one or more pins 360. For example, the first arm assembly 302 includes a first aperture 312 and a second aperture 314. Pins 360a and 360b are disposed therein for coupling the scissor arms 310a, 310b to the first arm assembly 302. Similarly, a first aperture 316 and a second aperture 318 are configured in the second arm assembly 304. Pins 360c and 360d are disposed therein for coupling the scissor arms 310a, 310b to the second arm assembly 304. When scissor arms 310a, 310b are actuated, pins 360a, 360b, 360c, and 360d are able to translate up and down within apertures 312, 314, 316, and 318, respectively.

One or more springs 350a, 350b are coupled to the scissor arms 310a, 310b. For example, spring 350a is coupled between the second end 322 of scissor arm 310a and the second end 326 of scissor arm 310b. Similarly, spring 350b is coupled between the first end 320 of scissor arm 310a and first end 324 of scissor arm 310b. The springs 350a, 350b are loaded such that the spring force moves the first arm assembly 302 and second arm assembly 304 toward a center line. The scissor arms 310a, 310b can be coupled together about a center portion. For example, a pin 360e can be used to coupled scissor arm 310a to scissor arm 310b.

Arm assembly 302 has a first holding arm 370 extending generally perpendicular from the inner surface 33 of the backplate 30 and arm assembly 304 has a second holding arm 372 extending generally perpendicular from the inner surface 33 of the backplate 30. A roll of sheet material 18 is configured to be held between the first holding arm 370 and the second holding arm 372. The first arm assembly 302 and second arm assembly 304 are secured to the inner surface 33 of the backplate 30 by one or more retaining bars 380. The scissor arms 310a, 310b can be actuated in a scissor motion to move the arm assemblies 302,304 either closer together or farther apart in order to accommodate rolls of sheet materials having different widths. For example, as scissor arms 310a, 310b move towards a closed position, the first holding arm 370 and second holding arm 372 move closer together to accommodate rolls of sheet material having smaller widths. Similarly, as scissor arms 310a, 310b move towards a more open position, the first holding arm 370 and second holding arm 372 move farther apart to accommodate rolls of sheet material having larger widths. Advantageously, the scissor arms 310a, 310b are configured to move the first arm assembly 302 and second arm assembly 304, and subsequently the first holding arm 370 and second holding arm 372 an equal distance. Such equidistance movement ensure that rolls placed on the roll retaining device 300 remain centered with respect to the dispensing mechanism 50 and/or dispensing opening 44. The dispensers provided herein can also be outfitted with any number of operational components. The operation components can be housed in the housing and/or located external to the housing. Suitable operational components can vary depending on the type of dispenser and product to be dispensed. For example, the operational components of the dispenser can be mounted directly to the backplate of the housing or can be part of a module that is received within the housing. For example, the operational components can be part of a module that may be readily removable from the housing for servicing and/or replacing components without the necessity of having to remove the entire dispenser from its support surface. For dispensing paper products, such as one or more rolls of sheet material, the operational components can include rollers, such as pressure rollers, drive rollers, drive motors, gear assemblies, and control circuity, including, for example, controllers or microprocessors, for driving paper product from the roll of sheet material out through a dispensing opening. Additional roll holders, including main roll holders and stub roll holders, can also be included in the dispenser. Additional transfer mechanisms may also be present in order to transfer dispensing between a stub roll and a main roll. Such components are known by those of skill in the art and can be incorporated accordingly herein. Additionally, tear bars or cutting bars may be present in order to cut the paper product as it is dispensed from the dispensing material. In certain embodiments, the dispenser can be configured to dispense a particular amount of sheet material. Dispensing mechanisms can be powered by batteries in a battery component or can be powered by an AC to DC distribution system.

Additionally, any variety of known sensors can be included in the dispenser provided herein. For example, in certain embodiments, the dispenser can include a sensor capable of detecting the presence of a user in a detection zone and administering a select amount of dispensable product accordingly. Such detection sensors are known in the art. Furthermore, additional refill detection sensors and/or systems are known and can be incorporated into the dispensers provided herein.

Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure include features that improve the overall functionality and performance of the dispenser. For example, the pressure roller reduces paper wrinkling and de-centering, while disposition of the gasket material and magnets and disclosed herein ensures a quieter operating dispenser. The roll retaining device allows for a multi-functional dispenser ensuring that different sized rolls can adequately be accommodated by the dispenser.

These and other modifications and variations to the present disclosure may be practiced by those of ordinary skill in the art, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, which is more particularly set forth in the appended claims. In addition, it should be understood that aspects of the various embodiments may be interchanged both in whole or in part. Furthermore, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the foregoing description is by way of example only, and is not intended to limit the disclosure so further described in such appended claims.

Claims

What Is Claimed:

1 . A dispenser for dispensing sheet material from one or more rolls of sheet material, comprising: a housing having an interior volume so as to retain a first roll of sheet material; and a dispensing mechanism disposed within the housing to dispense sheet material, the dispensing mechanism including a drive roller and a pressure roller biased against the drive roller forming a nip through which sheet material is dispensed, the pressure roller and/or drive roller having a center portion defining a center diameter D1 , a first end defining an end diameter D2, and a second end defining an end diameter D3, wherein a ratio of D1 to D2 and/or D1 to D3 is from about 5:1 to about 1.1 :1.

2. The dispenser of claim 1 , wherein the pressure roller and/or drive roller comprises an outer surface that curves from the first end to the second end.

3. The dispenser of claim 1 , wherein the drive roller comprises a first end coupled to the housing and a second end coupled to a motor.

4. The dispenser of claim 3, wherein the first end comprises a spindle having a gasket material disposed thereon, wherein the gasket material is disposed between the first end and the housing to provide cushioning between the first end of the drive roller and the housing.

5. The dispenser of claim 3, wherein a gasket material is disposed between the second end of the drive roller and the motor.

6. The dispenser of claim 5, wherein the gasket material is disposed within an interior of the drive roller.

7. The dispenser of claim 5, wherein the gasket material is disposed between a portion of the drive roller and a gear.

8. The dispenser of claim 1 , wherein the housing comprises a front cover coupled to a back plate, the front cover being movable from a closed position to an open position.

9. The dispenser of claim 8, wherein the back plate comprises a slot having a first end and a second end, wherein the front cover comprises a tab configured to be disposed in the slot.

10. The dispenser of claim 9, wherein a back plate magnet is disposed on the second end of the slot and a front cover magnet is disposed on the tab such that when the front cover is moved from the closed position to the open position, the back plate magnet and front cover magnet are oriented with the same polarity facing each other to stop the front cover. The dispenser of claim 9, wherein a metal tube is disposed along the slot of the back plate and a front cover magnet is disposed on the tab, such that when the front cover is moved from a closed position to an open position the front cover magnet moves within the metal tube to stop the front cover. The dispenser of claim 11 , wherein the second end of the slot comprises a second back plate magnet, such that when the front cover is moved from the closed position to the open position, the second back plate magnet and front cover magnet are oriented with the same polarity facing each other to stop the front cover. The dispenser of claim 1 , comprising a roll retaining device for holding the roll of sheet material disposed on a backplate of the housing. The dispenser of claim 13, wherein the roll retaining device comprises: a first arm assembly having one or more gear teeth thereon; a second arm assembly having one or more gear teeth thereon; and a gear coupled to the backplate, the first arm assembly, and the second arm assembly, such that rotation of the gear moves the first arm assembly and the second arm assembly. The dispenser of claim 14, wherein the first arm assembly and second arm assembly are spring-loaded. The dispenser of claim 13, wherein the roll retaining device comprises: a first arm assembly and a second arm assembly coupled together by a first scissor arm and a second scissor arm, wherein actuation of the first scissor arm and second scissor arm moves the first arm assembly and the second arm assembly. The dispenser of claim 1 , comprising a sensor to detect an object placed within a detection zone of the sensor. The dispenser of claim 17, comprising control circuity configured with the sensor and the dispensing mechanism to initiate a dispense cycle upon detection of an object by the sensor. The dispenser of claim 1 , comprising a dispensing opening through which sheet material is dispensed from the interior volume. A method of dispensing sheet material comprising dispensing sheet material from the dispenser of claim 1.