Sheet dispenser for pop-up dispensing

Abstract

A sheet dispenser includes a plurality of walls, wherein the dispensing walls have openings. A stack of folded individual tissue products is disposed within the plurality of walls and can be dispensed through the openings in the dispensing walls. The ratio of the length to the width of the opening is between 1.6:1 and 1.4:1, such that the opening is configured to allow for pop-out dispensing of the stack of folded individual tissue products through the opening.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] Paper towel products (such as facial tissues) are typically folded interlockingly into stacks or clips and placed in a container. Users can reach through an opening in the container to grab a sheet of tissue and remove it from the container. In some containers, after one sheet is removed, subsequent sheets are partially dispensed, with the exposed portion of the subsequent sheet protruding from the container's opening. This "pop-up" sheet dispensing is convenient for many applications because the next sheet is readily available for quick access.

[0002] Known containers for pop-up sheet dispensing have drawbacks. For example, pop-up sheet dispensing can become unreliable as container height increases and / or the stack height of remaining sheets decreases. Consequently, partially dispensed sheets may fall back into the container through the opening and become difficult to retrieve. Some known containers for pop-up sheet dispensing include a plastic film window to hold the partially dispensed sheets in place. However, the sustainability of this plastic film is an important consumer consideration. Furthermore, the opening and the plastic film can be damaged, which may restrict or prevent pop-up sheet dispensing.

[0003] Improved containers for dispensing tissue products would be useful. For example, containers for pop-up sheet dispensing made of sustainable materials would be useful. Furthermore, containers for pop-up sheet dispensing that do not include a plastic film spanning the dispensing opening would be useful. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Generally, this disclosure relates to a sheet dispenser for sheet materials (e.g., facial tissues). The sheet dispenser includes features for facilitating pop-out dispensing of sheet material through an opening in the dispenser's dispensing wall. Furthermore, the size and shape of the opening can be configured for pop-out dispensing of folded tissue products through the opening. For example, the opening may have a length along a lateral direction and a width along a transverse direction perpendicular to the lateral direction. The ratio of the opening's length to its width can be selected to facilitate pop-out dispensing of stacks of individual folded tissue products through the opening. This ratio can be between 1.6:1 and 1.4:1. In pop-out dispensing, the end of the tissue product may extend from the interior of the sheet dispenser through the opening to the exterior of the sheet dispenser for pop-out dispensing. Specifically, the sheet dispenser can provide improved dispensing while simultaneously balancing retraction into the sheet dispenser with tearing. As an example, the feather-like portion of the tissue product extending through the opening can extend more than 2.5 cm (2.5 cm), preferably more than 7.5 cm (7.5 cm), such as more than 10 cm (10 cm) above the sheet dispenser. The sheet dispenser can provide this aesthetically pleasing feather-like portion, for example, without a plastic film baffle to support the feather-like portion of the tissue product extending through the opening. However, in an example embodiment, a paper baffle can be adhered to the dispensing wall at the opening. The paper baffle can advantageously help support the end of the tissue product that extends from the inside of the sheet dispenser through the paper baffle at the opening to the outside of the sheet dispenser for pop-out dispensing.

[0005] In one example embodiment, the sheet dispenser includes a plurality of walls defining an interior and including a dispensing wall with an opening. The dispensing wall defines a lateral direction and a transverse direction. The lateral direction is perpendicular to the transverse direction. The opening of the dispensing wall has a length along the lateral direction and a width along the transverse direction. A stack of folded individual tissue products is disposed within the interior of the plurality of walls and is dispensable through the opening of the dispensing wall. The ratio of the length to the width of the opening is between 1.6:1 and 1.4:1, such that the opening is configured to allow for pop-out dispensing of the stack of folded individual tissue products through the opening.

[0006] In another example embodiment, the sheet dispenser includes a plurality of walls defining an interior and including a dispensing wall with an opening. The dispensing wall defines a lateral direction and a transverse direction. The lateral direction is perpendicular to the transverse direction. The opening of the dispensing wall has a length along the lateral direction and a width along the transverse direction. The ratio of the length to the width of the opening is between 1.6:1 and 1.4:1. A first edge of the dispensing wall is positioned relative to a second edge of the dispensing wall along the lateral direction around the dispensing opening, and both the first and second edges are straight. A third edge of the dispensing wall is positioned relative to a fourth edge of the dispensing wall along the transverse direction around the dispensing opening, and both the third and fourth edges are arcuate. A stack of folded individual tissue products is disposed within the interior of the plurality of walls and is dispensable through the opening of the dispensing wall. A paper baffle is attached to the dispensing wall at the opening.

[0007] Other features and aspects of this disclosure are discussed in more detail below. Attached Figure Description

[0008] The full and practical disclosure of this invention is set forth in more detail in the remainder of the specification, including with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0009] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a paper box for a tissue product according to an example implementation of this topic;

[0010] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A top view of an example cardboard box;

[0011] Figure 3 It is used for manufacturing Figure 1 A top view of the blank of an example cardboard box;

[0012] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A top view of the baffles and openings of an example cardboard box;

[0013] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Top view of the baffle;

[0014] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A partial top view of the baffle; and

[0015] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A side sectional view of an example cardboard box.

[0016] The repeated use of reference numerals in this specification and drawings is intended to indicate the same or similar features or elements of the invention.

[0017] definition

[0018] When describing elements of this disclosure or its preferred embodiments, the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” and “the” are intended to indicate the presence of one or more elements. As used herein, the terms “comprising” and “including” are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “containing.” Similarly, the term “or” is generally intended to be inclusive (i.e., “A or B” is intended to mean “A or B or both”). As used herein throughout the specification and claims, approximate language is applied to modify any quantitative expression that allows for variation without altering its underlying function. Thus, values ​​modified by one or more terms such as “about,” “approximately,” and “substantially” are not limited to specified precise values. In at least some cases, approximate language may correspond to the precision of the instrument used to measure the value. For example, approximate language may refer to a range of ten percent (10%).

[0019] As used herein, “sheet material” is a flexible substrate that can be used for housework, cleaning, personal care; healthcare, food packaging, and cosmetic application or removal. Non-limiting examples of suitable substrates for use in dispensers include: nonwoven substrates; woven substrates; spunlace substrates; air-spunlace substrates; cellulose-containing paper substrates, such as tissue paper, toilet paper, and thick paper towels; waxed paper substrates; conformal substrates comprising cellulose fibers and polymer fibers; wet substrates, such as wet wipes, wet cleaning wipes, wet toilet paper, and baby wipes; film or plastic substrates, such as those used for wrapping food; wiping cloths; and metal substrates, such as aluminum foil. Furthermore, substrates consisting of two or more layers laminated or stacked together are also suitable.

[0020] As used herein, “wet sheet material” includes a substrate that is wetted or pre-wetted by a suitable liquid, partially wetted by a suitable liquid, or initially dried but intended to be wetted by placing the substrate in a suitable liquid such as water or a solvent prior to use. Non-limiting examples of suitable wet substrates include substantially dry substrates (less than 10% by weight of water) containing foaming surfactants and conditioning agents impregnated into or applied to the substrate, such that wetting the substrate with water prior to use produces a personal cleaning product. Such substrates are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,980,931, entitled “Cleansing Products Having A Substantially Dry Substrate,” granted November 9, 1999, to Fowler et al. Other suitable wet sheet materials may have encapsulating components that allow the capsule to rupture during dispensing or use. Examples of encapsulation materials include those disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,215,757, entitled "Encapsulated Materials," granted to El-Nokaly on June 1, 1993, and U.S. Patent No. 5,599,555, entitled "Encapsulated Cosmetic Compositions," granted to El-Nokaly on February 4, 1997. Other suitable wet sheet materials include dry substrates that deliver liquid when subjected to shear and compressive forces in use. Such substrates are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 6,121,165, entitled "Wet-Like Cleaning Articles," granted to Mackay et al. on September 19, 2000. Other suitable wet sheet materials include those with formulations that can be heated in a microwave oven to produce warm wet wipes. Detailed Implementation

[0021] Those skilled in the art will understand that this discussion is merely a description of exemplary embodiments and is not intended to limit the broader aspects of this disclosure.

[0022] Generally, this subject matter relates to a sheet dispenser for sheet materials, including tissue products such as facial tissues. The sheet dispenser may include features for facilitating pop-out dispensing of folded tissue products within the sheet dispenser through openings in the dispenser's dispensing walls. The sheet dispenser may include multiple walls. For example, the sheet dispenser may include six walls arranged in a cubic or rectangular prism configuration. The size and shape of the openings may be configured for pop-out dispensing of folded tissue products through the openings. For example, the openings may have a length along a lateral direction and a width along a transverse direction perpendicular to the lateral direction. The ratio of the length to the width of the opening may be between 1.6:1 and 1.4:1, for example, to facilitate pop-out dispensing of stacks of individual folded tissue products through the openings. Furthermore, in an example embodiment, this dimensional configuration of the openings may advantageously support the ends of the tissue products extending from the interior of the sheet dispenser through the openings to the exterior of the sheet dispenser for pop-out dispensing. Specifically, this ratio can provide improved dispensing while simultaneously balancing retraction into the sheet dispenser with tearing. As an example, the feather-like portion of the tissue product extending through the opening can extend more than 2.5 cm (2.5 cm) above the sheet dispenser, preferably more than 7.5 cm (7.5 cm), such as extending more than 10 cm (10 cm) above the sheet dispenser. The sheet dispenser can provide this aesthetically pleasing feather-like portion, for example, without a plastic film baffle supporting the feather-like portion of the tissue product extending through the opening. However, in an example embodiment, a paper baffle can be adhered to the dispensing wall at the opening. The paper baffle can advantageously help support the end of the tissue product that extends from the inside of the sheet dispenser through the paper baffle at the opening to the outside of the sheet dispenser for pop-out dispensing.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a dispenser 10 for sheet materials (such as facial tissues). Figure 1 As shown, the dispenser 10 may include a paper tray 12 having a plurality of walls 20. In an example embodiment, the paper tray 12 may be made of a blank 24 ( Figure 3 The blank 24 can be formed from a sheet material, such as cardboard, carton raw material, paperboard, plastic, and / or metal, which is cut to form the shape of the blank 24. In addition to the walls 20, the blank 24 may also include tabs 60 for joining the walls 20 together. The blank 24 can be folded around a fold line, and the tabs 60 can be secured to the interior portions of the walls 20 with adhesive. Other construction techniques known to those skilled in the art of carton construction can be used to form the carton 12.

[0024] The cardboard box 12 can have any suitable shape or arrangement. Figure 1In the illustrated example embodiment, the cardboard box 12 includes six walls 20. Alternatively, the six walls 20 may also be arranged in a cubic or cuboid shape. However, in alternative example embodiments, the cardboard box 12 may have other shapes. For example, the cardboard box 12 may have a triangular prism shape, a pyramid shape, or other shapes, depending on the desired arrangement. Therefore, for example, in other example embodiments, the cardboard box 12 may have two, three, four, five, seven, or more walls 20. It should be understood that... Figure 1 The shape of the cardboard box 12 shown is provided by way of example only.

[0025] like Figure 1 As can be seen, the cardboard box 12 can define a lateral direction L, a transverse direction T, and a vertical direction V. The lateral direction L, transverse direction T, and vertical direction V can be oriented perpendicularly and orthogonally to each other. In other example embodiments, the lateral direction L and transverse direction T can be perpendicular to each other but not perpendicular to the vertical direction V, for example, depending on the arrangement of the cardboard box 12.

[0026] The cardboard box 12 defines an interior 14 for accommodating multiple sheets 50. For example, the sheets 50 can be interleaved for pop-out distribution and formed into a stack 52. Figure 7 As shown, the interlocking folded sheets 50 can be arranged as a stack 52 within the interior 14 of the cardboard box 12. The sheets 50 can be, for example, facial tissues, thick paper towels, industrial wipes, laboratory wipes, wet wipes, etc. It should be understood that this subject matter is not limited to any particular type of sheet. The stack 52 of the sheets 50 can be C-folded, V-folded, Z-folded, tab-bonded, or constructed relative to each other by any mechanism known in the art.

[0027] refer to Figures 1 to 4 The cardboard box may include an opening 30 for dispensing sheet 50 from the interior 14 of the cardboard box 12. For example, the top sheet 56 of the sheet 50 in the stack 52 may extend through the opening 30 such that the feathers 54 of the top sheet 56 extend upward, for example, along a vertical direction V, through the opening 30 away from the cardboard box 12. The opening 30 may be defined by a dispensing wall 22 of the wall 20, which, in an example embodiment, may correspond to the top wall of the cardboard box 12. The top sheet 56 may be the sheet 50 in the stack 52 that is closest to the dispensing wall 22 and the opening 30, for example, along a vertical direction V. As discussed in more detail below, the cardboard box 12 may be configured for pop-out sheet dispensing of the sheet 50, for example, such that the feathers 54 of the top sheet 56 are held above the opening 30.

[0028] like Figure 2 and Figure 4As shown, the opening 30 of the distribution wall 22 may have a length LO, for example, along the lateral direction L. The opening 30 of the distribution wall 22 may also have a length WO, for example, along the transverse direction T. The length LO and width WO can be selected to facilitate pop-out sheet distribution of the sheet 50 from the interior 14 of the carton 12 through the opening 30. For example, the ratio of the length LO to the width WO of the opening 30 may be between 1.6:1 and 1.4:1. This ratio between the length LO and the width WO of the opening 30 can advantageously facilitate pop-out distribution of the stack 52 of the sheet 50 through the opening 30. Furthermore, this ratio can support the top sheet 56 at the opening 30 such that the feathers 54 of the top sheet 56 extend upward in the vertical direction V through the opening 30, not less than 2.5 cm (2.5 cm), such as not less than 7.5 cm (7.5 cm), such as not less than 10 cm (10 cm) above the distribution wall 22. Therefore, this ratio can provide a pleasing decorative appearance for the feather portion 54, while also limiting or preventing the feather portion 54 from retracting into the interior 14 of the carton 12 and / or limiting or preventing tearing of the sheet 50 during dispensing through the opening 30.

[0029] like Figure 2 As shown, the dispensing wall 22 may have a length LC, for example, along the lateral direction L. The dispensing wall 22 may also have a width WC, for example, along the transverse direction T. In the example embodiment, the length LO of the opening 30 may be no less than twenty percent (20%) and no more than sixty percent (60%) of the length LC of the dispensing wall 22. The width WO of the opening 30 may be no less than forty percent (40%) and no more than sixty percent (60%) of the width WC of the dispensing wall 22. This dimension of the opening 30 relative to the dispensing wall 22 helps to provide a desired surface-finished area on the dispensing wall 22 while also providing the aforementioned pop-up sheet dispensing of the sheet 50. The length LC of the dispensing wall 22 may also be oriented substantially parallel to the sheet folding direction of the stack 52 of the sheet 50.

[0030] In the example embodiment, the length LO of the opening 30 may be no less than nine centimeters (9cm) and no more than thirteen centimeters (13cm), such as about eleven centimeters (11cm). The width WO of the opening 30 may be no less than four centimeters (4cm) and no more than eight centimeters (8cm), such as about six centimeters (6cm). In the example embodiment, the length LC of the distribution wall 22 may be no less than eight centimeters (8cm) and no more than thirty centimeters (30cm), such as about twenty-one and a half centimeters (21.5cm) or about twelve centimeters (12cm). The width WC of the distribution wall 22 may be no less than eight centimeters (8cm) and no more than eighteen centimeters (18cm), such as about twelve centimeters (12cm).

[0031] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the dispensing wall 22 may include various edges forming the opening 30. Furthermore, the dispensing wall 22 may include a first edge 130, a second edge 132, a third edge 134, and a fourth edge 136. The first edge 130, second edge 132, third edge 134, and fourth edge 136 may be arranged substantially in a quadrilateral shape, for example, and connected by rounded corners. The first edge 130 of the dispensing wall 22 may be positioned relative to the second edge 132 of the dispensing wall 22 about the opening 30 (e.g., along the lateral direction L). The third edge 134 of the dispensing wall 22 may be positioned relative to the fourth edge 136 of the dispensing wall 22 about the opening 30 (e.g., along the lateral direction T). The first edge 130, second edge 132, third edge 134, and fourth edge 136 may have suitable shapes. For example, the first edge 130 and second edge 132 of the dispensing wall 22 may be straight, and the third edge 134 and fourth edge 136 of the dispensing wall 22 may be arcuate. It should be understood that in other example embodiments, the edges of the forming opening 30 of the distribution wall 22 may have other shapes.

[0032] The cardboard box 12 may also include a lid 40. The lid 40 may be attached to the dispensing wall 22 over the opening 30. Thus, the lid 40 may cover the opening 30. In an example embodiment, the lid 40 may be formed by forming a perforated tear line in the blank 24. Furthermore, the shape of the lid 40 may correspond to or complement the shape of the opening 30. Thus, for example, the opening 30 may be formed in or exposed on the dispensing wall 22 when the user removes or separates the lid 40 from the dispensing wall 22. The lid 40 may also be referred to as a "surfboard". In an example embodiment, the lid 40 may be removed by the user via a thumb hole opening 42. The user may insert a finger into the thumb hole opening 42 and pull upwards in a vertical direction V to tear the lid 40 off the dispensing wall 22.

[0033] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figures 4 to 7 As shown, baffle 100 may be attached to dispensing wall 22 at opening 30. For example, baffle 100 may adhere to the inner surface of dispensing wall 22, such as the inner surface facing the interior 14 of cardboard box 12. Baffle 100 may include or be formed of paper sheet 110. Therefore, baffle 100 may advantageously be formed of a more sustainable material than conventional plastic film baffles. Thus, for example, in the example embodiment, baffle 100 may be free of plastic film.

[0034] Paper sheet 110 defines a dispensing opening 116, which extends through the paper sheet 110 at its central portion. The dispensing opening 116 is configured to dispense sheet 50 from the interior 14 of the cartridge 12. For example, a top sheet 56 may extend through a baffle 100 at the dispensing opening 116, such that the feathers 54 of the top sheet 56 extend upward, for example, in a vertical direction V, through the dispensing opening 116 away from the baffle 100. As discussed in more detail below, the baffle 100 may be configured for pop-out sheet dispensing of sheet 50 from the cartridge 12, for example, such that the feathers 54 of the top sheet 56 remain above the opening 30.

[0035] The paper sheet 110 may include a plurality of lobes 115 at the dispensing opening 116, i.e., at least four lobes 115, including a first lobe 120, a second lobe 122, a third lobe 124, and a fourth lobe 126. Each lobe 115 extends from a proximal portion to a distal portion. Furthermore, as... Figure 6 As shown: a first leaflet 120 extends, for example, along a lateral direction L from a proximal portion 140 to a distal portion 141; a second leaflet 122 extends, for example, along a lateral direction L from a proximal portion 142 to a distal portion 143; a third leaflet 124 extends, for example, along a transverse direction T from a proximal portion 144 to a distal portion 145; and a fourth leaflet 126 extends, for example, along a transverse direction T from a proximal portion 146 to a distal portion 147. Leaflets 115 may extend inward, for example, from the outer portion of the sheet 110 toward the central portion of the sheet 110. In the example embodiment, the outer portion of the sheet 110 may be uncut or unperforated. Conversely, the central portion of the sheet 110 may be cut to form a dispensing opening 116 and leaflets 115. Leaflets 115 may advantageously help limit or prevent the feather 54 from retracting into the interior 14 of the carton 12 and / or limit or prevent tearing of the sheet 50 during dispensing through the opening 30.

[0036] Each of the leaflets 115 may have a length between the proximal and distal portions of each leaflet 115. For example, the first leaflet 120 may have a length LL between the proximal portion 140 and the distal portion 141, for example, along the lateral direction L. In an example embodiment, the length LL of the first leaflet 120 may be no less than 1.5 cm and no more than 2.5 cm (2.5 cm). The second leaflet 122 may have a similar length between the proximal portion 142 and the distal portion 143, for example, along the lateral direction L. As another example, the fourth leaflet 126 may have a width WL between the proximal portion 146 and the distal portion 147, for example, along the lateral direction T. In an example embodiment, the width WL of the fourth leaflet 126 may be no less than 1.3 cm and no more than 2.3 cm (2.3 cm). The third leaflet 124 may have a similar width between the proximal portion 144 and the distal portion 145, for example, along the lateral direction T.

[0037] The first leaflet 120 may be positioned relative to the second leaflet 122 at the dispensing opening 116, for example, along the lateral direction L. Conversely, the third leaflet 124 may be positioned relative to the fourth leaflet 126 at the dispensing opening 116, for example, along the transverse direction T. The third leaflet 124 and the fourth leaflet 126 may be disposed, for example, between the first leaflet 120 and the second leaflet 122 along the lateral direction L.

[0038] like Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the first leaflet 120 may define a first arcuate cut line 160 with the third leaflet 124 and the fourth leaflet 126. The second leaflet 122 may define a second arcuate cut line 162 with the third leaflet 124 and the fourth leaflet 126. The third leaflet 124 may define a sinusoidal cut line 164 with the fourth leaflet 126. Cut lines 160, 162, and 164 may form a dispensing opening 116 and a leaflet 115 in the sheet 110. Such cut lines may advantageously help to limit or prevent the feather 54 from retracting into the interior 14 of the carton 12 and / or limit or prevent tearing of the sheet 50 during dispensing through the opening 30.

[0039] The leaflets 115 can be deformed at the distribution opening 116. For example, in a normal arrangement, the leaflets 115 can be positioned above the distribution opening 116. Furthermore, the leaflets 115 can be positioned substantially coplanar with each other in a normal arrangement, for example, such that the proximal and distal portions of the leaflets 115 are positioned at a common height along the vertical direction V. Conversely, in a distribution arrangement, the leaflets 115 can be deformed away from the distribution opening 116. Additionally, the leaflets 115 can be deflected upwards in a distribution arrangement, for example, such that the distal portion of the leaflets 115 is positioned above the proximal portion of the leaflets 115 along the vertical direction V.

[0040] like Figure 5As shown, the paper sheet 110 may also have a length LB, for example, in the lateral direction T. The paper sheet 110 may also have a width WB, for example, in the transverse direction T. In the example embodiment, the length LB of the paper sheet 110 may be not less than nine centimeters (9 cm) and not more than eighteen centimeters (18 cm), such as about twelve centimeters (12 cm). The width WB of the paper sheet 110 may be not less than eight centimeters (8 cm) and not more than thirteen centimeters (13 cm), such as about ten centimeters (10 cm).

[0041] In an exemplary embodiment, the paper sheet 110 may extend, for example, between a first end portion 111 and a second end portion 112 along a lateral direction L. The length LB of the paper sheet 110 may be defined, for example, between the first end portion 111 and the second end portion 112 along a lateral direction L. The paper sheet 110 may extend, for example, between a first side portion 113 and a second side portion 114 along a transverse direction T. The width WB of the paper sheet 110 may be defined, for example, between the first side portion 113 and the second side portion 114 along a transverse direction T. In an exemplary embodiment, the paper sheet 110 may be substantially quadrilateral.

[0042] The proximal portion 140 of the first leaf 120 may be located at the first end portion 111 of the paper 110, and the proximal portion 142 of the second leaf 122 may be located at the second end portion 112 of the paper 110. The distal portion 141 of the first leaf 120 may form at least a portion of the first arcuate cutting line 160. The distal portion 143 of the second leaf 122 may form at least a portion of the second arcuate cutting line 162. The proximal portion 144 of the third leaf 124 may be located at the first side portion 113 of the paper 110, and the proximal portion 146 of the fourth leaf 126 may be located at the second side portion 113 of the paper 110. The distal portion 145 of the third leaf 124 may form at least a portion of the sinusoidal cutting line 164. The distal portion 147 of the fourth leaf 126 may form at least a portion of the sinusoidal cutting line 164.

[0043] like Figure 6 As shown, in the example embodiment, the first arcuate cutting line 160 and the second arcuate cutting line 162 may each include a first straight segment 150, a second straight segment 152, and a curved segment 154. The first straight segment 150 may also be oriented, for example, at approximately forty-five degrees (45°) relative to the lateral direction L. The second straight segment 152 may also be oriented, for example, at approximately forty-five degrees (45°) relative to the lateral direction L. The curved segment 154 may extend between and connect the first straight segment 152 and the second straight segment 154.

[0044] like Figure 4As can be seen, the end portions of the first arcuate cut line 160 and the second arcuate cut line 162 may extend, for example, along the lateral direction L from the dispensing opening 116 below the dispensing wall 22. Therefore, the end portions of the first arcuate cut line 160 and the second arcuate cut line 162 may be positioned below the dispensing wall 22. This positioning of the end portions of the first arcuate cut line 160 and the second arcuate cut line 162 can advantageously help limit or prevent tearing of the baffle 100, for example, when the user removes the cover 40 via the thumb hole opening 42 and / or when the user removes the top sheet 56 through the opening 30. In some example embodiments, the first arcuate cut line 160 and / or the second arcuate cut line 162 may be recessed inward from the outer edge of the paper sheet 110 by not less than one centimeter (1 cm) and not more than three centimeters (3 cm).

[0045] The sinusoidal cleaving line 164 may have an amplitude and a wavelength. As an example, the amplitude of the sinusoidal cleaving line 164 may not be greater than five millimeters (5 mm). The wavelength of the sinusoidal cleaving line 164 may be not less than ten millimeters (10 mm) and not greater than sixty millimeters (60 mm). The sinusoidal cleaving line 164 may extend, for example, along the lateral direction L between the first leaflet 120 and the second leaflet 122 for not less than one (1) wavelength. These parameters of the sinusoidal cleaving line 164 may advantageously help the leaflet 115 clamp or hold the sheet 50, such that the leaflet 115 restricts or prevents the feather portion 54 from retracting into the interior 14 of the carton 12 and / or restricts or prevents the sheet 50 from tearing during dispensing through the baffle 100.

[0046] It should be understood that the baffle 100 may include notch markings in the cut lines of the paper sheet 110. For example, the paper sheet 110 may include notch markings located between the first lobe 120 and the third lobe 124 at the first arcuate cut line 160 (e.g., at the junction between the first straight segment 150 and the curved segment 154). As another example, the paper sheet 110 may include notch markings located between the first lobe 120 and the fourth lobe 126 at the first arcuate cut line 160 (e.g., at the junction between the second straight segment 152 and the curved segment 154). As yet another example, the paper sheet 110 may include notch markings located between the third lobe 124 and the fourth lobe 126 at the sinusoidal cut line 164. As an alternative to or supplement to the notch markings in the above examples, other notch markings between the lobes 115 may also be included.

[0047] As described above, the baffle 100 may be adhered to the cardboard box 12 at the opening 30, for example, the dispensing wall 22. For example, the outer portion of the sheet 110 may be adhered to the inner surface of the dispensing wall 22 facing the interior 14 of the cardboard box 12. The dispenser 10 may be configured to pop-out dispense the sheet 50 from the interior 14 of the cardboard box 12. The size and shape of the opening 30 in the dispensing wall 22 and / or the size and shape of the baffle 100 may facilitate pop-out dispensing.

[0048] These and other modifications and variations of the invention can be practiced by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, which are more specifically set forth in the appended claims. Furthermore, it should be understood that aspects of the various embodiments are interchangeable in whole or in part. Moreover, those skilled in the art will understand that the foregoing description is merely illustrative and is not intended to limit the invention further described in the appended claims.

[0049] Example Implementation Plan

[0050] First example embodiment: A sheet dispenser comprising: a plurality of walls defining an interior and including a dispensing wall having an opening, the dispensing wall defining a lateral direction and a transverse direction, the lateral direction being perpendicular to the transverse direction, the opening of the dispensing wall having a length along the lateral direction and a width along the transverse direction; and a stack of folded individual tissue products disposed within the interior of the plurality of walls and capable of dispensing through the opening of the dispensing wall, wherein the ratio of the length to the width of the opening is between 1.6:1 and 1.4:1, such that the opening is configured to pop-out dispense the stack of folded individual tissue products through the opening.

[0051] Second example implementation: The sheet dispenser according to the first example implementation, wherein the plurality of walls are formed from a cardboard blank, which is folded to form the plurality of walls.

[0052] Third example implementation: The sheet dispenser according to the first example implementation or the second example implementation, wherein the plurality of walls are six walls, and the dispensing wall is one of the six walls.

[0053] Fourth example implementation: A sheet dispenser according to any one of the first to third example implementations, wherein: the dispensing wall has a length along the lateral direction and a width along the transverse direction; and the length of the opening is not less than 20 percent and not more than 60 percent of the length of the dispensing wall, and the width of the opening is not less than 40 percent and not more than 60 percent of the width of the dispensing wall.

[0054] Fifth example implementation: A sheet dispenser according to any one of the first to fourth example implementations, wherein the length of the opening is about 40 percent of the length of the dispensing wall, and the width of the opening is about 50 percent of the width of the dispensing wall.

[0055] Sixth Example Implementation: A sheet dispenser according to any one of the first to fifth example implementations, wherein the length of the opening is not less than nine centimeters and not more than thirteen centimeters, and the width of the opening is not less than four centimeters and not more than eight centimeters.

[0056] Seventh Example Implementation: A sheet dispenser according to any one of the first to sixth example implementations, wherein the length of the opening is about eleven centimeters and the width of the opening is about six centimeters.

[0057] Eighth Example Implementation: A sheet dispenser according to any one of the first to seventh example implementations, wherein: a first edge of the dispensing wall is positioned relative to a second edge of the dispensing wall in the lateral direction around the dispensing opening, and the first and second edges of the dispensing wall are straight; and a third edge of the dispensing wall is positioned relative to a fourth edge of the dispensing wall in the transverse direction around the dispensing opening, and the third and fourth edges of the dispensing wall are arcuate.

[0058] Ninth Example Implementation: The sheet dispenser according to any one of the first to eighth example implementations further includes a paper baffle attached to the dispensing wall at the opening.

[0059] Tenth Example Embodiment: A sheet dispenser according to any one of the first to ninth example embodiments, wherein: the paper baffle defines a dispensing opening through the paper baffle; the paper baffle includes four lobes at the dispensing opening, each of the four lobes extending from a proximal portion to a distal portion; a first lobe of the four lobes is positioned relative to a second lobe of the four lobes in the lateral direction around the dispensing opening, and a third lobe of the four lobes is positioned relative to a fourth lobe of the four lobes in the transverse direction around the dispensing opening; the first lobe, the third lobe, and the fourth lobe define a first arcuate cutting line, and the second lobe, the third lobe, and the fourth lobe define a second arcuate cutting line; and the third lobe and the fourth lobe define a sinusoidal cutting line.

[0060] Eleventh Example Implementation: A sheet dispenser according to any one of the first to tenth example implementations, wherein: a first straight segment oriented at approximately forty-five degrees relative to the lateral direction; a second straight segment oriented at approximately forty-five degrees relative to the lateral direction; and a curved segment extending between and connecting the first and second straight segments.

[0061] Twelfth Example Implementation: A sheet dispenser according to any one of the first to eleventh example implementations, wherein the end portions of the first arcuate cut line and the end portions of the second arcuate cut line extend from the dispensing opening below the dispensing wall.

[0062] Thirteenth Example Implementation: The sheet dispenser according to any one of the first to twelfth example implementations further includes a cover attached to the dispensing wall above the paper baffle and the dispensing opening, the cover and the dispensing wall defining a thumb hole opening for removing the cover from the dispensing wall.

[0063] Fourteenth Example Embodiment: A sheet dispenser comprising: a plurality of walls defining an interior and including a dispensing wall having an opening, the dispensing wall defining a lateral direction and a transverse direction, the lateral direction being perpendicular to the transverse direction, the opening of the dispensing wall having a length along the lateral direction and a width along the transverse direction, wherein the ratio of the length to the width of the opening is between 1.6:1 and 1.4:1, wherein a first edge of the dispensing wall is positioned relative to a second edge of the dispensing wall along the lateral direction around the dispensing opening, and the first and second edges of the dispensing wall are straight, and wherein a third edge of the dispensing wall is positioned relative to a fourth edge of the dispensing wall along the transverse direction around the dispensing opening, and the third and fourth edges of the dispensing wall are arcuate; a stack of folded individual tissue products disposed within the interior of the plurality of walls and capable of dispensing through the opening of the dispensing wall; and a paper baffle attached to the dispensing wall at the opening.

[0064] Fifteenth Example Implementation: The sheet dispenser according to the fourteenth example implementation, wherein the plurality of walls are formed from a cardboard blank, the cardboard blank being folded to form the plurality of walls.

[0065] Sixteenth Example Implementation: The sheet dispenser according to the fourteenth or fifteenth example implementation, wherein: the dispensing wall has a length along the lateral direction and a width along the transverse direction; and the length of the opening is not less than 20 percent and not more than 60 percent of the length of the dispensing wall, and the width of the opening is not less than 40 percent and not more than 60 percent of the width of the dispensing wall.

[0066] Seventeenth Example Implementation: A sheet dispenser according to any one of the fourteenth to sixteenth example implementations, wherein the length of the opening is not less than nine centimeters and not more than thirteen centimeters, and the width of the opening is not less than four centimeters and not more than eight centimeters.

[0067] Eighteenth Example Embodiment: A sheet dispenser according to any one of the fourteenth to seventeenth example embodiments, wherein: the paper baffle defines a dispensing opening through the paper baffle; the paper baffle includes four lobes at the dispensing opening, each of the four lobes extending from a proximal portion to a distal portion; a first lobe of the four lobes is positioned relative to a second lobe of the four lobes in the lateral direction around the dispensing opening, and a third lobe of the four lobes is positioned relative to a fourth lobe of the four lobes in the transverse direction around the dispensing opening; the first lobe, the third lobe, and the fourth lobe define a first arcuate cutting line, and the second lobe, the third lobe, and the fourth lobe define a second arcuate cutting line; and the third lobe and the fourth lobe define a sinusoidal cutting line.

[0068] Nineteenth Example Implementation: A sheet dispenser according to any one of the fourteenth to eighteenth example implementations, wherein the end portions of the first arcuate cut line and the end portions of the second arcuate cut line extend from the dispensing opening below the dispensing wall.

[0069] Twentieth Example Implementation: The sheet dispenser according to any one of the fourteenth to nineteenth example implementations further includes a cover attached to the dispensing wall above the paper baffle and the dispensing opening, the cover and the dispensing wall defining a thumb hole opening for removing the cover from the dispensing wall.

Claims

1. A sheet dispenser comprising: a plurality of walls defining an interior and including a dispensing wall having an opening, the dispensing wall defining a lateral direction and a transverse direction, the lateral direction being perpendicular to the transverse direction, the opening of the dispensing wall having a length along the lateral direction and a width along the transverse direction; and a stack of folded individual tissue products disposed within the interior of the plurality of walls and dispensable through the opening of the dispensing wall, wherein a ratio of the length of the opening to the width of the opening is between 1.6: 1 and 1.4: 1, such that the opening is configured for pop-up dispensing of the stack of folded individual tissue products through the opening.

2. The sheet dispenser of claim 1, wherein the plurality of walls are formed from a paperboard blank, the paperboard blank being folded to form the plurality of walls.

3. The sheet dispenser of claim 2, wherein the plurality of walls are six walls and the dispensing wall is one of the six walls.

4. The sheet dispenser of claim 1, wherein: the dispensing wall has a length along the lateral direction and a width along the transverse direction; and the length of the opening is no less than twenty percent and no more than sixty percent of the length of the dispensing wall and the width of the opening is no less than forty percent and no more than sixty percent of the width of the dispensing wall.

5. The sheet dispenser of claim 4, wherein the length of the opening is about forty percent of the length of the dispensing wall and the width of the opening is about fifty percent of the width of the dispensing wall.

6. The sheet dispenser of claim 1, wherein the length of the opening is no less than nine centimeters and no more than thirteen centimeters and the width of the opening is no less than four centimeters and no more than eight centimeters.

7. The sheet dispenser of claim 1, wherein the length of the opening is about eleven centimeters and the width of the opening is about six centimeters.

8. The sheet dispenser of claim 1, wherein: a first edge of the dispensing wall is positioned opposite a second edge of the dispensing wall about the dispensing opening along the lateral direction and the first and second edges of the dispensing wall are straight; and a third edge of the dispensing wall is positioned opposite a fourth edge of the dispensing wall about the dispensing opening along the transverse direction and the third and fourth edges of the dispensing wall are arcuate.

9. The sheet dispenser of claim 1, further comprising a paper dam attached to the dispensing wall at the opening.

10. The sheet dispenser of claim 9, wherein: the paper dam defines a dispensing opening through the paper dam; the paper dam includes four petals at the dispensing opening, each of the four petals extending from a proximal portion to a distal portion; a first one of the four petals is positioned opposite a second one of the four petals about the dispensing opening along the lateral direction, and a third one of the four petals is positioned opposite a fourth one of the four petals about the dispensing opening along the transverse direction; the first petal defines a first curved cut line with the third and fourth petals, and the second petal defines a second curved cut line with the third and fourth petals; and the third petal defines a sinusoidal cut line with the fourth petal.

11. The sheet dispenser of claim 10, wherein: a first straight segment, the first straight segment being oriented at about forty-five degrees with respect to the lateral direction; a second straight segment, the second straight segment being oriented at about forty-five degrees with respect to the lateral direction; and a curved segment, the curved segment extending between and connecting the first straight segment and the second straight segment.

12. The sheet dispenser of claim 10, wherein end portions of the first curved cut line and the second curved cut line extend from the dispensing opening under the dispensing wall.

13. The sheet dispenser of claim 9, further comprising a cover attached to the dispensing wall over the paper stop and the dispensing opening, the cover and the dispensing wall defining a thumbhole opening for removing the cover from the dispensing wall.

14. A sheet dispenser, the sheet dispenser comprising: a plurality of walls defining an interior and including a dispensing wall having an opening, the dispensing wall defining a lateral direction and a transverse direction, the lateral direction being perpendicular to the transverse direction, the opening of the dispensing wall having a length along the lateral direction and a width along the transverse direction, wherein a ratio of the length of the opening to the width of the opening is between 1.6:1 and 1.4:1, wherein a first edge of the dispensing wall is positioned opposite a second edge of the dispensing wall about the opening along the lateral direction, and the first edge and the second edge of the dispensing wall are straight, and wherein a third edge of the dispensing wall is positioned opposite a fourth edge of the dispensing wall about the opening along the transverse direction, and the third edge and the fourth edge of the dispensing wall are curved; a stack of folded individual paper towel products disposed within the interior of the plurality of walls and dispensable through the opening of the dispensing wall; and a paper stop attached to the dispensing wall at the opening.

15. The sheet dispenser of claim 14, wherein the plurality of walls are formed from a paperboard blank, the paperboard blank being folded to form the plurality of walls.

16. The sheet dispenser of claim 14, wherein: the dispensing wall has a length along the lateral direction and a width along the transverse direction; and the length of the dispensing wall is between 1.6 and 1.4 times the width of the dispensing wall. The length of the opening is not less than 20% and not more than 60% of the length of the distribution wall, and the width of the opening is not less than 40% and not more than 60% of the width of the distribution wall.

17. The sheet dispenser according to claim 14, wherein the length of the opening is not less than nine centimeters and not more than thirteen centimeters, and the width of the opening is not less than four centimeters and not more than eight centimeters.

18. The sheet dispenser according to claim 14, wherein: The paper baffle defines a dispensing opening that extends through the paper baffle; The paper baffle includes four lobes at the distribution opening, each of the four lobes extending from a proximal portion to a distal portion; The first leaflet of the four leaflets is positioned relative to the second leaflet of the four leaflets in the lateral direction around the distribution opening, and the third leaflet of the four leaflets is positioned relative to the fourth leaflet of the four leaflets in the transverse direction around the distribution opening. The first leaflet, together with the third and fourth leaflets, defines a first arcuate cutting line, and the second leaflet, together with the third and fourth leaflets, defines a second arcuate cutting line; and The third leaflet and the fourth leaflet define a sinusoidal cutting line.

19. The sheet dispenser of claim 18, wherein the end portions of the first arcuate cut line and the end portions of the second arcuate cut line extend from the dispensing opening below the dispensing wall.

20. The sheet dispenser of claim 19, further comprising a cover attached to the dispensing wall above the paper baffle and the dispensing opening, the cover and the dispensing wall defining a thumbhole opening for removing the cover from the dispensing wall.

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