Product dispenser for center feed dispensing and flat sheet dispensing of product rolls

Abstract

A product dispenser includes a product roll and a product roll received within an interior of a housing. A first wall of the housing defines a first opening for central feed dispensing of the roll of product from the interior of the housing, and a second wall of the housing defines a second opening for flat sheet dispensing of the roll of product from the interior of the housing.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to Related Patent Applications

[0002] This application is related to and has priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 446,123, filed on February 16, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. Background Art

[0003] Sheet roll products are used in a variety of industrial and commercial settings. Dispensers can dispense sheets from a roll without the user having to touch the roll. However, dispensers can quickly become dirty, worn, and so on during use. Single-use, disposable dispensers can avoid these drawbacks.

[0004] Single sheet dispensers can dispense a consistent, fixed number of sheets. Such dispensers can reduce sheet consumption and thus save material costs, handling costs, etc. However, conventional single sheet dispensers are limited to a single type of dispensing, such as center feed dispensing or flat sheet dispensing.

[0005] A single-use disposable dispenser having both center-feed dispensing and flat sheet dispensing features for sheet roll products would be useful. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Generally speaking, the present subject matter relates to a pre-filled, single-use dispenser for rolls of sheet material. The dispenser is configured for both center-feed dispensing and flat sheet dispensing of the roll of sheet material within the dispenser. Furthermore, the dispenser can be configured for controlled dispensing of individual sheets via a first opening for center-feed dispensing or a separate, second opening for flat sheet dispensing.

[0007] In one example embodiment, a product dispenser includes a product roll. A removable housing includes a plurality of walls. The removable housing defines an interior, and the product roll is received within the removable housing so that the product roll can rotate within the removable housing. A first wall of the plurality of walls defines a first opening for center-feed dispensing of the product roll from the interior of the removable housing. A second wall of the plurality of walls defines a second opening for flat sheet dispensing of the product roll from the interior of the removable housing.

[0008] In another exemplary embodiment, a product dispenser includes a product roll. A corrugated fiberboard housing is folded to form six walls. The corrugated fiberboard housing defines an interior, and the product roll is received within the interior of the corrugated fiberboard housing such that the product roll can rotate about an axis within the interior of the corrugated fiberboard housing. The width of the interior of the corrugated fiberboard housing is approximately equal to the width of the product roll. A first of the six walls defines a first opening at a central portion of the first wall for center-feed dispensing of the product roll from within the interior of the corrugated fiberboard housing. A second of the six walls defines a second opening at a side portion of the second wall for flat sheet dispensing of the product roll from within the interior of the corrugated fiberboard housing. The second opening includes an elongated slot. The length of the elongated slot is approximately equal to the width of the product roll along the axis. One or more of the six walls define a handle for carrying the corrugated fiberboard housing.

[0009] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims.The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, to those skilled in the art is set forth in the specification with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0011] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a product dispenser according to an example aspect of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Another perspective view of an example product dispenser of FIG. 1 with a wall of the example product dispenser opened to reveal the interior of the housing.

[0013] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Another perspective view of an example product dispenser of FIG. 1 , wherein product extends from a first opening for center feed dispensing and a second opening for flat sheet dispensing.

[0014] Figure 4 is used for Figure 1 A perspective view of a first opening of a center feed dispenser of an example product dispenser.

[0015] Figure 5 is used for Figure 1 A perspective view of a second opening for dispensing flat sheets of an example product dispenser.

[0016] Figures 6 to 10is a view of a housing of a product dispenser during formation of the housing by folding a fiberboard blank into the housing according to an example aspect of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 11 is a perspective view of a product dispenser according to another example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 12 is a perspective view of a shape of a first opening according to an example aspect of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 13 and Figure 14 is a perspective view of an insert for forming a first opening according to an example aspect of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 15 is a perspective view of a tooth portion of a second opening according to an example aspect of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 16 is a perspective view of a stack of inserts for a first opening according to an example aspect of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 17 is a top plan view of a fiberboard blank for a housing of a product dispenser according to example aspects of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 18 is a perspective view of a product dispenser according to an example aspect of the present disclosure, wherein product extends from a second opening for flat sheet dispensing.

[0024] Figure 19 yes Figure 18 1. A perspective view of an example product dispenser in which product extends from a first opening for center feed dispensing.

[0025] Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent same or analogous features or elements of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] The present disclosure generally relates to a product dispenser for a roll of sheet material. The product dispenser may include a housing with a product roll disposed within the interior of the housing. A first opening of the housing may be configured for center-feed dispensing of the product roll within the housing, and a second opening of the housing may be configured for flat sheet dispensing of the product roll within the housing. The housing may advantageously allow for dispensing individual sheets from the roll of sheet material via center-feed dispensing or flat sheet dispensing. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that this discussion is merely a description of exemplary embodiments and is not intended to limit the broader aspects of the present disclosure.

[0027] When introducing elements of the present disclosure or preferred embodiments thereof, the articles "a," "an," "the," and "said" are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. As used herein, the term "includes / including" is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprising." Similarly, the term "or" is generally intended to be inclusive (i.e., "A or B" is intended to mean "A or B or both"). Approximate language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, is used to modify any quantitative representation that is permissible for variation without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is associated. Therefore, a value modified by one or more terms such as "about," "approximately," and "substantially" is not limited to the precise value specified. 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 within a limit of ten percent (10%).

[0028] As used herein, the term "caliper" refers to the thickness of a sheet measured under constant force. Caliper can be determined using Test Method No. TAPPI 411-OM-89.

[0029] As used herein, the term "basis weight" (hereinafter "BW") is the weight of a sample per unit area and may be reported as grams-force per square meter and may be calculated hereinafter using test procedure ASTM D3776-96.

[0030] As used herein, the term "machine direction" (hereinafter "MD") is the direction of a material parallel to its direction of advancement during processing.

[0031] As used herein, the term "machine direction tensile" (hereinafter referred to as MDT) is the breaking force required to break a specimen in the machine direction. Results may be reported as grams-force and abbreviated as "gf." MDT may be determined using test method number ASTM D5035-95.

[0032] As used herein, the term "tab strength" is the breaking force required to break a sheet product along its perforations in the machine direction. The results may be reported in grams-force and abbreviated as "gf."

[0033] As used herein, the term "outlet port" or "dispensing port" is an opening in a dispenser housing for the passage of sheet material out of the dispenser.

[0034] As used herein, the term "center feed roll" or "center flow roll" means a sheet material that is cylindrically wound around a center but allows for removal of material from the center. Desirably, as the center flow roll is consumed, the sheet material is ultimately dispensed from the periphery of the roll. Dispensing of center flow roll products is described in numerous patents, such as, but not limited to, U.S. Patent No. 5,370,338 to Lewis and U.S. Patent No. 6,082,663 to Tramontina et al.

[0035] As used herein, the term "sheet" means a material that is thin relative to its length and width. Generally, a sheet should be in a relatively flat, planar configuration and flexible to permit folding, rolling, stacking, etc. Exemplary sheets include, but are not limited to, tissue paper, paper towels, label rolls, or other fibrous, film, polymeric, or filamentous products.

[0036] The present invention provides a device for dispensing rolled materials. Such rolled materials may include, but are not limited to, woven materials, nonwoven materials, synthetic materials, natural materials, foils, polymer films, any combination thereof, etc. In certain exemplary embodiments, the rolled materials are provided as sheets within the roll. Exemplary sheets that may be suitable for this subject include, but are not limited to, absorbent sheets such as towels, wipes, tissues, etc. Suitable sheets are disclosed, by way of non-limiting example only, in U.S. Patent No. 5,048,589 to Cook et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,399,412 to Sudall et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,674,590 to Anderson et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,772,845 to Farrington, Jr. et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,904,971 to Anderson et al., U.S. Patent No. 6,248,212 to Anderson et al., and U.S. Patent No. 6,273,996 to Hollenberg et al., the entire contents of all of these patents are incorporated herein by reference. The sheet can be wound around the core. Alternatively, the sheet can be wound into a coreless roll. The sheet can have regularly spaced areas of weakness extending substantially across the width of the sheet. The areas of weakness can separate the sheet into individual flakes and can be defined, for example, but not limited to, by a series of perforations, an area of ​​significantly lower basis weight, and the like.

[0037] Now go to Figures 1 to 3, a product dispenser 100 according to an example embodiment of the present subject matter will be described. The product dispenser 100 includes a housing 110 and a product roll 10 within the housing 110. The product dispenser 100 can be configured to dispense individual sheets from the product roll 10 via center feed dispensing and / or flat sheet dispensing. Thus, for example, the product dispenser 100 can advantageously dispense sheets from the product roll 10 via both center feed dispensing and flat sheet dispensing, rather than being limited to only one type of dispensing. The product dispenser 100 can define a lateral direction L, a transverse direction T, and a cross direction C. The lateral direction L, the transverse direction T, and the cross direction C can be perpendicular to each other and form an orthogonal direction system.

[0038] like Figure 3 As shown, product roll 10 can include a first end 12 and a second end 14. First end 12 of product roll 10 can abut product at the center of product roll 10, and second end 12 of product roll 10 can abut product on the outside of product roll 10. In an exemplary embodiment, first end 12 and second end 14 of product roll 10 correspond to opposite free ends of product roll 10. Thus, as discussed in more detail below, product from product roll 10 can be dispensed by center feed by pulling first end 12 of product roll 10 and thereby dispensing product from the center of product roll 10, and product from product roll 10 can also be dispensed by flat sheet dispensing by pulling second end 12 of product roll 10 and thereby dispensing product from the outside of product roll 10.

[0039] In certain example embodiments, the product on the product roll 10 can be continuous or uniform between the first end 12 and the second end 14. Thus, the same product can be dispensed via both the center feed dispensing and the flat sheet dispensing of the product roll 10. In other example embodiments, different products can be provided in the product roll 10. Thus, for example, different products can be dispensed via both the center feed dispensing and the flat sheet dispensing of the product roll 10. For example, one product can be provided at the first end 12 of the product roll 10 and thus dispensed via the center feed dispensing, and another different product can be provided at the second end 14 of the product roll 10 and thus dispensed via the flat sheet dispensing.

[0040] The housing 110 may include a plurality of walls 112. For example, Figures 1 to 3In the illustrated example embodiment, the housing 110 can include six walls 112. The six walls 112 can be arranged three-dimensionally to form the housing 110. In addition, as discussed in more detail below, the walls 112 can be formed by corrugated fiberboard, which can be cut and folded to form the housing 110 with six walls 112. It should be understood that this number and arrangement of walls 112 are provided only as examples. Other shapes of the housing 110 are also within the scope of this theme. In the illustrated example embodiment, the housing 110 can be formed as a detachable container for the product roll 10. Thus, for example, the housing 110 (including the walls 112) can be formed by a single piece of continuous and adjacent planar material that can be folded into a detachable container. The housing 110 can be made of cardboard, corrugated cardboard, plastic sheet, corrugated plastic sheet, etc.

[0041] The housing 110 may define an interior 11, and the product roll 10 ( Figure 3 ) can be received in the interior 111 of the housing 110. In addition, the product roll 10 can be capable of rotating within the interior 111 of the housing 110. Thus, for example, during dispensing, the product roll 10 can rotate within the interior 111 of the housing 110. For example, during dispensing of the product roll 10 via flat sheet dispensing, the product roll 10 can rotate about the axis X ( Figure 3 ) rotation. In certain example embodiments, housing 110 can be configured as a single-use, non-reusable, disposable housing that provides both the shipping carton and the dispenser housing.

[0042] As described above, the product dispenser 100 can be configured to dispense the product roll 10 via center feed dispensing and / or flat sheet dispensing. The housing 110 can define two or more openings, each of the two or more openings being configured to dispense the product roll 10 via a respective one of center feed dispensing and flat sheet dispensing. Figure 1 As shown, the first wall 114 of the walls 112 can define a first opening 115. The first opening 115 can extend, for example, along the transverse direction T from the interior 111 of the housing 110 through the first wall 114 to the exterior of the housing 110. The first opening 115 can be configured for center-feed dispensing of the product roll 10 from the interior 111 of the housing 110. Figure 3 As shown, the first end 12 of the product roll 10 can extend from the interior of the housing 110 through the first opening 115, and a user of the product dispenser 100 can pull the first end 12 of the product roll 10 in a first direction D1 to dispense the product roll 10 via the center feed at the first opening 115. Figure 1, a second wall 116 in the wall 112 can define a second opening 117. The second opening 117 can extend, for example, along a lateral direction L from the interior 111 of the housing 110 through the second wall 116 to the exterior of the housing 110. The second opening 117 can be configured for dispensing flat sheets of the product roll 10 from the interior 111 of the housing 110. In addition, as Figure 3 As shown, the second end 14 of the product roll 10 can extend from the interior of the housing 110 through the second opening 117, and a user of the product dispenser 100 can pull the second end 14 of the product roll 10 in a second direction D2 to dispense the product roll 10 via the center feed at the first opening 115. The second direction D2 can be substantially perpendicular to the first direction D1.

[0043] As can be seen above, each of the first opening 115 and the second opening 117 can be located on a respective one of the walls 112. Thus, the first opening 115 can be spaced apart and separated from the second opening 117 on the housing 110. The first wall 114 can be oriented perpendicular to the second wall 116. For example, a tangent to the first wall 114 can be parallel to the transverse direction T, and a tangent to the second wall 116 can be parallel to the lateral direction L. Thus, for example, a first direction D1 for center-feed dispensing through the first opening 115 can be generally parallel to the transverse direction T, and a second direction D2 for flat sheet dispensing through the second opening 117 can be generally parallel to the lateral direction L.

[0044] A first opening 115 can be positioned on the first wall 114 to facilitate center-feed dispensing of the product roll 10 from the interior 111 of the housing 110. For example, the first opening 115 can be positioned at a central portion of the first wall 114. Furthermore, a central axis of the first opening 115 (e.g., the central axis along which the first opening 115 extends through the first wall 114) can be positioned substantially coaxial with the axis X of the product roll 10 within the interior 111 of the housing 110. This positioning of the first opening 115 on the first wall 114 and relative to the axis X of the product roll 10 can advantageously facilitate the flow of sheets from the interior of the product roll 10 toward the first opening 115 when a user of the product dispenser 100 pulls the first end 12 of the product roll 10 in a first direction D1 to dispense the product roll 10 via center-feed dispensing at the first opening 115. During center-feed dispensing, the product roll 10 can remain substantially stationary relative to the housing 110. Thus, for example, when the first end 12 of the product roll 10 is unwound from the center of the product roll 10 , the product roll 10 may not rotate about the axis X within the interior 111 of the housing 110 .

[0045] A second opening 117 can be positioned on the second wall 116 to facilitate flat sheet dispensing of the product roll 10 from the interior 111 of the housing 110. For example, the second opening 117 can be positioned at a side portion of the second wall 116. Furthermore, the second opening 117 can extend along the axis X of the product roll 10 within the interior 111 of the housing 110 and / or along the transverse direction T. This positioning of the second opening 117 on the second wall 116 and its orientation relative to the axis X of the product roll 10 can advantageously facilitate sheet flow from the interior of the product roll 10 toward the second opening 117 when a user of the product dispenser 100 pulls the second end 14 of the product roll 10 in the second direction D2 to dispense the product roll 10 via flat sheet dispensing at the second opening 117. During flat sheet dispensing, the product roll 10 can rotate relative to the housing 110 about the axis X. Furthermore, the product roll 10 can rotate about the axis X within the interior 111 of the housing 110 as the second end 14 of the product roll 10 is unwound from the exterior of the product roll 10.

[0046] In an example embodiment, the dimensions of the housing 110 can be designed to facilitate rotation of the product roll 10. For example, the width of the interior 111 of the housing 110 (e.g., which can be defined along the lateral direction L between opposing walls 112) can be slightly greater than or approximately equal to the width of the product roll 10 within the housing 110, e.g., along the lateral direction L. For example, the width of the interior 111 of the housing 110 can be no more than five centimeters (5 cm), such as no more than four centimeters (4 cm), such as no more than three centimeters (3 cm), such as no more than two centimeters (2 cm), such as no more than one centimeter (1 cm), such as no more than five millimeters (5 mm) greater than the width of the product roll 10 within the housing 110. Thus, significant translation of the product roll 10 along the lateral direction L within the housing 110 can be limited or prevented while still allowing the product roll 10 to rotate within the interior 111 of the housing 110. Similarly, the width of the interior 111 of the housing 110 (e.g., which may be defined between the opposing walls 112 along the transverse direction T) and / or the height of the interior 111 of the housing 110 (e.g., which may be defined between the opposing walls 112 along the cross direction C) may be slightly greater than or approximately equal to the original (e.g., undispensed) outer diameter of the product roll 10 within the housing 110 to allow the product roll 10 to rotate within the interior 111 of the housing 110. For example, the width of the interior 111 of the housing 110 and / or the height of the interior 111 of the housing 110 may be no more than five centimeters (5 cm), such as no more than four centimeters (4 cm), such as no more than three centimeters (3 cm), such as no more than two centimeters (2 cm), such as no more than one centimeter (1 cm), such as no more than five millimeters (5 mm) greater than the original outer diameter of the product roll 10 within the housing 110. In some example embodiments, the product dispenser 100 may not include bearings or other rotational supports for the product roll 10 within the housing 110. Thus, product roll 10 can rotate within housing 110 without a bearing, such as a plastic bearing on one of walls 112. However, product roll 10 can contact one or more of walls 112 of housing 110. Thus, for example, friction between product roll 10 and walls 112 can limit overfeeding of product roll 10 through first opening 115 and / or second opening 117.

[0047] Now go to Figure 4, the first opening 115 can be configured for center-feed dispensing of the product roll 10 from the interior 111 of the housing 110. As shown, the first opening 115 can include a circular section 120. Thus, the cross-sectional shape of the first opening 115, for example, in a plane perpendicular to the transverse direction T, can be circular at the circular section 120. The dimensions of the circular section 120 can be designed to facilitate dispensing the product roll 10 from the interior 111 of the housing 110. For example, the diameter DC of the circular section 120 can be no less than 1 millimeter (1 mm) and no more than 8 centimeters (8 cm), such as no less than 1 centimeter (1 cm) and no more than 5 centimeters (5 cm). The first opening 115 can also include one or more linear sections 122. The linear sections 122 can extend, for example, radially from the circular section 120, for example, in a plane perpendicular to the transverse direction T. In certain example embodiments, the length of the linear sections 122 can be no less than 1 millimeter (1 mm) and no more than 5 centimeters (5 cm).

[0048] The circular section 120 and the linear section 122 can cooperate to facilitate center-feed dispensing of the product roll 10 from the interior 111 of the housing 110. For example, a user of the product dispenser 100 can pull the first end 12 of the product roll 10 in a first direction D1 to pull a desired number of sheets (e.g., one, two, three, or more sheets) from the product roll 10 through the circular section 120. The user can then pull the first end 12 of the product roll 10 in a direction having a component perpendicular to the first direction D1, such that the first end 12 of the product roll 10 enters one of the linear sections 122. In this position, the user can tear the dispensed sheet from the first end 12 of the product roll 10 due to interference with the housing 110 at the linear section 122. Specifically, the combination of the circular section 120 and the linear section 122 can advantageously facilitate single-handed center-feed dispensing at the first opening 115.

[0049] Now go to Figure 5, the second opening 117 can be configured for dispensing a flat sheet of product roll 10 from the interior 111 of the housing 110. As shown, the second opening 117 can include an elongated slot 126. Thus, the cross-sectional shape of the second opening 117, for example, in a plane perpendicular to the lateral direction L, can be rectangular at the elongated slot 126. The dimensions of the elongated slot 126 can be designed to facilitate dispensing the product roll 10 from the interior 111 of the housing 110. For example, the length LS of the elongated slot 126 can be approximately equal to the width of the product roll 10 within the housing 110, for example, along the lateral direction L. In an exemplary embodiment, the length LS of the elongated slot 126 can be no less than 6 centimeters (6 cm) and no more than 120 centimeters (120 cm), such as no less than 10 centimeters (10 cm) and no more than 60 centimeters (60 cm). In certain exemplary embodiments, the length LS of the elongated slot 126 can be no less than 6 centimeters (6 cm) and no more than 60 centimeters (60 cm). In an exemplary embodiment, the length LS of the elongated slot 126 can also be approximately equal to the length LW of the second wall 116, e.g., along the lateral direction L. The elongated slot 126 can also be oriented such that the length LS of the elongated slot 126 is generally parallel to the axis X of the product roll 10 within the interior 111 of the housing 110 and / or parallel to the transverse direction T. The width of the elongated slot 126 (e.g., along the cross-direction C and / or perpendicular to the length LS) can be substantially less than the length LS of the elongated slot 126. For example, the length LS of the elongated slot 126 can be no less than three times (3X), five times (5X), ten times (10X), or more, the width of the elongated slot 126 (e.g., along the cross-direction C and / or perpendicular to the length LS). In an exemplary embodiment, the width of the elongated slot 126 can be no less than one-quarter centimeter (0.25 cm) and no greater than three centimeters (3 cm).

[0050] like Figure 9 As shown, in certain example embodiments, the second opening 117 can be positioned at the bottom of the second wall 116, e.g., along the lateral direction L. In other example embodiments, the second opening 117 can be positioned at the center of the second wall 116, e.g., along the lateral direction L. In further example embodiments, the second opening 117 can be positioned between the bottom of the second wall 116 and the center of the second wall 116, e.g., along the lateral direction L. For example, the second opening 117 can be positioned at or within the second quarter of the second wall 116, e.g., along the lateral direction L, such as no lower than the bottom quarter of the second wall 116 and no higher than the center of the second wall 116.

[0051] As discussed in more detail below, the second opening 117 may also include features, such as teeth 130 ( Figure 10). The elongated slot 126 can facilitate dispensing a flat sheet from the product roll 10 from the interior 111 of the housing 110. For example, a user of the product dispenser 100 can pull the second end 14 of the product roll 10 in the second direction D2 to pull a desired number of sheets (e.g., one, two, three, or more sheets) from the product roll 10 through the elongated slot 126. The user can then pull the second end 14 of the product roll 10 in a direction having a component perpendicular to the second direction D2, causing the second end 14 of the product roll 10 to engage against the housing 110, the teeth 130, or other features of the product dispenser 100. In this arrangement, the user can tear the dispensed sheet from the second end 14 of the product roll 10 due to interference with the housing 110, the teeth 130, or other features of the product dispenser 100. Specifically, the combination of the elongated slot 126 and the teeth 130 can advantageously facilitate single-handed dispensing of flat sheets at the second opening 117.

[0052] The product dispenser 100 may also include one or more handles 119 for assisting in carrying the product dispenser 100. Figure 1 As shown, one or more of the walls 112 may define a handle 119. In an exemplary embodiment, the third wall 118 of the walls 112 may define the handle 119. The first wall 114, the second wall 116, and the third wall 118 may be arranged orthogonally. Thus, for example, in certain exemplary embodiments, the handle 119 may be located on one of the walls 112 that is separated from the first opening 115 and the second opening 117. The handle 119 may extend, for example, along a cross direction C, from the interior 111 of the housing 110 through the housing 110 to the exterior of the housing 110. A user may insert a finger into the handle 119 to grasp the housing 110, thereby facilitating operation of the product dispenser 100. As shown, another handle 119 may also be defined in the wall 112, for example, in another wall opposite the second wall 116. The handle 119 may be located on the side of the wall 112, allowing the user to grasp a corner of the housing 110 by inserting a finger into the handle 119 without squeezing the product roll 10.

[0053] As mentioned above, the housing 110 may be formed from tile fiberboard. Figures 6 to 10 The corrugated fiberboard blank 200 may be cut, scored, folded, glued, etc. to form the housing 110 from the blank 200. Figure 6 As shown, the blank 200 may include walls 112, such as a first wall 114, a second wall 116, and a third wall 118, connected together at a fold line 140. Each of the walls 112 may be generally square in shape. The dimensions of the walls 112 may be selected based on the dimensions of the product roll 10 to be received within the housing 110. In an exemplary embodiment, the walls 112 may be folded together at a fold line 140. Figure 6In the flat, unfolded arrangement of the blank 200 shown, the width of each of the walls 112 (e.g., along the cross direction C) can be no less than fifteen centimeters (15 cm) and no more than one hundred centimeters (100 cm), and Figure 6 In the illustrated, flat, unfolded arrangement of the blank 200, each of the walls 112 (e.g., in the transverse direction T) may have a length of no less than fifteen centimeters (15 cm) and no greater than one hundred centimeters (100 cm). The first wall 114 may include two layers at opposite ends of the blank 200. One layer of the first wall 114 may be connected to the third wall 118 at a fold line 140, and the other layer of the first wall 114 may be connected to the second wall 116 at a fold line 140. One of the walls 112 (hereinafter referred to as the "connecting side wall") may be positioned between the second wall 116 and the third wall 118 along the transverse direction T and connected to each of the second wall 116 and the third wall 118 via respective fold lines 140. Two walls 112 (hereinafter referred to as "extended side walls") may also be connected to the third wall 118 along the cross direction C at opposite sides of the third wall 118 via respective fold lines 140. The blank 200 may also include various tabs 142 connected to the wall 112 to assist in forming the housing 110 , as discussed in more detail below.

[0054] Go to Figure 7 As a first step, the first portion of the first wall 114 can be rotated relative to the third wall 118 about the fold line 140 connecting the first wall 114 and the third wall 118. Thus, for example, the first portion of the first wall 114 can be positioned “upright” along the lateral direction L, while the third wall 118 remains flat and oriented along the transverse direction T. The flap 142 connected to the second portion of the first wall 114 can also be rotated relative to the second portion of the first wall 114 about the fold line 140 connecting the flap 142 to the second portion of the first wall 114.

[0055] Go to Figure 8As a next step, the connecting side wall between the second wall 116 and the third wall 118 can be rotated relative to the second wall 116 about a fold line 140 between the connecting side wall and the second wall 116. The third wall 118 can also be rotated relative to the connecting side wall about the fold line 140 between the connecting side wall and the third wall 118. Thus, for example, the connecting side wall can be positioned "upright" and / or parallel to the first wall 114 along the lateral direction L, while the third wall 118 is positioned above the second wall 116 and / or parallel to the second wall. In addition, the extended side walls connected to the third wall 118 at opposite sides of the third wall 118 can both be rotated relative to the third wall 118 about the fold line 140 between the extended side wall and the third wall 118. Thus, for example, the extended side walls can be positioned parallel to each other and "upright" along the lateral direction L. The flap 142 can be folded to assist in keeping the wall 112 in place. Figure 8 In the arrangement shown.

[0056] Go to Figure 9 As a final step, the second portion of the first wall 114 can be rotated relative to the second wall 116 about the fold line 140 connecting the first wall 114 and the second wall 116. Thus, for example, the second portion of the first wall 114 can be positioned "upright" along the lateral direction L, while the second wall 118 remains oriented along the transverse direction T at the "bottom" of the housing 110. Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the housing 110 includes a first opening 115 and a second opening 117 for center-feed dispensing and flat sheet dispensing. In addition, a plurality of teeth 130 are positioned at the second opening 117. The teeth 130 can be formed from the second wall 116, for example, by cutting and folding the corrugated fiberboard of the second wall 116. The teeth 130 can assist a user in tearing off a dispensed sheet at the second opening 117 and thus facilitate single-handed flat sheet dispensing at the second opening 117. The teeth 130 can be spaced apart along the transverse direction T (e.g., along the length LS of the elongated slot 126).

[0057] It should be understood that the blank 200 and method for forming the housing 110 described above are provided by way of example, and that other suitable configurations of the housing 110 are within the scope of the present subject matter. For example, other fold lines 140 and connectors between the walls 112 may be used to form the housing 110. As another example, in alternative exemplary embodiments, the housing 110 may be constructed of or constructed with other materials, such as molded plastic.

[0058] Figure 11 is a perspective view of a product dispenser 100 according to another example embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 11As shown, the second wall 116 can be rotatable relative to the other walls 112. Thus, for example, a user can access the interior 111 of the housing 110 to load a product roll 10, pass the first end 12 of the product roll 10 through the first opening 115, position the second end 14 of the product roll 10 at the second opening 117, and so on. The buckle 150 can selectively hold the second wall 116 closed and limit the rotation of the second wall 116 to Figure 11 Shown in the open position.

[0059] Figure 12 is a perspective view of the shape of the first opening 115 according to an example aspect of the present disclosure. Figure 12 As shown, various shapes can be selected for the first opening 115. In addition, the first opening can be a star 202, a teardrop 210, a polygon 220, a circle 230, concentric circles 240, or a triangle 250. It should be understood that the shapes described above are provided by way of example. Other shapes of the first opening 115 are within the scope of the present disclosure. Figure 16 1 is a perspective view of a stack of inserts 600 for the first opening 115 according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure. Each of the inserts 600 can have a corresponding shape, and a user of the product dispenser can select a desired one of the inserts 600 for center feed dispensing. Thus, in certain exemplary embodiments, the product dispenser 100 can provide a "customized" user-selected appearance.

[0060] Figure 13 and Figure 14 is a perspective view of a plug or insert 300 according to an example aspect of the present disclosure for forming the first opening 115. The dispensing diameter for center feed dispensing can be selected by positioning the appropriate insert 300 within the first opening (eg, depending on the type of material being dispensed).

[0061] Figure 15 is a perspective view of the teeth of the second opening 117 according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure. Figure 15 In the embodiment of the present invention, various shapes can be selected for the teeth 130 at the second opening 117. In addition, the second opening 117 can have fine triangular teeth 500, tapered block teeth 510, thick triangular teeth 520, or fan-shaped or arc-shaped teeth 530. It should be understood that the shapes described above are provided by way of example. Other shapes of the teeth 130 at the second opening 117 are also within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0062] Below Figures 17 to 19 A product dispenser 100 according to another example embodiment of the present disclosure is described in more detail in the context of FIG. Figures 17 to 19The illustrated product dispenser 100 may share common components and features with the product dispenser 100 described above. Therefore, the following description focuses on Figures 17 to 19 The product dispenser 100 shown and Figures 1 to 10 However, it should be understood that the above Figures 1 to 10 The components and features of the product dispenser 100 described in the context of Figures 17 to 19 The product dispenser 100 shown in FIG. 1 and reference is made to such description. It should be understood that the following description of the product dispenser 100 for Figures 17 to 19 The features of the product dispenser 100 shown may be Figures 1 to 10 The invention can be used in or with the product dispenser 100 shown, and vice versa.

[0063] like Figure 17 As shown, the product dispenser 100 may include a roll locator tab 400. The roll locator tab 400 may be formed on one or more of the tabs 142 connected to the wall 112. For example, the roll locator tab 400 may include a protrusion having an edge 402 shaped to correspond to the outer (e.g., original) diameter of the product roll 10 within the product dispenser 100. When the product dispenser 100 is assembled, the roll locator tab 400 may be located at or near the second opening 117. For example, the roll locator tab 400 may be spaced apart from the second opening 117, for example, along one or both of the lateral direction L and the cross direction C by no more than five centimeters (5 cm), such as no more than four centimeters (4 cm), such as no more than three centimeters (3 cm), such as no more than two centimeters (2 cm), such as no more than one centimeter (1 cm). This spacing may assist in orienting the product roll 10 within the product dispenser 100.

[0064] During assembly of the product dispenser 100, the second end 14 of the product roll 10 can be positioned at or near the roll locator tab 400 to position the product roll 10 for flat sheet dispensing at the second opening 117. When the product roll 10 is initially inserted into the product dispenser 100, the product roll 10 can be rotated until the second end 14 of the product roll 10 is positioned at or near the roll locator tab 400. In this manner, the product roll 10 can be oriented within the product dispenser 100 during assembly so that the second end 14 of the product roll 10 is positioned proximate to the second opening 117. When a user opens the second opening 117, the user can reach into the second opening 117 and pull the second end 14 of the product roll 10 through the second opening 117. As can be seen from the above, the roll locator tab 400 can facilitate the orientation of the product roll 10 within the product dispenser 100 for flat sheet dispensing at the second opening 117. Thus, inconvenient rotation of the product roll 10 within the closed product dispenser 100 to align the second end 14 of the product roll 10 with the second opening 117 may be limited or prevented.

[0065] like Figure 17 As shown, the second opening 117 may include a first portion 410 and a second portion 412. The first portion 410 may be disposed between the second portion 412, for example, along the transverse direction T. For example, each of the second portions 412 may extend from the first portion 410 to a corresponding end of the second wall 116, for example, along the transverse direction T. In an exemplary embodiment, the first portion 410 may be disposed at a central portion of the second opening 117. The first portion 410 may also be wider than the second portion 412, for example, along the cross direction C. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the width of the first portion 410 along the cross direction C may be no less than twice (2X) the width of the second portion 412. In an exemplary embodiment, the width of the second portion 412 may be no less than a quarter centimeter (0.25 cm) and no more than three centimeters (3 cm), and the width of the first portion 410 may be no less than three centimeters (3 cm) and no more than ten centimeters (10 cm). The relative sizes of the first portion 410 and the second portion 412 may facilitate the dispensing of flat sheets at the second opening 117. For example, the dimensions of the first portion 410 may allow a user to reach into the product dispenser 100 through the second opening 117 to grasp and pull the second end 14 of the product roll 10 through the second opening 117. Additionally, due to interference with the housing 110 at the second portion 412, the dimensions of the second portion 412 may allow a user to tear a dispensed sheet from the second end 14 of the product roll 10.

[0066] like Figure 17 and Figure 19As shown, the second opening 117 may be covered by a strip 420. To allow for dispensing of flat sheets at the second opening 117, the strip 420 may be removed to expose the second opening 117. The first portion 410 and the second portion 412 may facilitate removal of the strip 420. For example, the strip 420 may include a perforation line 422 at the first portion 410. A user may pierce the strip 420 at the perforation line 422 and pull the strip 420 outward to remove the separated section of the strip 420 at the second portion 412. The relative sizes of the first portion 410 and the second portion 412 may facilitate tearing of the strip 420 at the perforation line 422 while limiting or preventing tearing of the strip 420 at the second section 412 when the user pulls the separated section of the strip 420 outward at the second section 412. In certain example embodiments, after the strip 420 is removed, the second opening 117 may be open and / or may not include a barrier, such as a plastic barrier or a paper barrier.

[0067] exist Figures 17 to 19 In the embodiment, the second opening 117 is positioned at or within the second quarter of the second wall 116, for example, along the lateral direction L, such as not lower than the bottom quarter of the second wall 116 and not higher than the center of the second wall 116. This positioning can facilitate the dispensing of flat sheets at the second opening 117. For example, Figure 18 In the orientation shown, the outer sheet on the product roll 10 can be positioned at the bottom of the housing 110 and contact the bottom one of the walls 112. When the user pulls the free end of the product roll 10 upward at the second opening 117, the force applied by the user can lift the product roll 10 upward to reduce friction with the bottom of the housing 110 (such as the bottom one of the walls 112). The user can then pull the free end of the product roll 10 downward at the second opening 117 to increase friction with the bottom of the housing 110 and facilitate tearing the product 10 at the second opening 117. Figure 18 Friction between outer sheets on the product roll 10 during flat sheet dispensing at the second opening 117 in the orientation shown may also limit or prevent overfeeding of the product roll 10 from the second opening 117 .

[0068] Depending on the desired distribution of the product roll 10, the housing 110 may be Figure 18 and Figure 19The product dispenser 100 can be adjusted between the orientations shown. For example, the housing 110 can be rotated so that the first opening 115 is located on a top wall of the wall 112 for center-feed dispensing of the product roll 10 from the interior 111 of the housing 110. Conversely, the housing 110 can be rotated so that the second opening 117 is located on one of the side walls 112 for flat sheet dispensing of the product roll 10 from the interior 111 of the housing 110. This rotation can facilitate positioning of the product roll 10 for flat sheet dispensing or center-feed dispensing within the housing 110. As can be seen from the above, in certain example embodiments, the product dispenser 100 may not be mounted or secured to a wall or other fixed structure. However, it should be understood that the product dispenser 100 can be secured to a wall or other rigid structure such that the product dispenser 100 is not rotatable in other example embodiments.

[0069] As shown, first portion 410 and second portion 412 can be shaped such that second opening 117 can have a linear or flat edge and a curved edge, for example, positioned opposite each other along a cross direction. This shape of second opening 117 can facilitate dispensing the dispensed sheet from second end 14 of product roll 10. For example, when a user pulls the free end of product roll 10 upward at second opening 117, second end 14 of product roll 10 can slide along the linear edge of second opening 117. Conversely, when a user pulls the free end of product roll 10 downward at second opening 117, second end 14 of product roll 10 can tear against the curved edge of the second opening.

[0070] like Figure 17 and Figure 18 As shown, in an exemplary embodiment, the first opening 115 can be oval. In an exemplary embodiment, the first wall 114 having the first opening 115 can also be attached to the other wall 112 via a tuck and lock closure 430. In an exemplary embodiment, for example, the wall 112 opposite the first wall 114 along the transverse direction T can be formed by an auto-erect, crash lock base to facilitate assembly of the housing 110.

[0071] These and other modifications and variations of the present invention may be practiced by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as more particularly described in the appended claims. Furthermore, it should be understood that aspects of the various embodiments may be interchanged in whole or in part. Furthermore, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the foregoing description is by way of example only and is not intended to limit the present invention as further described in such appended claims.

[0072] Example Implementation

[0073] First example embodiment: A product dispenser comprising: a product roll; a removable housing, the removable housing including a plurality of walls, the housing defining an interior, the product roll being received within the interior of the removable housing so that the product roll can rotate within the interior of the removable housing, wherein a first wall of the plurality of walls defines a first opening for center-feed dispensing of the product roll from the interior of the removable housing, and wherein a second wall of the plurality of walls defines a second opening for flat sheet dispensing of the product roll from the interior of the removable housing.

[0074] Second example embodiment: The product dispenser of the first example embodiment, wherein the first opening comprises an oval cutout segment.

[0075] Third example embodiment: The product dispenser of the second example embodiment, wherein the width of the interior of the removable housing is approximately equal to the width of the product roll.

[0076] Fourth Example Embodiment: The product dispenser of the second or third example embodiment, wherein the width and height of the interior of the removable housing are approximately equal to the original diameter of the product roll.

[0077] Fifth Example Embodiment: The product dispenser of any one of the first to fourth example embodiments, wherein the second opening comprises an elongated slot, and the length of the elongated slot is approximately equal to the width of the product roll.

[0078] Sixth Example Embodiment: The product dispenser of the fifth example embodiment, wherein said length of said elongated slot is no less than 6 centimeters and no greater than 60 centimeters.

[0079] Seventh Example Embodiment: The product dispenser of any one of the first to sixth example embodiments, further comprising a plurality of teeth at the second opening, the plurality of teeth being formed by the second wall.

[0080] Eighth Example Embodiment: The product dispenser of any one of the first to seventh example embodiments, wherein the second opening is disposed between the bottom and the middle portion of the second wall.

[0081] Ninth Example Embodiment: The product dispenser of any one of the first to eighth example embodiments, wherein the plurality of walls of the removable housing includes six walls.

[0082] Tenth Example Embodiment: The product dispenser of the ninth example embodiment, wherein the removable housing is a corrugated fiberboard housing that is folded to form the six walls.

[0083] Eleventh Example Embodiment: The product dispenser of the ninth or tenth example embodiment, wherein the first of the plurality of walls is oriented substantially perpendicular to the second of the plurality of walls.

[0084] Twelfth Example Embodiment: The product dispenser of any one of the first to eleventh example embodiments, wherein the first opening is positioned at a central portion of the first wall.

[0085] Thirteenth Example Embodiment: The product dispenser of the twelfth example embodiment, wherein a central axis of the first opening is positioned generally coaxial with an axis of rotation of the product roll within the interior of the removable housing.

[0086] Fourteenth example embodiment: A product dispenser as described in the thirteenth example embodiment, wherein the length of the second opening on the second wall is oriented to be approximately parallel to the rotation axis of the product roll within the interior of the removable shell, and the length of the second opening on the second wall is approximately equal to the width of the second wall.

[0087] Fifteenth Example Embodiment: The product dispenser of any one of the first to fourteenth example embodiments, wherein one or more of the plurality of walls defines a handle for carrying the removable housing.

[0088] Sixteenth Example Embodiment: The product dispenser of the fifteenth example embodiment, wherein a third wall of the plurality of walls defines the handle.

[0089] Seventeenth Example Embodiment: The product dispenser of the fifteenth or sixteenth example embodiment, wherein the first wall, the second wall, and the third wall of the plurality of walls are arranged orthogonally.

[0090] Eighteenth exemplary embodiment: A product dispenser comprising: a product roll; a corrugated fiberboard shell, the corrugated fiberboard shell folded to form the six walls, the corrugated fiberboard shell defining an interior, the product roll received within the interior of the corrugated fiberboard shell so that the product roll can rotate about an axis within the interior of the corrugated fiberboard shell, the width of the interior of the corrugated fiberboard shell being approximately equal to the width of the product roll, wherein a first wall of the six walls defines a first opening at a central portion of the first wall for center-feed dispensing of the product roll from the interior of the corrugated fiberboard shell, wherein a second wall of the six walls defines a second opening at a side portion of the second wall for flat sheet dispensing of the product roll from the interior of the corrugated fiberboard shell, the second opening comprising an elongated slot having a length approximately equal to the width of the product roll along the axis, and one or more of the six walls defining a handle for carrying the corrugated fiberboard shell.

[0091] Nineteenth Example Embodiment: The product dispenser of the eighteenth example embodiment, wherein the first opening has an oval shape.

[0092] Twentieth example embodiment: A product dispenser as described in the eighteenth example embodiment or the nineteenth example embodiment, wherein: the second opening includes a first part and a pair of second parts, and the first part is arranged between the second parts along the transverse direction; the first part of the second opening has a width along a cross direction perpendicular to the transverse direction, and each second part of the second parts has a corresponding width along the transverse direction; and the width of the first part of the second opening is not less than twice the width of the second part of the second opening.

Claims

1. A product dispenser comprising: Product Volume; as well as a removable housing comprising a plurality of walls, the removable housing defining an interior, the product roll being received within the interior of the removable housing such that the product roll is rotatable within the interior of the removable housing, wherein a first wall of the plurality of walls defines a first opening for center-feed dispensing of the product roll from the interior of the removable housing, and Wherein a second wall of the plurality of walls defines a second opening for dispensing flat sheets of the product roll from the interior of the removable housing.

2. The product dispenser of claim 1 wherein the first opening comprises an oval cutout segment.

3. The product dispenser of claim 1 wherein the width of the interior of the removable housing is approximately equal to the width of the product roll.

4. The product dispenser of claim 3, wherein the width and height of the interior of the removable housing are approximately equal to the original diameter of the product roll.

5. The product dispenser of claim 1, wherein the second opening comprises an elongated slot, and wherein the length of the elongated slot is approximately equal to the width of the product roll.

6. The product dispenser of claim 5, wherein said length of said elongated slot is not less than 6 centimeters and not more than 60 centimeters.

7. The product dispenser of claim 5, further comprising a plurality of teeth at the second opening, the plurality of teeth being formed by the second wall.

8. The product dispenser of claim 1, wherein the second opening is disposed between a bottom portion and a middle portion of the second wall.

9. The product dispenser of claim 1 wherein said plurality of walls of said removable housing comprises six walls.

10. The product dispenser of claim 9, wherein said removable housing is a corrugated fiberboard housing that is folded to form said six walls.

11. The product dispenser of claim 9, wherein the first of the plurality of walls is oriented generally perpendicular to the second of the plurality of walls.

12. The product dispenser of claim 1, wherein the first opening is positioned at a central portion of the first wall.

13. The product dispenser of claim 12, wherein a central axis of the first opening is positioned generally coaxial with an axis of rotation of the product roll within the interior of the removable housing.

14. The product dispenser of claim 13, wherein a length of the second opening in the second wall is oriented substantially parallel to the axis of rotation of the product roll within the interior of the removable housing, and the length of the second opening in the second wall is approximately equal to a width of the second wall.

15. The product dispenser of claim 1, wherein one or more of said plurality of walls defines a handle for carrying said removable housing.

16. The product dispenser of claim 15, wherein a third wall of said plurality of walls defines said handle.

17. The product dispenser of claim 15, wherein the first wall, the second wall, and the third wall of the plurality of walls are arranged orthogonally.

18. A product dispenser comprising: Product Volume; as well as a corrugated fiberboard housing folded to form six walls, the corrugated fiberboard housing defining an interior, the product roll being received within the interior of the corrugated fiberboard housing such that the product roll is rotatable about an axis within the interior of the corrugated fiberboard housing, the width of the interior of the corrugated fiberboard housing being approximately equal to the width of the product roll, wherein a first wall of the six walls defines a first opening at a central portion of the first wall for center-feed dispensing of the product roll from the interior of the corrugated fiberboard housing, wherein a second wall of the six walls defines a second opening at a side portion of the second wall for dispensing flat sheets from the product roll from the interior of the corrugated fiberboard housing, the second opening including an elongated slot having a length approximately equal to the width of the product roll along the axis, and One or more of the six walls define a handle for carrying the corrugated fiberboard shell.

19. The product dispenser of claim 18, wherein the first opening has an oval shape.

20. The product dispenser of claim 18, wherein: The second opening includes a first portion and a pair of second portions, and the first portion is disposed between the second portions along a lateral direction; the first portion of the second opening having a width along a cross direction perpendicular to the transverse direction, and each of the second portions having a respective width along the transverse direction; and The width of the first portion of the second opening is not less than twice the width of the second portion of the second opening.

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