Water level detection and indication in water activated tape dispensers

Abstract

Example systems, methods, and apparatus are disclosed herein for water level detection and indication in water activated tape (WAT) dispensers. Specifically, a water activated tape dispenser configured for water level detection and indication and a method for using a WAT dispenser configured for water level detection and indication.

Description

WATER LEVEL DETECTION AND INDICATION IN WATER ACTIVATED TAPE DISPENSERSCROSS REFERENCE AND PRIORITY CLAIM

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 655,728 entitled “Water Level Detection and Indication in Water Activated Tape Dispensers” filed on June 4th, 2024, which is assigned to the assignee hereof and the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a dispenser for a water activated tape (WAT) dispenser, and in particular, a WAT dispenser having improved water level detection and indication, as well as improved water temperature control.BACKGROUND

[0003] Tape dispensers generally are used in a variety of commercial, industrial, and consumer settings to assist in the application of adhesive tape to packaging, such as corrugated boxes, cartons, padded mailers, envelopes, or the like. In particular, many high-throughput environments such as order fulfillment centers use tape dispensers to assist in order fulfillment. These tape dispensers improve packaging workflows and reduce manual labor by relying on automated, semi-automated, or manual tape dispensing equipment integrated into order fulfillment operations. The volume and speed of order fulfillment operations requires reliable tape application with minimal interruption.

[0004] In many such fulfillment operations, water-activated tape (“WAT”) dispensers have been adopted due to their reliability and ability to dispense tape with minimum jamming and lack of the tendency to adhere to itself before application to packaging. The rigidity of water-activated tape and its controlled wetting (and resulting adhesiveness) contribute to more stable mechanicalperformance over extended operation. As a result, some order fulfillment centers use water- activated tape to avoid downtime caused by jamming, tape wrapping, or misfeeds.

[0005] Nonetheless, use of water-activated tape introduces specific operational limitations, including improper or inconsistent wetting of the WAT and / or interruptions caused by having to replenish the water source. These conditions disrupt workflows and reduce order fulfillment center productivity. For WAT to properly adhere to packaging (e.g., a box, mailer, or envelope, or the like) the adhesive (otherwise described as gum) must be properly wetted. Too much wetting prolongs the setup time and is typically solved by waiting for excess water to absorb into the into the base material and / or backer. Too little water generally results in weak bonding between tape and base material that can result in the package opening prematurely. Experienced operators can tell when too much or too little water is applied to tape and adjust a dispenser accordingly. New operators often lack the skills and / or time to adjust machines, and, in extreme cases, operators are unaware water is even a requirement or when a WAT dispenser machine has completely run out of water.

[0006] Current solutions include manual water level detection being aided by providing tape dispensers with translucent water bottles, which allow operators to see the water and the amount of water remaining. However, environmental conditions, lighting insufficiency, and / or other impediments can make the water level difficult or impossible to see.

[0007] Moreover, WAT dispensers having heaters have been used to elevate adhesive temperature to minimize tack prior to application of the tape to the packaging. While these heaters have helped improve the application of the WAT to packaging, additional improvements to the heaters can be made.

[0008] Accordingly, a need exists for water level detection and indication in water activated tape (WAT) dispensers and / or improved wetting of the WAT and application to packaging.SUMMARY

[0009] Example systems, methods, and apparatus are disclosed herein for water level detection and indication in water activated tape (WAT) dispensers. Aspects of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless specified otherwise, provide a water activated tape (WAT) dispenser configured for water level detection and indication. The WAT dispenser may include a container (e.g., water bottle, or the like) that holds the liquid (e.g., water, water based solution, or the like) for activating the water activated tape (WAT). The container may be supported on the tape dispenser via one or more support(s). Upon a change in the liquid of the container (e.g., too little liquid, too much liquid, or the like), a sensor detector may detect the change, which results in an indicator providing an indication of the change in the liquid, and / or the sensor detector may provide an indication of the liquid level regardless if the liquid level has or has not changed (e.g., a static indication of the liquid level, such as when the WAT dispenser has been idle, or the like). In some embodiments, the indicator may be a visual indicator, an audible indicator, a motion indicator, a functionally indicator, or the like. In some embodiments, the detection of the change in the liquid or the liquid level may be identified through the support(s) supporting the container that may allow for the container to move in response to the change in the liquid, for example the container may pivot, slide, or the like, as will be described herein. In other embodiments, the detection of the change in the liquid or the liquid level may be identified without the container moving, as will also be described herein.

[0010] Advantageously, the detector sensor, and in some embodiments in combination with the indicator, allows for tracking, detecting, and signaling of changes in liquid or a liquid level that may require remediation (e.g., replenishment or the like) for the WAT dispenser to continue operation (e.g., continue wetting the WAT, wetting the WAT with the optimized amount of water, or the like). As such, operation of the WAT dispenser with the proper amount of liquid supply allows for proper sealing of packages (e.g., the tape is properly wetted before application to packages) such that the packages remain closed during processing (e.g., as they are being conveyed through a facility), which reduces spillage of the contents of the packaging (e.g., that can cause problems with conveyors or other processing equipment). Consequently, the presentdisclosure significantly reduces downtime, and fulfillment centers may increase their packaging throughput.

[0011] In one aspect, a water activated tape (WAT) dispenser configured for water level detection and indication is presented. The WAT dispenser may include a tape dispenser assembly configured to dispense tape activated by a liquid, a liquid supply container configured to hold the liquid for activating the tape, a sensor detector configured to detect a liquid level or a change in the liquid in the liquid supply container, and an indicator configured to provide an indication of the change in the liquid.

[0012] In some embodiments, alone or in combination with other embodiments, one or more supports may be coupled to the tape dispenser assembly and the liquid supply container, wherein the one or more supports may include at a least a container support configured to allow for movement of the liquid supply container based on the change in the liquid.

[0013] In some embodiments, alone or in combination with other embodiments, the one or more supports include a housing that at least partially covers the tape dispenser assembly and at least partially supports the liquid supply container.

[0014] In some embodiments, alone or in combination with other embodiments, the one or more container supports include one or more projections around which the liquid supply container may pivot.

[0015] In some embodiments, alone or in combination with other embodiments, the sensor detector includes a mechanical detector, wherein the mechanical detector is activated in response to the movement of the liquid supply container.

[0016] In some embodiments, alone or in combination with other embodiments, the mechanical detector is a switch that is activated in response to the movement of the liquid supply container.

[0017] In some embodiments, alone or in combination with other embodiments, the mechanical detector is activated when a portion of the liquid supply container is raised, and the mechanical detector moves in response to the portion of the liquid supply container that is raised.

[0018] In some embodiments, alone or in combination with other embodiments, the mechanical detector is activated when a portion of the liquid supply container is lowered, and the mechanical detector moves in response to the portion of the liquid supply container that is lowered.

[0019] In some embodiments, alone or in combination with other embodiments, the sensor detector includes a force gauge detector, a capacitive sensor, a resistance sensor, a photoeye sensor, or a hall effect sensor.

[0020] In some embodiments, alone or in combination with other embodiments, the sensor detector detects the liquid level without movement of the liquid supply container.

[0021] In some embodiments, alone or in combination with other embodiments, the indicator may include one or more visual indicators configured to activate based on the change in the liquid.

[0022] In some embodiments, alone or in combination with other embodiments, the one or more visual indicators includes one or more lights.

[0023] In some embodiments, alone or in combination with other embodiments, the one or more lights includes a plurality of LED lights.

[0024] In some embodiments, alone or in combination with other embodiments, the indicator includes one or more audible indicators configured to activate based on the change in the liquid.

[0025] In some embodiments, alone or in combination with other embodiments, the one or more audible indicators includes a sound played by a speaker.

[0026] In some embodiments, alone or in combination with other embodiments, the indicator includes one or more movement indicators configured to activate based on the change in the liquid.

[0027] In some embodiments, alone or in combination with other embodiments, the one or more movement indicators includes a vibration or opening of at least a portion of the WAT dispenser.

[0028] In some embodiments, alone or in combination with other embodiments, the indicator includes one or more functionality indicators configured to activate based on the changein the liquid, wherein the one or more functionally indicators comprises prevention of operation of at least a portion of the WAT dispenser.

[0029] In another aspect, a method for water level detection and indication in a WAT dispenser is presented. The WAT dispenser includes a tape dispenser assembly configured to dispense tape activated by a liquid, a liquid supply container configured to hold the liquid for activating the tape, a sensor detector, and an indicator. The method includes detecting a change in the liquid in the liquid supply container, and providing an indication of the change in the liquid.

[0030] In some embodiments, alone or in combination with other embodiments, the method may include the one or more supports including at a least a container support configured to allow for movement of the liquid supply container based on the change in the liquid, and the senser detector including a mechanical detector, and wherein detecting the change in the liquid includes activating the mechanical detector in response to the movement of the liquid supply container.

[0031] In yet another aspect, a water activated tape (WAT) dispenser is presented. The WAT dispenser includes a tape dispenser assembly configured to dispense tape activated by a liquid, a wetting assembly comprising a liquid pot configured to hold the liquid, a heater assembly including a heater, a user interface having interactive elements, and a controller including one or more memory devices storing computer-readable code and one or more processors coupled to the one or more memory devices, wherein when executed the computer-readable code is configured to cause the one or more processors to heat the liquid to a temperature using the heater of the heater assembly, wherein the temperature is pre-set set, and wherein the temperature cannot be adjusted using the interactive elements of the user interface.

[0032] In some embodiments, alone or in combination with other embodiments, the one or more processors are further configured to cause the one or more processors to deactivate the heater when the temperature is above an upper threshold and activate the heater when the temperature is below a lower threshold.

[0033] In some embodiments, alone or in combination with other embodiments, the one or more processors are further configured to cause the one or more processors to deactivate the heater when WAT dispenser is idle for a threshold period of time.

[0034] Additional features and advantages are described in, and will be apparent from, the following Detailed Description and the Figures. The features and advantages described herein are not all-inclusive and, in particular, many additional features and advantages will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the figures and description. Also, any particular embodiment does not have to have all of the advantages listed herein and it is expressly contemplated to claim individual advantageous embodiments separately. Moreover, it should be noted that the language used in the specification has been selected principally for readability and instructional purposes, and not to limit the scope of the inventive subject matter.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0035] Having thus described embodiments of the disclosure in general terms, reference will now be made the accompanying drawings. The components illustrated in the Figures may or may not be present in certain embodiments described herein. Some embodiments may include fewer (or more) components than those shown in the figures.

[0036] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a WAT dispenser with water level detection and indication, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0037] Figure 2 is a side view of the WAT dispenser of Figure 1, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the WAT dispenser of Figure 1 with the container removed illustrating the water level sensor detector and indicator, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0039] Figure 4 is a side view of the WAT dispenser of Figure 1 with the container removed illustrating the water level sensor detector and indicator, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0040] Figure 5A is a perspective view of the WAT dispenser of Figure 1 with the container, a portion of the housing, and the liquid pot removed, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0041] Figure 5B is a perspective view of the WAT dispenser of Figure 5 A with the container and a portion of the housing removed, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0042] Figure 6A is an enlarged perspective view of the WAT dispenser of Figure 3 with the container removed at the inlet of the liquid pot, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0043] Figure 6B is an enlarged perspective view of the WAT dispenser of Figure 3 with the container removed illustrating a location of the sensor detector, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0044] Figure 7A is a side view of the liquid container, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0045] Figure 7B is a perspective top view of the liquid container, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0046] Figure 7C is a perspective bottom view of the liquid container, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0047] Figure 8A is a perspective outer view of a portion of the WAT dispenser having the sensor detector and indicator, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0048] Figure 8B is a perspective inner view of a portion of the WAT dispenser having the sensor detector and indicator, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0049] Figure 9A is a perspective view of the WAT dispenser having a heater assembly, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0050] Figure 9B is a perspective view of a heater assembly, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0051] Figure 9C is a perspective view of a heater assembly with a heater cover removed, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0052] Figure 10 is a schematic of the controller of the WAT dispenser, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0053] Figure 11 is a process flow of an operation of a WAT dispenser, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the disclosure are shown. Indeed, the disclosure may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Where possible, any terms expressed in the singular form herein are meant to also include the plural form and vice versa, unless explicitly stated otherwise. Also, as used herein, the term “a” and / or “an” shall mean “one or more,” even though the phrase “one or more” is also used herein. Furthermore, when it is said herein that something is “based on” something else, it may be based on one or more other things as well. In other words, unless expressly indicated otherwise, as used herein “based on” means “based at least in part on” or “based at least partially on.” Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

[0055] Methods, systems, and apparatuses are disclosed herein for liquid level detection and indication in water activated tape (“WAT”) dispensers and / or temperature control of the liquid within the WAT dispensers. While the liquid used for the activation of the WAT may be referred to herein as “liquid” or “water,” it should be understood that “liquid” or “water” includes water and water based solutions having other liquids, solids (e.g., dissolved, suspended, or the like) in the water, or the like that act as additives and may provide benefits for the water, WAT, WAT dispenser, or the packaging to which the WAT is applied. Moreover, other types of liquids besides water may be utilized in the WAT dispenser, for example liquids using alcohol, acetone, heptane, toluene, and / or the like as a solvent. While the tape described herein is generally referred to a WAT (i.e., water activated tape), it should be understood that WAT describes any type of tape that can be activated by any type of liquid.

[0056] Figures 1 through 8B illustrate embodiments of WAT dispensers having liquid level detection and indication. As illustrated in Figures 1 through 5B, the WAT dispenser 100 generally includes a tape dispenser assembly 200, at least partially hidden by a housing 120 in some of the figures, and configured to dispense tape (e.g., WAT tape, or the like) that is activated by aliquid. Moreover, the WAT dispenser 100 comprises a liquid supply container 150 configuredto hold the liquid for activating the WTA, as will be described in further detail with respect to Figures 7A through 7C. Furthermore, the WAT dispenser 100 may comprise one or more supports 110 coupled to the tape dispenser assembly 200 and the liquid supply container 150. The one or more supports 110 may comprise one or more different types of supports 110, such as a frame members, a housing 120 (having one or more housing portions) that is supported by the one or more frame members, one or more projections 130 extending from the frame members and / or the housing 120, and / or one or more cavities formed by the frame members and / or the housing 120. As will be described herein, the one or more supports 110 may be utilized to support the liquid supply container 150 and / or allow the container to move to aid in the water level detection and indication. The WAT dispenser 100 further comprises a sensor detector 300 configured to detect a change in the liquid in the container 150, and an indicator 350 configured to provide an indication of the change in the liquid, as will be described in further detail at least with respect to Figures 6A, 6B, 8 A, and 8B.

[0057] As will be described in further detail, the WAT dispenser 100 may include a controller 500 that is configured to operate the WAT dispenser 100. The controller 500 may include one or more processors, communication modules, memory modules, and associated logic circuits configured to execute stored instructions. Based on received communication signals, and / or based on stored instructions, the controller 500 may initiate one or more control operations within the WAT dispenser 100, such as operation of the tape dispenser assembly 200, such as actuating dispensing mechanisms (e.g., motor, separator, or the like), adjusting dispensing parameters, monitoring operational status, storing event data, generating response signals for status transmission, receiving signals from a user interface 102 for controlling the WAT dispenser 100, the operation of the sensor detector 300 to detecting the water level, the indictor 350 for providing an indication of the water level, and / or the heater assembly 400, as will be described herein in further detail. The controller 500 will be described in further detail with respect to Figure 10.

[0058] The tape dispenser assembly 200 generally comprises a tape roller assembly 210 having one or more rollers 212 (e.g., driven rollers, free rollers, or the like), one or more encoders 214, a motor 220, one or more drive members 230 (e.g., gears, pullies, flexible members coupling gears, pullies, and / or motor 220 to the one or more rollers 212), as illustrated in some embodimentsin Figure 5. Moreover, the tape dispenser assembly 200 may further comprise a tape supply (not illustrated) for providing the WAT (or other type of tape), and a wetting assembly 600 (e.g., liquid pot 610, applicator (not illustrated), such as a brush, roller, nozzle, or the like) for applying the liquid to the WAT. The motor 220 may be coupled to the controller 500. Upon receiving a signal to initiate the dispensing of the WAT, the motor 220 may initialize the advancement of one or more drive rollers. In doing so, the tape is moved through the machine (e.g., by pushing, pulling, or the like), which may cause the tape supply to unwind or otherwise dispense tape. While the rollers 212 and motor 220 are used to move the WAT through the tape roller assembly 210, the one or more encoders 214 (e.g., rotary, optical, or the like) may be used to aid in monitoring the WAT dispensing (e.g., the length of tape, the presence or lack of presence of tape, the speed of the tape moving through the dispenser, or the like).

[0059] In some embodiments, the tape supply may dispense tape in an assisted manner, for example by activating a motorized payout to rotate the tape supply or otherwise advance the tape from tape supply. This may occur in response to an increase in tension in the tape as a result of the advancement of the one or more drive rollers. In other words, the increased tension in the tape may cause a torque to be applied to the tape supply, which, in response thereto, activates a motorized payout device to turn the tape supply at a predetermined rate. In other embodiments, a motorized payout device may be synchronized (e.g., using measurements such as force, or the like, timed, or the like) such that the motorized payout device is activated at approximately the same time as the activation of the one or more drive rollers of the tape dispenser assembly 200 by the motor 220.

[0060] The motor 220 may be initiated (e.g., caused to turn via a signal from the controller 500), which may initiate the rotation of a flexible member (e.g., belt, chain, band, or the like) and / or drive members (e.g., gears, pullies, or other members). The motor 220 may be a brushed DC motor, a brushless DC motor, a stepper motor, a servo motor, a gearmotor, or the like, sufficiently powerful to advance the roller assembly 210 to advance the WAT. While the drive mechanism herein is generally described as a motor 220, it should be understood that other types of drive mechanisms other than, or in addition to, a motor 220 may be used to move the WAT through the WAT dispenser 110.

[0061] In some embodiments, a predetermined speed and / or acceleration profde of the motor 220 may be implemented to reduce the occurrence of jamming of WAT while also increasing the output volume of the WAT dispenser 100. For example, some types of WAT may have characteristics conducive to a quick acceleration profde of the motor, while other types of WAT may be too thin or fragile to undergo quick acceleration without unintentional severing. Additionally, or alternatively, the amount of WAT remaining in the tape supply may require different speeds or acceleration profdes. For example, heavier tape supply may require a slower deceleration rate prior to stopping the motor 220 in order to restrict (e.g., prevent, reduce, or the like) the inertial movement of the tape supply to inadvertently continuing to supply tape, which may cause jamming.

[0062] Various predetermined speed and / or acceleration profdes may be stored in a memory device in operative communication with the controller 500. Profdes may be assigned (by an operator or otherwise) to particular interactive elements of the user interface 102, or may be associated with a particular SKU, part number, or other identifier (e.g., assigned using a sensor, such as through RFID sensors, or the like) of the tape supply within the memory device or external database. In this way, the selection of a particular tape supply via the user interface 102 (e.g., via keypad, mobile device application, or the like) may prompt the retrieval of a speed and / or acceleration profde best suited for the tape supply. In other embodiments, the selection of a particular tape supply may be made automatically through the identifier, such as using a sensor to detect an identifier (e.g., RFID detection, or the like) and in response provide the associated profde for the identifier.

[0063] In some embodiments, drive members may be sprockets, pulleys, wheels, gears, or the like mechanisms to engage drive roller(s) 212. For example, in the embodiments depicted graphically, a motor 220 may turn a drive member, which is operatively coupled via a flexible member (e.g., chain, belt, cable, rope, or the like) to a drive member on a drive roller 212. The one or more rollers 212 and / or drive members may be composed of any suitable material, including silicone, metals (aluminum, steel, stainless steel, titanium, or the like), plastics, and so forth. In some embodiments, the rollers 212 and / or drive members may include portions of elastomers, such as polyurethane, nitrile rubber, EPDM, or the like, to provide compliant engagement with aninterfacing surface. In other embodiments, elastomers may be omitted, and the rollers and / or drive members may be composed of one or more primarily rigid materials. In some embodiments, coatings or surface treatments such as anodizing, plating, texturing, overmolding, or the like may be applied to the rollers 212 and / or drive members to modify surface characteristics including grip, hardness, chemical resistance, or the like.

[0064] The one or more rollers 212 (e.g., drive rollers, free rollers, or the like) and / or encoders 214 may include a biasing member to provide a force or otherwise bias a roller or encoder toward an adjacent surface (e.g., another roller, feed surface, or the like). The biasing member may include a coil spring, leaf spring, torsion or wave spring, Belleville washer, pneumatic actuator, hydraulic actuator, solenoid, cantilever arm, damper, or the like sufficient to allow the one or more rollers 212 and / or one or more encoders 214 to deflect toward and / or away from another surface under a load and return to a rest position.

[0065] Various embodiments not depicted graphically are also contemplated, including embodiments where 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, and so forth drive rollers and / or 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or the like, free rollers are implemented. These rollers may be coupled to each other by drive members (e.g., via gears, belts, chains, or the like) to rotate and move the WAT through the tape dispenser assembly 200.

[0066] In some embodiments, the tape dispenser assembly 200 (e.g., the roller assembly 210, or the like) may include one or more deflectors in order to guide the WAT and restrict (e.g., prevent, or reduce the chance of) the WAT from rolling around a roller. As such, a naturally tendency of the WAT to deviate from the desired path may be restricted by redirecting the WAT using the one or more deflectors. The one or more deflectors may reduce the likelihood of the WAT wrapping back on itself, wrapping around nearby rollers, or the like.

[0067] Figures 5A-5B further illustrate a separator 240 for separating a predetermined length of WAT from the tape supply. In some embodiments, the separator 240 may be positioned downstream of the roller, as illustrated in Figures 5A-5B. However, in other embodiments, the separator 240 may be positioned in another location. The separator 240 may include a holder 242 for holding a cutting element 244, for example a blade, to segment the tape at the predetermined length. In some embodiments, the holder 242 may be actuated to move the cutting element 244(e.g., a blade 244) and holder 242 together relative the WAT until the cutting element 244 contacts the WAT and separates the WAT into the predetermined length(s). Additionally, or alternatively, the holder 242 may be stationary relative to the WAT, while the cutting element 244 is actuated to move relative to the WAT until the cutting element 244 contacts the WAT and separates the WAT into the predetermined length. In some embodiments, the cutting element 244 may be a blade being a sharpened object (e.g., made of metal, ceramic, plastic, or other material). Additionally, or alternatively, the cutting element 244 may include other devices for separating or cutting including lasers, saws, wire cutters, abrasive components, or the like.

[0068] The separator 240 may be actuated (e.g., moved relative to the WAT such as to contact the WAT with a portion of the separator 240) via a signal from the controller 500 to separate a predetermined length of WAT using an actuator. In some embodiments, the actuator may be a solenoid. In other embodiments, other linear actuators, pneumatic cylinders, hydraulic cylinders, or the like may be implemented to facilitate the movement of at least a portion of the separator 240.

[0069] As further illustrated in Figures 1, 3, and 5 A, in some embodiments, the WAT dispenser 100 may include a user interface 102 for receiving operating instructions, parameters, settings, tape dispense length, dispense speed, or the like from an operator (e.g., a user), providing feedback of the operation of WAT dispenser 100 to the operator, such as number of cycles, amount remaining tape supply, power or battery levels, liquid level, or the like. As such, the user interface 102 may be operatively coupled to the controller 500. The user interface 102 may include interactive elements 104 for receiving inputs from an operator (e.g., to change operating parameters, settings, operating sequences, start and stop the WAT dispenser 100, or the like). In some embodiments, as is illustrated graphically, the interactive elements 104 may be buttons (e.g., mechanical buttons or keys). Additionally, or alternatively, interactive elements 104 may include sliders, knobs, touch-sensitive surfaces, rotary encoders, toggle switches, capacitive buttons, or the like. In some embodiments, the user interface 102 may include a touchscreen or similar graphical rendering device, which in some embodiments may include interactive elements 104 (e.g., portions of the touchscreen) that are rendered onto the user interface 102 for interaction with the operator.

[0070] Figure 5B illustrates a portion of a wetting assembly 600. The wetting assembly may be comprised of a liquid pot 610 (otherwise described as a water tank, or the like), which may be any type of container that holds the liquid for wetting the WAT. Figure 5B does not specifically illustrate the applicator that is used to apply the liquid to the WAT; however, it should be understood that the applicator may be any type of applicator, such as a brush, roller, sponge, nozzle, spray, or the like. The liquid pot 610 may further comprise a liquid pot inlet 620, which is coupled to the liquid container (e.g., liquid supply container 150, or the like) as will be described in further detail with respect to Figures 7A-7C. The liquid pot inlet 620 may comprise a valve, such as a check valve that allows liquid to enter the liquid pot 610 from the liquid supply container 150 when the liquid pot 610 requires filling.

[0071] Figure 6A further illustrates a portion of the one or more supports 110 (e g., the housing 120) that may be used to support the liquid supply container 150 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. Moreover, Figure 6B illustrates a portion of the one or more supports 110 (e.g., the housing 120) that may contain the sensor detector 300, as will be further described with respect to Figures 8 A and 8B. As illustrated in Figure 6A, in some embodiments, the one or more supports 110 may comprise one or more pivot projections 130 (e.g., extending from the housing 120, a frame member, or the like). The one or more pivot projections 130 may be used to aid in allowing the liquid supply container 150 to pivot when the water level changes within the liquid supply container 150, such as when the liquid drops below a particular level (e.g., a threshold level, or the like), and the liquid supply container 150 moves based on the change in the liquid level.

[0072] Figures 7A through 7C illustrate embodiments of the liquid supply container 150. As illustrated in Figures 7A through 7C, the liquid supply container 150 may comprise one or more apertures resulting in a liquid conduit, which may be used to fill the liquid supply container 150 with liquid and / or allow liquid from the liquid supply container 150 to supply the liquid to the liquid pot 610. In the illustrated embodiment, the liquid supply container 150 comprises a single aperture 160 that acts as both the input and the output for the liquid within the liquid supply container 150. The liquid conduit of the liquid supply container 150 may comprise of one or more projections and / or cavities formed by the liquid supply container 150, which may be coupled tothe liquid pot inlet 620. For example, the liquid output may extend into, extend around, receive, or the like, or combinations thereof, the liquid input 620 of the liquid pot 610. The liquid supply container 150may further comprise one or more handles 170 (e.g., finger grips, hand grips, or the like) that provide improved removal and / or assembly of the liquid supply container 150 with the WAT dispenser 100. However, in some embodiments the liquid supply container 150 may not have any handles.

[0073] The liquid supply container 150 may have any type of shape; however, in some embodiments the liquid supply container 150 may be shaped to allow for at least partial movement of the liquid supply container 150 as the water level changes (e.g., as the water level in the container is reduced, or the like). For example, in some embodiments, the liquid supply container 150 may have one or more pivot projections 130, which may allow the liquid supply container 150 to pivot around the one or more pivot projections 130. In some embodiments the liquid supply container 150 may have a curved surface to improve the engagement with the one or more supports 110 (e.g., the housing 120, or the like). In some embodiments, the liquid supply container 150 may comprise one or more sensor points 180 (e.g., one or more projections and / or cavities) that may be configured to interact with the sensor detector 300, as will be described in further detail herein. However, it should be understood that any surface of the liquid supply container 150 may interact with the sensor detector 300. In still other embodiments, the liquid supply container 150 may comprise one or more alignment surfaces 190 (e g., alignment projections, alignment cavities, or the like), which may be utilized to aid in securing the liquid supply container to the one or more supports 110 (e.g., a housing 120, guides 192, or the like), but still allow the liquid supply container 150 to move as the liquid level changes. In some embodiments, such as the illustrated embodiments, the liquid supply container 150 may comprise a proximal end 152 and a distal end 154. The proximal end 152 may comprise the liquid conduit (e.g., the one or more apertures 160). The liquid supply container 150 may be shaped such that the liquid within the liquid supply container 150 may be biased to flowing to one end of the liquid supply container 150 or the other. In the embodiments illustrated in Figure 7A through 7C, when installed the liquid within the liquid supply container 150 will tend to flow from the distal end 154 towards the proximal end 152. As such, as will be described in further detail herein, when the liquid level changes, the proximal end152 may be lowered while the distal end 154 may be raised. However, in alternate embodiments, when the liquid level changes, the proximal end 152 may be raised while the distal end 154 may be lowered.

[0074] Figures 8A and 8B illustrate perspective outer and inner views of one or more senser detectors 300 and a sensor detection point in a WAT dispenser 100. As seen in Figures 8A and 8B, in one embodiment, the sensor detector 300 may include a sensor of any type (e.g. a switch as illustrated in the figures, or the like), which is used to detect when liquid (e.g., water, or the like) in the liquid supply container (e.g., a bottle, or the like) has changed, such as been reduced, increased, reached a threshold liquid level (e.g., prescribed amount remaining in the liquid supply container, or the like). In other embodiments, as will be described in further detail herein, the sensor detector 300 may include other types of sensors (e.g., a force gauge detector, a capacitive sensor, a resistance sensor, a photoeye sensor, a hall effect sensor, a passives sensor - float, bobber, or the like — , or other types of sensors). It should be understood that the sensor detector 300 having one more sensors may be used to detect when a threshold level of liquid remains in the liquid supply container and / or can detect over a range of full to empty or any subset thereof within the liquid supply container 150. As such, in some embodiments the sensor detector 300 may comprise a plurality of sensors to detect multiple liquid levels, such as multiple water qualities (e.g., opacity, level location, or the like) and act directly or report these liquid levels as inputs and / or outputs.

[0075] In particular embodiments, as illustrated in Figures 8A and 8B, the sensor detector 300 comprises a switch (e.g., a lever, float, pressure switch, or the like switch). That may be activated by the liquid supply container 150 as the liquid level in the liquid supply container 150 changes. For example, as the liquid level in the supply container drops, the liquid supply container 150 may move. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the liquid supply container 150 may pivot around the one or more container pivot locations and / or the one or more pivot projections 130 (e.g., extending from the housing 110, a frame member, or the like) as the liquid level in the liquid supply container 150 changes. That is, a proximal end 152 of the supply container may be lowered, while the distal end 154 of the supply container may be raised (e.g., continuously, at a specified point when a liquid level reaches a threshold, combinations thereof, or the like) as the liquid level drops. In other embodiments, instead of or in addition to pivoting, the liquid supplycontainer 150 may move in other ways, such as sliding, lowering (e.g., entire container), raising (e.g., entire container), or the like.

[0076] As previously discussed, the sensor detector 300 may include one or more switches, and as such, in response to the movement of the liquid supply container 150, the one or more switches may be activated (e.g., tumed-on, turned-off, changed between being fully-on or fully- off, or the like). In some embodiments, a sensor biasing member (e.g., spring, or the like) may be utilized to bias the switch. As such, as the liquid in the liquid supply container 150 is reduced during operation of the WAT dispenser 100, the liquid supply container 150 pivots, and thus, the proximal end 152 is lowered, and the distal end 154 is raised. In response, the biasing member of the switch of the sensor detector 300 is activated, and raises the switch as the distal end 154 of the liquid supply container 150 is raised. In response to the activation of the switch, the indicator 350 of the liquid level may be activated, as will be described in further detail below.

[0077] The sensor detector 300 may be adjustable such that the sensor is activated based on a desired set threshold level (e.g., as requested by an operator, the entity in control of the WAT dispenser, as set by the provider of the WAT dispenser, or the like). For example, the sensor detector 300 may be adjustable by changing the force or position of a sensor biasing member, changing the activation position of a switch, changing the location of a switch, or the like). The adjustability of the activation of the sensor (e.g., switch, or the like) allows for the activation of the indicator 350 of the liquid level to be set at one or more different levels for providing a notification to the operator that the WAT dispenser 100 needs additional liquid.

[0078] While the invention has been described using a switch as the sensor, it should be understood that other types of sensors may be used for the sensor detector 300, such as but not limited to a force gauge detector, a capacitive sensor, a resistance sensor, a photo eye sensor, a hall effect sensor, time of flight sensor, or the like. For example, a force gauge detector may determine a weight of the liquid supply container 150 and therefore allow for a deducing as to the remaining percentage of liquid therein. As another example, a capacitive or resistance sensor may read a portion of the liquid supply container 150, and upon a change in capacitance or resistance (due to the capacitance or resistance differences in the supply container 150 vs. ambient environment), send signals indicating presence or absence of the liquid supply container 150 and / or liquid. Asanother example, a photoeye sensor may be positioned opposite a light emitter (e.g., LED or the like) near or adjacent the liquid supply container 150, where a disruption, change or the like in the detectable parameters is caused by the movement of the liquid supply container 150 (e.g., upon a change in the liquid therein). As yet another example, a hall effect sensor may read magnetic forces from a magnet positioned on or otherwise coupled to the liquid supply container 150 (e.g., a magnet attached on the outer or inner surfaces of the liquid supply container 150, or otherwise captured therein, and adjacent the hall effect sensor upon a change in the liquid therein), such that the changes is magnetic field due to proximity between the magnet and the hall effect sensor upon a change in the liquid in the liquid supply container 150. In other embodiments, a time-of-flight sensor may measure the distance of the liquid level within the liquid supply container 150 and / or distance of a surface of the liquid supply container 150, and the controller 500 may determine changes in the distance.

[0079] The sensor detector 300 is illustrated as being located on a particular location of the housing 120 and / or based on a particular type of container 150, it should be understood that the sensor detector 300 may be located anywhere on the housing 120 (or other support) and / or the container 150 may be any type of container of any size or shape that is located on any portion of the WAT dispenser 100 and / or located adjacent the WAT dispenser (e.g., beside, above, or the like with respect to the WAT dispenser). Moreover, while the sensor detector 300 is described as being located in and / or detecting the liquid in the liquid supply container 150, additionally and / or alternatively, it should be understood that in some embodiments the sensor detector 300 may be located in and / or detect the liquid in the liquid pot 610 of the wetting system 600.

[0080] Regardless of the type of sensor that is used for the sensor detector 300, it should be understood that the indictor 350 of the liquid level in the liquid supply container 150 (or the liquid pot 610 in some embodiments) may be used to notify the user (e.g., operator, maintenance person, user monitoring the operation of one or more WAT dispensers 100 within a facility, or the like). As illustrated in Figures 8A and 8B, the indictor 350 may include one or more light outputs on a housing 110 of a WAT dispenser 100 (e.g., on the inner and / or outer surface). As previously described herein, an output of any type (e.g., a light on another device, indication on a user interface 102, audible sound, motion, change in functionally of the WAT dispenser 100, or thelike) may be used to indicate to the operator the machine state has changed. In some embodiments, the one or more light outputs can be a plurality of lights. These lights can be one color, several colors (e.g., two or more colors), can be in fixed pattern, and / or illuminated in any pattern. As such, in some embodiments, the one or more lights may comprise one or more LEDs (e.g., a single LED, multiple LEDs next to each other, multiple LEDs in a LED strip, or other configuration). In some embodiments, the LEDs may be located between the housing 110 and the liquid supply container 150, which in use, would be at least partially visible through the liquid supply container 150, and in some embodiments, the LEDs (or other lights) may illuminate the liquid and / or the liquid supply container 150.

[0081] In some embodiments, the one or more light outputs may be activated (e.g., turned on, turned off, change color, increase or decrease in number, brighten or dim, flash or change color in a pattern, or the like) when the liquid level changes, such as when one or more threshold liquid levels are reached (e.g., 100, 75, 5-, 25, 20, 15, 10, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, or the like percent full, or range between, overlap, or fall outside of these values). Additionally, or alternatively, the one or more lights may be activated in other ways when the liquid level changes, such as when the liquid level is decreased over time (e.g., the lights may gradually change color from blue to red, the number of blue lights change to red lights, or the like). As such, in some embodiments, the lights may provide an indication when a threshold liquid level is reached and / or may provide a gradual indication that the liquid level is decreasing.

[0082] As previously indicated, alternatively or additionally, in still other embodiments, the indicator 350 may incorporate other outputs, such as sound in any pattern. The sound may be made from a speaker coupled to the WAT dispenser 100, from another device in or around the operator (e.g., on a user device, such as a phone, other communication device, station in which the operator is working, other computer system, or the like). The volume, pattern, and / or type (e.g., beep, tone, vocal commend, or the like) may be used and / or changed based on a threshold liquid level reached and / or as gradual change in the liquid level over time.

[0083] In other embodiments, alternatively or additionally, the indictor 350 can incorporate motion in any pattern to provide a notification of the liquid level. For example, the motion may be movement (e.g., pop out, vibrate, slide, pivot, shake, open, close, or the like) of theWAT dispenser 100, such as a housing 120 (e.g., a cover, or the like), at least a portion the liquid supply container 150, another component attached thereto, a user device (e.g., an operator phone, computer system, or the like), a device in the packaging station, or the like may move. The frequency, pattern, type (e.g., vibration, flag, lever, or the like), or the like may be used and / or changed based on a threshold liquid level reached and / or as a gradual change in the liquid level over time.

[0084] Alternatively, or additionally, using different logic within the controller 500, the WAT dispenser 100 functionality can be altered in a variety of ways in response to a change in the liquid level. For example, the WAT dispenser 100 may be prevented from dispensing tape, operate more slowly, or the like. That is, when the indicator 350 is a functionally indicator, at least portion of the WAT dispenser 100, may not operate, such as the user interface 102, the tape roller assembly 210, the wetting system 600, the tape supply, the motor 220, or other like component within the WAT dispenser 100 may be prevented from operating to prevent the dispensing of the WAT until the liquid in the liquid supply container 150 is replenished.

[0085] While the indicator 350 is illustrated as being located on a particular location of the housing 120 of the WAT dispenser 100, it should be understood that the indicator 350 may be located anywhere on the housing 120 (or other support) and / or the container 150, and / or located adjacent the WAT dispenser 100 (e.g., besides, above, below, or the like with respect to the WAT dispenser 100). Moreover, while the indicator 350 is described as detecting the liquid in the liquid supply container 150, additionally and / or alternatively, it should be understood that in some embodiments the indicator 350 may detect the liquid in the liquid pot 610 of the wetting system 600.

[0086] Figures 9A through 9C illustrate heater assemblies 400 of the WAT dispenser 100. Figure 9A illustrates embodiments in which the temperature of the heater assembly 400 may be controlled by a physical temperature adjustment element 410 (e.g., knob as illustrated, a lever, an element on a user interface, or the like “thermostat”). It should be understood that the temperature adjustment element may be considered an interactive element 104 of the user interface 102. Figures 9B and 9C illustrate embodiments of an improved heater assembly 400 that provides improved heater control of the liquid in the WAT dispensers 100. As illustrated in Figures 9B and9C, in some embodiments the heater assembly 400 includes temperature heater assembly 400 that is fixed and cannot be adjusted by the operator. WAT dispensers 100 in service usually include a temperature adjustment element 410 that allows the user to set the temperature to different levels (e.g., high, medium, and / or low, or the like) and / or increase or decrease the temperature (e.g., in a range) of the liquid (e.g., water) in the liquid pot 610. In some WAT dispensers 100, a mechanical limiter is utilized to prevent the temperature from being adjusted above a certain value. Embodiments of the present disclose include a heater assembly 400 that replaces the adjustable temperature element 410 with a fixed temperature heater 420. As such, the heater assembly 400 may comprise a heater (e.g., electric heater, such as resistance heater, induction heating, dielectric heater, or the like), a heat sensor (e.g., for determining the temperature of the liquid), an optional pump (e g., for circulating the liquid), an optional projection (e.g., for inserting into the liquid pot 610), a heating plate (e.g., which may form a part of the liquid pot 610 that holds the liquid), or other components to aid in maintaining the temperature of the liquid in the liquid pot 610. The heater assembly 400 and / or liquid pot 610 of the wetting assembly 600 may be configured such that an optimal temperature of the liquid is maintained as a temperature (e.g., a temperature range, such as an upper threshold and a lower threshold) that provides the optimal wetting of the WAT. That is, depending on the type of adhesive used on the WAT, the composition of the adhesive of the WAT, and / or the applicator being used to wet the WAT, a specific temperature may be optimized for the wetting of the WAT. For example, a specific temperature may improve the consistency of plurality of WAT dispensing across all WAT dispensers within a facility, thereby improving the overall consistency of tape adhesion. That is, different operators are not able to adjust a temperature setting, resulting in WAT that adheres more uniformly to packaging within the facility. As such, in some embodiments the heater assembly 400 may be set once by the manufacturer, the entity purchasing the WAT dispenser 100, a user tasked with monitoring multiple WAT dispensers, an installer, or the like. While the heater assembly 400 is generally described herein as fixed in temperature setting, in some embodiments, the heater assembly 400 may not be able to be adjusted by an operator, but it still may be adjusted remotely through communication with the controller 500 of the WAT dispensers 100. As such, while individual operators may not be able to change the temperature of the liquid used for wetting, the heaterassembly 400 may be adjusted to account for the type of WAT (e.g., adhesive, or the like), the ambient temperatures in the facility, the type of packaging (e.g., paper based, poly based, other type of packaging material, or the like).

[0087] An additional embodiment of the heater assembly 400, includes an automatic heater shut-off. The overall power consumption of WAT dispensers 100 may be based on the duty cycle of the electrics, heater, motor, solenoid, or the like. When the WAT dispenser 100 is on, the electronics are operating at higher levels, and thus, may be consuming more electricity. As such, the heater cycles may be turned on and off to maintain a desired temperature. That is, if the temperature is within a particular range, the heater may be turned off, and only turned back on when the temperature of the liquid within the liquid pot falls below the lower level set for the liquid. The heater may then heat the liquid to the higher level of the range, and turn off until it falls back below the lower level of the range. Furthermore, if the WAT dispenser 100 is left on when not in use for a period of time, the heater may continue to maintain its temperature. Alternatively, in some embodiments the heater of the heater assembly 400 may be turned off when the WAT dispenser 100 is not in use for a period of time, such as 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 20, 25, 30 or the like minutes (or range between, overlapping, or falling outside of range of any of these values).

[0088] Keeping the temperature of the liquid at higher temperatures (e.g., by allowing an operator to control the temperature, keeping the heater on when the WAT dispenser 100 is not in use, or the like) may waste electrical energy, damage components within the wetting assembly (e.g., resulting in premature need for applicator replacement, such as brush replacement), and / or reduce the effectiveness of the adherence of the WAT to packages (e.g., the WAT is too tacky or not tacky enough, resulting in packages that are not sealed property). Embodiments of the heater assembly 400 described herein address these problems by adding features that restrict temperature changes that are outside of optimal temperature ranges, detect if the WAT dispenser 100 has been idle for a prescribed period of time, and / or automatically shut-off the heater if the WAT dispenser 100 is not being used and / or if the temperature is within the set range of optimal temperatures. Alternatively, the heater may turn on again when the WAT dispenser is turned on and / or begins toresume dispensing tape, and / or the temperature of the liquid in the liquid pot 610 drops below a lower limit threshold.

[0089] It should be understood that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present subject matter and without diminishing its intended advantages. It is therefore intended that such changes and modifications be covered by the appended claims.

[0090] Referring to FIG. 10, a system is illustrated comprising a controller 500, a user interface 102, and the WAT dispenser 100. The controller 500 may be implemented in a number of different forms. For example, the controller may be implemented as a stand-alone computing device within or in proximity to the WAT dispenser 100. Alternatively, the controller 500 may be implemented as a standard server, or multiple times in a group of such servers. Additionally, or alternatively, the controller 500 may also be implemented as part of a rack server system or a personal computer such as a laptop computer. Alternatively, components from controller 500 may be combined with one or more other same or similar systems and an entire controller 500 may be made up of multiple computing devices communicating with each other.

[0091] The controller 500 may include a processor 502, memory 504, input / output (I / O) device 516, and a storage device 506. The controller 500 may also include a high-speed interface 508 connecting to the memory 504, and a low-speed interface 512 connecting to low speed bus 514 and storage device 506. Each of the components 502, 504, 508, 110, and 512 may be operatively coupled to one another using various buses and may be mounted on a common motherboard or in other manners as appropriate. As described herein, the processor 502 may include a number of subsystems to execute the portions of processes described herein. Each subsystem may be a self-contained component of a larger system (e.g., controller 500) and capable of being configured to execute specialized processes as part of the larger system.

[0092] The processor 502 can process instructions, such as instructions of an application that may perform the functions disclosed herein. These instructions may be stored in the memory 504 (e.g., non-transitory storage device) or on the storage device 506, for execution within the controller 500 using any subsystems described herein. It is to be understood that the controller500 may use, as appropriate, multiple processors, along with multiple memories, and / or I / O devices, to execute the processes described herein.

[0093] The one or more memory devices 504 (otherwise described as modules) may include non-transitory computer-readable code storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the controller 500 to perform operations corresponding to received command signals. In some embodiments, the memory 504 may be a volatile memory unit or units, such as volatile random access memory (RAM) having a cache area for the temporary storage of information, such as a command, instructions related to various methods and / or functionalities described herein, and / or the like. In other embodiments, the memory 504 may be a non-volatile memory unit or units. The memory 504 may also be another form of computer-readable medium, such as a magnetic or optical disk, which may be embedded and / or may be removable. The nonvolatile memory may additionally or alternatively include an EEPROM, flash memory, and / or the like for storage of information such as instructions and / or data that may be read during execution of computer instructions. The memory 504 may store, recall, receive, transmit, and / or access various fdes and / or information used by the controller 500 during operation.

[0094] The storage device 506 is capable of providing mass storage for the controller 500. In one aspect, the storage device 506 may be or contain a computer-readable medium, such as a floppy disk device, a hard disk device, an optical disk device, or a tape device, a flash memory or other similar solid state memory device, or an array of devices, including devices in a storage area network or other configurations. A computer program product can be tangibly embodied in an information carrier. The computer program product may also contain instructions that, when executed, perform one or more methods, such as those described above. The information carrier may be a non-transitory computer- or machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory 504, the storage device 506, or memory on processor 502.

[0095] The high-speed interface 508 manages bandwidth-intensive operations for the controller 500, while the low speed controller 512 manages lower bandwidth-intensive operations. Such allocation of functions is exemplary only. In some embodiments, the high-speed interface 508 is coupled to memory 504, input / output (VO) device 516 (e.g., through a graphics processor or accelerator), and to high-speed expansion ports 510, which may accept various expansion cards(not shown). In such an implementation, low-speed controller 512 is coupled to storage device 506 and low-speed expansion port 514. The low-speed expansion port 514, which may include various communication devices / ports (e.g., USB, Bluetooth, Ethernet, wireless Ethernet), may be coupled to one or more input / output devices, such as a keyboard, a pointing device, a scanner, or a networking device such as a switch or router, e.g., through a network adapter. The one or more communication devices (otherwise described as modules) may allow for communication between the components of the WAT dispenser 100 and the controller 500, and / or the controller and remote systems (e.g., user devices, such a phones, computer systems, servers, other equipment or facility systems, or the like). In some embodiments, the user interface 102 transmits one or more signals to the controller 500 via one or more communication links, which may be a wired connection, a wireless connection, or a combination thereof.

[0096] In one embodiment, the user interface 102 may comprise a user computing device, a mobile terminal, a human-to-machine interface, or any other electronic device that generates control signals. The processor 502 may be configured to communicate with the user through a user interface and / or display interface coupled to a display of the user interface 102. The display may be, for example, a TFT LCD (Thin-Film-Transistor Liquid Crystal Display) or an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) display, or other appropriate display technology. The display interface may comprise appropriate circuitry and configured for driving the display to present graphical and other information to a user. The user interface may receive commands from a user and convert them for submission to the processor 502. In addition, an external interface may be provided in communication with processor 502, so as to enable near area communication of controller 500 with other devices. The external interface may provide, for example, for wired communication in some implementations, or for wireless communication in other implementations, and multiple interfaces may also be used.

[0097] The controller 500 may receive control signals and, in response thereto, generates corresponding control commands transmitted to the WAT dispenser 100. The WAT dispenser 100 may include any of the subsystems and assemblies described herein, including but not limited to the sensor detector 300, the indicator 350, the heater 400, the motor 220, or the like. The controller 500 is operatively coupled to any and all of the aforementioned components, and may directoperation thereof by issuing actuation or operational commands based on the signal(s) received. For example, the controller 500 may instruct the heater assembly 400 to increase or decrease the amount of heat produced. Additionally, or alternatively, the controller 500 may instruct the liquid indicator 350 to illuminate, emit a sound, or any of the other functions described herein based on information received from the sensor detector 300. In some embodiments, the connection between the controller 500 and the WAT dispenser 100 may be bidirectional to allow for the WAT dispenser 100 to transmit statuses, sensor readings, or other types of feedback to the controller 500 (and in some embodiments, to the user interface 102).

[0098] Figure 11 is a process flow 1100 of an operation of a WAT dispenser 100, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. At block 1102, the WAT dispenser 100 may receive an input control signal from a user interface 102 operatively coupled thereto. At block 1104, the WAT dispenser 100 may communicate with one or more of the heater assembly 400 (e.g., to activate and / or disengage the heater based on a temperature of the liquid) and / or activate at least one motor 220 of the WAT dispenser 100. At block 1106, the WAT dispenser 100 may advance the WAT, via a tape dispenser assembly 200, to the wetting assembly 600. At block 1108, the WAT dispenser 100 may wet the WAT and / or separate the WAT using a separator 240 (e.g., before or after wetting). At block 1110, an operator or subsequent processing device (e.g., a robot or other automated tape system) may receive the WAT dispensed from the WAT dispenser 100, where the WAT has been activated by the wetting assembly 600 and separated by a separator 240. At block 1112, after the use of the WAT dispenser 100 over time, the water level may change, and the sensor detector 300 may communicate with the controller 500 that the water level has changed (e.g., send a signal after the container 150 moves and the senser is activated, or after another sensor identifies a liquid level or a change in the liquid level). Block 1114 further illustrates, that the controller 500, after receiving a signal from the sensor detector 300, may provide a signal to activate the indicator 350 (e.g., activates, such as turns on, off, or changes one or more of the lights or other visual indicator, or otherwise, the audible indicator, movement indicator, and / or functionality of the WAT dispenser 100, as previously described herein). Figure 11 further illustrates in Block 1116 that the operator, or other processing device (e.g., a robot, automated supply, or the like) may replenish a liquid supply of the liquid container 150, the sensor detector300 is deactivated (e.g., when the supply container 150 depresses the sensor switch), and / or the indicator is changes (e.g., indicating the water level is acceptable, such as by changing the lights, making a sound, making movement, or the like.

[0099] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. It will be further understood that terms used herein should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of this specification and the relevant art and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein. Certain terminology is used herein for convenience only and is not to be taken as a limitation on the disclosure. For example, words such as “upper,” “lower,” “left,” “right,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “upward,” and “downward” merely describe the configuration shown in the figures. The referenced components may be oriented in an orientation other than that shown in the drawings and the terminology, therefore, should be understood as encompassing such variations unless specified otherwise.

[0100] It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being “connected,” “coupled,” or “operatively coupled” to another element, the elements can be formed integrally with each other, or may be formed separately and put together. Furthermore, “connected,” “coupled,” or “operatively coupled” to can mean the element is directly connected, coupled, or operatively coupled to the other element, or intervening elements may be present between the elements. Furthermore, “connected,” “coupled,” or operatively coupled” may mean that the elements are detachable from each other, or that they are permanently coupled together.

[0101] While certain exemplary embodiments have been described and shown in the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that such embodiments are merely illustrative of and not restrictive on the broad disclosure, and that this disclosure is not limited to the specific constructions and arrangements shown and described, since various other changes, combinations, omissions, modifications and substitutions, in addition to those set forth in the above paragraphs, are possible. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various adaptations, modifications, and combinations of the just described embodiments can be configured without departing from thescope and spirit of the disclosure. Therefore, it is to be understood that, within the scope of the appended claims, the disclosure may be practiced other than as specifically described herein.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A water activated tape (WAT) dispenser configured for water level detection and indication, the WAT dispenser comprising: a tape dispenser assembly configured to dispense tape activated by a liquid; a liquid supply container configured to hold the liquid for activating the tape; a sensor detector configured to detect a liquid level or a change in the liquid in the liquid supply container; and an indicator configured to provide an indication of the change in the liquid.

2. The WAT dispenser of claim 1, further comprising: one or more supports coupled to the tape dispenser assembly and the liquid supply container, wherein the one or more supports comprise at a least a container support configured to allow for movement of the liquid supply container based on the change in the liquid.

3. The WAT dispenser of claim 2, wherein the one or more supports comprise a housing that at least partially covers the tape dispenser assembly and at least partially supports the liquid supply container.

4. The WAT dispenser of claim 2, wherein the one or more container supports comprise one or more projections around which the liquid supply container may pivot.

5. The WAT dispenser of claim 2, wherein the sensor detector comprises: a mechanical detector, wherein the mechanical detector is activated in response to the movement of the liquid supply container.

6. The WAT dispenser of claim 5, wherein the mechanical detector is a switch that is activated in response to the movement of the liquid supply container.

7. The WAT dispenser of claim 5, wherein the mechanical detector is activated when a portion of the liquid supply container is raised, and the mechanical detector moves in response to the portion of the liquid supply container that is raised.

8. The WAT dispenser of claim 5, wherein the mechanical detector is activated when a portion of the liquid supply container is lowered, and the mechanical detector moves in response to the portion of the liquid supply container that is lowered.

9. The WAT dispenser of claim 1, wherein the sensor detector comprises: a force gauge detector, a capacitive sensor, a resistance sensor, a photoeye sensor, or a hall effect sensor.

10. The WAT dispenser of claim 1, wherein the sensor detector detect the liquid level without movement of the liquid supply container.

11. The WAT dispenser of claim 1, wherein the indicator comprises: one or more visual indicators configured to activate based on the change in the liquid.

12. The WAT dispenser of claim 10, wherein the one or more visual indicators comprise one or more lights.

13. The WAT dispenser of claim 12, wherein the one or more lights comprise a plurality of LED lights.

14. The WAT dispenser of claim 1, wherein the indicator comprises: one or more audible indicators configured to activate based on the change in the liquid.

15. The WAT dispenser of claim 14, wherein the one or more audible indicators comprises a sound played by a speaker.

16. The WAT dispenser of claim 1, wherein the indicator comprises: one or more movement indicators configured to activate based on the change in the liquid.

17. The WAT dispenser of claim 15, wherein the one or more movement indicators comprises a vibration or opening of at least a portion of the WAT dispenser.

18. The WAT dispenser of claim 1, wherein the indicator comprises: one or more functionality indicators configured to activate based on the change in the liquid, wherein the one or more functionally indicators comprises prevention of operation of at least a portion of the WAT dispenser.

19. A method for water level detection and indication in a WAT dispenser, wherein the WAT dispenser comprises a tape dispenser assembly configured to dispense tape activated by a liquid, a liquid supply container configured to hold the liquid for activating the tape, a sensor detector, and an indicator, wherein the method comprises: detecting a change in the liquid in the liquid supply container; and providing an indication of the change in the liquid.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the one or more supports comprise at a least a container support configured to allow for movement of the liquid supply container based on the change in the liquid, and the senser detector comprises a mechanical detector, and wherein detecting the change in the liquid comprises activating the mechanical detector in response to the movement of the liquid supply container.

21. A water activated tape (WAT) dispenser comprising: a tape dispenser assembly configured to dispense tape activated by a liquid; a wetting assembly comprising a liquid pot configured to hold the liquid; a heater assembly comprising a heater;a user interface having interactive elements; and a controller comprising: one or more memory devices storing computer-readable code; and one or more processors coupled to the one or more memory devices, wherein when executed the computer-readable code is configured to cause the one or more processors to: heat the liquid to a temperature using the heater of the heater assembly, wherein the temperature is pre-set set, and wherein the temperature cannot be adjusted using the interactive elements of the user interface.

22. The WAT dispenser of claim 21, wherein the one or more processors are further configured to cause the one or more processors to: deactivate the heater when the temperature is above an upper threshold; and activate the heater when the temperature is below a lower threshold.

23. The WAT dispenser of claim 21, wherein the one or more processors are further configured to cause the one or more processors to: deactivate the heater when WAT dispenser is idle for a threshold period of time.

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