Dispenser with mechanical transfer and method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing toilet tissue dispensers for jumbo rolls in commercial restrooms require manual handling of partially used rolls, which is cumbersome and can lead to contamination when replacing the new roll, and often result in product waste due to incomplete use of the old roll.
Innovation Solution
A dispenser with a roll transfer apparatus that automatically moves a jumbo roll from a first dispensing position to a second position when a certain diameter is reached, allowing for easy replacement of the new roll without exposing it to contamination, and includes a ramp and rollers to facilitate movement and support the roll, reducing waste by allowing continued use of the partially used roll.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If service personnel manually handle stub roll removal and new roll installation, then the dispenser can be serviced, but the new roll is exposed to contamination and the process is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The dispenser is divided into two separate roll positions: a first roll position for receiving new rolls and a second roll position for stub rolls. This segmentation allows independent handling of each roll, enabling the new roll to be loaded without exposure to contamination from stub roll removal operations.
Solution Approach 2:
A transfer apparatus acts as an intermediary mechanism between the two roll positions. This transfer apparatus automatically moves the stub roll from the second position to a removal position, eliminating the need for service personnel to manually handle the new roll during stub roll removal, thus preventing contamination.
2Productivity
If service personnel manually remove stub rolls and install new rolls, then roll replacement can be accomplished, but the process requires multiple manual operations and exposes the new roll to contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer apparatus is configured to automatically transfer the stub roll from the second roll position to a removal position without requiring service personnel to manually remove it. This self-service mechanism reduces the number of manual operations needed and accelerates the roll replacement process.
Solution Approach 2:
The transfer apparatus is pre-configured to automatically position the stub roll for removal before service personnel arrive. When service personnel open the dispenser, the stub roll is already positioned for easy removal and the new roll is ready in the first position, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual handling operations.
3Device complexity
If a single roll position is used, then the dispenser structure is simple, but the partially used roll cannot be continued to be used after new roll installation
Solution Approach 1:
The dispenser incorporates two distinct roll positions: a first roll position for new rolls and a second roll position for stub rolls. This segmentation enables the partially used roll to be transferred to the second position and continued to be dispensed from, preventing waste of the remaining material while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of discarding the partially used roll when installing a new one, the transfer apparatus moves it to the second roll position where it can be fully utilized. This recovering approach ensures that all material in the stub roll is dispensed before removal, eliminating waste while the dual-position structure remains manageable.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates efficient and hygienic replacement of toilet tissue rolls by eliminating the need to handle new rolls during stub roll removal, reducing waste by allowing continued dispensing from the partially used roll in the second position, and saving time for restroom personnel.
Implementation Method 1
The transfer disk also includes a spring engagement mechanism configured to be secured to an extension spring located on a recessed portion of the backside of the rear housing
Implementation Method 2
The first end of the ramp is elevated in comparison to the second end of the ramp to allow for gravitational forces to further facilitate movement of the roll of material from the first dispensing position to the second dispensing position
Data Source
AI summary
A dispenser for dispensing a roll of material is disclosed. The dispenser includes a rear housing and an openable cover. The rear-housing includes a roll transfer apparatus for transferring the roll of material from a first dispensing position to a second dispensing position. The roll transfer apparatus includes a transfer arm engaged with a transfer disk and a transfer latch capable of engaging and disengaging the transfer disk to facilitate movement of the roll of material from a first dispensing position to a second dispensing position. Also disclosed are methods for replacing a roll of material in a dispenser.