Dual-Roll Sheet Dispenser Layout to Reduce Stub Roll Waste
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sheet product dispensers face challenges in reducing waste, particularly due to premature discarding of partially used rolls, which is not effectively addressed by increasing the capacity of full-sized rolls.
Innovation Solution
Designing a dispenser that accommodates two rolls of equal maximum diameter, allowing sequential dispensing and reducing waste by positioning a full-sized roll and a stub roll of at least 67% length, with a single drive roller and pinch roller configuration, to minimize horizontal space usage and waste generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single drive roller and pinch roller configuration is used to reduce dispenser components, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to accommodate rolls with non-planar ends is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the roll accommodation space into two separate compartments, each capable of holding a roll with non-planar ends. By segmenting the dispenser into distinct roll receptacles, each roll can be independently positioned and accessed, allowing the single drive roller and pinch roller configuration to effectively serve both rolls without requiring additional drive mechanisms for each roll.
2Area of stationary object
If stub roll dispensers are used to reduce horizontal wall space, then area of stationary object is reduced, but waste increases due to premature discarding of partially used rolls
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from a horizontal arrangement of rolls to a vertical arrangement, utilizing the vertical dimension for roll storage. This dimensional change allows the dispenser to accommodate full-sized rolls vertically, maximizing the use of vertical wall space while minimizing horizontal footprint. The vertical configuration enables custodians to service the dispenser more efficiently and reduces the likelihood of premature discarding rolls due to space constraints.
3Quantity of substance
If the capacity of full-sized rolls is increased to reduce waste, then quantity of substance is increased, but the problem of premature discarding of stub rolls remains unresolved
Solution Approach 1:
The invention implements a preliminary action by providing a dedicated stub roll receptacle that is prepared in advance to accept partially used rolls. This预先准备的 stub roll position allows custodians to efficiently transfer partially used rolls from the primary roll position to the stub roll position during servicing, preventing the need to discard stub rolls. The system is pre-configured with the necessary space and mechanism to accommodate and continue using stub rolls, thereby eliminating waste.
4Duration of action of stationary object
If two rolls are accommodated in a dispenser, then duration of action of stationary object is extended, but device complexity increases requiring separate drive rollers for each roll
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies universality by designing a single drive roller and pinch roller assembly that can serve both roll positions. The drive roller is positioned and dimensioned to engage with the sheet product from either roll, allowing one set of drive components to perform the function of conveying product from both rolls. This multi-functional design extends the product supply duration by accommodating two rolls while avoiding the complexity of requiring separate drive mechanisms for each roll.
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
This approach significantly reduces waste by enabling efficient use of both rolls, minimizing premature discarding, and optimizing dispenser design for various usage rates, while maintaining aesthetic and safety standards.
Implementation Method 1
Friction between the rollers and the sheet product pulls the sheet product from the sheet product roll when the motor is operated.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of reducing sheet product waste generated during use of a sheet product dispenser in a particular location and over a broad range of usage rates includes designing a dispenser. The design includes determining a desired housing size to obtain a top to bottom height for sheet product roll storage within the housing, dividing the height by two to obtain a maximum roll diameter, locating two roll holders in the housing so that each holder may accept a roll having the maximum roll diameter, positioning a first roll of the maximum roll diameter in a first one of the two roll holders, and positioning a second roll of the maximum roll diameter in a second one of the two roll holders so that two rolls of equivalent length are configured to be dispensed sequentially from the dispenser. The installation and use of two rolls of maximum roll diameter reduces waste. Dispensers formed according to this method are also described.