Retractable Paper Roll End Plug for Compact Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing paper roll end plugs with protruding holding elements occupy valuable space and require wrapping for storage and transport, making it difficult to form stable packages for multiple rolls.
Innovation Solution
An end plug design with a holding element that can be axially moved from a protruding use position to a recessed transport position, using mechanisms like toggle joints, sliding shafts, and spring biases, allowing the holding element to be releasably held in the transport position to save space and protect it during storage and transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the holding element protrudes outwardly from the end plug, then the roll can be held and guided correctly in the dispenser, but the space required for storing and transporting paper rolls increases
Solution Approach 1:
The holding element is designed to be movable relative to the end plug, transitioning between a protruding operational position for holding and guiding the roll in the dispenser, and a retracted storage position that minimizes volume. This dynamic configuration allows the same component to satisfy both the reliability requirement for proper roll positioning and the volume reduction requirement for efficient storage and transport.
2Reliability
If the holding element protrudes outwardly, then it can perform its guiding function, but protection of the holding element during storage and transport becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The holding element's ability to move between protruding and retracted positions allows it to be protected during storage and transport by retracting into the end plug body, where it is shielded from external damage. The holding element remains protruding only when needed for its guiding function in the dispenser, thus minimizing exposure to harmful factors while maintaining functional reliability.
3Reliability
If the holding element is made fixed and protruding, then it ensures smooth unwinding, but wrapping and space utilization for storage becomes problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The holding element is designed with movable capability rather than being fixed, allowing it to be retracted during storage and transport to improve space utilization and eliminate the need for wrapping. The holding element can still be positioned to ensure smooth unwinding during operational use, thus maintaining reliability while improving storage efficiency and manufacturing ease.
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
The design allows for efficient storage and transport of paper rolls without the need for wrapping, enabling the formation of stable packages by keeping the holding elements inside the end plug, thus optimizing space usage and protecting them from damage.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient element arranged to bias said holding element to said second position
Data Source
AI summary
An end plug to be inserted axially into the center of an end of a roll of paper, includes a holding element adapted to hold and/or guide the end of the roll of paper in correct position in a dispenser. The end plug includes an outer sleeve having an outer end and an inner end and the holding element is connected to the sleeve by elements allowing the holding element to be axially moved from a first position to a second position, in which the holding element protrude outwardly from the outer end of the sleeve, the holding element being releasably held in the first position when moved thereto. A roll of tissue paper including such an end plug and a dispenser provided with such a roll are also disclosed.