Rotating Paper Dispenser Arm for Easy Roll Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dispensers for rolled paper products, such as toilet paper or paper towels, are difficult to use when changing rolls, as they require compressing a sprung bar to remove an empty roll or install a new one, which can be cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A dispenser design featuring a first arm that rotates to engage with a second arm, using rotating and stationary mounting brackets to securely attach to a mounting surface, allowing for easy rotation between closed and open positions to facilitate roll changes without the need for compressing a sprung bar.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a sprung bar mechanism is used to hold and release rolls, then the dispenser can securely hold rolls, but the operation becomes cumbersome and difficult to use when changing rolls
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the sprung bar mechanism entirely from the dispenser design. Instead of using a spring-loaded bar to hold and release rolls, the invention uses a simple rotating arm mechanism that pivots on a mounting bracket, eliminating the complex sprung mechanism and making roll changes straightforward by simply rotating the arm to access the roll.
Solution Approach 2:
The dispenser is divided into distinct functional segments: a mounting bracket for secure attachment, a rotating arm for roll storage and access, and an elongate member for guiding the paper. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall operation and maintenance of the system.
2Shape
If the mounting bracket is visible, then the aesthetic appearance is compromised, but if covered, then the structural function may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket is integrated with the rotating arm mechanism such that the arm itself serves as both the functional mounting component and the aesthetic cover. The elongate member is positioned to extend along the mounting surface, visually concealing the bracket while the arm rotates on the same mounting point, thus combining structural and aesthetic functions in a single integrated design.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the first arm is rigidly coupled to the mounting surface, then the mounting is secure, but the arm cannot rotate to facilitate roll changes
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket is designed with a rotating joint that allows the arm to pivot between a closed position (where it holds the roll) and an open position (where the roll can be accessed). The bracket provides stable mounting through secure attachment to the mounting surface while incorporating a rotational degree of freedom that enables easy roll changes without compromising mounting stability.
Data Source
AI summary
According to an exemplary embodiment, a dispenser for rolled paper product includes a first arm and a second arm, with the first arm having an elongate member configured to receive a roll of paper product. A first mounting bracket is configured to rotatingly couple the first arm to a mounting surface. The first arm is configured to cover the first mounting bracket from view. A second mounting bracket is configured to rigidly couple the second arm to the mounting surface.