Sheet product dispenser and method and kit to convert a sheet product dispenser
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sheet product dispensers are inefficient when refilled with stacks of sheet products having different formats, as the equilibrium and dispensing efficiency are compromised if the new stack is smaller than the predetermined format.
Innovation Solution
A sheet product dispenser with a housing and a product holding platform, equipped with adjustable plates that can be inserted to limit the surface area of the stack, ensuring proper fit and stability within the dispenser.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the dispenser is designed for a predetermined stack format, then the dispenser structure is simple and manufacturing is easy, but the dispenser cannot efficiently contain stacks of different sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The dispenser interior is segmented into adjustable sections using removable partition plates. These plates divide the product containing chamber into different configuratable spaces, allowing the dispenser to adapt to various stack sizes while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The dispenser incorporates adjustable and removable partition plates that can be repositioned or removed based on the stack size being contained. This dynamic reconfiguration capability allows the same dispenser structure to efficiently contain stacks of different dimensions without requiring multiple specialized dispensers.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the stack size is smaller than the predetermined format, then the dispenser can accept smaller stacks, but the equilibrium and dispensing efficiency are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Partition plates create segmented regions within the chamber that can be adjusted to match the dimensions of smaller stacks. This segmentation provides structural support and maintains proper equilibrium even when the stack is significantly smaller than the maximum capacity format.
Solution Approach 2:
The partition plates act as intermediary elements between the dispenser housing and the sheet product stack. These intermediaries provide necessary support and positioning to maintain dispensing equilibrium when the stack size does not fully utilize the chamber space.
3Ease of operation
If the opening in the housing is large, then access to the chamber is easy and large stacks can be inserted, but smaller stacks do not fit properly and stability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The large opening provides easy access for inserting stacks of various sizes. Once inserted, partition plates are positioned to segment the chamber space, creating a snug fit that stabilizes smaller stacks while maintaining the benefit of the large opening for loading.
Solution Approach 2:
The partition plates can be dynamically positioned or removed based on the stack size being loaded. This allows the system to maintain ease of operation with a large opening while adapting the internal configuration to provide appropriate stability for each specific stack size.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a sheet product dispenser including a housing defining a product containing chamber and having an opening defined in a top portion thereof; and at least one product size adjustment plate insertable in the product containing chamber, detachably engageable with the housing, and obstructing at least partially the opening when engaged with the housing. There is also provided a kit of product size adjustment plates to be used in combination with a sheet product dispenser and a method to convert a sheet product dispenser.