JP2002508198A - Containers and cartridges for removing paper supplies - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] In a container (10) for removing individual paper supplies (12), the container has an inner surface and (30) and an inner surface (30) for storing a plurality of paper supplies. A housing (14) including a plurality of outer walls defining an interior region (28) of the housing. The first end wall defines a withdrawal throat (32) for allowing removal of the paper supplies (12) from the interior region (28). The urging mechanism urges the paper supply (12) in the inner area (28) in the take-out direction (44) toward the throat (32). A projection (50) extends from a portion of the interior surface of the second (20) and third exterior walls (22) into the interior area (28) for contacting the paper supply (12) against the biasing mechanism. ing. The projections (50) of the second wall are arranged alternately with the projections of the third wall (22) in the take-out direction (44). Additional projections may be located on the first wall (18), the fourth wall (24) and the first end wall (40) near the extraction throat (32). It is also possible to provide a cartridge (262) for holding the paper supplies (12) and allowing them to be removed from the container (10).

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to the field of removal devices and systems. More particularly, the present invention relates to the field of devices and systems for removing paper supplies such as napkins, towels, toilet tissue, and the like. Various types of dispensers for paper supplies have been developed to allow users to use the paper supplies immediately. Such dispensers are often provided in public places such as restaurants and hand-washing, and users remove as much paper supplies from the dispenser as they want for their use. In high traffic areas, such as fast foodless runs, many customers may use paper supplies dispensers, such as napkin dispensers, in a short amount of time. Accordingly, dispensers have been developed that hold large numbers of paper supplies for use by a large number of customers.

However, large dispensers have many disadvantages. First, the uniform dispensing of individual paper supplies or a fixed amount of paper supplies from a large dispenser will result in more paper supplies being removed than is needed by the user. Thus, the user has to take out extra paper supplies, of which some paper supplies are wasted. If too much paper is removed from the dispenser, the dispenser will empty out quickly and there will be no advantage to providing a large dispenser. Second, many dispensers are difficult to load, and more difficult as the size of the dispenser increases. If the paper supplies are not properly loaded into the dispenser, they can become jammed during removal, and the user can no longer remove the paper supplies. Further, since a large number of paper supplies are involved in the large dispenser, an operator often drops a part of the paper supplies on the floor when refilling the large dispenser. If the paper supplies fall to the floor, they become unsanitary and must be discarded, creating additional waste and again losing the advantage of a large dispenser.

Another disadvantage of many currently available dispensers, regardless of size, is that without opening the dispenser, it is not possible to determine how much paper supplies remain in the dispenser. That is, the dispenser must be checked periodically to determine how much paper supplies are left, or care must be taken to refill the dispenser once it is empty. In each case, caution is required, especially during peak usage, and the dispenser can empty without careful monitoring of the dispenser.

OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION A primary object of the present invention is to provide an improved container and cartridge for removing paper supplies, which can be easily adapted to a variety of applications. Another object of the present invention is to provide a container and cartridge for removing paper supplies that is simple and inexpensive to manufacture and reliable in use. It is yet another object of the present invention to provide containers and cartridges for dispensing paper supplies that meter out or supply a limited amount of individual paper supplies.

[0005] Yet another object of the present invention is to reduce waste of paper supplies due to the user either removing extra paper supplies or dropping paper supplies while refilling the container. , Container and cartridge for taking out paper supplies. Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a container and cartridge for removing paper supplies, which indicates to a user the remaining amount of paper supplies ready to be removed.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a container and cartridge for removing paper supplies, which reduces clogging of the paper supplies and subsequent unloading of the paper supplies. It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a container and cartridge for removing paper supplies that supports the weight of the paper supplies and facilitates removal of individual paper supplies.

[0007] To achieve the above objects and in accordance with the objects of the present invention, as described specifically and broadly herein, an interior surface and a plurality of paper supplies within the interior surface are housed. Container for removing individual paper supplies, including a housing having a plurality of outer walls forming an interior area for the paper supplies. The first end wall is provided with a take-out throat for taking out paper supplies from the inner area. Alternatively and / or additionally, the removal throat may be located on the outer wall. A mechanism is provided for urging the paper supplies in the inner area toward the removal throat in the removal direction. The first, second and third outer walls are first
Second and third outer walls are disposed on both sides of the outer wall and intersect with the first end wall to form a portion of the inner surface. Protrusions extend from a portion of the interior surface of the second and third exterior walls into the interior area to resist the force of contacting and biasing the paper article. The projections on the second wall and the projections on the third wall are alternately arranged in the take-out direction.

[0008] The biasing mechanism may include a spring-biased plate disposed in the interior region of the housing to bias the paper supplies in the removal direction, and the removal direction may be substantially horizontal. Good. Alternatively, the biasing mechanism may include a mounting portion on the housing for mounting the housing on a substantially non-horizontal surface, wherein the paper supplies are biased in the removal direction by gravity, and Is generally vertical. Preferably, the projection includes a curved bumper, and more preferably, the curved bumper includes a plurality of ridges extending across the curved bumper in a direction perpendicular to a take-out direction.

[0009] The housing may further include a staging area on the paper supply that includes a rib member extending parallel to the removal direction for contacting and / or aligning the paper supply and resisting the biasing mechanism. Provided near the extraction throat for spacing and deceleration. For example, in an embodiment of the present invention, if the dispensing throat is on the outer wall, the staging area may have at least one rib member extending parallel to the dispensing direction and a biasing mechanism in contact with the paper supply. And a number of teeth extending from the rib member. A predetermined one of the exterior walls is openable for inserting a plurality of paper supplies into the interior area;
The housing may include a door hinged to the housing.

[0010] Optionally, a cartridge may be provided for insertion into an interior region of the housing for accommodating a plurality of paper supplies, the cartridge having a removable portion, and a removable portion. It is desirable to have an opening in the cartridge when the part is removed. Desirably, at least one of the openings of the cartridge is disposed adjacent to at least one of the protrusions, the protrusion extending through the opening to contact a plurality of paper supplies. A rib member is provided in the interior region of the housing near the removal throat, at least a portion of the opening of the cartridge is disposed adjacent the rib member, the rib member extends through the opening, and contacts the plurality of paper supplies; It is desirable to align them and / or to support them. In some embodiments of the invention, for example, where the dispensing throat is located on an outer wall, at least one rib member is provided in an interior region of the housing near the dispensing throat, A tooth extending from the rib member, wherein at least one of the openings of the cartridge is disposed adjacent to at least one of the rib members such that the tooth extends through the opening and contacts the plurality of paper supplies. ing.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a container for removing individual paper supplies is provided, the container having an interior surface and a plurality of paper supplies within the interior surface. And a housing having a plurality of outer walls defining the interior region of the housing. The first end wall defines a removal throat that allows removal of the paper supplies from the interior region. Alternatively and / or additionally, the removal throat may be located on the outer wall. A mechanism is provided for urging the paper supplies in the inner area toward the throat portion in a take-out direction. At least one protrusion extends from the interior surface into the interior area of the housing. A cartridge is provided for receiving a plurality of paper supplies for insertion into an interior region of the housing, the cartridge including at least one removable portion, the cartridge being opened when the removable portion is removed. Is available. An opening in the cartridge is located adjacent to the protrusion, and when the cartridge is loaded into the interior region of the housing, the protrusion extends through the opening and contacts the paper supplies to provide a means for biasing. It is designed to resist.

[0012] Preferably, the cartridge includes a second removable portion, wherein removal of the second removable portion provides a second opening in the cartridge, wherein the means for biasing comprises: Preferably, the paper supply includes a spring-loaded plate disposed in the interior region of the housing and extending through the second opening for biasing the paper supply in the removal direction, the removal direction being generally horizontal. In the alternative, the means for biasing includes a mounting on the housing for mounting the housing on a substantially non-horizontal surface, wherein the paper supplies are biased in the removal direction by gravity. It is desirable that the take-out direction is substantially vertical.

[0013] The first, second and third outer walls have at least one protrusion including a plurality of protrusions intersecting the first end wall with second and third outer walls disposed on both sides of the first outer wall. Are the second and third
Extending from the outer wall into the interior region, the protrusion includes a curved bumper, and the curved bumper preferably includes a plurality of ridges extending across the curved bumper in a direction perpendicular to the removal direction. A staging area including rib members extending parallel to the unloading direction for contacting, aligning and / or supporting the paper supplies, and resisting a biasing mechanism; In order to reduce the speed, it is desirable to provide it near the extraction throat. In some embodiments of the invention, for example, where the dispensing throat is on the outer wall, at least one rib member is provided in an interior region of the housing near the dispensing throat, wherein the rib member is An extended tooth is provided, wherein at least one of the openings of the cartridge is disposed adjacent to at least one of the rib members such that the teeth extend through the opening and contact the plurality of paper supplies.

According to another aspect of the invention, a container is provided for removing individual paper supplies, the container having a plurality of outer walls defining an interior area for storing the plurality of paper supplies. Contains. The first end wall forms a removal throat that allows removal of paper supplies from the interior region. Alternatively and / or additionally, the removal throat may be located on the outer wall. A mechanism is provided to take out the paper supplies in the inner area and urge the paper supplies toward the throat in the removal direction. The first, second and third outer walls intersect the first end wall with second and third outer walls disposed on both sides of the first outer wall. A first group of projections extends from the second and third outer walls into the interior region. The fourth outer wall may include a door hinged to the housing that is openable for inserting a plurality of paper supplies into the interior area. The second group of protrusions extends from the first and fourth walls into the interior region and preferably contacts or is articulated with the first end wall. The first and second groups of projections are in contact with the paper supplies to align and support the paper supplies and / or to resist the biasing mechanism.

[0015] Preferably, the first group of projections includes a curved bumper, which preferably includes a plurality of ridges extending across the curved bumper and perpendicular to the direction of removal. The second group of protrusions is preferably a rib member located in a staging area near the removal throat to space, align, support, and / or slow down the paper supplies. For example, in one embodiment of the present invention where the removal throat is on the outer wall, the staging area has at least one rib member extending parallel to the removal direction and a biasing mechanism in contact with the paper supply. And a large number of teeth extending from the rib member.

According to another aspect of the invention, a cartridge is provided for holding and removing a plurality of paper supplies. The cartridge is insertable into an interior area of a container having a housing, the interior area being within an interior surface defined by a plurality of exterior walls, at least one protrusion extending from the interior surface into the interior area. I have. In some implementations, the protrusion is a rib member provided inside the housing near the removal throat. The cartridge includes a cartridge body having a cartridge wall and a removable portion formed in the cartridge body such that removing at least one of the removable portions creates an opening in at least one cartridge wall. The removable portion has a projection (some or all of which may take the form of a rib member) having at least one of the openings when the cartridge is loaded into the interior region of the housing. It is provided at a position where it penetrates and contacts a plurality of paper supplies.

The cartridge wall includes two opposing walls, provided with at least two removable portions, each removable portion being located on each opposing wall of the cartridge. The cartridge wall includes four cartridge sidewalls,
Preferably, at least four removable portions are provided, each of which is located on each side wall of the cartridge.

The cartridge has at least one slot extending through one of the cartridge walls, the slot being visible from outside the housing when the cartridge is in the interior region of the housing, and through the slot. By visually checking the amount of paper supplies, the amount of paper supplies contained in the cartridge can be determined.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a container for removing individual paper supplies from a cartridge holding a plurality of paper supplies, the container being adapted to store the plurality of paper supplies. A housing having a plurality of outer walls defining an interior area of the housing. The first end wall. It is located at one end of the container. A mechanism is provided for urging the paper supplies in the inner area toward the first end wall in the removal direction. The first, second and third outer walls intersect the first end wall with second and third outer walls disposed on both sides of the first outer wall. The configuration of the outer wall and the end wall forms an opening surface of the container. A cartridge holding means in the form of one or more small blocks, chucks, plugs, wires, braces, brackets, pins, bars, clips, etc., comprises a first
Desirably, it is formed on the end wall or the opposing outer wall. First finger slot
You may cut in an end wall.

In some embodiments, a first group of protrusions extends from the second and third outer walls into the interior region. It is also conceivable that the fourth outer wall is included in the container. The fourth outer wall can be a partial wall or a partial door hinged to the housing that can be opened to insert a plurality of paper supplies into the interior area. If a fourth wall is used, it is preferable to keep the distal end away from the first end wall so that it does not intersect the first end wall, so that the fourth wall forms the open surface of the container and holds the cartridge. It will serve as a means. Alternatively, the fourth wall may intersect or contact the first end wall to form an extraction throat.

When the fourth wall is configured to intersect or contact with the first end wall to form a take-out throat, the take-out throat has a horizontal dimension in a paper supply in a container (or cartridge). Is preferably about the same as, or slightly larger than, the width of the paper supplies, and the vertical dimension is large enough to provide a path for a limited number of paper supplies.
For example, if the paper supply is in the form of a folded paper napkin, the vertical dimension of the dispensing throat is such that a limited number of foldable paper napkins can be withdrawn. This can be achieved by having the vertical dimension be a multiple of the thickness of the individual foldable paper napkin (eg, greater than about 2 times less than about 10 times the thickness).

In some embodiments, a second group of protrusions extend from the first wall into the interior region, and the protrusions desirably are in contact with or continuous with the first end wall. If this projection is used, the first and second groups of projections will contact the paper supplies and resist mechanisms for aligning, supporting, and / or biasing the paper supplies. Preferably, the first group of projections includes a curved bumper, and the bumper preferably includes a plurality of ridges extending across the bumper in a direction perpendicular to a removal direction. The second group of protrusions is for spacing, aligning, supporting,
Preferably, it is a rib member located in the staging area near the removal throat for deceleration.

A cartridge for holding and unloading a plurality of paper supplies is inserted into an interior area of the container within an interior surface defined by a plurality of exterior walls. In some embodiments, at least one protrusion extends from the interior surface of the container into the interior area. The one or more protrusions may be a curved bumper or a rib member provided inside the housing near the first end wall. Generally speaking, the cartridge includes a cartridge body having a cartridge wall, and may further include a removable portion formed on the cartridge body, as described above for other cartridge embodiments. Some of the container embodiments described above have an open surface rather than a removal throat, and the cartridge wall located on the open surface of the container serves to control access to paper supplies held therein. Slits, slots, orifices or channels are provided. The slot is defined by the front and bottom walls of the cartridge. However, other places may be used.

The size of the slit is such that the horizontal dimension is about the same as or slightly larger than the width of the paper supplies in the cartridge, and the vertical dimension is sufficient to provide a limited number of paper supply passages. Desirably, it is large. For example, if the paper supply is in the form of a folded paper napkin, the vertical dimension of the slit may be sized to allow a limited number of foldable paper napkins to be withdrawn. This can be achieved by having the vertical dimension be a multiple of the thickness of the individual foldable paper napkin (eg, greater than about 2 times less than about 10 times the thickness).

The paper supplies can be accessed by thumb and / or finger slots. The thumb and finger slots are preferably on the top and bottom of the cartridge. The cartridge is provided with at least one slot extending through one of the cartridge walls, the slot being visible from outside the housing when the cartridge is in the interior region of the housing; The amount of paper supplies contained in the cartridge can be determined by checking the amount of paper supplies through the cartridge.

Additional objects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, or will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail, and one or more embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings (accurate scale). Not shown). Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. For example, features illustrated or described as part of an embodiment or drawing,
It may be used in another embodiment or drawing to provide another embodiment. The present invention is intended to include such modifications or variations.

As shown broadly and specifically in FIGS. 1-5, a first embodiment of a container 10 for removing paper supplies 12 is disclosed. Container 10 includes a housing 14 in which paper supplies 12 are located and removed therefrom. Paper supplies 12
May be a paper napkin, paper towel, toilet tissue, or other similar item.

The housing 14 includes a number of outer walls 16 for storing the paper supplies 12.
The housing 14 includes a first end wall 40 and a second end wall 42 facing the first end wall 40. The first end wall 40 is provided with a take-out throat portion 32 from which the user individually takes out the paper supplies 12, which will be described later. Alternatively and / or additionally, the removal throat 32 may be located on one or more outer walls 16. The outer wall 16 includes a first wall 18, a second wall 20, and a third wall 22 that intersect the first end wall 40, and the second wall 20 and the third wall 22 are opposite to each other with respect to the first wall 18. . The fourth wall 24 extends between the second wall 20 and the third wall 22. The outer wall 16 (that is, the first wall 18, the second wall 20, the third wall 22, the fourth wall 2)
4) integrally contours the interior surface 30 of the housing 14, in which the interior region 28 is located. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, each of the outer wall 16 and the end walls 40 and 42 may be formed from two planar portions, if desired. Such a structure strengthens the housing 14 and is effective where the housing may be damaged. The outer portion of the wall 16 helps withstand any blows or shocks to the housing 14 and prevents the housing from being broken or dislodged from where it is installed, or paper supplies from dislodging from the housing.

As shown in FIG. 1, the fourth wall 24 includes a door 34 hinged to the third wall 22 (or the second wall 20). The door 34 may form the entire fourth wall 24 or may form a part. The door 34 can be opened to insert the paper supply 12 into the interior area 28 of the housing 14 when the storage of the paper supply 12 is low. Door 34 includes a latch mechanism 36 on door 34 and second wall 20 with a number of interfering notch tabs 38 that hold door 34 closed. The tabs 38 on either the door 34 or the second wall 20 can be moved by turning a key lock (not shown) when the door 34 needs to be reopened. The lock may be located on either the door 34 or the main part of the housing 14, but in the former case the tab 38 of the door 34 is movable and in the latter case the second
The wall tab 38 is movable. A leaf spring 39 may be provided to assist in opening the door 34 again upon unlocking. Any other type of latching mechanism may be used within the scope of the present invention to secure door 34 so that it can be reopened.

It is also contemplated that the fourth wall 24 is secured and the paper supply 12 is inserted into the interior region 28 of the housing 14 from the second end wall 42. In such a case, the second end wall 42
May be equipped with a latch, a spring, or the like. The second end wall is entirely removed,
It is also intended that part of the housing be left open. According to the invention, the paper supplies 12 in the inner area 28 are removed in the removal direction 44,
Means for biasing towards the throat 32 are provided. Various alternatives are conceivable within the scope of the invention for removing the paper supply 12 in the removal direction 44 and biasing it towards the throat 32.

For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the housing 14 has a mounting portion 46 for mounting the housing 14 on a substantially non-horizontal surface such as a vertical wall 48.
May be provided. As shown in FIG. 2, the mounting portion 46 connects the housing 14 to the wall 4.
A hole is defined through the first wall 18 of the housing 14 to receive a mounting member (not shown), such as a screw, bolt, nail, or the like, for mounting on the housing 8. Or
A mounting bracket may be formed on the exterior surface of the first wall 18 to contact and be supported by another bracket, screw, bolt, nail, or the like, extending from the wall 48. Further, housing 14 may be secured to wall 48 with an adhesive, epoxy, or the like, or any other type of adhesive. The mounting portion 46 may be attached to any part of the housing 14, such as the second wall 20, the third wall 22, the first end 40, and the second end 42.
It is also possible to use a mounting device in combination with some parts of the housing 14 described above. Further, the housing 14 may be simply connected to the first end 40 by the second end 42.
Below, and may support the first end 40 and possibly the first wall 18 in some way without securing the housing 14 to any particular structure.

That is, the means for taking out the paper supplies 12 in the take-out direction 44 and urging them toward the throat 32 is a method in which the paper supplies 12 are taken out from the take-out throat 32 and urged in the take-out direction 44 by gravity. Where possible, any housing 14, and / or wall 48 configuration, orientation, or both, may be included. A second type of mechanism for unloading the paper supply 12 in the unloading direction 44 and biasing it toward the throat 32 will be described later in connection with the second embodiment (110) of the container 10.

According to the present invention, at least one projection, indicated generally as 50, extends from the inner surface 30 of the at least one outer wall 16 to the inner area 28 of the housing 14. As shown in FIG. 2, the second wall 20 and the third wall 22 desirably include a protrusion 50 that extends into the interior region 28. The projection 50 preferably comprises a curved bumper 52, which comprises a plurality of ridges 54 extending across the curved bumper in a direction perpendicular to the take-out direction 44.

As shown in detail in FIG. 2, the bumper 52 extends into the interior region 28 and contacts the paper supply 12, thereby acting against the means for biasing the paper supply 12 in the removal direction 44. The bumper 52 extends into the interior region 28 and contacts the paper supply 12 to prevent, but does not prevent, the paper supply 12 from moving toward the removal throat 32. The ridges 54 allow multiple paper supplies 12 to contact individual bumpers and allow the paper supplies 12 to move smoothly within the housing 14.
In an embodiment where the means for biasing the paper supply 12 in the removal direction 44 includes a mounting housing 14 for causing this movement to occur by gravity, the projections 50 also oppose the action of gravity. To support the paper supplies 12. Thus, the protrusions 50 reduce the gravity acting on the bottom of the paper supply 12 in the removal throat 32, thereby allowing the user to easily remove individual paper supplies from the removal throat 32.

FIG. 3 shows one preferred profile of the bumper 52. As shown, the external curvature of the bumper is defined by a radius r of about 1.125 to 1.750 inches. The chord length l of the bumper is about 1.625 to 1.875 inches. The two projections 54 each have a radius of about 0.125 to 0.250 inches, and their centers are each about 0.250 inches from the center of the bumper 52. Although the disclosed bumper shape is the current preferred shape, other shapes can be used if desired.

According to the present invention, the projections 50 on the second wall 20 are preferably staggered with the projections 50 on the third wall 22 in the take-out direction 44. By staggering, the paper supplies 12 move smoothly along the take-out direction 44 and can be taken out from the take-out throat 32. The paper supplies 12 are alternately supported on one side and the other by alternate studs 50 and descend through the housing 14 "moving little by little" in the removal direction 44 to exit the removal throat 32. Staggering the projections 50 along the unloading direction 44 depends on the mounting or orientation of the housing 14
Is important in the embodiment in which the gravitational force moves in the removal direction 44 by gravity. For example,
If the projections 50 are arranged facing each other on the second wall 20 and the third wall 22, the paper supplies 12 are totally prevented from moving in the unloading direction, and stay on the pair of projections 50. I will. If the projections 50 are not alternated, the paper supplies 1
The two may pass at random by a pair of protrusions, which may result in the paper product becoming out of alignment and eventually becoming jammed in the housing 14. That is, the protrusion 5
Staggering the zeros allows the paper supplies 12 to move slightly in order in the removal direction 44 along the housing 14, with one side of the paper supplies moving steadily toward the removal throat 32 first on one side and then on the other side. You can make it move at a time.

The container 10 extends from the first wall 18 and the fourth wall 24 to the inner area 28 and
Desirably includes a second group of protrusions 50 that are in contact with. A second group of projections 50 is provided to space, slow down, align, and support the paper supplies 12 as the paper supplies 12 move in the removal direction 44 and out of the removal throat 32.
It is desirable to place it in the staging area 56 near the extraction throat 32. Protrusion 50
The second group preferably includes several rib members 58 extending on both sides of the extraction throat 32 in parallel to the extraction direction 44 as shown in FIG. 4A. The rib members 58 may be of different dimensions to properly support and guide the paper supplies 12 into the throat 32 as shown in FIG. 4B. Strictly speaking, the long rib members 59 adjacent to the first wall 18 and the first end wall 40 extend more into the inner region 28 than the short rib members 60. The long rib members 59 are shown to show an exemplary ramp shape and optimal radius of curvature. As can be seen from FIG. 4B, the portion of the upper surface 62 of the long rib member 59 that is closest to the extraction throat 32 is offset from the first end wall 40. The short rib member 60 is adjacent to the fourth wall 24 and the first end wall 40. Short rib members 60 are shown to show an exemplary ramp shape. As shown in FIG. 4B, the upper surface 64 of the short rib member 60 can be configured so as not to be offset from the first end wall 40.

Generally speaking, the elongate rib member 59 has a height in the range of about 1 to about 2 inches where it meets the first wall 18 and an offset or height range near the removal throat. Is about 0.1 to about 0.5 inches. For example, the long rib member 59 is
The height at the intersection with the first wall 18 is about 1.5 inches and the offset or height near the extraction throat is about 0.25 inches.

The short rib member 60 has a height at a location where it intersects the fourth wall 24 from about 0.5 to about 1.
The offset or height range near the removal throat ranges from 0 to about 0.24 inches. For example, the short rib member 60 has a height of about 0.75 inches where it meets the fourth wall 24 and has no offset or height near the extraction throat. However, the dimensions of these rib members are not limited to these, but the size of the paper supplies, the basis weight of the paper supplies, the composition / texture of the paper supplies, the folding pattern of the paper supplies, the stack height of the paper supplies , The force received from the means for removing the paper supplies and biasing it to the throat, the number and size of the projections disposed on the second and third walls of the container, and the number of other rib members disposed near the removal throat It is necessary to understand that various factors may change to adapt.

FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4B-4B of FIG. 4A, showing a portion of an exemplary long rib member 59. FIG. 4C is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4C-4C of FIG. 4A, showing a portion of an exemplary short rib member. The rib members may vary in width or thickness, and the width of the rib members may vary along any direction or any plurality of directions. The portion of the rib member that contacts the paper supplies is preferably relatively thin and smooth to minimize friction.

FIG. 4D is a plan view of the exemplary rib member 58, as viewed from the inside of the container for removing paper through the removal throat 32. For example, in embodiments of the present invention where the dispensing throat is located on an outer wall, the staging area may instead and / or additionally extend parallel to the dispensing direction and urge against the paper supplies. It may comprise at least one different type of rib member having a number of teeth extending from the rib member to resist the mechanism.

The housing 14 may be molded from an injection molded resin such as polyethylene or nylon. However, some or all of housing 14 may be made using other suitable materials, such as other plastics and metals. Curved bumper 52
It is desirable that the rib member 58 and the rib member 58 be formed integrally with the housing 14. However, the curved bumper 52 and the rib member 58 may be molded separately from the housing 14 and attached later. Further, the curved bumper 52 and the rib members 58 can be made of different materials from the housing 14 if desired. For example, the curved bumpers 52 and / or rib members 58 may be made of a material that is more elastic than the materials described above, such as an elastomer or rubber.

In FIGS. 1 and 2 where the housing 14 is mounted on a wall 48, the curved bumper 5
2 has been described as being located on the second and third side walls 20 and 22, the curved bumper 52 can be located on any pair of opposing walls of the housing 14. . 1 and 2, the rib member or the plurality of rib members 5
8 has been described as being located on the first and fourth walls 18, 24, which are the front and rear walls, the rib member or plurality of rib members 58 may be provided on any wall or one of the housings. Can be placed on opposite walls of a pair. The curved bumper 52 is disposed on such a pair of walls, and the rib member or plurality of rib members 58 are disposed on one or both of a different pair of side walls located 90 degrees from the wall on which the curved bumper 52 is disposed. It is desirable to be arranged in. The dispensing throat 32 can have many shapes within the scope of the present invention, as long as the throat 32 is easily accessible to the user and measures and delivers individual paper supplies.

The paper supplies 12 are preferably folded together or folded up by tabs so that individual napkins can be metered one at a time. However, the present invention does not require the use of mutually folded paper supplies. The housing 14 may hold a number of clips of the paper supplies 12, as shown in FIG. 5, and may extend about 30 to 48 inches from end to end. 1st wall 1
8 is zero from a vertical plane to prevent paper supplies from falling from housing 14 during replenishment.
Preferably, the angle is between -5 degrees.

FIG. 6 shows a second embodiment of the present invention, and shows a container 110 substantially similar to the container 10. The container 110 includes a housing 114 that holds a paper supply 112 and has an outer wall 116. The paper supply 112 is taken out of the take-out throat 132 in the take-out direction 132. At least one protrusion 150 extends from the interior surface 130 into the interior region 128 and contacts the paper supply 112.

The protrusion 150 includes a curved bumper 152 having a raised portion 154 similar to that described above in connection with the first embodiment of the present invention. The curved bumpers 152 are provided alternately in the take-out direction 144 as described above. A staging area 156 is provided at the first end 140 of the housing 114 adjacent the removal throat 132. Staging area 156 includes additional curved bumpers 153 that are not staggered in removal direction 144. The bumper 153 allows the paper supply 112 to bend in an arcuate shape toward the extraction throat 132 at the center so that the user can easily remove only one paper supply from the extraction throat 132.

In the container 110, the means for biasing the paper supplies 112 in the removal direction 144 toward the removal throat 132 from the internal area 128 is different from that of the container 10. As shown in FIG. 6, a spring-biased plate 155 is disposed within the second end 142 of the housing 114 with at least one spring 157. Spring 1
When 57 is compressed by spring-loaded plate 155, spring 157 biases spring-loaded plate 155 in removal direction 144. That is, the paper supplies 112 are placed in the container 110, and the spring-biased plate is pushed to the right (as shown in FIG. 6),
When the spring 157 is thereby compressed, the spring-biased plate 155 and the spring 157 take out the paper supply 112 in the take-out direction 144 and urge it toward the throat 132. With a spring-biased plate and a spring mechanism, the container 110 can be removed in the unloading direction 1
It can be used even in a situation where 44 is substantially horizontal. That is, the container 110 provided with the spring pressing urging mechanism can be used even in a place where the container 10 provided with the urging mechanism assisted by gravity cannot be used. It should be understood that the staging bumpers 153 of the container 110 can be replaced with rib members similar to those used in the container 10 shown in FIG. 1, for example, similar to those shown in FIGS. 4A-4D.

In the third embodiment of the present invention, a container 210 for holding paper supplies 212 to be taken out by a user is provided. As shown in FIGS.
Has a housing 214 defined by an outer wall 216 including a first wall 218, a second wall 220, a third wall 222, and a fourth wall 224. Exterior wall 216
Outlines an interior surface 230 with an interior area 228 therein. Throat 2
32 is provided through the first end wall 240 located on the opposite side of the second end wall 242. The paper supplies 212 are removed from the throat 232 in the removal direction 244. The housing 214 has a plurality of protrusions 250 including a curved bumper 252 having a raised portion 254 and a rib member 258 disposed in the staging area 256.

However, the housing 214 need not be provided with a door as in other embodiments of the invention, but may be provided for security reasons. In the present embodiment, the fourth wall 224 is very small and is disposed near the take-out opening 232 of the first end wall 240, so that the surface of the container 210 is substantially open. In addition, the housing 214 can likewise have a double wall construction like the housing 14 for security reasons. Further, the paper supplies 212 are not directly mounted in the inner area 228 as in the first and second embodiments.

As shown in FIG. 8A, a cartridge 262 is provided for insertion into the interior region 228 of the housing 214 and contains a dispensing paper supply 212. As shown in FIG. 7, the cartridge 262 is located within the inner area 228 of the housing 214.
It is a size that matches exactly. If desired, a leaf spring 264 may be mounted inside the second end 242 of the housing 214 to hold the cartridge 262 in place. To hold cartridge 262 within housing 214,
Other suitable mechanisms, such as tabs and other interlocks, may be used within the scope of the present invention.

The cartridge 262 preferably includes a plurality of removable portions 268, such that removal of the portions allows for an opening 270 in the cartridge 262. As shown in FIG. 8A, the cartridge 262 includes a plurality of removable portions 268 that when removed provide an opening 270. Because the removable portion 268 is located on the outer wall 272 of the cartridge 262, once the removable portion 268 is removed, the opening 270 surrounds and receives the protrusion 250 extending from the interior surface 230 of the housing 214. I do. That is, when the detachable portion 268 is removed and the cartridge 262 is mounted on the housing 214, the curved bumper 252 and the rib member 258 come into contact with the paper supplies 212 in the cartridge, and the first two of the present invention. It works in the same way as the bumper and the rib member of one embodiment.

The cartridge 262 can also include another removable portion 278 located at the end 280 of the cartridge 262. The removable portion 278 can be removed to receive the spring loaded plate if the cartridge 262 is used in a container with a spring loaded plate as shown in FIG. .

As shown in FIG. 8A, a removable portion 274 is provided at the end 276 of the cartridge 262 so that the paper supplies 212 are supported and aligned by the rib members 258 for removal from the removal throat 232. You can also Alternatively, the end 276 of the cartridge 262 may be formed as shown in FIG. 8B, in which case no removable portion 274 is required and the cartridge 262 may
6 can be fitted into the housing 214 with virtually no change. That is, if desired, a plurality of small removable portions 274a (see FIG. 8B) may be provided corresponding to the rib members 258, and the small removable portions 274b may be provided corresponding to the throat portions 232. it can.

The removable portions 268, 278, 274 a may be removed during manufacture of the cartridge (or simply not formed) or may be removed when the cartridge 262 is mounted on the housing 214. Removable part 268, 2
If 78, 274a is removed during one of the manufacturing steps, cartridge 262 must be shipped to the user, for example, packaged in a polyethylene bag or the like, to keep the paper supplies in the cartridge sterile. There is. If the removable portion 268, 278, 274a is to be removed in one of the mounting steps, the end of the removable portion must be weakened or scored for easy removal. Removable portion 274 should not be removed as part of the manufacturing process to ensure that paper supplies 212 are properly loaded into cartridge 262.

An optional removable portion 268 may be located on the front wall 272 (and / or the rear wall, not shown) of the cartridge 262. Optional protrusion 258 (ie, a rib member of the type shown in FIGS. 4A-4D) is provided on first wall 218 of housing 214.
And when used on the fourth wall 224 (see, eg, FIG. 7), a removable portion 268 may be used. Such protrusions or rib members 258 can be used for the first and fourth walls 18 and 24 of the housing 14 of the first embodiment, if desired.

The cartridge 262 desirably includes at least one slot 282 extending through one of the cartridge walls 272. Slot 282 is visible from outside housing 214 when cartridge 262 is mounted in interior area 228. The user can visually check the amount of paper supplies 212 remaining in cartridge 262 by examining the amount of paper supplies visible through slot 282. As shown in FIG. 8A, two slots may be provided in order to enlarge the visible range. Any number of slots can be provided within the scope of the present invention.

The cartridge 262 is preferably made of heavy paper or cardboard, but may be made of any other suitable material within the scope of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a partial perspective view of another exemplary container for removing paper supplies, wherein the removal throat 32 is above the first end wall 40 and forms the fourth wall 24 forming the door 34. Is disposed on the fourth wall 24 below the portion.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another exemplary container housing, wherein the removal throat 232 has a fourth wall 224 above the first end wall 240 and below the open surface of the container.
7 is the same as that shown in FIG. As shown in FIG.
Another feature lurking in FIG. 10 is an exemplary protruding rib member 400 that extends parallel to the removal direction 244 and has a plurality of teeth 402 for contacting a paper supply. These protruding rib members 400 can be located on any of the outer walls, near the extraction throat 232, but can be located on one or more of the first wall 218 and / or the fourth wall 224. Is desirable. It is desirable that these pairs of rib members 400 are arranged parallel to each wall.

FIG. 12 shows a plurality of teeth 402 for contacting a paper supply 412 near the removal throat.
FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary rib member 400 having The rib member has a generally vertical surface 44.
It can be seen that it is attached to the first wall 218 which is attached to 8. Tooth 402
Is about 0.250 inches to about 0.25 inches, measured perpendicular to the take-out direction 244.
Preferably, it extends to 500 inches.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another exemplary cartridge 262 configured for use with the exemplary containers of FIGS. 10 and 11. It can be seen from the figures that alternative and / or additional removable portions 268 ′ and alternative and / or additional openings 270 ′ are provided on the outer wall 272 before and after the cartridge 262. The removable portion 274 'is attached to the end 276 of the cartridge 262.
10, the paper supplies 212 can be taken out through the take-out throat 232 provided on the fourth wall 224 as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11.

FIG. 14 is a partial perspective view showing another embodiment of the cartridge of FIG.
Strictly, FIG. 14 illustrates a cartridge 262 having a removable portion 274 ′.
10 shows an alternative configuration for the end 276 ′ of the fourth wall 224, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, such that the extraction throat 232 is compatible with the embodiment provided on the fourth wall 224. FIG. 15 is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment showing a cartridge loaded into the exemplary housing shown in FIG.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an exemplary container housing for removing individual paper supplies from a cartridge holding a plurality of paper supplies. The container shown in FIG. 16 is generally the same as that of FIGS. 7 and 11, and almost the same reference numerals are used for easy identification. An important difference between the container of FIG. 16 and the other containers is that this container also has no removal throat in the housing. Another feature that can be seen from FIG. 16 is the fully open surface of the dispenser including one or more cartridge retaining means 900 attached to the end wall 240 and / or the outer walls 220 and 230.

The cartridge holding means 900 may be a small block, chuck, plug, wire, brace, bracket, pin, bar, clip, or the like, or a combination thereof. Alternatively and / or additionally, it is also conceivable for the cartridge holding means to be other devices such as hooks, clamps, adhesives or to be configured to interconnect or interact with the container and the cartridge. Although these means are located inside the container, the means may be provided outside.

A thumb notch 902 can be provided in first end wall 240 along removal direction 244. The thumb notch can be any shape and size that matches the dimensions of the dispenser and dispensing article. The size of the thumb notch is desirably adapted to the size of any finger or thumb notch of any paper supply holding cartridge used in the container.

FIG. 17 is another exemplary container for removing individual paper supplies from a cartridge holding a plurality of paper supplies. The container shown in FIG. 17 is generally the same as that shown in FIG. It can be seen that the housing shown in FIG. 17 has a plurality of protrusions, including a curved bumper 252 including a ridge and a rib member 258 disposed in the staging area 256. If a curved bumper-shaped projection is used, the projection extends from the second and third outer walls to the inner area. In the case of using a rib member-shaped projection, the rib member generally corresponds to FIG.
And preferably arranged in the manner of the long rib members of FIGS. 4A and 4B.

It is also conceivable that a fourth outer wall is included on the container. For example, as shown in FIG. 18, an optional fourth wall 224 may be included in the container. 4th wall 224
Partially covers the front of the housing and serves as a cartridge containing means. The fourth wall 224 is shown as intersecting or contacting the first end wall 240, but the fourth wall 224 connects the second wall 220 and the third wall 222, which are separated from the first end wall. It may be like a band or a strip or a wall. Instead and /
Alternatively or additionally, the optional fourth wall 224 may have a hinged portion that functions as a securing portion and a door. When the optional fourth wall 224 is used, the extraction throat 232 may be provided at the intersection of the fourth wall 224 and the first end wall 240. In such an embodiment, the paper supplies 212 are removed from the throat 232 in the removal direction 244. As shown in FIG. 18, the fourth wall 224 is fairly small and forms a removal throat 232 with the first end wall 240 and the container 210
One side is virtually open. Further, the housing 214 may have a double wall or double door structure for security reasons.

In the embodiment employing the extraction throat 232 formed by the intersection of the fourth wall 224 and the first end wall 240, the size of the extraction throat 232 is such that the horizontal dimension “H” is the size of the cartridge. Preferably, the width of the paper supplies therein is about the same as or slightly greater than the width of the paper supplies, and the vertical dimension "V" is large enough to provide a path for a limited number of paper supplies. Of course, the cartridge 262 must be structured to cooperate with the extraction throat. Generally speaking, when the paper supply is in the form of a foldable paper napkin, the vertical dimension "V" of the take-out throat is sized to allow a limited number of foldable paper napkins to be taken out. This means that the vertical dimension "V" should be several times the thickness of the individual foldable napkin (eg, greater than about 2 times and less than about 10 times the thickness, preferably greater than about 2 times and about 6 times the thickness). Is more desirable).

The paper supplies can be accessed through the thumb and / or finger slots. These slots are preferably located in the fourth wall 224 and the first end wall 240 and will be centered with respect to the dimensions of the housing or the dimensions of the removal throat 232.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of another exemplary cartridge 262 configured for use with the exemplary container of FIGS. 16 and 17. Generally speaking, this cartridge is the same as the cartridge shown in FIGS. 8A and 13 and
The cartridge body includes a cartridge body having a cartridge wall, and further includes a removable portion formed in the cartridge body, as generally described above with respect to other cartridge embodiments. The previously described container embodiment of FIGS. 16 and 17 has an open surface rather than a removal throat, so that the cartridge front wall 272a, which will be located on the open surface of the container, is held internally. Slits, slots, orifices, which serve to control access to the
Or it must have a channel 950. The slot is preferably formed by a cartridge front wall 272a and a cartridge bottom wall 272b. However, other locations may be used.

The size of the slit is such that the horizontal dimension “H” is about the same as or slightly larger than the width of the paper supplies in the cartridge, and the vertical dimension “V” is a limited number of paper supplies. It is desirable that it be large enough to secure a passage for the vehicle. For example, if the paper supply is in the form of a foldable paper napkin, the vertical dimension "V" of the slit
Will be sized so that a limited number of foldable paper napkins can be removed. This increases the vertical dimension "V" by several times the thickness of the individual foldable napkin (e.g., preferably greater than about 2 times and less than about 10 times, more preferably from about 2 times to about 6 times). Is more desirable).

The paper supplies can be accessed through thumb slot 952 and / or finger slot 954. These slots are preferably located on the top and bottom surfaces of the cartridge and will be centered with respect to the cartridge dimensions or slot dimensions.

The cartridge is provided with at least one additional through slot in one of the cartridge walls visible from the outside of the housing when the cartridge is in the interior area of the housing, through which the amount of paper supplies can be increased. Visual inspection can also determine the amount of paper supplies placed in the cartridge. FIG. 20 is a perspective view of another embodiment showing the exemplary cartridge 262 shown in FIG. 19 inserted into place in the exemplary housing shown in FIGS. 16 and 17. It can be seen that the removal direction "D" is generally perpendicular to the housing and cartridge assembly. If the paper supply is, for example, a foldable paper napkin or tissue, a leading flap or tail 960 extends out of slot 950 for user grip.

FIG. 21 is yet another embodiment of an exemplary housing. This embodiment differs from the embodiment shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 in that the first end wall 240 of FIGS. 16 and 17 is generally inclined away from the front or open surface of the housing. different. In contrast, the first end wall 240 of FIG. 21 slopes or extends to the front or open surface of the housing.

FIG. 22 is an exemplary cartridge intended for insertion into the housing shown in FIG. The front wall 272a and bottom wall 272b of the cartridge are configured to fit snugly into the housing. FIG. 23 is an enlarged sectional view (not to scale) of the lower portion of the container and cartridge assembly shown in FIG. Front wall 272a, bottom wall 272b of the cartridge,
A back wall 272c and a bundle of folded paper supplies 212 are shown. As can be seen from the expanded development, the vertical dimension “V” of the slot 950 is
A single layer, a single ply, or approximately a multiple of the thickness of a single fold. Removal direction
D "can be seen to be substantially perpendicular to the housing and cartridge assembly. If the paper supply is, for example, a folded paper napkin or tissue, the leading flap or tail 960 can be grasped by the user. Can be seen extending from the slot 950. Pulling on the leading flap 960 allows items to be removed one at a time.

FIG. 23 shows FIG. 18 in combination with a paper supply cartridge or clip.
It should be understood to represent an enlarged cross-sectional view (not to scale) of the lower portion of the container assembly shown in FIG. The cartridge front wall 272a corresponds to the fourth wall 224, and the bottom wall 272a.
b corresponds to the first end wall 240, the rear wall 272c corresponds to the first wall 218, the slot 950 corresponds to the removal throat 232, and the finger and thumb slots of the cartridge correspond to the fourth wall 224 and the fourth wall 224. These correspond to the finger-like and thumb-like slots of one end wall 240. Of course, the cartridge is configured as shown in FIGS. 8A, 13 and / or 19 to cooperate with a removal throat 232 formed by the intersection of the fourth wall 224 and the first end wall 240. Therefore, the following description will be made in the embodiment of the present invention (that is, an example in which the housing has no extraction throat) in which the ejection slit is provided in the cartridge and the surface is entirely open. The same applies to the embodiment having the extraction throat 232 formed by the intersection of the first end wall 240.

The folded product is placed on the lower grip point 1000 and the first upper grip point 1
Grabbing between 002 would restrain two folded paper supplies (eg, napkins, tissues, wipes, etc.) for removal. One of the tails 960 is apparently extending from the slot 950, while the other tail 962 is still inside the cartridge, but is accessible through the singer slot 954. Pulling the article gripped at grip points 1000 and 1002 in the removal direction "D" results in the two folded paper supplies being removed at one time. The folding of paper supplies is consistent, with grip points 1000 and 1
If 002 is kept accessible, this result is consistently obtained.

Pulling the product gripped at grip points 1000 and 1004 in the removal direction “D” results in four folded paper supplies being removed at one time. This result is consistent if the folding of the paper supplies is consistent and grip areas 1000 and 1004 are kept accessible.

Pulling the product gripped at grip points 1000 and 1006 in the removal direction “D” results in six folded paper supplies being removed at one time. This result is consistent if the folding of the paper supplies is consistent and the grip areas 1000 and 1006 are kept accessible. Grip area 1006
Can also be accessed through the thumb-like slot 952. For a foldable article having a visible front fold “F _f ”, this can be described arithmetically for the fold article as N = F _f × 2, where N = the number of articles to be removed. Number, F _f = is the number of front folds “F _f ” between the defined grip points and gripped by the user. The number of front folds (F _f ) that can be gripped is generally limited only by the vertical dimension “V” of the slot and the size of the finger slot. Generally speaking, the "bundle" of articles to be removed can be in a folded configuration, except for the leading and trailing edges or flaps. Of course, if one article is taken out at a time, it will not be folded.

If unfolded supplies are used in the cartridge, the removal direction “D” remains the same. However, there is no leading flap in the folded form. Generally speaking, the number of items to be removed will be the same as the number of front folds that are gripped, unless the items are folded double or triple.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. It is to be understood that such changes and modifications are intended to be included within the present invention, as are within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[Brief description of the drawings]

The invention can be better understood by referring to the above detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are not to scale.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an exemplary container for removing paper supplies.

2 is a cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 1 taken along line 2-2 of FIG.

3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary curved bumper protrusion of the container shown in FIG.

FIG. 4A is a partial cross-sectional view of the lower portion of the container shown in FIG. 1 along a line perpendicular to line 2-2 of FIG. 1, showing an exemplary arrangement of rib members.

FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary long rib member taken along line 4B-4B of FIG. 4A.

FIG. 4C is a cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary short rib member taken along line 4C-4C of FIG. 4A.

FIG. 4D is a plan view showing an exemplary arrangement of the rib members near the extraction throat.

5 is a schematic view of a preferred mounting arrangement of the container shown in FIG. 2 when mounted on a substantially vertical wall.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary container according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary housing of a container according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

8A is a perspective view of the exemplary cartridge shown in FIG. 7 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8B is a partial perspective view showing another embodiment of the cartridge of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention, illustrating an exemplary cartridge disposed in the exemplary housing shown in FIG.

FIG. 10 is a partial perspective view showing another exemplary container for removing paper supplies.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another exemplary container housing.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a rib member provided with teeth near a take-out throat.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another exemplary cartridge.

FIG. 14 is a partial perspective view showing another embodiment of the cartridge of FIG.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment showing a cartridge placed in the exemplary housing shown in FIG. 11;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an exemplary container housing for removing individual paper supplies from a cartridge holding a plurality of paper supplies.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of another exemplary container for removing individual paper supplies from a cartridge holding a plurality of paper supplies.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of another exemplary container for removing paper supplies.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of another exemplary cartridge configured for use with the exemplary container of FIGS. 16 and 17;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the exemplary cartridge shown in FIG. 19 shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 inserted into the exemplary housing.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view illustrating yet another embodiment of an exemplary housing.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an exemplary cartridge for insertion into the housing shown in FIG.

FIG. 23 is an enlarged cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary lower portion of the exemplary container and cartridge assembly shown in FIG. 20.

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuation of the front page (31) Priority claim number 09 / 206,956 (32) Priority date December 8, 1998 (12.8 December 1998) (33) Priority claim country United States (US) ( 81) Designated countries EP (AT, BE, CH, CY, DE, DK, ES, FI, FR, GB, GR, IE, IT, LU, MC, NL, PT, SE), OA (BF, BJ, CF, CG, CI, CM, GA, GN, GW, ML, MR, NE, SN, TD, TG), AP (GH, GM, KE, LS, MW, SD, SZ, UG, ZW), EA (AM, AZ, BY, KG, KZ, MD, RU, TJ, TM), AL, AM, AT, AU, AZ, BA, BB, BG, BR, BY, CA, CH, CN, CU, CZ, DE, K, EE, ES, FI, GB, GD, GE, GH, GM, HR, HU, ID, IL, IN, IS, JP, KE, KG, KP, KR, KZ, LC, LK, LR, LS, LT, LU, LV, MD, MG, MK, MN, MW, MX, NO, NZ, PL, PT, RO, RU, SD, SE, SG, SI, SK, SL, TJ, TM, TR, TT , UA, UG, UZ, VN, YU, ZW (72) Inventor Tramontina Paul Francis Georgia, USA 30004 Alpharetta Cobblestone Way 155 F-term (reference) 3E014 LA01 LA05 LA08

Claims (60)

[Claims] 1. A container for removing individual paper supplies, comprising: an inner surface; a plurality of outer walls forming an inner area within said inner surface for storing a plurality of paper supplies; A first end wall forming a takeout throat for allowing the paper supply to be taken out; and urging means for urging the paper supply in the internal area toward the takeout throat in a takeout direction. Wherein the plurality of outer walls comprises first, second, and third outer walls, and the second and third outer walls intersect the first end wall on both sides of the first outer wall to form an inner surface. A projection is formed to extend into the interior area from a portion of the interior surface of the second and third exterior walls and to contact the paper article against the biasing means; The protrusion of the second wall is in the same direction as the protrusion of the third wall. Container, characterized in that it comprises a are staggered housing. 2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said biasing means includes a spring-biased plate disposed in said interior region of said housing for biasing said paper supplies in a take-out direction. The described container. 3. The container according to claim 2, wherein the unloading direction is substantially horizontal. 4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the urging means includes a housing mounting portion for mounting the housing on a substantially non-horizontal surface such that the paper supplies are urged by gravity in the removal direction. The container according to claim 1, characterized in that: 5. The container according to claim 4, wherein the unloading direction is substantially vertical. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the protrusion includes a curved bumper.
Container described in. 7. The container of claim 6, wherein the curved bumper includes a plurality of ridges extending across the curved bumper in a direction perpendicular to the unloading direction. 8. The container of claim 1, wherein the housing further includes a staging area near the removal throat for spacing and decelerating the paper supplies. 9. The container according to claim 8, wherein the staging area includes a rib member extending parallel to the take-out direction for contacting the paper supplies and resisting the urging means. . 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the predetermined one of the outer walls is a door hinged to the housing and openable for inserting the plurality of paper supplies into the interior area. Container described in. 11. The container of claim 1, further comprising a cartridge for receiving the plurality of paper supplies and further for insertion into an interior region of the housing. 12. The container of claim 11, wherein the cartridge includes a removable portion that, when removed, forms an opening in the cartridge. 13. The projection extends through the opening so that it can contact the plurality of paper supplies, and at least one of the openings of the cartridge is positioned adjacent to at least one of the projections. 13. The container according to claim 12, wherein: 14. The rib member is provided in the interior area of the housing near the take-out throat, and the rib member extends through the opening so that the rib member can contact the plurality of paper supplies. 13. The container of claim 12, wherein at least a portion of the container is disposed adjacent to the rib member. 15. A container for removing individual paper supplies, comprising: an inner surface; a plurality of outer walls forming an inner area within said inner surface for accommodating a plurality of paper supplies; A take-out throat is formed for taking out the paper supply, a first end wall intersecting with the outer wall, and a biasing means for urging the paper supply in the internal area in the take-out direction toward the take-out throat. A housing including biasing means, at least one protrusion extending from the interior surface into the interior region, and a cartridge containing a plurality of paper supplies and inserted into the interior region of the housing. Including at least one removable portion, wherein the removable portion is removed to form an opening, wherein the opening defines the interior of the cartridge in the interior of the housing. Wherein the protrusion extends through the opening to contact the plurality of paper supplies and to be positioned adjacent to the protrusion against the biasing means when placed on the paper supply. A container. 16. The cartridge, when removed, has a second
A second removable portion having an opening formed therein, wherein the biasing means is disposed in the interior region of the housing and through the second opening for biasing the paper supplies in the unloading direction. And a spring-loaded plate extending therefrom.
5. The container according to 5. 17. The container according to claim 16, wherein the unloading direction is substantially horizontal. 18. The housing according to claim 18, wherein the biasing means includes a mounting portion for the housing for mounting the housing on a substantially non-horizontal surface such that the paper supplies are biased in the removal direction by gravity. The container according to claim 15, characterized in that: 19. The container according to claim 18, wherein the unloading direction is substantially vertical. 20. The first, second, and third outer walls of the outer wall include second and third outer walls disposed on both sides of the first outer wall, and intersect with the first end wall. 16. The container of claim 15, wherein the at least one protrusion including a protrusion extends from the second and third outer walls to the interior region, and wherein the protrusion includes a curved bumper. 21. The container of claim 20, wherein the curved bumper includes a plurality of ridges extending across the bumper in a direction perpendicular to the take-out direction. 22. The container according to claim 15, further comprising a staging area near the take-out throat for spacing and deceleration of the paper supplies. 23. The container of claim 22, wherein the staging area includes a rib member extending in parallel with the unloading direction for contacting the paper supplies and resisting the biasing means. . 24. A container for taking out individual paper supplies, comprising: a plurality of outer walls forming an inner area for accommodating a plurality of paper supplies; A first end wall at which a portion is formed; biasing means for biasing the paper supplies in the internal area toward the removal throat in a removal direction; Arranging a wall to intersect the first end wall;
First, second, and third outer walls of the outer wall; a first group of protrusions extending from the second and third outer walls to the inner area; and inserting the plurality of paper supplies into the inner area. A fourth exterior wall including a door hingeably coupled to the housing, the second exterior wall being openable to the housing, and extending from the first and fourth walls into the interior region and continuous with the first end wall.
And a group of projections, wherein the first and second groups of projections comprise a housing in contact with the paper supply and against the biasing means. 25. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the biasing means includes a spring-biased plate disposed within the interior region of the housing for biasing the paper supply in the removal direction. 24. The container according to 24. 26. The container according to claim 25, wherein the unloading direction is substantially horizontal. 27. The apparatus of claim 27, wherein the biasing means includes a mounting portion of the housing for mounting the housing on a substantially non-horizontal surface such that the paper supplies are biased in the removal direction by gravity. The container according to claim 24, characterized in that: 28. The container according to claim 25, wherein the unloading direction is substantially vertical. 29. The container of claim 24, wherein the first group of protrusions includes a curved bumper. 30. The curved bumper includes a plurality of ridges extending across the curved bumper in a direction perpendicular to the take-out direction.
Container described in. 31. The method according to claim 24, wherein the second group of protrusions are rib members arranged in a staging area near the take-out throat for spacing and deceleration of the paper supplies. The described container. 32. A plurality of paper supplies which are insertable into an inner area defined by a plurality of outer walls of a container having a housing and provided with a rib member in the vicinity of an extraction throat. A cartridge capable of being held and taken out, comprising: a cartridge body including a cartridge wall; and a removable portion formed in the cartridge body, wherein at least a part of the removable portion is removed. An opening is formed through at least one of the cartridge walls, and the removable portion is such that the rib member defines at least a portion of the opening when the cartridge is placed in an interior region of the housing. A cartridge provided on the cartridge body so as to extend therethrough and contact the plurality of paper supplies. . 33. The cartridge wall comprising two opposing walls, provided with at least two removable portions, each removable portion being located on one of the opposing walls. 33. The cartridge of claim 32, wherein 34. The cartridge wall includes four cartridge sidewalls,
33. The cartridge of claim 32, wherein at least four removable portions are provided, each removable portion being located on one of the cartridge sidewalls. 35. A container for removing individual paper supplies, the container comprising a first end wall and a plurality of outer walls defining an inner surface and an inner area of the inner surface for receiving a plurality of paper supplies. First, second and third outer walls of the outer wall intersect with the first end wall with second and third outer walls disposed on both sides of the first outer wall, and one of the inner surfaces A housing forming a part; a fourth outer wall forming a take-out throat for allowing the paper supplies to be taken out of the internal area; and taking out the paper supplies in the internal area toward the take-out throat. A biasing means for biasing in a direction, and extending from a portion of the inner surface of the second and third outer walls to the interior area to contact the paper supply and resist the biasing means; The thing on the outer wall and the thing on the third outer wall are alternated in the take-out direction. Container, characterized in that and a protrusion disposed on the differences. 36. The container of claim 35, wherein the housing further includes a staging area near a take-out throat for spacing and decelerating the paper supplies. 37. The staging area includes at least one rib member extending parallel to the unloading direction and a plurality of teeth for contacting the paper supplies and resisting the biasing means. 37. The container of claim 36. 38. At least a portion of one of the outer walls is a door hinged to the housing that is openable for inserting the plurality of paper supplies into the inner area. Item 36. The container according to Item 35. 39. The apparatus of claim 35 further comprising a cartridge for receiving said plurality of paper supplies for insertion into said interior region of said housing.
Container described in. 40. The container of claim 39, wherein the cartridge includes a removable portion that is removed to form an opening in the cartridge. 41. At least one of said openings of said cartridge is positioned adjacent to at least one of said protrusions such that said protrusion extends through said opening and contacts said plurality of paper supplies. 41. The container according to claim 40, wherein: 42. At least one rib member is provided in the interior region of the housing near the removal throat, the rib member including a plurality of teeth extending from the rib member, the teeth passing through the opening. 41. The container of claim 40, wherein at least one of the openings of the cartridge is disposed adjacent at least one of the rib members to extend and contact the plurality of paper supplies. . 43. A container for removing individual paper supplies from a cartridge holding a plurality of paper supplies, the container for storing a cartridge holding a first end wall, an inner surface and the plurality of paper supplies. A plurality of exterior walls defining an interior area of the interior surface;
Second and third exterior walls intersecting the first end wall with second and third exterior walls disposed on opposite sides of the first exterior wall to form a portion of the interior surface, and an open surface of the container; A container for contouring the paper supplies in the inner area, a biasing means for biasing the paper supplies in the removal direction toward the first end wall, and a cartridge holding means. . 44. The cartridge holding means comprises a block, a chuck, a stopper,
44. The container of claim 43, wherein the container is selected from wires, braces, brackets, pins, bars, clips, and combinations thereof. 45. The container according to claim 44, wherein the cartridge holding means is formed on the first end wall or the outer wall facing the container. 46. The container according to claim 44, further comprising a finger slot in said first end wall. 47. The container of claim 43, wherein the housing further comprises a staging area near the first end wall for spacing and decelerating the paper supplies. 48. In order to further contact the paper supplies and resist the biasing means,
44. The container of claim 43, comprising a projection extending from the interior surface of the exterior wall into the interior area. 49. The container of claim 43, further comprising a cartridge for receiving said plurality of paper supplies for insertion into said interior region of said housing. 50. The container of claim 49, wherein said cartridge comprises a cartridge body having a cartridge wall. 51. The cartridge includes a cartridge wall for positioning on the open side of the container, wherein the cartridge wall has a slit for controlling access to paper supplies held within the cartridge. 51. The container of claim 50, comprising: 52. The container of claim 51, wherein the cartridge is configured such that the slit is formed by the front wall and the bottom wall of the cartridge. 53. The slit has a horizontal dimension substantially equal to or slightly greater than the width of the paper supplies in the cartridge to provide a path for a limited number of vertical paper supplies. 52. The container of claim 51, wherein the cartridge is configured to be of a sufficient size. 54. The cartridge according to claim 54, wherein the vertical dimension of the slit is between about 2 to about 10 times the thickness of the individual folded paper supplies. Item 54. The container according to Item 53. 55. The container of claim 50, wherein the cartridge is configured such that the paper supplies can be accessed by a thumb slot and a finger slot. 56. The container of claim 49, wherein the cartridge includes a removable portion that allows the cartridge to open when removed. 57. At least one of the openings of the cartridge is positioned adjacent to at least one of the protrusions such that the protrusion extends through the opening and contacts the plurality of paper supplies. 57. The container according to claim 56, wherein: 58. A container for removing a controlled amount of paper supplies, the container including a first end wall, an interior surface and an interior area of the interior surface for receiving a cartridge holding a plurality of paper supplies. And a plurality of external walls that contour the first external wall, wherein the first, second and third external walls of the external wall have the second and third external walls arranged on both sides of the first external wall. A housing intersecting with the first end wall and forming a part of the inner surface to form an open surface of the container; and urging the paper supplies in the inner area in the take-out direction toward the first end wall. And a fourth wall cooperating with the first end wall to form a removal throat for controlling access to the paper supplies held in the container. A container, characterized in that: 59. The dispensing throat includes a passage for a limited number of paper supplies having a horizontal dimension substantially equal to or slightly greater than the width of the paper supplies in the container. 59. The container of claim 58, sized to be large enough to secure. 60. The container of claim 59, wherein a vertical dimension of the removal throat is between about 2 to about 10 times the thickness of the individual folded paper supplies.