U.S. patent application number 12/179813 was filed with the patent office on 2010-01-28 for adhesive tape dispenser and applicator.
This patent application is currently assigned to HENKEL CORPORATION. Invention is credited to Dan Dureiko, Michael J. Maczuzak, Migdalia McKenzie, Brian A. Vulpitta.
Application Number | 20100018653 12/179813 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41567573 |
Filed Date | 2010-01-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100018653 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Dureiko; Dan ; et
al. |
January 28, 2010 |
ADHESIVE TAPE DISPENSER AND APPLICATOR
Abstract
A one handed reusable tape dispenser and applicator comprises
side walls, a top wall and a separate bottom wall which may be
opened to allow loading of a roll of tape through an open front.
Further, the tape dispenser is provided with tabs, a button and a
pressing bar which present a leading length of tape in an arched
condition across its width extending forwardly from the dispenser
ready to be applied to a substrate; and an enlarged pressing
surface allowing a user to easily dispense tape onto substrates
such as wrapping paper.
Inventors: |
Dureiko; Dan; (Cleveland
Heights, OH) ; Maczuzak; Michael J.; (Bratenahl,
OH) ; Vulpitta; Brian A.; (Avon Lake, OH) ;
McKenzie; Migdalia; (Cleveland, OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
FAY SHARPE / SHURTECH
1228 Euclid Avenue, 5th Floor, The Halle Building
Cleveland
OH
44115
US
|
Assignee: |
HENKEL CORPORATION
Rocky Hill
CT
|
Family ID: |
41567573 |
Appl. No.: |
12/179813 |
Filed: |
July 25, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
156/510 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y10T 156/12 20150115;
B65H 35/0073 20130101; B65H 35/0033 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
156/510 |
International
Class: |
B65H 35/00 20060101
B65H035/00 |
Claims
1. A tape dispenser adapted to dispense tape of a generally fixed
width from a roll of tape carried on a hollow cylindrical tape
core, said tape dispenser comprising: a first side wall having an
inwardly facing surface, an outwardly facing surface, a tape core
support portion having at least one tape core support element
projecting from said inwardly facing surface, and a cutter support
portion extending from said tape core support portion; a second
side wall having an inwardly facing surface, an outwardly facing
surface, a tape core support portion having at least one tape core
support element projecting from said inwardly facing surface, and a
cutter support portion extending from said tape core support
portion; a top interconnecting wall generally perpendicular to said
first side wall and said second side wall and extending between the
cutter support portions of said first side wall and said second
side wall, said top interconnecting wall having a distal end a
first distance from said tape core support elements and a proximal
end a second distance from said tape core support elements, said
first distance greater than said second distance; a cutter
extending between said first side wall and said second side wall
proximate said top interconnecting wall distal end; said first side
wall extending beyond said cutter a third distance and said first
side wall distal end terminating in a distal edge; said second side
wall extending beyond said cutter said third distance and said
second side wall distal end terminating in a distal edge; a
pressing element supported between said first side wall cutter
support portion and said second side wall cutter support portion
below said cutter; said pressing element having a pressing surface
extending between said first side wall distal end and said second
side wall distal end, said pressing surface adapted to press a
portion of a length of tape against a substrate across at least
most of its width and a portion of its length greater than a single
line width, wherein said first side wall has a first thickness,
said first side wall distal edge has a width adjacent said cutter
greater than said first thickness and said second side wall distal
edge has a width adjacent said cutter greater than said first
thickness, whereby a substrate is protected when tape is cut from
said roll of tape by action of said cutter when said dispenser is
rotated with said side wall distal ends in contact with said
substrate.
2. The tape dispense of claim 1 wherein said pressing element
pressing surface has a width approximately equal to the width of
tape to be dispensed and a length equal to or greater than about
one eighth said pressing surface width.
3. The tape dispenser of claim 2 wherein said pressing surface is
resilient.
4. The tape dispenser of claim 2 wherein said pressing element is
separable from said side walls.
5. The tape dispenser of claim 2 wherein said pressing element is a
relatively rigid polymeric element.
6. The tape dispenser of claim 2 wherein said pressing element is a
resilient foam element.
7. The tape dispenser of claim 6 wherein said tape dispenser has at
least one barb engaging said resilient foam pressing element and
holding said pressing element in place.
8. The tape dispenser of claim 2 wherein said side wall distal
edges are widened on the portions of the side walls separated from
said pressing surface by said cutter.
9. The tape dispenser of claim 8 wherein each side wall distal edge
has a width over a portion of its length at least twice as large as
said first thickness.
10. The tape dispenser of claim 2 further comprising a first tape
retaining tab extending inwardly from said first side wall cutter
support portion generally between to said tape core support element
and said pressing surface and adjacent said pressing element, a
second tape retaining tab extending inwardly from said second side
wall cutter support portion generally between said tape core
support element and said pressing surface and adjacent said
pressing element, said first and second tape retaining tabs having
generally smooth upper surfaces, each tab upper surface having a
narrow straight ridge extending in a direction parallel to said
side walls; and, a narrow button extending downwardly and
rearwardly above said tabs, said button being spaced from said
first side wall and said second side wall, said button having a
lower surface extending below the upper surfaces of said tabs
whereby a length of tape in said dispenser will be held in an arch
across its width when adjacent said tabs and button.
11. The tape dispenser of claim 10 further comprising a tab
extension extending inwardly from one of said first and second
tabs, said tab extension being below said tabs whereby a length of
tape may be easily threaded through said tabs and button but
securely retained between said tabs and button.
12. The tape dispenser of claim 11 wherein a gap exists between
said tabs.
13. The tape dispenser of claim 2 wherein said first side wall,
said second side wall and said top wall are an integral molded
plastic structure.
14. The tape dispenser of claim 2 wherein said second side wall is
generally a mirror images of said first side wall.
15. A tape dispenser adapted to dispense tape of generally fixed
width from a roll of tape carried on a hollow cylindrical tape
core, said tape dispenser comprising: a first side wall having an
inwardly facing surface, an outwardly facing surface, a tape core
support portion having at least one tape core support element
projecting from said inwardly facing surface, and a cutter support
portion extending from said tape core support portion; a second
side wall having an inwardly facing surface, an outwardly facing
surface, a tape core support portion having at least one tape core
support element projecting from said inwardly facing surface, and a
cutter support portion extending from said tape core support
portion; a top interconnecting wall generally perpendicular to said
first side wall and said second side wall and extending between the
cutter support portions of said first side wall and said second
side wall, said top interconnecting wall having a distal end and a
proximal end; a cutter extending between said first side wall and
said second side wall proximate said top interconnecting wall
distal end; a first tape retaining tab extending inwardly from said
lower distal edge of said first side wall cutter support portion, a
second tape retaining tab extending inwardly from said lower distal
edge of said second side wall cutter support portion, said first
and second tape retaining tabs having upper surfaces, a button
extending downwardly adjacent said tabs, said button being spaced
from said first side wall and said second side wall, said button
having a lower surface extending below the upper surfaces of said
tabs whereby a length of tape in said dispenser will be held in an
arch across its width when adjacent said tabs and button; and, a
friction bar between said tabs and said roll of tape adapted to
engage said length of tape and prevent tape roll back.
16. The tape dispenser of claim 15 wherein said friction bar
extends from one of said first side wall and said second side
wall.
17. The tape dispenser of claim 16 further comprising a tab
extension extending inwardly from one of said first and second
tabs, said tab extension being below said tabs whereby a length of
tape may be easily threaded through said tabs and button but
securely retained between said tabs and button.
18. A tape dispenser adapted to dispense tape of a generally fixed
width from a roll of tape carried on a hollow cylindrical tape
core, said tape dispenser comprising: a first side wall having an
inwardly facing surface, an outwardly facing surface, a tape core
support portion having at least one tape core support element
projecting from said inwardly facing surface, and a cutter support
portion extending from said tape core support portion; a second
side wall having an inwardly facing surface, an outwardly facing
surface, a tape core support portion having at least one tape core
support element projecting from said inwardly facing surface, and a
cutter support portion extending from said tape core support
portion; a top interconnecting wall generally perpendicular to said
first side wall and said second side wall and extending between the
cutter support portions of said first side wall and said second
side wall, said top interconnecting wall having a distal end and a
proximal end; a cutter extending between said first side wall and
said second side wall proximate said top interconnecting wall
distal end; a first tape retaining tab extending inwardly from said
lower distal edge of said first side wall cutter support portion, a
second tape retaining tab extending inwardly from said lower distal
edge of said second side wall cutter support portion, said first
and second tape retaining tabs having upper surfaces, a button
extending downwardly, said button being spaced from said first side
wall and said second side wall, said button having a lower surface
extending below the upper surfaces of said tabs whereby a length of
tape in said dispenser will be held in an arch across its width
when adjacent said tabs and button; and, a first linear ridge
projecting upwardly from said first tape retaining tab upper
surface and a second linear ridge projecting upwardly from said
second tape retaining tab upper surface, said first and second
linear ridges extending in a direction generally parallel to the
direction of intended tape travel.
19. The tape dispenser of claim 18 further comprising a tab
extension extending inwardly from one of said first and second
tabs, said tab extension being below said tabs whereby a length of
tape may be easily threaded through said tabs and button but
securely retained between said tabs and button.
20. The tape dispenser of claim 19 wherein a gap exists between
said tabs.
21. The tape dispenser of claim 20 further comprising at least one
fin extending from an inner edge of one of said tabs, said fin
easing threading of tape into said dispenser.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates to adhesive tape dispensers made of
molded plastic from which tape may be dispensed and severed from a
roll of tape supported on the dispenser.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Adhesive tape is used in great quantities by consumers and
by businesses. Adhesive tape is used in packaging, mailing, gift
wrapping, and numerous other applications in factories, and
businesses and by the consumers at home. One widely used type of
adhesive tape is transparent adhesive tape which is used by
businesses and consumers in stationery applications, gift wrapping,
craft projects and the like. Transparent adhesive tape is often
supplied in rolls having a width of one-half or three-quarters of
an inch and a length of several yards. The tape comprises a
flexible film strip with adhesive on one side. Acetate and oriented
polypropylene are frequently used in making the film strip. The
tape is wound upon a core which is often a cardboard cylinder or a
plastic cylinder. The core normally has a hollow center of uniform
diameter. Rolls of transparent adhesive tape are sold to businesses
and consumers as is for mounting on reusable tape dispensers. Such
tape dispensers are common in office environments in which a heavy
tape dispenser is a frequent desk accessory and is also frequently
available at mailing stations. Rolls of transparent adhesive tape
are also frequently sold on dispensers. Many rolls of transparent
adhesive tape are sold on single use dispensers having a single
side wall, a flat base, a cutter support extending from the base, a
hub extending from the side wall, and a merchandising card on the
side of the hub opposite the side wall. Such single use tape
dispensers are often seen on pegs in drug stores and general
merchandise stores. The consumer purchases the tape dispenser,
removes a portion of the merchandising card, and is left with a
tape dispenser suitable for sitting a flat surface such as a table.
The consumer can remove a length of tape and apply it to a
substrate with the consumer's fingers. Thus, the dispenser is a
dispenser, not an applicator.
[0003] Other tape dispensers, particularly those used with two inch
wide packaging tape, also function as applicators. These dispensers
often comprise two generally flat side walls each of which has a
hub projecting inwardly from the side wall. The side walls extend
away from the hub in one direction and are interconnected by a
cross piece. The end of the flat piece away from the hubs often
bears a cutter for severing a piece of tape. A roll of tape is
supported on the hubs on the side walls. The end of the length of
tape on the roll is fed along the cross piece and can be applied to
a substrate, such as a package, by pulling the dispenser along the
substrate. When sufficient tape has been applied, the cutter at the
end of the cross piece is used to sever the dispensed length of
tape. Such dispenser/applicators often include various additional
pieces addressing problems with dispensing tape. Such dispensers in
various configurations have been available for several years,
especially in the two inch packaging tape width.
[0004] Consumers do not always use tape on a daily basis.
Therefore, consumers often do not have heavy reusable tape
dispensers as a desk accessory. Consumers often prefer to keep a
roll of transparent adhesive tape on a dispenser in a drawer or the
like. Transparent adhesive tape on a dispenser is a popular
consumer product.
[0005] Many consumer products are price sensitive. An inexpensive
product which provides good functionality has an advantage when
compared to a product providing the same functionality at a higher
cost. The cost of manufacturing is therefore an important
characteristic of a product such as a roll of tape on a tape
dispenser. Part count, method of manufacture, and choice of
materials can have a significant impact on the cost of a consumer
product. Providing a tape dispenser and tape of high quality, with
good features and at a low price is a challenge.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The present invention contemplates a new and improved tape
dispenser which overcomes the above problems and others. The
present invention provides a tape dispenser for adhesive which also
acts as an applicator and which is inexpensive to manufacture.
[0007] In accordance with the invention there is provided a tape
dispenser for tape carried upon a hollow cylindrical tape core, the
tape dispenser having a first side wall having inwardly facing hub
elements, a second side wall having inwardly facing hub elements,
an interconnecting top wall generally perpendicular to the first
and second side walls and extending between the two side walls with
a cutter supported on the top wall remote from the hub portions,
the portions of the side walls adjacent the cutter extending beyond
the cutter and being provided with thickened portions such that the
width of the side walls is greater at the edges adjacent the cutter
and an enlarged pressing element near the cutter adapted to press
dispensed tape against a substrate.
[0008] Further in accordance with the invention, a pressing bar
generally parallel to the cutter extends between the cutter support
portions of the first side wall and the second side wall parallel
to, below, and behind the cutter, the pressing bar or element
having a smooth surface facing downwardly and forwardly and being
adapted to press tape downwardly upon a substrate and apply tape to
that substrate.
[0009] Still further in accordance with the invention, the pressing
element is a resilient element adapted to apply pressure to an
adhesive tape on a substrate over an enlarged area.
[0010] Yet further in accordance with the present invention, the
resilient pressing element is a polymeric resilient pressing
element.
[0011] Still further in accordance with the invention, the
resilient pressing element is held in place by at least one barb on
the dispenser.
[0012] Still further in accordance with the invention a central
button projects downwardly from the pressing bar or adjacently the
pressing element toward the roll of tape and into the gap between
the two tape retaining tabs, said tabs and button adapted to urge a
length of tape into a downwardly bulging arch in the area adjacent
the pressing bar or pressing element.
[0013] Still further in accordance with the invention, ridges are
provided on the upper surfaces of the tabs limiting the area of
adhesive contacted by the tabs.
[0014] Further in accordance with the invention, a friction bar is
provided between the roll of tape and the tabs adapted to engage a
length of tape and prevent tape rollback.
[0015] Yet further in accordance with the invention, a tab
extension extends downwardly and laterally from one of the tape
retaining tabs below the gap between the two tape retaining tabs
but maintaining a space between the tab extension and the other of
the tabs wherein the length of tape can be threaded into position
above the tabs and securely maintained in that position by the tabs
and the tab extension.
[0016] Still further in accordance with the invention, the tape
dispenser, with the possible exceptions of a metallic cutting bar
and the pressing element, is a unitary plastic molded
structure.
[0017] Still further in accordance with the present invention, a
tape dispenser is provided having two side walls and a top
interconnecting wall, the top interconnecting wall bearing a cutter
on its distal end, the two side walls also interconnected by a
bottom interconnecting wall generally perpendicular to the side
walls and extending between them, the top interconnecting wall, the
bottom interconnecting wall, and the two side walls forming a roll
of tape containing volume opening to the front and adapted to
permit the insertion of a roll tape into the dispenser from the
front.
[0018] Further in accordance with the invention, the bottom
interconnecting wall comprises two bottom interconnecting wall
halves separably interconnected to one another and fixed to the
side walls.
[0019] Still further in accordance with the invention, the two
bottom interconnecting wall halves may be moved away from one
another facilitating the loading of a roll of tape.
[0020] Still further in accordance with the present invention, the
bottom interconnecting wall has a generally planar lower surface
and adapted to form a base allowing the tape dispenser to stand
upon the bottom interconnecting wall stably.
[0021] Still further in accordance with the present invention, the
top interconnecting wall and the bottom interconnecting wall
diverge from one another from back to front and, when pressed
together, are adapted to cause the side walls to bulge away from
one another facilitating the loading of a roll of tape.
[0022] Yet, further in accordance with the present invention, the
two side walls are provided with slots facilitating the bulging
apart and loading of a roll of tape.
[0023] It is a principal object of the present invention to provide
a tape dispenser for adhesive tape which also acts as an applicator
and is usable with a single hand.
[0024] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
a tape applicator which is adapted to hold an end of the roll of
tape extending from the front of the tape applicator in a ready to
use position.
[0025] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide a tape dispenser which can be used with one hand by
grasping the tape applicator, applying the end of the supported
tape to a substrate, pressing the tape into position with a
pressing bar or pressing element, applying a selected amount of
tape, and rotating the tape dispenser to cut off the applied tape
and at the same time present a leading end for further applications
of length of tape.
[0026] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
a tape dispenser which supports the end of a roll of tape to be
dispensed with the end arched and projecting straight away from the
front of the dispenser.
[0027] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide a tape dispenser which has an enlarged forward area
allowing one to dispense and cut off tape while holding down
delicate substrates, such as wrapping paper, without ripping
them.
[0028] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide a tape dispenser which can be easily reloaded with a roll
of tape and is reusable.
[0029] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
a tape dispenser, roll of tape combination, which is inexpensive to
manufacture, has superior operational characteristics which are
readily visible to the consumer, and which is easy to
merchandise.
[0030] Further objects and advantages of the invention will be
apparent from the following detailed description of the preferred
embodiments thereof and from the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0031] The invention may take physical form in certain parts and
arrangements of parts, a preferred embodiment of which will be
describe in detail and illustrated in the accompanying drawings
which form a part hereof and wherein:
[0032] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the rear of the tape
dispenser and roll of tape of the present invention;
[0033] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the front of the tape
dispenser of FIG. 1;
[0034] FIG. 3 is a right side view of the tape dispenser of FIG.
1;
[0035] FIG. 4 is a rear view of the tape dispenser of FIG. 1;
[0036] FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the tape dispenser of FIG. 1;
[0037] FIG. 6 is a front view of the tape dispenser of FIG. 1 with
a roll of tape in place;
[0038] FIG. 7 is a top view of the tape dispenser of FIG. 1;
[0039] FIG. 8 is a perspective of the front of the tape dispenser
of FIG. 1 shown without a roll of tape;
[0040] FIG. 9 is a view similar to FIG. 8 with the near side half
of the tape dispenser cut away to show internal components;
[0041] FIG. 10 is a view similar to FIG. 9 with a (half) roll of
tape installed on the dispenser and the leading end of the tape
threaded in the dispenser;
[0042] FIG. 11 is a view similar to FIG. 10 with a (half) roll of
tape installed on the dispenser without the leading end of the tape
threaded in the dispenser;
[0043] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the tape dispenser in use
applying tape to a substrate;
[0044] FIG. 13 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 8 with a roll
of tape mounted in the dispenser;
[0045] FIG. 14 is a view similar to FIG. 13 showing the side walls
bulging outwardly allowing the insertion of a roll of tape;
[0046] FIG. 15 is a view similar to FIG. 13 showing a roll of tape
about to be inserted into the dispenser;
[0047] FIG. 16 is a view from the lower front of the dispenser
showing the sidewall bulging outwardly;
[0048] FIG. 17 is a view from the upper front of the dispenser
showing the sidewalls bulging outwardly.
[0049] FIG. 18 is a enlarged detail of the tape retaining tabs of
the dispenser seen in FIG. 1;
[0050] FIG. 19 is a cross section of a tab taken along line 19-19
of FIG. 18;
[0051] FIG. 20 is a perspective of the front of a second tape
dispenser in accordance with the present invention shown without a
roll of tape;
[0052] FIG. 21 is a perspective of the front of the tape dispenser
of FIG. 20 taken from the other side;
[0053] FIG. 22 is an exploded view of the tape dispenser of FIGS.
20 and 21 including a second tape pressing element;
[0054] FIG. 23 is a front view of the tape dispenser of FIG. 20
shown without a roll of tape;
[0055] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the tape dispenser of
FIG. 23 taken along line 24-24;
[0056] FIG. 25 is a front view similar to FIG. 23 showing the tape
dispenser using the second tape pressing element of FIG. 22;
and,
[0057] FIG. 26 is a cross sectional view of the tape dispenser of
FIG. 25 taken along line 26-26.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0058] Referring now to the drawings wherein the showings are for
the purposes of illustrating a detailed description only and not
for the purposes of limiting the claims, the figures show a tape
dispenser 10 for a roll of tape 12. The tape dispenser 10 has a
right side wall 16, a left side wall 18, a top interconnecting wall
20, rear wall segments 22, 72 and a bottom interconnecting wall 24.
The right side wall 16 has an inwardly facing surface and an
outwardly facing surface. The right side wall 16 includes a tape
core support portion 30 and a cutter support portion 32 extending
from the tape core support portion 30. The inwardly facing surface
of the right side wall 16 supports three inwardly extending tape
core support elements 34, 36, 38. (See FIGS. 15-17) The tape core
support elements, also called hub elements, are short curved
inwardly extending protrusions with axially extending curved
surfaces forming short portions a circle of a diameter slightly
less than the interior diameter of the tape core of the roll of
tape to be supported.
[0059] With respect to the elements thus far described, and most
elements of the side walls, the left side wall 18 is the mirror
image of the right side wall 16. Thus, the left side wall 18
comprises a left side wall tape core support portion 50, a left
side wall cutter support portion 52, and three inwardly extending
tape core support elements 54, 56, 58.
[0060] For purposes of this description, the tape dispense
orientation will be presumed to be with the bottom interconnecting
wall 24 on the bottom, the top interconnecting wall 20 on the top,
the portion of the top interconnecting wall 20 most remote from the
roll of tape 12 being the front, the portion of the dispenser most
remote from the cutter being the back. The inside surfaces of the
right side wall 16 and the left side wall 18 face toward one
another and "inwardly" means facing toward the mid plane between
the planes of the two side walls 16 and 18. The axis of the tape
dispenser is coincident with the axis of the roll of tape 12 and is
thus perpendicular to the side wall 16 and 18 and the mid plane of
the dispenser. A line perpendicular to the mid plane of the
dispenser will be described as parallel to the axis of the
dispenser and thus parallel to the axis of the tape roll 12.
[0061] The two side walls are generally planar and the planes of
the two side walls are generally parallel to one another. A slight
amount of "draft" from back to front may be provided to ease
manufacturing.
[0062] The top interconnecting wall 20 is gently curved from back
to front but flat from side to side.
[0063] The tape roll 12 is conventional. It comprises a core,
either cardboard or plastic, having a hollow cylindrical interior;
and, a long length of tape wound upon the core in many turns. In
the preferred embodiment the tape is 3/4 inch wide plastic
transparent adhesive tape. Adhesive is carried on one side of the
tape, the inside as rolled upon the core. The roll of tape and the
tape core are generally symmetrical about a central axis. When the
roll of tape 12 is mounted in the tape dispenser 10, the inside
surface of the tape core rides upon the axially outwardly facing
curved surfaces of the tape core support elements 34, 36, 38, 54,
56, 58. The axially outwardly facing surfaces of the tape core
support elements form small segments of a circle slightly smaller
than the inside of the tape core having an axis 60 generally
coaxial with the axis of the roll of tape 12. Of course, the roll
of tape has some slight play with respect to the tape core support
elements. The axis of the roll of tape will sometimes be only
generally coaxial with the axis 60 of the tape dispenser 10.
[0064] The bottom interconnecting wall 24 is continuous over a
portion of its length from the right side wall 16 to the left side
wall 18. Likewise, the top interconnecting wall 20 is continuous
over at least a portion of its length from the right side wall 16
to the left side wall 18. Thus, the right side wall 16 and the left
side wall 18 are held a predetermined distance apart. In the
preferred embodiment, the inside surfaces of the right side wall
and the left side wall are spaced slightly greater than 3/4 inch
apart. This allows a 3/4 inch width roll of tape to be carried upon
the tape for support elements 34, 36, 38, 54, 56, 58 and freely
rotate while still being supported closely enough so as not to
escape from the dispenser 10.
[0065] Looking in more detail at the tape core support elements,
(FIGS. 15, 16, 17), the lower forward tape core support elements
34, 54 have a curved axially outwardly facing surfaces which curve
downwardly towards the rear. These curves are a portion of a circle
having a diameter slightly less than the diameter of the inside of
the tape core described above. These axially outwardly facing
surfaces can vary from a circular shape. The very forward edge 66
of the lower forward tape core support elements 34, 54 is generally
perpendicular to the side wall just adjacent to the side wall and
curves to the rear with increasing distance from the side wall
providing a smooth transition to a straight edge parallel to the
side wall over most of the length of the tape core support
element.
[0066] The upper forward tape core support elements 36, 56 also
have a forward edges 67 generally perpendicular to the side wall
adjacent to the side wall but curving to the rear remote from the
side wall. The rearward tape core support elements 38, 58 have
curved exterior surfaces facing the rear of the dispenser. A
tapered ramp 68 extends from the forward side of the rearward tape
core support elements and tapers to the inside surface of the side
walls. The curved forward edges 66 and tapered ramp 68 facilitate
the loading of a roll of tape into the tape dispenser 10.
[0067] Rear wall segments 22, 72 extend from the rear of the right
side wall tape core support portion 30 and left side wall tape core
support portion 50 respectively. The rear wall segments 22, 72
extend inwardly toward the central plane of the tape dispenser. The
rear wall segments 22, 72 stop just short of the central plane of
the dispenser. Thus, the real wall segments 22, 72 are not
continuous but are distinct one from the other. A long narrow slot
or gap 76 is present along the central plane of the dispenser
between the two rear wall segments 22, 72. The rear wall segments
22, 72 are curved with a radius of curvature about the axis of the
tape dispenser 60 slightly larger than the radius of the largest
roll of tape expected to be used with the tape dispenser 10. The
bottom edges of the rear wall segments 22, 72 join the bottom
interconnecting wall 24. The bottom interconnecting wall 24 is
provided with a central, trapezoidal opening 78 (FIG. 16) at its
center rear which joins long narrow slot 76 between the rear wall
segments 22, 72.
[0068] The rear wall segments 22, 72 end at a large opening 80
extending from the right side wall 16 to the left side wall 18 at
the top rear of the side wall tape core support portions 32,
34.
[0069] The forward edge of the side wall tape core support portions
30, 32 are gently curved in their lower portions leading to forward
opening U-shaped recesses 82, 84 in the right side wall tape core
support portion 30 and the left side wall tape core support portion
50. The side wall cutter support portions 32, 52 extend from the
tape core support portions 30, 50 above these U-shaped recesses 82,
84.
[0070] Additionally, a pair of rear slots 86, 88 extend rearwardly
across the rear 1/3 of the right side wall tape core support
portion 30 to and into the right rear wall segment 72. A parallel
pair of rear slots 92, 94 extend through the rear portions of the
left side wall tape core support portion 52 into the left rear wall
segment 74.
[0071] As can be seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, the bottom interconnecting
wall 24 and the top interconnecting wall 20 diverge from one
another in the forward direction.
[0072] The bottom interconnecting wall 24, the side wall tape core
support portions 30, 50, the rear wall segments 72, 74 and a
portion of the top interconnecting wall 20 define a tape roll
containing volume 100.
[0073] A roll of tape can be inserted into the tape roll containing
volume 100 by pressing the bottom interconnecting wall 24 toward
the top interconnecting wall 20. This is conveniently done with the
thumb and forefinger of one hand. This pressing causes the side
wall, particularly the tape core support portions 30, 50 of the
side walls to bulge outwardly from one another moving the tape core
support elements 34, 36, 38 on the one side wall away from the tape
core support elements 54, 56, 58 on the other side wall, as seen in
FIGS. 14, 16 and 18. The curved and ramped forward facing elements
described above guide a roll of tape past the support elements when
a user places the roll of tape into the dispenser with the other
hand. Thus, as seen in FIG. 15, a user compresses the top wall 20
toward the bottom wall 24 causing the side walls to bulge
outwardly. The roll of tape is moved toward the dispenser. When the
roll of tape is properly aligned with the interior of the tape
core, concentric with the tape core support elements, (FIGS. 14, 16
and 17) pressure on the bottom interconnecting wall 24 and top
interconnecting wall 20 can be released. The side walls spring back
toward one another and the tape core support elements 34, 36 38,
54, 56, 58 enter into the tape core and restrain and hold the tape
core within the tape roll containing volume 100. (FIGS. 13, 1 and
2) The tape roll is supported but allowed to rotate.
[0074] With reference to FIG. 1, the right side wall cutter support
portion 32 is generally coplanar with and extends from the upper
forward portion of the right side wall tape core support portion
30. In a similar manner, the left side wall cutter support portion
52 extends from the upper forward portion of the left side wall
tape core support portion 50. The top interconnecting wall 20
extends between the top edges of the right side wall cutter support
portion 32 and the left side wall cutter support portion 52. These
three elements, as well as the elements previously described
forming the tape roll containing volume 100, are all integrally
molded as a unitary plastic part.
[0075] Referring now to FIGS. 5-13, the inside surfaces of the side
wall cutter support portions 32, 52 and the element connected
thereto can be seen. A right tape retaining tab 112 extends
inwardly from the right side wall cutter support portion 32.
Similarly, a left tape retaining tab 114 extends inwardly from the
left side wall cutter support portion 52. The two tape retaining
tabs 112, 114 are mirror images of one another.
[0076] With respect to the cutter support portions 32, 52 and the
elements associated with the cutter support portions 32, 52 the
terms proximal and distal will be used. Proximal refers to that
portion of an element closer to the axis of the tape dispenser 60
and the roll of tape 12. Distal means that portion of an element
more distant from the axis of the tape dispenser 60 and the roll of
tape 12.
[0077] The tape retaining tabs 112, 114 have curved proximal ends
116, 118 and straight distal ends 120, 122. The tabs extend
inwardly to inward edges 124, 126. The inward edges have a distal
portion which is generally parallel to the side walls and a
proximal portion which curves to merge with the tab proximal ends
116, 118. The tabs extend inwardly from the side walls toward the
central plane of the dispenser but do not meet. Rather a
substantial gap is left between the two tabs 112, 114. The tabs
each extend toward the other side wall a distance between one
quarter of the spacing between the two side walls and one third the
spacing between the two side walls. Thus, a gap between the two
tabs 112 and 114 of one third the distance between the interior
surfaces of the two side walls or slightly greater is created.
[0078] FIGS. 18 and 19 show the tabs 112 and 114 in more detail.
The right tab top surface 130 and the left tab top surface 132 are
best seen in FIG. 18. The distal portions 131, 133, tab top
surfaces 130, 132 are textured rather than having a polished,
smooth surface. Moreover, the proximal portion of the top surfaces
127, 128 of the tabs angles downwardly toward their proximal edges.
These two structures allow a length of tape to slide along the tab
top surfaces 130,132 more easily than if the tab top surfaces were
not textured and were fully in the plane of tape movement.
[0079] A pressing bar 134 extends from the right side wall cutter
support portion 32 to the left side wall cutter support portion 52
parallel to the axis of the tape dispenser 60. The pressing bar 134
is positioned somewhat forward of the tabs 112, 113 and slightly
above the top surface of the tabs 130,132. The pressing bar 134
serves two functions. The forward lower surface 136 of the pressing
bar is smooth, gently curved and has a uniform profile across its
entire width from the right side wall to the left side wall. The
forward lower surface 136 of the pressing bar 134 extends a slight
distance below the lower edges of the rights side wall cutter
support portion 32 and the left side wall cutter support portion
52. This allows the pressing bar to be used to press a length of
tape against a substrate as will be hereinafter described.
[0080] The pressing bar 134 also supports a button 140 which
extends downwardly and rearwardly from the center of the pressing
bar 134. The button 140 has a smooth rounded lower surface which
extends downwardly into the gap between the tabs 112 and 114. The
pressing bar 140 has a width less than one third the distance
between the two side walls 16, 18.
[0081] A tab extension extends downwardly from the proximal portion
of one of the tabs 112, 114. In the illustrated dispenser, the tab
extension 142 extends from the left tape retaining tab. However,
the tab extension could just as effectively extend from the right
tape retaining tab. The tab extension 142 extends below the plane
of the tabs 112, 114 and substantially below the button 140. The
tab extension 142 does not contact the other of the tape retaining
tabs 112, 114. Thus, as seen in FIG. 6, there is a gap between the
end 144 of the tab extension 142 and the right tape retaining tab
112.
[0082] As can be seen in FIGS. 6 and 9, a bar 150 containing a slot
extends from the right side wall cutter support portion 32 to the
left side wall cutter support portion 52 above the pressing bar 134
and forward of the pressing bar. A cutter 154 is secured in the
slot. The cutter 154 and bar 150 are near the top of the cutter
support portions 32, 52 and near the forward ends of the cutter
support portions 32, 52. However, side wall cutter support portions
32, 52 extend slightly beyond the forward edge 156 of the cutter
154. The forward edge 156 of the cutter 154 is serrated and
sharpened and capable of cutting tape.
[0083] The right side wall cutter support portion 32 and the left
side wall cutter support portion extend forwardly of the forward
edge of the cutter 156. The forward edges 162, 164 of the side wall
cutter support portions 32, 52 extend beyond the forward edge 156
of the cutter 154. The cutter support forward edges, 162, 164 are
curved with their most forward points being close to the cutter
154. Moreover, the forward edges 162, 164 are widened when compared
to the thickness of the rest of the side walls 16, 18. Thus, in the
preferred embodiment, the forward edges 162, 164 have a maximum
width, that is the dimension measured parallel to the axis of the
dispenser 60 and the cutter 154, which is generally at least twice
the thickness of the side walls elsewhere in the dispenser. This
width varies and tapers over the forward edges of the side walls
162, 164. Thus, at the bottom of the forward edges 162, 164
adjacent the forward lower surface 136 of the pressing bar 134, the
width of the forward edge is only slightly greater than the
adjacent thickness of the side walls. The width of the forward edge
gradually increases to its maximum adjacent the cutter 154 and
forward of the cutter 154 and then tapers back to a smaller value
as the forward edges reach the top edge of connecting wall 20. The
forward edges 162, 164 are generally transversely flat and smooth.
The widened forward edges protect delicate substrates from being
torn in operation of the tape dispenser as will be hereinafter
described.
[0084] The above-described structures support operation of the
dispenser as follows. A roll of tape 12 may be inserted into the
dispenser 10 by pressing the top interconnecting wall 20 and the
bottom interconnecting wall 24 toward one another. As previously
described, this causes the side walls 16, 18 to bulge away from one
another increasing the distance between the tape core support
portions 30, 32, 34, 50, 52, 54. The roll of tape 12 is inserted
into the tape roll containing volume 100 and pressure on the top
wall 20 and bottom wall 24 released allowing the dispenser to
engage the roll of tape 12. The end of the tape 170 is separated
from the roll of tape 12 and the leading length of tape 172 is
pulled from its adhered position on the tape roll 12. This leading
length of tape is threaded over the tab extension 142 and tabs 112,
114 (FIG. 2). The leading length of tape 172 is threaded beneath
the pressing bar 134 and the button 140. Because the button 140
extends below the top surfaces of the tabs 112, 114, the leading
length of tape 172 is forced into a curved or arched configuration
across its width (FIGS. 2 and 6) with the center of the length of
tape below the edges of the length of tape. Because the length of
tape 172 is arched across its width it is biased into a straight
configuration along its length and the forward portion and tape end
172 extend forwardly beyond the pressing bar 134 and thus beyond
the side walls 16, 18 (FIGS. 2 and 10). The tape dispenser is ready
for use. Alternatively, the tape dispenser is ready for being
positioned at rest with the bottom interconnecting wall 24 resting
on a flat surface and the tape held upwardly and away from other
surfaces extending from the front of the dispenser 10 (FIG. 1).
[0085] To dispense tape, a user grasps the tape dispenser 10 with a
thumb on one of the tape core support portions 30, 50, an index
finger on the top interconnecting wall 20 and some or all of
remaining fingers on the other of the side wall tape core support
portions 30, 50 (FIG. 12). This provides a comfortable and
controlled grip upon the tape dispenser with the leading tape end
170 positioned just forwardly of the tip of the index finger. The
user may then apply tape to a portion of a substrate such as two
overlapping portions of wrapping paper on a gift. By angling the
tape dispenser 10 downwardly, the tape end 170 is presented and
applied to the substrate and the pressing bar 134 engages the
leading length of tape 172 on the substrate at a selected location.
The tape dispenser 10 is then drawn in the rearward direction of
the tape dispenser with the pressing bar 134 applied to the leading
length of tape 172 on the substrate. Because the tape dispenser is
conveniently used one handed, the user may steady and position the
substrate with the other hand. The tape dispenser 10 is drawn along
the substrate for the distance requiring tape. The user may then
rotate the tape dispenser while maintaining the pressing bar 134
and then the forward edges 162, 164 of the side walls 16, 18 in
contact with the tape and/or substrate. The rotation is in the
direction which takes the top interconnecting wall 20 into a
vertical position and then slightly past the vertical position.
Longitudinal movement of the tape dispenser can also be continued
along the substrate during this rotation. The two widened side wall
forward edges 162, 164 slide along and hold the substrate, such as
delicate wrapping paper, away from the cutter 150 while the
rotation and longitudinal motion of the dispenser 10 pulls the tape
upwardly into contact with the cutter 154, severing it. For
particularly delicate substrates, such as light tissue paper, the
forward motion as well as rotation provides a short length of tape
which has not been pressed down by the pressing bar 134 between the
substrate and the cutter 154 protecting the substrate. After the
applied piece of tape is cut off, the tape dispenser is pulled up
and it is ready for subsequent use. A short length of tape (again
referred to as 172) extends forward of the pressing bar ready for
application to a substrate. This length of tape is maintained in a
transverse arched shape by the action of the tabs and button
described above. This length of tape is restrained from falling
away from the tabs 112, 114 by the tab extension 142.
[0086] The tab extension 142 acts as a tape lock. Should the
leading length of tape 172 shift laterally toward one side wall or
the other, it may become disengaged from one or the other of the
tabs 112, 114. The adhesive side of the length of tape 172 is then
likely to engage the tab extension 142 rather than completely
leaving the threaded state. The user may then easily rethread the
length of tape 172 and continue use.
[0087] Additionally, if a user lays the dispenser down with the
cutter support portions 32, 52 lowermost, as in FIG. 12, the
leading length of tape 172 may adhere to the surface it contacts.
If the tab extension was not present, when the user lifted the
dispenser 10, the leading length of tape 172 might disengage from
the tabs 112, 114 and leave the threaded state. The tab extension
142 prevents this. If the dispenser 10 is laid down in the
orientation seen in FIG. 12, the leading length of tape 172 may
still adhere to the surface it contacts. When the user next picks
up the dispenser, the leading length of tape may start to disengage
from the tabs 112, 114. The leading length of tape 172 then comes
against the tab extension 142 and is prevented from leaving the
threaded state. The user may then remove the leading length of tape
172 from the surface to which it adhered, check the state of tape
threading and continue use.
[0088] Additionally, because the top surface of the tabs 112, 114
are engaged to the bottom (adhesive) surface of the length of tape
172, the tape 172 is restrained from rolling back onto the roll of
tape 12.
[0089] The elements of the tape dispenser described above consist
of two parts: A molded plastic part comprising all of the elements
except the cutter 154, and, the cutter 154. The molded plastic part
is molded from any appropriate polymer material resulting in a
reasonably rigid yet somewhat flexible frame. Moreover, for certain
kinds of tapes and plastics, the metallic cutter 154 may be deleted
and the bar 150 provided with a serrated forward edge replacing the
cutter 154. This results in a single piece dispenser which is less
expensive to manufacture.
[0090] In the preferred embodiment, the tape dispenser is provided
preloaded with a roll of tape. Because the dispenser is inexpensive
to manufacture, some users may treat the dispenser as a single use
dispenser and discard it with the core from an exhausted roll of
tape. However, the tape dispenser is reusable. A consumer may buy
an additional roll of tape 12 and reload the dispenser as described
above. Forward opening U-shaped recesses 82, 84 and rear slots 86,
88, 92, 94 as well as slot 76, bottom wall opening 78 and a gap to
the rear of the top wall 20 have been described. These features aid
in providing appropriate flexibility allowing one to reload the
tape dispenser. However, these configurations are not the only way
to achieve this flexibility and resiliency. Different side wall
configurations can be easily implemented to achieve the same
functionality. Thus, the U-shaped recesses can be of a different
shape or dispensed with altogether as can be the rear slots. One
may select a different plastic to achieve the flexibility necessary
or one may use different slots, wall thicknesses or the like.
[0091] A second tape dispenser in accordance with the invention is
illustrated in FIG. 20. The tape dispenser 200 seen FIG. 20 shares
many of the elements of the tape dispenser seen FIGS. 1-19 but
differs structurally in several respects. The tape dispenser 200
has a right side wall 216, a left side wall 218, and a top
interconnecting wall 220 (best seen in FIG. 26). The two side walls
and the top interconnecting wall have shapes and serve purposes
very similar to those described with respect to the first
embodiment.
[0092] Rather than having a one piece bottom interconnecting wall
as in the first embodiment, this tape dispenser 200 has a right
bottom interconnecting wall half 226 and a left bottom
interconnecting wall half 228. A linear prong 202 with an enlarged
head 204 extends axially from the right bottom interconnecting wall
half 226. A linear recess 206 having a restricted slot opening 208
is integral to the left bottom interconnecting wall half 228. The
ends of the recess 206 and slot opening 208 are open. Thus, the
prong 202 can be engaged in the recess 206 by moving it beyond the
ends of the recess, aligning the enlarged head 204 with the recess
206 and sliding the prong into engagement in the recess 206. This
arrangement holds the right bottom interconnecting wall half 226 in
locked engagement with the left bottom interconnecting wall half
228 creating a smooth bottom surface for the tape dispenser 200. In
the locked configuration, the two side walls, 216, 218 are held a
fixed distance apart and a roll of tape (not shown) to be dispensed
can be securely mounted within the dispenser 200.
[0093] With further reference to FIG. 23, interlocking tabs 210,
212 are provided on the rear wall segments 222. These interlocking
tabs hold the rear wall segments 222 in alignment when the linear
prong 202 is engaged in the linear recess 206. If a user wishes to
open the dispenser 200 to mount a roll of tape, the user must
slightly separate the two rear wall segments 222 allowing the
interlocking tabs 210, 212 to disengage from the rear wall segments
222 and thus allowing one to move the prong 202 out of the linear
recess 206, opening the dispenser 200.
[0094] The above described structures allow a user to disengage the
right bottom interconnecting wall half 226 from the left bottom
interconnecting wall half 228 and move the wall halves away from
one another. This opens the tape dispenser and allows the removal
of an empty tape core and the insertion of a new loaded tape core.
With a new loaded tape core in place, the linear prong 202 is
engaged in the linear recess 206 locking the tape dispenser bottom
interconnecting wall halves 226, 288 together so that the tape core
supporting the new tape roll is securely held in place. As can be
seen in FIGS. 20, 21 and 24, the tape core support elements,
including, the right side wall tape core support element lower
forward 234, the right side wall tape core support element upper
forward 236, the right side wall tape core support element rearward
238, the left side wall tape core support element lower forward
254, the left side wall tape core support element upper forward
256, and the left side wall tape core support element rearward 258
are somewhat reshaped and made more robust to accommodate easy and
secure placement of a tape core on a support element and also allow
the tape core to ride on the support element while the two
dispenser half bodies are engaged by sliding the linear prong 202
into the linear recess 206.
[0095] With reference again to FIG. 20, several changes have been
made in the second embodiment with respect to tape path for tape
coming off a roll of tape to be dispensed. Comparing the tape path
of the dispenser of FIG. 20 to the tape path illustrated in FIG.
10, several changes are apparent. Closest to the tape containing
volume 100, a friction bar 262 is added. The friction bar 262 is a
straight bar extending from the left side wall 218 adjacent the
left tape retaining tab 314. The tab extension 342 extends from the
right tape retaining 312 rather than the left tape retaining tab
314. Linear ridges 313 and 315 extend upwardly from the right tab
top surface 330 and the left tab top surface 332 respectively. The
linear ridges 313, 315 are narrow and extend in a direction
parallel to the direction of intended tape travel. The button 340
extends downwardly into the volume between the two tape retaining
tabs 312 and 314. However, the button 340 extends downwardly from a
button support cross bar 333 which does not have a tape contact
function.
[0096] Adjacent the button support cross bar 333 is a tape pressing
element 335. In FIGS. 20 and 21, the tape pressing element is a
rigid tape pressing element 335. This rigid tape pressing element
is shown separated from the rest of tape dispenser in the exploded
view of FIG. 22. The rigid pressing element includes a tape
pressing surface 336 which extends for almost the entire width of
the tape pressing element 335. The tape pressing surface 336 also
has a length in the direction of tape movement which is at least
about 1/8 its width. Thus, for a tape dispenser adapted for one
inch wide tape, the tape pressing surface 336 would be about one
inch wide and about 1/8 inch long in the direction of tape
dispensing travel. In the rigid tape pressing element 335 shown,
the tape pressing surface 336 is flanked by curved adjacent
surfaces around its entire periphery. These surfaces provide a
smooth transition for the tape as it comes into contact with the
pressing surface 336 or if it becomes slightly misaligned. Such
surfaces are not essential to the operation of the dispenser.
[0097] As can be seen in FIG. 22, the rigid tape pressing element
335 is provided with right side alignment legs 337 and left side
alignment legs 338 which have outer surfaces in planes
perpendicular to the plane of the pressing surface 336.
Additionally, hooked lock legs 339 extend from one edge of the
rigid tape pressing element 335.
[0098] As can be seen best in FIG. 22, the forward portions of the
two side walls 216, 218 the cutter support bar 350 (with the cutter
354) and the button support cross bar 333 define a rectangular tape
pressing element receiving recess 380. The rigid tape pressing
element 335 is inserted into the recess 380. The hooked lock legs
339 engage the rear of the button support cross bar 333 and the
alignment legs 337, 338 hold the pressing element 335 in alignment
with the rest of the tape dispenser 200. The rigid tape pressing
335 is held in the position seen in FIGS. 20 and 21.
[0099] The right side wall cutter support portion and the left side
wall cutter support portion terminate at their forward ends in a
right cutter support portion forward edge 262 and a left cutter
support portion forward edge 264. The two forward edges 262, 264
are considerably widened with respect to the width of the side
walls 216, 218. The two forward edges 262, 264 have smooth curved
widened forward facing surfaces. When compared to the forward edges
of the first embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-19, the forward
edges 262, 264 of the second embodiment are displaced away from the
tape retaining tabs and button a distance to accommodate the tape
pressing element 335 and the tape pressing surface 336.
[0100] The elements described above modify the tape dispensing tape
path seen in the first embodiment in the following ways. A tape end
is fed from a roll of tape within the dispenser with its adhesive
coated side facing in the "down" direction. The tape passes under
the friction bar 262 such that its non-adhesive face may rub
against the friction bar 262. The tape then passes under the button
340 and over the tape retaining tabs 312, 314 and tab extension
342. A fin 344 aids in threading the tape between the button and
tabs. As with the embodiment seen in FIGS. 1-19, the button and
tape retaining tabs force the tape into an arched configuration
across its width. However, rather than the adhesive side of the
tape engaging the surfaces of the tape retaining tabs 312, 314 over
a large portion of their surfaces, the adhesive side of the tape
engages only the ridges 313, 315. Under normal circumstances, the
tape will not engage the tab extension 342. Thus, only a very
limited longitudinal (with respect to the direction of the tape
travel) linear area of the adhesive is in contact with the
dispenser.
[0101] Tape is dispensed from the dispenser of FIGS. 20-26 in a
manner very similar to the dispenser seen in FIGS. 1-19. The tape
dispenser with the extending bitter end of tape is grasped by a
user and applied to wrapping paper or another substrate. The tape
dispenser is rotated to bring the pressing surface 336 into
engagement with the length of tape and press it against the
substrate to be taped. The enlarged pressing surface 336 applies
pressure to the tape over a considerable area of tape as tape is
applied. The tape dispenser is then drawn along the substrate with
the pressing surface 336 applying pressure to this enlarged area of
tape resulting in superior adhesion of tape to the substrate. The
superior adhesion is particularly critical during the application
of the very first piece of tape to the substrate, when the tape
adhesion is started. The enlarged area of pressure presented by the
pressing surface 336 improves initial adhesion of the tape to the
substrate and makes for a more positive start of tape
dispensing.
[0102] As with the embodiment of FIGS. 1-19, when tape dispensing
is complete with the embodiment of FIGS. 20-26, the rotation of the
tape dispenser is continued. The enlarged cutter support portion
forward edges 262, 264 are brought into engagement with the
substrate, a portion of the tape not yet adhered to the substrate
is lifted upwardly and brought into engagement with the cutter 354
severing the tape. The new bitter end of tape is retained between
the tape retaining tabs 312, 314 and the button 340 ready for
application to the next substrate.
[0103] The enlarged forward edges 262, 264 hold the substrate, such
as wrapping paper, down and away from the cutter 354. The large
width of the forward edges 262, 264 and their smooth, gently curved
shape, assures that the substrate is held down over a relatively
large area. This protects delicate substrates such as wrapping
paper from tearing when the dispenser s rotated and tape cut
off.
[0104] It is not necessary that the tape pressing surface 336 be
entirely planar. A curve over its length may be appropriate for
some dispensers.
[0105] Should the roll of tape in the dispenser start to rotate in
the direction opposite dispensing, the length of tape between the
roll of tape and the friction bar 262 will move toward the top of
the tape dispenser 200. This pulls the length of tape against the
friction bar 262, increasing friction over the length of tape which
is engaging the friction bar 262, the tabs 312, 314 and the button
340. Reverse rotation is thereby stopped. Tape "roll back" in which
the end of the tape slides back onto the roll of tape and must be
rethreaded is prevented.
[0106] Switching the tab extension 342 to the right tab 312 has
been found to prevent tape disengagement when tape is applied in a
curved line as favored by right handed dispensing as opposed to
left handed dispensing.
[0107] A compressible or resilient pressing element 384 is also
seen in FIG. 22. The compressible pressing element 384 is
preferably an elastomeric pressing element having a uniform cross
section over its entire width. The preferred cross section is a
symmetrical octagon. The octagon preferably has two sets of four
equal length sides. The two sets of four equal length sides can be
identical to one another or one set may have sides slightly larger
than the other set. A preferred shape has two pairs of equal length
parallel sides connected by rounded corners. As can be seen in FIG.
22, the cutter 354 has a barb 386. As seen in FIG. 26, the button
support bar 333 also has at least one barb 387. The barbs 386, 387
both project into the tape pressing element receiving recess 380.
The barbs retain the compressible pressing element 384 in the
recess 380. The two ends of the compressible pressing element 384
are restrained by the side wall cutter support portions 232, 252
and the compressible pressing element 384 is thereby held in place.
As seen in FIG. 26, with the compressible pressing element 384 in
place, a pressing surface 388 is presented between the cutter 354
and the tabs 312, 314. The pressing surface 388 extends across
substantially the entire distance between the side wall cutter
support portions 232, 252. The shape of the pressing surface 388
along the direction of tape traveled is not critical other than it
is selected to allow the pressing element 384 to prevent a surface
of sufficient length to engage a relatively large area of tape when
pressure is applied to dispensed tape. The a pressing surface
should engage the tape for a length of at least about 1/8 the width
of the tape. This is achieved with the octagonal or semi-octagonal
shapes described above. This can also be achieved with a
semicircular forward surface of the resilient pressing element 384
or other cross sections allowing deformation of the pressing
surface into engagement with tape on a substrate over sufficient
length.
[0108] The octagonal shape described with respect to preferred
resilient pressing element 384 allows assembly of the resilient
pressing element 384 into the tape dispenser 210 without needing to
align in a particular direction. There is no reverse or inverted
orientation in which the pressing element 384 can be misinstalled.
However, different shapes giving up this advantage or answering
this advantage in a different way, such as a cylindrical pressing
element are also considered to be within the scope of this
invention.
[0109] The material of the pressing element is preferably a
resilient material such as foam elastomer. The foam elastomer can
be open celled or closed celled. The foam elastomer can have a
"skinned" exterior or an open cell exterior. Any material providing
appropriate resiliency is an appropriate material.
[0110] Two pressing elements, 335 and 384 are described because
different pressing elements interact advantageously with different
tapes. Some tapes, such as exceptionally clear tapes using an
orientated polypropylene film, are applied more advantageously with
the rigid pressing element 335 while other tapes, such as acetate
film based tapes, are applied more advantageously with the
resilient foam based pressing element 384. This appears to be
particularly the case when the resilient foam based pressing
element is a polyethylene foam.
[0111] The invention has been described with reference to preferred
embodiments. It will be appreciated that modifications or
alterations can be made without deviating from the present
invention. Such modifications and alterations will occur to others
upon the reading and understanding of this specification. It is
intended that all such modifications and alterations be included
insofar as they come within the scope of the appended claims or the
equivalents thereof.
* * * * *