U.S. patent application number 13/795354 was filed with the patent office on 2013-10-10 for product dispenser.
The applicant listed for this patent is TRINOVA DESIGN, LLC. Invention is credited to Gregory A. DiLoreto, Gerald J. Keberlein.
Application Number | 20130264378 13/795354 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44475648 |
Filed Date | 2013-10-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130264378 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Keberlein; Gerald J. ; et
al. |
October 10, 2013 |
Product Dispenser
Abstract
An octahedral product dispenser for dispensing discrete product
portions and a corresponding blank for constructing the product
dispenser are described. The product dispenser includes two
opposing hexagonal end panels, and six integrally connected
rectangular side panels extending between the two end panels,
wherein a first and a last of these six side panels are not
integrally connected to each other but connected to one another
with a flap portion. An opening is formed in one of the end or side
panels for allowing access to product portions within the product
dispenser, and these product portions can be arranged
vertically.
Inventors: |
Keberlein; Gerald J.;
(Hortonville, WI) ; DiLoreto; Gregory A.; (Neenah,
WI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
TRINOVA DESIGN, LLC |
Appleton |
WI |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
44475648 |
Appl. No.: |
13/795354 |
Filed: |
March 12, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13033448 |
Feb 23, 2011 |
|
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|
13795354 |
|
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|
61338829 |
Feb 24, 2010 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
229/109 ;
229/122; 229/242 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 5/4208 20130101;
B65D 5/542 20130101; B65D 83/0805 20130101; B65D 5/2033 20130101;
B65D 85/62 20130101; B65D 5/029 20130101; B65D 2571/00061
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
229/109 ;
229/122; 229/242 |
International
Class: |
B65D 5/20 20060101
B65D005/20; B65D 5/54 20060101 B65D005/54 |
Claims
1. A blank for making an octahedral product dispenser, the blank
comprising: two primary portions that are each generally hexagonal;
six secondary portions integrally connected to one another by fold
lines, wherein each secondary portion is generally rectangular, and
each primary portion is integrally connected to a respective one of
the secondary portions; a plurality of flap portions each connected
to a respective one of a primary portion and a secondary portion;
and one of an opening or a removable portion formed in one of the
primary portions and secondary portions for allowing access to a
product to be contained within an assembled product dispenser.
2. The blank of claim 1, wherein each of the two primary portions
are integrally connected to the same one of the secondary
portions.
3. The blank of claim 1, wherein the removable portion is generally
oval.
4. The blank of claim 1, wherein the secondary portions are all
generally the same size.
5. The blank of claim 1, wherein two of the secondary portions are
each a first size and four of the secondary portions are each a
second size.
6. An octahedral product dispenser comprising: two opposing
hexagonal end panels; and six integrally connected rectangular side
panels with each side panel extending between the two end panels,
wherein a first side panel is not integrally connected to a last
side panel; and wherein an opening is formed in one of the end or
side panels for allowing access to product within the product
dispenser.
7. The product dispenser of claim 6, wherein each end panel is
integrally connected to a respective one of the side panels.
8. The product dispenser of claim 6, wherein each end panel is
integrally connected to the same one of the side panels.
9. The product dispenser of claim 6, wherein at least some of the
side panels are attached to the end panels via respective flap
portions.
10. The product dispenser of claim 6, wherein the first side panel
is connected to the last side panel via a flap portion.
11. The product dispenser of claim 6, further including discrete
product portions that are arranged within the product dispenser and
substantially parallel with a vertical axis.
12. The product dispenser of claim 11, wherein the product
dispenser has a preferred upright position with the end panels
arranged substantially parallel with a vertical axis.
13. The product dispenser of claim 12, wherein the opening is
formed in one of the side panels.
14. The product dispenser of claim 12, wherein the opening is
formed in a side panel that is not the top panel when the product
dispenser is in the preferred upright position.
15. The product dispenser of claim 6, wherein the opening is formed
in one of the end panels.
16. An octahedral product dispenser for dispensing discrete product
portions, the product dispenser comprising: two hexagonal end
panels opposite each other; and six integrally connected
rectangular side panels extending between the two end panels;
wherein a first and a last of these six side panels are not
integrally connected to each other but are connected to each other
by a flap portion; wherein each of the end panels is integrally
connected to one of the side panels, and the remaining side panels
are connected to the end panels by respective flap portions; and
wherein an opening is formed in one of the end or side panels for
allowing access to product portions within the product
dispenser.
17. The product dispenser of claim 16, further including discrete
product portions that are arranged within the product dispenser
substantially parallel to a vertical axis.
18. The product dispenser of claim 17, wherein the product
dispenser has a preferred upright position with the end panels
arranged vertically.
19. The product dispenser of claim 18, wherein the opening is
formed in one of the side panels.
20. The product dispenser of claim 19, wherein the opening is
formed in a side panel that is not the top panel when the product
dispenser is in the preferred upright position.
21. A packaging configuration comprising: a plurality of product
dispensers stacked in close relation to one another, each of the
plurality of product dispensers comprising: two opposing hexagonal
end panels; and six integrally connected rectangular side panels
with each side panel extending between the two end panels, wherein
a first side panel is not integrally connected to a last side
panel; wherein an opening is formed in one of the end or side
panels for allowing access to product within the product
dispenser.
22. The configuration of claim 21, wherein each of the plurality of
product dispensers is configured such that each end panel is
integrally connected to a respective one of the side panels.
23. The configuration of claim 22, wherein each of the plurality of
product dispensers further includes a product that includes
discrete product portions that are arranged within the respective
product dispenser.
24. The configuration of claim 23, wherein each of the plurality of
product dispensers is constructed from a blank for making an
octahedral product dispenser, and each of the respective blanks
comprises: two primary portions that are each generally hexagonal;
six secondary portions integrally connected to one another by fold
lines, wherein each secondary portion is generally rectangular, and
each primary portion is integrally connected to a respective one of
the secondary portions; a plurality of flap portions each connected
to a respective one of a primary portion and a secondary portion;
and one of the opening or a removable portion formed in one of the
primary portions and secondary portions for allowing access to the
product to be contained within an assembled product dispenser.
25. The configuration of claim 21, wherein each of the plurality of
product dispensers includes outer dimensions comprising at least a
length (L) and a width (W), such that a staggered arrangement of
the plurality of dispensers is provided.
26. The configuration of claim 25, wherein the staggered
arrangement of the plurality of product dispensers has a smaller
cross-sectional area than another arrangement of a plurality of
decahedral product dispensers, where each of the plurality of
decahedral product dispensers includes at least about the same
outer dimensions as the outer dimensions of each of the plurality
of product dispensers.
27. The configuration of claim 21, wherein the plurality of product
dispensers are configured in a staggered arrangement in which each
of the rectangular side panels of at least one of the plurality of
product dispensers is configured to contact, over all or
substantially all of its surface, a rectangular panel of another
one of the plurality of dispensers.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to provisional application
Ser. No. 61/338,829, filed on Feb. 24, 2010, and entitled "Product
Dispenser," which is incorporated by reference herein in its
entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to dispensers and
more particularly to dispensers for dispensing a product, such as a
paper or cloth product.
BACKGROUND
[0003] A variety of product dispensers are available for holding
and dispensing products, such as stacked paper tissues or other
products, to a user. Such dispensers can take a wide variety of
forms depending on a variety of factors, such as the product to be
dispensed, and the intended consumer segment, among others.
[0004] Such dispensers are often configured to have aesthetically
appealing outer packaging graphics, so that when placed in use they
can blend in with or enhance, by way of example, the decor of the
room or surroundings in which they are situated. One such popular
product dispenser is a tissue dispenser, which holds and dispenses
facial tissues. As a result, the tissue dispenser category is one
of a few grocery store consumer product categories where the outer
packaging graphics are a primary reason for choosing one dispenser
over another. Research shows that the average consumer often first
selects the brand of a tissue dispenser (Puffs.RTM., Kleenex.RTM.,
etc.), and then reviews the various graphics for selection of
desired color and design. In consideration of these purchasing
points, in the facial tissue category packages are often displayed
in the grocery store with the brand name on the shelf facing the
consumer based on the first consumer criteria for brand selection.
Further, to accommodate visibility of both the packaging graphics
and the brand name simultaneously, and to decrease the likelihood
of product tampering, it is common to place a film over the top and
one side panel for display on the shelf. Such film is often made
from polyethylene and thus termed a "poly" overwrap film. Such poly
film or wrap can be wrapped around an individual dispenser and/or a
plurality of such dispensers for shipment and/or display. The use
of a transparent film is common and allows the consumer to see the
packaging graphics (including advertising indicia or printing, also
referred to as "signage") as well as the brand identity when the
dispenser is stacked on a shelf. Alternatively, the poly film can
itself incorporate printed material or other signage, including the
brand identity. Although such poly film is abundant, the film is
not inexpensive and its incorporation into the packaging scheme
increases the carbon footprint of the product dispenser and/or
products to be dispensed.
[0005] Another problem with packages or dispensers presents itself
when dispensing product that includes discrete product portions
(e.g., facial tissue). Product portions of this kind are generally
positioned in a stacked folded configuration and interfolded or
interleaved so that each portion is at least partially folded with
or with respect to an adjacent (previous or next) product portion.
In one example, as a product portion (e.g., tissue) is pulled
outwardly or out of the dispenser, the next product portion, which
is interleaved with the prior product portion, will be pulled along
to partially extend out of the container to be ultimately
dispensed. However, product portions in the dispenser tend to
become disconnected from, and no longer interleaved with, one
another. When this occurs, the next product portion falls back into
the dispenser. Such "fall back" typically occurs as number of
discrete product portions (e.g., tissues) within a dispenser
decreases, and thus the distance between the top-most discrete
product portion (e.g., the top tissue in a stack of tissues) and
the dispenser opening increases. At a certain critical distance
(e.g., typically when about one third to one quarter of the total
discrete product portions remains in the container), the top-most
product portion falls back into the dispenser, rather then being
retained or supported, usually at or at least in part by the
container opening, for easy removal. Thus, the fall back problem
increases along with the emptying of the dispenser, and the final
tissues following the last one-third to one-quarter tissues can
become difficult or inconvenient to remove. For example, a user
will typically have to reach into the interior of the dispenser in
order to pull the next discrete product portion out of the
container. The problem of "fall back" is increased with increased
dispenser height, because product portions are typically stacked in
a horizontal position from the bottom of the dispenser up.
[0006] Finally, product dispensers, such as facial tissue
containers, are typically stacked on store shelves. Such dispensers
are often rectangular in shape and include a portion that is to be
removed (i.e., referred to as a "serf") to permit access to the
contents of the dispenser (i.e., the tissues) and this portion is
typically included on a top surface of the container. When a
multiplicity of such dispensers are stacked one on top of the
other, the serf, which frequently includes product branding
information, is hidden from view, thereby reducing the benefits of
such branding when presented to a consumer.
[0007] Therefore, it would be desirable to provide new product
dispensers and blanks for constructing the dispensers that address
the aforementioned issues in a cost-effective manner.
SUMMARY
[0008] In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure,
disclosed herein is a blank for making an octahedral product
dispenser and which includes a plurality of primary portions that
each comprise a generally hexagonal shape, and a plurality of
secondary portions that each comprise a generally rectangular
shape, the plurality of secondary portions connected at least
indirectly to the plurality of primary portions, and a plurality of
additional portions connected at least indirectly to one or more of
the plurality of primary and/or secondary portions, the additional
portions including at least one of a plurality of tertiary portions
and a flap portion.
[0009] In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure,
an octahedral product dispenser is disclosed herein, the product
dispenser constructed from the blank. Such an octahedral product
dispenser can dispense product such as discrete product portions,
and can include two hexagonal end panels opposite each other, and
six integrally connected rectangular side panels extending between
the two end panels, wherein a first and a last of these six side
panels are not integrally connected to each other but connected to
each other by a flap portion. Further, the end panels can each be
integrally connected to one of the side panels, and the remaining
side panels can be connected to the end panels by respective flap
portions. An opening formed in one of the end or side panels allows
for access to product within the product dispenser.
[0010] Other embodiments, aspects, features, objectives and
advantages of the present disclosure will be understood and
appreciated upon a full reading of the detailed description and the
claims that follow.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] Embodiments are disclosed with reference to the accompanying
drawings and are for illustrative purposes only. The present
disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of
construction or the arrangement of the components illustrated in
the drawings. The present disclosure encompasses other embodiments
and is capable of being practiced or carried out in other various
ways. The drawings illustrate a best mode presently contemplated
for carrying out the invention. Like reference numerals are used to
indicate like components. In the drawings:
[0012] FIGS. 1A-D are top views of exemplary product dispenser
blanks (or dies), for use in constructing exemplary stackable
product dispensers, in accordance with at least some embodiments of
the present disclosure;
[0013] FIGS. 1A' and 1A'', 1B' and 1B'', 1C', and 1D', each
illustrate alternative exemplary embodiments of open/cover
structures for use in conjunction with the embodiments of the
blanks, including the blanks shown in FIGS. 1A-D, in accordance
with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0014] FIG. 2 is a schematic view depicting an exemplary product in
accordance with at least some embodiments of the present
disclosure;
[0015] FIGS. 3A-B are front and rear perspective views of a product
dispenser in accordance with at least some embodiments of the
present disclosure;
[0016] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the product dispenser of
FIGS. 3A-B shown in a dispensing orientation in accordance with at
least some embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0017] FIG. 5 is a rendering or schematic depiction of a plurality
of product dispensers shown in a typical display format;
[0018] FIGS. 6-10 illustrate respective views of an exemplary
product dispenser constructed from a blank such as illustrated in
FIG. 1D, these views including a perspective view, a front (or
back) view, a top view, a right (or left) side view, and a bottom
view;
[0019] FIGS. 11-15 illustrate respective views of an exemplary
product dispenser constructed from the blank illustrated in FIG.
1C, these views including a perspective view, a front (or back)
view, a top view, a right (or left) side view, and a bottom
view;
[0020] FIGS. 16-20 illustrate respective views of an exemplary
product dispenser constructed from the blank illustrated in FIG.
1B, these views including a perspective view, a front (or back)
view, a top view, a right (or left) side view, and a bottom
view;
[0021] FIGS. 21-25 illustrate respective views of an exemplary
product dispenser constructed from the blank illustrated in FIG.
1A, these views including a perspective view, a front (or back)
view, a top view, a right (or left) side view, and a bottom
view;
[0022] FIGS. 26(a)-(b) illustrate respective signage areas for an
octahedral product dispenser and a decahedral product
dispenser;
[0023] FIGS. 27-28 illustrate packaging configurations for an
exemplary octahedral product dispenser;
[0024] FIGS. 29-30 illustrate packaging configurations for a
decahedral product dispenser;
[0025] FIG. 31 illustrates a packaging configuration for another
exemplary octahedral product dispenser; and
[0026] FIG. 32 illustrates a packaging configuration for another
exemplary decahedral product dispenser.
[0027] Throughout the detailed description, like numerals are used
to describe like parts, portions, components, etc.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0028] FIGS. 1A-D are top views of exemplary product dispenser
blanks 2a-2d, respectively, for use in constructing exemplary
stackable octahedral product dispensers (described further below),
in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present
disclosure. Stated another way, each blank can be said to be
considered to be representative of a stackable octahedral product
dispenser, but in an unfolded or unassembled form. For simplicity,
the stackable product dispensers described herein are also referred
to as "product dispensers" or "dispensers". As shown, each blank is
configured to allow for a product dispenser to be formed from a
single piece of material, although it is contemplated that a blank
may be comprised of multiple material pieces, or even multiple
materials types, without departing from the spirit and scope of the
disclosure. In addition, each blank has a surface 4a-d,
respectively, that is generally or substantially planar and which
extends along the length(s) and width(s) of each blank.
[0029] Each of the illustrated blanks 2a-2d, respectively, is
generally further segregated into, and thus comprises, a plurality
of portions or sections that are used to form or otherwise
facilitate formation and/or construction of a respective dispenser.
First, each blank 2a-2d comprises a plurality, and as illustrated
in the Figures a pair, of hexagonal-shaped portions or end panels.
With reference to FIG. 1A, blank 2a includes hexagonal-shaped
portions 6a and 8a, respectively and, similarly, with reference to
FIGS. 1B-1D, blanks 2b-2d, respectively include respective
hexagonal-shaped portions 6b and 8b, 6c and 8c, and 6d and 8d. It
is understood that these hexagonal-shaped portions need not be
precisely shaped as a hexagon. For example, the hexagonal-shaped
portions may be at least generally hexagonal-shaped. In addition,
the hexagonal-shaped portions need not take any particular type of
hexagon or hexagonal shape (e.g., equilateral, etc.). These
hexagonal-shaped portions are also termed "primary portions" or
"end panels" herein. It is noted that, in accordance with at least
some embodiments of the disclosure and as illustrated, respective
hexagonal-shaped portions can include opposing sides or edges that
are equal, or at least substantially equal, in length. For example,
as shown in FIG. 1A, sides or edges 10a and 12a are at least of
substantially equal length, and similarly, 10b and 12b, 10c and
12c, and 10d and 12d in FIGS. 1B-1D, respectively, are at least
substantially equal in length. Moreover, with reference to FIG. 1A,
it is noted that portions 6a and 8a are dimensioned to be the same
or substantially the same in overall size and shape and,
referencing FIGS. 1B-1D, it is noted that portions 6b-d and 8b-d,
respectively, are dimensioned to be the same or substantially the
same in overall size and shape. Such examples of "symmetry"
advantageously afford or facilitate, among other things, packing
and/or stacking during, for example, packing, transport, and/or
display of packages constructed from a respective blank. Other such
symmetries and/or similarities may be included as desired without
departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.
[0030] Second, and still referring to FIGS. 1A-1D, each blank 2a-2d
comprises a plurality of, and as illustrated six (6),
rectangular-shaped portions or side panels. With reference to FIG.
1A, blank 2a includes rectangular-shaped portions 14a, 16a, 18a,
20a, 22a, and 24a, respectively. Similarly, with reference to FIGS.
1B-1-D and blanks 2b-2d, respectively, each blank includes
respective rectangular-shaped portions 14b-d, 16b-d, 18b-d, 20b-d,
22b-d, and 24b-d, respectively. Here too, it is understood, that
these rectangular-shaped portions need not be precisely shaped as a
rectangle. For example, the rectangular-shaped portions may be at
least generally rectangular-shaped. In addition, the
rectangular-shaped portions need not take any particular type of
rectangle, for example, a respective rectangular-shaped portion may
be but need not be a square. The rectangular-shaped portions are
also termed "secondary portions" or "side panels" herein. It is
noted that, in accordance with at least some embodiments of the
disclosure and as illustrated, respective rectangular-shaped
portions can include opposing sides or edges that are equal, or at
least substantially equal, in length. For example, as shown in FIG.
1A, sides or edges 26a and 28a are at least of substantially equal
length, and similarly, 26b and 28b, 26c and 28c, and 26d and 28d in
FIGS. 1B-1D, respectively, are at least substantially equal in
length. Moreover, with reference to FIG. 1A, it is noted that: i)
portions 16a, 18a, 22a, and 24a are dimensioned to be the same or
substantially the same in overall size and shape; ii) portions 14a
and 20a are dimensioned to be the same or substantially the same in
overall size and shape. Further and referencing FIGS. 1B-1D, it is
noted that: i) portions 16b-d, 18b-d, 22b-d and 24b-d,
respectively, are dimensioned to be the same or substantially the
same in overall size and shape; and ii) portions 14b-d and 20b-d,
respectively, are dimensioned to be the same or substantially the
same in overall size and shape. Here too, such examples of
"symmetry" advantageously afford or facilitate, among other things,
packing and/or stacking during, for example, packing, transport,
and/or display of packages constructed from a respective blank.
Other such symmetries and/or similarities may be included as
desired without departing from the spirit and scope of the
disclosure. In addition, blanks 2a-d each includes a respective tab
portion 49a-d to facilitate construction of a respective dispenser
or container.
[0031] Each of the blanks 2a-d shown in the FIGS. further provides
for an opening that has a boundary or edge 50a-d, respectively. As
shown, blanks 2a-2c provide for openings in secondary or
rectangular portions 20a-c, while blank 2d provides for an opening
in primary or hexagonal-shaped portion 6d. Cover portions 52a-d
(also referred to as "serfs"), respectively, are included and, as
shown, are connected to (e.g., via perforations) to the respective
blank primary or secondary portion as appropriate and these
respective cover portions, again as shown, provide for a pair of
openings (also termed "finger openings") 54a-d, respectively to
permit removal of the cover portion when the blank is assembled as
a dispenser to permit a user to access product within the
dispenser. It is understood that the boundaries 50a-d for the
openings and the respective cover portions 52a-d can be sized and
shaped (or otherwise varied) according to convenience. For example,
FIGS. 1A' and 1A'', 1B' and 1B'', 1C', and 1D', each illustrate
alternative exemplary embodiments of boundaries 50a' and 50a'',
50b' and 50b'', 50c', and 50d', respectively, are shown in
conjunction with associated cover portions 52a' and 52a'', 52b' and
52b'', 52c', and 52d', created in respective portions 20a' and
20a'', 20b' and 20b'', 20c', and 6d'. Accordingly, alternative
shapes, orientations, geometries and the like for these features
are considered as being within the scope of the present
disclosure.
[0032] Third, and referring again to FIGS. 1A-1D, each blank 2a-2d
comprises a plurality of, and as illustrated ten (10), flap
portions (also referred to as "tertiary portions" herein). With
reference to FIG. 1A, blank 2a includes flap portions 30a, 32a,
34a, 36a, 38a, 40a, 42a, 44a, 46a, and 48a, respectively, and these
flaps, as shown, are trapezoidal or at least generally trapezoidal
in shape. Similarly, with reference to FIGS. 1B and 1D and blanks
2b-2c, respectively, each blank includes respective flap portions
30b-d, 32b-d, 34b-d, 36b-d, 38b-d, 40b-d, 42b-d, 44b-d, 46b-d, and
48b-d, respectively. As with the flap portions of blank 2a, the
flap portions in blanks 2b-2c are also trapezoidal, or at least
generally trapezoidal, in shape. Here too, it is understood, that
these trapezoid-shaped portions need not be precisely shaped as a
trapezoid. For example, the trapezoid-shaped portions may be at
least generally trapezoid-shaped. In addition, the trapezoid-shaped
portions need not take any particularly type of trapezoid. For
example and in accordance with at least some embodiments, a
respective trapezoid-shaped portion may have opposing edges, for
example edges 53a-d of flap portion 30a-d, respectively, that are
equal or substantially equal in length. As shown, each opposing
flap is at least substantially symmetric, except those shown in
FIG. 1D. Moreover, it is noted that the flap portions of the blank
2d are similar in size and shape to the flap portions of the blanks
2a-c, however, each of these flap portions includes an edge,
collectively referred to as edge 54, that is contoured or otherwise
shaped to conform with, or at least substantially conform with, the
boundary 50d for the opening to be created in hexagonal portion 6d.
Similarly, where the shape or design of an opening is varied, such
as was previously described with respect to FIG. 1D', it is
understood that the edge 54 of each respective flap portion of
blank 2d would vary to appropriately conform, or otherwise maintain
appropriate correspondence, with the boundary for creating a hole.
And here again with regard to the flap portions, above-referenced
examples of symmetry advantageously afford or facilitate, among
other things, packing and/or stacking during, for example, packing,
transport, and/or display of packages constructed from a respective
blank. Other such symmetries and/or similarities may be included as
desired without departing from the spirit and scope of the present
disclosure.
[0033] Although exemplary dimensions are shown in FIGS. 1A-D, one
or more of these dimensions can vary to convenience. Further, one
skilled in the art will understand that blank thickness can vary to
convenience based on factors such as intended use of the dispenser.
Additionally, it is noted that the placement or location of the
product access holes (and any associated features, such as cover
portions) in a respective blank can vary, both within and with
respect to a given blank portion. For example, and although not
shown, a given hole need not necessarily be centered on a given
blank portion, but can be offset or otherwise positioned, and/or a
given hole may even be positioned to extend over, or with respect
to multiple blank portions. Moreover, a given blank may be designed
to a plurality of holes (not shown) It should be understood that
one of skill in the art will appreciate adjustments or
modifications (e.g., to size and shape) of the respective flaps to
accommodate variations such as these.
[0034] In accordance with at least some embodiments, blanks or dies
2a-2d are cut, stamped or otherwise formed from a substantially
planar material, such as a paper-based material, for example, Solid
Bleached Sulfate (SBS) paper-board (e.g. cardstock). The blanks are
cut so that the portions previously described are generally
connected and contiguous. To create a product from a blank, such as
blanks 2a-2d, the respective primary, secondary and tertiary
portions, as well as the additional tab portion, are folded or
otherwise manipulated in one of a number of appropriate manners.
Portions are then abuttingly secured to form the product dispenser,
for example using an adhesive (which can be applied to one or more
surfaces or portions of surfaces of respective portions), with the
respective portions typically secured together to contain a product
to be dispensed. Various ways in which a dispenser can be
constructed from a blank, such as the blanks noted above, would be
readily apparent to one of skill in the art. For example, the
ordering of respective folding operations can vary, and/or the
folding can include simultaneous folding. Moreover, it is
understood that folding and other aspects of the construction of a
dispenser (e.g., application of adhesive) can be manual or
automated.
[0035] FIG. 2 is a schematic view depicting an exemplary octahedral
product dispenser 60 constructed from blank or die that is similar
to or the same as one that has been previously described. More
specifically and as shown, the dispenser 60 includes a dispenser
body or dispenser body structure 62 that that includes eight (8)
sides (six of which are visible in FIG. 2), including six (6)
rectangular or at least substantially rectangular sides 66a-c and
two (2) hexagonal or at least substantially hexagonal sides or end
panels 68. Each side provides a surface that can be utilized for
receiving signage (e.g. letter, decoration, printing, indicia,
etc.) and, as such, these surfaces can be referred to as "signage
receiving surfaces".
[0036] The dispenser body structure 62 bounds or otherwise provides
for an enclosed space or enclosure 69 that can contain or otherwise
hold various types of product 70, including but not limited to
cloth or paper products, such as disposable facial tissues and
moist wipes, among others. As shown, product 70 is illustrated to
comprise a plurality of distinct or discrete product portions 72a,
b, c, and so on that are interleaved with one another and, when
such is the case, the product can also be termed "interleaved
product" (it is understood that the dispenser can contain various
product and such product need not necessarily be interleaved). The
interleaved product illustrated is created as a stack 71. As shown,
a discrete product portion 72 is extending out from an opening 74
in side 66b. As the product portion 72 is removed by a user,
another discrete product portion 72a which is still in the
enclosure 69 remains interleaved and thus in contact with the next
discrete tissue product portion 72b, which in turn is interleaved
with discrete product portion 72c and so on, and in this manner
serves to facilitate advancement of this next product portion.
[0037] In general, as a product portion is pulled or otherwise
removed from the dispenser, an additional product portion is
advanced and pulled outwardly from the dispenser due to the
interleaving. Advantageously and as illustrated, by providing the
dispenser body structure 62 that can be positioned on side 66e, the
product 70 can be positioned substantially parallel with a vertical
axis 71. The positioning of the product 70 in this manner serves to
diminish "fall back" by maintaining contact between the preceding
and subsequent product portions as the product is dispensed through
the opening 74. In addition, as the product 70 is positioned
substantially parallel with a vertical axis 71, the distance
between the opening 74 and the product 70, as the product is
consumed, has only a de minimus effect on the dispenser's ability
to dispense the product 70 without "fall back". By reducing "fall
back" in this manner, the amount of product 70 provided with each
dispenser 60 can be increased without limiting the functionality of
the dispenser 60. Also, in at least some embodiments, the product
in the dispenser can be dispensed in a generally horizontal
direction, or in a direction having both a horizontal and a
vertical component.
[0038] FIGS. 3A-B are front and rear perspective views of a product
dispenser 80 in accordance with at least some embodiments of the
present disclosure. More specifically and as shown, dispenser 80
includes Panels A-F, with Panels B, A and F being visible in the
front view (FIG. 3A) and Panels C, D, and E being visible in the
rear view (FIG. 3B). The dispenser 80 is generally constructed from
a blank, such as the blanks previously described and thus the
rectangular shaped Panels illustrated can generally correspond to
the secondary or at least generally rectangular portions of those
blanks Also shown are hexagonal shaped sides 82a-b. These sides can
generally correspond to the primary or hexagonal shaped portions of
the previously described blanks.
[0039] The product dispenser 60 can be designed to dispense product
in more than one position. For example, the product dispenser can
be designed to sit or otherwise rest on one of its generally
rectangular or hexagonal shaped panels or sides. These shapes and
positioning variations serve to accommodate specific product access
issues that would be not be addressed by less versatile shapes. In
addition, to provide even greater versatility, the product
dispenser 60 can be secured to a structure as is shown in FIG. 4.
Advantageously, when secured to a structure as is shown in FIG. 4,
the dispenser can easily dispense a product 88 (e.g., tissue) at a
distance above (or below) a typical resting surface, such as a sink
or table. In this way, factors that can damage the dispenser or its
contents, such as water from the sink, can be avoided. To
facilitate the mounting of the product dispenser 60, Panel C, as
shown with reference to FIGS. 3B and 4, includes securing
mechanisms or portions 84a-b (e.g., a pair of adhesive strips) that
are used, in accordance with at least some embodiments, to fasten
or otherwise secure the dispenser to a structure 86 (e.g., a
vertical wall). Here again, product can be dispensed from the
dispenser in a generally horizontal direction, or one having both
horizontal and vertical components.
[0040] FIG. 5 is a rendering or schematic depiction of a plurality
of product dispensers 90 shown in a typical display format in
accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. More
specifically, the rendering is intended to illustrate product
dispensers generally constructed from blanks, such as the blanks
described above with regard to FIGS. 1A-D. More particularly, it is
appreciated that the product dispensers 90a are intended to
represent, in a general fashion, exemplary dispensers that can be
constructed from blanks in the form of the blank 2a. Similarly, it
is appreciated that the product dispensers 90b are intended to
represent, in a general fashion, exemplary dispensers that can be
constructed from blanks in the form of the blank 2b. Further, it is
appreciated that product dispensers 90c are intended to represent,
in a general fashion, exemplary dispensers that can be constructed
from blanks in the form of the blank 2c. And it is appreciated that
product dispensers 90d are intended to represent, in a general
fashion, exemplary dispensers that can be constructed from blanks
in the form of the blank 2d. Advantageously and as shown, in
addition to the dispensing product (e.g., facial tissues), the
product dispensers 90 can be utilized for signage. Various types of
signage, such as advertising logos can be printed, embossed or
otherwise placed or secured to any surface of the dispenser.
Signage can be included on a surface, and more particularly a cover
portion or serf, of a respective dispenser. In addition, such
signage can be provided with any poly or other over-wrap, while
still allowing for appropriate stacking of multiple product
dispensers in a format that provides a desirable presentation to a
consumer.
[0041] FIGS. 6-10 illustrate respective views of an exemplary
product dispenser constructed from an exemplary blank such as that
illustrated in FIG. 1D. In particular, FIGS. 6-10 respectively show
a perspective view, a front (or identical back) view, a top view, a
right (or identical left) side view, and a bottom view of an
octahedral product dispenser. In a similar fashion, FIGS. 11-15
illustrate respective views of an exemplary octahedral product
dispenser constructed from the blank illustrated in FIG. 1C; FIGS.
16-20 illustrate respective views of an exemplary octahedral
product dispenser constructed from the blank illustrated in FIG.
1B; and FIGS. 21-25 illustrate respective views of an exemplary
octahedral product dispenser constructed from the blank illustrated
in FIG. 1A, these views including a perspective view, a front (or
back) view, a top view, a right (or left) side view, and a bottom
view.
[0042] FIGS. 26(a)-(b) illustrate respective signage areas 260, 262
within a field of view of a consumer for an octahedral product
dispenser and a decahedral product dispenser which are roughly the
same size. Brand information can be placed on these areas so as to
be viewable to a consumer even when multiple dispensers are stacked
on each other, and the larger area 260 is advantageous from
branding and visibility standpoints.
[0043] Additional advantages of an octahedral product dispenser
over a decahedral product dispenser can be gleaned from FIGS.
27-32, which illustrate packaging configurations for both types in
accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. An
octahedral product dispenser allows for more efficient packaging
because of the staggered arrangement that is possible due to the
hexagonal end panels. In particular, as shown in FIGS. 27-28, an
exemplary octahedral dispenser 270 having outer dimensions of
3.375.times.5.375.times.8.375 inches would require a case 280
having dimensions of 15.25.times.23.00.times.17.75 inches in order
to package forty dispensers. Such a case size allows for
twenty-four (24) cases per pallet, which means that 960 filled
product dispensers can be transported on a pallet. In contrast, as
shown in FIGS. 29-30, an exemplary decahedral product dispenser 290
having outer dimensions of 3.375.times.5.375.times.8.375 inches
would require a case 300 having 17.00.times.22.00.times.17.75
inches in order to package forty dispensers. Such a case size
allows for twenty (20) cases per pallet, which means that only 800
filled decahedral product dispensers can be transported on a pallet
in roughly the same volume as the 960 filled octahedral product
dispensers.
[0044] FIG. 31 illustrates a packaging configuration for another
exemplary octahedral product dispenser 310, showing that fifteen
dispensers having outer dimensions 4.75.times.5.125.times.(D)
inches can be packaged in a case 312 having dimensions of
16.625.times.21.5.times.(D) inches. In other words, a cross
sectional area of the case would be 357.4 square inches.
[0045] In contrast, FIG. 32 illustrates a packaging configuration
for another exemplary decahedral product dispenser 320, showing
that sixteen dispensers having outer dimensions
4.75.times.5.125.times.(D) inches can be packaged in a case 312
having dimensions of 19.0.times.20.5.times.(D) inches. In other
words, a cross sectional area of the case would be 389.5 square
inches.
[0046] Although the product dispensers of the present disclosure
have been described herein as being formed or constructed from a
blank that is comprised of a single material, it is to be
understood that the blank (and a resulting dispenser) can comprise
a plurality of discrete pieces and/or sections made of the same or
additional (different) materials. In addition, the blanks have been
described herein as being generally and/or substantially planar.
However, in accordance with other embodiments, such blanks (and
corresponding dispensers) can include non-planar surfaces and/or
portions of such surface, and/or further including raised and/or
recessed features as desired.
[0047] It should be understood that various changes and
modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described
herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes
and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and
scope of the present subject matter and without diminishing its
intended advantages. It is therefore intended that such changes and
modifications be covered by the appended claims.
* * * * *