U.S. patent application number 17/691278 was filed with the patent office on 2022-06-23 for container with laminate and recessed cutter rail.
This patent application is currently assigned to Cutting Edge Packaging Solutions, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Cutting Edge Packaging Solutions, LLC. Invention is credited to Michael Tucker, Paul Vegliante.
Application Number | 20220194734 17/691278 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006254631 |
Filed Date | 2022-06-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220194734 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Vegliante; Paul ; et
al. |
June 23, 2022 |
CONTAINER WITH LAMINATE AND RECESSED CUTTER RAIL
Abstract
Roll-dispensed stock containers are provided. The roll-dispensed
stock containers can include a recessed cutting track positioned
along a length of a support wall of the container. The support wall
can also include one or more apertures positioned adjacent to the
recessed cutting track configured to receive a base of a slidable
cutter movable along an elongated slot in a lid of the container.
The base of the slidable cutter is captured by the recessed cutting
track during a cutting operation to secure the lid in a closed
position and to apply constant pressure against roll-dispensed
stock as it is cut. Roll-dispensed stock containers of the present
disclosure can also include a coating on one or more surfaces
thereof. The coating can be formed from a material selected to
reduce surface friction, increase rigidity, disperse forces
associated with a cutter, and/or otherwise enhance characteristics
of the container.
Inventors: |
Vegliante; Paul; (Franklin
Lakes, NJ) ; Tucker; Michael; (Valatie, NY) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Cutting Edge Packaging Solutions, LLC |
Sarasota |
FL |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Cutting Edge Packaging Solutions,
LLC
Sarasota
FL
|
Family ID: |
1000006254631 |
Appl. No.: |
17/691278 |
Filed: |
March 10, 2022 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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16825783 |
Mar 20, 2020 |
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17691278 |
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16689059 |
Nov 19, 2019 |
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16825783 |
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|
15832953 |
Dec 6, 2017 |
10894688 |
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16689059 |
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15399863 |
Jan 6, 2017 |
10836558 |
|
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15832953 |
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15358816 |
Nov 22, 2016 |
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15399863 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65H 2301/51512
20130101; B65H 2301/5154 20130101; B65H 2301/51532 20130101; B65H
35/0086 20130101; B65H 35/06 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B65H 35/00 20060101
B65H035/00; B65H 35/06 20060101 B65H035/06 |
Claims
1. A container for roll-dispensed stock, comprising: a container
body including a front wall, a rear wall, a bottom wall, and first
and second side walls forming an enclosure to receive a roll of
roll-dispensed stock; a support wall joined to a top edge of the
front wall and joined to the first and second side walls, a back
edge of the support wall and top edges of the first and second side
walls forming an opening in the container body for dispensing the
roll-dispensed stock; a lid hingedly joined to the top edge of the
rear wall and extending over the opening and the support wall, the
lid including an elongated slot extending therethrough; a cutter
assembly slidably engaged with the elongated slot of the lid and
moveable therealong to cut the roll-dispensed stock; and a
low-friction coating disposed on the lid.
2. The container of claim 1, wherein the cutter assembly includes a
top portion positioned above the lid and the coating extends the
width of the top portion such that a bottom surface of the top
portion of the cutter assembly contacts the coating along the
elongated slot.
3. The container of claim 1, wherein the coating extends over an
entire outer surface of the lid.
4. The container of claim 1, wherein the coating extends over an
entire outer surface of the container.
5. The container of claim 1, wherein the coating comprises one of a
low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE),
polyimide, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyphenylensulfide (PPS),
nylon, acetal, Santoprene, and polyester.
6. The container of claim 1, wherein the coating includes a
structural rigidity component.
7. The container of claim 1, wherein the coating is a laminate and
includes an adhesive on one surface to attach the laminate to the
lid of container.
8. The container of claim 1, wherein the coating is transparent so
that surface under the coating is visible therethrough.
9. The container of claim 1, wherein the coating is
translucent.
10. A roll-dispensed stock container, comprising: a body including
a front wall, a rear wall, a bottom wall, and first and second side
walls forming an enclosure to receive a roll of roll-dispensed
stock, the rear wall having a greater height than the front wall;
an angled support wall joined to a top edge of the front wall and
disposed at an angle thereto, a back edge of the support wall and
top edges of the rear and first and second side walls forming an
opening in the container body for dispensing the roll-dispensed
stock; a lid hingedly joined to a top edge of the rear wall and
when in a closed configuration, the lid having a first part
extending over the opening in the container body, and the lid
having a second part extending over the angled support wall; a
cutter disposed on the lid and movable along a path along the lid;
a coating disposed on a top surface of the lid, the coating formed
of low-friction material; first and second fixation strips on the
support wall, the first and second fixation strips positioned along
the path of the cutter when the lid is in the closed configuration,
the lid contacting the first and second fixation strips when the
cutter is actuated to press the lid against the first and second
fixation strips to deform the first and second fixation strips and
tension and secure the roll dispensed stock between the strips; and
the cutter positioned within a recess formed within projections of
the front wall and the first part of the lid.
11. The container of claim 10, wherein the cutter includes a top
portion positioned above the lid and the coating extends the width
of the top portion such that a bottom surface of the top portion of
the cutter contacts the coating along the path.
12. The container of claim 10, wherein the coating comprises one or
more of low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polytetrafluoroethylene
(PTFE), polyimide, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyphenylensulfide
(PPS), nylon, acetal, santoprene, and polyester.
13. The container of claim 10, wherein the coating provides
additional structural rigidity to the container.
14. The container of claim 10, wherein the coating is a laminate
and includes an adhesive on one surface to attach the laminate to
the lid of container.
15. The container of claim 10, wherein the coating is formed from a
material that allows an underlying surface to be visible
therethrough.
16. The container of claim 15, wherein the coating is formed from a
transparent material.
17. A container for roll-dispensed stock, comprising: a container
body including a front wall, a rear wall, a bottom wall, and first
and second side walls forming an enclosure to receive a roll of
roll-dispensed stock; a support wall joined to a top edge of the
front wall, the support wall, rear wall, and side walls defining an
opening in the container body for dispensing the roll-dispensed
stock; a lid joined to a top edge of the rear wall and movable
between open and closed configurations, the lid extending over the
support wall and covering the opening when positioned in the closed
configuration; a first elongated slot extending through the support
wall and along a length thereof; a second elongated slot extending
through the lid and along a length thereof; and a cutter assembly
including a base, a top, and a blade extending therebetween, the
cutter assembly movable through both the first and the second
elongated slots, the top of the cutter positioned over the lid, and
the base of the cutter positioned under the support wall, to urge
the lid toward the support wall during a cutting operation.
18. The container of claim 17, wherein the cutter retains the lid
in position with respect to the support wall as the cutter
traverses the first and second elongated slots.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part application of,
and claims priority to, U.S. patent application Ser. No.
16/825,783, filed on Mar. 20, 2020, which is a continuation-in-part
application of, and claims priority to, U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 16/689,059, filed on Nov. 19, 2019, U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 15/832,953, filed on Dec. 6, 2017, now U.S.
Pat. No. 10,894,688, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/399,863,
filed on Jan. 6, 2017, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,836,558, and U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 15/358,816, filed on Nov. 22, 2016, the
entire contents of which are all expressly incorporated herein by
reference.
FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates to a cutter and
roll-dispensed stock container, and in particular, to
roll-dispensed stock containers and cutter assemblies.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Various forms of roll-dispensed stock, of different
materials, are dispensed from containers, and cut, in various ways.
For example, paper (e.g., wrapping or decorative paper) can be
pulled from a continuous roll of the same and cut to length with
scissors, a straight-edge blade, a serrated edge, a cutting board,
or another cutting device. Roll-dispensed stock, such as gift
wrapping, wax paper, parchment, and aluminum foil, can be thin and
flexible which makes tearing and bunching common problems
encountered while trying to cut roll-dispensed stock. Current
products that are directed to solving these problem can be large,
bulky, and costly and can be unsafe due to exposed cutting
implements.
[0004] Accordingly, what is needed, but has not yet been developed,
are methods and devices for shipping, dispensing and safely cutting
roll-dispensed stock materials. These and other needs are addressed
by the cutter and roll-dispensed stock containers of the present
disclosure.
SUMMARY
[0005] In accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure, a
roll-dispensed stock container is provided. The container includes
a body having a front wall, a rear wall, a bottom wall, side walls,
a support wall, and a lid. The front wall, rear wall, bottom wall,
support wall, lid, and side walls could form an enclosure
configured and dimensioned to receive a roll of roll-dispensed
stock. A cutter assembly could be positioned on the lid. The cutter
assembly includes an elongated track and a slidable cutter with a
blade. The slidable cutter travels along the track to cut the
roll-dispensed stock positioned between the lid and the support
wall. In accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure,
the track can comprise an elongated aperture in the lid, or a
plastic rail integrated into the body of the container and
positioned on an end thereof. In accordance with aspects of the
present disclosure, the container can be configured to dispense,
and the cutter assembly can be configured to cut, plastic wrap,
foil (e.g., aluminum or tin foil), wax paper, parchment paper,
tape, duct tape, wrapping paper, non-woven fabric, and other
roll-dispensed stock. One or more fixation strips can be disposed
on the support wall and/or on the lid to hold a sheet of
roll-dispensed stock in place while the sheet is being cut from the
roll. According to some aspects of the present disclosure, the
fixation strips can be a coating applied to the support wall and/or
on the lid that adheres to the roll-dispensed stock and holds the
stock in place during cutting. An opening for dispensing the
roll-dispensed stock is exposed when the container is in the open
configuration and covered when the container is in the closed
configuration.
[0006] In accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure, a
method for dispensing roll-dispensed stock from the container is
provided. The method includes dispensing the roll-dispensed stock
from the container, drawing the roll-dispensed stock over the one
or more fixation strips, closing the lid on top of the
roll-dispensed stock, thereby securely holding the roll-dispensed
stock in place, and using the cutter assembly to separate a single
sheet of roll-dispensed stock. The roll-dispensed stock is securely
held in place by the fixation strips and tension is maintained on
the roll-dispensed stock to allow the slidable cutter to easily and
cleanly cut therethrough.
[0007] According to some aspects of the present disclosure, the
cutter assembly includes a base and biased button that, when
depressed, causes the blade to move from a retracted position
within the base to a deployed position where the blade extends
through the base to cut the roll-dispensed stock.
[0008] According to some aspects of the present disclosure, the
cutter assembly includes a base and a button that slides therealong
that, when actuated, causes a blade to move from a retracted
position within the base, to a deployed position where the blade
extends through the base to cut the roll-dispended stock. The
cutter assembly can include a biasing means to maintain the blade
in the retracted position until actuated by a user. According to
some aspects of the present disclosure, the base of the cutter
assembly includes body and a retaining plate that can be attached
to the body after insertion through an elongated slot of a
container, to secure the cutter assembly within the elongated
slot.
[0009] According to some aspects of the present disclosure, the
base of the cutter assembly can include a retaining means for
securing the cutter assembly within the elongated slot. The
retaining means can include one or more outwardly biased flanges
that are hingedly attached to a bottom of the base.
[0010] According to some aspects of the present disclosure, the
elongated slot of the container can include an aperture sized to
accommodate the base of the cutter assembly, in an orientation
other than the direction of travel during operation, to facilitate
insertion of the cutter assembly into the elongated slot during
assembly of the container.
[0011] In accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure, a
method for dispensing roll-dispensed stock from a container can
include the steps of opening a container lid to access an opening
in the body of the container, drawing the roll-dispensed stock out
of the body through the opening and over a surface of the
container, closing the lid against the surface of the container,
applying pressure to a cutter assembly to move a cutting blade from
a first retracted position to a second deployed position, sliding
the cutter assembly along a length of the lid from a first position
to a second position to cut through the roll-dispensed stock, while
continuously applying pressure to the cutting assembly to maintain
the blade in a deployed position, to separate a portion of the
roll-dispensed stock from the roll, and releasing pressure from the
cutter assembly to allow the blade to automatically move from the
second deployed position back to the first retracted position.
[0012] According to certain aspects of the present disclosure, any
of the slidable cutter designs can be utilized in connection with
other applications, such as a paper cutting board having a sliding
cutter assembly positioned on a track that is attached to a cutting
surface. According to some aspects of the present disclosure, the
cutter assembly can be substantially similar in design and
operation to the cutter assemblies disclosed in connection with the
roll-dispensed stock containers.
[0013] According to some embodiments the present disclosure, a
roll-dispensed stock container having a coating disposed on one or
more surfaces thereof is provided. The container can include a
front wall, a rear wall, a bottom wall, side walls, a support wall,
a lid with an elongated slot therein, a slidable cutter disposed
within and movable along the slot. One or more fixation strips can
be disposed on the support wall to secure the roll-dispensed stock
during a cutting operation. The coating can be a film, laminate, or
other layer of material and can be provided on one or more surfaces
of the container and can be formed from a material selected to
reduce surface friction, increase rigidity, disperse forces
associated with a cutter, and/or otherwise enhance characteristics
of the container. The coating can be provided as a sheet of
material, applied in a liquid or gaseous form, or otherwise bonded
to the one or more surfaces of the container. According to some
embodiments, the coating is formed from a transparent or
translucent material such that underlying graphics or other indicia
provided on the surfaces of the container can be viewed
therethrough.
[0014] According to further embodiments of the present disclosure,
a roll-dispensed stock container having a support wall configured
to accept and retain a slidable cutter is provided. The support
wall can include an elongated slot extending along a length thereof
and one or more apertures positioned on one or more ends of the
elongated slot and in communication therewith. The slidable cutter
can include a top portion, a base portion, and a blade extending
therebetween, the blade of the slidable cutter travelling within
and along an elongated slot in a lid of the container. The one or
more apertures are configured to accept the base of the slidable
cutter and the elongated slot of the support wall is configured to
allow the blade to move therealong, while retaining the base of the
slidable cutter thereunder. During a cutting operation, the top
portion of the slidable cutter is positioned on a top side of the
lid, the base is positioned below the support wall, and the blade
extends through the elongated slots of the lid and the support
wall, thereby retaining the lid in a closed position against the
support wall and/or compressing the roll-dispensed stock between
the lid and the support wall. After a cutting operation, the base
of the slidable cutter can be moved within an aperture of the
support wall, thereby releasing the lid. According to some
embodiments, a recessed track is positioned within an elongated
aperture of the support wall, the recessed track having flanges
configured to support the recessed track within the elongated
aperture, allow the blade of the slidable cutter to move
therebetween, and retain the base of the slidable cutter thereunder
during a cutting operation.
[0015] According to still further embodiments of the present
disclosure, a roll-dispensed stock container having a slidable
cutter assembly positioned in a recessed area is provided. The
container can include a body having a front wall, a rear wall, a
bottom wall, side walls, a support wall extending from the front
wall, and a lid having a front flap and side flaps. The recessed
area can be defined by the space between one or more of the support
wall, the side walls, and the lid and protects the cutter assembly
during shipping or storage of the container. The cutter assembly
can include a recessed track positioned within an elongated
aperture of the support wall and a slidable cutter movable
therealong. According to some embodiments, the cutter assembly
could include the slidable cutter positioned within an elongated
slot of the support wall and movable therealong. According to other
embodiments, the cutter assembly could include a track affixed to a
surface of the support wall and a slidable cutter movable
therealong.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] To assist those of skill in the art in making and using the
disclosed roll-dispensed stock container, reference is made to the
accompanying figures, wherein:
[0017] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a roll-dispensed stock
container according to the present disclosure;
[0018] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the roll-dispensed stock
container of FIG. 1 in an open configuration;
[0019] FIG. 3 is a side view of the roll-dispensed stock container
of FIG. 1;
[0020] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the roll-dispensed stock
container of FIG. 1 in an open configuration with stock extending
from the roll;
[0021] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the roll-dispensed stock
container of FIG. 4 in a closed configuration with stock extending
from the roll;
[0022] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the roll-dispensed stock
container of FIG. 5 after the cutter has been actuated to cut a
section of the roll-dispensed stock;
[0023] FIG. 7A is a side view of a roll-dispensed stock container
according to the present disclosure including fixation strips on
both a lid and a support wall of the roll-dispensed stock
container;
[0024] FIG. 7B is a side view of a roll-dispensed stock container
according to the present disclosure including fixation strips on
only the lid of the roll-dispensed stock container;
[0025] FIG. 7C is a side view of a roll-dispensed stock container
according to the present disclosure including a single fixation
strip having a recessed center portion positioned on the support
wall of the roll-dispensed stock container;
[0026] FIG. 7D is a side view of a roll-dispensed stock container
according to the present disclosure including fixation strips
positioned on the lid of the roll-dispensed stock container and a
single fixation strip having a recessed center portion positioned
on the support wall of the roll-dispensed stock container;
[0027] FIG. 7E is a side view of a roll-dispensed stock container
according to the present disclosure including a laminate on the
support wall of the roll-dispensed stock container;
[0028] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another aspect of a
roll-dispensed stock container in an open configuration having a
slot in the support wall for receiving a lower portion of a
slidable cutter;
[0029] FIG. 9 is a perspective view the roll-dispensed stock
container of FIG. 8 in a closed configuration;
[0030] FIG. 10A is a cross-sectional view (taken along line A-A of
FIG. 9) of the roll-dispensed stock container of FIG. 9 showing the
lid in a first position;
[0031] FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional view (taken along line A-A of
FIG. 9) of the roll-dispensed stock container of FIG. 9 showing the
lid in a second deformed position upon application of force
thereto;
[0032] FIG. 11A is a partial cross-sectional view (taken along line
B-B of FIG. 9) of the roll-dispensed stock container of FIG. 9 in a
first position;
[0033] FIG. 11B is a partial cross-sectional view (taken along line
B-B of FIG. 9) of the roll-dispensed stock container of FIG. 9 in a
second position showing operation of the cutter assembly;
[0034] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another aspect of a
roll-dispensed stock container in a closed configuration having a
slidable cutter with a recessed blade;
[0035] FIG. 13A is a cross-sectional view (taken along line C-C of
FIG. 12) of the roll-dispensed stock container of FIG. 12 showing
the slidable cutter in a first position;
[0036] FIG. 13B is a cross-sectional view (taken along line C-C of
FIG. 12) of the roll-dispensed stock container of FIG. 12 showing
the slidable cutter in a second extended position by application of
force thereto.
[0037] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a roll-dispensed stock
container in an open configuration according to the present
disclosure including a snap-fit lid;
[0038] FIG. 15 is a perspective view the roll-dispensed stock
container of FIG. 8 in a closed configuration;
[0039] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a roll-dispensed stock
container in a closed configuration having a slidable cutter
assembly with a retractable blade;
[0040] FIG. 17A is a perspective view of the cutter assembly of
FIG. 16;
[0041] FIG. 17B is an exploded view of the cutter assembly of FIG.
17A;
[0042] FIG. 18 is an exploded view of an actuating button of the
cutter assembly of FIG. 17A;
[0043] FIG. 19A is a top view of a base of the cutter assembly of
FIG. 17A;
[0044] FIG. 19B is a side view of the cutter assembly of FIG.
17A;
[0045] FIG. 19C is a front view of the cutter assembly of FIG.
17A;
[0046] FIG. 20A is a perspective view of a base for a cutter
assembly according to the present disclosure;
[0047] FIG. 20B is a top view of the base shown in FIG. 20A;
[0048] FIG. 20C is an exploded side view of the base shown in FIG.
20A;
[0049] FIG. 20D is an exploded front view of the base shown in FIG.
20A;
[0050] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view (taken along line D-D of
FIG. 17A) of the cutter assembly of FIG. 17A;
[0051] FIG. 22A is a cross-sectional view of the cutter assembly
shown in FIG. 20 in a retracted position (taken along line
E-E);
[0052] FIG. 22B is a cross-sectional view of the cutter assembly
shown in FIG. 20 in a deployed position (taken along line E-E);
[0053] FIG. 23A is a top view of a half of an actuating button
according to the present disclosure;
[0054] FIG. 23B is a side view of the half of the actuating button
of FIG. 22A;
[0055] FIG. 23C is a front view of the half of the actuating button
of FIG. 22A;
[0056] FIG. 24A is an exploded view of a cutter assembly according
to the present disclosure;
[0057] FIG. 24B is a perspective view of the cutter assembly shown
in FIG. 24A;
[0058] FIG. 24C is a cross-sectional view (taken along line F-F of
FIG. 24B) of the cutter assembly shown in FIG. 24A in a retracted
configuration;
[0059] FIG. 24D is a cross-sectional view (taken along line F-F of
FIG. 24B) of the cutter assembly shown in FIG. 24A in a deployed
configuration;
[0060] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a paper cutting board
including the slidable cutter assembly of FIG. 16;
[0061] FIG. 26A is a perspective view of a roll-dispensed stock
container according to the present disclosure including an
elongated slot with an aperture sized to receive a cutter
assembly;
[0062] FIG. 26B is a perspective view of a cutter assembly
according to the present disclosure that is received by the
aperture of the roll-dispensed stock container of FIG. 26A;
[0063] FIG. 27A is a perspective view of another roll-dispensed
stock container according to the present disclosure including an
elongated slot with an aperture sized to receive a cutter
assembly;
[0064] FIG. 27B is a perspective view of a another cutter assembly
according to the present disclosure that is received by the
aperture of the roll-dispensed stock container of FIG. 27A;
[0065] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a roll-dispensed stock
container according to the present disclosure including another
slidable cutter assembly having a deformable retaining means;
[0066] FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view (taken along line G-G of
FIG. 29) of the roll-dispensed stock container of FIG. 29;
[0067] FIG. 30 is a side view of the slidable cutter assembly of
FIG. 29;
[0068] FIG. 31 is a front view of the slidable cutter assembly of
FIG. 29;
[0069] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a cutter housing for use
with a slidable cutter assembly according to the present
disclosure;
[0070] FIG. 33 is a perspective view of a roll-dispensed stock
container according to the present disclosure including an elevated
fixation strip on an angled support wall;
[0071] FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional view (taken along line H-H of
FIG. 33) of the roll-dispensed stock container of FIG. 33;
[0072] FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a roll-dispensed stock
container according to the present disclosure including a lid and
an elevated fixation strip on an angled support wall;
[0073] FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view (taken along line I-I of
FIG. 35) of the roll-dispensed stock container of FIG. 35;
[0074] FIG. 37 is a perspective view of another roll-dispensed
stock container according to the present disclosure including an
elevated fixation strip;
[0075] FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional view (taken along line H-H of
FIG. 37) of the roll-dispensed stock container of FIG. 37;
[0076] FIG. 39 is a perspective view of the roll-dispensed stock
container of FIG. 33 with stock extending from the roll in a first
position;
[0077] FIG. 40 is a perspective view of the roll-dispensed stock
container of FIG. 33 with the stock in a second position; and
[0078] FIG. 41 is a perspective view of the roll-dispensed stock
container of FIG. 33 with the stock in a third position.
[0079] FIG. 42 is a perspective view of another roll-dispensed
stock container according to the present disclosure including a
recessed cutter assembly;
[0080] FIG. 43 is a partial cross-sectional view (taken along line
L-L of FIG. 42) of the roll-dispensed stock container of FIG.
42;
[0081] FIG. 44A is a perspective view of another roll-dispensed
stock container according to the present disclosure including a
recessed cutter assembly positioned in a first configuration;
[0082] FIG. 44B is a perspective view of the roll-dispensed stock
container of FIG. 44A positioned in a second configuration;
[0083] FIG. 45A is a side view of the roll-dispensed stock
container of FIG. 44A positioned in the first configuration;
[0084] FIG. 45B is a side view of the roll-dispensed stock
container of FIG. 44A positioned in the second configuration;
[0085] FIG. 46 is a perspective view of another roll-dispensed
stock container according to the present disclosure including a
recessed cutter assembly and a lid;
[0086] FIG. 47A is a cross-sectional view (taken along line N-N of
FIG. 46) of the roll-dispensed stock container of FIG. 46 with a
slidable cutter in a first position;
[0087] FIG. 47B is a cross-sectional view (taken along line N-N of
FIG. 46) of the roll-dispensed stock container of FIG. 46 with the
slidable cutter in a second position;
[0088] FIG. 48 is a partial perspective view of another
roll-dispensed stock container according to the present disclosure
including an insertable cutter;
[0089] FIG. 49 is a cross-sectional view (taken along line R-R of
FIG. 48) of the roll-dispensed stock container of FIG. 48;
[0090] FIG. 50 is a perspective view of another roll-dispensed
stock container according to the present disclosure including a
retaining means for a slidable cutter;
[0091] FIG. 51 is a cross-sectional view (taken along line S-S of
FIG. 50) of the roll-dispensed stock container of FIG. 50;
[0092] FIG. 52 is a cross-sectional view of another roll-dispensed
stock container according to the present disclosure including an
internal support wall;
[0093] FIG. 53A is a side view of another insertable cutter
according to the present disclosure including a plurality of
hemispherical spacers;
[0094] FIG. 53B is a front view of the insertable cutter of FIG.
53A;
[0095] FIG. 53C is a side view of a molded insertable cutter prior
to assembly according to the present disclosure;
[0096] FIG. 54A is a side view of another insertable cutter
according to the present disclosure including a arcuate
spacers;
[0097] FIG. 54B is a front view of the insertable cutter of FIG.
54A;
[0098] FIG. 55A is a side view of another insertable cutter
according to the present disclosure including apertures for
allowing airflow;
[0099] FIG. 55B is a front view of the insertable cutter of FIG.
55A;
[0100] FIG. 56A is a side view of another insertable cutter
according to the present disclosure including apertures for
allowing airflow;
[0101] FIG. 56B is a front view of the insertable cutter of FIG.
56A;
[0102] FIG. 57 is a perspective view of another roll-dispensed
stock container according to the present disclosure including a lid
with apertures for retaining a slidable cutter;
[0103] FIG. 58 is a perspective view of another roll-dispensed
stock container according to the present disclosure including a lid
with areas of reduced width for retaining a slidable cutter;
[0104] FIG. 59 is a perspective view of another roll-dispensed
stock container according to the present disclosure including a
strip of material for retaining a slidable cutter;
[0105] FIG. 60 is a perspective view of another roll-dispensed
stock container according to the present disclosure including
roll-dispensed stock positioned to retain a slidable cutter;
[0106] FIG. 61 is a perspective view of another roll-dispensed
stock container according to the present disclosure including a lid
with a window for viewing a slidable cutter assembly;
[0107] FIG. 62A is a top view of a track for a slidable cutter
according to the present disclosure including flanges;
[0108] FIG. 62B is a side view of the track of FIG. 62A;
[0109] FIG. 62C is a front view of the track of FIG. 62A;
[0110] FIG. 62D is a partial perspective view of the track of FIG.
62A;
[0111] FIG. 63A is a top view of another track for a slidable
cutter according to the present disclosure including end caps;
[0112] FIG. 63B is a partial perspective view of the track of FIG.
63A;
[0113] FIG. 63C is a top view of the track of FIG. 63A;
[0114] FIG. 63D is a side view of the track of FIG. 63A;
[0115] FIG. 63E is a cross-sectional view (taken along line T-T of
FIG. 63D) of the track of FIG. 63A;
[0116] FIG. 64 is a perspective view of a roll-dispensed stock
container of the present disclosure having a coating provided
thereon;
[0117] FIG. 65 is a side elevational view of the roll-dispensed
stock container of FIG. 64;
[0118] FIG. 66 is a side elevational view of another roll-dispensed
stock container of the present disclosure having a coating provided
thereon;
[0119] FIG. 67 is a side elevational view of another roll-dispensed
stock container of the present disclosure having a coating provided
thereon;
[0120] FIG. 68A is a perspective view of another roll-dispensed
stock container according to the present disclosure, positioned in
an open configuration, including a recessed track on a support wall
that is engaged by a slidable cutter on a lid;
[0121] FIG. 68B is a front elevational view of the roll-dispensed
stock container of FIG. 68A, positioned in a closed
configuration;
[0122] FIG. 69 is a partial cross-sectional view (taken along line
T-T of FIG. 68B) of the roll-dispensed stock container of FIGS. 68A
and 68B;
[0123] FIG. 70 is a perspective view of another roll-dispensed
stock container according to the present disclosure, including a
slidable cutter on a lid that engages a support wall;
[0124] FIG. 71 is a perspective view of another roll-dispensed
stock container according to the present disclosure, including a
slidable cutter on a support wall that engages a lid;
[0125] FIG. 72 is a perspective view of another roll-dispensed
stock container according to the present disclosure, including a
recessed track with a slidable cutter on a support wall that
engages a lid;
[0126] FIG. 73 is a perspective view of another roll-dispensed
stock container according to the present disclosure, including a
track and slidable cutter positioned in a recess of the
container;
[0127] and
[0128] FIG. 74 is a perspective view of another roll-dispensed
stock container according to the present disclosure, including a
slidable cutter positioned in a recess of the container.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0129] It should be understood that the relative terminology used
herein, such as "front", "rear," "left," "top," "bottom,"
"vertical," and "horizontal" is solely for the purposes of clarity
and designation and is not intended to limit the invention to
embodiments having a particular position and/or orientation.
Accordingly, such relative terminology should not be construed to
limit the scope of the present invention. In addition, it should be
understood that the invention is not limited to embodiments having
specific dimensions.
[0130] FIGS. 1 and 2 show a roll-dispensed stock container
(hereinafter "container 100") according to the present disclosure.
More specifically, FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the container
100 in a closed configuration and FIG. 2 is a perspective view of
the container 100 in an open configuration. The container 100
includes a body 102 including a front wall 104, a rear wall 106, a
bottom wall 110, side walls 126,128, a support wall 112, and a lid
108. The body 102 could be formed from a blank (e.g., a continuous
piece of material having a substantially planar configuration prior
to folding) having multiple perforated lines or fold lines for
folding the blank into the configuration of the body 102 of
container 100 as shown. The container 100 could be formed from
cardboard, plastic, wood, or any other material known to those of
ordinary skill in the art that is suitably rigid and durable for
receiving and dispensing roll-dispensed stock 132.
[0131] The first and second side walls 126, 128 are each connected
to edges of the front, rear, and bottom walls 104, 106, and 110 to
form a receptacle for holding roll-dispensed stock. The orientation
of the first and second side walls 126, 128 and the front, rear,
and bottom walls 104, 106, and 110 could be at substantially right
angles with respect to adjoining walls. Further, the height of the
front wall 104 could be less than the height of the rear wall 106,
and the support wall 112 could be joined to a top edge 103 of the
front wall 104 and disposed at an angle relative thereto. The
support wall 112 could be fixed in position or movable with respect
to the top edge 103 of the front wall 104 to allow for
roll-dispensed stock 132 to be refilled into the body 102 for
re-use.
[0132] As shown in FIG. 1, the lid 108 could be hingedly joined to
and extend from a top edge of the rear wall 106, over support wall
112, and to the top edge 103 front wall 104. The lid 108 could have
a first portion 118 having edges 115a and 115b, and a second
portion 120 having edges 116a and 116b. The front wall 104, rear
wall 106, bottom wall 110, lid 108, support wall 112, and side
walls 126, 128 form an enclosure 130 within the body 102 configured
and dimensioned to receive a roll of roll-dispensed stock 132 with
an opening 138 for dispensing the roll-dispensed stock that is
exposed when the container 100 is in the open configuration and
obstructed when the container 100 is in the closed
configuration.
[0133] As shown in FIG. 2, the lid 108 extends over the support
wall 112, the underside of the lid 108 extending over the upper
side of the support wall 112. The lid 108 could extend entirely or
partially over the support wall 112. The first portion 118 and the
second portion 120 could be hingedly connected so that the second
portion 120 extends to cover the support wall 112 and is
positionable so that the second portion 120 is parallel to the
plane of the support wall 112. Either or both of the support wall
112 and the lid 108 could have one or more grippers, such as
fixation strips 114, for maintaining the position of the
roll-dispensed stock 132 prior to cutting. A retainer feature 134
could be in the form of one or more cylinders provided on side
walls 126 and 128, or perforated or partially perforated sections
configured to be pushed into the enclosure 130, to maintain the
position of the roll of roll-dispensed stock 132 within the
enclosure 130 of the body 102. The location of the feature 134, if
included, defines the approximate axis of rotation for the
roll-dispensed stock 132. In another aspect of the present
disclosure, the feature 134 can be in the form of an extension
mounted to the inner surface of the first and second side walls
126, 128 configured to engage and maintain the position of the roll
of roll-dispensed stock 132 within the enclosure 130 (see, e.g.,
FIG. 2).
[0134] The container 100 includes a cutter assembly 140 attached to
the body 102. As shown in FIG. 1, the cutter assembly 140 is
attached to the lid 108 and includes an elongated track 142 and a
slidable cutter 144 with a blade or serrated edge. The slidable
cutter 144 could also include an engagement face 164 shaped to
receive a finger of a user and pressure therefrom, discussed
hereinbelow. The track 142 can be attached to the lid 108 with
adhesive or by welding, and the slidable cutter 144 travels along
the track 142 to cut the roll-dispensed stock 132 positioned
between the lid 108 and support wall 112. The cutter assembly 140
can be provided in any desirable shape. As shown, the cutter
assembly 112 extends through the lid 108 and includes a button on
the outside of the lid 108, a retainer under the lid 108, and a
blade that extends through the lid 108.
[0135] In accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure,
the container 100 can be configured to dispense, and the cutter
assembly 140 can be configured to cut, plastic wrap, foil (e.g.,
aluminum or tin foil), wax paper, parchment paper, tape, duct tape,
wrapping paper, and other materials capable of being delivered as
roll-dispensed stock. Further, it is contemplated that any of the
containers of the present disclosure (e.g., containers 100, 200,
300, 400, 500, 600, 700, and 800 described herein) could be
configured to dispense and cut any of the roll-dispensed stock
described herein.
[0136] As shown in FIG. 1, the cutter assembly 140 could fit within
an area defined by the space under the right angle formed by the
intersection of the planes extending from the front wall and the
first portion 118 of the lid 108 when the lid 108 is in a closed
position, and thus the cutter assembly 140 would not extend beyond
the bounds of the container 100 so configured. The cutter assembly
140 is thereby protected from damage during shipping or storage of
the container 100. Due to the recessed positioning of the cutter
assembly 140, multiple containers 100 can be stacked relative to
each other without imparting pressure or force on the cutter
assembly 140, thereby preventing potential damage to the cutter
assembly 140.
[0137] FIG. 3 is a side view of the roll-dispensed stock container
100 showing an exemplary arrangement of fixation strips 114 in
relation to the cutter assembly 140 and more particularly to the
slidable cutter 144. As shown in FIG. 3, one or more fixation
strips 114 can be affixed to the support wall 112 of the container
100. When the roll-dispensed stock 132 is dispensed from container
100, described hereinbelow in connection with FIGS. 4-6, the
roll-dispensed stock 132 is drawn over the one or more fixation
strips 114 (see FIG. 4) and the lid 108 is closed on top of the
roll-dispensed stock 132 (see FIG. 5), the fixation strips 114
thereby securely holding the roll-dispensed stock in place while
the slidable cutter 144 is used to cut a single sheet of
roll-dispensed stock (see FIG. 6). Pressure is applied against the
lid 108 and fixation strips 114 when a user presses a finger into
the engagement face 164 of the slidable cutter 144 to cut the
roll-dispensed stock. The pressure a user applies to the cutter 144
further pushes the lid 108 against the support wall 112 to engage
the fixation strips 114 with the adjacent roll-dispensed stock 132.
Importantly, because the roll-dispensed stock 132 is securely held
in place by the fixation strips 114, tension is maintained on the
roll-dispensed stock 132, allowing the slidable cutter to easily
and cleanly cut therethrough. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3-6,
tension in the roll-dispensed stock 132 material is maintained
between the fixation strips 114, regardless of movement on either
side of the roll-dispensed stock 132 (e.g., the dispensed end or
the roll within container 100). The fixation strips disclosed
herein can be positioned so as to not contact, or otherwise
interfere with, the cutter assembly 140. Additionally the
roll-dispensed stock is not pulled by the cutter. The fixation
strips 114 could be made out of any material suitable for securely
and removably holding the roll-dispensed stock 132 while it is
being cut. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that
the material used for the fixation strips 114 is preferably
selected based on the properties of the roll-dispensed stock
material. In one example, if the roll-dispensed stock 132 is
plastic wrap, foil, wax paper, parchment paper, tape, duct tape, or
wrapping paper, the fixation strips 114 could be made of a silicone
material, flexible polymer, or another material that provides light
tack or clings to the roll-dispensed stock 132. The fixation strips
114 could also be made of a low-tack adhesive (e.g., fugitive,
"booger," or "credit card" glue), an ultraviolet (UV) light curing
adhesive, a wax, a tacky material, or any other material suitable
for securely and removably holding or gripping the roll-dispensed
stock 132.
[0138] In addition to being provided as continuous strips, the
fixation strips 114 could be provided as a plurality of discreet
segments or beads disposed along a linear path, or could cover an
entire surface. According to some aspects of the present
disclosure, the fixation strips 114 could be formed from a low-tack
adhesive material that is resiliently deformable upon application
of force to the cutter assembly 140 and/or lid 108. Pressure
applied to the fixation strips 114 during the cutting process
causes the fixation strips to deform and tension the roll-dispensed
stock therebetween, eliminating bunching and tearing of the
roll-dispensed stock, and providing for repeatable and consistent
cutting.
[0139] According to some aspects of the present disclosure, one or
more of the fixation strips can be formed from synthetic rubber,
natural rubber, latex, elastomers, and other resiliently deformable
materials that grip the roll-dispensed stock through friction
force. With paper, foil, and other roll-dispensed stock materials
that do not exhibit "cling" properties (e.g., attraction through
electrostatic charge or similar mechanisms), rubber fixation
strips, or the like, can be provided. For example, when the foil
roll-dispensed stock and rubber fixation strips are pressed
together (e.g., during the cutting process, or when the lid is
otherwise pressed towards the container body), the rubber fixation
strips have tack and grip and tension the roll-dispensed stock with
friction generated therebetween. Rubber fixation strips can also be
used with roll-dispensed stock (e.g., plastic wrap) made of
polyethylene ("PE"), which exhibits less cling than roll-dispensed
stock made of polyvinyl chloride ("PVC").
[0140] Further, it is contemplated that any of the containers of
the present disclosure (e.g., containers 100, 200, 300, 400, 500,
600, 700, and 800 described herein) could be provided with one or
more fixation strips 114 of any material and configuration as
described herein.
[0141] FIGS. 4-6 show operation of the roll-dispensed stock
container 100 according to the present disclosure. More
specifically, FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the roll-dispensed
stock container of FIG. 1 in an open configuration, thereby
allowing for extension of the roll-dispensed stock 132 through the
opening 138. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the roll-dispensed
stock container of FIG. 1 in a closed configuration including
roll-dispensed stock dispensed from an opening. An end of the
roll-dispensed stock 132 can be dispensed through the opening 138
until the desired length of the roll-dispensed stock 132 is
achieved. The roll-dispensed stock 132 is positioned against the
one or more fixation strips 114 disposed on the support wall 112.
The lid 108 can then be closed, thereby positioning the slidable
cutter 144 of the cutter assembly 140 adjacent to, or into contact
with, the roll-dispensed stock 132. The cutter 144 can then be slid
along the track 142 in the direction of arrow D to sever a sheet
162 from the remaining roll-dispensed stock 132. FIG. 6 is a
perspective view of the roll-dispensed stock container of FIG. 1 in
a closed configuration after the stock was cut by the cutter
assembly.
[0142] FIGS. 7A-E are side views of roll-dispensed stock containers
according to some aspects of the present disclosure showing
additional exemplary configurations of fixation strips. The
containers can be substantially similar in structure and function
to the container 100, except for the distinctions noted herein.
FIG. 7A shows a roll-dispensed stock container 200 including a body
102, a lid 108 having a first portion 118 and a second portion 120,
a cutter assembly 140 having a slidable cutter 144, and fixation
strips 114 disposed on a support wall 112 on either side of the
slidable cutter 144. As shown in FIG. 7A, the container 200 could
also include fixation strips 214 disposed on an underside (e.g.,
the side adjacent to support wall 112 and fixation strips 114) of
the second portion of the lid 108 on either side of the slidable
cutter 144. Accordingly, container 200 provides fixation strips on
either side of the roll-dispensed stock 132 (not shown) as it is
being cut in accordance with the steps described in connection with
FIGS. 4-6.
[0143] FIG. 7B shows a roll-dispensed stock container 300 according
to another aspect of the present disclosure and includes a body
102, a lid 108 having a first portion 118 and a second portion 120,
a cutter assembly 140 having a slidable cutter 144, and a support
wall 112. As shown in FIG. 7B, the container 300 includes fixation
strips 314 disposed on an underside (e.g., the side adjacent to
support wall 112 and fixation strips 114) of the second portion of
the lid 108 on either side of the slidable cutter 144.
[0144] FIG. 7C shows a roll-dispensed stock container 400 according
to another aspect of the present disclosure and includes a body
102, a lid 108 having a first portion 118 and a second portion 120,
a cutter assembly 140 having a slidable cutter 144, and a support
wall 112. As shown in FIG. 7C, in place of one or more fixation
strips 114, the container 400 could include a single fixation strip
414 disposed on the support wall 112 having a central recessed
portion 425 between two raised portions 424 extending on either
side of the slidable cutter 144. Further, the fixation strip 414,
and more specifically the raised portions 424, could be configured
and dimensioned such that the blade of the slidable cutter 144
passes between the raised ridges 424 when cutting the
roll-dispensed stock 132, but does not contact or cut into recessed
portion 425 or the support wall 112 thereunder.
[0145] FIG. 7D shows a roll-dispensed stock container 500 including
a body 102, a lid 108 having a first portion 118 and a second
portion 120, a cutter assembly 140 having a slidable cutter 144,
and a support wall 112. As shown in FIG. 7D, the container 500
could include a single fixation strip 514a disposed on the support
wall 112 and having a recessed central portion 525 between raised
portions 524 extending on either side of the slidable cutter 144.
The container 500 could also include one or more fixation strips
514b disposed on an underside (e.g., the side adjacent to the
support wall 112 aligned with fixation strip 514a) of the second
portion of the lid 108. Accordingly, container 500 provides
fixation strips on either side of the roll-dispensed stock 132 (not
shown) to retain and tension the stock as it is being cut.
[0146] FIG. 7E shows a roll-dispensed stock container 550 including
a body 102, a lid 108 having a first portion 118 and a second
portion 120, a cutter assembly 140 having a slidable cutter 144,
and a support wall 112. As shown in FIG. 7E, the support wall 112
can be provided with a low-tack coating 556 for maintaining the
position of the roll-dispensed stock 132 during cutting. The
coating 556 can be made out of any material suitable for securely
and removably holding the roll-dispensed stock 132 while it is
being cut. The material used for the coating 556 can be selected
based on the properties of the roll-dispensed stock material. In
one example, if the roll-dispensed stock 132 is plastic wrap, foil,
wax paper, parchment paper, or wrapping paper, the coating 556
could be made of a silicone material, flexible polymer, or another
material that provides light tack or clings to the roll-dispensed
stock 132. The coating 556 could also be made of a low-tack
adhesive (e.g., fugitive, "booger," or "credit card" glue), an
ultraviolet (UV) light curing adhesive, a wax, a tacky material, or
any other material suitable for securely and removably holding or
gripping the roll-dispensed stock 132. The coating 556 could cover
a portion of support wall 112 or could cover its entire surface.
According to some aspects of the present disclosure, the coating
556 could be formed from a material that is resiliently deformable
upon application of force to the cutter assembly 140 and/or lid
108.
[0147] As shown in FIG. 7E, the container 550 can also include a
second coating (not shown) and/or one or more fixation strips 554
disposed on an underside (e.g., the side adjacent to the support
wall 112 having coating 556) of the second portion of the lid 108.
Accordingly, container 550 can grip one or both sides of the
roll-dispensed stock 132 (not shown) with coating(s) 556 and/or the
fixations strips 554, to retain and tension the stock as it is
being cut. For example, according to some aspects of the present
disclosure, a wax or UV material coating can be applied to the
entire surface of support wall 112, or a portion thereof, or could
be applied to a bottom surface of lid portion 120, opposite the
support wall 112. The wax or UV material coating can be used in
place of, or in combination with the fixation strips 114. For
example, the wax or UV material coating can be applied to the
bottom surface of lit portion 120 and the fixation strips 554 can
be applied to the support wall 112, or vice versa. The wax or UV
material coating can also be used in in combination with any of the
configurations of fixation strips disclosed herein.
[0148] FIGS. 8-11B show an exemplary roll-dispensed stock container
600 (hereinafter "container 600") in accordance with some aspects
of the present disclosure. Container 600 can be substantially
similar in structure and function to the container 100, except for
the distinctions noted herein. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the
container 600 in an open configuration and FIG. 9 is a perspective
view of the container 600 in a closed configuration. Container 600
includes an aperture 636 for receiving and retaining a base portion
650 of the slidable cutter 644 (see FIGS. 10A-11B), to allow the
base portion 650 to move through and extend under a support wall
612. As shown in FIG. 8, the aperture 636 has a slot 646 extending
from the aperture 636 and along the support wall 612. This results
in an internal blade on the cutter assembly, as the blade is
positioned between to the lid 608 and the base portion 650. This
configuration also allows for the application of constant and
consistent pressure during the cutting process.
[0149] FIGS. 10A and 10B are cross-sectional views (taken along
line A-A of FIG. 9) of container 600 and FIGS. 11A and 11B are
partial cross-sectional views (taken along line B-B of FIG. 9) of
container 600. As shown in FIGS. 10A and 11A, the base 650 of the
slidable cutter 644 protrudes below the second portion 120 of the
lid 108, but does not fully extend through the aperture 636 (e.g.,
into enclosure 130) in normal operation (e.g., during storage or
transportation). However, as shown in FIG. 10B, upon application of
force to engagement face 664 in the direction of arrow E, the
second portion 120 of lid 108 is elastically deformed so that the
base 650 of the slidable cutter 644 fully extends through the
aperture 636. As shown in FIG. 11B, once force has been applied to
engagement face 664 in the direction of arrow E and the base 650 of
the slidable cutter 644 is fully extended through the aperture 636,
the slidable cutter 644 can be moved along elongated track 642 in
the direction of arrow F. Notably, the slot 646 extending from
aperture 636 can be dimensioned to accommodate a blade 652 of the
slidable cutter 644 passing therethrough, but also to retain the
base 650 of the slidable cutter 644, thereby preventing the second
portion 120 of the lid 108 from returning to its original position.
Accordingly, once force is applied in the direction on arrow E and
the slidable cutter is moved in the direction of arrow F, pressure
is maintained between the one or more fixation strips 114 and the
second portion 120 of the lid 108, with the roll-dispensed stock
132 disposed therebetween (not shown). As such, pressing the
engagement face 664, and thereby cutter base 650, into the position
shown in FIG. 10B maintains the pressure of the roll-dispensed
stock against the fixation strips as well as tensioning the
roll-dispensed stock. This allows the slidable cutter to more
easily and cleanly cut therethrough without a user being required
to maintain pressure on the lid 108.
[0150] FIGS. 12-13B show an exemplary roll-dispensed stock
container 700 (hereinafter "container 700") in accordance with some
aspects of the present disclosure. Container 700 can be
substantially similar in structure and function to the container
100, except for the distinctions noted herein. FIG. 12 is a
perspective view of the container 700 in a closed configuration.
Container 700 could include a lid 708 having a cutter assembly 740
disposed thereon, the cutter assembly 740 having an elongated track
742, a slidable base 744, a resiliently deformable skirt 746, a
button 748, and a blade 752. The slidable base 744 can be engaged
with the track 742 so as to slide thereon. The resiliently
deformable skirt could be coupled to, and provided between, the
slidable base 744 and the button 748 and is configured to bias the
button 748 in a direction extending away from an exterior side of
the lid 708 and slidable base 744. Skirt 746 can be formed from any
material, for example, rubber or plastic, that is elastically
deformable and capable of providing a bias force between the button
748 and slidable base 744. A blade 752 can be coupled to an
underside of the button 748 and can extend into, but not beyond, an
elongated slot 754 in the lid 708 (see FIGS. 13A and 13B).
[0151] FIGS. 13A and 13B are cross-sectional views (taken along
line C-C of FIG. 12) of container 700 showing operation of the
cutter assembly 740. As shown in FIG. 13A, the blade 752 of the
cutter assembly 740 does not fully extend through the elongated
slot 754 of the lid 708 in normal operation (e.g., during storage
or transportation). The recessed blade is a safety feature, as it
renders the blade unable to contact or cut anything, or anyone,
until the container is closed and the cutter is actuated by
pressure on the button. As shown in FIG. 13B, upon application of
force to button 748 in the direction of arrow G, the skirt 746 is
elastically deformed so that the button travels towards the lid 708
and the blade 752 fully extends through the elongated slot 754.
Once force has been applied in the direction of arrow G and the
blade is fully extended through the elongated slot 754, the
slidable base 744 can be moved along elongated track 742, thereby
separating a portion of the roll-dispensed stock from the roll.
Upon removal of the force from button 748, the button 748 and blade
752 return to their positions as shown in FIG. 13A.
[0152] FIGS. 14 and 15 show an exemplary roll-dispensed stock
container 800 (hereinafter "container 800") in accordance with some
aspects of the present disclosure. Container 800 can be
substantially similar in structure and function to the container
100, except for the distinctions noted herein. Therefore, like
reference numbers represent like structures. FIG. 14 is a
perspective view of container 800 in an open configuration
according to the present disclosure including a snap-fit lid and
FIG. 15 is a perspective view container 800 in a closed
configuration. As shown in FIG. 14, the body 102 of container 800
includes a lip 854 protruding therefrom for receiving lid 108 in
snap-fit engagement, or the like. As shown in FIG. 15, the lip 854
could completely surround the lid 108. The container 800 could be
formed from plastic or any other material known to those of
ordinary skill in the art that is suitably rigid and durable for
receiving and dispensing roll-dispensed stock and that is capable
of being configured with a body and lid being in snap-fit
engagement. According to further aspects of the present disclosure,
the container of the present disclosure can vary in shape and can
include a face that is overlaid by a lid with a cutter. The face
can be on the support surface, described hereinabove, or on a
vertical front wall, an angled wall, or a horizontal upper wall.
The lid can have one or more portions and the cutter overlies the
face. The roll-dispensed stock is positioned between the lid and
the face and is retained and/or tensioned by one or more fixation
strips for cutting.
[0153] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a roll-dispensed stock
container 900 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.
Container 900 can be substantially similar in structure and
function to container 700 or other containers discussed herein or
otherwise known or developed. Container 900 includes a lid 908
having an elongated slot 942 with a slidable cutter assembly 940
disposed therein. FIG. 17A is a perspective view of the slidable
cutter assembly 940, which includes a slidable base 944 and an
actuating button 946. The base 944 includes a bottom surface 984,
having edges 986, recessed sidewalls 988, and shoulders 990 forming
base channels 978. The edges 986 and shoulders 990 are positioned
above and below the container lid 908 when the cutter assembly 940
is positioned in the slot 942, the recessed side walls 988 bearing
against the slot edges to keep the cutter assembly 940 slidably
engaged in the slot 942. Slot 974 in end wall 992 accommodates stop
tab 976 from actuating button 946 as will be described. Shoulder
990 can overhang the recessed sidewalls 988 and can be supported
with buttresses 994.
[0154] FIG. 17B is an exploded view of the slidable cutter assembly
940 shown in FIG. 17A showing the base 944, a cutting blade 950 and
the actuating button 946. The actuating button can be biased such
as by a leaf spring 964. Stop tab 976 can be seen on the side of
the button 946 which rides in slot 974 in base 944.
[0155] FIG. 18 is an exploded view of the actuating button 946 of
the slidable cutter assembly 940. As shown in FIG. 18, the spring
button 946 can include a first button component 948a, a second
button component 948b, and a blade 950. According to some aspects
of the present disclosure, the first and second button components
948 can be substantially identical. For example, button component
948a can include one or more posts 951a, 952a, and 953a and
receptacles 954a, 955a, and 957a on a rear face 958a thereof and
button component 948b can include one or more posts 951b, 952b, and
953b and receptacles 954b, 955b, and 957b on a rear face 958b
thereof. As shown in FIG. 18, posts 951a, 952a, and 953a on the
first button component 948a are sized to be received by receptacles
954b, 955b, and 957b on the second button component 948b and posts
951b, 952b, and 953b on the second button component 948b are sized
to be received by receptacles 954a, 955a, and 957a on the first
button component 948a, thereby engaging the first button component
948a and the second button component 948b in a locking arrangement.
The posts and receptacles can be provided in various
configurations. For example, the posts and receptacles can have
circular cross-sections (e.g., posts 951a and 952a and receptacles
954a and 955a), semi-circular cross-sections (e.g., post 953a and
receptacle 957a), or a combination thereof, as shown in FIG. 18. Of
course, the first and second button components 948 need not be
identical. For example, according to some aspects of the present
disclosure, the first button component 948a can be formed to only
include posts, whereas the second button component 948b can be
formed to only include receptacles, or vice versa. The button
components 948 can be put together and held together by friction,
adhesive, or otherwise to form the actuating button. Alternatively,
the button assembly 946 could be a one-piece construction or
otherwise configured. The stop tabs 976 can be formed on deformable
walls 996 that can deflect when the actuating button 946 is
inserted into the base 944 and return to their original position
when the stop tabs 976 are seated in slots 974, thereby securing
the actuating button 946 within the base 944.
[0156] Engaged with the actuating button 946 is the blade 950,
which can be actuated to move with the actuating button 946 and
with respect to the base of the cutter assembly. Each of the first
and second button components 948 can be provided with a receiving
area 956 on rear walls 958 of the button components that is sized
and shaped for receiving the blade 950. The receiving area 956
could be recessed into the rear face 958, the blade could be
sandwiched between the button components, or otherwise attached to
the actuating button 946. Additionally, the blade 950 can include
one or more apertures 960 configured to receive one or more posts
to secure the blade 950 relative to the button components 948. For
example, as shown in FIG. 18, the aperture 960 of the blade 950 is
configured to receive one or both of the posts 953a and 953b from
the first and second button components 948. The blade 950 can be
further constrained within the actuating button, such as by one or
more posts which can be arranged about the perimeter of the blade
950 to further secure the blade relative to the button components
948. For example, as shown in FIG. 18, posts 952a and 952b on each
of the first and second button components 948 are arranged directly
adjacent to recesses 962 on the body of the blade 950.
[0157] The actuating button 946 and blade 950 can be biased in a
retracted position and moved to an extended position for cutting by
overcoming the force of the bias. For example, the actuating button
946 can be provided with leaf springs 964 that are configured to
bias the spring button 946 in a direction extending away from the
base 944. The leaf springs 964 can be formed integral with, or the
springs can be inserted into or otherwise attached to, each of the
first and second button components 948 and positioned within the
button components 948. According to other aspects of the present
disclosure, the leaf springs 964 can be replaced, or supplemented,
with other biasing means such as metal leaf springs, coil springs,
plastic hoops, "U"-shaped springs, and the like. Of course, any
biasing mechanism configured to bias the button 946 in a direction
extending away from the base 944, can be used without departing
from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, including
resilient material, a compressible material, or the like. According
to some aspects of the present disclosure, the button 946, leaf
springs 964, and sliding base 944 are all formed from plastic. The
button 946, leaf springs 964, and sliding base 944 can also be
formed from any other material that is suitably durable and that
can provide a suitable biasing force, such as for example, metal or
rubber. The blade 950 can be of any suitable shape and formed from
metal or from any other material that is suitable for cutting foil,
paper, plastic, or any of the various forms of roll-dispensed stock
discussed herein.
[0158] FIGS. 19A-C show the base 944 of the of the cutter assembly
940. More specifically, FIG. 19A is a top view of the base 944,
FIG. 19B is a side elevational view of the sliding base 944 and
FIG. 19C is a front elevational view of the sliding base 944. As
shown in FIG. 19A, the base 944 includes a central receptacle for
receiving the actuating button 946. The bottom of the receptacle
includes a bottom wall 966 with a slot 968 sized for receiving the
blade 950 when the actuating button 946 is depressed to extend the
blade 950 through the base 944. The base 944 can also include
vertical channels 970 sized to slidably receive flange 972 of the
actuating button 946, bumps 995 to accommodate the vertical
channels 970, apertures 974 for receiving stop tabs 976 of the
spring button 946, and support buttresses 994. The base 944 can
also include spacers 999 on an interior wall 997 to restrain
vertical movement of the actuating button 946 relative to the base
944. As shown in FIGS. 19B and 19C, the base 944 includes a bottom
surface 984, having edges 986, recessed sidewalls 988, and
shoulders 990 forming base channels 978. The edges 986 and
shoulders 990 are positioned above and below the container lid 908
when the cutter assembly 940 is positioned in the slot 942, the
recessed side walls 988 bearing against the slot edges to keep the
cutter assembly 940 slidably engaged in the slot 942 and allow for
travel therealong.
[0159] FIGS. 20A-D show another base 1044 of a sliding cutter
assembly according to some aspects of the present disclosure,
including an upper body 1100 and a lower retaining plate 1102. More
specifically, FIG. 20A is a perspective view of the base 1044, FIG.
20B is a top view of the base 1044, FIG. 20C is an exploded side
elevational view of the base 1044, and FIG. 20D is an exploded
front elevational view of the sliding base 1044. As discussed in
greater detail below, base 1044 is similar to base 944 of cutter
assembly 940 (see, e.g., FIGS. 17A-19C), except for the
distinctions as noted herein, and as such can receive, for example,
actuating button 946.
[0160] As shown in FIG. 20A-D, the base 1044 includes an upper body
1100 having central receptacle for receiving an actuating button,
such as for example, actuating button 946, and a lower retaining
plate 1102, for securing the base 1044 within a slot of a
container, as discussed below. The upper body 1100 of the base 1044
can include vertical channels 1070 sized to slidably receive
flanges 972 of the actuating button 946, bumps 1095 (see FIG. 20B)
to accommodate the vertical channels 1070, apertures 1074 for
receiving stop tabs 976 of the spring button 946, shoulders 1090
having support buttresses 1094, and recessed sidewalls 1088. Upper
body 1100 can also include spacers 1099 on an interior wall 1097 to
restrain vertical movement of the actuating button 946 relative to
the base 1044.
[0161] The retaining plate 1102 includes a slot 1068 sized for
receiving the blade 950 when the actuating button 946 is depressed
to extend the blade 950 through the base 1044, edges 1086, and
attachment means 1104 for securing the retaining plate 1102 to the
base body 1100. For example, as shown, the attachment means 1104
can comprise tabs 1106 that engage apertures 1108 on the base body
1100, thereby securing the retaining plate 1102 to the base body
1100. Of course, additional means for securing the retaining plate
1102 to the base body 1100 are within the scope of the present
disclosure, such as friction fittings, adhesives, welding, and the
like.
[0162] When the base body 1100 and the retaining plate 1102 are
assembled and attached to a container (for example, container 900
shown in FIG. 16), the shoulders 1090 of the body 1100 and the
edges 1086 of the retaining plate 1102 and are positioned above and
below the container lid, respectively, and the cutter assembly base
body 1100 is positioned in the slot 942, with the recessed side
walls 1088 bearing against the slot edges to keep the base 1044
slidably engaged in the slot 942 and allowing for travel
therealong. The base 1044 with a separate body 1100 and retaining
plate 1102 provides certain advantages during assembly of the
container. For example, the body 1100 can be inserted through the
slot in the container lid with minimal manipulation and the
retaining plate 1102 can be easily attached to the body thereafter.
Robotic devices or other devices can be utilized in the assembly of
containers of the present disclosure.
[0163] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional top view showing the actuating
button 946 and blade 950 within the base 944 of the cutter assembly
940. As discussed above, the base 944 can include vertical channels
970 sized to receive the flanges 972 of the button 946. As shown in
FIG. 21, the vertical channels 970 of the base 944 and flanges 972
of the button 946 assist with aligning the actuating button 946
within the base 944 during operation and provide for vertical
travel as the button and blade are moved from a first retracted
position (see FIG. 22A) to a second deployed position (see FIG.
22B).
[0164] FIG. 22A is a cross-sectional view of the slidable cutter
assembly 940 of the present disclosure with the blade 950 in a
retracted position and FIG. 22B is a cross-sectional view of the
slidable cutter assembly 940 of the present disclosure with the
blade 950 in an extended, deployed position. As shown in FIG. 22A,
the actuating button 946 can be secured within the base 944 by way
of the stop tabs 976 of the button 946 being received within the
slots 974 of the sliding base 944. As shown in FIG. 22B, upon
application of force to button 946 in the direction of arrow H, the
leaf springs 964 are elastically deformed so that the button 946
travels towards the base 944 and the blade 950 extends through
aperture 968 in the bottom wall 966 of the base 944. Once force has
been applied in the direction of arrow H and the blade is extended
through aperture 968, the base 944 can be moved along the elongated
slot 942 of container 900, thereby cutting the roll-dispensed stock
to separate a portion of the stock from the roll. Upon removal of
force from button 946, the button 946 and blade 950 return to the
retracted position as shown in FIG. 22A. As such, the blade 950 of
the cutter assembly 940 does not extend through the aperture 968 of
the base 944 in normal operation (e.g., during storage or
transportation). The recessed blade is a safety feature that
renders the blade 950 unable to contact or cut anything, or anyone,
until the container 900 is closed and the cutter assembly 940 is
actuated by pressure on the button 946.
[0165] FIGS. 23A-C show another actuating button component 1048
according to some aspects of the present disclosure and are
referred to jointly herein. Two such components 1048 can be put
together to form an actuating button. More specifically, FIG. 23A
is a top view of the button component 1048, FIG. 23B is a side
elevational view of the button component 1048, and FIG. 23C is a
front elevational view of the button component 1048. Button
component 1048 can be substantially similar in structure and
function to button component 848, except for the distinctions noted
herein.
[0166] Button component 1048 can include one or more posts 1052a-d
and one or more receptacles 1054a-d. Posts 1052a-d on the button
component 1048 can be sized to be received by receptacles 1054a-d
on a second button component 1048. The posts 1052 and receptacles
1054 can be provided in various configurations. For example, the
posts 1052 and receptacles 1054 can have circular cross-sections
(e.g., post 1052c and receptacle 1054c), semi-circular
cross-sections (e.g., posts 1052a,b,d and receptacles 1054a,b,d),
or a combination thereof, as shown in FIGS. 23A-C.
[0167] The button component 1048 can be provided with a receiving
area 1056 on rear wall 1058 of the button component 1048 that is
sized and shaped for receiving blade (not shown), thereby
preventing movement of the blade relative to the button component
1048 when the button component is fully assembled. The button
component 1048 can also include flange portions 1072 that are
received by vertical channels in the base of the cutter assembly
and stop tabs 1076 that are received by apertures in an exterior
wall of the base, as discussed herein.
[0168] The button component 1048 can be provided with one or more
leaf springs 1064 that are configured to bias the button in a
direction away from the sliding base. According to some aspects of
the present disclosure, the leaf spring 1064 is integrally formed
with the button component 1048. According to other aspects of the
present disclosure, the leaf spring 1064 can be replaced, or
supplemented, with a traditional coil spring, or any other device
configured to provide a bias, without departing from the spirit and
scope of the present disclosure.
[0169] As shown in FIGS. 23A-C, the button component 1048 can also
include a upper contoured surface 1080 that is ergonomically
configured to assist a user positioning a finger or thumb on the
button surface to apply pressure to the spring button, and for
assisting with maintaining a finger or thumb on the surface of the
button as the cutter moves along the slot in the container to cut
the roll-dispensed stock. For example, the contoured surface 1080
can include a concave curvature to readily accept a user's finger
and can further include a plurality of grip-enhancing ridges 1082,
allowing the user to easily apply lateral pressure and slide the
spring button (and cutter assembly) along a container to separate a
portion of roll-dispensed stock.
[0170] FIGS. 24A-D show a sliding cutter assembly 1200 having a
ramp configuration according to some aspects of the present
disclosure. More specifically, FIG. 24A is a perspective exploded
view of cutter assembly 1200, FIG. 24B is a perspective view of the
cutter assembly 1200. FIG. 24C a cross-sectional view (taken along
line F-F of FIG. 24B) of the cutter assembly 1200 positioned in a
retracted position, and FIG. 24D is a cross-sectional view (taken
along line F-F of FIG. 24B) of the cutter assembly 1200 positioned
in a deployed position.
[0171] As shown in FIGS. 24A and 24B, cutter assembly 1200 includes
a base 1202 and a button 1204 having a blade 1206 attached thereto.
The base 1202 is configured as a ramp, having one end 1212 with a
height less than the height of the other end 1214 and a bearing
surface 1216, on which button 1204 slides. The base 1202 also
includes a slot 1208, extending from bearing surface 1216 through a
bottom surface 1218 (see FIGS. 24C and 24D), sized to accommodate
and receive the blade 1206, which is attached to a bottom surface
of the button 1204 and extends into slot 1208. Button 1204 is
connected with the base 1202 by way of a rail, a recess, or any
other means known in the art suitable to maintain a sliding
engagement between button 1204 and base 1202. The cutter assembly
1200 can also include a biasing means 1210, discussed below. The
cutter assembly 1200 can be affixed to a roll-dispensed stock
container, as described in connection with any of the figures of
the present disclosure, such as by connection to a track disposed
on a container, or by being retained within a slot provided through
a lid of a container. For example, the base 1204 of the cutter
assembly 1200 can be provided with channels, similar to base
channels 978 described in connection with FIGS. 17A-19C.
[0172] As shown in FIG. 24C, the button 1204 and blade 1206 are
positionable in a retracted configuration, at the distal end 1214
of the base 1202. The blade 1206 is sized such that when positioned
in the retracted configuration, the blade does not extend below the
bottom surface 1218 of the base 1202. As shown in FIG. 24D, the
button 1204 and blade 1206 are also positionable in a deployed
configuration, at the proximal end 1212 of the base 1202. The blade
1206 is also sized such that when positioned in the deployed
configuration, the blade extends below the bottom surface 1218 of
the base 1202.
[0173] Cutter assembly 1200 can be provided with biasing means 1210
for maintaining the positions of the of the button 1204 and blade
1206 in the retracted configuration. For example, as shown in the
figures, biasing means 1210 can include one or more (compression)
coil springs positioned between the proximal end 1212 of the base
1202 and a front face 1220 of the button 1204. Alternatively,
biasing means 1210 can include one or more (tension) coil springs
positioned between the distal end 1214 of the base 1202 and a rear
face 1222 of the button 1204. It is further contemplated by the
present disclosure that any of the biasing means disclosed herein
can be utilized to provide a biasing force that maintains the
components of the cutter assembly 1200 in the retracted
configuration. According to some aspects of the present disclosure,
biasing means 1210 can include one or more levers (springs),
torsion bars, or a combination thereof. Of course, those of skill
in the art will appreciate that any number of mechanisms are
available for providing a biasing force to maintain the button 1204
and blade 1206 in the retracted configuration, until actuated by a
user, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present
disclosure.
[0174] In operation, a user provides pressure to the button 1204,
towards the lower end 1212 of the base 1202, thereby moving the
cutter assembly 1200 from the retracted configuration to the
deployed configuration shown in FIG. 24D. With the blade 1206
extended below the bottom surface 1218 of base 1202, the user can
slide the cutter assembly across the roll-dispensed stock, to sever
a portion of stock from the roll, such as described in connection
with FIGS. 4-6. Once the roll-dispensed stock has been cut, the
user releases pressure from the button 1204 and the biasing means
1210 returns the button 1204 and blade 1206 to the retracted
configuration shown in FIG. 24C. The present disclosure also
contemplates a method for dispensing roll-dispensed stock from a
container. The method includes the steps of opening a lid to access
an opening in the body of the container, drawing the roll-dispensed
stock out of the body through the opening and over a surface of the
container, closing the lid against the surface of the container,
pressing the lid against the surface of the container to secure the
roll-dispensed stock between the lid and the surface by compressing
the roll-dispensed stock against one or more fixation strips,
sliding the cutter along a length of the lid from a first position
to a second position to cut through the roll-dispensed stock, and
separating a portion of the roll-dispensed stock from the roll.
[0175] Another method for dispensing roll-dispensed stock from a
container can include the steps of opening a container lid to
access an opening in the body of the container, drawing the
roll-dispensed stock out of the body through the opening and over a
surface of the container, closing the lid against the surface of
the container, pressing the lid against the surface of the
container to secure the roll-dispensed stock between the lid and
the surface by compressing the roll-dispensed stock, for example,
against one or more fixation strips, pressing an actuating button
on the cutter assembly to move a blade from a first retracted
position to a second deployed position, sliding the cutter assembly
along a length of the lid from a first position to a second
position to cut through the roll-dispensed stock and thereby
separate a portion of the roll-dispensed stock from the roll, while
pressing the actuating button, and releasing pressure from the
cutter assembly to automatically move the blade from the second
deployed position back to the first retracted position.
[0176] Any of the slidable cutter designs disclosed herein can be
utilized in connection with other applications which require the
cutting of stock, similar to the various forms of roll-dispensed
stock described herein. For example, FIG. 25 shows a paper cutting
board 1300 having a sliding cutter assembly 1310 positioned on a
track 1312 that is attached to a cutting surface 1314. According to
some aspects of the present disclosure, cutter assembly 1310 can be
substantially similar in design and operation to cutter assembly
940, described in connection with FIGS. 16-19C, or any of the
slidable cutter designs disclosed herein. For example, a user can
position a piece of paper between the cutting surface 1314 and the
track 1312, depress a button of the cutter assembly to expose a
blade thereof for cutting, slide the cutter assembly 1310 along the
length of the track 1312, thereby cutting the paper, and release
the button of the cutter assembly 1310 to allow the blade to return
to a safe retracted position. Of course, those of ordinary skill in
the art will appreciate that the slidable cutter designs of the
present disclosure can be utilized in connection with various
applications, in addition to those described herein, without
departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. It
will be noted that the cutters disclosed herein can be with or
without fixation strips depending on the nature of the material to
be cut.
[0177] FIG. 26A is a perspective view of a roll-dispensed stock
container 1400 according to the present disclosure including a top
wall 1402 with an elongated slot 1404 having an aperture 1406 that
is sized to receive a cutter assembly 1450, shown in FIG. 26B. The
aperture 1406 can be sized to accommodate a base 1452 of the cutter
assembly 1450, in an orientation other than the direction of travel
during operation, to facilitate insertion of the cutter assembly
into the elongated slot during assembly of the container. For
example, the base 1452 cutter assembly 1450 can be inserted into
the aperture 1406 and the cutter assembly 1450 can then be rotated
to secure the cutter assembly 1450 within the elongated slot 1404.
Aperture 1406 can have chamfered edges 1408 to facilitate the
process of rotating the cutter assembly 940 from an insertion to a
locked position. FIG. 27A is a perspective view of a roll-dispensed
stock container 1500 including a top wall 1502, an elongated slot
1504, and an aperture 1506 that is sized to receive a triangular
base 1552 of a cutter assembly 1550, aperture 1506 having a
triangular configuration. It is contemplated by the present
disclosure that the apertures described in connection with FIGS.
26A and 27A can be provided in any shape or configuration that
allows a cutter assembly to be inserted into the aperture in a
first orientation and then rotated to a second orientation, thereby
securing the cutter assembly and facilitation operation.
[0178] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of another roll-dispensed
stock container 1700 according to the present disclosure including
a slidable cutter assembly 1750 having a deformable retaining
means. FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view (taken along line G-G of
FIG. 29) of the roll-dispensed stock container 1700. FIG. 30 is a
side view of the slidable cutter assembly 1700 and FIG. 31 is a
front view of the slidable cutter assembly 1700.
[0179] As shown in FIGS. 28-31, the roll-dispensed stock container
1700 includes a top wall 1702 with an elongated slot 1704 that
receives a cutter assembly 1750. The cutter assembly 1750 includes
a blade housing 1752, a blade 1754, a base 1756, a stem 1758
connecting the blade housing 1752 to the base 1756, and retaining
device 1760 for securing the cutter assembly 1750 within the
elongated slot 1704 in the top wall 1702 of the container 1700.
[0180] As shown in FIGS. 30 and 31, the blade housing 1752 can
comprise a first half 1752a and a second half 1752b, the stem 1758
can comprise first half 1758a and second half 1758b, and the blade
1754 can be disposed therebetween. According to some aspects of the
present disclosure, at least one of the first half 1752a and the
second half 1752b of the blade housing 1752 and the first half
1758a and the second half 1758b of the stem 1758 can include a
recess 1764 sized to accept the blade 1754, as shown in FIG. 31.
The blade 1754 can be sized such that a portion thereof extends
below a lower face 1766 of the blade housing 1752, to cut a portion
of roll-dispensed stock drawn over the elongated slot 1704 in the
top wall 1702 of the container 1700.
[0181] As shown in FIG. 30, lower face 1766 of the blade housing
1752 can include a rounded profile towards front and rear sides of
the blade housing 1752, allowing for the roll dispensed stock to
remain flat as the cutter assembly 1750 is moved along the
elongated slot 1704 of the container 1700 during the cutting
process. The first half 1752a and the second half 1752b of the
blade housing 1752 can be joined together with screws 1768.
Alternatively, the first half 1752a and the second half 1752b of
the blade housing 1752 can be joined together with an adhesive, or
any other suitable means for securing the components together, such
as those described above in connection with first and second halves
of spring button 946 and shown in FIG. 18. According to other
aspects of the present disclosure, the blade housing can also be a
unitary structure.
[0182] According to some aspects of the present disclosure, the
retaining device 1760 can include a plurality of fingers 1762 that
depend from the base 1756, each extending in an arcuate path
towards the blade housing 1752 and away from the stem 1758, as
shown in FIG. 31. The fingers 1762 can be configured such that they
are normally positioned as shown in FIG. 31, but when compressed
towards the stem 1758, provide a spring/biasing force in the
opposite direction (e.g., towards their normal position shown in
FIG. 31). The fingers 1762 can be formed from any material that is
resiliently deformable (e.g., thermoplastic, metal, etc.), such
that the fingers 1762 can be compressed towards the stem 1758 and
return to their original position.
[0183] During assembly of container 1700, the cutter assembly 1750
is inserted into the elongated slot 1704, which has a width that is
roughly equal to the width of base 1756 of the cutter assembly
1750, causing the fingers 1762 of the retaining device 1760 to
inwardly deform, thus reducing their width, such that that can pass
through the elongated slot 1704. Once the fingers 1762 have passed
through the elongated slot 1704, they return to their normal
position, as shown in FIG. 29, having a width larger than the width
of the elongated slot 1704. Accordingly, the cutter assembly 1750
is retained in the slot 1704 by the lower face 1766 of the blade
housing 1752 (also having a width greater than the slot 1704)
bearing against a top surface of top wall 1702 of the container
1700 and by upper tips of the fingers 1762 bearing against a bottom
surface of the top wall 1702 of the container 1700. The retaining
device 1760 can be provided in various configurations. As such, the
fingers 1762 can be provided with varying geometries, material
thicknesses, dimensions, and the like, suitable for a particular
application. For example, the flanges can be configured to be wide
enough to prevent the sliding cutter assembly 1750 from turning in
the slot 1704 to reduce binding and to cut in a straight line.
According to other aspects of the present disclosure, the blade
1754 and stem 1758 can have a with great enough such that the
cutter assembly 1750 is prevented from turning in the slot 1704 to
reduce binding and to cut in a straight line.
[0184] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a cutter housing, indicated
generally at 1800, according to some aspects of the present
disclosure. The cutter housing 1800 can be used with any sliding
cutter assembly. For example, the blade housing 1752, described in
connection with FIGS. 30-31, can be configured in accordance with
cutter housing 1800. Of course, the geometries of cutter housing
1800 shown in FIG. 32 can be modified, without departing from the
scope of the present disclosure.
[0185] As shown, the cutter housing 1800 can include a body 1802
having a semi-cylindrical shape with recessed, contoured surfaces
1804 along lateral sides thereof. The contoured surfaces 1804 can
be ergonomically configured for a user's thumb and finger to grasp
the cutter housing and for applying a lateral force to the cutter
housing 1800, thereby moving a slidable cutter assembly along a
slot in a container to cut roll-dispensed stock. The recessed,
contoured surfaces 1804 can have a concave curvature to accept a
user's fingers and can further include a plurality of
grip-enhancing ridges 1806, allowing the user to easily apply
lateral force and slide the cutter housing 1800 (and cutter
assembly) along a container to separate a portion of roll-dispensed
stock. In addition to providing enhanced ergonomics, the contoured
surfaces 1804 also reduce manufacturing costs, by reducing the
volume of the cutter housing 1800, and thus requiring less material
for the cutter housing 1800.
[0186] FIG. 33 is a perspective view of a roll-dispensed stock
container, indicated generally at 1900, according to the present
disclosure and FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional view (taken along line
H-H of FIG. 33) of the roll-dispensed stock container 1900 of FIG.
33. The container 1900 includes a top wall 1902, a front wall 1904,
a rear wall 1906, a bottom wall 1910, side walls 1926 and 1928, and
a support wall 1912. As shown, the height of the front wall 1904
can be less than the height of the rear wall 1906, such that the
support wall 1912 is disposed at an angle relative to the top wall
1902 and the front wall 1904. The top wall 1902, front wall 1904,
rear wall 1906, bottom wall 1910, support wall 1912, and side walls
1926 and 1928 form an enclosure dimensioned to receive a roll of
roll-dispensed stock 1932. The container 1900 can include a
perforated section 1922 in the top wall 1902, configured to be at
least partially separated from the top wall 1902 to form an opening
1930 (see FIGS. 39-41) for accessing and dispensing roll-dispensed
stock from the enclosure.
[0187] The container 1900 can include a cutter assembly, indicated
generally at 1940. As shown in FIG. 33, the cutter assembly 1940
includes an elongated aperture 1942 disposed through the support
wall 1912 and a slidable cutter 1944 with a blade or edge disposed
therein. The slidable cutter 1944 travels along the aperture 1942
to cut the roll-dispensed stock 1932. The cutter assembly 140 can
be provided in any desirable configuration, such as those disclosed
herein, for example, cutter assembly 1750 described in connection
with FIGS. 28-31. The cutter assembly 1940 can fit within a recess
defined by the space under the right angle formed by the
intersection of the planes extending from the top wall 1902 and the
front wall 1904, and thus the cutter assembly 1940 does not extend
beyond the bounds of the container 1900, so configured. The cutter
assembly 1940 is thereby protected from damage during shipping or
storage of the container 1900. Due to the recessed positioning of
the cutter assembly 1940, multiple containers 1900 can be stacked
relative to each other without imparting pressure or force on the
cutter assembly 1940, thereby preventing potential damage to the
cutter assembly 1940.
[0188] The support wall 1912 can be provided with fixation strips
1914a and 1914b along both sides of the aperture 1942, for
maintaining the position of the roll-dispensed stock prior to
cutting. As shown best in FIG. 34, fixation strip 1914a is located
on the support wall 1912, near the top wall 1902 and has a
thickness greater than fixation strip 1914b. Accordingly, the
fixation strip 1914a extends a greater distance from the support
wall 1912 than fixation strip 1914b. The fixation strips 1914a and
1914b can be made out of any material suitable for securely and
removably holding the roll-dispensed stock while it is being cut.
Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the
material used for the fixation strips 1914a and 1914b is preferably
selected based on the properties of the roll-dispensed stock
material. In one example, if the roll-dispensed stock is plastic
wrap, foil, wax paper, parchment paper, tape, duct tape, or
wrapping paper, the fixation strips 1914a and 1914b can be made of
a silicone material, flexible polymer, or another material that
provides light tack or clings to the roll-dispensed stock. The
fixation strips 1914a and 1914b can also be made of a low-tack
adhesive (e.g., fugitive, "booger," or "credit card" glue), an
ultraviolet (UV) light curing adhesive, a wax, a tacky material, or
any other material suitable for securely and removably holding or
gripping the roll-dispensed stock.
[0189] FIG. 35 is a perspective view of another roll-dispensed
stock container, indicated generally at 2000, and FIG. 36 is a
cross-sectional view (taken along line I-I of FIG. 35) of the
roll-dispensed stock container 2000 of FIG. 35 positioned in a
closed configuration. As such, FIGS. 35 and 36 are referred to
jointly herein. Container 2000 includes like structures, and is
thus similar to container 100 discussed above in connection with
FIGS. 1-6, except for the distinctions noted herein.
[0190] As shown, container 2000 includes a front wall 2004, a rear
wall 2006, a bottom wall 2010, side walls 2026 and 2028, a support
wall 2012, a lid 2008, a cutter assembly 2040 with a track 2042 and
a slidable cutter 2044, and fixation strips 2014a and 2014b
disposed on the support wall 2012, on both sides of the cutter
assembly 2040, when the lid 2008 is in a closed configuration.
Fixation strips 2014a and 2014b maintain the position of the
roll-dispensed stock 2032 prior to cutting and can be made out of
any material suitable for securely and removably holding the
roll-dispensed stock 2032. Fixation strip 2014a is located near an
opening 2030 for dispensing roll-dispensed stock from the container
2000 and, as shown best in FIG. 36, has a thickness greater than
fixation strip 2014b, which is located near the intersection of the
front wall 2004 and support wall 2012. Accordingly, the fixation
strip 2014a extends a greater distance from the support wall 2012
than fixation strip 2014b.
[0191] FIG. 37 is a perspective view of another roll-dispensed
stock container, indicated generally at 2100, and FIG. 38 is a
cross-sectional view (taken along line J-J of FIG. 37) of the
roll-dispensed stock container 2100 of FIG. 37. As such, FIGS. 37
and 38 are referred to jointly herein. The container 2100 includes
a top wall 2102, a front wall 2104, a rear wall 2106, a bottom wall
2110, and side walls 2126 and 2128. The top wall 2102, front wall
2104, rear wall 2106, bottom wall 2110, and side walls 2126 and
2128 form an enclosure dimensioned to receive a roll of
roll-dispensed stock 2132. The container 2100 can include a
perforated section 2122 in the top wall 2102, configured to be at
least partially separated from the top wall 2102 to form an opening
(see, e.g., opening 1930 shown in FIGS. 39-41) for accessing and
dispensing roll-dispensed stock from the enclosure.
[0192] The container 2100 can include a cutter assembly, indicated
generally at 2140. As shown in FIG. 37, the cutter assembly 2140
includes an elongated aperture 2142 disposed through the top wall
2102 and a slidable cutter 2144 with a blade or serrated edge
disposed therein. The slidable cutter 2144 travels along the
aperture 2142 to cut the roll-dispensed stock 2132. The cutter
assembly 2140 can be provided in any desirable configuration, such
as those disclosed herein, for example, cutter assembly 1750
described in connection with FIGS. 28-31.
[0193] The top wall 2102 of container 2100 can be provided with
fixation strips 2114a and 2114b along both sides of the aperture
2142, for maintaining the position of the roll-dispensed stock
prior to cutting. As shown best in FIG. 38, fixation strip 2114a is
located near the perforated section 2122 and has a thickness
greater than fixation strip 2114b, which is located near the
intersection of the top wall 2102 and front wall 2104. Accordingly,
the fixation strip 2114a extends a greater distance from the top
wall 2102 than fixation strip 2114b. The fixation strips 2114a and
2114b can be made out of any material suitable for securely and
removably holding the roll-dispensed stock while it is being cut.
Fixation strips 2114a and 2114b can also be applied to other
containers having a generally rectangular cross-section, such as
those described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/399,863, the
entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.
Fixation strips 2114a and 2114b are similar to fixation strips
1914a and 1914b (see FIGS. 33 and 34).
[0194] FIGS. 39-41 illustrate operation of container 1900 as the
roll-dispensed stock 1932 is drawn from container 1900 prior to
cutting. Specifically, FIG. 39 is a perspective view of the
roll-dispensed stock container 1900 with the stock 1932 extending
from the container 1900 in a first position, FIG. 40 shows the
stock 1932 extending from the container 1900 in a second position,
and FIG. 41 shows the stock 1932 extending from the container in a
third position, prior to cutting.
[0195] As shown in FIG. 39, perforated section 1922 is removed from
the top wall 1902 of the container 1900, thereby forming opening
1930 and providing access to the roll-dispensed stock 1932. A
portion of the roll-dispensed stock 1932 is drawn through the
opening 1930, extending away from the top wall 1902 of the
container 1900, in the direction of arrow I. After the portion of
roll-dispensed stock 1932 is pulled from the container as show in
FIG. 39, the roll-dispensed stock 1932 is pulled out as shown by
arrow J in FIG. 40, and then down, such that the roll dispensed
stock contacts fixation strip 1914a, and is then pulled down
further in the direction of arrow K, as shown in FIG. 41, such that
the roll dispensed stock contacts fixation strip 1914b. The
roll-dispensed stock 1932 can then be cut by sliding the cutter
1944 along the length of the container 1900, such as, for example,
as described in connection with FIGS. 4-6.
[0196] As discussed above, fixation strips 1914a and 1914b are
formed from a material to which the roll-dispensed stock 1932
clings. Accordingly, when the roll dispensed stock 1932 contacts
fixation strip 1914a, it clings thereto. Furthermore, when the roll
dispensed stock 1932 is pulled in the direction of arrow J, tension
is created on the roll-dispensed stock 1932, and when the
roll-dispensed stock 1932 contacts fixation strip 1414b it clings
thereto, thus maintaining the tension on the roll dispensed stock
1932 between fixation strips 1914a and 1914b prior to cutting.
[0197] Fixation strip 1914a is thicker and/or taller than fixation
strip 1914b, which allows the roll-dispensed stock 1932 to contact
fixation strip 1914a, and be put into tension, before contacting
fixation strip 1914b, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 41. This
configuration of fixation strips is also advantageous when applied
to a container having a generally rectangular cross-section, such
as container 2100, discussed in connection with FIGS. 37 and
38.
[0198] The present disclosure also contemplates a method for
dispensing roll-dispensed stock and can include the steps of:
removing a portion of roll-dispensed stock through an opening,
drawing the portion of roll-dispensed stock over and contacting a
first fixation strip, contacting the roll-dispensed stock with a
second fixation strip thereby creating and maintaining tension on
the roll-dispensed stock, and cutting the roll-dispensed stock by
moving a slidable cutter along the length of the container. The
foregoing steps can be applied to each of the roll-dispensed stock
containers, discussed in connection with FIGS. 33-41.
[0199] FIG. 42 is a perspective view of another roll-dispensed
stock container 2000 according to the present disclosure including
a slidable cutter assembly 2040 in a recessed area 2020. The
container 2000 includes a body 2002 including a front wall 2004, a
rear wall 2006, a top wall 2008 and a bottom wall 2010.
[0200] The connection between the front wall 2004 and the top wall
2008 defines a first corner 2012 of the body 2002. The connections
between the front wall 2004 and the bottom wall 2010, the bottom
wall 2010 and the rear wall 2006, and the rear wall 2006 and the
top wall 2008 define second, third, and fourth corners 2014, 2018,
and 2016 respectively. The second corner 2014, third corner 2018
and fourth corner 2016 can form substantially right angles by the
connections between the respective walls.
[0201] The first corner 2012 includes a recessed area 2020 forming
an inverted or inwardly directed corner. The recessed area 2020
includes a first wall or surface 2022 (e.g., a vertically oriented
wall) and a second wall or surface 2024 (e.g., a horizontally
oriented wall). The connection between the first surface 2022 of
the recessed area 2020 and the top wall 2008 can define a
substantially right angle (e.g., the first surface 2022 extends
substantially parallel to the front wall 2004 and perpendicular to
the top wall 2008). The connection between the second surface 2024
of the recessed area 2020 and the front wall 2004 can define a
substantially right angle (e.g., the second surface 2024 extends
substantially parallel to the top wall 2008 and perpendicular to
the front wall 2004).
[0202] The connection between the first and second surfaces 2022,
2024 defines a substantially right angle. In some embodiments, the
distance by which the first and second surfaces 2022, 2024 extend
inwardly towards each other can be dimensioned equal. In some
embodiments, the distance by which the first and second surfaces
2022, 2024 extend inwardly towards each other can be dimensioned
differently. The recessed area 2020 defines an inverted or inwardly
facing corner for protection of the cutter assembly 2040 during
shipping or storage of the container 2000. In particular, the
recessed area 2020 is configured such that the cutter assembly 2040
does not extend beyond planes defined by the top wall 2008 and the
front wall 2004. Due to the recessed positioning of the cutter
assembly 2040, multiple containers 2000 can be stacked relative to
each other without imparting pressure or force on the cutter
assembly 2040, thereby preventing potential damage to the cutter
assembly 2040.
[0203] The body 2002 includes first and second side walls 2026,
2028 each connected to side edges of the front, rear, top and
bottom walls 2004-2010 to define a plurality of lateral corners on
opposing sides of the body 2002. The connection between the first
and second side walls 2026, 2028 and the front, rear, top and
bottom walls 2004-2010 define a substantially right angle. The
front, rear, top and bottom walls 2004-2010 and the first and
second side walls 2026, 2028 form an enclosure 2030 (see FIG. 43)
within the body 2002 configured and dimensioned to receive a roll
of roll-dispensed stock.
[0204] The container 2000 includes a perforated section 2036 (e.g.,
a section with a pre-perforated perimeter) formed in and extending
along one or more of one of the walls of the body 2002. The
perforated section 2036 can be configured to be at least partially
separated from the body 2002 to form an opening for dispensing the
roll-dispensed stock from the enclosure 2030.
[0205] The perforated section 2036 extends across two walls (e.g.,
the top wall 2008 and the first surface 2022 of the recessed area
2020). Thus, a portion of the perforated section 2036 extends
across the top wall 2008, over an edge 2038 separating the top wall
2008 and the first surface 2022, and further extends on a portion
of the first surface 2022. Although FIG. 42 shows the perforated
section 2036 extending on or down a portion of the first surface
2022, the perforated section 2036 can extend down the first surface
2022 by any distance, including all the way to second surface 2024.
When removed from the body 2002, the perforated section 2036 forms
an opening extending across the top wall 2008, the edge 2038 and
the first surface 2022. The opening can be sized to be as wide as
the roll-dispensed stock to dispense the stock from the container
2000. According to some aspects of the present disclosure, the
perforated section 2036 can be configured such that the opening
extends down to a level on the vertical surface 2022 that is even
with the top surface of a track 2042, described in greater detail
hereinbelow. Accordingly, stock being dispensed from the opening
can be extended directly over the track 2042 (e.g., parallel to the
horizontal surface 2024) and perpendicular to a blade 2056 of
slidable cutter 2044 (see FIG. 43), enabling the roll-dispensed
stock to be laid flat over the track 2042 during the cutting
process and thereby producing an even and repeatable cut, without
bunching or tearing of the sock.
[0206] The container 2000 further includes a cutter assembly 2040
attached to the body 2002. As shown in FIG. 42, the cutter assembly
2040 is attached to the second surface 2024 of the recessed area
2020. The cutter assembly 2040 includes elongated track 2042 and
slidable cutter 2044 with an internal blade or serrated edge. The
slidable cutter 2044 travels along the track 2042 to cut
roll-dispensed stock positioned over the track 2042. As described
in greater detail below, the track 2042 can be fully or partially
recessed into the surface 2024 of the recess 2020.
[0207] FIG. 43 is a partial cross-sectional view (taken along line
L-L of FIG. 42) of the roll-dispensed stock container of FIG. 42
showing the configuration of the recessed cutter assembly 2040 in
greater detail. As shown in FIG. 43, the roll-dispensed stock
container 2000 includes a an elongated slot 2025 in the second
surface 2024 of the recessed area 2020, which receives the track
2042 of the cutter assembly 2040. The track 2042 can include a
bottom wall 2046 and vertical walls 2048, forming a generally
U-shaped cross-section. The track 2042 can also include exterior
flanges 2050 extending away from top edges of the vertical walls
2048, which support the track 2040 within the slot 2025 by bearing
on the second surface 2024 of the recess 2020, and interior flanges
2052 extending towards a center of track 2042 for retaining the
slidable cutter 2044 therein. As an alternative to the interior
flanges 2052, the vertical walls 2048 of the recessed track 2042
can be configured to have an inward curvature in order to retain
the slidable cutter 2044 therein. The cutter assembly 2040 can be
fixed within the slot 2025 by way of friction between the vertical
walls 2048 and interior edges of the slot 2025, or an adhesive can
be applied between the exterior flanges 2050 of the track 2042 and
the second surface 2024 of the recessed area 2020. According to
other aspects of the present disclosure, the track 2042 can be
provided with a second set of exterior flanges (see, e.g., FIGS.
47A and 47B), positioned on the underside of the second surface
2024, sandwiching the second surface 2024 therebetween, and
preventing the cutter assembly from being pulled out of the slot
2025. According to additional aspects of the present disclosure,
the flanges 2050 of the track 2042 can extend within horizontal
wall 2024. For example, horizontal wall 2024 can be formed from two
layers, with the flanges 2050 disposed therebetween.
[0208] The cutter assembly 2044 includes a blade housing 2054, a
blade 2056, a base 2058, and a stem 2060 connecting the blade
housing 2054 to the base 2058. As shown in FIG. 43, the base 2058
is positioned in the track 2042 and secured therewithin by way of
the interior flanges 2052. The blade 2056 is positioned within the
blade housing, extends towards the base 2058, and includes exposed
cutting edges along the stem 2060 for cutting roll-dispensed stock
that is positioned over the track 2042. Cutter assembly 2044 can be
similar to cutter assembly 1450, described in connection with FIG.
26B, as long as the base 1452 of cutter assembly 1450 is configured
to be retained within track 2042.
[0209] In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, the
container 2000 can be configured to dispense, and the cutter
assembly 2040 can be configured to cut, plastic wrap, foil (e.g.,
aluminum or tin foil), wax paper, parchment paper, tape, duct tape,
wrapping paper, and other roll-dispensed stock. Further, it is
contemplated that any of the embodiments of the containers of the
present disclosure could be configured to dispense and cut any of
the roll-dispensed stock described herein.
[0210] FIGS. 44A-45B show another roll-dispensed stock container
2100 that is positionable in recessed and extended configurations.
Specifically, FIG. 44A is a perspective view of the container 2100
positioned in the recessed configuration, FIG. 44B is a perspective
view of the container 2100 positioned in the extended
configuration, FIG. 45A is a side view of the container 2100
positioned in the recessed configuration, and FIG. 45B is a side
view of the container 2100 positioned in the extended
configuration. As such, FIGS. 44A-45B are referred to jointly
herein. The container 2100 can be substantially similar in
structure and function to the container 2000, described in
connection with FIGS. 42 and 43, except for the distinctions noted
herein.
[0211] The container 2100 includes a body 2102 including a front
wall 2104, a rear wall 2106, a top wall 2108 and a bottom wall
2110, forming an enclosure 2130 therein. As shown, first and second
surfaces 2122, 2124 of a recessed area 2120 can be configured to be
positioned in a recessed configuration (e.g., FIG. 44A) and in an
extended configuration (e.g., FIG. 44B). In the recessed
configuration, the recessed area 2120 defines an inverted or
inwardly facing corner for protection of the cutter assembly 2140
during shipping or storage of the container 2100. The recessed
slidable cutter assembly 2140 can be substantially the same as
cutter assembly 2040, discussed in connection with FIG. 43. The
recessed area 2120 is configured such that when the cutter assembly
2140 is attached to the first surface 2122, the cutter assembly
2140 does not extend beyond planes defined by the top wall 2108 and
the front wall 2104. Similarly, the recessed area 2120 is
configured such that when the cutter assembly 2140 is attached to
the second surface 2124, the cutter assembly 2140 also does not
extend beyond planes defined by the top wall 2108 and the front
wall 2104. Due to the recessed positioning of the cutter assembly
2140, multiple containers 2100 can be stacked relative to each
other without imparting pressure or force on the cutter assembly
2140, thereby preventing potential damage to the cutter assembly
2140.
[0212] In the recessed configuration, the cutter assembly 2140 is
substantially perpendicular relative to the top wall 2108. As will
be discussed in greater detail below, the recessed area 2120 can be
flipped outwardly by a user into the extended configuration for
positioning the cutter assembly 2140 in an orientation
substantially parallel with the top wall 2108. In particular, in
the recessed configuration, the first surface 2122 extends at an
angle (e.g., a right angle) relative to the top wall 2108 and the
second surface 2124 extends at an angle (e.g., a right angle)
relative to the front wall 2104 to form an inwardly directed
corner. In the recessed configuration, the side profile of the
container 2100 defines right angles at second, third and fourth
corners 2114-2118, while defining an inwardly directed first corner
2112. In the extended configuration, the first surface 2122 can
extend in a substantially aligned manner relative to the top wall
2108 and the second surface can extend in a substantially aligned
manner relative to the front wall 2104 to form an outwardly facing
corner with a substantially right angle between the first and
second surfaces 2122, 2124. In the extended configuration, the side
profile of the container 2100 defines right angles at each of the
first, second, third and fourth corners 2112-2118.
[0213] First and second side walls 2126, 2128 each include a
perforated section 2162 (e.g., a section with a pre-perforated
perimeter) disposed adjacent to the recessed area 2120. Although
not visible in FIG. 44A, it should be understood that the second
side wall 2128 includes a substantially similar perforated section
2162. In one embodiment, the perforated sections 2162 can define a
substantially L-shaped configuration as shown in FIG. 44A. In other
embodiments, the perforated sections 2162 can include an inner edge
2164 defining a substantially right angle corresponding to the
shape of the recessed area 2120 and an outer edge 2166 defining a
rounded or arcuate profile.
[0214] The perforated sections 2162 can be at least partially
removed by the user (e.g., cut or punched out, pushed into the
enclosure 2130, or the like) to form an opening 2168 in each of the
first and second side walls 126, 128 (see, e.g., FIG. 44B). The
openings 2168 are configured and dimensioned to partially receive
one or more fingers 2170 of a user's hand 2172 such that the
fingers 2170 can be used to flip, bias or push the recessed area
2120 from the recessed configuration into the extended
configuration. For example, the user can urge the first and second
surfaces 2122, 2124 of the recessed area 2120 outward as indicated
by arrows M to convert the first and second surfaces 2122, 2124 of
the recessed area 2120 into the extended configuration. In some
embodiments, applying a force on the first and second surfaces
2122, 2124 in the opposite direction indicated by arrows M can urge
the recessed area 2120 from the extended configuration into the
recessed configuration for storage of the container 2100.
[0215] Thus, as shown in FIGS. 44A and 45A, in the recessed
configuration, the cutter assembly 2140 fits within the recessed
area 2120 without extending beyond the top wall 108 or the front
wall 2104. As shown in FIGS. 44B and 45B, in the extended
configuration, the cutter assembly 2140 is repositioned to be
substantially aligned with the top wall 2108. In the recessed
configuration, an inner corner 2174 (see FIG. 45A) formed by the
connection of the first and second surfaces 2122, 2124 is spaced
from the roll-dispensed stock 2132. In some embodiments, the side
profile of the container 2100 can be rectangular and the
roll-dispensed stock 2132 can be mounted within the enclosure 2130
at a position offset from a central point of the container 2100. In
such embodiments, a roll of roll-dispensed stock 2132 with a bigger
diameter can be disposed within the container 2100 (e.g., the sides
of the roll-dispensed stock 2132 extending positioned immediately
adjacent to the inner walls of the container 100) without
interfering with the inner corner 2174 of the recessed area
2120.
[0216] In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, the
container 2100 can be configured to dispense, and the cutter
assembly 140 can be configured to cut, plastic wrap, foil (e.g.,
aluminum or tin foil), wax paper, parchment paper, tape, duct tape,
wrapping paper, and other roll-dispensed stock. Further, it is
contemplated that any of the embodiments of the containers of the
present disclosure could be configured to dispense and cut any of
the roll-dispensed stock described herein.
[0217] FIGS. 46-47B show an exemplary roll-dispensed stock
container 2200 (hereinafter "container 2200") in accordance with
some aspects of the present disclosure. Container 2200 can be
substantially similar in structure and function to container 600,
except for the distinctions noted herein. FIG. 46 is a perspective
view of the container 2200 in an open configuration. As shown,
container 2200 includes a body 2202 including a front wall 2204, a
rear wall 2206, a bottom wall 2210, side walls 2226, 2228, a angled
support wall 2212, and a lid 2208 forming an enclosure 2230 for
holding roll-dispensed stock and an opening 2238 for dispensing the
roll-dispensed stock. In a closed configuration, a second portion
2220 of the lid 2208 extends to cover the support wall 2212. Either
or both of the support wall 2212 and the lid 2208 could have one or
more fixation strips 2214, for maintaining the position of the
roll-dispensed stock prior to and during the cutting process.
[0218] A slidable cutter 2244 is disposed within, and travels
along, an elongated slot 2223 that extends through the second
portion 2220 of the lid 2208 and along the length of the container
2200. The slidable cutter 2244 includes a blade housing 2054 on the
outside of the lid 2208, a blade 2056 and stem 2060 that extend
through the lid 2208, and a base 2258 on an interior side of the
lid 2208. Blade housing 2054 and base 2258 of cutter 2244 are
configured to have a width greater than slot 2223, thereby
constraining movement of the cutter 2244 within slot 2223. Cutter
2244 can be substantially similar in structure and function to
cutter 2044, described in connection with FIGS. 42 and 43, except
for the distinctions noted herein. The slidable cutter 2244 could
include an engagement face 2268, shaped to receive a finger of a
user and pressure therefrom.
[0219] As shown in FIG. 46, container 2200 further includes
recessed track 2242, which is positioned in an elongated slot 2225
that extends along the length of support wall 2212. First and
second apertures 2236a and 2236b are positioned on either end the
elongated slot 2225 in the support wall 2212 and are in
communication with the track 2242. The first and second apertures
2236 are sized to receive the base portion 2258 of the slidable
cutter 2244, allowing the base 2258 to pass through the plane of
the support wall 2212. The base portion 2258 of the cutter 2244 can
slide into the track 2242, and the track 2242 accepts and retains
the base portion 2258 of the cutter 2244 under the support wall
2212 as it is moved along the length of the container 2200, during
the cutting process. This configuration provides for the
application of constant and consistent pressure during the cutting
process. According to some aspects of the present disclosure, track
2242 can be substantially similar in structure and function to
track 2042, described in connection with FIGS. 42 and 43. For
example, track 2242 can also include exterior flanges, which
support the track 2242 within the slot 2225 by bearing on the
support wall 2212 and the track 2242 can be fixed within the slot
2225 by way of an adhesive applied between the exterior flanges of
the track 2242 and the support wall 2212. According to other
aspects of the present disclosure, the track 2242 can be provided
with a second set of exterior flanges, positioned on the underside
of the support wall 2212, sandwiching the support wall 2212
therebetween, and preventing the track 2242 from being pulled out
of the slot 2225. According to additional aspects of the present
disclosure, the flanges of the track 2242 can extend within support
wall 2212. For example, support wall 2212 can be formed from two
layers, with the flanges disposed therebetween.
[0220] FIGS. 47A and 47B are cross-sectional views (taken along
line N-N of FIG. 46) of container 2200, positioned in a closed
configuration. As shown in FIG. 47A, the base 2258 of the slidable
cutter 2244 protrudes below a second portion 2220 of the lid 2208,
but does not fully extend through the aperture 2236 (e.g., into
enclosure 2230) in normal operation (e.g., during storage or
transportation). As shown in FIG. 47B, upon application of force to
blade housing 2054 in the direction of arrow P, the second portion
2220 of lid 2208 is elastically deformed so that the base 2058 of
the slidable cutter 2044 fully extends through the aperture 2236.
Once force has been applied to the blade housing 2054 in the
direction of arrow P and the base 2258 of the slidable cutter 2244
is fully extended through the aperture 2236, the slidable cutter
2244 can be moved into track 2242 and travel within track 2242,
along the length of the container 2200. Similar to track 2042
described above, track 2242 is dimensioned to accommodate a stem
2060 and blade 2256 of the slidable cutter 2244 passing
therethrough, but also to retain the base 2258 of the slidable
cutter 2244, thereby preventing the second portion 2220 of the lid
2208 from returning to its original position during the cutting
process. Once the cutting process has been completed and the
slidable cutter 2244 has traveled to the opposite end of the
container (e.g., moving from aperture 2236a to 2236b, or vice
versa), the base portion 2258 of the slidable cutter 2244 is freed
from the track 2242 and the lid 2208 of the container 2200 can be
opened.
[0221] Similar to track 2042, track 2242 can also include exterior
flanges 2250, which support the track 2242 within the slot 2225 by
bearing on the support wall 2212, and can be fixed within the slot
2225 by way of an adhesive applied between the exterior flanges
2250 of the track 2242 and the support wall 2212. The track 2242
can also be provided with a second set of exterior flanges,
positioned on the underside of the support wall 2212, thereby
preventing the track 2242 from being pulled out of the slot 2025.
According to additional aspects of the present disclosure, the
track 2242 and slot 2225 can be configured such that the portion of
the track 2242 positioned within the enclosure 2230 is wider than
the slot 2225, thereby preventing the track 2242 from being pulled
out of the slot 2025 when the slidable cutter 2244 is positioned
within the track 2242.
[0222] Accordingly, once force is applied in the direction on arrow
P and the slidable cutter is moved along the length of container
2200 and into track 2242, pressure is maintained between the one or
more fixation strips 2214 and the second portion 2220 of the lid
2208, with roll-dispensed stock disposed therebetween (not shown).
As such, pressing the blade housing 2254, and thereby cutter base
2258, into the position shown in FIG. 47B maintains the pressure of
the roll-dispensed stock against the fixation strips 2214, to grip
the stock, as well as to tension the roll-dispensed stock. This
allows the slidable cutter to easily and cleanly cut
therethrough.
[0223] FIG. 48 is a perspective view of a roll-dispensed stock
container 2300 (hereinafter "container 2300") in accordance with
some aspects of the present disclosure, including a slidable cutter
assembly 2350, and FIG. 49 is a partial cross-sectional view (taken
along line R-R of FIG. 48) of the roll-dispensed stock container
2300. Container 2300 includes a front wall 2304, a rear wall 2306,
a top wall 2308, a bottom wall 2310, a first side wall 2326, a
second side wall 2328 forming an enclosure 2330, and a recessed
area 2320 having a first vertical surface 2322 and a second
horizontal surface 2324. As shown best in FIG. 49, container 2300
includes a vertical internal support wall 2370 that is disposed
within the enclosure 2330 and that is arranged to be generally
coplanar with the vertical surface 2322 of the recess 2320. As
shown, vertical support wall 2370 can bifurcate enclosure 2330,
thereby defining a front chamber 2372, bounded by the front wall
2304, the bottom wall 2310, the horizontal surface 2324, and the
support wall 2370. As discussed in greater detail below, the
chamber 2372 can house the cutter assembly 2350.
[0224] The cutter assembly 2350 includes a blade housing 2352, a
blade 2354, a base 2356, an elongated stem 2358 connecting the
blade housing 2352 to the base 2356, and retaining device 2360 for
securing the cutter assembly 2350 within an elongated slot 2325 in
the horizontal support wall 2324 of the recess 2320. The blade 2354
can be sized such that a portion thereof extends below a lower face
of the blade housing 2352, to cut a portion of roll-dispensed stock
drawn over the elongated slot 2325 in the horizontal support wall
2324 of the recess 2320.
[0225] According to some aspects of the present disclosure, the
blade housing 2352, the stem 1758, and the base 2356 can comprise
first and second halves, and the blade 2354 can be disposed
therebetween (see, e.g., FIGS. 30 and 31). According to other
aspects of the present disclosure, the blade housing 2352 can also
be a unitary structure. The lower face of the blade housing 2352
can include a rounded profile towards front and rear sides of the
blade housing 2352, allowing for the roll dispensed stock to remain
flat as the cutter assembly 2350 is moved along the elongated slot
2325 of the container 2300 during the cutting process (see, e.g.,
FIGS. 30 and 31).
[0226] According to some aspects of the present disclosure, the
retaining device 2360 can include a plurality of fingers 2362 that
depend from the stem 2358, each extending in an arcuate path
towards the blade housing 2352 and away from the stem 2358. The
fingers 2362 can be configured such that they are normally
positioned as shown in FIGS. 48 and 49, but when compressed towards
the stem 2358, provide a spring/biasing force in the opposite
direction (e.g., towards their normal position. The fingers 2362
can be formed from any material that is resiliently deformable
(e.g., thermoplastic, metal, etc.), such that the fingers 2362 can
be compressed towards the stem 2358 and return to their original
position.
[0227] During assembly of container 2300, the stem 2358 of the
cutter assembly 2350 can be inserted into the elongated slot 2325,
which has a width that is roughly equal to the width of the stem of
the cutter assembly 2350, causing the fingers 2362 of the retaining
device 2360 to inwardly deform, thus reducing their width, such
that they can pass through the elongated slot 2325. Once the
fingers 2362 have passed through the elongated slot 2325, they
return to their normal position, as shown in FIG. 49, having a
width larger than the width of the elongated slot 2325.
Accordingly, the cutter assembly 2350 is prevented from being
removed from the slot 2325 by upper tips of the fingers 2362
bearing against a bottom surface of the horizontal surface 2324 of
the container 2300. The retaining device 2360 can be provided in
various configurations. As such, the fingers 2362 can be provided
with varying geometries, material thicknesses, dimensions, and the
like, suitable for a particular application. According to other
aspects of the present disclosure, the blade 2354, stem 2358, and
base 2356 can have a length and width great enough such that the
cutter assembly 2350 is prevented from turning or rocking in the
slot 2325, to reduce binding and to facilitate cutting of a
straight line.
[0228] As shown in FIG. 49, the elongated stem 2358 and base 2356
of the cutter assembly 2350 can also be configured to constrain
movement and to provide support to the cutter assemble 2350 within
the front chamber 2372 of container 2300 during the cutting
process. For example, the stem 2358 can be dimensioned such that
the base 2356 of the cutter assembly 2350 bears against the bottom
wall 2310 of container 2300 and that the bottom surface of the
blade housing 2352 is positioned above the horizontal surface 2324.
This provides an advantage in that the roll-dispensed stock is not
being compressed between the blade housing 2352 and the horizontal
support wall 2324 during the cutting process, thereby preventing
bunching and tearing of the roll-dispensed stock. Additionally, the
base 2356 of the cutter assembly 2350 can be dimensioned to be
substantially the same width as front chamber 2372 (e.g., the
distance between front wall 2304 and support wall 2370), thereby
preventing twisting of the cutter 2350 during the cutting process.
The base 2356 can also be configured to have a bottom face 2374
that minimizes friction (e.g., a contoured surface, low-friction
coating, or the like) between the base 2356 and the bottom wall
2310 as the cutter 2350 is moved therealong during cutting. Further
still, as shown in FIG. 48, the base 2356 can be configured with
length dimension that reduces the tendency of cutter assembly 2350
to rotate (e.g., base 2356 having a length dimension greater than
blade housing 2352) about the base 2356 (e.g., in the plane
parallel to support wall 2370) during the cutting process.
[0229] FIG. 50 is a perspective view of a roll-dispensed stock
container 2400 (hereinafter "container 2400") in accordance with
some aspects of the present disclosure, including a slidable cutter
assembly 2450, and FIG. 51 is a partial cross-sectional view (taken
along line S-S of FIG. 50) of the roll-dispensed stock container
2400. Accordingly, FIGS. 50 and 51 are referred to jointly herein.
Container 2400 can be substantially similar in structure and
function to container 2300, described in connection with FIGS. 48
and 49, except for the distinctions noted herein. Container 2400
includes a front wall 2404, a rear wall 2406, a top wall 2408, a
bottom wall 2410, a first side wall 2426, a second side wall 2428
forming an enclosure 2430, and a recessed area 2420 having a first
vertical surface 2422 and a second horizontal surface 2424. As
shown in FIG. 51, container 2400 includes a vertical internal
support wall 2470 that is disposed within the enclosure 2430 and
that is arranged to be generally coplanar with the vertical surface
2422 of the recess 2420. Cutter assembly 2450 can be substantially
similar in structure and function to cutter assembly 1750,
described in connection with FIGS. 28-31. Cutter assembly 2450 is
inserted through an elongated slot 2425 in the horizontal surface
2424 and slides therealong during the cutting process. The internal
support wall 2470 provides additional structural rigidity for
horizontal surface 2424, which provides several benefits. For
example, the additional structural rigidity of horizontal surface
2424 aides in the process of inserting the cutter assembly 2450
into the elongated slot 2425 by reducing deformation of the first
vertical surface 2422 and second horizontal surface 2424 of the
recessed area 2420 under pressure exerted by the cutter assembly
2450, thereby providing for an easier insertion of the cutter
assembly 2450. Additionally, the additional structural rigidity of
horizontal surface 2424 aides in the process of cutting
roll-dispensed stock, by reducing deformation of the first vertical
surface 2422 and second horizontal surface 2424 of the recessed
area 2420 under pressure exerted by a user on the cutter assembly
2450, thereby providing for a more stable cutting surface.
[0230] As shown in FIG. 50, the container 2400 can also be provided
with retaining means 2376 for preventing movement of the cutter
assembly 2350 while not in use (e.g., during shipment, display,
storage, or the like). For example, the retaining means 2376 can be
one or more protrusions 2378 formed on either, or both, sides of
the slot 2425 and adjacent to the cutter assembly 2450 when
positioned at either end of the container 2400. The protrusions
2376 can be configured to hold (e.g., by way of friction, adhesion,
or the like) the cutter assembly 2450 in place during movement of
the container 2400, but can be overcome when a user desires to
operate cutter assembly 2450. The protrusions 2376 can be formed
from glue, silicone, rubber, or any other material suitable for
non-permanent fixation of the cutter assembly 2450 to the container
2400. It is within the scope of the present disclosure that the
retaining means 2376 can be used in connection with any of the
containers described herein which include a slidable cutter
assembly.
[0231] FIG. 52 is a partial cross-sectional view of a
roll-dispensed stock container 2500 (hereinafter "container 2500")
in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure,
including a slidable cutter assembly 2550. Container 2500 can be
substantially similar in structure and function to container 2400,
described in connection with FIGS. 50 and 51, except for the
distinctions noted herein. Container 2500 includes a front wall
2504, a rear wall 2506, a top wall 2508, a bottom wall 2510, first
and second side walls (not shown), and an angled support wall 2512
forming an enclosure 2530. Container 2500 also includes a vertical
internal support wall 2570 that is disposed within the enclosure
2530 and can extend from the intersection of the top wall 2508 and
the angled support wall 2512 to the bottom wall 2510. Cutter
assembly 2550 can be substantially similar in structure and
function to cutter assembly 1750, described in connection with
FIGS. 28-31. Cutter assembly 2550 is inserted through an elongated
slot 2525 in the angled support wall 2512 and slides therealong
during the cutting process. The internal support wall 2570 provides
additional structural rigidity for angled support wall 2512, which
provides several benefits. For example, the additional structural
rigidity of angled support wall 2512 aides in the process of
inserting the cutter assembly 2550 into the elongated slot 2525 by
reducing deformation of the angled support wall 2512 under pressure
exerted by the cutter assembly 2550, thereby providing for an
easier insertion of the cutter assembly 2550. Furthermore, the
additional structural rigidity of angled support wall 2512 aides in
the process of cutting roll-dispensed stock, by reducing
deformation of the angled support wall 2512 under pressure exerted
by a user on the cutter assembly 2550, thereby providing for a more
stable cutting surface.
[0232] The vertical support wall 2570 of container 2500, shown in
FIG. 52, can be utilized with other containers having different
configurations. For example, container 2200, described in
connection with FIGS. 46-47B, or any other container described
herein having a similar configuration, can be configured with a
vertical support wall. Specifically, container 2200 can include an
internal vertical support wall extending from a top edge of support
wall 2212 and extending to the bottom wall 2210. Those of ordinary
skill in the art will understand that the geometries of container
2200 can be modified in order for the enclosure 2230 accommodate a
vertical support wall and a roll of roll-dispensed stock.
[0233] FIGS. 53A-C show another insertable slidable cutter assembly
2650 according to the present disclosure, and are referred to
jointly herein. Cutter assembly 2650 can be substantially similar
in structure and function to cutter assembly 1750, described in
connection with FIGS. 28-31. The cutter assembly 2650 includes a
blade housing 2652, a blade 2654, a stem 2658, and a retaining
device 2660 for securing the cutter assembly 2650 within an
elongated slot in a wall of a container (see, e.g., elongated slot
2325 in surface 2324 of container 2300). The blade 2654 can be
sized such that a portion thereof extends below a lower face 2666
of the blade housing 2652, to cut a portion of roll-dispensed stock
thereunder. As shown, the blade housing can be provided with
apertures extending therethrough (see FIGS. 55A and 55B) or
recesses 2686 on either or both sides of blade housing 2652, which
reduce the overall weight of the cutter assembly 2650 and the raw
materials needed for production thereof. The lower face 2666 of the
blade housing 2652 can include a rounded profile towards front and
rear sides of the blade housing 2652, allowing for the roll
dispensed stock to remain flat as the cutter assembly 2650 is moved
thereover during the cutting process. The lower face 2666 of the
blade housing 2652 can also be provided with a plurality of
hemispherical protrusions 2680 adapted to reduce the surface area
of the blade housing 2652 that contacts the roll-dispensed stock
during the cutting process, thereby reducing friction. The
protrusions also raise the lower face 2666 of the blade housing
2652 off the container 2600, making the cutter easier to move and
more stable. As shown in FIG. 53A, four protrusions 2680 can be
provided on the lower face 2666 of the blade housing 2652 and the
protrusions 2680 can be located behind leading edges 2682 of the
blade 2654, to reduce interference with the roll-dispensed stock.
As such, the blade 2654 can contact the roll-dispensed stock before
the protrusions 2680. A greater, or fewer, number of protrusions
2680 can be provided on the lower face 2666 of the blade housing
2652 and the protrusions 2680 can be in the form of curved rails
running along the sides of the blade 2654, for example, as shown in
FIGS. 54A and 54B.
[0234] The blade housing 2652 can comprise first and second halves
2652a and 2652b, the stem 2658 can comprise first and second halves
2658a and 2658b, the retaining device 2660 can comprise first and
second halves 2660a and 2660b, and the blade 2654 can be disposed
therebetween. According to some aspects of the present disclosure,
the blade housing 2652, stem 2658, and retaining device 2660 can be
formed in a single piece, e.g., molded in a unitary structure. As
shown in FIG. 53C, the first half of blade housing 2652a, first
half of stem 2658a, and first half of retaining device 2660a form a
first half of cutter assembly 2650a, the second half of blade
housing 2652b, second half of stem 2658b, and second half of
retaining device 2660b form a second half of cutter assembly 2650b,
and a hinge 2684, or the like, can be disposed between the first
half 2650a and the second half 2650b of cutter assembly 2650. The
first half 2650a and the second half 2650b of cutter assembly 2650
can be formed as a single component (e.g., via injection molding)
and cutter assembly 2650 can be constructed by folding the first
half 2650a and the second half 2650b about the hinge 2684, with the
blade 2654 being captured therebetween. The halves can be retained
together by a snap-fit connection, wherein a post on one half is
inserted into a receptacle in the other half, to join the halves
together, or that halves can be joined together by any other means
described herein.
[0235] FIGS. 54A and 54B show another insertable slidable cutter
assembly 2750 according to the present disclosure, and are referred
to jointly herein. Cutter assembly 2650 can be substantially
similar in structure and function to cutter assembly 2650,
described in connection with FIGS. 53A-53C. The cutter assembly
2750 includes a blade housing 2752, a blade 2754, a stem 2758, and
retaining device 2760. The blade 2754 can be sized such that a
portion thereof extends below a lower face 2766 of the blade
housing 2752, to cut a portion of roll-dispensed stock thereunder.
The lower face 2766 of the blade housing 2752 can also be provided
with one or more arcuate sliders 2780 adapted to reduce the surface
area of the blade housing 2752 that contacts the roll-dispensed
stock during the cutting process, thereby reducing friction and
raising the lower face 2766 of the blade housing 2752 away from the
surface of the container, to accommodate the stock for cutting and
to stabilize the cutter assembly 2750. As shown in the figures, two
arcuate protrusions 2780 are provided on the lower face 2766 of the
blade housing 2752, on either side of the blade 2754, and the
protrusions 2780 are sized to fit between leading edges 2782 of the
blade 2754, allowing the blade 2754 to cut the roll-dispensed stock
before the arcuate sliders 2780 come into contact therewith. While
two arcuate sliders 2780 are shown in the drawings, additional
arcuate sliders 2780 can be provided in the lower face 2766 of the
blade housing 2752. As shown best in FIG. 54B, the arcuate sliders
2780 can be configured with any cross-sectional profile, such as
trapezoidal cross-sectional profiles. However, the arcuate sliders
2780 can be configured with any cross-sectional area that reduces
the surface area of the blade housing 2752 contacting the
roll-dispensed stock during cutting and reduces friction.
[0236] FIGS. 55A and 55B show another insertable slidable cutter
assembly 2850 according to the present disclosure. The cutter
assembly 2850 includes a blade housing 2852, a blade 2854, a stem
2858, and a retaining device 2860 for securing the cutter assembly
2850 within an elongated slot in a wall of a container (see, e.g.,
elongated slot 2325 in surface 2324 of container 2300). As shown in
FIG. 55B, the retaining device 2860 can have a generally inverted
triangular configuration, with a leading edge or face 2888 having a
width less than the width of the elongated slot into which the
cutter assembly 2850 is inserted, angles walls 2892, and a rear
face 2890 having a width greater than the width of the elongated
slot. As the cutter assembly 2850 is inserted through the elongated
slot, the walls 2892 of the retaining device 2860 exert outward
pressure on, and thereby deform, the elongated slot (e.g., where
the slot is formed in a cardboard container), such that the
retaining device 2860 can pass therethrough. Once the retaining
device 2860 has been completely inserted into the elongated slot,
the elongated slot returns to its original configuration, and the
trailing face 2890 of the retaining device 2860 prevents the cutter
assembly 2850 from being removed from the slot.
[0237] The blade 2854 can be sized such that a portion thereof
extends below a lower face 2866 of the blade housing 2852, to cut a
portion of roll-dispensed stock thereunder. The blade housing can
be provided with one or more apertures 2886 extending through the
blade housing 2852. The apertures 2886 can be sized and configured
to allow the passage of air, if the cutter assembly 2850 is
inadvertently swallowed by a child, thereby reducing or eliminating
the risk of choking. Additionally, the apertures 2886 reduce the
overall weight of the cutter assembly 2850 and the materials needed
for production thereof.
[0238] The lower face 2866 of the blade housing 2852 can include a
rounded profile towards front and rear sides of the blade housing
2852, and the lower face 2866 of the blade housing 2852 can also be
provided with a plurality of hemispherical protrusions 2880 adapted
to reduce the surface area of the blade housing 2852 that contacts
the roll-dispensed stock during the cutting process, thereby
reducing friction. As shown, four protrusions 2880 are provided on
the lower face 2866 of the blade housing 2852 and the protrusions
2880 are located behind leading edges 2882 of the blade 2854,
allowing the blade 2854 to cut the roll-dispensed stock before the
protrusions 2880 come into contact therewith. Of course, a arcuate
rail or rocker, as described in connection with FIGS. 54A and 54B,
can be used in place of the protrusions 2880.
[0239] FIGS. 56A and 56B show another insertable slidable cutter
assembly 2950 according to the present disclosure, and are referred
to jointly herein. Cutter assembly 2950 can be substantially
similar in structure and function to cutter assembly 2850,
described in connection with FIGS. 55A and 55B. The cutter assembly
2950 includes a blade housing 2952, a blade 2954, a stem 2958, and
a retaining device 2960 for securing the cutter assembly 2950
within an elongated slot in a wall of a container (see, e.g.,
elongated slot 2325 in surface 2324 of container 2300). As shown in
FIG. 56B, the retaining device 2960 can include a leading edge or
face 2988 having a width less than the width of the elongated slot
into which the cutter assembly 2950 is inserted and resiliently
deformable flanges 2992 that extend at an angle from the leading
face 2988, such that the distance between top edges 2990 of the
flanges 2992 is greater than the width of the elongated slot. As
the cutter assembly 2950 is inserted into the elongated slot, the
flanges 2992 of the retaining device 2960 are compressed by
exterior edges of the elongated slot, such that the flanges 2992 of
the retaining device 2960 can pass therethrough. Once the retaining
device 2960 has been completely inserted through the elongated
slot, the flanges 2992 return to their original configuration (as
shown in FIG. 56B), and the top edges 2990 of the flanges 2992
prevent the cutter assembly 2950 from being removed from the slot.
Cutter assembly 2950 can also include protrusions or arcuate rails,
as described herein, to space the cutter housing 2952 from the
container.
[0240] FIG. 57 is a perspective view of a container 3000 including
a body 3002 having an angled support wall 3012 with an elongated
slot 3025, a slidable cutter assembly 3050 disposed within the
elongated slot 3025, and a lid 3008 disposed over the angled
support wall 3012 having one or more apertures 3036 at opposite
ends thereof, sized to accept the slidable cutter assembly 3050.
When the container 3000 is positioned with the lid 3008 in a closed
configuration (as shown in FIG. 57), the apertures 3036 in the lid
3008 prevent the cutter assembly 3050 from freely moving along the
length of the elongated slot 3025. Conversely, when the container
300 is positioned with the lid 3008 in an open configuration, the
cutter assembly is not constrained by the apertures 3036 in the lid
3008 and is able to freely move along the length of the slot 3025.
The apertures 3036 also show a purchaser the cutter configuration
prior to use or sale.
[0241] FIG. 58 is a perspective view of a container 3100 according
to some aspects of the present disclosure, including a body 3102
having an angled support wall 3112 with an elongated slot 3125, a
slidable cutter assembly 3150 disposed within the elongated slot
3125, and a lid 3108 disposed over the angled support wall 3102.
The lid 3108 is configured with cutouts 3136 at opposite ends
thereof, sized to accommodate the slidable cutter assembly 3150,
when the cutter assembly 3150 is positioned at outermost ends of
the container 3100. When the container 3100 is positioned with the
lid 3108 in a closed configuration (as shown in FIG. 58), the
cutouts 3136 in the lid 3108 prevent the cutter assembly 3150 from
freely moving along the length of the elongated slot 3125.
Conversely, when the container 3100 is positioned with the lid 3108
in an open configuration, the cutter assembly 3150 is not
constrained by the edges of the lid 3108 and is able to freely move
along the length of the slot 3125. The cutouts 3136 also show a
purchaser the cutter configuration prior to use or sale.
[0242] FIG. 59 is a perspective view of a container 3200 according
to some aspects of the present disclosure, including a body 3202
having an angled support wall 3212 with an elongated slot 3225
therein, a slidable cutter assembly 3250 disposed within the
elongated slot 3225, and an elongated strip of material 3236
positioned on the angled support wall 3212 and over at least a
portion of the elongated slot 3225, preventing movement of the
cutter assembly 3250 therealong. The material 3236 can be adhered
to the support wall 3212 using any adhesive. The adhesive is be
adapted to allow the material 3236 to be removed. However, the
adhesive can also be adapted such that the material 3236 can be
replaced. As shown in FIG. 59, the material 3236 can be selectively
positionable over the elongated slot 3225, in order to prevent
movement of the cutter assembly 3250 therein. When the material
3236 is removed, the slidable cutter assembly 3250 is able to
freely move along the length of the slot 3225.
[0243] FIG. 60 is a perspective view of a container 3300 according
to some aspects of the present disclosure, including a body 3302
having a top wall 3308 with an aperture 3336 therein for dispensing
roll-dispensed stock 3332, an angled support wall 3312 with an
elongated slot 3325 therein, and a slidable cutter assembly 3350
disposed within the elongated slot 3125. As shown, the stock 3332
extends from within the body 3302 and is adhered to the support
wall 3313, covering at least a portion of the elongated slot 3325
and preventing movement of the cutter assembly 3350 therealong. The
roll-dispensed stock 3332 can be adhered to the support wall 3312
using adhesives applied to one or both of the support wall 3312 and
a leading edge roll-dispensed stock 3332, or by adhesives applied
to the support wall 3312 and adapted to allow the roll-dispensed
stock 3332 to be removed and later replaced. When a user desires to
cut a segment of the roll-dispensed stock 3332, the user can simply
slide the cutter assembly 3350 across the stock 3332, thereby
separating the stock 3332 from the support wall 3312.
[0244] FIG. 61 is a perspective view of a container 3400 according
to some aspects of the present disclosure. Container can be similar
in structure and function to container 2000, described in
connection with FIGS. 42-43. As shown in FIG. 61, container 3400
includes a body 3402 having an recessed area 3420, a slidable
cutter assembly 3450 disposed within the recessed area 3420, and a
lid 3408 disposed over the body 3402, including the recessed area
3402. The lid 3108 is configured with one or more apertures 3436 in
a front wall 3404 of the lid 3108, along the recessed area 3420,
such that one can observe the position and configuration of the
recessed area 3420 and cutter assembly 3450 without opening the lid
3408, thereby making container 3400 particularly suited for display
and/or marketing purposes.
[0245] FIGS. 62A-62D show additional detail of the track 2042,
described in connection with FIGS. 42 and 43. More specifically,
FIGS. 62A-D are top, front, side, and partial perspective views of
the track 2042, respectively. As shown, track 2042 can include a
bottom wall 2046 and vertical walls 2048, forming a generally
U-shaped cross-section. The track 2042 can also include exterior
flanges 2050 extending away from top edges of the vertical walls
2048, which support the track 2042 within slot 2025, as described
in connection with FIG. 43, for example, and interior flanges 2052
extending towards a center of track 2042 for retaining the slidable
cutter 2044 therein. The track 2042 can be extruded from a single
material. According to other aspects of the present disclosure, the
track 2042 can be formed from a first material and a second layer
of material can be provided (e.g., through coextrusion) on an upper
surface of the track 2042 (not shown) for providing enhanced
adhesive properties.
[0246] FIGS. 63A-E show another rail assembly 3540, according to
some aspects the present disclosure. More specifically, FIG. 63A is
a top view of the rail assembly 3540, FIG. 63B is a partial
perspective view of a first end of the rail assembly 3540, FIG. 63C
is an enlarged top view of the first end of the rail assembly 3540,
FIG. 63D is an enlarged front view of the first end of the rail
assembly 3540, and FIG. 63E is a cross-sectional view (taken along
line T-T of FIG. 63D) of the rail assembly 3540.
[0247] As shown, the rail assembly 3540 includes a rail 3542, a
first end cap 3544a, and a second end cap 3544b. Rail 3542 can
include a bottom wall 3546 and vertical walls 3548, forming a
generally U-shaped cross-section (see FIG. 63E). The rail 3542 can
also include interior flanges 3552 extending from the top edges of
vertical walls 3548 and towards a center of track 3542, for
retaining a slidable cutter (e.g., slidable cutter 2044, described
in connection with FIGS. 42 and 43) therein. Similar to the track
2042, described above, the rail 3542 can be extruded from a single
material, or a second layer of material can be provided (e.g.,
through coextrusion) on an upper surface of the rail 3542 (not
shown) for providing enhanced adhesive properties.
[0248] Each end cap 3544a and 3544b includes a rear wall 3554, with
one or more cap blocks 3556 extending therefrom, in a direction
that is substantially perpendicular to the rear wall 3544, and
along track 3542, at the bottom wall 3546. The one or more cap
blocks 3556 are configured to be received and retained within the
track 3542. Additionally, each end cap 3544 include cap flanges
3558 that extend from the rear wall 3554, in a direction that is
substantially perpendicular thereto, along track 3542 at upper
edges of vertical walls 3548, and parallel to inner flanges 3552 of
the track 3542. The cap flanges 3558 and rear wall 3554 extend
along three sides of the track 3542, forming a generally U-shaped
end, from a top-down view (see, e.g., FIG. 63C). An additional
flange (not shown) can extend from the rear wall 3554 of the end
cap 3544, in a similar fashion to cap flanges 3558, such that
flanges are provided along three sides of the track 3542 at each
end thereof.
[0249] The end caps 3544a and 3544b and cap flanges 3558 support
the rail assembly 3540, recessed into an elongated slot of
container, as described in connection with of one or more of the
containers of the present disclosure. For example, rail assembly
3540 can function similar to track 2042, described in connection
with FIGS. 42, 43, and FIGS. 62A-D. Additionally, the cap blocks
3556 of end caps 3544a and 3544b act as stops, preventing a
slidable cutter (e.g., slidable cutter 2044) from contacting, and
potentially damaging, outermost edges of an elongated slot that are
adjacent to the ends of the track 3542.
[0250] The container of the present disclosure can be manufactured
by producing a container blank, having an elongated slot, folding
the blank to form a container body, and inserting the slidable
cutter assembly into the elongated slot.
[0251] The container blank can be formed from a cardboard material
in a substantially planar configuration prior to folding. The blank
can be cut or stamped from a sheet of cardboard, or other material,
and can include front wall, rear wall, top wall, bottom wall
panels, and any other walls or surfaces described herein.
Perforated or fold lines can be formed for separating the
respective wall panels. The elongated slot can be formed (e.g., in
a wall panel corresponding to a support wall or horizontal wall of
a vertical recess, as described above) by cutting or stamping at
the same time as the blank is cut or stamped from the sheet. An
adhesive, or other means for securing the panels to one another,
can be applied to adjoining wall panels before or after the blank
is formed, or when partially folded, to maintain the blank in the
folded configuration. The steps of producing the container blank
and folding the blank to form a container body can be accomplished
by various automated, and/or robotic, manufacturing processes known
to the art.
[0252] The track (e.g., track 2042 or rail 3542) can be made of
plastic, as described above, and can formed by extrusion, injection
molding, or other commonly known plastic component production
methods. The rails can be formed with or without flanges.
Similarly, the end caps 3544 can be formed by injection molding, or
other production methods. As discussed above, the slidable cutter
(e.g., slidable cutter 2044) can also be formed by injection
molding, or other production methods. The rails and cutter can be
assembled after they are formed. The end caps (in the case of rail
assembly 3540) can be attached to the rail and retained by an
interference fit or an adhesive. The friction or interference fit
can be between the end blocks and the interior surfaces of the
rail.
[0253] The assembled slidable cutter assembly can be picked up
manually, or robotically, and inserted into the elongated slot and
secured by an adhesive applied to undersides of the flanges, the
exterior surface of the container surrounding the elongated slot,
or both. Insertion of the cutter assembly in the elongated slot
includes positioning the assembly proximate to the slot, moving the
assembly to match the orientation of the slot, moving the assembly
into the slot to contact the flanges against the edges of the slot,
and allowing the adhesive, if any, to retain the assembly on the
container. The foregoing steps for inserting the slidable cutter
into the elongated slot can be accomplished with robotic assembly
means and computer vision systems. The slidable cutter assembly has
uniform and uninterrupted vertical walls and is sized to fit into
the elongated slot and has a width less than or equal to the width
of elongated slot to facilitate insertion of the assembly into the
slot. The flanges overhang the rail and extend beyond the vertical
walls of the rail. Accordingly, the body of the container can be
completely formed before the slidable cutter assembly is inserted,
and the body of the container does not need to be manipulated when
the slidable cutter assembly is finally inserted, all of which
simplify the manufacturing and assembly of the container and reduce
production costs.
[0254] FIGS. 64 and 65 show another roll-dispensed stock container
3600 according to some embodiments the present disclosure, having a
coating 3650 disposed on one or more surfaces thereof. More
specifically, FIG. 64 is a perspective view of the roll-dispensed
stock container 3600 positioned in a closed configuration and FIG.
65 is a side elevational view of the roll-dispensed stock container
3600 of FIG. 64.
[0255] As shown in FIG. 64, container 3600 includes a front wall
3604, a rear wall 3606, a bottom wall 3610, side walls 3626 and
3628, a support wall 3612, a lid 3608 with an elongated slot 3642
therein, a slidable cutter 3640 disposed within and movable along
the slot 3642, and fixation strips 3614a and 3614b disposed on the
support wall 3612. The container 3600 can be any container
disclosed herein or otherwise known or developed. The slidable
cutter 3640 can be any slidable cutter disclosed herein, or other
cutter known or developed, for use in connection with container
3600.
[0256] The coating 3650 can be a film, laminate, or other layer of
material and can be provided on one or more surfaces of the
container 3600 to reduce surface friction, increase rigidity,
disperse forces associated with a cutter, and/or otherwise enhance
characteristics of the container 3600. For example, the coating
3650 can be a material having a low coefficient of friction, such
as low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE),
polyimide, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyphenylensulfide (PPS),
nylon, acetal, polyester, or other materials known to those of
ordinary skill in the art having low-friction characteristics. The
coating 3650 can also be formed from a thermoplastic elastomer such
as that sold by Monsanto Company under the trademark Santoprene.
Furthermore, the coating 3650 can be provided as a sheet of
material, applied in a liquid or gaseous form, or otherwise bonded
to the one or more surfaces of the container 3600. The coating 3650
can also be formed from a transparent or translucent material such
that underlying graphics or other indicia provided on the surfaces
of the container 3600 can be viewed therethrough.
[0257] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the
coating 3650 can be configured to reduce friction between the
slidable cutter 3640 and the lid 3608, thereby preventing the
slidable cutter 3640 from binding and/or sticking to the lid 3608
as the slidable cutter 3640 is moved along the slot 3642 to cut the
roll-dispensed stock. For example, as shown best in FIG. 65, the
coating 3650 can be disposed on a top surface of the lid 3608,
about the slot 3642. As discussed herein, pressure is applied to
the slidable cutter 3640 during cutting of the roll-dispensed
stock, which presses shoulders 3690 of the cutter 3640 against the
coating 3650 on the lid 3608. Accordingly, the coating forms a
low-friction interface (e.g., barrier) between the shoulders 3690
of cutter 3640 and the lid 3608, thereby allowing the slidable
cutter 3640 to freely move along the slot 3642 without binding to
the top surface of the lid 3608. As referred to herein, a material
having a low-coefficient of friction, or a low-friction material is
any material or structure having a coefficient of friction that is
less than the material of the container 3600, or that reduces
sliding friction between the slidable cutter 3640 and the container
3600 as the slidable cutter 3640 is moved along the slot 3642.
[0258] As described above, the coating 3650 can increase, or
supplement, the rigidity of the container 3600. The coating 3650
could be formed from one or more of the materials that is
sufficiently thick or rigid to add rigidity to the container 3600.
For example, the coating 3650 shown in FIG. 65 can have a thickness
sufficient to increase the rigidity of the lid 3608 of the
container 3600. According to other embodiments of the present
disclosure, the coating 3650 can be formed from one or more layers
of material, having one or more characteristics. For example, the
coating 3650 could include a first layer of material selected to
increase the rigidity of the container and a second layer of
material selected to reduce friction between the slidable cutter
3640 and the lid 3608 of the container 3600.
[0259] As shown in FIGS. 64 and 65, the coating 3650 can be
provided along the cutting path of the cutter and be sufficiently
wide to accommodate the cutter such that the cutter rides on the
coating 3650 without contacting the surface of the container
therebelow. However, it should be understood that the coating could
extend along an entire surface or wall (see, e.g., FIG. 66), or on
multiple walls or the entire container 3600 (see, e.g., FIG. 67).
Each of the walls of the container 3600 can be provided with a
coating selected and configured to increase the rigidity thereof,
while only the lid 3608 is provided with a low-friction coating. It
should be also be understood that the coatings 3650 disclosed
herein can be applied not only to container 3600, but to any of the
roll-dispensed stock containers described herein, or otherwise
known or developed.
[0260] FIG. 66 is a side elevational view of another roll-dispensed
stock container 3700 according to some embodiments the present
disclosure, having a coating 3750 disposed on over the lid of the
container. Container 3700 includes a front wall 3704, a rear wall
3706, a bottom wall 3710, a first side wall 3726 and a second side
wall (not shown), a support wall 3712, a lid 3708 with an elongated
slot therein (not shown), a slidable cutter 3740 disposed within
and movable along the slot, fixation strips 3714a and 3714b
disposed on the support wall 3712, and a coating 3750 disposed on a
top surface of the 3708. The coating 3750 can be formed form
similar materials and function similar to coating 3650, discussed
in connection with FIGS. 64 and 65, but extends along an entire
surface of the lid 3708. Similarly, the coating 3750 could extend
on more than one wall of the container 3700 (see, e.g., FIG. 67)
and more than one coating can be provided on the container
3700.
[0261] FIG. 67 is a side elevational view of another roll-dispensed
stock container 3800 according to some embodiments the present
disclosure, having a coating 3850 disposed over the entire
container 3800. Container 3800 includes a front wall 3804, a rear
wall 3806, a bottom wall 3810, a first side wall 3826 and a second
side wall (not shown), a support wall 3812, a lid 3808 with an
elongated slot therein (not shown), a slidable cutter 3840 disposed
within and movable along the slot, fixation strips 3814a and 3814b
disposed on the support wall 3812, and the coating 3850 is disposed
over the entire exterior surface of the container 3800. According
to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the container 3800
is also provided with a coating 3851 on the support wall 3812. The
coating 3850, and the coating 3851, can be formed form similar
materials and function similar to coating 3650, discussed above in
connection with FIGS. 64 and 65.
[0262] FIGS. 68A, 68B, and 69 show another roll-dispensed stock
container 3900 according to the present disclosure, having a
support wall 3912 with a recessed track 3942 for accepting a
slidable cutter 3944. More specifically, FIG. 68A is a perspective
view of the roll-dispensed stock container 3900 positioned in an
open configuration, FIG. 68B is a front view of the roll-dispensed
stock container 3900 positioned in a closed configuration with the
slidable cutter 3944 engaged with the track 3942, and FIG. 69 is a
side cross-sectional view (taken along line T-T of FIG. 68B) of the
roll-dispensed stock container 3900. As shown, container 3900
includes a body 3902 including a front wall 3904, a rear wall 3906,
a bottom wall 3910, side walls 3926, 3928, a support wall 3912, and
a lid 3908 forming an enclosure 3930 for holding roll-dispensed
stock, and an opening 3938 for dispensing the roll-dispensed stock
from the enclosure 3930. In a closed configuration (see FIGS. 68B
and 69), the lid 3908 covers the opening 3938 and extends over the
support wall 3912 and the track 3942.
[0263] As shown in FIG. 69, a slidable cutter, indicated generally
at 3944, is disposed within, and travels along, an elongated slot
3920 that extends through the lid 3908 and along the length of the
container 3900. The slidable cutter 3944 includes a blade housing
3954 on the outside of the lid 3908, a blade 3956, a stem 3960 and
a cutter base 3958. The blade 3956 extends through the lid 3908,
and the cutter base 3958 is positioned on an interior side of the
lid 3908. The blade housing 3954 and the base 3958 of the cutter
3944 are configured to have a width greater than the slot 3920,
thereby constraining the cutter 3944 within slot 3920.
[0264] The container 3900 further includes a recessed track 3942,
which is positioned in an elongated slot 3922 that extends along
the length of support wall 3912. First and second apertures 3936a,
3936b are positioned on either end the elongated slot 3922 in the
support wall 3912 and are also in communication with the track
3942. The first and second apertures 3936a, 3936b are sized to
receive the cutter base portion 3958 of the slidable cutter 3944,
allowing the cutter base 3958 to pass through the plane of the
support wall 3912 and into the interior of the body 3902. As
described herein, the cutter base portion 3958 can slide into the
track 3942, and the track 3942 accepts and retains the cutter base
portion 3958 as the cutter 3944 is moved along the length of the
container 3900, urging the lid 3908 toward the support wall 3912
and/or track 3942 during the cutting process. This locking
configuration provides for the application of constant and
consistent pressure to the roll dispensed stock, between the
underside of the lid 3908 and the track 3942, during the cutting
process.
[0265] The track 3942 includes a bottom wall 3946 and vertical
walls 3948, forming a generally U-shaped channel, exterior flanges
3950, and interior flanges 3952. The interior flanges 3952 retain
the cutter base 3958 of the cutter 3944 within the track 3942
during the cutting process. The exterior flanges 3950, support the
track 3942 within the slot 3922, by bearing on the support wall
3912. The track 3942 can be fixed within the slot 3922 by way of an
adhesive applied between the exterior flanges 3950 of the track
3942 and the support wall 3912. According to some embodiments of
the present disclosure, the track 3942 can also be provided with a
second set of exterior flanges (not shown), positioned on the
underside of the support wall 3912, sandwiching the support wall
3912 therebetween, and preventing the track 3942 from being removed
from the slot 3922. According to other embodiments of the present
disclosure, the flanges 3950 of the track 3942 can extend within
the support wall 3912. For example, according to embodiments where
the track 3942 extends within the support wall 3912, the support
wall 3912 can be formed from two or more layers, with the flanges
3950 extending therebetween.
[0266] As shown in FIG. 69, the cutter base 3958 of the slidable
cutter 3944 protrudes below a bottom surface of the lid 3908 and
extends into the aperture 3936a (e.g., into enclosure 3930) in
normal operation when the container 3900 is positioned in the
closed position (e.g., during storage or transportation, or during
a cutting operation). Upon an application of force to the blade
housing 4054 in the direction of arrow U, the blade housing 3954 is
pressed against the exterior side of the lid 3908, the interior
side of the lid 3908 is pressed against the exterior flanges 3950
of the track 3942, and the base 3958 of the cutter 3944 is
positioned such that the cutter base 3958 can be received within
the track 3942. A portion of the lid 3908 can be compressed against
the track 3942 or elastically deformed by the application of force
to the blade housing 3954, so that the cutter base 3958 of the
slidable cutter 3944 fully extends through the aperture 3936 and
the slidable cutter 3944 can be moved into track 3942 and travel
within track 3942 along the length of the container 3900. The
internal flanges 3952 of the track 3942 secure the cutter base 3958
within the track 3942, so the lid 3908 is secured against the track
3942 during the cutting process. This configuration provides for
the application of constant and consistent pressure to the
roll-dispensed stock captured between the lid 3908 and the track
3942, thereby gripping and tensioning the roll-dispensed stock
during the cutting process, and allowing the slidable cutter 3944
to easily and cleanly cut therethrough.
[0267] Importantly, it should be understood that during the cutting
process, the blade housing 3954 is positioned on a top exterior
surface of the lid 3908, the cutter base 3958 is positioned below
the flanges 3952 of the track 3942 (e.g., below the support wall
3912 and within the container 3900, and the blade 3956 extends
therebetween, securing the lid 3908 of the container 3900 in a
closed position throughout the cutting process. Once the cutting
process has been completed (e.g., by moving the slidable cutter
across 3944 the length of the track 3942), the lid 3908 of the
container 3900 can be released and opened by moving the base 3958
of the slidable cutter to one of the apertures 3936a and 3936b. For
example, after the slidable cutter 3944 has traveled from one end
of the container 3900 to an opposite end of the container 3900
(e.g., moving from aperture 3936a to 3936b, or vice versa), the
cutter base 3958 of the slidable cutter 3944 can be freed from the
track 3942 by positioning the base of the cutter within the
aperture 3936a or 3936b at the opposite end of the container and
the lid 3908 of the container 3900 can be opened.
[0268] It should also be understood that some embodiments of the
present disclosure include only one of the apertures 3936a and
3936b. According to such embodiments, once the cutting process has
been completed (e.g., by moving the slidable cutter across 3944 the
length of the track 3942), the slidable cutter 3944 must be
returned to its original position before the lid 3908 of the
container 3900 can be released and opened. For example, after the
slidable cutter 3944 has traveled from one end of the container
3900 (e.g., from an initial starting position at aperture 3936a or
3936b) to an opposite end of the container 3900, the slidable
cutter 3944 must be returned to its original starting position
(e.g., aperture 3936a or 3936b) before the cutter base 3958 can be
freed from the track 3942 by positioning the base 3944 of the
cutter within the aperture 3936a or 3936b. Conversely, the lid 3908
of the container 3900 can be secured in the closed position (e.g.,
for storage or transportation) by leaving, or positioning, the base
3944 of the slidable cutter 3944 within the track 3942.
[0269] FIG. 70 is a perspective view of another roll-dispensed
stock container 4000 according to the present disclosure,
positioned in an open configuration. Container 4000 includes a body
4002 including a front wall 4004, a rear wall 4006, a bottom wall
4010, side walls 4026, 4028, a support wall 4012, and a lid 4008
forming an enclosure 4030 for holding roll-dispensed stock, and an
opening 4038 for dispensing the roll-dispensed stock from the
enclosure 4030. In a closed configuration (see, e.g., container
3900 discussed in connection with FIG. 69), the lid 4008 covers the
opening 4038 and extends over the support wall 4012. A slidable
cutter 4044 is disposed within, and travels along, an elongated
slot 4020 that extends through the lid 4008 and along the length of
the container 4000.
[0270] The container 4000 further includes an elongated slot 4022
that extends along the length of the support wall 4012. First and
second apertures 4036a, 4036b are positioned on either end the
elongated slot 4022. The first and second apertures 4036a, 4036b
are sized to receive a base portion 4058 of the slidable cutter
4044, allowing the base 4058 to pass through the plane of the
support wall 4012 and into the interior of the body 4002.
[0271] The elongated slot 4022 is sized to accept a blade and a
stem (see, e.g., blade 3956 and stem 3960 shown in FIG. 69) of the
cutter 4044, allowing travel therein, and to retain the base
portion 4058 of the cutter 4044 under the support wall 4012 as the
cutter 4044 it is moved along the length of the container 4000,
urging the lid 4008 toward the support wall 4012 during the cutting
process. This configuration provides for the application of
constant and consistent pressure to the roll dispensed stock,
between the lid 4008 and the support wall 4012, during the cutting
process.
[0272] Similar to operation of the container 3900, the base 4058 of
the slidable cutter 4044 protrudes below a bottom surface of the
lid 4008 and extends into the aperture 4036a (e.g., into enclosure
4030) when the container 4000 is positioned in the closed position
(e.g., during storage or transportation). During the cutting
process, the base 4058 of the cutter 4044 is moved from one of the
apertures 4036a, 4036b to a position under the support wall 4012 as
the cutter 4044 is moved along the length of the container 4000,
retaining the base 4058 of the cutter 4044 under the support wall
and pressing the interior side of the lid 4008 against the support
wall 4012, and securing the roll-dispensed stock therebetween. This
configuration provides for the application of constant and
consistent pressure to the roll-dispensed stock captured between
the lid 4008 and the support wall 4012, thereby gripping and
tensioning the roll-dispensed stock during the cutting process, and
allowing the slidable cutter 4044 to easily and cleanly cut
therethrough.
[0273] Importantly, it should be understood that during the cutting
process, the blade housing 4054 is positioned on a top exterior
surface of the lid 4008, the cutter base 4058 is positioned below
the support wall 4012 and within the container 4000, and the blade
4056 extends therebetween, securing the lid 4008 of the container
4000 in a closed position throughout the cutting process. Once the
cutting process has been completed (e.g., by moving the slidable
cutter 4044 across the length of the elongated slot 4022), the lid
4008 of the container 4000 can be released and opened by moving the
base 4058 of the slidable cutter to one of the apertures 4036a and
4036b at either end of the elongated slot 4022. For example, after
the slidable cutter 4044 has traveled from one end of the container
4000 to an opposite end of the container 4000 (e.g., moving from
aperture 4036a to 4036b, or vice versa), the cutter base 4058 of
the slidable cutter 4044 can be freed from the support wall
4012/elongated slot 4022 by positioning the base 4058 of the cutter
within the aperture 4036a or 4036b at the opposite end of the
container 4000 and the lid 4008 of the container 4000 can then be
opened.
[0274] It should also be understood that some embodiments of the
present disclosure include only one of the apertures 4036a and
4036b. According to such embodiments, once the cutting process has
been completed (e.g., by moving the slidable cutter 4044 across the
length of the elongated slot 4022), the slidable cutter 4044 must
be returned to its original position before the lid 4008 of the
container 4000 can be released and opened. For example, after the
slidable cutter 4044 has traveled from one end of the container
4000 (e.g., from an initial starting position at aperture 4036a or
4036b) to an opposite end of the container 4000, the slidable
cutter 4044 must be returned to its original starting position
(e.g., aperture 4036a or 4036b) before the cutter base 4058 can be
freed from the elongated slot 4022/support wall 4012 by positioning
the base 4044 of the cutter 4044 within the starting aperture 4036a
or 4036b. Conversely, the lid 4008 of the container 4000 can be
secured in the closed position (e.g., for storage or
transportation) by leaving, or positioning, the slidable cutter
4044 along the elongated slot 4022.
[0275] FIG. 71 is a perspective view of another roll-dispensed
stock container 4100 according to the present disclosure,
positioned in an open configuration. Container 4100 includes a body
4102 including a front wall 4104, a rear wall 4106, a bottom wall
4110, side walls 4126, 4128, a support wall 4112, and a lid 4108
forming an enclosure 4130 for holding roll-dispensed stock, and an
opening 4138 for dispensing the roll-dispensed stock from the
enclosure 4130. In a closed configuration (see, e.g., container
3900 discussed in connection with FIG. 69), the lid 4108 covers the
opening 4138 and extends over the support wall 4112. A slidable
cutter 4144 is disposed within, and travels along, an elongated
slot 4120 that extends through the support wall 4112 and along the
length of the container 4100.
[0276] The container 4100 further includes an elongated slot 4122
that extends along the length of the lid 4108. First and second
apertures 4136a, 4136b are positioned on either end the elongated
slot 4122. The first and second apertures 4136a, 4136b are sized to
receive the blade housing 4154 of the slidable cutter 4144,
allowing the blade housing 4154 to pass through the lid 4108 when
the container 4100 is positioned in the closed position (e.g.,
during storage, transportation, or during a cutting operation).
[0277] The elongated slot 4122 is sized to accept a blade and a
stem (see, e.g., blade 3956 and stem 3960 shown in FIG. 69) of the
cutter 4144, allowing the cutter 2144 to travel therein, as the
cutter 4144 is moved along the length of the container 4100 during
the cutting process. The elongated slot 4122 is also sized such
that the lid 4108 is engaged by the blade housing 4154 of the
cutter 4144, and held in a closed position, during the cutting
process. This configuration provides for the application of
constant and consistent pressure to the roll dispensed stock,
between the lid 4108 and the support wall 4112, during the cutting
process.
[0278] As the cutter 4144 is moved along the length of the
container 4100 during the cutting process, the blade housing 4154
of the cutter 4144 is moved from its position within one of the
apertures 4136a, 4136b, through the elongate slot 4022, and over
the lid 4108. This engages the blade housing 4154 with a top
surface of the lid 4108, compressing a bottom side of the lid 4108
against the support wall 4112, and securing the roll-dispensed
stock therebetween. This configuration provides for the application
of constant and consistent pressure to the roll-dispensed stock
captured between the lid 4108 and the support wall 4112, thereby
gripping and tensioning the roll-dispensed stock during the cutting
process, and allowing the slidable cutter 4144 to easily and
cleanly cut therethrough.
[0279] Importantly, it should be understood that during the cutting
process, the blade housing 4154 is positioned on a top exterior
surface of the lid 4108, the cutter base 4158 is positioned below
the support wall 4112 and within the container 4100, and the blade
4156 extends therebetween, securing the lid 4108 of the container
4100 in a closed position throughout the cutting process. Once the
cutting process has been completed (e.g., by moving the slidable
cutter 4144 across the length of the elongated slot 4122), the lid
4108 of the container 4100 can be released and opened by moving the
blade housing 4154 of the slidable cutter 4144 to one of the
apertures 4136a and 4136b at either end of the elongated slot 4122.
For example, after the slidable cutter 4144 has traveled from one
end of the container 4100 to an opposite end of the container 4100
(e.g., moving from aperture 4136a to 4136b, or vice versa), the
blade housing 4154 of the slidable cutter 4144 can be freed from
the lid 4108/elongated slot 4122 by positioning the blade housing
4154 of the cutter 4144 within the aperture 4136a or 4136b at the
opposite end of the container 4100 and the lid 4108 of the
container 4100 can then be opened.
[0280] It should also be understood that some embodiments of the
present disclosure include only one of the apertures 4136a and
4136b. According to such embodiments, once the cutting process has
been completed (e.g., by moving the slidable cutter 4144 across the
length of the elongated slot 4122), the slidable cutter 4144 must
be returned to its original position before the lid 4108 of the
container 4100 can be released and opened. For example, after the
slidable cutter 4144 has traveled from one end of the container
4100 (e.g., from an initial starting position at aperture 4136a or
4136b) to an opposite end of the container 4100, the slidable
cutter 4144 must be returned to its original starting position
(e.g., aperture 4136a or 4136b) before the blade housing 4154 can
be freed from the elongated slot 4122/lid 4108 by positioning the
blade housing 4154 of the cutter 4144 within the starting aperture
4136a or 4136b. Conversely, the lid 4108 of the container 4100 can
be secured in the closed position (e.g., for storage or
transportation) by leaving, or positioning, the slidable cutter
4144 along the elongated slot 4122.
[0281] FIG. 72 is a perspective view of another roll-dispensed
stock container 4200 according to the present disclosure,
positioned in an open configuration. Container 4200 includes a body
4202 including a front wall 4204, a rear wall 4206, a bottom wall
4210, side walls 4226, 4228, a support wall 4212, and a lid 4208
forming an enclosure 4230 for holding roll-dispensed stock, and an
opening 4238 for dispensing the roll-dispensed stock from the
enclosure 4230. In a closed configuration, the lid 4208 covers the
opening 4238 and extends over the support wall 4212.
[0282] The recessed rail 4242 is positioned within an elongated
slot, which extends through the support wall 4212 and along the
length of the container 4200, and a slidable cutter 4244 is
disposed within, and travels along, the recessed rail 4242. A base
of the cutter 4244 is positioned within a U-shaped channel formed
by bottom and vertical walls of the track 4242 and is retained
therein by interior flanges 4252. Accordingly, the base of the
cutter 4244 is recessed below the support wall 4212 and a blade
housing 4254 is positioned above the support wall 4212. The track
4242 can also include exterior flanges 4250, which support the
track 4242 on the support wall 4212 and serve to recess the track
4242 within the elongated slot of the support wall 4212 by bearing
thereagainst. The track 4242 can be fixed within the slot of the
support wall 4212 by way of an adhesive applied between the
exterior flanges 4250 of the track 4242 and the support wall 4212.
According to other embodiments, the track 4242 can be provided with
a second set of exterior flanges and/or the flanges of the track
4242 can extend within the support wall 4212, as described, for
example, in connection with FIGS. 68 and 69.
[0283] The container 4200 further includes an elongated slot 4222
that extends along the length of the lid 4208. First and second
apertures 4236a, 4236b are positioned on either end the elongated
slot 4222. The first and second apertures 4236a, 4236b are sized to
receive the blade housing 4254 of the slidable cutter 4244,
allowing the blade housing 4254 to pass through the lid 4208 when
the container 4200 is positioned in the closed position (e.g.,
during storage, transportation, or during a cutting operation). The
elongated slot 4222 is sized to accept a blade and a stem (see,
e.g., blade 3956 and stem 3960 shown in FIG. 69) of the cutter
4244, allowing the cutter 2144 to travel therein, as the cutter
4244 is moved along the length of the container 4200 during the
cutting process. The elongated slot 4222 is also sized such that
the lid 4208 is engaged by the blade housing 4254 of the cutter
4244, and held in a closed position, during the cutting process.
This configuration provides for the application of constant and
consistent pressure to the roll dispensed stock, compressed between
the lid 4208 and the flanges (e.g., inner flanges 4252 and outer
flanges 4250) the track 4242, during the cutting process.
[0284] As the cutter 4244 is moved along the length of the
container 4200 during the cutting process, the blade housing 4254
of the cutter 4244 is moved from its position within one of the
apertures 4236a, 4236b, through the elongated slot 4222, and over
the lid 4208. This engages the blade housing 4254 with a top
surface of the lid 4208, compressing a bottom side of the lid 4208
against the flanges (e.g., inner flanges 4252 and outer flanges
4250) the track 4242, and securing the roll-dispensed stock
therebetween. This configuration allows the container 4200 to grip
and tension the roll-dispensed stock between the lid 4208 and the
flanges (e.g., inner flanges 4252 and outer flanges 4250) of the
track 4242 during the cutting process, and allows the slidable
cutter 4244 to easily and cleanly cut therethrough.
[0285] Importantly, it should be understood that during the cutting
process, the blade housing 4254 is positioned on a top exterior
surface of the lid 4208, the cutter base 4258 is positioned below
the support wall 4212 and within the container 4200, and the blade
4256 extends therebetween, securing the lid 4208 of the container
4200 in a closed position throughout the cutting process. Once the
cutting process has been completed (e.g., by moving the slidable
cutter 4244 across the length of the elongated slot 4222), the lid
4208 of the container 4200 can be released and opened by moving the
blade housing 4254 of the slidable cutter 4244 to one of the
apertures 4236a and 4236b at either end of the elongated slot 4222.
For example, after the slidable cutter 4244 has traveled from one
end of the container 4200 to an opposite end of the container 4200
(e.g., moving from aperture 4236a to 4236b, or vice versa), the
blade housing 4254 of the slidable cutter 4244 can be freed from
the lid 4208/elongated slot 4222 by positioning the blade housing
4254 of the cutter 4244 within the aperture 4236a or 4236b at the
opposite end of the container 4200 and the lid 4208 of the
container 4200 can then be opened.
[0286] It should also be understood that some embodiments of the
present disclosure include only one of the apertures 4236a and
4236b. According to such embodiments, once the cutting process has
been completed (e.g., by moving the slidable cutter 4244 across the
length of the elongated slot 4222), the slidable cutter 4244 must
be returned to its original position before the lid 4208 of the
container 4200 can be released and opened. For example, after the
slidable cutter 4244 has traveled from one end of the container
4200 (e.g., from an initial starting position at aperture 4236a or
4236b) to an opposite end of the container 4200, the slidable
cutter 4244 must be returned to its original starting position
(e.g., aperture 4236a or 4236b) before the blade housing 4254 can
be freed from the elongated slot 4222/lid 4208 by positioning the
blade housing 4254 of the cutter 4244 within the starting aperture
4236a or 4236b. Conversely, the lid 4208 of the container 4200 can
be secured in the closed position (e.g., for storage or
transportation) by leaving, or positioning, the slidable cutter
4244 along the elongated slot 4222.
[0287] FIG. 73 is a perspective view of another roll-dispensed
stock container 4300 according to the present disclosure,
positioned in an open configuration and including a cutter assembly
4340 positioned in a recessed area 4362. Container 4300 includes a
body 4302 including a front wall 4304, a rear wall 4306, a bottom
wall 4310, side walls 4326, 4328, a support wall 4312, and a lid
4308 having a front flap 4364 and side flaps 4366, 4368, forming an
enclosure 4330 for holding roll-dispensed stock, and an opening
4338 for dispensing the roll-dispensed stock from the enclosure
4330. The cutter assembly 4340 includes a recessed track 4342 and a
slidable cutter 4344 and is positioned on the support wall 4312 and
within the recessed area 4362.
[0288] The support wall 4312 is positioned below top edges 4376,
4378 of the side walls 4326, 4328 and is generally parallel with
the bottom wall 4310 of the container, but could be provided at
other angles relative thereto. As shown, the recessed area 4362 is
defined by the space between one or more of the support wall 4312,
the side walls 4326, 4328, and the lid 4308 (e.g., when positioned
in a closed configuration) and protects the cutter assembly 4340
during shipping or storage of the container 4300. In particular,
the recessed area 4362 is configured such that the cutter assembly
4340 does not extend beyond planes defined by the top edges 4376,
4378 of the side walls 4326, 4328, the lid 4308 (e.g., when
positioned in the closed configuration), and/or the front wall
4304. Due to the recessed positioning of the cutter assembly 4340,
multiple containers 4300 can be stacked relative to each other
without imparting pressure or force on the cutter assembly 4340,
thereby preventing potential damage to the cutter assembly
4340.
[0289] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the
support wall 4312 can extend generally perpendicular to the front
wall and can be positioned at a height such that stock being
dispensed from the opening 4330 can be extended directly over the
track 4342 (e.g., generally parallel to the support wall and/or a
surface on which the container 4300 is placed) and generally
perpendicular to a blade (see, e.g., blade 3956 of cutter 3944) of
the slidable cutter 4344, enabling the roll-dispensed stock to be
laid flat over the track 4342 during the cutting process and
thereby producing an even and repeatable cut, without bunching or
tearing of the roll-dispensed sock.
[0290] In the closed configuration (see, e.g., container 3900
discussed in connection with FIG. 69), the lid 4308 covers the
opening 4338, the recessed area 4362, and the support wall 4312.
Specifically, the front flap 4364 of the lid 4308 extends from a
front edge 4370 of the lid 4308 and over the front wall 4304 of the
container 4300 to prevent debris from entering the container
through the recessed area and the side flaps 4366, 4368 extend from
lateral edges 4372, 4374 of the lid 4308 and over the side walls
4326, 4328 of the container 4300 to provide structural rigidity to
the front flap 4364 and to allow the lid 4308 to rest on upper
edges 4376, 4378 of the respective side walls 4326, 4328, thereby
preventing contact with the cutter assembly 4340 in the closed
configuration.
[0291] The recessed rail 4342 is positioned within an elongated
slot (see, e.g., slot 2025 shown in FIG. 43), which extends through
the support wall 4312 and along the length of the container 4300,
and the slidable cutter 4344 is disposed within, and travels along,
the recessed rail 4342. The recessed rail 4342 and slidable cutter
4344 can be functionally and structurally similar to the recessed
rail 2042 and slidable cutter 2044, respectively, described in
connection with FIGS. 42 and 43. A base (see, e.g., base 2058 of
cutter 2044) of the cutter 4344 is positioned within a U-shaped
channel formed by bottom and vertical walls (see, e.g., bottom wall
2046 and vertical walls 2048 of track 2042) of the track 4342 and
is retained therein by interior flanges 4352. Accordingly, at least
a portion of the cutter assembly 4340 is recessed below the support
wall 4312 (e.g., within enclosure 4330). The track 4342 can also
include exterior flanges 4350, which support the track 4342 on the
support wall 4312 and serve to recess the track 4342 within the
elongated slot of the support wall 4312 by bearing thereagainst.
The track 4342 can be fixed within the slot of the support wall
4312 by way of an adhesive applied between the exterior flanges
4350 of the track 4342 and the support wall 4312. According to
other embodiments, the track 4342 can be provided with a second set
of exterior flanges and/or the flanges of the track 4342 can extend
within the support wall 4312, as described in connection with FIGS.
68A, 68B, and 69. As such, the track 4342 can be fully or partially
recessed below the support wall 4312 and the recessed area 4362. It
should be noted that other cutters, tracks, or cutter assemblies of
the present disclosure, or otherwise known or developed, could be
provided on the support wall 4312. For example, in some
embodiments, the support wall 4312 does not include an elongated
slot. According to such embodiments, a cutter assembly, including a
track and a cutter slidable therealong, could be affixed to top
surface of the support wall 4312 (e.g., via an adhesive or the
like).
[0292] FIG. 74 is a perspective view of another roll-dispensed
stock container 4400 according to the present disclosure,
positioned in an open configuration and including a slidable cutter
4444 positioned in a recessed area 4462. Container 4400 can include
like structures and function similar to container 4300, discussed
in connection with FIG. 73, other containers discussed herein, or
otherwise known or developed. Container 4400 differs from container
4300 in that container 4400 does not include a track (e.g.,
recessed track 4342), allowing for a more streamlined manufacturing
and assembly process.
[0293] Container 4400 includes a body 4402 including a front wall
4404, a rear wall 4406, a bottom wall 4410, side walls 4426, 4428,
a support wall 4412, and a lid 4408 having a front flap 4464 and
side flaps 4466, 4468, forming an enclosure 4430 for holding
roll-dispensed stock, and an opening 4438 for dispensing the
roll-dispensed stock from the enclosure 4430. The slidable cutter
4444 is disposed within, and travels along, an elongated slot 4420
that extends through the support wall 4412 and along the length of
the container 4400. The slidable cutter 4444 is retained within the
elongated slot 4420 by a base (see, e.g., base 4058 of cutter 4044)
positioned on an interior side of the support wall 4412 (e.g.,
within enclosure 4430) and a blade housing 4454 positioned on a top
side of the support wall 4412.
[0294] The support wall 4412 is positioned below top edges 4476,
4478 of the side walls 4426, 4428 and is generally parallel with
the bottom wall 4410 of the container, but could be provided at
other angles relative thereto. As shown, the recessed area 4462 is
defined by the space between one or more of the support wall 4412,
the side walls 4426, 4428, and the lid 4408 (e.g., when positioned
in a closed configuration) and protects the slidable cutter 4444
during shipping or storage of the container 4400. In particular,
the recessed area 4462 is configured such that the slidable cutter
4444 does not extend beyond planes defined by the top edges 4476,
4478 of the side walls 4426, 4428, the lid 4408 (e.g., when
positioned in the closed configuration), and/or the front wall
4404. Due to the recessed positioning of the slidable cutter 4444,
multiple containers 4400 can be stacked relative to each other
without imparting pressure or force on the slidable cutter 4444,
thereby preventing potential damage to the slidable cutter
4444.
[0295] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the
support wall 4412 can extend generally perpendicular to the front
wall and can be positioned at a height such that stock being
dispensed from the opening 4430 can be extended directly over
(e.g., generally parallel to the support wall 4412 and/or a surface
on which the container 4400 is placed) the support wall 4412 and
generally perpendicular to a blade (see, e.g., blade 3956 of cutter
3944) of the slidable cutter 4444, enabling the roll-dispensed
stock to be laid flat over the support wall 4412 during the cutting
process and thereby producing an even and repeatable cut, without
bunching or tearing of the roll-dispensed sock.
[0296] In the closed configuration (see, e.g., container 3900
discussed in connection with FIG. 69), the lid 4408 covers the
opening 4438, the recessed area 4462, and the support wall 4412.
Specifically, the front flap 4464 of the lid 4408 extends from a
front edge 4470 of the lid 4408 and over the front wall 4404 of the
container 4400 to prevent debris from entering the container
through the recessed area and the side flaps 4466, 4468 extend from
lateral edges 4472, 4474 of the lid 4408 and over the side walls
4426, 4428 of the container 4400 to provide structural rigidity to
the front flap 4464 and to allow the lid 4408 to rest on upper
edges 4476, 4478 of the respective side walls 4426, 4428, thereby
preventing contact with the cutter assembly 4440 in the closed
configuration.
[0297] In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure,
containers 3900, 4000, 4100, 4200, 4300, and 4400 can be configured
to dispense, and slidable cutters 3944, 4044, 4144, 4144, 4344, and
4444 can be configured to cut, plastic wrap, foil (e.g., aluminum
or tin foil), wax paper, parchment paper, tape, duct tape, wrapping
paper, non-woven fabric and other roll-dispensed stock. Further, it
is contemplated that any of the embodiments of the containers of
the present disclosure could be configured to dispense and cut any
of the roll-dispensed stock described herein.
[0298] While exemplary embodiments have been described herein, it
is expressly noted that these embodiments should not be construed
as limiting, but rather that additions and modifications to what is
expressly described herein also are included within the scope of
the invention. Moreover, it is to be understood that the features
of the various embodiments described herein are not mutually
exclusive and can exist in various combinations and permutations,
even if such combinations or permutations are not made express
herein, without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention.
* * * * *