Power transfer system apparatus
US6736348B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 28, 2000 |
| Grant date | May 18, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 19, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA47K10/3612
- WIPO fieldFurniture, games
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A paper towel dispenser which provides for hands free, automatic feeding of the first sheet of a primary web roll, such as a paper towel roll, into a feed mechanism when its cover is closed. The dispenser also automatically transfers its web feed supply from a primary roll to a reserve roll upon the exhaustion of the primary roll. The present invention eliminates the need for an attendant to thread the leading edge of a primary or reserve roll into the feed mechanism of the dispenser. The dispenser also eliminates wasted paper because it does not begin to feed the reserve roll until the primary roll has expired. The dispenser can include either a manual feed mechanism or a powered feed mechanism. The dispenser relies on a sensor for determining when a portion of the web is absent from a side of the feed mechanism proximate a web discharge opening. When such an absence is sensed, an automatic, powered web transfer mechanism contacts the web located in front of the feed mechanism and positions it between the rollers of the feed mechanism. The transfer mechanism includes a web transfer member and a motor for driving the transfer member in the direction of the feed mechanism. The dispe…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.