WO2013105887A1 - Foldable dispenser - Google Patents

Foldable dispenser Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2013105887A1
WO2013105887A1 PCT/SE2012/050014 SE2012050014W WO2013105887A1 WO 2013105887 A1 WO2013105887 A1 WO 2013105887A1 SE 2012050014 W SE2012050014 W SE 2012050014W WO 2013105887 A1 WO2013105887 A1 WO 2013105887A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
hinge member
hinge
dispenser
arrangement
portable dispenser
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/SE2012/050014
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Lisa Petersson
Anna RYNVALL
Eva-Lii SAARVÄLI
Original Assignee
Sca Hygiene Products Ab
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Sca Hygiene Products Ab filed Critical Sca Hygiene Products Ab
Priority to PCT/SE2012/050014 priority Critical patent/WO2013105887A1/en
Publication of WO2013105887A1 publication Critical patent/WO2013105887A1/en

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D83/00—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents
    • B65D83/08—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents for dispensing thin flat articles in succession
    • B65D83/0805—Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents for dispensing thin flat articles in succession through an aperture in a wall

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a portable dispenser arrangement comprising a dispenser and a hinged fastening arrangement.
  • the dispenser comprises a casing defining an inner volume for storing disposable hygiene items and a dispensing opening for removal of the hygiene items from the dispenser.
  • the hinged fastening arrangement comprises a first hinge comprising a first hinge member and a second hinge member being hingeably joined to each other via a first hinge portion. The first hinge member is attached to the casing.
  • dispensers for dispensing various types of hygiene articles such as wet wipes, wipes, sanitary pads, paper, toilet paper (wet and dry), napkins, latex gloves, shoe protection, feminine towels, absorbent articles etc.
  • dispensers Common for all dispensers are that they comprise an opening through which the articles can be dispensed.
  • Dispensers that may be attached to a surface in order to increase the number of places where the dispenser can be positioned and used are also known.
  • An example of such a dispenser is described in US 2010/0270325.
  • the dispenser comprises an affixing tab attached to a top panel of a rectangular box.
  • the affixing tab comprises attachment means that allows for attachment on any type of surface, vertically or horizontally extended.
  • dispenser has to be removed from the surface if the user wants to stow away the dispenser, if the user wishes to conceal the dispenser.
  • One reason for wanting to conceal the dispenser would be if the dispenser comprises personal hygiene articles.
  • Another reason could be to simply save space or for aesthetic reasons.
  • Yet another reason could be to hide the dispenser in a nursing staffs cupboard, in order to hinder a person receiving care from using the dispenser without the supervision of the nursing staff.
  • a portable dispenser arrangement comprising a dispenser and a hinged fastening arrangement.
  • the dispenser comprises a casing defining an inner volume for storing disposable hygiene items and a dispensing opening for removal of the hygiene items from the dispenser.
  • the hinged fastening arrangement comprises a first hinge comprising a first hinge member and a second hinge member being hingeably joined to each other via a first hinge portion.
  • the first hinge member is attached to the casing.
  • the casing could be made from a soft material, stiff material or a mix therebetween.
  • the casing could have any desired shape or form.
  • the hinged fastening arrangement comprises a second hinge comprising the second hinge member and a third hinge member being hingeably joined to each other via a second hinge portion.
  • the third hinge member comprises first fastening means for attachment to a surface being delimited by an outer edge. The outer edge could be straight or curved.
  • a first distance between the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion taken along the hinge member is predetermined to allow for movement of the dispenser about the second hinge portion from an unfolded use position to a folded storage position such that the complete casing passes a virtual plane extending perpendicular to the surface and along the outer edge.
  • the first distance is the length between the centre of rotation of the first hinge portion and the centre of rotation of the second hinge portion, taken along an outer surface of the second hinge member.
  • the virtual plane may be a two dimensional plane or three dimensional plane, dependent on the curvature of the outer edge of the surface. If the outer edge is straight, the virtual plane is two dimensional, and if the outer edge is curved, the virtual plane is three dimensional.
  • the virtual plane has an extension essentially perpendicular to the extension of the third hinge member.
  • the surface is preferably one part of a storage compartment comprising wall(s), a roof and a bottom.
  • the storage compartment is a box it comprises a number of walls, at least two, a roof, a bottom and a door.
  • the dispenser should be able to be moved from the storage position within the storage compartment to the use position outside the storage compartment while the third hinge member is still attached to the inside of the storage compartment and still linked to the casing.
  • the dispenser should be able to be folded from its use position outside the storage compartment to the folded storage position within the storage compartment.
  • the dispenser passes the virtual plane that refers to the position of the door.
  • the dispenser and at least a part of the hinge arrangement must pass the virtual plane in order for the door to be able to be closed properly.
  • the door could be any type of door, for example one or more pivoting doors or a rolling shutter.
  • the surface could thus be a part of any one of the wall(s) or the roof or the bottom as long as the dispenser could be attached to the surface for movement between the use position and the storage position.
  • the portable dispenser it is intended to be attached to the surface via the first attachment means such that the dispenser arrangement can be unfolded such that the dispenser protrudes outside the storage compartment, and then be folded to the storage position such that the door can be closed.
  • the attachment of the dispenser 2 to the surface has the advantage that it allows for a user to dispense the hygiene items by use of only one hand since the dispenser does not have to be held by the other hand.
  • the unique hinge arrangement has the advantage that it allows for the dispenser arrangement to be folded into its storage position within the storage compartment, for example a cupboard, such that a door can be closed.
  • the first hinge member or a part of the first hinge member may be a unitary part of the dispenser.
  • the first hinge member may be attachable to the casing and may also be releasably attachable to the casing.
  • the first hinge member may be attached to the dispenser via second fastening means.
  • the second fastening means may be glue, adhesive, a pouch in which the casing can be held, straps that holds and secures the casing in position, or any other suitable attachment means.
  • the first hinge member is attached to the second hinge member via the first hinge portion.
  • the first hinge member may be releasably attached to the second hinge member via the first hinge portion.
  • the second hinge member is attached to the third hinge member via the second hinge portion.
  • the second hinge member may be a single portion being attached to the first hinge member via the first hinge portion and the third hinge member via the second hinge portion.
  • the second hinge member may comprise at least a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion is attached to the second portion.
  • the first portion may be releasably attached to the second portion or may be secured in position after the attachment.
  • the third hinge member may be a single portion being attached to the second hinge member via the second hinge portion.
  • the third hinge member comprises at least a third portion and a fourth portion, wherein the third portion is attached to the fourth portion.
  • the third portion may be releasably attached to the fourth portion or may be secured in position after the attachment.
  • the first fastening means covers at least partially the third hinge member and may partially or fully be covering the third and/or the fourth parts.
  • the first fastening means completely covers the third hinge member.
  • the first fastening means is advantageously arranged for releasable attachment to the surface.
  • the first fastening means may be any known attachment means, for example, adhesive, glue and adhesive tape.
  • the first distance is dependent on the size and geometry of the casing, and the size, geometry and rigidity of the first hinge member, and the pivoting feature of the first hinge, and the position of the second hinge portion.
  • the first distance must be long enough to allow for the complete casing to pass the virtual plane when the portable dispenser arrangement is moved from the use position to the storage position.
  • the second hinge is positioned at the edge of the surface.
  • the first hinge is positioned in the transmission area between the casing and first hinge member.
  • the first hinge member is positioned on or in the dispenser/casing and the first hinge portion is essentially the only thing that separates the second hinge member from the dispenser.
  • the dispenser is supposed to be lying in an essentially straight line with the second hinge member in the folded storage position.
  • the attachment point of the hinge arrangement to the dispenser is the closest point of the dispenser to the virtual plane.
  • the dispenser can be in any geometrical shape that does not allow for a part of the dispenser to build over the second hinge member.
  • the second hinge member may be of a resilient material, a stiff material or may be a resilient material with stiffening means for reinforcing the structure.
  • the first distance depends on the shape and size of the dispenser. If the dispenser is a rectangular or quadratic box and the first hinge portion is positioned at one corner of the box, the first side of the box being connected to the first hinge portion will have an extension parallel against the surface and that second side of the box being connected to the first hinge portion will have an extension parallel to the virtual plane since the first hinge portion allows for such pivoting motion.
  • the first distance may be close to zero if the design is chosen such that the dispenser does not have to protrude more from the storage compartment than the dispenser size itself and if it is enough to allow closing of the door.
  • the longer the first distance is the longer the arrangement will protrude from the storage compartment during use and the longer into the storage compartment the dispenser will be during storage.
  • the distance cannot be zero since this would mean that there is only one hinge in the hinge arrangement and this would take away the positive effect of the dispenser having the possibility to swing or pivot about the first hinge portion up to 360 degrees into a favourable predetermined use position and storage position; and then also have the possibility to swing or pivot about the second hinge portion up to 360 degrees from the storage position to the use position, and vice versa.
  • the first hinge portion is positioned in the second side in the rectangular or square box described above.
  • the first distance must be equal to or greater than the distance between the first hinge portion and the corner between the first side and the second side if the first side is facing the surface.
  • the extension of the second hinge member could then be essentially parallel to the virtual plane and the second side and the box have been rotated accordingly about the first hinge portion.
  • the second side was facing the surface then the second hinge member would have an extension essentially parallel with the surface.
  • a third side of the box, opposite the first side would then be positioned closest to the virtual plane and would have an have an extension parallel to the virtual plane.
  • the first distance would have to be at least the distance between the first hinge portion and the corner between the second side and the third side.
  • first hinge portion is positioned at a second distance from the dispenser.
  • first hinge member could be attached to the dispenser or that just the end of the first hinge member is attached to the dispenser.
  • second distance is the distance between the transition area between the dispenser and the first hinge member.
  • the second distance would only have the effect of an extension of the second hinge member, which means that the second distance would extend the protrusion of the dispenser in the use position and would push the dispenser further into the storage compartment during storage position.
  • the second distance could further affect the arrangement such that a Z-fold of the hinge arrangement would be possible in the storage position.
  • the third hinge member would be attached to the surface; and the second hinge member would be folded over the second hinge portion such that the second hinge member would face the third hinge member at least at an angle, but possibly also in parallel to each other.
  • the first hinge member would then be folded over the first hinge portion such that the second hinge member would face the first hinge member at least at an angle, but possibly also in parallel to each other.
  • the second hinge member would displace/push the dispenser into the storage compartment and the first hinge member would displace/push the dispenser towards the virtual plane during the storage position, which means that the second hinge member, i.e. the first distance, would have to have a length at least equal to the projection of the dispenser, the first hinge member and the first hinge portion to the surface.
  • the dispenser has pivoted about the first hinge portion such that the second hinge member has to be at least the same length as the radius of the dispenser in order for the entire dispenser to have passed the virtual plane in the storage position. Furthermore, if the second hinge member would be oriented in parallel with the virtual plane, i.e. perpendicular to the third hinge member, the second hinge member would have to be at least of the same length as the radius of the dispenser in order for the entire dispenser to have passed the virtual plane in the storage position. If the second hinge member would have an extension with an angle with relations to the virtual plane and the surface respectively, the length of the second hinge member would be dependent on the radius of the tubular dispenser in a known manner.
  • Example 5 Example 5:
  • the second hinge portion is positioned at a third distance from the edge of the surface.
  • the length of the second hinge member needs to be increased by the third distance for allowing the dispenser to protrude out from the storage compartment in the use position.
  • the length of the second hinge member must also be calculated dependent on how the dispenser is able to pivot about the first hinge portion and also dependent on whether if the hinge arrangement is Z folded or not.
  • the length of the second hinge member is calculated by use of known geometrical calculations dependent on shape and form of the dispenser, the shape, form and length of the first hinge member, the position of the second hinge portion in relation to the edge and the material of the first and second hinge members.
  • the first hinge member and/or the second hinge member and/or the third hinge member may comprise stiffening means that allows for vertical hanging of the portable dispenser arrangement.
  • the first hinge member and/or the second hinge member and/or the third hinge member may also be completely made from a stiff material.
  • the first hinge member and/or the second hinge member and/or the third hinge member may comprise at least two strips of material.
  • the first hinge member and/or the second hinge member and/or the third hinge member may also be made in one piece.
  • the first hinge portion is defined by the transition between the to the casing attached first hinge member and the second hinge member, and/or wherein the second hinge portion is defined by the transition between the to the surface attached third hinge and the second hinge member.
  • the first hinge portion and/or the second hinge portion may be defined by a weaker line in a material making up the first hinge member and the second or third hinge member.
  • the first hinge portion and/or the second hinge portion comprises a pivot connecting the hinge members.
  • the hinged fastening arrangement may comprise a marking for guiding a user to attachment of the third hinge member to the surface with relation to the outer edge.
  • the marking could be in the form of the second hinge portion, i.e. the marking could be position in connection to the second hinge portion, for example in the centre of rotation of the second hinge portion.
  • the marking could be positioned at a distance from the second hinge portion. The distance between the marking and the second hinge portion could here be the third distance mentioned in example 5 above.
  • the first hinge portion and/or the second hinge portion could be arranged in a diagonal fashion with relation to the general extension of the first, second and third hinge members. This allows for a folding of the hinge arrangement not only in a linear direction into the storage compartment, but also in a lateral or sideways movement of the dispenser.
  • the dispenser could be made from any resilient/soft material, for example cardboard, fabric, rubber, plastic, leather or any other suitable material.
  • the dispenser could also be made from a stiff/hard material, for example metal, plastic, ceramic or any other suitable material.
  • the dispenser could also be made from a combination of resilient/soft material and stiff/hard material.
  • Fig. 1 schematically shows a perspective view of a storage compartment comprising dispenser arrangements in user positions;
  • FIG. 2 schematically shows a side view of the storage compartment in figure 1 , from plane A in figure 1 ;
  • Figs. 3-6 schematically show side views of different examples of dispensers of the storage compartment in figure 1 , from plane B in figure 1 ;
  • FIG. 7 schematically shows a perspective view of the storage compartment in figures 1-6 comprising a first example of the dispenser arrangements in storage positions;
  • FIG. 8 schematically shows a perspective view of the storage compartment in figures 1-6 comprising a second example of the dispenser arrangements in storage positions;
  • Fig. 9 schematically shows a side view of the storage compartment in figure 1 , from plane A in figure 1 ;
  • Figs. 10-16 schematically show side views of different examples of dispensers of the storage compartment in figure 1 , from plane B in figure 1 ;
  • Figs 17-24 schematically show different examples of portable dispenser arrangements according to the invention, and in which;
  • Fig. 25 schematically shows a perspective view of a dispenser arrangement according to the invention in connection to a storage compartment.
  • FIG. 1 schematically shows two dispenser arrangements 1 a; 1 b according to the invention, each of them being in a user position.
  • Each dispenser arrangement 1a; 1 b comprises a dispenser 2 and a hinged fastening arrangement 3.
  • the dispenser 2 comprises a casing 4 defining an inner volume 5 for storing disposable hygiene items 6 and a dispensing opening 7 for removal of the hygiene items 6 from the dispenser 2.
  • the hinged fastening arrangement 3 comprises a first hinge 8 comprising a first hinge member 9 and a second hinge member 10 being hingeably joined to each other via a first hinge portion 11.
  • the first hinge member 9 is attached to the casing 4.
  • the hinged fastening arrangement 3 comprises a second hinge 12 comprising the second hinge member 10 and a third hinge member 13 being hingeably joined to each other via a second hinge portion 14.
  • the third hinge member 13 comprises first fastening means 15 for attachment to a surface 16a; 16b being delimited by an outer edge 17a; 17b.
  • a first distance 18 between the first hinge portion 11 and the second hinge portion 14 taken along the second hinge member 10 is predetermined to allow for movement of the dispenser 2 about the second hinge portion 14 from an unfolded use position, as shown in figure 1 , to a folded storage position, as shown in figures 7 and 8, such that the complete dispenser 2 passes a virtual plane 19 extending perpendicular to the surface 16a; 16b and along the outer edge 17a; 17b.
  • Figure 1 schematically shows a perspective view of a storage compartment 24 comprising the dispenser arrangements in user positions.
  • the storage compartment 24 in figure 1 is in the shape of a box, but could be arranged in any desired shape or form, for example cylindrical and polygonal.
  • the surface 16a; 16b is an inner surface of one of the walls of the storage compartment 24.
  • the outer edge 17a; 17b is the corresponding edge delimiting the surface 16a; 16b in connection to an opening of the storage compartment 24.
  • the virtual plane 19 refers to a fictive wall covering the opening or a part of the opening.
  • the virtual plane has an extension from the outer edge 17a; 17b and has thus the same curvature as the outer edge 17a; 17b in the extension of the virtual plane 19.
  • one dispenser 1 a is mounted vertically on a vertically extending surface 16a and the other dispenser 1 b is mounted horizontally on a horizontally extending surface 16b.
  • the vertically mounted dispenser arrangement 1a comprises a dispenser 2 having a cylindrical shape but it could be arranged in any desired shape or form, for example cylindrical and polygonal.
  • the horizontally mounted dispenser arrangement 1 b comprises a dispenser 2 in the shape of a box, but could be arranged in any desired shape or form, for example cylindrical and polygonal.
  • the dispensing opening 7 is positioned at a low point with relation to gravity, but any position of the dispensing opening 7 is possible as long as it is easy for a user to dispense the article. Furthermore, the attachment of the dispenser 2 to the surface has the advantage that it allows for a user to dispense the hygiene items by use of only one hand since the dispenser does not have to be held by the other hand.
  • Figure 1 shows a plane A in order to facilitate the further description of the vertically mounted portable dispenser arrangement 1 a; and a plane B in order to facilitate the description of the horizontally mounted portable dispenser arrangement 1 b.
  • the planes A and B will be referred to in the below drawings.
  • Figure 2 schematically shows a side view of the storage compartment in figure 1 , from plane A in the direction of the arrow.
  • Figure 2 shows a vertically mounted portable dispenser arrangement 1 a.
  • the third hinge member 13 is attached to the vertical surface 16a via the first fastening means 15.
  • the first hinge portion 1 1 is positioned in connection to the dispenser 2 and the second hinge portion 14 is positioned in connection to the outer edge 17a.
  • the second hinge portion 14 could be arranged at a distance to the outer edge 17a as long as no part of the portable dispenser arrangement 1a can be folded into the storage position such that none of the parts of the arrangement sticks out from the storage compartment 24 and thus hinders the closing of a door (not shown).
  • the inner surface of the door should in its closed position have the same extension as the virtual plane 19.
  • the first hinge member 9 could be an integral part of, or attached to, the dispenser 2 or casing 4.
  • the first hinge member 9 could also comprise a part that is an integral part of, or attached to, the dispenser 2 or casing 4.
  • the hinged fastening arrangement 3 advantageously comprises stiffening means that allows for the vertical hanging of the dispenser 2.
  • FIGs. 3-6 schematically show side views of different examples of dispensers of the storage compartment in figure 1 , from plane B in figure 1 , but excluding everything behind plane A .
  • Figures 3-6 shows a horizontally mounted portable dispenser arrangement 1 b.
  • the third hinge member 13 is attached to the horizontal surface 16b via the first fastening means 15.
  • the first hinge member 9 could be an integral part of, or attached to, the dispenser 2 or casing 4.
  • the first hinge member 9 could also comprise a part that is an integral part of, or attached to, the dispenser 2 or casing 4.
  • the first hinge portion 11 is positioned in connection to the dispenser 2 and the second hinge portion 14 is positioned in connection to the outer edge 17b.
  • the second hinge portion 14 is arranged at a distance to the outer edge 17b which has the implication that the second hinge member 10 has to be long enough to allow for the dispenser to protrude from the storage compartment, but short enough to allow for any part of the portable dispenser arrangement 1 b to be folded into the storage position such that none of the parts of the arrangement sticks out from the storage compartment 24 and thus hinders the closing of a door (not shown).
  • the inner surface of the door should in its closed position have the same extension as the virtual plane 19.
  • the first hinge member 9 could be an integral part of, or attached to, the dispenser 2 or casing 4.
  • the first hinge member 9 could also comprise a part that is an integral part of, or attached to, the dispenser 2 or casing 4.
  • Figure 3 schematically shows one alternative where the dispenser 2 is in the form of a box, but as mentioned before other shapes are possible.
  • the second hinge portion 14 is positioned in connection to the outer edge 17b and in figure 3 the second hinge member seems to have an angle. If the second hinge member 10 is made from a resilient material the angle is the result of the second hinge member being naturally formed due to the weight of the dispenser. However, if the second hinge member 10 is stiff or essentially stiff, then the angle is preformed.
  • the second hinge member 10 could comprise a stiff portion in connection the second hinge portion 14 that allows for that part of the second hinge member 10 to protrude essentially horizontally from the second hinge portion 14 and outside the storage compartment 24. The rest of the second hinge member 10 could then be made from a resilient material that forms itself accordingly during hanging.
  • Figure 3 schematically shows that the first hinge portion 1 1 is position at a distance from the edges of the box shaped dispenser 2, but the first hinge portion 1 1 could as an alternative be positioned at any one of the edges of the box.
  • Figure 4 schematically shows one alternative where the dispenser 2 is in the form of a cylinder, but as mentioned before other shapes are possible.
  • the first hinge portion 11 is position at a distance from the edges of the cylinder, but the first hinge portion 1 1 could as an alternative be positioned at any one of the edges of the box or at any one of the flat surfaces.
  • the reasoning regarding the hinged fastening arrangement in connection to figure 3 is valid also here.
  • Figure 5 schematically shows the same as figure 3, but the first hinge portion 11 is positioned at one of the edges of the box.
  • Figure 6 schematically shows that the second hinge portion 14 is arranged at a distance 25 to the outer edge 17b.
  • the part of the portable dispenser arrangement 1 b can be folded into the storage position such that none of the parts of the arrangement sticks out from the storage compartment 24 and thus hinders the closing of a door (not shown).
  • Figure 6 also shows that the first distance 18 has the length to allow for the dispenser to protrude from the storage compartment 24.
  • the second hinge member 10 is made from a resilient material the second hinge member 10 would be naturally formed due to the weight of the dispenser. However, if the second hinge member 10 would be stiff or essentially stiff, there would be no forming of the second hinge member 10, but the second hinge member 10 would protrude essentially horizontally, as shown in figure 6.
  • the second hinge member 10 could comprise a stiff portion in connection the second hinge portion 14 that allows for that part of the second hinge member 10 to protrude essentially horizontally from the second hinge portion 14 and outside the storage compartment 24.
  • the rest of the second hinge member 10 could then be made from a resilient material that forms itself accordingly during hanging.
  • the position of the second hinge portion 14 at a distance from the outer edge 17 is possible also for a vertically arranged portable dispenser arrangement 1 a as shown in figure 2.
  • Fig. 7 schematically shows a perspective view of the storage compartment 24 in figures 1-6 comprising a first example of the dispenser arrangements 1a; 1 b in storage positions.
  • the hinged fastening arrangement 3 has an essentially linear configuration in the unfolded state and positioned on a flat surface, i.e. the first, second and third hinge members 9, 10, 13 are arranged in line, and where the first and second hinge portions 11 , 14 are arranged essentially perpendicular to the line. This means that when folding together the hinged fastening arrangement 3 the first, second and third hinge members 9, 10, 13 will come essentially on top of each other.
  • FIG. 8 schematically shows a perspective view of the storage compartment in figures 1-6 comprising a second example of the dispenser arrangements in storage positions.
  • the hinged fastening arrangement 3 of the horizontally positioned dispenser arrangement 1 b has an essentially linear configuration in the unfolded state and positioned on a flat surface, i.e. the first, second and third hinge members 9, 10, 13 are arranged in line, but where the first and second hinge portions 11 , 14 are arranged at an angle to the line.
  • a hybrid between the arrangement according to figures 7 and 8 is possible, i.e. one of the first or second hinge portions 1 1 , 14 could be arranged diagonally to the line and the other would be arranged perpendicular to the line.
  • the arrangement that allows for lateral displacement is valid also for a vertically mounted portable hinge dispenser arrangement.
  • Fig. 9 schematically shows a side view of the storage compartment in figure 1 , from plane A in figure 1.
  • Figure 9 shows the vertically mounted portable hinge dispenser arrangement 1a in figure 2 in its folded position.
  • Figs. 10-16 schematically show side views of different examples of dispensers of the storage compartment in figure 1 , from plane B in figure 1.
  • Figure 10 shows the horizontally mounted portable hinge dispenser arrangement 1 b in figure
  • Figure 11 shows the horizontally mounted portable hinge dispenser arrangement 1 b in figure
  • Figure 12 shows the horizontally mounted portable hinge dispenser arrangement 1 b in figure
  • Figure 13 shows the horizontally mounted portable hinge dispenser arrangement 1 b in figure 6 in its folded position according to a first example.
  • the dispenser 2 is pivoted into the storage compartment, but according to what has been described before it is possible to pivot the dispenser 2 in a different manner, for example according to what is shown in figure 14-16.
  • Figure 14 shows the horizontally mounted portable hinge dispenser arrangement 1 b in figure
  • Figure 15 shows the horizontally mounted portable hinge dispenser arrangement 1 b in figure 5 in its folded position according to the second example in figure 14, i.e. where the dispenser 2 is pivoted towards the virtual plane 19.
  • the first hinge portion 11 is positioned in connection to the dispenser 2 or casing 4.
  • the first hinge member is either an integrally part of, or in any other way attached to, the dispenser 2 or casing 4.
  • Figure 16 shows the horizontally mounted portable hinge dispenser arrangement 1 b in figure 5 in its folded position.
  • the first hinge portion 1 1 is positioned at a second distance 26 from the dispenser 2 or casing 4.
  • the first hinge member 10 is either partly integrally part of, or in any other way attached to, the dispenser 2 or casing 4.
  • Figure 16 shows that the hinged fastening arrangement 3 is folded into a Z-position, i.e.
  • Figs 17-24 schematically show different examples of portable dispenser arrangements according to the invention.
  • Figure 17 shows a portable dispenser arrangement 1 a; 1 b according to what has been described in connection to figures 1-16, where the first hinge portion 11 is positioned in connection to the dispenser 2 or casing 4 and where the first hinge member 9 is an integral part of the dispenser 2 or casing 4.
  • both the second and third hinge members 10, 13 are made in one piece and interconnected via the second hinge portion 14.
  • Figure 18 shows an arrangement according to figure 17, but where the second hinge member 10 comprises at least two strips of material 23 connecting the first hinge portion 1 1 to the second hinge portion 14.
  • Figure 19 schematically shows an arrangement according to figure 17, but where the second hinge member 10 comprises a first portion 20 and a second portion 21.
  • the first portion 20 is attached, preferably releasably attached, to the second portion 21.
  • the advantage of having the first portion 20 releasably attached to the second portion 21 is that the dispenser can be removed from the place where it is mounted without removing the first fastening means 15. It is possible that a user wants to bring the dispenser for refill or to position it at another location to a different second part, or just to bring it on a travel.
  • the first part 20 could for example be equipped with attachment means that allows for attachment to a suitable surface, for example hooks that could be attached to a fabric in a car or a different place.
  • the second portion 21 should then comprise such a suitable surface, for example loop material.
  • the first hinge member 9 and/or the third hinge member 13 could also be arranged to be separable in a similar manner.
  • Figure 19 also shows an arrangement according to figure 17, but where the third hinge member 13 comprises at least two strips of material 23.
  • Figure 20 schematically shows an arrangement according to figure 17, but where both the second and the third hinge member 10, 13 comprises at least two strips of material 23.
  • Figure 21 schematically shows an arrangement according to figure 17; and figure 22 shows an arrangement according to figure 18, but where the first hinge member 9 is attached, at least partly, to the dispenser 2 or casing 4.
  • the first hinge member 9 may be releasably attached to the dispenser 2 or casing 4.
  • Figure 23 schematically shows a side view of a portable dispenser arrangement 1 a; 1 b where the first hinge member 9 comprises two split attachment parts 27 attached over a part of the dispenser 2 or casing 4. In figure 23, the attachment parts 27 are positioned over a corner of a box-like dispenser 2, but the dispenser could have any other suitable form over which the attachment parts are positioned.
  • Figure 24 schematically shows a portable dispenser arrangement 1 b for vertical mounting.
  • the second and third hinge members comprise stiffening means for allowing the vertical hanging of the dispenser arrangement 1. It should be noted that the dispenser in figure 24 could have any suitable form or shape.
  • the arrangement according to figures 16, 17 and 20-24 could comprise a first, second or third hinge members 9, 10, 13 any of which could comprise first and second portions 20, 21 as described in connection to figure 19.
  • the arrangement according to figures 21-24 could comprise first, second or third hinge members 9, 10, 13 any of which could comprise strips of material according to any one of figures 17-20.
  • the first hinge member 9 could be releasably attached to the second hinge member 10 via the first hinge portion 11.
  • the first fastening means 15 covers at least partially the third hinge member 13, but the first fastening means 15 could completely cover the third hinge member 13.
  • the first fastening means 15 could be arranged for releasable attachment to the surface 16a; 16b.
  • first hinge portion 1 1 could be defined by the transition between the to the casing attached first hinge member 9 and the second hinge member 10, and/or wherein the second hinge portion 14 could be defined by the transition between the to the surface 16a; 16b attached third hinge member 13 and the second hinge member 10.
  • first hinge portion 1 1 and/or the second hinge portion 14 could defined by a weaker line in a material making up the first hinge member 9 and the second or third hinge member 13.
  • first hinge portion 1 1 and/or the second hinge portion may comprise a pivot connecting the first, second and third hinge members 9, 10, 13.
  • Fig. 25 schematically shows a perspective view of a portable dispenser arrangement 1 a, 1 b according to the invention as described in any one of figures 1-24 or in any combination of figures 1-24.
  • a vertically attached dispenser arrangement 1a is folded to its storage position and a horizontally attached dispenser arrangement 1 b is unfolded to its use position.

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Abstract

The invention relates to a portable dispenser arrangement (1a; 1b) comprising a dispenser (2) and a hinged fastening arrangement (3). The dispenser (2) comprises a casing (4) defining an inner volume (5) for storing disposable hygiene items (6) and a dispensing opening (7) for removal of the hygiene items (6) from the dispenser (2). The hinged fastening arrangement (3) comprising a first hinge (8)and a second hinge (12) wherein a first distance (18) between the first hinge portion (11) and the second hinge portion (14) predetermined to allow for movement of the dispenser (2) about the second hinge portion (14) from an unfolded use position to a folded storage position such that the complete dispenser (2) passes a virtual plane (19) extending perpendicular to the surface (16a; 16b) and along the outer edge (17a; 17b).

Description

TITLE
Foldable dispenser TECHNICAL FIELD
The invention relates to a portable dispenser arrangement comprising a dispenser and a hinged fastening arrangement. The dispenser comprises a casing defining an inner volume for storing disposable hygiene items and a dispensing opening for removal of the hygiene items from the dispenser. The hinged fastening arrangement comprises a first hinge comprising a first hinge member and a second hinge member being hingeably joined to each other via a first hinge portion. The first hinge member is attached to the casing.
BACKGROUND ART
In the field of hygiene articles it is known to use dispensers for dispensing various types of hygiene articles such as wet wipes, wipes, sanitary pads, paper, toilet paper (wet and dry), napkins, latex gloves, shoe protection, feminine towels, absorbent articles etc. Common for all dispensers are that they comprise an opening through which the articles can be dispensed. Dispensers that may be attached to a surface in order to increase the number of places where the dispenser can be positioned and used are also known. An example of such a dispenser is described in US 2010/0270325. The dispenser comprises an affixing tab attached to a top panel of a rectangular box. The affixing tab comprises attachment means that allows for attachment on any type of surface, vertically or horizontally extended. One problem with such a dispenser is that it has to be removed from the surface if the user wants to stow away the dispenser, if the user wishes to conceal the dispenser. One reason for wanting to conceal the dispenser would be if the dispenser comprises personal hygiene articles. Another reason could be to simply save space or for aesthetic reasons. Yet another reason could be to hide the dispenser in a nursing staffs cupboard, in order to hinder a person receiving care from using the dispenser without the supervision of the nursing staff.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
The problem with prior art is solved by the present invention by a portable dispenser arrangement comprising a dispenser and a hinged fastening arrangement. The dispenser comprises a casing defining an inner volume for storing disposable hygiene items and a dispensing opening for removal of the hygiene items from the dispenser. The hinged fastening arrangement comprises a first hinge comprising a first hinge member and a second hinge member being hingeably joined to each other via a first hinge portion. The first hinge member is attached to the casing. The casing could be made from a soft material, stiff material or a mix therebetween. The casing could have any desired shape or form. According to the invention the hinged fastening arrangement comprises a second hinge comprising the second hinge member and a third hinge member being hingeably joined to each other via a second hinge portion. The third hinge member comprises first fastening means for attachment to a surface being delimited by an outer edge. The outer edge could be straight or curved.
A first distance between the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion taken along the hinge member is predetermined to allow for movement of the dispenser about the second hinge portion from an unfolded use position to a folded storage position such that the complete casing passes a virtual plane extending perpendicular to the surface and along the outer edge. The first distance is the length between the centre of rotation of the first hinge portion and the centre of rotation of the second hinge portion, taken along an outer surface of the second hinge member.
The virtual plane may be a two dimensional plane or three dimensional plane, dependent on the curvature of the outer edge of the surface. If the outer edge is straight, the virtual plane is two dimensional, and if the outer edge is curved, the virtual plane is three dimensional. The virtual plane has an extension essentially perpendicular to the extension of the third hinge member.
According to the invention the surface is preferably one part of a storage compartment comprising wall(s), a roof and a bottom. If the storage compartment is a box it comprises a number of walls, at least two, a roof, a bottom and a door. When the door is opened the dispenser should be able to be moved from the storage position within the storage compartment to the use position outside the storage compartment while the third hinge member is still attached to the inside of the storage compartment and still linked to the casing. In the same way, the dispenser should be able to be folded from its use position outside the storage compartment to the folded storage position within the storage compartment. During the movement from the storage position to the use position and vice versa, the dispenser passes the virtual plane that refers to the position of the door. Hence, the dispenser and at least a part of the hinge arrangement must pass the virtual plane in order for the door to be able to be closed properly. The door could be any type of door, for example one or more pivoting doors or a rolling shutter. The surface could thus be a part of any one of the wall(s) or the roof or the bottom as long as the dispenser could be attached to the surface for movement between the use position and the storage position. When the portable dispenser is used it is intended to be attached to the surface via the first attachment means such that the dispenser arrangement can be unfolded such that the dispenser protrudes outside the storage compartment, and then be folded to the storage position such that the door can be closed. The attachment of the dispenser 2 to the surface has the advantage that it allows for a user to dispense the hygiene items by use of only one hand since the dispenser does not have to be held by the other hand. The unique hinge arrangement has the advantage that it allows for the dispenser arrangement to be folded into its storage position within the storage compartment, for example a cupboard, such that a door can be closed.
The first hinge member or a part of the first hinge member may be a unitary part of the dispenser. As an alternative, the first hinge member may be attachable to the casing and may also be releasably attachable to the casing. The first hinge member may be attached to the dispenser via second fastening means. The second fastening means may be glue, adhesive, a pouch in which the casing can be held, straps that holds and secures the casing in position, or any other suitable attachment means.
The first hinge member is attached to the second hinge member via the first hinge portion. The first hinge member may be releasably attached to the second hinge member via the first hinge portion.
The second hinge member is attached to the third hinge member via the second hinge portion. The second hinge member may be a single portion being attached to the first hinge member via the first hinge portion and the third hinge member via the second hinge portion. Alternatively, the second hinge member may comprise at least a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion is attached to the second portion. The first portion may be releasably attached to the second portion or may be secured in position after the attachment.
The third hinge member may be a single portion being attached to the second hinge member via the second hinge portion. Alternatively, the third hinge member comprises at least a third portion and a fourth portion, wherein the third portion is attached to the fourth portion. The third portion may be releasably attached to the fourth portion or may be secured in position after the attachment. The first fastening means covers at least partially the third hinge member and may partially or fully be covering the third and/or the fourth parts. Alternatively, the first fastening means completely covers the third hinge member. The first fastening means is advantageously arranged for releasable attachment to the surface. The first fastening means may be any known attachment means, for example, adhesive, glue and adhesive tape.
The first distance is dependent on the size and geometry of the casing, and the size, geometry and rigidity of the first hinge member, and the pivoting feature of the first hinge, and the position of the second hinge portion. The first distance must be long enough to allow for the complete casing to pass the virtual plane when the portable dispenser arrangement is moved from the use position to the storage position.
Here follows a number of examples of how to calculate the first distance:
Example 1 :
-The second hinge is positioned at the edge of the surface.
-The first hinge is positioned in the transmission area between the casing and first hinge member. Here the first hinge member is positioned on or in the dispenser/casing and the first hinge portion is essentially the only thing that separates the second hinge member from the dispenser.
-The dispenser is supposed to be lying in an essentially straight line with the second hinge member in the folded storage position.
-The attachment point of the hinge arrangement to the dispenser is the closest point of the dispenser to the virtual plane. Hence, the dispenser can be in any geometrical shape that does not allow for a part of the dispenser to build over the second hinge member.
-The second hinge member may be of a resilient material, a stiff material or may be a resilient material with stiffening means for reinforcing the structure.
With these parameters, the first distance depends on the shape and size of the dispenser. If the dispenser is a rectangular or quadratic box and the first hinge portion is positioned at one corner of the box, the first side of the box being connected to the first hinge portion will have an extension parallel against the surface and that second side of the box being connected to the first hinge portion will have an extension parallel to the virtual plane since the first hinge portion allows for such pivoting motion. Here, the first distance may be close to zero if the design is chosen such that the dispenser does not have to protrude more from the storage compartment than the dispenser size itself and if it is enough to allow closing of the door. Here, the longer the first distance is the longer the arrangement will protrude from the storage compartment during use and the longer into the storage compartment the dispenser will be during storage. It should be noted that the distance cannot be zero since this would mean that there is only one hinge in the hinge arrangement and this would take away the positive effect of the dispenser having the possibility to swing or pivot about the first hinge portion up to 360 degrees into a favourable predetermined use position and storage position; and then also have the possibility to swing or pivot about the second hinge portion up to 360 degrees from the storage position to the use position, and vice versa.
Example 2:
Same as example 1 , but the first hinge portion is positioned in the second side in the rectangular or square box described above. Here, the first distance must be equal to or greater than the distance between the first hinge portion and the corner between the first side and the second side if the first side is facing the surface. In the storage position, the extension of the second hinge member could then be essentially parallel to the virtual plane and the second side and the box have been rotated accordingly about the first hinge portion. If on the other hand, the second side was facing the surface then the second hinge member would have an extension essentially parallel with the surface. A third side of the box, opposite the first side, would then be positioned closest to the virtual plane and would have an have an extension parallel to the virtual plane. Here, the first distance would have to be at least the distance between the first hinge portion and the corner between the second side and the third side. Example 3:
The same as examples 1 and 2, except that the first hinge portion is positioned at a second distance from the dispenser. It should be noted that a substantial part of the first hinge member could be attached to the dispenser or that just the end of the first hinge member is attached to the dispenser. In both cases the second distance is the distance between the transition area between the dispenser and the first hinge member. In the simplest form, the second distance would only have the effect of an extension of the second hinge member, which means that the second distance would extend the protrusion of the dispenser in the use position and would push the dispenser further into the storage compartment during storage position. However, the second distance could further affect the arrangement such that a Z-fold of the hinge arrangement would be possible in the storage position. Here, the third hinge member would be attached to the surface; and the second hinge member would be folded over the second hinge portion such that the second hinge member would face the third hinge member at least at an angle, but possibly also in parallel to each other. The first hinge member would then be folded over the first hinge portion such that the second hinge member would face the first hinge member at least at an angle, but possibly also in parallel to each other. In this arrangement the second hinge member would displace/push the dispenser into the storage compartment and the first hinge member would displace/push the dispenser towards the virtual plane during the storage position, which means that the second hinge member, i.e. the first distance, would have to have a length at least equal to the projection of the dispenser, the first hinge member and the first hinge portion to the surface. Example 4:
The same as examples 1-3, except that the shape of the dispenser is tubular and that the first hinge member is attached to the rounded envelope surface. In example 4, the rounded surface and the radius of the dispenser has to be taken into account. If the second hinge member lies against the third hinge member, the dispenser has pivoted about the first hinge portion such that the second hinge member has to be at least the same length as the radius of the dispenser in order for the entire dispenser to have passed the virtual plane in the storage position. Furthermore, if the second hinge member would be oriented in parallel with the virtual plane, i.e. perpendicular to the third hinge member, the second hinge member would have to be at least of the same length as the radius of the dispenser in order for the entire dispenser to have passed the virtual plane in the storage position. If the second hinge member would have an extension with an angle with relations to the virtual plane and the surface respectively, the length of the second hinge member would be dependent on the radius of the tubular dispenser in a known manner. Example 5:
The same as examples 1-4, except that the second hinge portion is positioned at a third distance from the edge of the surface. Dependent on the third distance, the length of the second hinge member needs to be increased by the third distance for allowing the dispenser to protrude out from the storage compartment in the use position. The length of the second hinge member must also be calculated dependent on how the dispenser is able to pivot about the first hinge portion and also dependent on whether if the hinge arrangement is Z folded or not.
In all the above examples, increasing the first distance would have the effect that the dispenser would be protruding further out from the storage compartment during use and would be pushed further inside the storage compartment during the folded storage position. As described above, the length of the second hinge member is calculated by use of known geometrical calculations dependent on shape and form of the dispenser, the shape, form and length of the first hinge member, the position of the second hinge portion in relation to the edge and the material of the first and second hinge members. The first hinge member and/or the second hinge member and/or the third hinge member may comprise stiffening means that allows for vertical hanging of the portable dispenser arrangement. The first hinge member and/or the second hinge member and/or the third hinge member may also be completely made from a stiff material.
The first hinge member and/or the second hinge member and/or the third hinge member may comprise at least two strips of material. The first hinge member and/or the second hinge member and/or the third hinge member may also be made in one piece. The first hinge portion is defined by the transition between the to the casing attached first hinge member and the second hinge member, and/or wherein the second hinge portion is defined by the transition between the to the surface attached third hinge and the second hinge member. The first hinge portion and/or the second hinge portion may be defined by a weaker line in a material making up the first hinge member and the second or third hinge member. Alternatively, the first hinge portion and/or the second hinge portion comprises a pivot connecting the hinge members.
The hinged fastening arrangement may comprise a marking for guiding a user to attachment of the third hinge member to the surface with relation to the outer edge. The marking could be in the form of the second hinge portion, i.e. the marking could be position in connection to the second hinge portion, for example in the centre of rotation of the second hinge portion. Alternatively, the marking could be positioned at a distance from the second hinge portion. The distance between the marking and the second hinge portion could here be the third distance mentioned in example 5 above.
The first hinge portion and/or the second hinge portion could be arranged in a diagonal fashion with relation to the general extension of the first, second and third hinge members. This allows for a folding of the hinge arrangement not only in a linear direction into the storage compartment, but also in a lateral or sideways movement of the dispenser.
The dispenser could be made from any resilient/soft material, for example cardboard, fabric, rubber, plastic, leather or any other suitable material. The dispenser could also be made from a stiff/hard material, for example metal, plastic, ceramic or any other suitable material. The dispenser could also be made from a combination of resilient/soft material and stiff/hard material. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
The invention will below be described in connection to a number of drawings, in which:
Fig. 1 schematically shows a perspective view of a storage compartment comprising dispenser arrangements in user positions;
Fig. 2 schematically shows a side view of the storage compartment in figure 1 , from plane A in figure 1 ; Figs. 3-6 schematically show side views of different examples of dispensers of the storage compartment in figure 1 , from plane B in figure 1 ;
Fig. 7 schematically shows a perspective view of the storage compartment in figures 1-6 comprising a first example of the dispenser arrangements in storage positions;
Fig. 8 schematically shows a perspective view of the storage compartment in figures 1-6 comprising a second example of the dispenser arrangements in storage positions;
Fig. 9 schematically shows a side view of the storage compartment in figure 1 , from plane A in figure 1 ;
Figs. 10-16 schematically show side views of different examples of dispensers of the storage compartment in figure 1 , from plane B in figure 1 ; Figs 17-24 schematically show different examples of portable dispenser arrangements according to the invention, and in which;
Fig. 25 schematically shows a perspective view of a dispenser arrangement according to the invention in connection to a storage compartment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
Figure 1 schematically shows two dispenser arrangements 1 a; 1 b according to the invention, each of them being in a user position. Each dispenser arrangement 1a; 1 b comprises a dispenser 2 and a hinged fastening arrangement 3. The dispenser 2 comprises a casing 4 defining an inner volume 5 for storing disposable hygiene items 6 and a dispensing opening 7 for removal of the hygiene items 6 from the dispenser 2. The hinged fastening arrangement 3 comprises a first hinge 8 comprising a first hinge member 9 and a second hinge member 10 being hingeably joined to each other via a first hinge portion 11. The first hinge member 9 is attached to the casing 4. The hinged fastening arrangement 3 comprises a second hinge 12 comprising the second hinge member 10 and a third hinge member 13 being hingeably joined to each other via a second hinge portion 14. The third hinge member 13 comprises first fastening means 15 for attachment to a surface 16a; 16b being delimited by an outer edge 17a; 17b. A first distance 18 between the first hinge portion 11 and the second hinge portion 14 taken along the second hinge member 10 is predetermined to allow for movement of the dispenser 2 about the second hinge portion 14 from an unfolded use position, as shown in figure 1 , to a folded storage position, as shown in figures 7 and 8, such that the complete dispenser 2 passes a virtual plane 19 extending perpendicular to the surface 16a; 16b and along the outer edge 17a; 17b.
Figure 1 schematically shows a perspective view of a storage compartment 24 comprising the dispenser arrangements in user positions. The storage compartment 24 in figure 1 is in the shape of a box, but could be arranged in any desired shape or form, for example cylindrical and polygonal. The surface 16a; 16b is an inner surface of one of the walls of the storage compartment 24. The outer edge 17a; 17b is the corresponding edge delimiting the surface 16a; 16b in connection to an opening of the storage compartment 24. The virtual plane 19 refers to a fictive wall covering the opening or a part of the opening. The virtual plane has an extension from the outer edge 17a; 17b and has thus the same curvature as the outer edge 17a; 17b in the extension of the virtual plane 19. This means that if the outer edge19 is straight, the virtual plane 19 is a two dimensional plane; and if the outer edge 19 has a curvature the virtual plane 19 is a three dimensional plane. In figure 1 , one dispenser 1 a is mounted vertically on a vertically extending surface 16a and the other dispenser 1 b is mounted horizontally on a horizontally extending surface 16b. In figure 1 the vertically mounted dispenser arrangement 1a comprises a dispenser 2 having a cylindrical shape but it could be arranged in any desired shape or form, for example cylindrical and polygonal. In figure 1 the horizontally mounted dispenser arrangement 1 b comprises a dispenser 2 in the shape of a box, but could be arranged in any desired shape or form, for example cylindrical and polygonal.
In all figures the dispensing opening 7 is positioned at a low point with relation to gravity, but any position of the dispensing opening 7 is possible as long as it is easy for a user to dispense the article. Furthermore, the attachment of the dispenser 2 to the surface has the advantage that it allows for a user to dispense the hygiene items by use of only one hand since the dispenser does not have to be held by the other hand. Figure 1 shows a plane A in order to facilitate the further description of the vertically mounted portable dispenser arrangement 1 a; and a plane B in order to facilitate the description of the horizontally mounted portable dispenser arrangement 1 b. The planes A and B will be referred to in the below drawings.
Figure 2 schematically shows a side view of the storage compartment in figure 1 , from plane A in the direction of the arrow. Figure 2 shows a vertically mounted portable dispenser arrangement 1 a. In figure 2 the third hinge member 13 is attached to the vertical surface 16a via the first fastening means 15. The first hinge portion 1 1 is positioned in connection to the dispenser 2 and the second hinge portion 14 is positioned in connection to the outer edge 17a. The second hinge portion 14 could be arranged at a distance to the outer edge 17a as long as no part of the portable dispenser arrangement 1a can be folded into the storage position such that none of the parts of the arrangement sticks out from the storage compartment 24 and thus hinders the closing of a door (not shown). The inner surface of the door should in its closed position have the same extension as the virtual plane 19. The first hinge member 9 could be an integral part of, or attached to, the dispenser 2 or casing 4. The first hinge member 9 could also comprise a part that is an integral part of, or attached to, the dispenser 2 or casing 4. The hinged fastening arrangement 3 advantageously comprises stiffening means that allows for the vertical hanging of the dispenser 2.
Figs. 3-6 schematically show side views of different examples of dispensers of the storage compartment in figure 1 , from plane B in figure 1 , but excluding everything behind plane A . Figures 3-6 shows a horizontally mounted portable dispenser arrangement 1 b. In figures 3-6 the third hinge member 13 is attached to the horizontal surface 16b via the first fastening means 15. The first hinge member 9 could be an integral part of, or attached to, the dispenser 2 or casing 4. The first hinge member 9 could also comprise a part that is an integral part of, or attached to, the dispenser 2 or casing 4. In figures 3-5, the first hinge portion 11 is positioned in connection to the dispenser 2 and the second hinge portion 14 is positioned in connection to the outer edge 17b. In figure 6, the second hinge portion 14 is arranged at a distance to the outer edge 17b which has the implication that the second hinge member 10 has to be long enough to allow for the dispenser to protrude from the storage compartment, but short enough to allow for any part of the portable dispenser arrangement 1 b to be folded into the storage position such that none of the parts of the arrangement sticks out from the storage compartment 24 and thus hinders the closing of a door (not shown). The inner surface of the door should in its closed position have the same extension as the virtual plane 19. The first hinge member 9 could be an integral part of, or attached to, the dispenser 2 or casing 4. The first hinge member 9 could also comprise a part that is an integral part of, or attached to, the dispenser 2 or casing 4.
Figure 3 schematically shows one alternative where the dispenser 2 is in the form of a box, but as mentioned before other shapes are possible. In figure 3, the second hinge portion 14 is positioned in connection to the outer edge 17b and in figure 3 the second hinge member seems to have an angle. If the second hinge member 10 is made from a resilient material the angle is the result of the second hinge member being naturally formed due to the weight of the dispenser. However, if the second hinge member 10 is stiff or essentially stiff, then the angle is preformed. Furthermore, the second hinge member 10 could comprise a stiff portion in connection the second hinge portion 14 that allows for that part of the second hinge member 10 to protrude essentially horizontally from the second hinge portion 14 and outside the storage compartment 24. The rest of the second hinge member 10 could then be made from a resilient material that forms itself accordingly during hanging.
Figure 3 schematically shows that the first hinge portion 1 1 is position at a distance from the edges of the box shaped dispenser 2, but the first hinge portion 1 1 could as an alternative be positioned at any one of the edges of the box.
Figure 4 schematically shows one alternative where the dispenser 2 is in the form of a cylinder, but as mentioned before other shapes are possible. In figure 4, the first hinge portion 11 is position at a distance from the edges of the cylinder, but the first hinge portion 1 1 could as an alternative be positioned at any one of the edges of the box or at any one of the flat surfaces. The reasoning regarding the hinged fastening arrangement in connection to figure 3 is valid also here.
Figure 5 schematically shows the same as figure 3, but the first hinge portion 11 is positioned at one of the edges of the box.
Figure 6 schematically shows that the second hinge portion 14 is arranged at a distance 25 to the outer edge 17b. As can be seen the part of the portable dispenser arrangement 1 b can be folded into the storage position such that none of the parts of the arrangement sticks out from the storage compartment 24 and thus hinders the closing of a door (not shown). Figure 6 also shows that the first distance 18 has the length to allow for the dispenser to protrude from the storage compartment 24. If the second hinge member 10 is made from a resilient material the second hinge member 10 would be naturally formed due to the weight of the dispenser. However, if the second hinge member 10 would be stiff or essentially stiff, there would be no forming of the second hinge member 10, but the second hinge member 10 would protrude essentially horizontally, as shown in figure 6. Furthermore, the second hinge member 10 could comprise a stiff portion in connection the second hinge portion 14 that allows for that part of the second hinge member 10 to protrude essentially horizontally from the second hinge portion 14 and outside the storage compartment 24. The rest of the second hinge member 10 could then be made from a resilient material that forms itself accordingly during hanging.
The position of the second hinge portion 14 at a distance from the outer edge 17 is possible also for a vertically arranged portable dispenser arrangement 1 a as shown in figure 2.
Furthermore, the general reasoning regarding the hinged fastening arrangement 3 in connection to figure 3 is valid also in connection to figure 6.
Fig. 7 schematically shows a perspective view of the storage compartment 24 in figures 1-6 comprising a first example of the dispenser arrangements 1a; 1 b in storage positions. In figure 7 the hinged fastening arrangement 3 has an essentially linear configuration in the unfolded state and positioned on a flat surface, i.e. the first, second and third hinge members 9, 10, 13 are arranged in line, and where the first and second hinge portions 11 , 14 are arranged essentially perpendicular to the line. This means that when folding together the hinged fastening arrangement 3 the first, second and third hinge members 9, 10, 13 will come essentially on top of each other.
Fig. 8 schematically shows a perspective view of the storage compartment in figures 1-6 comprising a second example of the dispenser arrangements in storage positions. In figure 8 the hinged fastening arrangement 3 of the horizontally positioned dispenser arrangement 1 b has an essentially linear configuration in the unfolded state and positioned on a flat surface, i.e. the first, second and third hinge members 9, 10, 13 are arranged in line, but where the first and second hinge portions 11 , 14 are arranged at an angle to the line. This means that when folding together the hinged fastening arrangement 3 the first, second and third hinge members 9, 10, 13 will be displaced laterally (in the surface extension) and partly on top of each other. However, a hybrid between the arrangement according to figures 7 and 8 is possible, i.e. one of the first or second hinge portions 1 1 , 14 could be arranged diagonally to the line and the other would be arranged perpendicular to the line. The arrangement that allows for lateral displacement is valid also for a vertically mounted portable hinge dispenser arrangement.
Fig. 9 schematically shows a side view of the storage compartment in figure 1 , from plane A in figure 1. Figure 9 shows the vertically mounted portable hinge dispenser arrangement 1a in figure 2 in its folded position.
Figs. 10-16 schematically show side views of different examples of dispensers of the storage compartment in figure 1 , from plane B in figure 1.
Figure 10 shows the horizontally mounted portable hinge dispenser arrangement 1 b in figure
3 in its folded position.
Figure 11 shows the horizontally mounted portable hinge dispenser arrangement 1 b in figure
4 in its folded position.
Figure 12 shows the horizontally mounted portable hinge dispenser arrangement 1 b in figure
5 in its folded position.
Figure 13 shows the horizontally mounted portable hinge dispenser arrangement 1 b in figure 6 in its folded position according to a first example. In all the figures 10-13, the dispenser 2 is pivoted into the storage compartment, but according to what has been described before it is possible to pivot the dispenser 2 in a different manner, for example according to what is shown in figure 14-16. Figure 14 shows the horizontally mounted portable hinge dispenser arrangement 1 b in figure
6 in its folded position according to a second example. In figure 14 the dispenser 2 is pivoted towards the virtual plane 19.
Figure 15 shows the horizontally mounted portable hinge dispenser arrangement 1 b in figure 5 in its folded position according to the second example in figure 14, i.e. where the dispenser 2 is pivoted towards the virtual plane 19.
In all the figures 10-15, the first hinge portion 11 is positioned in connection to the dispenser 2 or casing 4. Hence, the first hinge member is either an integrally part of, or in any other way attached to, the dispenser 2 or casing 4. Figure 16 shows the horizontally mounted portable hinge dispenser arrangement 1 b in figure 5 in its folded position. In figure 16, the first hinge portion 1 1 is positioned at a second distance 26 from the dispenser 2 or casing 4. Hence, the first hinge member 10 is either partly integrally part of, or in any other way attached to, the dispenser 2 or casing 4. Figure 16 shows that the hinged fastening arrangement 3 is folded into a Z-position, i.e. such that the second hinge member 10 is at least partly, dependent on lateral displacement and length of the members, positioned between the first hinge member 9 and the third hinge member 13. The different pivoting of the dispenser 2 described in connection to figures 10-16 is valid also for a vertically mounted portable hinge dispenser arrangement.
Figs 17-24 schematically show different examples of portable dispenser arrangements according to the invention.
Figure 17 shows a portable dispenser arrangement 1 a; 1 b according to what has been described in connection to figures 1-16, where the first hinge portion 11 is positioned in connection to the dispenser 2 or casing 4 and where the first hinge member 9 is an integral part of the dispenser 2 or casing 4. In figure 17, both the second and third hinge members 10, 13 are made in one piece and interconnected via the second hinge portion 14.
Figure 18 shows an arrangement according to figure 17, but where the second hinge member 10 comprises at least two strips of material 23 connecting the first hinge portion 1 1 to the second hinge portion 14.
Figure 19 schematically shows an arrangement according to figure 17, but where the second hinge member 10 comprises a first portion 20 and a second portion 21. The first portion 20 is attached, preferably releasably attached, to the second portion 21. The advantage of having the first portion 20 releasably attached to the second portion 21 is that the dispenser can be removed from the place where it is mounted without removing the first fastening means 15. It is possible that a user wants to bring the dispenser for refill or to position it at another location to a different second part, or just to bring it on a travel. The first part 20 could for example be equipped with attachment means that allows for attachment to a suitable surface, for example hooks that could be attached to a fabric in a car or a different place. The second portion 21 should then comprise such a suitable surface, for example loop material. The first hinge member 9 and/or the third hinge member 13 could also be arranged to be separable in a similar manner.
Figure 19 also shows an arrangement according to figure 17, but where the third hinge member 13 comprises at least two strips of material 23.
Figure 20 schematically shows an arrangement according to figure 17, but where both the second and the third hinge member 10, 13 comprises at least two strips of material 23. Figure 21 schematically shows an arrangement according to figure 17; and figure 22 shows an arrangement according to figure 18, but where the first hinge member 9 is attached, at least partly, to the dispenser 2 or casing 4. The first hinge member 9 may be releasably attached to the dispenser 2 or casing 4. Figure 23 schematically shows a side view of a portable dispenser arrangement 1 a; 1 b where the first hinge member 9 comprises two split attachment parts 27 attached over a part of the dispenser 2 or casing 4. In figure 23, the attachment parts 27 are positioned over a corner of a box-like dispenser 2, but the dispenser could have any other suitable form over which the attachment parts are positioned.
Figure 24 schematically shows a portable dispenser arrangement 1 b for vertical mounting. In figure 24, the second and third hinge members comprise stiffening means for allowing the vertical hanging of the dispenser arrangement 1. It should be noted that the dispenser in figure 24 could have any suitable form or shape.
The arrangement according to figures 16, 17 and 20-24 could comprise a first, second or third hinge members 9, 10, 13 any of which could comprise first and second portions 20, 21 as described in connection to figure 19. The arrangement according to figures 21-24 could comprise first, second or third hinge members 9, 10, 13 any of which could comprise strips of material according to any one of figures 17-20.
In any one of the arrangements according to any one of figures 1-24, the first hinge member 9 could be releasably attached to the second hinge member 10 via the first hinge portion 11. In any one of the arrangements according to any one of figures 1-24, the first fastening means 15 covers at least partially the third hinge member 13, but the first fastening means 15 could completely cover the third hinge member 13. The first fastening means 15 could be arranged for releasable attachment to the surface 16a; 16b.
In any one of the arrangements according to any one of figures 1-24, the first hinge portion 1 1 could be defined by the transition between the to the casing attached first hinge member 9 and the second hinge member 10, and/or wherein the second hinge portion 14 could be defined by the transition between the to the surface 16a; 16b attached third hinge member 13 and the second hinge member 10.
In any one of the arrangements according to any one of figures 1-24, the first hinge portion 1 1 and/or the second hinge portion 14 could defined by a weaker line in a material making up the first hinge member 9 and the second or third hinge member 13.
In any one of the arrangements according to any one of figures 1-24, the first hinge portion 1 1 and/or the second hinge portion may comprise a pivot connecting the first, second and third hinge members 9, 10, 13.
Fig. 25 schematically shows a perspective view of a portable dispenser arrangement 1 a, 1 b according to the invention as described in any one of figures 1-24 or in any combination of figures 1-24. In figure 25 a vertically attached dispenser arrangement 1a is folded to its storage position and a horizontally attached dispenser arrangement 1 b is unfolded to its use position.

Claims

1. Portable dispenser arrangement (1 a; 1 b) comprising a dispenser (2) and a hinged fastening arrangement (3), said dispenser (2) comprising a casing (4) defining an inner volume (5) for storing disposable hygiene items (6) and a dispensing opening (7) for removal of the hygiene items (6) from the dispenser (2), said hinged fastening arrangement (3) comprising a first hinge (8) comprising a first hinge member (9) and a second hinge member (10) being hingeably joined to each other via a first hinge portion (1 1), said first hinge member (9) being attached to the casing (4), characterized in that said hinged fastening arrangement (3) comprises a second hinge (12) comprising the second hinge member (10) and a third hinge member (13) being hingeably joined to each other via a second hinge portion (14), wherein the third hinge member (13) comprises first fastening means (15) for attachment to a surface (16a; 16b) being delimited by an outer edge (17a; 17b), wherein a first distance (18) between the first hinge portion (11) and the second hinge portion (14) taken along the second hinge member (10) is predetermined to allow for movement of the dispenser (2) about the second hinge portion (14) from an unfolded use position to a folded storage position such that the complete dispenser (2) passes a virtual plane (19) extending perpendicular to the surface (16a; 16b) and along the outer edge (17a; 17b).
2. A portable dispenser arrangement (1 a; 1 b) according to claim 1 , wherein the first hinge member (9) is a unitary part of the dispenser (2).
3. A portable dispenser arrangement (1 a; 1 b) according to claim 1 , wherein a part of the first hinge member (9) is a unitary part of the dispenser (2).
4. A portable dispenser arrangement (1 a; 1 b) according to claim 1 , wherein the first hinge member (9) is attachable to the casing (4).
5. A portable dispenser arrangement (1a; 1 b) according to claim 4, wherein the first hinge member (9) is releasably attachable to the casing (4).
6. A portable dispenser arrangement (1a; 1 b) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first hinge member (9) is releasably attached to the second hinge member (10) via the first hinge portion (11).
7. A portable dispenser arrangement (1a; 1 b) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second hinge member (10) is a single portion being attached to the first hinge member (9) via the first hinge portion (11) and the third hinge member (13) via the second hinge portion (14).
8. A portable dispenser arrangement (1a; 1 b) according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein the second hinge member (10) comprises a first portion (20) and a second portion (21), wherein the first portion (20) is attached to the second portion (21).
9. A portable dispenser arrangement (1a; 1 b) according to claims 8, wherein the first portion (20) is releasably attached to the second portion (21).
10. A portable dispenser arrangement (1a; 1 b) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the third hinge member (13) comprises a single portion being attached to the second hinge member (10) via the second hinge portion (14).
1 1. A portable dispenser arrangement (1a; 1 b) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first fastening means (15) covers at least partially the third hinge member (13).
12. A portable dispenser arrangement (1 a; 1 b) according to any one of claims 1-11 , wherein the first fastening means (15) completely covers the third hinge member (13).
13. A portable dispenser arrangement (1a; 1 b) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first fastening means (15) is arranged for releasable attachment to the surface (16a; 16b).
14. A portable dispenser arrangement (1 a; 1 b) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first distance (18) is dependent on: the size and geometry of the casing (4) or dispenser; and the size, geometry and rigidity of the first hinge member, and the pivoting feature of the first hinge (8).
15. A portable dispenser arrangement (1a; 1 b) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first hinge member (9), the second hinge member (10) and the third hinge member (13) comprise stiffening means (22) that allows for vertical hanging of the portable dispenser arrangement (1a; 1 b).
16. A portable dispenser arrangement (1a; 1 b) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first hinge member (9) and/or the second hinge member (10) and/or the third hinge member (13) comprises at least two strips of material (23).
17. A portable dispenser arrangement (1a; 1 b) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first hinge portion (1 1) is defined by the transition between the to the casing attached first hinge member (9) and the second hinge member (10), and/or wherein the second hinge portion (14) is defined by the transition between the to the surface (16a; 16b) attached third hinge member (13) and the second hinge member (10).
18. A portable dispenser arrangement (1 a; 1 b) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first hinge portion (1 1) and/or the second hinge portion (14) is defined by a weaker line in a material making up the first hinge member (9) and the second or third hinge member (13).
19. A portable dispenser arrangement (1 a; 1 b) according to any one of claims 1-17, wherein the first hinge portion (1 1) and/or the second hinge portion comprises a pivot connecting the first, second and third hinge members (9, 10, 13).
PCT/SE2012/050014 2012-01-11 2012-01-11 Foldable dispenser WO2013105887A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/SE2012/050014 WO2013105887A1 (en) 2012-01-11 2012-01-11 Foldable dispenser

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/SE2012/050014 WO2013105887A1 (en) 2012-01-11 2012-01-11 Foldable dispenser

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2013105887A1 true WO2013105887A1 (en) 2013-07-18

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Family Applications (1)

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Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2990950A (en) * 1959-07-20 1961-07-04 Alexander Samuel Dispenser box
US3881649A (en) * 1974-04-29 1975-05-06 Coop Marketing Co Holders having foldable support
US3945559A (en) * 1974-04-29 1976-03-23 The Cooperative Marketing Co. Holders having foldable sheet support
US5031808A (en) * 1990-03-20 1991-07-16 Plasticolor Molded Products, Inc. Vehicle interior receptacle
US6561378B1 (en) * 2000-08-02 2003-05-13 Kimberly Clark Co Tissue dispensing apparatus
US6726076B1 (en) * 2001-05-11 2004-04-27 Eric C. Hernandez Portable litter receptacle
US20100270325A1 (en) * 2009-04-20 2010-10-28 Fearon Brent R G Dispenser with affixing tab

Patent Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2990950A (en) * 1959-07-20 1961-07-04 Alexander Samuel Dispenser box
US3881649A (en) * 1974-04-29 1975-05-06 Coop Marketing Co Holders having foldable support
US3945559A (en) * 1974-04-29 1976-03-23 The Cooperative Marketing Co. Holders having foldable sheet support
US5031808A (en) * 1990-03-20 1991-07-16 Plasticolor Molded Products, Inc. Vehicle interior receptacle
US6561378B1 (en) * 2000-08-02 2003-05-13 Kimberly Clark Co Tissue dispensing apparatus
US6726076B1 (en) * 2001-05-11 2004-04-27 Eric C. Hernandez Portable litter receptacle
US20100270325A1 (en) * 2009-04-20 2010-10-28 Fearon Brent R G Dispenser with affixing tab

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