Abstract: A dispenser for dispensing flexible web material from a center pull roll capable of accommodating different types of web material in the form of sheets separated by lines of perforation. The dispenser includes dispenser apparatus permitting the device to self-adjust to the different thicknesses, sizes and physical characteristics of different types of web material. In certain preferred embodiments, the dispenser comprises a housing, a web support within the housing and structure permitting the dispenser to self-adjust to the effective cross-sectional area of the web. The preferred dispenser structure includes elements positioned to receive the web between them. At least one of the elements is movable and is biased for displacement toward the other. Frictional force applied against the web by the elements resists pull force applied to the web by a user so that a single web sheet separates from the web along the perforation between the elements and the lead end when a user pulls on the web outside the housing.

Abstract: The invention is directed to improved automatic dispenser apparatus for dispensing sheet material and the like without contact between a user and the dispenser. Proximity detection apparatus is provided to detect the presence of a user in a detection zone generated outside the dispenser. Control apparatus controls actuation of the dispenser in response to the detected user. Preferred forms of the proximity detector include a sensor and a signal detection circuit operatively connected to the sensor. The sensor includes conductors configured to have a capacitance and positioned such that the capacitance is changed by the presence of a user within the detection zone. The signal detection circuit detects the change in capacitance and is provided with an oscillator having a frequency which is affected by the sensor capacitance and a differential frequency discriminator which detects changes in the oscillator frequency.

Abstract: A toilet paper dispenser employs two cantilevered mandrels movable in a track. In one track position the lower mandrel is in a dispensing position and, when exhausted, can be moved rearwardly to enable the other cantilevered mandrel to be dropped into a dispensing position. When the lower mandrel is in the dispensing position the guide block which supports the lower mandrel in the track supports the guide block for the second mandrel in an elevated storage, non-access position.

Abstract: A paper towel dispenser employs a rack and gear drive actuated by a lever to rotate a feed roll to dispense the web. The gear rack is slideably supported on the inside of the dispenser cover and has a lever extending through an opening in the cover. The gear rack meshes with a gear train supported within the cabinet interior when the cover is closed.