Abstract: An adapter for a cup dispenser that can be used to replace flexible diaphragms so as to improve wear characteristics. Each adapter is preferably interchangeable with other adapters sized to accommodate other different cup sizes and shapes. The adapter includes two or more rows of preferably offset restrictions to stage and separate cups for easy dispensing. The invention also comprises a cup dispenser incorporating such an adapter and a method of interchanging a flexible diaphragm with such an adapter.

Abstract: An electronically controlled roll towel dispenser with a data communication system. The dispenser automatically dispenses a predetermined length of paper toweling from a supply roll after a length of toweling has been detached by a user pulling and tearing the protruding toweling against a stationary cutting blade. The dispenser is battery powered with an electric motor, an electromechanical dispensing mechanism, and an embedded microcontroller for controlling and monitoring operation of the dispenser. In addition to primary control functions, the microcontroller monitors parameters such as battery condition, towel usage, system status, system errors, and unsafe operating conditions. Pushbutton switches are also provided for programming towel length and the dispense delay. The dispenser further includes an optical transmitter for transmitting visual and infrared data to a receiving device.