Water tight wet-wipe dispenser mounted in a wall

Abstract

An in-the-wall wet-wipe dispenser comprises a water-tight container with a stack of pre-moistened wet-wipes therein. The container may be any shape, including rectangular or cylindrical. The distal end of the container is inserted through a hole in the sheet-rock and into the void behind the sheet-rock. When the container is secured in place, the opening of the container extends slightly out of the hole in the wall, or is at least proximate to the hole in the sheetrock. A flexible diaphragm with an iris (opening) advantageously covers the opening of the container. A front panel with a trap door conceals the hole in the wall. The trap-door conceals an extraction portal, which may include a hole in the front panel, the iris, or both. A tissue is withdrawn from the container through an extraction portal. When the trap door is closed, it inhibits evaporation of moisture from the container.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority from, and incorporates by reference in its entirety, U.S. Provisional Application 62/254,690 to Epperley, which was filed on Nov. 12, 2015, and entitled “WATER TIGHT WET-WIPE DISPENSER MOUNTED IN A WALL.”

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for dispensing wet-wipe personal hygiene tissues from a wet-wipe dispenser disposed within the interior of a bathroom wall, including a method of installing the wet-wipe dispenser.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART

Toilet paper is generally believed to have originated in China, and artifacts have been unearthed that suggest usage of toilet paper at least as early as the sixth century, and possibly dating to the first century. Arab and European travelers are reported to have observed this tradition and disclosed it to the Middle East and European communities. Some have credited Marco Polo with bringing toilet paper back to Europe in about 1295. Although toilet paper is still used throughout most of the world today, many societies throughout the world still use soap and water for personal hygiene after using the toilet. Many European hotels have augmented the use of toilet paper with a bidet that sits next to a toilet. Bidets are structurally similar to toilets, effectively forming a basin on which a user can sit to clean themselves after using the toilet. Because they require additional plumbing and additional space, however, bidets are regarded as a luxury in many countries. Without them, personal hygiene is generally limited to toilet paper.

In public restrooms in Pakistan, a soap tray sits adjacent to the toilet, along with a flexible water hose, or a pitcher of water with an elongated spout resembling a coffee pot. The hose or pitcher is held with one hand, and water is poured from the spout onto the top of the sacral curve of the spine (roughly the top of the buttocks). As the water trickles down, while the other hand is free to “soap-up.” Many Americans acknowledge using water in addition to toilet paper. Techniques range from to installing hoses (or placing pitchers of water) adjacent the toilet (as in some foreign countries), to installing retractable sprinkler heads that extend to parallel with the opening of the toilet bowl, to wetting toilet paper with soap and water for a final cleansing, to sitting on the edge of the bathtub and “soaping up” after the use of the toilet. Many women carry “wet-wipes” with them in their purses. However, since American men seldom carry purses or equivalent carrying devices, men are generally foreclosed from the luxury of carrying wet-wipes on their person at all times. Public demand for better hygiene has therefore created a need for a method and apparatus for making wet-wipes available to the consuming public.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 depicts a semi-exploded view of an embodiment of an in-the-wall wet-wipe dispenser 100, from a front perspective view, including a container box 301, an exterior cover 101, and a trap-door 201 mounted on the exterior cover.

FIG. 2 depicts a front perspective view of the in-the-wall wet-wipe dispenser 100 of FIG. 1, showing the hinged exterior cover 101 in an open position and exposing the interior of the container box 301.

FIG. 3 depicts a rear perspective view of the container box 301 of FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 4 depicts a front perspective view of the exterior Cover 101 of the in-the-wall wet-wipe dispenser of FIGS. 1 and 2, wherein the trap-door 201 is closed.

FIG. 5 depicts a front perspective view of the exterior cover 101 of the in-the-wall wet-wipe dispenser of FIGS. 1, 2, and 4, wherein the trap-door 201 is open.

FIG. 6 depicts a perspective view of an in-the-wall wet-wipe dispenser comprising a cylindrical container box 619 releasably secured from the exterior cover 601 through threaded engagement with an interposing cylindrical coupling-lid 609 disposed on the interior surface of the exterior cover 601.

FIG. 7 depicts a side elevation view of the in-the-wall wet-wipe dispenser of FIG. 6, including a cylindrical container box 619 in threaded engagement 611, 621 with a threaded cylindrical coupling-lid 609 disposed on the interior surface of the exterior cover 601.

FIG. 8 depicts a front elevation view of the in-the-wall wet-wipe dispenser of FIGS. 6 and 7, depicting the interior elements in phantom.

FIG. 9 depicts a front elevation view of the in-the-wall wet-wipe dispenser of in FIG. 8, depicting the interior elements in phantom, but wherein the exterior panel 601 is rotated to disconnect it from the wall 345.

FIG. 10 depicts a partially assembled view of the in-the-wall wet-wipe dispenser of FIGS. 6, 7, 8 and 9, wherein the cylindrical wet-wipe container 619 is coupled with the cylindrical coupling-lid 609 on the interior surface of the front panel 601, but wherein the front panel 601 is disconnected from the wall 345.

FIG. 11 depicts a disassembled view of the in-the-wall wet-wipe dispenser of FIGS. 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10, wherein the cylindrical wet-wipe container 619 is de-coupled from the threaded cylindrical coupling-lid 609 on the interior surface of the front panel 601.

FIG. 12 depicts a side elevation view of an alternative embodiment of the in-the-wall wet-wipe dispenser with a cylindrical container box 619 secured at the distal end by a threaded engagement 629, 633 with an interior bracket 631, and supported at the proximal end by an engagement with an unthreaded member 637.

FIG. 13 depicts a side elevation view of an alternative embodiment of the in-the-wall wet-wipe dispenser with a cylindrical container box 619 secured at the distal end by a threaded engagement 629, 633 with an interior bracket 631, and supported at the proximal end by an engagement with a threaded fixture 639.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring principally to FIG. 1-5, a rectangular in-the-wall wet-wipe dispenser includes an exterior cover 101 mounted on a container box 301. The exterior cover comprises a trap-door 201 that opens to grant access to a wet-wipe, and closes after use. In a preferred embodiment, the closure of the trap-door forms a substantially airtight seal with the door stop 111 of the exterior cover 101 to trap in moisture and prevent evaporation of fluid from the wet-wipe stack.

The Water-Tight Container Box

Referring principally to FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, the container box 301 is preferably formed, at least in part, from a rigid material such as metal, composite, nylon, fiberglass, or a plastic, including, but not limited to polymers, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, polyethylene, or polycarbonate, or combinations thereof. The container box comprises a rear wall 305 with and interior surface and an exterior surface, a left wall 307 with an interior surface and an exterior surface, a right wall 309 with an interior surface and an exterior surface, an upper wall 311 with an interior surface and an exterior surface, and a lower wall 313 with an interior surface and an exterior surface. Select interior surfaces of the container box are visible in the semi-exploded view of FIG. 1, and the front perspective view of FIG. 2. The interior surfaces of the rear wall 305, left wall 307, right wall 309, upper wall 311 and lower wall 313, define the interior region of the container box. The interior surfaces, and abutment of interior surfaces are preferably air tight (or water tight), thereby preventing leakage of fluid from the container box and into the interior wall area in which the dispenser is mounted, and further, to reduce evaporation of the fluid from the container box. Ingress and egress to the container box is granted secured from the opening at the proximal end of the container box, which is covered by the exterior cover 101.

When secured in the closed position, the Exterior Cover 101 (FIGS. 1-5) covers the open end of the container box. The plane of the interior surface of the exterior cover (in the closed position) is preferably parallel to the plane of the rear wall 305 of the container box. In the embodiment of FIGS. 1-5, a flange 315 circumscribes the opening of the container box. The exterior cover 101 preferably abuts the flange 315 in a watertight engagement, which may be enhanced by the presence of a gasket or seal, disposed on either the flange 315, or on the interior surface of the exterior cover 101.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, a first coupling member 319 is affixed to the exterior surface of the portion of the flange 315, proximate the upper wall 311.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 3, a plurality of rotatable anchors each comprise a fluke portion 321 and a shaft portion 323. The anchors are advantageously positioned at the corners of the container box, and function to secure the container box 301 in place behind the drywall 345 (FIGS. 2, 3). As used herein, the term “drywall” is used in the most comprehensive sense, and may refer to any structure having an interior surface and an exterior surface suitable for a wall. Generally, these surfaces are planar. The anchor shaft 323 preferably comprises a locking hole (not visible) bored through the axis of shaft 323.

Anchor Position Prior to Installation

Prior to installing the wet-wipe dispenser 100 in a wall, each anchor fluke 321 is positioned within a respective anchor well 327, depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2 as a depression in the exterior surface of a respective sidewall 307, 309, 311, 313 of the container box 301. Shaft tubes 335 integrally formed as part of the container box grant mechanical access to each anchor.

Installation

Referring principally to FIGS. 1-3, during installation of a wet-wipe container box into an opening in a wall, the rear of the container box 301 is inserted into a hole in a wall, and advanced until the flange 315 is pressed up against the exterior surface of the drywall 345. The rear surface of the flange is preferably planar, and abuts the surface of a wall.

In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the mechanical actuators 329 are screws, having a threaded shaft 331 and a screw head 333. During installation, the mechanical actuators are rotated by a screwdriver or some other mechanical means, thereby rotating the respective anchor flukes 321 outward from their respective anchor wells 327. In an embodiment, the outward rotation of a fluke is stopped at 90 degrees. Once the fluke is fully rotated out of its respective anchor well, the continuous application of torque to the mechanical actuator 329 advances the threads through the anchor shaft 323, pulling the anchor fluke 321 toward the drywall 345. This action forcibly secures the drywall between a fluke 321 and the flange 315 of the container box 301.

A metal washer is advantageously imposed between the screw head 333 and the proximal opening of the shaft tube 335 to provide a smooth, hard surface against which the screw head can forcibly rotate during the torqueing (turning) or the screw. In a preferred embodiment, at least two separate anchor assemblies are disposed at opposing corners of the container box 301, thereby producing a balance of forces, securing the wet-wipe dispenser in a stable installation.

In alternative embodiments, spikes, a strip of dual-sided adhesive, or some other glue-type substance is disposed around the interior surface of the flange 315. When the wet-wipe dispenser 100 is installed, the spikes, glue, or adhesive strip acts to hold it in place. This may be used in place of, or in addition to, a mechanical securement device, such as anchors 321, 323.

The Exterior Cover

Referring generally to FIGS. 1, 2, 4 and 5, the exterior cover 101 includes an exterior surface (visible in FIGS. 1, 4 and 5) and an interior surface (visible in FIG. 2). The exterior cover 101 is preferably made from a rigid material, such as metal, composite, nylon, fiberglass, or a plastic or polymer, including, but not limited to, as polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, polyethylene, or polycarbonate, nylon, fiberglass, or combinations thereof. The exterior cover comprises a bottom edge 105, a top edge 103, a left edge 107, and a right edge 109. A second hinge portion 127, disposed along the bottom edge 105 of the exterior cover 101 (visible in FIG. 2) is configured to engage with the first hinge portion 317 on the bottom flange of the container box, thereby swivelably affixing the exterior cover 101 to the container box 301 through a hinge engagement. In an embodiment, a metal dowel (not visible) extends through the first and second hinge portions 317, 127, securing them in a swivelable relationship. In a preferred embodiment such as depicted in FIGS. 4 and 5, the hinge assembly formed by the first and second hinge portions 317, 127 is concealed when the exterior cover 101 is in place.

As depicted in FIG. 2 a second coupling member 110 is advantageously disposed on the interior surface of the exterior cover 101, near the upper edge 103. The second coupling member is configured to engage with the first coupling member 319, which, in the embodiment of FIG. 2, is disposed on the upper flange 315 of the container box 301, visible in FIGS. 1 and 2. Coupling members 110 and 319 thereby releasably secure the upper part of the exterior cover 101 to the upper part of the container box 301. In embodiment for use in homes, first and second coupling members 319, 110 may respectively comprise a magnet and a piece of metal that engages with the magnet, allowing release simply by moderate force pulling the upper edge 103 exterior cover 101 away from the wall. In commercial embodiments (such as in-the-wall mounted wet-wipe assemblies for use in public restrooms), the first and second coupling members 319, 110 may form a locking assembly to prevent theft of wet-wipe tissues.

In a preferred embodiment, a resistive device is configured to prevent damage to the hinge mechanism 127, 317 during opening of the exterior cover 101. The mechanism may slow down the rate of opening, limit the size of the arc through which the cover 101 may swing open, or a combination of these limitations. The resistive device may include, but is not limited to, a hydraulic, a pneumatic, or an electro-magnetic device, a gear mechanism, a gravity controlled release, an elastic mechanism, a spring mechanism, a tensile limit device, a compressive limiting device, a friction device, or combinations thereof. In an alternative embodiment, the exterior cover releases from the bottom edge, with the hinge coupling the top edge of the Exterior Cover 101 to the upper flange 315 of the container box 301.

Restocking Wet-Wipes

Referring generally to FIG. 2, when the stack of wet-wipes has been used up, the exterior cover 101 is withdrawn, at least partially, from the container box 301. In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the exterior cover is withdrawn by decoupling the first and second coupling members 319, 110, and swiveling the external cover 101 about the hinge assembly 317, 127, thereby exposing the interior 302 of the container box. When a new stack of wet-wipes has been inserted, the external cover 101 is swiveled back to the closed position against the flange 315 of the container box 301. The first and second coupling members 319, 110 are recoupled. As noted, this may be as simple as a magnetic coupling, or may be a more complex locking mechanism to prevent theft of a packet of wet-wipes.

The Door Stop and Access Portal

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 5, the depressed region in the exterior surface of the exterior cover 101 forms a door-stop 111 which limits the closure of the trap-door 201. Although different geometric designs are envisioned, the door-stop 111 depicted herein is preferably rectangular, having a left side 119, a right side 117, a bottom edge 115 and a top edge 113. It is preferably shaped to conform with the shape of the trap-door 201, such that, when the trap door is closed, there is minimal space between the edges of the door trap and the edges of the trap door. Appropriate sealing materials may be utilized to enhance the air tight integrity of the trap door closure.

A tissue portal 125 shown as an oval is disposed within the geometric limits of the door stop 111. In actual use, when ready for use, a wet-wipe tissue preferably extends part way through the tissue portal 125, available for a user to grasp with his or her fingers, much as the “next bathroom tissue” extends slightly through the tissue portal of a bathroom tissue box. Although alternative geometric shapes are envisioned for the tissue portal, an oval is a preferred shape. An alternative preferred shape comprises a generally oval shaped tissue portal with linear slits extending from the left and right tips of the oval. As used herein, the term “tissue portal” may refer to successive openings, such as the portal 125 in the door stop and an opening in a flexible diaphragm.

Referring briefly to an alternative embodiment of FIG. 11, a flexible (e.g. rubberized or plasticized) diaphragm 625 comprises a star-shaped iris 627 opening. Such diaphragms and iris openings may be used with any embodiment, and are not limited to that of FIG. 11. The flexible fingers of the star-shaped iris opening 627 are preferably semi-rigid, deforming as a wet-wipe tissue is withdrawn, and then returning to a substantially closed shape after a wet-wipe has been withdrawn, clamping against the tip of the “next” wet-wipe that is pulled part way through the iris. This secures the “next” tissue, so that tissues are withdrawn one-at-a-time. The iris opening further helps to partially seal the opening of the wet-wipe dispenser, reducing evaporation. Although the iris-opening 627 of FIG. 11 is depicted in conjunction with a cylindrical wet-wipe dispenser, iris openings of any shape and configuration are equally envisioned for use in a square or rectangular wet-wipe dispenser, as depicted in FIGS. 1-5.

Alternative iris-openings include a linear slit which may include with overlapping flexible membrane portions, a tongue & groove assembly, male and female concentric rings, and a zipper or zip lock engagement. In a preferred embodiment, the diaphragm is replaceable, so that an old or damaged diaphragm may be replaced without the need to replace the entire in-the-wall wet-wipe unit.

A third hinge section 121 is disposed along the bottom edge 115 of the door stop 111. As discussed below, the trap-door 201 is swivelably coupled to the fourth hinge section 121.

The Trap-Door

Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, 4 and 5, a trap-door 201 covers the tissue portal 125 that is formed in the exterior cover 102, thereby preventing evaporation of the fluid in the stack of wet-wipes, as well as enhancing the aesthetic appearance of the in-the-wall wet-wipe dispenser when not in use. The trap-door 201 comprises an exterior surface (visible in FIGS. 1 and 4), an interior surface (visible in FIGS. 2 and 5), and further has an upper edge 203, a lower edge 205, a left edge 209, and a right edge 207. A fourth hinge section 213 is disposed along the lower edge 205 of the trap-door, and engages a third hinge section 121 disposed in the exterior cover 101 at the bottom of the door-stop 111. A metal dowel (not visible) is threaded through structures in the third and fourth hinge sections 121, 213, thereby forming a hinge that swivelably affixes the lower edge 205 of the trap-door 201 to the lower edge 115 of the door stop 111 on the exterior cover 101.

Although the hinge on the trap-door depicted in FIGS. 1, 2, 4 and 5 generally depicts a design comprising a metal dowel extending through a plurality of hollow cylindrical members, alternative embodiments are envisoned in which the hinge is a lanyard, flexomer, robotic arms with rotatable joints, or some other flexible tether or appropriate device. Referring briefly to FIGS. 12 and 13, a flexible hinge may be used more advantageously with a smaller trap-door, such as one formed to cover the nipple 635 of an extraction portal. Although not specifically depicted in FIGS. 12 and 13, alternative embodiments are envisioned wherein a trap-door covering the extraction portal (e.g. 627 of FIG. 11) comprises an external surface that is substantially flush with external surface of the disposable cover 623 when the trap-door is closed. The extraction portal extends through the disposable cover 623. Although flexomer-type hinges are generally preferred for trap-doors having a very small cross sectional area (as might be used to cover the nipple 635 or an extraction portal formed in the disposable cover 623 of FIGS. 12 and 13), flex hinges may also be used on large trap doors. Similarly, although traditional hinges (with a threaded dowel) are generally preferred for trap-doors having a greater cross sectional area (such as trap-door 211 depicted in FIG. 5), there is no specific principle that limits the use of the trap door on which a traditional hinge may be utilized.

Returning principally to FIGS. 4 and 5, the depth of the depression of the door stop 111 is configured such that, when the trap-door 201 is shut, as depicted in FIG. 4, the exterior surface of the trap-door 201 and the exterior surface of the exterior cover 101 preferably align in the same plane to form a smooth continuous surface. The space between the edges of the trap-door 201 and the edges of the door stop 111 are preferably minimal, providing an assembly that is both atheistically pleasing, and nearly air-tight, reducing evaporation of the wet-wipes. Additionally, trap-door embodiments may incorporate single piece sliding doors, and “iris” type sliding doors (in which multiple components slide away from each other to create an opening).

The Finger Engagement

Referring to FIGS. 1, 4 and 5, a finger engagement member 211 is disposed along the upper edge 203 of the trap-door 201. In an embodiment, the finger engagement member 211 depicts a conic section, formed in, or attached to, the exterior surface of the trap-door 201. In the embodiment of FIG. 5, it depicts a half-moon structure adjacent the upper edge 203 of the trap-door. In use, a user can engage the finger engagement member with their finger to open the trap-door and access wet-wipes stored in the wet-wipe dispenser.

Trap-door Securement Assembly

Referring now to FIG. 5, a third securement member 215 is disposed on the inner surface of the trap-door 201, proximate the upper edge 203 of the trap-door. A complementary fourth securement member 123 is visible in on the upper portion of the door stop 111 of FIG. 1. In an embodiment, the third 215 and fourth 123 securement members form a magnetic coupling. The respective depths (or heights of protrusion) of the third and fourth securement members are preferably configured to ensure that, when the trap-door 201 is closed, the exterior surface of the trap-door 201 and the exterior surface of the exterior cover 101 align in a common plane. A “floating” magnet or metal coupling may be used to assist in achieving this alignment.

Pressure Sensitive Toggle Release Mechanism

In an alternative embodiment, a pressure sensitive release may also be employed. In a preferred embodiment, the pressure sensitive mechanism comprises a toggle, conceptually similar to a toggle extension/retraction mechanism ball-point pen. In use with the trap door 201, when engaged in a first state, a toggle functions as a “push to release.” When engaged from the second state, the toggle functions as a “push to secure.” According to this embodiment, a user would not have to use their finger to open the wet-wipe box, nor would a finger engagement member even be necessary. A user could open the door trap-door by pressing on the trap-door with the knuckle on the back of their hand, exposing the available wet-wipes, and close the door by pressing on the door with the knuckle on the back of their hand.

A toggle embodiment may incorporate a floating magnet for the coupling of members 215 and 123. In step 1, during closure of the trap door, pressure against the door depresses the floating magnet and toggle a first distance, causing the toggle increment to the alternate position. When pressure is removed from the door, the toggle assembly “opens” (exerts pressure on the door), but is limited in travel to the “first” position, stopping at a point within the range of the floating magnet, such that the magnet and complementary metal piece 319, 215 (FIGS. 2, 5) remain in contact.

In step two, pressure is again imparted against the door, depressing the floating magnet and toggle assembly to the point that the toggle increments to the alternate position. When pressure is removed from the door, the toggle assembly “opens” (exerts pressure on the door) to a “second” position, which is beyond the range of the floating magnet. Once the contact between the metal and the magnet 319, 215 (FIGS. 2, 5) is broken, the trap door the trap door opens.

The closure of the trap-door after use returns to step 1.

An advantage of using push-to-release toggle latch to open the trap-door is that consumers are loath to use their fingers to touch common articles proximate a commode, particularly in pubic restrooms. The finger engagement member 211 may therefore be objectionable to consumers, particularly in a public restroom. A press-to-release toggle embodiment permits a user to open the trap-door with a knuckle or the back of their hand, and close it in the same manner, avoiding the use of the fingers.

Gravity or Spring Opening Mechanism and Buffered Release

In one auto-open embodiment, a spring or elastomer is advantageously affixed to a member of the wet-wipe dispenser (such as, for example the hinge mechanism 121, 213 of FIG. 5), urging the trap-door 201 to open further after the trap-door has been released from the closed position. This may be part of a toggle release mechanism, or a separate opening device. (Similar devices may be incorporated to assist in the opening of the exterior cover 101.) For example, a spring may be attached to the dowel running through the hinge (127, 317) controlling the opening of the exterior cover 101.

Door Stops and Limiters

It can readily be appreciated, that, simply through a “gravity assisted” opening, the actuation of a “toggle to open” would cause the door to swing open roughly 180 degrees, coming to rest hanging vertically beneath the hinge, essentially parallel to, and against, the exterior cover and/or the bathroom wall. A user could not retrieve the trap door to close it without using his or her fingers, negating many of the advantages gained by a “no-touch toggle-to-open” design. A “stop” device functions to limit to the arc through which the trap-door 201 could swing upon opening would ensure that there would be space beneath an open trap-door in which a user could use a knuckle or the back of their hand to close the door without the necessity of touching it with their fingers. In a preferred embodiment, a hinged-door should engage a stop somewhere between 80 degrees and 120 degrees after opening. This limitation allows a user to place their knuckle “beneath” the open trap-door, and exert force on the exterior surface of the trap-door 201 to close the door, without needing to “pull” it away from the wall with their fingers, and further ensuring it does not open to a point wherein it damages the hinge mechanism.

Buffered Opening

One or more buffers may be incorporated to slow the rate of opening of a hinge-type trap-door 201, or a hinge-type cover panel 101. Embodiments of a release buffer include, but are not limited to, a friction mechanism, a gear mechanism, a counter weight or opposing force.

Upward Opening of Trap Door

In an alternative embodiment, the hinge 121, 213 is disposed on the “top” of the trap-door. When released by the “press-release” toggle mechanism, a spring, elastomer, counter weight, or other mechanical device functions to open the door through a preset arc, such as 90 degrees. By directing the opening of the trap-door in an upward direction, gravity will not cause the trap door 201 to swing open to a point where the exterior surface of the trap-door is abutted against the wall.

Photo-Electric Actuation

In an embodiment, a photo-electric motion detector, voice activation, or other touchless input activates the opening of the door. In a related embodiment, the touchless input activates an automated release of a wet-wipe tissue.

Slide Trap-Door

In another alternative embodiment a slide trap-door may be used, comprising one or more trap-doors configured to slide away from the portal or iris, allowing access to the next wet-wipe. In auto-release embodiments utilizing sliding trap-doors, the trap-doors may be much smaller than those embodiments in which the user must physically interact with the door to open and shut the door.

Retractable Dispensers

In another embodiment, the entire wet-wipe unit retracts into, or out from, the wall. This may be achieved through linear movement of the wet-wipe dispenser, a pivoting of the wet-wipe dispenser, or a combination thereof. Upon activation, the wet-wipe dispenser extends outward from the wall, permitting the user to grab a wet-wipe. Upon a second activation, the dispenser retracts back into the wall. The extraction and retraction of the unit may be through pressure of a touch, or a touchless engagement means, including, but not limited to, photo-electric, motion detection, voice activation, etc.

Use of Wet-Wipe Dispenser

Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, a user opens the wet-wipe dispenser by placing a finger 401 on the finger engagement member 211, and pulling forward. As noted above, alternative embodiments include a “toggle-push” embodiment requiring the user to press the trap-door 201 to release and reclose it, voice activation, motion activation, or other release activation techniques. In most of the various embodiments, the trap-door 201 will either swing open by the hinge 121, 213 (FIGS. 121, 213), or slide open (including multi-directional iris-type slides), exposing the front wet-wipe tissue in a stack of wet-wipes. The stack of wet-wipes may be further packaged in a cellophane dispenser or other unitized container. The user grasps a wet-wipe tissue and pulls it from the dispenser 100 in a manner similar to withdrawing a tissue from a tissue box.

Cylindrical Package

In commercial use, “baby-wipes” (wet-wipes tissues for cleaning a baby) are commonly packaged in cylindrical containers. FIGS. 6-13 depict various embodiments of an in-the-wall wet-wipe dispenser utilizing a cylindrical container, making this embodiment suitable for “off the shelf” utilization of such cylindrical packaging.

In the embodiment of FIG. 11, a diaphragm 625 having a star shaped iris portal 627 covers the proximal end of a cylindrical wet-wipe dispenser 619. The surface (sidewall) of the cylindrical dispenser 619 is threaded 621 at or near the proximal end for attachment to the threaded cylindrical coupling lid 609. In FIG. 11, the threads 621 stop short of the actual end of the cylinder 619.

Alternatively, the threaded section 621 on the surface of the cylinder 619 may extend to the very tip of the cylinder. In this embodiment, the diaphragm may have an ultra thin sidewall 625 that collapses into the threads. Alternatively, as depicted in FIG. 11, the proximal surface of the cylinder 619 immediately abutting the very end may be unthreaded, and wherein a thin diaphragm material is glued or attached to this surface area.

In yet another embodiment, the iris cover 627 does not wrap around the sidewalls of the cylinder 619, but is glued to the very end of the cylinder.

Referring still to the embodiment of FIGS. 10 and 11, the interior surface of the exterior cover 101 has with a cylindrical coupling-lid 609 integrally formed therefrom, or attached thereto. Threads 611 formed in the interior surface of the coupling-lid are configured to engage with threads 621 formed at or near the proximal end of a cylindrical wet-wipe container 619. FIG. 11 depicts the cylindrical container 619 prior to attachment with the coupling-lid 609, and FIG. 10 depicts the cylindrical container after it has been screwed into the coupling-lid 609.

Still referring to FIG. 10, primary coupling members 617 disposed on the interior surface of the exterior cover 601 are configured to engage with complementary coupling members 615 secured within the wall. In the embodiment of FIG. 10, the complementary coupling members are secured to mounting brackets 616, which are, themselves, secured to a structure integral to the wall 345. As shown in FIG. 10, the distal end of the cylinder 619 is inserted into the opening in the wall.

Referring now to FIG. 9, as the exterior cover 601 is advanced toward the wall, the cover 601 is tilted such that the primary coupling members 617 are slightly misaligned with the complementary coupling member 615 to allow full insertion. Once the exterior cover is abutted against an opposing member, the exterior cover 601 is then rotated, variously clockwise, or counterclockwise, to engage or disengage the primary and secondary coupling members 617, 615. FIG. 8 depicts the primary and secondary coupling members 617, 615 in an engaged relationship, and FIG. 9 depicts the primary and secondary coupling members 617, 615 in a disengaged relationship. The counterclockwise arrow of FIG. 9 shows the direction to disengage the units. A clockwise rotation would engage the members 617, 615 of FIG. 9.

FIGS. 6 and 7 are a perspective view, and side view, of a cylindrical container 619 that has been secured within a wall 345 in the manner described in FIGS. 8 and 9. A trap-door 603 within the exterior cover 601 allows a user to access the wet-wipes. The embodiment of FIGS. 6 and 7 includes a finger engagement member 607 substantially equivalent to element 211 discussed earlier in conjunction with FIGS. 1, 4 and 5. The oval port 605 in the exterior cover 601 is substantially equivalent to the oval port 125 in FIGS. 1, 2 and 5. And end-view of the dowel rod 613 around which the hinge mechanism of the trap-door swivels is visible in FIG. 7. In FIG. 7, the cylindrical coupling-lid 609 extends perpendicularly outward from the interior surface of the exterior cover 601. The threads 611 formed in the interior surface of the coupling-lid are engaged with the threads 621 on the proximal end of the cylindrical container 619.

By utilizing a configuration as depicted in FIGS. 6-11, a cylindrical “off-the-shelf” wet-wipe container may be decoupled from the disposable cover (such as cover 623 of FIGS. 12 and 13) and screwed into a threaded coupling lid 609, 611, or otherwise coupled to the interior surface of the exterior cover 601 by known means. The disposable cylindrical package thereby becomes the “container box” of an in-the-wall wet-wipe assembly.

FIGS. 12 and 13 depict an alternative design for installing a cylindrical wet-wipe container within a wall. Most of the components in FIGS. 12 and 13 are numbered identically, and function identically with the components of FIGS. 6 and 7. A few major components, however, distinguish these embodiments. In FIGS. 12 and 13, a set of threads 629 are formed on the exterior surface of the cylinder proximate the distal end of the cylinder. These may be in addition to, or in place of, threads 621 formed at or near the proximal end of the cylindrical container 619. Horizontal brackets 632 attach to the wall 345, or some fixed structure within the wall. Rear support brackets 631 extend outward from the horizontal brackets 632. The rear support bracket is threaded at the end, or may comprises a separate threaded end piece 633 into which the distal threads 629 of the cylindrical wet-wipe container are screwed. This rear-bracing technique eliminates the need to attach the proximal end of the cylindrical container to a cylindrical coupling-lid 609 in the manner disclosed in FIGS. 6-11. This, in turn, allows the assembly to retain the disposable lid 623 that comes with the unit when purchased.

Still referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, embodiments are envisioned wherein a cap (not shown) is coupled to the cover 623 by a lanyard or flexible hinge member. The cap is configured to cover the nipple 635 in a water-tight engagement, and is essentially a trap door on a smaller scale. Alternatively, embodiments are envisioned wherein, in place of a nipple, a “cork” or other structure “plug” type structure is configured to plug a portal formed in the disposable lid 623. The “cork” or plug structure is advantageously coupled to the lid 623 by a lanyard or flexible hinge member.

In FIG. 12, a proximal brace 637 is disposed between the drywall and the disposable cover 623 to secure the proximal end of the cylindrical container 619, eliminating excessive moment which would otherwise be imposed on the assembly and transmitted to the distal threads 629, 633.

FIG. 13 depicts a “recessed” embodiment in which the disposable cover 623 is fully recessed within the wall, and concealed by an exterior cover 601 and trap-door 603. To secure the proximal end and avoid the transmission of excessive moment into the distal threads 629, 633, proximal bracket(s) 630 extends from the main horizontal bracket(s) 632. Although FIG. 13 depicts threaded engagement between the cylindrical container 619 and both the proximal bracket 639 and distal bracket 631, this is for illustrative purposes only. Only one of these brackets need be threaded or otherwise secured to the cylinder. The other bracket need only lend support to the assembly. Because commercial cylindrical wet-wipe containers 619 are usually formed from rather soft, flexible plastic, a space of one or two millimeters between the a non-threaded bracket and the cylindrical container 619 will normally be a close enough tolerance to support the proximal end and avoid excessive force or moment from being transmitted to the distal threads 629, 633.

Reference to threaded engagements and other specific connection means are not intended as a limitation on mechanical engagements, and are only intended to illustrate an example of mechanical engagement. Additionally, any of the structures depicted or discussed in conjunction with one figure may, where conceptually feasible, be incorporated in conjunction with any other figure or embodiment described or depicted herein. Various specific details have been included to enable one skilled in the art to make and use the same, and should not be construed as limiting the inventions and embodiments described herein, which fully apprehend alternative embodiments consistent with the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An in-the-wall wet-wipe assembly for dispensing wet-wipe tissue, the assembly comprising:

a bathroom wall having a planar rigid wall structure, and an interior region behind said planar rigid wall structure;

a water-tight container having a closed end disposed within the interior region of the bathroom wall and an open end proximate the planar rigid wall structure of the bathroom wall, said water-tight container having a plurality of wet-wipe tissues therein; and,

an extraction portal exposing an area at the open end of the water-tight container, said extraction portal configured to facilitate extraction of a wet-wipe tissue from the water-tight container.

2. The wet-wipe assembly of claim 1, wherein the water-tight container comprises first and second watertight surfaces, and further comprises at least one watertight seam at abutment of the first and second watertight surfaces.

3. The wet-wipe assembly of claim 1, wherein the extraction portal is formed, at least in part, in a flexible diaphragm.

4. The wet-wipe assembly of claim 1, the rigid planar wall structure of the bathroom wall comprising a hole configured to facilitate an insertion of the first end of the water-tight container into the interior region of the bathroom wall.

5. The wet-wipe assembly of claim 4, further comprising an exterior cover configured to cover at least a part of the hole within the rigid planar structure of the wall.

6. The wet-wipe dispenser of claim 5, wherein the extraction portal is formed, at least in part, in the exterior cover, the assembly further comprising a trap-door configured to alternate between a closed position that covers the extraction portal, and an open position that exposes the extraction portal.

7. The wet-wipe dispenser of claim 6, wherein, when the trap-door is in the closed position, the trap-door forms a substantially air-tight seal around the extraction portal.

8. The wet-wipe dispenser of claim 6, wherein the trap-door is attached to the exterior cover by a hinge.

9. The wet-wipe dispenser of claim 8, wherein the hinge comprises a flexible tether.

10. The wet-wipe dispenser of claim 8, wherein the hinge is comprised of a rigid dowel threaded through a plurality of cylindrical holes.

11. The wet-wipe dispenser of claim 5, the exterior cover comprising an interior surface with a coupling member attached thereto, wherein, in an assembled state, the water-tight container is releasably secured to the coupling member.

12. The wet-wipe dispenser of claim 11, wherein the water-tight container is releasably secured to the coupling member through a threaded engagement.

13. The wet-wipe dispenser of claim 1, wherein the water-tight container is releasably secured to a bracket disposed within said interior region of the bathroom wall.

14. The wet-wipe dispenser of claim 13, wherein the water-tight container is releasably secured to the bracket member through a threaded engagement.

15. The wet-wipe dispenser of claim 5, wherein a first section of the exterior cover is swivelably secured to the water-tight container by a hinge.

16. The wet-wipe dispenser of claim 15, wherein a second portion of the exterior cover is secured to the water-tight container by a releasable connector.

17. The wet-wipe dispenser of claim 16, wherein the releasable connector comprises a magnet.

18. The wet-wipe dispenser of claim 16, wherein the securement mechanism comprises a locking mechanism.

19. The wet-wipe dispenser of claim 8, wherein the trap-door is further coupled to the exterior cover by a releasable connector.

20. The wet-wipe dispenser of claim 19, wherein the releasable connector is a magnet.

21. The wet-wipe dispenser of claim 8, further comprising a toggle mechanism, configured to alternate between a release of the trap-door and a capture of the trap-door.

22. The wet-wipe dispenser of claim 21, wherein the toggle mechanism is triggered by pressure against the trap-door.

23. The wet-wipe dispenser of claim 1, further comprising a touchless sensor for triggering the dispensing of a wet-wipe tissue through the extraction portal.

24. The wet-wipe dispenser of claim 6, wherein an exterior surface of the trap-door, and an exterior surface of the exterior cover both define substantially planar surfaces, and wherein, when the trap-door is in a closed position, the planar surface of the trap-door forms a substantially contiguous surface with the planar surface of the exterior cover.

25. The wet-wipe dispenser of claim 6, the trap-door comprising a protruding member configured for engagement with a human finger.