DEVICE AND METHOD FOR STORING AND DISPENSING ROLLED MATERIAL

Abstract

A device and method for storing and dispensing rolled material are disclosed. The device for storing and dispensing rolled material supports one or more rolls of material, such as wrapping paper. The rolls may be rotated to select a desired roll. A desired roll may have a desired length of material extended from the device without removing the roll from its support within the device. The desired length of material may be cut using a hand tool or using an attached cutting component, which may rotate into position for cutting or may slide along the material as it cuts it. The device may also be enclosed in a storage container, which may be partially or completely opened to access a desired roll of material. The container may also include additional compartments for supplies, such as ribbons.

Description

This application claims the priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/448,699 filed on Jan. 20, 2017, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates generally to a device and method for storing and dispensing rolled material. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a device for storing, dispensing, and cutting material such as one or more rolls of wrapping paper.

Rolled materials are used for a wide range of applications. Such materials, such as wrapping paper, are often stored and dispensed as single rolls. The use of single rolls allows for feeding one roll at a time into further processing, such as cutting to length or width. However, it is beneficial to be able to store multiple rolls in a single device or storage container, and then selectively dispense rolled material as needed. The ability to store more than one roll of material and selectively dispense the material may enable the user to keep a variety of different rolls, such as those of different colors, thicknesses, widths, textures, or material compositions, in a single container or in a single set up or work station. It may also enable the user to keep a larger supply of material, such as multiple similar or identical rolls, in a single device or container, selecting a new roll when a different one is desired or one runs out, without necessitating set up times for transferring to a new roll to a dispensing or cutting device. Required storage and floor space may also be minimized.

Current means for storing and dispensing rolled materials do not allow for the use of or selection between multiple rolls or are inconvenient to switch between one roll and another, especially when the rolled material is to be dispensed and cut to length or width. Current means also require significant space when accommodating multiple rolls and offer limited and often inconvenient options for cutting the material to desired sizes.

SUMMARY

The disclosure relates to an improved device and method of storing and dispensing rolled material. More specifically, the disclosure relates to an improved device and method of storing, dispensing, and cutting one or more rolls of material such as wrapping paper.

In one embodiment, the present invention includes an elongated body that may be rotatable along a central axis. The elongated body is connected to a retention feature which may support a roll of rolled material, or, preferably, multiple rolls. The retention feature may support rolls of material on multiple sides of the elongated body, along a circumference, or just on one side. The retention element may be connected to the elongated body in a rotatable manner, such as through the use of a bearing, bushing, or bearing surface, allowing the retention element to rotate relative to the elongated body. The elongated body may also be rotatable, such as along a central axis, and the retention element may be connected to the elongated body so as to rotate with the elongated body. In such an embodiment, the elongated body is rotated, rotating the retention element and rolls of rolled material along with it, enabling a user to select a desired roll. In one embodiment, the elongated body may be approximately 30″ in length, but it should be understood that it may be shorter or longer, depending on the types of rolled materials to be stored or dispensed. The elongated body or the retention body may also be assembled from multiple smaller sections so as to create the desired length of support for the elongated body or for rolls of material.

The device may also include a second retention feature. One or both retention features may be located at either end of the elongated body, or along the length of it. A retention feature may also extend substantially along the length of the elongated body, including extending along the full length of the elongated body. If there is more than one retention element, it is preferable for all retention elements to rotate in unison, so that rolls of material are kept relatively straight and parallel to the axis of rotation.

In one embodiment, the retention element includes one or more elongated recesses which are sized and configured to support a roll of rolled material. It may be preferable to have the elongated recessed substantially cylindrical so as to aid in rotation of rolled material within the elongated recesses. The roll of material may be inserted into a recess at one end, along the length of the roll, at both ends of the roll, or in any combination thereof. Length and depth of cylindrical recesses may vary depending on the size, weight, and rigidity of the rolls to be supported.

In one embodiment, the cylindrical recesses include openings which extend radially away from the axis of rotation. The openings may be a portion of the circular cross-section of the cylinder, leaving a semi-circle, or may be slots cut into the retention element. The openings allow rolled material to be dispensed from the retention element, at least partially unrolling the rolled material.

In another embodiment, the retention element may include one or more projections which are configured to extend within a roll of rolled material to support it. The projections may extend from one or both retention elements towards the opposite end of the elongated body. The projections may also be substantially rigid, or may be entirely or partially flexible, such as through slots in the projections, to more easily load a roll of rolled material onto a projection or to hold it more securely.

One or both ends of the elongated body may also include a substantially disc-like, planar component, or other retention surface, which may be used to retain the rolls of rolled material and prevent them from sliding off of the device. The retention surface may be configured so as to allow for storing the dispenser on one end while preventing rolls of rolled material from falling out of the dispenser when lifted. The retention surface may also include an opening, notch, or other feature to allow for selective insertion of a roll of rolled material into the device and onto a retention element.

In another embodiment, the retention element, which may include cut-outs, projections, or other retention features, may extend over a substantial axial length of the elongated body, including over the full length. The edge of an opening in a retention element, such as in one with a cylindrical cut that extends the full length of the elongated body, may feature a sharp edge, serrated edge, or other cutting surface. This may allow a user to cut desired sections of rolled material without requiring any separate tools or components.

In one embodiment, the elongated body may have a central open compartment which may be substantially empty and may be closed on one end or closeable on one or both ends. This compartment may be used for storing other supplies, or for storing additional rolls of rolled material which may be used less frequently or which may not fit on the retention elements when they are otherwise fully loaded.

The device may also include a cutting component or assembly. The cutting component may be mounted rigidly to the device, or may be mounted in a fashion where it is able to rotate into position to cut dispensed rolled material. The cutting component may have an upper or lower serrated edge or other cutting edge, such as for cutting dispensed rolled material with a generally upward or downward motion. The cutting component may also include a sliding feature, such as one or more blades which may slide along a rail or in a channel in order to cut dispensed material to desired lengths or widths.

In one embodiment, the rotational feature of the elongated body or of a retention element may be locked in position, so that retention elements may not rotate when a user does not desire them to, such as when cutting dispensed rolled material. The rotation may be locked through the use of a ball plunger, spring plunger, or other methods known in the art.

In other embodiments, the dispenser may not include an elongated body. In such embodiments, the retention element may rotate about a stationary component, such as a rod or a circular feature, such as a ring, bearing, or bushing. There may be one rod or circular feature at one end, one at each end, or the rod or circular feature may extend along all or a substantial portion of the length of the retention element.

The retention element may also be formed of multiple shorter retention elements which may be arranged substantially in axial alignment. The multiple retention elements may be connected directly, may be connected by means of one or more keying features, or may be connected by means of separate connection components which may optionally also include one or more keying features. The one or more retention elements may also have a, end component at one or both ends which may aid in connection to supports, bearings or bushings, or may reduce manufacturing time or costs. The rod, bearing, bushing, or other circular features which enable rotation of the retention element may be in contact with and support the retention element, the connection components, or the end component.

The device for storing and dispensing rolled material may also be part of a storage system, such as where it is used in conjunction with or is attached to a substantially flat platform. The platform may be configured to aid with cutting of dispensed rolled material, or may provide a surface upon which to dispense, measure, and/or cut the material. The platform may provide a large footprint, or may be small, such as a base for supporting the device or to act as the bottom of an enclosure or carrying case for the device.

A cutting component, such as those already described, may be mounted to the platform, to the device, to a case, or may be separate from all of them. The cutting component may be fixed to the platform, allowing dispensed material to be inserted below the cutting component, or it may be rotatably mounted, so as to rotate into a cutting position. The cutting component may be fixedly or rotatably mounted to the cutting platform or to the device itself, and may also include a sliding blade or cutting edge feature which may slide along or through the dispensed rolled material when cutting it.

The cutting platform may also unfold from the device. It may also include one or more grooves which are sized to aid in directing a cutting component along a substantially straight line while cutting dispensed rolled material, whether cutting it to length or to width. The grooves may also be configured to aid in measuring of dispensed rolled material. A blade of a cutting component may slide within a groove while cutting, or the cutting component may have a projection, such as a fin, which is configured to fit within a groove and slide along it as a guide during cutting. This may be a cutting component which is connected to the platform or to the device, or may be a separate instrument, such as a cutting hand-held tool.

The platform may also be a base component of an enclosure, such as one which substantially encloses at least part of the device, such as on at least three sides. The enclosure may be used to create a more readily storable and transportable storage system, and may include one or more wheels to aid in pulling or otherwise transporting the storage system. It may also include a stand for standing the storage system upright when not in use. The enclosure or dispenser itself may also include one or more handles to aid in carrying, pulling, or otherwise moving the enclosure or device. If the dispenser is used with an enclosure, then the dispenser may be connected to one or more walls or other features of the enclosure, and thus may not require legs or another form of stand for support. The retention element may also rotate about features, such as a rod or circular feature associated with one or more walls of the enclosure. The dispenser may be connected to one or more features of an enclosure directly or by means of one or more bearings, bushings, or bearing surfaces, enabling rotation of the dispenser relative to the enclosure. A substantially or partially hollow elongated body, or a substantially solid elongated body, such as a rod, may be used with an enclosure.

In one embodiment, the storage system may include at least one face or panel which may be opened to provide access to the dispenser or at least one roll of rolled material within. The storage system may also have additional panels or portions which may open to provide access to storage compartments within the storage system, such as for ribbons, a cutting tool, gift bags, bows, adhesive tape, or other additional supplies.

In another embodiment, the storage system may include multiple compartments which may be independently rotated open or may be opened together, substantially opening the enclosure and providing access to multiple compartments within the storage system. Storage compartments may contain supplemental items, racks or rods for supplemental items, or may contain additional containers, such as zippered pouches, mesh bags, or sliding drawers, for items a variety of items. An additional container, such as a zipper pouch or mesh bag, may also be attached to a surface of a storage compartment, and may be rectangular or any number of other shapes which may fit within a storage compartment in a desirable way. Storage compartments may also include doors, drawers, or flaps, which may close using hinges, sliders, slam latches, light press fits, rotatable or interlocking features, or through other means known in the art.

In other embodiments, the storage system may include a measuring device, such as a ruler, which may be fixed in position, or may be rotatable along one or more axes.

In another embodiment, the storage system may include a base which is configured to support the dispenser. It may also include a cover which may attach to the base through a variety of means, such as through the use of latches or other means known in the art. The cover may be opaque, or it may be at least partially translucent or transparent, such as when the cover is formed of clear plastic. The cover may also have one or more handles to aid in transporting the system.

It should be understood that the storage system of the present disclosure may also be implemented to store and dispense various wrapping-related items even if the system does not include a rolled material dispenser. The storage system may also be configured to contain the dispenser while having no additional storage compartments.

The disclosure relates to a method of storing and dispensing rolled material, such as through the use of the described invention. The method may include storing one or more rolls of rolled material on a dispenser and rotating the supports of the one or more rolls such that a user may select a desired roll of rolled material. The dispenser may be free-standing, may be connected to a platform, or may be housed within or otherwise connected to an enclosure. At least one surface or portion of the enclosure may optionally be opened so as to provide access to the dispenser or to one roll of rolled material. A desired length of a selected roll of rolled material may be dispensed. The desired length of dispensed rolled material may be cut to a further desired length or width.

It is to be understood that the above mentioned features and the features yet to be explained hereinafter can be used not only in the respectively mentioned combinations but also in other combinations or alone without departing from the context of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention is now disclosed in detail with reference to exemplary embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, where:

FIG. 1 shows a front isometric view of an embodiment of the device for storing and dispensing rolled material of the present disclosure, including a base and a cutter;

FIG. 2 shows a front isometric detail view of base and cutter of the embodiment of the device for storing and dispensing rolled material of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 shows a side view of the cutter of the embodiment of the device for storing and dispensing rolled material of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 shows a front isometric view of an embodiment of a hand-held cutter of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 shows a side view of an alternate embodiment of the device for storing and dispensing rolled material of the present disclosure, with a cutting feature rotated into an upward orientation;

FIG. 6 shows a side view of the embodiment of the device for storing and dispensing rolled material of FIG. 5, with a cutting feature rotated into a downward orientation;

FIG. 7 shows a front isometric exploded view of another alternate embodiment of the device for storing and dispensing rolled material of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 shows a front isometric exploded detail view of the embodiment of the device for storing and dispensing rolled material of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 shows a front isometric view of another alternate embodiment of the device for storing and dispensing rolled material of the present disclosure, including a base, cover, and a sliding cutter, with the cover removed;

FIG. 10 shows a front isometric detail view of the sliding cutter assembly of the embodiment of the device for storing and dispensing rolled material of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 shows a front cross-sectional view of the sliding cutter assembly of the embodiment of the device for storing and dispensing rolled material of FIG. 9;

FIG. 12 shows a front isometric view of an alternate embodiment of the device for storing and dispensing rolled material of the present disclosure in an open configuration;

FIG. 13 shows a front cross-sectional view of the cutter assembly of the embodiment of the device for storing and dispensing rolled material of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 shows a front isometric view of an alternate embodiment of the device for storing and dispensing rolled material of the present disclosure, including an enclosure with compartments for accessories in a partially open configuration;

FIG. 15 shows a front detail view of the ribbon dispensing slot of the embodiment of the device for storing and dispensing rolled material of the FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 shows a front isometric view of an alternate embodiment of the device for storing and dispensing rolled material of the present disclosure;

FIG. 17 shows a front isometric view of another alternate embodiment of the device for storing and dispensing rolled material of the present disclosure;

FIG. 18 shows a front isometric view of another alternate embodiment of the device for storing and dispensing rolled material of the present disclosure, including an enclosure in an open configuration;

FIG. 19 shows a front isometric an alternate embodiment of the device for storing and dispensing rolled material of the present disclosure, with an enclosure in an open configuration; and

FIG. 20 shows a front isometric view of another alternate embodiment of the device for storing and dispensing rolled material of the present disclosure, with an enclosure with multiple compartments in a partially open configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Exemplary embodiments of the disclosure are illustrated in the Figures and are explained in the following description in more detail, wherein identical reference numbers refer to identical, or similar, or functionally identical components.

Various aspects of the illustrative embodiments will be described using terms commonly employed by those skilled in the art to convey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced with only some of the described aspects. For purposes of explanation, specific numbers, materials and configurations are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the illustrative embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without the specific details. In other instances, well-known features or those previously described are omitted or simplified in order not to obscure the illustrative embodiments.

Various operations will be described as multiple discrete operations, in turn, in a manner that is most helpful in understanding the present invention. However, the order of description should not be construed as to imply that these operations are necessarily order dependent. In particular, these operations need not be performed in the order of presentation.

FIG. 1 shows a front isometric view of an embodiment of the device for storing and dispensing rolled material 100 of the present disclosure, generally referred to herein as a dispenser 100. In one embodiment, the dispenser 100 may be part of a station 10 which may include a base 170. The dispenser 100 or the base 170 may include a cutter assembly 150.

In one embodiment, the dispenser 100 may include one or more elongated bodies 120. The elongated body 120 may be substantially cylindrical and may be rotatable along a substantially longitudinal axis. The elongated body 120 may be at least partially hollow or define an inner chamber 130, though it is understood that the elongated body 120 may also be substantially solid or may include subcomponents, such as within or proximate to the inner chamber 130. The inner chamber 130 within the elongated body 120 may also be configured to accommodate rolls of rolled material or for other supplemental storage, if present. The inner chamber 130 may be open at one or both ends, or may be closed, such as through the use of removable end caps.

The elongated body 120 may include one or more roll retention elements 110, such as at one or both ends of the elongated body 120, or along the length of the elongated body 120. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the elongated body 120 includes one roll retention element 110 at each end and one near the middle of the dispenser 100. The roll retention element 110, in this embodiment, includes a plurality of openings 111 which are configured to receive at least one roll of rolled material. It is understood that the roll retention element 110 may removably retain one roll of material, or a plurality of rolls, depending on user preferences and on desired sizing of the dispenser 100. Environments or customers where more rolls of materials are desired to be stored may use a larger dispenser 100, while environments where a smaller dispenser 100 is preferable may use a dispenser 100 which includes roll retention elements 110 configured to retain a smaller number of rolls or may omit the inner chamber 130.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the roll retention elements 110 are configured to removably retain rolls of material of different diameters. The roll retention elements 110 fit portions of a roll of material within a substantially circular or semi-circular cut-out, retaining the rolls by externally contacting them. In this embodiment, each cut-out includes an opening which permits a portion of the roll of rolled material to be unrolled and extended outside of the cut-out, allowing desired rolled material to be dispensed. Rolls of rolled material may be slid out axially to be removed or replaced, though it is understood the rolls may be retained through other means, such as through deformable members, allowing for other removal options. One or more of the roll retention elements 110 may include a backstop feature 113 to prevent a roll of material from sliding out of a roll retention element 110 or its opening 111 when not desired.

Additional roll retention elements 110 may offer more support for rolls of rolled material, and may also make it easier for a user to load new or replacement rolls of rolled material into the dispenser 100, offering a guide structure when using longer rolls of rolled material. Additional roll retention elements 110 may also be configured to allow for the use and storage of both shorter and longer rolls of rolled material. It should be understood that one or all of the roll retention elements 110 may also be slidable or otherwise adjustable along the length of the elongated body 120, improving support or centralizing placement of shorter rolls of rolled material. Lengths of roll retention elements 110 may also be varied for different applications and rolls of rolled materials

The dispenser 100 may include detents 112 or other features design to at least partially lock the elongated body 120 in position so that it does not rotate when not desired.

In one embodiment, the elongated body 110 is rotatable substantially along its axis. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the dispenser 100 includes legs 140 at each end of the elongated body 120, which the elongated body 120 may rotate relative to. The legs 140 may further include mounting features, such as one or more openings for fasteners, to mount the legs to a surface 170 or to a container. It should be understood that, depending on mounting, container, or storage needs, a different number or different shapes of legs 140 may be used, and it may be sufficient to mount the elongated body 120 at only one end. It should also be understood that one or more legs 140 may extend beyond the length of the elongated body 120, so as to maximize stability and accessibility of fastening elements, may include features which extend below the elongated body 120, so as to minimize the footprint of the dispenser 100, may be even with the length of the elongated body 120, or may be absent if the dispenser 100 is being mounted in another way, such as at its sides.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the dispenser 100 is mounted to a cutting board 170. A cutting assembly 150 is shown. The cutting assembly 150 may be connected to the dispenser 100, to the cutting board 170, or may be separate. The cutting assembly 150 may be fixed attached, such as where dispensed material is slid under the cutting assembly 150, or may be rotatably mounted, such as with cutting arms 151, so that dispensed rolled material may be slid under the cutting assembly 150, which may then be rotated over the dispensed material in order to enable cutting of the dispensed material. The cutting assembly 150 shown in FIG. 1 includes a slideable cutter 180. The slideable cutter 180 may slide along an optional cutting slot 174 in the cutting board 170. The cutting assembly 150 may optionally include a second cutting guide 160, which may be a ruler and may also support a second cutter 173. The cutting board 170 may include markings to aid in measuring dispensed material. The cutting board 170 may also include features 172 to aid in aligning the second cutting guide 160. The cutting board 170 may also include one or more slots 172 which may guide the second cutter 173 or a hand-held cutter 190. A slot 174 may also guide the slideable cutter 180, such as by providing a path for a blade 181 or for a locating feature such as a fin 182. The slideable cutter 180 may also be guided by a rail 152 on the cutting assembly 150.

FIG. 2 shows detail view of the cutting assembly 150 of FIG. 1. The slidable cutter 180 may include a pushing surface 180 which a user can use to more easily slide the slideable cutter 180. The cutting assembly 150 or the second cutting guide 160 may optionally include markings 161 to aid in measuring cutting locations. The second cutting guide 160 may include a second slideable cutter 173 which may include a second blade 164.

FIG. 3 shows a side view of the slideable cutter 180. The slideable cutter 180 may include one or more blades 181. A single blade 181 may be used, or multiple blades 181 may be used. By using two blades 181 mounted in opposing directions, it may be possible to use a variety of standard blades 181 in the slideable cutter 180. The slideable cutter 180 may also include a fin 182 to slide within an associated slot 174 in the cutting board 170. The slideable cutter 180 may also include one or more directing surfaces 184 which may direct dispensed material towards the blades 181 as it is being cut.

FIG. 4 shows an isometric view of a cutting hand-held tool 190 which may be used to cut at least partially dispensed rolled material. The tool 190 may be used in addition to a cutting assembly 150, or in place of one. The tool 190 may include a projection 192 extending substantially from a bottom surface of the tool 190. The projection 192 may be configured to slide within one or more grooves 171 within a cutting platform 170. If a hand-held cutting tool 190 is used, it may not be necessary to include a second cutting component 160 in a cutting assembly 150. The tool 190 may also include a handle 195, and may include a material feed feature 194, which may extend at least partially beyond the lengthwise extension of an upper surface of the cutting hand-held tool 190 so as to more easily guide dispensed rolled material towards one or more blades 191. The tool 190 may also include a surface 193 which may aid in pressing the tool 190 down during use.

FIG. 5 shows a side view of an embodiment of the dispenser 200 where the cutting element 250 is mounted substantially closer to the axis of rotation of the elongated body. The cutting element 250 is also shown not mounted to a leg 240, but to an end piece at an end of the elongated body, though the end piece does not rotate with the elongated body. The cutting element 250 is shown in an upward configuration. The cutting edge 253 is shown on an upper side of the cutting element 250. However, if the cutting edge 253 on the cutting element 250 is on an underside of the cutting element 250, then dispensed rolled material may be cut by pulling the dispensed rolled material in a generally upward direction. A cutting edge 253 on the bottom of the cutting element 250 may also reduce the likelihood of a user unintentionally cutting themselves while using the dispenser.

The cutting element 250 may include an arm 251 and may also lock into an upward or downward position through the use of retention elements, such as spring plungers and detents 212. FIG. 6 shows a side view of the embodiment of the dispenser 200 of FIG. 5, with the cutting element 250 in a substantially downward configuration.

FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 show an exploded view and a detail of the exploded view, respectively, of an alternate embodiment of the dispenser 300. One or more roll holders 310 may be used, such as where greater lengths are desired. The use of multiple assembled roll holders 310 may also reduce costs, such as when rolls holders 310 need to be molded or machined and longer parts may be more difficult or more expensive to fabricate. Sections of roll holders 310 may be connected directly to each other, or may be connected by intermediate components, such as connectors 320. The connectors 320 may sit within recessed features 321 at least partially within one or more roll holders 310. The connectors 320 may also include keying features or surfaces 323 which may align with complementary keying features or surfaces 322 on the roll holders 310.The outsides ends of one or more roll holders 310 may connect to one or more end pieces 325, which may also include keying features or surfaces 326. The keying features 323 may aid in ensuring that multiple roll holders 310 rotate together when one is rotated by a user.

The dispenser 300 may be supported by one or more stands 340, or may be connected to an enclosure or other surface. One or more of the stands 340 may bear the dispenser 300 through a bearing 341, such as a low friction ring, such as nylon, or other bearing or bushing. The end piece 325 may be supported by the bearing 341 directly, or a bearing support 342 may connect through the bearing 341 to the end piece 325, such as by welding or a threaded connection 327. Locking elements, such as spring plungers 314, may be used to lock the end piece 325 or roll holder 310 in position relative to the stand 340.

If the roll holder 310 includes a cavity 330, such as for storing supplies of additional rolls of material, a cap 343 may be used to close off the cavity 330. In an alternate embodiment, a rod with a bushing may be used to rotatably connect the stand 340 to the end piece 325, one or more connectors 320, or one or more roll holders 310.

FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 show an isometric view and a detail view, respectively, of an alternated embodiment of a dispenser system 40, which includes a dispenser 400 which may be attached to a base 470. The system 40 may also include a cover 500, which may be opaque, or may be made of a translucent or transparent material, such as clear or partially clear plastic. The cover 500 may include a handle 510 and may also include means of removably attach the cover 500 to the base 470, such as latches 520 or other means known in the art. The dispenser 400 may include a cutting assembly 450, which may be rotatably connected to the dispenser 400 so that it may be folded up to fit within the cover 500, and may fold or rotate down for cutting dispensed material. In the embodiment shown, the cutting assembly 450 includes a sliding cutter 480. In one embodiment, the sliding cutter 450 slides along a single rail 452. The sliding cutter 450 may be able to be pressed down to expose the blade 464 when cutting is desired. By exposing the blade 464, a user may be able to cut dispensed material along an edge 474 of the base 470. It may be easier for a user to see what is being cut in this way.

FIG. 11 shows a cross-sectional view of the cutting assembly 450 of the embodiment of FIG. 9. A push surface 483 may be pushed down by a user, exposing the blade 464 for cutting. Return features, such as springs 484, may retract the blade 464 when not in use.

It should be understood that various components, elements, and features of the cutting assemblies discussed in this disclosure may be combined to achieve desired effects without deviating from the spirit or intent of the disclosure

FIG. 12 shows an embodiment of the dispenser 600 that includes a storage container including a flap 670 which may be opened when the dispenser 600 is in an open configuration. The flap 670 may include a groove 671 to aid in cutting of dispensed rolled material. A cutting hand tool 190 may be used along the groove 671, or the dispenser 600 may optionally include a cutting assembly 650. A ruler 660 may also optionally be included, and the ruler 660 may be rotatably connected or otherwise configured to fold out when it is desirable to measure an amount of dispensed material.

FIG. 13 shows a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of a cutter 680 of FIG. 12. In this embodiment, the push feature 683 rests substantially externally to the main body of the cutter 680 when the one or more springs 684 are not compressed.

FIG. 14 shows a dispenser 700 which includes an enclosure with multiple storage compartments. The enclosure may include one or more flaps 770 which may be opened to dispense material from the dispenser 700. The flaps 770 may include markings or grooves 771 to aid in measuring and cutting dispensed material. The dispenser 700 may include one or more ribbon storage compartments 707 for storing rolls of ribbon 703. Ribbon storage lids 701 may be opened to gain access to the ribbon storage compartments 707. The ribbon storage compartments 707 may include one or more rods 704 to support rolls of ribbon 703. The rods 704 may be optionally removable and may also optionally pivot towards the opening of the ribbon storage lids 701 to allow for replacement of rolls of ribbon 703. The ribbon storage compartments 707 may also include one or more ribbon dispensing slots 708.

The dispenser 700 may also include an additional storage compartment 730, such as for storing gift bags. An additional compartment lid 735 may be openable to gain access to the additional storage compartment 730. The dispenser 700 may also include one or more drawers 720 for additional storage of other accessories, such as bows. The dispenser may also include one or more handles 705 to aid in transporting the dispenser 700.

FIG. 15 shows a front detail view of a ribbon dispensing slot 708 included in a multi-purpose storage container, such as the one shown in the embodiment of FIG. 14. The slot 708 may include an opening 709 for feeding ribbon through prior to inserting it into the slot 708. The opening 709 may be sized at a common size, such as ⅜″, or any other size which may be desirable. The slot 708 may further include one or more flexible portions 725 along an upper portion, lower portion, or both an upper and a lower portion of the slot 708. The one or more flexible portions 725 may retain a ribbon so that it does not slide back inside of the storage container and may also retain a ribbon in a desired location along the length of the ribbon slot. The flexible portions 725 may be made of plastic, rubber, leather, or other suitable flexible material, and may be attached to the inside or outside of the storage container, such as through the use of adhesive or fasteners such as rivets

FIG. 16 shows another alternate embodiment of the dispenser 800, including an end piece 810 with roll retention projections 811 on both ends of an elongated body 820. The roll retention projections 811 may be substantially cylindrical or may be any shaped configured to accept a roll of rolled material, either from inside or from outside of the roll. The roll retention projections 811 may be tapered, at least partially made of flexible material, or may be slotted so as to aid in flexion and easier connection with or insertion into a roll of rolled material.

FIG. 17 shows an embodiment of the dispenser 900 where one or more rolls of rolled material may be loaded into receiving elements 911 which extend substantially along the axial length of the elongated body 910. The receiving elements 911 may be open at one or both ends. In the embodiment shown, at least one edge 912 of the slot opening circumferentially from a receiving element 911 includes a cutting surface, shown here as a substantially serrated edge. Having at least one cutting edge 912 where the rolled material exits the elongated body 910 when being dispensed may eliminate the need for a separate cutting component or assembly. It is understood that the cutting edge 912 may be straight or serrated and may be unitary with the elongated body 910, or may be a separate component.

FIG. 18 shows an alternate embodiment of the dispenser 1000 as a dispensing device and storage container in combination. A rotatably connected cutting assembly 1080 is shown, against which dispensed rolled material may be cut by applying substantially upward force to the dispensed rolled material. An optional ruler 1060 is shown in an open configuration. The ruler 1060 may be rotatably connect to the dispenser 1000 directly, to a wall or base, or to a flap 1070. The dispenser 1000 is shown with a lid 1001 in an open configuration, though it should be understand that the lid 1001 could alternately be removable.

FIG. 19 shows an alternate embodiment of the dispenser 1100 as a dispensing device and storage container combination, in a configuration with the lid 1101 open. The lid 1101 may rotate to open, such as through the use of a hinge. In the embodiment shown, the dispenser 1100 includes a wall with a cutting edge 1180. Dispensed material may be cut through the use of the cutting edge 1180 when the dispenser 1100 is in an open configuration. When the lid 1101 is closed on the dispenser 1100, the cutting edge 1180 is not exposed.

FIG. 20 shows a front isometric view of an alternate embodiment of the dispenser 1200 in an open configuration. The dispenser 1200 may include a handle 1205 and may also include a removable end cap 1243 which can provide access to an optional internal storage chamber. The dispenser 1200 may also include one or more flaps 1225, 1201 to provide access to additional internal compartments 1230 for storing assorted supplies. The dispenser may also include one or more wheels 1250 to aid in transporting the dispenser 1200, such as when it is in a closed configuration.

A top portion 1235 of the dispenser 1200, shown here open, may be rotated into an open position, providing access to one or more storage compartments 1230. A cutting edge, not shown, may be included along a surface of the open dispenser 1200.

It should be understood that the various components, subassemblies, assemblies, and features discussed can be combined or removed in different combinations so as to achieve desired qualities and usability without deviating from the spirit or intent of the disclosure. It should also be understood that, depending upon the intended application and types of rolls of rolled material to be used with the device, the elongated body may also directly rotate upon a substantially arcuate surface and may not require the use of one or more bearings, or may utilize other load support means known in the art.

While the present invention has been related in terms of the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention is not limited to the embodiments described. The present invention can be practiced with modification and alteration within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Thus, the description is to be regarded as illustrative instead of restrictive on the present invention. Accordingly, various modifications, adaptations and alternatives may occur to one skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention and scope of the claimed coverage.

Claims

1. A rolled material dispenser, comprising:

a first elongated body, having a first end and a second end and at least one surface extending between the first end and the second end and defining an axis extending through the first end and through the second end;

a first retention element; and

a first rotation feature connected to the first elongated body;

wherein the first retention element is configured to support a roll of rolled material, and wherein the first retention element is rotatable about the axis.

2. The rolled material dispenser according to claim 1, further wherein the first retention element is rotatably connected to the first elongated body such that the first retention element rotates about the axis and relative to the first elongated body.

3. The rolled material dispenser according to claim 1, further wherein the first elongated body is rotatable about the axis at the first rotation feature and the first retention element rotates about the axis simultaneously with the first elongated body.

4. The rolled material dispenser according to claim 3, further comprising a second retention element connected to the first elongated body and closer to the second end along the axis than to the first end, and further wherein the first retention element is located proximal to either the first end or the second end, and wherein the second retention element rotates about the axis simultaneously with the first retention element.

5. The rolled material dispenser according to claim 3, further comprising a second retention element connected to the first elongated body and closer to the second end along the axis than to the first end, and further wherein the first retention element defines a first at least partial cylindrical cavity which is configured to support the roll of rolled material, and the second retention element defines a second at least partial cylindrical cavity, and wherein the first retention element further defines a first opening extending generally perpendicular to the axis, and the second retention element defines a second opening extending generally perpendicular to the axis.

6. The rolled material dispenser according to claim 3, further comprising a second retention element connected to the first elongated body and closer to the second end along the axis than to the first end, and further wherein the first retention element comprises a first at least partial cylinder which is configured to support the roll of rolled material and extends generally away from the first end towards the second end, and further wherein the second retention element comprises a first at least partial cylinder which is configured to support the roll of rolled material and extends generally away from the second end towards the first end.

7. The rolled material dispenser according to claim 3, further wherein the first retention element extends substantially along the axial length of the first elongated body, and further wherein the first retention element defines a first at least partial cylindrical cavity which is configured to support the roll of rolled material, and wherein the first retention element further defines a first opening extending generally perpendicular to the axis, and further wherein the first retention element further comprises a cutting edge located proximal to an edge of the first opening.

8. The rolled material dispenser according to claim 3, further comprising a cutting component configured to cut a portion of rolled material extending away from the rolled material dispenser while the roll of rolled material is supported by the first retention element.

9. The rolled material dispenser according to claim 8, further wherein the cutting component is rotatably connected to the rolled material dispenser.

10. The rolled material dispenser according to claim 8, further wherein the cutting component is slidably connected to the rolled material dispenser, wherein the cutting component can slide parallel to the axis.

11. The rolled material dispenser according to claim 8, further comprising a rotational locking element and further wherein the cutting component is fixedly connected to the rolled material dispenser.

12. The rolled material dispenser according to claim 1, further where the first retention element is unitary with the elongated body.

13. The rolled material dispenser according to claim 12, further comprising a second elongated body which is connected to the first elongated body such that the second elongated body rotates about the axis when the first elongated body rotates about the axis.

14. The rolled material dispenser according to claim 13, further wherein the first elongated body comprises a first keying feature and the second elongated body is connected to the first elongated body by means of a connector element, and wherein the connector element comprises a second keying feature which is configured to induce rotation in the second elongated body about the axis when the first elongated body rotates about the axis at least partially by means of the second keying feature.

15. A storage system for rolled material, comprising:

a rolled material dispenser defining an axis and comprising a first retention element configured to support at least one roll of rolled material; and

a substantially flat platform;

wherein the first retention element is rotatably connected to the storage system such that it is rotatable along the axis and relative to the substantially flat platform.

16. The storage system according to claim 15, further comprising a cutting component connected to the substantially flat platform.

17. The storage system according to claim 15, further comprising a cutting component which is rotatably connected to the storage system.

18. The storage system according to claim 15, further comprising a cutting component which is slidably connected to the storage system.

19. The storage system according to claim 12, further comprising an enclosure which substantially surrounds the rolled material dispenser on at least three sides, and further comprising a first face which may be opened to provide access to the at least one roll of rolled material.

20. A method of dispensing rolled material, comprising:

storing a plurality of rolls of rolled material on at least one retention element within a storage container, wherein the at least one retention element is rotatably connected to the storage container, and wherein the storage container further comprises at least one openable face;

opening the at least one openable face of the storage container;

rotating the at least one retention element to select a desired roll from the plurality of rolls of rolled material;

extending a desired length of the desired roll without removing the desired roll from the at least one retention element; and

cutting the desired length of the desired roll without removing the desired roll from the at least one retention element.