(19)
(11)EP 3 288 858 B1

(12)EUROPEAN PATENT SPECIFICATION

(45)Mention of the grant of the patent:
29.07.2020 Bulletin 2020/31

(21)Application number: 16718094.2

(22)Date of filing:  07.04.2016
(51)International Patent Classification (IPC): 
B65D 83/08(2006.01)
B65D 5/72(2006.01)
(86)International application number:
PCT/US2016/026371
(87)International publication number:
WO 2016/176019 (03.11.2016 Gazette  2016/44)

(54)

GLOVE DISPENSING ASSEMBLY

HANDSCHUHAUSGABEANORDNUNG

ENSEMBLE DISTRIBUTEUR DE GANTS


(84)Designated Contracting States:
AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

(30)Priority: 30.04.2015 US 201562155238 P
05.11.2015 US 201562251387 P

(43)Date of publication of application:
07.03.2018 Bulletin 2018/10

(73)Proprietor: O&M Halyard, Inc.
Mechanicsville, VA 23116 (US)

(72)Inventors:
  • MODHA, Shantilal Hirjibhai
    Alpharetta, Georgia 30004 (US)
  • SAELIM, Tantima
    Alpharetta, Georgia 30004 (US)
  • LIEN, Khoa, Tuan
    Alpharetta, Georgia 30004 (US)

(74)Representative: Zimmermann & Partner Patentanwälte mbB 
Josephspitalstr. 15
80331 München
80331 München (DE)


(56)References cited: : 
DE-A1-102005 056 162
DE-U1- 20 316 963
US-A- 2 984 400
US-A- 5 161 702
US-A- 5 992 683
DE-U1- 20 316 963
DE-U1- 20 316 963
US-A- 2 984 400
US-A- 5 992 683
US-A1- 2007 215 628
  
      
    Note: Within nine months from the publication of the mention of the grant of the European patent, any person may give notice to the European Patent Office of opposition to the European patent granted. Notice of opposition shall be filed in a written reasoned statement. It shall not be deemed to have been filed until the opposition fee has been paid. (Art. 99(1) European Patent Convention).


    Description

    FIELD OF THE INVENTION



    [0001] The present invention relates in general to a dispensing assembly, and more particularly to a glove dispensing assembly for disposable articles and methods of manufacturing same.

    BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION



    [0002] A variety of single use, disposable products such as gloves, facemasks and the like are packaged in dispensing cartons. These dispensing cartons frequently have an opening or dispensing orifice cover.

    [0003] Exemplary cartons or carton modifications for dispensing a variety of products including surgical gloves, tissues, dust mitts, and disposable gloves, are described at, for example:
    U.S. Patent No. 3,746,152 for "Surgical Glove Carton" issued to Allen on July 17, 1973, describes a flat, sterilizable carton that is configured to store a pair of surgical gloves for an extended period in sterile condition and then "snap open" to a flat configuration and also lock in the flat configuration to present the surgical gloves to a user on a sterile field of cardboard.

    [0004] U.S. Patent No. 6,112,936 for "Medical Glove Dispensing Enclosure" issued to Arizmendi on September 5, 2000, describes an envelope made of tubular net material that is stretched around a glove dispensing box or the like such that a sphincter closure in the net material is located over an opening in the dispensing box. The sphincter closure is made by cutting a hole in the net material and weaving an elastic band around the hole.

    [0005] U.S. Patent No. 6,488,175 for "Dusting Mitt Dispensing System" issued to Shiffler et al., on December 3, 2002, describes a dispensing system for dispensing dusting mitts that have a thumb that is folded and arranged to present the thumb at the top of a stack of mitts. The dispensing system includes a carton having a top cover that pivots along a top seam at the back of the carton. The top cover contains a perforation pattern that forms an access flap when the perforations are severed. The access flap is integrally connected to the top cover along a seam to provide access to the contents.

    [0006] U.S. Patent No. 6,886,714 for "Container Allowing Choice of Multiple Openings for Dispensing Preference" issued to Kruchoski et al., on May 3, 2005, describes a dispensing container for dispensing sheets in which the container has a first dispensing opening for pop-up dispensing of sheets such as facial tissue. The container has a second opening to provide group dispensing of a plurality of sheets simultaneously without having to disassociate the sheets from each other. The openings can be overlaid on each other, or one opening can be placed on one portion of the container and another opening on another portion of the container to provide a consumer with various dispensing options.

    [0007] U.S. Patent Application Publication No.: 2007/0210096 A1 for "High-Volume Package Dispense" by Ellswood et al., published on May 3, 2005, describes a dispenser package system for protective articles, having a substantially vertical product storage orientation and package design. The package includes a double or multi-chambered dispenser unit that can provide within substantially the same footprint as a conventional dispenser container a greater volume of product. The package can store and dispense at least 50 percent, up to about 200 percent or greater capacity than conventional dispenser for protective article products such as gloves or face masks.

    [0008] U.S. Patent No. 5,992,683 for "Clip Lift for Sheet Dispensing System" issued to Sigl, on November 30, 1999, describes a sheet dispensing system which includes a clip lift member.

    [0009] Thus, the art is continuously seeking new and improved dispensing assemblies for dispensing a variety of products. More specifically, assemblies that effectively dispense individual products, e.g. examination gloves, as the quantity of products become depleted to a level that the products are no longer located near the dispenser opening would be welcomed in the art. The need for such assemblies is particularly apparent for larger volume packages having contents that may settle or become difficult to access, particularly in a health care environment.

    BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION



    [0010] Subject matter of the present invention is a dispensing assembly as defined in claim 1, and a method for manufacturing a dispensing assembly as defined in claim 14. The dependent claims relate to particular embodiments thereof.

    [0011] Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.

    [0012] In one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a dispensing assembly for dispensing articles. For example, the articles as described herein may include gloves, facemasks, paper products, dust mitts, or any other articles that would benefit from the dispensing assembly as described herein. The dispensing assembly includes a container having a plurality of exterior panels that define an internal chamber. Further, the exterior panels include at least opposing side panels and a top panel having an opening configured to dispense a plurality of articles therethrough. Each of the opposing side panels is constructed of an outer-most panel and a plurality of inner-most panels. The plurality of inner-most panels, when arranged together, defines a passageway. The dispensing assembly also includes an article dispensing component housed within the internal chamber. The article dispensing component includes a base panel arranged with the top panel of the container so as to form an article storage area. In certain embodiments, the article storage area may have open sides. Further, the article storage area is configured to receive the plurality of articles. Further, the base panel is biased towards the top panel of the container via at least one flexible member that is secured to each of the outer-most panels through first and second slots, the flexible member extending through the passageways defined by the plurality of inner-most panels of each of the opposing side panels. Thus, the flexible member is configured to allow movement of the base panel toward to the top panel as each article is dispensed from the opening. The assembly further comprises a tensioning component configured with the flexible member underneath the base panel.

    [0013] In another embodiment, the base panel may include sharp corners or rounded corners. In further embodiments, the base panel may include one or more notches configured to receive the flexible member. For example, in one embodiment, the base panel may include two pairs of mirrored notches that are configured to receive the flexible member. Further, in certain embodiments, a pair of the mirrored notches may be configured within opposing sides of the base panel (e.g. one notch on one side and one on another side). In alternative embodiments, a pair of the mirrored notches may be configured on the same side of the base panel. In particular embodiments, the mirrored notches may have any suitable cross-sectional shape, including but not limited to at least one of the following cross-sectional shapes: L-shaped, square, triangle, rectangle, or similar.

    [0014] Thus, in such embodiments, the flexible member(s) may be configured to extend through the first and second slots of each side panel and through the mirrored notches of the base panel.

    [0015] In yet another embodiment, the base panel may include one or more lines of weakness configured to bend as the base panel is biased towards the top panel of the container.

    [0016] In still a further embodiment, the plurality of exterior panels of the container may be integral with each other. Thus, in such an embodiment, the panels may be easily folded together to form the container. More specifically, in certain embodiments, one or more of the opposing side panels further may be constructed of an intermediate panel. Further, the outer-most panel may include at least one securement flap configured to fit within a securement slot of the intermediate panel. In certain embodiments, the passageway defined by the plurality of inner-most panels may be adjacent to a bottom panel of the container. Alternatively, the passageway may be adjacent to the top panel of the container.

    [0017] In additional embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to package of articles. More specifically, the package of articles includes a container according to the present invention and a plurality of articles disposed within the article storage area of the container, wherein the plurality of articles is biased toward the top panel of the container as articles are dispensed from the opening.

    [0018] In another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a method for manufacturing a dispensing assembly. The method includes providing an unfolded container constructed of a plurality of exterior panels that, when folded, define an internal chamber. The exterior panels include, at least, opposing side panels and a top panel having an opening configured to dispense a plurality of articles therethrough. Each of the opposing side panels is constructed of an outer-most panel and a plurality of inner-most panels, the plurality of inner-most panels, when arranged together, forming a passageway. The method also includes securing a flexible member to each of the outer-most panels through first and second slots, the flexible member extending through the passageways defined by the plurality of inner-most panels of each of the opposing side panels. Further, the method includes securing the flexible member(s) to a base panel so as to define an article storage area. Still another step includes placing a plurality of articles within the article storage area atop the base panel, wherein the base panel is biased towards the top panel of the container via the flexible member(s) so as to allow movement of the base panel toward to the top panel as each article is dispensed from the opening. The method also includes folding the exterior panels of the unfolded container around the article storage area so as to form the dispensing assembly.

    [0019] In additional embodiments, more than one flexible member may be used.

    [0020] In another embodiment, the method may also include forming one or more notches in the base panel so as to receive the flexible member. For example, in certain embodiments, the method may include forming opposing mirrored notches in the base panel so as to receive the flexible member. More specifically, in particular embodiments, the method may include forming the mirrored notches within opposing sides of the base panel. Alternatively, the method may include forming the mirrored notches in the same side of the base panel. Thus, the method may also include inserting the flexible member through the first and second slots of each panel and through the mirrored notches of the base panel.

    [0021] Further, the method includes securing a tensioning component to the flexible member underneath the base panel. Thus, the tensioning component is configured to maintain tension of the flexible member as the articles are being dispensed from the container.

    [0022] In another embodiment, the method may include forming one or more lines of weakness in the base panel such that the base panel is configured to bend as the base panel is biased towards the top panel of the container.

    [0023] In further embodiments, the method may include constructing the opposing side panels of the container to further include an intermediate panel and securing at least one securement flap of the outer-most panel into a securement slot of the intermediate panel when folding the exterior panels of the unfolded container around the article storage area.

    [0024] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

    DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS



    [0025] A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures, in which:

    FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a dispensing assembly for dispensing articles according to the present disclosure;

    FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a container of a dispensing assembly according to the present disclosure;

    FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a dispensing assembly according to the present disclosure, particularly illustrating a cut-away view of the dispensing assembly to further illustrate various internal components thereof;

    FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of the base panel of the dispensing assembly of FIG. 3;

    FIG. 5 illustrates a detailed view of the intermediate panel of the dispensing assembly of FIG. 3, particularly illustrating a flexible member configured within a slot of the intermediate panel;

    FIG. 6 illustrates a top view of one embodiment of an unfolded container of a dispensing assembly according to the present disclosure;

    FIG. 7 illustrates a top view of one embodiment of a base panel of a dispensing assembly according to the present disclosure;

    FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a dispensing assembly according to the present disclosure, particularly illustrating a cut-away view of the dispensing assembly to further illustrate various internal components thereof;

    FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of the base panel of the dispensing assembly of FIG. 8;

    FIG. 10 illustrates a top view of another embodiment of an unfolded container of a dispensing assembly according to the present disclosure;

    FIG. 11 illustrates a top view of another embodiment of a base panel of a dispensing assembly according to the present disclosure, particularly illustrating a base panel having sharp corners;

    FIG. 12 illustrates a top view of yet another embodiment of a base panel of a dispensing assembly according to the present disclosure, particularly illustrating a base panel having rounded corners;

    FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a dispensing assembly according to the present disclosure, particularly illustrating a cut-away view of the dispensing assembly to further illustrate various internal components thereof;

    FIG. 14 illustrates a perspective view of the base panel of the dispensing assembly of FIG. 12;

    FIG. 15 illustrates a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a dispensing assembly according to the present disclosure, particularly illustrating a cut-away view of the dispensing assembly to further illustrate various internal components thereof;

    FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of the base panel of the dispensing assembly of FIG. 15, particularly illustrating the base panel in an unbiased position;

    FIG. 17 illustrates a perspective view of the base panel of the dispensing assembly of FIG. 15, particularly illustrating the base panel in a biased position;

    FIG. 18 illustrates a top view of yet another embodiment of an unfolded container of a dispensing assembly according to the present disclosure; and

    FIG. 19 illustrates a flow diagram of one embodiment of a method of manufacturing a dispensing assembly according to the present disclosure.


    DETAILED DESCRIPTION



    [0026] Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention.

    [0027] Dispensing disposable examination gloves from a package can be particularly difficult. For smaller-sized examination gloves, such as, for example, standard small or extra-small sizes, users may wish to have a smaller orifice to access the contents of the carton to prevent gloves from spilling out. The size of these gloves may be close to or not much larger than the size of the orifice. In some cases, the dimensions of the gloves may be smaller than the size of the orifice. This is particularly notable when the dispensing carton is initially opened and the contents are immediately adjacent the orifice. However, for larger-sized examination gloves, such as, for example, standard large or extra-large sizes, users may wish to have a larger orifice to provide for easier dispensing from the carton. The size of these gloves may be larger or even much larger than a typical glove dispensing orifice.

    [0028] In order to improve economy, dispensing assemblies or packages are frequently larger in size to hold larger quantities of articles. When dispensing articles such as, for example, disposable examination gloves from a larger carton or package, dispensing becomes problematic after a sufficient quantity of articles (e.g., gloves) is depleted since the gloves are no longer readily accessible near the dispensing opening. Users are forced to tip the dispensing assembly or package or even insert their fingers or entire hand deep into the package to grasp and withdraw an article. The opening is typically about the same size as the user's hand, so mobility as well as vision inside the package (e.g., the chamber of the dispensing assembly) is restricted.

    [0029] Thus, the present invention is directed to an improved dispensing assembly that allows the gloves of the assembly to be pushed closer to the opening to enhance access to the interior of the container. This is particularly important for larger volume packages having contents that may settle or become difficult to access, especially in a health care environment.

    [0030] For example, the present invention allows the user to remove a certain number of articles with each subsequent article being just as readily available as the previous article. More specifically, as the contents settle or a sufficient quantity of articles (e.g., gloves) is depleted such that the gloves are no longer readily accessible near the orifice, the present invention allows the base panel of the article dispensing component to be biased towards the top panel of the container such that the articles remain close to the dispensing opening. Thus, the dispensing assembly of the present disclosure is suitable for use with large containers.

    [0031] Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective, cut-away view of an exemplary dispensing assembly 10 or package for dispensing articles such as, for example, disposable examination gloves, facemasks, paper products (e.g. tissues, paper towels, etc.) dust mitts, or the like. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the dispensing assembly 10 includes a container 12 having a plurality of exterior panels 14. The exterior panels 14 may be constructed of any suitable material such as, for example, carton cardboard stock, paperboard, heavy structural paper, container stock, corrugated paperboard, plastic coated paper, plastic sheets, wax-coated papers or the like, and combinations thereof. Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the exterior panels 14 of the container 12 are configured to define an internal chamber 16, e.g. when folded.

    [0032] More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 2, 6, 10, and 18, the exterior panels 14 include a top panel 15, a bottom panel 17, and a plurality of side panels. More specifically, as shown, the exterior panels include a first set of opposing side panels 19 and a second set of opposing side panels 21. As used herein, any of the side panels 19, 21 may be configured to open, thereby allowing insertion or removal of a plurality of articles as described herein. In addition, it should be understood that the term "side panels" may generally refer to any of the sides of the container 12, including for example, side panels and/or end panels. For example, where the container 12 has a square configuration, the side panels may all have the same configuration.

    [0033] In addition, the exterior panels 14 may be integral with each other, e.g. as shown in FIGS. 3, 6, 8, 10, 13, and 15. Thus, as shown particularly in FIGS. 6, 10, and 18, the exterior panels 14 may be constructed of a unitary piece of material divided into multiple parts via one or more seams 32 that can be easily folded along each seam 32 to form the container 12. More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 3, 6, 8, 10, 13, and 18, opposing side panels (e.g. the opposing end panels 21 may include a multi-paneled configuration. For example, as shown in FIGS. 6, 10 and 18, each opposing side panel 21 may include one or more inner-most panels 28, an intermediate panel 27, and an outer-most panel 29. Further, as shown, the outer-most panel 29 may include at least one securement flap 40 configured to fit within a securement slot 27 of an adjacent panel, e.g. the intermediate panel 27. In addition, as shown, the inner-most panels 28 when arranged together as shown in FIGS. 3, 8, and 13, are configured to define a passageway 36 for the flexible member(s) 34 to pass therethrough when engaged with the base panel 22. In certain embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 8, the passageway 36 may be adjacent to the bottom panel 17 of the container 12. Alternatively, the passageway 36 may be adjacent to the top panel 15 of the container 12.

    [0034] More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 6, 10, and 18, at least one of the exterior panels 14 (e.g. the outer-most panels 29) of the container 12 may include one or more securement flaps 40 configured to fit within one or more securement slots 42 of adjacent exterior panels 14 (e.g. the intermediate panel 27). Thus, when the exterior panels 14 are folded, the panels can be easily secured together, e.g. by inserting the securement flaps 40 into the securement slots 42. In addition, the securement flaps 40 and the securement slots 42 allow for easy opening of the container 12, e.g. such that the articles can be inserted within the internal chamber 16. Alternatively, the exterior panels 14 may be separate and detached pieces of material e.g. that may be joined together via any suitable means, including but not limited to adhesive, tape, clamps, or similar. In further embodiments, certain panels of the container 12 may be excluded, for example, the bottom panel 17, or any other suitable combination.

    [0035] Further, as shown generally in the figures, the top panel 15 includes an opening 18 configured to dispense a plurality of articles therethrough. In addition, as shown, the opening 18 has a generally oval shape, however, it should be understood that the opening 18 may have any other suitable shape such that one or more articles can be dispensed therethrough. Further, as shown, the opening 18 may include a removable section defined by perforations, scores, underscores, or partial cuts through the material and combinations thereof. Such features are known to those of ordinary skill in the art. For example, U.S. Patent No. 4,153,412 for "Tear Out Opening Device" issued to Wysocki on June 19, 1979, describes half-cut configurations used for a tear out flap. In addition, the opening 18 may be configured according to U.S. Patent No.: 8,646,653 entitled "Dispensing Assembly and Package of Articles".

    [0036] Referring particularly to FIGS. 1, 3, 8, and 13, the dispensing assembly 10 also includes an article dispensing component 20 housed within the internal chamber 16. More specifically, as shown, the article dispensing component 20 includes a base panel 22 arranged with the top panel 15 of the container 12 so as to form an article storage area 26. Thus, the article storage area 26 is configured to receive the plurality of articles therein. In certain embodiments, as shown, the article storage area 26 may have open sides. Alternatively, the article storage area 26 may have closed sides. In addition, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the base panel 22 is configured to form the bottom of the article storage area 26 and the top panel 15 of the container 12 is configured to form the top of the article storage area 26.

    [0037] Further, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the base panel 22 is biased towards the top panel 15 of the container 12 via at least one flexible member 34 that is secured to opposing side panels (e.g. opposing end panels 21). More specifically, as generally shown in the figures, the top panel 15, by design, is stationary, whereas the base panel 22 may be biased towards the top panel 15 via the flexible member 34. In other words, the base panel 22 may be configured to move relative to the top panel 15 as each article (e.g. glove) is dispensed from the opening 18 of the container 12. In addition, as shown in FIGS. 8, 9, and 11-14, the base panel 22 may also include one or more lines of weakness 44 configured to bend as the base panel 44 is biased towards the top panel 15 of the container 12. Thus, the lines of weakness 44 provide flexibility to the base panel 22 as it is biased towards the top panel 15.

    [0038] It should be understood that the flexible members 34 as described herein may include any suitable members configured to bias the base panel 22 towards the top panel 15 of the container 12, e.g. elastic or rubber bands, springs, etc. More specifically, as shown, the flexible members 34 may be elastic bands. Accordingly, the flexible members 34 are configured to allow movement of the base panel 22 toward to the top panel 15 as each article is dispensed from the opening 18. In addition, any number of flexible members 34 may be used in the dispensing assembly 10. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the article dispensing component 20 may include two flexible members 34. In additional embodiments, the article dispensing component 20 may include more than two flexible members 34. Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 8, 9, 13, and 14, the article dispensing component 20 may include a single flexible member 34. In addition, in such embodiments, the dispensing assembly 10 may also include a tensioning component 38 configured with the flexible member 34, e.g. underneath the base panel 22, so as to maintain tension in the flexible member 34 as articles are dispensed from the opening 18. The tensioning component 38 may be any suitable structure configured to provide a suitable tension to the flexible member 34, including e.g. a clamp, pin, hook, adhesive, tape, or similar.

    [0039] In further embodiments, the flexible member(s) 34 may be secured to one or more of the opposing side panels 19, 21 of the container 12 using any suitable means. More specifically, as shown generally in FIGS. 1-14, the flexible member(s) 34 may be secured to both of the opposing side panels 19, 21 of the container 12. In an alternative embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 15-17, the flexible member(s) 34 may be secured to one of the opposing side panels 19, 21 of the container 12, e.g. rather than both. Thus, as shown particularly in FIGS. 16-17, the flexible member 34 is configured to bias at least a middle portion of the base panel 22 towards the opening 18 as articles are dispensed therefrom.

    [0040] In additional embodiments, as shown, the flexible member(s) 34 may be secured to one or more of the opposing side panels 19, 21 via one or more slots 24, 25 configured in the opposing side panels 19, 21. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 6, each opposing side panel 21 may have a first slot 24 and a second slot 25. Thus, in such embodiments, a first flexible member 34 may be secured to the side panel 21 by being inserted into the first and second slots 24 of the side panel 21 and a second flexible member 34 may be secured to an opposing side panel 21 by being inserted into the first and second slots 24 of the opposing side panel 21. Further, as shown, the flexible members 34 are configured to extend through the first and second slots 24, 25 of each panel 21 and to the base panel 22. In alternative embodiments, the flexible member(s) 34 may be secured to the side panels of the container 12 using adhesive, tape, clamps, or similar.

    [0041] In additional embodiments, as shown in FIG. 11, the base panel 22 may include one or more corners 46 configured to abut against an internal wall of the container 12. Thus, in such embodiments, the corners 46 are configured to move along the internal wall of the container 12 as the base panel 22 is biased towards the top panel 15 of the container 12. In alternative embodiments, as shown in FIG. 12, the base panel 22 may have rounded corners 48. Thus, in such embodiments, the rounded corners 48 are configured to reduce pinching of the articles as the base panel 22 moves towards to the top panel 15, thereby reducing the articles from becoming stuck.

    [0042] may include one or more notches 30 configured to receive one of the flexible members 34. For example, as shown in FIGS. 4, 7, 9, 11-14, the base panel 22 may include at least two pairs of mirrored notches 30 configured to receive the flexible member(s) 34 such that the flexible member(s) 34 bias the base panel 22 towards the opening 18 of the top panel 15. More specifically, as shown, in FIGS. 3, 4, and 7, a pair of mirrored notches 30 may be configured within opposing sides of the base panel 22. In alternative embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 8, 9, and 11-14, a pair of mirrored notches 30 may be configured in the same side of the base panel 22. In addition, the mirrored notches 30 may have any suitable cross-sectional shape, including but not limited to at least one of the following cross-sectional shapes: L-shaped, square, triangle, rectangle, or similar. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3, 4, and 7, the notches 30 have a generally rectangular shape. Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 8, 9, and 11-14, the notches 30 have an L-shaped configuration. In additional embodiments, the flexible member(s) 34 may be secured to the base panel 22 using any other suitable means, for example, via adhesive, tape, clamps, or similar.

    [0043] Further, the first and second slots 24, 25 and/or the mirrored notches 30 in the base panel 22 may be configured or adjusted (e.g., moved closer together or made deeper, etc.) so as to reduce the tension provided by the flexible member(s) 34. By reducing the tension in the flexible member(s) 34, the dispensing assembly 10 can be more easily manufactured and assembled. In addition, the inventors of the present disclosure have discovered that the flexible member(s) 34 does not have to provide tension to urge a full load of articles (e.g. gloves) towards the dispensing opening 18, but only needs to provide sufficient tension to urge less than a full load of articles towards the opening 18. Further, the required tension steadily decreases as the articles are dispensed from the opening 18. Alternatively and/or additionally, the initial size/dimensions of the flexible member(s) 34 and/or the material of the flexible member(s) 34 may be altered to reduce the tension in the flexible member(s) 34.

    [0044] Referring now to FIG. 19, a flow diagram of one embodiment of a method 100 for manufacturing a dispensing assembly 10 for dispensing articles such as gloves, facemasks, paper products, dust mitts, or the like according to the present disclosure is illustrated. As shown at 102, the method 100 includes providing an unfolded container 12 constructed of a plurality of exterior panels 14 that, when folded, define an internal chamber 16. As mentioned, the exterior panels 14 include, at least, opposing side panels (e.g. panels 19 or 21) and a top panel 15 having an opening 18 configured to dispense a plurality of articles therethrough. As shown at 104, the method 100 also includes securing at least one flexible member 34 to at least one of the opposing side panels (e.g. panels 19 or 21) of the unfolded container 12. As shown at 106, the method 100 includes securing the flexible member 34 to a base panel 22 so as to define an article storage area 26. As shown at 108, the method 100 includes placing a plurality of articles within the article storage area 26 atop the base panel 22, wherein the base panel 22 is biased towards the top panel 15 of the container 12 via the flexible member 34 so as to allow movement of the base panel 22 toward to the top panel 15 as each article is dispensed from the opening 18. As shown at 110, the method 100 includes folding the exterior panels 14 of the unfolded container 12 around the article storage area 26 so as to form the dispensing assembly 10.

    [0045] In one embodiment, the step of securing at least one flexible member 34 to at least one of the opposing side panels (e.g. side panels 21) of the unfolded container 12 may include inserting the flexible member 34 into one or more slots (e.g. first and second slots 24, 25) configured in the opposing side panels 21.

    [0046] In another embodiment, the method 100 may also include forming one or more notches 30 in the base panel 22 so as to receive the flexible member 34. For example, in certain embodiments, the method 100 may include forming at least two pairs of opposing mirrored notches 30 in the base panel 22 so as to receive the flexible member(s) 34. More specifically, in particular embodiments, the method 100 may include forming the pairs of mirrored notches 30 within opposing sides of the base panel 22 (FIG. 7). Alternatively, the method 100 may include forming the pairs of mirrored notches 30 in the same side of the base panel 22 (FIG. 11).

    [0047] In additional embodiments, the method 100 may include forming a first slot 24 and second slot 25 in each of the opposing side panels 21 and inserting the flexible member 34 through the first and second slots 24, 25 of each panel 21 and through the mirrored notches 30 of the base panel 22. Further, the method 100 may include securing a tensioning component 38 to the flexible member 34, e.g. underneath the base panel 22. Thus, the tensioning component 38 is configured to maintain tension of the flexible member 34 as the articles are being dispensed from the container 12.

    [0048] In another embodiment, the method 100 may include forming one or more lines of weakness 44 in the base panel 22 such that the base panel 22 is configured to bend as the base panel 22 is biased towards the top panel 15 of the container 12.

    [0049] In further embodiments, the method 100 may also include constructing the opposing side panels (e.g. panels 19 and 21) of the container 12 of an outer-most panel 29, one or more inner-most panels 28, and an intermediate panel 27 (FIGS. 6, 10, and 18) and securing at least one securement flap 40 of the outer-most panel 29 into a securement slot 42 of the intermediate panel 27 when folding the exterior panels 14 of the unfolded container 12 around the article storage area 26. In additional embodiments, the method 100 may also include arranging the inner-most panels 28 together so as to define a passageway 36 for the flexible member(s) 34 to pass therethrough when engaged with the opposing side panels and the base panel 22.

    [0050] The plurality of articles as described herein is desirably a plurality of disposable articles. As used herein, the term "disposable" refers to a product that is so inexpensive that it may economically be discarded after only a single use. Products that are "disposable" are typically intended for single use. The term "single-use" refers to a product that is intended to be used only once and is not intended to be re-used, re-conditioned, restored or repaired after that use. Such products offer advantages in clinical settings by reducing the potential for contamination or infection. In addition, these products can enhance work flow since they are not collected and assembled for reprocessing and reuse. Examples of disposable articles include disposable examination gloves, disposable facemasks and the like.


    Claims

    1. A dispensing assembly (10), comprising:

    a container (12) comprising a plurality of exterior panels (14) defining an internal chamber (16), the plurality of exterior panels (14) comprising at least opposing side panels (19, 21) and a top panel (15) having an opening (18) configured to dispense a plurality of articles therethrough, each of the opposing side panels (21) constructed of an outer-most panel (29) and a plurality of inner-most panels (28), the plurality of inner-most panels (28), when arranged together, defining a passageway (36); and

    an article dispensing component (20) housed within the internal chamber (16), the article dispensing component (20) comprising a base panel (22) arranged with the top panel (15) of the container (12) to form an article storage area (26), the article storage area (26) configured to receive the plurality of articles,

    wherein the base panel (22) is biased towards the top panel (15) of the container (12) via a flexible member (34) that is secured to each of the outer-most panels (29), the flexible member (34) extending through the passageways (36) defined by the plurality of inner-most panels (28) of each of the opposing side panels (21), wherein the flexible member (34) is configured to allow movement of the base panel (22) toward to the top panel (15) as each article is dispensed from the opening (18),

    characterized in that the flexible member (34) is secured to each of the outer-most panels (29) through first and second slots (24, 25), and that the assembly further comprises a tensioning component (38) configured with the flexible member (34) underneath the base panel (22).


     
    2. The dispensing assembly (10) of claim 1, wherein the base panel (22) comprises one or more rounded corners (48).
     
    3. The dispensing assembly (10) of claim 2, wherein the base panel (22) comprises one or more notches (30) configured to receive the flexible member (34).
     
    4. The dispensing assembly (10) of claim 3, wherein the base panel (22) comprises mirrored notches (30) configured to receive the flexible member (34), optionally wherein the mirrored notches (30) are configured within opposing sides or in the same side of the base panel (22).
     
    5. The dispensing assembly (10) of claim 4, wherein the mirrored notches (30) comprise at least one of the following cross-sectional shapes: L-shaped, square, triangle, or rectangle, optionally wherein the flexible member (34) extends through the mirrored notches (30) of the base panel (22).
     
    6. The dispensing assembly (10) of any of the preceding claims, wherein the base panel (22) comprises one or more lines of weakness (44) configured to bend as the base panel (22) is biased towards the top panel (15) of the container (12).
     
    7. The dispensing assembly (10) of any of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of panels (14) of the container (12) are integral with each other.
     
    8. The dispensing assembly (10) of any of the preceding claims, wherein the opposing side panels (21) are further constructed of an intermediate panel (27).
     
    9. The dispensing assembly (10) of claim 8, wherein the outer-most panel (29) comprises at least one securement flap (40) configured to fit within a securement slot (42) of the intermediate panel (27).
     
    10. The dispensing assembly (10) of claim 8 or 9, wherein the passageway (36) is adjacent to a bottom panel (17) of the container or adjacent to the top panel (15) of the container (12).
     
    11. The dispensing assembly (10) of any of the preceding claims, wherein the article storage area (26) comprises open sides.
     
    12. The dispensing assembly (10) of any of the preceding claims, wherein the articles further comprise at least one of gloves, facemasks, paper products, or dust mitts.
     
    13. A package of articles, comprising:

    a dispensing assembly (10) according to any of the preceding claims; and

    a plurality of articles disposed within the article storage area (26) of the container (12),

    wherein the plurality of articles is biased toward the top panel (15) of the container (12) as articles are dispensed from the opening (18).


     
    14. A method for manufacturing a dispensing assembly (10) according to any of claims 1 to 12, the method comprising:

    providing an unfolded container (12) constructed of a plurality of exterior panels (14) that, when folded, define an internal chamber (16), the plurality of exterior panels (14) comprising at least opposing side panels (19, 21) and a top panel (15) having an opening (18) configured to dispense a plurality of articles therethrough, each of the opposing side panels (21) constructed of an outer-most panel (29) and a plurality of inner-most panels (28), the plurality of inner-most panels (28), when arranged together, defining a passageway (36);

    securing a flexible member (34) to each of the outer-most panels (29) through first and second slots (24, 25), the flexible member (34) extending through the passageways (36) defined by the plurality of inner-most panels (28) of each of the opposing side panels (21);

    securing the flexible member (34) to a base panel (22) so as to define an article storage area (26);

    placing a plurality of articles within the article storage area (26) atop the base panel (22), wherein the base panel (22) is biased towards the top panel (15) of the container (12) via the flexible member (34) so as to allow movement of the base panel (22) toward to the top panel (15) as each article is dispensed from the opening (18); and

    folding the exterior panels (14) of the unfolded container (12) around the article storage area (26) so as to form the dispensing assembly (10).


     


    Ansprüche

    1. Ausgabeanordnung (10), umfassend:

    einen Behälter (12), umfassend mehrere Außenplatten (14), welche eine Innenkammer (16) definieren, wobei die mehreren Außenplatten (14) wenigstens gegenüberliegende Seitenplatten (19, 21) und eine obere Platte (15) mit einer Öffnung (18), welche konfiguriert ist zum Ausgeben mehrerer Artikel durch sie hindurch, umfassen, wobei jede der gegenüberliegenden Seitenplatten (21) aufgebaut ist aus einer äußersten Platte (29) und mehreren innersten Platten (28), wobei die mehreren innersten Platten (28), wenn zusammen angeordnet, einen Durchgang (36) definieren; und

    eine Artikelausgabekomponente (20), welche in der Innenkammer (16) untergebracht ist, wobei die Artikelausgabekomponente (20) eine Basisplatte (22) umfasst, welche mit der oberen Platte (15) des Behälters (12) angeordnet ist, um einen Artikelaufbewahrungsbereich (26) zu bilden, der Artikelaufbewahrungsbereich (26) konfiguriert ist, um die mehreren Artikel aufzunehmen,

    wobei die Basisplatte (22) in Richtung der oberen Platte (15) des Behälters (12) vorgespannt ist über ein flexibles Element (34), welches an jeder der äußersten Platten (29) befestigt ist, wobei das flexible Element (34) sich durch die Durchgänge (36) erstreckt, welche durch die mehreren innersten Platten (28) von jeder der der gegenüberliegenden Seitenplatten (21) definiert sind, wobei das flexible Element (34) derart konfiguriert sind, so dass es eine Bewegung der Basisplatte (22) in Richtung der oberen Platte (15) ermöglicht, während jeder Artikel aus der Öffnung (18) ausgegeben wird,

    dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das flexible Element (34) durch erste und zweite Schlitze (24, 25) an jeder der äußersten Platten (29) befestigt ist, und dass die Anordnung des Weiteren eine Spannkomponente (38) umfasst, welche unterhalb der Basisplatte (22) mit dem flexiblen Element (34) konfiguriert ist.


     
    2. Ausgabeanordnung (10) nach Anspruch 1, wobei die Basisplatte (22) eine oder mehrere abgerundete Ecken (46) umfasst.
     
    3. Ausgabeanordnung (10) nach Anspruch 2, wobei die Basisplatte (22) eine oder mehrere Kerben (30) umfasst, welche konfiguriert sind um das flexible Element (34) aufzunehmen.
     
    4. Ausgabeanordnung (10) nach Anspruch 3, wobei die Basisplatte (22) gespiegelte Kerben (30) umfasst, welche konfiguriert sind um das flexible Element (34) aufzunehmen, optional wobei die gespiegelten Kerben (30) in gegenüberliegenden Seiten oder in der gleichen Seite der Basisplatte (22) konfiguriert sind.
     
    5. Abgabeanordnung (10) nach Anspruch 4, wobei die gespiegelten Kerben (30) wenigstens eine der folgenden Querschnittsformen umfassen: L-förmig, quadratisch, dreieckig oder rechteckig, optional wobei sich das flexible Element (34) durch die gespiegelten Kerben (30) der Basisplatte (22) erstreckt.
     
    6. Ausgabeanordnung (10) nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei die Basisplatte (22) eine oder mehrere Schwächungslinien (44) umfasst, welche für ein Biegen konfiguriert sind, wenn die Basisplatte (22) in Richtung der oberen Platte (15) des Behälters (12) vorgespannt ist.
     
    7. Ausgabeanordnung (10) nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei die mehreren Platten (14) des Behälters (12) aus einem Stück aufgebaut sind.
     
    8. Ausgabeanordnung (10) nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei die gegenüberliegenden Seitenplatten (21) des Weiteren aus einer Zwischenplatte (27) aufgebaut sind.
     
    9. Ausgabeanordnung (10) nach Anspruch 8, wobei die äußerste Platte (29) wenigstens eine Befestigungslasche (40) umfasst, welche derart konfiguriert ist, so dass sie in einen Befestigungsschlitz (40) der Zwischenplatte (27) passt.
     
    10. Ausgabeanordnung (10) nach Anspruch 8 oder 9, wobei der Durchgang (36) an eine Bodenplatte (17) des Behälters angrenzt oder an die obere Platte (15) des Behälters angrenzt.
     
    11. Ausgabeanordnung (10) nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei der Artikelaufbewahrungsbereich (26) offene Seiten umfasst.
     
    12. Ausgabeanordnung (10) nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei die Artikel des Weiteren wenigstens einen Artikel aus Handschuhen, Gesichtsmasken, Papierprodukten oder Entstaubungshandschuhen umfassen.
     
    13. Packung von Artikeln, umfassend:

    eine Ausgabeanordnung (10) nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche; und

    mehrere, in dem Artikelaufbewahrungsbereich (26) des Behälters (12) angeordnete Artikel,

    wobei die mehreren Artikel in Richtung der oberen Platte (15) des Behälters (12) vorgespannt werden, während Artikel aus der Öffnung (18) ausgegeben werden.


     
    14. Verfahren zum Herstellen einer Ausgabeanordnung (10) nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 12, wobei das Verfahren umfasst:

    das Bereitstellen eines ungefalteten Behälters (12), welcher aus mehreren Außenplatten (14) aufgebaut ist, die, wenn gefaltet, eine Innenkammer (16) definieren, wobei die mehreren Außenplatten (14) wenigstens gegenüberliegende Seitenplatten (19, 21) und eine obere Platte (15) mit einer Öffnung (18), welche konfiguriert ist zum Ausgeben mehrerer Artikel durch sie hindurch, umfassen, wobei jede der gegenüberliegenden Seitenplatten (21) aufgebaut ist aus einer äußersten Platte (29) und mehreren innersten Platten (28), wobei die mehreren innersten Platten (28), wenn zusammen angeordnet, einen Durchgang (36) definieren;

    das Befestigen eines flexiblen Elements (34) an jeder der äußersten Platten (29) durch erste und zweite Schlitze (24, 25), wobei das flexible Element (34) sich durch den Durchgang (36) erstreckt, welcher durch die mehreren innersten Platten (28) von jeder der der gegenüberliegenden Seitenplatten (21) definiert ist;

    das Befestigen des flexiblen Elements (34) an einer Basisplatte (22), um einen Artikelaufbewahrungsbereich (26) zu definieren;

    das Platzieren von mehreren Artikeln in dem Artikelaufbewahrungsbereich (26) oberhalb der Basisplatte (22), wobei die Basisplatte (22) über das flexible Element (34) in Richtung der oberen Platte (15) des Behälters (12) vorgespannt ist, um eine Bewegung der Basisplatte (22) in Richtung der oberen Platte (15) zu ermöglichen, während jeder Artikel aus der Öffnung (18) ausgegeben wird; und

    das Falten der Außenplatten (14) des ungefalteten Behälters (12) um den Artikelaufbewahrungsbereich (26) herum, um die Ausgabeanordnung (10) zu bilden.


     


    Revendications

    1. Ensemble de distribution (10), comprenant :

    un conteneur (12) comprenant une pluralité de panneaux extérieurs (14) définissant une chambre interne (16), la pluralité de panneaux extérieurs (14) comportant au moins des panneaux latéraux opposés (19, 21) et un panneau supérieur (15) ayant une ouverture (18) configurée pour distribuer une pluralité d'articles à travers celle-ci, chacun des panneaux latéraux opposés (21) étant construit en un panneau le plus à l'extérieur (29) et une pluralité de panneaux les plus à l'intérieur (28), la pluralité de panneaux les plus à l'intérieur (28), lorsqu'ils sont agencés ensemble, définissant une voie de passage (36) ; et

    un composant de distribution d'articles (20) reçu à l'intérieur de la chambre interne (16), le composant de distribution d'articles (20) comprenant un panneau de base (22) agencé avec le panneau supérieur (15) du conteneur (12) pour former une zone de stockage d'articles (26), la zone de stockage d'articles (26) étant configurée pour recevoir la pluralité d'articles,
    dans lequel le panneau de base (22) est rappelé vers le panneau supérieur (15) du conteneur (12) via un organe souple (34) qui est fixé à chacun des panneaux les plus à l'extérieur (29), l'organe souple (34) s'étendant à travers les voies de passage (36) définies par la pluralité de panneaux les plus à l'intérieur (28) de chacun des panneaux latéraux opposés (21), dans lequel l'organe souple (34) est configuré pour permettre un mouvement du panneau de base (22) vers le panneau supérieur (15) lorsque chaque article est distribué à partir de l'ouverture (18),

    caractérisé en ce que l'organe souple (34) est fixé à chacun des panneaux les plus à l'extérieur (29) à travers des première et seconde fentes (24, 25), et que l'ensemble comprend en outre un composant de tension (38) configuré avec l'organe souple (34) sous le panneau de base (22).


     
    2. Ensemble de distribution (10) selon la revendication 1, dans lequel le panneau de base (22) comprend un ou plusieurs coins arrondis (48).
     
    3. Ensemble de distribution (10) selon la revendication 2, dans lequel le panneau de base (22) comprend une ou plusieurs encoches (30) configurées pour recevoir l'organe souple (34).
     
    4. Ensemble de distribution (10) selon la revendication 3, dans lequel le panneau de base (22) comprend des encoches en miroir (30) configurées pour recevoir l'organe souple (34), facultativement dans lequel les encoches en miroir (30) sont configurées à l'intérieur de côtés opposés ou dans le même côté du panneau de base (22).
     
    5. Ensemble de distribution (10) selon la revendication 4, dans lequel les encoches en miroir (30) comprennent au moins l'une des formes de section transversale suivantes : en L, carré, triangle ou rectangle, facultativement dans lequel l'organe souple (34) s'étend à travers les encoches en miroir (30) du panneau de base (22).
     
    6. Ensemble de distribution (10) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel le panneau de base (22) comprend une ou plusieurs lignes d'affaiblissement (44) configurées pour plier lorsque le panneau de base (22) est rappelé vers le panneau supérieur (15) du conteneur (12).
     
    7. Ensemble de distribution (10) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel les panneaux de la pluralité de panneaux (14) du conteneur (12) sont solidaires les uns des autres.
     
    8. Ensemble de distribution (10) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel les panneaux latéraux opposés (21) sont en outre construits en un panneau intermédiaire (27).
     
    9. Ensemble de distribution (10) selon la revendication 8, dans lequel le panneau le plus à l'extérieur (29) comprend au moins un rabat de fixation (40) configuré pour s'insérer à l'intérieur d'une fente de fixation (42) du panneau intermédiaire (27).
     
    10. Ensemble de distribution (10) selon la revendication 8 ou 9, dans lequel la voie de passage (36) est adjacente à un panneau de fond (17) du conteneur ou adjacente au panneau supérieur (15) du conteneur (12).
     
    11. Ensemble de distribution (10) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel la zone de stockage d'articles (26) comprend des côtés ouverts.
     
    12. Ensemble de distribution (10) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel les articles comprennent en outre au moins l'un parmi des gants, des masques faciaux, des produits en papier ou des gants de poussière.
     
    13. Emballage d'articles, comprenant :

    un ensemble de distribution (10) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes ; et

    une pluralité d'articles disposés à l'intérieur de la zone de stockage d'articles (26) du conteneur (12),

    dans lequel la pluralité d'articles est rappelée vers le panneau supérieur (15) du conteneur (12) lorsque des articles sont distribués à partir de l'ouverture (18).


     
    14. Procédé pour fabriquer un ensemble de distribution (10) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 12, le procédé comprenant :

    fournir un conteneur (12) déplié construit en une pluralité de panneaux extérieurs (14) qui, lorsqu'ils sont pliés, définissent une chambre interne (16), la pluralité de panneaux extérieurs (14) comprenant au moins des panneaux latéraux opposés (19, 21) et un panneau supérieur (15) ayant une ouverture (18) configurée pour distribuer une pluralité d'articles à travers celle-ci, chacun des panneaux latéraux opposés (21) étant construit en un panneau le plus à l'extérieur (29) et d'une pluralité de panneaux les plus à l'intérieur (28), la pluralité de panneaux les plus à l'intérieur (28), lorsqu'ils sont agencés ensemble, définissant une voie de passage (36) ;

    fixer un organe souple (34) à chacun des panneaux les plus à l'extérieur (29) à travers des première et seconde fentes (24, 25), l'organe souple (34) s'étendant à travers les voies de passage (36) définies par la pluralité de panneaux les plus à l'intérieur (28) de chacun des panneaux latéraux opposés (21) ;

    fixer l'organe souple (34) à un panneau de base (22) de manière à définir une zone de stockage d'articles (26) ;

    placer une pluralité d'articles à l'intérieur de la zone de stockage d'articles (26) en haut du panneau de base (22), dans lequel le panneau de base (22) est rappelé vers le panneau supérieur (15) du conteneur (12) via l'organe souple (34) de manière à permettre un mouvement du panneau de base (22) vers le panneau supérieur (15) lorsque chaque article est distribué à partir de l'ouverture (18) ; et

    plier les panneaux extérieurs (14) du conteneur (12) déplié autour de la zone de stockage d'articles (26) de manière à former l'ensemble de distribution (10).


     




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    Cited references

    REFERENCES CITED IN THE DESCRIPTION



    This list of references cited by the applicant is for the reader's convenience only. It does not form part of the European patent document. Even though great care has been taken in compiling the references, errors or omissions cannot be excluded and the EPO disclaims all liability in this regard.

    Patent documents cited in the description